The Gist

Encore: Comedian Michael Ian Black Talks Masculinity Feb 20, 2021

The Gist is on hiatus.

In the interview from the Gist archives, Mike is joined by author, comedian, podcast host, and actor Michael Ian Black to talk about his latest book, A Better Man: A (Mostly Serious) Letter to My Son. Black was persuaded to write the book after publishing a New York Times op-ed on school shootings and gun control in 2018. Part advice and part memoir, A Better Man poses the question: why is it always boys and young men who are pulling the trigger? Black challenges readers to expand their definition of masculinity while refraining from denigrating qualities traditionally seen as feminine.

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‘Till the Cows Come Home Feb 19, 2021

On the Gist, #TedFled.

In the Interview, his new documentary has been called “jaw-dropping,” “incendiary,” “riveting,” and “engrossing.” Sam Pollard’s new film MLK/FBI is about the bureau’s surveillance and harassment of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The film delves into new and declassified documents as well as restored footage to reveal the government’s long past of targeting Black activists. Pollard tells Mike, “I was just trying to tell a good story. About two men on the same trajectory one with a goal to take his people to the Promised Land, and the other one with a goal to stop that man from doing that.” Sam Pollard is an award winning director, editor and producer. He was nominated for an Oscar for his 1997 documentary 4 Little Girls, and has won two Emmys for his documentary editing.

In the Spiel, we’re worried about the cows in Texas. Hat tip, Moo Muffs!

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Limbaugh’s Lamentable Legacy Feb 17, 2021

On the Gist, we rush to Limbaugh’s judgment.

In the Interview, political and media historian, Brian Rosenwald, joins Mike to talk about Rush Limbaugh’s rise to popularity in conservative media, his power as a voice and entertainer in talk radio, the influence he had on the Republican party, and who is primed to carry his torch over the AM dial or in podcasting. As a national broadcaster, Limbaugh developed a political perspective over his career that to the left perpetuated harmful ideas, and to the right, uplifted and championed their values. Limbaugh was awarded the presidential medal of freedom February 4, 2020, and died February 17, 2021 of complications from lung cancer at 70 years old. Rosenwald is editor of Washington Post’s Made By History blog, scholar in residence at the Partnership for Effective Public Administration and Leadership Ethics at the University of Pennsylvania, and author ofTalk Radio’s America: How an Industry Took Over a Political Party That Took Over the United States.

And we give up the spiel to keep talking to Rosenwald about the aftermath of Limbaugh.

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How History Will Remember Trump Feb 16, 2021

On the Gist, Southern cold snap!

In the Interview, Sonari Glinton is back! Which means we’re talking cars. Glinton and Pesca discuss GM's recent proclamation to go electric by 2025. Glinton says that it's not that car makers aren't making profits off of going electric, it's that General Motors' commitment is a sign that the state of things are grave. He projects that automotive companies will be entering into partnerships in an effort to solve environmental problems, and that the new Biden administration in conjunction with the depart of transportation will lead efforts to push the U.S. out of the recession. Glinton is a well-known host in the public radio and podcast realm, and is a former NPR business reporter covering the auto industry and economics.

In the spiel, trying to predict the history books.

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The Directionless are Misleading Feb 12, 2021

On the Gist, Mike lives for the arguments Trump’s lawyers are making because, well, they’re really bad.

In the Interview, “She loves America. For her, she was there showing support for the American political process.” SUNY Geneseo political science professor and author Karleen West talks to Mike about her mother’s participation in the January 6th insurrection. West has spent years studying insurrections in Latin America, but on January 6th, her personal and professional collided. Mike and West talk about how West’s mother is a strong woman, but doesn’t consider herself a feminist, the radicalization of her mother, and how her mother is still proud of her...despite not really knowing what her career is.

In the spiel, assailing democrats, and two words: Swiss cheese.

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When the Victims are the Jurors Feb 11, 2021

On the Gist, exploring the complexities of the personal stakes of the Senators in the Trump Impeachment trial.

In the Interview, it’s the second half of our conversation with Jonah Blank, an anthropologist, writer, author, and former policy director for South and Southeast Asia on the staff of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Blank joins Mike to talk about the Myanmar coup, the default of cheering on populism, conflicts and communal violence, and the threat to democracy. Blank is author of Arrow of the Blue-Skinned God, and Mullahs on the Mainframe, and currently based in Singapore. He’ll be back on the show next week.

In the spiel, picking apart Lindsey Graham.

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How Trump’s Lawyers Will Defend the Indefensible Feb 10, 2021

On the Gist, the prosecution in Trump’s Impeachment is firing on all cylinders.

In the Interview, we take a look inside the FBI’s fight against white supremacy and domestic terrorism. Frank Figliuzzi is a 25-year veteran of the FBI. He joins Mike to talk about why the country needs a domestic terrorism law, the January 6th insurrection at the Capitol, and how the FBI is battling the threat from within the United States. Figliuzzi is the author of The FBI Way: Inside the Bureau’s Code of Ethics.

In the spiel, like Gaston and the guys who went after Frankenstein’s monster before him, no matter what his defense says, Trump did incite an angry, pole-bearing mob.

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Belknaps and Bad Lawyers Feb 10, 2021

On the Gist, the Belknap case is clear precedent.

In the Interview, it’s round two of vaccine talk. Mike and Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, a former Detroit health director and epidemiologist, talk about equity and the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine. They also discuss why we shouldn’t heroicize the pharmaceutical industry, using the issue of the sixth dose as a compelling example. El-Sayed’s new book Medicare for All: A Citizen’s Guide is out now. He’s also the host of America Dissected from Crooked Media, among many other projects.

In the spiel, Trump’s defense tested a few losing arguments.

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Comparing COVID-19 vaccines and Climate Change with Dr. Abdul El-Sayed Feb 09, 2021

On the Gist, ads for “The Big Game” are given the Pesca treatment.

In the Interview, it’s vaccine talk. Mike sits down remotely with Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, a former Detroit health director and epidemiologist about the COVID-19 vaccine. They talk about how social media has spread both information and misinformation, how the response to the coronavirus is eerily similar to climate change, and how Canadians have managed to get things right. Plus, when politics and health collide: El-Sayed’s new book Medicare for All: A Citizen’s Guide is out now. He’s also the host of America Dissected from Crooked Media, among many other projects.

In the spiel, George Shultz’ legacy as a public servant.

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Taking QAnon Seriously Feb 06, 2021

On the Gist, cost of living and minimum wage around the U.S.

In the Interview, journalist David Gilbert from Vice News joins Mike to talk about QAnon, the cult of disinformation, it's propulsion into 2021, and how people from all walks of life are susceptible to believing. Plus, Gilbert translates Marjorie Taylor Greene's floor speech, and explains why it wasn't a disavowing of Q or the conspiracy theories she still believes in.

In the spiel, it’s the first lobstar of the antentwig of 2021!

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Stand By Your Lunatic: Republicans Want Marjorie Taylor Greene to Keep her Committees Feb 05, 2021

On the Gist, stripping Majorie Taylor Greene of her committee membership, but Republicans still want to keep her around.

In the Interview, it’s coup talk. It’s part one of an interview with Jonah Blank, an anthropologist, writer, author, and former policy director for South and Southeast Asia on the staff of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Blank joins Mike to talk about the Myanmar coup, the default of cheering on populism, conflicts and communal violence, and the threat to democracy. Blank is author of Arrow of the Blue-Skinned God, and Mullahs on the Mainframe, and currently based in Singapore. He’ll be back on the show next week.

In the spiel, Representatives Nancy Mace and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez are fighting.

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Trump's Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Impeachment Defenses Feb 04, 2021

On the Gist, importing walkie-talkies into Myanmar.

In the Interview, we’re coming into a new constitutional cycle, and it means Democrats could take quite a bit of power. Well, if they don’t blow it. We’ve been in the same Republican-dominated cycle for decades, according to Jack Balkin, author of The Constitutional Cycles of Time. Balkin and Mike talk about the extreme political polarization not seen since the Civil War, constitutional rot, and, just for fun, delve into conservative complaints about de-platforming and free speech. Balkin is a Knight Professor of Constitutional Law and the First Amendment and Director for The Information Society Project at Yale Law School.

In the spiel, delving into the Trump files ahead of the Impeachment trial.

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Coronavirus Symptom Check Feb 03, 2021

On the Gist, Alexei Navalny’s sentence.

In the Interview, it’s part two of a conversation with historian Jill Lepore about her latest book: If Then: How the Simulmatics Corporation Invented the Future. Jill discusses that with data mining and analysis there is greater potential for the demeaning of democratic processes, and why in 2021, accepting social media and twitter as a proxy for public opinion and polling could be risky. Lepore is an author, a New Yorker writer, and historian. She is also host of a podcast called The Last Archive from Pushkin.

In the spiel, looking for relief?

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Making Fun of the GameStop Stonks Feb 01, 2021

On the Gist, once a Nobel Peace Prize winner, now a war criminal.

In the Interview, writer Jill Lepore joins Mike for part one of their conversation on her latest book: If Then: How the Simulmatics Corporation Invented the Future, a precursor to data and polling companies. If Then is an account on the mid-century boom in the advertising industry and its overlap with political marketing. Lepore articulates the deep prejudice in polling at the time, the rise of awareness of computers, and how Simulmatics' people machine's duplicity was made legible.

In the spiel, the GameStop/Wall Street debacle starring the usual suspects.

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Arizona Lawmaker Says, No Vote For You Jan 30, 2021

On the Gist, an Arizona Representative has a plan to win - throw out votes.

In the interview, it’s all about the voice; John Colapinto’s new book, This is the Voice, that is. From sexy baby voice to deep baritones, Colapinto talks about his linguistic journey in writing his new book about the importance of the sounds and the musicality of voice that come out of our mouths, and how a good bedside manner can save you from lawsuits. Colapinto is a staff writer at the New Yorker.

In the spiel, crackpot as croackpots.

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Republicans Horribilis Jan 29, 2021

On the Gist, what happens when a conservative pundit and a famous quarterback make a podcast: Bolling with Favre.

In the interview, it’s been a lonely year, and an especially difficult 10 months to try and find love. But Logan Ury’s new book, How to Not Die Alone just may hold the key. Putting psychology first, Uryseeks to give readers a guide to finding and keeping relationships. Spoiler alert: Stop focusing on the spark! Ury explains an approach to dating that is more psychology than yenta, the non-fluffiness of behavioral science, and what goes on in a “Love Lab.” Ury is the co-founder of the Irrational Lab at Google, and is the Director of Relationship Science for the dating app Hinge.

In the spiel, three horrible truths and a half terrible truth about Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene.

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Illusions, Delusions, and Flat Out Lies Jan 28, 2021

On the Gist, you can’t trouble us with your labels.

In the interview, what is In & Of Itself? The new Hulu special by Frank Oz and Derek DelGaudio is so much more than just a made-for-TV version of DelGaudio’s live show. As creators, Oz and DelGaudio discuss the stigma of illusion, an art form which relies on sleight of hand and audience participation, and talk about how they were able to bring to life their special for people sitting at home. Both Oz and DelGaudio elucidate the assumptions around their respective careers, professions which have historically been viewed as sitting lower on the performing arts totem pole, and urge viewers to refrain from taking things simply on face value. In & Of Itself is available now on Hulu.

In the spiel, understanding the difference between lies and delusions.

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The Murder of Saudi Arabian Journalist, Jamal Khashoggi Jan 27, 2021

On the Gist, Impeachment logic games.

In the interview, it’s part two of a conversation with Oscar award winning documentarian and director Bryan Fogel about his latest film The Dissident. The film centers around Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi’s brutal murder, and its broader human rights implications. The Dissidentis available in theaters, and now via premium video-on-demand. Today, Fogel and Mike focus on Fogel’s experiences putting the documentary together, and how he got unlikely sources to sit down for interviews.

In the spiel, use code RUDY today!

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Calling Larry King; and Part One with Oscar Winner Bryan Fogel Jan 26, 2021

On the Gist, Larry King, ‘Hello!’

In the interview, it’s part one of a conversation with Oscar award winning documentarian and director Bryan Fogel about his latest film The Dissident. The film centers around Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi’s brutal murder, and its broader human rights implications. Fogel discusses how he seeks to right wrongs through his investigative filmmaking, and details how he put his own life on the line to tell Khashoggi’s story. The Dissidentis available in theaters, and now via premium video-on-demand. Part two of Fogel’s conversation is tomorrow.

In the spiel, Rand Paul versus reality.

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The Cost of Convicting Trump Feat. Guest Joe Lockhart Jan 23, 2021

On the Gist, Trump is deserving of a trial, and a lot more.

In the interview, what are the consequences of putting Trump through a Senate trial? Mike does some game theory with Joe Lockhart about the possible implications for Republicans and Democrats when it comes to voting for, and possibly convicting the former president. Lockhart is former press secretary for President Clinton, partner at strategic comms group Rational360, and a CNN political analyst.

In the spiel, mask on, mask off. But seriously keep your mask on.

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Pardon Me? Jan 22, 2021

On the Gist, before he jetted off to the sunshine state, Trump had a last bit of business to attend to.

In the interview, Mike talks to Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, senior associate dean of leadership programs, and the Lester Crown Professor in the Practice of Management for the Yale School of Management. He is also founder and president of the Chief Executive Leadership Institute. Mike and Sonnenfeld discuss C.E.L.I., a nonprofit educational and research institute focused on CEO leadership and corporate governance, and Trump’s influence on their decision making.

In the spiel, oh the people he pardoned.

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Joe Biden Takes Over Jan 20, 2021

On the Gist, a decent man gives a speech.

In the interview, Mike talks to Sarada Peri about now President Joe Biden’s inaugural speech. The former President Barack Obama speechwriter says Biden, “knocked it out of the park.” They talk about the most effective moments and the importance of speaking directly about racism and white supremacy. Peri also discusses why Biden addressing the American people as “folks” is not only a favorite colloquialism of his, but a necessary way to relate.

In the spiel, Republicans will likely continue to republican.

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Last call for Donald Trump Jan 20, 2021

On the Gist, Trump is getting traded.

In the interview, we bring in Chris Molanphy to discuss the music hits of 2020. They talk about how All I Want For Christmas is You keeps coming back to the top of the charts and the unexpected timeliness of Rockstar by DaBaby featuring Roddy Ricch. Molanphy is a pop-chart analyst, the writer of Slate’s “Why Is This Song No. 1?” series, and host of the podcast Hit Parade. Come for the deep dive on an unusual year in music, stay for Mike explaining what W.A.P. stands for.

In the spiel, we remember Trump for the last time.

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Senate hopeful John Fetterman talks incarceration, gun control, and Trump voters Jan 16, 2021

On the Gist, the QAnon Shaman’s lawyer.

In the interview, John Fetterman, also known as Lieutenant Governor Stone Cold, talks to Mike about his potential Senate run. The Pennsylvania native talks about his origin story from son of teenagers to Harvard graduate, his thoughts on gun control and incarceration, and the woes of being six-foot-nine. (Not enough suits.)

In Remembrances of Things Trump: so many Seans, so little time.

In the spiel, supposed contradictions of pro-free speech.

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What You Might Have Missed Jan 14, 2021

On the Gist, Republicans use their voices to complain about not having a voice.

In the interview, Melissa Murray joins Mike to discuss what the articles of impeachment can teach us about constitutional law as we review the events of last week at the Capitol Building. Murray is a professor at NYU Law, co-host of Strict Scrutiny podcast, and a contributor on MSNBC.

In Remembrances of Things Trump: Goofy, Sleepy, Crazy...no those aren’t Snow White’s friends. They are Trump’s favorite nicknames.

In the spiel, the Trump push for Lisa Montgomery’s execution in the final week of his tarnished presidency.

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His Time is Up Jan 14, 2021

On the Gist, the gavel was quick and sure during the impeachment hearing.

In the interview, what risks lie ahead for 2021? Mike sits down with political scientist Ian Bremmer. They talk about what went wrong in 2020 (hint COVID-19 managed to make a lot of Bremmer’s predictions come true). And for 2021 - China, oil and Biden, oh my! Bremmer is the president and founder of Eurasia Group, a firm that helps investors and businesses understand the impact of politics on their investments.

In Remembrances of Things Trump, Trump attacks a dead man because Trump has a problem with women.

In the spiel, bearing the stain of being impeached twice.

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We Are Who We Are Jan 12, 2021

On the Gist, this is actually who we are because we wouldn’t have let it happen.

In the interview, Katie Meyer, political reporter at WHYY in Philadelphia joins Mike to talk about the Pennsylvania state legislature, and today’s federal ruling on the contested state senate race.

In Remembrances of Things Trump, back to the days when Trump was able to tweet, and retweet.

In the spiel, defining incitement.

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Militias in the Mitten State Jan 12, 2021

On the Gist, several Republicans predicted years ago Trump’s actions would lead to violence, but they’re sticking with him anyway. One of them is Ted Cruz.

In Remembrances of Things Trump, Trump denounces a Swedish terrorism attack that never happened.

In the interview, Mike is joined by Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. They talk about insurrection at the Capitol building in D.C., and in Michigan, and how rallies and big talk got them there. Nessel also explains her decision to seek sanctions against attorneys who filed lawsuits claiming debunked election fraud in the state.

In the spiel, Trump may be off Twitter, but his supporters don’t have to go far to get their message out. It’s called podcasting. Ever heard of it?

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Abandon Ship Jan 09, 2021

On the Gist, how do 39% of registered voters “approve” of Trump’s performance? 39%; really?

In the interview, Mike is joined by Stan Barnes to talk all things Arizona. Arizona just gave its two Senate seats to Democrats in a shocking upset for the long-time red state. Barnes is a former Republican state senator turned party consultant for the Copper State. He talks to Mike about the impact of Wednesday’s Capitol chaos on the Republican party and how there’s no “putting Humpty Dumpty back together again.”

And, today in Remembrances of Things Trump, the people who left the Trump administration before it became en vogue.

In the spiel, a slew of resignations following the chaos.

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Siege Subculture Stories Jan 08, 2021

On the Gist, the assault on the Capitol through extremist corners of the internet.

In the interview, Mike is joined by U.S Rep. Dan Kildee of Michigan’s 5th Congressional District, and Chief Deputy Whip of the House Democratic Caucus. Rep. Kildee was on the House floor when violent pro-Trump extremists overtook the Capitol, causing a lockdown. Kildee shares his experience of what it was like inside the chambers before and after the electoral vote count had been certified, and what he’s hearing from his constituents in Michigan.

In the spiel, we continue our walk through the insurrectionist rampage at the Capitol.

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Capitol Siege Jan 07, 2021

On the Gist, the Capitol is breached by pro-Trump extremists.

In the interview, Mike is joined by Slate’s senior politics writer, Jim Newell, from Washington, D.C. While sequestered from inside the Capitol Building, Newell discussed the safety measures put in place to protect those remaining in the House chambers and its locked corridors, while police made desperate attempts at corralling the violence.

In the spiel, the Georgia runoff and what this means for American politics.

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One Needle to Predict Them All Jan 06, 2021

On the Gist, we return to the infamous Bean Dad.

And, today in Remembrances of Things Trump: All the president’s less than capable men.

In the interview, it’s part two of a conversation with David Shor, a researcher and consultant for democratic politicians. Dubbed a political data analyst prodigy, Shor developed a voter registration system as a teenager, then at age 20 subsequently moved on to work for the Obama campaign where he oversaw forecasting. Shor shares more of his experiences collaborating with more seasoned colleagues and explains how humbling it was in the process.

In the spiel, needling the needle truthers ahead of the Georgia runoff.

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Who is Ken Jennings? Jan 05, 2021

On the Gist, President Trump made a phone call and blew apart the life of a private citizen.

And, today in Remembrances of Things Trump: teleprompter stumble.

In the interview, it’s part one of a conversation with David Shor, a researcher and consultant for democratic politicians. Shor discusses the value trade-offs parties have to make in order to win an election. From his analysis, he explains that when a political party’s values are out of sync with what a median voter believes, issues inevitably arise at the polls. He stresses that it’s not just the messaging, it’s about how it is disseminated and used to persuade.

In the spiel, the answer is: This former Jeopardy! contestant is facing Twitter backlash.

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The World's Worst Year Ever Dec 30, 2020

On the Gist, Fauci guess-timates. And, today in Remembrances of Things Trump: dead ducks and poisoned undies.

In the interview, Harvard professor Michael McCormick is here to tell Mike about the worst year in recorded history. According to him, it’s 536 A.D., a year when a volcanic eruption blocked out the sun, a bubonic plague that recurred every few decades began, and Ireland was without bread for four years. He and Mike discuss how we’re able to pinpoint so precisely the date of these events, how it affected humanity, and that sometimes the history lesson is things can always get worse. McCormick is the Frances Goelet Professor of Medieval History at Harvard University.

In the spiel, if our ancestors got through, so can we.

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America’s Worst Year Ever Dec 29, 2020

On the Gist, sorting out how undemocratic of our democracy is.

In the interview, the Atlantic’s James Fallows contends that while 2020 has been bad, 1968 was actually quite worse. The Vietnam War was raging, young men were being drafted, and in 1968 the North Vietnamese and Vietcong forces launched their Tet Offensive. Not to mention, Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy were both assassinated. Fallows and Mike discuss how the assassinations compounded on the stress of the war, how shooting targets have shifted from politicians to schools, and compare the civil unrest of 1968 with 2020. Fallows’ piece in the Atlantic is “Is This the Worst Year in Modern American History?”

In the spiel, we’re not getting those $2,000 checks...which leads to a Remembrances of Things Trump where the president likes a certain phrase about talking and action.

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Editor’s note: This episode mistakenly identifies Martin Luther King Jr. as having been assassinated “when he was in his early 40s.” King died at the age of 39 on April 4, 1968, in Memphis, Tennessee.

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Getting Carriered Away Dec 28, 2020

On the Gist, we’re experiencing some loner white terrorist burnout.

In the interview, we’re talking rural Republicans. Ross Benes gives us insight to Nebraska’s Republican party, and how they can help to understand Republicans everywhere. He talks about where Democrats are going wrong outside the cities, the difference between an old fashioned Republican and a Trump Toadie, and what makes rural voters tick—sometimes despite their own best interests. Benes is a journalist and analyst at eMarketer, and the author of Rural Rebellion: How Nebraska Became a Republican Stronghold.

In the spiel, remembering what Trump said he’d do for the Carrier plant.

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Simply Having a COVID Christmas Time Dec 23, 2020

On the Gist, Republican Grinches are scratching their heads while Santa Trump calls for more stimulus money.

And, today in Remembrances of Things Trump: This president. He hasn’t talked so good.

In the interview, we have Georgia on our mind yet again with Georgia Public Broadcasting’s Bill Nigut. He talks about the upcoming Georgia runoff including the impact of Republicans crying foul after the 2020 election, the (slim) chance that Republicans could blow an election that’s theirs to lose, and a deep cut involving a political jingle. Nigut is the host and executive producer of the Georgia politics podcast, Political Rewind. He’s also a program host and producer at Georgia Public Broadcasting.

In the spiel, that rare feeling of togetherness that now comes with waiting on line for a COVID-19 test.

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Washing Out the Trump Stain Dec 23, 2020

On the Gist, who wants the vaccine?

And, today in Remembrances of Things Trump: Did Trump really want a moat with alligators and snakes?

In the interview, it’s the second half of Mike’s conversation with author Michael Scott Alexander about his book, Making Peace with the Universe: Personal Crisis and Spiritual Healing. Alexander talks about his connection to finding a religious path and identity, the differences between religious institutions and personal enlightenment, and why the concept of spirituality desperately needs rebranding. Alexander is associate professor of religious studies and Maimonides Endowed Chair in Jewish Studies at the University of California, Riverside.

In the spiel, cleansing America of Trump.

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The Death Sentence Is Dubious Dec 22, 2020

On the Gist, medical innovation.

And, today in Remembrances of Things Trump: charitable contributions.

In the interview, it’s part one of Mike’s discussion with author, Michael Scott Alexander about his book, Making Peace with the Universe: Personal Crisis and Spiritual Healing. Alexander details how he searched for insight during an existential crisis, and retroactively explored how other great thinkers, philosophers, psychologists, and musicians found help in healing the mind. Alexander is associate professor of religious studies and Maimonides Endowed Chair in Jewish Studies at the University of California, Riverside.

In the spiel, dubious arguments against dubious death sentences.

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The Shrinking Majority Dec 19, 2020

On the Gist, the shrinking list of Democrats in Congress. And, today in Remembrances of Things Trump: Trump trying to surprise the parents of British teenager Harry Dunn with their son’s killer.

In the interview, the Gist’s favorite guest, Maria Konnikova, is back for another round of “Is That Bullshit?” She and Mike talk about long shot political wins and describe what it meant for Donald Trump to draw an inside straight in 2016. It’s a great hand to bluff with, but oftentimes it can be a bad strategy in poker and in life. Maria’s book The Biggest Bluff: How I Learned to Pay Attention, Master Myself, and Win is a New York Times bestseller and listed as one of their 100 Notable Books for 2020.

In the spiel, it’s the final lobster of the antentwig of 2020!

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Democrat Delusions Dec 18, 2020

On the Gist, gale-force winds from winter storm Gail. And, today in Remembrances of Things Trump: Jim Acosta was scolded and his credentials revoked.

In the interview, Mike talks with Scottish sports broadcaster Andrew Cotter how his dogs Olive and Mabel became online celebrities. Earlier this year, Cotter began publishing short videos of his dogs featuring funny commentaries from his perspective. One is a sports-style chew toy play-by-play, and another is a work call with his pups over Zoom. These videos went majorly viral, and now he’s out with a memoir recounting the real stories of his life with his dogs. Cotter’s book is Olive, Mabel, & Me: Life and Adventures With Two Very Good Dogs.

In the spiel, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez stresses that there is no plan in place for new leadership.

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Keeping an Eye on the Fall Dec 17, 2020

On the Gist, GOP going after themselves. And, today in Remembrances of Things Trump: Peter Navarro’s alter ego.

In the interview, Mike talks with Jane McManus about the conclusions of her poll on why Americans have been spending less time watching sports in 2020. What she found has a lot to do with not just the pandemic and aging viewers, but identity politics, too. In their conversation, McManus underscores that the health of a community is oftentimes based on playing games, and that sports are the ultimate reflection of a healthy democracy. She also discusses why sports leagues choosing to avoid getting involved in disseminating a public health message was contrary to putting community and teamwork first. McManus is director of Marist College’s Center for Sports Communication, a columnist for Deadspin sports and an ESPN contributor.

In the spiel, Joe Rogan doesn’t know what he’s talking about.

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Constructing Joe’s Cabinet Dec 16, 2020

On the Gist, Pete Buttigieg named Biden’s secretary of transport. And, today in Remembrances of Things Trump: Ryan Zinke, Trump’s first secretary of the interior.

In the interview, it’s the final half of Mike’s discussion with writer Matthew Yglesias. After touching on Yglesias’ argument from his Vox piece, “Trump’s Gains With Hispanic Voters Should Prompt Some Progressive Rethinking,” he and Mike go deeper on the divide between white Democrats and Democrats of color, and why some social issues in the progressive mainstream don’t necessarily work for the larger Democratic base. Yglesias’ Substack newsletter is Slow Boring.

In the spiel, Biden-esque buddyism.

And, a short tribute to the late Catie Lazarus, comedy writer, and former host of the Slate talk show Employee of the Month.

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Competence Prevails Dec 15, 2020

On the Gist, deciphering the Zodiac Killer’s last message. And, today in Remembrances of Things Trump: Trump trying to make Andrew Puzder his Labor Secretary.

In the interview, the first part of Mike’s discussion with writer Matthew Yglesias. They talk about how the world of online media has changed since Yglesias founded Vox, and begin to get into his argument about certain parts of the Democratic platform that alienated Hispanic voters and pushed them towards Trump. Tomorrow, they’ll go deeper on the complex analysis of voters of color, and why it seems harder to disagree with progressive thought than it used to be. Yglesias’ Substack newsletter is Slow Boring.

In the spiel, competent judges kept the U.S. in check.

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Happy Fifteen Years, Political Gabfest Dec 11, 2020

On the Gist, don’t trust the polls. And, today’s installment of Remembrances of Things Trump: Trump loves the Great Lake.

In the interview, Mike helps Slate celebrate a milestone. Fifteen years ago this week, Emily Bazelon, John Dickerson, and David Plotz recorded their first podcast together, and the Political Gabfest was born. Since 2005, the trio has roundtabled weekly about politicians, scandals, and countless court cases with millions of listeners joining them along the way. It’s a podcast series that Stephen Colbert says “everybody should listen to.” One of the first-published podcasts to date, Slate’s Political Gabfest set the stage for news, culture, and politics shows everywhere to come over the years.

In the spiel, proof through accusation.

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Middle Class Musts Dec 11, 2020

On the Gist, unasked for resignation advice. And, today’s installment of Remembrances of Things Trump: toilets for well-endowed men.

In the interview, it’s part two of Mike’s conversation with Jim Tankersley, author and New York Times economics reporter. Tankersley provides solutions to productivity gains, explains how access to education in America is not enough of a tool for progress and that extending opportunities, like V.C. to women and BIPOC, will create more opportunities leading to a virtuous cycle promoting a new thriving middle class. Tankersley’s book is The Riches of This Land: The Untold, True Story of America's Middle Class.

In the spiel, Georgia senators buying stocks.

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Medical Racism and Vaccine Fears Dec 10, 2020

On the Gist, the skeletons in Hunter Biden’s closet. And, today’s installment of Remembrances of Things Trump: A natural rust color on the border wall.

In the interview, it’s part one of Mike’s conversation with author and economics reporter Jim Tankersley about his new book, The Riches of This Land: The Untold, True Story of America's Middle Class. Tankersley defines the middle class by economic security, and underscores how legislations and the Civil Rights act negatively impacted economic policy. Mike and Jim also discuss how the U.S. seemed to luck into having a middle class post-World War II, and why chasing jobs of the past could be an ineffective method of rebuilding future opportunities. Stay tuned for part two in tomorrow’s episode.

In the spiel, the Black community and the coronavirus vaccine.

