

Post Reports
The Washington Post
Post Reports is the daily podcast from The Washington Post. Unparalleled reporting. Expert insight. Clear analysis. Everything you’ve come to expect from the newsroom of The Post, for your ears. Martine Powers and Elahe Izadi are your hosts, asking the questions you didn’t know you wanted answered. Published weekdays around 5 p.m. Eastern time.
Episodes
Mentioned books

14 snips
Jun 28, 2025 • 28min
The Afghans at risk of deportation
Abigail Hauslohner, a national security reporter, discusses the implications of the Trump administration's decision to end Temporary Protected Status for Afghans in the U.S. She highlights the anxiety experienced by those who aided American forces and now face imminent deportation. The conversation delves into individual stories of Afghans fearing for their safety, bureaucratic hurdles in obtaining special immigrant visas, and the stark contrast between government narratives and the realities of life under Taliban rule.

7 snips
Jun 27, 2025 • 20min
The Diddy trial: How Sean Combs's lawyers mounted a defense
Shayna Jacobs, a Federal courts reporter for The Washington Post, provides an insider's view on the high-stakes trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs. She dissects the defense's minimalistic strategy and its focus on undermining the prosecution's narrative. Jacobs explains the contentious 'freak-off' allegations and how witness testimonies are influenced by outside pressures. The discussion highlights the tension in the courtroom as closing arguments unfold and the uncertainty of jury deliberation looms large, shaping the trial's potential outcomes.

27 snips
Jun 26, 2025 • 27min
Mamdani's win and the future of Trump's war powers, tax bill
Paul Kane, a senior congressional correspondent for The Washington Post, joins Sarah Ellison, a national enterprise reporter, to unpack Zoran Mamdani's surprising win in New York's mayoral primary. They discuss how this upset signals a potential shift toward progressive values in the Democratic Party and its impact on the 2024 election. The conversation also delves into Trump's tax bill and the concerning trend of Congress relinquishing war powers, raising questions about the balance of authority amid ongoing partisan struggles.

11 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 23min
Can’t stop scrolling on Zillow? You’re not alone.
In this discussion, Rachel Kurzius, a reporter for The Washington Post specializing in homes, uncovers the fascinating reasons behind our Zillow obsession. She reveals that many users are merely daydreaming rather than buying, pointing to the platform's massive influence on real estate culture. The episode also addresses legal challenges facing Zillow, including a monopoly lawsuit. Kurzius delves into the psychological allure of virtual house hunting and the contrasting experiences of browsing online versus visiting homes in person.

14 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 25min
Netanyahu’s long game in Iran
Gerry Shih, the Jerusalem Bureau Chief for The Washington Post, offers keen insights into Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's tactical maneuvers against Iran. He discusses the political motivations behind the timing of recent military actions and explores how Netanyahu has leveraged escalating tensions for political gain. Shih highlights the complex U.S.-Israel relationship, shifting power dynamics, and the broader implications of Israel's military strategy in the Middle East, particularly post-October 7th events.

31 snips
Jun 23, 2025 • 28min
Trump’s gamble in Iran
Alex Horton, a national security and military reporter for The Washington Post, sheds light on the U.S. airstrikes in Iran and their far-reaching consequences. Natalie Allison, a White House reporter, delves into President Trump's decision-making and the divisions it’s causing among his supporters. They explore the complexities of regime change versus nuclear disarmament, the intricate military planning behind the strikes, and the haunting parallels to past conflicts. This discussion paints a vivid picture of a tense geopolitical landscape and its potential ramifications.

8 snips
Jun 21, 2025 • 18min
How to cope with grief and find wonder as Earth's climate changes
In this insightful discussion, climate scientist Kate Marvel shares her journey as an expert witnessing the realities of climate change. She reveals the complex emotions tied to this crisis, encompassing grief, anger, and surprisingly, hope and wonder. Marvel emphasizes the significance of human connection to our planet and advocates for love as a driving force behind environmental action. By addressing the psychological barriers hindering climate awareness, she inspires listeners to embrace agency and a proactive mindset in the face of urgent challenges.

24 snips
Jun 20, 2025 • 32min
The Diddy trial: Race, consent, and why the trial matters
Helena Andrews-Dyer, a culture reporter for The Washington Post, and Anne Branigin, a style reporter for the same publication, dive into the high-stakes trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs. They explore the intersection of race, consent, and the #MeToo movement, shedding light on how public perception influences high-profile cases. The discussion includes the trial's implications for Combs’ image and business, courtroom dynamics, and the historical context of racial treatment in the legal system. Their insights reveal the complex narratives shaping this pivotal moment.

5 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 52min
Listen to ‘The Empty Grave of Comrade Bishop’
Every October 19th, Grenadians remember the tragic execution of former Prime Minister Maurice Bishop, whose remains are still missing. The podcast explores the emotional turmoil of his loss and dives into Grenada's tumultuous history with the U.S. during the Cold War. Personal stories reveal the lingering impact of unresolved mourning on the island's people. Discussions include Bishop's controversial leadership, the geopolitical tensions of the time, and even humorous takes on the nation's airport, showcasing Grenada's rich yet painful past.

13 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 27min
Will the U.S. bomb Iran?
Dan Lamothe, a Military affairs reporter for The Washington Post, and investigative reporter Carol Leonnig dive into the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. They discuss President Trump's weighing of military action and the significant implications it poses for U.S. foreign policy. The conversation highlights shifting U.S. military strategies and the potential backlash from a strike on Iran. They also explore the internal divisions within U.S. politics regarding intervention and how this decision could affect Trump's legacy.