Beerocracy!®

The midterms are fast approaching and with the the Supreme Court's recent decision on the Voting Rights Act, the future of the Democrats is even more uncertain than before. That's where Oath comes in - a revolutionary platform that helps you maximize your donations. I'm joined by Brian Derrick, co-founder of Oath, to discuss how the algorithm works, the impact that the smart funding has had on races, and what to expect for this upcoming election. We unpack the races to look out for, how content creators are changing the political ecosystem, and how it's time for a political changing of the guard.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Oath and Its Impact03:27 The Algorithm Behind Oath's Success06:24 Significant Races and Their Outcomes09:16 The Supreme Court's Impact on Voting Rights11:51 Midterm Elections and DemocraticProspects14:47 Emerging Women Leaders in Politics17:49 Generational Divide in Congress20:05 The Future of the Democratic Party20:23 Divides Within the Parties23:47 The Importance of Voting for Representation24:42 Navigating the Echo Chamber27:14 The Role of Creators in Politics27:48 California Gubernatorial Race Insights30:30 The Significance of Local PoliticsKey words:democratic politics, grassroots funding, midterm elections, voting rights, political strategy, campaign funding, voter engagement, Supreme Court, redistricting, political activism

It took one AI generated photo depicting Trump as Jesus Christ (or a doctor?) to cause rifts in his biggest supporting base: Evangelical Christians. Not his cheating, lying, or scamming or multitude of anti-Christian actions. So why was this too far? I'm joined by Pastor Ben Marsh of First Alliance Church in Winston-Salem, North Carolina to explore the mentality behind Evangelical Christians and explain why this was a breaking point. Pastor Ben has been an outspoken critic of Trump and has faced death threats for speaking his views. For those that may not know much about the mentality of Christian nationalism and the evangelical movement, this is the episode for you. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Controversy02:50 Understanding Christian Nationalism05:33 The Role of the Pope and Catholicism08:16 Generational Perspectives on Faith10:49 The Appeal of Trump to Evangelicals13:25 Diverse Views on Abortion15:56 Navigating Political Identity as a Christian18:46 The Intersection of Whiteness and Christianity21:16 Hope and Future Conversations

The claim that the 2020 election was "stolen" from Donald Trump has been repeatedly debunked - yet it continues to fuel legislation that could impact millions of voters. The SAVE America Act introduces strict ID requirements and other restrictive measures that experts warn could suppress access to the ballot for thousands of Americans. But how secure are our elections, really? And what does the data actually show about voter fraud?In this episode, I sit down with David Becker, Executive Director and Founder of the Center for Election Innovation & Research (CEIR), to separate fact from fiction on election integrity. We break down the key provisions of the SAVE America Act, examine how states are already moving to restrict voting access, and pull back the curtain on the safeguards that keep our elections secure.

The world feels like it is on fire. And if you're wondering where Congress is in all of this, well so am I. Which is why I'm joined by Representative Jim Himes (D-CT), a Gang of 8 intelligence insider and one of the most informed voices on Capitol Hill, to talk about war, surveillance, and the future of American democracy.Rep. Himes breaks down why Republicans are so scared to stand up to Trump, the limits of U.S. foreign policy, and whether the War Powers Resolution still means anything in an era where Trump acts with reckless abandon and little oversight. It's a raw conversation about power, accountability, and who really gets to decide when America goes to war.Then we get into the surveillance state. With FISA 702 safeguards at the center of a fierce national debate, Himes tackles the uncomfortable question: how do you keep Americans safe without turning the intelligence apparatus against the very citizens it's supposed to protect? This is a conversation you don't want to miss. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Touches04:26 Current State of Foreign Policy06:39 Insights from the Gang of Eight10:47 Congress and War Powers14:20 Political Accountability and Elections16:09 Healthcare and Affordability20:04 FISA and Surveillance Concerns25:15 AI Legislation and Future Concerns27:30 National Security and Domestic IssuesKeywordsforeign policy, Congress, war powers, intelligence, AI, surveillance, civil liberties, Iran, Middle East, legislation, accountability, democracy

