
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

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.

May 29, 2024 • 33min
The View from Israel
Guest Tamar Harrel-Santis, an Israeli combat reservist, shares her perspective on the Gaza war, exploring personal reflections, challenges in communication, commitment to duty, and the emotional toll of witnessing tragedies. The podcast delves into the multifaceted perspectives on the conflict in Israel, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding amidst ongoing warfare.

May 28, 2024 • 27min
The Death of Bidenomics
Annie Lowery from the Atlantic discusses Bidenomics in the post-pandemic economy, tackling inflation and unemployment. Despite rising wages and purchasing power, voters feel the economy is struggling. Is it a messaging issue for Biden or the challenge of running an economy where prices still seem too high?

May 27, 2024 • 50min
Slow Burn: A Hotbed of Homosexuality
Explore the 1970s rise of San Francisco as a gay hub in the US, alongside a Florida politician's campaign against LGBTQ rights. Dive into the challenges and activism of the Gay Teachers Coalition, the Briggs Initiative, and the fight for gay rights in San Francisco. Discover liberation and the high-stakes campaign for LGBTQ+ rights in California.

May 26, 2024 • 24min
TBD | Why Hospitals Keep Getting Hacked
Dina Carlisle, President of the local nurses union, and Justin Sherman, CEO of Global Cyber Strategies, discuss the increasing healthcare hacks, with a focus on the $22 billion ransom paid by a subsidiary of United Healthcare. They explore the vulnerability of hospitals to cyber attacks and the lack of preparedness in the face of escalating threats.

May 24, 2024 • 27min
TBD | Scarlett Johansson vs OpenAI
Sigal Samuel, a senior reporter for Vox's Future Perfect, discusses the implications of OpenAI's latest ChatGPT demo resembling Scarlett Johansson's voice. They delve into the ethical concerns of intellectual property, human likeness, and potential legal disputes over unauthorized use of identities by AI technology.

May 23, 2024 • 31min
Diddy’s Reckoning
Reporter Sidney Madden discusses the evolving public perception of Diddy after surveillance footage of him assaulting Cassie emerged. The podcast delves into Diddy's rise to fame, the abuse allegations against him, his public response to the video, and the consequences for his business relationships. Comparisons to other accused celebrities are also made, sparking conversations about accountability in the hip hop industry.

May 22, 2024 • 26min
Does Netanyahu Have an Exit Strategy?
Yair Rosenberg, staff writer at The Atlantic, delves into Netanyahu's post-war plans in Gaza, ICC charges against Israeli leaders, and the impact of Iran's political turmoil on Hamas. The podcast explores internal conflicts in Israel's government and the mounting pressures faced by Israeli leaders.

May 21, 2024 • 27min
Is Killing a Protester Still a Crime?
Christopher Hooks, a contributing editor at Texas Monthly, discusses the controversial case of Daniel Perry, a man pardoned by Texas Governor Greg Abbott for killing a protester at a Black Lives Matter demonstration. They explore self-defense claims, gun laws, and political implications, comparing this case to Kyle Rittenhouse's. The podcast delves into state violence, protest crackdowns, and societal reactions to such incidents.

May 20, 2024 • 27min
What Are Presidential Debates For?
Alan Schroeder discusses the significance of presidential debates, the historical struggles of candidates in unscripted situations, the evolution and challenges of debates, the impact of live audiences and corporate sponsorship, the strategic decisions of Trump and Biden, and fact-checking challenges in live debates.