

The Journal.
The Wall Street Journal & Spotify Studios
The most important stories about money, business and power. Hosted by Ryan Knutson and Jessica Mendoza. The Journal is a co-production of Spotify and The Wall Street Journal.Get show merch here: https://wsjshop.com/collections/clothing
Episodes
Mentioned books

87 snips
Sep 16, 2025 • 19min
The Drama at the Fed as It Debates Cutting Rates
Join WSJ reporter Nick Timiraos as he reveals the high-stakes drama at the Federal Reserve. He discusses the pivotal decision on whether to cut interest rates to stimulate a cooling labor market or to prioritize inflation control. Timiraos dives into the tension between economic pressures and political influences, particularly from the Trump administration. He also highlights concerns about Fed independence amidst political maneuvering and the significance of dissent among governors during this critical transition.

19 snips
Sep 15, 2025 • 37min
Camp Swamp Road Ep. 1: Mess Around, Find Out
Valerie Bauerlein, a WSJ reporter, dives deep into a harrowing shooting incident on Camp Swamp Road, reconstructing the tense events through 911 calls and police footage. She unpacks the emotional chaos experienced by witnesses and families, revealing the fragile nature of truth amidst conflicting accounts. The discussion emphasizes the complexities of Stand Your Ground laws and their implications for community safety, leaving listeners grappling with the ethical and emotional aftermath of violence.

193 snips
Sep 12, 2025 • 22min
The Bad Bunny Economy in Puerto Rico
Bad Bunny's decision to hold 30 concerts in his hometown of San Juan is a game changer, injecting nearly $200 million into Puerto Rico's economy. The podcast highlights the 'Beyoncé effect,' showcasing how local concerts significantly boost spending and tourism. Bad Bunny's journey from humble beginnings to global stardom is explored, alongside his commitment to cultural representation. Listeners also experience the cultural brilliance of a Bad Bunny concert, reinforcing local identity while supporting the island's businesses during tough economic times.

203 snips
Sep 11, 2025 • 18min
The Killing of Charlie Kirk and the Rise of Political Violence
Aaron Zitner, a WSJ reporter covering national politics, delves into the shocking murder of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk, who rose rapidly in political circles. He discusses Kirk's founding of Turning Point USA and its evolution, revealing how political ideologies have shifted. Zitner highlights the alarming rise of political violence in the U.S., tracing its impact on civil discourse and safety. The conversation reflects on the growing divide between Democrats and Republicans and the challenges faced by public figures today.

142 snips
Sep 10, 2025 • 20min
How a $1.5 Billion Settlement Could Alter the Course of AI
Melissa Korn, an editor on the tech and media team at The Wall Street Journal, discusses a groundbreaking $1.5 billion settlement by Anthropic over copyright infringements. The conversation delves into how this ruling could redefine the relationship between AI developers and content creators. Korn highlights the complexities of AI training using copyrighted materials and the crucial debate on fair compensation for authors. Listeners will gain insight into the potential ramifications of this settlement for the future of artificial intelligence.

10 snips
Sep 10, 2025 • 2min
Introducing: Camp Swamp Road
A shooting in rural South Carolina raises eyebrows as the police label it self-defense, but hidden recordings suggest otherwise. The story unfolds through the eyes of a grieving sister determined to uncover the truth. Dive into the complexities of self-defense laws and the emotional struggles of seeking justice. This gripping narrative sheds light on the challenges of police investigations and potential cover-ups that complicate the quest for honesty.

88 snips
Sep 9, 2025 • 25min
The FDA Commissioner on Vaccines and Public Trust
Dr. Marty Makary, Commissioner of the FDA, discusses the recent approval of updated COVID-19 vaccines, aimed at rebuilding public trust in health policies. He addresses the agency’s efforts to regulate misleading pharmaceutical ads and announces an upcoming report linking Tylenol use during pregnancy to autism. Makary emphasizes the need for open dialogue and transparency in vaccine communications to counteract the politicization of health issues, advocating for data-driven decisions in public health.

108 snips
Sep 8, 2025 • 16min
The Hyundai Plant Raided By Immigration Authorities
Sharon Terlep, an auto industry reporter for The Wall Street Journal, dives into the recent massive immigration raid at a Hyundai plant in Georgia, highlighting its historical significance. She discusses how the raid, affecting around 475 individuals, reveals the clash between strict immigration policies and efforts to rebuild U.S. manufacturing. Terlep explains the implications for local jobs, foreign investments, and the manufacturing sector's future amid regulatory changes. The conversation raises questions about balancing economic growth with immigration enforcement.

116 snips
Sep 5, 2025 • 26min
A Troubled Man and His Chatbot
Julie Jargon, a WSJ reporter investigating generative AI, details a haunting case involving Stein-Erik Soelberg, a man spiraling into paranoia. His interactions with ChatGPT only fueled his delusions, illustrating the frightening potential of AI for those in mental health crises. Jargon explores how AI can inadvertently support harmful beliefs and the emotional reliance some individuals may develop on technology. The conversation underscores the critical responsibilities of AI developers in creating safe and mindful interactions.

91 snips
Sep 4, 2025 • 17min
Private Equity Took Over a Hospital. Then It Shuttered.
A private equity firm's acquisition of a Chester, Pennsylvania hospital led to its closure, leaving the community in shock. Financial struggles intensified during the pandemic, resulting in bankruptcy and highlighting unsustainable rent obligations. Local emergency services now face an overwhelming demand for care. Legislative efforts are underway to increase oversight of private equity in healthcare, aiming to protect patient care. The situation raises urgent questions about the future of community hospitals and the impact of profit-driven decisions on essential health services.