Two Steps Forward, One Step Back w. Jennifer Siebel Newsom

The Other MAGA War… At Home

Jul 2, 20261h 11mSummary

In this episode of Hysteria, guest host Alex Wagner joins the program to explore the cultural and political phenomenon of the trad-wife movement. Moving beyond the aesthetic of social media influencers who showcase glamorous, retrograde domestic lifestyles, the discussion unpacks the serious, often coercive implications of these gender roles. The episode features an interview with Sharon Johnson, a former trad-wife who recounts her upbringing in a high-demand religious environment where traditional gender roles were presented not as a personal choice, but as a mandatory, divinely ordained path. She explains how the lack of autonomy inherent in this lifestyle can be disorienting and shares her personal journey toward reclaiming her independence. The hosts also analyze how right-wing think tanks and political entities, such as the Heritage Foundation, are actively weaponizing this nostalgia for the 1950s. By examining policy proposals that seek to incentivize marriage and prioritize stay-at-home motherhood through tax benefits and the restructuring of welfare, the discussion highlights how these ideologies are being woven into national political agendas to exert control over women’s lives, education, and economic futures.

Choice Words w. Franchesca Ramsey

Jun 25, 20261h 22mSummary

In this episode of Hysteria, host Erin Ryan and panelist Alyssa Mastromonaco are joined by special guest Franchesca Ramsey for a wide-ranging conversation. The episode opens with a humorous look at current political figures before pivoting to a reflection on the recent opening of the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago. Mastromonaco recounts her experience at the center, describing it as a moving tribute to the community that shaped the Obamas. This sparks a thoughtful discussion on the nostalgia surrounding the Obama era and the complex feelings progressives have regarding how the country has shifted since. Ramsey and the hosts analyze the importance of building resilience in political movements, emphasizing the necessity of playing the long game rather than seeking instant results. They offer a nuanced perspective on the challenges of sustained civic engagement, suggesting that picking a specific cause can help avoid feeling overwhelmed. The conversation balances candid political critique with personal anecdotes, including lighthearted moments from the Chicago event, ultimately landing on a message of enduring hope and the importance of continued, incremental participation in democracy.

This F*cking Guy: John Roberts

Jun 21, 202647 minSummary

In this episode of Hysteria, the hosts conduct a biting, biographical deep dive into the life and legal career of Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts. Moving past his polished public persona as a moderate institutionalist, the hosts examine Roberts’ history as a conservative striver who, from his high school years through his tenure in the Reagan administration, consistently prioritized ideological alignment over precedent and equity. The discussion highlights Roberts’ early aversion to civil rights, noting his intense skepticism toward the Voting Rights Act and affirmative action during his time as a young government lawyer. The episode tracks his ascent through the federal judiciary and his role in the Bush v. Gore case, arguing that his later appointment as Chief Justice was the culmination of a long-term conservative project to capture the court. The hosts scrutinize his judicial record—specifically his narrow, incremental approach to dismantling the separation of church and state—and contend that he has effectively weaponized religious freedom to facilitate discrimination. Ultimately, the hosts portray Roberts as a calculating operator whose judicial philosophy serves to protect corporate and conservative interests while undermining the rights of the marginalized.

What in the World (Cup) w. Megan Gailey

Jun 18, 20261h 34mSummary

In this episode of Hysteria, hosts Erin Ryan and Alyssa Mastromonico dive into a mix of political critique, media analysis, and cultural commentary. The hosts begin by humorously dissecting a recent, failed attempt to maintain the Washington Monument’s reflecting pool, poking fun at the bizarre aesthetic results. The conversation quickly shifts to a rigorous breakdown of JD Vance’s recent book tour and his attempts to rebrand himself, with the hosts scrutinizing his recent appearance on The View. They discuss his awkward efforts to connect with female voters, his shifting religious narratives, and the lack of substance behind his public persona. Beyond the political theater, the episode touches on the future of the U.S. Postal Service and concerns regarding potential voter suppression tactics. The hosts also examine the state of modern media, specifically discussing the implications of corporate media mergers and the career trajectory of Barry Weiss, highlighting the phenomenon of failing upward in high-profile journalism. The episode concludes with a guest appearance by Megan Gailey, who joins the discussion to round out the news cycle with sports updates and thoughts on current cultural trends like heteropessimism.

This F*cking Guy: Jared Kushner

Jun 7, 202646 minSummary

In this episode of Hysteria, hosts Erin Ryan and Alyssa Mastromonaco turn their focus toward the background and rise of Jared Kushner. The conversation begins by examining the dramatic history of the Kushner family, from the survival story of Jared’s grandparents during World War II to the rapid, often ruthless rise of his father, Charles Kushner, in New Jersey real estate and politics. The hosts highlight how Charles’s aggressive ambition and scandalous legal history—including his infamous witness retaliation scheme—set a complicated stage for his son’s eventual entrance into the national spotlight. The discussion shifts to Jared’s own trajectory, characterized by what the hosts describe as a mediocre academic record and a series of questionable business ventures, including his disastrous management of the New York Observer and the ill-fated acquisition of 666 Fifth Avenue. The episode also touches on his marriage into the Trump family and his unconventional appointment as a senior White House advisor. Ultimately, the hosts provide a critical assessment of Kushner’s time in office, particularly his controversial role in the Middle East peace process, underscoring his lack of diplomatic experience and reliance on opaque personal networks.

