Honestly with Bari Weiss

In a lively discussion, Mary Katharine Ham, an author and commentator, joins Axios reporter Josh Kraushaar and Newsweek columnist Batya Ungar-Sargon to unpack the charged political climate ahead of the midterms. They dive into the record early voting numbers and the implications of Biden's low approval ratings. Topics include the emerging concerns over crime and inflation, the challenges faced by GOP candidates, and the potential for shifting voter loyalties, especially among young women motivated by recent political changes.

Lara Bazelon, a criminal justice reform expert and professor, faces off against Rafael Mangual, a public safety fellow and author. They dive deep into the recent spike in crime rates, dissecting the effectiveness of reform movements versus punitive measures. The conversation unfolds around policing strategies, community impacts, and the complexities of crime data manipulation. Both guests agree on the need for a broken system overhaul, emphasizing dialogue over divisive debates in their quest for justice and public safety.

Richard Reeves, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and author, dives into the troubling state of boys and men in America. He discusses alarming statistics about educational disparities and the increasing drop-out rates among men. The conversation shifts to job market challenges and the emotional isolation faced by single men. Reeves advocates for a redefined view of masculinity that includes care for men’s struggles while promoting gender equality for all. The dialogue emphasizes the urgency of addressing these issues for a balanced future.

Join best-selling author and neuroscientist Sam Harris and cognitive neuroscientist Jonas Kaplan as they dive into the complex neuroscience behind belief change. They discuss the emotional biases that often mislead our reasoning and the importance of self-awareness in forming new opinions. Explore how adaptability in belief systems is crucial during divisive times and the challenges posed by misinformation. With a focus on open-mindedness and critical thinking, they provide insights on how conversation can help us navigate our differences.

Masih Alinejad, an Iranian journalist and activist, passionately shares her fight for human rights in Iran. She discusses the tragic death of Mahsa Amini, which sparked nationwide protests, as people demand change and freedom. Masih reflects on the brutal repression faced by women and the escalating calls to end gender apartheid. Despite the constant threats on her life and family by the regime, her resolve remains unshaken. The conversation highlights the urgent need for international support for Iranians seeking a democratic future.

Join John McWhorter, a renowned linguist and author, and Glenn Loury, an insightful economist, as they delve into the complexities of race in America. They critically examine the inadequacies of racial categorization and explore the idea of abolishing race altogether. The conversation touches on the impact of recent protests, the media's role in shaping discourse, and the pitfalls of current anti-racism movements. With their contrarian perspectives, they advocate for individual dignity while challenging conventional narratives surrounding race.

Terry Glavin, a seasoned Canadian journalist with two decades of experience on Indigenous issues, dives deep into the controversial narrative surrounding alleged mass graves of Indigenous children in Canada. He challenges the sensationalist media reports that sparked nationwide outrage and protests, revealing a troubling lack of evidence. The discussion sheds light on the integrity of journalism, the impact of misinformation, and the importance of confronting Canada’s colonial legacy. Glavin advocates for truth and accountability in the media amidst rising skepticism.

Dr. Casey Means, a Stanford-trained physician and founder of Levels, dives deep into America’s alarming obesity crisis. She discusses the failures of past initiatives like Michelle Obama's 'Let’s Move!' and highlights the societal shift away from addressing nutritional issues. Means emphasizes the urgent need to confront the health epidemic linked to poor diets, advocating for a return to whole, unprocessed foods. She also critiques the complexities of the healthcare system and calls for systemic changes to improve public health outcomes.

Patrick Deneen, a Political Science Professor at Notre Dame and author of Why Liberalism Failed, debates with Bret Stephens, Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist for The New York Times. They explore the pressing issue of liberal democracy, questioning whether the focus on individual liberty is damaging society. Deneen argues that our abundance of freedom has led to societal decay, while Stephens believes we’ve lost essential individual rights. Their discussion dives into the implications of current political dynamics, economic inequality, and the balance between freedom and community values.

Susie Weiss, a reporter, and Lorna Gibson, matriarch of the historic Gibson's Bakery, dive into the dramatic legal saga following a racially charged incident with Oberlin College students. They discuss the bakery's deep roots in the community and the devastating impact of the false accusations against them. Lorna shares personal struggles faced by her family amid protests and the eventual court victory that awarded them $36 million—still unpaid by the college. Their conversation unpacks themes of justice, community tension, and the power dynamics at play.