What Next
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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
34 snips
Apr 21, 2025 • 23min
Why Did Big Law Fold So Easily?
Ankush Khardori, a senior writer at Politico Magazine and former federal prosecutor, dives into the pressures facing major law firms under the Trump administration. He discusses the ethical dilemmas these firms confront while navigating political scrutiny, including the shift from voluntary pro bono work to questionable practices driven by greed. Khardori also highlights the tensions between maintaining client relations and the integrity of the legal profession amidst these challenging dynamics.
18 snips
Apr 20, 2025 • 25min
The Baby Monitor Trap
Stephanie Murray, a writer for The Atlantic and creator of the newsletter Family Stuff, dives into the controversy surrounding the use of baby monitors in parenting. She discusses a family's decision to monitor their kids via a makeshift device while on vacation, sparking online backlash. The conversation highlights the evolution of parenting technology, the anxiety it brings, and the societal pressures parents face today. Murray explores the balancing act between modern conveniences and traditional caregiving practices, revealing the complexities of contemporary parenthood.
36 snips
Apr 18, 2025 • 21min
The U.S. vs Meta
Paresh Dave, a senior writer at WIRED, dives deep into the intense antitrust trial facing Meta. He discusses the historical context of Facebook's bold acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp, outlining the strategic motivations behind these moves. The conversation highlights the FTC's case that could redefine Meta's future, potentially breaking it up as a monopoly. Paresh also touches on the broader implications for big tech, shedding light on how this legal battle may influence market dynamics and future acquisitions across the industry.
Apr 17, 2025 • 25min
Should Hospitals Drug Test New Moms?
Shoshana Walter, an investigative reporter for The Marshall Project focusing on social justice, dives into the controversial practice of drug testing new mothers in U.S. hospitals. They discuss the troubling implications of false positives and the emotional toll on families, particularly in light of the opioid crisis. Walter highlights the historical context of these tests and advocates for better protocols to protect maternal health. The conversation also touches on the lasting psychological effects of these interactions, emphasizing the importance of keeping mothers and infants together.
18 snips
Apr 16, 2025 • 24min
When a State Tells Trump 'No'
Callie Ferguson, an investigative reporter for the Bangor Daily News, dives into the intense clash between Maine's Governor Janet Mills and the Trump administration over transgender athlete policies. The conversation reveals the federal government's push to cut funding in response to state resistance. Ferguson discusses how this spat reflects wider tensions on LGBTQ+ rights and the complex dynamics of state versus federal authority. The impact of political decisions on local governance and the potential precedent Maine sets for other states is also explored.
24 snips
Apr 15, 2025 • 25min
Trump’s Weaponized IRS
In this discussion, guest Francine Lipman, a law professor and tax law expert from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, delves into the troubling collaboration between the IRS and immigration enforcement. She highlights how unauthorized immigrants, who contribute significantly to federal tax revenue, face increased risks due to recent policy shifts. Lipman emphasizes the potential chilling effects on communities and the historical parallels of marginalized groups being exploited. She advocates for a more humane approach to immigration and taxation, raising critical questions about justice in America.
36 snips
Apr 14, 2025 • 24min
Project 2025’s Plan for Your Family
David Graham, an Atlantic staff writer and author, discusses Project 2025's agenda, which aims to redefine family as a cornerstone of American life. He delves into the project’s implications, including the controversial emphasis on traditional gender roles and the potential impact on same-sex marriages. The conversation touches on educational policies influenced by Milton Friedman, concerns about wealth inequality, and the challenges working mothers face. Graham also highlights the conservative push for old-fashioned family structures and its effects on women's autonomy.
33 snips
Apr 13, 2025 • 19min
TikTok: Somehow Also Affected by the Tariffs
In this enlightening discussion, Sapna Maheshwari, a New York Times reporter specializing in TikTok and technology, delves into the precarious state of TikTok amidst U.S.-China trade tensions. She highlights how recent tariffs have complicated its potential sale to a non-Chinese company, creating a race against time. The talk further explores national security concerns and shifting political views on TikTok under both the Trump and Biden administrations. As creators grapple with uncertainty, the future of the platform hangs in the balance.
8 snips
Apr 11, 2025 • 21min
Trump Tariffs Hit Mushroom Kingdom
Jason Koebler, co-founder of 404 Media, dives into the intersection of gaming and trade policy. He discusses the unveiling of the Nintendo Switch 2 alongside Trump's new tariffs, which could significantly raise prices for gamers. Koebler highlights Nintendo's potential shift in manufacturing from China to countries like Vietnam and Cambodia, addressing how these changes impact the gaming industry. Further, he explores the economic ripple effects on sectors like agriculture, showcasing the complexities of current trade policies.
14 snips
Apr 10, 2025 • 23min
Impeachment From the Bottom Up
Gabe Garbowit, a former Senate staffer and political organizer at citizensimpeachment.com, advocates for a citizen-driven effort to impeach Donald Trump. He discusses the recent 'Hands Off!' protests against Trump and Elon Musk, emphasizing the need for direct action from citizens to hold leaders accountable. Gabe shares insights on grassroots movements, the impact of personal narratives in political engagement, and the importance of mobilizing citizens to contact their congressional representatives about impeachment. He highlights how local media can sway public opinion in this context.
