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
15 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 20min
GOP Senators Ruin Their Summer Vacay for Trump Spending Bill
In this engaging discussion, Dr. Alex Dworak, Associate Medical Director at One World Community Health Centers, sheds light on the vital role of gender-affirming care for youth in Nebraska. He shares personal insights about navigating restrictive legislation and the implications for LGBTQ individuals. The conversation also touches on the Supreme Court's ruling on medical care for minors and the urgent need for advocacy. Meanwhile, the political landscape heats up as Senate Republicans scramble to pass a spending bill by the Fourth of July, intertwining healthcare and immigration controversies.
27 snips
Jun 30, 2025 • 27min
GOP Rushes To Pass Trump's Big Beautiful Bill
In this discussion, Elana Schor, Senior Washington editor for Semafor, breaks down the urgency surrounding the GOP's efforts to pass President Trump's controversial 'One Big Beautiful Bill.' She highlights the staggering potential $3 trillion addition to the national debt and what that means for party principles on spending. Elana navigates the legislative hurdles they face, seeks insights on TikTok's ties to national security, and unpacks the bill's implications for social safety nets and clean energy initiatives.
19 snips
Jun 27, 2025 • 23min
A Blockbuster Day For The Supreme Court
Jessica Levinson, a law professor at Loyola Law School, dives deep into recent Supreme Court decisions. She analyzes the ruling that allows states to block Planned Parenthood from receiving Medicaid, exploring its implications for reproductive rights. Levinson also discusses pivotal cases on voting rights and parental authority regarding LGBTQ themes in education. The conversation highlights the nexus between judicial decisions and their societal impacts, making complex legal topics accessible and engaging for listeners.
16 snips
Jun 26, 2025 • 23min
Is This Trump's Idea of Isolationism?
Sohrab Ahmari, U.S. editor for UnHerd and commentator on MAGA foreign policy, discusses fascinating insights on Trump's recent statements about Iran's nuclear program. He delves into the internal divisions within the MAGA movement regarding military intervention and highlights the complexities of U.S.-Israel relationships. Ahmari also addresses the resilience of the Iranian regime and shifting American attitudes toward foreign affairs. With headlines covering immigration debates and political shifts, the conversation is both engaging and thought-provoking.
8 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 23min
What It's Like To Have An Empathetic Leader
Join Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, as she shares her insights on empathetic leadership amid crises like the Christchurch terror attack and COVID-19. She discusses the complexities of leading a diverse nation and emphasizes the need for collaboration to tackle pressing issues like climate change. Ardern also reflects on her new memoir, highlighting lessons learned from her time in office and the importance of resilience and understanding in effective governance.
9 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 24min
MAGA Isolationists Sidelined in Iran Strike Debate
Brian Stelter, chief media analyst for CNN, explores the complex media landscape surrounding escalating U.S.-Iran tensions. He discusses how both traditional networks and MAGA influencers shape narratives about military actions, contrasting current coverage with that during the Iraq War. Stelter highlights the impact of Trump's media consumption on foreign policy decisions and examines the intricate political communications at play. Additionally, he touches on legal challenges faced by a wrongfully deported man amid evolving immigration policies.
6 snips
Jun 23, 2025 • 21min
Sen. Warner Says Congress Needs Answers After US Bombs Iran
Virginia Democratic Senator Mark Warner, vice chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, weighs in on the recent U.S. military strikes against Iran's nuclear facilities. He discusses the confusion over the extent of the damage and the implications for U.S. foreign policy. Warner emphasizes the need for clear congressional oversight amidst the chaotic messaging from the administration. The conversation touches on the unpredictable nature of U.S.-Iran relations and the urgency for diplomatic solutions to avoid further conflict in the Middle East.
16 snips
Jun 20, 2025 • 23min
Politics and Musings Live with former Senator Al Franken
Former Senator Al Franken, known for his sharp wit on Saturday Night Live, dives into his journey from comedy to the Senate. He shares personal anecdotes that highlight how humor can bridge gaps in political engagement. The conversation takes a critical look at Trump's influence on the political landscape and offers strategies for Democrats to connect with voters. Franken emphasizes the importance of progressive activism as the country gears up for future elections, urging listeners to stay motivated despite challenges.
8 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 23min
How The Supreme Court Just Failed Trans Youth
Leah Litman, author of the bestseller *Lawless* and host of *Strict Scrutiny*, dives into the implications of the Supreme Court's recent ruling that upholds Tennessee's ban on gender-affirming care for transgender minors. She highlights the concerning repercussions for trans rights across the country, discusses parallels with restrictive abortion laws, and emphasizes the urgent need for activism in light of these legal challenges. Litman also touches on the broader political landscape and the impact of these decisions on vulnerable communities.
21 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 21min
The Israel Iran Conflict Explained
Tommy Vietor, host of Pod Save the World and a keen observer of global politics, dives into the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. He discusses recent missile exchanges and Israel's military actions, including the targeting of Iranian officials. The conversation also unpacks the complex dynamics of U.S. involvement, highlighting fragmented American political perspectives on foreign intervention. Vietor sheds light on Iran's strategic choices and the impact of these tensions on regional stability, making sense of the chaotic landscape.
