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
Dec 19, 2024 • 22min
Abortion in Trump's America
Mary Ziegler, a UC Davis law professor and abortion history expert, dives into the Supreme Court's decision to hear South Carolina's case to defund Planned Parenthood, highlighting its potential impact on reproductive care access. She discusses how recent legal challenges, especially in Texas, complicate abortion rights post-Dobbs. Ziegler also addresses misconceptions about Republican stances on abortion, suggesting a shifting public sentiment as new restrictions become apparent. This insightful conversation sheds light on the tumultuous political landscape surrounding reproductive healthcare.
9 snips
Dec 18, 2024 • 22min
Media Braces For Trump's Revenge
Dylan Byers, a media reporter and founding partner at Puck News, dives into Donald Trump's recent lawsuits against media outlets, viewing them as a tactic to reshape coverage during his second term. He highlights the $15 million defamation settlement with ABC and its ripple effects on smaller media. The discussion also covers the Biden Administration's urgent push for clean energy funding under the Inflation Reduction Act, amidst a backdrop of political maneuvering and challenges faced within Congress. It's a fascinating look at the intersection of media, politics, and environmental policy.
Dec 17, 2024 • 27min
Will Senators Let A Vaccine Skeptic Run Public Health?
Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, an epidemiologist and health officer in Michigan, discusses Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s controversial nomination for Secretary of Health and Human Services. El-Sayed emphasizes the dangers of RFK Jr.'s vaccine misinformation and its potential public health risks. He advocates for evidence-based vaccine policies and the need for empathetic dialogue to combat skepticism. The conversation also touches on political turmoil in France and significant current events affecting both U.S. and European political landscapes.
Dec 16, 2024 • 20min
Biden Puts His Stamp On Federal Courts
Lena Zwarensteyn, senior director of the Fair Courts Program at The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, dives into the transformative impact of President Biden's judicial appointments. She highlights how Biden is not only on track to surpass Trump's judge count but is also breaking barriers with a record number of Black judges and overall diversity among appointees. The discussion emphasizes the crucial role diverse judges play in safeguarding civil rights and interpreting pivotal federal laws.
Dec 14, 2024 • 30min
What Happens When Rebels Take Over Your Country?
Sam Heller, a Syria expert based in Beirut, dives deep into the recent turmoil in Syria after rebels toppled dictator Bashar al-Assad. He discusses the rapid changes in governance dynamics and the uncertain future under rebel control, particularly the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group. Heller examines the historical context of rebel-led governments and their struggles for legitimacy, touching on the balance of power and ideology. The conversation also highlights the daunting humanitarian issues post-revolution, illustrating the complexities of transitioning from insurgents to rulers.
4 snips
Dec 13, 2024 • 24min
What Praising The UnitedHealthcare Shooter Says About America
Ali Breland, a Staff writer at The Atlantic specializing in internet, politics, and tech, delves into the shocking online reactions to the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. He discusses the troubling support for the alleged shooter, highlighting systemic inequalities in healthcare. The conversation also touches on the recent acquittal of Daniel Penny and how these incidents reflect a disturbing trend of vigilante justice in America. Breland’s insights reveal deep-rooted issues in political discourse and public sentiment surrounding violence.
9 snips
Dec 12, 2024 • 26min
How Senate Dems Can Fight feat Sen. Tammy Baldwin
Tammy Baldwin, a Wisconsin Democratic Senator renowned for her advocacy on healthcare and economic justice, discusses her re-election success in a swing state. She analyzes what went wrong for Democrats in 2024 and strategizes for the upcoming midterms. The conversation also touches on the significance of bipartisan cooperation in Congress and challenges surrounding Trump’s cabinet picks. Additionally, issues like FBI Director Wray’s impending resignation and a controversial defense spending bill are examined, showcasing the intersecting political dynamics at play.
Dec 11, 2024 • 23min
Biden’s Unresolved Conflicts
Ben Rhodes, former Deputy National Security Advisor for President Obama and co-host of ‘Pod Save the World,’ dives into the turbulent landscape of Biden's foreign policy as he prepares to transition to Trump. The conversation highlights the precarious situation in Syria, the ongoing conflict in Gaza, and the stalemate between Russia and Ukraine. Rhodes critiques Biden's approach and explores the lasting impact these conflicts will have on international relations. Tune in for a deep analysis of the geopolitical chaos shaping today's world.
Dec 10, 2024 • 30min
Is TikTok Doomed?
Louise Matsakis, a senior business editor at WIRED, discusses the potential demise of TikTok in the U.S., exploring the legal battles over national security versus free speech. She demystifies the implications of a Supreme Court decision on the app's future. Later, Stacey Vanek Smith, a Bloomberg senior editor, dives into the incoming Trump administration's pro-cryptocurrency stance, highlighting its economic impact and risks for consumers in the evolving financial landscape. Tune in for insights on tech, politics, and finance!
11 snips
Dec 9, 2024 • 26min
How Rebels Gained Control of Syria
Kim Wehle, a law professor and author of 'Pardon Power,' shares her insights on the complexities of presidential pardons, especially in light of Trump’s comments on the January 6 incidents. Meanwhile, Tommy Vietor, co-host of Pod Save the World, delves into the Syrian conflict, discussing how rebel groups gained control and the shifting dynamics of Bashar al-Assad's regime. Their conversation uncovers the implications of U.S. actions and international relations in the ongoing struggle for power in Syria.
