
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

Jul 2, 2024 • 28min
How Bad is the Trump Immunity Ruling?
Law professor Richard Hasen from UCLA discusses the Supreme Court ruling on presidential immunity, highlighting the implications for holding Trump accountable for his actions. The episode explores the division among justices, the distinctions between absolute and presumptive immunity, and the potential impact on future legal precedents. It also reflects on the consequences of the ruling on Trump's other criminal prosecutions and the political repercussions, including the possibility of impeachment proceedings against justices.

Jul 1, 2024 • 26min
If Not Biden, Then…
David Faris, a political science professor, discusses the possibility of replacing Biden as the Democratic nominee. Topics include concerns about Biden's debate performance, cognitive abilities, and potential pathways for replacement. The conversation also touches on AI in finance, Biden's inner circle, and the controversy surrounding his political outfit.

Jun 30, 2024 • 26min
TBD | Why Are IUDs Still a Mystery?
Mia Armstrong-Lopez, managing editor at ASU Media Enterprise, discusses the enigma of IUDs, exploring their history, evolution, and controversies. The podcast delves into personal experiences with IUD insertions, the rise of IUDs driven by effectiveness and political concerns, and the impact of misinformation on women's contraceptive choices.

Jun 28, 2024 • 31min
TBD | Why Extreme Weather Keeps Surprising You
Climate scientist Daniel Swain discusses how extreme weather events are changing on a warming Earth, addressing the challenges in attributing specific weather events to climate change. The podcast explores the predictability of sudden extreme weather, the impact of climate change on weather patterns, and the importance of robust meteorological infrastructure for preparedness.

Jun 27, 2024 • 28min
Buckling Up for the Debate
Margaret Sullivan from The Guardian discusses the upcoming Trump vs. Biden debate, exploring tactics, debate dynamics, and contrasting campaign strategies. The podcast also examines CNN's challenges and controversial relationship with Trump, highlighting the implications of hosting a presidential debate.

Jun 26, 2024 • 32min
The OB-GYN Behind the Fight to Ban Mifepristone
Dr. Christina Francis, a prominent anti-abortion OB-GYN, discusses the Supreme Court ruling on the abortion pill. She shares her journey, ethical dilemmas in pregnancy care, increase in abortion rates, safety concerns of mifepristone, and patient prioritization in abortion views.

Jun 25, 2024 • 26min
Is the Apprentice Movie Fired?
Political reporter, Jake Lahut, discusses the controversy surrounding 'The Apprentice' movie, financed by Dan Snyder and facing hurdles for a US release due to cease-and-desist letters from Trump's attorneys. The podcast explores the challenges faced by the director in securing distribution, the origin story of the film, and the complexities of releasing a movie featuring a former politician.

Jun 24, 2024 • 27min
Lauren Boebert Will Not Go Away
Paul Karolyi discusses how Lauren Boebert, despite scandals, maintains support. They explore her confrontational stance on gun rights, her rise from a gimmicky persona to a serious political figure, and her strategic approach to politics.

Jun 23, 2024 • 25min
TBD | Is Your Phone Tracking Your Driving?
Kashmir Hill, tech reporter for the New York Times, discusses how cars collect driving data to influence insurance prices without people's awareness. The podcast explores the concerns around monitoring driving habits, data privacy issues, and the impact on insurance rates.

Jun 21, 2024 • 23min
TBD | Amazon Wants Your Handprint
Freelance tech and food journalist, Emily Moore, discusses Amazon's palm readers at Whole Foods, swapping vein mapping for groceries. They dive into data security and in-person shopping implications, exploring the balance between convenience and privacy concerns in tech advancements.