Today, Explained

Sarah McNamee, a participant in a clinical trial for MDMA-assisted therapy, candidly shares her challenging experience, highlighting the gap between expectations and reality. She explores the emotional complexities of her journey with PTSD and the controversial aftermath of the therapy. The conversation raises critical questions about participant well-being, the ethical considerations of clinical trials, and the potential risks of MDMA therapy, revealing a nuanced perspective on mental health recovery amid the excitement over psychedelic treatments.

Robyn Vinter, North of England correspondent at The Guardian, delves into the chaos erupting across the UK following a tragic knife attack. She discusses the emotional aftermath in Southport, where a violent incident at a dance class left children injured. Vinter highlights the unsettling role of misinformation in igniting protests and the rising anti-immigration sentiments fueling unrest. The podcast also examines the complex dynamics behind the riots, including community tensions and social media’s influence on public sentiment and responses.

Dana Ferguson, senior political reporter at Minnesota Public Radio, and Andrew Prokop, Vox journalist, dive into the political landscape following Tim Walz's rise as a vice-presidential contender. They discuss his journey from teacher to governor, his evolving stance on gun control, and unique strategies like branding opponents as 'weird.' The conversation also highlights the importance of engaging campaigning styles, especially in swing states, and analyzes the implications of Kamala Harris's ticket choices for future elections.

Join Shelby Talcott, a savvy politics reporter from Semafor, and Eli Stokols, an astute White House correspondent for Politico, as they dive into the controversial Project 2025. They dissect how fringe policies are reshaping the presidential landscape and raising eyebrows among voters. The duo explores the Democrats' strategy of branding their opponents as 'weird' and the implications of this messaging. With insights on political rhetoric and voter engagement, they shed light on how terms and narratives can influence the upcoming election.

Haleema Shah, a reporter and producer focusing on MDMA therapy for PTSD, dives into the groundbreaking transformation of MDMA from a stigmatized substance to a potential healing tool. The discussion highlights military veterans' struggles with PTSD and their unlikely collaboration with the psychedelic movement. Personal stories from veterans on their journeys through MDMA-assisted therapy showcase its potential as a revolutionary treatment. The podcast also navigates the challenges of gaining FDA approval and changing societal attitudes toward psychedelics.

Haleema Shah, a reporter and producer focused on the therapeutic uses of MDMA, delves into the fascinating history of this psychedelic. She discusses the pioneering work of an eccentric chemist in the '80s, highlighting MDMA's journey from a therapeutic tool to a recreational drug. Listeners will learn about its potential in treating PTSD, the obstacles faced by researchers, and personal stories of transformation. The podcast also touches on the current evaluation by the FDA, marking a crucial moment for the future of psychedelic therapy.

Justin Spring, an Olympic bronze medalist and assistant coach, shares firsthand experiences on the challenges facing men's gymnastics. He discusses the long hiatus since the U.S. men’s team last won a medal and how social media stardom could revive interest in the sport. Joined by Lauren Hopkins, who runs The Gymternet, they analyze the role of athlete popularity and social media in promoting men's gymnastics and address the limited opportunities for male gymnasts at the collegiate level, urging a fresh perspective to inspire future generations.

In this discussion, Jeff Stein, a White House economics reporter for The Washington Post, unpacks the rising wave of economic populism impacting both major political parties. He highlights how candidates like Trump and Harris are distancing themselves from Biden's economic policies. The conversation dives into the frustrations of the working class, revealing how these sentiments are reshaping party platforms. Stein also traces the historical roots of economic populism in the Democratic Party, detailing its evolution from the New Deal to current challenges.

Nicola Twilley, co-host of the Gastropod podcast and author of 'Frostbite,' dives into the intriguing world of refrigerators. She unveils how these common appliances affect our food and the planet, debunking myths about what belongs inside. Twilley discusses sustainable alternatives to refrigeration, the historical significance of ice in food preservation, and the revolutionary impact of cold storage on food safety. She also highlights the need for political action regarding the environmental issues posed by our current refrigeration systems.

Alien Ness, a B-boy historian and author, dives into breaking’s Olympic debut, calling it a destined moment for the sport. He discusses its roots in the Bronx, blending dance and artistic expression with athleticism. Roger Sherman, an Olympics expert, highlights the committee's evolving criteria for including sports to attract younger audiences, illustrating a shift in traditional views. Together, they explore how breaking is reshaping the Olympic landscape, emphasizing cultural significance and the future of competition.