Today, Explained

Christian Davenport, a space reporter for The Washington Post, dives into the evolving landscape of space exploration. He discusses NASA's shift towards relying on private companies for rockets and lunar missions. The conversation highlights the role of the Artemis program and its significant milestones aimed at returning astronauts to the moon. Davenport also explores the implications of commercializing space travel and the ongoing collaboration with international partners amidst geopolitical tensions. Lastly, he touches on the International Space Station's role in future space endeavors.

Ian Lustick, Professor Emeritus at the University of Pennsylvania and an expert on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, delves into the ongoing war in Gaza. He discusses the historical dynamics that underpin this conflict and how past conflicts shape present realities. Lustick analyzes the shifting U.S.-Israel relations and the complexities of military strategies involved. He emphasizes the importance of understanding public opinion in Israel and potential pathways to peace, suggesting that nuanced approaches might be necessary to break the cycle of violence.

Ana Lankes, a correspondent for The Economist focusing on Ecuador's drug violence, joins Will Freeman, a Council on Foreign Relations fellow, to unpack the country's alarming shift towards a narco state. They discuss the escape of notorious gang leader Fito, which triggered chaos and violence. The rising cocaine trade is examined, highlighting new trafficking routes and the effects on Europe. They also address the interconnectedness of organized crime, money laundering, and the state's struggle to maintain order amidst epidemic levels of violence.

Senior correspondent Zach Beauchamp from Vox, expert on democracy and the far right, and Jonathan Martin from Politico, seasoned political analyst, dive into the recent Iowa caucuses. They break down Trump's commanding win and discuss DeSantis's disappointing second-place finish, questioning if his campaign can survive this blow. Their conversation also touches on how Trump's dominance shapes Republican dynamics and the upcoming New Hampshire primary, revealing the complexities of party alignments and candidate strategies.

Discover the hidden secrets behind Hollywood's latest musicals like Mean Girls, Wonka, and The Color Purple. The episode explores how studios downplay musical elements in marketing, leaving audiences shocked. It delves into the shifting perceptions of musicals, revealing a cultural disconnect and the industry's struggles to revive the genre. Learn about the psychological implications of this trend and enjoy a vibrant performance that highlights themes of joy and self-acceptance, making the discussion both engaging and insightful.

Join Amy Hawkins, The Guardian’s senior China correspondent, and Bryan Walsh, Editorial director at Vox, as they dissect Taiwan's critical elections amid rising tensions with China. Hawkins offers insights into the dynamic political landscape, spotlighting key candidates and their strategies. Walsh frames the significance of Taiwan's elections within a global context, emphasizing the fragility of democracy worldwide. Discover how these local choices impact international relations and reflect broader democratic challenges.

Vox journalist Andrew Prokop delves into Nikki Haley's surprising rise in the GOP primary, highlighting her competitive stance against Trump and DeSantis. Republican strategist Scott Jennings shares insights on Haley's nuanced criticism of Trump while positioning herself for potential leadership roles. The duo discusses her polling surge in New Hampshire, the evolving dynamics of the Republican landscape, and the challenges she faces amidst party shifts and controversies. It's a fascinating look at a candidate aiming for prominence in a turbulent political arena.

Luke Harding, a senior international correspondent at The Guardian, provides gripping on-the-ground insights into the war in Ukraine, touching on the emotional and physical toll of the conflict. Andrew Desiderio, a senior congressional reporter for Punchbowl News, dives into the complex political landscape surrounding U.S. support for Ukraine. They discuss the urgent need for military aid amidst opposition in Congress, the moral imperatives driving foreign policy, and the growing divisions within U.S. politics as elections loom.

Joshua Keating, a Vox writer specializing in global affairs, dives into the alarming rise of Houthi piracy in the Red Sea, a response to the escalating Israel-Hamas conflict. He discusses how these rebel attacks are endangering global shipping routes and raising costs for consumers. The podcast highlights specific incidents like missile strikes on cargo vessels and the implications for U.S. military strategy. Keating also outlines the historical context of the Houthi movement and its impact on international trade amidst geopolitical tensions.

In this insightful discussion, Amanda Mull, a staff writer at The Atlantic and expert on reverse logistics, dives into the fascinating world of retail returns. She sheds light on the complex journey of a returned item, revealing the often humorous yet challenging processes at return warehouses. Amanda explores the donation dilemma, highlighting how many goods end up in landfills. She also discusses evolving retail return policies and their impacts on sustainability, consumer behavior, and the modern shopping experience.