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Worthy of the Vaccine Dec 09, 2020

On the Gist, Ultimate Concrete. And, today’s installment of Remembrances of Things Trump: Harley riders for Trump.

In the interview, Mike talks with Cal Matters reporter Laurel Rosenhall about her coverage of Proposition 22, an unprecedented measure pushed by app-based rideshare and livery companies to keep their workers within the gig-economy and preserve exemptions around having to pay employee job protections and benefits. Rosenhall discusses the strategies companies like Uber, Lyft, Instacart, and Doordash used to pressure voters as well as drivers during the campaign, and what happened when the now former president of NAACP’s California-Hawaii chapter was paid to endorse the ballot measure. Rosenhall is host of Force of Law, a podcast exploring the ways California lawmakers are attempting to reduce police shootings across the golden state.

In the spiel, who deserves the vaccine?

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Year of the Rat Dec 08, 2020

On the Gist, Trump still wants attention. And, today’s installment of Remembrances of Things Trump: Trump meeting Emmanuel Macron.

In the interview, theater artist and rat about town Jonothon Lyons is here to talk with Mike about his year performing in the streets and subways of New York City. They discuss the origins of Lyons’ work in movement and mask making, the shapes and shadows that help build a mask face, and how Buddy the Rat helped Mike with his own recent engagement.

In the spiel, pay in the Senate and the NBA.

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Wrecking Public Trust Dec 05, 2020

On the Gist, Corey Lewandowski has caught the virus. And, today’s installment of Remembrances of Things Trump: criticizing Chucks.

In the interview, Maria Konnikova is back for another “Is That Bullshit?” She and Mike dissect where the stipulations around the socially distanced fifteen-minute time limit.* While in close proximity to another person, how long does it actually take to get exposed and what are the variables? Turns out, the time frame depends on a variety of factors like weather, mask fabric, location and even air quality. Maria’s latest book The Biggest Bluff: How I Learned to Pay Attention, Master Myself, and Win is a New York Times bestseller and listed as one of their 100 Notable Books for 2020.

In the spiel, the detriments of downplaying Covid-19.

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* Links: Beyond Six Feet: A Guideline to Limit Indoor Airborne Transmission of COVID-19, COVID-19 Indoor Safety Guideline and app.

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Perdue’s Share of Pfizer Dec 04, 2020

On the Gist, will Trump have a platform once he’s stripped of power? And, today’s installment of Remembrances of Things Trump: hoping things will work out with North Korea.

In the interview, lawyer Fred Golder is here to discuss mediation and his new bookReaching Common Ground: A Comprehensive Guide to Conflict Resolution. He and Mike discuss Golder’s long career fighting for the rights of workers starting in the ’60s, and how his experience led him to believe mediation was the best tool to resolve employment conflict for both sides of the table, and how long court battles really only ever turned out to be good for the lawyers.

In the spiel, Sen. Perdue’s securities fraud.

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Fiddling With Georgia’s Election Dec 03, 2020

On the Gist, unraveling of election results. And, today’s installment of Remembrances of Things Trump: a graveyard full of birds.

In the interview, Mike is joined by Fred Kaplan, War Stories columnist at Slate, and author of The Bomb: Presidents, Generals, and the Secret History of Nuclear War. Kaplan discusses the implications of the assassination of the head of the Iranian nuclear program, Trump’s stance on U.S. involvement on foreign wars, and some projections on Biden’s cabinet picks for secretary of defense.

In the spiel, the devil went down to Georgia’s polls.

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Punting on Opportunity Dec 02, 2020

On the Gist, potential mass fraud. Plus, the latest installment of Remembrances of Things Trump, aswe pause to recall when the president claimed his father was born in Germany.

In the interview, it's part two of Mike's conversation with voice actor Jess Harnell, who is reprising his role as Wakko Warner on the reboot of the beloved ‘90s cartoon The Animaniacs, now streaming on Hulu. Separate from the show, Harnell discusses his success in vocal matching and imitation, and how he successfully adapted it for his band Rock Sugar—their music comedically mashes up 80's heavy metal and pop music. Harnell also discusses his thoughts on one of his first voice acting gigs for Disney’s Splash Mountain, and the 2020 controversy around the attraction.

In the spiel, women are capable of playing American football, just only when men aren’t available.

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Progressives Cry Betrayal Dec 01, 2020

On the Gist, voter certifications in Arizona and Wisconsin.

In the interview, Mike talks with Jess Harnell, the Emmy-nominated voice artist with over 300 voice credits to his name, including Wakko Warner from The Animaniacs. The animated show executive produced by Steven Spielberg, known for bringing irreverent comedy and satire to kids in the 90’s, is back. In the first part of this two part interview, Harnell explains the inspiration behind Wakko's voice, what elements made Animaniacs an iconic cartoon series two decades ago and how they plan to update it for a new generation. All-new episodes of Animaniacs are now streaming only on Hulu.

In the spiel, the Left’s argument against the private sector. And today on Remembrances of Things Trump, do you believe in Santa Claus?

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A Start-Up Letdown Nov 26, 2020

On the Gist, today on Remembrances of Things Trump, we look back on Trump’s 2017 visit to the annual Boy Scout Jamboree.

In the interview, Mike talks with Reeves Weideman, contributing editor at New York magazine and author of Billion Dollar Loser: The Epic Rise and Spectacular Fall of Adam Neumann and WeWork. Weideman explains the internal drama inside Neumann’s fast-scaling, overly hyped WeWork, an office space leasing company billed as an in-person social network, as well as the lessons entrepreneurs can learn from disruptors attempting to grow quickly and remain profitable.

In the spiel, the lobstar of the antentwig.

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Remember When Nov 25, 2020

On the Gist, remember when there was “the most beautiful piece of chocolate cake that you’ve ever seen,” and an attack on Syria.

In the interview, Yuval Levin, author of A Time to Build: From Family and Community to Congress and the Campus, How Recommitting to Our Institutions Can Revive the American Dream and American Enterprise Institute scholar talks to Mike about what conservatism looks like in a post-Trump world. As the Republican party grapples with their identity at the start of a new era, they may find themselves asking, “What do we have to offer? And what do we want in return?” Levin advises frank discussions amongst the party, purposeful policies, and consequential legislation.

In the spiel, playing Russian roulette for Thanksgiving 2020.

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How To With John Wilson Nov 24, 2020

On the Gist, Michigan meets to certify the results of the 2020 election.

In the interview, documentarian John Wilson talks to Mike about steering clear of staid tropes and taking on moments of serendipity for his new HBO docuseries. How To with John Wilson is a poetic and comedic look on life, art, and philosophy in and around New York City. How To, as Wilson describes, was his experimentation with realism. As writer, cameraman, producer and narrator, Wilson creates a weirdly and beautifully raw representation of the city on the brink of the pandemic. How To is executive-produced by Nathan Fielder and streams Fridays on HBO Max.

In the spiel, long live the climate czar.

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Cover It Up! Nov 21, 2020

On the Gist, the election cannot be reversed in Trump’s favor.

In the interview, comedian, actor, author, and activist Sarah Silverman joins Mike to talk about career, her characters, and how she is still learning from some controversial missteps taken along the way. Silverman candidly discusses her views on why Americans are so politically divided and why she thinks we ought to work together towards implementing progressive legislation. Her newest project, a podcast where she responds no-holds-barred to listener voicemails, is called The Sarah Silverman Show.

In the spiel, stopping disinformation at the source.

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No Redress for the Wicked Nov 20, 2020

On the Gist, Rudy Giuliani keeps trying.

In the interview, Bob Bauer and Jack Goldsmith are here to talk about their new book After Trump: Reconstructing the Presidency. Goldsmith, former White House counsel for the George W. Bush administration, and Bauer, former Obama counsel, discuss what work needs to be done to move past the Trump presidency. They share their differing views on the efficacy of prosecuting Trump’s actions in office after Biden steps into the role, and the two explain how this isn’t the first time the office of the presidency has needed to be repaired.

In the spiel, Kyle Rittenhouse and the Proud Boys.

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Carried Away Nov 19, 2020

On the Gist, how Governors Cuomo and Newsom are responding to the second wave.

In the interview, it’s part two of Mike’s conversation with The Dispatch’s senior editor David French about his new book Divided We Fall: America's Secession Threat and How to Restore Our Nation. French discusses the principles of pluralism, how some choose to decry tribalism and then default to using pluralism as a tactic. French also details some examples of it actually working as well as when it has led to friction.

In the spiel, performatively exercising your second amendment rights.

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Warp Speed Worked Nov 18, 2020

On the Gist, there is a lot of uncertainty between now and January.

In the interview, we share part one of Mike’s conversation with David French about his new book Divided We Fall: America's Secession Threat and How to Restore Our Nation. French argues that reconciling differences within the U.S. is more than just bridging political divides. Opposing identities require broad ideological coalitions in government that seek to soothe cemented divisions and heal citizens who feel disenfranchised. Part two of the interview is tomorrow.

In the spiel, giving credit where credit is due.

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A Safe Thanksgiving? Nov 17, 2020

On the Gist, facing electoral consequences.

In the interview, Roxanne Khamsi, a science writer and contributor to WIRED, joins Mike to talk about Covid-19 social distancing, mask policies, lockdown, and preparedness in the U.S. and Canada. As America approaches the start of the holidays, Khamsi shares some new data—based off of individuals isolated on offshore oil drilling rigs—that provides some guidance on testing twice and how it may help shorten the 14-day quarantine period.

In the spiel, the Latino vote.

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Democrat Divergence? Nov 14, 2020

On the Gist, Democrats seeing compromise as a defeat.

In the interview, political commentator Jess McIntosh talks with Mike about the fight within the Democratic party about whose messaging matters. They discuss the merits of centrist and progressive language, how important it is to have members of Congress who are further left than Biden, and why Republicans villainize Democrats regardless of the language they use. McIntosh is co-host of Signal Boost on Sirius XM.

In the spiel, listener concerns.

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Home Is a Construct Nov 13, 2020

On the Gist, more of Trump’s inner circle test positive for Covid-19.

In the interview, writer and urban policy specialist Diana Lind is here to talk about her new book Brave New Home: Our Future in Smarter, Simpler, Happier Housing. She and Mike discuss how the single-family home arose in the U.S. as a part of the American dream, if it’s really making us any happier to live that way, and what sorts of legal roadblocks currently prevent a variety of housing options from proliferating across the country.

In the spiel, Rudy on the radio.

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No Coup for You Nov 12, 2020

On the Gist, Trump tries a coup.

In the interview, former federal prosecutor, legal scholar and law professor Mark Osler joins Mike to talk about the presidential power of pardoning, granting clemency, a benign prerogative that is slanted towards mercy and not retribution. They discuss what might happen in the next few months with Trump’s final days in office.

In the spiel, who elected Biden?

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Jeopardy, A Beloved Tradition Nov 10, 2020

On the Gist, brokered by Russia.

In the interview, Claire McNear joins Mike to talk about her new book Answers in the Form of Questions: A Definitive History and Insider's Guide to Jeopardy!In it, McNear explains the history of the game, what it takes to be a contestant and maintain a storied winning streak, and how so much of Jeopardy’s DNA came from its late host - Alex Trebek. Claire is a staff writer at The Ringer.

In the spiel, former deputy FBI director Andrew McCabe testifies.

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The News Normal Nov 10, 2020

On the Gist, getting back to normal.

In the interview, WHYY’s Katie Meyer is here to discuss Pennsylvania politics with Mike. They talk about how the changes in voting collection and counting changed in the state during 2020, why it caused such national turmoil, and if Republican meddling even helped their strategy at all.

In the spiel, anchors having too many opinions.

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The Democrat Debrief Nov 07, 2020

On the Gist, Democrats practiced caution and Republicans jumped into the deep end.

In the interview, Emily Bazelon and Mike recap election week, its days-long outcome, and our current reality with the two candidates. Bazelon writes for the New York Times magazine, co-hosts Slate’s Political Gabfest, and is the author of Charged: The New Movement to Transform American Prosecution and End Mass Incarceration.

In the spiel, what is the Democratic Party’s way forward?

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That Election Feeling Nov 05, 2020

On the Gist, election feelings.

In the interview, Lawfare’s Benjamin Wittes is here as we continue working through the results after election day. He and Mike discuss how the next few months could play out, what a transition might look like, and the ways Trump is considering fighting dirty. Wittes is the author of Unmaking the Presidency: Donald Trump’s War on the World’s Most Powerful Office.

In the spiel, the Trafalgar group got too much wrong.

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The Day After Nov 05, 2020

On the Gist, misguided Americans.

In the interview, Mike talks with Slate’s senior politics writer Jim Newell about the house races, what the democrat incumbents did wrong and why things appear to be a lot more like 2016, and theorizing that a republican controlled senate is what Biden actually wants. Plus, Jim and Mike’s thoughts on Mississippi’s new state flag.

In the spiel, how much does Fox News’ framing matter?

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Election Night 2020 Nov 03, 2020

On the Gist, the system is antiquated.

In the interview, Mike talks with Anne Applebaum, author of Twilight of Democracy: The Seductive Lure of Authoritarianism, about America’s future after election day. They talk about the small but concerning ways the country could slide towards a dictatorship, and how Trump’s tactics have made people less willing to believe in the power of democracy.

In the spiel, a lot is on the ballot.

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Fear the Shy Trump Voter? Nov 03, 2020

On the Gist, caravans of Trump supporters.

In the interview, Mike talks with NPR's media correspondent David Folkenflik on the organization’s decision to sidestep coverage of the Hunter Biden allegations. He and Mike discuss ways major news outlets covered the story, why it never got much traction, and what goes into evaluating a story’s worth.

In the spiel, Trafalgar Group’s polling predictions.

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Broadband Is Not A Luxury Oct 31, 2020

On the Gist, Trump in Michigan.

In the interview, Mike talks with former governor of Florida Jeb Bush about his push for access to national broadband internet access. He argues that high-speed internet in the U.S. is lagging compared to other industrialized countries. Now more than ever, digital infrastructure has become a critical resource to the economy, as well as our nation’s security. Read Gov. Bush’s piece in Slate published in early October.

In the spiel, painting Trump in a terrible light.

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Swinging In Iowa Oct 30, 2020

On the Gist, the number of people who’ve already voted.

In the interview, Erin Murphy, the Des Moines Bureau Chief for Lee Enterprises in Iowa, joins Mike to talk about what the election looks like in his state. They discuss how Trump is faring with farmers, what the different races look like there, and the effect anti-gun groups may be having on the state elections.

In the spiel, Perdue and Ossoff face off in Georgia.

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Lone Star Elections Oct 29, 2020

On the Gist, the Jim Comey letter came out four years ago today.

In the interview, Mike talks with Scott Braddock, editor and Texan political analyst at the Quorum Report. Braddock is also host of Texas Take, a podcast from the Houston Chronicle. They talk about what’s at stake on the ballots for election day, and how compared with previous years Texans have been voting in record numbers.

In the spiel, Trump’s exceptions.

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The Last Frontier Oct 27, 2020

On the Gist, don’t worry about things you can’t control.

In the interview, Alaska Public Media’s Nat Herz joins Mike to talk about the races above the lower 48. Herz details the dramatic Alaskan Senate race between Al Gross and Daniel Sullivan, how the Pebble Mine scandal and the salmon fishing industry are important points of discussion, and how the presidential campaigns have been able to pound the pavement in Alaska. Cue Sarah Palin appearing as a surrogate for the Trump campaign in a Cabela’s parking lot.

In the spiel, clinging to hope.

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Georgia on Our Mind Oct 26, 2020

On the Gist, Trump and Armenians.

In the interview, Georgia Public Broadcasting’s Bill Nigut is here to talk with Mike about Georgia. He fills Mike in on the details of the fight between Kelly Loeffler, Doug Collins, and Raphael Warnock, and shares how impressed he’s been with Jon Ossoff’s debate performance against incumbent David Perdue. They also discuss how Biden is trying to reach voters in the state, and if there’s any chance it could go blue. Nigut is the host of Political Rewind.

In the spiel, Trump watched 60 Minutes.

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Last Pitch Effort Oct 24, 2020

On the Gist, red-string theories and conspiratorial last-ditch efforts.

In the interview, Mike and Slate’s national correspondent Will Saletan recap the final presidential debate. They discuss the Trump camp’s thwarted strategy of practicing restraint to expose Biden, the self-congratulatory and attacking exchanges between the two candidates, and why this debate might only make a difference for Trump in his attempts to score points with low-information and eleventh hour-voters.

In the spiel, Trump’s misconceptions about the race.

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Calling It: Dan Rather Oct 22, 2020

On the Gist, our civic obligations in 2020.

In the interview, Mike talks with journalist and veteran broadcast anchor Dan Rather about his decades-long career in covering elections, highlighting a few cautionary tales learned from the 2000 race between George W. Bush and Al Gore. Rather explains that for some major networks, making the right call in 2000 was marred by corporate interference in the control rooms, plus he stresses that unexpected delays could fuel conspiracy theories. Patience will be a virtue come “voting night,” he explains. Rather is the author of What Unites Us: Reflections on Patriotism, the host of The Big Interviewon AXS TV, and the host of a documentary called Human Nature, which is now streaming on Netflix.

In the spiel, Michael Moore’s political predictions in 2020.

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Calling It: Brian Rosenwald Oct 21, 2020

On the Gist, Mike checks in with this Lawfare piece, and the U.S. Elections Project.

In the interview, Mike talks with Brian Rosenwald, a media historian and fellow at the University of Pennsylvania, about how election night might play out. They discuss the idea of a red mirage, how Republican governors can bring order to things, and how far-right talk radio is going to digest the results. Rosenwald is the author of Talk Radio’s America: How an Industry Took Over a Political Party That Took Over the United States.

In the spiel, Trump’s bad surrogates.

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Calling It: Julie Pace Oct 21, 2020

On the Gist, network news election branding.

In the interview, Mike talks with Julie Pace, Washington Bureau Chief for the Associated Press, about the AP’s history in counting the vote since 1848, how they’ve traditionally declared winners, and an explanation on how they will be going above and beyond in 2020 in sharing the race calls that they are and aren’t making.

In the spiel, local political television ads.

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Calling It: Steve Kornacki and Brian Stelter Oct 19, 2020

On the Gist, we’re launching a week-long focus on election night and how different news organizations handle making the winning calls.

In the interviews, Mike talks with NBC News’ national political correspondent Steve Kornacki about his network’s decision desk, their processes in tabulation, and how they will be closely monitoring the votes coming in days after Tuesday, November 3. Kornacki is the author of The Red and the Blue.

Then, Mike speaks with CNN’s Brian Stelter about CNN’s plan for coverage, and the outsized role that Fox News represents and his predictions for their election day narrative. Stelter is the author of Hoax: Donald Trump, Fox News, and the Dangerous Distortion of Truth.

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Masking Over Truth Oct 17, 2020

On the Gist, the price of corn.

In the interview, former senior strategist for the NRA Joshua L. Powell is back for the second half of his conversation with Mike. They run down a series of NRA opinions and he and Mike go back and forth about how much NRA members believe things like “the only solution to a bad guy with a gun is a good guy with a gun,” and whether we should own AR-15s. Powell’s book is Inside the NRA: A Tell-All Account of Corruption, Greed, and Paranoia within the Most Powerful Political Group in America.

In the spiel, dueling town halls.

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The Personal Is Judicial Oct 16, 2020

On the Gist, David Ruffin.

In the interview, former senior strategist for the NRA Joshua L. Powell is here to discuss his new book, Inside the NRA: A Tell-All Account of Corruption, Greed, and Paranoia within the Most Powerful Political Group in America. During the first half of this two-part conversation, he and Mike talk about the nefarious ways Wayne LaPierre used the NRA to push forward polarizing but niche interests, and the case New York State Attorney General Letitia James is bringing against them.

In the spiel, Amy Coney Barrett’s personal life is judicial.

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Pollster Pitfalls Oct 14, 2020

On the Gist, an Alaskan drama.

In the interview, Mike talks with Robert Cahaly, head pollster of the Atlanta-based Trafalgar Group. Cahaly explains their polling methodology in gathering accurate opinion data, why social desirability bias comes into play, and how his team was able to predict Trump’s win in 2016. Now he posits that in 2020 Trump has more support than the polls could be showing.

In the spiel, Kabuki-style hearings continue for Amy Coney Barrett.

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Talking Around Amy Coney Barrett Oct 14, 2020

On the Gist, uniting with your would-be kidnappers?

In the interview, Mike talks to former Obama staffer Elliot Williams about his new podcast Made to Fail, a show where he explores the different ways governmental institutions across have been made intentionally dysfunctional, like the Florida unemployment system, and the impact it has on people in need of such infrastructure. All episodes of Made to Fail are available wherever you get your podcasts.

In the spiel, processing Amy Coney Barrett.

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Talk Radio Rally Oct 09, 2020

On the Gist, mishegoss in Michigan.

In the interview, Mike talks with Stephen Dubner, host and co-author of Freakonomics, and Angela Duckworth, a psychologist and best-selling author of Grit. Dubner and Duckworth are the hosts of the new podcast No Stupid Questions, where in each episode they take turns posing a question, and give each other the chance to puzzle out their responses. The questions Mike poses for them include how to separate art from artist and how to navigate microaggressions. No Stupid Questions releases new episodes every Sunday at 5am ET from Stitcher.

In the spiel, Trump on talk radio.

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The World Needs Better Men Oct 09, 2020

On the Gist, the vice presidential debate and expanding SCOTUS.

In the interview, Mike is joined by author, comedian, podcast host, and actor Michael Ian Black to talk about his latest book, A Better Man: A (Mostly Serious) Letter to My Son. Black was persuaded to write the book after publishing a New York Times op-ed on school shootings and gun control in 2018. Part advice and part memoir, A Better Man poses the question: why is it always boys and young men who are pulling the trigger? Black challenges readers to expand their definition of masculinity while refraining from denigrating qualities traditionally seen as feminine.

In the spiel, how the Hasidic community in New York City is handling COVID-19.

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Too Big to Govern? Oct 07, 2020

On the Gist, a vice presidential debate starring plexiglass.

In the interview, Mike hosts a roundtable discussion with journalist Richard Kreitner and Vox’s Matthew Yglesias to talk about how each of their new books address the problem of an ever-increasing American population. They debate if the U.S. should split into more manageable nations, or if the country should keep pushing population growth. Yglesias’ book is One Billion Americans: The Case for Thinking Big, and Kreitner’s latest is Break It Up: Secession, Division, and the Secret History of America’s Imperfect Union.

In the spiel, Delco, South Philly, and NY tri-state area Italian Americans for Joe Biden.

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Rebranding Schadenfreude Oct 06, 2020

On the Gist, a buffet of bad takes from Joe Piscopo.

In the interview, CNN chief legal analyst Jeffrey Toobin is here to discuss a topic the Gist can’t seem to get enough of recently, the Mueller investigation. Toobin’s new book, True Crimes and Misdemeanors: The Investigation of Donald Trump, explores the investigation and analyzes its failures, and he talks with Mike about Mueller’s misplaced trust in institutions, and how sympathetic we should find him in light of that.

In the spiel, how do you feel about Trump’s diagnosis?

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Iterations of Idiocy Oct 05, 2020

On the Gist, Trump's doctor has reasons.

In the interview, former FBI agent Peter Strzok is here to discuss his new book Compromised: Counterintelligence and the Threat of Donald J. Trump. He and Mike discuss the investigation into Trump and Russia, the ways kompromat could push Trump to make decisions based on Russian interests, and how Trump vilified two federal agents over personal text messages that were leaked to the press by the Justice Department.

In the spiel, even the president can catch COVID, but what does that even mean?

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Hoisted By His Own Petard Oct 03, 2020

On the Gist, Trump’s mask strategy.

In the interview, Mike is joined by David Priess, COO of the Lawfare Institute, an organization and online magazine which focuses on national security issues. Priess posits some worst case scenarios in light of President Trump contracting Covid-19, the unexpected vulnerabilities and uncertainties that lay ahead, historical norms of disclosure for a president, and the ultimate Continuity of Government Plan - the election. Priess is a former CIA officer, and author of The President's Book of SecretsandHow to Get Rid of a President: History's Guide to Removing Unpopular, Unable, or Unfit Chief Executives.

In the spiel, Trump has no one to blame but himself.

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You Gotta Believe Oct 02, 2020

On the Gist, Trump’s falsehoods.

In the interview, Mikes talks with neuroscientist, Stanford University professor and best-selling author, David Eagleman, about his latest book Livewired: The Inside Story of the Ever-Changing Brain. Eagleman says that the way the brain is able to change and adapt to adversity is still inspiring new developments and new questions.

In the spiel, making a political comeback.

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Dastardly Debate Oct 01, 2020

On the Gist, there were a great many missteps last night on the presidential debate stage, but despite the rhetorical slips, Biden stayed on his feet to glide past Trump.

In the interview, Mike and Slate’s national correspondent, Will Saletan, recap the first presidential debate. They dissect the prep and implemented strategies of both the Trump and Biden camps, the gratuitous exchanges between the two candidates, Chris Wallace’s performance as moderator, and how to curb the electoral nightmare scenarios looming on the horizon.

In the spiel, Donald Trump did not say, "Yes!" when asked if he repudiated white supremacy. But was it because he wouldn't do it, or was it because he has the inability to articulate?

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Drawing Districts Sep 29, 2020

On the Gist, using poker logic to analogize the upcoming presidential debates with Annie Duke. She is a former professional poker player, cognitive scientist and author of the forthcoming How to Decide: Simple Tools for Making Better Choices.

In the interview, Mike passes the baton to Annie Duke once more to dig into gerrymandering. Duke talks with Moon Duchin, a mathematician and professor at Tufts University, about her research into understanding how voting districts work. Through redistricting analysis at the Metric Geometry and Gerrymandering Group, an organization Duchin co-founded, she describes how in this democracy, fairness isn’t always as easy to find when you’re considering where people live and vote.

In the spiel, messing up several thousand absentee ballots was inevitable.

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Deliver Us From Trump Sep 29, 2020

On the Gist, the attack on the Knights of Columbus.

In the interview, Mike talks with Philippe I. Reines, political consultant, longtime aid and former staffer of U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton. In light of the upcoming presidential debates between Trump and Biden, Reines details his debate preparation in 2016, shares some possible strategies that the Biden camp may be using to prepare, and what sort of tactics Biden could use to go for the jugular.

In the spiel, cult of Trump.

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Reconsidering Comey Sep 26, 2020

On the Gist, a Twitter bug.

In the interview, actor Jeff Daniels and writer Billy Ray are here to discuss the new two-night mini-series The Comey Rule on Showtime. The mini-series focuses on the story James Comey in the fall of 2016, and even though both Daniels and Ray had certain perceptions of how poorly James Comey handled it all, working on this project really revealed the humanity and struggle of this public servant. Mike talks with them about the creative process, adapting such recent history, and their new views on the man. The Comey Rule premieres on Showtime on Sunday, September 27.

In the spiel, Daniel Cameron’s wife is white.

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Democracy’s Nightmare Scenario Sep 25, 2020

On the Gist, Kelly Loeffler and Atilla the Hun.

In the interview, Jonathan V. Last, editor of The Bulwark, talks with Mike about his recent piece which forecasts that after the passing of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, America is moving one step closer to another political crisis. Last walks through some of the nightmare scenarios, particularly on the probability that a conservative justice is appointed, confirmed, and subsequently rules on the November election. Last explains that although he remains optimistic with regards to the legitimacy of the SCOTUS, he is ultimately losing faith that some voters care not for a system of governance that is capable of functioning competently.

In the spiel, remaining outraged as Trump repeats himself.

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Justice or Retribution? Sep 23, 2020

On the Gist, Trump sounds braggadocious.

In the interview, it’s the second half of Mike’s conversation with CNN’s Brian Stelter. They discuss why Fox News is losing advertisers, and why executives at the organization continue to stand by their talent, and Mike questions whether news anchors have given up their objectivity with lengthy monologues about the state of democracy under Trump. Stelter’s latest book, Hoax: Donald Trump, Fox News, and the Dangerous Distortion of Truth, is out now.

In the spiel, looking for justice in Louisville, Kentucky.

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The Consequence of Elections Sep 22, 2020

On the Gist, nothing is reasonable anymore.

In the interview, CNN’s Brian Stelter is here to discuss his new book Hoax: Donald Trump, Fox News, and the Dangerous Distortion of Truth. In the first half of his two-part interview, Stelter talks about the ways Fox changed after Roger Ailes’ exit in 2016, increasingly abandoning its news coverage in favor of polarizing commentary, and how the cycle of disinformation between Trump and Fox keeps us all trapped.

In the spiel, Sen. Lindsey Graham might face consequences.

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Wishing for Democracy Sep 21, 2020

On the Gist, the pursuit of power through SCOTUS.

In the interview, Mike talks with radio presenter and author, Eric Weiner about his latest bookThe Socrates Express: In Search of Life Lessons from Dead Philosophers. In it, Weiner opines on the philosophical giants from a place that offers one of the more pleasant environments to philosophize - the railroad. In this travelogue, Weiner discusses their life-enhancing poetry, and explains how their lives were in fact just like ours, except they had more time to think and write than binge on Netflix.

In the spiel, the politicking around Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

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Special: SCOTUS After Ruth Bader Ginsburg Sep 19, 2020

Emily Bazelon joins Mike for a special episode on the passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. After discussing Ginsburg’s history as a justice and legacy on the court, they begin to unpack the future political ramifications of her death. Emily and Mike talk through the ways a nomination could quickly slip through the Senate before January, the impact a conservative court could have on issues besides abortion rights, and if Ginsburg should have stepped down under President Obama.

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Condemn Nation Sep 19, 2020

On the Gist, Trump can’t pronounce Mosni, Wisconsin.

In the interview, Mike talks with writers Mary Pilon and Louisa Thomas about their foray into collaborative editing. Their new collection of short sports stories called Losers: Dispatches from the Other Side of the Scoreboard is a curated volume that explores what it means to feel defeated. Pilon, a New York Times bestselling author, and Thomas, a New Yorker staff writer examine why winning isn’t always what it’s cracked up to be, and why losing never fails to reveal life lessons to players and those on the sidelines.

In the spiel, condemning condemnation.

