The New Abnormal

See if your SSN is for sale right now. My sponsor Cloaked will tell you for free in 2 seconds here: https://cloaked.com/dailybeast ✅ #ad Ruth Ben-Ghiat, historian and authoritarian expert speaks with Joanna Coles about whether America is already experiencing the early stages of autocracy, why Donald Trump's behavior follows patterns seen in strongmen throughout history, and what happens when leaders surround themselves with loyalists instead of truth-tellers. Drawing on decades of research, Ben-Ghiat explains why weakening leaders can become more dangerous, how propaganda, humiliation, corruption, and loyalty tests reinforce authoritarian power, and why wars and economic turmoil often accelerate a strongman's decline. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David Rothkopf joins Joanna Coles to discuss Donald Trump's awkward World Cup appearance. A moment complete with loud boos and a bewildered walk across the championship stage, sparks a broader conversation about a president increasingly disconnected from reality at home and abroad. They examine Trump's rambling public appearances, the mounting toll of his foreign policy decisions, and why his critics argue his presidency is becoming defined by ego, chaos, and an alarming lack of empathy. David and Joanna delve into the growing influence of the “Manosphere” inside MAGA, the arrest of Andrew and Tristan Tate, the administration's controversial priorities, and what they reveal about the culture surrounding Trump. From E. Jean Carroll collecting her judgment to fears over election integrity, international legal exposure, and the expanding web of political corruption, they connect the week's biggest stories into a sobering portrait of an administration consumed by loyalty, image, and self-preservation—and explain why the consequences of today's headlines may be felt long after Trump's presidency comes to an end. If you're ever injured in an accident, you can check out Morgan & Morgan. You can start your claim in just a click without having to leave your couch: https://ForThePeople.com/DAILYBEAST #ad Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jennifer Welch returns to the Daily Beast Podcast after setting off a political firestorm, revealing how one comment about homeschooling landed her in the crosshairs of the Department of Education and conservative media before she and Joanna Coles turn their attention to the week's biggest political battles. From Pete Hegseth's obsession with testosterone and Jennifer's blistering critique of the MAGA movement to Mitch McConnell's health, Andy Beshear's political future, Todd Blanche, the Epstein files, and the growing fractures inside both parties Jennifer delivers some of her most provocative takes yet as she explains why Democrats need to stop playing defense, why Republican infighting is only getting worse, and why the stories dominating Washington are far from over. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael Wolff and Joanna Coles confront one of the most unsettling questions of Donald Trump's presidency yet, arguing that his relentless fixation on the 2020 election may be more than political theater as they explore what it could mean for a commander in chief they believe has lost his grip on reality. They break down Trump's increasingly erratic speech, the networks that refused to air it, the growing influence of Natalie Harp, the mystery surrounding Melania Trump's disappearance from public view, and the latest controversies engulfing Truth Social. They also trace the subtle but unmistakable ways JD Vance is positioning himself for a post-Trump Republican Party through his comments on Iran, Jeffrey Epstein, and Joe Rogan's podcast, while examining the power struggles and shifting loyalties that could define the months ahead. Download SAILY's app and use code beast at checkout to get an exclusive 15% off your first purchase! For further details go to https://saily.com/beast #ad Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Presented in partnership with PMI U.S., US Businesses of Philip Morris International. Share your prediction for America's future with #America250 or fill out this form for a chance to be featured on the podcast. By posting with #America250, you agree that The Daily Beast may include your comment in PMI U.S.-sponsored segments on The Daily Beast Podcast and to other potential PMI U.S. uses. https://beast.pub/america250 #ad  Joanna Coles and Daily Beast executive editor Hugh Dougherty break down an extraordinary week in Washington, from Donald Trump's grievance-filled White House speech and his escalating fixation on the 2020 election to the fierce political fallout it sparked across both parties. They dig into why Gavin Newsom and Senator Jon Ossoff may have seized the moment, the growing backlash against JD Vance over his use of Marine Two and his mounting political vulnerabilities, Pete Hegseth's latest military crusade, and the eyebrow-raising revelations surrounding Trump's teleprompter operator allegedly profiting from insider knowledge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael Wolff and Joanna Coles trace the latest twists inside Trump's political strategy, from Pete Hegseth's testosterone push and what it could reveal about the battle for the MAGA base in 2028, to Todd Blanche's confirmation hearing and the extraordinary moment that exposed how Trump views the Justice Department. They explain why Blanche's role goes far beyond one nomination, how Trump's obsession with the 2020 election continues to shape every major decision inside his administration, and why his sinking approval ratings aren't changing his approach. The conversation also explores the political fallout from ICE shootings, the growing backlash over AI data centers, and the high-stakes speech Trump is preparing to deliver as Republicans quietly worry about what he'll say next. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Presented by PMI U.S., US Businesses of Philip Morris International. Share a prediction on America's future for a chance to be featured on The Daily Beast Podcast: https://beast.pub/america250 #ad  Farrah Tomazin, the Daily Beast's Political Correspondent, joins Joanna Coles from Washington, D.C. with an on-the-ground look at Donald Trump's race to remake the nation's capital—and why so many of his headline-grabbing projects are already running into trouble. From the drained Reflecting Pool and delayed restoration projects to a sparsely attended Great American State Fair, Farrah explains how rushed timelines, no-bid contracts, and made-for-TV spectacles are reshaping the city ahead of America's 250th anniversary. She also takes listeners inside Todd Blanche's high-stakes confirmation hearing for attorney general, where Trump's former personal lawyer faces tough questions over the Justice Department's independence, the Epstein files, and an admission that leaved senators stunned. Get 15% off OneSkin with the code BEAST at https://www.oneskin.co/beast  #oneskinpod #ad  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael Wolff and Joanna Coles dig into the political fallout from the sudden death of Lindsey Graham, revealing what Trump was really thinking behind his public tributes, how Truth Social posts are crafted inside his inner circle, and why Graham's complicated relationship with the president was driven as much by fear and access as loyalty. They also dissect the growing speculation surrounding Mitch McConnell's health, Trump's increasingly inescapable Middle East conflict despite his promise to avoid forever wars, and why Michael believes the president is trapped by his own inability to change course. Finally, they turn to an unexpected force reshaping the Democratic Party, making the case that Bernie Sanders may have had a far greater impact on American politics than even his critics are willing to admit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David Rothkopf joins Joanna Coles to tell unflinching truths about Lindsey Graham, the pilot fish senator to Donald Trump who died suddenly, and shockingly. Rothkpof unmasks the "odious" truth about the shape-shifting, two-faced senator. And he relates it to Trump himself and explains why it's time to tell the truth, and nothing but the truth, about both men's moral turpitude. They examine the battle over Trump's attorney general nominee, fresh questions surrounding Ukraine, Iran, and the Strait of Hormuz, and why Trump's foreign policy continues to generate instability abroad. They also break down the latest fights over election integrity, the administration's attacks on the press, the unraveling of America's public health infrastructure, and what all of it reveals about the direction of the country. If you're ever injured in an accident, you can check out Morgan & Morgan. You can start your claim in just a click without having to leave your couch: https://ForThePeople.com/DAILYBEAST #ad Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Andrew Weissmann joins Joanna Coles to explain why politicians can lie to the public with virtually no legal consequences, why Donald Trump's false claims about the 2020 election continue to shape American politics, and what other democracies have done to hold elected officials accountable. Weissmann also weighs in on the nomination of Trump ally Todd Blanche to lead the Justice Department, arguing that the institution's independence is under unprecedented strain. Drawing on decades as a federal prosecutor and former FBI general counsel, Weissmann discusses the erosion of trust in the Justice Department, the legal and political battles surrounding the Epstein files, the leadership of the FBI and DOJ under Trump, and why Congress has failed to act as a meaningful check on presidential power. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael Wolff and Joanna Coles break down a moment when Donald Trump appears trapped on multiple fronts, from an Iran conflict that refuses to bend to his demands to mounting questions about his political instincts, shrinking leverage, and growing frustrations inside the White House. They explore whether relentless threats against Trump are weighing on him, why his fixation on Air Force One may reveal more than it seems, how the Epstein controversy could resurface through Todd Blanche's confirmation fight, and whether aggressive immigration tactics are creating a political backlash that could reshape the midterms. Along the way, they dissect Trump's latest Truth Social outbursts, the mystery surrounding Mitch McConnell, the administration's escalating clashes with the press, and why Michael believes Iran has found a way to keep Trump locked in a conflict he cannot control. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joanna Coles and Daily Beast executive editor Hugh Dougherty examine the mystery surrounding Mitch McConnell's sudden disappearance from public view after reports of a medical emergency, and why the unanswered questions extend far beyond one senator's health. They explore how McConnell's absence could throw the balance of power in Washington into chaos, why even Donald Trump appears trapped by the political fallout, and what an information vacuum has done to fuel speculation across the MAGA movement. The conversation also turns to Trump's controversial Qatari jet, the security concerns that reportedly forced him off the aircraft during the Iran crisis, and what his increasingly volatile behavior may reveal about the pressure building inside the White House. Presented in partnership with PMI U.S., US Businesses of Philip Morris International. Share your prediction for America's future with #America250 or fill out this form for a chance to be featured on the podcast. By posting with #America250, you agree that The Daily Beast may include your comment in PMI U.S.-sponsored segments on The Daily Beast Podcast and to other potential PMI U.S. uses. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael Wolff and Joanna Coles reveal what they argue is Donald Trump's true guiding principle: not policy, power, or ideology, but an unrelenting pursuit of attention. From Trump's NATO performance and the mystery surrounding his abandoned Qatari "Grift Force One" to the latest twists in E. Jean Carroll's legal victory, they examine how personality continues to shape the presidency. They also break down the collapse of Democratic Senate hopeful Graham Plattner's campaign, what it says about authenticity in modern politics, and the growing intrigue surrounding Mitch McConnell's unexplained absence from public view. Along the way, Wolff offers fresh reporting from inside Trump's orbit and argues that understanding Trump's psychology remains the key to understanding the decisions that keep reshaping American politics. Presented by PMI U.S., US Businesses of Philip Morris International. Share a prediction on America's future for a chance to be featured on The Daily Beast Podcast: https://beast.pub/america250 #ad  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ashley St. Clair, a former MAGA influencer, speaks to Joanna Coles about her extraordinary journey from rising conservative star to outspoken critic of the movement that made her famous. She reveals how coordinated messaging, dark money, and outrage-driven media shaped the MAGA ecosystem from the inside, reflects on her growing disillusionment with Charlie Kirk and Turning Point, and explains why she ultimately walked away. St. Clair also opens up about her relationship with Elon Musk, their child, the legal battle that followed, disturbing allegations about AI-generated sexual abuse material on X, and why she's headed to law school to take on the tech companies she believes have failed millions of women and children Get 15% off OneSkin with the code BEAST at https://www.oneskin.co/beast #oneskinpod #ad  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael Wolff and Joanna Coles break down the latest clues to what's really driving Donald Trump, from his attempts to influence FIFA and his obsession with being at the center of every spectacle to the staggering financial windfall he's reaped from his crypto empire while hundreds of thousands of investors have collectively lost billions. They also unpack the scandal engulfing Democratic Senate hopeful Graham Platner, Trump's instinctive defense of embattled public figures, the changing rules of modern politics, the future of NATO as Trump heads into another high-stakes summit, and why Michael believes Democrats still haven't figured out how to capture the country's moral attention in the Trump era. Start your free trial today at https://shopify.com/dailybeast #ad Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David Rothkopf speaks with Joanna Coles as Donald Trump heads into a high-stakes NATO summit under a cloud of controversy, after personally intervening in an international soccer dispute that critics say has tainted America's biggest match on the world stage. They unpack the growing panic among America's allies, why European leaders are quietly preparing for a future without Washington, and the extraordinary behind-the-scenes maneuvering surrounding Trump before he even lands overseas. Along the way, David and Joanna dive into the mystery surrounding Mitch McConnell's disappearance from public view, Trump's late-night Truth Social posting sprees, mounting questions about corruption, the SAVE Act, and whether Republicans are increasingly relying on procedural tactics to hold onto power. They also examine what Trump's work ethic, White House culture, and obsession with image reveal about the state of his presidency. Head to https://www.tryfum.com/BEAST and use promo code BEAST to get your free gift with purchase, and start The Good Habit today! #ad Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this special episode of the Daily Beast Podcast, Joanna Coles shares some of her favorite recent conversations: from Jennifer Welch's unfiltered breakdown of the personalities driving the Trump administration to Kurt Andersen's fascinating look at how America's culture helped create the perfect stage for Trump's rise, and Stephanie Ruhle's sharp analysis of the economic fallout from global conflict. Along the way, they unpack the loyalty tests inside Trump's orbit, the uneasy relationship between power, wealth, and influence, the politics behind spectacle, and why the consequences of today's headlines reach far beyond Washington. It's a collection of some of the podcast's most insightful, provocative, and revealing moments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael Wolff and Joanna Coles break down why the political winds may finally be shifting against Donald Trump, and what Michael believes is the single psychological factor that could determine whether his presidency survives the coming midterms. They examine the fallout from Trump's strikes on Iran, the political gamble of rising gas prices, the increasingly competitive Senate map in Texas and Maine, and why Republicans could suddenly find themselves defending territory they once took for granted. Along the way, they explore the Democratic Party's uncertain strategy, Elon Musk's lingering political influence, and whether Trump has any path back if Republicans suffer the kind of losses Wolff predicts, before closing with a revealing look inside how Trump is likely to react if the election becomes the biggest setback of his political career. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Go to https://ground.news/BEAST for a better way to stay informed. Subscribe for 40% off the Vantage plan for unlimited access to world wide news coverage through my link. #ad Daily Beast investigative reporter Tom Latchem joins Joanna Coles to discuss his explosive new reporting for his new Punch Up Substack. He reveals how former Miss Switzerland runner-up Beatrice Kuel accuses Donald Trump, and Jeffrey Epstein, of exploiting the beauty pageant world. And how she alleges Trump attacked her, and how she now live sin fear for being brave enough to speak out. They also examine the latest developments inside the Trump administration, from a controversial new ICE appointment to shifting power dynamics within the White House, and what it could mean for immigration policy and the future of the administration. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael Wolff and Joanna Coles pull back the curtain on the hidden power brokers shaping Donald Trump's presidency, revealing why one little-known lawyer may now wield more influence over Trump's legal strategy than anyone else. Wolff shares explosive new details from his personal legal battle with Melania Trump, explains how Trump's courtroom tactics are designed to drain opponents through delay and intimidation, and argues that the president's legal operation now revolves around a modern-day Roy Cohn. They also unpack Trump's staggering $2.2 billion windfall, Melania's multimillion-dollar earnings, the Supreme Court's latest decisions, the growing fight inside the Democratic Party ahead of the midterms, and why Trump's off-the-cuff foreign policy comments continue to reshape global headlines despite, as Wolff argues, having little grounding in reality.  Visit https://ffrf.us/TRUMP or text TRUMP to 511511 to learn more and join the Freedom From Religion Foundation. #ad  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Katy Tur returns to the Daily Beast Podcast for a candid conversation with Joanna Coles about whether Donald Trump is becoming more isolated, more erratic, and increasingly disconnected from the voters who put him back in the White House. Drawing on over a decade of covering Trump up close, Tur explains why she believes Republicans are growing frustrated behind closed doors, what his behavior could mean for the midterms, and why his continued fixation on the 2020 election reveals more than just political strategy. They also dig into the staggering financial empire Trump has built while in office, the unprecedented questions surrounding crypto and presidential power, and the dramatic transformation of the White House itself, which Tur argues reflects a deeper shift in how Trump sees America. Go to https://ro.co/DAILYBEAST to see if you qualify and get started on Ro. #ad  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael Wolff and Joanna Coles unpack what Wolff argues is a fundamental misunderstanding of Donald Trump—not simply that he profits from power, but that he genuinely believes he deserves to, tracing what they call a mindset driven as much by grievance and revenge as greed. They examine the Trump family's latest business entanglements, the growing controversy over self-dealing, the fallout from the Supreme Court's latest decisions, and why Trump appears increasingly fixated on changing election rules as new polls point to political trouble ahead. The conversation also tackles the escalating crisis in the Strait of Hormuz, Trump's handling of Iran and Ukraine, his relationship with Vladimir Putin, and the strategic blunders they believe could reshape both America's standing abroad and the coming midterm elections. If you're ever injured in an accident, you can check out Morgan & Morgan. You can start your claim in just a click without having to leave your couch: https://ForThePeople.com/TRUMP #ad  Head to https://Superpower.com and use code BEAST at checkout for $20 off your membership. Unlock your new health intelligence. 100+ biomarkers. Every year. Detect early signs of 1,000+ conditions. #superpowerpod #ad  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David Rothkopf joins Joanna Coles as the Supreme Court delivers a series of stunning rulings that pierce Donald Trump's carefully constructed “Golden Dome,” leaving him facing fresh legal humiliation in the E. Jean Carroll case while battles over presidential power, voting rights, and the future of the Federal Reserve intensify. From Natalie Harp's role as Trump's “human printer” to empty crowds at Trump's much-hyped National Mall state fair, David and Joanna unpack a presidency increasingly insulated from reality as new reporting exposes White House rivalries, family business dealings, and growing fears of political accountability. They dive into the political fallout of mass deportations, the corruption questions surrounding Kazakhstan