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
10 snips
Sep 19, 2025 • 27min
Trump’s War On Free Speech
In this conversation, Elissa Slotkin, a Democratic U.S. Senator from Michigan, tackles the chilling effects on free speech, highlighting the recent suspension of 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' and the controversial remarks from FCC chair Brendan Carr. Jon Favreau, co-founder of Crooked Media, shares insights on how liberal media can respond effectively to governmental pressures and mobilize audiences. The guests also discuss the introduction of the NOPE Act, aimed at safeguarding political speech during these contentious times.
11 snips
Sep 18, 2025 • 28min
How NOT To Run The FBI
In this engaging discussion, Andrew McCabe, former FBI Deputy Director, shares his insights on the troubling leadership of FBI Director Kash Patel amid the investigation into the assassination of Charlie Kirk. McCabe praises the agents' dedication while criticizing Patel's partisan actions and risky publicity tactics that jeopardize FBI integrity. He also delves into the ongoing challenges the Bureau faces, such as loyalty tests and shifting priorities that affect its operational efficiency.
7 snips
Sep 17, 2025 • 26min
What The FBI Doesn’t Understand About Online Extremism
David Gilbert, who covers disinformation and online extremism for Wired magazine, dives into the alarming rise of nihilistic violent extremists, or NVEs. He discusses how these individuals often use memes and online platforms to evade law enforcement and promote their ideologies. The complexities of tracking radicalization in a digital age emerge, alongside the intensifying rivalries within far-right groups like those involving Charlie Kirk. Gilbert emphasizes the importance of responsible media coverage in addressing these threats and protecting society from escalating violence.
9 snips
Sep 16, 2025 • 21min
What Did Trump’s DC Police Takeover Accomplish?
Emma Uber, a crime and criminal justice reporter for The Washington Post, dives into the recent federal policing initiatives in Memphis following Trump's memorandum and National Guard deployment. She explores the impact of earlier actions in D.C., questioning their effectiveness on crime rates and societal implications. The discussion also touches on the rising pressures within D.C.'s criminal justice system and the role of social media in shaping political engagement among the youth, highlighting the interplay between online communities and real-world consequences.
10 snips
Sep 15, 2025 • 21min
Shutdown Showdown, Part [We've Lost Count]
Daniella Diaz, a Congressional reporter for NOTUS, dives into the looming threat of a government shutdown. She discusses the need for bipartisan negotiations as Republicans require Democratic support to keep the government running. The urgency intensifies with expiring Affordable Care Act tax credits on the table. Additionally, the conversation broaches the effects of shutdowns on citizens and public services, while touching on the troubling consequences of increasing political polarization. Will compromise prevail before the deadline?
7 snips
Sep 12, 2025 • 25min
Political Violence In America
Graeme Wood, a staff writer at The Atlantic known for his insights into societal issues, dives deep into the alarming rise of political violence in America. He discusses a recent assassination attempt and reflects on how social media may be normalizing violence in public discourse. Wood draws historical parallels with other nations, emphasizing the psychological impacts and the urgent need for credible leadership. The conversation also touches on the contentious confirmation processes shaping political dynamics and the broader implications for societal stability.
10 snips
Sep 11, 2025 • 21min
Conservative Activist Charlie Kirk Killed In Utah
Tess Owen, a journalist covering political violence, delves into the shocking assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk during his campus event in Utah. She explores Kirk's significant influence on the American right and his role in engaging young conservatives through Turning Point USA. The discussion also touches on the alarming rise of political violence in the U.S. and how media narratives may shift in response to such incidents, emphasizing the need for truth in today's fraught political landscape.
9 snips
Sep 10, 2025 • 23min
Chicago Teachers Fight To Keep ICE Out Of Schools
Stacey Davis Gates, President of the Chicago Teachers Union, shares insights on how teachers are navigating the challenges of a new school year amid heightened immigration enforcement. She discusses the impact of ICE near schools, emphasizing the mental health concerns for students and families. Davis Gates highlights community solidarity and the necessity of educators advocating for immigrant rights. The conversation also touches on the alarming decline in literacy among high school students, linking it to factors like the pandemic and screen time.
Sep 9, 2025 • 22min
Laura Loomer's Rise To The Top
Will Sommer, a senior reporter at The Bulwark focusing on right-wing media, dives into the bizarre world of Trump-era appointees. He discusses Laura Loomer's rise as a polarizing influencer and her unique relationship with Trump. Sommer uncovers how loyalty shapes the political landscape, exploring rivalries like that between Loomer and Marjorie Taylor Greene. Plus, he touches on the absurdities of the administration and current events, including controversies surrounding Trump's views on religion and civil liberties.
11 snips
Sep 8, 2025 • 24min
Georgia To Vote On Energy Costs
John Taylor, Executive Director of the Black Male Initiative, discusses the pivotal Public Service Commission election in Georgia. He emphasizes the significance of this race in regulating energy costs amidst rising utility prices. Taylor highlights the strong Democratic challengers and the need for voter engagement to ensure accountability in utility management. The conversation also touches on the dangers of corporate influence in governance and the importance of prioritizing community needs in policy-making.
