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
Nov 10, 2025 • 28min
Is Special Ed Getting Left Behind?
In this insightful discussion, Pepper Stetler, an author and professor at Miami University, delves into the intricate history and current landscape of special education. She highlights the crucial changes brought about by the 1975 law and the challenges of implementing the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Pepper also addresses recent policy shifts, federal oversight issues, and the looming threats to funding and support. The implications for the inclusion and civil rights of children with disabilities raise urgent questions about the future of education for this vulnerable population.
8 snips
Nov 9, 2025 • 31min
TBD | Why Tesla Is Paying Elon a Trillion Bucks
Faiz Siddiqui, a technology reporter at The Washington Post and author of "Hubris Maximus," dives into the recent approval of a staggering $1 trillion pay package for Elon Musk. They discuss Musk's volatile relationship with government officials, the implications of his public feuds, and how he keeps navigating controversies. Siddiqui also highlights challenges faced by Tesla and SpaceX, including regulatory hurdles and missed milestones. The conversation wraps up with insights on Musk’s ambitious plans and the risks tied to his impulsive decisions.
Nov 7, 2025 • 6min
Bonus: SchadenFriday | Muslim, Millennial, Mr. Mayor Mamdani
Aymann Ismail, a Slate staff writer and author, discusses the inspiring election of Zohran Mamdani, highlighting his authenticity and commitment to local issues in Jackson Heights. Aymann explores how Mamdani’s victory reflects shifting voter priorities amid anti-Trump sentiment. He emphasizes Mamdani’s ability to merge his Muslim identity with a socialist agenda, appealing to a diverse electorate. The conversation captures the excitement of grassroots politics and the potential for change in local governance.
15 snips
Nov 7, 2025 • 25min
TBD | The Nick Fuentes Problem
Ali Breland, a staff writer at The Atlantic covering politics and technology, dives into the controversial figure Nick Fuentes and his unexpected interview with Tucker Carlson. They discuss how this meeting shattered conservative boundaries, Fuentes' rise from obscurity to influence, and the disturbing appeal of his rhetoric. Breland also explores the Groypers' tactics and the evolving dynamics within GOP youth movements, revealing a growing acceptance of extremist ideas among mainstream conservatives.
10 snips
Nov 6, 2025 • 28min
Trump’s Tariffs Have a Constitution Problem
Justin Wolfers, an economist and professor at the University of Michigan, dives into the Supreme Court's skepticism regarding Trump’s tariffs, questioning their constitutional basis. He challenges the administration's assertion that tariffs aren't taxes while discussing the fine line between regulatory measures and revenue generation. The conversation reveals how Congress has reacted and why the White House has avoided seeking approval. Ultimately, Wolfers suggests that tariffs may persist in fragmented forms, reflecting Trump's unpredictable governance style.
10 snips
Nov 5, 2025 • 26min
The Andrew Formerly Known as a Prince
Imogen West-Knights, a Slate contributing writer based in London, delves into the dramatic decline of Prince Andrew's royal status. She explores his entitled reputation and the controversies surrounding his ties to Jeffrey Epstein. The discussion highlights the impact of Virginia Giuffre's lawsuit, leading to Andrew's loss of titles and public duties. Imogen reflects on the implications this has for the monarchy's future and what exile might look like for Andrew as he navigates a life stripped of royal pomp.
8 snips
Nov 4, 2025 • 27min
She Won the Election. The GOP Won’t Swear Her In.
Adelita Grijalva, the newly elected Representative for Arizona's 7th Congressional District, discusses her unexpected delay in being sworn into the House. Despite winning a special election, she's caught in a stalled political landscape amidst a government shutdown. Grijalva delves into her motivations for running after her father’s legacy, Speaker Mike Johnson's shifting reasons for her unseating, and the challenges she faces in D.C. She highlights the urgent issues at stake, including the impact of the shutdown on crucial services.
10 snips
Nov 3, 2025 • 29min
The Redistricting Arms Race Is On
Ari Berman, a voting rights reporter at Mother Jones, dives into the intense redistricting battle sparked by Trump’s demand for GOP seats. He reveals how California is now on a quest for Democratic seats in response. The discussion highlights the intricate political dynamics, including California's Proposition 50 and the rare Republican resistance to gerrymandering. Berman emphasizes the long-term risks of normalizing mid-decade redistricting, which could undermine democracy by reducing competitive districts.
13 snips
Nov 2, 2025 • 31min
TBD | Why Trump Keeps Pardoning Crypto Criminals
In this conversation with Alex Kirshner, a contributing writer at Slate specializing in cryptocurrency and finance, the discussion centers on Trump's controversial pardoning of crypto figures. Kirshner unpacks how Binance’s Changpeng Zhao leveraged political ties for personal gain and why Trump's pardons often favor financial criminals. He explores the surprising connections between crypto and politics, as well as the implications of these pardons on accountability in the industry. The conversation highlights the complex relationship between financial favor and political power.
13 snips
Oct 31, 2025 • 30min
TBD | Inside the Goonerverse
David Kolitz, journalist and author known for his piece in Harper's Magazine, dives into the intriguing world of gooning—a subculture blending prolonged masturbation and online community. He discusses how Discord catalyzed in-person meet-ups, describes the elaborate setups of gooners, and outlines unique rituals like 'wank battling' and curated porn stashes. Kolitz also highlights the social dynamics at play, exploring how the culture satisfies both sexual desires and social needs, while raising broader concerns about youth exposure to hardcore content.
