

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

74 snips
Jan 21, 2025 • 17min
Wait… Was That the TikTok Ban?
Georgia Wells, a WSJ reporter who has been covering the TikTok saga, dives into the incredible twists of TikTok's journey in the U.S. She discusses Trump's flip from banning the app to saving it, and the geopolitical tensions with China that complicate its fate. Wells also highlights user reactions during a temporary TikTok blackout and explores the ongoing battle over data privacy and national security concerns. The intricacies of political maneuvering and how they shape TikTok's future are also examined, setting the stage for what comes next.

89 snips
Jan 20, 2025 • 21min
Trump Declares a ‘Golden Age’ for America
Join WSJ colleague Natalie Andrews as she delves into Donald Trump's triumphant return to the presidency. Tune in as she unpacks his inaugural address, filled with grand promises of a 'golden age' for America. Hear the fervor from his supporters in D.C., eager for his vision of bold policies on energy, immigration, and national security. Explore the mixed emotions surrounding his ambitious agenda, including efforts to restore faith in the political system while navigating economic and social challenges.

101 snips
Jan 20, 2025 • 23min
Ben Shapiro and Preet Bharara on the ‘Podcast Election’
In this engaging discussion, Ben Shapiro, a sharp conservative commentator, and Preet Bharara, an insightful legal voice, delve into how new media influences politics. They highlight the growing power of podcasts in the 2024 election, as candidates engage younger audiences. The conversation touches on the economic pressures of modern media, the importance of authenticity in commentary, and the need for open dialogue to bridge divides. It’s a thought-provoking exploration of how political views are shaped and shared in today's media landscape.

107 snips
Jan 17, 2025 • 19min
Corporate America's Embrace of Trump 2.0
Chip Cutter, a WSJ reporter covering corporate America's ties to politics, discusses major companies' strategies as they prepare for a potential second Trump administration. He highlights the surge in donations to Trump's inauguration fund, revealing motivations for influence and access. Cutter explains the evolution of corporate attitudes toward Trump, from initial skepticism to direct engagement strategies. He sheds light on CEOs gathering at Mar-a-Lago and the retreat from DEI initiatives, illustrating the complexity of navigating such political landscapes.

43 snips
Jan 16, 2025 • 17min
A Fragile Cease-Fire Deal in Gaza
Anat Peled, a WSJ reporter based in Tel Aviv, discusses the fragile ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas aimed at pausing the 15-month war. She examines the complexities of hostage exchanges and the emotional responses from families on both sides. Peled highlights the uncertain future of the ceasefire and the influence of external factors like U.S. involvement. The conversation also delves into the challenges of sustaining peace amidst ongoing negotiations and the intricate balance of interests that must be navigated.

24 snips
Jan 15, 2025 • 17min
The Nazi Ties to Credit Suisse
Margot Patrick, a WSJ reporter focusing on Swiss banking, unpacks her investigation into Credit Suisse's troubling historical ties to the Nazis. She reveals shocking new documents that expose the bank's deeper complicity than previously understood. The discussion highlights the ongoing struggles for justice faced by descendants of victims, the challenges posed by Swiss banking secrecy, and a recent investigation that unearthed nearly 100 active accounts linked to Nazi clients as recently as 2020. This provocative exploration sheds light on the importance of transparency in banking.

67 snips
Jan 14, 2025 • 21min
What's the Worst AI Can Do? This Team Is Finding Out.
Logan Graham, Head of the Frontier Red Team at Anthropic, discusses the pressing concerns of AI safety and its potential dangers. He delves into the real-world implications of AI technology, emphasizing necessary safety testing protocols. Listeners learn about the Claude Initiative's role in evaluating AI risks, particularly focusing on malicious uses. Logan also highlights the balance between innovative AI advancements and the essential need for transparency and regulations to prevent catastrophic outcomes.

23 snips
Jan 13, 2025 • 18min
Their L.A. Neighborhood Burned. Two Residents Find What’s Left.
Residents of Pacific Palisades face the heartbreaking aftermath of one of the worst wildfires in U.S. history. As they return to their devastated neighborhood, stories of loss intertwine with moments of hope and resilience. The emotional toll of the fires reveals deep ties within the community, showcasing their strength in navigating grief. In the shadows of ash and ruin, the journey of coping unfolds, emphasizing the critical role of support and solidarity in rebuilding lives.

81 snips
Jan 10, 2025 • 20min
The TikTok Ban Goes to the Supreme Court
In this discussion, Jess Bravin, a WSJ reporter specializing in the Supreme Court, provides an insightful analysis of the TikTok ban case. He delves into the legal arguments surrounding national security and free speech. Bravin highlights the stark contrast between the government's concerns about foreign influence and TikTok's defense of First Amendment rights. He also covers the broader implications for content creators and public expression, making it clear that this legal battle goes beyond a mere app—it's a fight over constitutional principles.

73 snips
Jan 9, 2025 • 20min
The End of Facebook’s Content Moderation Era
Meta's recent shift in content moderation has sparked significant debate over free speech versus misinformation. The change means less oversight on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Threads. History plays a role, with past controversies shaping current strategies. The challenges of combating hate speech while promoting open dialogue are explored. With evolving regulations and user experiences in mind, the future of content moderation remains uncertain, leaving many to ponder what this new era will mean for digital interactions.