Shows
Mediaite's Press ClubSteve OneyMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks with the founder of Mediaite, Sirius XM host, and ABC's Chief Legal Analyst, Dan Abrams, about Elon Musk's bombshell claim that Trump hasn't released the Epstein Files because he's implicated in them, why he's been saying for months that Trump's ties with Epstein should be getting more attention, and where Trump and Musk's feud will go from here. In the second half of the episode, Aidan speaks with the author of the new book On Air: The Triumph and Tumult of NPR, Steve Oney, about his decade-long reporting process and Trump's recent threats to public...2025-06-0750 minMediaite's Press ClubErik WempleMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks with The Washington Post's media critic Erik Wemple about what's going on behind the scenes at the paper, what's behind its latest pivot, and what the future looks like for The Post. They also cover President Trump's relationship with Fox News and the recent appointment of Jeanine Pirro as D.C.'s interim U.S. attorney. In the second half of the episode, Aidan talks with Mediaite founding editor Colby Hall about a series of controversial pardons issued this week by Trump, and how the media is reacting to them.2025-05-3150 minMediaite's Press ClubJake Tapper and Alex ThompsonMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks with CNN's Jake Tapper and Axios' Alex Thompson about their new book, Original Sin: President Biden's Decline, Its Cover-Up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again. They discuss media coverage of the former president's diminishing capabilities, the lengths to which his staff went to preserve Biden's public image, and the promotion of their book despite networks like Fox News refusing to have them on-air. Aidan also talks with Mediaite founding editor Colby Hall about MAGA outrage at Trump's own FBI.2025-05-2450 minMediaite's Press ClubGregg CarlstromMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks with The Economist's Middle East correspondent Gregg Carlstrom about the war in Gaza and why Trump should push Israel to end it. They also cover Trump's recent Gulf tour, his lifting of sanctions in Syria, and his $142 billion arms deal with Saudi Arabia. In the second half of the episode, Aidan talks with Mediaite founding editor Colby Hall about the heated debate surrounding a new book on Joe Biden from Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson.2025-05-1750 minMediaite's Press ClubJonathan LemireMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks with Jonathan Lemire, a contributing writer at The Atlantic and a co-host of MSNBC's Morning Joe, about Trump's media crackdown, how to effectively cover him, and his first 100 days in office. In the second half of the episode, Aidan talks with Mediaite founding editor Colby Hall about this week's biggest media and politics stories.2025-05-0350 minMediaite's Press ClubHarry EntenMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks with CNN's Harry Enten about Trump's recent polling loss with independents, the crisis facing the Democratic party, and his predictions for the 2026 midterms. They also discuss Elon Musk's sinking support in the polls and what it's like being a data-driven journalist. In the second half of the episode, Aidan speaks with Mediaite's founding editor Colby Hall about how the media has been covering the case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, the man the Trump administration mistakenly deported to El Salvador.2025-04-1950 minMediaite's Press ClubNatasha BertrandMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks with CNN Pentagon correspondent Natasha Bertrand about 'Signal-gate,' where National Security Advisor Michael Waltz added journalist Jeffrey Goldberg to a Signal chat where Pete Hegseth and others discussed classified military plans. She discusses the chaos Hegseth has unleashed on the Pentagon and the Trump administration's subsequent denials. In the second half of the episode, Aidan speaks with Mediaite founding editor Colby Hall about how the media has been covering this bombshell week in Washington.2025-03-2950 minMediaite's Press ClubJesse WeberMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks with Jesse Weber, a host at the Law & Crime Network, NewsNation, and Sirius XM. They talk about a new show he is hosting for Mediaite, Spin Room, where he will break down some of the biggest clips in media and politics— without an ideological spin. Jesse also talks about Law & Crime's YouTube success, the explosion of true crime as a genre, and his journey from acting school to law school to journalism.2025-03-1550 minMediaite's Press ClubMarty BaronMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks with Marty Baron, the legendary editor who ran the Washington Post until his retirement in 2021. Baron speaks out about recent interventions at the paper by its owner, Jeff Bezos, touching on Bezos's signaled dependence on Trump and his fear of financial retribution. He also speaks on Trump's first month in office and the immense threats he's wielded against the press thus far. In the second half of the episode, Mediaite senior editor Alex Griffing interviews Pentagon reporter Kevin Baron about the Defense Department's crackdown on the press.2025-03-0349 minMediaite's Press ClubMakena KellyMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks with senior WIRED reporter Makena Kelly on Elon Musk's DOGE, its extremely young and controversial team, and this concerning intersection of tech and politics in Washington. She also touches on the 'contentification' of the Trump White House and why she thinks Democrats need to lean further