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Fuel for a Cold War Sep 17, 2020

On the Gist, Trump deals in the Middle East.

In the interview, we’ve got the second half of Mike’s conversation with Daniel Yergin, an energy expert who has advised the past four presidential administrations and author of The New Map: Energy, Climate, and the Clash of Nations. He and Mike talk about the looming cold war with China, how our change in the global energy market affects that relationship, and what transitions to alternative energy sources could look like.

In the spiel, medical atrocities at a detention center.

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Stop Fracking Out Sep 16, 2020

On the Gist, delayed accuracy.

In the interview, the first half of Mike’s interview with Dan Yergin, an author and energy expert who has advised the past four presidential administrations, who’s here to discuss his new book, The New Map: Energy, Climate, and the Clash of Nations. He and Mike talk about how innovations in fracking have completely changed the landscape of global energy power, and why environmental concerns shouldn’t prevent all fracking.

In the spiel, Lauren Witzke.

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Third Party Thieves Sep 16, 2020

On the Gist, Trump thinks the weather will balance everything out.

In the interview, Mikes talks with Michael Sandel, a political philosopher, global lecturer, and Harvard University professor, about his latest book, The Tyranny of Merit: What's Become of the Common Good?. In it, Sandel argues that meritocracy offers a false promise and that it’s actually eroding American culture. Sandel is a prolific author of numerous philosophical works, notably his New York Times best seller Justice: What's the Right Thing to Do?

In the spiel, Wisconsin’s Green Party doesn’t make the ballot.

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Biden Wouldn’t Have Saved Us All Sep 14, 2020

On the Gist, Trump isn’t helping you.

In the interview, Leon Neyfakh is here to talk about the newest season of Fiasco, which focuses on Boston’s effort to desegregate its schools. He and Mike discuss the difficulties of finding a nuanced way to tell a story that complicates it beyond racism, and the reasons Biden’s stance on bussing has changed over the years. Fiasco is available on Luminary.

In the spiel, Peter Navarro vs. Jake Tapper.

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Is It So Bad? Sep 12, 2020

On the Gist, Trump isn’t helping you.

In the interview, the second part Mike’s conversation with author and former FBI counter-terrorism staffer Clint Watts on QAnon. They talk about how might time we should give QAnon, how to help those in our own life, and if we eventually have to just let these people flame out in office. He is the author of Messing With the Enemy: Surviving in a Social Media World of Hackers, Terrorists, Russians, and Fake News.

In the spiel, who gets to think things aren’t so bad?

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The QAnon Questions Sep 11, 2020

On the Gist, Trump’s Nobel nomination.

In the interview, author and former FBI counter-terrorism staffer Clint Watts is here to talk about QAnon. He and Mike discuss the rise of the conspiracy theory and movement, why its belief structure is so murky, and the oddities of its marketing and merchandising arm. Watts will be back tomorrow for the second half of this conversation. His is the author of Messing With the Enemy: Surviving in a Social Media World of Hackers, Terrorists, Russians, and Fake News.

In the spiel, Woodward’s words wouldn’t have mattered.

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Trump’s Taxpayer-Funded Defense Sep 10, 2020

On the Gist, the police chiefs are stepping down.

In the interview, Academy Award-winning documentarian Barbara Kopple is here to talk about her latest film, Desert One. Through new archival footage and the various perspectives of key players, the film reveals the true story behind the secret mission to free hostages captured during the 1979 Iranian revolution. She and Mike discuss how she approaches the stories she tells, the narrative problems she had to solve in this film, and how persistent she had to be to get Jimmy Carter on camera. Desert One is available to stream online and in select theaters.

In the spiel, Trump’s taxpayer-funded legal defense.

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No Cause Bigger Than Himself Sep 08, 2020

On the Gist, gender reveal parties.

In the interview, NPR’s Jacob Goldstein is here to talk about his new book, Money: The True Story of a Made-Up Thing. They discuss how Andrew Jackson made mistakes about national banking, why we should never return to the gold standard, and if cash is on the way out. Goldstein is a host of NPR’s Planet Money.

In the spiel, Trump hates sacrifice.

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Brainworms or Biden Sep 04, 2020

On the Gist, COVID-19 deaths continue to rise.

In the interview, the second half of Mike’s discussion with Dr. Rashawn Ray, a sociologist studying new methods of measuring implicit bias using virtual simulations of police officer decision-making at the Lab for Applied Social Science Research at the University of Maryland, College Park. He and his team are encouraged that by researching and educating law enforcement with real life social interaction training, they might be able to incite change in outcomes between officers and civilians. Ray is a Brookings Institution fellow and associate professor of sociology at UMD. Part one of their conversation is today.

In the spiel, the Trump Biden ratio.

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Racism In The Simulation Sep 04, 2020

On the Gist, a sigh.

In the interview, Mike talks to Dr. Rashawn Ray, a sociologist studying new methods of measuring implicit bias using virtual simulations of police officer decision-making at the Lab for Applied Social Science Research at the University of Maryland, College Park. He and his team are encouraged that by researching and educating law enforcement with real life social interaction training, they might be able to incite change in outcomes between officers and civilians. Ray is a Brookings Institution fellow and associate professor of sociology at UMD. Part one of their conversation is today.

In the spiel, vote twice, felony once.

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Villain Not Vigilante Sep 03, 2020

On the Gist, believing catchy rhyming couplets or policies.

In the interview, writer, lawyer and author, Jill Filipovic joins Mike to talk about her latest book, OK Boomer, Let's Talk: How My Generation Got Left Behind. Filipovic explains that the millennial generation has it worse than most, the relationship between millennials and their boomer parents, and how those boomers were afforded more social programs, leaving millennials with disastrous consequences.

In the spiel, the charges against Rittenhouse.

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Is Anybody Paying Attention? Sep 01, 2020

On the Gist, Trump visits Kenosha.

In the interview, the Wall Street Journal’s Gerald Seib is here to discuss his new book, We Should Have Seen It Coming: From Ronald Reagan to Trump—A Front-Row Seat to a Political Revolution. He and Mike talk about how the GOP has changed since the time of Reagan and paved the way for Trump’s ascendence. They also touch on why Mitch McConnell keeps blocking relief packages, and how worried we should be about the future.

In the spiel, not paying attention to politics.

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Trumpian Chaos Theory Aug 31, 2020

On the Gist, Mike is back. He starts with republicans who dismiss the Hatch Act.

In the interview, Mike chats with the creators and executive producers of the animated adventure Phineas and Ferb the Movie: Candace Against the Universe. Dan Povenmire and Jeff "Swampy" Marsh explain how they expanded the usual tropes of their short episodes into a feature film, the provenance of their beloved creations, and how their work on The Simpsons together and their shared sense of humor influenced them creatively. The movie is available now on Disney Plus.

In the spiel, the chaos candidate.

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One Stat to Rule Them All Aug 28, 2020

Today, we welcome Sonari Glinton is back as guest host. A well-known podcast and public radio voice, former NPR business reporter covering the auto industry and economics, and currently hosts the podcast Bring Back Bronco.

On the Gist, sports and activism.

In the interview, Sonari talks to screenwriter Patricia Resnick about her experience writing the film 9 to 5 starring Jane Fonda, Dolly Parton, and Lily Tomlin. They discuss how the film became more than just a vehicle for workplace rights activism, its legacy, and how she seems to have been erased from its history by Jane Fonda.

In the spiel, no faith in the jobs numbers.

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The Curse of American Traffic Aug 27, 2020

Today, we welcome Sonari Glinton as guest host. A well-known podcast and public radio voice, former NPR business reporter covering the auto industry and economics, Glinton is also a big music nerd and record collector.

On the Gist, RNC bingo.

In the interview, Sonari discusses how Covid-19 has affected the auto industry with Scotty Reiss, the founder of A Girls Guide to Cars, a site focused on empowering women to be smarter car owners. Reiss talks about Covid-19’s impact on the global supply chain, the increased diversity at corporate management level across the industry, And she offers some predictions for the future of mobility and what to look out for post-pandemic.

In the spiel, racial disparity and traffic.

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The High Court of Facebook Aug 26, 2020

Today, Kate Klonick is back as the guest host. She is an assistant professor at St. John’s Law School, a fellow at the Information Society Project at Yale Law School, and researcher of the intersection between law and tech. She’s also co-host of a daily YouTube series called In Lieu of Fun.

On the Gist, in 2020, every online company has a community of standards and manually reviews user content.

In the interview, Kate talks to Harvard law professor Noah Feldman about his idea for Facebook to create a Supreme Court to adjudicate disputes over speech. They discuss how he came up with the idea and pitched it to Sheryl Sandberg and Mark Zuckerberg, the influences it draws from political systems, and the size of the case it should choose as its first. Feldman hosts the podcast Deep Background.

In the spiel, Facebook’s oversight board could be the start of something revolutionary within big tech.

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In Lieu of Happy Hour Aug 25, 2020

We are halfway through our guest hosting week. Today, Kate Klonick takes the mic. She is an assistant professor at St. John’s Law School, a fellow at the Information Society Project at Yale Law School, and researcher of the intersection between law and tech. She’s also co-host of a daily YouTube series called In Lieu of Fun.

On the Gist, how Kate found herself on a daily live show during quarantine.

In the interview, Kate talks to Ben Wittes, senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, co-founder and editor-in-chief of Lawfare, and Kate’s co-host on In Lieu of Fun. They discuss how the global pandemic spurred a need for intelligent discussion in a less than lateral way. Guests on their show have ranged from apiarists to the former president of Estonia. Wittes wanted to build something that welcomed a community, allowing for audience input around guest selection and conversation topics. Along the way, he found an avenue that continues to forge new friendships without the stale in-person meet and greets we so often find at happy hours.

In the spiel, what it’s like to build an online community during this crisis.

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Mistrust Your Memory Aug 24, 2020

For the next week, Mike passes the mic to a few guest hosts. Today, Annie Duke, former professional poker player, cognitive scientist, and author of Thinking in Bets: Making Smarter Decisions When You Don't Have All the Facts is in the seat again.

On the Gist, remembering information.

In the interview, Annie talks to Katherine Milkman, a researcher and professor at the University of Pennsylvania who studies behavior, about how the pandemic has thrown everybody out of their old habits and forced the creation of new ones. They discuss how sticky any of these new habits might be, and that we should be aware of how quickly we can forget all that we’ve learned.

In the Spiel, the national misremembering of truth.

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Our National Intelligence Is Broken Aug 21, 2020

For the next week, Mike passes the mic to a few guest hosts. Today, Annie Duke, former professional poker player and author of Thinking in Bets: Making Smarter Decisions When You Don't Have All the Factstakes the helm.

On the Gist, Annie recaps the unifying messages from Sen. Sanders and V.P. Biden from the virtual 2020 Democratic National Convention.

In the interview, Annie talks with Jay van Bavel, an associate professor of psychology and neuroscience at NYU, about how extreme partisanship occurs when traditional beliefs are not updated in rational ways, especially when it comes to wearing a mask during the global pandemic. Prof. van Bavel explains how a partisan mind interprets information in a way that affirms their identity, and how that might lead them to stray from the path of facts.

In the Spiel, the consequences of partisanship.

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Pursuing Progress Aug 20, 2020

On the Gist, 24 hours of weird utterances.

In the interview, political strategist and CNN commentator Jess McIntosh joins us as we continue our coverage of the virtual 2020 Democratic National Convention. McIntosh and Mike discuss the DNC’s short-sightedness with not allowing Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez a major platform, and how Elizabeth Warren’s policy speech on the childcare economy could become a centerpiece of a future President Biden’s progressive agenda. McIntosh also explains why Biden will champion more progressive causes if he is elected. Jess co-hosts the Signal Boost show on SiriusXM.

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Prosecuting the Past? Aug 19, 2020

On the Gist, Trump is trying to steal the mail.

In the interview, New York Times opinion columnist Michelle Goldberg is here as we keep discussing the Democratic National Convention this week. She and Mike talk about the sorts of progressive policies Biden might adopt from his primary opponents, and if a future Biden administration should follow up on the prosecutions Trump’s DOJ ignored.

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Moving to the Middle Aug 18, 2020

On the Gist, political television.

In the interview, Slate’s Will Saletan is here to discuss the first night of the Democratic National Convention. He and Mike unpack how the party is positioning itself as the party of normalcy while still acknowledging the ways progressives like Bernie Sanders pushed the party forward. They look at how conservatives might flip any of the democrats talking points on them, and the coronavirus of it all.

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The Law’s Favorite Outlaw Aug 17, 2020

On the Gist, a supposedly benevolent association supports a malevolent force.

In the interview, we mark the beginning of the virtual 2020 Democratic National Convention with a slightly different format; no spiel and more conversation. Mike talks with Charlie Sykes, a republican who will be voting for Joe Biden in November. Author of "How the Right Lost Its Mind," host of the Bulwark Podcast, and an outspoken critic of the Trump administration, Sykes explains how the DNC will be unlike anything we have ever experienced in politics, dissects never-Trumpism, and shares his thoughts on why the GOP needs to reevaluate their base.

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Conspiracist for Congress Aug 14, 2020

On the Gist, Pence’s meat scares.

In the interview, actor Kyle MacLachlan is here to discuss his performance as Thomas Edison in the new film Tesla. He and Mike talk about his approach to the role, and how this film differs from the other kinds of historical dramas he’s done. They also get into some of MacLachlan’s other work like Dune, Showgirls and Twin Peaks. Tesla will be released on August 21 by IFC Films.

In the spiel, Marjorie Taylor Greene.

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The Folly of Predicting the Presidency Aug 14, 2020

On the Gist, the close family members of politicians.

In the interview, journalist, historian, and former public radio host Tom Weber is here to discuss his new book, Minneapolis: An Urban Biography. In it, Weber explores the social and political history of Minneapolis, Minnesota, and how it’s responsible for the city’s present-day racial inequities. Weber is also the Second Gentleman of Minnesota; he is the spouse of the state’s lieutenant governor.

In the spiel, election forecasting.

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A Spectrum of Love Aug 12, 2020

On the Gist, Kamala and bussing.

In the interview, creator of the TV series Love on the Spectrum, Cian O’Clery is here to talk with Mike about his new dating reality series telling the stories of people on the autism spectrum looking for love. He and Mike discuss the origins of the series, how this stands apart as a piece of documentary, and the refreshing change of watching a dating show with guileless subjects. Love on the Spectrum is available to stream on Netflix.

In the spiel, over and under-policing.

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Kamala Joins the Ticket Aug 12, 2020

On the Gist, the spotlight on Joe Biden’s running mate.

In the interview, Mike talks with Lisi Raskin, a professor and the chair of the Sculpture Department at Rhode Island School of Design about the meaning of sculpture in light of the removal of confederate monuments and statues. Raskin is an artist whose large-scale abstract works are reminiscent of the environment of the Cold War.

In the spiel, Trump on fall sports leagues.

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Wise to the Lies? Aug 10, 2020

On the Gist, pronouncing names.

In the interview, Mike is joined by Ed Yong of the Atlantic. As a science writer, not only did he warn of an epidemic in 2018, but he has been covering the coronavirus in a clear and vital way. In his latest piece, “Immunology Is Where Intuition Goes to Die,” Yong articulates how this tragedy could have been prevented, and explains why America isn’t defeating the virus any time soon; it has defeated America.

In the spiel, do Trump’s lies still work?

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One Third of Americans Are Always Wrong Aug 07, 2020

On the Gist, TikTok block.

In the interview, Dr. Eddie Glaude, Jr. of Princeton University joins Mike to talk about his newest book and its release in the context of the recent civil uprisings. Begin Again: James Baldwin's America and Its Urgent Lessons for Our Own poses a fundamental argument around how getting it wrong culturally has hurt the fabric of our nation. Glaude helps make sense of where we are today, and explains that Baldwin understood our messy and uneven economic, social and political lives are simply a reflection of our individual selves.

In the spiel, one third of Americans are wrong.

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The Evils of Election Incompetence Aug 06, 2020

On the Gist, New York’s elections are not unlike Georgia’s.

In the interview, our resident vexillologist Ted Kaye is back to talk about the latest in flag news. He fills Mike in on what’s happening in Mississippi as they try to swiftly get a new flag design added to the ballot in November, and the recent proliferation of the ‘thin blue line’ American flag. Kaye’s book is Good Flag, Bad Flag.

In the spiel, Trump’s mispronunciations.

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Trump’s Foundation Is Crumbling Aug 05, 2020

On the Gist, the Beirut blast.

In the interview, we’ve got the second half of Jesse Eisenberg’s interview on his new Audible original, When You Finish Saving the World. He and Mike continue discussing the creative process and Jesse’s personal connection to the project, and the difficulty of creating things like future slang.

In the spiel, Trump’s lies are pushing voters into the arms of Democrats.

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Teachers Are Not Essential Aug 04, 2020

On the Gist, does Biden need a progressive VP?

In the interview, Jesse Eisenberg is here for the first half of a two-part interview on his new Audible original, When You Finish Saving the World. Through a series of connected monologues, Eisenberg stitches together the portrait of a family and explores issues of issues of intimacy, growing up, and social change. He and Mike discuss his writing process and the origins of the project.

In the spiel, teachers are inessential.

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America Has Failed Aug 03, 2020

On the Gist, staying hopeful, but realistic.

In the interview, author, podcast host, and magazine editor Kurt Andersen joins Mike to talk about his new book,Evil Geniuses: The Unmaking of America: A Recent History. In it, Andersen explains how big business ran unchecked during the final decades of the 20th century allowing greed to ascend and the working person to feel powerless, all while unraveling the fabric of middle class normalcy.

In the spiel, Trump tapped Anthony Tata.

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Stuck in the Suburbs Aug 01, 2020

On the Gist, NBA jerseys.

In the interview, In the interview, filmmaker Mark Duplass is here to talk about his anthology series Room 104 currently airing on HBO. He and Mike discuss the use of rules in the creative process, why the series seems to defy genre, and the experience of growing up with your brother as your artistic partner. Room 104 airs on Friday nights on HBO.

In the spiel, Trump misunderstands the suburbs.

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The Legacy of John Lewis Jul 30, 2020

On the Gist, Rep. John Lewis and his legacy.

In the interview, Mike checks in with Oregon Public Broadcasting’s Jonathan Levinson. As a multimedia reporter and producer, Levinson has been on the ground nightly in Portland following the protests, getting tear gassed in the process. Levinson says that it’s more than just support for the BLM movement, its boiling frustration around governmental systemic failure.

In the spiel, because of John Lewis, we have Barack Obama.

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Unmasked and Unhinged Jul 29, 2020

On the Gist, anti-maskers are getting the coronavirus.

In the interview, Dr. Jennifer Mercieca is here to discuss her new book, Demagogue for President: The Rhetorical Genius of Donald Trump. She and Mike talk about the origins of Trump’s verbal tactics, and how he’s been able to manipulate information. They also touch on the variety of ways presidents appeal to the people, and Joe Biden’s best route forward in that regard.

In the spiel, making a case for uppercase.

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Bill Barr’s Tactical Boredom Jul 28, 2020

On the Gist, gambling the nation’s health on professional sports.

In the interview, Mike talks with Capt. Lawrence Hunter, a retired commanding officer from the Waterbury Police Department in Connecticut, about policing in America. Hunter spent the majority of his career in law enforcement as a high-ranking officer, and as an educator and instructor. In his retirement, he has launched his own series, Captain Hunter’s Podcast, which seeks to “bridge the gap between police and the communities they serve,” expanding his emphasis on education and encouraging a reckoning with racism.

In the spiel, Bill Barr just lets the Democrats rant.

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Ignoring the Need Economy Jul 27, 2020

On the Gist, the Republicans are misers.

In the interview, Zephyr Teachout is here to discuss her new book Break ‘Em Up: Recovering Our Freedom From Big Ad, Big Tech, and Big Money. She and Mike discuss how monopolies have come to dominate so many of our industries, the work that needs to be done to break them up, and why it’s a multi-pronged solution. They also touch on Gov. Cuomo’s response to the pandemic and how her team might have been different if she’d won office.

In the spiel, baseball tried.

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Lone Star Lunacy Jul 24, 2020

On the Gist, losing all the stuff.

In the interview, Mike heads to the Lone Star State to speak with Scott Braddock, editor and Texan political analyst at the Quorum Report. Braddock is also host of Texas Take, a podcast from the Houston Chronicle. They dissect Gov. Abbott’s coronavirus response, his backtracking, and why he paused the state’s reopening. And they get into how the state isn’t as securely Republican as many think it is.

In the spiel, the Lobstar of the Antentwig.

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The Mask Monologues Jul 23, 2020

On the Gist, Trump’s mind.

In a break from our normal format, Virginia Heffernan of Trumpcast is here with Mike to analyze the most aggressive anti-mask rants out there. From across the nation, people who suffer from a touch of the QAnon are unleashing their unsound mask fears on us all, blaming anything from the Deep State to 5G. We’re going to figure out what makes for the most entertaining version of these conspiracy theorists, and what, if anything, we should take seriously.

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Congress Can’t Contain Its Crazy Jul 22, 2020

On the Gist, Life of Kanye.

In the interview, Princeton History and Public Affairs Professor Julian Zelizer joins Mike to discuss his latest book on former speaker of the house, Newt Gingrich.With the help of Gingrich’s own congressional documents, Burning Down the House: Newt Gingrich, the Fall of a Speaker, and the Rise of the New Republican Party explains the ways Newt seized an opportunity to use C-Span cameras and modern technology to his advantage, how he gave rise to partisanship, and his plans to conquer Congress through his appetite for disruption.

In the spiel, Republicans embarrassing themselves.

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Portland Is in Peril Jul 22, 2020

On the Gist, Trump attempts to convince the MAGA nation to wear masks.

In the interview, journalist Anne Applebaum is here to talk about her new book Twilight of Democracy: The Seductive Lure of Authoritarianism. She and Mike discuss how democracies can give way to authoritarian leaders, the delicacy of political systems, and how essential our institutions are for protecting a functioning government.

In the spiel, what’s happening in Portland, Oregon.

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One-Trick POTUS Jul 20, 2020

On the Gist, John Kasich at the Democratic National Convention.

In the interview, legal professor and modern Chinese law research scholar Neysun Mahboubi joins Mike to discuss the uprisings in Hong Kong and the extradition bill which would have undone Hong Kong’s independence from mainland China. Mahboubi explains the clashes between protesters and counter-protesters which began nearly a year ago, how the Chinese government has used the Covid-19 crisis as a moment to more aggressively assert control over citizens of Hong Kong, and what U.S. involvement could mean. Professor Mahboubi is the host of the University of Pennsylvania’s Center for the Study of Contemporary China’s flagship podcast.

In the spiel, without a microphone Trump can’t shout down facts.

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Losing the Liberty of Public Debate Jul 17, 2020

On the Gist, we’ve got something a little different. In this episode, Mike has brought together the New Republic’s Osita Nwenavu, and Yascha Mounk, a contributor to the Atlantic and the founder of Persuasion, to debate the state of public discourse. They discuss the complexities of platform regulation, whether or not the concerns rise to a level of social contagion, and how social media factors into the reactions on all sides.

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White Fragility Kills the Argument Jul 17, 2020

On the Gist, Trump is lost in the numbers.

In the interview, former mayor of Minneapolis Betsy Hodges joins Mike to talk about her most recent op-ed in the New York Times, “As Mayor of Minneapolis, I Saw How White Liberals Block Change.” In it, Hodges challenges white liberals to confront the status quo of comfort and move the horizon of racial disparity that breeds police brutality.

In the spiel, is the scientific method white? The Smithsonian seems to think so

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Softball Stupidity Jul 16, 2020

On the Gist, Trump is full of beans.

In the second half of a two-part interview, novelist Curtis Sittenfeld is continues talking her new novel Rodham. She and Mike discuss the critiques of Hillary within the book, the final choices in the book, and how it might relate to modern superhero stories.

In the spiel, the need for tough follow-ups with Trump.

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Biden His Time Jul 14, 2020

On the Gist, renaming in Burlington, New Jersey.

In the first half of a two-part interview, novelist Curtis Sittenfeld is here to discuss Rodham, her new novel exploring an alternative history where Hillary Clinton never married Bill. She and Mike discuss the origins of the novel, how her skills aren’t in the public part of politics, and what it’s like to create such a fiction.

In the spiel, Joe Biden keeping quiet.

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Uneducated Posturing Jul 13, 2020

On the Gist, the Washington football team have more work ahead than they realize.

In the interview, Washington Post columnist Alexandra Petri joins Mike to chat about her recently published book Nothing Is Wrong and Here Is Why. A hand-picked anthology of her some of her best essays that are mockingly sharp, and unsettlingly cheerful, it showcases the satirist’s gleefully distorted take on our political and social realities.

In the spiel, educational idiocy.

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Usain Bolt’s Greatness Code Jul 11, 2020

On the Gist, Trump’s bullying worked.

In the interview, Olympic champion Usain Bolt is here to talk with Mike about the new documentary series Greatness Code on Apple TV+. They discuss Bolt’s love of the 200 meter race, training, and how he might feel when people start coming for his record. All episodes of Greatness Code are available to stream now on Apple TV+.

In the spiel, the parent-teacher mob.

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Guns Make Everything Worse Jul 10, 2020

On the Gist, guns in the U.K. and the U.S.

In the interview, we share part two of our conversation with Barry Friedman, founder of the Policing Project at NYU Law, author and legal scholar. Friedman suggests that a hurdle to creating new policies and training is the lack of accountability and uniform data gathering processes provided from police departments around the country. The central idea to the project is how to create good police departments.

In the spiel, J.K. Rowling.

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Policing’s Big Picture Jul 09, 2020

On the Gist, Karens receiving informal justice.

In the interview, Mike speaks with Barry Friedman, one of two investigators appointed by New York State Attorney General Letitia James to investigate the NYPD’s actions in protest activity. Founder of the Policing Project at NYU Law, Friedman is a legal scholar and author. In part one of the conversation, Professor Friedman discusses backend versus front end accountability within policing, the executive research forum standards and their guiding principles for use of force, as well as how to diversity police departments. Stay tuned for part two in tomorrow’s episode.

In the spiel, New York crime during Covid-19.

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Canceling Cancel Culture Jul 08, 2020

On the Gist, crime in unpoliced camps.

In the interview, comedian Tom Papa is here to talk with Mike about his new book You’re Doing Great! and his Netflix special of the same name. He and Mike discuss the choice of happiness, getting stuck, and why we should listen to young people more.

In the spiel, cancel culture.

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The Washington Football Team Should Move Jul 06, 2020

On the Gist, Trump at Mount Rushmore.

In the interview, making a strong case for reparations among descendants of enslaved African Americans is economist William Darity, Jr in his new book, From Here to Equality: Reparations for Black Americans in the Twenty-First Century. Darity suggests that that in order to close the racial wealth disparities, America must confront injustices and offer a detailed fiscal plan for providing financial gifts to Black Americans to aid their economic well-being.

In the spiel, renaming a football team.

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Define the Police Jul 03, 2020

On the Gist, the greatness that will remain long after we’re gone.

In the interview, we present part two of Mike’s conversation with John McWhorter on the linguistics of race, defining ‘Defund the Police,’ and how words we use today will morph over time. WcWhorter is the host of Lexicon Valley and a professor at Columbia University. Find his most recent piece in the Atlantic: “The Dictionary Definition of Racism Has to Change.”

In the spiel, historical truths versus myths.

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Redefining Racism Jul 02, 2020

On the Gist, the McCloskeys in Missouri.

In the first part of this two-part interview, John McWhorter is here to dig into definitions with Mike. They discuss how the meanings of racism and white supremacy have changed over the years, and what that says about the ways culture is shifting. McWhorter is the host of Lexicon Valley, and his latest piece is “The Dictionary Definition of Racism Has to Change,” in the Atlantic.

In the spiel, a professional bullshit artist.

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See No Evil, Hear No Evil Jun 30, 2020

On the Gist, there is no question these men needed to breathe.

In the interview, Maria Konnikova is back for “Is That Bullshit?” She and Mike discuss the scientific preprints published on Covid-19 and call out the credible and those rife with misinformation. How can you trust them? Maria’s newest book called The Biggest Bluff, is already a New York Times bestseller.

In the spiel, how Trump consumes news.

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The Never-Ending Trump Jun 29, 2020

On the Gist, paying the Taliban and not believing the New York Times.

In the interview, the around-the-clock news cycle turns 40 years old this summer. With the advent of cable television and a bright idea from an American media mogul, CNN was born. Journalist and author, Lisa Napoli, talks with Mike about her unauthorized biography, Up All Night: Ted Turner, CNN, and the Birth of 24-Hour News, and explains how the station became a trailblazing force in transforming the ways we consumed media at the end of the 20th century.

In the spiel, Trump is the worst. But he’s not gone yet.

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Splashing Down on a Mountain of Racism Jun 27, 2020

On the Gist, Disney’s Splash Mountain.

In part two of their interview, Mike continues to talk with Matthew Barge about the failure of police departments to gather data and statistics that would help create and enforce meaningful policing policy change. Barge is a lawyer, a principal consultant with 21CP Solutions, and federal court-appointed monitor overseeing federal consent decrees in Cleveland, Ohio and Baltimore, Maryland.

In the spiel, the Lobstar of the Antentwig

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Playing With a Viral Yo-Yo Jun 26, 2020

On the Gist, Biden is in the lead.

In the first part of a two-part interview, Mike talks with police practices and civil rights expert Matthew Barge about how policy has failed to change how law enforcement agencies police communities, how police unions have played a huge role in where we find ourselves now, and what role consent decrees play in changing police behavior. Barge is a lawyer, a principal consultant with 21CP Solutions, and federal court-appointed monitor overseeing federal consent decrees in Cleveland, Ohio and Baltimore, Maryland.

In the spiel, the Covid-19 yo-yo.

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The Mechanisms in Place Jun 24, 2020

On the Gist, interruption by ring knocking.

In the interview, Mike is joined by Lawrence Douglas, author of Will He Go?: Trump and the Looming Election Meltdown in 2020, a page-turning book of what-ifs and premonitions of constitutional chaos if Trump decides to give America a hard time at the end of his term. Douglas is the James J. Grosfeld Professor of Law, Jurisprudence and Social Thought at Amherst College. He is the prize-winning author of seven books, most recently The Right Wrong Man: John Demjanjuk and the Last Great Nazi War Crimes Trial.

