Today, Explained

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.

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.