mining deals, and the Democratic Party's fight over whether to prioritize affordability or accountability, all while asking what America's founding ideals mean on the eve of the nation's 250th birthday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jon Lovett joins Joanna Coles for a blistering conversation on Donald Trump's political standing, his increasingly erratic public persona, and why Lovett believes the president is doing more to damage Republicans than Democrats ahead of the midterms. Drawing on his experience as an Obama White House speechwriter, Lovett reflects on the opening of the Obama Library, the future of the Democratic Party, the rise of its progressive wing, and the search for the next generation of leadership. He also delivers a blistering critique of Trump's handling of America's 250th anniversary, arguing the country has squandered what should have been a rare moment of national unity. If you're ever injured in an accident, you can check out Morgan & Morgan. You can start your claim in just a click without having to leave your couch: https://ForThePeople.com/DAILYBEAST #ad Head to https://Superpower.com and use code DAILYBEAST at checkout for $20 off your membership. Unlock your new health intelligence. 100+ biomarkers. Every year. Detect early signs of 1,000+ conditions. #superpowerpod #ad Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael Wolff and Joanna Coles unpack another extraordinary week inside Donald Trump's presidency, from a major Supreme Court victory that could dramatically expand presidential power to the increasingly blurred line between church and state, the political fallout from the fragile Iran ceasefire, and why Trump may once again escape the consequences of a foreign policy setback. They also dig into the mystery surrounding Natalie Harp, Trump's fiercely devoted "human printer," as new reporting catches up with revelations first explored by Wolff, examine why the New York Times is only now embracing the idea that Trump governs through obsession rather than strategy, debate Trump's latest fixation with the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool, and reveal the strange political calculations behind JD Vance's Nixon comparisons. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joanna Coles and Daily Beast executive editor Hugh Dougherty unpack one of the strangest weeks yet inside Trumpworld, from explosive new questions about the president's unusually close relationship with aide Natalie Harp to the bizarre FEMA official who claims he was "teleported" across Georgia. They also break down the MAGA state fair flop, Trump's ongoing obsession with crowd sizes and Washington's reflecting pool, JD Vance's eyebrow-raising embrace of Richard Nixon, and the Supreme Court ruling that could reshape Trump's immigration agenda. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael Wolff and Joanna Coles examine a White House that suddenly looks far less invincible, as Donald Trump lashes out at Republican senators, alienates allies he desperately needs, and faces growing signs that even the MAGA movement is beginning to question his leadership. They unpack Tucker Carlson's remarkable break with Trump, why JD Vance may be quietly positioning himself for what comes next, the political fallout from the Iran conflict, Pete Hegseth's shake-up of America's military leadership, and the surprising rise of Zohran Mamdani's influence inside the Democratic Party. From Trump's increasingly erratic behavior to the shifting alliances forming around him, this episode traces the cracks spreading through both parties as the 2028 race begins to take shape. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rep. Jason Crow (D-CO) returns to the Daily Beast Podcast to break down why he believes America is repeating the same costly mistakes in the Middle East, what years of combat taught him about war, and why he says the latest agreement with Iran leaves the U.S. weaker than before. Rep. Crow tells Joanna Coles what Republican lawmakers tell him behind closed doors about Donald Trump, explains why he thinks Congress has abandoned its constitutional responsibilities, and lays out his plan to investigate what he calls the Trump family's unprecedented corruption if Democrats retake the House. Plus, he weighs in on Pete Hegseth, JD Vance's role inside the administration, and the symbolism behind Trump's sweeping changes to Washington that he argues reveal far more than politics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael Wolff and Joanna Coles examine the strange new fixation consuming Donald Trump as the White House grapples with wars abroad, slipping poll numbers, and growing political trouble at home. Drawing on Wolff's conversations with insiders, they explore why an algae-filled reflecting pool has become the president's overwhelming obsession, what it may reveal about his state of mind, and why even longtime aides are struggling to explain it. They also unpack Trump's surprising foreknowledge of Keir Starmer's resignation, the impossible demands of modern political leadership, and why Volodymyr Zelensky's resilience is reshaping the war in Ukraine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David Rothkopf and Joanna Coles unpack a weekend of political chaos that stretches from the collapsing Iran negotiations to the algae-filled disaster of Trump's reflecting pool renovation, exposing a presidency built on grift, dysfunction, and spectacle. As JD Vance is dispatched to Switzerland to negotiate an impossible peace deal, Trump's public undermining of