The Bill Press Pod

In this episode Bill speaks with Jacob Ward, a longtime technology journalist. He’s worked for NBC News, CNN and PBS. They discuss the origins and development of artificial intelligence (AI), focusing on its capabilities and limitations. Jacob explains that AI's power lies in its pattern recognition but emphasizes that it does not truly understand the data it processes. He delves into the societal implications of AI, including job displacement, lack of regulation, and potential psychological impacts. Despite these risks, Ward highlights positive uses of AI in fields like healthcare and astronomy. Finally, he discusses the pressing need for regulatory measures to mitigate the adverse effects of AI and advocates for a balanced approach to AI utilization. You can follow Jacob Ward’s Podcast and Newsletter, The Rip Current, here TheRipCurrent.com and here TheRipCurrent.substack.com. And his book, The Loop: How Technology Is Creating a World Without Choices and How to Fight Back here. Today’s Bill Press Pod is supported by The Laborers’ International Union of North America. More information at LIUNA.org. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this special episode of the Bill Press Pod, Bill interviews historian and author Lynne Olson at The Hill Center in Washington DC. Olson discusses her latest book, 'The Sisterhood of Ravensbruck,' which tells the incredible story of French women in the Resistance who were imprisoned in the Nazis' only all-female concentration camp, Ravensbruck. The conversation highlights the women's bravery, resilience, and defiance under horrific conditions. Olson also shares insights about post-war recognition and controversies surrounding these women's contributions. Additionally, she touches on her book 'Empress of the Nile,' detailing the efforts of Christiane Desroches-Noblecourt to save ancient Egyptian temples. We hope you enjoy this captivating discussion that shines a light on these underrecognized heroines of history. The two books mentioned in detail are: The Sisterhood of Ravensbrück: How an Intrepid Band of Frenchwomen Resisted the Nazis in Hitler's All-Female Concentration Camp. You can buy here. Empress of the Nile: The Daredevil Archaeologist Who Saved Egypt's Ancient Temples from Destruction You can buy here. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Bill and National Security Analyst Joe Cirincione discuss the implications of recent U.S. foreign policy actions under Donald Trump's administration. They focus on the escalating military actions in Venezuela, the Trump administration's unauthorized and potentially illegal military strikes against alleged drug smugglers, and the broader historical context of U.S. involvement in Latin America. The conversation also touches on the controversial peace plan proposed for Ukraine, which heavily favors Russian interests, and the precarious ceasefire situation in Gaza. Additionally, they examine Saudi Arabia's influence on U.S. policy, highlighting Trump's controversial relationships with foreign leaders like Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The episode underscores the complexities and contradictions of current U.S. foreign policy and raises questions about its legality and effectiveness. Today Bill suggests a great holiday gift, the hand-woven scarves by Carol Press. Check them out at CarolPressScarves.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Epstein! Epstein! Epstein! Mike Johnson Spooked. MTG vs DJT. MBS Khashoggi and Trump. The Weakening Congress. Refuse Legal Orders! Trump’s Overreaction. Dick Cheney’s Funeral Guests. Today's Panel: Jason Dick, Editor-in-chief at CQ-Roll Call, Katherine Tully-McManus, Congressional Reporter at Politico, Ledge King, Managing Editor of National Journal Daily and John Bennett, White House Correspondent for CQ-Roll Call. Today’s Bill Press Pod is supported by The United Food and Commercial Workers Union. More information at UFCW.org See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With Jeffrey Epstein and Donald Trump in the news together last week and for sure this week, we thought we'd look back at the interview Bill did with Michael Wolff, a confidant of Jeffrey Epstein and an author with several books about Donald Trump. There is a lot that Michael Wolff revealed in this interview from four months ago. Might be fun to take a listen again knowing what you know now. And if your friends haven't heard it recommend that they do. So…in this episode of the Bill Press Pod, Bill Press reconnects with veteran journalist Michael Wolff to discuss the relationship between Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein. Wolff reveals intimate details about their close friendship from the late 80s through the early 2000s, their mutual interests in women and real estate, and their eventual fallout over a Palm Beach property deal. Wolff also discusses Trump's efforts to downplay their relationship, Epstein's later belief that Trump contributed to his legal troubles, and the reluctance of mainstream media to delve into this story. Wolff shares his personal interactions with Epstein, insights from his 100 hours of taped interviews, and untapped explosive content related to Trump. The conversation also touches on Trump's first term in office, comparing it to his current administration, and concludes with Wolff's views on Trump's current challenges and potential impact on his political future. Michael Wolff's latest book is All or Nothing: How Trump Recaptured America. You can see his other books here. And Michael Wolff is active on Instagram. instagram.com/michaelwolffnyc. As the holiday season is upon us, Bill suggests a Carol Press Scarf as a great gift. Hand-made, each is a work of art in Rayon Chenille or Bamboo. Take a look at CarolPressScarves.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Epstein and More Epstein. Shutdown Winners. War on Venezuela? Trump’s Foreign Focus. Trump: Prices Down. Not. Filibuster Safe. With Jeff Dufour, Editor in chief at The National Journal, Mia McCarthy, Congress Reporter at Politico and Hunter Walker, Investigative Reporter for Talking Points Memo. Today Bill reminds us that a one-of-a-kind Carol Press Scarf make a great holiday gift. Check out these individual works of art at CarolPressScarves.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode Bill interviews Ron Brownstein, senior political analyst at CNN and columnist for Bloomberg Opinion. They discuss the results of the November 4 elections in Virginia, New Jersey, New York City, and California, and the unmistakable warning signs these results hold for Republicans. Ron highlights the importance of voter attitudes toward the incumbent president, which have increasingly influenced election outcomes. Despite negative views of the Democratic Party, voters' disapproval of Trump played a decisive role in Democratic victories. The conversation also covers the impact of economic dissatisfaction on Trump's approval ratings and the challenges Republicans face in overcoming this negative sentiment. Additionally, they delve into the significance of the recent government shutdown battle and its implications for future elections. Finally, the discussion touches on the generational shift within the Democratic Party and the prospects for Democrats to regain control of the House and Senate in 2026. Today Bill highlights the work of the Democratic Governors Association. There are some great Democratic Governors who might end up as the Democratic Presidential candidate. More information at DemocraticGovernors.org See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Democratic Sweep. Affordability and Trump Key. GOP’s Struggles. New Blood Wanted. GOP More Blamed for Shutdown. Nancy Pelosi Retires. What’s Up With MTG? Dick Cheney’s Legacy. With Sabrina Siddiqui, National Politics Reporter at The Wall Street Journal, Linda Feldmann, White House Correspondent and DC Bureau Chief at The Christian Science Monitor and Philip Bump, former Columnist for The Washington Post and author of the How to Read This Chart Newsletter. You can follow Philip's work at HowtoReadThisCh.art Today's Bill Press Pod is supported by The Ironworkers Union. More information at Ironworkers.org See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode Bill sits down with Jonathan Karl, Chief Washington Correspondent for ABC News, to discuss Karl's latest book 'Retribution: Donald Trump, and the Campaign That Changed America.' The conversation covers Karl's unique relationship with Trump, including a personal call on the morning after the election, and a detailed discussion on Hunter Biden's significant yet tumultuous role in Joe Biden's political circle. They delve into Trump's comeback, the shocking revelations from January 6th, and the key moments leading up to Trump's re-election. The episode also examines Joe Biden and Kamala Harris' reflections on their political futures, an extraordinary account of Trump supporter Pamela Hemphill's journey, and current polling data revealing significant dissatisfaction with Trump's second term. Karl provides substantial insights through newly uncovered documents and personal anecdotes, making for a compelling discussion on current American political dynamics. You can order your copy of Jon's latest book here. Today’s Bill Press Pod is supported by The Laborers’ International Union of North America. More information at LIUNA.org. