City Journal Audio

What did journalists know about terrorism before 9/11? How has national security reporting changed? Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Judith Miller reflects on her long career covering global conflicts, terrorism, intelligence, and the Middle East. Drawing from decades of frontline reporting, Judith discusses her experiences covering major events in the Middle East, the growing threat of terrorism before the September 11 attacks, and the complex relationship between journalism, government policy, and national security. She also reflects on her time in jail and defending the First Amendment, and shares her perspective on the challenges facing modern journalism and the responsibility of reporters covering high-stakes international issues.

Seth Barron joins Brian Anderson to discuss his new book, "Weaponized: The Left's Capture and Destruction of America's Sacred Institutions."

Award-winning crime journalist Joe Marino joins the podcast for a candid, in-depth conversation on crime, policing, and public safety in New York City. Marino examines the complex issues shaping today's justice system, from criminal-justice reform and evolving policing strategies to recidivism, media narratives, and the human behavior behind the headlines. Drawing on years of frontline reporting, he offers sharp insights into how policy, politics, data, and public perception collide—and what it all means for crime and accountability in America's largest city.

What does it take to write books that make the establishment uncomfortable—and keep writing them anyway? Manhattan Institute Senior Fellow Abigail Shrier joins Rafael Mangual for an engrossing conversation. The author of two national bestsellers, Irreversible Damage and Bad Therapy, Shrier has spent years investigating what's gone wrong in the institutions educating and treating America's children—and speaking honestly about the consequences.

Ben Sasse addresses the centrality of the family and the challenges of technology in accepting the Manhattan Institute's Hamilton Award.

America's children are in crisis—and the system designed to help them is breaking down. Christina Buttons, Naomi Schaefer Riley, Scott Dziengelski, and Carolyn Gorman explore one of the most urgent and overlooked issues in public health: the severe shortage of residential treatment beds for young people struggling with mental illness. What happens when children need intensive care and there's nowhere to send them? We dig into the real story behind treatment facilities, cutting through the media sensationalism to show what quality mental health care for kids really looks like. Our discussion pulls no punches on how flawed legislation is making a fragile system even worse—and how the right reforms could make a difference.  

Is America trading excellence for ideology? In this episode, Rafael Mangual sits down with Heather Mac Donald—author of When Race Trumps Merit—for a frank conversation about affirmative action, diversity mandates, and what happens when institutions prioritize identity over ability. They dig into the real-world consequences of diversity-driven policies in education and the workplace, the growing skills gap, and the cultural factors that shape outcomes. It's a provocative and engaging discussion of issues many people try to avoid talking about.

Naomi Schaefer Riley and Rafael Mangual discuss the complexities of the child welfare system in the U.S. They explore controversial policies surrounding child protection, neglect, and foster care, emphasizing the need for transparency and reform.

Chelsea Follett joins Brian Anderson to talk about how technology has improved urban living from earlier times.

Ilya Shapiro and Rafael Mangual discuss the Supreme Court's most consequential recent decisions and anticipate the legal battles that could define the future of American law. From landmark rulings to looming cases, they offer sharp analysis of issues like birthright citizenship, the scope of executive power, and the role of independent agencies—while examining how judicial philosophy continues to influence the Court's approach. They also look ahead to what's next: potential retirements, shifting dynamics on the bench, and high-stakes cases such as Childs v. Salazar.  

Founder of the Open Therapy Institute Andrew Hartz and Rafael Mangual explore the growing influence of political bias in psychotherapy and what it means for both therapists and clients. Hartz makes the case for an approach to mental health care that respects personal beliefs while still promoting growth and well-being.

Jarrett Dieterle, Neetu Arnold, and Rafael Mangual discuss surprising parallels between the soaring costs of higher education and the price of food delivery. What's driving these increases—and who's really paying for them? They examine how government regulations, subsidies, and market dynamics shape affordability in both sectors. Their conversation challenges conventional thinking about cost, value, and opportunity in today's economy.

