The Dispatch Podcast Are Vaccines Still In?
25 snips
Feb 3, 2026 
Emily Oster, Brown economics professor known for data-driven public health, outlines shifts in vaccine and dietary guidance. Kevin Williamson, conservative columnist, debates law, journalism ethics, and market policy. Mike Warren, media commentator, helps unpack the Epstein documents and Southwest’s seating changes. They discuss trust in health guidance, journalism transparency, legal consequences, and airline business decisions.
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Vaccine Guidance Change Harms Trust
- Emily Oster warns the unilateral trimming of recommended childhood vaccines will erode public trust and lower vaccination rates.
- She expects the change to ease political moves to end school vaccine mandates and increase disease risk in vulnerable communities.
Simplify Guidelines For Better Uptake
- Emily Oster praises shortening nutrition guidelines because clearer messaging increases uptake of good advice.
- She recommends concise guidance so important points don't get buried in long reports.
Practical Eating Tips For Families
- Introduce common food allergens to infants around four to six months to reduce later food allergies.
- Increase protein intake for active people but substitute it for carbs or fats rather than simply adding calories.