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
14 snips
Nov 4, 2025 • 25min
Chicago Fights Back
Brandon Johnson, the Mayor of Chicago since 2023, discusses the city's pressing challenges, including local crime, affordability, and the impact of federal immigration enforcement. He responds to President Trump’s criticism of Chicago's safety, highlighting decreasing violent crime despite federal funding cuts. Johnson advocates for systemic investments in youth and mental health to combat violence and details his Green Social Housing plan to address affordability. He also reflects on tactics for reconnecting with voters amid ongoing migrant challenges.
19 snips
Nov 3, 2025 • 26min
The GOP's Anti-Semitic Turn
In this episode, Robert Draper, a New York Times journalist specializing in the American right, delves into the troubling dynamics of contemporary conservatism. He discusses the controversial friendship between Tucker Carlson and white supremacist Nick Fuentes, highlighting how Carlson's soft approach has sparked a rift within the GOP. Draper also examines Fuentes's rise despite deplatforming and questions the ramifications of mainstreaming antisemitism in conservative circles. Plus, they tackle the implications of a possible government shutdown and Trump's foreign policy statements.
30 snips
Oct 31, 2025 • 23min
Will Trump's Trade Truce With China Last?
Evan Madeiros, Penner Family Chair in Asia Studies at Georgetown University, delves into the nuances of Trump's recent trade truce with Xi Jinping. He reveals that the deal, based on vague tactics, offers more short-term relief for China than significant advantages for the U.S. Madeiros contrasts this approach with Trump's earlier strategies and highlights the minimal gains for both sides. He also discusses the potential impacts and key developments to monitor in U.S.-China relations following Trump's Asia trip.
18 snips
Oct 30, 2025 • 26min
The Redistricting Game
Join John Bisognano, President of the National Democratic Redistricting Committee, as he delves into the strategic redistricting battles shaping the 2026 elections. He details how Trump's call for redrawn maps is influencing states like Texas and California's Proposition 50, which could shift congressional power. Later, survivor advocate Lisa Phillips shares her harrowing experiences with Jeffrey Epstein and discusses the complex reasons many survivors stay silent, offering hope and encouragement for healing and empowerment.
15 snips
Oct 29, 2025 • 21min
Is This Mamdani's Moment
Join journalist Alex Wagner, known for her podcast Runaway Country, as she dives into the thrilling New York City mayoral race. She details the dynamics between candidates like Andrew Cuomo and frontrunner Zohran Mamdani, exploring why Mamdani has maintained his lead. Alex also analyzes voter turnout trends, particularly among younger demographics, and the impact of endorsements on the race. Intriguingly, she discusses the quiet supporters of Cuomo and what Democrats can learn from Mamdani’s bold strategy and messaging.
8 snips
Oct 28, 2025 • 22min
The Price of Care: Fixing The ACA
In this insightful discussion, Mark Shepard, an Associate Professor at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government and an expert on health policy, dives into the crucial topic of ACA subsidies. He explains the serious implications if these subsidies expire, potentially leaving 25 million Americans facing skyrocketing premiums. Mark also compares U.S. healthcare costs to those in countries like Switzerland, highlighting the importance of regulation and drug price controls. His practical advice encourages listeners to stay informed and lobby for necessary reforms.
20 snips
Oct 27, 2025 • 25min
The Reality of Being An American Farmer Right Now
Phil Verges, a seasoned soybean and corn farmer from western Wisconsin with 45 years in agriculture, shares the harsh realities facing American farmers today. He discusses the profound economic toll of trade policies and tariffs, revealing how they led to steep price drops and financial stress. Verges highlights the struggles of younger farmers dealing with mental health issues and the urgent need for better public support and policy changes. He also sheds light on the rising costs of inputs due to dependency on imports and the unprecedented challenges that lie ahead.
13 snips
Oct 24, 2025 • 21min
FBI Takes Down NBA-Mafia Gambling Ring
Mike Vorkunov, a national NBA business reporter for The Athletic, joins to discuss a recent FBI investigation into a significant gambling ring linked to the NBA, resulting in over 30 indictments, including prominent players and coaches. He highlights the NBA's vulnerability due to the influence of individual players and the rise of prop bets. Vorkunov also delves into the interconnected cases of rigged poker and insider betting, and how the league's partnerships with sportsbooks raise concerns about integrity amidst record sports betting revenues.
27 snips
Oct 23, 2025 • 21min
The Key to Unlocking the Epstein Files
Ro Khanna, a U.S. Representative from California, joins to discuss his efforts to release the Jeffrey Epstein files amid a government shutdown. He highlights how House Speaker Mike Johnson is blocking key votes and the bipartisan support for transparency. Khanna also dives into broader issues like the implications of the filibuster, the consequences of gerrymandering, and the ridiculousness of coffee tariffs. His insights reveal not just political maneuvering but also the importance of civic engagement in holding leaders accountable.
8 snips
Oct 22, 2025 • 23min
Trump’s Deadly Attacks in the Caribbean Sea
Tess Bridgeman, co-editor-in-chief of Just Security and former White House legal adviser, dives into the legality of recent U.S. strikes in the Caribbean, which have seen a controversial number of fatalities. She discusses the administration's claims linking the strikes to drug trafficking, highlighting the lack of solid evidence. Tess also explores the implications for U.S.-Venezuela relations, including covert CIA operations and the dangers of escalating military action. The conversation sheds light on potential congressional checks on presidential military power.
