The Commentary Magazine Podcast

So Long, Continetti

13 snips
Oct 31, 2025
Matthew Continetti, a Washington Commentary columnist, bids farewell as he transitions to writing for the Wall Street Journal. He reflects on the origins and evolution of the podcast, likening it to a daily editorial meeting where diverse viewpoints thrive. The discussion dives into the human impulse to cancel and explores Helen Andrews' provocative essay on feminization and cancel culture. Matt shares his travel-inspired book recommendations, including a history of India and a charming Woody Allen film, leaving listeners with thoughtful insights.
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ANECDOTE

Podcast Began With Improv Tech Hacks

  • Early podcast episodes used stacked books (including a set of the Talmud) as a makeshift microphone stand.
  • Politico noticed and the hosts quickly adjusted, creating a memorable origin-story moment.
ADVICE

Don't Pitch Guest Interview Gimmicks

  • Avoid turning the podcast into routine book-promo interviews because listeners value recurring voices more.
  • John Podhoretz instructs PR people that random pitching of guest interviews often misses the show's format and audience expectations.
INSIGHT

Value Of Hearing Voices Over Time

  • Long-running shows allow listeners to track changing views and intellectual evolution over time.
  • Podhoretz argues sustained exposure to recurring voices reveals how positions adapt as facts change.
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