It feels like every other week there's a near-miss or tragic accident involving airplanes — bringing fear and anxiety to the hundreds of millions who fly every year. The devastating LaGuardia Airport runway collision on March 22nd, where an Air Canada Express jet struck a fire truck on landing and killed both pilots, is only the latest example. So why is this keep happening? And are we actually seeing an increase? This week, I'm joined by Margaret Wallace, Assistant Professor of Air Traffic Control at the Florida Institute of Technology, to dive into the inadequate air traffic system at the heart of so many of these mishaps — from the chronic air traffic controller shortage leaving our busiest airports understaffed, to the outdated aviation technology, and what actually needs to be done to make flying feel safe again.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Aviation Safety Concerns02:24 Understanding Air Traffic Control Shortages04:50 The Challenges of Air Traffic Control Training07:03 The Role of Technology in Aviation Safety09:40 Current State of Aircraft Safety12:07 Legislative Action for Aviation Improvements14:14 Future of Air Traffic Control Hiring

Cuba is in crisis - and it's getting worse by the day. Blackouts now stretch up to 30 hours. Pharmacies are bare. Families are going hungry. Why? Because the U.S. has implemented a blockade on the island since January, when the U.S. captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, cutting off Venezuelan fuel from the fragile island. In this episode, we’re joined by Philip Brenner, Professor Emeritus of international relations at American University to unpack how the U.S. is causing this humanitarian crisis. We unpack the history of the U.S. and Cuba, what is happening now and why, and what a future could look like. The U.S. foreign policy towards Cuba is causing chaos, and it’s not getting enough media coverage. 

The war with Iran is showing no signs of slowing down, and thousands have been killed and injured. The Trump administration has launched the Middle East into uncertainty, and there is no one better to discuss the chaos than Kian Tajbakhsh. Tajbakhsh is an Iranian-American scholar and democratic activist who was arrested and imprisoned by this brutal regime. Released as part of the Obama Nuclear Deal of 2015, he makes a pretty controversial argument that's going to stop you mid-sip: that the United States isn't starting a war with Iran — it's finishing one that Iran started back in 1979. This is an episode you don't want to miss.

The U.S. and Israel launched coordinated strikes on Iran - hitting major cities, taking out top military commanders, and assassinating Supreme Leader Khamenei. This isn't a warning shot. This is war. And now, uncertainty is everywhere. Thousands have died, the U.S's Middle Eastern allies are being attacked, and Donald Trump changes his answers on "How long?" and "Why?" and "What's next?" every time he is asked. I'm joined by Ross Harrison, Senior Fellow at the Middle East Institute in Washington DC and author of the new book “Decoding Iran’s Foreign Policy." We break down all the questions surrounding this military advancement, providing historical context and analyzing potential outcomes. This is a scary time, but this podcast provides insights and answers. Ross's Book: Decoding Iran's Foreign Policy

Content Warning: This episode discusses sexual abuse. When Marina Lacerda was 14 years old, she found herself giving a massage to Jeffrey Epstein in his NYC mansion - the beginning of what would be years of abuse. As Minor Victim #1, Lacerda’s testimony in the 2019 indictment of Epstein helped lead to his arrest. And for years, she hid this secret. But now, she’s ready to speak out for herself and survivors everywhere. 

This is the final episode of the two part Beerocracy! podcast special where I traveled to the top Trump supporting counties in 4 states in Appalachia to try to understand why and how people support Donald Trump. Our social media feeds keep us in our echo chambers, discouraging dialogue. I decided I was tired of the constant rhetoric making it seem like I, a liberal, couldn't find common ground and talk to people on the complete opposite side of the political spectrum to me. So I did what any stubborn person would do, I went on a roadtrip.

This episode is Part 1 of a two part Beerocracy! podcast special where I traveled to the top Trump supporting counties in 4 states in Appalachia to try to understand why and how people support Donald Trump. Our social media feeds keep us in our echo chambers, discouraging dialogue. I decided I was tired of the constant rhetoric making it seem like I, a liberal, couldn't find common ground and talk to people on the complete opposite side of the political spectrum to me. So I did what any stubborn person would do, I went on a roadtrip.