Judge Glock, John Ketcham, and Rafael Mangual discuss key factors affecting urban affordability. From the hidden impact of sales taxes to the role of density in shaping livable cities, they examine how policy decisions affect housing costs, public services, and quality of life. Whether you're a policymaker, city resident, or just curious about the future of urban living, this episode offers sharp insights into what makes cities affordable.

Nicole Gelinas joins Brian Anderson to discuss Zohran Mamdani's performance as mayor and the fiscal condition of New York City. 

Professor Robert P. George and Rafael Mangual explore the enduring foundations of American constitutionalism and what they reveal about human nature, power, and freedom. Drawing on the vision of the Founding Fathers, George explains why structural limits on authority—not just good intentions—are essential to preserving liberty.

City Journal Editor Brian Anderson and Rafael Mangual explore the magazine's history, its influence on urban policy, and the challenges associated with technological change. They discuss City Journal's distinctive approach to policy journalism and the importance of style and accessibility in conservative media.

Allison Schrager and Rafael Mangual discuss the nuances of conservative economics, the importance of free markets, the role of incentives, and the impact of regulation. They explore the philosophical underpinnings of economic thought, the significance of risk tolerance, and the influential thinkers who contributed to modern economic understanding.

Stephen Eide and Rafael Mangual sit down for a hard-hitting conversation on homelessness, mental illness, and the policies shaping America's cities. The discussion explores the breakdown of family support systems, the limits of government intervention, and the thorny questions surrounding institutionalization and public safety. Eide argues for a more realistic, balanced approach—one that confronts the realities of serious mental illness while pushing for practical, effective reforms.

Lionel Shriver discusses her new novel, A Better Life, with Manhattan Institute Senior Fellow Douglas Murray.

Author and cultural critic Douglas Murray joins Rafael Mangual to talk about the growing challenges facing the West. They discuss the rise of anti-Semitism, the failures of socialism, and the erosion of free speech, especially in the U.K. Murray makes a clear case for defending Western values with courage, clarity, and action.

Leor Sapir and Rafael Mangual dive into one of the most polarizing issues of our time: gender ideology. They explore how gender discourse evolved over the past decade, including cultural and policy shifts during the Obama administration, and how these developments reshaped institutions, media narratives, and social norms. A major focus of their conversation is the medical treatment of gender dysphoria in youth.

John O. McGinnis joins Brian Anderson to discuss his forthcoming book, Why Democracy Needs the Rich: The Hidden Benefits of Wealth in a Free Society.

Manhattan Institute Legal Policy Fellow Tal Fortgang and Rafael Mangual explore the differences between civil terrorism and civil disobedience. Fortgang explains how some organizations exploit legal loopholes to avoid accountability for lawless behavior, and why current laws often fail to address coordinated disruption and destruction.

Rob Henderson, Theodore Dalrymple, and Rafael Mangual examine the real drivers of antisocial behavior and crime—and the growing disconnect between policymakers and the communities most affected by violence. They explore how elite "luxury beliefs" shape public narratives around criminality, often minimizing harm while insulating decision-makers from the consequences of their ideas.

Jason L. Riley, senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute and one of the most incisive voices in today's debates over race and public policy, joins Rafael Mangual to discuss how the Left frames racial disparities to advance a victimhood mentality, rather than solutions rooted in responsibility, opportunity, and community empowerment.

In this episode of our "Who We Are" series, Ilya Shapiro, James Copland, and Rafael Mangual discuss the work of the Manhattan Institute and City Journal in the context of conservative legal thought and jurisprudence. They examine the rise and influence of the conservative legal movement—tracing its roots, chronicling some of its internal debates, and examining how it has reshaped American law, courts, and legal education. They also examine how the Federalist Society transformed legal education and elite institutions, and why significant challenges remain for conservatives seeking to achieve lasting legal change.