In the spiel, undeniable progress.

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Unbiased News Jun 24, 2020

On the Gist, refocusing our attention to local democracy.

In the interview, Mike talks with Seth Stevenson, author of Grounded: A Down to Earth Journey Around the World and host of Slate’s newest business podcast Thrilling Tales of Modern Capitalism. Seth’s new podcast delves into the backstories of iconic brand, from Purell to Victoria’s Secret, and he joins Mike to talk about Carnival Cruises, one of the biggest players in an industry that jumps from one disaster to another. And yes, the expression “poop cruise” is mentioned.

In the spiel, objectivity as a punching bag.

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Crowd Size and Political Viability Jun 22, 2020

On the Gist, lack of humor in the Trump administration.

In the interview, Mike talks with Maria Konnikova, star of our bi-weekly segment “Is That Bullshit?” This time, however, Maria is here to discuss her newest book about becoming a professional poker player. Already a New York Times bestseller, it’s called The Biggest Bluff.

In the spiel, “yuge” crowd psychology.

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Confronting a White Supremacist Jun 19, 2020

On the Gist, Trump’s ignorance.

In the interview, Mike talks with Josh Levin, Slate’s national editor. A co-host of the sports podcast Hang Up and Listen, Levin is also the author ofThe Queen: The Forgotten Life Behind an American Myth. Mike and Josh discuss Levin’s latest audio project as host of Season 4 of Slow Burn, which over the course of several episodes, dissects David Duke’s rise into the political mainstream and explores how Duke maintained his status as one of the most famous white supremacists in the U.S.

In the spiel, impediments to true justice.

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Give Up That Racist Tradition Jun 18, 2020

On the Gist, an officer cooperates.

In the interview, Mike talks with co-host of Slate’s Political Gabfest, CBS 60 Minutes correspondent and contributing editor at the Atlantic, John Dickerson. His new book on the American Presidency, The Hardest Job In The World, details that there are no blueprints around the challenges of governing, and how we need to evaluate candidates and nominees for the job.

In the spiel, a song gets cancelled.

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Get Out Already Jun 16, 2020

On the Gist, fireworks and progress.

In the interview, Mike talks with data scientist Jeffery Morris of the University of Pennsylvania. They talk data analysis and models related to Covid-19, his predictions for states’ reopening, and his interpretations of updated CDC guidelines. You can follow his work at his site Covid-19 Data Science.

In the spiel, Asian borders.

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Campaigning Under Quarantine Jun 15, 2020

On the Gist, Trump doesn’t want to confront sins, he would rather perpetuate them.

In the interview, Mike talks with incumbent Rep. Don Bacon from Nebraska’s 2nd District about how Covid-19 has altered his campaign strategy leading up to the election. They also discuss the protesting and looting in Omaha, as well as his recent statement following Gen. Mattis’ piece published in the Atlantic. Having served under him in Iraq, Bacon mostly agrees with Mattis, but says he and his constituents will likely support Trump on several key issues come November.

In the spiel, the Sundees! Our awards for the Sunday shows.

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An Imperfect Union Jun 12, 2020

On the Gist, the stock market is on a coronavirus coaster.

In the interview, Dr. Christina Greer of Fordham University is here to talk with Mike about politics and police reform. They discuss Joe Biden, if police unions should continue to exist, and what the future of policing could look like. Greer is the host of FAQ NYC.

In the spiel, a good-faith effort to hear out the bad-faith arguments.

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Crossing Out Columbus Jun 11, 2020

On the Gist, dominating the streets with compassion.

In the interview, John Pfaff, professor of law and criminology at Fordham University and author of Locked In: The True Causes of Mass Incarceration-and How to Achieve Real Reform, joins Mike to talk about police reformation, and why politicians touting low crime under their watches could lead to more dysfunction. As one of the foremost experts on incarceration in America, Pfaff argues that we need to rethink how the system and budgets are organized.

In the spiel, Christopher Columbus and his mixed legacy.

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Film the Police Jun 11, 2020

On the Gist, Mississippi.

In the interview, Ben Smith from the New York Times is here to discuss the recent ousting of editor James Bennet over an op-ed by Republican Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas. They talk about the cultural divides it highlighted, what it means for the Times, and the future of opinion on the internet. Smith’s latest piece is “Inside the Revolts Erupting in America’s big Newsrooms.”

In the spiel, Cops is canceled.

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Summer at Covid Camp Jun 09, 2020

On the Gist, the anti-ANTIFA provocateur in Buffalo, NY.

In the interview, Emily Oster, professor of economics at Brown University and NY Times bestselling author of Cribsheet and Expecting Better, joins Mike to talk about kids’ summer camps, weighing options as states begin to reopen, and assessing risk when it comes to coronavirus.

In the spiel, de Blasio tries again.

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The Defund Debate Cycle Jun 09, 2020

On the Gist, does Barr know what chemicals are?

In the interview, New York Times opinion columnist and CBS News political analyst Jamelle Bouie joins Mike to talk race and policing in America. His latest column is, “The Police Are Rioting. We Need to Talk About It.”

In the spiel, defining police reformation.

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Defund the Police? Jun 05, 2020

On the Gist, Joey Baloney.

In the interview, New School Professor and MSNBC contributor, Maya Wiley is here. She is also the former chair of the NYC Civilian Complaint Review Board - an independent oversight agency of the NYPD. She and Mike talk about how civilians and police officers hold the force accountable, how they’ve failed and the level of complaints they take seriously.

In the spiel, can we defund the police?

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How Ferguson Prepared the Protesters Jun 05, 2020

On the Gist, what’s happening in Omaha.

In the interview, Slate’s Joel Anderson is here to talk with Mike about the parallels between the current protests and those in Ferguson, MO. They discuss the different tactics used by activists and police, how Ferguson organizers have now grown into leaders of a movement, and dissect why people loot.

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Trump Doesn’t Speak for Catholics Jun 03, 2020

On the Gist, Mark Esper’s lost honor.

In the interview, Fr. James Martin, a Jesuit priest, author, and the editor-at-large of America magazine, a journal of faith and culture, joins Mike to talk about his latest piece: “The Holy Spirit is moving us to act against racism.” Fr. Martin and Mike also discuss President Trump’s manipulation of the bible during religious photo ops in front of St. John’s Episcopal Church and the St. JPII Center in Washington, D.C.

In the spiel, Merrick, Long Island.

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Night and Day Jun 03, 2020

On the Gist, daytime and nighttime America.

In the interview, the Atlantic’s David Frum joins Mike to talk about his Trumpocracy follow-up, Trumpocalypse: Restoring American Democracy. Frum explains that Trump is a victim of distraction as much as he is a practitioner, that the consequences of COVID-19 will be one of the deciding factors of the election in November, and that the GOP will eventually get over being on the wrong side of Trump.

In the spiel, America is on edge.

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Trump Can’t Heal America Jun 02, 2020

On the Gist, guns and violence.

In the interview, Jody Avirgan and Nicole Hemmer are here to discuss their new podcast This Day in Esoteric Political History. Mike talks to them about Hands Across America, the Johnstown flood, and the meaning of esoteric.

In the spiel, what is reasonable, and do we need to hear from Trump?

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The Leaders We Need May 29, 2020

On the Gist, Joe Biden’s statement gets a B minus.

In the interview, we’ve got the second half of Mike’s conversation with Dave Eggers. They discuss Eggers’ experience writing The Parade and The Captain and the Glory, his last two books, at the same time, the film Idiocracy, and the NRA.

In the spiel, the mayor of Minneapolis on brick and mortar symbolism and Donald Trump makes things worse.

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Looking Past the Looting May 28, 2020

On the Gist, assholes.

In the interview, Mike talks with author Dave Eggers about his book, The Parade. He and Mike discuss pavement, the writing process, and the terseness of Bruce Springsteen.

In the spiel, the death of George Floyd and the Minneapolis protest.

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It’s Tough to Like the Post Office May 27, 2020

On the Gist, wheeling and dealing with Hong Kong.

In the interview, Mike talks to Dr. Leana Wen about the measures States are taking to reopen safely or remain closed. Wen is an emergency physician and public health professor at George Washington University, a contributing columnist for The Washington Post, and previously served as Baltimore's Health Commissioner.

In the spiel, postal headaches and heedlessness.

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Putting Courageous Idiocy to Use May 26, 2020

On the Gist, Trump won’t back down from accusing Joe Scarborough of murder.

In the interview, Mike talks to a water expert about how to manage a pandemic if too many people cannot wash their hands. Mary Grant, Director of Public Water for All, and a policy analyst on U.S. water utility privatization details which states have placed moratoriums on utility shutoffs, and which cities are setting examples for the rest of the country when it comes to access to clean and affordable water.

In the spiel, the smart cowards and courageous idiots.

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Coaching Through Life May 23, 2020

On the Gist, Tara Reade.

In the interview, Mike talks with author and journalist Michael Lewis about his foray into podcasting with AGAINST THE RULES, his series with Pushkin Industries. The focus of the recently launched season two is coaching, not just in sports. They look at coaches who help with finances, college admissions, and even coaches for executives. Michael explores how a good coach can make an impact, and the roles they play psychologically for adults and kids. His latest book is The Fifth Risk.

In the spiel, the one with Mike Pompeo.

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No Regrets May 22, 2020

On the Gist, if you look at the stats, the U.S. is doing the worst.

In the interview, part two of Mike’s interview with Dr. Paul Offit, who as an infectious disease expert, and pediatrician, made some false predictions about the pandemic at first. He and Mike also discuss his new book, Overkill: When Modern Medicine Goes Too Far.

In the spiel, arguments are easier to read.

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Too Many Pills May 21, 2020

On the Gist, judging a judge.

In the interview, Dr. Paul Offit is here. In the first part of his two-part interview, he and Mike discuss his new book, Overkill: When Modern Medicine Goes Too Far. They talk about why we should be skeptical of things like vitamin D and testosterone, and how we might not need to take painkillers for a fever. Tomorrow he and Mike will get into the Covid-19 crisis.

In the spiel, the diversity reversifier.

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Lights Out on Covid-19 May 20, 2020

On the Gist, Trump’s cabinet meeting is not unlike a hot tub time machine.

In the interview, Maria Konnikova is back for another round of “Is That Bullshit?” This time she and Mike discuss UV light, inside and outside the body. Maria is a New York Times bestseller and the author of The Biggest Bluff, a journey to learning and winning at poker.

In the spiel, morbidly presidentially orbit.

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Solving for the Future May 19, 2020

On the Gist, a Karl Rove drive-by.

In the interview, Dan Heath is here to talk about his new book Upstream: How to Solve Problems Before They Happen. He and Mike discuss the idea of upstreaming, looking behind problems to find alternative solutions, and how we need to recalibrate so successfully predicting and preventing disaster becomes the goal.

In the spiel, In the spiel, framings and shadings: the meaning of mobilization in 2020.

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The Most Powerful Woman in America May 16, 2020

On the Gist, Tara Reade again.

In the interview, journalist Molly Ball is here to discuss Pelosi, her new biography of Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi. She and Mike talk about Pelosi’s past, how she wields her power, and why she’s so smart when it comes to making a deal.

In the spiel, lobstar of the antantwig.

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Shining a Light on the Mask Market May 15, 2020

On the Gist, bail out the pigs.

In the interview, Mike discusses how the novel coronavirus has exposed some weaknesses in the global supply chain. Joel Schulman of Ecomax Wholesale Lighting in D.C., breaks down how demand for PPE has changed his relationships with factories in China, and why his company has decided to pivot to masks for the time being.

In the spiel, death rates of people of color being inadequately understood.

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Crying Wolf on Kushner May 14, 2020

On the Gist, where to wear face masks.

In the interview, comedian Myq Kaplan is the cerebral type, who instead of doing stand-up is now performing what he calls, “stand-down.” Mike talks with him about his philosophy on how be funny, and his likeness to Marc Maron during quarantine times.

In the spiel, Jared Kushner is on the fence about the election moving forward on November 3rd.

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Divide Creep Is Ruining America May 13, 2020

On the Gist, lengthening your femur.

In the interview, Azi Paybarah, writer of the New York Today column for the New York Times, speaks with Mike about New York State and City leadership, Mayor Bill de Blasio’s progressive missteps, and Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s taking control of the messaging.

In the spiel, Fauci’s warning as he goes before the Senate.

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America’s Testing Circus May 12, 2020

On the Gist, Trump tells a reporter to call China.

In the interview, The Atlantic’s Olga Khazan is here to talk about her new book, Weird: The Power of Being an Outsider in an Insider World. She and Mike talk about the ways weirdness has changed in America, and what’s good about being the oddball.

In the spiel, Trump wants to distract the public from testing capacities.

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Are Any Covid-19 Podcasts Worth It? May 08, 2020

In the Gist, Steve Mnuchin wasn’t mad at Axl Rose.

In the interview, Mike calls up Robert Smith, host of NPR’s Planet Money, to talk about the influx of coronavirus podcasts. There are a lot in production right now. Mike and Robert discuss some of the best (and worst) covering the pandemic.

In the spiel, the subtext of what Kayleigh McEnany says speaks loudly.

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Sweden’s Global Failure May 08, 2020

On the Gist, Tara Reade and Megyn Kelly on Instagram.

In the second half of our interview with Dr. Nina Fefferman from the University of Tennessee, she and Mike discuss the types of analysis used in predictive modeling, why it’s an essential part of the crisis response, and what the future holds as the models continue to change.

In the spiel, Sweden’s loose measures yielded grim results, and that should be a warning.

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Forecasting Federal Inaction May 07, 2020

On the Gist, the new White House Press Secretary reiterates that the media sometimes gets it wrong.

In the first half of this two-part interview, Mike talks with Dr. Nina Fefferman from the University of Tennessee Knoxville about predictive modeling and the Covid-19 crisis. Today, they focus on the difficulty of making projections when the government is actively disregarding expert guidance, and Dr. Fefferman’s ideas about food distribution adaptations for restaurants during this time.

In the spiel, a canadian kerfuffle but with license plates.

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Tara Reade and the Difficulty of Belief May 06, 2020

In the Gist, the Texas Governor admits what everyone knows to be true.

In the interview, Mike talks with Tomas Pueyo about his now famous Medium piece in which he coins the Hammer and The Dance theory: a choreographed end to quarantine.

In the spiel, Tara Reade and belief.

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Do Morals Matter? May 05, 2020

In the Gist, we get no further with Biden.

In the interview, Mike discusses moral judgments and how they relate to both domestic and foreign policy with none other than Joseph Nye, one of the most influential political scientists of our time, and one who co-founded the theory of neoliberalism. Nye’s book, Do Moral’s Matter? Presidents and Foreign Policy from FDR to Trump is the topic of their conversation.

In the spiel, the Mississippi mindset.

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Georgia Is a Laboratory May 01, 2020

In the Gist, Georgia is opening back up.

In the interview, Mike talks with Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and bestselling author Jon Meacham about his new podcast with Cadence13 - Hope, Through History – a documentary series on confronting and triumphing over crises in America.

In the spiel, the end of irony?

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Useful Interviews from Gist’s Past Apr 30, 2020

Slate is dark, and its staff are taking a much needed and deserved breath. And with that, Team Gist has gone dark for a day, too, so we bring you two old interviews from the fall of 2014.

First, an interview with biologist and mathematical modeler Nina Fefferman, who at the time this was recorded was based at Rutgers University and working on predicting the spread of Ebola. Now she's at the University of Tennessee and modeling Covid-19.

The second interview is about the power of analogies with author John Pollack who chats with Mike about his book Shortcut: How Analogies Reveal Connections, Spark Innovation, and Sell Our Greatest Ideas.

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Passing Class Under Quarantine Apr 30, 2020

On the Gist, grades at New York City schools.

In the interview, Nate Duncan and Ben Taylor of the Covid Daily News podcast talk to Mike about how two basketball analysts started covering the latest developments in this crisis, and the parallels to be drawn between basketball and Covid-19 data. Nate Duncan is the host of the Dunc’d On Basketball NBA podcast, and Ben Taylor is the host of Thinking Basketball.

In the spiel, NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio is frequently giving offense.

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The Pandemic That Never Happened Apr 29, 2020

On the Gist, consolidation.

In the interview, Mike talks with Matthew Dickinson, author and professor of political science at Middlebury College, about the 1976 Gerald Ford controversy regarding the threat of a global pandemic with swine flu, as well as Richard Neustadt and Harvey Fineberg’s examination of the political failures around an approaching pandemic that never actually materialized.

In the spiel, the democratic nominating process didn’t work so well.

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Embrace the Outdoors Apr 28, 2020

On the Gist, the award Trump deserves.

In the interview, Slate’s Henry Grabar is here to discuss Covid-19 and spending time outdoors. He and Mike talk about contact tracing, normalizing mask culture, and why we should all be going back outside.

In the spiel, advertisers soothe in these uncertain times.

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A Top Chef on Restaurant Relief Apr 25, 2020

On the Gist, sarcasm.

In the interview, Mike talks with celebrity chef, restaurateur, and political activist Tom Colicchio about founding the Independent Restaurant Coalition, and how they are fighting to save local restaurants and small businesses affected by COVID-19 in reaction to the government’s assistance program.

In the spiel, fleeing to the country house.

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The Homeless Can’t Stay Home Apr 24, 2020

On the Gist, a virtual, but actual NFL draft.

In the interview, Mike talks with Josh Dean, the executive director of Human.NYC, a homeless advocacy group, about their Covid-19 campaign #HomelessCantStayHome, and the solutions officials aren’t taking to move the most vulnerable off the street, out of shelters, and into vacant hotel rooms during this unprecedented time.

In the spiel, infections at the polls.

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Good News, Bad News Apr 23, 2020

On the Gist, we’re not all in the same boat.

In the second part of Mike’s interview with Dr. J. Alex Navarro, the co-editor-in-chief of The American Influenza Epidemic of 1918-1919 : A Digital Encyclopedia, they discuss politicians who, at the time, refused to comply to closure orders, and how Woodrow Wilson’s response was somewhat removed.

In the spiel, the mayor of Las Vegas and concerning ideas show on television.

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Social Distance a Century Ago Apr 22, 2020

On the Gist, Trump’s always politicizing at pressers.

In the first half of a 2-part interview, Mike talks with Dr. J. Alex Navarro, the co-editor-in-chief of The American Influenza Epidemic of 1918-1919 : A Digital Encyclopedia. Navarro explains how citizens responses 100 years ago weren’t that different from now; there was extreme compliance and tension on the ground. Yes, there were anti-maskers in 1918.

In the spiel, what if we weren’t at each other’s throat’s all the time?

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Too Much Oil Anyway Apr 21, 2020

On the Gist, Trump doesn’t understand sizes of countries.

In the interview, economist Joseph Stiglitz is here to talk about the economic impact of the coming recession. He and Mike discuss ways the government could distribute support funds better, how long it might take us to recover from such high unemployment, and what history tells us about potential growth post-recession. Stiglitz’s latest book is People, Power, and Profits: Progressive Capitalism for an Age of Discontent.

In the spiel, crude oil is below zero.

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Who’s Worth Protecting? Apr 18, 2020

On the Gist, swimming pool fatalities.

In the interview, Mikes talks with Michigan State University President, Dr Samuel Stanley, Jr about the actions he took in response to COVID-19 not just as the head of a Big 10 school, but also as a leading infectious diseases expert. Stanley discusses shifting faculty and students to remote learning in short order, housing those that must remain on campus residence halls and apartments, and how the Spartans might handle empty stadiums and a reduction in revenue in 2021.

In the spiel, protesting and protecting.

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Listening to Quarantunes Apr 17, 2020

On the Gist, Trump’s most recent briefing.

In the interview, journalist Adam Cohen is here to discuss his new book Supreme Inequality: The Supreme Court’s Fifty-Year Battle for a More Unjust America. He and Mike talk about the ways the court has changed, Nixon and the poor, and how corporations factor into it all.

In the spiel, coronavirus parody songs.

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The Real Safety of Shelter-in-Place Apr 16, 2020

On the Gist, Trump’s most recent briefing.

In the interview, John Burn-Murdoch of the Financial Times is here to discuss data visualization and the COVID-19 outbreak. He and Mike talk about the useful ways to analyze data, why countries are often too large to be helpful samples, and what the data says about the future.

In the spiel, South Dakota’s Gov. Noem failure to prevent an outbreak at a pork plant in her state.

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Don’t Believe Slogans Apr 15, 2020

On the Gist, Bernie endorsing Biden.

In the interview, Dr. Miranda Yaver, a political scientist at UCLA’s Fielding School of Public Health, joins Mike to discuss the political consequences of the coronavirus. Dr. Yaver explains how protecting public health is integral to democracy. She also weighs speculation on how the Supreme Court will rule on abortion.

In the spiel, slogans aren’t helpful.

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Preparing Weinstein for Prison Apr 14, 2020

On the Gist, the coronavirus task force.

In the interview, it’s the second part of Mike’s conversation with Craig Rothfeld of Inside Outside Ltd., a prison consulting firm which helps clients navigate the brutal reality of life behind bars. Craig goes into detail about why he sought advice from multiple rabbis and female family members before engaging with his most famous client - Harvey Weinstein - and he explains why nobody gets special treatment once incarcerated.

In the spiel, when can the economy reopen?

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The Comfort of Knowledge Apr 11, 2020

On the Gist, antibody tests.

In the interview, it turns out Mike grew up with Harvey Weinstein’s prison consultant, Craig Rothfeld. In this episode they discuss how Craig ended up in prison, his experiences there, and why he became a prison consultant afterward. Our next episode will focus on his experience working with Harvey Weinstein.

In the spiel, finding comfort in the facts we know about coronavirus.

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Coronavirus Conspiracy Apr 10, 2020

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On the Gist, hydroxychloroquine isn’t like snake oil.

In the interview, Mike talks with Slate's National Correspondent, Will Saletan about what Donald Trump needs to win in the upcoming elections. Saletan's humble prediction in the time of Covid-19 is that the president would need to persuade the American public that his incompetence and the outbreak are unrelated. They also discuss why the president's approval ratings have increased even in the face of the crisis.

In the spiel, spreading corona ignorance.

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Sanders Was Too Consistent Apr 09, 2020

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On the Gist, oversight is a funny word.

In the interview, Mike talks with journalist and creator of the Killing Eve novellas, Luke Jennings about adapting his British cat-and-mouse thriller series Killing Eve for television. They discuss the character’s feminine gaze, why he self-published some of the novellas, and how Villanelle would be dealing with the Coronavirus outbreak and quarantine. His most recent book in the series is called Killing Eve: Die For Me and is available wherever e-books are sold.

In the spiel, Bernie almost won because he never changed.

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Stop Saying the Virus Doesn’t Care Apr 08, 2020

On the Gist, Trump is a terrible communicator.

In the interview, journalist Clarence Page is here to talk with Mike about the 2020 election and the Black vote. They discuss how political commentary has changed over the years, why generations of Black voters are connecting differently with Biden and Bernie, and how to bridge that divide.

In the spiel, the virus doesn’t care but America still does.

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Making Chemicals Partisan Apr 06, 2020

On the Gist, Peter Navarro and partisan chemical compounds.

In the interview, Mike talks with Charlotte Alter. national correspondent at Time covering the 2020 elections, about her new book, The Ones We’ve Been Waiting For: How A Generation of Leaders Will Transform America. They discuss her deeply reported analysis of the 2016 elections, the youth vote, and why political experiences when young have a lifelong impact on a person’s politics.

In the spiel, tigers and other post-coronavirus problems.

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Miami and Mayor Suarez’s Plasma Apr 04, 2020

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On the Gist, Trump and Pence can’t be honest with the public.

In the interview, Miami Mayor Frances Suarez has fully recovered after testing positive for the COVID-19 virus, and now is donating his plasma for use in an experimental treatment. He talks with Mike about his experience, what Miami’s reaction to the pandemic has been, and what he’s doing to push other parts of the government to take it seriously.

In the spiel, healing and physical proximity.

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Republicans in Christian Clothing Apr 03, 2020

On the Gist, nobody does it better.

In the interview, Mike talks with Katherine Stewart about her new book, The Power Worshippers: Inside the Dangerous Rise of Religious Nationalism. They discuss how the political ideology from the right wing cloaks itself in religious rhetoric, who in the Trump cabinet is part of movement, and how it inhibits the administration’s response to the coronavirus crisis.

In the spiel, maybe Loeffler and Burr aren’t guilty of insider trading.

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You Can’t Just Cancel Rent Apr 02, 2020

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On the Gist, Florida’s finally doing the right thing.

In the interview, Jamil Zaki is here to talk with Mike about kindness during the COVID-19 crisis. He and Mike discuss studies on reactions to crises, how this time will bring us together, and what we need to do to embrace more empathy. Zaki’s latest book is The War for Kindness: Building Empathy in a Fractured World.

In the spiel, you can’t cancel rent.

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Are the Extroverts OK? Apr 01, 2020

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On the Gist, let the experts speak.

In the interview, Mike speaks with three self-identified extroverts about what it’s like to live in isolation. Amanda Mull of the Atlantic, author Stephen Witt, and host of the Unorthodox podcast Mark Oppenheimer, join Mike to talk about how stifling it can be to remain indoors, how they’re coping, and what they plan to do once it’s all over.

In the spiel, the Cuomo brotherhood.

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Improvising the Presidency Mar 30, 2020

On the Gist, Trump steering away from the rocks for once.

In the interview, Mike talks with John Dickerson of CBS News about what it takes to be a good American leader. They discuss how Trump’s personal habits have led him to be unprepared for the coronavirus crisis, why Americans are addicted to the presidency, and what might happen to the concept of American leadership if he gets a second term in office. Dickerson’s upcoming books is The Hardest Job in the World: The American Presidency.

In the spiel, FDR’s fireside chats.

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Corona Stimulus Dissenters Mar 28, 2020

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On the Gist, Dr. Mark Siegel is at it again on Fox.

In the interview, Mike speaks with the Globe and Mail’s health reporter André Picard about the Canadian response to COVID-19. They discuss the ways it differs from the US response, how their government and media outlets are handling it, and lessons to be learned.

In the spiel, a corona quorum.

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Isolation in the Nation Mar 27, 2020

On the Gist, Trump knows Tom Brady.

In the interview, Mike talks with Kate Greene, crew writer and second-in-command of the first HI-SEAS simulated mission to Mars. They discuss Greene’s experience during her four months living in the dome, how micro-stimuli can be overcome, and why astronauts love Tabasco hot sauce. Her essay collection, Once Upon a Time I Lived on Mars, will be published by St. Martin’s Press in July.

In the spiel, it’s not if your community has a coronavirus outbreak, it’s when.

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Assessing the Risk of COVID-19 Mar 26, 2020

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On the Gist, we’ve been mean to the elderly.

In the interview, Ian Bremmer, political analyst and president of the Eurasia Group, is here to talk with Mike about how to assess the risk of the coronavirus pandemic. They discuss the ways countries with different forms of government have reacted, Trump’s role in all this, and why the US is so isolation averse. Bremmer is the host of GZERO World With Ian Bremmer.

In the spiel, the media should continue coverage of Trump’s pressers.

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Trump’s Dangerous Optimism Mar 25, 2020

On the Gist, how to stay out of the ICU.

In the interview, Mike talks with Andy Slavitt, former head of Medicare, Medicaid, and the Affordable Care Act for the Obama Administration, about why the US was less prepared for a pandemic like COVID-19. They discussed why high un-insured rates, high co-pay costs, and low medical capacity make the country as a whole more vulnerable.

In the spiel, foolish optimism about COVID-19.

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Making Outbreak Models Mar 23, 2020

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On the Gist, state governments need help.

In the interview, Dr. Jeffrey Shaman of Columbia University talks about his research modeling potential outbreaks, which is featured in the recent New York Times story, “Coronavirus Could Overwhelm U.S. Without Urgent Actions, Estimates Say.”

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Coronavirus Contrarianism Is a Health Risk Mar 21, 2020

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On the Gist, Trump thinks Peter Alexander is a bad journalist.

In the interview, Mike talks with MSNBC analyst and Daily Beast columnist Jonathan Alter about how Trump could position himself as a two-term president. They discuss how a leader in crisis should be conducting himself, examples of great leaders in moments of crisis, and how the economy’s nose-dive will impact the 2020 elections.

In the spiel, doctors who aren’t concerned yet.

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Convincing in Crisis Mar 20, 2020

On the Gist, Trump’s press conference.

In the interview, Maria Konnikova is back to talk with Mike about persuasion. They discuss the best and worst tactics for convincing people of something the don’t believe, and why it will make us feel better to try even if we fail. Maria’s latest book is The Confidence Game.

In the spiel, why governing less isn’t a virtue in a crisis.

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We Need a Government Bail-Out Mar 19, 2020

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On the Gist, our slow government.

In the interview, In the interview, Mike talks to CEO of Three Uncanny Four and creator of Planet Money Adam Davidson about the impact of the coronavirus crisis on the US economy. They discuss the tools the Fed has to stimulate the economy, how deep of a recession we’re heading toward, and why the government needs to start spending money. Davidson’s latest book is The Passion Economy: The New Rules for Thriving in the Twenty-First Century.

In the spiel, Jake Tapper and jogging.

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Halt the Vote? Mar 17, 2020

On the Gist, the election mess in Ohio.

In the interview, Richard Hasen, legal expert and professor at the UC Irvine School of Law, is here to discuss closing the polls in Ohio, the legal implications of how that decision was made, and why we need emergency plans in place for elections. Hasen’s new book is Election Meltdown.

In the spiel, desperate times call for desperate compliments.

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We Don’t Need a Revolution Mar 16, 2020

On the Gist, the war against invisible enemies.

In the interview, Mike spoke with Dr. Fred Buckner of the University of Washington about how hospitals are dealing with COVID-19, who is and isn’t being hospitalized, and the important things we need to do during this pandemic. The resource site that the University of Washington has created can be found here.

In the spiel, how governors across the country are dealing with the coronavirus crisis.

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Trump’s Gaffes Are a Virus Mar 13, 2020

On the Gist, the president is a disastrous communicator.

