

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

Feb 26, 2024 • 25min
Will Trump Take Over the RNC?
The podcast discusses the financial struggles and leadership dynamics within the Republican National Committee, focusing on the criticisms faced by RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel. It explores potential successors endorsed by Trump and contemplates a potential Trump takeover, hinting at a transformation of the Republican Party under Trump's influence.

Feb 25, 2024 • 28min
TBD | Alabama’s IVF Mess
Fertility doctors in Alabama face uncertainty as embryos are granted same rights as people, affecting IVF procedures nationwide. Legal challenges, implications of multiple embryos, and concerns over impact of state laws on fertility care are explored.

Feb 23, 2024 • 20min
TBD | The Coasts are Sinking
Exploring how America's East Coast is sinking due to climate change and the implications for cities like New York and D.C. Discussing the risks posed to critical infrastructure like airport runways and roads. Highlighting the challenges of climate change on aquifers and the need for sustainable water management. Delving into innovative water management strategies in cities like Los Angeles to combat rising sea levels. Examining innovative urban solutions like rooftop gardens and wastewater recycling to address sinking coastlines.

Feb 22, 2024 • 21min
The Basketball Phenom Shaking Up the NCAA
A look into Caitlin Clark's record-breaking basketball career and her influence on women's college basketball. Exploring her remarkable skills, impact as a role model, financial success, and the growth of women's basketball.

Feb 21, 2024 • 24min
Why a Hi-Tech Gun Safety Tool Isn’t Working
Investigations editor Jim Daley discusses the failed partnership between Chicago and Shotspotter, questioning the effectiveness of new policing tech. They explore the controversy surrounding ShotSpotter alerts, questionable deaths, and the potential impact of canceling the hi-tech gun safety tool in Chicago.

Feb 20, 2024 • 26min
Who’s Left to Help Migrants?
Pastor Keith Reeser from Denver Friends Church discusses helping migrants in Denver amid the lack of federal aid. He shares stories of providing shelter, meals, and support to migrant families, highlighting the challenges they face. The podcast explores the struggles of migrants seeking a better life, the role of churches in assisting them, and the community's compassion in times of need.

Feb 19, 2024 • 24min
Alexei Navalny Is Dead. Is His Movement Gone With Him?
Joshua Yaffa discusses the aftermath of Alexei Navalny's death in a Russian prison, analyzing the impact on the pro-democracy movement. They delve into Navalny's legacy, courage in returning to Russia, harsh prison conditions, and how he empowered Russians to challenge Putin.

Feb 18, 2024 • 29min
TBD | Apple Vision Pro: The Ultimate Surveillance Device?
Geoffrey Fowler, Washington Post tech columnist, discusses Apple Vision Pro goggles, highlighting privacy concerns with data collection on users and surroundings. Topics include detailed tracking capabilities, privacy issues, comparison to Google Glass, and ethical implications of consent.

Feb 16, 2024 • 28min
TBD | Warfare Enters the A.I. Era
Vera Bergengruen, senior correspondent at Time, discusses Ukraine's tech industry, which has shifted focus towards military tech. The podcast explores AI in warfare, collaboration between tech companies and Ukraine's government, and the implications of facial recognition technology in the country.

Feb 15, 2024 • 25min
The Attack on Rafah
Ahmed Fowad-Alpha-Tibb shares experiences of staying connected to Gaza. Life in Gaza, displacement, and constant fear. Muhammad's harrowing experiences during Israeli ground invasion. The impact of warning bombings on civilians in Gaza City. Skepticism towards Israeli government's plan for relocation. The role of international NGOs in aiding civilians in Gaza. The importance of a negotiated settlement and a long-term ceasefire.