What Next

In a compelling discussion, Constance Grady, Senior Culture correspondent for Vox, sheds light on the chaos engulfing the Miss USA pageant. With recent resignations echoing claims of being 'silenced,' she unpacks allegations of bullying and a toxic environment. The conversation explores whether such pageants still hold relevance in today's culture and the troubling implications of non-disclosure agreements imposed on winners. Grady’s insights challenge the notion of empowerment within such organizations amidst scandal and turmoil.

Jamie Ducharme, a health correspondent at Time and author of *Big Vape: The Incendiary Rise of Juul*, dives into the tumultuous journey of JUUL in the ever-changing vaping landscape. She unpacks the FDA's seesawing regulations that have kept JUUL in a state of uncertainty. The discussion reveals JUUL's past appeal to teenagers and ongoing challenges amid rising health concerns. Ducharme also explores the implications of recent regulatory reversals and the emerging competition from unregulated disposable e-cigarettes.

Joined by Madison Malone Kircher, a reporter from The New York Times specializing in internet culture, the discussion dives into the complex world of MrBeast. They explore his meteoric rise as a YouTube sensation and the tension between philanthropy and controversy. Kircher highlights the chaotic nature of MrBeast's reality show, the serious ethical questions surrounding his production practices, and the impact of his extravagant content on societal issues like healthcare. It's a fascinating examination of fame, morality, and the price of success in the digital age.

One influencer working for Amazon sued another influencer who works for Amazon for creating content that looks too similar to theirs. But with how the algorithms work and reward, was this an inevitability? What does this mean for the economics of the influencer position?Guest: Mia Sato, reporter covering platforms and communities for The Verge.Want more What Next TBD? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One influencer working for Amazon sued another influencer who works for Amazon for creating content that looks too similar to theirs. But with how the algorithms work and reward, was this an inevitability? What does this mean for the economics of the influencer position?Guest: Mia Sato, reporter covering platforms and communities for The Verge.Want more What Next TBD? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For a very special holiday edition of What Next, Mary chats with Death Sex & Money host Anna Sale about the anthems they’ll be belting out the next time they do karaoke—and they take calls from colleagues and listeners about their own go-to barn-burners for this unsettled moment.You can find all these anthems (and more) on one Spotify playlist here https://tinyurl.com/whatnextkaraokeGuest: Anna Sale, host of Slate’s Death, Sex & MoneyTo hear the rest of this episode, subscribe to Slate Plus. You'll also access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen.Podcast production by Madeline Ducharme. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jon Ostrower, the Editor-in-chief of The Air Current with 17 years of aviation experience, dives into the recent surge of drone sightings in New Jersey, raising questions of mystery and public concern. The conversation covers the thin line between drones and UFOs, dissecting public panic and official responses. Advanced technology in drones, misconceptions about their purpose, and the growing complexities of airspace regulation are also explored. Ostrower discusses the impact of misinformation on public trust regarding aerial phenomena.

Molly Parker, an investigative reporter for Capitol News Illinois and ProPublica fellow, dives into the challenges of sustaining grocery stores in food deserts. She discusses the impactful opening of Rise Community Market in Cairo, Illinois, and its significance in alleviating local food scarcity. The conversation highlights the hurdles small grocers face against corporate giants like Walmart, the social implications of food access, and potential community solutions to support local businesses and foster well-being in underserved areas.

David Folkenflik, NPR's media correspondent, dives into the striking defamation settlement between ABC and Donald Trump. He explores how Trump's legal maneuvers shape media narratives, revealing unprecedented concessions from ABC, including funding for a presidential library. The conversation highlights the precarious relationship between the press and public figures, along with the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists. Folkenflik also discusses Trump's ongoing battles with the media and the implications for press freedom and accountability.

Chris Molanphy, a chart analyst and pop critic known for his insightful writings and his podcast Hit Parade, discusses Shaboozey's unprecedented rise in the country music scene. They explore how Shaboozey’s hit "A Bar Song (Tipsy)" has matched Lil Nas X’s record on the charts. The conversation delves into the cultural significance of blending hip-hop with country, Shaboozey’s bold identity, and the historical challenges faced by Black artists in the genre. They also reflect on humor and acceptance in the industry, showcasing Shaboozey's unique contributions.