What Next
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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 9, 2024 • 20min
Google’s a Monopoly. What About The Rest?
Leah Nylen, an antitrust reporter at Bloomberg, dives into the significant antitrust ruling against Google, labeling it an illegal monopoly. She discusses the broader implications for other tech giants and explores Google's advertising power and exclusive agreements with firms like Apple. The conversation sheds light on ongoing legal battles and competitors' struggles in a Google-centric market. Additionally, Nylen touches on government antitrust strategies and rising consumer frustrations toward big tech, blending insights on potential remedies and the future landscape of monopolies.
Aug 8, 2024 • 26min
The Olympics Meet the Culture Wars
Rose Eveleth, a reporter and host of NPR and CBC’s podcast Tested, dives into the heated intersection of sports and culture. She examines how two women boxers became focal points in the trans debate leading up to the Paris 2024 Olympics. The conversation touches on the dark history of gender testing, the emotional toll on athletes, and the role of AI in recruitment. Listeners will find a gripping analysis of fairness, identity, and the political battles shaping women's sports today.
Aug 7, 2024 • 25min
Why It Had to Be Walz
In this discussion, David Faris, an associate professor of political science and author, dives into the surprising rise of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. He examines Walz’s journey from a geography teacher to a pivotal figure in the upcoming 2024 race and discusses the strategic dynamics of selecting a vice presidential candidate. The conversation highlights challenges facing rivals like Josh Shapiro and the importance of appealing to working-class voters. Faris also unpacks the complexities of political scandals and their impact on candidate selection.
Aug 6, 2024 • 25min
How Trump Got Ice Cube
Ice Cube, once a politically charged musician, joins Joel Anderson, a Slate writer and Slow Burn host, to discuss his unexpected political journey. They explore Ice Cube's controversial endorsements and the complex relationship with Donald Trump. The conversation touches on the influence of celebrity in politics, the nuances of black empowerment, and the challenges facing Black male voters. They also reflect on how Ice Cube’s music shaped personal identities and the tensions between artistic integrity and political beliefs in today's climate.
Aug 5, 2024 • 23min
Project 2025 Isn't Dead, It's Born Again
In this insightful discussion, Sam Adler-Bell, host of the Know Your Enemy podcast, delves into the resurgence of Project 2025, an initiative by the Heritage Foundation aimed at grooming conservatives for governance. He analyzes the controversial proposals regarding child labor laws and education reforms. The conversation also touches on Trump's complex relationship with the project, its implications for a potential second term, and the challenges of managing his authoritative style amidst political upheaval. A thought-provoking look at a crucial aspect of conservative strategy!
7 snips
Aug 4, 2024 • 23min
If They Can Get Sydney Sweeney They Can Get You
Joseph Cox, an investigative reporter and cofounder of 404 Media, dives into the shocking details of a massive telecom hack that compromised AT&T’s customers and targeted celebrity Sydney Sweeney. He discusses the alarming ease with which hackers can manipulate telecom security to access personal data, shedding light on the vulnerabilities of the SS7 network. The conversation includes practical advice for listeners on safeguarding their mobile security and highlights the pressing need for tighter regulations in an age of rampant data breaches.
Aug 2, 2024 • 25min
A Word: “Momala” and “Papa Bear”
Doug Emhoff, America's first Second Gentleman and a passionate attorney, shares candid insights into life in the political spotlight alongside Vice President Kamala Harris. He discusses the emotional toll of public criticism and the fight against anti-Semitism, emphasizing the need for unity in divisive times. Their journey as an interracial couple navigating fame and civic duty reveals the delicate balance between personal life and campaign demands, spiced with humorous anecdotes about maintaining relationships amid political chaos.
Aug 2, 2024 • 23min
Why Are More Young People Getting Cancer?
Dylan Scott, a senior correspondent and editor for Vox, dives into the concerning trend of rising cancer rates among younger people. He discusses the need to update screening age guidelines and highlights promising innovations like the FDA-approved Shield Blood Test. Scott addresses the limitations of traditional methods like colonoscopy and the crucial role of diet and environmental factors in this alarming shift. The conversation emphasizes the importance of awareness and accessible detection options for a healthier future.
Aug 1, 2024 • 24min
Israel Targets Hamas in Iran. Now What?
In this discussion, Joshua Keating, a senior correspondent at Vox, delves into escalating tensions between Israel and Hamas amid the ongoing Gaza conflict. He reflects on the implications of military actions and the assassination of key Hamas leaders in Iran. Keating examines the delicate balance of regional politics and the potential for a broader war involving Hezbollah. The conversation highlights Israel's internal challenges and the humanitarian crisis, while considering U.S. involvement in this volatile landscape.
Jul 31, 2024 • 23min
America’s Avocados; Mexico’s Problem.
In this engaging conversation, Alex Sammon, a politics writer at Slate, dives into the explosive rise of avocado consumption in the U.S. and its profound effects on Mexico. He highlights how aggressive marketing transformed the avocado into a superfood while revealing dark undercurrents like environmental destruction and violence linked to organized crime. Sammon also shares stories of community resilience, detailing how local people banded together to protect their resources from exploitative practices, emphasizing the dire need for sustainable consumption in the avocado industry.
