Today, Explained

Charlie Warzel, a staff writer at The Atlantic, and Angela Rye, co-host of Native Land Pod and seasoned political strategist, dive into the whirlwind of Kamala Harris's meme culture. They analyze how memes tied to pop icons are reshaping her campaign strategy. The discussion delves into the intersection of humor and political communication, exploring the role of memes in boosting engagement and fundraising. They also critique the balance between authentic identity and meme-centric messaging, particularly for women of color in politics.

Elizabeth Segran, a senior fashion writer at Fast Company, discusses Abercrombie & Fitch's surprising renaissance after a tumultuous past. The conversation dives into the brand's transformation from a controversial teen icon to a more inclusive and relevant player in today's fashion scene. Segran highlights their strategic rebranding efforts and shift in marketing to attract a diverse audience. Listeners learn how this iconic brand is adapting to modern values while reclaiming its place in the competitive retail landscape.

Gabriela Paz Bailey, the Chief of the dengue branch at the CDC, and Marianne Comparais, Director at the International Society for Neglected Tropical Diseases, dive deep into the alarming rise of dengue fever this year. They discuss the record 10 million cases globally and the potential for outbreaks during major events like the Olympics. The duo highlights Brazil as the epicenter, emphasizes the need for improved public health strategies, and addresses the challenges facing marginalized communities dealing with this neglected tropical disease.

David Axelrod, a seasoned Democratic strategist and CNN commentator, joins Andrew Prokop, a political analyst from Vox, to dissect President Biden's surprising exit from the 2024 race. They delve into the implications for Vice President Kamala Harris and the shifting dynamics within the Democratic Party. The conversation also highlights the challenges Democrats face in appealing to voters and the impact of economic realities on public sentiment. Tune in for insights into a transformative moment in American politics!

Scott Jennings, a CNN political contributor and conservative strategist, joins Sarah Longwell, publisher of The Bulwark and head of Republican Voters Against Trump. They dive into Donald Trump's impact at the RNC, dissecting his rhetoric and its effects on party unity. The discussion highlights the transformation of the Republican identity, appealing to new voter demographics. They explore the tension between divisive and unifying messaging, especially around immigration, and how Trump's storytelling captivates audiences with economic narratives.

Leon Neyfakh, co-host of the Audible podcast "Backfired," dives into the tumultuous story of Juul, from its rise as a revolutionary smoking alternative to its downfall after regulatory crackdowns. He discusses how banning Juul unintentionally led to a surge in unregulated Chinese e-cigarettes, complicating the vaping landscape. Neyfakh also explores alarming youth vaping trends and the struggles of the FDA to balance regulations, shedding light on the unintended consequences of stricter policies and the shifting dynamics of a complex market.

C. Ryan Barber, a Wall Street Journal reporter specializing in the Justice Department, provides insightful analysis on the implications of a federal judge dismissing Trump's classified documents case. He discusses the details of Trump's legal battles and the potential impact on his future. Barber also delves into the controversies surrounding special counsel appointments and the judicial challenges faced by Trump-appointed judges, offering a glimpse into the evolving landscape of legal affairs that could shape political futures.

Ian Ward, a Politico reporter, dives into the fascinating transformation of Ohio Senator J.D. Vance from a self-proclaimed hillbilly to a key player in the Republican Party. He unpacks Vance's journey from writing about Appalachian struggles to embracing Trump’s populist agenda, highlighting his shifted views and political aspirations. The discussion touches on the implications of nationalist populism, critiques of liberal progressivism, and the socioeconomic challenges facing the American working class, all while addressing the evolving nature of conservative values.

In this discussion with Eric Nisbet, a Northwestern University professor studying public perceptions of political violence, they delve into the alarming rise of partisan political violence in the U.S. Nisbet examines the implications of these tensions on democracy, as seen in a recent assassination attempt on Donald Trump. They highlight the need for unity from leaders like Trump and Biden amidst the chaos and explore how this moment could prompt deeper societal reflections on civic engagement and the impacts of rising threats against diverse political figures.

Join music aficionados Charlie Harding, co-host of Switched On Pop, and Brittany Spanos, a music writer for Rolling Stone, as they challenge the very existence of the 'Song of the Summer.' They dive into the evolution of this cultural phenomenon, contrasting past hits with today’s fragmented music scene. From the effects of streaming on listener habits to the resurgence of long-time artists at the top of the charts, their discussion offers a fresh perspective on music's changing landscape and its connection to cultural moments.