

What Next | Daily News and Analysis
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 21, 2024 • 24min
TBD | The Conspiracy Theory Election
Tech reporter Drew Harwell from the Washington Post discusses the proliferation of conspiracy theories after significant events, the role of social media in politics, and how powerful individuals amplify false narratives. The influence of conspiracy theories in modern media and challenges in navigating a landscape where misinformation spreads online.

Jul 19, 2024 • 33min
TBD | America’s Tech Trustbuster
Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter discusses antitrust laws and tech giants like Google, Apple. Topics include market manipulation, AI ethics, competition, pricing, and regulation. Kanter emphasizes the importance of fair competition, innovation, and diversity in the tech industry.

Jul 18, 2024 • 31min
What Republicans Really Want
Paul Farrow, County executive for Waukesha County, talks about the changing GOP priorities, shifting from fiscal conservatism to newer issues like border security and unity. Insights into internal party divisions, evolving principles, and reflections on the aftermath of the 2020 election in Wisconsin. Discussion on election preparation, voter engagement, and the challenges of achieving bipartisan cooperation in politics.

Jul 17, 2024 • 32min
How to End One-Party Rule
Ari Berman, voting rights correspondent, discusses how Wisconsin exemplifies one-party rule tactics like gerrymandering. They explore the impact of fake electors, Supreme Court dynamics, and the role of progressive justice in combating minority rule. Wisconsin's influence on national elections and the GOP's strategy are also analyzed.

Jul 16, 2024 • 26min
J.D. Vance: You're Hired
Yale Law School grad and former Marine J.D. Vance is Trump's running mate after being a critic. Vance's hardline policies and shift in views discussed. Evolution of Vance's political persona and alliances, potential role as front runner in the Republican Party.

Jul 15, 2024 • 31min
After the Trump Assassination Attempt
National political reporter for The Washington Post, Isaac Arnsdorf, and staff writer at The Atlantic, David Graham, discuss the recent assassination attempt on former president Donald Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania. They explore the lack of motivation behind the attack and the rising political violence in the country. The podcast sheds light on the aftermath of the incident, the potential impact on the presidential campaign, and the implications of political violence on democracy. The conversation also delves into responsible discourse and the need for unity amongst Americans in the face of escalating tensions.

Jul 14, 2024 • 23min
TBD | The New World of DIY Medical Tests
Elizabeth Dwoskin, Reporter for the Washington Post, discusses the booming industry of at-home medical testing and the implications of DIY medical tests on traditional healthcare providers. The podcast explores the rise of self-administered tests for cancer detection, empowerment through DIY tests, and the blurred line between medical and wellness tests.

Jul 12, 2024 • 25min
TBD | Boeing Pleads Guilty
Aviation reporter Oriana Pawlyk discusses Boeing's guilty plea for defrauding the government and the impact on the company's reputation. Topics include safety lapses, AI in HR, MCAS software controversy, assembly practices, industry implications, and impacts on suppliers and the public.

Jul 11, 2024 • 25min
How to Survive This Heat
Adam Clark Estes, a senior technology correspondent at Vox, discusses the necessity of air-conditioning and the controversy over raising thermostats above 72 degrees. The podcast explores the impact of climate change on heat-related deaths, efficient ways to stay cool beyond AC, and misconceptions about cooling methods.

Jul 10, 2024 • 27min
This Congressman Wants Biden to Drop Out
Rep. Mike Quigley from Illinois challenges Biden as the nominee, raising concerns among Democrats. They discuss potential chaos at the convention, implications of Biden dropping out, and the impact on the election. The urgency for party decisions, activism against discrimination, and analysis of campaign challenges are also covered.