Post Reports

Steve Hendrix, the London bureau chief at The Washington Post, discusses Trump's peculiar text to Norway's Prime Minister linking his Greenland ambitions to his Nobel Peace Prize snub. The conversation dives into Trump's tariff threats and the reactions from Norway and Greenland regarding U.S. control. Hendrix analyzes the geopolitical implications, including Europe's diplomatic strategies and the potential impact of the Nobel Prize on U.S. policies. The episode balances humor and urgency while unraveling the bizarre intersection of personal grievances and international relations.

Billy Baker, a journalist and author of 'We Need to Hang Out,' explores the crucial role friendship plays in our health and happiness. He discusses the loneliness epidemic and shares research connecting strong friendships to better mental and physical well-being. Baker urges listeners to prioritize friendship daily and suggests creating predictable social routines. He emphasizes vulnerability in making connections and using shared interests as 'velvet hooks' to foster new bonds. Maggie Penman illustrates this by inviting a colleague to be friends.

Erin Westgate, a researcher focused on boredom and psychological richness, shares fascinating insights into what constitutes a good life. She discusses surprising findings from boredom experiments that reveal the importance of psychological richness. Westgate emphasizes how varied life experiences can enhance our narratives and validate diverse life choices. Listeners learn actionable tips to cultivate curiosity and spontaneity, aiming for a life abundant in richness rather than solely happiness or meaning. It's a thought-provoking exploration of living fully.

Dan Merica, a political strategist and co-anchor of The Early Brief, and Matt Viser, White House bureau chief, delve into the FBI's raid on a Washington Post journalist, discussing its chilling ramifications on journalism. They explore the Justice Department's investigations and the administration's trend of intimidating critics. Notably, Trump's crude retaliation against a heckler sparks debate about shifting presidential norms. The conversation also touches on the impact of power on political behavior and the independence of institutions amid rising tensions.

Sarah Ellison, a Democracy reporter at The Washington Post, joins Hannah Natanson, a federal government reporter, to discuss the alarming FBI raid on Natanson's home. They delve into the implications for press freedom and the chilling effect on journalists as law enforcement targets communications related to a government contractor. Natanson shares her experience cultivating a vast network of federal sources, while Ellison highlights how this raid signals a troubling trend in protecting journalists and their access to information. They explore changes in security practices among reporters to safeguard their sources.

Andrew Ackerman, a banking reporter for The Washington Post, dives into the escalating feud between Jerome Powell and former President Trump, sparked by a DOJ investigation into Powell's statements about Fed renovations. Ackerman discusses the implications of this probe for the Fed's independence and how sustained political pressure can harm the central bank's credibility. He also highlights the potential risks to the economy if the Fed's neutrality is compromised and speculates on who might replace Powell amidst political tensions.

Maria Sacchetti, an immigration reporter for The Washington Post, dives into the controversial shooting of Renée Good in Minneapolis. She discusses the conflicting narratives surrounding the incident and the aggressive tactics of ICE officers. The conversation includes insights on ICE Watch groups' advocacy roles, officer Jonathan Ross’s background, and expert opinions on potential alternatives to the confrontation. Sacchetti highlights the issues of accountability, the impact of rapid hiring and training changes, and how ICE’s methods contrast with local police practices.

Yeganeh Torbati, an Iran correspondent for The Washington Post, shares her insights on the escalating protests in Iran, ignited by economic turmoil and a demand for governmental reform. She reveals the alarming reports of a communications blackout and possible casualties amid the unrest. Torbati discusses the protesters' desperate calls for change and how recent chants indicate widespread discontent beyond mere economic issues. She also explores the future of the Iranian regime, drawing parallels to past movements and outlining the complexities of opposition groups.

Decades after a Pollock painting was stolen, Merry White embarks on a deeply personal quest to recover it. The narrative delves into her childhood memories tied to the artwork and the emotional turmoil that ensued for her family. Art critic Sebastian Smee explores Pollock's unique techniques and his friendships, revealing how rising valuations made his works targets for thieves. Intriguingly, the story also discusses the recovery of one painting while another remains missing, highlighting a family's enduring connection to art and its legacy.

This week, Michael Birnbaum, a White House reporter for The Washington Post, delves into the controversial ICE shooting of Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis. He discusses how the incident highlights the escalating political tensions surrounding Trump's immigration policies. The conversation shifts to Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, who faces scrutiny amid a fraud scandal. Birnbaum also explores the U.S. operations in Venezuela, connecting it to the broader 'America First' agenda and its implications for both foreign policy and domestic political landscapes.