

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

40 snips
May 22, 2025 • 30min
Trump’s ‘big, beautiful’ win, Biden’s health
Matt Viser, White House Bureau Chief for The Washington Post, discusses Trump’s strategic legislative maneuvers that led to a key bill's passage in the House. He highlights the internal tensions within the GOP and Trump’s role in navigating these challenges. The conversation also delves into Trump's diplomatic encounter with South Africa and Biden's recent cancer diagnosis, sparking debate over his fitness for office. As the political landscape shifts towards economic concerns, Viser emphasizes how these dynamics will shape the 2024 election.

36 snips
May 21, 2025 • 29min
Millions rely on Medicaid for health care. Will Congress cut it?
Fenit Nirappil, a national health reporter for The Washington Post, dives into the intricacies of Medicaid, the largest public health insurance program in the U.S. He discusses the potential consequences of proposed budget cuts and the critical support Medicaid provides to over 80 million Americans, including low-income families and individuals with disabilities. Nirappil shares personal stories that highlight the challenges faced by beneficiaries, the political divide on reform, and the looming implications of political decisions on healthcare access.

52 snips
May 20, 2025 • 29min
The cryptocurrency that buys access to Trump
Drew Harwell, a technology reporter for The Washington Post, dives into the curious intersection of Trump and cryptocurrency. He discusses how Trump's meme coin, launched days before his inauguration, became a financial phenomenon, attracting foreign investors looking for exclusive access to the former president. The conversation explores the volatile nature of meme coins, the ethical dilemmas of political influence in crypto, and the potential regulatory challenges facing the industry as finance and politics become increasingly entwined.

54 snips
May 19, 2025 • 26min
The small-business owner suing Trump over tariffs
Cat Zakrzewski, a White House reporter for The Washington Post, dives into Emily Ley's unexpected journey from crafting planners to challenging Trump’s tariffs in court. Ley’s business, catering to busy parents, is threatened by rising manufacturing costs tied to international trade policies. The discussion highlights the emotional toll on small business owners navigating these challenges and the complex legal battle that ensues, revealing a personal transformation as she transitions from lifestyle influencer to political advocate.

38 snips
May 17, 2025 • 34min
Tara Brach on how to deal with fear and uncertainty
In a thought-provoking discussion, therapist Tara Brach shares her insights on navigating fear and uncertainty in today's tumultuous world. She emphasizes mindfulness as a crucial tool for managing anxiety, introducing the RAIN technique to cultivate self-compassion. Tara highlights the importance of acknowledging fears, particularly among younger generations, while promoting connection and emotional resilience. With personal stories and practical strategies, she encourages listeners to embrace vulnerability, ultimately fostering a deeper sense of compassion for themselves and others.

21 snips
May 16, 2025 • 40min
The Diddy trial: Cassie’s "freak-offs" testimony
Anne Branigin, a Style reporter for The Washington Post, dives into the gripping testimony of Cassie Ventura against Sean Combs. Cassie shares harrowing experiences, including allegations of violence and coercion, showcasing the emotional toll of their troubled relationship. The discussion highlights courtroom dynamics, the defense's questioning tactics, and the intense reactions from the jury. Branigin explores how Cassie's account supports the government's case and reveals the dark complexities behind their decade-long relationship.

40 snips
May 15, 2025 • 32min
Trump's big beautiful Boeing from Qatar, and a trade war thaw
Join Cleve R. Wootson Jr. and Natalie Allison, White House reporters for The Washington Post, as they unravel the ethical and security dilemmas behind Trump’s proposed acquisition of a Boeing jet from Qatar. They dive into how this gift could reshape U.S.-Qatar relations amid concerns over human rights. The duo also discusses a fragile thaw in U.S.-China trade, detailing how recent negotiations could influence Trump’s supporters, and what this means for the broader economic landscape. Tune in for an insightful look at complex political dynamics!

19 snips
May 14, 2025 • 21min
The little-known history of birthright citizenship
David Nakamura, an immigration reporter for The Washington Post, shares the inspiring story of Norman Wong, who fights for birthright citizenship and honors his great-grandfather, Wong Kim Ark. They discuss the landmark Supreme Court case affirming citizenship for those born on U.S. soil and the historical significance of this ruling amid anti-immigrant sentiments. The conversation also addresses recent political challenges to birthright citizenship and the personal implications these policies have on families today.

23 snips
May 13, 2025 • 26min
What to know before getting into a driverless taxi
Geoffrey Fowler and Lisa Bonos, tech experts from The Washington Post, dive into the reality of driverless taxis like Waymo as they expand across U.S. cities. They discuss the initial excitement of hailing these autonomous rides and the mixed feelings residents have about safety and legal implications. The conversation highlights the operational challenges, pedestrian interactions, and urban life changes in a world increasingly shared with self-driving cars. Their insights provide a fascinating look at what potential passengers should consider before stepping into a driverless taxi.

20 snips
May 12, 2025 • 18min
A hostage returns as Israel plans to escalate the war
Miriam Berger, a seasoned Middle East reporter for The Washington Post, discusses the release of Edan Alexander, the last U.S. hostage from Gaza, and the emotions surrounding his return. She highlights the devastating toll of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, emphasizing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. As Israel plans to escalate the war, they aim to shift aid distribution control, raising concerns about the impact on civilians. Berger sheds light on the mixed feelings in Israel regarding hostage negotiations and the complexities of ceasefire prospects.