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
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.
May 19, 2024 • 32min
TBD | The Dark Side of GoFundMe
Nora Kenworthy, author and professor, discusses the drawbacks of healthcare crowdfunding, including inequality and lack of success. They explore the evolution of crowdfunding post-financial crisis and its impact on healthcare. The podcast delves into the complexities of GoFundMe campaigns, including inequalities and technological influences, highlighting the ethical dilemmas and unintended consequences faced by campaigners.
May 17, 2024 • 25min
TBD | Too Stonks Too Furious
Guest Alex Kirshner, a contributing writer for Slate, discusses the impact of meme stocks on the market and how the Gamestop stock frenzy has changed stock market dynamics. The podcast explores the rise of meme stocks, the role of retail investors in market movements, and the evolving trends in stock trading amidst changing dynamics.
May 16, 2024 • 29min
Why Miss USA is Imploding
Guest Constance Grady, senior Culture correspondent for Vox, discusses the recent resignations in the Miss USA organization, raising questions about the relevance of national pageants and the emphasis on appearance over talent. The podcast delves into the controversies, allegations of bullying and harassment, and the organization's dismissive response to the turmoil, shedding light on the troubled history of Miss USA.
May 15, 2024 • 28min
Can Fox News Still Sway an Election?
Slate correspondent Justin Peters discusses Fox News' influence in elections, the network's manipulation tactics, and its future amidst competition and legal challenges. They explore the network's role in the 2024 election and the impact of its coverage on Donald Trump's presidency.
May 14, 2024 • 26min
The Fight for Joe Manchin’s Seat
Zach Shrewsbury, a Democratic primary candidate for U.S. Senate in West Virginia, discusses his progressive campaign focusing on issues like extraction state exploitation, healthcare, alternative energy, and reproductive rights. He challenges the status quo in coal country, honors John Brown's activism, promotes economic transition to clean energy jobs, and aims to appeal to a diverse range of voters by offering a fresh perspective in the political landscape.