In the interview, Mike speaks with his friend Luke Burbank, host of Live Wire Radio and Too Beautiful to Live, about what it’s like in the Seattle area right now. They discuss travel, how this might affect podcasts, and even exchange a few laughs.

In the spiel, we need your help listeners.

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You Can’t Win a Pandemic Mar 12, 2020

On the Gist, Trump’s lies are so dangerous.

In the interview, Mike calls his friend David Lichtman, who lives in New Rochelle, New York, on the edge of the coronavirus containment zone. They discuss what it’s like on the ground, how it’s affected local lives, and what the local government has done about it.

In the spiel, Trump thinks he can win at coronavirus.

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Bernie’s Losses Aren’t Surprising Mar 11, 2020

On the Gist, maybe Sanders was never really that popular.

In the interview, we have part two of David Plouffe’s interview. He and Mike go deeper on campaigns, what Trump needs to do to win again, and what Biden and Sanders could do to win the White House. Plouffe’s book is A Citizen’s Guide to Beating Donald Trump.

In the spiel, you can’t count on the youth vote.

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Fighting the Trump Campaign Mar 11, 2020

On the Gist, Steve Bannon making some sense.

In the interview, David Plouffe is here to discuss his new book, A Citizen’s Guide to Beating Donald Trump. He and Mike talk about strategy, lessons learned, Biden and Bernie, and Plouffe’s podcast, Campaign HQ with David Plouffe.

In the spiel, the stories we tell ourselves aren’t always helpful.

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We’re Fumbling the Coronavirus Crisis Mar 10, 2020

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On the Gist, Trump’s antics will not work with the Coronavirus.

In the interview, Mike talks with staff writer and national correspondent at The Atlantic James Fallows about how the media should respond to the current Corona Virus crisis. They discuss what impact the stock market’s downward turn might have on Trump’s chances of getting re-elected, how the two remaining Democratic presidential candidates would respond if they were president, and what we can learn from China’s respond to the pandemic.

In the spiel, we’re either overreacting or under-reacting to the Coronavirus.

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Biden Has the Obama Coalition Mar 07, 2020

On the Gist, the International Criminal Court.

In the interview, musician Stephen Malkmus is here to talk about his new album Traditional Techniques. He and Mike discuss the various instruments he used, tennis, and Santa Con.

In the spiel, Biden’s got the Obama coalition.

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Trump Is Clueless About Coronavirus Mar 06, 2020

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On the Gist, daylight savings time.

In the interview, Mike talks with journalist and political analyst Yuval Levin about his most recent book, A Time To Build: From Family and Community to Congress and the Campus, How Recommitting to Our Institutions Can Revive the American Dream. They discuss why institutions are important to shaping individuals, why gatekeepers remain important and should be required to prove themselves, and why conservatives have damaged American institutions.

In the spiel, Trump and the coronavirus.

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Stop Talking About Women’s Looks Mar 05, 2020

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On the Gist, Bernie and Biden.

In the interview, Lizzie O’Leary is the host of What Next: TBD at Slate, but has had her fair share of time working in TV news. During those years, she experienced so many instances of the gross expectations and double standards for women in the industry. In the wake of Chris Matthews’ departure, she’s here to discuss her working in TV, and the ways the men in power have treated her.

In the spiel, Warren is grasping at straws.

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Chris Matthews Knew How to Hit Hard Mar 04, 2020

On the Gist, don’t touch your face.

In the interview, Mike talks with legal analyst Jill Wine-Banks about her book, The Watergate Girl: My Fight for Truth and Justice Against a Criminal President. They discuss her role on the prosecutorial team during the Watergate scandal, the memorable Rose Mary Woods stretch, and how the American public kept Nixon accountable.

In the spiel, Chris Matthews retired.

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The DNC’s Primary Process is Flawed Mar 03, 2020

On the Gist, 1946 was a good year for presidential births.

In the interview, New York Times columnist Ross Douthat is here to discuss his new book The Decadent Society: How We Became the Victims of Our Own Success. He and Mike debate the meaning of decadence, Douthat’s ideas of a way out of decadence, and whether or not we just need to pivot to a different religion.

In the spiel, this Democratic nomination process sucks.

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Busting Bernie’s Policy Myth Feb 29, 2020

On the Gist, complaining to the FCC.

In the interview, Maria Konnikova is back for another round of “Is That Bullshit?” This time she and Mike look into the light, blue light that is. Does it really affect sleep the way everybody claims it does? Should we all be buying those special glasses? Maria’s latest book is The Confidence Game.

In the spiel, the filibuster and Medicare for all.

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Combatting Coronavirus With Clowns Feb 28, 2020

On the Gist, why Bernie still needs the black vote.

In the interview, Mike talks with senior fellow at the Brookings Institution E. J. Dionne about his most recent book, Code Red: How Progressives and Moderates Can Unite to Save Our Country. They tease apart Dionne's arguments about visionary gradualism, and how moderates and progressives can move each other to greater social justice in the US.

In the spiel, Trump’s coronavirus press conference.

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Electing the Muppet in Chief Feb 27, 2020

On the Gist, the missed opportunities of the South Carolina debates.

In the interview, Mike talks with Eitan Hersh, professor of Political Science at Tufts University, about his new book Politics is for Power: How to Move Beyond Political Hobbyism, Take Action, and Make Real Change. They discuss political hobbyism and why your news consumption is actually a form of slacktivism.

In the spiel, who’s the most like a muppet?

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The New York Times is Ready to Rumble Feb 26, 2020

On the Gist, Bernie Sanders’ public access past.

In the interview, journalist Conor Dougherty is here to talk about his new book Golden Gates: Fighting for Housing in America. They discuss potential solutions to the housing shortage in major cities, why we all flock to large metro hubs, and the difficulty of this problem when looking at people versus numbers.

In the spiel, the rumble between the New York Times and West Side Story.

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Battling Against Bernie Feb 25, 2020

On the Gist, caucuses are bad.

In the interview, Mike talks with Touré about why his podcast title, Touré Show, doesn't have a definite article. They discuss Touré's particular interview style, how he would write his Obama-era book on race and Blackness had he written it today during the Trump administration, and his upcoming podcast series on Prince.

In the spiel, where the other candidates stand with Bernie before the South Carolina debate.

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Leave George Washington’s Thighs Alone Feb 22, 2020

On the Gist, Russia is at it again.

In the interview, Mike chats with historian Alexis Coe, author of the new book You Never Forget Your First: A Biography of George Washington. They discuss the founding-father's height, dentures and that awkward obsession male historians have about the man's thighs.

In the spiel, a lobstar of the antentwig.

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Bloomberg’s Defenseless Debate Feb 21, 2020

On the Gist, stop the racism.

In the interview, Mike talks about the democrats with director of the Center on American Politics at the University of Denver Seth Masket. They discuss the way the debate went, and what could happen at the convention with all the delegates so spread out.

In the spiel, what Bloomberg could’ve said.

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Ye Olde Bloomberg Soundbite Shoppe Feb 20, 2020

On the Gist, birtherism and deatherism.

In the interview, Mike chats with Daily Beast reporters, Lachlan Markay and Asawin Suebsang about their new book, Sinking in the Swamp: How Trump's Minions and Misfits Poisoned Washington. They discuss how they used their so-called "omni-shambles beat" to write the book and why there is nothing tempered about Trump's administration.

In the spiel, visiting Ye Olde Bloomberg Soundbite Shoppe.

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Pardon the Crime Feb 19, 2020

On the Gist, critiquing Bloomberg critiques.

In the interview, we’ve got the second part of our conversation with journalist Andrea Bernstein on her new book, American Oligarchs: The Kushners, The Trumps, and the Marriage of Money and Power. She and Mike went deep on Trump the first part, and now they’re digging into Michael Cohen and the Kushners.

In the spiel, Trump’s pardons.

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Why Iran-Contra Hardly Rings a Bell Feb 15, 2020

On the Gist, the Houston Astros cheating scandal is like the US Democracy.

Mike and former host of Slow Burn, and current host of Luminary Podcast network's Fiasco, Leon Neyfakh get into the details of the Iran-Contra Affair. They discuss the key players in the saga, why this story was such a fiasco and the new Slow Burn TV-show.

In the spiel, let's just go with Caucus debacle avoidance.

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Unpacking the Buttigieg CIA Conspiracy Feb 14, 2020

On the Gist, what Bloomberg said about redlining.

In the interview, Mike talks to former host of Slow Burn and current host of Luminary Podcast network's Fiasco, Leon Neyfakh. In the first part of their conversation, they talk about what the Iran-Contra Affair was and who the key players were.

In the spiel, the Pete Buttigieg CIA conspiracy theory from Chapo Trap House.

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Bloomberg’s Bad Racial Math Feb 13, 2020

On the Gist, why Vindman wasn’t fired.

In the interview, journalist Andrea Bernstein is here to talk about her new book, American Oligarchs: The Kushners, The Trumps, and the Marriage of Money and Power. She and Mike discuss how Trump bullied his way through New York real estate, why he puts his name on everything, and how he’s used the presidency for his own personal income.

In the spiel, Bloomberg doubled down on stop-and-frisk for far too long.

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What Hurt Warren Feb 12, 2020

On the Gist, the little ones.

In the interview, Mike talks to journalist and public health researcher Katherine Rowland about her new book, The Pleasure Gap: American Women and the Unfinished Sexual Revolution. They discuss why American women are reporting dissatisfaction with their sexual lives despite the current climate of sex positivity, and the debates surrounding the female Viagra.

In the spiel, the future for Warren.

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Are Essential Oils Essentially Bunk? Feb 11, 2020

On the Gist, talking is hard.

In the interview, Maria Konnikova is back for her usual game of “Is That Bullshit?” Today she and Mike tackle essential oils, talking through the history of using essential oils, modern studies, and the potential uses they might have. Maria’s most recent book is The Confidence Game.

In the spiel, weak arguments about political opponents.

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Moshe Kasher Surfs the Crowd Feb 08, 2020

On the Gist, Central Casting strikes again.

In the interview, comedian Moshe Kasher is here to talk about his new comedy album Crowdsurfing. He and Mike discuss the difference between crowd work and prepared material, and the history of Moshe’s family.

In the spiel, Nancy ripping his speech.

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Iowa Was Lost in Translation Feb 07, 2020

On the Gist, we went through hell.

In the interview, Mike talks with linguist Dennis Baron about his new What's Your Pronoun?: Beyond He and She. The two analyze the history of English language pronouns and debate whether or not language is meant for communicating "correctly" or simply for communicating.

In the spiel, translating the Iowa results.

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The Unsurprising Acquittal of Donald Trump Feb 05, 2020

On the Gist, Donald Trump slurred his way through the State of the Union.

In the interview, Mike talks with public education advocate Diane Ravitch about her most recent book, Slaying Goliath: The Passionate Resistance to Privatization and the Fight to Save America’s Public Schools. They discuss why she left the “dark side” of advocating for charter schools, and why schools should stop testing the children to death.

In the spiel, the acquittal of Donald Trump.

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The Lesson of Iowa’s Chaos Feb 05, 2020

On the Gist, the Iowa caucuses was created to disenfranchise babysitters.

In the interview, Mike talks with NPR’s Steve Inskeep about his new book, Imperfect Union: How Jessie and John Frémont Mapped the West, Invented Celebrity, and Helped Cause the Civil War. They discuss the ways in which the Frémonts navigated their world, and the modern currents found in their story.

In the spiel, the Iowa caucuses were a mess.

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Oregon, Lab for Democracy Feb 04, 2020

On the Gist, how Elizabeth Warren inspires her supporters before the Iowa caucuses.

In the interview, Gov. Kate Brown of Oregon is here to discuss how the state has the highest voter-turnout rate, the possibility of granting 16-year-olds the vote, rent-control, and her favorite sketch from the show Portlandia.

In the spiel, the kingdom of the Kansas City Chiefs.

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Jon Favreau’s The Wilderness Feb 01, 2020

On the Gist, Bloomberg will join the debate stage.

In the interview, Crooked Media’s Jon Favreau is here to talk about the new season of his series The Wilderness, where he goes to different parts of the country and explores politic tastes with focus groups. He and Mike discuss the four types of voters he targeted, what people want from a Democratic candidate, and the importance of the upcoming election.

In the spiel, landmines and military.

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The Deep Doo-Doo of Dershowitz Jan 31, 2020

On the Gist, Pam Bondi at the impeachment trial.

In the interview, journalist Ezra Klein is here to discuss his new book Why We’re Polarized. They debate if extremism and polarization are related, and talk about the increasing difficulty of compromise, and if there’s a solution to this problem.

In the spiel, Alan Dershowitz’s terrible argument.

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Could Bernie Take Iowa? Jan 30, 2020

On the Gist, could Bernie Sanders win in Iowa?

In the interview, humorist and numbers ninja Matt Parker is here to discuss his new book Humble Pi: When Math Goes Wrong in the Real World. He and Mike discuss the peculiarities of his page numbers, how he kept math fun, and a detailed exploration of what a decade is.

In the spiel, impeachment continues.

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The Nuclear Power of the Presidency Jan 29, 2020

On the Gist, Mike Pompeo and Mary Louise Kelly.

In the interview, Fred Kaplan is back and this time he and Mike are talking about nuclear bombs. They discuss the history of nuclear weapons in the US, why it’s concerning that Trump holds the detonator, and how these bombs factor into modern day peacekeeping. Kaplan’s new book is The Bomb: Presidents, Generals, and the Secret History of Nuclear War.

In the spiel, Trump team’s closing arguments.

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Kobe Bryant, Transcendent Athlete Jan 28, 2020

On the Gist, the likely acquittal of Trump.

In the interview, we're back with political reporter and host of Stranglehold, Lauren Chooljian. We discuss how the New Hampshire primaries are likely to shake out, which candidates will remain after many of them have strategically camped out in the state, and the difference between the polls and the actual feelings of New Hampshire voters.

In the spiel, the artistry and athleticism of Kobe Bryant.

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The Hits of 1983 Jan 25, 2020

On the Gist, Wells Fargo strikes again.

In the interview, Chris Molanphy is back to talk Mike through the hits of 1983. Enjoying vegemite sandwiches, the rains in Africa, and a bunch of sweet dreams, they indulge in the pop mainstays that continue to persist on the radio and at the karaoke bar. Molanphy is the host of Hit Parade and writes the “Why Is This Song No. 1?” column for Slate.

In the spiel, too many thoughts.

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The Monstrous Monotony of Mitch McConnell Jan 24, 2020

On the Gist, the how the senators are occupying themselves.

In the interview, writer Will Self is here to talk with Mike about his new memoir Will. They discuss addiction, how Will accesses memory, and the difficulty of his name.

In the spiel, Mitch’s monotone.

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A Bunch of Dopes and Babies Jan 23, 2020

On the Gist, revisiting the travel ban.

In the interview, we talk with Susan Hennessey and Benjamin Wittes, the editors of Lawfare, about their new book, Unmaking the Presidency: Donald Trump's War on the World's Most Powerful Office. They discuss the precedents that Trump has broken as POTUS and paint a stark picture of the future of the executive office if he is re-elected.

In the spiel, “a bunch of dopes and babies.”

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Was Killing Soleimani Worth It? Jan 22, 2020

On the Gist, the New York Times endorsement.

In the interview, senior fellow and director of the Stein Program on Counterterrorism and Intelligence at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy Matthew Levitt is here to talk about the killing of Qasem Soleimani. What calculus went into the decision, whether it was worth it, and what this means for the future of the US and Iran.

In the spiel, the beginning of the Senate impeachment trial.

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Journalists Aren’t Activists Jan 18, 2020

On the Gist, Joe Biden and the New York Times.

In the interview, Maria Konnikova is back for another episode of “Is That Bullshit?” This time she and Mike tackle whether or not we’re currently experiencing the latest mass extinction event. We may not have noticed, but the insects certainly have.

In the spiel, the difference between journalism and activism.

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Dave Eggers and the Struggle of Satire Jan 17, 2020

On the Gist, Donald Trump and Devin Nunes know Lev Parnas.

In the interview, Mike talks with author Dave Eggers about his new book, The Captain and the Glory, a story about the clownish captain of a great ship. Eggers discusses how satire can help us admit the absurdities of our times and how writing the book helped him process our current political climate.

In the spiel, bunging a bob for a big ben bong.

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The Wasted Debate Jan 16, 2020

On the Gist, cats will eat you.

In the interview, economist Daniel Susskind is here to discuss his new book A World Without Work: Technology, Automation, and How We Should Respond. They talk about the future of work, how technology is shifting, and the effectiveness of Andrew Yang’s proposal of universal basic income.

In the spiel, the debate was lackluster.

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Forgiveness by Fiat Jan 15, 2020

On the Gist, the latest debate and Corey Booker.

In the interview, John Tierney is here to talk about his and Roy F. Baumeister’s new book The Power of Bad: How the Negativity Effect Rules Us and How We Can Rule It. They discuss why the bad is always more memorable than the good, and the real uses of such negativity.

In the spiel, Elizabeth Warren’s plan to forgive student debt by executive order.

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The Issue With Oscar Noms Jan 14, 2020

On the Gist, Trump lying about embassies and Iran.

In the interview, New America’s Lee Drutman is here to discuss his new book Breaking the Two Party Doom Loop: The Case for Multiparty Democracy in America. He and Mike talk about why we need more than two parties in the US, how the two-party system came about, and what the way forward could be like.

In the spiel, the Oscars need affirmative action.

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Marianne Williamson Teleports Away Jan 11, 2020

On the Gist, Marianne Williamson is out.

In the interview, Adam Davidson is back, this time talking to Mike about his new book The Passion Economy: The New Rules for Thriving in the Twenty-First Century. They discuss the case studies Adam used to illustrate this positive aspect of the economy in recent years, and how people have turned their passions into professions.

In the spiel, Elizabeth Wurtzel and Don Imus.

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The Final Great Jeopardy! Game Jan 10, 2020

On the Gist, accusing people of writing eulogies.

In the interview, Slate’s Lizzie O’Leary and Justin Peters talk with Mike about Jeopardy!’s “Greatest of All Time” tournament. With Justin as a previous Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? contestant, and Mike and Lizzie both as Jeopardy! alums, the three discuss how this tournament stacks up to the standard fare, who they think will win, and what their own experiences were like on TV.

In the spiel, the governmental vacancies thanks to Trump.

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What’s John Bolton’s Game? Jan 09, 2020

On the Gist, the Iran story isn’t over yet.

In the interview, Slate’s Jim Newell is here to talk with Mike about John Bolton. They discuss why Bolton has announced he’s available to be subpoenaed by Congress, how this might play out, and where the Senate and the House stand.

In the spiel, Jim Acosta’s commentary.

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The World’s Worst Extortion Racket Jan 08, 2020

On the Gist, Trump’s letters to Iraq.

In the interview, journalist Lauren Chooljian is here to talk about her podcast series Stranglehold. It focuses on the New Hampshire primary, how it continues to be first primary in the nation, and what long-running New Hampshire Secretary of State William Gardner has to do with it.

In the spiel, trying to get paid to leave Iraq.

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Trump’s Iranian Connection Jan 07, 2020

On the Gist, Kellyanne Conway and unnecessary clarifications.

In the interview, New Yorker writer Adam Davidson is here to talk about Trump’s business dealings in Iran. Based on his past reporting, Davidson discusses with Mike how Trump became financially involved with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard, a military force in Iran, and what impact that has had on recent events.

In the spiel, movies and TV.

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Starting a War Jan 04, 2020

On the Gist, the Quds force.

In the interview, Slate’s Fred Kaplan is here to talk with Mike about the recent action the Trump administration has taken against Iran. They discuss what impact the death of Qasem Soleimani will have on the Middle East, the United State’s relationship with Iran and Iraq, and why this appears to be an act of war. Kaplan writes the War Stories column for Slate.

In the spiel, Soleimani and war.

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Julián Is Through-lian Jan 03, 2020

On the Gist, guns in Louisiana and New York.

In the interview, the second part of our Zero Blog Thirty interview where Mike talks to Chaps and Kate about Chaps being a dog handler in the Marines and all the ways it’s different than we think it is.

In the spiel, Castro is out.

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The Stories the Gist Skipped in 2019 Dec 30, 2019

On the Gist, Mike makes predictions about what happened the week of Christmas.

In the spiel, Mike reflects on 2019. He shares a rundown of what he didn’t cover, and a few particular standout moments from this year’s episodes.

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Approving War Crimes? Dec 23, 2019

On the Gist, John Bolton.

In the interview, Mike talks to the hosts of Zero Blog Thirty, a podcast about the military from those who've lived it. They discuss the recent news about the Afghanistan papers, how Trump handled all the recent war criminals, and finding a space to talk about the inside baseball of the armed forces. Zero Blog Thirty is a podcast from Barstool, which you can listen to here.

In the spiel, ‘tis the political season.

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Ignoring Iowa Dec 21, 2019

On the Gist, Pete Buttigieg and wine bars.

In the interview, Mike talks to actor Rhea Seehorn and creator Mike Sacks about their new Audible original Passable in Pink, a satire of John Hughes films. They discuss their shared love of Hughes’ movies, how films like 16 Candles have held up in 2019, and the behind-the-scenes audio wizardry that made Passable in Pink come to life.

In the spiel, Julian Castro’s attempt to revive his campaign.

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The Democrats Hardly Knew Jeff Van Drew Dec 20, 2019

On The Gist, impartial jurors for impeachment.

In the interview, Pat Garofalo, managing editor of TalkPoverty.org is here to discuss his new book The Billionaire Boondoggle: How Our Politicians Let Corporations and Bigwigs Steal Our Money and Jobs. He and Mike the actual economic impact of things like the Super Bowl, and why cities might want to reconsider offering so many subsidies to companies.

In the spiel, Jeff Van Drew.

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Pontius Pilate, Democrat Dec 19, 2019

On the Gist, the third impeachment in U.S. history.

In the interview, Mike talks to reporter Dan Weissmann about the cost of healthcare, the horror stories of people navigating the complicated system, and what at all can be done to fix it. Dan’s healthcare podcast is An Arm and a Leg.

In the spiel, Jesus and Trump.

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Capitalism Won. Now What? Dec 18, 2019

On the Gist, how government should work.

In the interview, Mike talks to economist Branko Milanovic about the various forms of capitalism that exist in the world today, the role of higher education signaling in American society, and the ways to reduce the negative effects of inequality. His new book is Capitalism, Alone: The Future of the System That Rules the World.

In the spiel, the case for Mike Bloomberg.

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The Youthful Power of Greta Thunberg Dec 17, 2019

On the Gist, impeachment and partisanship.

In the interview, Mike talks to Jonathan Metzl, Vanderbilt University professor and the research director of The Safe Tennessee Project. They discuss the latest Supreme Court case that examined a person’s right to bear arms in New York City, how the justices ruled, and what this case means for the second amendment in the future. Jonathan’s latest book is Dying of Whiteness: How the Politics of Racial Resentment Is Killing America's Heartland.

In the spiel, Greta Thunberg is older than she looks.

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The Kakistocracy Depends on the Cacophony Dec 14, 2019

On the Gist, birds and Debird.

In the interview, Mike talks to journalist and CNN correspondent Peter Bergen about Trump’s national security team, the internal feuds, and why the key players of this team have all left, three years later. His new book is Trump and His Generals: The Cost of Chaos.

In the spiel, the Republicans need all the noise to continue.

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The Politics of Humor Dec 13, 2019

On the Gist, trade symbols.

In the interview, Mike talks to Dannagal Goldthwaite Young about satire, irony, and humor in a politically divided world. They discuss successful and not-so-successful examples of conservative political satire, how humor differs on the right and left, and the psychology behind comedy. Her new book is Irony and Outrage: The Polarized Landscape of Rage, Fear, and Laughter in the United States.

In the spiel, the pace of impeachment.

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Discredited Nincompoop Nunes Is (Slightly) Vindicated Dec 12, 2019

On the Gist, the problem with democracies.

In the interview, Benjamin Wittes of the Brookings Institution and Lawfare is on the phone with Mike today to talk about Devin Nunes’ memo from 2017 in light of the recent Inspector General’s report. What did Nunes get right and wrong? And was it enough to let us stop calling him a nincompoop?

In the spiel, McKinsey and Pete Buttigieg.

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Expecting History to Judge Dec 11, 2019

On the Gist, William Barr and malfeasance.

In the interview, comedians Drennon Davis and Mike Phirman are here to talk about their podcast Bandtastic, a sci-fi musical for the family. They talk with Mike about how the project came about, adult and child humor, and DJ Yeah.

In the spiel, impeachment and history.

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Not a Point of Order Dec 10, 2019

On the Gist, fighting Biden.

In the interview, Mike talks to sports journalist and author Joe Posnanski about the elusive Houdini. They talk about how Erik Weisz became the great Harry Houdini, how the man transformed himself from failing magician to famous escape artist, and the myths shrouding his mysterious death. Joe’s book is The Life and Afterlife of Harry Houdini.

In the spiel, points of order.

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The Truth Behind the Steele Dossier Dec 07, 2019

On The Gist, Chuck Todd.

In the Interview, former The Wall Street Journal reporter and Fusion GPS co-founder Glenn Simpson is here to talk with Mike about the Steele dossier, the infamous pee tape, and his regrets and hopes around the dossier’s coverage. His new book with co-author Peter Fritsch is Crime in Progress: Inside the Steele Dossier and the Fusion GPS Investigation of Donald Trump.

In the Spiel, Cory Booker’s theory on why Kamala Harris dropped out.

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Biden Wants a Fight Dec 06, 2019

On The Gist, UNESCO.

In the Interview, Mike talks to Bina Venkataraman, The Boston Globe editorial page editor. They talk about the best ways to tackle climate change, how to encourage people to think long-term, and whether or not humanity will make it past the year 2200. Her new book is The Optimist's Telescope: Thinking Ahead in a Reckless Age.

In the Spiel, Joe Biden confronting an 83-year-old farmer in Iowa.

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Making the Worse Argument Dec 05, 2019

On The Gist, unpopular opinions.

In the Interview, Mike talks to actor Kal Penn about his sitcom Sunnyside. They discuss how he came up with the idea for the show, his time working for the Obama administration, and the Easter eggs hidden throughout the season. You can watch Sunnyside on Hulu, Amazon, and other streaming platforms.

In the Spiel, the rebuttal to impeachment.

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Kamala Is Out Dec 04, 2019

On The Gist, Kamala Harris.

In the Interview, Mike talks to Slate writer Julia Craven about Kamala Harris’ decision to end her White House bid, the internal crises that broke out within her campaign, and why, after a promising start, she struggled to stand out in the crowded Democratic race.

In the Spiel, a sperm whale and straws.

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Alex Gibney's Citizen K Dec 03, 2019

On The Gist, Chuck Todd did good.

In the interview, documentarian Alex Gibney is here to discuss his newest film, Citizen K, about former Russian oligarch Mikhail Khodorkovsky and Putin’s Russia. They discuss what led to Khodorkovsky’s exile, and the way his story reveals the current state of Russian affairs.

In the Spiel, Mike’s Thanksgiving weekend.

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The Great Denial Nov 28, 2019

On The Gist, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Maria Konnikova is back for another “Is That Bullshit?” In the Interview, she talks to Mike about DOGTV, a cable network made for dogs. Maria breaks down whether or not DOGTV helps dogs feel a little less lonely while their owners are away and if DOGTV programming is truly relaxing for dogs. Maria’s latest book is The Confidence Game.

In the Spiel, Rep. Jim Jordan and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

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The Business of Apples Nov 27, 2019

On The Gist, beavers.

In the interview, Mike talks to The Sporkful host Dan Pashman about Washington State University’s latest creation—the Cosmic Crisp apple. Pashman explains the birth of this new apple, how it compares to other varieties, and quizzes Mike in a game called "Apple Variety or New England Town." Listen to The Sporkful episode, “A New Apple Is Born,” wherever you get your podcasts.

In the Spiel, Prince Andrew.

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Paving the Way to Progressive America Nov 26, 2019

On The Gist, Nikki Haley.

In the interview, Mike talks to Senator Sherrod Brown about his new book Desk 88: Eight Progressive Senators Who Changed America. They talk about these forgotten figures, what people can learn from them, and the power and limits of bi-partisanship.

In the Spiel, South Carolina.

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The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Game Nov 22, 2019

On The Gist, Joe Biden again.

Then Mike speaks with Slate blogger Ben Mathis-Lilley about impeachment.

And we end with an interview with Chris Molanphy, who is back to run through the nominees for this year’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He and Mike talk about the new nominees, those who’ve appeared time and again, and the game theory of it all. Chris is the host of Hit Parade and writes the column “Why Is This Song Number One?”

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David Shulkin Knows Sacrifice Nov 22, 2019

On The Gist, is Pete Buttigieg ready?

In the interview, Mike talks to former United States Secretary of Veterans Affairs David Shulkin about his time in office, how he drastically reduced wait times at VA medical centers, and the infamous tweet that got him fired. His new book is It Shouldn't Be This Hard to Serve Your Country: Our Broken Government and the Plight of Veterans.

In the Spiel, Fiona Hill.

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Gordon Sondland Has No Clue Nov 21, 2019

On The Gist, Representative John Ratcliffe.

In the interview, Mike talks to CIA whistleblower Jeffery Sterling about his CIA career, how he blew the whistle on a bungled covert operation in Iran in 2015, and his life after serving time. His new book is Unwanted Spy: The Persecution of an American Whistleblower.

In the Spiel, Gordon Sondland.

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Another Day, Another Impeachment Hearing Nov 20, 2019

On The Gist, the MSNBC and The Washington Post Democratic debate.

In the interview, Mike talks to actor June Diane Raphael of Grace and Frankie about her call to activism after the 2016 election, working with Emily’s List, and encouraging more women to run for office. Her new book is Represent: The Woman’s Guide to Running for Office and Changing the World.

In the Spiel, the impeachment saga.

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Crowdfunding Creativity Nov 19, 2019

On The Gist, Pete Buttigieg.

In the interview, Mike talks to Yancey Strickler, co-founder of Kickstarter, about the company’s origins, the challenges of developing creator guidelines, and what he thinks about wealth in the tech industry. His new book is This Could Be Our Future.

