03 Nov 2025
21m

The Monster He Made: Murdoch, Trump, and the Price of Power (Part 4)

Podcast cover

The Rest Is Politics

The episode centers on Rupert Murdoch's media empire, particularly focusing on the rise and impact of Fox News, with insights from Michael Wolff, who shares details from his book. The discussion explores Murdoch's acquisition of the Wall Street Journal and his relationship with Roger Ailes, the man behind Fox News. Ailes's influence and control over Fox News, often diverging from Murdoch's own views and creating a toxic, agenda-driven environment, are examined. The conversation touches on the political polarization fueled by Fox News, especially after Obama's election, and the internal conflicts within the Murdoch family regarding the network's direction. The dynamics between Murdoch, his children, and Ailes, including Ailes's eventual ousting, are also discussed, alongside Murdoch's personal life and marriages.

Outlines

Part 1: Murdoch, Ailes, and the Birth of Fox News

Part 2: Editorial Strategy and Toxic Influence

Part 3: Power Struggles and Internal Conflict

Sign in to continue reading, translating and more.

Open full episode in Podwise