his own vice president becomes a window into the increasingly fragile state of Trump's inner circle. David and Joanna dive into the bizarre Father's Day snub of Don Jr. vs Eric Trump and the mounting controversy surrounding Ivanka's Albanian ambitions. Rothkopf delivers one of his most blistering critiques yet, connecting failed foreign policy, a decaying reflecting pool, and an administration he sees as incapable of governing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jonathan Weber joins Daily Beast executive editor Hugh Dougherty to explain how San Francisco became the proving ground for the forces reshaping American politics, business, and culture. Drawing from his new book, City on the Edge, Weber traces the rise of the tech billionaires who transformed the city, why so many Silicon Valley power players embraced Donald Trump, and how figures like Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, Peter Thiel, Gavin Newsom, Kamala Harris, and Nancy Pelosi emerged from the same political and economic ecosystem. He also reveals what San Francisco's battles over AI, housing, wealth, and political power tell us about the future of the country—and why the city's next chapter could preview what's coming for every American. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael Wolff and Joanna Coles examine why Donald Trump may have stumbled into a new political reality as European leaders stop trying to placate him and begin pushing back instead. They unpack JD Vance's increasingly complicated role in the White House, whether he's positioning himself as Trump's heir or setting himself up to take the blame, and what his new book reveals about ambition, faith, and political reinvention. They also break down Trump's latest clash with Giorgia Meloni, the arrival of the lavish Qatari jet, the strange psychology behind Trump's obsession with status, and why even something as trivial as a chair at the G7 becomes a window into his mindset. Plus, they explore what Trump's reaction to the Obama Library opening says about the rival world he still can't escape, and why vulgarity—not ideology—may be the key to understanding his enduring appeal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joanna Coles and Daily Beast executive editor Hugh Dougherty unpack a remarkable week inside Donald Trump's White House, from explosive new reporting on his late-night routines and the startling revelations in Maggie Haberman and Jonathan Swan's forthcoming book to questions about Melania Trump's absence, mysterious health concerns, and what these private details reveal about the presidency. They also examine the backlash over Trump's botched Reflecting Pool renovation, the sharp contrast between the Obama Presidential Center opening and Trump's own political spectacle, growing signs that world leaders and even Republicans are beginning to push back, and why the cracks in Trump's carefully cultivated image may be getting harder to hide. Save 20% Off Honeylove by going to honeylove.com/DAILYBEAST ! #honeylovepod #ad Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael Wolff and Joanna Coles examine why Donald Trump's critics believe his biggest defeat isn't the war in Iran but the strange obsession now consuming the White House: remaking Washington into a permanent monument to himself. Drawing on fresh reporting from inside the administration, Wolff reveals why Trump is fixated on ballrooms, arches, the Kennedy Center and the National Mall even as foreign policy, the economy and the midterms hang in the balance. They also break down Trump's escalating feud with Senate Republicans, the political gamble behind a UFC spectacle on the White House lawn, and why his drive for personal legacy could be reshaping his presidency more than any policy victory ever could. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Anthony Scaramucci joins Joanna Coles to explain why he believes Donald Trump knows his Iran strategy has failed—even as he doubles down in public—and why the White House is increasingly driven by one man's instincts rather than any real decision-making process. Drawing on his time inside Trump's inner circle, Scaramucci unpacks the psychology behind Trump's denial, the hidden panic among administration officials, why Democrats still haven't found a candidate capable of taking on the MAGA movement, and why the culture war continues to overshadow the economy. He also reveals which Democrat he believes has the best shot at winning the presidency, why Wall Street still leans Republican, and why both parties are failing to connect with the voters who will decide America's future. Get 15% off OneSkin with the code BEAST at https://www.oneskin.co/BEAST #oneskinpod #ad Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael Wolff and Joanna Coles examine Donald Trump's strange relationships with the women closest to him over the course of his 80 years—from Ivana and Marla Maples to the enduring mystery of Melania Trump's absence from public life. They explore how his marriages, obsession with image, and lack of genuine intimacy have shaped the man now occupying the Oval Office, revisiting his connections to Jeffrey Epstein, the world of beauty pageants and models, and the late-night Truth Social posts that have replaced any private confidant. It's a revealing look at the deeply personal patterns that may explain how a president with no visible emotional support system governs as a government of one. