The Golden Age with Andrew Zucker

On this episode, Andrew is joined by USA Today senior editor Dan Morrison. Dan reveals how Trump’s pattern of construction during his time as a private real estate developer help explain the White House Ballroom build. Dan discusses Trump Tower, the old Commodore Hotel, and the Old Post Office.

Andrew sits down with Amy Gaines McQuade, the producer behind Deep Cover: George Santos to unpack the latest in the fabulist’s wild tale and commutation.  McQuade discusses how he scammed donors, landed a seven-year sentence, and, ultimately, served just a small amount of time. McQuade also discusses what Santos’s future career could look like and whether more prosecutions lie ahead.

Globe and Mail features writer Ian Brown joins host Andrew Zucker to discuss his latest piece, “We Live in a Golden Age of Sycophancy.” Brown discusses global leaders’ use of flattery with Trump, how Canada reacted to the Carney-Trump meeting, and the dangers of bootlicking in business and beyond. Read Ian’s article:

Emily Baker-White, the author of Every Screen on the Planet, joins host Andrew Zucker to discuss TikTok’s rise and its ties to the Chinese government. Baker-White also reveals why Trump changed his tune about the app, and talks about the proposed deal to sell TikTok’s U.S. arm and what that means for the app’s all-powerful algorithm.  Get more info about Emily’s new book  "Every Screen on the Planet: The War Over TikTok" - https://wwnorton.com/books/9781324086673

Wall Street Journal reporter Aaron Zitner joins host Andrew Zucker to discuss the rise and beliefs of Doug Wilson, the firebrand Christian nationalist pastor. Wilson’s controversial denomination, the Communion of Reformed Evangelical Churches, has incredibly incendiary beliefs and recently expanded to D.C. Although tiny, CREC is becoming more popular on the right and Pete Hegseth attends one of CREC’s member churches. So what is Christian nationalism and will Wilson be a force in Republican politics in the years ahead? Zitner answers all of that and more

On this episode, CNN senior legal analyst Elie Honig discusses his new book, When You Come at the King: Inside DOJ's Pursuit of the President, from Nixon to Trump. Honig shares stories about Brett Kavanaugh’s involvement in the Ken Starr investigation, how President Grant dealt with investigations into his own presidency, and why Jack Smith couldn’t compete with the timeline Merrick Garland gave him.

After the Jimmy Kimmel Debacle for Trump and the FCC Andrew Zucker Is joined by WSJ reporter Maggie Severns to discuss Brendan Carr’s meteoric career ascent and recent moves at the FCC. The two chat about how Carr thinks about public interest, how he’s expanding the FCC’s mandate, and what his next moves might be at the independent agency.

Andrew Zucker invites Franklin Foer to explore Elon Musk's obsession with Mars, the interdependence of SpaceX and NASA, the role of Starlink in SpaceX's business model, the political dynamics surrounding space exploration, and the evolving role of NASA in the context of privatized space exploration.

Joining Andrew Zucker this week is Kelly Weinersmith to discuss her book on space settlement, exploring the challenges and considerations of human adaptation to space environments. She highlights the motivations of billionaires like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos in space exploration, the feasibility of settling on Mars versus the Moon, and the implications of international law on space colonization. The conversation concludes with reflections on the future of humanity in space and the pressing questions that remain unanswered. Check out Kellys Podcast: Daniel and Kelly's Extraordinary Universe  https://sites.uci.edu/danielandkelly/

Andrew Zucker is joined this week by Jasper Craven. The confirmation hearing of Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense explores his views on diversity and liberal arts education at military academies like West Point. It also examines the historical tension between civilian professors and military leadership, influenced by Trump’s executive order on military education. The case of Professor Graham Parsons, who faced repercussions for his critical stance on the military’s direction under Hegseth and Trump, is highlighted. The implications for military education and the role of civilian professors are discussed, revealing power dynamics and educational philosophies. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Follow The Golden Age Podcast on Instagram Email your questions: [email protected] More from Andrew Zucker: X | Bluesky | Substack | Instagram  New York Times: Does This Perfume Smell Like Gentrification? Read Andrew’s articles on Town & Country Add Andrew Zucker & your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky

Andrew Zucker is joined by Gary Ginsberg to discuss the life and legacy of John F. Kennedy Jr., focusing on his documentary and the creation of George Magazine. Ginsberg reflects on JFK Jr.'s desire to carve out his own identity while honoring his father's legacy, his innovative vision for political media, and the challenges he faced in the industry. The discussion also touches on JFK Jr.'s personal life, his aspirations for public office, and the impact of his untimely death on the political landscape. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Follow The Golden Age Podcast on Instagram Email your questions: [email protected] More from Andrew Zucker: X | Bluesky | Substack | Instagram  New York Times: Does This Perfume Smell Like Gentrification? Read Andrew’s articles on Town & Country Add Andrew Zucker & your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky

Andrew Zucker is joined by Jane Kamensky, president of Monticello, to discuss the historical significance of Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson, and its role in American history. She highlights the upcoming 250th anniversary of America and the special events planned to celebrate it, including the Founding Friends, Founding Foes Tour, which explores the complex friendship between Thomas Jefferson and John Adams. Kamensky delves into their relationship, the impact of Dr. Benjamin Rush in reconciling their differences, and the political fractures that emerged during their time. The discussion also touches on their post-presidency lives, the symbolism of their deaths on July 4th, and the lessons their friendship offers for contemporary society. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Follow The Golden Age Podcast on Instagram Email your questions: [email protected] More from Andrew Zucker: X | Bluesky | Substack | Instagram  New York Times: Does This Perfume Smell Like Gentrification? Read Andrew’s articles on Town & Country Add Andrew Zucker & your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky

Andrew Zucker is joined by Katy Balls, the Washington editor of the Times of London, to discuss  her profile of Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA. She explores Kirk's rise as a significant figure in the MAGA movement, his influence on young voters, and the dynamics of political engagement among youth. The discussion also touches on Kirk's relationships within the Trump administration, the impact of controversies like the Epstein case, and the broader cultural shifts in American politics. Katy emphasizes the importance of understanding the youth vote and how it has shifted towards the right, as well as the potential for a national revival rooted in patriotism and Christian values. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Follow The Golden Age Podcast on Instagram Email your questions: [email protected] More from Andrew Zucker: X | Bluesky | Substack | Instagram  New York Times: Does This Perfume Smell Like Gentrification? Read Andrew’s articles on Town & Country Add Andrew Zucker & your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky

Andrew Zucker welcomes Michael Grynbaum as they  delve into the profound cultural and commercial influence of Condé Nast magazines. Join them as they explore how these iconic publications, once the arbiters of style and sophistication, shaped the zeitgeist and captivated audiences worldwide. From the glamorous lives of editors to the strategic allure that attracted advertisers, discover how Condé Nast became synonymous with refinement and influence. We also discuss the evolving landscape of media and the enduring legacy of brands like Vogue and Vanity Fair.  Andrew and Michael take us on an insightful journey through the golden age of magazines and their lasting impact on culture and commerce. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Follow The Golden Age Podcast on Instagram Email your questions: [email protected] More from Andrew Zucker: X | Bluesky | Substack | Instagram  New York Times: Does This Perfume Smell Like Gentrification? Read Andrew’s articles on Town & Country Add Andrew Zucker & your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky

Salena Zito discusses her experiences covering Donald Trump’s political landscape, particularly the aftermath of an assassination attempt. She talks about the emotional rally scene, Trump’s belief in divine intervention, the media’s portrayal, and the shifting American politics. Zito emphasizes the disconnect between the media narrative and Trump’s supporters in the heartland, stressing the importance of understanding the electorate beyond online discourse. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Follow The Golden Age Podcast on Instagram Email your questions: [email protected] More from Andrew Zucker: X | Bluesky | Substack | Instagram  New York Times: Does This Perfume Smell Like Gentrification? Read Andrew’s articles on Town & Country Add Andrew Zucker & your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky

Don Lemon joins host Andrew Zucker to talk about the latest craziness concerning the Epstein case. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Follow The Golden Age Podcast on Instagram Email your questions: [email protected] More from Andrew Zucker: X | Bluesky | Substack | Instagram  New York Times: Does This Perfume Smell Like Gentrification? Read Andrew’s articles on Town & Country Add Andrew Zucker & your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky

Katie Phang joins Andrew Zucker to talk about the MAGA meltdown over Jeffrey Epstein and whether Democrats can capitalize on it. She also discusses important Supreme Court cases, including the Department of Education mass firings, and what might happen to birthright citizenship. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Follow The Golden Age Podcast on Instagram Email your questions: [email protected] More from Andrew Zucker: X | Bluesky | Substack | Instagram  New York Times: Does This Perfume Smell Like Gentrification? Read Andrew’s articles on Town & Country Add Andrew Zucker & your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky

Andrew is joined by The Free Press's Olivia Reingold to talk about Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic nominee for mayor of NYC. Reingold discusses the 33-year-old's campaign, whether Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa has a chance in November, and how translatable a democratic socialist's policies are in the heartland of the country. Reingold also shares some of her reporting around Mamdani's stances on Israel and socialism. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Follow The Golden Age Podcast on Instagram Email your questions: [email protected] More from Andrew Zucker: X | Bluesky | Substack | Instagram  New York Times: Does This Perfume Smell Like Gentrification? Read Andrew’s articles on Town & Country Add Andrew Zucker & your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky

On this episode of The Golden Age, host Andrew Zucker sits down with Israeli journalist Neria Kraus to talk all-things-Iran. Kraus unpacks the MAGA split over the Iran strikes, including that Cruz v. Tucker fight. She also reveals how Netanyahu lobbied for action, and what Israeli intelligence showed about Iran's nuclear capabilities. They also discuss Trump’s push for a Nobel Peace Prize, whether Trump can achieve long-term ceasefires in the region, and what a new deal with Iran could look like. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Follow The Golden Age Podcast on Instagram Email your questions: [email protected] More from Andrew Zucker: X | Bluesky | Substack | Instagram  New York Times: Does This Perfume Smell Like Gentrification? Read Andrew’s articles on Town & Country Add Andrew Zucker & your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky

Andrew is joined this week by Piper Yerks to chat about the current state of the DC real estate market, noting the influx of wealthy buyers, especially in luxury. She explains the factors driving this trend, including the current administration, technology and sports management industries, and buyers’ preferences for privacy and health-oriented amenities. These changes impact DC’s local culture, dining, and lifestyle. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Follow The Golden Age Podcast on Instagram Email your questions: [email protected] More from Andrew Zucker: X | Bluesky | Substack | Instagram  New York Times: Does This Perfume Smell Like Gentrification? Read Andrew’s articles on Town & Country Add Andrew Zucker & your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky

On this episode, investigative journalist Vicky Ward joins host Andrew Zucker to discuss the criminal cases in the zeitgeist, from Diddy to Weinstein to Kohberger. Ward reveals the 2019 meeting she had with Weinstein before he went to trial and discusses her theory on Idaho murders suspect Bryan Kohberger's motive. Plus, she previews more from her new book about the Idaho case and discusses how the post-#MeToo landscape has shifted. atch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Follow The Golden Age Podcast on Instagram Email your questions: [email protected] More from Andrew Zucker: X | Bluesky | Substack | Instagram  New York Times: Does This Perfume Smell Like Gentrification? Read Andrew’s articles on Town & Country Add Andrew Zucker & your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky

On this episode, Andrew talks with 'The Haves and Have-Yachts' author Evan Osnos about his dispatches from the frontlines of ultra-wealthy living. Osnos discusses the growing inequality in America and whether it's ultimately sustainable. He also reveals the possibility of the first trillionaire. It also veers into why some well-heeled execs are building bunkers, billionaire philanthropy, and the ways people can influence the president. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Follow The Golden Age Podcast on Instagram Email your questions: [email protected] More from Andrew Zucker: X | Bluesky | Substack | Instagram  New York Times: Does This Perfume Smell Like Gentrification? Read Andrew’s articles on Town & Country Add Andrew Zucker & your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky

How did the presidential pardon go from a tool of mercy to an expression of power? On this episode, Jeffrey Toobin joins Golden Age host Andrew Zucker to discuss the origins of pardons, Ford’s pardon of Nixon, and how pardons have evolved since then. Toobin dives into whether there was a pardon for presidency trade between Ford and Nixon, how Ford was swayed into the pardon, and who Trump might just pardon next. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Follow The Golden Age Podcast on Instagram Email your questions: [email protected] More from Andrew Zucker: X | Bluesky | Substack | Instagram  New York Times: Does This Perfume Smell Like Gentrification? Read Andrew’s articles on Town & Country Add Andrew Zucker & your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky

Suzy Weiss joins Andrew to break down the week’s wildest headlines, from Brigitte Macron’s viral slap to Trump’s crypto donor dinner and Jake Tapper’s bombshell book on Biden. They get into why Democrats can’t quit their aging leaders, what Trump’s war on Harvard signals for higher ed, and why AI means the return of the blue book. Plus, can the new Joe Rogan be manufactured? tch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Follow The Golden Age Podcast on Instagram Email your questions: [email protected] More from Andrew Zucker: X | Bluesky | Substack | Instagram  New York Times: Does This Perfume Smell Like Gentrification? Read Andrew’s articles on Town & Country Add Andrew Zucker & your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky

Andrew talks to John McCarthy, former political advisor to President Biden and liaison to the Catholic Church, about Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope in history. McCarthy explains why the election of Pope Leo XIV surprised some Vatican watchers, what his name signals about his priorities, and how his papacy could continue Francis’s legacy. They also discuss the Church’s growing engagement with global policymakers and, of course, the new Pope’s brothers. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Follow The Golden Age Podcast on Instagram Email your questions: [email protected] More from Andrew Zucker: X | Bluesky | Substack | Instagram  New York Times: Does This Perfume Smell Like Gentrification? Read Andrew’s articles on Town & Country Add Andrew Zucker & your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky

Andrew chats with Substack co-founder Hamish McKenzie for a conversation on how Substack became one of the most consequential media platforms of the last decade. They discuss the origins of the company's subscription-first model, why owning your audience relationship is the future, and AI’s role in journalism. Hamish also opens up about what it was like working at Tesla under Elon Musk, how Substack responded when Musk tried to buy the company (and later tried to "nuke" it), and where the platform goes from here (hint: it’s not just a text-based platform).

