The US saw a significant drop in the number of drug overdose deaths. The Trump administration has a shot at keeping the trend going. STAT News's addiction reporter, Lev Facher, explains.This episode was produced by Haleema Shah, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Noel King.An addiction recovery billboard in Minneapolis. Photo by Michael Siluk/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Brittany Kriegstein, a reporter for Gothamist covering crime stories, provides insights into the shocking shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, including the bizarre social media reactions that followed. Bob Herman from Stat News discusses the public's growing anger towards UnitedHealthcare, highlighting the significant disconnect between the company and its users. They delve into systemic issues plaguing U.S. health insurance, exploring how profit-driven motives affect patient care and the broader implications for workplace safety in the industry.

Sarah Nassauer, a retail reporter for The Wall Street Journal, dives into Target's recent struggles in the competitive retail landscape. She highlights how the brand's traditional identity has faltered as shoppers shift to rivals like Walmart. Nassauer discusses Target's stagnating sales and efforts to win back consumers amid rising inflation. The conversation explores Walmart's strategic pivot to attract higher-income shoppers and its challenges in balancing pricing with customer loyalty. It's a revealing look at the evolving dynamics of retail.

Kyle Mooney, an actor and comedian known for his work on Saturday Night Live and his film "Y2K," teams up with history professor Zachary Loeb, who specializes in the cultural impact of the Y2K phenomenon. They discuss the chaotic imaginations surrounding the millennium and the surprisingly uneventful reality. Loeb explains how the hype was fueled by media sensationalism and explores the interplay of nostalgia and technology in storytelling. Together, they reflect on the balance of preparedness and paranoia leading up to the year 2000.

Jihad Yazigi, Editor-in-chief of The Syria Report, delves into the recent resurgence of Syria's civil war, sparked by a rebel group's seizure of Aleppo. He highlights the intriguing motivations behind the group's leader, drawing parallels to historical figures. The discussion unveils how this shift in power dynamics impacts civilians and the Assad regime. Yazigi also touches on the evolution of radical groups like HTS, now seeking governance, and the broader implications for U.S. foreign policy amidst the ongoing turmoil.

Dylan Matthews, a Vox journalist, discusses the push for a Department of Government Efficiency, aiming to tackle federal spending. Chris Edwards from the Cato Institute advocates for major budget cuts, suggesting a radical overhaul of aid programs. They delve into the controversial role of Dogecoin in financial strategies and the complexities of cutting a $6.5 trillion budget focused on entitlements. The conversation blends humor with critical analysis of government inefficiencies and explores innovative solutions to enhance fiscal responsibility.

In this discussion, Matt Viser, a seasoned White House reporter from The Washington Post, and Elaina Plott Calabro, an insightful staff writer at The Atlantic, delve into Hunter Biden's recent presidential pardon. They explore the legal ramifications and the political motives behind the decision, questioning its impact on Biden's presidency. Additionally, they reflect on the broader implications of clemency in society and how such decisions reverberate through political landscapes, especially amidst the shadow of Trump and his loyalists.

In this discussion, Erica Meltzer, National Editor at Chalkbeat, delves into the controversial appointment of wrestling tycoon Linda McMahon as Secretary of Education. They explore the implications of possibly abolishing the Department of Education, highlighting McMahon's ties to Trump and the push for school choice. Meltzer emphasizes the critical role of federal funding in public education and the challenges families face, particularly with FAFSA. The podcast offers insight into the complexities of education policy under a polarized political landscape.

Elizabeth Segran, a senior staff writer at Fast Company, unpacks Abercrombie & Fitch's impressive comeback. She discusses how the brand has transformed from its controversial past to embrace inclusivity and diversity in its marketing strategies. Segran highlights the shift to appeal to a younger demographic and the importance of influencer partnerships. Listeners will find insights into the brand's evolution and the strategic pivots that have fueled its resurgence in the ever-changing fashion landscape.

Rachel Cohen, a Vox journalist skilled in addressing social issues, shares her personal volunteering journey. Robert Putnam, a retired Harvard professor and author of 'Bowling Alone,' discusses the decline of social connections in America. Together, they explore how individual volunteer efforts, no matter how small, combat systemic problems and enhance community bonds. They delve into the shift in attitudes towards volunteering among younger generations and highlight the life-enhancing benefits of social engagement, emphasizing its critical role in combating loneliness.