Two American citizens and dozens of immigrants have been killed, hundreds injured, and the country is on edge because of Donald Trump's immigration policy. Trump ran on an anti-immigrant platform, promising record levels of deportations, and so far, he's been attempting to live up to his campaign promises. The problem? His administration is conducting itself with unseen levels of aggression, cruelty, and a disregard for laws. I'm joined by former ICE field director, Darius Reeves, who reveals the ins and outs of immigration enforcement. It's an honest, challenging conversation surrounding the moral qualms of immigrations enforcement. He shares what it was like working under four different administrations, insider knowledge about what happened when a current field director tried to push back, as well as his personal relationships with Todd Lyons and Tom Homan. Reeves has some choice words for this current administration. This is an honest, challenging conversation about immigration, power, and accountability, and one you don’t want to miss.!DON'T FORGET TO LIKE AND SUBSCRIBE!

President Trump has set his sights on Greenland. This arctic territory has become center stage for Trump's imperialistic desires, leading to classically aggressive statements that cause chaos on a global stage. But what makes Greenland so desirable? I'm joined by Dr. Cameron “Cam” Carlson from the University of Alaska-Fairbanks, to break down the importance of this icy plateau. From national security concerns to rare earth minerals, we unpack everything there is to know about Greenland, and why Trump is currently obsessed.

On January 13th, the Supreme Court is hearing the arguments for West Virginia v. BPJ, a landmark Supreme Court case that could reshape the future of transgender rights and school athletics nationwide. The case challenges West Virginia’s 2021 Save Women’s Sports Act, which bans transgender girls and women from participating in female school sports. At the center is B.P.J., Becky Pepper Jackson, a transgender girl who was barred from joining her middle school track team. The justices will weigh whether these state-level bans violate Title IX and the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment.To unpack what’s at stake, we’re joined by Sruti Swaminathan, Senior Staff Attorney with the ACLU’s LGBTQ & HIV Project and counsel for B.P.J. in B.P.J. v. West Virginia Board of Education. Swaminathan explains the legal arguments behind the challenge, what this case could mean for transgender students across the country, and dispels a lot of myths about transgender athletes.

In one of the most dramatic and controversial moments in recent U.S.–Latin America relations, the U.S. military captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, brought them to the United States on criminal charges, and sent shockwaves across the region. So what happens next? Between Trump's very transparent desires for oil investment in the country, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio setting his sites on a regime change in Cuba next, the U.S. is taking aggressive stances in Latin America. I'm joined by Frank Mora, Professor of Politics and International Relations at Florida International University and former U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States, to discuss what potential futures look like for Venezuela, and the broader Latin American region. Don't forget to like and subscribe!

Hello Team!Just wanted to thank everyone for their part in contributing to this podcast. From my guests dedicating their time and my listeners for engaging with every episode, I am so grateful for the year that was 2025. I can't wait for what awaits in 2026.Cheers to 2025 and thank you all. Emily

It's happened again. Another school shooting. A terrible, unnecessary constant in American life. But it doesn't have to be this way. This episode takes a hard, solutions-focused look at school shooting prevention through conversations with leaders from Sandy Hook Promise, one of the nation’s leading violence prevention organizations. In the wake of gun violence across the U.S., we move beyond headlines to examine what actually works to stop violence before it happens: by identifying warning signs, building safer school communities, and intervening early.I'm joined by Liz Murphy, Senior Vice President of Federal Policy & Partnerships and Patrick Malone, Senior Director of Federal Policy from Sandy Hook Promise to explain how prevention, including evidence-based programs that help students and adults recognize concerning behaviors, address social isolation, and take threats seriously without stigmatizing mental health, can be the change to the norm of school shootings in America.

Prices are up, paychecks aren’t keeping pace, and the stock market is soaring like nothing’s wrong. So… what is actually going on in this economy?!I'm joined by Ben Harris, Vice President and Director of Economic Studies at the Brookings Institution to unpack everything you want to know about the affordability crisis, why economists are calling this a "K-shaped" economy, and how we got to this point.From deep dives into the housing crisis to the Magnificent 7 stocks, we break down how the same economy can feel like two totally different worlds.