into new media. In the second half of the episode, Aidan talks with MSNBC producer Dan Wolfman about a new film he co-wrote that is currently working its way through the festival circuit.2025-02-1850 minMediaite's Press ClubPeter BakerMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks with Peter Baker, the chief White House correspondent for The New York Times, about Trump's 'fast and furious' first weeks in office, the differences between Trump 1.0 and 2.0, and his 'volatile and provocative' proposal to take over Gaza and relocate two million Palestinians. They also speak about the pros and cons of today's information ecosystem and how it lends itself to Trump's "flood the zone" effect. In the second half of the episode, Aidan speaks with Mediaite's senior media reporter, Diana Falzone, about Trump's cabinet nominees and what's next for them.2025-02-1050 minMediaite's Press ClubJim VandeHeiMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks with the CEO and co-founder of Axios, Jim VandeHei, about Trump's wild first week, his optimistic take on the future of journalism amidst a fragmenting media industry, and disabusing ourselves of the idea that legacy media is the gatekeeper, without falling victim to Elon Musk's smear-campaign against it. In the second half of the episode, Aidan speaks with Mediaite founding editor Colby Hall about the first White House press briefing.2025-02-0350 minMediaite's Press ClubRyan J. ReillyMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks with Ryan J. Reilly, who covers the Justice Department and federal law enforcement for NBC News— he's been as tuned into the fallout of the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol as anyone. His conversation on Press Club comes just after President Trump, on his first day in office, issued sweeping pardons to more than 1,500 individuals arrested in the Jan. 6 riots— people Reilly has been closely watching since 2021. He speaks on the astounding manipulation of public perception on Jan. 6 by Trump and his supporters, how Jan. 6 "broke the U.S. Justice System", and if he b...2025-01-2750 minMediaite's Press ClubPatrick Radden KeefeMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks with New Yorker staff writer, author, and executive producer Patrick Radden Keefe about his reporting process— "90% reporting and 10% writing— and FX's recent adaptation of his 2018 book, Say Nothing: A True Story of Murder and Memory in Northern Ireland. They also speak about his career path, his ability to tell large stories through deep dives on characters, and what's next for journalists under this next Trump administration. In the second half of the episode, Aidan speaks with founding Mediaite editor Colby Hall about the current state of the cable news industry.2025-01-1950 minMediaite's Press ClubDan AbramsMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks to Mediaite founder and CEO Dan Abrams about his recent decision to end his NewsNation show, our increasingly polarized and fractured media industry, and what Kash Patel and ABC's $15 million settlement signal about Trump's upcoming second term. This episode was produced by Brandon Reschke and Kathryn Wilkens.2024-12-2350 minMediaite's Press ClubRuth SherlockMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks to Ruth Sherlock, an international correspondent for NPR on the ground now in Syria. They talk about what she's seen post-fall of Assad, her reporting inside Syria's notorious Sednaya Prison, what's next for HTS–the major rebel group– and the dangers she faces as a foreign reporter. Aidan also speaks with Mediaite founding editor Colby Hall about the top media stories this week. This episode was produced by Brandon Reschke and Kathryn Wilkens.2024-12-1450 minMediaite's Press ClubMarc CaputoMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks to Marc Caputo, a national politics reporter from The Bulwark and the most plugged-in national political reporter working out of Florida. They talk about Florida's outsized role in American politics since the beginning of the Trump era, the impact of Trump's constant presence at Mar a Lago, and Trump's trust in Floridians like Susie Wiles, Matt Gaetz, and now Pam Bondi. Aidan also speaks with Mediaite founding editor Colby Hall about the wild past week for Trump's cabinet nominees. This episode was produced by Brandon Reschke and Kathryn Wilkens.2024-11-2350 minMediaite's Press ClubMichael SmerconishMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks to Michael Smerconish, host of Smerconish on CNN and The Michael Smerconish Program on SiriusXM, about his opinion that left-leaning media went too far in their critiques of Trump, potentially explaining his winning of the popular vote. They also speak about the effect of young men in this increasingly divided media landscape, or podcast age, on the election. In the second half of the episode, Aidan talks with Mediaite's founding editor, Colby Hall, about how the Trump cabinet is shaping up. This episode was produced by Brandon Reschke and Kathryn Wilkens.2024-11-1650 minMediaite's Press ClubAnne ApplebaumMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks with The Atlantic's Anne Applebaum about Trump's recent spike in rhetoric used by Hitler, Mussolini, and Stalin. Anne is out with a new book, Autocracy Inc., which goes deep into the complex financial system 21st-century autocrats employ to stay in power. She makes comparisons here to Trump's relationship with Tesla CEO Elon Musk, and warns Trump has no real understanding of history– he's using this dehumanizing language because he believes it'll help him achieve absolute control. Aidan also speaks with Charlotte Klein, a features writer