The Journal.

Alexander Gladstone, a WSJ reporter who investigated First Brands Group, dives into the shocking bankruptcy of the auto-parts maker. He reveals how forensic accountants uncovered hidden debts exceeding $12 billion and discusses the complex financing strategies that led to this financial mess. Gladstone connects external pressures like tariffs to the company's decline and addresses Jefferies' controversial role in the situation. The conversation raises crucial questions about due diligence in business relationships and the broader implications for the financial system.

In this engaging discussion, Ryan Dubé, a Latin America reporter for The Wall Street Journal, unpacks Javier Milei's controversial leadership in Argentina amid a struggling economy. He highlights Milei's close ties with Trump, illustrating how their populist approaches align. As Argentina heads to the polls, Dubé examines the impact of Milei's austerity measures on everyday citizens and the recent U.S. bailout plan, raising questions about its implications for both nations. Voter skepticism about U.S. intervention adds another layer of intrigue.

Vivian Tu, a former Wall Street pro and financial educator for immigrant families, joins Haley Sacks, the fun-loving Mrs. Dow Jones making finance relatable for Millennials, and Brian Kelly, founder of The Points Guy, who shares savvy travel tips. They dive into what it truly means to build wealth versus just getting rich, the role of culture in financial advice, and whether crypto should be a part of your portfolio. Plus, they discuss the modern challenge of balancing personal finances with generational wealth for the next generation.

Robert McMillan, a cybersecurity reporter at The Wall Street Journal, dives deep into a staggering toll-text scam raking in over $1 billion for criminals. He sheds light on how these fake messages play on urgency to trick victims into giving away credit card details. McMillan explains the mechanics of SIM farms that send mass spam and the intricate methods scammers use to convert stolen cards into cash. He also discusses why it's so challenging for banks and telecom companies to combat these frauds, emphasizing the need for vigilance before reacting to urgent messages.

Georgia Wells, a tech reporter at The Wall Street Journal, explores the rise of Ex-Mormon influencers challenging the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She shares how social media has ignited discussions on controversial elements like polygamy and temple secrecy. The conversation highlights how platforms like TikTok amplify doubts, drawing in audiences that weren't actively seeking this content. Wells also describes the emotional support these creators offer while addressing the church's growing concern over declining youth membership.

Wall Street Journal reporter Alexander Saeedy discusses the controversial phenomenon of 'debanking,' spotlighting stories like that of Steve Happ, who claims his church’s accounts were closed due to political bias. They explore the legal implications of banks' actions and whether targeting individuals based on beliefs violates civil rights. The conversation also touches on shifts in banking practices post-2008 and the political landscape, examining how perceptions of discrimination have intensified public debates and led to significant reactions from figures like Trump.

Joel Schectman, an investigative national-security reporter for The Wall Street Journal, delves into the Pentagon's UFO coverup. He reveals how congressional hearings and whistleblower claims paint a picture of government secrecy around alien programs. The intriguing tale of mysterious metal shards connects to Tom DeLonge's To The Stars group and tests conducted by Lockheed. ARO's investigations conclude many UAP sightings are merely balloons or drones, while the Pentagon's role in these UFO myths raises questions about hidden military agendas.

Siobhan Hughes, a political correspondent for The Wall Street Journal, unpacks the ongoing government shutdown's impact on federal workers and citizens. She highlights the severity of the current situation and contrasts it with past shutdowns, detailing disrupted services like mobile health screenings and the economic pain felt locally. Hughes discusses both parties' finger-pointing, the pressure of missed paychecks for federal employees, and explores potential compromises that could break the stalemate, including extending ACA subsidies.

José de Córdoba, a Wall Street Journal correspondent with deep insights into Mexican organized crime, delves into the rise of Nemesio 'Mencho' Oseguera, the new cocaine kingpin. They explore how Mencho's cartel capitalizes on increasing U.S. cocaine demand, while the Sinaloa cartel faces fragmentation. The discussion reveals Mencho's violent rise, strategic partnerships, and the dual supply of fentanyl and cocaine between cartels. Amidst chaos, Jalisco acts almost like a local government, making Mencho both a feared and celebrated figure. The conversation underscores the complexities of the drug war.

Eliot Brown, a finance reporter specializing in the economics of the AI boom, joins to discuss whether the current surge in AI investment is sustainable or merely another tech bubble. He explores the staggering costs associated with building massive data centers, like the one in Texas, and examines the financial implications of AI revenue projections. Drawing parallels to historical infrastructure bubbles, he highlights the significant risks involved, and the pressure on companies to justify their hefty investments amidst uncertain returns.