
What Next | Daily News and Analysis
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.
Latest episodes

Sep 6, 2024 • 27min
TBD | US v. Google… Again
Leah Nylen, an antitrust reporter at Bloomberg, dives into Google’s recent legal battles. With a federal judge declaring Google a monopoly, the Justice Department now targets its ad practices. Nylen discusses the potential fallout if Google loses again, including possible breakups and its impact on the digital advertising landscape. She unpacks how Google's acquisition of DoubleClick redefined online advertising and the opacity of its revenue streams. The stakes are high, as the trial could reshape competition in the $300 billion ad industry.

Sep 5, 2024 • 29min
Who—and Why—Israelis Are Protesting
Will the deaths of six hostages mark a turning point in how Israelis view the war in Gaza—and how Netanyahu’s government is conducting it?Guest: Yair Rosenberg, staff writer at The Atlantic and the author of its newsletter Deep ShtetlWant more What Next? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen.Podcast production by Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme and Rob Gunther. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 4, 2024 • 30min
Could Arlington Cost Trump Military Votes?
How much do military voters and their families care about Trump attempting a campaign stop at Arlington National Cemetery?Guest: Leo Shane III, deputy editor for the Military Times.Want more What Next? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen.Podcast production by Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme and Rob Gunther.Public.com+Public Investing: All investing involves risk. Brokerage services for US listed securities, options and bonds in a self-directed brokerage account are offered by Public Investing, member FINRA & SIPC. Not investment advice. Public Investing offers a High-Yield Cash Account where funds from this account are automatically deposited into partner banks where they earn interest and are eligible for FDIC insurance; Public Investing is not a bank.Cryptocurrency trading services are offered by Bakkt Crypto Solutions, LLC (NMLS ID 1828849), which is licensed to engage in virtual currency business activity by the NYSDFS. Cryptocurrency is highly speculative, involves a high degree of risk, and has the potential for loss of the entire amount of an investment. Cryptocurrency holdings are not protected by the FDIC or SIPC. . See public.com/#disclosures-main for more information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 3, 2024 • 29min
Why Shein and Temu Are At War
Mia Sato, a platforms and communities reporter at the Verge, dives into the intense rivalry between fast-fashion giants Shein and Temu. She discusses Shein's struggles with ethical controversies and labor practices as it attempts to go public. The conversation explores how Temu is capitalizing on this turmoil with its low-cost strategies. Sato emphasizes the ethical dilemmas consumers face in choosing affordable fashion against a backdrop of human rights violations, leaving a thought-provoking question about the future of fast fashion.

Sep 2, 2024 • 38min
How To Put a Toxic Job Behind You
In this discussion, Elle, a new therapist facing the harsh realities of her early career, shares her struggles with a toxic work environment. Joined by leadership coach Rudhir Krishtel, they tackle workplace dynamics and the importance of self-awareness. They explore the distinction between practical job skills and effective leadership, while emphasizing the need for a supportive culture. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on what truly brings them job satisfaction and how to navigate difficult career transitions.

Sep 1, 2024 • 32min
TBD | Telegram's CEO Just Got Arrested. Huh?
Joseph Menn, a tech reporter for the Washington Post, dives into the arrest of Telegram CEO Pavel Durov in Paris. He discusses how this situation raises significant questions about free speech versus the realities of criminal activity on digital platforms. The conversation explores Telegram's controversial content moderation policies and its role in conflict communication. Menn also examines the geopolitical implications of the arrest, hinting at connections with intelligence agencies, and the broader accountability of tech executives for third-party content.

Aug 30, 2024 • 33min
TBD | Back To School… Without Phones
Laura Meckler, a national education writer for the Washington Post, joins Russell Shaw, head of Georgetown Day School and author, to discuss the effects of cell phone usage in educational settings. They explore how banning phones can reduce anxiety and foster genuine connections among students. Shaw shares insights from his school’s policy changes aimed at enhancing mental health. The conversation dives into the challenges educators face with technology’s impact on student interactions and overall well-being.

Aug 29, 2024 • 29min
JD Vance’s Anti-Rizz
Sam Adams, a senior editor for Slate’s Culture department, dives into the awkwardness of J.D. Vance's political engagements. They discuss Vance's struggles to connect with audiences, highlighting his shift from a Trump critic to a right-wing influencer. Adams also analyzes Vance's controversial humor, including remarks about 'childless cat ladies,' and contrasts it with Donald Trump's effective comedic style. The conversation reveals the challenges politicians face in creating genuine connections through humor and performance.

Aug 28, 2024 • 28min
Venezuela’s Opposition Brought Receipts
Ana Vanessa Herrero, a Washington Post correspondent in Venezuela, paints a vivid picture of the tumultuous political landscape following a controversial presidential election. She discusses the dangerous environment for journalists and civilians amid state violence and censorship. Herrero highlights the emotional campaign of an opposition figure, focusing on her connection with mothers affected by emigration. The podcast delves into the organized efforts of the opposition to document election activity, contrasting this with the government's narratives, raising questions about democracy and public sentiment in Venezuela.

Aug 27, 2024 • 26min
Is Kamala Harris Progressive?
Pramila Jayapal, a U.S. representative from Washington and a prominent progressive voice, discusses Kamala Harris's shifting political stances since becoming the nominee. They explore the challenges Harris faces as she navigates loyalty to her progressive roots while aligning closer to the Biden administration. The conversation examines how progressive ideals are gaining traction within the Democratic Party and the impact of grassroots movements. Jayapal also highlights the importance of transparency in politics and the influence of money on democratic processes.