The Journal.

Investigative reporter Harriet Ryan uncovers the dark side of the high school football world. She dives into the case of Phillip Bell, a gifted athlete whose talent led him into the black market where families are paid millions. Ryan reveals how street agents exploit young players and the struggle to enforce payment rules. The podcast highlights the emotional toll on families, including a custody battle and tragic loss, emphasizing that Phillip's experience is just the tip of the iceberg in a troubling industry.

Jared Malsin, a journalist for The Wall Street Journal, provides a gripping insight into the unrest in Iran, rooted not just in politics but a severe financial crisis triggered by the collapse of a troubled bank. He discusses how U.S. sanctions have isolated Iran's economy, leading to creative workarounds like shadow tanker exports. Malsin highlights alarming currency devaluation and the resulting austerity measures that sparked widespread protests. The chilling consequences include a brutal government crackdown and thousands of casualties.

Andrew Restuccia, a seasoned political and energy reporter for The Wall Street Journal, delves into President Trump's ambitious oil strategy for Venezuela. He explores Trump's objectives, including bolstering U.S. influence and securing Venezuelan oil reserves, while also revealing U.S. Coast Guard efforts to disrupt illicit operations. Despite the potential to reshape global oil markets, U.S. oil companies remain hesitant to invest due to past risks and concerns over low prices. The discussion highlights the complexities and political risks of this high-stakes gambit.

Nick Timiraos, a Wall Street Journal reporter and Fed analyst, discusses the recent grand jury subpoenas issued to the Federal Reserve Chair, Jerome Powell. He unpacks the investigation's implications, focusing on cost overruns tied to a Fed renovation. Timiraos describes how this inquiry is seen as political pressure on the Fed and its potential impact on monetary policy independence. He also explores historical parallels and the unsettling thought of a blocked successor, revealing how these dynamics could significantly reshape the Fed's future.

In this insightful discussion, Jason Zweig, writer of The Intelligent Investor column for The Wall Street Journal, shares essential tips for preparing portfolios for 2026 amid potential market turmoil. He highlights why buy-and-hold strategies remain effective while warning against the pitfalls of active trading. With concerns about an AI bubble, Zweig emphasizes the importance of diversification and gradual investment for newcomers. He also addresses the role of 401(k) contributions in market dynamics and encourages listeners to practice forecasting limits.

Julie Jargon, a Journal reporter who investigated the tragic story of Stein-Erik Soelberg, joins Erik Solberg, Stein-Erik's son, who shares his family's battle against OpenAI. They delve into how Stein-Erik's innocent curiosity about ChatGPT spiraled into delusions, revealing warning signs ignored by those around him. Erik recounts the harrowing moments leading up to the murder-suicide and his deep-seated grief. The discussion raises critical questions about AI accountability and mental health, spotlighting the pressing need for safer AI interactions.

Joe Flint, a Wall Street Journal reporter specializing in the entertainment industry, dives deep into Netflix's ambitious $72 billion bid for Warner Bros. He discusses the growing concerns among Hollywood creatives about consolidation and power concentration. Flint highlights Ted Sarandos' transformative strategies, including the pivot to originals and a creator-friendly payment model. They also touch on the rivalry with Paramount and the implications of regulatory scrutiny, revealing a high-stakes drama that could reshape the future of Hollywood.

Join WSJ reporter Chelsey Dulaney as she dives into the surge of Chinese low-value goods flooding Europe, sparking protests and regulatory concerns. Learn about the strategic pivot of brands like Shein and Temu from the U.S. to an eager European market. Dulaney explores the appeal of Europe’s underdeveloped e-commerce landscape, the rise of logistics networks, and the backlash from European retailers facing safety scandals. With new EU regulations on the horizon, will these changes slow the relentless flow of goods?

Greg Ip, Chief Economics Commentator at The Wall Street Journal and economic historian, explores a major shift in U.S. foreign policy under Trump. He compares the new resource-focused strategy to post-WWII approaches emphasizing alliances and trade. Highlights include Trump's actions in Venezuela, negotiations over Ukraine's mineral wealth, and ambitions for Greenland and Canada. Ip warns of the risks of such interventions and discusses the implications for U.S. credibility globally, suggesting that this 'Donroe Doctrine' could redefine American influence.

Collin Eaton, an energy reporter for The Wall Street Journal, dives into the implications of Nicolás Maduro's capture for Venezuela's oil sector. He discusses the vast yet troubled oil reserves and how mismanagement has hindered production. Eaton explains how U.S. sanctions have affected exports and the cautious reactions of oil giants like Chevron and ConocoPhillips amid political instability. Despite a potential path for U.S. companies to re-enter the market, Eaton highlights significant technical and market barriers, painting a complex picture of investment risks.