

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

7 snips
Jun 16, 2024 • 33min
TBD | The FBI Made a Phone Network. It Was A Trap.
Joseph Cox, investigative reporter for 404 media and author of “Dark Wire, the Incredible True Story of the Largest Sting Operation Ever,” discusses the FBI's success with the Anom encrypted phone service trap. Topics include the use of specialized encrypted devices by criminals, the FBI's international crime detection strategy, and the ethical considerations of the undercover phone network operation.

Jun 14, 2024 • 25min
TBD | Apple Goes Intelligent
Tech reporter Gerrit De Vynck discusses Apple's move into artificial intelligence. They explore Apple's dedication to privacy, the integration of AI into their devices, challenges faced by tech giants in AI implementation, and the potential impact on human-tech interaction. The episode also touches on Apple's strategies in generative AI and privacy concerns.

Jun 13, 2024 • 27min
She Met the Alitos—and Got Them on Tape
Journalist Lauren Windsor shares furtively recorded conversations with Justices John Roberts, Samuel Alito, and Alito's wife Martha-Ann, providing insights into their private discussions. The podcast explores the ethical dilemmas of obtaining these recordings and the impact on their ultimate goal. It delves into the challenges of undercover journalism and the importance of transparency in investigative reporting.

Jun 12, 2024 • 26min
Wait, Is JUUL Banned or Not?
Health correspondent Jamie Ducharme discusses the FDA's back-and-forth on JUUL ban, concerns about vaping safety, and the future of the e-cigarette industry amidst declining public health concerns. The episode highlights regulatory challenges, Juul's financial setbacks, and shifting consumer preferences, shedding light on the complexities of e-cigarette regulation and its impact on consumer health.

Jun 11, 2024 • 23min
Hunter Biden’s Judgment Day
Attorney Ankush Khardori discusses Hunter Biden's trial, addressing implications of his unique case, legal challenges, defense strategies, and the comparison with Donald Trump's legal battles. The podcast explores the complexities of addiction, personal choices, and potential sentencing outcomes amidst political influences.

Jun 10, 2024 • 27min
What’s Biden Doing with the Border?
Jonathan Blitzer, staff writer for the New Yorker, discusses Biden's restrictive border policies, contrasting them with his campaign promises. They dive into asylum-seekers' challenges, legal battles, and public perceptions of immigration policies.

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.