The United States has been using a highly controversial tactic in its effort to stop drug trafficking: bombing suspected “narco-terrorist” boats off the coasts of Venezuela and Colombia. After a bombshell report in the Washington Post alleging that Secretary of War Pete Hegseth ordered all survivors to be killed during one of these bombings, there has been bipartisan outcry over whether the United States is committing war crimes. In this episode, I'm joined by Laurie Blank, an expert in the law of armed conflict, to break down the legal questions behind these strikes. We explore whether the U.S. can legally classify drug boats as terrorist targets, what counts as self-defense outside a declared war, and how the U.S. can be held accountable for potentially committing crimes.

Beerocracy! went on the road! On a stop in Washington D.C., I was lucky to sit down for conversation with Representative Jim McGovern (D-MA) to discuss all thing Capitol Hill. If you want to know what one of the rising stars of the Democratic party thinks about Trump's reign and his Republican colleagues, this is the episode for you.

Sudan is facing one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises due to a brutal war between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces. Over 150,000 have been killed with 12 million displaced, and the recent falling of El-Fasher to the RSF has left reports of mass atrocities.I'm joined by Caitlin Howarth, Project Director of Conflict Analysis Programs from the Yale School of Public Health to discuss how her team's important work is helping to hold the RSF accountable for their war crimes. Through satellite imagery, her team is able to get an inside look into the atrocities occurring that the RSF is trying to hide under the rug. We also look at how Sudan got to this point and what role outside powers are playing. If you’ve been wondering what’s really happening in Sudan — and why it matters — this episode has you covered. This is a humanitarian crisis and genocide that needs much more international outcry.**Correction: Mohammed bin Salman is the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia

The November 4, 2025 elections delivered a strong night for Democrats across the country, signaling potential cracks in Donald Trump’s political influence as his second term continues. Abigail Spanberger won the governorship in Virginia, Mikie Sherrill won in New Jersey, and Democratic-Socialist Zohran Mamdani made history as New York City’s first Muslim mayor after defeating Andrew Cuomo. After November 4th, Democrats are feeling good. But how good should they be feeling? I'm joined by election analyst extraordinaire, David Wasserman, Senior Editor & Elections Analyst of The Cook Political Report with Amy Walter, to break down the nitty gritty of election day and what it could signal for the midterms.

The US has been upping its pressure campaign on stopping drug trafficking into the United States and one such tactic is by very illegally bombing "narco-terrorists" in boats off the coasts of Venezuela and Columbia. But this isn't the full story. The US is increasing its pressure campaign against Venezuela, in what appears to be a push for a regime change against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.I'm joined by Henry Ziemer, Associate Fellow of the Americas Program from the Center for Strategic and International Studies to dive into the rapidly escalating maritime tension and how it sits at the intersection of narco-trafficking, regional politics and interventionism. We explore what the U.S. is doing, why now, how Venezuela and regional actors are reacting, and what this means for broader geopolitics.

Across the country, a growing movement is reshaping public education - Christian nationalism. From book bans to parent choice arguments to bibles in schools, public education in America is facing an aggressive religious push that's never been seen before in modern history. I'm joined by Kevin J. Burke, Professor of Education at University of Georgia, who recently researched and wrote a white paper for the National Education Policy Center about Christian Nationalism and Educational Policy in the United States. This is a sneak peak as to what it's the research before it's release on November 4th. In this episode, we discuss the history of Christianity in American education, the beliefs of Christian nationalists, and how it's radiating through the nation from local school board meetings to the Supreme Court. ***Don't Forget To Follow!***

After two years of devastating war, a fragile ceasefire has finally taken hold between Israel and Gaza. But what comes next? The new 20-point peace plan is vague, lacking any clear roadmap for peace or accountability. What’s certain is that more than 70,000 people have been killed in Gaza, and the enclave has been left in ruins.I'm joined by Khaled Elgindy, former senior fellow and director of the Middle East Institute’s Program on Palestine and Israeli-Palestinian Affairs, to break down the key details of this plan, Donald Trump’s role in shaping it, and whether this ceasefire can actually last. We also dive into what rebuilding Gaza could look like — and how Palestinians can ensure they have a voice in their own future.

