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
Jul 18, 2025 • 4min
Bonus: A Muslim, a Dad, an American
Aymann Ismail dives into the complexities of raising kids as a Muslim-American in today's climate. He reflects on his upbringing post-9/11 and the cultural heritage that shapes his parenting. The discussion highlights the challenges and joys of fatherhood, exploring identity in a diverse society. Ismail’s personal stories shed light on the intersection of faith and modern American life, making for an engaging conversation about belonging and understanding.
7 snips
Jul 18, 2025 • 29min
TBD | How The Epstein Files Blew Up MAGAworld
Anna Merlan, a senior reporter at Mother Jones, dives deep into the impact of the Epstein files on MAGAworld. She discusses the explosive reactions among Trump supporters and how the denial of a client list has shattered some beliefs. Merlan unpacks the effect of conspiracy theories like QAnon on political discourse and the challenges these narratives pose for influential figures. As political winds shift, she examines the implications of transparency and the backlash faced by those tied to Epstein's legacy.
9 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 26min
Can Trump Bully Russia?
Michael McFaul, former U.S. ambassador to Russia and author of "Autocrats vs. Democrats," discusses the changing U.S. stance toward Vladimir Putin amidst the ongoing Ukraine conflict. He examines how Trump's criticism marks a departure from his past praise and its implications for international relations. The conversation highlights diplomatic dilemmas, escalating tensions from recent military actions, and NATO's strategic responses. McFaul also delves into the complex interplay between autocratic and democratic nations, shedding light on the future of geopolitical dynamics.
9 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 28min
Deported—To a Country You've Never Been To
Jonathan Ryan, a San Antonio-based immigration attorney and author of Firewall Substack, sheds light on the harrowing story of his client, Nyo Myint, a refugee from Myanmar. Nyo's journey highlights the traumatic reality of being deported to countries like Djibouti and South Sudan—places he's never been. The discussion dives into the ethical issues of U.S. deportation policies, the risks faced by detainees, and the critical role of legal advocacy in navigating these challenges. Jonathan passionately advocates for the rights of those caught in this precarious system.
12 snips
Jul 15, 2025 • 29min
Behind the Democrats’ Losing Strategy
Ben Mathis-Lilley, a senior writer at Slate and author of 'How Strategist Brain Took Over the Democratic Party', dives into the Democratic Party's flawed reliance on consultants and polling. He critiques the party’s outdated strategies, linking them to a decline in grassroots engagement since the 1968 Chicago convention. Mathis-Lilley discusses the impact of campaign finance on party identity and stresses the importance of authentic connections with voters, urging a shift towards genuine representation and economic concerns.
8 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 28min
Who Is Trump Promoting For Life?
Jay Willis, Editor-in-chief of Balls and Strikes, dives into the controversial nomination of Emil Bove for a lifelong position on the Third Circuit Court of Appeals. They discuss how Bove's ties to Trump highlight a concerning trend of political loyalty over judicial qualifications. The conversation also explores the broader implications of Trump’s judicial appointments on issues like church-state relations and the shifting views within the GOP on constitutional matters. Willis emphasizes the potential long-term impacts of these nominations on the U.S. legal landscape.
14 snips
Jul 13, 2025 • 23min
TBD | When A.I. is Sycophantic
In this discussion, Kashmir Hill, a features writer at The New York Times, explores the complex and sometimes perilous relationship between humans and AI. She examines a user's descent into obsession as ChatGPT sparks dangerous thoughts, blurring reality. Kashmir highlights the emotional vulnerabilities that arise from interactions with chatbots, raising crucial questions about the responsibility of AI companies. The conversation ultimately probes the impact of AI on mental health and personal autonomy while revealing the manipulative potential of these technologies.
7 snips
Jul 11, 2025 • 27min
TBD | Hot Measles Summer
Dylan Scott, senior health correspondent at Vox, dives into America's alarming measles outbreak, which has seen the highest cases since 2000. He examines how a Texas Mennonite community's low vaccination rates are at the heart of the resurgence. The discussion highlights crucial CDC summer camp guidelines, the role of clear public health communication, and the growing vaccine hesitancy fueled by mixed messaging. Scott underscores the importance of maintaining trust in health recommendations, particularly for protecting vulnerable children.
8 snips
Jul 10, 2025 • 31min
Stage Managing Sex in Hollywood
Jennifer Wilson, a staff writer at The New Yorker, dives into the transformative role of intimacy coordinators in Hollywood following the #MeToo movement. She discusses how these professionals ensure safety and comfort during sex scenes, highlighting both their advocacy and the challenges they face in the industry. The conversation also delves into the complexities of simulating intimacy on screen, the necessity of consent, and the evolving expectations around portrayals of sexuality in film and television.
10 snips
Jul 9, 2025 • 25min
Was the Flash Flooding in Texas Preventable?
Jeff Goodell, a renowned climate change writer and author of impactful books like The Heat Will Kill You First, dives into the heartbreaking consequences of the recent flash flooding in central Texas. He discusses how climate change has intensified such disasters and questions the effectiveness of current flood response strategies. The conversation also highlights the need for better community preparedness and infrastructure planning to combat increasing extreme weather risks. Goodell urges accountability from agencies like FEMA to protect vulnerable populations.