In the first episode of our new "Who We Are" series, Rafael Mangual and Heather Mac Donald discuss the work of the Manhattan Institute and City Journal on crime and public safety over the years. They cover Broken Windows policing, disparate impact, the reality of interracial crime, why public order matters, and what Mayor Zohran Mamdani's policies will mean for daily life in New York City.

In this year-in-review episode of the City Journal Podcast, we look back at the most compelling conversations from recent months. From Douglas Murray to Heather Mac Donald and Abigail Shrier, the episode features engaging, timely cultural debates and in-depth policy discussions, offering listeners a snapshot of City Journal's podcast coverage.

As 2025 comes to a close, the City Journal Podcast revisits some of its best conversations from the past few months. From discussing Sydney Sweeney's "jeans" to analyzing Zohran Mamdani's victory in New York City's mayoral race, this compilation episode brings together some of our most thought-provoking moments.

In this special edition of the City Journal podcast, Daniel Di Martino, Josh Appel, and Rafael Mangual reflect on the magic of the holiday season in New York City. They share some of their favorite traditions, discuss the enduring lessons of movies like It's a Wonderful Life, and consider deeper questions about individualism versus social obligation.

Rafael Mangual, Judge Glock, and Adam Lehodey talk about New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani's pledge to end homeless encampment clearances. They discuss the small group of supporters who believe sheltering outside is a human right, explain why relying on the shelter system is preferable, and consider the implications of letting the homeless occupy the city's limited public spaces. They also examine the Community Opportunity to Purchase Act, which would give nonprofits the first right of refusal to buy housing. 

Natalya Murakhver joins John Tierney to discuss her film 15 Days and her efforts to resist the shutdown of schools during the Covid-19 lockdown. 

Tal Fortgang, Jim Copland, and Rafael Mangual discuss the developing political relationship between Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani and President Donald Trump, exploring how Mamdani's anticipated approach to immigration enforcement and public safety could reshape the city's political landscape. They consider the consequences when local policy collides with federal authority, and whether New York could be headed toward a new wave of protests or civil unrest.

Rafael Mangual, Renu Mukherjee, and Santiago Vidal Calvo discuss New York City's mayoral election and the demographic groups that propelled Mamdani to victory. They also examine the changing electorate and what the results could mean for progressive policies in other cities.

Is socialism gaining ground in America—or just getting a rebrand? In this episode, Rafael Mangual, Daniel Di Martino, and Stu Smith examine the shifting perception of socialism in U.S. politics and the growing visibility of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA). Long seen as a political nonstarter, socialism is finding new support among younger voters and progressive movements. What's behind this change—and what does it mean for the future of American democracy and the traditional two-party system?

Stephen Eide joins Brian Anderson to discuss "Scandinavia on the Hudson," his story from City Journal's Autumn 2025 issue.

Charles Fain Lehman, Rafael Mangual, John Ketcham, and Pirate Wires's Mike Solana analyze the results of New York City's mayoral election.

How can students know which colleges will give them the best educational value for their dollar? Renu Mukherjee, Neetu Arnold, and Rafael Mangual explore City Journal's newly released College Rankings—and what makes them so different from other college-assessment guides. They discuss the experiences of conservative students on campus, the importance of ideological diversity, how social pressures shape student life, and the tension between meritocracy and identity in admissions.

What did the final New York City mayoral debate reveal about the future of the race—and the city itself? Nicole Gelinas, John Ketcham, and Rafael Mangual break down the candidates' best and worst moments, and what their performances signal for voters. They also dig into the biggest issues shaping public sentiment—from the crisis at Rikers Island and challenges in education policy to the fallout from recent ICE raids on Canal Street.

Daniel Di Martino, Tal Fortgang, and Rafael Mangual explore the generational divides in activism and what fuels people to mobilize. They share personal stories of political awakening, reflect on how social issues have shaped their worldviews, and question the coherence and direction of contemporary protest movements. It's a candid conversation about governance, resistance, and American attitudes toward power.