President Trump has ordered National Guard deployments to Portland, Oregon, and Chicago, Illinois, claiming they’re needed to protect federal agents and property as his administration intensifies its immigration enforcement raids. The move has ignited a major constitutional showdown over presidential power, state sovereignty, and the limits of federal authority.In this episode of Beerocracy!, I’m joined by Chris Mirasola, Assistant Professor of Law at the University of Houston Law Center, who specializes in domestic military and constitutional law. Together, we break down the legal doctrines behind the National Guard deployment, from the Insurrection Act and plenary presidential authority to the controversy over sending one state’s National Guard into another without consent.Chris also explains how these disputes could soon reach the U.S. Supreme Court — and what’s at stake for the balance of power between states and the federal government.If you’ve been wondering whether the president can legally deploy the National Guard across state lines, or how the Insurrection Act could reshape the future of civil-military relations in America, this episode has you covered.

We’re in the middle of a government shutdown—and at the center of the standoff is health care. Democrats are refusing to sign onto a Continuing Resolution unless Republicans agree to renew Affordable Care Act subsidies, which make health insurance premiums more affordable for 22 million Americans. They’re also pushing to restore eligibility for legal immigrants who lost access to federal health programs after the so-called One Big Beautiful Bill Act.But here’s the problem: a massive amount of misinformation is clouding the debate about who actually qualifies for federal health insurance programs. And much of that misinformation is being spread by the very top of the Republican Party.That’s why we’re cutting through the noise. I’m joined by Jenny Sullivan, Director of Health Coverage Access at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, to unpack the real facts about ACA subsidies and Medicaid.

This special edition of Beerocracy! was recorded live at the Clinton Global Initiative Conference (CGI), where world leaders, activists, and NGOs gather to tackle the planet’s biggest challenges. I was lucky enough to have two powerful, off-the-cuff interviews with leaders on the frontlines of change.First up is Liz Shuler, President of the AFL-CIO, the largest labor federation in the United States, representing nearly 15 million workers. We discuss how unions are fighting for workers’ rights, why labor protections are under attack, and what it means for the average American worker today.Then I’m joined by Jaymes Black, President of The Trevor Project, the leading nonpartisan nonprofit focused on ending suicide among LGBTQ+ youth. We dive into the urgent challenges facing queer young people, especially those who are trans and nonbinary, the harmful narratives in today’s media, and how their organization is providing lifesaving support.These conversations highlight two of the most pressing issues in America: protecting workers’ rights and supporting LGBTQ+ mental health. Thanks to CGI for bringing together such inspiring leaders who are committed to building a better future.

Political violence in America is no longer confined to the fringes - it’s becoming a dangerous part of mainstream politics. From violent rhetoric at rallies to deadly attacks on public figures, the line between political debate and physical danger is breaking down.In the wake of the shocking murder of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, Americans are grappling with the reality of rising political violence and deepening division. What does this surge in violence mean for the future of American democracy, and can it be stopped?I’m joined by Arie Perliger, a leading expert on political violence and extremism, to break down why political violence is escalating, how it became normalized, and what steps can be taken to de-escalate tensions, defend democracy, and prevent violence from becoming the default language of politics.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has long been seen as America’s front line of defense in public health. But during the Covid-19 pandemic—from vaccine rollout to ever-changing guidance—the agency’s credibility took a major hit. Now, under the leadership of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a prominent anti-vaccine activist who has ousted career scientists, the CDC faces a crisis of trust unlike any in its history.In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Paul Offit, one of the nation’s leading vaccine experts, to cut through the noise. We break down how scientists determine vaccine safety, what the CDC got wrong during Covid-19, and why skepticism about vaccines has grown. Dr. Offit also warns how RFK Jr.’s anti-vaccine rhetoric and policy decisions could put children and communities at greater risk. It’s an honest, fact-driven conversation that unpacks the failures of pandemic communication, the dangers of politicizing science, and what must change if the CDC hopes to regain public trust and protect Americans in future health crises.