at New York Magazine, about her recent piece in which sh...2024-10-2650 minMediaite's Press ClubAli AbbasiMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks with Ali Abbasi, the critically acclaimed director of the new film The Apprentice, which depicts the origin story of Donald Trump. Ali discusses Trump's relationship with ruthless prosecutor and political fixer Roy Cohn, why he decided to get involved with the project in the first place– as a lot of Hollywood was fearful to get involved in a Trump biopic– and why he thought of the film as a humanist project. Aidan also speaks with Steve Hayes, the founder, CEO, and editor of The Dispatch, about how to launch a successful media outlet in the curr...2024-10-1950 minMediaite's Press ClubAndrew Ross SorkinMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks with Andrew Ross Sorkin, founder of the New York Times' DealBook and co-anchor on CNBC's SquawkBox. They talk about Andrew's take on whether Silicon Valley has really gone MAGA, Fortune 500 CEOs' fear of former President Trump, and DealBox's infamous Elon Musk interview. Andrew also talks about his optimism for the future of the media industry and the difficulties of being an apolitical reporter in the Trump era. In the second part of the episode, Aidan speaks with Tim O’Rourke, the VP of content strategy at Hearst Newspapers, about how the San Francisco Chronicle is us...2024-10-1250 minMediaite's Press ClubNada BashirMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks with CNN international correspondent Nada Bashir. They discuss her coverage of the occupied West Bank and Gaza, since Hamas' October 7th attacks and Israel's bombing campaign that followed, the unimaginable conditions Palestinian journalists are working under, and reporting in the Middle East amid a mistrust of Western media. Aidan also speaks with Jeff Coltin, a POLITICO reporter and co-author of the NYC Playbook newsletter, about the recent indictment against Mayor Eric Adams. This episode was produced by Brandon Reschke and Kathryn Wilkens.2024-09-2850 minMediaite's Press ClubSusanne Craig and Russ BuettnerMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks with Susanne Craig and Russ Buettner, New York Times reporters and authors of "Lucky Loser: How Donald Trump Squandered His Father's Fortune and Created The Illusion of Success". They discuss their in-depth reporting on Trump's finances, breaking the story of his financial losses and tax evasion methods in 2016, and the former president's attachment to his identity as "self-made". Aidan also speaks with Dominic Ponsford, editor in chief at the Press Gazette, about the scandal plaguing the largest Jewish newspaper in the world. This episode was produced by Brandon Reschke and Kathryn Wilkens.2024-09-2150 minMediaite's Press ClubManu RajuMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin sits down with CNN's chief congressional correspondent Manu Raju to talk about a raucous Republican National Convention. Raju, who also anchors "Inside Politics" on Sundays, spent the week in Milwaukee reporting on the ground of the convention, which came just days after an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. He discusses Trump's big speech, the mood on the ground, and what's next in a presidential race where Trump's opponent, President Joe Biden, is facing calls from within his own party to drop out of the race.
Plus: Mediaite editors Colby...2024-07-2150 minMediaite's Press ClubBrian StelterMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks with veteran media reporter Brian Stelter about the crisis at the Washington Post. Stelter breaks down his sprawling 9,000 word investigation of the Post just published in The Atlantic. He reveals what he found about the paper, and whether it can survive the turmoil.
Plus: Stelter talks the 2024 election, the future of cable news, and McLaughlin does post-debate analysis with Mediaite founding editor Colby Hall, who argued in a new piece that President Joe Biden should drop out of the race.
This episode was produced by Brandon Reschke and...2024-06-2950 minMediaite's Press ClubAli VelshiMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks with MSNBC anchor Ali Velshi, out now with a new book "Small Acts of Courage." They discuss the book, the stakes of the 2024 election, what a second Trump term means for journalists, the future of the news industry, and media coverage of Oct. 7 and the war in Gaza.
Mediaite's Press Club has expanded into a show on SiriusXM's POTUS Channel 124. The new show features not just a flagship interview with top figures in the media, but also conversation and debate with reporters and editors about the biggest stories in press and politics...2024-06-2449 minMediaite's Press ClubAlyssa Farah GriffinMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks with Alyssa Farah Griffin, former communications director in the Trump White House turned co-host of The View and CNN contributor. In a wide-ranging and at times personal conversation, they discuss her career, what she saw in the White House, why the GOP can't move on from Trump, and how a second Trump term would be defined by "rage and retribution"
Mediaite's Press Club has expanded into a show on SiriusXM's POTUS Channel 124. The new show features not just a flagship interview with top figures in the media, but also conversation and debate...2024-06-1550 minMediaite's Press ClubGeorge StephanopoulosMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks with George Stephanopoulos about covering Trump and Biden, the upcoming debates, the media industry, and his new book "The Situation Room". Stephanopoulos is the host of Good Morning America and This Week on ABC News.
Mediaite's Press Club has expanded into a show on SiriusXM's POTUS Channel 124. The new show features not just a flagship interview with top figures in the media, but also conversation and debate with reporters and editors about the biggest stories in press and politics. For this week's episode, McLaughlin is joined by Mediaite founding editor Colby Hall...2024-06-1045 minMediaite's Press ClubGeraldo RiveraMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin and his new co-host, Mediaite senior reporter Diana Falzone, speak with award-winning journalist and veteran foreign correspondent Geraldo Rivera about his departure from Fox News after 21 years at the network. Geraldo opens up about the conflicts that led to his departure, his clashes with Greg Gutfeld and Tucker Carlson, the defamation lawsuits plaguing Fox over its coverage of the 2020 election, and his relationship with former President Donald Trump.
This episode was produced by Payton Selby and Brady Maybe.
2023-08-1536 minMediaite's Press ClubMichael TeterMediaite's "The Interview" is back with an exciting new episode: Diana Falzone, who joined Mediaite as a senior reporter, is also joining Aidan McLaughlin as a host on the podcast. For her debut episode, she interviews Michael Teter, a lawyer for Ray Epps, the Jan. 6 protestor who was cast as a federal agent by Tucker Carlson on his erstwhile Fox News show as part of the conspiracy theory that the Capitol riot was a false flag attack. Epps, who says he lost his business and home amid death threats fueled by Carlson's coverage, is now suing Fox News and...2023-08-0316 minMediaite's Press ClubSara FischerMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks with Axios senior media reporter Sara Fischer about a bombshell month on the media beat. Fischer, who is also a media analyst for CNN, discusses Fox's $787 million settlement with Dominion over election lies, the shocking ousters of Tucker Carlson and Don Lemon, what's next for those cable news heavyweights, and the future of the digital media business amid the collapse of BuzzFeed News and struggles of Vice.
This episode is hosted by Aidan McLaughlin with production assistance from Alyona Uvarova.
2023-05-0535 minMediaite's Press ClubDavid FrenchDavid French returns to "The Interview" for a wide-ranging discussion with Mediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin. French, who now writes an opinion column for The New York Times, discusses the serious legal peril facing Donald Trump, the dangers of the former president's movement, the 2024 presidential race, the Fox News-Dominion trial, a new controversy involving Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, the claims that his billionaire friend is a Nazi sympathizer, the scourge of mass shootings in America, a horrific shooting in French's own backyard, and the push for gun control.
This episode is hosted by Aidan McLaughlin...2023-04-1440 minMediaite's Press ClubStephen A. SmithMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks with Stephen A. Smith, host of ESPN's First Take, host of the Know Mercy Podcast, and author of the new book "Straight Shooter", a memoir of his life and career. Smith dishes on everything: his incredible career, how to make it in the media industry, being friends with Fox News hosts, the Dominion lawsuit, Tucker Carlson's Jan. 6 coverage, Don Lemon's "prime" comments, his personal style, and whether he sees a future in late night comedy or political office.
This episode is hosted by Aidan McLaughlin with production assistance from Alyona...2023-03-2142 minMediaite's Press ClubClay TravisMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks with Outkick founder Clay Travis about the success of his sports and politics site, selling to Fox Corporation, hosting Rush Limbaugh’s old timeslot, wading into politics, running afoul of Covid fact-checkers, the legacy of Trump after the Jan. 6 riot, and what he makes of the 2024 presidential race.
This episode is hosted by Aidan McLaughlin with production assistance from Alyona Uvarova.
2023-03-0145 minMediaite's Press ClubMark EsperMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks with Mark Esper, who served as secretary of defense under former President Donald Trump and is now out with a new book, ‘A Sacred Oath: Memoirs of a Secretary of Defense During Extraordinary Times.’ Esper discusses serving during the alarming final months of the Trump presidency and what he fears most about a second Trump term.
2022-05-2328 minMediaite's Press ClubKara SwisherMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks with Kara Swisher, the New York Times writer and host of ‘Sway’, about Elon Musk’s dramatic bid to take over Twitter. Swisher knows Musk better than most: she has been covering Silicon Valley for decades, and has interviewed the billionaire Tesla CEO at length multiple times. McLaughlin called up Swisher on Thursday to discuss the latest twist in Twitter’s fate, what’s really going through the head of the world’s richest man, and what Swisher makes of the seismic changes shaking up the tech and media worlds.
