The Best of 2025 | Roundtable

In the final Dispatch Podcast of 2025, Steve Hayes, along with colleagues Jonah Goldberg, Michael Warren, and Megan McArdle, engage in a news-free discussion about their favorite books, TV series, movies, and meals of the year. Megan recommends Neal Stephenson's "The Diamond Age," while Jonah highlights Helena Rosenblatt's "The Lost History of Liberalism." Michael praises Wayne Curtis's "And a Bottle of Rum," and Steve mentions "The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry." They also share their favorite TV series, including "Perry Mason," "Ironside," "Andor," and "Severance." The hosts then discuss memorable meals, including home-cooked cassoulet, Swedish pancakes, Mississippi pot roast, and experiences at restaurants like Burma Superstar and Angelita. They wrap up by discussing new product discoveries and their New Year's resolutions, focusing on the impact of their actions and saying no more often.