Post Reports

Abha Bhattarai, an economics correspondent for The Washington Post, dives into the financial landscape under Trump's presidency. She analyzes the impacts of tariffs and government policies on inflation and consumer behavior. The conversation touches on GDP as a crucial economic indicator and its fluctuations that signify broader uncertainties. Bhattarai discusses the troubling trends in job growth and the stagnant market, revealing how families are adapting to rising living costs and the emotional toll of economic strain.

Martine shares her farewell as she prepares for a new role covering the White House. Nostalgia fills the air as colleagues reminisce about their beginnings and discuss continuity in the show. The excitement of audio journalism is highlighted, emphasizing storytelling's importance in fast-paced news. There's a buzz around exploring diverse topics, from pop culture to sports, showcasing the dynamic fun in the newsroom and a promise of engaging future collaborations.

Christian Davenport, a space reporter for The Washington Post, dives into the ambitious plans for Mars colonization driven by figures like Elon Musk and political support from Donald Trump. He discusses the hurdles of securing funding and the complexities of lunar missions as stepping stones. Davenport highlights the risks of Mars exploration, including its extreme climate and the challenges of infrastructure. Furthermore, he examines the competitive landscape between the U.S. and China in space, emphasizing the need for global collaboration and innovation.

Carolyn Johnson, a science reporter for The Washington Post, dives into the turmoil at the National Institutes of Health since Trump's inauguration. She discusses how federal funding freezes have stalled crucial biomedical research, hindering scientists' progress. Johnson highlights the impact of political decisions on job security and the future of emerging scientific talent. The conversation sheds light on the broader implications for health research in the U.S., emphasizing the long-term effects of political instability on a generation of researchers.

Naftali Bendavid, Senior National Political Correspondent for The Washington Post, dives into Trump’s recent speech to Congress, where he boldly mentions Lesotho and tackles tariffs that may impact public sentiment. The discussion unpacks the polarized responses from both political sides and fact-checks Trump’s statements. Additionally, they explore the intriguing overlap between dogecoin and Trump’s stance on global relations with Ukraine, highlighting the dramatic elements and internal conflicts faced by Democrats trying to strategize their opposition.

Fenit Nirappil, a national health reporter for The Washington Post, dives into the alarming resurgence of measles in Texas. He discusses how vaccine skepticism, particularly in certain communities, has led to this outbreak. Listeners hear personal stories, including a mother whose unvaccinated child was infected. The podcast highlights the dire consequences of this situation, including a tragic loss of life, and emphasizes the urgent need for vaccinations to protect public health. Misinformation continues to challenge efforts for community safety.

Michael Birnbaum, a White House reporter for The Washington Post, offers expert insights into the explosive meeting between President Trump and Ukraine's President Zelensky. The conversation reveals Trump's harsh criticism of Zelensky, which triggered a wave of renewed European support for Ukraine. Birnbaum also discusses the broader implications of this clash on U.S.-Ukraine relations and highlights the shifting political landscape regarding Russia, peace prospects, and Zelensky's leadership challenges amidst the ongoing conflict.

Marianna Sotomayor, Congressional reporter for The Washington Post, and Jacob Bogage, Congressional economics correspondent, dive into the turbulent waters of U.S. politics. They discuss the fallout from the Trump-Zelensky meeting, examining urgent diplomatic challenges. Tensions rise as House Republicans grapple with proposed Medicaid cuts amidst internal divisions. Additionally, they highlight public anger towards Elon Musk as constituents voice concerns in town halls, reflecting the broader dissatisfaction with government efficiency and budget cuts.

Sonia Rao, a Film and TV reporter for The Washington Post, and Janice Page, the arts editor, dive into the excitement of this year's Oscar-nominated films. They dissect diverse contenders, discussing popular adaptations like 'Wicked' and the gripping drama 'Nickel Boys.' The duo analyzes the intriguing competition between nominees Timothee Chalamet and Adrian Brody, while also touching on controversies affecting nominations. Join them for expert insights that will help you navigate this year's cinematic landscape!

Kyle Swenson, a reporter at The Washington Post, shares compelling narratives about former federal workers recently laid off under a controversial plan. He recounts the stories of Gregg Bufanto, a wilderness ranger, and Erin Williamson, who aided rural communities, highlighting their emotional struggles and the fallout of job loss. Swenson emphasizes how these cuts jeopardize essential services, particularly for veterans like Jared Blockus. The conversation underscores the broader implications of workforce reductions on public well-being and accountability in government.