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
Jan 30, 2024 • 28min
Inside America’s First Execution By Nitrogen
Rev. Jeff Hood, an anti-death penalty activist, discusses the controversial execution of Kenneth Smith using nitrogen gas in Alabama and shares his experiences supporting inmates during executions. The episode explores the physical reactions of the inmate, concerns raised by the United Nations, and the public debate surrounding the execution. It also emphasizes the importance of compassion and love towards all individuals involved in the process.
Jan 29, 2024 • 30min
Are Two States Still the Solution?
Dov Waxman, professor of political science, discusses the declining support for a two-state solution between Israelis and Palestinians. The podcast explores alternative solutions, the establishment of Israel, and the decline of public support. The speaker emphasizes the need for new approaches to resolve the conflict.
Jan 28, 2024 • 23min
TBD | Why Is Everybody Sick?
Keren Landman, senior health reporter at Vox, discusses the increase in illnesses post-pandemic and whether it's due to perception or actual prevalence. She explores the prevalence of cold and flu viruses before and during COVID-19, the impact of reduced immunologic guard, and unresolved issues in healthcare policies contributing to widespread illness.
Jan 26, 2024 • 26min
TBD | Are You Ready for the A.I. Election?
Guest: Makena Kelly, senior writer at Wired covering politics and technology. Fake robocalls impersonating Joe Biden in New Hampshire primary raise concerns about AI-generated disinformation during the upcoming election. Discussion on the challenges of identifying real and fake information, regulating AI in politics, and the use of watermarks to monitor AI content. Exploring the impact of AI on spreading fake information and manipulating audio clips.
Jan 25, 2024 • 28min
Biden Needs Abortion
Grace Panetta, political reporter at The 19th News discusses how Democrats can ride the abortion issue to a second Biden term. The chapter explores President Biden's history and evolving views on abortion, his changing stance on the Hyde Amendment, and the potential impact of his views on abortion rights. It also examines strategies to persuade voters about changing the reality on the ground and analyzes how abortion shapes the electoral landscape for the upcoming 2024 race.
Jan 24, 2024 • 24min
Trump’s Courtroom Campaign
Isaac Arnsdorf, national political reporter for The Washington Post, discusses how Donald Trump has turned his court appearances into a powerful campaign tool, rallying Republicans to his defense. They analyze the impact of the indictments on Trump's campaign and the lack of political consequences he has faced. The tension between effective legal strategies and political appeal in Trump's campaign is explored.
Jan 23, 2024 • 26min
Are We at War in the Middle East?
Josh Keating, senior correspondent at Vox, discusses the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, the spillover of violence, the role of Iran's allies, the impact of Houthis' control over the Red Sea, the effectiveness of airstrikes, changing dynamics and increasing hostility, and the recent escalation of conflict in the Middle East.
Jan 22, 2024 • 23min
The Fall of Ron DeSantis
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis squandered his lead in the presidential race, while Trump secures the Republican nomination. The podcast explores DeSantis' campaign strategy, his declining popularity, and Trump's indictment. It also discusses the challenges faced by anti-Trump Republicans and the potential return of independent voters to support Biden.
Jan 21, 2024 • 36min
TBD | Have Algorithms Ruined Our Culture?
Kyle Chayka, staff writer at the New Yorker, discusses how algorithms shape our lives and culture. He explores the phenomenon of 'airspace' design, the rise of viral aesthetics on social media, and algorithmic anxiety. Chayka also discusses the transient nature of internet culture and the desire for change in digital platforms.
Jan 19, 2024 • 28min
TBD | The Great British Library Hack
Guest Sam Knight, staff writer at the New Yorker discusses the cyberattack on the British Library and its aftermath, highlighting the vulnerability of our systems and society. They explore the motives behind the attack, the library's decision not to pay ransom, and the need for organizations to be prepared for emergencies. Reflecting on the event, they emphasize the importance of understanding and learning from such attacks to prevent future incidents.
