Rupert Murdoch's media empire faces intense family rivalries, as legal disputes unfold over control. The plight of Austin Tice, an American journalist missing in Syria, sparks discussions on advocacy and recovery efforts. New Jersey proposes groundbreaking bereavement leave for pregnancy loss, showcasing a shift in policy. Meanwhile, political dynamics heat up with Trump appointing Kari Lake to Voice of America, the FBI director's resignation, and the notable demise of the Albertsons-Kroger merger, all while FIFA announces Saudi Arabia as the 2034 World Cup host.

A young man is accused of murdering a health-insurance CEO, raising questions about systemic discontent. Explore the haunting realities of a notorious Syrian prison and the geopolitical tensions following Assad's regime. Younger Democrats are shaking up the party by challenging the status quo, while a devastating wildfire in Malibu forces evacuations. Meanwhile, efforts to protect monarch butterflies gain momentum, and Caitlin Clark shines as Time's Athlete of the Year.

A suspect has been charged in the high-profile murder of UnitedHealthcare's CEO, with forensic evidence and media efforts playing crucial roles in the investigation. The legality of 3D-printed ghost guns comes under fire in the wake of a shooting, alongside troubling accusations against Jay-Z and Diddy from years past. Food recalls spark discussion about public perception versus reality, revealing a potential decline in such incidents. Political trials and Taylor Swift's record-breaking tour also make headlines in this fascinating mix of news.

On today’s show: Trump advisers have renewed a push for a pardon of Edward Snowden. The Washington Post’s Michael Scherer explains why. Rebels in Syria overtook the capital, Damascus, forcing President Bashar al-Assad to flee and bringing an abrupt end to more than a decade of civil war. Mensah M. Dean of The Trace investigates the intergenerational fallout of gun violence in the U.S. Plus, the College Football Playoff is set, Trump gives his first televised interview since the election, and why the internet reacted the way it did to the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Today’s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.

The challenges of the GOP's slim majority are explored, revealing potential legislative hurdles ahead. Bitcoin's recent surge to $100,000 sparks a discussion on its implications for the financial system and comparisons to past market crashes. The growing ties between cryptocurrency and politics are examined, highlighting deregulation under new leadership. Meanwhile, Taylor Swift's transformative impact on the music industry and emotional influence on fans is celebrated. Lastly, the revival of Notre-Dame and the LA Galaxy's quest for glory in the MLS Cup add a sense of cultural rejuvenation.

The podcast dives into the intrigue surrounding a controversial Secretary of Defense nominee facing serious misconduct allegations. It also highlights South Korea's political turmoil and the U.S.'s close watch on the situation. A fascinating discussion centers on an Australian initiative to ban social media for kids under 16, raising questions about balancing regulation with digital literacy. Lastly, listeners get an update on recent political victories for Democrats and a quirky tool designed to silence that pesky holiday earworm.

The Supreme Court is set to hear a significant case on transgender health care that could reshape laws across the country. Homebuilders are expressing concerns about the implications of a potential Trump presidency on their industry. Meanwhile, displaced families in Gaza are bracing for a tough winter amidst ongoing conflict. The podcast also covers new Department of Labor rules affecting Americans with disabilities and offers tips to guard against winter package theft.

A surprising shift to the right in voting behaviors raises eyebrows, even in liberal strongholds like New York City. A heartbreaking incident reveals the harsh consequences of a Tennessee law, leading to the arrest of a boy with autism for bringing a stuffed toy to school. Meanwhile, the complexities of the Syrian civil war unfold amidst new rebel dynamics. As Giving Tuesday approaches, thoughtful discussions on how to make a meaningful impact emerge, alongside legal battles surrounding vaping regulations and notable podcast achievements.

President Biden's controversial decision to pardon his son creates waves in the political landscape. Meanwhile, Trump aims to nominate a polarizing figure as FBI director, stirring debate on agency independence. The global plea for a plastic pollution agreement falters dramatically. Health discussions spotlight the BRCA cancer gene, emphasizing the need for testing among men. Plus, the Bills fans gear up with their shovels again, and a look at the staggering amount of Thanksgiving food waste alongside tips for navigating Cyber Monday shopping.

A global spotlight shines on war-crime arrest warrants for Israeli leaders amid the Gaza conflict. As leaders grapple with climate change funding debates, one college steps up to make tuition free for many families. The emotional toll of family estrangement is explored, especially during the holidays. Insights reveal the complexities behind these tough family dynamics and the increasing trend of detachment. Plus, the buzz around 'Wicked' hitting theaters adds a dash of entertainment.