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
20 snips
Jan 15, 2025 • 28min
Hegseth’s Sham Hearing
Pete Hegseth faces scrutiny at his confirmation hearing for Secretary of Defense, tackling tough questions about his past conduct. Delve into the intra-MAGA conflict over H-1B visas, revealing deep rifts within the Republican Party. Key headlines address Congress's ban on trans athletes in female sports and fresh insights into Trump-related investigations. Discover how TikTok users are flocking to a new Chinese app. Tune in for sharp political analysis and engaging discussions on pressing issues.
9 snips
Jan 14, 2025 • 24min
Let The Senate Confirmation Hearings Begin
Burgess Everett, Congressional Bureau Chief for Semafor, digs into the high-stakes Senate confirmation hearings for Donald Trump's cabinet picks. He talks about the intense scrutiny facing Pete Hegseth, especially allegations surrounding his conduct. The discussion also covers how these hearings could set a precedent for other controversial nominees and the political strategies involved in gaining support. Additionally, Everett reflects on the implications of these nominations on governance and the upcoming challenges for California's wildfire recovery.
10 snips
Jan 13, 2025 • 25min
TikTok Is Still On The Chopping Block
In this engaging discussion, Jay Willis, editor-in-chief of Balls and Strikes, delves into the recent sentencing of Donald Trump in a hush money case, unpacking its political significance. He also analyzes the Supreme Court's consideration of a potential TikTok ban, raising questions about national security and free speech. The conversation highlights the intertwining of law, technology, and politics, alongside the implications for judicial independence. Additionally, they touch on the political landscape's response to California wildfires and evolving views on pardons.
6 snips
Jan 10, 2025 • 25min
While LA Burns, Trump Fuels The Disinformation Fire
Scott Waldman, a White House reporter at Politico’s E&E News, provides insights into the catastrophic Palisades and Eaton wildfires in Los Angeles, which have wreaked havoc on thousands of structures. He delves into the rampant misinformation linked to these disasters, fueled by political figures, including Trump. Waldman highlights the challenges first responders face and stresses the need for improved disaster relief and infrastructure in light of escalating climate change. The discussion is a timely reminder of the intersection between climate policy and media narratives.
Jan 9, 2025 • 24min
Los Angeles Is On Fire
Lenya Quinn-Davidson, director of the UC Agriculture and Natural Resources Fire Network and wildfire expert, discusses the rapid spread of devastating fires in Los Angeles, highlighting the challenges faced by firefighters and the environmental factors at play. Bob Corn-Revere, an attorney advocating for free speech, covers his representation of pollster Ann Selzer in a lawsuit connected to political controversy. The conversation also touches on the implications of climate change on wildfire frequency and recent political absurdities.
Jan 8, 2025 • 21min
Meta’s MAGA Moment
Jason Koebler, co-founder of 404 Media, dives into Mark Zuckerberg's controversial decision to end Meta's fact-checking program, prioritizing free expression ahead of the 2024 election. They discuss the potential rise in hate speech and misinformation as content moderation rules loosen. Koebler shares insights on how a possible Trump administration could reshape tech regulation, while also unpacking recent judicial setbacks affecting Trump. The conversation highlights the disconnect between pressing economic issues and political narratives.
7 snips
Jan 7, 2025 • 21min
Congress Ain’t Gettin’ Any Younger, Folks
Ken Klippenstein, an independent journalist specializing in national security, discusses the implications of an aging Congress. He highlights that with nearly a quarter of Congress over 70, there are significant challenges as older leaders grapple with economic issues affecting younger generations. The conversation explores the cultural dynamics favoring seniority and the disconnect between actual ages and perceived youthfulness in politics. Klippenstein also addresses shifting public concerns about age in leadership amidst recent political upheavals.
16 snips
Jan 6, 2025 • 24min
What Trump's Win Means for Jan 6 Rioters
Hanna Rosin, co-host of 'We Live Here Now,' reflects on the January 6th insurrection’s legacy and what Trump's ongoing influence means for the rioters, many of whom face severe consequences while he remains largely unscathed. The discussion digs into the emotional aftermath for communities involved in the riots and considers the challenges of justice versus political power. A former D.C. police officer shares a gripping firsthand account of the chaos that day, emphasizing the fraught relationship between law enforcement and rising political violence.
17 snips
Dec 21, 2024 • 32min
The New Jersey Drones Mass Delusion, Explained
In New Jersey, thousands mistakenly believed they were spotting UFOs instead of airplanes. The discussion unpacks the psychology behind mass delusions, with historical examples like the 'War of the Worlds' broadcast and the clown sighting panic. Experts share insights into confirmation bias and how sensational media fuel collective fears. The conversation highlights the societal impact of misinterpretation and the need for accessible mental health resources, all intertwined with modern phenomena and age-old fears.
8 snips
Dec 20, 2024 • 23min
House Republicans ClusterMusk
Melissa Murray, co-host of Crooked’s ‘Strict Scrutiny,’ shares her insights on a tumultuous year at the Supreme Court, discussing key rulings and upcoming cases like gender-affirming care for trans minors and ghost gun regulations. The conversation delves into the political chaos among House Republicans amid a potential government shutdown, driven by the influences of Donald Trump and Elon Musk. As holiday pressures mount, concerns over government funding and labor strikes, such as Amazon drivers’ protests, highlight the complex web of current events.
