
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

Jun 9, 2024 • 23min
TBD | Fee’d Up: A Musician’s Take on Ticketmaster
Laura Jane Grace discusses the impact of Ticketmaster on musicians and fans, addressing unfair merch fees and Live Nation's response. The podcast explores challenges faced by touring artists, the influence of Ticketmaster on the industry, and the implications of vertical integration. It sheds light on the financial struggles of musicians and the future of the music industry without Ticketmaster.

Jun 7, 2024 • 23min
TBD | The Secret Semiconductor War
Asa Fitch, a reporter for the Wall Street Journal, discusses the semiconductor industry's global race for dominance, focusing on national security implications, Taiwan's emergence as a key player, and the challenges of reshoring chip manufacturing. The podcast highlights China's response to US pressure, industry dynamics between the US and China, and investment strategies of various countries.

Jun 6, 2024 • 23min
The Hollywood Strikes Are Over. No One's Back To Work.
Diane Haithman and Diego Mariscal discuss Hollywood crew unions' post-strike challenges, industry shifts, and negotiating positions. They touch on job availability, supportive communities, impact of consolidation on technical roles, and potential cost increase in film productions.

Jun 5, 2024 • 30min
Rafah Under Fire
Tariq Kenney-Shawa discusses the potential ceasefire in Rafah post-Israeli airstrikes. The episode explores Gaza's rebuilding process and the challenges faced. It also touches on US red lines, Biden's response, and contrasting perspectives on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Jun 4, 2024 • 29min
It’s Supreme Court Blockbuster Season
Mark Joseph Stern, Slate senior writer, discusses the chaotic June at the Supreme Court with blockbuster decisions on gun rights, abortion, and presidential immunity. Topics include the impact of rulings on January 6 prosecutions, Enron law application to Capitol riots, delays in immunity cases, controversies on gun rights, and upcoming Supreme Court opinions.

Jun 3, 2024 • 30min
Election Workers in the Crosshairs
Tina Barton, Senior Elections Expert at The Elections Group, discusses the threats faced by election workers post-2020 election, the emotional toll, the importance of transparency, preparing for future challenges, and efforts to ensure accountability and safety in election work.

Jun 2, 2024 • 24min
TBD | Would You Buy Poop On the Internet?
Luke Winkie, a staff writer, discusses the underground world of fecal transplants, exploring their potential to treat various health conditions. The podcast delves into the online black market for poop and the controversial DIY approaches to gut health, shedding light on the risks and benefits of FMT as a medical revolution.

May 31, 2024 • 27min
TBD | He’s Suing Big Tech Over Uvalde
Attorney Josh Koskoff discusses suing big tech and gunmakers for Uvalde and Sandy Hook families. Topics include holding tech companies accountable for marketing guns to children, the impact of targeting kids, and the legal boundaries of video game content in relation to real-life violence.

May 31, 2024 • 27min
Amicus: Trump Guilty on All 34 Counts
Slate’s jurisprudence editor Jeremy Stahl discusses the historic guilty verdict against former President Trump on all 34 counts in a hush money trial. Topics include courtroom tension, jury reactions, judge's conduct, and the significance of the conviction for upholding the rule of law.

6 snips
May 30, 2024 • 31min
An “Apprentice” Producer’s Mea Culpa
Bill Pruitt, former producer of The Apprentice, reveals behind-the-scenes manipulation of Donald Trump's image on the show. Topics include editing to show Trump positively, inappropriate behavior, and denial of allegations. Pruitt reflects on the impact of reality TV storytelling and ethical dilemmas faced by production staff.