In the Spiel, Mayor Bloomberg and stop-and-frisk.

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Devin Nunes Is a Nincompoop Nov 16, 2019

On The Gist, Elizabeth Warren’s new plan.

In the interview, Jamil Zaki is here to discuss his new book The War for Kindness: Building Empathy in a Fractured World. He and Mike debate the merits of sympathy versus empathy, and discuss the ways we view empathy may not be the way we live with it.

In the Spiel, Devin Nunes, disgraced nincompoop.

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The Business of Celebrity Tabloids Nov 15, 2019

On The Gist, Nancy Pelosi.

In the interview, Mike talks to filmmaker Mark Landsman and former National Enquirer editor-in-chief Steve Coz about their new documentary Scandalous: The True Story of the National Enquirer. They discuss ethics, Trump, and how the publication’s tactics have changed over the years.

In the Spiel, need a dose of pizzazz?

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The Threat of Democracy Nov 14, 2019

On The Gist, Purple: Project for Democracy.

In the interview, Mike talks to writer and National Review editor Rich Lowry about the tradition of American nationalism, how to reclaim the term, and why we need it more than ever. His new book is The Case for Nationalism: How It Made Us Powerful, United, and Free.

In the Spiel, the impeachment hearing, Giuliani, and corruption.

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For the Love of Scandal Nov 13, 2019

On The Gist, treason and bribery.

In the interview, Irish writer and critic Fintan O’Toole talks to Mike about Brexit, the nationalist wave sweeping England, and country’s future without the European Union. His book The Politics of Pain: Postwar England and the Rise of Nationalismis out now.

In the Spiel, scandals and apologies.

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The Imperfect Republican Defense Nov 12, 2019

On The Gist, partisanship.

In the interview, Brian T. Brown is here to talk about his new book, Someone Is Out to Get Us: A Not So Brief History of Cold War Paranoia and Madness. He and Mike discuss the ways the US and the USSR felt about each other, how those feelings persist today, and the different intelligence structures in the US and Russia.

In the Spiel, Republicans and impeachment.

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Edward Norton’s Motherless Brooklyn Nov 09, 2019

On The Gist, the new book by the anonymous member of the White House.

In the interview, Mike talks to actor Edward Norton about his new film Motherless Brooklyn. They discuss Robert Moses’s complicated legacy in New York, his early beginnings volunteering as a public housing advocate, and working with Alec Baldwin to make this movie come alive. Motherless Brooklynis in theaters now.

In the Spiel, Pete Buttigieg and Black voters.

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Steve Bullock’s Blue-Collar Candidacy Nov 08, 2019

On The Gist, taxing Bill Gates.

In the interview, Gov. Steve Bullock of Montana is here to talk with Mike about his run for the Democratic nomination. They discuss how Bullock’s work on campaign finance reform in Montana, how he alters his message for local and national audiences, and what he thinks of the penny.

In the Spiel, Pete Buttigieg’s lack of experience.

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The Policy Popularity Game Nov 07, 2019

On The Gist, political correctness?

In the interview, Mike talks to political scientist James A. Robinson about why some nations have more liberty than others and what nations can do to uphold freedom in the face of political threats. His new book, co-written with Daron Acemoglu, is The Narrow Corridor: States, Societies, and the Fate of Liberty.

In the Spiel, popular policies.

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Another Plan for That? Nov 06, 2019

On The Gist, it’s not good to agree with Donald Trump, Jr.

In the interview, race car driver Michael Waltrip and filmmaker Paul Taublieb are here to talk with Mike about the new documentary Blink of an Eye based on the book of the same name about racing, Waltrip’s his relationship with Dale Earnhardt, Sr., and the fateful day of Earnhardt’s crash. The film is currently available to stream digitally.

In the Spiel, Elizbeth Warren’s healthcare plan.

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Kellyanne Conway’s Fibs and Half-Truths Nov 05, 2019

On The Gist, socialism and taxes.

In the interview, Thomas Chatterton Williams talks to Mike about why it’s important to reject social constructs like race, how he has reckoned with these categories, and what he has learned about identity as a parent. His new book is Self-Portrait in Black and White: Unlearning Race.

In the Spiel, Kellyanne Conway.

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The Future for Democrats Nov 01, 2019

On The Gist, Mike went to Politicon this past weekend and moderated the panel What Now Democrats, featuring James Carville, Joe Lockhart, Zerlina Maxwell, Kyle Kulinski and Jess McIntosh. They debate the future of the party, what kinds of issues will matter in 2020, and what they should stop fighting over.

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The Truth About Impossible Burgers Nov 01, 2019

On The Gist, presidential incompetency at its finest.

In the interview, Maria Konnikova is back for “Is That Bullshit?” She and Mike figure out what are really in Impossible and Beyond burgers and if they’re healthier than red meat burgers. Maria’s latest book is The Confidence Game.

In the Spiel, the ridiculous world of taxonomy.

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Tupac and Biggie: What Really Happened? Oct 30, 2019

On The Gist, ghosts aren’t real.

In the interview, Mike talks to Slate writer and Slow Burn host Joel Anderson about the new season, the hidden facts he learned about Tupac and Biggie, and the latest revelations he uncovered documenting the biggest hip-hop legends ever. Listen to Slow Burn here.

In the Spiel, guessing what Trump says.

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Samantha Power’s Atrocity Prevention Oct 30, 2019

On The Gist, Melinda Gates and empowering women.

In the final part of Mike’s two-part interview with U.S. Ambassador to the UN Samantha Power, they talk about the right and wrong ways to handle human rights atrocities across the world and their love of baseball. To learn more, read her new book The Education of an Idealist: A Memoir.

In the Spiel, the Katie Hill scandal continues.

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The Fall of Katie Hill Oct 29, 2019

On The Gist, socialism and millennials.

In the first part of a two-part interview, Mike talks to Samantha Power, former U.S. Ambassador to the UN, about the early beginnings of the Syrian crisis, her role in trying to stop the Assad regime, and what she has learned from her mistakes during that critical time. Her new book is The Education of an Idealist: A Memoir.

In the Spiel, Katie Hill’s resignation.

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Joel Stein Knows You’re Elitist Oct 25, 2019

On The Gist, understanding the differences between Hispanic and Latinx.

In the interview, Mike talks to journalist Joel Stein about elitism in 2019, how Trump is really part of the elite, and what the future holds for populism across the world. His new book is In Defense of Elitism: Why I'm Better Than You and You're Better Than Someone Who Didn't Buy This Book.

In the Spiel, Trump and pies.

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What Is Zuckerberg’s Time Worth? Oct 25, 2019

On The Gist, Katie Hill’s throuple.

In the interview, Mike talks to writer Coleman Hughes about how his childhood shaped his views on race in America, his case against reparations, and what he’s working on next in the world of philosophy.

In the Spiel, how much is Mark Zuckerberg’s time worth?

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Facebook Should Fact-Check Oct 24, 2019

On The Gist, storming the SCIF.

In the interview, podcast producer and Canadian Chris Berube is here to talk with Mike about the recent Canadian election, how much shorter their elections are, and the government Trudeau has had to cobble together. Berube is a producer for 99% Invisible.

In the Spiel, Facebook and fact-checking.

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Thinking Outside the America Box Oct 23, 2019

On The Gist, racial slurs and context.

In the interview, Maria Konnikova is back for another round of “Is That Bullshit?” This time, she and Mike figure out if sunscreen is good for us, what we should be wary of, and why many of us need more sunlight. Maria’s latest book is The Confidence Game.

In the Spiel, the Canadian election.

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Cracking Trump’s Code Oct 22, 2019

On The Gist, Trump is no George Washington.

In the interview, Stephen Martin and Joseph Marks are here to discuss their new book Messengers: Who We Listen To, Who We Don’t, and Why. They talk about why the expert isn’t always the best vessel for information, the power dynamics involved, and why famous people often end up with that job.

In the Spiel, the indirect language of Trump.

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Meghan Daum’s Problem With Everything Oct 19, 2019

On The Gist, Gordon Sondland testified before Congress.

In the interview, Meghan Daum is here to talk with Mike Pesca about her new book The Problem with Everything: My Journey Through the New Culture Wars. They discuss toughness versus sensitivity, age differences, and how we should appreciate the confusion of this time more.

In the Spiel, a dodeca-antentwig.

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The Curdling Affair in Syria Oct 18, 2019

On The Gist, what does quid pro quo even mean?

In the interview, Mike talks to Ash Carter about his time as the 25th Secretary of Defense, what he would have down if he were Jim Mattis, and what he thinks about Trump’s military strategy in Syria.

In the Spiel, Trump and Erdogan are back at it again.

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Unmasking the Watchmen Oct 17, 2019

On The Gist, the October CNN democratic debate.

In the interview, Mike talks to director and executive producer Nicole Kassell about directing the Watchmen pilot, the show’s many Easter eggs, and how they honor the real-life 1921 riot in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

In the Spiel, why no one supports Trump’s strategy with the Kurds.

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Shea Serrano’s Great Movie Debates Oct 16, 2019

On The Gist, too many candidates?

In the interview, Shea Serrano is back to talk with Mike about his newest book Movies (And Other Things). They talk about Armageddon, why Booksmart will have such longevity and importance, and watching movies with your children.

In the Spiel, George and Kellyanne Conway.

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Giuliani Whisperer Oct 12, 2019

On The Gist, Trump’s trade war with China.

In the interview, Mike talks to writer Elaina Plott about her reporting on Rudy Giuliani, new White House counsel Pat Cipollone, and the future of the impeachment hearings. Plott is a staff writer at the Atlantic. Read her work here.

In the Spiel, the CNN LGBTQ+ Equality Town Hall.

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Who Deserves the Right to Vote? Oct 11, 2019

On The Gist, how should we feel about Ellen and George W. Bush?

In the interview, Desmond Meade of the Florida Restorative Rights Coalition is here to talk with Mike about the recent movement in Florida to give voting rights back to individuals who have previous committed felonies. They talk about how quickly the measure passed, what regaining voting rights really means, and who is actually most affected by these laws.

In the Spiel, should plans for the LGBTQ community really have been the second ever CNN town hall this year?

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Uncomplicating the NBA and China Oct 10, 2019

On The Gist, what Trump is doing to the Kurds is everybody’s fault but Trump’s.

In the interview, Mike talks to Ozy's national politics reporter Nick Fouriezos about U.S. voter apathy, where its most prevalent, and its ramifications for future elections. You can read Fouriezos’ piece, “Who Cares: Inside America's Apathy Belt,” in Ozy.

In the Spiel, the fight between China and the NBA isn’t complicated.

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Selling Out the Kurds Oct 09, 2019

On The Gist, Trump and the Kurds.

In the interview, Mike talks to Aaron Mehta, deputy editor and senior Pentagon correspondent for Defense News. They talk about why Ukraine wants javelin missiles, the internal conflicts in the Pentagon, and China’s rising military dominance.

In the Spiel, the American sports media's reactions to Daryl Morey.

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The Cowardice of the NBA Oct 08, 2019

On The Gist, Daryl Morey versus NBA China.

In the interview, Comedy Bang Bang host Scott Aukerman is here to talk about Between Two Ferns: The Movie, the early beginnings of the Between Two Ferns show, and how he writes and directs great cringe comedy. You can watch the movie on Netflix.

In the Spiel, the cost of too little or too much deference.

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Norbert Leo Butz Is on the Long Haul Oct 05, 2019

On The Gist, dishonesty and the media.

In the interview, Norbert Leo Butz is a Broadway powerhouse who’s been in all sorts of projects like Wicked and Catch Me If You Can, but he’s also a talented musician out with a new album, The Long Haul. He’s here to talk with Mike about his new music, how he fit writing it into his life, and the business of Broadway.

In the Spiel, is Donald Trump’s presidency more dangerous than Andrew Johnson’s?

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Gary Gulman’s Great Depresh Oct 04, 2019

On The Gist, getting pronunciations right and extremely wrong.

In the interview, comedian Gary Gulman talks to Mike about his new HBO comedy special The Great Depresh, how he talks about mental health on stage, and the magic of vision boards.

In the Spiel, the Ukraine saga.

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Presidential Temper Tantrums Oct 03, 2019

On The Gist, suing the swamp.

In the interview, Marc Randolph is here to talk with Mike about the early beginnings of Netflix, his relationship with co-founder Reed Hastings, and what he’s doing now post-Netflix. Randolph’s new book is That Will Never Work: The Birth of Netflix and the Amazing Life of an Idea.

In the Spiel, accusing somebody of treason might be a reason to impeach.

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ZuckyLeaks Oct 02, 2019

On The Gist, the Zuckerberg audio leaks.

In the interview, Martha Minow is here to talk with Mike about forgiveness, who should be forgiven, and how to incorporate more forgiveness in the U.S. legal system. Minow’s new book is When Should Law Forgive?

In the Spiel, class resentment.

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The Self-Impeacher in Chief Oct 01, 2019

On The Gist, what’s going on at Café Altura?

In the interview, journalist Amanda Aronczyk is here to talk with Mike about her recent series for WNYC’s The Stakes podcast, “A History of Persuasion.” Through the lens of Ted Kaczynski she explores the way behavioral psychology has been used to shape the way we think, and how the manipulation has only ramped up thanks to the tech industry.

In the Spiel, Giuliani, Stephen Miller, and self-impeachment.

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Whistleblower Woes Sep 28, 2019

On The Gist, Trump and Ukraine-gate?

In the interview, journalist and author Mary Lane is here to talk with Mike about Hitler’s art, how he seized “degenerate” art in Germany, and the people who finally recovered these lost works in 2013. Lane’s new book is Hitler's Last Hostages: Looted Art and the Soul of the Third Reich.

In the Spiel, the whistleblower complaint.

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The Power of Greta Thunberg Sep 26, 2019

On The Gist, MSNBC cutting Trump’s speech short.

In the interview, writer Katy Lederer is here to talk with Mike about Greta Thunberg, why she’s such a force, and if she will bring about any change. Lederer’s latest piece on Thunberg is “Can They Read,” in n+1.

In the Spiel, whistleblowing and the Maguire hearing.

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The Beginning of Impeachment Sep 26, 2019

On The Gist, the beginning of the Trump and Ukraine analysis.

In the interview, CIA alum and head of Lawfare David Priess is here to talk with Mike about impeachment, the Ukraine phone call, and this time things are different. Priess’ latest book is How to Get Rid of a President: History’s Guide to Removing Unpopular, Unable, or Unfit Chief Executives.

In the Spiel, Trump’s press conference and meeting with the Ukraine president.

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Lauren Duca Wants a Revolution Sep 25, 2019

On The Gist, journalist Lauren Duca is here to talk with Mike about her new book, inspiring young people to get more involved in politics, how activism and journalism might intersect, and the problems with our binary political system. Duca’s new book is How to Start a Revolution: Young People and the Future of Politics.

In the Spiel, impeachment?

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Hungry for Murder Sep 24, 2019

On The Gist, the news we missed during Comedy Week.

In the interview, Rachel Monroe is here to talk with Mike about why people, and women in particular, are so interested in true crime. Is it a new thing or just newly popular? Does being an at-home sleuth help in any way? Monroe’s new book is Savage Appetites: Four Stories of Women, Crime, and Obsession.

In the Spiel, Trump and the hostless Emmy Awards.

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Comedy Week: Late-Night Sep 20, 2019

On The Gist, late-night writers Steve Waltien, Bryan Tucker, and Alison Leiby sit down with Mike to discuss what it’s like to write on a late-night show. How do they deal with the constant churn of topical humor? Why is it so difficult to continue laughing through Trump? And what is the Sean Penn test?

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Comedy Week: Film Sep 19, 2019

On The Gist, screenwriters Dana Fox and John August, and film critic K. Austin Collins are here to talk all about the comedy film. What makes a funny movie? how has that changed over the years? And has humor just creeped its way into all the other genres without us realizing?

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Comedy Week: Podcasts Sep 19, 2019

On The Gist, our third part of comedy week is all about comedy podcasts. Podcast hosts Jesse Thorn and Ron Funches join Mike to talk about the wide variety of comedy podcasts, how they both got started, and why they are such a freeing avenue for comedians.

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Comedy Week: Improv Sep 17, 2019

On The Gist, our second installment in this week of comedy focuses on the world of improv. Improvisers Amber Nash, TJ Jagodowski, and Zach Cherry join Mike to talk about what the improv scene is like in their respective cities, how the form has grown so quickly in the last 30 years, and why collaboration is such an exciting way to get a laugh.

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Comedy Week: Stand-Up Comedy Sep 16, 2019

On The Gist, we’re kicking off our week on the world of comedy by talking to three comedians about the state of stand-up comedy. Adam Ferrara, Aparna Nancherla, and Hari Kondabolu talk with Mike about the way they perform, how they interact with their audience and fans, and pushing boundaries in the art form.

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Do the Hustle Sep 14, 2019

On The Gist, questions the debate needed.

In the interview, director Lorene Scafaria is here to talk with Mike about the new film Hustlers. They discuss recruiting Jennifer Lopez, Lizzo, and Cardi B, the importance of Chopin, and filming at a strip club.

In the Spiel, the crazy things said during the debate.

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Leave It to Lovett Sep 13, 2019

On The Gist, what should we care about?

In the interview, Jon Lovett is here to talk with Mike about Joe Biden, debate in liberal roundtables, the Overton window, and the live Lovett or Leave It show at Radio City Music Hall on September 13, 2019.

In the Spiel, Joe Biden is fading.

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The Ousting of Donald Sterling Sep 12, 2019

On The Gist, Fort Campbell middle schoolers and the border wall.

In the interview, journalist Ramona Shelburne is here to talk about her new five-part 30 for 30 series on Donald Sterling and the Clippers. She and Mike discuss how she started covering the Clippers, reporting out the Sterling story at the time, and the subsequent fallout. Her new series is The Sterling Affairs.

In the Spiel, Donald Sterling, Donald Trump, and the for-profit presidency.

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The Made-for-TV President Sep 10, 2019

On The Gist, Bolton is out.

In the interview, New York Times TV critic James Poniewozik is here to talk about his new book about Trump and television. He and Mike discuss how the increasing variety of television networks and the boom of reality TV led to Trump, and his similarities to the classic anti-hero trope. Poniewozik’s new book is Audience of One: Donald Trump, Television, and the Fracturing of America.

In the Spiel, mass shootings and mental health.

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Scientific Solutions to Absurdity Sep 10, 2019

On The Gist, Trump and Scotland.

In the interview, creator of xkcd Randall Munroe is here to talk about his new book How To: Absurd Scientific Advice for Common Real-World Problems. He and Mike talk about puzzling out the chicken and the egg, testing nuclear weapons on beverages, and how Serena Williams fits into his scientific exploration.

In the Spiel, the Taliban and Camp David.

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It’s an Economist’s World Sep 07, 2019

On The Gist, Trump’s lightbulbs.

In the interview, economists weren’t always at the levers of public policy in America. The New York Times’ Binyamin Appelbaum tracked the profession’s post-war movement into power, and how the laissez-faire philosophy economists (by and large) brought with them has failed us. Appelbaum is the author of The Economists' Hour: False Prophets, Free Markets, and the Fracture of Society.

In the Spiel, hurricanes and global warming.

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How We Speak Internet Sep 06, 2019

On The Gist, Mike Pence and Boris Johnson.

In the interview, it’s internet linguist Gretchen McCulloch on how the language we use has been shaped by the information superhighway—and for starters, people never say “information superhighway” anymore. They also write more (everyone’s a writer on the internet) and less formally, though without shedding whatever regional dialect they may have. McCulloch is the author of Because Internet: Understanding the New Rules of Language.

In the Spiel, the climate change debate.

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Lobbying for Good? Sep 05, 2019

On The Gist, it’s Boris Johnson’s show now.

In the interview, Thomas Sheridan isn’t your mother’s lobbyist—or wait, maybe he is? His firm, the Sheridan Group, fights for social change. He tells Mike about why lobbyists aren’t all bad, how he got his start, and the tough battles he’s faced over the years. Sheridan’s new book is Helping the Good Do Better: How a White Hat Lobbyist Advocates for Social Change.

In the Spiel, there’s a solution to higher rates of maternal mortality among black women, and it involves putting the problem in perspective.

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The Big Power of Right-Wing Radio Sep 03, 2019

On The Gist, how hurricanes are like racism.

In the interview, talk radio has shaped so much of our political discourse, often in ways we don’t even realize. Brian Rosenwald sought to figure out just how much influence it’s had and condensed it all into his new book Talk Radio’s America: How an Industry Took Over a Political Party That Took Over the United States. He’s here to talk with Mike about Rush Limbaugh’s early years, the outsized importance of Roger Ailes, and where this leaves us today.

In the Spiel, president Trump’s pre-hurricane golfing is the last thing we should be worrying about.

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To Greta Goes the Glory? Aug 29, 2019

On The Gist, this week in the news, truth is stranger than science fiction.

In the interview, guest host Seth Stevenson talks to the executive director of Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington. And it turns out that when you’re a citizen for responsibility and ethics, as Noah Bookbinder is, you see plenty going wrong in Washington.

In the Spiel, Greta Thunberg’s cross-Atlantic trip was an exercise in inconvenience.

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The Mystery of Ivanka Trump Aug 28, 2019

On The Gist, journalist and podcast host Lauren Ober was shocked to realize Chelsea Manning is back in jail.

In the interview, Ober talks with journalist Vanessa Grigoriadis about the new podcast Tabloid: The Making of Ivanka Trump. What’s it like to go from aspiring socialite to familial lackey? Is there any room for pity? And when is she headed for Burning Man?

In the Spiel, female political fashion.

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They Tried to Cancel You Aug 27, 2019

On The Gist, journalist Katie Herzog fills in for Mike Pesca and focuses on cancel culture.

In the interview, Herzog interviews filmmaker Rhys Ernst about his new film Adam, and the queer backlash against the film. What’s it like for your own community to try and cancel you? Is all the extra publicity a good thing? And how does attempted cancellation age?

In the Spiel, unproductive Antifa protests.

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What’s in a Face, Anyway? Aug 26, 2019

On The Gist, Trump is a bad negotiator.

In the interview, you’ve probably heard of face blindness. And you possibly wondered whether it was a real thing. Do some people really walk the world, full of other people as it is, without the ability to recognize them from their features? They do. Sadie Dingfelder shared her experience over at the Washington Post, and does so now on The Gist.

In the Spiel, the Everything Is Alive tariff-a-thon.

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David Koch Was Bad. But Evil? Eh. Aug 24, 2019

On The Gist, if an eleventh Democratic candidate makes the next debate in Houston, we’ll hear more from all of them (because they’ll be split across two nights!).

In the interview, it’s part II of Mike’s discussion with Oregon Sen. Jeff Merkley. They talk about the filibuster (this junior senator says “it has to go”) and the daunting task that is healing the upper chamber of Congress. Merkley is the author of America Is Better Than This: Trump's War Against Migrant Families.

In the Spiel, the David Koch obituaries are in. But are they fair?

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Visiting the Migrant Families in Crisis Aug 23, 2019

On The Gist, the Amazon is on fire.

In the interview, Sen. Jeff Merkley was the first member of Congress to visit the migrant detention centers along the border and view the atrocious ways we were treating the people forced to live there. He’s here to talk with Mike about the crisis, the failure of the Trump administration, and what we can do about it. His new book is America Is Better Than This: Trump’s War Against Migrant Families.

In the Spiel, Trump and Israel.

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Trump Is America Aug 22, 2019

On The Gist, Scaramucci was wrong about Trump.

In the interview, journalist David Robson is here to talk about his new book The Intelligence Trap: Why Smart People Make Dumb Mistakes. He and Mike talk the intelligence quotient, the blind spots smart people have, and why it might be a good idea to talk about yourself in the third person.

In the Spiel, Trump as all of America.

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When the CIA’s “Dark Side” Works Aug 21, 2019

On The Gist, if Peter Navarro wants to criticize the Wall Street Journal, he really ought to read it once in a while.

In the interview, it’s easy to condemn the CIA’s post-9/11 interrogation techniques in retrospect. But as agency alumnus Philip Mudd puts it, “boy, back then, people said ‘take out the stops, make sure it doesn’t happen again.’” He talks about the relative effectiveness of harsh interrogation techniques, and why that shouldn’t be a factor if ever American forces countenance them again (answer: the issue is a moral one). Mudd is a former deputy director at the Counterterrorism Center and the author of Black Site: The CIA in the Post-9/11 World.

In the Spiel, there isn’t all that much conservative hand-wringing over the New York Times’ special coverage of historical slavery in America… but what’s there is pretty uninspired.

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Tim Ryan’s Big Plans Aug 20, 2019

On The Gist, despite what Peter Navarro says, a yield curve inversion there was indeed (and a recession there may be).

In the interview, in a Democratic field crowded with grand policy promises, Tim Ryan’s more centrist ideas have been crowded out. But should they be? The Ohio congressman tells Mike about increasing manufacturing and focusing education on social and emotional learning.

In the Spiel, the difference between bad politics and bad policy.

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What Happened to Sha Na Na Aug 17, 2019

On The Gist, the varying sizes of Trump and Greenland.

In the interview, journalist Steve Rushin is here to talk with Mike about his new memoir Nights at White Castle. They discuss the amorphous nature of nostalgia, why children should go on boring vacations, and the podcast Ball & Chain that he hosts with his wife, basketball great Rebecca Lobo.

In the Spiel, Sha Na Na.

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The Leftist Takeover Edition Aug 15, 2019

On The Gist, Slate’s Jordan Weissmann tells guest host Sean McElwee which presidential candidates’ signature ideas are hot (and which are not).

In the interview, the Green New Deal isn’t just a set of climate policies—it’s a chance to break with the uneven benefits afforded by the original New Deal and other progressive policies. Julian Brave NoiseCat (McElwee’s colleague at Data for Progress) and activist Adrien Salazar (of the think tank Demos) are in the studio to share their expertise on the stimulus package.

In the Spiel, McElwee digs into polling results from his own Data for Progress.

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The Problem With “White Supremacy” Aug 14, 2019

On The Gist, getting a bit willy-nilly with “white supremacy.”

In the interview, John Hickenlooper may be mulling a pivot from presidential to Senate candidate, but he was at the Iowa State Fair to weigh in on issues that affect the entire country—and to strike a moderate tone. In last year’s midterms, he says, “the successful Democrat did not embrace the Green New Deal and did not embrace ‘Medicare for All.’ That’s what we’re going to need to do to beat Donald Trump.”

In the Spiel, there is no greater joy than knowing which kids’ shows—from our own generation or not—are crap.

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Are Attention Spans Shrinking? Aug 14, 2019

On The Gist, Biden’s gaffes.

In the interview, Maria Konnikova, author of The Confidence Game, is back for another round of Is That Bullshit? This time she and Mike talk all about attention spans. There always seem to be claims that attention spans are shrinking, but is that true? Should we be worried that we feel distracted more and more or just take a deep breath and embrace it?

In the Spiel, the Ebola cure.

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Who’s the Filibuster For? Aug 13, 2019

On The Gist, the opinions of the people at the Iowa State Fair.

In the interview, Jay Inslee was among the 21 Democratic presidential candidates to converge on the Iowa State Fair this past weekend. Washington’s governor grabbed a seat with Mike to talk about applying his state’s environmental victories to the federal level, taxing Amazon, and getting rid of the gridlocking filibuster.

In the Spiel, The Gist went to the Iowa State Fair and got answers from Democratic presidential candidates about filibuster reform.

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How to Rob a Bank, And Be Funny While You’re at It Aug 09, 2019

On The Gist, the real consequences of immigration laws.

In the interview, Charles Duhigg is who you get when you combine an investigative reporter with an agony aunt. In his new Slate podcast (How To!), he teases out advice on everyday problems, from how to tell a good joke to how to rob a bank (alright, the problems aren’t that common). You can subscribe to How To! on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts.

In the Spiel, Trump, children, and shootings.

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Politics Is a Circus Aug 09, 2019

On The Gist, Montana has gone a little berserk.

In the interview, Joshua Cohen is here to discuss his new book Attention: Dispatches From the Land of Distraction, and the many discursions he and Mike go on thanks to it. Like the depth of Bernie’s political policies, Trump’s time in Atlantic City, and why the circus is so important to the history of American culture.

In the Spiel, Trump’s distraction tactics.

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Turning Out the 2020 Voter Aug 07, 2019

On The Gist, Dayton and El Paso deserve better than the presence of Donald Trump.

In the interview, FiveThirtyEight elections analyst Geoffrey Skelley talks through what Democrats need to do to turn out voters in 2020. Should they focus on the “Obama coalition” that elected him twice? Or is it smarter to turn toward Obama voters that then voted for Trump in 2016? Why not both?

In the Spiel, anyone telling you the decade-long Assault Weapons Ban was ineffective is talking nonsense.

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Trade War Rumblings? We’re Already In One. Aug 07, 2019

On The Gist, if you want gun control, you clearly have to just vote Democrat.

In the interview, the tit-for-tat trade war with China is unceasing. Slate’s Jordan Weissmann tells Mike about the latest developments in the fight between presidents Trump and Xi Jinping, whether or not China is really manipulating its currency, and the potential paths ahead.

In the Spiel, Americans are getting angry over all the wrong things. It’s infuriating!

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There Are the “Maybe” Factors, and Then There’s the Rifle Factor. Aug 06, 2019

On The Gist, this weekend’s mass shooters had different motives. It won’t do to draw lessons from just one of them.

In the interview, Amherst College professor Austin Sarat wants to enlist gun owners themselves in the fight for firearm regulation. “48 percent of gun owners favor a ban on assault weapons,” he says, citing the Pew Research Center. The problem is convincing them that gun control advocates aren’t pushing for full-on confiscation. Sarat is the co-editor of The Lives of Guns.

In the Spiel, the one clear factor in America’s growing mass shooting problem? Rifles.

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The Case of “The Case of Al Franken” Aug 03, 2019

On The Gist, a theory as to why we still hear dusty old terms like “happy warrior”—at least during election season.

In the interview, Slate writer Christina Cauterucci, who recently wrote about Al Franken, criticizes a recent New Yorker story on the ousted senator. She and Mike break down what they think its author Jane Mayer got wrong and right, the facts of the reporting, and why we shouldn’t think of the #MeToo movement as one with winners and losers.