What did TRUMP just say about ALCATRAZ:  Matt Friend Sounds Off

This week, Andrew sits down with cultural writer and go-to youth whisperer Casey Lewis to unpack all things Gen Z. They dive into how TikTok has become Gen Z’s de facto news outlet, why Elon Musk still has a loyal fanbase, and how Gen Z’s political shift could reshape the next decade. Plus: the weirdest new Gen Alpha trend you haven’t heard about yet. 

Molly Jong-Fast joins Andrew for a high-speed journey through the state of American politics. MJF weighs in on Pete Hegseth, Elon Musk's cuts, and the El Salvador deportations. She also shares initial thoughts on the primary field in 2028 and whether the Dems can hold onto the House and take the Senate in 2026. Plus, she shares a preview of her upcoming memoir.  Pre Order Molly’s Book 👇🏻 https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/738849/how-to-lose-your-mother-by-molly-jong-fast/ Subscribe to Fast Politics 👇🏻👇🏻 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fast-politics-with-molly-jong-fast/id1645614328 Subscribe to Molly’s Vanity Fair pieces👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻 https://www.vanityfair.com/newsletter/jong-faster-politics

Andrew Zucker is joined by Axios reporter Alex Isenstadt, author of Revenge, for a conversation about his book and previously unreported stories from Trump’s comeback campaign. Isenstadt reveals the remarkable moments following the assasination attempt in Butler, the unique way Elon Musk convinced Trump to pick J.D. Vance as VP, and the late Brooklyn political boss who shapes Trump's rhetoric.

Andrew is joined by Oliver Darcy, the founder and author of Status, a nightly newsletter covering the media industry. Oliver breaks down the WHCA’s responses to attacks on press freedom—most recently pulling comic Amber Ruffin from roasting at the WHCD. They also dive into how a recession could hurt media companies, the various threats facing newsrooms, and the one media mogul who has it out for Status.

Andrew is joined by Gen Z expert and journalist Rachel Janfaza to break down her new framework: Gen Z 1.0 and 2.0. Based on years of listening sessions and on-the-ground reporting, Rachel explains how the COVID-19 pandemic created a generational fault line within Gen Z—and how that split is influencing everything from voting patterns to campus culture. They discuss what caused a rightward shift amongst Gen Z in the 2024 presidential election and how politicians can better embrace new media.

Andrew Zucker talks with Raquel Debono, the CMO of Date Right Stuff, a dating app for conservatives. With backing from Peter Thiel, Date Right Stuff has become the platform for young Trumpers to find love. Debono opens up about dating in blue cities, how the app was born out of awkward dates and walkouts, and the rise of the other MAHA—Make America Hot Again in-person events, including one at Trump Tower. She also talks about what’s next for the app, such as a feature helping right-wingers find right-wing friends.

Andrew Zucker chats with Rolling Stone contributing writer Jack Crosbie, who recently profiled Dana White and UFC’s takeover of American culture. Over two decades, White transformed the once-fringe sport, turning it into a mainstream powerhouse. Today, the billion-dollar circus is fully enmeshed in American politics, too, thanks in no small part to the decades-old relationship between Donald Trump and White. Crosbie shares how the two cultural icons first crossed paths, their shared approach to media and branding, and UFC’s unique approach to building a colossus. 

Andrew Zucker sits down with Bart Hutchins, the restaurateur behind Butterworth’s, one of D.C.’s most buzzed-about restaurants. In just six months, the restaurant has become a watering hole for MAGA and welcomed administration officials like Kash Patel and Scott Bessent, as well as Speaker Mike Johnson, Nigel Farage, and Steve Bannon. Bart discusses the inspiration behind the restaurant, how MAGA made it their own, and why its design could prevent President Trump from making an appearance.

The Golden Age with Andrew Zucker is a weekly podcast unpacking the biggest stories where culture and politics collide—because today, you can't understand one without the other. As a contributing editor at Town & Country and writer for various publications, Andrew has focused his reporting on this intersection. The Golden Age goes beyond the headlines, giving audiences a front-row seat to conversations with figures shaping today's world.