The Dishcast with Andrew Sullivan

Anderson Cooper, a prominent broadcast journalist and CNN anchor, dives deep into personal loss and grief. He shares poignant stories of losing his brother to suicide, and how he sought solace in war zones. The heartfelt conversation also touches on the AIDS crisis, revealing the immense emotional toll it took on the LGBTQ+ community. Together, they reminisce about friends lost to the disease and explore themes of love, connection, and societal stigma. With moments of vulnerability, they reflect on healing through music and the complexities of navigating grief.

Damon Linker, a political writer and editor known for his sharp insights on American politics, dives into Trump's unexpected revival as a formidable force. He discusses how Trump transformed from a laughingstock to a key influencer, tapping into overlooked voter segments. The conversation touches on the backlash against elites, the nuanced dynamics of immigration, and the implications of a potential second Trump term, revealing the complexities of modern political sentiment and the changing landscape of voter motivations.

Musa al-Gharbi, a sociologist and assistant professor at Stony Brook University, discusses his book 'We Have Never Been Woke,' exploring cultural contradictions within elite circles. He shares insights on how elite overproduction fuels wokeness and critiques white privilege narratives that often overlook the challenges faced by poorer whites. Musa also delves into the complexities of the transgender debate, advocating for fairness in sports while addressing mental health implications for children questioning their gender. His journey through diverse faiths, including his transition to Islam, adds depth to his perspectives on freedom and constraints.

Sam Harris, a renowned neuroscientist, philosopher, and author, shares thought-provoking insights on the political landscape as the election approaches. He discusses Trump's controversial policies, including his deportation plans and the dynamics of his cult-like following. Harris critiques the lack of a grassroots movement and examines Kamala Harris's campaign strategies. The conversation dives into issues of identity politics and the shifting views within the Democratic Party, urging a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding current political narratives.

Tina Brown is a celebrated media executive and author, known for revitalizing iconic publications like Vanity Fair and The New Yorker. In this engaging conversation, she discusses the personal cruelty of Donald Trump, reflecting on his impact on public sanity and political dynamics. They explore the current state of the GOP, race relations, and the challenges faced by conservative voices in liberal media. Tina also shares insights from her new Substack, which tackles political anxieties and the emotional toll of cancel culture.

Walter Kirn, a celebrated novelist and journalist best known for "Up in the Air," dives deep into his Midwestern roots, reflecting on a whimsical childhood filled with colorful characters. He shares his transformative experience of attending Princeton, contrasting it with his humble upbringing. The conversation takes an intriguing turn as Kirn recounts watching Obama and Trump speeches on LSD, revealing perceptions of American identity, the struggles of rural towns after NAFTA, and the unexpected complexity of Midwestern populism.

Bill Wasik, Editorial Director of The New York Times Magazine, and Monica Murphy, a veterinarian and writer, dive into the evolution of animal welfare in America. They discuss the impactful role of Henry Bergh, founder of the ASPCA, in reforming animal treatment. The couple highlights the unusual connections between animal rights and the abolitionist movement, as well as the historical exploitation of animals for fashion. They also examine humanity's emotional bond with dogs and the responsibility of pet ownership throughout history.

David Frum, a seasoned writer at The Atlantic and MSNBC contributor, shares his insights on the historical underpinnings of today's political landscape. He reflects on the complexities of the Cold War and America's foreign policy blunders, particularly concerning Russia and China. Frum discusses his experiences growing up in a culturally diverse Toronto and the lasting impacts of authoritarian regimes. He critiques modern migration policies and highlights the crucial role of communication in shaping political discourse.

Michelle Goldberg, an opinion columnist for the New York Times and MSNBC contributor, shares her journey from a conservative upbringing in Buffalo to becoming a vocal advocate for progressive causes. She passionately discusses her experiences during the Buffalo abortion wars and critiques the complex political strategies of figures like Kamala Harris and Joe Biden. The conversation dives into America's cultural grievances, the radicalization of the left post-Trump, and the shifting standards of political integrity, offering insightful commentary on current societal divisions.

Rod Dreher, an old-school blogger and author based in Budapest, dives into a range of compelling topics. He discusses his recent move to Hungary and his nuanced views on Trump, touching on his reluctant vote and the impact of political polarization on friendships. Dreher reflects on faith, embracing Catholicism amid a secular age, and the societal implications of declining birth rates. He also critiques the rise of anti-Semitism and the challenges of today's political landscape, including the complexities of the war in Ukraine and America’s role in global democracy.