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 27, 2024 • 25min
Which Came First, the Bird Flu or the Egg?
Marcia Brown, a food and agriculture reporter at POLITICO, dives into the issues surrounding the recent spike in egg prices caused by avian flu. She explains how 'eggflation' affects both consumers and the market, especially with Thanksgiving approaching. Brown discusses the public health risks and the challenges of implementing effective biosecurity measures on farms. The conversation touches on the tensions between farmers and government policies, revealing frustrations with federal interventions during the avian flu crisis.
Nov 26, 2024 • 24min
A New Strategy for Banning Abortion
Linda Greenhouse, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and former Supreme Court reporter for the New York Times, dives into the evolving landscape of abortion laws in the U.S. She discusses the Supreme Court's recent decisions and the unique lawsuits from three states claiming that abortion access threatens their birth rates. Greenhouse also explores the resurgence of outdated anti-abortion arguments and the socio-political implications of declining birth rates, highlighting how these narratives are shaping future legal battles over reproductive rights.
Nov 25, 2024 • 26min
When Jesus Is on the Curriculum
Jaden Edison, a public education reporter for the Texas Tribune, dives into the controversial integration of Bible stories into Texas public school curriculums. He discusses the implications of teaching history from a Christian perspective, raising concerns about the First Amendment. The conversation highlights the heated debates around the Blue Bonnet Learning curriculum and the challenges teachers face due to recent legislative changes. Edison also reveals the political dynamics influencing educational policies and the potential legal ramifications of these developments.
Nov 24, 2024 • 32min
TBD | Is Sickle Cell Anemia…Cured?
Gina Kolata, a medical reporter for the New York Times, joins Deb Cromer, mother of Kendrick, the first recipient of commercially approved gene therapy for sickle cell anemia. They share Kendrick's journey through this groundbreaking treatment, highlighting the emotional and physical challenges faced by families. The conversation reveals the hopes and fears surrounding this 'cure' and discusses access to innovative healthcare solutions. Deb reflects on her family's resilience, while Kolata emphasizes the importance of empathy in medical care.
Nov 22, 2024 • 24min
TBD | What's Google Without Chrome?
Leah Nylen, an antitrust reporter for Bloomberg News, dives into the Department of Justice's drastic recommendations for Google's monopoly, particularly the potential separation of Chrome. She discusses how this could shake up Google's market dominance and advertising strategies amidst political changes. The conversation highlights Chrome's critical role in Google's ecosystem, implications for data sharing in search, and the possible impact on AI development. Nylen also reveals how the political landscape could alter antitrust enforcement against tech giants.
5 snips
Nov 21, 2024 • 27min
Mass Deportation How?
Molly O'Toole, an insightful reporter on immigration and security, dives deep into the controversial promise of mass deportation made by Donald Trump. She explores the chilling tactics, including aggressive raids in certain communities, that could be employed. O'Toole also addresses the complex realities faced by undocumented immigrants and asylum seekers, examining the emotional toll and ethical implications of these policies. The podcast unravels the crisis within immigration courts and the failures of past administrations, shedding light on a pressing societal issue.
Nov 20, 2024 • 29min
Trump’s Shadow Cabinet
David Dayen, executive editor of The American Prospect, dives deep into the turbulent landscape of Donald Trump's cabinet choices. He reveals how figures like Matt Gaetz and Pete Hegseth amplify the chaos, serving as distractions from pressing issues. Dayen argues that the real power may rest with White House czars rather than traditional cabinet members. He discusses the implications of centralizing authority in the Trump administration, suggesting upcoming appointments could reflect a strategically chaotic approach that prioritizes loyalty over governance.
Nov 19, 2024 • 28min
Welcome to Trump City, USA
Henry Grabar, a Slate staff writer, and Ron Kim, a New York State Assembly representative, dive into urban voting shifts as Donald Trump gains traction in cities traditionally supporting Democrats. They explore the surprising GOP appeal among Latino and Asian American voters, reflecting changing demographics. The discussion highlights low voter turnout during primaries, and contrasts progressive challenges with rising conservative sentiments. They also touch on social media's role in shaping young voters' political views and the complexities of catering to diverse community needs.
Nov 18, 2024 • 25min
Jamie Raskin: “We Can’t Let The Fear Paralyze Us”
Jamie Raskin, a U.S. representative from Maryland and a key figure in Donald Trump's second impeachment, shares his insights on the current political climate. He discusses the importance of fighting back against authoritarianism and reflects on the implications of the 14th Amendment for future elections. Raskin emphasizes the need for unity among progressives and the urgency of democratic reforms. Despite challenges, he encourages listeners not to let fear dictate their actions in these turbulent times.
Nov 17, 2024 • 26min
TBD | The X-odus
Nitish Pahwa, a Slate business writer, shares insights on the shift from Twitter to X under Elon Musk's leadership. He discusses the dramatic decline in user engagement and how political tensions have pushed many to seek alternatives. The conversation delves into the complexities of loyalty to a platform that now prioritizes misinformation and trolls. Pahwa highlights the emotional toll of leaving social media, encouraging listeners to consider healthier online spaces while remaining wary of the risks associated with continuing on X.