2022-05-1621 minMediaite's Press ClubJess McIntoshMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks with Democratic strategist Jess McIntosh about the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. McIntosh is a veteran campaign adviser and strategist, with a particular focus on reproductive rights. She served on Hillary Clinton’s 2016 campaign and as the communications director for EMILY’s List, which works to elect pro-choice candidates. McLaughlin and McIntosh discuss what the decision means for Roe, for abortion in America, and for the upcoming midterms elections. McIntosh also assesses how the media covers abortion.
2022-05-0924 minMediaite's Press ClubMatthew ChanceMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks with CNN senior international correspondent Matthew Chance as he prepares to return to Ukraine to cover the Russian invasion. Chance, a veteran war correspondent and one of the few journalists to have interviewed Vladimir Putin, discusses the toll of covering wars like Ukraine, what the next phase of the conflict looks like, how Russian media is spinning its atrocities – and whether the Russian people are buying it.
2022-04-2236 minMediaite's Press ClubRocco ParascandolaMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks with New York Daily News Police Bureau Chief Rocco Parascandola about the 29-hour manhunt for the Brooklyn subway shooter, what the attack means for crime in New York City, and how crime reporting has changed in his decades on the beat.
2022-04-1734 minMediaite's Press ClubKasie HuntMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks with CNN anchor Kasie Hunt about her new show on CNN+, making the jump from cable news to streaming, keeping things on track after the ouster of Jeff Zucker, and how covering politics has changed since she was on the bus for Mitt Romney’s 2012 election campaign.
2022-04-0729 minMediaite's Press ClubMatt BelloniMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks to Puck founding partner Matt Belloni about the fallout from Will Smith slapping Chris Rock at the Oscars, what it means that a streaming service won best picture, and his move from serving as editor in chief of The Hollywood Reporter to a new kind of news outlet.
2022-04-0425 minMediaite's Press ClubJane FergusonMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks with Jane Ferguson, a special correspondent for PBS NewsHour and contributor to the New Yorker. Ferguson arrived in Kyiv, Ukraine less than two weeks ago, the same day documentary filmmaker Brent Renaud was killed by Russian forces. Ferguson and McLaughlin discuss the dangers of reporting from Ukraine, how she copes with covering war, and why so many journalists seem to be caught in the crossfire in this particular conflict. Ferguson, an experienced foreign correspondent, has covered wars in Iraq, Afghanistan, Yemen and Somalia.
2022-03-2434 minMediaite's Press ClubDan McLaughlinMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks with Dan McLaughlin, a foreign correspondent covering eastern Europe for The Irish Times. McLaughlin, who has spent years reporting from eastern Europe and Russia, has been on the ground in Ukraine covering the Russian invasion. They discuss what Ukraine is like right now for its citizens and reporters, what's next for Putin's invasion, and Russia’s escalating crackdown on the press.
2022-03-0745 minMediaite's Press ClubTaylor LorenzMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks with tech reporter Taylor Lorenz about covering influencers, creator culture, and social media. We also discuss her move to the Washington Post, her experience at the New York Times, how she deals with harassment from YouTubers and attacks from Tucker Carlson, and whether papers like the Times are equipped to defend reporters from modern smear campaigns.
2022-03-0238 minMediaite's Press ClubJim SciuttoMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks to CNN anchor and chief national security correspondent Jim Sciutto, who is reporting from Ukraine this week as Russia amasses troops on its border. Sciutto explains the crisis, reveals what live is like in Ukrainian capital Kyiv right now, how CNN set up shop in a potential war zone, and whether the press has gotten better at covering war.
2022-02-1828 minMediaite's Press ClubMargaret BrennanMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin talks to Margaret Brennan, moderator of Face the Nation, about how she prepares for the show, asking tough questions of world leaders, conflict between Russia and Ukraine, dealing with election deniers, and her incredible career in journalism.
2022-01-2733 minMediaite's Press ClubBakari SellersMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks with CNN political commentator Bakari Sellers about voting rights, partisan discourse on MLK Day, media coverage of the Biden administration, his career as a politician, attorney and author, and his new children's book "Who Are Your People."
2022-01-2033 minMediaite's Press ClubDavid LeonhardtMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin talks with Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist David Leonhardt, a senior writer at the New York Times and author of their highly influential morning newsletter (it's called "The Morning"). They discuss the Omicron wave, media coverage of the Covid pandemic, misinformation from the right and left, and his incredible career in journalism.
2022-01-1440 minMediaite's Press ClubJon CaramanicaMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks to New York Times music critic Jon Caramanica. They discuss the life and legacy of Virgil Abloh, interviewing Kanye West in Wyoming, covering the music industry through a pandemic, and whether Drake has a good album left in him. Caramanica, who hails from Brooklyn, cut his teeth in journalism writing for rap magazines. He now wears a few enviable hats at the Times: pop music critic, author of the Critical Shopper column, and host of the Popcast podcast.
