The Mishal Husain Show

Laura Poitras, Oscar- and Pulitzer-winning filmmaker who exposed Snowden and state surveillance, discusses her Netflix film on Seymour Hersh. She examines surveillance, being placed on a watchlist, the power of citizen video to challenge official narratives, and cycles of impunity in U.S. power. Short, urgent conversations about investigative journalism, accountability and how visuals reshape public understanding.

Rutger Bregman, a Dutch historian and author known for his critical stance on elites, dives deep into pressing social issues. He discusses the transformative potential of AI, warning of its risks while acknowledging its benefits. Bregman critiques performative philanthropy and emphasizes funding proven solutions for global poverty. He argues about Europe’s strategic weakness in contrast to the U.S. and the importance of small committed groups in effecting change. Throughout, he champions moral ambition and the role of entrepreneurs in building a better future.

Jeanne Shaheen, U.S. Senator from New Hampshire and senior Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, dives deep into pressing foreign policy issues. She discusses the potential ramifications of U.S. military actions in Venezuela and Greenland while critiquing Trump's rhetoric towards NATO and traditional allies. Shaheen emphasizes the need for clear objectives in foreign operations, addresses healthcare and midterm election concerns, and advocates for bipartisanship in a polarized political landscape. Plus, she reflects on the future of the Democratic party and her approach to ongoing civic engagement.

Peter Navarro, an economist and former White House trade advisor, dives deep into his influential role in shaping Trump's tariff policies and the tough U.S.-China relationship. He shares insights from his time in federal prison and his journey from Democrat to MAGA Republican. Navarro warns about price pressures while emphasizing the importance of manufacturing jobs and American interests. He also discusses the upcoming Supreme Court ruling on tariffs and offers strategic advice for Europe, all while reflecting on his unique experiences within the Trump administration.

Kara Swisher, a veteran tech journalist and podcaster known for her deep connections in Silicon Valley, dives into the future landscape of technology post-Trump. She discusses the looming AI bubble and its implications, reflecting on its potential in healthcare. Swisher also assesses the generational shift among tech leaders and critiques the industry's recent alignment with political figures. With insights on robotics and the changing dynamics of startups, she emphasizes the need for unique content in podcasting, all while maintaining an optimistic perspective on cultural shifts.

Elon Musk, the visionary behind SpaceX and Tesla, shares a glimpse into his hectic life juggling multiple companies and advising governments. He fervently defends Tesla against recent attacks and discusses his ambitious plans for SpaceX and Starlink. Musk dives into the challenging landscape of AI regulation, advocating for a balanced approach without overreach. He also debates the impact of U.S. aid cuts and critiques South Africa's licensing laws for SpaceX. With bold visions for the future, Musk remains a figure of intense global interest.

Lynsey Addario is a Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist renowned for her coverage of global conflicts. She shares gripping accounts from the front lines, including her experiences of being abducted in Iraq and Libya. Addario discusses the emotional impact of photographing casualties and the balance between her dangerous work and family life. She reflects on her early passion for photography, the challenges of verifying images in the age of social media, and her mission to bear witness to human stories in perilous situations.

Mustafa Suleyman, co-founder of DeepMind and head of Microsoft's AI unit, dives deep into the future of artificial intelligence. He discusses the ethical decisions society faces with AI's growth and contrasts Silicon Valley's bold culture with the UK's more cautious approach. Suleyman highlights the promise of medical superintelligence and argues for a focus on universal basic income as a safety net during the AI transition. He shares insights on his collaborations with tech leaders like Sam Altman and the competitive landscape of AI development.

Salman Rushdie, a celebrated novelist known for blending magical realism with historical narratives, shares his harrowing survival story following a tragic attack in 2022. He discusses the struggle of reclaiming his voice through writing, viewing it as a form of optimism and therapy. The conversation touches on his family background, the impact of political climates in India and the U.S., and the rising threat to free speech, including book bans. Amidst challenges, Rushdie remains hopeful about storytelling and its power to navigate complex realities.

Ken Burns, a renowned documentary filmmaker and historian behind iconic PBS series like The Civil War, discusses the complexities and global relevance of the American Revolution. He explores how the revolution's ideals influenced global anti-colonial movements while highlighting the irony of its founders' struggles with slavery. Personal reflections reveal how grief shaped his storytelling approach. As Thanksgiving approaches, Burns emphasizes gratitude as a healing force in today's polarized politics, advocating for a deeper understanding of American history.