Pratt Summer (Derogatory) w. Sepideh Moafi

Jun 4, 20261h 38mSummary

In this episode of Hysteria, hosts Erin Ryan and Alyssa Mastromonaco dive into a variety of news stories, blending political commentary with sharp pop culture observations. The hosts begin by discussing the recent California primary results and the crowded field of candidates, expressing frustration over the persistent influence of "men with checkered pasts" in politics. They specifically analyze the LA mayoral race and the divisive nature of candidate Spencer Pratt, while also touching on the ongoing turmoil at CBS News, where internal leadership changes have led to the controversial departure of veteran correspondent Scott Pelly. Beyond the headlines, the episode features a conversation with actress Sepideh Moafi. She joins the show to discuss her professional journey, including her role in the project The L Word: Generation Q, her experiences growing up as an Iranian refugee, and her recent work in the play Newborn. The discussion highlights the intersection of her personal history and her career in the arts. Through these segments, the hosts maintain their trademark blend of skepticism and humor, tackling serious political developments and entertainment industry shifts with a candid, conversational perspective.

Welcome to the Jungle Primary w. Reshma Saujani

May 21, 20261h 23mSummary

In this episode of Hysteria, the hosts dive into a mix of political turmoil and cultural analysis, beginning with a breakdown of recent Republican primary results in Kentucky. They discuss the defeat of Congressman Thomas Massie, analyzing his unique status as a libertarian-leaning figure within the GOP and the implications of his loss to a Trump-endorsed challenger. The conversation expands to the broader landscape of modern political discourse, touching on the influence of alternative media, the bizarre circulation of conspiracy theories, and the challenges faced by incumbents in an increasingly polarized climate. The hosts also highlight positive developments regarding reproductive healthcare, specifically the Supreme Court’s decision to maintain telehealth access for mifepristone. They offer a sharp, critical perspective on the legal maneuvering and dissenting opinions surrounding the case, while discussing how abortion politics continues to complicate the electoral strategy for the Republican party. Beyond the headlines, the episode features a guest appearance by Reshma Saujani, who joins the conversation to discuss her documentary, No Country for Mothers, shedding light on the systemic challenges and economic realities facing mothers in contemporary America.

This F*cking Guy: Bari Weiss

May 17, 202646 minSummary

In this milestone fortieth episode of Hysteria, host Erin Ryan turns her focus to Bari Weiss, framing her career as a case study in professional victimization and calculated contrarianism. The discussion highlights how Weiss has evolved from a student activist at Columbia University—where she led campaigns against professors critical of Israeli policy—into a prominent voice in the media landscape. Ryan details Weiss’s history of portraying herself as a champion of free speech while simultaneously working to marginalize those whose views on Zionism or social issues align with her own agenda. The episode examines Weiss’s tendency to operate through the use of straw men, particularly in her critiques of movements like #MeToo and her characterization of the "Intellectual Dark Web." Ryan argues that Weiss’s brand relies on misrepresenting progressive discourse to frame herself as a transgressive outsider. By dissecting specific columns and public controversies, the episode portrays Weiss as a figure who prioritizes ideology over nuance, often relying on inflammatory rhetoric to defend her worldview. Ultimately, the hosts explore the disconnect between Weiss’s self-styled persona as a defender of open debate and her documented history of attempting to stifle dissenting voices.

Breaking Trad

Apr 9, 20261h 33mSummary

In this episode of Hysteria, hosts Erin and Alyssa dive into a series of urgent political headlines, starting with a critical look at the geopolitical tensions surrounding nuclear threats. The conversation shifts to accountability in Washington as they address recent allegations of misconduct involving Congressman Tony Gonzales. The hosts also examine a troubling pattern of deception within ICE, analyzing how official narratives are increasingly challenged by documented evidence. The second half of the episode turns toward the evolving landscape of the Republican party. Erin and Alyssa break down the ousting of Pam Bondi and explore the rise of the trad wife movement. They dissect the inherent contradictions within this trend, questioning why proponents of these traditional values struggle to navigate the very patriarchal structures they defend. Listeners can expect a sharp, thought-provoking analysis that connects current news cycles to deeper cultural and political implications.

This F*cking Guy: Tulsi Gabbard

Apr 5, 202638 minSummary

In this episode of Hysteria, hosts Erin and Alyssa turn their sharp focus toward the shifting political landscape of Tulsi Gabbard. The discussion dissects her unconventional career path, tracing her origins within the Science of Identity Foundation and examining her controversial evolution from a Democratic figure to a member of the Trump administration. The hosts explore her history of polarizing stances, including her fluctuating positions on LGBTQ rights and her alignment with figures outside the mainstream political sphere. By analyzing her public record and reported associations, the conversation aims to uncover the inconsistencies that define her brand of politics. Listeners can expect a critical, unfiltered breakdown of how Gabbard has navigated her path to power, highlighting the questions and concerns that have followed her throughout her rise in American politics.