The Golden Age with Andrew Zucker

Andrew sits down with Amy Gaines McQuade, the producer behind Deep Cover: George Santos to unpack the latest in the fabulist’s wild tale and commutation.  McQuade discusses how he scammed donors, landed a seven-year sentence, and, ultimately, served just a small amount of time. McQuade also discusses what Santos’s future career could look like and whether more prosecutions lie ahead.

Globe and Mail features writer Ian Brown joins host Andrew Zucker to discuss his latest piece, “We Live in a Golden Age of Sycophancy.” Brown discusses global leaders’ use of flattery with Trump, how Canada reacted to the Carney-Trump meeting, and the dangers of bootlicking in business and beyond. Read Ian’s article:

Emily Baker-White, the author of Every Screen on the Planet, joins host Andrew Zucker to discuss TikTok’s rise and its ties to the Chinese government. Baker-White also reveals why Trump changed his tune about the app, and talks about the proposed deal to sell TikTok’s U.S. arm and what that means for the app’s all-powerful algorithm.  Get more info about Emily’s new book  "Every Screen on the Planet: The War Over TikTok" - https://wwnorton.com/books/9781324086673

Wall Street Journal reporter Aaron Zitner joins host Andrew Zucker to discuss the rise and beliefs of Doug Wilson, the firebrand Christian nationalist pastor. Wilson’s controversial denomination, the Communion of Reformed Evangelical Churches, has incredibly incendiary beliefs and recently expanded to D.C. Although tiny, CREC is becoming more popular on the right and Pete Hegseth attends one of CREC’s member churches. So what is Christian nationalism and will Wilson be a force in Republican politics in the years ahead? Zitner answers all of that and more

On this episode, CNN senior legal analyst Elie Honig discusses his new book, When You Come at the King: Inside DOJ's Pursuit of the President, from Nixon to Trump. Honig shares stories about Brett Kavanaugh’s involvement in the Ken Starr investigation, how President Grant dealt with investigations into his own presidency, and why Jack Smith couldn’t compete with the timeline Merrick Garland gave him.

After the Jimmy Kimmel Debacle for Trump and the FCC Andrew Zucker Is joined by WSJ reporter Maggie Severns to discuss Brendan Carr’s meteoric career ascent and recent moves at the FCC. The two chat about how Carr thinks about public interest, how he’s expanding the FCC’s mandate, and what his next moves might be at the independent agency.

Andrew Zucker invites Franklin Foer to explore Elon Musk's obsession with Mars, the interdependence of SpaceX and NASA, the role of Starlink in SpaceX's business model, the political dynamics surrounding space exploration, and the evolving role of NASA in the context of privatized space exploration.

Joining Andrew Zucker this week is Kelly Weinersmith to discuss her book on space settlement, exploring the challenges and considerations of human adaptation to space environments. She highlights the motivations of billionaires like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos in space exploration, the feasibility of settling on Mars versus the Moon, and the implications of international law on space colonization. The conversation concludes with reflections on the future of humanity in space and the pressing questions that remain unanswered. Check out Kellys Podcast: Daniel and Kelly's Extraordinary Universe  https://sites.uci.edu/danielandkelly/

Andrew Zucker is joined this week by Jasper Craven. The confirmation hearing of Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense explores his views on diversity and liberal arts education at military academies like West Point. It also examines the historical tension between civilian professors and military leadership, influenced by Trump’s executive order on military education. The case of Professor Graham Parsons, who faced repercussions for his critical stance on the military’s direction under Hegseth and Trump, is highlighted. The implications for military education and the role of civilian professors are discussed, revealing power dynamics and educational philosophies. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Follow The Golden Age Podcast on Instagram Email your questions: goldenage@politicon.com More from Andrew Zucker: X | Bluesky | Substack | Instagram  New York Times: Does This Perfume Smell Like Gentrification? Read Andrew’s articles on Town & Country Add Andrew Zucker & your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky

Andrew Zucker is joined by Gary Ginsberg to discuss the life and legacy of John F. Kennedy Jr., focusing on his documentary and the creation of George Magazine. Ginsberg reflects on JFK Jr.'s desire to carve out his own identity while honoring his father's legacy, his innovative vision for political media, and the challenges he faced in the industry. The discussion also touches on JFK Jr.'s personal life, his aspirations for public office, and the impact of his untimely death on the political landscape. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Follow The Golden Age Podcast on Instagram Email your questions: goldenage@politicon.com More from Andrew Zucker: X | Bluesky | Substack | Instagram  New York Times: Does This Perfume Smell Like Gentrification? Read Andrew’s articles on Town & Country Add Andrew Zucker & your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky

Andrew Zucker is joined by Jane Kamensky, president of Monticello, to discuss the historical significance of Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson, and its role in American history. She highlights the upcoming 250th anniversary of America and the special events planned to celebrate it, including the Founding Friends, Founding Foes Tour, which explores the complex friendship between Thomas Jefferson and John Adams. Kamensky delves into their relationship, the impact of Dr. Benjamin Rush in reconciling their differences, and the political fractures that emerged during their time. The discussion also touches on their post-presidency lives, the symbolism of their deaths on July 4th, and the lessons their friendship offers for contemporary society. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Follow The Golden Age Podcast on Instagram Email your questions: goldenage@politicon.com More from Andrew Zucker: X | Bluesky | Substack | Instagram  New York Times: Does This Perfume Smell Like Gentrification? Read Andrew’s articles on Town & Country Add Andrew Zucker & your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky

Andrew Zucker is joined by Katy Balls, the Washington editor of the Times of London, to discuss  her profile of Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA. She explores Kirk's rise as a significant figure in the MAGA movement, his influence on young voters, and the dynamics of political engagement among youth. The discussion also touches on Kirk's relationships within the Trump administration, the impact of controversies like the Epstein case, and the broader cultural shifts in American politics. Katy emphasizes the importance of understanding the youth vote and how it has shifted towards the right, as well as the potential for a national revival rooted in patriotism and Christian values. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Follow The Golden Age Podcast on Instagram Email your questions: goldenage@politicon.com More from Andrew Zucker: X | Bluesky | Substack | Instagram  New York Times: Does This Perfume Smell Like Gentrification? Read Andrew’s articles on Town & Country Add Andrew Zucker & your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky

Andrew Zucker welcomes Michael Grynbaum as they  delve into the profound cultural and commercial influence of Condé Nast magazines. Join them as they explore how these iconic publications, once the arbiters of style and sophistication, shaped the zeitgeist and captivated audiences worldwide. From the glamorous lives of editors to the strategic allure that attracted advertisers, discover how Condé Nast became synonymous with refinement and influence. We also discuss the evolving landscape of media and the enduring legacy of brands like Vogue and Vanity Fair.  Andrew and Michael take us on an insightful journey through the golden age of magazines and their lasting impact on culture and commerce. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Follow The Golden Age Podcast on Instagram Email your questions: goldenage@politicon.com More from Andrew Zucker: X | Bluesky | Substack | Instagram  New York Times: Does This Perfume Smell Like Gentrification? Read Andrew’s articles on Town & Country Add Andrew Zucker & your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky

Salena Zito discusses her experiences covering Donald Trump’s political landscape, particularly the aftermath of an assassination attempt. She talks about the emotional rally scene, Trump’s belief in divine intervention, the media’s portrayal, and the shifting American politics. Zito emphasizes the disconnect between the media narrative and Trump’s supporters in the heartland, stressing the importance of understanding the electorate beyond online discourse. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Follow The Golden Age Podcast on Instagram Email your questions: goldenage@politicon.com More from Andrew Zucker: X | Bluesky | Substack | Instagram  New York Times: Does This Perfume Smell Like Gentrification? Read Andrew’s articles on Town & Country Add Andrew Zucker & your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky

Don Lemon joins host Andrew Zucker to talk about the latest craziness concerning the Epstein case. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Follow The Golden Age Podcast on Instagram Email your questions: goldenage@politicon.com More from Andrew Zucker: X | Bluesky | Substack | Instagram  New York Times: Does This Perfume Smell Like Gentrification? Read Andrew’s articles on Town & Country Add Andrew Zucker & your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky

Katie Phang joins Andrew Zucker to talk about the MAGA meltdown over Jeffrey Epstein and whether Democrats can capitalize on it. She also discusses important Supreme Court cases, including the Department of Education mass firings, and what might happen to birthright citizenship. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Follow The Golden Age Podcast on Instagram Email your questions: goldenage@politicon.com More from Andrew Zucker: X | Bluesky | Substack | Instagram  New York Times: Does This Perfume Smell Like Gentrification? Read Andrew’s articles on Town & Country Add Andrew Zucker & your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky

Andrew is joined by The Free Press's Olivia Reingold to talk about Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic nominee for mayor of NYC. Reingold discusses the 33-year-old's campaign, whether Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa has a chance in November, and how translatable a democratic socialist's policies are in the heartland of the country. Reingold also shares some of her reporting around Mamdani's stances on Israel and socialism. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Follow The Golden Age Podcast on Instagram Email your questions: goldenage@politicon.com More from Andrew Zucker: X | Bluesky | Substack | Instagram  New York Times: Does This Perfume Smell Like Gentrification? Read Andrew’s articles on Town & Country Add Andrew Zucker & your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky

On this episode of The Golden Age, host Andrew Zucker sits down with Israeli journalist Neria Kraus to talk all-things-Iran. Kraus unpacks the MAGA split over the Iran strikes, including that Cruz v. Tucker fight. She also reveals how Netanyahu lobbied for action, and what Israeli intelligence showed about Iran's nuclear capabilities. They also discuss Trump’s push for a Nobel Peace Prize, whether Trump can achieve long-term ceasefires in the region, and what a new deal with Iran could look like. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Follow The Golden Age Podcast on Instagram Email your questions: goldenage@politicon.com More from Andrew Zucker: X | Bluesky | Substack | Instagram  New York Times: Does This Perfume Smell Like Gentrification? Read Andrew’s articles on Town & Country Add Andrew Zucker & your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky

Andrew is joined this week by Piper Yerks to chat about the current state of the DC real estate market, noting the influx of wealthy buyers, especially in luxury. She explains the factors driving this trend, including the current administration, technology and sports management industries, and buyers’ preferences for privacy and health-oriented amenities. These changes impact DC’s local culture, dining, and lifestyle. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Follow The Golden Age Podcast on Instagram Email your questions: goldenage@politicon.com More from Andrew Zucker: X | Bluesky | Substack | Instagram  New York Times: Does This Perfume Smell Like Gentrification? Read Andrew’s articles on Town & Country Add Andrew Zucker & your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky

On this episode, investigative journalist Vicky Ward joins host Andrew Zucker to discuss the criminal cases in the zeitgeist, from Diddy to Weinstein to Kohberger. Ward reveals the 2019 meeting she had with Weinstein before he went to trial and discusses her theory on Idaho murders suspect Bryan Kohberger's motive. Plus, she previews more from her new book about the Idaho case and discusses how the post-#MeToo landscape has shifted. atch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Follow The Golden Age Podcast on Instagram Email your questions: goldenage@politicon.com More from Andrew Zucker: X | Bluesky | Substack | Instagram  New York Times: Does This Perfume Smell Like Gentrification? Read Andrew’s articles on Town & Country Add Andrew Zucker & your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky