On the Media
WNYC Studios
On the Media is a weekly show that uses the media as a lens to understand our world. On the Media listeners say the show is an essential companion, helping them survive the firehose of media coming at them 24/7. Hosted by Brooke Gladstone and Micah Loewinger, the show does not do ‘hot takes’, instead offering listeners context, historical parallels, media analysis and often a much appreciated deep exhale. On the Media hosts have an eye on the nuances and details regularly missed by other outlets which helps listeners understand where they should be paying attention (and what they can afford to ignore). Our media diets have untruths woven in, and inconvenient truths left out. These are the bits explored every week at On the Media.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jul 25, 2024 • 20min
Kamala Harris Replacing Joe Biden on the Ticket Isn’t Antidemocratic
Legal scholar Rick Hasen discusses the democratic process of Kamala Harris replacing Joe Biden as the nominee. GOP leaders' reactions are analyzed, debunking claims of it being anti-democratic. The history of party nominations and the complexities of candidate replacements are explored, emphasizing the democratic nature of such transitions.
7 snips
Jul 19, 2024 • 51min
How the Media Created J.D. Vance. Plus, the Anointing of Donald Trump
Former liberal darling turned MAGA leader J.D. Vance's rise from criticizing Trump to becoming a VP pick is dissected. The podcast also explores right-wing Christians who see Trump's survival as a divine anointing, delving into the New Right movement and Silicon Valley's ties to MAGA.
Jul 17, 2024 • 14min
It's Getting Hot in Here
Jake Bittle, staff writer at Grist, discusses the invisibility of extreme heat and the lack of media coverage. They highlight the dangers of heatwaves and the challenges faced by vulnerable communities. The episode explores the perception of heat as a disaster and the need for preparedness in dealing with extreme heat events.
13 snips
Jul 12, 2024 • 51min
What the Media Get Wrong About Immigration
Jonathan Blitzer, New Yorker immigration reporter, discusses Cold War roots of Central American migration to US. Brooke explores Congress' failure to reform immigration. Iyad el-Baghdadi discusses decolonization in Israel-Palestine conflict.
Jul 10, 2024 • 20min
Making Fun of Public Radio
Mike Judge, creator of Beavis and Butthead, discusses the parody show 'In the Know' on Peacock, satirizing public radio. Topics include the rich ground for satire in public radio, the complexity comedy can bring, and insights on creating humorous NPR-style content.
Jul 5, 2024 • 51min
The Sound of Patriotism
Guest Joseph Thompson, a history professor, discusses the transformation of hillbilly music into country music with US military support. They explore the link between country music and patriotism, debunking jingoistic song myths. Jack Hamilton talks about how 'The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down' became a Confederate anthem.
Jul 3, 2024 • 22min
Clarence Thomas' Unshaken Belief in Big Money
Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas's controversial luxury gifts from billionaire Harlan Crow are discussed, highlighting his relationships with money and power. The podcast delves into Thomas's past acceptance of expensive gifts and the implications for his jurisprudence. Progressives are seeking hearings on Thomas, but his position on the court may remain unaffected. The episode also explores the evolution of business activities as speech and the correlation between money and politics.
Jun 28, 2024 • 51min
No, Joe Biden Didn’t Poop His Pants. Plus, the Supreme Court’s Fact-Checking Problem
Judd Legum, author of Popular Information, exposes a right-wing outlet spreading false narratives about President Biden. Mark Joseph Stern discusses factual errors in a Supreme Court decision on guns. Allison Orr Larsen highlights the impact of misleading amicus briefs on Supreme Court rulings and proposes reforms for a more transparent process.
Jun 26, 2024 • 28min
Do Sperm Whales Talk to Each Other?
Explore the intricate communication of sperm whales with a phonetic alphabet similar to human languages. Learn about the impact of understanding whale communication on conservation efforts. Hear the inspiring tale of a rescued sperm whale calf named Digit. Discover the power of effective communication in conservation movements and the social behavior of sperm whales.
54 snips
Jun 21, 2024 • 51min
The Ensh*ttification of Everything
Cory Doctorow discusses the decline of the internet, antitrust practices, and solutions for a better web. They explore privacy laws, interoperability, and the 'right-to-exit.' The episode also touches on industries immune to 'enshittification.'
