Shadi Hamid, a columnist at The Washington Post, alongside Heather Long, who focuses on the middle class economy, and Monica Hesse, who explores gender dynamics, tackle the intriguing issue of America's declining birth rates. They discuss millennials' evolving views on parenthood, the impact of economic instability, and the emotional complexities of having children. The conversation highlights societal shifts and questions whether the declining birth rate is truly a crisis or an opportunity for new perspectives and policies.

Odette Pereira, a talented cook known for her secret candied bacon recipe, joins to unveil the tantalizing connections between food and politics in D.C. She shares stories of lavish dinner parties where bacon became the unexpected centerpiece, bridging divides among powerful guests. Join the quest to decode this elusive recipe, revealing nostalgia and culinary intrigue. Plus, discover how dinner gatherings influenced crucial policy decisions, reminding us of the potential for diplomacy in today’s polarized climate.

In a captivating conversation, Shannon Osaka, a climate zeitgeist reporter for The Washington Post, dives into the complexities of rooftop solar panels. She discusses their allure, including cost savings and energy independence, while addressing the significant hurdles they present, like efficiency concerns and high costs. Shannon also highlights the potential impact of upcoming policy changes with Donald Trump's return to the White House, emphasizing the urgency for consumers to capitalize on solar tax credits before the landscape shifts.

Lauren Weber, an accountability reporter at The Washington Post specializing in medical misinformation, joins to dissect Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s controversial views as a potential health leader under Trump. They explore RFK Jr.'s stance on ultra-processed foods and its impact on children’s health, scrutinizing the potential dangers of anti-vaccine activism. The discussion also highlights the delicate balance of public health policies and the intricate dance between progressive and conservative values in shaping effective health regulations.

Leigh Ann Caldwell, co-author of the Early Brief politics newsletter, offers a sharp analysis of Matt Gaetz's brief bid for attorney general, emphasizing the significant Senate resistance he faced. Caldwell dissects Trump’s electoral mandate, revealing its surprisingly fragile nature despite Trump’s boasting. The conversation also dives into the internal strife within the Republican Party and how extremism poses challenges for both Democrats and Republicans as they gear up for the 2024 election. Listener questions about party dynamics and voter trends add depth to this engaging discussion.

Fenit Nirappil, a National health reporter for The Washington Post, dives into the heated debates surrounding fluoride in drinking water. Exploring Oregon's unique stance, he reveals how Portland has become the largest U.S. city without fluoride. The conversation touches on the historical significance of fluoride for dental health, recent concerns about its safety, and the political ripple effects of community-driven decisions. Nirappil’s on-the-ground insights showcase the passionate activism and contrasting opinions shaping this public health issue.

Guest host Ava Wallace, a sports writer for The Washington Post, chats with soccer experts Steve Goff and Ella Brockway about the explosive growth of the NWSL. They discuss how the league transformed from a struggling entity to a financial powerhouse. The trio highlights the evolution of women's soccer in the U.S., the resilience of the Washington Spirit, and the impact of significant investments. They also celebrate key players like Marta and examine the cultural shift towards embracing women's sports.

Laura Meckler, a national education reporter for The Washington Post, shares insights on Trump's controversial pledge to abolish the Education Department. They discuss the historical context of these efforts, dating back to 1979, and the political challenges involved in such a move. Meckler highlights the implications for funding and federal oversight if the department were eliminated. She also explores the responses from educators and parents, revealing a mix of concern and indifference towards potential cuts to education funding.

Nick Miroff, an immigration enforcement reporter from The Washington Post, dives into the implications of Trump's immigration policies and his promise of mass deportations. He discusses the significance of key appointees like Stephen Miller and Tom Homan in shaping these policies. Miroff details the contrasting immigration landscape under the Biden administration versus Trump's era, exploring the challenges and logistics of implementing mass deportation strategies. He also highlights the fears facing immigrant communities amid these proposed changes.

Liz Goodwin, a Congress reporter for The Washington Post, dives deep into Trump's eyebrow-raising Cabinet choices, including the controversial Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for Health and Human Services. The discussion reveals how these picks might face opposition from Senate Republicans and explores the dynamics of bypassing traditional confirmation processes. Goodwin also highlights the political fallout around nominations like Matt Gaetz for Justice and Tulsi Gabbard's role in intelligence, emphasizing the shifting power within the GOP and its implications for Congress.