On The Gist, the mainstream media is too buttoned-up when describing the Trump administration's shenanigans. There is no Russian Federation as we know it without Vladimir Putin. Former Ambassador to Russia Michael McFaul explains how parts of Russian society are eager for new leadership despite that. As for its relations with the U.S., McFaul sees continuity ... Show More
Yesterday
Ben Fountain: "We're Real Good At The Blur"
Today on The Gist, Mike Pesca delivers a bittersweet announcement. Then, acclaimed novelist and political chronicler Ben Fountain joins for the entire hour to discuss his sprawling, scathing new satirical novel, Rasputin Swims the Potomac. Fountain details his decision to render ... Show More
46m 39s
Jun 27
Ro Khanna & Mike Pesca: The Middle
Today on the Saturday special, we present Mike's full, two-part appearance on the public radio show and podcast The Middle with host Jeremy Hobson and California Congressman Ro Khanna. As America approaches its 250th anniversary, the panel tackles the ultimate question: what woul ... Show More
53m 6s
Nov 2024
Trump and Putin, Call Me Maybe?
Today, we look at the relationship between President-elect Donald Trump and the Russian leader Vladimir Putin. The Kremlin has denied media reports that Donald Trump held a call with Vladimir Putin, in which he is said to have warned Putin against escalating the war in Ukraine. A ... Show More
33m 35s
Aug 2025
What Hangs in the Balance of Trump's Meeting With Putin
<p>Today, President Trump and the Russian president, Vladimir V. Putin, are meeting on U.S. soil for the first time, to discuss an end to the war in Ukraine.</p><p>David E. Sanger, the White House and national security correspondent for The New York Times, discusses the wide rang ... Show More
27m 3s
Sep 2025
Understanding Putin's Power
<p>Over the weekend, Russia bombarded Ukraine with the largest drone assault in the war thus far.</p><p>It’s the latest in a relentless Russian offensive that keeps escalating, despite President Trump’s efforts to negotiate peace.</p><p>Anatoly Kurmanaev, who covers Russia for Th ... Show More
30m 47s
Jul 2025
Kyiv reprieve: Trump loses patience with Putin
<p>For months, Donald Trump has appeared to back Vladimir Putin. Now, frustrated at the lack of a ceasefire and fed up with Russia, the <a href="https://www.economist.com/europe/2025/07/14/fed-up-with-putin-trump-offers-ukraine-arms-and-tariffs?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio. ... Show More
23 m