2021-12-0954 minMediaite's Press ClubPete HegsethMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks with Fox News host Pete Hegseth, a veteran of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and an ardent supporter of Donald Trump. They spoke the morning after Hegseth hosted the “Patriot Awards”, an event put on by streaming platform Fox Nation. The spirited discussion covered the ceremony, the 2020 election, Covid vaccines and more.
2021-11-1914 minMediaite's Press ClubDavid FrenchMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks to David French, a conservative writer, constitutional lawyer and veteran. He is senior editor at The Dispatch and author of a fresh newsletter for The Atlantic, The Third Rail, which tackles the complex issues that divide the country. French and McLaughlin discuss evangelical support for Trump, whether there is any legal basis for "rigged election" claims, Christian opposition to vaccines, the legality of vaccine mandates, and the future of the Republican Party. French is the author of several books, most recently "Divided We Fall: America’s Secession Threat and How to Restore Our Nation."2021-11-1142 minMediaite's Press ClubNoah ShachtmanMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks to Noah Shachtman, the new editor in chief of Rolling Stone, about scoops, his plans for the legendary rock magazine, the future of print, going to gigs again and who's next in music.
2021-10-2838 minMediaite's Press ClubAyman MohyeldinMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks to MSNBC anchor Ayman Mohyeldin about his incredible career as a foreign correspondent, reporting on war, leaving the field behind for the anchor chair, and the way American media covers conflicts like the one between Israel and Gaza.
2021-10-2137 minMediaite's Press ClubFiona HillMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks with Fiona Hill, a leading Russia expert who has served under three U.S. presidents, most recently as top adviser to former President Donald Trump. Hill would go on to act as a key witness in Trump's first impeachment.
McLaughlin and Hill discuss why she went from protesting in the Women’s March to working for Trump, her experience serving in his chaotic White House, and how economic struggles fuel the rise of populism in the United States, the United Kingdom and Russia.
Hill's fascinating new book on her life an...2021-10-1445 minMediaite's Press ClubSean HannityMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin talks to Sean Hannity about his 25 years at Fox News, the cable news ratings race, the Covid pandemic and misinformation, the 2020 election and the January 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol.
2021-10-0747 minMediaite's Press ClubJohn AvlonMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin talks to CNN anchor John Avlon about the cable news network, his new digital show on the rise of extremism in the United States, the anti-vaccine movement, and whether the lunatic fringe has won the battle or the war.
2021-09-3032 minMediaite's Press ClubSean SpicerMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks to Sean Spicer, the White House press secretary turned Newsmax host, about hosting a cable news show, his time in the Trump White House, 2020 election conspiracy theories, the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol, and current press secretary Jen Psaki. Spicer's new book, Radical Nation: Joe Biden and Kamala Harris’ Dangerous Plan for America, is out Oct. 26.
2021-09-2735 minMediaite's Press ClubLaurie SegallMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin talks to 60 Minutes+ correspondent Laurie Segall about interviewing tech titans like Mark Zuckerberg, and how social media-fueled conspiracy theories like QAnon are sweeping through the country. Segall went behind the scenes on some of her biggest interviews, including a recent panel with "QAnon casualties" — people who have lost relationships to the conspiracy theory. They also discussed her upcoming memoir "Special Characters" and her media production company Dot Dot Dot, which focuses on the intersection of tech and humanity.
2021-09-1645 minMediaite's Press ClubClarissa WardMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks to CNN chief international correspondent Clarissa Ward about her vital reporting on the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, what life is like now in the war-ravaged country, and how she deals with the Taliban as a reporter. Ward is the author of "On All Fronts: The Education of a Journalist" and host of the upcoming CNN podcast "Tug of War".
2021-09-0934 minMediaite's Press ClubJuliette KayyemMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks with Juliette Kayyem — a Harvard professor, CNN national security analyst, and former assistant Homeland Security secretary under Obama — about her provocative new piece for The Atlantic proposing that the unvaccinated be barred from domestic flights. We discuss vaccine mandates like the one being rolled out in New York City, criticism of such programs, and what the future of the pandemic will look like.
2021-08-0531 minMediaite's Press ClubRoger BennettNBC Sports soccer analyst and Men in Blazers co-host Roger Bennett joins Mediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin to talk about his new book, "Reborn in the USA: An Englishman's Love Letter to His Chosen Home." They also discuss how the culture wars have infected sports media, and England’s crushing loss in the Euro final at Wembley Stadium.
2021-07-2940 minMediaite's Press ClubDan AbramsMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks with Dan Abrams, the chief legal analyst for ABC News and founder of Mediaite, about his upcoming prime time cable news show and why the Trump era made him want to return to the hosting chair.
