Today, Explained

Entertainment journalists Mark Harris and Diane Haithman dive deep into Hollywood's ongoing struggles post-COVID and recent strikes. They reveal how these events have ripped through the industry's fabric, leading to declining box office performance and troubling job losses for below-the-line workers. The guests discuss the decline of blockbuster franchises, the threat posed by AI, and a shift towards lower-budget productions. Their insights illuminate the critical disconnect between creatives and studio executives and raise alarms about the future of filmmaking.

Lux Alptraum, a freelance journalist focused on sex health, joins Megan Kavanaugh, a principal researcher at the Guttmacher Institute, to discuss the recent approval of over-the-counter birth control pills. They dive into the implications of this historic decision, revealing that availability doesn't equate to accessibility. The duo tackles the challenges low-income women face post-Dobbs and highlights the urgent need for reliable information and a comprehensive approach to reproductive health care. Their insights illuminate the complex landscape of contraception options and access.

Constance Grady, a Vox journalist specializing in royal affairs, and Annabelle Dixon, a Senior political correspondent at Politico, dive into the mystery of Kate Middleton's recent absence from public life. They discuss the internet's wild theories, the uproar over a digitally altered Mother's Day photo, and the media's contrasting reactions to her health crisis. The conversation highlights the shifting dynamics of royal scrutiny and public fascination, raising questions about the interplay between celebrity culture and the modern monarchy.

Kenny Torrella, a Vox reporter with a focus on the meat industry, dives into the controversial world of lab-grown meat. He discusses the technological hurdles and political opposition that threaten its growth. The conversation highlights the implications of the School Lunch Integrity Act and its ban on cell-cultivated meat in government programs. Torrella critiques the environmental toll of traditional livestock farming and examines how rising meat consumption complicates the shift towards sustainable alternatives. Lessons from Europe on reducing meat intake provide a cautionary tale for the U.S.

Charlamagne tha God, a prominent radio host and author known for his candid political critiques, joins Bracton Booker, a Poltico correspondent focused on race and politics. They delve into the surprising statistic that a significant portion of Black voters may support Donald Trump in 2024. The discussion examines Black voters' dissatisfaction with the Democratic Party and highlights key issues that drive this sentiment. They also explore what true political engagement looks like, challenging leaders to genuinely address the community's needs.

Liam Knox, an expert on college admissions trends at Inside Higher Ed, and Dominique Baker, an education policy professor at the University of Delaware, delve into the resurgence of SAT requirements in the wake of the pandemic. They discuss the transition from paper to digital testing and the implications for diversity and access in higher education. The conversation highlights how changing admissions policies may affect students from various backgrounds, raising critical questions about equity in standardized testing.

Clare Duffy, a tech reporter for CNN Business, and John Herrman, a tech columnist at New York Magazine, dive into Reddit's significant journey toward its IPO. They discuss the passionate dynamics of Reddit’s user base and the protest from moderators over API changes, highlighting the emotional ties users have with the platform. The conversation also touches on the implications of monetization for user-shareholders and the challenge of balancing community identity with investor expectations. Will Reddit thrive in this evolving landscape?

Caroline Katherman, a health reporter at the Orlando Sentinel, and Caitlin Jetolina, an epidemiologist and publisher of Your Local Epidemiologist, dive into the alarming resurgence of measles, particularly in Florida. They discuss how vaccine hesitancy is fueling outbreaks, highlighted by case spikes in schools. The state’s surgeon general's hands-off approach raises eyebrows, as parents grapple with balancing their choices against public health risks. The episode explores the broader implications of low vaccination rates and the challenges ahead for community immunity.

Melanie Mason, a California politics expert from Politico, and Ross Barkin, a political writer for the New York Times Magazine, dive into the impact of Israel on U.S. Democratic races. They discuss how California's Senate primary is influenced by candidates addressing the Israel-Palestine conflict. The conversation explores the evolving divide within the Democratic Party over Israel's military actions and the growing clout of younger progressives challenging traditional views. Additionally, they address financial interests shaping campaign dynamics and AIPAC's role in primary elections.

Wizzy Kim, a senior reporter at Vox, and Elizabeth Pancotti, a strategic advisor at the Groundwork Collaborative, dive into the rising costs of groceries. They discuss how prices have surged by 25% since 2019 and the troubling trend of 'shrinkflation' where products shrink while prices rise. The duo also examines supply chain disruptions and the government's struggle to implement effective price controls. With insights on market competition and comparisons to European grocery strategies, they shed light on what's really driving up our grocery bills.