Artificial intelligence is transforming everything from healthcare and education to business. But alongside these breakthroughs come urgent questions about AI ethics, data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the massive environmental footprint of training large AI models. I'm joined by Benjamin Bergen, professor of cognitive science and large language model researcher at UC-San Diego, to unpack the latest in the AI rush. From ethical concerns, to democratization of intelligence, to potential super-intelligence, we break down the positives and negatives of this influential technology. And in case you're wondering, AI helped write this summary.

Gun violence in America is not just a political issue—it’s one of the most urgent public health crises of our time. From mass shootings in schools, churches, and public spaces to the daily toll of community gun violence that rarely makes national headlines, the death toll keeps climbing. The recent mass shooting in Minneapolis—killing two children and injuring 18 others, including 15 kids—shows just how devastating this crisis has become.In this episode, I’m joined by Angela Ferrell-Zabala, Executive Director of Moms Demand Action, to break down how we can finally tackle gun violence in America. We discuss closing dangerous loopholes that allow easy access to firearms, banning assault weapons, strengthening background checks, and expanding mental health resources to keep communities safe.This doesn’t have to be the America we live in. And as Angela makes clear, the majority of Americans—Democrats, Republicans, and Independents alike—support stronger gun control measures. It’s time to turn that consensus into action.

Vladimir Putin was welcomed on a red carpet in Alaska and Volodymyr Zelensky was flanked by world leaders in the White House with Donald Trump being the key negotiator between the two. Can President Trump actually succeed this time around in putting an end to this nearly 3.5 year old war? I'm joined by former Ambassador to Ukraine and Senior Director of the Atlantic Council’s Eurasia Center, John Herbst, to unpack what these recent developments mean and what he thinks Trump should do in order to stop Putin's reign of terror. We break down Russia’s demands to be included in security guarantee discussions, Ukraine’s calls for long-term NATO-style protections, and why supporting Ukraine is important to the United States' security.

With the federal control of D.C.’s police force and the deployment of the National Guard to address the Capitol’s so-called “homelessness and crime” problem, the question remains: does former President Donald Trump have any real plan to help people experiencing homelessness? His current approach — relocating unhoused individuals elsewhere — is not only ineffective, it’s inhumane.In this episode, I’m joined by Lisel Petis, Policy Director of Criminal Justice and Civil Liberties at the R Street Institute, to unpack the roots of the homelessness crisis, the policy failures driving it, and evidence-based solutions that actually work. We discuss why simply pushing people out of sight ignores the deeper causes — like affordable housing shortages, mental health care gaps, and systemic poverty — and explore compassionate, sustainable strategies for creating real change.

Gerrymandering has become a darkly ironic cornerstone of American democracy—an undemocratic tactic that’s become business as usual. In Texas, the practice is taking center stage again as Republican leaders move to redraw district lines ahead of the midterms, at the urging of former President Trump in a bid to secure more GOP seats. Now, Democratic strongholds like California and New York are threatening to follow suit, escalating a nationwide redistricting war.I’m joined by Professor Mike Latner, a leading expert on gerrymandering, to unpack the origins of this strategic manipulation, how it undermines fair representation, and why partisan and racial gerrymandering remain one of the biggest threats to voting rights in America today. The fight for fair maps is far from over—and unfortunately, it doesn't seem to be getting better any time soon.

Jeffrey Epstein’s crimes are back in the spotlight—and this time, they’re shaking up Washington. As Trump’s legal team scrambles to contain mounting pressure from within the MAGA base to release Epstein-related documents, Democrats seize the moment, demanding full transparency. But will the public ever learn the full extent of who was involved?I’m joined by Florida attorney Spencer Kuvin, who has represented multiple Epstein survivors—including the very first victim to report Epstein to the police. Kuvin takes us inside the decades-long fight for justice - including what is was like confronting Epstein in mediation rooms. Kuvin is adamant that Trump releases all the information the FBI has on Epstein, and his accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell. One thing is for certain, without full transparency, powerful accomplices may evade accountability.

