What Next | Daily News and Analysis

E. Elena Songster, author and professor, discusses the uncertain future of panda diplomacy as we say goodbye to National Zoo's pandas. Explore the history of panda gifts, the shift to a rent-a-panda program, and the cost and complexities of loaner pandas. Discover the evolving dynamics between China and the United States in panda diplomacy.

David Gibson, Director of Fordham's Center on Religion & Culture, discusses the opposition to Pope Francis within the Catholic Church and the battle for the future direction of the church. Topics include Pope Francis' stance on homosexuality, the process of electing a new Pope, revelations of divided loyalties within the Vatican, and the power dynamics within the College of Cardinals.

Master of horror Stephen King discusses his confusion about Twitter's blue check verification process. Guests explore the implications of the process, including false indications of subscription and Elon Musk's management of Twitter.

Previewing the future of geopolitics, markets, and artificial intelligence in 2024. Uncertainty about a recession, impact of upcoming elections on global markets, and potential business opportunities for generative AI.

Patrick George, editor-in-chief of InsideEVs.com and contributor to The Atlantic and The Verge, discusses the challenges of transitioning from gas cars to fully electric cars, the rise of hybrid cars as a middle ground solution, the current market share and pricing of electric vehicles and hybrids, the benefits and challenges of hybrid cars, and the path to electric vehicle adoption.

Actor Jonathan Majors, dismissed from the franchise after being found guilty of reckless assault and harassment. The podcast explores Marvel's disastrous year, the controversy surrounding Majors, his legal troubles, and the impact on his career. It also discusses the declining quality of Marvel movies, the challenge of comebacks, and the longevity of the franchise's dominance.

A law professor discusses the charging of a woman with a felony after her miscarriage in Ohio. They explore the legal uncertainties surrounding miscarriages and how the anti-abortion movement may be using this case. The podcast also delves into the implications of ruling a fetus as a corpse and the isolation and danger the law poses for women in crisis.

Guest Michael Powell, from The Atlantic, discusses the recent changes at West Virginia University, focusing on practical majors that lead directly to a job. They explore the impact of these changes on the university and its students, as well as the debate around the value of a liberal arts degree. The podcast also delves into the challenges faced by state university systems in the US and the potential decline of these systems.

Amanda Mull, staff writer at The Atlantic, discusses the lack of transparency in retailers' return process. They explore the rise of online sales returns and the influence of Zappos. The podcast also delves into the handling and sorting of returned goods at return facilities, as well as the meticulous process for these products, including reselling, recycling, or destruction. It raises concerns about excessive landfill waste. Additional topics cover the detrimental effects of the consumer system on workers, the environment, and waste overconsumption. Tips for being a mindful online consumer are also shared.

David Zipper, a visiting Fellow at Harvard Kennedy School, discusses the fairness and societal implications of Clear, a luxury service that bypasses airport security lines. Topics include the involvement of Clear in security checks, class-based disparities in airline security, and the impact of government policies on trust and justice.