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
9 snips
Jun 27, 2025 • 24min
TBD | The Other Iran-Israel War
Maggie Miller, a cybersecurity reporter from POLITICO, dives into the escalating cyber warfare between Iran and Israel. She discusses the recent cyber attack on Iran's Bank Zipa and the chaos unleashed by pro-Israeli hackers. The conversation reveals Israel's advanced cybersecurity tactics and Iran's strategic use of cyber attacks for political messaging. Miller also explores the blurry line between cyber warfare and psychological tactics, and the implications for international relations, especially amid U.S. and Russian involvement.
24 snips
Jun 26, 2025 • 31min
Zohran Mamdani’s Former Boss Weighs In
In this discussion, Ross Barkan, a contributing writer for the New York Times Magazine and editor of The Metropolitan Review, dives into the surprising political rise of Zohran Mamdani. He discusses Mamdani's unique strategies that galvanized first-time voters and united diverse communities. Barkan contrasts his campaign style with that of more traditional candidates, unpacking the impact of ranked-choice voting. The chat also navigates the realistic challenges Mamdani faces in governance versus his ambitious promises, revealing the complexities of change within the political landscape.
8 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 29min
Even This Senator Had No Warning About Iran
Mark Warner, Democratic Senator from Virginia and Vice Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, expresses frustration over Congress being blindsided by military actions against Iran. He discusses the significant intelligence gaps that left lawmakers unprepared for the bombings and unravels the complexities of U.S.-Iran relations. Warner highlights the critical need for better communication regarding national security and outlines the geopolitical implications of military actions, including concerns over nuclear proliferation and legislative hurdles in foreign policy.
6 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 29min
The Lawsuit Scaring Protesters
Independent investigative reporter Alleen Brown, an expert on the Standing Rock protests, dives into the recent monumental ruling that found Greenpeace liable for over $660 million connected to the Dakota Access pipeline protests. She highlights the broader implications of using legal tactics to intimidate activists and discusses the persistent surveillance and suppression faced by protesters. Brown reveals how these legal battles threaten environmental advocacy and explores the precarious balance of activism in today's political climate.
27 snips
Jun 23, 2025 • 30min
Trump Bombed Iran. Are We at War?
In this engaging discussion, Gregory Gause, a Middle East expert, and David Faris, a political science professor, analyze the recent U.S. military strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. They delve into the escalating tension in U.S.-Iran relations and the potential impacts on nuclear development. Key topics include the motivations behind the strikes, the influence of Israeli leadership on U.S. policy, and the political ramifications of these actions. They also explore public sentiment and the complexities of the War Powers Act in shaping presidential military authority.
29 snips
Jun 22, 2025 • 26min
TBD | Airlines Are Selling Your Data to the Government
Joseph Cox, co-founder of 404 Media, discusses the alarming practice of airlines selling passenger flight data to Customs and Border Protection. He reveals how data brokers like the Airlines Reporting Corporation operate under secrecy, allowing government agencies access without transparency. The conversation highlights rising privacy concerns, the ethical dilemmas of data usage in law enforcement, and the urgent need for comprehensive federal privacy legislation. Listeners learn tips to protect their personal data when booking flights.
Jun 20, 2025 • 5min
Bonus: The All New Electric … Hummer?
The electric Hummer takes center stage as a symbol of America’s shifting car culture. A test drive reveals its impressive tech and raises questions about its true target audience. Discussions delve into safety concerns due to its towering size and rapid acceleration, while reflecting on broader trends in vehicle preferences. The cultural significance of this electrified giant highlights the intersection of traditional power and modern environmental consciousness.
18 snips
Jun 20, 2025 • 30min
TBD | We Deport. You Laugh?
Drew Harwell, a tech reporter at The Washington Post, sheds light on the disturbing intersection of humor, memes, and immigration policies in the Trump administration. He discusses how government agencies like Homeland Security have employed grotesque humor to communicate about deportations, igniting both mockery and serious critiques. Harwell analyzes the impact of dehumanizing meme strategies and their role in shaping nationalistic sentiments, revealing uncomfortable truths about modern propaganda and public reaction to immigration policies.
8 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 1h 1min
Mighty Real Edition
The podcast dives into the vibrant history of LGBTQ musicians, exploring icons like Little Richard, Freddie Mercury, and Sylvester. It highlights their bold artistry and struggles with identity, paving the way for today’s openly queer stars. The discussion captures the evolution of representation in music, celebrating trailblazers who shaped genres while navigating societal challenges. You'll hear about the disco era's influence and personal stories that reflect the intersection of music and sexual identity, making for a powerful tribute to queer culture.
14 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 30min
Kristi Noem Understands the Assignment
Seth Tupper, Editor-in-Chief of the South Dakota Searchlight, and Ahilan Arulanantham, Co-Director of the Center for Immigration Law and Policy, dive into Kristi Noem's swift rise to power and her controversial role in immigration enforcement. They discuss her actions during protests and the impact on migrants facing deportation. Tupper shares insights from Noem’s political journey, while Arulanantham discusses ongoing legal battles against the Trump administration's policies. Together, they unravel the complexities of power dynamics within the Department of Homeland Security.
