The Excerpt

Francesca Chambers, USA Today’s White House correspondent, dives into the tumultuous relationship between Donald Trump and the MAGA movement. She discusses the friction over immigration policies and skepticism towards foreign aid to Ukraine. Chambers highlights rising tensions between Trump and Putin following a contentious phone call about the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Additionally, she touches on the Secret Service's disciplinary actions and the evolving dynamics in Trump's support among conservatives amidst ongoing tragedies and criticisms.

Caroline Hickman, a psychologist specializing in eco-anxiety and board member of the Climate Psychology Alliance, delves into the rising tide of anxiety among youth due to climate change. She discusses the emotional fallout from extreme weather events, like the catastrophic floods in Texas. Hickman highlights how eco-anxiety fuels frustration and activism in young people, especially intensified during the pandemic. She emphasizes the need for adults to support and validate these feelings, fostering communication and proactive approaches to cope with this mental health crisis.

The discussion dives into how a new tax bill boosts the Coast Guard's Arctic icebreaker fleet amid rising tensions with China. The impact of new tariffs on copper and other goods is examined. A concerning surge in measles cases highlights vaccination issues, while Texas and New Mexico grapple with devastating floods. The conversation also examines a century of educational divides since the Scopes trial, exploring the intersection of faith, science, and contemporary debates. Lastly, the psychological impact of climate change on youth, termed eco-anxiety, is addressed.

Riley Beggin, USA Today's Senior Congress and Campaigns Reporter, shares insight into the new budget bill recently passed by the Republican-controlled legislature. He discusses the $3.4 trillion impact on the national deficit and how it carries both winners and losers. Notably, the bill makes 2017 tax cuts permanent, aiding the wealthy while average Americans see minor changes. Medicaid and food assistance undergo major transformations, introducing stricter regulations. Beggin also highlights potential adverse effects on health insurance and renewable energy initiatives.

The Supreme Court's recent decision allows the Trump administration to proceed with significant staffing cuts in federal agencies, raising concerns about government functions. Texas is reeling from severe flooding, prompting discussions on weather preparedness and the effects of budget cuts. Meanwhile, a major tax bill threatens Ivy League institutions like Harvard. Additionally, filmmaker Peter Jackson is spearheading efforts to revive the extinct Moa bird in New Zealand, blending conservation with cinematic magic.

Devastating flooding in Texas has left over 100 dead, impacting communities and rescuers alike. A flood survivor shares her poignant story of loss and resilience. The discussion shifts to political turmoil, including tariff hikes announced by Trump and the implications for the economy. A reflection on violence in American politics ties historical events to modern incidents, illustrating their influence on public perception and political support.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said Camp Mystic was "horrendously ravaged in ways unlike I’ve seen in any natural disaster."USA TODAY National Correspondent Dinah Voyles Pulver discusses how the NOAA budget spells out plans to reduce spending and abandon climate research, and the potential impact on hurricane forecasting.Elon Musk announces a new political party after slamming President Donald Trump's megabill.USA TODAY National Correspondent Trevor Hughes talks about the preparations underway for the 250th birthday of the United States.Mexico beat the United States in the Gold Cup Final.Hear about a baseball player's dream moment in this month's installment of Kind Time, from Humankind.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode Transcript available hereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It is the fodder of science fiction plots: implanting a device into the human brain... the blockbuster franchise “The Matrix” comes to mind. Here in the real world, though, it’s actually happening. While tiny computers have been implanted into less than 100 brains so far, their impact has been life-changing. Brain-computer interfaces, or BCIs, have done everything from allowing increased mobility to helping with speech. Could these devices become more mainstream and help the disabled do even more in the future? Dr. Iahn Cajigas, a neurosurgeon at the University of Pennsylvania who has studied brain-computer interfaces and worked with patients using them, joins USA TODAY’s The Excerpt to share his insights.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode Transcript available hereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Kerr County Sheriff's Office in Texas said Friday flooding was catastrophic.President Donald Trump spoke with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy this week.USA TODAY National Correspondent Elizabeth Weise looks at the latest science around black holes.Chelsea and Fluminense advance in the FIFA Club World Cup.USA TODAY Books Reporter Clare Mulroy talks about some of the best comfort reads.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode Transcript available hereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The House has sent Republicans' sweeping bill to President Donald Trump for his signature.The unemployment rate fell slightly in June. Plus, should you take a buyout?The Supreme Court will take up a major case on transgender athletes joining girls' teams.USA TODAY National Correspondent Elizabeth Weise talks about the dangers of fireworks.USA TODAY Movie Critic Brian Truitt gives us his top 10 films of the year.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode Transcript available hereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.