What A Day
Crooked Media
If you’re looking for hype, fake outrage, and groupthink, kindly keep moving. Our mission at What a Day is simple: to be your guide to what truly matters each morning (and the fun stuff you might have missed) in just 20 minutes. Host Jane Coaston brings you in-depth reporting and substantive analysis on the big stories shaping today and the creeping trends shaping tomorrow—and when she doesn’t know the answers, she asks someone even smarter to fill us all in. Radical, right? New episodes at 5:00 a.m. EST, Monday–Friday in your favorite podcast app and on YouTube. Being informed was never this easy.
Episodes
Mentioned books
16 snips
Apr 3, 2025 • 22min
Trump Launches Tariff-Palooza
In this engaging discussion, Everett Kelley, the National President of the American Federation of Government Employees and champion for federal workers, dives into the ramifications of President Trump’s newly announced reciprocal tariffs. He explores the contradiction of Trump’s claims about boosting American jobs while simultaneously attacking union jobs. Kelley also shares insights on how unions are mobilizing to fight back against the challenges posed by these policies, emphasizing the importance of support for federal employees amid rising layoffs and weakened protections.
6 snips
Apr 2, 2025 • 25min
Why Planned Parenthood Is Back In Front Of SCOTUS
Alexis McGill Johnson, the president of Planned Parenthood and a fierce advocate for reproductive healthcare, discusses a pivotal Supreme Court case that could impact Medicaid funding for the organization in South Carolina. She highlights the potential ripple effects of a decision favoring the state, which could threaten healthcare access for many low-income individuals. Johnson also emphasizes the vital services Planned Parenthood provides beyond abortion, urging listeners to consider the broader implications for reproductive rights amidst a shifting political landscape.
Apr 1, 2025 • 26min
Trump's TBD Tariffs
Neil Irwin, Chief Economic Correspondent for Axios, dives into the murky waters of Trump's planned tariffs, dubbed 'Liberation Day.' He discusses the uncertainty looming over the economy and how these tariffs could impact everyday Americans. Irwin highlights concerns regarding inflation and job stability, especially in auto industry towns. The conversation also touches on dwindling voter confidence in Trump’s ability to manage the economy, amidst significant political developments and upcoming elections.
12 snips
Mar 31, 2025 • 25min
Musk Throws Millions Into Wisc. Supreme Court Race
Ben Wikler, Chair of the Wisconsin Democratic Party, dives into the heated race for the Wisconsin Supreme Court, which has become the most expensive judicial election in U.S. history, fueled by millions from Elon Musk and his allies. He discusses how the outcome could shift the court's ideological balance, impacting key issues like abortion rights and labor laws. The conversation emphasizes the dangers of big money in politics and the urgent need for voter mobilization to counter lobbying influences.
7 snips
Mar 28, 2025 • 27min
Is Any Immigrant Safe In Trump's America?
Ted Hesson, an immigration reporter for Reuters, shares crucial insights into the Trump administration's shifting immigration policies. He discusses the increasing anxiety among immigrants, especially Venezuelans, facing heightened enforcement and deportation risks. Hesson highlights the troubling targeting of foreign students with specific viewpoints and the significant implications for undocumented individuals. The conversation also touches on the politically charged environment and its impact on public health services, revealing the complex interplay of politics and immigration.
10 snips
Mar 27, 2025 • 26min
Trump’s Next Chat Scandal: The Coverup
Paul Rosenzweig, a former deputy assistant secretary for policy at DHS and cybersecurity expert, dives into the Signalgate scandal that leaked sensitive military discussions involving Houthi militants. He reveals the potential risks and national security vulnerabilities highlighted by this controversy. The conversation critiques the Trump administration's communication strategies and raises ethical concerns surrounding recent tariff increases on imported cars. Rosenzweig also touches on the surprising electoral shift in Pennsylvania, reflecting changing political dynamics.
6 snips
Mar 26, 2025 • 25min
This Group Chat Should Have Been An Email feat. Sen. Mark Warner
In this installment, national security reporter Alex Ward dives into the shocking Signal-gate scandal involving top Trump officials. He explains the risks posed by unauthorized group chats and the threatening implications for national security. Virginia Senator Mark Warner voices his skepticism regarding claims that no classified information was shared, stressing the importance of accountability among high-ranking officials. The discussion also touches on global political issues, including the Russia-Ukraine ceasefire and controversial child labor laws in Florida.
Mar 25, 2025 • 22min
Sec. Pete Hegseth Is In My DMs
Gina McCarthy, former EPA administrator and White House National Climate Advisor, dives into the shifting priorities of the Environmental Protection Agency under new leadership. She discusses the concerning rollback of climate protections and the vital role of grassroots movements in safeguarding the environment. McCarthy highlights how many states and cities are stepping up to address climate issues amid federal inaction. Additionally, they delve into the ongoing political battles over climate funding and the importance of global cooperation in tackling environmental challenges.
23 snips
Mar 24, 2025 • 28min
Trump Wants To Be King
Ruth Ben-Ghiat, a history professor at NYU and author of 'Strongmen,' dives into America's current political chaos and examines Trump's actions through a historical lens. She discusses how his presidency echoes past authoritarian regimes and warns of the erosion of democratic norms. The conversation emphasizes the importance of grassroots resistance and political engagement to combat rising autocracy. Ben-Ghiat also highlights the need for vigilance and unity in the face of unprecedented challenges to democracy.
Mar 21, 2025 • 25min
The Miseducation Of Donald Trump feat. Former Sec. Arne Duncan
Arne Duncan, former Secretary of Education under President Obama, dives into the alarming impact of Trump's executive order aimed at dismantling the Department of Education. He emphasizes the potential devastation to public education and the threats to diversity and inclusion initiatives. Duncan warns about the risks to student aid and funding for marginalized communities. The discussion also touches on the political climate, where Republican decisions are jeopardizing education and democracy, calling for accountability and change amidst current challenges.
