

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

Jan 4, 2024 • 18min
Attacks in Beirut and Baghdad, and fears of a wider war
Recent strikes in Beirut and Baghdad raise fears of a wider war in the Middle East. The assassination of a senior Hamas leader in Beirut and subsequent threats from Hezbollah add to the tension. The blasts in Iran and the US airstrike in Baghdad also contribute to concerns. The possibility of the conflict in Gaza expanding into a larger war involving Israel, Iran, and its allies is discussed. The potential risks and implications of these events on the region are analyzed.

Jan 3, 2024 • 25min
How record migration is testing Biden
A record number of migrants have arrived at the US-Mexico border, testing the Biden administration. The challenges faced by Border Patrol and differences in immigration enforcement between administrations are explored. The cooperation and enforcement efforts between Mexico and the US are discussed, along with the challenges of reaching an immigration deal. The potential risks faced by migrants in their desperate journey are also highlighted.

Jan 2, 2024 • 23min
The recession that wasn't
Exploring the mismatch between the strong economic forecast for 2024 and how many Americans feel. Discussing the avoidance of a predicted recession in 2023 and the factors contributing to the strong economy. Examining Americans' perceptions of the economy and the impact on voter behavior. Exploring the contrasting perceptions of the economy and economic policies, and the need for effective political messaging.

Dec 30, 2023 • 1h 3min
‘Field Trip’: Gates of the Arctic National Park
Join the 'Field Trip' to Gates of the Arctic National Park, exploring the future of this remote wilderness and the proposed construction of a road. Discover the challenges of conserving the park, the environmental impact of mining operations, and the debate surrounding the road construction. Delve into the concerns and potential benefits of the road near Shungnak and experience the awe of flying over the Arctic landscape.

6 snips
Dec 29, 2023 • 10min
Can’t sleep? ‘Try This.’
A new series called Try This offers pithy solutions to improve daily life, starting with better sleep. The host introduces the course and her excitement to learn from a sleep expert. Psychologist Lisa Strauss advises against trying to sleep and suggests remaining calm. Letting go of control and pressure is crucial for improving sleep quality. The podcast explores strategies for reducing performance anxiety and offers a mindfulness exercise. Upcoming classes and additional sleep resources are mentioned.

4 snips
Dec 28, 2023 • 57min
‘Throughline’: There Will Be Bananas
Explore the history and significance of bananas in American culture, from colonialism to labor movements. Learn about the captivating story of Minor Keith and the birth of the Banana Empire. Discover the taboo and marketing strategies of bananas in the US. Dive into the rise of the banana business model and the brutal massacre of trapped workers. Uncover the actions and influence of the United Fruit Company and the ongoing problems in the banana industry.

Dec 27, 2023 • 28min
Applying for college after the end of affirmative action
Explore the consequences of the Supreme Court ending affirmative action, as two high school seniors navigate the college application process. They discuss the impact on deserving students, strategies for maintaining diversity, and changes in admissions practices.

Dec 26, 2023 • 22min
Ava DuVernay on making a film her way
Filmmaker Ava DuVernay pursued an unusual funding model to get her new film 'Origin' made. The podcast explores her motivation for independent filmmaking, challenges faced, and the unique funding model she used with contributions from organizations like the Ford Foundation. The discussion also highlights the artistic freedom this model offers and how DuVernay's approach to filmmaking inspires hope for the future.

Dec 22, 2023 • 38min
A murdered peace activist and a war in her name
Vivian Silver, a Canadian Israeli peace activist, was murdered during an attack, raising the question of whether peace is still worth fighting for. Vivian's sons grappled with their mother's death and their desire for justice. The podcast explores their journey as they navigate the aftermath of her murder and the ongoing war. Topics discussed include Vivian's dedication to peace, her sons' search for answers, and the impact of the attack on their beliefs.

Dec 21, 2023 • 25min
What you don’t know about assisted living in America
The podcast discusses neglect in America's assisted-living industry, specifically focusing on the alarming number of elopements resulting in fatalities. It explores the challenges of finding and regulating assisted living facilities, as well as the hidden dangers and guilt experienced by families who choose this option.