The Journal.

Michelle Hackman, an immigration policy reporter for the Wall Street Journal, dives into the aggressive tactics employed by ICE under the Trump administration. She discusses how these strategies, including deportation raids in Los Angeles, have sparked major protests. Hackman reveals the emotional toll on immigrant families and how intimidation tactics have created an atmosphere of fear, despite little change in arrest numbers. The public's shifting opinions on these controversial policies are also highlighted, showcasing a growing backlash against mass deportation efforts.

Rebecca Ballhaus, a Wall Street Journal reporter focusing on the dynamics between President Trump and Elon Musk, discusses the unraveling bromance of these two titans. The conversation reveals how a social media spat triggered financial and political fallout. Tensions are dissected as unmet expectations fuel their conflict, impacting crucial business dealings and government contracts. Their relationship exemplifies the high stakes of political alliances, especially with Musk’s companies facing new challenges and regulatory threats.

Anna Wilde Mathews, a WSJ journalist, dives into the intricate issues plaguing Medicare Advantage, revealing how many seriously ill patients struggle to access vital care. She discusses the shocking financial impact on taxpayers when patients switch to traditional Medicare due to treatment denials. The conversation also touches on ongoing investigations by Congress and the Department of Justice into major insurers like UnitedHealth and Aetna, highlighting the urgent need for reforms to address these concerning practices.

Christopher Weaver, an investigative reporter at The Wall Street Journal, dives deep into the troubling practices of Medicare Advantage. He reveals how private insurers exploit the system for profit, often leading to questionable and sometimes dangerous diagnoses. With insights from a nurse practitioner, they discuss the ethical dilemmas and financial motivations behind overdiagnosing patients. Their investigation uncovers shocking instances of patients being reported with severe illnesses without proper follow-up care, raising serious concerns about patient safety and care accessibility.

Ruth Simon, a journalist for WSJ, sheds light on the intricacies of Mills Manufacturing, a parachute factory in Asheville, North Carolina. With a diverse workforce reliant on temporary immigration protections, the recent Supreme Court ruling threatens to disrupt operations. Ruth discusses the delicate balance between precision manufacturing and the complexities of labor recruitment, underscoring individual stories of workers navigating language barriers and legal challenges. The looming impact of policy changes creates a palpable tension for both employees and employers.

In this discussion, Anat Peled, a Wall Street Journal correspondent focusing on the Gaza conflict, unveils the chaotic dynamics of delivering humanitarian aid in the region. She highlights the recent Israeli-backed aid system's tumultuous rollout amidst desperate crowds, leading to violence and looting. Peled delves into the escalating humanitarian crisis, revealing the complexities and dangers faced by those seeking food and assistance. She also shares personal accounts of individuals navigating these perilous conditions, underlining the dire need for effective aid distribution.

Robert McMillan, a cybersecurity reporter for WSJ, reveals the astonishing tale of Christina Chapman, a TikTok influencer who operated a 'laptop farm' for North Koreans. This operation enabled scammers to exploit U.S. companies, stealing millions through tech impersonation. McMillan discusses the dark intersection of remote work and scamming, emphasizing the challenges of onboarding North Korean workers and the consequences of Chapman's rise to luxury amid fraudulent activities. It's a captivating look at how technology can be manipulated in unexpected ways.

Oyin Adedoyin, a personal finance reporter at The Wall Street Journal, dives into the controversial decision to phase out the penny. The conversation explores the troubling cost of minting each penny, which exceeds its value. As the Treasury makes this historical shift, they discuss the cultural significance of the penny and the fears it may lead to inflation. Advocates for the penny argue its emotional value and impact on cash transactions, leaving us pondering the future of low denomination coins in our increasingly cashless society.

Ron Howard, an Oscar-winning director famous for Apollo 13, and Brian Grazer, an Oscar-winning producer behind A Beautiful Mind, share their insights on thriving in Hollywood for decades. They discuss the evolution of their partnership and the impact of technology on filmmaking. Topics include the challenges and opportunities of AI in production and the necessity of preserving the human element in storytelling. Their anecdotes reveal how collaboration and adaptability have helped them navigate the shifting entertainment landscape over their impressive 40-year journey.

A recent trade court ruling has sparked a major debate over President Trump's authority to impose tariffs, challenging his trade agenda. The discussion revolves around the implications of this legal setback for small businesses and international trade. The podcast highlights a dual strategy the administration may adopt, balancing temporary tariffs with tailored long-term solutions. Additionally, the uncertainty surrounding U.S. tariff policy creates challenges for companies and foreign governments alike, making for a captivating exploration of America's trade landscape.