Impromptu

Heather Long, an Economy columnist at The Washington Post, and Molly Roberts, an editorial writer and columnist, dive into the murky waters of America's tipping culture. They discuss the pressure consumers face with preset tips and how this complicates the wage structure for service workers. The conversation also explores global tipping practices and political implications of tipping taxation. With a humorous critique of the absurdities in tipping, they advocate for clearer compensation systems to support service workers more fairly.

In the final stretch of the presidential campaign, both Kamala Harris and Donald Trump are turning to popular lifestyle and comedy podcasts to woo different audiences. We were curious whether the candidates sounded any different in these environments than at their rallies. So columnists Charles Lane, Molly Roberts and Perry Bacon listened in and discussed what they learned.Listen to the podcasts we discussed in the episode here:Donald Trump on “This Past Weekend w/ Theo Von”Donald Trump on “Flagrant”Kamala Harris on “Call Her Daddy”Kamala Harris on “All the Smoke”

The National Archives might seem like a distant trove of documents and arcane laws for Americans far from Washington. But many of these national treasures are actually relevant to our lives. Author Sarah Vowell found the people inside the Archives who are making sure everybody can access these documents and find their stories. Read Sarah Vowell’s full story here: The EqualizerAnd check out the rest of the “Who is government?” series.The Canary, by Michael LewisThe Sentinel, by Casey CepThe Searchers, by Dave EggersThe Number, by John LanchesterThe Cyber Sleuth, by Geraldine BrooksThe original version of this audio mistakenly referred to one of the Citizen Archivists as Bernard Weintraub, but his name is Joel Weintraub. We regret the error.

As tensions between Israel and Iran soar, columnists David Ignatius and Josh Rogin talk with Damir Marusic about the broader forces at play in the conflict, the lack of plans for a stable future and what a Trump victory would mean for the U.S.-Iran relationship.Read more from David Ignatius on this issue: “What the Oct. 7 attacks didn’t change”“Trump courts disaster by underestimating Iranian death threats”Subscribe to The Washington Post here.

The IRS may be one of the most hated departments in the federal government, but it turns out it does more than just collect taxes. Pulitzer-Prize-winning author Geraldine Brooks got to know the folks in charge of the IRS’s cybercrime unit which investigates criminals who use cryptocurrency. In this bonus episode, Brooks talks with Michael Lewis about what she learned. Read Geraldine Brooks’s full article here: Meet the black-belt, tattooed IRS official who saved 23 children from their abusersAnd check out the rest of the “Who is Government” series. The Canary, by Michael LewisThe Sentinel, by Casey CepThe Searchers, by Dave EggersThe Number, by John Lanchester

Karen Tumulty, a sharp political columnist, Dana Milbank, known for his contemporary insights, and Ruth Marcus, an expert in political analysis, delve into J.D. Vance's recent vice-presidential debate performance. They highlight how Vance's attempt to soften his stance on abortion reflects Republican anxieties ahead of the election. The trio also discusses the lingering impact of the Jan. 6 events, the dynamics of live fact-checking during debates, and the challenges candidates face in navigating polarized politics while aiming to connect with voters.

Join acclaimed author Michael Lewis, known for his deep dives into finance, and journalist John Lanchester, celebrated for his urban insights, as they unravel the complexities of government counting. They discuss how inflation numbers reflect national values and decision-making. The duo highlights the critical role data plays in governance, especially in crises like the pandemic. They also delve into the murky waters where fact meets fiction, emphasizing a growing mistrust in information and the urgent need for authentic narratives in policy debates.

Amanda Ripley, a contributing columnist, joins former 'Jeopardy!' contestants Alexandra Petri, Drew Goins, and Ryan Vogt to discuss the show's cultural significance. They reflect on how 'Jeopardy!' has stood the test of time in a 'post-truth' America, emphasizing the importance of knowledge and community. The guests share behind-the-scenes anecdotes, the psychological pressures of competition, and the show's role in fostering intergenerational connections. With humor and nostalgia, they explore what makes 'Jeopardy!' a beloved staple in American homes.

Dave Eggers, an acclaimed author known for his innovative storytelling, teams up with Michael Lewis, a master of narrative nonfiction, to delve into NASA's groundbreaking efforts at the Jet Propulsion Lab. They explore how scientists are working to detect planets hidden by distant stars, revealing the challenges and excitement of the search for extraterrestrial life. They also discuss innovative techniques like the revolutionary star shade concept, showcasing the passion and dedication of those reaching for the stars.

In this discussion, Shadi Hamid, an opinions columnist, and Heather Long, who focuses on economic issues, join style columnist Monica Hesse to unpack the reasons behind declining birth rates in America. They delve into how economic pressures, shifting societal values, and personal choices shape these trends. The conversation questions whether the current worries about a fertility crisis are justified and emphasizes the need for family-friendly policies. Humorously, they touch on the trials of parenting in public, highlighting the chaotic yet relatable moments every parent faces.