Today, Explained

Noah Scheidlauer, an economy reporter focused on older Americans, and Michelle Singletary, a personal finance columnist for The Washington Post, tackle the pressing retirement concerns of baby boomers. They discuss the uncertainty around 401(k)s and Social Security, urging open conversations about financial anxiety among older generations. The duo emphasizes collaborative planning, sharing strategies for navigating ageism in the workplace, and dispelling generational stereotypes to enhance inclusivity and innovation in career settings.

Bilga Ebiri, a film critic at Vulture, dives into the groundbreaking introduction of a Best Stunt Design award at the Oscars. He highlights the historically overlooked contributions of stunt performers like Buster Keaton and Charlie Chaplin. The discussion touches on the dangerous conditions faced by these unsung heroes and the evolving perception of their work. With humor and reverence, they celebrate the artistry behind iconic stunts in cinema, envisioning a future where stunt work receives the recognition it truly deserves.

DT Maxx, a writer from The New Yorker and an eyewitness to dire wolves, joins Robert Klitzman, a Columbia professor and bioethics expert, to discuss the controversial claim of reviving these ancient creatures. They delve into the science behind genetic modification, weighing the ambitious technological leaps against ethical concerns. The conversation highlights the potential risks of de-extinction and questions humanity's role in nature. Listeners are left pondering the moral implications of bringing back lost species in a changing ecosystem.

Elie Honig, a former prosecutor and CNN's legal analyst, joins Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen, who visited Kilmar Abrego Garcia in El Salvador. They delve into the urgent legal battle involving Garcia, discussing the emotional toll of wrongful imprisonment. Honig outlines three potential scenarios for Garcia's case and the complex legal implications, while Van Hollen shares insights from his meeting. They also highlight crucial issues surrounding constitutional rights and the potential consequences of executive overreach in immigration enforcement.

Catherine Kaleidas, a Research Associate at the Institute of Orthodox Christian Studies, shares her insights on the upcoming papal conclave and the evolving needs of the Catholic Church. Michael D. Jovinae, an anthropology professor, delves into the inspiring canonization of Carlo Acutis, the first millennial saint, and its cultural significance. The conversation highlights the Church's transformation in the Global South, potential future papal candidates, and how faith intersects with the modern world.

John Swain, an investigative reporter at The Washington Post, and David W. Blight, a Yale historian specializing in African-American history, dive into the contentious landscape of American historical narratives. They discuss the alarming trend of erasing significant figures like Harriet Tubman and Jackie Robinson due to political pressures. The conversation delves into the impact of recent DEI rollbacks and how these changes threaten the authenticity of America's past. Their insights illuminate the crucial battle for honest representation in history.

Paige Vega, Vox's climate editor, shares insights on the Trump administration's impact on climate policies and clean energy efforts. Benji Jones, environmental correspondent, discusses Iowa's impressive wind energy growth amid political hurdles. The duo explores how electric vehicles and wind energy are shaping the future of renewable energy. They highlight unexpected climate progress and emphasize the economic benefits of renewable initiatives for local farmers, underscoring the resilience of climate action in challenging political landscapes.

Suzanne Lambert is a comedian known for humorously critiquing GOP beauty norms on TikTok, while Inae Oh is a senior editor at Mother Jones focusing on the aesthetics of MAGA supporters. They delve into the 'Mar-a face' trend, discussing how cosmetic choices shape political identity. The conversation explores social media's role in personal transformations and the intersection of beauty and politics, revealing how aesthetics can influence public perception and narratives. Join them for a comedic yet insightful take on political expression through makeup!

Samantha Max, a reporter from Gothamist, shares insights on the high-profile case of Luigi Mangione, who faces the death penalty for his alleged crimes. She discusses the intricate legal challenges he encounters amid intense public scrutiny. Sean Fleming, a research fellow, provides a deep dive into the connection between Mangione and Theodore Kaczynski, the Unabomber, highlighting their shared critiques of industrial society. They explore how emotional responses influence jury decisions and the broader societal implications of Kaczynski's controversial manifesto.

Andrew Jack, Global education editor at the Financial Times, and Josh Moody, a writer on Sunshine State schools for Inside Higher Ed, discuss Harvard's defiance against the Trump administration's demands for elite universities. They highlight the stark contrast between Harvard's stance and Florida's compliance with ICE. The conversation digs into the financial dynamics of these institutions, shedding light on their substantial endowments and the balancing act between political pressures and educational integrity.