What Next | Daily News and Analysis

Lindsay Gibbs, author and founder of Power Plays, dives into the heated discussions surrounding WNBA player salaries, particularly in light of Caitlin Clark's draft. The conversation addresses the stark pay disparities between male and female athletes, exploring systemic issues and potential for improvement. Gibbs emphasizes the importance of leadership in women's sports and the need for better representation and advocacy for black women. With a growing interest in women's athletics, she highlights the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the WNBA.

In a compelling discussion, Constance Grady, Senior Culture correspondent for Vox, sheds light on the chaos engulfing the Miss USA pageant. With recent resignations echoing claims of being 'silenced,' she unpacks allegations of bullying and a toxic environment. The conversation explores whether such pageants still hold relevance in today's culture and the troubling implications of non-disclosure agreements imposed on winners. Grady’s insights challenge the notion of empowerment within such organizations amidst scandal and turmoil.

Jamie Ducharme, a health correspondent at Time and author of *Big Vape: The Incendiary Rise of Juul*, dives into the tumultuous journey of JUUL in the ever-changing vaping landscape. She unpacks the FDA's seesawing regulations that have kept JUUL in a state of uncertainty. The discussion reveals JUUL's past appeal to teenagers and ongoing challenges amid rising health concerns. Ducharme also explores the implications of recent regulatory reversals and the emerging competition from unregulated disposable e-cigarettes.

Joined by Madison Malone Kircher, a reporter from The New York Times specializing in internet culture, the discussion dives into the complex world of MrBeast. They explore his meteoric rise as a YouTube sensation and the tension between philanthropy and controversy. Kircher highlights the chaotic nature of MrBeast's reality show, the serious ethical questions surrounding his production practices, and the impact of his extravagant content on societal issues like healthcare. It's a fascinating examination of fame, morality, and the price of success in the digital age.

Mia Sato, a reporter for The Verge, explores the intriguing dynamic of influencer culture on platforms like Amazon. She delves into the legal battle between two influencers over alleged content copying, highlighting the competitive nature and strain of the influencer lifestyle. The conversation also uncovers the impact of social media algorithms on originality and monetization strategies. Sato examines how aesthetics and personal branding influence financial success in this increasingly crowded space, raising critical questions about creativity and commerce.

Join a festive karaoke celebration as the hosts reminisce about their favorite anthems. They share hilarious stories from past karaoke nights, sparking laughter and nostalgia. Engaging with listeners, they discuss go-to songs for this chaotic time, creating a spirited playlist of barn-burners. Expect a blend of heartfelt moments and joyous tunes, making it a delightful tribute to the power of music and memory.

Jon Ostrower, the Editor-in-chief of The Air Current with 17 years of aviation experience, dives into the recent surge of drone sightings in New Jersey, raising questions of mystery and public concern. The conversation covers the thin line between drones and UFOs, dissecting public panic and official responses. Advanced technology in drones, misconceptions about their purpose, and the growing complexities of airspace regulation are also explored. Ostrower discusses the impact of misinformation on public trust regarding aerial phenomena.

Molly Parker, an investigative reporter for Capitol News Illinois and ProPublica fellow, dives into the challenges of sustaining grocery stores in food deserts. She discusses the impactful opening of Rise Community Market in Cairo, Illinois, and its significance in alleviating local food scarcity. The conversation highlights the hurdles small grocers face against corporate giants like Walmart, the social implications of food access, and potential community solutions to support local businesses and foster well-being in underserved areas.

David Folkenflik, NPR's media correspondent, dives into the striking defamation settlement between ABC and Donald Trump. He explores how Trump's legal maneuvers shape media narratives, revealing unprecedented concessions from ABC, including funding for a presidential library. The conversation highlights the precarious relationship between the press and public figures, along with the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists. Folkenflik also discusses Trump's ongoing battles with the media and the implications for press freedom and accountability.

Chris Molanphy, a chart analyst and pop critic known for his insightful writings and his podcast Hit Parade, discusses Shaboozey's unprecedented rise in the country music scene. They explore how Shaboozey’s hit "A Bar Song (Tipsy)" has matched Lil Nas X’s record on the charts. The conversation delves into the cultural significance of blending hip-hop with country, Shaboozey’s bold identity, and the historical challenges faced by Black artists in the genre. They also reflect on humor and acceptance in the industry, showcasing Shaboozey's unique contributions.