2021-07-2344 minMediaite's Press ClubMichael BenderMediaite editor Aidan McLaughlin speaks with Michael Bender, senior White House reporter for the Wall Street Journal and author of "Frankly, We Did Win This Election: The Inside Story of How Trump Lost." McLaughlin and Bender discuss the "unhinged" final chapter of Trump's presidency, his near death experience with Covid, his private thoughts on Hitler, and life in Mar a Lago.
2021-07-1543 minMediaite's Press ClubTrey YingstMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks to Trey Yingst, a foreign correspondent covering the Middle East for Fox News, about the Israel-Palestine conflict, Biden withdrawing troops from Afghanistan, and maintaining your mental health while reporting on war.
2021-07-0839 minMediaite's Press ClubJonathan LemireMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks to Jonathan Lemire, White House reporter for the Associated Press and political analyst for MSNBC, about covering Biden after four years of Trump and what's going on in the New York City mayoral race.
2021-07-0131 minMediaite's Press ClubGlenn GreenwaldMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks to journalist Glenn Greenwald about the political climate in Brazil, his harrowing armed robbery, Trump and Biden, media criticism, and Tucker Carlson.
2021-06-2442 minMediaite's Press ClubChuck ToddMeet the Press moderator Chuck Todd joins Mediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin to discuss the Biden-Putin summit, the future of cable news, what he makes of Twitter critics, and how to handle election deniers.
2021-06-1745 minMediaite's Press ClubJim AcostaMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks with CNN anchor and chief domestic correspondent Jim Acosta about his move from the White House to the anchor chair, what he plans to do with his new show, cable news rivals, and why he thinks the media still needs to cover Trump.
2021-06-1039 minMediaite's Press ClubPolitico PlaybookTara Palmeri, Eugene Daniels, Ryan Lizza and Rachael Bade — the four authors of Politico Playbook — join Mediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin for a deep dive into the purge of Liz Cheney and reporting on Washington D.C. after Trump.
2021-05-131h 04Mediaite's Press ClubBen SmithMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks to New York Times media columnist Ben Smith about his buzzy column, drama at the Times, and the future of news — from the Drunken Canal to a looming crisis at cable news networks.
2021-05-0638 minMediaite's Press ClubBill HemmerMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin talks to Fox News anchor Bill Hemmer about his new morning show, anchoring from the studio throughout a pandemic, the cable news landscape, and his love for New York.
2021-04-2835 minMediaite's Press ClubNatasha BertrandMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin talks to Politico White House correspondent Natasha Bertrand about the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, Russian bounties, and what it’s like covering the Biden administration after four years of Trump.
2021-04-1635 minMediaite's Press ClubSanjay GuptaMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin talks to Dr. Sanjay Gupta, neurosurgeon and CNN's chief medical correspondent, about vaccines, returning to normalcy, the conservative case against lockdowns, the Wuhan lab theory, and mental health during a pandemic.
2021-04-0839 minMediaite's Press ClubBrian BuckmireMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks to Law&Crime host Brian Buckmire, on the ground in Minneapolis, for an update on the trial of Derek Chauvin in the killing of George Floyd. Buckmire recaps the trial so far, predicts where it's going, and reveals what it's like covering a murder trial during the pandemic.
2021-04-0114 minMediaite's Press ClubMehdi HasanMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin talks to MSNBC and Peacock host Mehdi Hasan about the state of the media in the post-Trump era, how he handles interviews with dishonest politicians, and what he makes of the competition — including Fox News.
2021-03-2538 minMediaite's Press ClubJason MillerMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks to Jason Miller, senior adviser to former President Donald Trump, about CPAC, the conspiracy theory of a stolen election, and how Trump plans to wield power now he's out of office.
2021-03-0541 minMediaite's Press ClubJames HamblinMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks to James Hamblin, a physician and health writer at The Atlantic, about a potentially wonderful summer in America, the quest to vaccinate the country, and what he makes of media coverage of the pandemic.
2021-02-2726 minMediaite's Press ClubChris StirewaltMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin talks to Chris Stirewalt, the veteran political editor who was fired from Fox News last month, about the network's fateful Arizona call, the cable news industry, and the future of the GOP.
2021-02-1844 minMediaite's Press ClubAndrew McCarthyMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks to National Review columnist Andrew McCarthy about the impeachment trial of Donald Trump, the conservative case against it, and why he thinks the former president is guilty.
2021-02-1132 minMediaite's Press ClubJonathan SwanMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks with Axios reporter Jonathan Swan about the collapse of the Trump presidency, how discussions of Martial Law made it into the Oval Office, and what's next for the Republican Party.
2021-02-0730 minMediaite's Press ClubWesley LoweryMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks with 60 Minutes correspondent Wesley Lowery about how newsrooms have been upended by the Trump era, a reckoning over racial injustice, and a revolt against neutrality.
2021-01-2942 minMediaite's Press ClubOlivia NuzziMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin talks to Olivia Nuzzi, Washington correspondent for New York Magazine, about how one pivots to reporting on the Biden White House after covering four years of Trump, Giuliani, and an attempted coup sponsored by the MyPillow CEO.
2021-01-2246 minMediaite's Press ClubJake ShermanMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks to Jake Sherman, the co-founder of Punchbowl News, on covering a riot in the Capitol building from a press room, next steps in Trump's impeachment, and what the hell is going on inside Mitch McConnell's head.
2021-01-1431 minMediaite's Press ClubRachel MaddowMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin talks to Rachel Maddow about her MSNBC show, her new book, and the future of cable news as Trump exits the White House.
2020-12-1825 minMediaite's Press ClubTiffany CrossMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks to political commentator and author Tiffany Cross about her new MSNBC show, social upheavals in the media industry, and the current political climate as Joe Biden comes to Donald Trump's Washington.
2020-12-1227 minMediaite's Press ClubAlex ThompsonMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin talks to Politico reporter and Playbook Transition author Alex Thompson about the historically bizarre Trump-Biden transition, whether a Biden White House marks a return to D.C. normalcy, and what the incoming president has planned for his first few months in office.
2020-12-0533 minMediaite's Press ClubChris RuddyMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks to Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy about his network's ratings surge, their refusal to call the 2020 race for Joe Biden, right wing anger at Fox News, and what's next for President Donald Trump.
2020-11-2337 minMediaite's Press ClubHarry EntenMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks to CNN senior writer and polling analyst Harry Enten about the future of polling, the state of the 2020 election, and what it was like to cover election week in the CNN newsroom.
2020-11-1234 minMediaite's Press ClubElie HonigELECTION SPECIAL: Mediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks with former federal prosecutor and CNN legal analyst Elie Honig about Election Week, whether President Trump has a shot at challenging the results in court, what's in store for the next few months, and what happens after Trump leaves office.
2020-11-0642 minMediaite's Press ClubHallie JacksonMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks to NBC News chief White House correspondent Hallie Jackson about the polls, the mood inside 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, and what to expect on Election Day next week.
2020-10-2935 minMediaite's Press ClubFrank LuntzMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks with Republican pollster Frank Luntz about the state of the presidential race, where the Trump campaign went wrong, the future of polling, and what happens to the GOP after Trump.
2020-10-2227 minMediaite's Press ClubPaula ReidMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin talks to CBS News White House correspondent Paula Reid about the coronavirus outbreak at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, reporting on a White House under quarantine, behind-the-scenes of the Trump press shop, and what’s in store for the last few weeks of the 2020 campaign.
2020-10-1542 minMediaite's Press ClubChris WallaceMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks to Fox News Sunday anchor Chris Wallace about his moderation of the most chaotic debate in history, the coronavirus outbreak at the White House, and the final weeks of the 2020 election.
2020-10-0834 minMediaite's Press ClubJonathan KarlMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks to ABC News Chief White House Correspondent Jonathan Karl about the upcoming Supreme Court fight, asking President Trump why he lied about the coronavirus, and press coverage of the administration.
2020-09-2440 minMediaite's Press ClubAri MelberMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin talks to MSNBC anchor Ari Melber about the legal stakes of the upcoming presidential election, cable news coverage of the Trump administration, how cell phones are pushing civil rights forward, and Kanye West.
2020-09-1738 minMediaite's Press ClubJennifer GriffinMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin talks to Fox News national security correspondent Jennifer Griffin about covering the Pentagon, her reporting on Trump disparaging veterans, the use of anonymous sources, and what it's like to have the president call for your firing.
2020-09-1035 minMediaite's Press ClubBrian StelterMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin talks to Brian Stelter about CNN's coverage of the Trump administration and his new book 'Hoax: Donald Trump, Fox News, and the Dangerous Distortion of Truth'.
2020-09-0338 minMediaite's Press ClubDon LemonMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin talks to Don Lemon about the Republican and Democratic conventions, coronavirus pandemic, CNN's coverage of Trump and protests against racial injustice.
2020-08-2735 minMediaite's Press ClubTucker CarlsonMediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin talks to Tucker Carlson about his Fox News show, the Trump administration, the coronavirus pandemic and the resignation of his writer over racist posts.
2020-08-2038 minMediaite's Press ClubIntroducing, "The Interview"Mediaite presents "The Interview", a podcast featuring conversations with the top personalities at the intersection of media and politics. Mediaite editor in chief Aidan McLaughlin speaks to the broadcasters, reporters, editors and politicians making the headlines.
2020-08-1500 min