In the Spiel, John Ratcliffe is thankfully out of consideration for the job of Director of National Intelligence. But it’s a shame that he’s still acceptable as a congressman.

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How Fantastic Negrito Started From Scratch Aug 02, 2019

On The Gist, the Democrats making Republican soundbites.

In the interview, Fantastic Negrito walked a long and winding road to blues stardom. His first album (under his legal name, Xavier) was a bust—“everyone hated it”—and saw him dropped from his label. He’d also gotten into a serious car accident and sold off his instruments before returning to music. That’s when the Grammys started rolling in—he’s won two in the last three years, for best contemporary blues album. His latest record is Please Don't Be Dead.

In the Spiel, Joe Biden at the debate.

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Chuck Klosterman and the Ivory Tower Aug 01, 2019

On The Gist, Jeffrey Epstein’s ideas.

In the interview, when Chuck Klosterman writes non-fiction, he worries about missing some grand historical context in a way that would ruin his work. With fiction, that anxiety goes out the window— if someone reads one of his short stories and thinks something “completely unrelated to what I thought, it's still okay.” Klosterman digs into that, the advantages of an education outside the ivory tower, and what the Beatles really did for rock music. His new book of short stories is Raised in Captivity: Fictional Nonfiction.

In the Spiel, the first night of the CNN debates and Marianne Williamson.

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The Consultants of Yore Weigh in on 2020 Jul 31, 2019

On The Gist, billionaire Tom Steyer didn’t qualify for this round of Democratic debates, but he’s bought a lot of CNN ad space to make up for it.

In the interview, political consultants David Axelrod and Mike Murphy have spent years advising politicians on the best ways to run campaigns—Axelrod with Barack Obama and Murphy with candidates like John McCain and Mitt Romney. Now they’ve come together on a new podcast, Hacks on Tap, to talk through how the political machine actually runs, the Democratic debates, and what Trump’s prospects look like in 2020.

In the Spiel, among the septuagenarian presidential candidates, Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders are the only ones with all their marbles.

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How the GOP Got Here Jul 30, 2019

On The Gist, Trump and racism.

In the interview, Politico’s Tim Alberta has been covering the Republican Party since 2009, back when it was “totally rudderless and beaten into the ground.” Ten years later, and though in control of the White House, the GOP isn’t in much better shape. Alberta’s new book is American Carnage: On the Front Lines of the Republican Civil War and the Rise of President Trump.

In the Spiel, impeachment.

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The Lie of Live PD Jul 25, 2019

A few months ago, Dan Taberski joined us to talk about latest season of his Headlong podcast, Running From Cops, focused on reality television shows about police. One series in particular, Live PD, was billed as a documentary but seemed to fall into the same bad practices as other reality programming. Taberski tried to interview the Dan Abrams, the show’s host, and was never able to get him on mic.

Lucky for us, in 2016 Mike interviewed Abrams for The Gist when Live PD was first airing. So we’re airing a few clips of Mike’s conversation with Taberski, the Running From Cops segment about Live PD, and Mike’s 2016 interview with Abrams. Enjoy the cop-a-thon.

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Mueller Is No Showman Jul 25, 2019

On The Gist, Robert Mueller was a bit of a broken record in his congressional testimony.

In the interview, David Wolman once happened upon a small Hawaiian museum dedicated to a small crew of cowboys in the state—and that was the first he heard of them. He teamed up with Julian Smith to dig into the fascinating history of these cowpokes and how they dazzled the world at the 1908 World Rodeo Championships. Their new book is Aloha Rodeo: Three Hawaiian Cowboys, the World’s Greatest Rodeo, and a Hidden History of the American West.

In the Spiel, we’ve perhaps seen the last of Robert Mueller’s public statements. And the impeachment needle hasn’t moved one bit.

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How to Talk About Addiction Jul 24, 2019

On The Gist, the governor of Puerto Rico will not seek reelection.

In the interview, Chris Herren’s NBA career ended largely because of drug abuse that started in his teens. Now he speaks to thousands of students about making better choices—not by using the fear tactics often deployed in American schools, but by examining the emotions tied to substance use. Herren’s presentations are the subject of a new ESPN documentary, The First Day.

In the Spiel, Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

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Robert Mueller’s Return Jul 23, 2019

On The Gist, Robert Mueller’s congressional testimony isn’t likely to increase the pressure on president Trump.

In the interview, losing weight is hard, but keeping it off is even harder. What can successful dieters do to maintain their goals, and are reality TV shows like The Biggest Loser painting a rosy picture? Gist regular Maria Konnikova dug into the science, and brings answers on the latest segment of Is That Bullshit? Konnikova is the author of The Confidence Game.

In the Spiel, former Sen. Al Franken was hard done by.

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The Moon Landing’s Glory Has Faded Jul 19, 2019

On The Gist, why the moon landing’s 50th anniversary isn’t getting all that much attention.

In the interview, success stories are great, but what about those business ventures that end in spectacular failure? Those tales are often better. Lauren Ober hosts the Spectacular Failures podcast, where beer makers, hotel chains, and (in an upcoming episode) Trump’s casinos meet their end.

In the Spiel, it’s an Antentwig, where Mike responds to feedback from listeners.

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How Michael Bennet Wants to Fix America Jul 18, 2019

On The Gist, Ivanka Trump is every bit the monster her father is.

In the interview, Senator Michael Bennet is here to talk about his campaign for president and his new book The Land of Flickering Lights: Restoring America in an Age of Broken Politics. He and Mike discuss Bennet’s family plan, the importance of the filibuster, and why centrism needs to work on its branding.

In the Spiel, there is no Spiel!

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The EPA Is Losing Its Mandate Jul 18, 2019

On The Gist, Chance the snapper.

In the interview, former EPA head Gina McCarthy expected the Trump administration’s backwardness on climate change—but not on no-brainers like limits on power plant mercury emissions and auto industry regulation, both of which were being complied with. “They’re just obsessed with undoing everything Obama did. You can tell this with Trump. He’s still somehow campaigning against Obama.” McCarthy was the EPA’s administrator from 2013 to 2017, and now teaches at the Harvard School of Public Health.

In the Spiel, which mythical being is Trump most like?

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Trump Will Lose in 2020 Jul 17, 2019

On The Gist, it’s a good day for those who love quarterly fundraising numbers among Democratic presidential candidates!

In the interview, we’re used to the Nate Silver approach to election forecasting, using constantly changing polling data to predict the likelihood of this or that result. But Rachel Bitecofer, assistant director of the Wason Center for Public Policy, has a better way. Her new model, based on negative partisanship and demographics, is more static, and proved spot-on in 2018. So what does it have to say for 2020?

In the Spiel, a theory on what’s really keeping Kellyanne and George Conway together.

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Bring Back Late-Night Cruelty Jul 16, 2019

On The Gist, Elizabeth Warren and ICE.

In the interview, Jason Zinoman, who writes about the New York Times, thinks the late-night shows need to return to the playful cruelty they once had. He and Mike talk about the current state of things, David Letterman’s reign, and why even Letterman seems to have lost his teeth on his new show.

In the Spiel, Trump and tweets about the Congress squad.

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Acosta Is Out Jul 13, 2019

On The Gist, they.

In the interview, Emily Bazelon writes for the New York Times magazine, co-hosts Slate’s Political Gabfest, and she’s out with the new book Charged: The New Movement to Transform American Prosecution and End Mass Incarceration, and its companion podcast. She’s here to talk with Mike about her new projects, Kamala Harris, Joe Biden, Jeffrey Epstein and New York City gun laws.

In the Spiel, Acosta quits.

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The CIA’s Bad Ideas Jul 12, 2019

On The Gist, the metal straw incident.

In the interview, Vince Houghton is a historian and the curator of the International Spy Museum and he’s here to talk about his new book Nuking the Moon: And Other Intelligence Schemes and Military Plots Left on the Drawing Board. Why did we want to drop goat poop on Germans? Can a cat be trained for espionage?

In the Spiel, the citizenship question.

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Soccer’s Pay Parity Problem Jul 11, 2019

On The Gist, the Trump cabinet and violence against women.

In the interview, Will Wilkinson from the Niskanen Center is here to talk with Mike about his new paper The Density Divide about the surprising way urbanization affected the rise of populism.

In the Spiel, the good and bad about the pay parity argument in soccer.

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The Legacy of Ross Perot Jul 10, 2019

On The Gist, jail time for absurd reasons.

In the interview, journalist Jack Fairweather is out with a new book about the untold story of Witold Pilecki, a Polish resistance fighter who chose to get sent to Auschwitz so he could report back on atrocities happening there during World War II. Fairweather’s book is The Volunteer: One Man, an Underground Army, and the Secret Mission to Destroy Auschwitz.

In the Spiel, why Ross Perot was so important to shaping American politics.

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Life After Death Row Jul 09, 2019

On The Gist, did Joe Biden’s apology work?

In the interview, Anthony Ray Hinton was wrongfully convicted for the murder of two teenagers in Alabama in 1985. After 30 years on death row his conviction was overturned and he was released. He’s since become an advocate for those facing the death penalty and the abolishment of it in the United States, and he’s here to talk with Mike about his experience in prison and life afterward. Hinton’s new book is The Sun Does Shine: How I Found Life and Freedom on Death Row.

In the Spiel, farewell to Eric Swalwell.

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Let’s Rank the Presidents Jul 03, 2019

On The Gist, should we rethink the structure of a week?

In the interview, founding CEO of C-SPAN Brian Lamb and Co-CEO Susan Swain are here to discuss their new book The Presidents: Noted Historians Rank America’s Best—and Worst—Chief Executives. They discuss with Mike the creation of the book, visiting presidential burial places, and some Mike’s favorite things about C-SPAN.

In the Spiel, the passion of Mike Francesa.

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Solving Urban Violence Jul 03, 2019

On The Gist, the Hong Kong protesters and Chinese conspiracies.

In the interview, Harvard research fellow Thomas Abt is here to discuss his new book Bleeding Out: The Devestating Consequences of Urban Gun Violence—and a Bold New Plan for Peace in the Streets. He talks with Mike about the ways we misunderstand urban gun violence and what concrete steps communities can talk to solve it.

In the Spiel, Tucker Carlson and Trump.

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Groaning Through Dad Jokes Jul 02, 2019

On The Gist, the South Bend shooting and Pete Buttigieg.

In the interview, Jason Zinoman recently wrote about dad jokes for the New York Times so he’s here to talk with Mike about his grand theories, why we love to hate dad jokes, and if they really are as low-brow as people consider them to be.

In the Spiel, the choice the Democrats face.

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Who Is the Real Kim Jong-un? Jun 28, 2019

On The Gist, Joe Biden had no good answers at Thursday’s Democratic debate.

In the interview, the Washington Post’s Anna Fifield is out with a new book on Kim Jong-un. She interviewed as many people who have had even a fleeting interaction with the man as possible, in an effort to get the clearest picture yet of what the head of the Kim dynasty is really like. Fifield’s book is The Great Successor: The Divinely Perfect Destiny of Brilliant Comrade Kim Jong Un.

In the Spiel, Kamala Harris has charisma, but is she a flip-flopper too?

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Pen, Sword, or Rock and Roll Jun 28, 2019

On The Gist, an absurd criminal charge in Alabama.

In the interview, the Iron Curtain couldn’t block radio waves, or, in the ‘50s and ‘60s, a new form of music called rock and roll. András Simonyi, a former Hungarian ambassador to the United States, was electrified by Elvis and the Beatles, and says that “without rock and roll, I don’t think the Soviet Union would have broken up.” Simonyi is the author of Rocking Toward a Free World: When the Stratocaster Beat the Kalashnikov.

In the Spiel, pat them on the back all you want, not every debating Democrat can be a winner.

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Data in the Dugout Jun 26, 2019

On The Gist, the first Democratic primary debate is about to start.

In the interview, Ben Lindbergh is a staff writer at the Ringer, host of the Effectively Wild podcast, and author of the new book The MVP Machine: How Baseball’s New Nonconformists Are Using Data to Build Better Players. He’s here to talk America’s favorite pastime, what baseball is like in a post-Moneyball era, and if data is making the game less interesting to watch.

In the Spiel, George Will weighs in on the state of baseball.

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Economic Anxiety? Joy Disagrees. Jun 26, 2019

On The Gist, Trump and Pence talking nonsense.

In the interview, the squeaky wheel gets the grease, especially when it comes to elections. MSNBC’s Joy-Ann Reid figures that “the hungriest constituency” often gets its way at the ballot box. Black voters sent Barack Obama to the White House; xenophobes got their guy in Donald Trump; and in 2020, the group that swings the vote could very well be the women who regret their inaction in 2016—especially if Kamala Harris or Elizabeth Warren gets the nomination. Reid is the host of AM Joy and the author of The Man Who Sold America: Trump and the Unraveling of the American Story.

In the Spiel, the messiness of leadership.

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Erdogan Loses Istanbul. Now What? Jun 24, 2019

On The Gist, Kamala Harris still has a lot to answer for.

In the interview, media outlets used to employ ombudsmen—public editors who addressed readers’ concerns and weighed in on a newspaper’s reporting. Those roles have disappeared over the years but the Columbia Journalism Review wants to change that. Kyle Pope, the magazine’s editor, recently announced the hiring of four journalists to publicly engage with the work of the New York Times, the Washington Post, MSNBC, and CNN.

In the Spiel, voters in Istanbul have just rebuked Turkish president Recep Erdogan.

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Trump’s Chaotic Approach to Iran Jun 21, 2019

On The Gist, how much sanity does it cost to change a lightbulb?

In the interview, babies don’t come with instructional manuals, but the publishing industry is more than ready to bombard new parents with the latest, always evolving wisdom on how to raise a human right. But Emily Oster’s new book is a rare scientific look at child-rearing, grounded in her expertise as a rational economist and her experience as an anxious mother. Oster is the author of Cribsheet: A Data-Driven Guide to Better, More Relaxed Parenting, from Birth to Preschool.

In the Spiel, president Trump’s directionless foreign policy is on full display against Iran.

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The Science of Song Jun 21, 2019

On The Gist, are children growing horns?

In the interview, how does Pandora know what music I want to hear? That’s all thanks to the work of Nolan Gasser, musicologist and the architect of Pandora’s Music Genome Project. He’s here to talk the origins of the project, the classification of music species, and why Sarah McLachlan fans might be in for a surprise. Gasser’s new book is Why You Like It: The Science & Culture of Musical Taste.

In the Spiel, the most ambitious climate deal the world has ever seen.

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Taffy Brodesser-Akner Doesn’t Care What You’re Wearing Jun 20, 2019

On The Gist, presidential candidates say the darndest things.

In the interview, the best profile writer of our day doesn’t focus much on what her subjects are wearing—so we’ll only quickly mention that in the studio with The Gist, Taffy Brodesser-Akner was wearing a fetching leopard-print jumpsuit (“I’m dressed up for a party tonight”). Brodesser-Akner discusses her experience profiling the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow and other untouchable celebrities, and how that work is felt in her debut novel, Fleishman Is in Trouble.

In the Spiel, the reparations hearing.

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Love, Rules, and Animal Puns Jun 19, 2019

On The Gist, when science proves George Carlin right.

In the interview, Raphael Bob-Waksberg is the creator of Bojack Horseman, but his so-earnest-it-hurts talent also extends to print. His new collection of short stories is Someone Who Will Love You in All Your Damaged Glory, and he’s here to talk with Mike about love, George Saunders, and why everybody is so down on puns.

In the Spiel, the Patrick Shanahan debacle exposes a White House in shambles.

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Where Christianity Meets Big Oil Jun 18, 2019

On The Gist, Trump knows how to produce himself.

In the interview, America’s discovery of oil fields has long been entwined with godly significance—whether these were exploited by oil barons like the Rockefellers or the smaller producers (or “wildcatters”) they contended with. University of Notre Dame historian Darren Dochuk explores the intersection of oil and religion in America in his new book, Anointed with Oil: How Christianity and Crude Made Modern America.

In the Spiel, Iran and attacks on oil tankers.

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Un-Biel-ievable Jun 14, 2019

On The Gist, Canada declares war on the plastic straw.

In the interview, Emmy Blotnick has written for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert and served as head writer on The President Show. But she also does stand-up, including in her new album Party Nights, where she gets into her love of pop music and why she joined a social networking site… for tea-drinkers. Blotnick’s album is streaming now—and her next show is at The Bell House in Brooklyn on July 6.

In the Spiel, there’s no good reason for the news media to cover Jessica Biel’s anti-vaxxer stance.

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A Generalist and a Scholar Jun 14, 2019

On The Gist, who doesn’t get to be at the debates?

In the interview, David Epstein’s new book Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World is all about how having a wide base of knowledge is so much better than narrowing your focus. He’s here to talk Roger Federer versus Tiger Woods, how fiction helped him retool his book, and what Malcolm Gladwell got wrong.

In the Spiel, this is stupid.

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Just Take My Money Jun 13, 2019

On The Gist, curse the gauntlet that is buying an event ticket online.

In the interview, John Urschel played as an offensive lineman in the NFL all while pursuing the PhD that would support an accomplished career as a mathematician. The values he practiced in each field are the same, he says, but there the similarities between pigskin and math end. Alongside sportswriter Louisa Thomas—the two are married—Urschel is the author of Mind and Matter: A Life in Math and Football.

In the Spiel, “lock him up” (and you know who “him” is) isn’t a great call either.

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The Politics of Pith Jun 11, 2019

On The Gist, Joe Biden curing cancer.

In the interview, senior writer at the National Review Michael Brendan Dougherty is here to discuss his new book My Father Left Me Ireland: An American Son’s Search For Home. He and Mike talk about Dougherty’s journey into his father’s history, how the immigrant experience shaped his mother, and the ways Ireland has influenced his politics.

In the Spiel, political pithiness.

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Warren’s Wealth Tax Isn’t Enough Jun 11, 2019

On The Gist, Democrats bob and weave around the question of abortion.

In the interview, victims of crimes are often sidelined in the judicial process—the perpetrator is punished, but his or her target isn’t given the opportunity to set up the kind of face-to-face meeting that might help them heal. Restorative justice seeks to change that, and Lara Bazelon is out with a book on how it applies to those who have been exonerated after wrongful convictions. Bazelon is an associate professor at the University of San Francisco School of Law, and the author of Rectify: The Power of Restorative Justice After Wrongful Conviction.

In the Spiel, even with every benefit of the doubt, Elizabeth Warren’s policy ideas just aren’t fundable.

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Intellectual Agoraphobia Jun 07, 2019

On The Gist, who’s on the right side of less auto pollution?

In the interview, Adam Gopnik is here to discuss his new book, A Thousand Small Sanities: The Moral Adventure of Liberalism, inspired by a conversation with his daughter. Who gets to make arguments? What about identity politics? And why should the rhinoceros should be the symbol of liberalism?

In the Spiel, what are your go-to references?

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The Melodies of Evil Jun 06, 2019

On The Gist, Joe Biden's careful moderation leads him astray on abortion rights.

In the interview, Slate’s Dahlia Lithwick is back to talk all about the Supreme Court. How the recent abortion laws passed in the South impact the continued dismantling of Roe v Wade? And why aren’t the Democrats more animated by the outrageous things happening to our courts? Dahlia is the host of Slate’s Amicus podcast.

In the Spiel, where there’s a jingle, there’s a questionable set of business practices…

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What “Conservative” Means Jun 06, 2019

On The Gist, holding Scott Peterson accountable after the Parkland shooting.

In the interview, George Will has led conservative thought for decades, in over a dozen books and a Washington Post column he’s penned since 1974. In his latest work, The Conservative Sensibility, he seeks to define just what “conservative” means. While Mike had him on The Gist, he got Will’s opinion on the lost dignity of the GOP, Elizabeth Warren’s policy proposals (“I think she has a firm grip on half a point”), and the fact that no Democratic candidate is all that close to true socialism.

In the Spiel, Biden and Warren’s new environmental plans.

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Saving Civilians, and the Mission Jun 05, 2019

On The Gist, Trump visits the UK and drags London’s mayor.

In the interview, Larry Lewis doesn’t just analyze civilian casualties in the midst of wars; he’s worked within the State Department to minimize them. His research makes clear that sparing non-combatants isn’t just morally laudable, it can help generals reach their objectives and reduce anti-American sentiment.

In the Spiel, is Caster Semenya running?

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Out Like a Champ Jun 03, 2019

On The Gist, even in defeat, Jeopardy! genius James Holzhauer made one really smart play.

In the interview, Mike Pesca sometimes bikes to work, and—in full adherence to New York City law, mind you—he doesn’t wear a helmet when he does. Should he, or are the benefits of bike helmets overrated? Maria Konnikova gets into it on the latest edition of The Gist’s “Is That Bullshit?”

In the Spiel, the best way to answer a question? Answer the actual question.

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The Impeachment Tree of Possibilities May 31, 2019

On The Gist, what to make of (alleged) executions in North Korea.

In the interview, Slate’s chief news blogger, Ben Mathis-Lilley, makes the case for impeaching Trump. In his reasoning, impeachment proceedings would give Congress a stronger hand in forcing new information from the White House, which could then boost public support for the president’s removal from office. And even if it fails, it would have an immediate chilling effect on Trump’s abuse of the constitution. David Epstein, the author of Range, also makes a cameo appearance in the interview.

In the Spiel, an Antentwig on mispronunciation.

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Enemies in Eurasia May 31, 2019

On The Gist, using Olympic-sized swimming pools as units of measurements.

In the interview, beyond covering national security as a journalist, CNN’s Jim Sciutto worked a stint in the U.S. Embassy in Beijing. In both careers, he’s seen signs of a shrinking power imbalance between America and its Russian and Chinese rivals. His latest book warns of the risks carried by Russian offensives in cyberspace, and potential Chinese aggression in actual space. Sciutto is the author of The Shadow War: Inside Russia's and China's Secret Operations to Defeat America.

In the Spiel, the spirituality of the lost hiker in Hawaii.

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The Mueller Dud May 30, 2019

On The Gist, it’s a shoe! It’s a phone! It’s… both?

In the interview, Darrick Hamilton’s ideas and research have the attention of more than one Democratic candidate for president. The Ohio State University professor—and head of the Kirwan Institute—studies income inequality and the policies that might help close it. He joins The Gist to talk baby bonds, inherited wealth, and the potential in a federal job guarantee.

In the Spiel, special Robert Mueller’s statement at the DOJ contained nothing new, and yet still it still moved the needle on impeachment.

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Impeach a President May 29, 2019

On The Gist, calculating whether or not impeachment is the right move.

In the interview, Andrew Johnson was the first president to be impeached so Congress had to basically figure out how it worked as they did it. Brenda Wineapple is here to discuss the reasons for that impeachment, why the conviction failed, and what it can teach us about our current situation. Wineapple’s new book is The Impeachers: The Trial of Andrew Johnson and the Dream of a Just Nation.

In the Spiel, the 1994 crime bill.

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The Impeachment Special May 27, 2019

President Trump may yet face impeachment proceedings, so we’re bringing you a roundup of two previous Gist interviews on the topic. The first is with the youngest woman ever elected to the House, Liz Holtzman—who participated in the Nixon impeachment hearings—and CIA alumnus David Priess, who worked at the agency under both Bill Clinton and George W. Bush. Both have recently published books on impeachment. Holtzman is the author of The Case For Impeaching Trump; Priess is the author of How to Get Rid of a President: History’s Guide to Removing Unpopular, Unable, or Unfit Chief Executives.

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The Real Crimes of the TV Show Cops May 24, 2019

On The Gist, Theresa May’s resignation.

In the interview, Dan Taberski’s latest podcast series Running From Cops digs into the long-running reality series Cops to understand what’s actually going on in those arrests on screen and how accurate the stories that we see are. He’s here to talk about why the show is so watchable, how the cops work with cameramen to exploit those being arrested, and how the nature of reality television has made us slow to notice such exploitation.

In the Spiel, learning from history when it’s always changing.

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Life After Parkland May 23, 2019

On The Gist, a look at the worst arguments in the debate over abortion.

In the interview, After Parkland follows the lives of those affected by the Parkland shooting. That includes Tori Gonzalez, who lost her boyfriend, Joaquin Oliver, to the tragedy. Gonzalez is on The Gist alongside documentary filmmakers Emily Taguchi and Jake Lefferman to discuss the making of the film, useful ways to talk about the event, and how she continues to cope with her loss.

In the Spiel, why the idea of impeaching president Trump is just like riding a motorcycle.

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Planned Parenthood Plans for Action May 23, 2019

On The Gist, Biden’s electability.

In the interview, eight states have passed bills to limit abortion access so far this year. And while these may not end up surviving challenges in court (whether Supreme or lower), getting an abortion is already difficult for women in many parts of the country. Planned Parenthood president Leana Wen reminds us that abortion providers can be vanishingly rare in some states, and that hundreds of laws have been passed in the last few years to restrict access to the procedure: "Forced waiting periods, medically unnecessary ultrasounds…things that we would never consider happening to any other aspect of medicine.”

In the Spiel, Michael Cohen and the pre-pardon pardon.

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What Basketball Gave Felipe Lopez May 22, 2019

On The Gist, oh, Ben Carson.

In the interview, Felipe Lopez was once billed the Dominican Michael Jordan. His star power even in high school led the team to play in bigger New York City venues—the better to fit the legions of fans who cheered as he carried Harlem’s Rice High School to a championship victory. But his court domination dwindled in college, and in the NBA. Lopez joins The Gist to talk about the joys brought to him by basketball, not least of which is one that college athletes and recruiters rarely think much of: a degree. ESPN’s The Dominican Dream, a documentary on Lopez by Jonathan Hock, is streaming now on ESPN Plus.

In the Spiel, M&M’s, cannibalism, and the Game of Thrones finale.

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The First “Welfare Queen” May 21, 2019

On The Gist, the gift to the Morehouse graduates is great, but should it be celebrated or just the standard?

In the interview, Linda Taylor committed many crimes, but only one of them—welfare fraud—really mattered to politicians, the press, and the public. Anecdotes about kidnapping and possible murder would only get in the way of the portrait Ronald Reagan presented to American voters in 1976, of a woman whose defrauding of taxpayer money was typical among those dependent on social programs. Slate national editor Josh Levin wrote Slate’s most read story ever, and has expanded it into a book—The Queen: The Forgotten Life Behind an American Myth—and a Slate podcast: The Queen, available now wherever you get your podcasts.

In the Spiel, Anand Giridharadas fact checking Jared Diamond.

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A Very Grumpy Death May 17, 2019

On The Gist, Grumpy Cat is dead. So are Bill de Blasio’s chances at winning the White House.

In the interview, 1999 might be the greatest year in film—think The Matrix, The Sixth Sense, and Fight Club. But does Magnolia belong in the great movie pantheon, and should we really have been as impressed with American Beauty as we were? Brian Raftery, author of Best. Movie. Year. Ever.: How 1999 Blew Up the Big Screen, takes us through the last year of the ’90s and explains why there hasn’t been one like it since.

In the Spiel, there’s no place for centrism as far as abortion rights go.

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The Personal Is Geopolitical May 16, 2019

On The Gist, what correlates with anti-abortion views (and votes) more than being a man? Being a Republican.

In the interview, Jared Diamond brings new meaning to the old slogan that the personal is political. The author of Guns, Germs, and Steel argues that just as individuals go through crises to which they may either adapt or flounder, nation states face moments that define their strength domestically and on the world stage. Diamond’s latest book—Upheaval—takes Finland, Australia, and Chile (among other countries) as his case studies.

In the Spiel, whatever you think of Joe Biden, don’t let the dream of bipartisanship die just yet.

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Have a Job? Thank Yourself, Not Trump. May 16, 2019

On The Gist, anti-abortion state legislatures know full well that the Supreme Court could one day turn on Roe v. Wade.

In the interview, Chuck Rosenberg is a former U.S. attorney who also once worked for Robert Mueller. He’s here to talk about his new podcast The Oath, where he sits down with other former government officials like Preet Bharara and James Comey and discusses the ins and outs of public service. Mike gets Chuck to dive into the Mueller report with him.

In the Spiel, is low unemployment a sign of good federal governance? No. Just look at the U.K.

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“No War” Is the Best Trump Can Do May 15, 2019

On The Gist, the NBA draft lottery.

In the interview, Richard Clarke doesn’t have security clearance anymore, so on his podcast he talks to a lot of people who still do. His 10 years as a White House official gave him the bug for asking questions to sharp experts on matters of life or death—otherwise known as national security. Clarke joins us to talk about the need to make a “frenemy” out of China, the vulnerability of America’s power grid, and how president Trump could yet leave the title of “worst president ever” to George W. Bush. Clarke is the host of Future State and the author of the forthcoming The Fifth Domain: Defending Our Country, Our Companies, and Ourselves in the Age of Cyber Threats.

In the Spiel, Rep. Rashida Tlaib, Palestine and the Holocaust.

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Decoding the Bliss Gene May 14, 2019

On The Gist, groans over Game of Thrones.

In the interview, Maria Konnikova is back for another round of “Is That Bullshit?” Because Mike experiences less anxiety than most, he has often wondered if he has higher levels of anandamide—a neurotransmitter associated with regulating anxiety and stress—caused by a specific genetic variation. Maria walks him through the complicated biology, the research, and explains why even if it might be real, Mike’s self-diagnosis is unreliable.

In the Spiel, Joe Biden's "gaffes."

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Comedy Is No Revolution May 11, 2019

On The Gist, Instagram and FOMO.

In the interview, they say president Trump has killed comedy. But in Larry Wilmore’s book, comedy isn’t responsible for leading us to the “right” kind of outrage or political enlightenment. Its role—get this—is to make us laugh. “Activists should engage in activism, and I always feel like that’s why we have these words that are different,” Wilmore says. “Comedy exists to be comic.” Wilmore is the host of the Ringer podcast Black on the Air and the co-creator of HBO’s Insecure.

In the Spiel, Uber’s IPO and Trump’s tariffs.

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Bigger Than Titanic May 10, 2019

On The Gist, magic mushrooms afoot!

In the interview, every Avengers movie has an argument at its core. In the Marvel franchise’s finale—Avengers: Endgame—director Anthony Russo says it’s “that you can change destiny, but at the same time, you can’t always change it on your terms.” He and his co-director (and brother) Joe Russo weigh in on that, the term “fan service,” and the fact that in the comics, Captain America is a dud.

In the Spiel, Mike answers questions from fellow Slate staffers—some serious, some not—in rapid succession.

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Who Makes The Gist? May 09, 2019

On The Gist, maybe Trump wants to be impeached?

Then it’s a change of format as all the former and current producers of The Gist gather together for a roundtable. Founding producer Andrea Silenzi discusses the origins of The Gist, past producers Chris Berube and Mary Wilson talk about the thrills of covering the presidential debates, and current producers Pierre Bienaimé and Daniel Schroeder join in to dish on what it's like working with Mike.

In the Spiel, Mike reevaluates his mistakes from the past five years.

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The Retro Hits and Repeats of 2014 May 07, 2019

On The Gist, president Trump’s mixes and matches idioms all the time, but his rhetoric doesn’t really suffer from it.

In the interview, 2014 was full of retro vibes and repeats, with hits like “Happy,” “All About That Bass,” and “Blank Space” echoing older styles and Eminem’s “Monster” recreating his past chart-topping collaboration with Rihanna. Chris Molanphy is on the show yet again to walk us through the big tracks from the year The Gist was born. Molanphy is the host of Hit Parade and the writer of Slate’s “Why Is This Song No. 1?” column.

In the Spiel, it’s a second interview with evolutionary biologist Patricia Brennan. The topic? Turkey genitals, of course.

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The Gist of the Past Five Years May 06, 2019

On The Gist, do we need primary debates?

We're starting our fifth anniversary celebration week with a look back at the past. Radiolab’s Jad Abumrad was a guest on the first episode of The Gist so he’s back to reflect on the last five years, how podcasting has changed, and the impact of the medium.

In the Spiel, podcasts aren’t perfect, but they are progress.

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Bird City May 03, 2019

On The Gist, is it unusual that Attorney General William Barr didn’t look at the underlying evidence covered in the Mueller report?

In the interview, Tuca & Bertie is the new series from Lisa Hanawalt, best know for her art direction on Bojack Horseman. She’s here to discuss the origins of her new series, all the jokes she fits into the background, and how she figured out if China exists in her show’s universe. Tuca & Bertie is available on Netflix.

In the Spiel, Stephen Moore on the Federal Reserve Board.

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“I’ll Take Second Place for $2,000” May 03, 2019

On The Gist, how many people have declared they’re running for president?

In the interview, breaking a record doesn’t always mean going home a winner. Adam Levin learned that in his recent run on Jeopardy!, where he banked more money than any runner-up in the history of the game show (thus walking away with just $2,000). He tells Mike, a fellow Jeopardy! alumnus, about his tactics—and the fact that he has no regrets. Levin is sports information director of Brandeis University’s athletics program.

In the Spiel, is Barr a chicken?

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Derby or Die? May 02, 2019

On The Gist, the latest in the Mueller report saga.

In the interview, the Kentucky Derby is this Saturday, but this year, the horse racing event is overshadowed by high fatality rates among equines in California's Santa Anita Park: 23 have died in just three months. Peter Fornatale follows the races closely, and sees mismanagement on both the park’s track and in the appeasement measures that followed: “[It] sort of reminded me of the classic politician’s trick of ‘you don’t like the conversation, okay, let’s change the conversation.’”

In the Spiel, Bill Barr, hair-splitter general.

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It’s a Code World May 01, 2019

On The Gist, the New Yorker’s profile of John Bolton.

In the interview, coders have gone from a band of misfits to rulers of Silicon Valley. Clive Thompson is out with a book about that evolution, which examines the reckless product design stoked by the pursuit of hockey-stick revenue growth and a lack of workplace diversity—whether across gender, socio-economic class, or even age. “The ageism is where some of the trouble begins because you don't have people around that can tell you 'oh, we went through this rodeo 15 years ago,’” Thompson says. He is the author of Coders: The Making of a New Tribe and the Remaking of the World.

In the Spiel, Stacey Abrams isn’t running for Senate in Georgia.

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Avengers: But For Real Apr 30, 2019

On The Gist, the news media is getting better at demoting the names of America’s mass shooters. That’s a good thing, even as the internet’s darker corners do the opposite.

In the interview, comedian Josh Gondelman is from Boston, but he often comes across as Minnesota nice. Can a comedian get laughs without being a bit of an asshole? Gondelman discusses that, his latest comedy album—Dancing on a Weeknight—and why writing for Showtime’s Desus & Mero involves shedding fewer tears than does scripting Last Week Tonight.

In the Spiel, if you’re going to enjoy this Avengers: Endgame parody, you’ll have to contend with a spoiler or two. Cool?

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Why Fools Fall in Love Apr 27, 2019

On The Gist, the 2020 candidates’ proposals shouldn’t be compared to some progressive ideal, but to some of the stuff we spend taxpayer dollars on now.

In the interview, the pace of technological change means we might only be catching onto malicious disinformation techniques after it’s too late to counter them. Still, scientific inquiry is useful in telling us how manipulation works. In The Misinformation Age: How False Beliefs Spread, authors Cailin O'Connor and James Owen Weatherall argue that social dynamics often trump intellectual ones in determining what we fall for, including bogus information peddled by anti-vaxxers. “You, in the right social context, would hold a lot of false beliefs too,” says O’Connor.

In the Spiel, putting the Anita Hill hearings in context.

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It's Getting Hot in Here Apr 26, 2019

On The Gist, the difference between one million and one billion.

In the interview, Nathaniel Rich is here to discuss his new book Losing Earth about the decade of 1979-1989 and why they are so important to understanding America’s political history of climate change and the current state of denialism we find ourselves in.

In the Spiel, is impeachment worth it? If we don’t will Trump get reelected?

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Joe Biden’s Battle Apr 25, 2019

On The Gist, whether he’s on the most electable part of the political spectrum or not, Joe Biden is about to go through the wringer.

In the interview, winning a major sports championship is a thrill few ever get to know. But what happens when you keep stacking trophies, like the NBA’s Golden State Warriors have done in recent years? The Athletic’s Ethan Strauss covers the team, and wonders “if the Warriors suffer from, shall we call it, winner’s ennui.” Strauss is the host of the House of Strauss podcast and wrote a chapter on the Warriors in Mike Pesca’s book, Upon Further Review: The Greatest What-Ifs in Sports History.

In the Spiel, it’s one from the vault on HBO’s The Jinx, which, it’s now come to light, included some misleading editing.

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The Never-ending CNN Town Hall Apr 24, 2019

On The Gist, Kate Smith’s rendition of “God Bless America.”

In the interview, comedian and filmmaker Lake Bell is here to discuss her new tv series Bless This Mess. About a newlywed couple who move from New York City to Nebraska, it’s a play on the fish-out-of-water trope, but packed with more jokes than you know what to do with. Bless This Mess airs on Tuesdays at 9:30pm on ABC.

In the Spiel, the questions at the CNN town halls weren’t all that great.

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Elizabeth Stormborn, Mother of Democrats! Apr 23, 2019

On The Gist, Rudy Giuliani was a big, loud, and busy distraction this past Sunday.

In the interview, it’s a round of “Is That Bullshit?” with Maria Konnikova. In the hot seat: the humble egg. A recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association reports that eggs can increase your chances of heart disease. But is this study all it’s cracked up to be? The nutritional science has gone back and forth on the health benefits and risks of this breakfast food. Maria boils it down.

In the Spiel, dragons roast their victims—and we roast Elizabeth Warren’s Game of Thrones critique.

This episode is brought to you by Simplisafe. Start protecting your home today at SimpliSafe.com/gist.

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The International Hilarity of Loyiso Gola Apr 20, 2019

On The Gist, sick children and dead ducks are pretty convincing.

In the interview, South African comedian Loyiso Gola is here to talk about his stand up special on Netflix, what it’s like performing in different countries, and why talking about the economy is so difficult for everyday people. Gola is performing at the Soho Playhouse until April 21, 2019.

In the Spiel, time for an early Antentwig.

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It’s Mueller Overtime Apr 18, 2019

On The Gist, Trump’s fundamental misreading of politics.

In the interview, Garrett Graff’s afternoon was as busy as any journalist’s, picking through the redacted Mueller report released by the Department of Justice. There’s something new on every page, Graff says, including the Trump campaign’s awareness of Russian efforts against Hillary Clinton—and its expectation to benefit from them politically. Graff wrote a biography of Robert Mueller. His latest ebook is Mueller’s War.

In the Spiel, Mueller did a great job, and if this report came out in a different climate it’d actually lead to real consequences.

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The Better Angels of Big Business Apr 17, 2019

On The Gist, the redacted Mueller report as an exercise in Zen.

In the interview, economist Tyler Cowen is just about the smartest person in Mike Pesca’s podcast feed. He’s on the Gist to answer rapid fire questions on the college admissions scandal, what the likes of Herman Cain would mean for the Fed, and the virtues of big American enterprises. That last topic is the subject of Cowen’s new book, Big Business: A Love Letter to an American Anti-Hero. His podcast is Conversations with Tyler.

In the Spiel, oh how we forget the gulf that lies between lived experience and public recollection.

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Lock Up Your Mothers Apr 17, 2019

On The Gist, sparing a thought for Notre Dame… and how Americans pronounce it.

In the interview, Politico’s Anna Palmer on what Trump is doing to America as he navigates a government he doesn’t understand. Her book, co-written with Jake Sherman, is The Hill to Die On: The Battle for Congress and the Future of Trump’s America.

In the Spiel, moms are not off limits for quotes—about their children—published by the New York Times.

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The Farmers’ Candidate Apr 16, 2019

On The Gist, wait, what did I miss?

In the interview, Democratic candidates for the presidency recently flew to Iowa for a forum on agriculture to answer some questions. And asking them was Storm Lake Times editor Art Cullen, who knows a thing or two about corporate agribusiness and its impact on Iowans, the food Americans everywhere eat, and Chinese pork companies. Cullen is the author of Storm Lake: A Chronicle of Change, Resilience, and Hope from a Heartland Newspaper, and was previously on The Gist to discuss that book as well.

In the Spiel, Rep. Ilan Omar and our selfish president.

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The Divergent Charts of 1994 Apr 13, 2019

On The Gist, two popes is one pope too many.

In the interview, songs like “The Sign” and “I’ll Make Love to You” dominated the charts in 1994, but they weren’t all that emblematic of what was happening in music that year. Chris Molanphy has ideas as to why, and also opines on why there were so few number one singles that year—and why was Lisa Loeb considered alternative rock? Molanphy has answers, and is the host of the Hit Parade podcast. He also writes Slate’s “Why Is This Song No. 1?” column.

In the Spiel, Rep. Katie Porter’s viral moment—taking Jamie Dimon to task for his huge salary—is a little dishonest.

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The Real Cost of Medicare for All Apr 12, 2019

On The Gist, the political parties of Israel.

In the interview, Jean McConville’s murder in 1972—when The Troubles were at their bloodiest—sparked what few deaths did in Northern Ireland: a reckoning. The New Yorker’s Patrick Radden Keefe joins us to give context to McConville’s death, from the various factions at war back then to the country’s incomplete reconciliation process and oddly rehabilitated politicians. Keefe is the author of Say Nothing: A True Story of Murder and Memory in Northern Ireland.

In the Spiel, Medicare for all isn’t as cheap as Bernie wants us to believe.

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The Candace Owens Sideshow Apr 11, 2019

On The Gist, Candance Owens isn't digging herself out of this ahistorical, Hitler-relativizing hole.

In the interview, Ian Chillag is back with another season of Everything Is Alive, a podcast where he interviews the everyday objects around us that we don’t think of. Chioke I’Anson is here too because he played a grain of sand with a surprising amount of philosophy packed in (he’s a philosopher himself). Is sand more Kantian or Heideggerian? And what’s it like to think as a collective?

In the Spiel, president Trump’s public insult of Sen. Mazie Hirono rumbles on.

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Misquoter in Chief Apr 10, 2019

On The Gist, Trump’s latest campaign video is wild.

In the interview, Scotland’s Daniel Sloss churns out comedy specials at an almost alarming rate, completing his tenth at age 28. He’s here to talk about circumcision, Brexit, and why the left is doomed to eternally shoot itself in the foot. Sloss will be back in the United States in June of 2019, and his specials "Dark" & "Jigsaw” are on Netflix.

In the Spiel, instant replay is a contentious part of refereeing, particularly at a championship.

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The Puppet Masters Apr 09, 2019

The worst part about the Trump administration’s high turnover? Every cabinet member is worse than the last.

In the interview, Grigori Rasputin bent the ear of the last Russian tsar, manipulating affairs of state behind the scenes as he saw fit. But how did a man like him rise to such power? And what about his spiritual successors like Phil Spector or Tom Brady’s trainer? Amos Barshad, author of No One Man Should Have All That Power: How Rasputins Manipulate the World, has our ear.

In the Spiel, what does Joe Biden stand to gain from apologizing—and shouldn’t a (likely) contender for president think in those terms?

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Are Chiropractors Quacks? Apr 06, 2019

On The Gist, like every week in Trump’s America, this has been a wasted one.

In the interview, Maria Konnikova is back for another round of “Is That Bullshit?” She talks chiropractors, whether or not cracking your back and neck is helpful, and what strokes have to do with it. Then, Mike’s own chiropractor, Jason Fidler, steps in to offer some adjustments to the conversation.

In the Spiel, Mike offers up a Lobstar challenge.

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There’s No Real Dirt on the Dems So Far Apr 05, 2019

On The Gist, Mueller’s report (or much of it) is bound to go public.

In the interview, Wright Thompson has his place on the Mount Rushmore of sports writers, and his signature form is the profile. Tiger Woods, Lionel Messi, Michael Jordan and the like are fascinating in their relationship to fame, but also in their ordinary flaws. “On some level these stories are all about exploring whether or not there is even such a thing as free will,” Thompson says. “I’m fascinated by the way things in our past continue to exert gravitational pull on us now.” Wright’s new book, a collection of his past work, is The Cost of These Dreams: Sports Stories and Other Serious Business.

In the Spiel, a list of all the non-scandals hitting the Democratic 2020 candidates so far. Join Slate Plus! Members get bonus segments, exclusive member-only podcasts, and more.

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We All Need to Talk Apr 04, 2019

On The Gist, Trump should avoid healthcare.

In the interview, Lori Gottlieb is a journalist and a therapist, and she’s here to discuss her new book Maybe You Should Talk to Someone: A Therapist, Her Therapist, and Our Lives Revealed, why she became a therapist, how to deal with patients who’ve Googled you, and why therapists need therapy too.

In the Spiel, the Joe Biden crisis isn’t a crisis.

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The Societal Optimist Apr 03, 2019

On The Gist, calming down about Trump’s bombast.

In the interview, Nicholas Christakis is here to discuss his new book Blueprint: The Evolutionary Origins of a Good Society, how he studied the progression of goodness throughout human history, the way healthy communities evolve, and why shipwrecks were so important to his research.

In the Spiel, the problem with microaggressions.

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The Thrilling Don Winslow Apr 02, 2019

On The Gist, Joe Biden’s nose nuzzle.

In the interview, Don Winslow’s new book The Border is the final part of his trilogy on drug cartels. He’s here today to discuss the work, how it’s been twenty years in the making, and the difficulty of trying to get things right.

In the Spiel, Betsy DeVos’ indefensible Special Olympics funding cuts.

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“Guest is God” Mar 30, 2019

On The Gist, the next wave of start-ups should be like the tech companies we have now, but with a conscience.

In the interview, filmmaker Anthony Maras is more wedded to a theme—people in extremis—than a form, and his latest is a thriller based on true events. Hotel Mumbai follows a band of diverse survivors holed up in the Taj, one of the targets in India's 2008 terrorist attacks. “Something kind of magical happened, which is all these barriers that usually divide people evaporated.”

In the Spiel, Donald Trump: bullshitter or shitposter?

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Adam Schiff Is Not Okay Mar 29, 2019

On The Gist, Mike Pesca, in true hipster fashion, laments the end of Wow Air.

In the interview, much of the news media was guilty of hyping up the knockout blow that Mueller’s report would deliver president Trump. But a few journalists on the left were always skeptical of the investigation’s origins and potential. Among them is Nation contributor Aaron Maté, who saw in the Mueller probe a distraction from the Democratic Party’s failure in 2016—and from the stories that really matter.

In the Spiel, Rep. Adam Schiff comes out swinging.

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The Boeing Lesson Mar 28, 2019

On The Gist, Boeing is in a tight spot.

In the interview, the boxing match between Mike Tyson and Buster Douglas was one for the ages. Everyone so expected Tyson to win that people weren’t even placing bets until the odds were 42 to 1. In the new 30 for 30 film 42 to 1, Gist guest Jeremy Schaap (and Ben Houser) explore this shocking upset and how the fight changed boxing and these fighters’ lives.

In the Spiel, if we’re going to build a wall, how about the one between church and state? Looking at you, Pennsylvania.

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Trump’s Post-Mueller Strategy Mar 27, 2019

On The Gist, the latest gridlock facing the Green New Deal should clue in its backers in Congress.

In the interview, Huwe Burton was 16 years old when detectives browbeat him into a false confession of murder. He spent about 20 years in prison as a result, and found an outlet in the quarter-mile track that he and other inmates built their endurance on. Since his release and exoneration, he hasn’t stopped running. Burton’s story is told in a Lope Magazine article—"Innocent People Don’t Run”—by Liam Boylan-Pett, who also joins us in the studio.

In the Spiel, the Trump reelection campaign’s bizarre memo to all “Television Producers” leans on cherry-picked quotes.

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The Mueller Report Report Mar 26, 2019

On The Gist, we should be willing to accept that the Barr letter and Mueller report won’t lead to any indictments.

In the interview, David Priess, former CIA staffer and daily intelligence briefer for Robert Mueller, is here to talk about the Mueller report. What do we know? What questions are still unanswered? And where do we go from here? Priess’ latest book is How to Get Rid of a President: History’s Guide to Removing Unpopular, Unable, or Unfit Chief Executives.

In the Spiel, the Mueller report does not exonerate Trump, even if Trump thinks it does.

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The Real March Madness Upset Mar 22, 2019

On The Gist, ISIS may be defeated, but the people who made up its forces aren’t gone.

In the interview, novelist John Lanchester is here to discuss his new novel The Wall, the symbolic and practical use of walls, and how closely we should pay attention to our dreams.

In the Spiel, Jim Nantz shouldn’t be in those Capital One commercials for March Madness.

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The Past and Future Biden Mar 22, 2019

On The Gist, who paid for those two Chinese-born tech magnates to take photos with Trump?

In the interview, Vanderbilt professor Jonathan Metzl is here to discuss his new book Dying of Whiteness: How the Politics of Racial Resentment Is Killing America’s Heartland.

In the Spiel, litigating Biden’s past.

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Solving Maternal Mortality Mar 21, 2019

On The Gist, have you heard about the mob hit that took place a few weeks ago?

In the interview, journalist Sarah Kliff joins us to discuss maternal mortality rates in the United States, what California has done to fix it, and what the rest of the country should learn from them. Kliff is the host of Vox’s The Impact.

In the Spiel, Donald Trump on John McCain’s funeral.

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What Merchants of Truth Gets Right Mar 20, 2019

On The Gist, it wouldn’t just be morally right for Trump to finally denounce white nationalism. It would be politically smart.

In the interview, Jill Abramson’s Merchants of Truth: The Business of News and the Fight for Facts was released to glowing reviews—but valid accusations of plagiarism and factual errors took some of that shine off. As Mike asks Abramson (a former executive editor of the New York Times), were the negative headlines so grabby that they’ve damned the book’s valuable insights? And would that in itself prove many of her worries about journalism in the 21st century?

In the Spiel, the New York Times, biased? You don’t say.

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Beto Takes a Stand Mar 19, 2019

On The Gist, Beto O’Rourke, the countertop candidate.

In the interview, historian Rutger Bregman got in a spat with Fox host Tucker Carlson, but you wouldn’t know it if it weren’t for his own video of the incident. Fox never aired it, as Bregman accused Carlson of carrying water for billionaires and Carlson responded with profane insults. Bregman joins the Gist to give us the backstory on that, but not before laying out some of the progressive economic policies—with basis in American history—that he favors, Carlson’s disapproval notwithstanding. Bregman is the author of Utopia for Realists: How We Can Build the Ideal Worldand writes for the Correspondent.

In the Spiel, New Zealand’s unity on gun control is admirable. In the big, diverse country that is the United States, things are a little more complicated.

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In New Zealand, the Internet at Its Worst Mar 16, 2019

On The Gist, Senator Thom Tillis’ op-ed, now with moral fiber!

In the interview, no one’s ever had to wonder what was on tech journalist Kara Swisher’s mind (she’ll just tell you) and that includes the litany of Silicon Valley oligarchs she’s interviewed. Swisher tells us how the modern world is very much shaped by company founders’ personality quirks and blind spots, what government regulation of Google and Facebook should look like, and what women can do to get what they want in the workplace. Swisher is the co-founder of Recode and the host of its Recode Decode podcast.

In the Spiel, if you want to measure the ills that come with an increasingly connected world, look no farther than the shooting in Christchurch, New Zealand.

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Manafort in Ostrich Court Mar 15, 2019

On The Gist, Beto O’Rourke is running for president. But should he?

In the interview, Tim Alberta, chief political correspondent for Politico, recently wrote a piece about Reps. Ilhan Omar and Dean Phillips and the current divide in the Democratic party, “The Democrat’s Dilemma.” Alberta is here today to discuss the difficulty facing the Democratic party as some new members of Congress seem to be pushing the party further left and whether or not that’s a good thing. His upcoming book is American Carnage: On the Front Lines of the Republican Civil War and the Rise of President Trump.

In the Spiel, Paul Manafort goes to Ostrich Court.

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How to Close the Justice Gap Mar 14, 2019

On The Gist, three stray thoughts on the college admissions scandal.

In the interview, Maria Konnikova is back to talk about those naïve millennials. Last year many of them were duped into paying thousands for tickets to Billy McFarland’s Fyre Festival, a glamorous event that existed in name only. That begs the question: Are millennials more susceptible to being scammed than other generations, or is that bullshit?

In the Spiel, the rich and powerful often get off easy in the court of law (case in point: Paul Manafort). But instead of throwing the book at them, maybe we should sentence everyone else a little more kindly, too.

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The Fraud Squad Mar 13, 2019

On The Gist, Bill de Blasio flapping his arms to R. Kelly.

In the interview, Sal Gentile writes for late night television, but he lives in president Trump’s mind around the clock. Every day he writes insights and jokes about Trump’s latest ramblings for “A Closer Look,” a segment on NBC’s Late Night with Seth Meyers. Gentile talks about his writing process—lots of jokes go into a first draft, but only a few make the cut—and how the instinct to laugh is itself a reliable bullshit detector.

In the Spiel, the college admissions scandal involving Felicity Huffman and Lori Loughlin.

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Let the Sun Shine in 2020 Mar 12, 2019

On The Gist, much ado about a toothpick ban. In the interview, Wikipedia is famously edited by its own readers. And no one has made more contributions than Steven Pruitt. A third of English language pages on the site bear his mark! What goes into editing a Wikipedia page, and is it as toxic as other democratic spaces on the internet? In the Spiel, which Democratic candidate gets The Gist’s vote? The one to make Daylight Saving Time permanent.

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American Carnage? It’s Real Mar 09, 2019

On The Gist, Rep. Ilhan Omar and Israel.

In the interview, the Guardian’s Chris McGreal covered the deadly toll opiates take on poor American communities "long before it became fashionable because of Trump." He speaks to Purdue Pharma’s zealous campaign to push OxyContin (“a chemical cousin of heroin”, in the words of the New Yorker) onto doctors and patients—and the federal government’s failure to stop it. McGreal is the author of American Overdose: The Opioid Tragedy in Three Acts.

In the Spiel, another Lobstar of the Antentwig.

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The Endless Fact Check Mar 08, 2019

On The Gist, Stormy is in the news (but not that Stormy).

In the interview, Donald Trump speaks many untruths every day, and someone has to track them all. Somehow that task has fallen to a Canadian. The Toronto Star’s Daniel Dale is here to tell us what counts as a lie, why details matter, and how neither the left nor the right seem satisfied with his work.

In the Spiel, theology isn’t all that interesting… unless there’s drama involved, of course.

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The Unbelievably Bad Michael Jackson Defense Mar 07, 2019

On The Gist, distracting Congress from H.R. 1.

In the interview, sexual promiscuity is judged differently among men compared to women, and that goes double for sex addiction. Franco-Moroccan novelist Leïla Slimani’s latest protagonist, Adèle, knows that firsthand. Slimani joins us to talk about her relationship with her translator—and her own characters—and the French sex scandal that inspired her initial research.

In the Spiel, bad arguments are hard to believe, like those used to defend Michael Jackson.

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Top Chef, the Anti-Reality TV? Mar 06, 2019

On The Gist, Fox News isn’t distributing Trump’s talking points. Worse, it’s defining them.

In the interview, reality TV typically thrives on drama and negativity. Top Chef isn’t necessarily an exception, but season 16 competitor David Viana says morale was high on set—and that that’s a good sign for the culinary world overall. “Better, healthier kitchens are popping up,” Viana says. “It isn’t the Gordon Ramsay style.” David Viana is the executive chef of New Jersey’s Heirloom Kitchen.

The finale of Top Chef: Kentucky airs March 14, 2019 on Bravo. In the Spiel, more from Trump’s nonsensical CPAC speech.

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The Incoherent Right Mar 05, 2019

On The Gist, the White House PR machine.

In the interview, John Carlin is a former Asst. Attorney General for the Dept. of Justice and former Chief of Staff to Robert Mueller, and his new book Dawn of the Code War tracks the rise of global cyber threats from Russia and China, and how our country is working to respond.

In the Spiel, the CPAC lets Trump get away with anything he wants.

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Believing Jackson’s Accusers Mar 02, 2019

On The Gist, John Hickenlooper might be running for president.

In the interview, Dan Reed reached out to Wade Robson and James Safechuck before #MeToo exploded, but its influence is clear. In the director’s documentary for HBO, Leaving Neverland, we hear again how the effects of sexual abuse—in this case, at the hands of Michael Jackson—can manifest in counterintuitive ways; Robson and Safechuck once shielded Jackson. Now they’re coming forward with their truth.

In the Spiel, the House Oversight Committee and racism.

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Is AOC Post-Truth Too? Feb 28, 2019

On The Gist, the empty political rhetoric that is “everyday people.”

In the interview, fact-checking is big business in the age of Trump. But one politician diametrically opposed to the president—Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez—is playing fast and loose with statistics too, and journalists have noticed. Should she be called out? NY Magazine’s Eric Levitz says it’s complicated.

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Michael Cohen Isn’t Smart Feb 27, 2019

On the Gist, Michael Cohen is not a smart guy, and that makes his testimony all the more trustworthy.

In the interview, Casey Burgat of R Street is here to talk about Sen. Amy Klobuchar’s staff turnover data. Does she seem to churn through staff more than most, or are a few big exits skewing the numbers? And is it so bad to have high turnover anyway?

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The Spring Breaker Vote Feb 26, 2019

On The Gist, corn syrup and beer.

In the interview, what’s the difference between a 16-year-old and an 18-year-old? In terms of maturity, not so much. But only one of them has the right to vote. In Oregon, state Sen. Shemia Fagan is hoping to change that, and she’s letting young activists take the lead.

In the Spiel, who wants to talk about reparations?

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Mayor for America Feb 26, 2019

On The Gist, asymmetric warfare means America’s got some pretty lame enemies.

In the interview, women aren’t the only demographic group making the 2020 race especially diverse. Pete Buttigieg, the 37-year-old mayor of South Bend, Indiana, is considering a run for office; he’s a millennial, a veteran, and openly gay. We get his thoughts on the size of the Supreme Court and Congress, and his feelings about the humble penny. Buttigieg’s new book is Shortest Way Home: One Mayor’s Challenge and a Model for America’s Future.

In the Spiel, what the Oscars, the Virginia governorship, and Amazon HQ2 have in common.

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Billionaire Bashing Is Just for Sport Feb 23, 2019

On The Gist, even with a genuinely good story, president Trump just can’t get his facts right.

In the interview, his name is Mo Rocca, and he’s out with a new podcast of obituaries. So it’s only natural, of course, that it be called Mobituaries. His audio tributes can be for both people and things, including JFK impersonator Vaughn Meader and the humble station wagon.

In the Spiel, America’s billionaires do some good, and they don’t make the rest of us any poorer.

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A Show, But a Riddle Too Feb 22, 2019

On The Gist, the deep state or a shallow president?

In the interview, director Leslye Headland has been on The Gist before, and is back for more. But unlike the protagonist of Russian Doll, her new Netflix show, he isn’t likely to find herself stuck in a time loop, reliving the same moments over and over again. Headland joins alongside Rebecca Henderson, who stars in the show. And, fun fact: the two are married!

In the Spiel, Disney World’s Hall of Presidents.

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The Viability of Bernie Sanders Feb 21, 2019

On The Gist, news should be new.

In the interview, our resident vexillologist Ted Kaye is back to talk about San Francisco’s flag. Where does its design come from, and is it really the best modern representation of the city?

Kaye’s book is Good Flag, Bad Flag. In the Spiel, Bernie Sanders and the viability of policy ideas.

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The Chinese Threat is Overblown Feb 20, 2019

On The Gist, Bernie is in. Are billionaires out?

In the interview, president Trump may be the chief saber-rattler when it comes to China, but acting tough against the world’s second biggest economy is a bipartisan pastime. With challenges like global warming and nuclear armament on the line, Kaiser Kuo says, the U.S. might do better with cooperation instead of rivalry. Kuo is a co-founder of the Sinica podcast and the editor-at-large of SupChina.

In the Spiel, algorithms aren’t just for Facebook—they’re also used in criminal justice. Here’s why they shouldn’t be.

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New York’s Bad Math Feb 15, 2019

On The Gist, racy names for missiles.

In the interview, Chris Molanphy is here to talk abo

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