
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

Apr 4, 2024 • 25min
How Much Longer Can Netanyahu Hold On?
Yair Rosenberg, staff writer for The Atlantic, discusses how Israel's ultra-Orthodox military exemption could impact Netanyahu's power. The IDF's need for manpower in a two-front war highlights political tensions and coalition dynamics in Israel.

Apr 3, 2024 • 27min
How Gambling Took Over Sports
Jay Caspian Kang, staff writer for The New Yorker, discusses the intertwining of sports and gambling, exploring recent scandals and the impact of widespread legalization. Topics include the evolution of sports betting, the intersection of betting and Major League sports, and the concerns surrounding app-based betting.

Apr 2, 2024 • 25min
How a Democrat Flipped a Seat in Alabama
Marilyn Lands, Alabama lawmaker, won a special election in a deeply red state. She discusses how she secured an unexpected win by focusing on reproductive rights. Personal stories of difficult pregnancies and abortion access intertwined with political campaigning. Lands' victory highlights the importance of diverse and inclusive political approaches in historically Republican strongholds.

Apr 1, 2024 • 28min
The Group Behind Christian Conservatives’ Winning Streak
David Kirkpatrick, a staff writer for The New Yorker, discusses the Alliance Defending Freedom and their efforts in pushing for more restrictions on the abortion pill. They delve into the group's goals, legal victories, and impact on conservative Christian values in key Supreme Court cases.

Mar 31, 2024 • 25min
TBD | The Psychological Toll of Mars
Nathaniel Rich and Kate Greene discuss the psychological toll of Mars missions, exploring the challenges of isolation, emotional landscapes, and the daunting realities of living on Mars. They question if Earthlings are mentally prepared for life on the red planet.

Mar 29, 2024 • 31min
TBD | Can Boeing Pull Out of This Tailspin?
Jon Ostrower, Editor-in-chief of the website the Air Current, discusses how supply chains, the pandemic, and Wall Street money led to a crisis at Boeing. The podcast explores leadership challenges, trust issues, and the impact on safety and quality. It delves into Boeing's document dilemma, FAA oversight, and the importance of strong leadership in rebuilding trust.

Mar 28, 2024 • 29min
Nickelodeon’s Legacy of Abuse
Guest Kate Taylor, reporter for Business Insider, discusses the culture of abuse within Nickelodeon, including underpaid women writers, harassment, and recent sexual abuse allegations. Former child actors share stories of a toxic environment. The podcast explores misconduct, abuse, and troubling history of predators at Nickelodeon, including producer Dan Schneider's inappropriate behavior towards young actors.

Mar 27, 2024 • 25min
Will Islamophobia Sink This Judicial Nomination?
Reporter Nate Raymond discusses the contentious Senate confirmation hearing of Adeel Mangi for the Third Circuit Court of Appeals, where Republican lawmakers focused on Islamophobia. The episode highlights the challenges faced by judicial nominees, partisan maneuvering in confirmations, and the dilemma of filling judicial vacancies in the Biden administration.

Mar 26, 2024 • 25min
Has Trump Run Out the Clock?
Jeremy Stahl, Slate’s jurisprudence editor discusses Trump's legal tactics, delays in trials, and challenges faced by prosecutors. The podcast delves into the complexities of criminal cases, evidence disputes, and potential ramifications for Trump's political future.

Mar 25, 2024 • 27min
After the Moscow Concert Attack
A concert near Moscow was attacked by ISIS, leading to Putin seizing the crisis. There is discord on who to blame between US, Russian officials, and ISIS. Putin accuses Ukraine and the blame game escalates, impacting Putin's leadership in Russia.