Today, Explained

In this discussion, Will Knight, a Senior Writer at Wired with a focus on AI advancements, and Julia Angwin, a New York Times opinion writer and founder of Proof News, dissect the reality behind AI's current capabilities. They delve into the gap between tech giants' lofty promises and the actual performance of new AI products. The conversation highlights challenges like energy consumption, AI’s shortcomings in critical fields, and the ethical dilemmas stemming from rapid development, questioning whether the hype truly reflects the technology's potential.

Natalie Fertig, a cannabis policy reporter at Politico, dives into the recent federal move to reclassify marijuana. She explores the nuances of cannabis terminology and the stark differences between state and federal laws. Fertig highlights the implications of President Biden's announcement, including issues surrounding black markets and high-potency products. She also discusses Colorado's new legislation to protect children and the challenges faced by minority entrepreneurs in the cannabis space, emphasizing the need for inclusivity in this evolving industry.

Matthew Luxmoore, a Wall Street Journal reporter covering the Russia-Ukraine war, shares firsthand insights from Ukraine. He discusses the dire situation in Kharkiv as Russian forces intensify their attacks. Luxmoore explains the growing urgency for military aid and the complexities of international support amid escalating tensions. The conversation also explores the geopolitical ramifications and whether Russia is truly achieving its objectives, highlighting the divided opinions on peace negotiations among Western governments.

Constance Grady, a Vox senior correspondent focused on culture, dives deep into the murky world of online self-publishing. She uncovers the rise of 'garbage books' on Amazon, fueled by keyword tricks and AI. Grady discusses how these low-quality titles confuse readers and threaten the integrity of true authorship. The podcast also examines the ethical dilemmas surrounding self-publishing tactics and the struggles of aspiring publishers trying to navigate this chaotic literary landscape.

Benji Jones, an environmental reporter at Vox, shares his fascination with cicadas, which last emerged during Thomas Jefferson's presidency. He discusses their remarkable life cycle and the rare return of Brood 13 and Brood 19 after over 200 years. The noise they make has even prompted calls to the police! Jones highlights cicadas' ecological impact, providing food for birds and other species, and explores the bizarre relationship between cicadas and the zombie fungus that alters their behavior, showcasing the intricacies of nature.

Andrea Bernstein, a journalist covering the Trump hush money trial for NPR and author of "American Oligarchs," shares gripping insights from inside the courtroom. Derek Hawkins, a national reporter at The Washington Post, analyzes Donald Trump's aggressive tactics on Truth Social. Their conversation delves into the dynamics of high-profile trials, the motivations for hush money payments, and the implications of Trump's defiance amid legal constraints. They also explore wealth and power in politics, and how Trump's rhetoric shapes narratives within the Republican Party.

Dylan Scott, a senior correspondent at Vox focused on health, and Nora Kenworthy, an associate professor at the University of Washington Bothell, dive deep into the medical debt crisis in America. They discuss the limitations of crowdfunding for health expenses, revealing emotional and financial tolls on individuals. The conversation shifts to advocacy for systemic change in healthcare financing and the benefits of expanding Medicaid to alleviate financial burdens. Their insights highlight the urgent need for a reformative approach to healthcare accessibility.

Laura Bullard, a Senior fact-checker, and Ashley Bogut, General Secretary of the United Methodist Church's Historical Commission, delve into the Methodist Church's heated internal divide on LGBTQ+ inclusion. They discuss the emotional aftermath of a controversial 2019 vote excluding gay members and the implications of a recent pivotal conference. Their conversation touches on how this schism reflects broader societal issues in the U.S., while exploring historical contexts and the church's evolving stance on social justice and inclusivity.

Meredith Haggerty, Vox culture editor, and Meecham Whitson Meriweather, a culture writer for The Ringer and Vulture, dive deep into Netflix's viral hit Baby Reindeer. They discuss the show's controversial portrayal of traumatic events and question its authenticity. The conversation highlights the complex dynamics of victimhood within relationships and the blurred lines between reality and fiction. They also address the challenges faced by those depicted in the show, particularly in dealing with public perception and the media's ethical responsibilities.

Barak Ravid, a Politics and foreign policy reporter at Axios, shares his insights on the complex dynamics of the Israel-Hamas war. He discusses President Biden's pivotal comments on military aid to Israel, stressing the balance between security support and humanitarian concerns. The conversation delves into the strategic significance of Rafah and the ongoing negotiations for a ceasefire, particularly the role of hostage situations. Ravid highlights how rising public protests influence Biden's approach, revealing the intricate dance of international diplomacy and domestic politics.