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Loren J. Samons, a Greek history professor, delves into the fascinating rise and fall of Athenian democracy. He explores its complex structure and societal impacts, highlighting the paradox of Socrates' trial, where democracy both spared and condemned him. The conversation addresses how public service payments contributed to democratic decline and reflects on Thucydides' insights about human nature. Samons draws parallels to modern governance, prompting listeners to consider the lessons history offers for democracy's future.

Rev. angel Kyodo williams, an ordained Zen priest and author of Radical Dharma, shares insights on navigating anxiety through meditation. She discusses the challenges of finding stillness in a chaotic urban life, emphasizing the transformative power of quiet reflection. Rev. angel explores the emotional journey during meditation retreats, unveiling personal growth and empowerment. She champions the significance of embracing both joy and pain to cultivate a fulfilling existence, closing with an invitation to a transformative meditation event.

Tech reporter Casey Newton from Platformer dives into the intriguing evolution of OpenAI's leadership and its growing influence in the AI landscape. He discusses the recent reshuffling of the board and how Sam Altman has consolidated power, sparking debates about ethical concerns and organizational culture. The conversation touches on the alarming turnover rate at OpenAI, the implications of rapid technological advancements, and the societal fears surrounding AI's impact on jobs and democracy. It's a captivating look at the crossroads of innovation and responsibility.

Jesse Eisinger, a renowned investigative journalist at ProPublica, and Alison Schrager, a senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute, delve into the world of billionaire taxation. They reveal surprising strategies like 'buy, borrow, die' that let billionaires like Jeff Bezos pay less tax than average Americans. The conversation explores the ethical dilemmas faced by whistleblowers who expose such discrepancies and the ongoing debate over tax equity. Expect insights into proposed reforms and the challenging balance between wealth and responsibility in today's economy.

Jesse Eisinger, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist from ProPublica, and Molly Mitchell Moore, a history professor at Washington and Lee University, dive into the shocking revelation that billionaires can pay zero dollars in federal taxes. They discuss the complexities of tax reporting for the wealthy and how financial journalism plays a crucial role in exposing these issues. The conversation also explores the historical evolution of income tax in America, highlighting past struggles against wealth inequality and the challenges of reforming the current tax system.

Anna Sale, the host of "Death, Sex, and Money," dives deep into life’s intimate struggles alongside Jim Harris, an adventure athlete who overcame a spinal injury. They discuss the power of open dialogue about taboo subjects like death and sexuality. Jim shares his incredible journey of recovery through psychedelics and the healing effects of nature and music. They explore emotional challenges during rehabilitation, the transformative potential of community, and how experiences of loss can shape identity and self-discovery.

Chris Glenn shares his personal journey with Kratom and Tianeptine addiction, highlighting the emotional struggles linked to dependency. Oliver Gruntman, a clinical expert, discusses the safety concerns and market risks surrounding Kratom's unregulated use. Hamilton Morris provides insights into the misconceptions about Tianeptine, stressing its addictive qualities and regulatory challenges. Together, they explore the evolving American drug culture, the need for better consumer education, and the vital role of pharmacists in public health.

Mark Blyth, a political economist at Brown University and author of 'Inflation: A Guide for Users and Losers,' shares his insights on the perplexing issue of inflation. He dissects how inflation starts and why it confuses politicians too. The discussion dives into the lessons from the 1970s, revealing how historical events shape current economic conditions. Blyth also tackles the impact of wages and housing on inflation, alongside the effects of immigration and tariffs, ultimately seeking clarity amidst today's economic chaos.

In this captivating discussion, Alex Gibney, an acclaimed documentary filmmaker behind works like 'Taxi to the Dark Side,' dives into the creative challenges faced by artists. He sheds light on the groundbreaking 'Sopranos' and the documentary 'Wise Guy,' examining the tension between commercial pressures and artistic integrity. Gibney reflects on the evolution of storytelling in the age of streaming, the balance between celebrity culture and genuine narratives, and how stubborn passion can drive innovative art, all while navigating America’s evolving landscape.

Annie Lowrey, a staff writer at The Atlantic, tackles the ethical landscape surrounding food production and animal welfare. She shares gripping stories like the notorious turkey drop event and the grim reality faced by a cow at a dairy auction. The conversation challenges listeners to consider the complexities of meat consumption, the quirks of human-animal relationships, and the idea of 'microdosing' veganism, sparking a reflective debate on how to make compassionate dietary choices while navigating societal norms.