Impromptu

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.

Did the debate cause a vibe shift? Columnists Charles Lane, Megan McArdle, Dana Milbank and Jim Geraghty discuss how much voters care about policy, whether Trump made any good points and how his false claims about pet-eating immigrants mask a genuine issue.And don't forget to check out the first two stories in our series, “Who is Government? Seven writers go in search of the essential public servant.” The Canary, by Michael LewisThe Sentinel, by Casey CepKeep an eye on Washington Post Opinions each Tuesday morning to see future installments.

In this enlightening discussion, Richard Reeves, founder of the American Institute for Boys and Men, joins columnists Theodore Johnson and Shadi Hamid to delve into the modern masculinity crisis. They explore the challenges of health, education, and workforce participation facing men today. The conversation highlights the need for role models and community connection while advocating for a redefined masculinity centered on support and collaboration. They also humorously use Hannibal Lecter to critique traditional masculine ideals.

As American kids head back to school, columnist Daniel Pink makes the case for paying teachers more money. High-quality teachers, he argues, significantly improve student learning, so shouldn’t they be paid as much as somebody assessing insurance premiums on your car? Plus, humor columnist Alexandra Petri discusses sending her child to school for the first time. This essay by Daniel Pink is part of a year-long project with Washington Post Opinions called “Why Not?” Check out some of the other columns in his series:Why not ban left turns on busy streets?Why not shake up the Olympics? Why not overhaul America’s national holidays?Why not require a civics test as a rite of passage for all Americans?Don’t miss any of Daniel Pink’s “Why Not?” columns. You can follow his LinkedIn newsletter here.Subscribe to The Washington Post here.

In this discussion, Dana Milbank, a seasoned political columnist; Jennifer Rubin, a sharp voice on policy; Jonathan Capehart, a keen political journalist; and Jim Geraghty, a Republican-focused commentator, delve into the changing dynamics within the Democratic Party. They explore the implications of Kamala Harris stepping into the spotlight, the absence of gender discourse in the campaign, and the party's struggle with working-class identity amid inflation. The conversation mixes insights with humor, comparing the DNC's excitement to the Olympics.

Vladimir Kara-Murza, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and advocate for free speech, shares his harrowing experience of surviving imprisonment in Russia. He discusses the emotional challenges of returning to normal life after the gulag and the ongoing fight for political prisoners. Kara-Murza reflects on how his faith, historical knowledge, and admiration for dissidents fueled his resilience during captivity. He also describes the oppressive realities of life in Omsk and the surreal moment of receiving the Pulitzer Prize while in solitary confinement.

Tim Walz, the rapid-rising Midwestern governor turned Democratic vice-presidential candidate, joins a discussion with Charles Lane, Molly Roberts, and Matt Bai. They analyze Walz's potential to unify the ticket alongside Kamala Harris. The conversation digs into the strategic advantages of Walz's candidacy, touches on the 'weird' messaging strategy, and explores how these choices might affect voter perceptions and campaign dynamics. They also reflect on the historical significance of vice-presidential picks and their lasting political consequences.

In this discussion, Charles Lane, an expert in aviation economics, Catherine Rampell, a keen commentator on customer behavior, and journalist Marc Fisher delve into the frustrating dynamics of airline travel. They explore how customer decisions fuel a race to the bottom for service quality. The conversation highlights recent shifts like Southwest's new boarding policies and the challenges of market consolidation. The trio humorously reflects on the chaos of traveling with toddlers, capturing the charm and trials faced by families in airports.