Nearly 2 years into the Israel-Gaza war, and the impact is dire for the residents of Gaza. Palestinians are starving, with children dying from malnutrition. Why? Because Israel has refused to let in aid. And the minimal aid that is let in, at American run distribution sites policed by the Israeli military, nearly 1000 Palestinians have been shot and killed. This is man-made humanitarian crisis. I’m joined by Dr. Ismail Mehr, Chair of the Islamic Medical Association of North America’s Medical Relief Association. Dr. Mehr has been to Gaza 5 times to provide medical support, including as recently as April of 2024. We unpack what his experiences have been like and what his colleagues on the ground are saying. It’s a tough conversation but extremely necessary. Regardless of politics, you should be horrified by what’s going on. Israel is leading a mass starvation campaign against Palestinians, and as a Jewish person, never again is now.

As climate disasters become more frequent and more catastrophic, from record-shattering hurricanes to deadly floods and wildfires, the very agencies responsible for forecasting and responding to these events are facing budget cuts and rollbacks under the current administration.I'm joined by Alice Hill, Senior Fellow for Energy and the Environment at the Council on Foreign Relations, to break down the critical roles of FEMA, NOAA, and the National Weather Service. We dig into why these agencies are essential to national resilience, how federal disinvestment is leaving communities more vulnerable, and what it will take to truly prepare for the climate disasters ahead.Plus: If you ignore those National Weather Service notifications, you aren't alone. We unpack why the public struggles to understand the severity of natural disasters and what you can do to protect yourself and your community before the next crisis hits.

With the stroke of a pen, the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” is now law — and its consequences are already rippling across the country. Marketed as a GOP budget breakthrough, the bill delivers deep blows to the most vulnerable Americans.I'm joined by Mike Konczal, Senior Director of Policy and Research at the Economic Security Project, to break the legislation down into four core areas: massive tax cuts for the wealthy, sweeping rollbacks in Medicaid and SNAP benefits, a gutting of recent renewable energy gains, and a staggering expansion of funding for ICE.This bill is sprawling, technical, and intentionally confusing — but one thing is clear: everyday Americans are being left behind.

As Democratic Socialist Zohran Mamdani secures the Democratic nomination for Mayor of New York City, his win has sent political shockwaves across the country. While celebrated by progressives, his ambitious policy platform has sparked fierce debate—drawing skepticism from conservatives, moderates, and even some establishment Democrats. I'm joined by economist James Parrott, a leading expert on New York City and State economics, to unpack Mamdani's most earth shattering policies and the feasibility of them. We discuss freezing the rent, free buses, raising the minimum wage, city run grocery stores, and universal childcare. If you're curious about what an economist who knows New York economics like the back of his hand thinks, this is the episode for you. And spoiler alert - he's a fan.

After President Trump ordered airstrikes on three key sites in Iran—targeting critical parts of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure—the world is once again on edge. The strikes marked a sharp escalation, dividing the public - even Trump's own base. I'm joined by William Wechsler, Senior Director of the Rafik Hariri Center and Middle East Programs at the Atlantic Council, to break down the motivations behind the strikes, the pros and cons of this move, and what comes next. It's a lively discussion on why this felt right to some and like a dangerous escalation to others. Plus, we look ahead to the potential outcomes of the upcoming negotiations. It's a discussion you don't want to miss.

Tensions in the Middle East have exploded. In a surprise move, Israel struck Iran’s nuclear facilities and military targets—igniting a wave of missile exchanges that has left dozens dead and wounded. Joining me is Vali Nasr—Professor of International Affairs at Johns Hopkins and former State Department advisor—to unpack why Israel chose this moment to escalate, what’s driving Iran’s response, and where the U.S. fits in now. We trace the path to this boiling point, from stalled nuclear talks to shifting regional alliances—and ask: how close are we to a wider war?

After ICE began sweeping Los Angeles—pulling immigrants from job sites, courthouses, and homes—the city erupted in protest. In response, the Trump administration bypassed California Governor Gavin Newsom and deployed the National Guard. Now, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has sent in the Marines. The use of military force to suppress protest on U.S. soil marks a dangerous precedent—and raises urgent constitutional questions about federal power and states' rights.Joining me to break it down is Harold Hongju Koh, former Legal Adviser to the U.S. Department of State and former Dean of Yale Law School. We unpack the legality of the Trump administration’s actions—and what this moment could mean for the future of American democracy.

