The Journal.

Richard Rubin, a journalist from WSJ, dives into the grueling 27-hour Senate session where Republicans rallied to pass Trump's major bill. He discusses the strategic maneuvering over contentious issues like Medicaid changes that impacted rural healthcare. Rubin highlights the balancing act of clean energy initiatives and tax cuts, revealing the fierce debates that accompanied these topics. With a looming July deadline, the urgency and complexities of the legislative process come to light, showcasing how the GOP united to secure a pivotal victory.

Imani Moise, a reporter at The Wall Street Journal, dives into the world of premium credit cards, highlighting JPMorgan Chase's recent 45% fee hike on the Sapphire Reserve. She discusses how credit card companies are using exclusivity and luxury perks to attract and retain customers. The conversation covers the evolution of credit cards from basic tools to symbols of status, particularly among millennials. Moise also explores consumer reactions to rising costs and how financial institutions adapt their strategies to appeal to younger audiences.

In this insightful discussion, Jess Bravin, a Supreme Court expert from The Wall Street Journal, highlights the significant rulings from the season's finale. He explains how the Court's decisions might impact transgender medical care and migration policies. Bravin dives into the rise of emergency cases and the implications of recent rulings that affect presidential power, particularly regarding Trump’s administrative challenges. This episode sheds light on the complex interplay between the judiciary and executive actions, hinting at future legal battles ahead.

Travel business mogul Rick Steves shares insights on why fear shouldn't curb exploration. He discusses the intertwining of travel and progressive politics, emphasizing how travel can bridge divides. Steves reflects on the challenges of traveling with young children and the ethical responsibilities businesses have towards their employees, especially post-pandemic. Additionally, he advocates for aligning personal ethics with professional choices, touching on topics like cannabis legalization and the impact of politics on the travel experience.

Rebecca Picciotto, a WSJ reporter specializing in real estate, dives into the heat of NYC's mayoral race, spotlighting candidate Zohran Mamdani's push for affordable housing and rent freezes. As Mamdani resonates with young, rent-strapped voters, the real estate industry scrambles to adapt to these new dynamics. Picciotto discusses the fierce competition for housing, the implications of proposed rent regulations, and how the election results are shaking up strategies in the real estate sector. The impact of housing affordability on electoral politics takes center stage.

Gary Rohwer, owner of Glenn Valley Foods, shares insights on the impact of Trump-era immigration policies on his Nebraska meatpacking company. He discusses the chaos following an ICE raid, emphasizing the crucial role of immigrant workers in his business. Rohwer explains the complexities of the E-Verify system and the emotional turmoil faced by employees. He also tackles the broader implications of labor shortages in the industry and how government policies create challenges in hiring, leaving listeners with thought-provoking questions about immigration and workforce dynamics.

Margherita Stancati, a correspondent for The Wall Street Journal in Rome, dives into the new Pope Leo XIV's bold stance on artificial intelligence. The Vatican recently hosted an AI conference, signaling a shift towards integrating ethical considerations in technology. Stancati discusses how Leo may leverage the Church’s moral authority to advocate for stronger AI regulations. She explores the historical context of the Church's role in social justice and the call for an international treaty to guide AI development responsibly.

Charlie Baker, President of the NCAA and former Massachusetts governor, discusses the groundbreaking settlement allowing colleges to pay student-athletes directly. He dives into the regulatory challenges and the implications for Title IX, emphasizing a shift in college sports compensation. Baker also addresses the complexities of the NIL framework and its impact on transfer athletes, as well as the varying financial realities among schools that could affect competition. Ultimately, he lays out a vision for a more equitable landscape in collegiate athletics.

Shayndi Raice, Deputy Bureau Chief for the Middle East at The Wall Street Journal, discusses Iran's retaliatory missile strikes on U.S. military bases following U.S. attacks on its nuclear facilities. She explores how Iran finds itself cornered, weighing its options amidst rising tensions with the U.S. and Israel. The conversation highlights the delicate balance Iran must maintain to avoid further escalation. Listeners gain insight into the complexities of military operations and the precarious nature of diplomacy in the region.

Sam Schechner, a reporter from The Wall Street Journal, delves into the alarming rise of wrench attacks—a new, violent trend in crypto theft. He highlights harrowing incidents, including a kidnapping of a cryptocurrency exchange CEO, showcasing how criminals are resorting to physical violence for digital wealth. Schechner emphasizes the risks faced by those displaying their wealth online and discusses the urgent need for security measures. The conversation reveals a dark side of cryptocurrency that many are unaware of, blending danger and urgency in the world of digital finance.