What Next | Daily News and Analysis
Slate Podcasts
The problem with the news right now? It’s everywhere. And each day, it can feel like we’re all just mindlessly scrolling. It’s why we created What Next. This short daily show is here to help you make sense of things. When the news feels overwhelming, we’re here to help you answer: What next? Look for new episodes every weekday morning.Get more of What Next with Slate Plus! Join for exclusive bonus episodes of What Next and ad-free listening on all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe from the What Next show page on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, or visit slate.com/whatnextplus for access wherever you listen.
Episodes
Mentioned books
10 snips
Aug 19, 2025 • 26min
Zelensky Brings a Posse to Washington
Tim Mak, editor of the Kyiv-based publication The Counteroffensive, discusses the complex dynamics of Volodymyr Zelensky's recent visit to Washington amidst the Ukraine-Russia conflict. He highlights Ukrainians' rising concerns over American political shifts, especially after Trump’s meeting with Zelensky. The conversation dives into the geopolitical turmoil Ukraine faces, examining the implications of U.S. foreign policy inconsistencies and the critical nature of territorial integrity and security commitments in preserving Ukraine's sovereignty.
14 snips
Aug 18, 2025 • 27min
How Trump Brought Home a Murderer
Jonathan Blitzer, a staff writer at The New Yorker specializing in immigration, dives into the controversial U.S.-Venezuela prisoner swap under Trump. He reveals how over 250 Venezuelans were traded for 10 Americans, including a convicted murderer. The discussion touches on the brutal realities of prison life, ethical implications of the swap, and internal dissent within the State Department. Blitzer highlights the complexities of negotiating with authoritarian regimes and the troubling impact of harsh immigration policies on human rights.
20 snips
Aug 17, 2025 • 30min
TBD | Down the Text-Scam Rabbit Hole
In this discussion, Alex Sammon, a features writer for Slate, shares his firsthand experience investigating text message job scams. He reveals the alarming tactics scammers use to exploit emotions, leading victims into financial traps. The conversation dives into a baffling job task tied to deceptive interfaces and unravels the illusion of easy earnings through cryptocurrency schemes. Listeners gain insights into the psychological manipulation behind these scams and the urgent need for awareness and vigilance against such fraudulent practices.
Aug 15, 2025 • 4min
Bonus: Kill Tony, Alive and Thriving
Dive into the provocative world of Tony Hinchcliffe, a king of anti-woke comedy thriving in Austin. Explore how a joke at a Trump rally flipped public perception and impacted political humor, affecting everything from Kamala Harris's campaign to societal norms. The discussion unveils the complexities of comedy in today's landscape, showcasing how one comedian’s risqué humor can spark broader conversations on offense and acceptance.
Aug 15, 2025 • 27min
TBD | Trump Dips into NVIDIA’s Chips
Amrith Ramkumar, a tech and crypto policy reporter for The Wall Street Journal, joins the discussion on NVIDIA's dramatic journey from gaming to AI powerhouse. He highlights Jensen Huang's pivotal role in negotiating chip deals with both President Trump and China, marking a significant moment for global tech diplomacy. The conversation also tackles the U.S.-China tech rivalry, the implications of state capitalism in U.S. economic policy, and how these factors shape the future of technology and security.
Aug 14, 2025 • 29min
In Gaza, Journalism Is a Death Sentence
Jodie Ginsberg, head of the Committee to Protect Journalists, highlights the grim reality for journalists in Gaza, where reporting can mean a death sentence. She discusses the recent airstrike that killed an Al-Jazeera team, reflecting on the targeting of journalists and the lack of accountability. Ginsberg addresses the emotional toll on reporters, the urgent need for international humanitarian law, and the growing trend of attacks on the press, emphasizing the critical role journalists play in revealing the truth in conflict zones.
9 snips
Aug 13, 2025 • 29min
Why Washington, D.C.
Jenny Gathright, a seasoned reporter from the Washington Post, sheds light on the complexities of governance in D.C. Topics range from the absurdity of a sandwich incident involving federal officers to the serious implications of local autonomy versus Congressional control. Gathright also discusses crime reduction strategies and the perception of policing, along with residents' frustrations concerning D.C.'s statehood and representation. Her insights reveal how these issues deeply impact the community and shape political discourse in the capital.
12 snips
Aug 12, 2025 • 33min
South Park Understands the Assignment
David Mack, a contributing writer to Slate, dives into South Park's impressive 27th season, showcasing its bold approach to political satire. With a sharp focus on the MAGA movement and Trump, the discussion highlights the show's evolution from shock value to a commentary on social issues. Mack explores how South Park remains culturally relevant, tackling complex themes like race and gender through edgy humor. The conversation reveals the unique ability of the creators to provoke thought and critique political absurdities in a rapidly changing landscape.
Aug 11, 2025 • 29min
Gutting Our National Parks
Jon B. Jarvis, the 18th director of the National Park Service and a seasoned ranger since 1976, highlights the critical state of America's national parks amid budget cuts. He discusses how recent governmental changes threaten park operations and staff, particularly at Crater Lake. The conversation also delves into the risks of privatization and contrasts U.S. parks’ struggles with China's proactive approach. Jarvis emphasizes the need for sustainable practices and preserving the unique experiences that national parks offer.
9 snips
Aug 10, 2025 • 30min
TBD | Here Comes the A.I. Music Slop
In this engaging discussion, Kate Knibbs, a Senior Writer at Wired, delves into the fascinating world of AI-generated music. She highlights how AI is transforming the music industry, allowing for a flood of so-called 'original' songs that challenge traditional artistry. Kate tackles the ethical dilemmas arising from this evolution, including a notable fraud case tied to inflated streaming numbers. The episode prompts listeners to consider the future of genuine creativity in an AI-dominated landscape and consumer attitudes toward this shift.
