What Could
Go Right?
The Podcast

arrow-roundNEWEST EPISODES

The Progress Report: Erasing Hidden Hazards

Featuring Zachary Karabell & Emma Varvaloucas

In this episode of the Progress Report, Zachary and Emma discuss the importance of highlighting good news amidst a sea of negativity. They explore various topics, including the addressing of the rape kit backlog, the long-term effects of war, and the idea that good news often arises from the resolution of past issues. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of recognizing progress and constructive stories to foster collective well-being.

Tariffs, Trade, and TikTok

Featuring Noah Smith

Will the U.S. no longer be an economic superpower in the future? How dangerous is TikTok for Americans? And do tariffs necessarily lead to increased domestic manufacturing? In the midst of tariffs and counter-tariffs and lots of economic uncertainty, Zachary and Emma speak with Noah Smith, economist and writer of the "Noahpinion" Substack. They discuss President Trump's economic maneuvers, our fragmented media ecosystem, and how much of a threat China really is.

The Return to Trumplandia

Featuring Zachary Karabell and Emma Varvaloucas

Welcome to Season 7!
This week, Zachary Karabell and Emma Varvaloucas discuss the duality of news, focusing on the positive amidst the negative. They explore the impact of the Trump administration on American politics, the importance of understanding diverse voter perspectives, and the role of information in shaping political decisions. The conversation emphasizes the disconnect between government actions and daily life, advocating for a deeper engagement with local politics. They explore the dynamics of democracy, accountability, and the influence of the Trump administration, emphasizing the need for vigilance and active participation in governance. The discussion also touches on the global perspective of American politics, highlighting the resilience of international communities and the complexities of global interrelations.

ALL EPISODES

Featuring Zachary Karabell & Emma Varvaloucas

The Progress Report: Erasing Hidden Hazards

In this episode of the Progress Report, Zachary and Emma discuss the importance of highlighting good news amidst a sea of negativity. They explore various topics, including the addressing of the rape kit backlog, the long-term effects of war, and the idea that good news often arises from the resolution of past issues. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of recognizing progress and constructive stories to foster collective well-being.

Featuring Noah Smith

Tariffs, Trade, and TikTok

Will the U.S. no longer be an economic superpower in the future? How dangerous is TikTok for Americans? And do tariffs necessarily lead to increased domestic manufacturing? In the midst of tariffs and counter-tariffs and lots of economic uncertainty, Zachary and Emma speak with Noah Smith, economist and writer of the "Noahpinion" Substack. They discuss President Trump's economic maneuvers, our fragmented media ecosystem, and how much of a threat China really is.

Featuring Zachary Karabell and Emma Varvaloucas

The Return to Trumplandia

Welcome to Season 7!
This week, Zachary Karabell and Emma Varvaloucas discuss the duality of news, focusing on the positive amidst the negative. They explore the impact of the Trump administration on American politics, the importance of understanding diverse voter perspectives, and the role of information in shaping political decisions. The conversation emphasizes the disconnect between government actions and daily life, advocating for a deeper engagement with local politics. They explore the dynamics of democracy, accountability, and the influence of the Trump administration, emphasizing the need for vigilance and active participation in governance. The discussion also touches on the global perspective of American politics, highlighting the resilience of international communities and the complexities of global interrelations.

MEET OUR
HOSTS

Zachary Karabell

Zachary Karabell is the founder of the Progress Network. He is an author, columnist, and investor and president of River Twice Capital. He is also the author of 13 books, most recently Inside Money: Brown Brothers Harriman and the American Way of Power.

Zachary Karabell

facebook twitter

Emma Varvaloucas

Emma Varvaloucas is the Executive Director of The Progress Network. An editor and writer specializing in nonprofit media, she was formerly Executive Editor of Tricycle: The Buddhist Review and is the editor of two books from Wisdom Publications.

Emma Varvaloucas

twitter
Testimonials

This podcast is optimistic without being naive. Deeply historically based reflections met with global comparisons on the troubling issues we face today. Excited for the next conversation!

Katelyn

Love this fresh perspective—a welcome listen during these transitional times.

Lara

What Could Go Right? is one of the best projects on the Internet. Chin up, people—believe it or not, we're somehow moving in the right direction in many ways.

Chris

Your podcast with Anne-Marie Slaughter was fabulous. . . . More things like this and thank you for your platform of caring, brilliant leaders. We need your perspective to heal!

Cheryl