Why are so many young people struggling with mental health? Abigail Shrier, Rob Henderson, and Brian Anderson explore the roots of the crisis and examine the roles played by mental health professionals, shifting parenting styles, the influence of schools, and social media. Their conversation underscores the value of authoritative parenting, the importance of setting high expectations, and the need for parents to take a more active role in their children's development within a culture increasingly shaped by therapeutic narratives.

James Hankins and Allen Guelzo join Brian Anderson to discuss their new book project, "The Golden Thread: The History of the Western Tradition."

What does it mean for American media when someone like Bari Weiss is tapped to lead one of the country's legacy news outlets? Rafael Mangual, Jesse Arm, Carolyn Gorman, and Kerry Soropoulos analyze Paramount's acquisition of The Free Press and the appointment of Weiss as editor-in-chief of CBS News. The panel explores Weiss's track record of challenging orthodoxies and what her rise signals for journalism's future. They also discuss California's shifting political dynamics, spotlighting Representative Katie Porter's potential gubernatorial run.

What does a university's response to terror reveal about its values and its influence on society? On the two-year anniversary of Hamas's October 7 attacks on Israel, Stu Smith, Neetu Arnold, Adam Lehodey, and Rafael Mangual reflect on national and global reactions to the attacks, especially on American university campuses. Their conversation explores the ideological influence of faculty and campus activism that blurred the line between academic freedom and lawlessness. They also consider how federal funding and institutional incentives shape university behavior.

Is the Democratic Party being pulled too far left—or is moderation making a comeback? Jesse Arm, Charles Fain Lehman, and Rafael Mangual discuss the recent government shutdown and the role of the filibuster in shaping legislative outcomes. They analyze tensions in the Democratic Party between radical grassroots movements and centrist pragmatism. And they examine the rise of the "abundance bros" and what this techno-optimist movement says about our current politics.

What does Eric Adams's exit from the 2025 mayoral race mean for New York City's political future? Rob Henderson, Nicole Gelinas, John Ketcham, and Rafael Mangual assess how the sitting mayor's withdrawal reshapes the race for City Hall and analyze the strategies of remaining contenders Zohran Mamdani, Andrew Cuomo, and Curtis Sliwa. They discuss the key issues shaping voter priorities, from crime and public safety to housing affordability. They also explore the controversy surrounding the Democratic Socialists of America's support for convicted cop killer Assata Shakur, who died on Thursday.

What are the consequences of a culture that undermines masculinity? Heather Mac Donald, Daniel Di Martino, and Rafael Mangual examine the complex forces fueling rising tensions in America. They discuss the recent attack on an ICE facility in Dallas, the cultural crisis of masculinity, the importance of fatherhood, and the need for positive male role models. Drawing on the legacy of figures like Charlie Kirk, they reflect on why it's crucial to revive values like courage, heroism, and personal responsibility.

What does the Jimmy Kimmel episode reveal about free speech in America? Ilya Shapiro, Charles Fain Lehman, John Ketcham, and Rafael Mangual unpack the controversy surrounding the cancellation of Kimmel's ABC show and explore how government influence, corporate media decisions, and public protest movements intersect in shaping the national discourse. The panel also discusses controversial figures like Woody Allen and what their continued relevance says about shifting political and cultural norms.

Howard Husock joins Stephen Eide to discuss his new book, The Projects: A New History of Public Housing.

Why are so many young men becoming radicalized online? Rob Henderson, Carolyn Gorman, and Isabella Redjai examine the recent assassination of Charlie Kirk and the radicalization of his alleged killer, Tyler Robinson. They explore how social media and college campuses influence political beliefs and discuss the growing epidemic of loneliness and isolation. The conversation also addresses the normalization of violence and the blurred line between mental illness and political extremism, and what these disturbing trends might signal for the future.