

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

Mar 8, 2024 • 23min
TBD | Why TikTok Went Silent
Exploring the disappearance of music from TikTok due to a contract dispute with UMG, impacting artists like Cody. Delving into how viral trends on TikTok revolutionized music promotion, with a focus on 'Old Town Road'. Discussing the clash between TikTok and UMG over music usage fees and the implications for the music industry.

Mar 7, 2024 • 26min
Rep Jayapal Says the Biden Coalition is 'Fractured'
The podcast discusses Biden's challenges with progressives, the State of the Union address, and the fractures within the Biden coalition. Representative Jayapal shares insights on progressive concerns, the call for ceasefire in Israel, Democratic stance on immigration reform, and navigating immigration negotiations in a divided political landscape.

Mar 6, 2024 • 27min
Can Gaza Survive on Airdropped Aid?
Exploring the challenges and emotional conflicts of airdropping aid into Gaza, disparity in refugee aid, obstacles in aid delivery amid misconceptions, and Israel's influence on aid distribution in the region.

Mar 5, 2024 • 27min
Why Adam Schiff Is Running Ads for a Republican
Exploring the rise of Steve Garvey, a baseball player running for Senate in California, and how Adam Schiff's strategic support for a Republican candidate is shaking up the political landscape in the state. The podcast dives into the dynamics of the Democratic Party and the challenges faced by young progressives in California's political scene.

Mar 4, 2024 • 27min
Florida's Anti-Vaxxers Won. Then the Measles Surged.
Exploring the resurgence of measles in Florida post-pandemic due to anti-vaccine sentiments. Discussion on the controversial views of Florida's State Surgeon General and their impact on public health. Analyzing the influence of conservative ideas on vaccination rates and the challenges faced by officials amidst the rise in preventable childhood diseases.

Mar 3, 2024 • 29min
TBD | Google’s Scam Obituary Problem
Discover the alarming rise of scam obituaries, fueled by AI and Google search manipulation. Uncover the emotional turmoil caused by false death reports and the shady practices of obituary scraping websites. Explore the deceptive world of obituary pirating on YouTube and the challenges faced by individuals battling fake obituaries.

Mar 1, 2024 • 29min
TBD | The Supreme Court Takes on Content Moderation
The podcast delves into the debate on whether social media content moderation is censorship, with a focus on state laws vs. freedom of speech. It explores the Supreme Court's role in shaping tech platforms' policies and the conflict between tech giants and state regulations. The surprising criticism from conservative justices on content moderation and its implications on online discourse are also discussed.

5 snips
Feb 29, 2024 • 27min
Biden’s Commitment Problem
Exploring the lack of enthusiasm for Biden and Trump in the Michigan primaries, the challenges for both candidates to win over voters are discussed. The podcast also looks at young voters' influence, coalition challenges, and the hurdles Democrats and Republicans face in the upcoming election.

Feb 28, 2024 • 28min
What Happened to Nex Benedict?
The podcast explores the tragic death of Nex Benedict, a non-binary teen, highlighting the legislative actions targeting queer and trans people in Oklahoma. It delves into the fluidity of gender identity, the impact of bullying, and the conflicting messages surrounding Nex's demise. The episode sheds light on the need for sensitivity in discussing LGBTQ issues and the struggles faced by queer students in Oklahoma schools.

Feb 27, 2024 • 22min
War in Ukraine, Two Years In
Exploring the ongoing war in Ukraine, the role of American and EU allies, military strategies, changing dynamics of American aid, political negotiations, global implications of the Ukraine-Russia conflict, and US involvement in shaping the outcome.