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial today at https://shopify.com/dailybeast #ad Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David Rothkopf and Joanna Coles take apart Donald Trump's bizarre White House UFC spectacle, his heavily hyped “deal” with Iran, and what they argue is a presidency increasingly defined by spectacle and self-preservation. From accusations of turning the South Lawn into a political carnival, to a blistering debate over whether Trump's Iran agreement is diplomacy or surrender, the pair connect the dots between foreign policy, political theater, and the looming battles that could define the next phase of his presidency. They also dive into JD Vance's carefully polished media management, the ambitions driving MAGA's rising stars, and the deeper cultural and moral questions they believe are shaping America's future. By the end, what begins as a conversation about a birthday celebration becomes a far-reaching examination of power, loyalty, corruption, and the forces transforming Washington from the inside out. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. John Gartner returns to The Daily Beast Podcast to mark Donald Trump's 80th birthday with a deeply provocative conversation about aging, cognitive decline, power, and the presidency. Speaking with Joanna Coles, Gartner argues that the public is witnessing something far more serious than normal aging, laying out his assessment of Trump's behavior, speech patterns, late-night social media activity, health concerns, and decision-making as global crises escalate. The discussion explores dementia, malignant narcissism, stress, sleep deprivation, executive power, and why millions of Americans remain drawn to Trump despite mounting concerns from critics. From White House medical visits and cognitive testing to the psychology of leadership and the dangers of unchecked authority, this is an intense and unsettling examination of one of the most consequential figures in modern politics. Visit https://ffrf.us/BEAST or text "BEAST" to 511511 to join or learn more. #ad If you're ever injured in an accident, you can check out Morgan & Morgan. You can start your claim in just a click without having to leave your couch: https://ForThePeople.com/DAILYBEAST #ad Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael Wolff and Joanna Coles mark Donald Trump entering his ninth decade with a special episode revealing new details about private discussions inside Trump's circle over his age, health, legacy, and the future of his presidency, culminating in a striking prediction about what may lie ahead during the next two and a half years of the Trump era. On the eve of Trump turning 80, Wolff also traces the astonishing rise of a man who went from a Queens real-estate promoter to perhaps the most famous person on earth. Along the way, they unpack the pivotal moments that built the Trump myth: the excess of 1980s New York, The Art of the Deal, the bankruptcies that never seemed to matter, the reinvention of Trump through The Apprentice, and the presidential campaign that began as a branding exercise before transforming American politics. Drawing on Wolff's decades of reporting and personal encounters with Trump, including a revealing conversation in which Trump declared his goal was simply “to be the most famous man in the world,” the episode explores the relentless pursuit of attention that has defined his life. If you're ever injured in an accident, you can check out Morgan & Morgan. You can start your claim in just a click without having to leave your couch: https://ForThePeople.com/TRUMP #ad Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David Rothkopf and Joanna Coles recap a week in which Donald Trump stumbled from one self-inflicted crisis to the next, from mounting questions over his handling of Iran and another controversial intelligence pick to renewed scrutiny of the Epstein files and a White House increasingly consumed by political damage control. They also unpack Trump's plan to stage a UFC fight on the South Lawn of the White House as part of the celebration for his 80th birthday, examining the ethics, symbolism, and political fallout of turning the People's House into the backdrop for one of his biggest spectacles yet. Along the way, they explain why Trump's allies are growing nervous, why Democrats see momentum shifting ahead of the midterms, and why the controversies he keeps trying to outrun may finally be catching up with him. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial today at https://shopify.com/dailybeast #ad Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael Wolff and Joanna Coles unpack a week in which the Jeffrey Epstein saga once again consumed Washington, examining explosive new reporting about panic, leaks, and finger-pointing inside the White House while asking who is really trying to shape the narrative around Donald Trump. Wolff argues that the most revealing detail is not Epstein himself but the apparent effort to cast JD Vance as an outsider to the president's inner circle, exposing the rivalries and survival instincts driving the administration. Along the way, they explore the fallout surrounding Ghislaine Maxwell, Bill Gates, and other prominent figures pulled back into the Epstein orbit, while also turning to Trump's startling claim that he “loves the inflation” and what it reveals about the mindset of a president who refuses to acknowledge political threats. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Stephanie Ruhle joins Joanna Coles for a candid and incisive conversation examining the economic fallout from Trump's escalating conflict with Iran and expands into a sharp examination of wealth, power, political influence, and the growing disconnect between Wall Street and everyday Americans. Ruhle breaks down why soaring energy costs, healthcare struggles, and what she calls a new era of American oligarchs could reshape the political landscape, while offering candid insights into Trump's inner circle, the battle over the Federal Reserve, and the culture of loyalty surrounding his administration. She also weighs in on the turmoil at CBS News and 60 Minutes, the future of independent journalism, and the launch of her new MS NOW morning show, ‘Money, Power, Politics,' before revealing how she hopes to connect business, culture, and politics in a way traditional news often misses. Get 15% off OneSkin with the code BEAST at https://www.oneskin.co/BEAST #oneskinpod #ad Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael Wolff and Joanna Coles dive into a week that may reveal the limits of Donald Trump's political dominance, from being loudly booed at a packed Knicks playoff game to turning the White House lawn into a UFC spectacle for his birthday celebration. Wolff argues that Trump's drive to stamp his name on everything—from sports to immigration to the World Cup—is creating a growing list of political liabilities that now point directly back to him, while Coles recounts seeing firsthand how little attention Trump commanded inside Madison Square Garden. The pair also unpack Trump's combative Meet the Press interview, RFK Jr.'s mysterious absence from governing while building a potential post-Trump movement, JD Vance's positioning for the future, Kash Patel's loyalty tests inside the administration, and the emerging Republican battles that could shape 2028. Along the way, Wolff offers a revealing look at how Trump's inner circle survives by managing his impulses, and why the president's inability to recognize mistakes may be the defining story of his second term. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial today at https://shopify.com/dailybeast #ad Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David Rothkopf and Joanna Coles dive into a week of extraordinary political turmoil, from alarming warnings about Donald Trump's reshaping of America's national security apparatus to growing fears over the future of democratic institutions, the intelligence community, and a rapidly escalating Middle East crisis. Along the way, they unpack protests erupting overseas over Trump-linked business ventures, the fallout from Trump's explosive confrontation with NBC's Kristen Welker, and the stunning upheaval at 60 Minutes that has veteran journalists questioning the future of independent media. With sharp analysis, insider reporting, and plenty of the chemistry that makes their conversations so compelling, Rothkopf and Coles connect the dots between power, corruption, media intimidation, and a changing political landscape—culminating in a provocative discussion about why so many Americans seem unwilling to confront what they see as the defining crisis of the era.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mary Trump returns to the Daily Beast Podcast on the week of her uncle Donald's 80th birthday to deliver one of her starkest assessments yet of a president she says is facing pressures unlike anything in his life. Drawing on her perspective as both a clinical psychologist and a member of the Trump family, Mary argues that Donald Trump is struggling to maintain control of the narrative as political setbacks, growing criticism, and the fallout from his decision to strike Iran begin to converge. She breaks down what she sees as signs of mounting instability, reflects on the family dynamics that shaped him, examines his increasingly isolated position inside the White House, and explains why she believes some of the myths that have sustained him for decades are now colliding with reality. From foreign policy and political loyalty to personal humiliation and family relationships, Mary offers an unfiltered look at the forces she believes are defining one of the most consequential moments of Trump's presidency. Head to https://superpower.com and use code DAILYBEAST at checkout for $20 off your membership. Unlock your new health intelligence—100+ biomarkers, every year, early detection of 1,000+ conditions. #ad Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael Wolff and Joanna Coles dissect the growing backlash against Donald Trump's inner circle, from Stephen Miller's escalating deportation agenda to the stunning appointment of Bill Pulte to oversee America's intelligence apparatus. They explore why Republican senators are suddenly questioning the loyalty-first culture that has defined Trump's administration, examine the political fallout from Todd Blanche's rise at the Justice Department, and reveal why even some of Trump's allies are struggling to defend his latest moves. The conversation then shifts overseas as Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump face protests in Albania over their luxury island development, before turning to the Democratic Party's identity crisis through the controversy surrounding Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner and the rise of unconventional political figures. Along the way, Wolff and Coles debate war, authenticity in politics, Kamala Harris's failed campaign, and why the conflict in Ukraine may ultimately overshadow Trump's place in history. Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://hims.com/DAILYBEAST to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you. #ad Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices