On Point | Podcast

Thomas Chatterton Williams, a staff writer at The Atlantic and a senior fellow at Bard College, joins Yale philosophy professor Jason Stanley for a lively discussion. They explore the emergence of a 'woke right,' dissecting language policing with examples like 'chest feeding' vs. 'breastfeeding.' Their conversation touches on how political narratives shape societal dynamics, the influence of social media on language, and parallels between contemporary politics and historical authoritarianism. The duo emphasizes the urgent need for vigilance in the ongoing struggle for ideological expression.

Lauren Shenaridis, an expert in food prices and the supply chain from Colorado State University, and Ted Janicki, a Penn State agricultural economics professor, dive into the intricate world of grocery pricing. They unpack the staggering 23% increase in costs over four years and the factors driving this trend: tariffs, labor dynamics, and supply chain disruptions. The discussion highlights emotional consumer reactions and the implications of food safety regulations. They also address the challenges posed by food deserts and the reliance on immigrant labor in the agricultural sector.

Louis Uccellini, former director of the U.S. National Weather Service, and Mary Glackin, a seasoned NOAA veteran, discuss the alarming impact of job cuts during the Trump administration on weather forecasting. They share personal stories highlighting how these reductions threaten community safety and public service reliability. The conversation delves into the potential privatization of weather services and the critical need for government oversight. They warn that diminished staffing could compromise timely forecasts amidst increasing climate challenges.

Ian Ward, a Politico reporter covering conservatism, joins JD Vance, Ohio Senator and a leading figure in the New Right movement, and freelance journalist Gil Duran. They discuss the ideological roots of the New Right, exploring its appeal among younger conservatives and its break from traditional values. Vance elaborates on his ties to influential figures like Peter Thiel and the emerging Project 2025 initiative. The conversation also touches on the implications of online discourse and corporate influence on governance, spotlighting a significant shift in American politics.

Ankush Kadori, a senior writer for Politico and former federal prosecutor, is joined by Stephen Gillers, a legal ethics professor at NYU. They dive into the effects of Trump’s Executive Orders on law firms, particularly how firms like Skadden and Paul Weiss grapple with political pressures. The conversation reveals the ethical dilemmas faced by big law in balancing financial success and moral responsibility, amid rising concerns over the rule of law and potential authoritarianism in America.

Jack Beatty, an On-Point news analyst, dives into Donald Trump’s intriguing comments about a potential third presidential term. He connects historical instances, like FDR's four terms, to the current political climate. The conversation shifts to the risks of Caesarism in American leadership, warning against authoritarian tendencies. Beatty also discusses how recent tariffs impact consumers and local economies, emphasizing the emotional toll on communities. His insights draw a vivid picture of the complexities of power dynamics and political survival in today’s landscape.

Sal Mercogliano, an associate professor of history at Campbell University and an expert in maritime history, dives into the alarming shortage of U.S. merchant mariners—a critical component of national defense. He explains how this deficit threatens both military and commercial maritime security. The podcast discusses efforts to revitalize American shipbuilding, the historical context of maritime labor challenges, and the modern recruitment difficulties faced by the industry. Mercogliano emphasizes the need for trained personnel to maintain operational integrity for national security.

Judith Boivin shares her harrowing experience as a victim of a sophisticated financial scam that cost her life savings, believing she was aiding the FBI. Alongside Michelle Singletary, a Washington Post personal finance columnist who investigated the case, they discuss the emotional toll and societal stigma associated with being scammed. They delve into the manipulative tactics used by scammers, the psychological impact on victims, and offer practical tips to help others protect themselves from scams that are becoming alarmingly common.

Arielle Kane, a former health policy analyst focused on maternal health, and Laura Golding, a communications expert at the Office of Personnel Management, share their insights on the turmoil facing federal employees. They discuss the emotional fallout from abrupt job losses and the impact of policy shifts on public service. The duo highlights personal experiences navigating legal challenges, the dedication of federal employees, and the critical role of strategic planning in maintaining a stable workforce. Their discussion raises vital questions about the future of government services.

Yong-Yong Chong, a scholar on Chinese politics from Yale, and Julian Gewurz, former director of China and Taiwan affairs at the White House, dive into the complexities of U.S.-China relations during the Trump era. They discuss escalating trade wars and the strategic responses from China, highlighting domestic reactions to U.S. tariffs and the balance of power. Their insights reveal the intricacies of diplomacy, media freedoms, and the global influence of reduced U.S. foreign assistance in shaping perceptions and strategic calculations.