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Shutdown Continues. Blame Game. Any Movement? Trump: Kill Filibuster. House Still Out. Trump Flattered in Asia. Nuclear Testing? NYC Mayor’s Race. VA and NJ Governor’s Race. CA Redistricting Fight. With Amanda Becker, Washington Correspondent for 19th News, Igor Bobic, Senior Politics Reporter for HuffPost and Evan McMorris-Santoro, Reporter at NOTUS. Today's Bill Press Pod is supported The United Food and Commercial Workers Union. More information at UFCW.org See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Bill speaks with Anat Shenker-Osorio, a political strategist and messaging expert, about the state of Democratic messaging ten months into Donald Trump's second term. Shenker-Osorio critiques Democrats' reliance on polling and failure to effectively communicate their message to voters. She contrasts this with effective messaging strategies, citing examples like Zohran Mamdani and the importance of agenda-setting. Shenker-Osorio stresses the need for Democrats to adopt a more proactive and consistent messaging approach, focusing on key issues like affordability and framing the opposition as authoritarian. She also discusses current topics like AI-generated videos and California's Prop 50, emphasizing the importance of voter engagement and resistance to authoritarian tactics. You can follow the great work of Anat Shenker-Osorio on Blue Sky at @anatosaurus.bsky.social. Her podcast, Words to Win By: WordsToWinBy-pod.com Her writings on Substack: substack.com/@anatosaurus Today Bill highlights the work of The American Civil Liberties Union. More information at ACLU.org. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Trump Tears Down Whole East Wing. “Privately” Funded Destruction. Trump Demands $230 Million. Johnson Knows Nothing. Shutdown Goes On and On. Does Trump Care? At “War” with Venezuela? No Putin Summit. Trump Poops on America. AI’s Cost to Truth. With Emily Goodin, White House Correspondent for McClatchy Media, Allan Smith, Political Reporter for NBC News and Kirk Bado, Editor, National Journal Hotline. Today's Bill Press Pod is supported by The Laborers' International Union of North America. More information at LIUNA.org See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Bill speaks with Elie Mystal, the Justice Correspondent at The Nation, about the current state of the U.S. Department of Justice, particularly focusing on its role under the Trump administration. The discussion highlights recent indictments of political figures, the Department of Justice's shift towards serving Trump's political agenda, and the questionable legal merit of these indictments. They delve into the Supreme Court’s new session, discussing its selective case acceptance process and the conservative majority’s influence on the court’s docket, including key issues like voting rights, presidential powers, and the overall shift to the right. The conversation also addresses the potential impact on minority rights, particularly LGBT Americans, and criticizes Democrats for not taking a stronger stance on court reform. Mystal underscores the urgency for Democrats to focus on judicial appointments and court expansion to counterbalance the conservative-leaning Supreme Court. Bill referenced Elie’s work for the Nation Magazine. You can read his work here: thenation.com/authors/elie-mystal/ Today Bill urged us to support the ACLU. More information at ACLU.org See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bolton Indicted. Retribution Continues. Is Adam Schiff Next? Putin Trump Summit-Again. Will Gaza Deal Hold? Shutdown Continues. SCOTUS vs Voting Rights Act. GOP’s Racist “Kids.” No Kings Protest. With Jason Dick, Editor-in-chief of CQ-Roll Call, S. V. Date, Senior White House Correspondent for HuffPost and Cameron Joseph, Senior Washington Reporter for the Christian Science Monitor. Today's Bill Press Pod is supported by The Ironworkers Union. More information at Ironworkers.org. