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
Jan 23, 2024 • 26min
Are We at War in the Middle East?
Josh Keating, senior correspondent at Vox, discusses the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, the spillover of violence, the role of Iran's allies, the impact of Houthis' control over the Red Sea, the effectiveness of airstrikes, changing dynamics and increasing hostility, and the recent escalation of conflict in the Middle East.
Jan 22, 2024 • 23min
The Fall of Ron DeSantis
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis squandered his lead in the presidential race, while Trump secures the Republican nomination. The podcast explores DeSantis' campaign strategy, his declining popularity, and Trump's indictment. It also discusses the challenges faced by anti-Trump Republicans and the potential return of independent voters to support Biden.
Jan 21, 2024 • 36min
TBD | Have Algorithms Ruined Our Culture?
Kyle Chayka, staff writer at the New Yorker, discusses how algorithms shape our lives and culture. He explores the phenomenon of 'airspace' design, the rise of viral aesthetics on social media, and algorithmic anxiety. Chayka also discusses the transient nature of internet culture and the desire for change in digital platforms.
Jan 19, 2024 • 28min
TBD | The Great British Library Hack
Guest Sam Knight, staff writer at the New Yorker discusses the cyberattack on the British Library and its aftermath, highlighting the vulnerability of our systems and society. They explore the motives behind the attack, the library's decision not to pay ransom, and the need for organizations to be prepared for emergencies. Reflecting on the event, they emphasize the importance of understanding and learning from such attacks to prevent future incidents.
Jan 18, 2024 • 23min
And God Gave Us Trump
Rev. Angela Denker, author of Red State Christians, explores the impact of white evangelical Christianity on Donald Trump's presidency. Topics covered include why white evangelicals supported Trump, complexities of evangelicalism, differences between black and white evangelical Christianity, and the link between Christian nationalism and Trump's support.
Jan 17, 2024 • 27min
Is Israel Committing Genocide?
Adil Haque, Professor of international law at Rutgers University, explores the accusation of Israel committing genocide in the Gaza Strip. Topics include the ongoing conflict in Gaza, the role of the UN, the complexity of recognizing genocide, South Africa's contextualization, allegations of genocide, Israeli soldiers in Gaza justifying actions, Israel's argument of no genocidal intent, and the power of the International Court in addressing genocide in Gaza.
Jan 16, 2024 • 24min
Trump Just Won Iowa. Where’s Biden?
In this episode, Alexander Sammon, a politics writer for Slate, discusses Joe Biden's weak poll numbers among young voters, Black voters, and Latino voters. They explore the challenges of Biden's messaging strategy and the need to unlock enthusiasm for voting for him again. They also analyze Biden's approach to his campaign, including his messaging strategy and addressing topics like political violence and the threat posed by Donald Trump.
Jan 15, 2024 • 51min
One Year: 1990: Mandrake the Magician
In this podcast, learn about Henry Brown's mission against cigarette billboards in Black communities. Hear about his secret identity, encounters, and efforts to raise awareness. Explore how cigarette companies targeted youth and Black communities. Join Henry and Gwen on their risky mission to whitewash billboards. Discover how Henry becomes the mysterious figure known as Mandrake the Magician. Explore his impact on the neighborhood, from billboards to a city park named after him.
Jan 14, 2024 • 23min
TBD | Is Your Car Tracking You?
Technology and privacy reporter Kashmir Hill discusses the privacy concerns and potential risks of car tracking, including its impact on victims of domestic violence. The podcast explores the need for new laws to address these issues and highlights the challenges of disabling tracking in cars.
Jan 12, 2024 • 35min
TBD | Boeing’s Max Mess
Jon Ostrower, Editor-in-chief of The Air Current, discusses the recent incident with a blown out plug door on a Boeing 737 Max 9 jet, leading to an investigation revealing larger problems with Boeing's MAX planes. The podcast explores the challenges of manufacturing, outsourcing, and the FAA's concerns about safety standards. It also examines the implications of the incident, the need for repairing Boeing's reputation, and the limitations of cockpit voice recorders in investigations.
