The Journal.

Greg Ip, the Chief Economics Commentator for The Wall Street Journal, dives into the intriguing shift in American capitalism. He discusses how recent government interventions in key industries might align the U.S. economy more closely with state capitalism akin to China's. Ip raises concerns about the deepening political control over the economy under the Trump administration and compares this trend with historical U.S. economic modifications. This conversation sparks debate on the future of capitalism and government roles in shaping economic policy.

Lingling Wei, Chief China correspondent for The Wall Street Journal, dives into Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang's ambitious journey amidst U.S.-China trade tensions. She discusses Huang's transformation from co-founder to corporate lobbyist, highlighting his strategic moves to navigate diplomatic challenges. The conversation reveals how Huang is developing chips for China while managing complex lobbying efforts in Washington. Wei also sheds light on the broader implications of U.S. export policies and the evolving landscape of tech trade tensions.

Katherine Long, a WSJ reporter, investigates a shocking case in Los Angeles where a couple has 22 children through surrogacy, raising ethical alarms in the industry. She discusses how surrogates felt deceived and the implications of unregulated practices. The episode delves into discrepancies in birth records and the emotional toll on surrogates, highlighting the complexities of a multi-billion dollar market. Long sheds light on the lack of federal oversight and the dire need for regulation to protect all parties involved.

Derek Mobley, a determined job seeker who faced over 100 rejections after losing his IT job, is suing Workday for allegedly discriminating against him through its hiring algorithm. He shares the emotional toll of automated rejections and the frustration of navigating modern application processes. The discussion sheds light on the complexities of proving algorithmic bias, especially concerning age and race. With insights from WSJ’s Lauren Weber, the conversation raises crucial questions about the fairness of AI in recruitment and its broader implications for job seekers.

Stu Woo, a journalist at WSJ, dives into the controversial leadership of Intel's CEO, Lip-Bu Tan, known as 'Mr. Chip' for his pivotal role in China’s chip industry. Tan has come under scrutiny, even prompting calls for his resignation from President Trump due to his ties with China amidst escalating U.S.-China tech tensions. Woo unpacks the balance between tech leadership and political pressures, as well as the implications for Intel’s future in a fiercely competitive market. The conversation reveals the intersections of geopolitics and technology in today's corporate landscape.

In this discussion, Sune Rasmussen, a WSJ reporter with expertise in security and organized crime, unpacks the alarming rise of nitazenes, a synthetic opioid up to 15 times stronger than fentanyl. He reveals the tragic impact of this drug across Europe, recounting heartbreaking stories such as that of a young opera singer who died from counterfeit pills. Sune also explores the dangers of black market drugs, the challenges of detection, and the urgent need for regulatory responses as Europe faces a potential opioid crisis.

Heather Somerville, a tech and national security journalist for The Wall Street Journal, reveals how Palantir transitioned from a tech outsider to a major player in defense contracting. She discusses CEO Alex Karp’s knack for seizing opportunities amid crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical conflicts. The conversation dives into Palantir's strategic shift towards artificial intelligence and its controversial government contracts, particularly under the Trump administration, illuminating its complex role in national security and immigration.

Jason Gay, a writer for the Wall Street Journal, shares his insights after attending a banana ball game that’s sweeping the nation. He discusses how this fan-first style, driven by showmanship and a two-hour time limit, could reinvigorate Major League Baseball. The transformation of the Savannah Bananas from struggling underdogs to a beloved spectacle emphasizes creativity in sports marketing and community engagement. Gay reflects on how prioritizing fun has attracted a diverse and passionate fan base, challenging the traditional norms of the game.

Kaitlin Wang, a WSJ reporter who dives deep into trends, joins the conversation to unravel the Labubus craze. She shares how PopMart's blind-box strategy and artistic collaborations turned these quirky plushies into a must-have collectible. Ebony Hall, a noted Labubu influencer, chimes in about the excitement of unboxing and the cultural charm of these 'ugly-cute' toys. The duo discusses the emotional ties collectors develop and the competitive hunt for rare pieces in a thriving market. Will Labubus stand the test of time like Disney?

Jessica Toonkel, a media and entertainment reporter for WSJ, dives into Disney's ambitious journey with AI while safeguarding its iconic intellectual property. She discusses the ethical dilemmas posed by technologies like deep fakes and the company's hesitant stance on AI-generated footage. The conversation also touches on Disney's innovative use of AI, such as revamping Darth Vader's voice, and the ongoing turf wars over copyright between tech firms and Hollywood. Ultimately, the tension between AI and creative jobs weighs heavily on the industry.