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Bill speaks with congressional scholar Norm Ornstein about the deteriorating state of the United States Congress. They discuss the book Ornstein co-authored 13 years ago, 'It's Even Worse Than It Looks,' focusing on how the Republican party has evolved into an 'insurgent outlier.' Ornstein shares his personal history working in the Senate since 1970, citing a loss of 'institutional patriotism' among Republicans and their complete subordination to Donald Trump. He criticizes current congressional leadership, particularly Mike Johnson, and highlights issues like the Senate’s blind approval of Trump nominees and the failure of effective oversight. Ornstein also addresses the implications of a government shutdown, the misuse of the Justice Department for political retribution, and the need for an effective Democratic response. He ends on a somber note, comparing current political dynamics to the erosion of democratic norms seen in history, suggesting that the road to recovery is uncertain and fraught with challenges. (No kidding.) Norman Ornstein is a political scientist, co-host of the podcast “Words Matter,” and author of books, including “It’s Even Worse Than It Looks: How the American Constitutional System Collided with the New Politics of Extremism.” Today Bill highlights the work of one of his favorite morning reads, The Bulwark. A great website and media company founded by Never-Trump Republicans which is at the forefront of The Resistance. You can check it out at TheBulwark.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

No Trump Nobel. Trump’s Retribution Continues. No Shutdown Talks. Who Gets the Blame? Who Gets the ACA Subsidies? Trump’s Mideast Deal. With Jeff Dufour Editor-chief of The National Journal, John Bennett, White House correspondent for CQ Roll Call and Mia McCarthy, Congressional Reporter for Politico. Today's Bill Press Pod is supported by The United Food and Commercial Workers Union. More information at UIFCW.org. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode historian Doug Brinkley discusses the unprecedented ways in which Donald Trump has pushed the boundaries of presidential power. Brinkley compares Trump's actions to historic moments, such as FDR's attempts to pack the Supreme Court and Lincoln's leadership during the Civil War, but notes that Trump's use of executive orders and his ability to intimidate fellow Republicans is unparalleled. The episode covers Trump’s potential to weaponize the National Guard for political gains, his circumvention of legal authority, and the broader implications for American democracy. Brinkley expresses optimism for the future but warns of the challenges posed by emerging technologies such as AI and deep fakes. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Government Shuts Down. It’s About Healthcare. Who Leads the Democrats? Blue State Spending Cancelled. AI Meme Wars. Hegseth’s Embarrassment. Trump's Unhinged Speech to the Generals. No Nobel for Trump. With Linda Feldmann, White House Correspondent and Washington Bureau Chief for The Christian Science Monitor, Philip Bump, former Columnist for The Washington Post and Arthur Delaney, Senior Reporter at Huff Post. Today's Bill Press Pod is supported by The American Federation of Government Employees. More information at AFGE.org. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode. Bill interviews Matt Gertz, Senior Fellow at Media Matters for America. They discuss various topics, including the recent media silence around a right-wing hate crime, the Jimmy Kimmel controversy, and the influence of corporate conglomerates on the free press. Gertz details how media giants often prioritize profit over journalism, resulting in increased vulnerability to political pressure. They explore how the Trump administration has attempted to manipulate the media landscape to favor its narrative, exemplified by threats from FCC Chair Brendan Carr and Attorney General Pam Bondi's remarks on hate speech. The conversation also touches on Donald Trump's admiration for authoritarian leaders and the implications for the First Amendment and press freedom in the United States. Today Bill features the work of the World Central Kitchen run by Jose Andres. As the war goes on in Ukraine the World Central Kitchen is there, taking care of that war-torn country. More information at WCK.org See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

James Comey Indicted. The InJustice Department. Tom Homan Took $50,000. Trump at the UN. EscalatorGate. Trump’s Ukraine Flip. Kimmel Beats Trump. Trump Attacks Reporters. Kamala Harris Book Tour. With Jen Bendery, Reporter at Huff Post covering Congress, the White House and political campaigns, Evan McMorris Santoro, Reporter for NOTUS and contributor to the NOTUS Daily Newsletter and Kirk Bado, Editor, National Journal Hotline. Today's Bill Press Pod is supported by The Laborers’ International Union of North America. More information at LIUNA.org. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.