One of the Trump administration's greatest enemies is higher education, and the attacks just keep coming. Asserting that higher-ed is "woke" or politically biased, and hiding behind the claim of stoping anti-semitism on campuses, the Trump admin has increased efforts to defund and delegitimize universities. From threats to campus free speech, cuts in federal funding, and arrests of international students, these moves are reshaping academia and impacting the U.S's international standing. I'm joined by Seth Masket, political scientist from the University of Denver and writer of the substack 'Tusk', to unpack Trump's moves, the broader impact, and the historical context.

In this episode, we dive into the recent Oval Office meeting between former U.S. President Donald Trump and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa — where Trump reignited the explosive and misleading claim of a “white genocide” targeting rural Afrikaner farmers. Trump showcased videos and images that fact-checkers quickly debunked, but where did this rumor originate — and what’s the real story behind it?To help untangle fact from fiction, I’m joined by Gareth Newham, Head of Justice and Violence Prevention at the Institute for Security Studies. Together, we break down the dangerous myth of white genocide and explore the deeper, complex challenges South Africa faces today. We also examine the enduring legacy of apartheid and how it fuels the narratives around land, race, and violence.

As Republicans work to pass a "big, beautiful" bill that would grant tax cuts to wealthy and give billions to defense and ICE, potential cuts are looming over three essential public assistance programs: Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). These programs support millions of low-income Americans, providing healthcare, food security, and stability to vulnerable populations, especially children and families.I'm joined by Joan Alker, Executive Director of the Center for Children and Families, to breakdown what these programs do, who they serve, and what the proposed reductions could mean for millions of families across the country. We discuss these potential changes and how these changes could impact healthcare access, food security, and children’s well-being—especially among low-income communities. And we tackle the misinformation surrounding this topic while we're at it.

Since March 2nd, no humanitarian aid has been allowed into the Gaza Strip, creating a man-made famine. And while Israel continues to bomb the strip, resulting in new deaths every day, it has largely faded from mainstream headlines. The atrocities unfolding in Gaza demand renewed attention.Joining me is Khaled Elgindy, former director of the Middle East Institute’s Program on Palestine and Israeli-Palestinian Affairs. We discuss the deepening starvation crisis, the recently proposed aid plans from the U.S. and Israel, and Israel’s blatant strategy for full control over Gaza. It’s a difficult conversation—but one we cannot afford to ignore.

In a time when autocrats dominate headlines and war feels like a permanent backdrop, how do we fight back against injustice? In this episode, I’m joined by Kenneth Roth, who spent 30 years as the executive director of Human Rights Watch, to discuss his powerful new book Righting Wrongs: Three Decades on the Front Lines Battling Abusive Governments. Drawing from a lifetime of confronting dictators, documenting atrocities, and pressing world leaders to act, Roth offers a rare, inside look at what it takes to defend human rights in the face of power. From the ongoing crises in Gaza and Ukraine to the conflicts in Congo and Sudan, he shares lessons on building effective advocacy, engaging reluctant governments, and sustaining pressure for accountability—even when justice feels out of reach.

Health and Human Services Secretary RFK Jr. is once again spreading controversy — this time with factually inaccurate and harmful claims about autism. At a time when autism affects 1 in 31 children in the U.S., it's more important than ever to confront misinformation with truth. I’m joined by Zoe Gross (no relation!), Director of Advocacy at the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, for a conversation that cuts through the noise. We dive into the real science behind autism, challenge RFK Jr.’s misleading rhetoric, and talk about what it actually means to live as an autistic person. This episode is a powerful reminder of why autistic voices must lead the conversation — not conspiracy theories or fear.

The re-election of Donald Trump, combined with the sweeping Republican victory across Congress, has left the Democratic Party in disarray. As the new administration approaches its first 100 days, the party is still working to regain its footing and chart a clear path forward.To explore the internal divisions and the future direction of the Democratic Party, I'm joined by Debbie Cox Bultan, CEO of NewDEAL Leaders—a national network of rising Democratic officials. Together, we dive into the challenges facing the party and what lies ahead.