What Next
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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jan 16, 2025 • 22min
What the Ceasefire Is and Isn’t
Graeme Wood, a staff writer at The Atlantic and Yale political science lecturer, delves into the recent ceasefire agreement between Israel and Gaza. He discusses the intense emotions surrounding hostage releases and the reactions from political leaders like Biden and Trump. Wood analyzes the complexities of the ceasefire's terms, implications for Gaza's future, and the challenges posed by armed groups. He highlights the dire hostage situation and the geopolitical ramifications, leaving listeners with a better understanding of the ongoing conflict's landscape.
13 snips
Jan 15, 2025 • 26min
Does Jack Smith’s Jan. 6 Report Matter?
In this discussion, Jay Willis, editor-in-chief at Balls and Strikes, explores the implications of Jack Smith’s report on Donald Trump’s actions surrounding the 2020 election. Willis critiques how the lengthy report offers little new information and reflects on Trump's skill in manipulating media narratives. The complexities of prosecuting Trump amid a chaotic political landscape are also examined, highlighting the challenges faced by legal authorities in holding powerful figures accountable, particularly as Trump eyes a 2024 run.
5 snips
Jan 14, 2025 • 24min
Can Trump End Birthright Citizenship?
Isabela Dias, an immigration reporter for Mother Jones, dives into the heated debate over Donald Trump's vow to end birthright citizenship. She discusses the legal complexities tied to the 14th Amendment and the historical roots of this right in American law. The conversation reveals how the Wong Kim Ark case established citizenship rights amidst racial biases. Dias also examines potential strategies to overturn this constitutional guarantee, highlighting the profound implications for American identity and the ongoing immigration discourse.
27 snips
Jan 13, 2025 • 24min
Who’s to Blame for the LA Fires?
Gabrielle Canon, a climate reporter and extreme weather correspondent for The Guardian US, shares her insights on the devastating LA fires. She discusses the complexities of blame in these disasters, emphasizing the role of climate change in exacerbating fire risks. Canon explores the emotional toll on residents and firefighters alike, as they face destruction and fear during evacuations. She also critiques the politicization of emergency responses and urges for improved collaboration among agencies to ensure effective recovery and future safety.
10 snips
Jan 12, 2025 • 23min
Why Tech Is Bending the Knee
Drew FitzGerald, a telecom reporter for the Wall Street Journal, delves into the intersection of technology and politics. He discusses how the FCC, under Brendan Carr, may push forward Trump-era policies that target free speech and content moderation. FitzGerald also addresses Meta’s controversial dismantling of DEI programs and how new political shifts could shape the landscape of media regulation. The conversation highlights the implications for internet users and the evolving role of regulatory bodies in the tech realm.
10 snips
Jan 10, 2025 • 25min
Will the Supreme Court Save TikTok?
Emily Baker White, a Forbes tech reporter and TikTok expert, dives into the heated debate over the app's future in the U.S. She discusses the Supreme Court's consideration of TikTok's national security implications and the challenges surrounding free speech rights. Emily highlights the political dynamics at play, including the intricate relationship between government regulation and social media influence. As she navigates potential outcomes like a TikTok ban or sale, she underscores the platform's immense popularity and the stakes for millions of users.
11 snips
Jan 9, 2025 • 23min
Greenland’s a Distraction
Chris Murphy, a U.S. Senator from Connecticut known for his commitment to democracy, delves into the challenges facing American political discourse. He discusses the alarming trend of appointing loyalists to key positions and the implications for civil liberties. The conversation highlights media influence on politics, including social media's role in fact-checking. Murphy also emphasizes the importance of scientific expertise in public health amidst controversial appointments, underscoring the pressing need for Democrats to confront these issues directly.
Jan 8, 2025 • 26min
Blake Lively Vs. Hollywood
Heather Schwedel, a culture staff writer at Slate, dives into the tangled web of Blake Lively's public image and her latest legal issues with Justin Baldoni regarding the film 'It Ends With Us.' The discussion covers the controversies surrounding their promotional tactics and the shifting narrative of domestic violence in cinema. Schwedel also illuminates Baldoni's evolution as a feminist advocate and critiques the dark side of public relations tactics in celebrity culture. The conversation sheds light on how these dynamics shape perceptions in Hollywood.
Jan 7, 2025 • 26min
Justin Trudeau Steps Down
Jesse Brown, editor and publisher of Canadaland, dives into the implications of Justin Trudeau's surprising resignation after nine years as Prime Minister. He discusses how this move reflects a shift in global political trends and contrasts Trudeau's legacy with that of other leaders like Obama and Trump. Brown highlights the challenges Trudeau faced, including declining popularity due to scandals and the pandemic. He also examines the political landscape's evolution, particularly the impact of Chrystia Freeland's departure and rising conservative sentiments.
Jan 6, 2025 • 26min
Is ISIS Back? Or Did It Never Leave?
Colin P. Clarke, Director of Research at The Soufan Group and author of "After the Caliphate," delves into the evolving threat of ISIS. He discusses how ISIS has maintained influence even without a physical caliphate, using decentralized tactics to inspire attacks worldwide. Clarke highlights the complexities of counteracting these threats, exploring a recent ISIS-linked attack in New Orleans and the connections to personal struggles within radical ideologies. The conversation also touches on the importance of U.S. military presence in Syria for intelligence gathering.
