What Next | Daily News and Analysis

Sam Bankman-Fried was found guilty on seven charges of wire fraud, conspiracy and money laundering and is facing a 110-year sentence. Cryptocurrency, itself, has lost an ambassador, a lot of value, and quite a bit of credibility. Guest: Nitish Pahwa, associate business and tech writer covering the trial for Slate.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on What Next TBD. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to help support our work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cecilia Kang from the New York Times discusses Biden's executive order on AI, including the use of the Defense Production Act for regulating AI companies and stress testing AI systems. They also explore the potential of watermarking AI content for addressing disinformation, the challenges of AI regulation at an international level, and the tension between government use of AI and the need for regulations.

Muhammad Hafez, professor and author, discusses the history and ideology of Hamas, the challenges of defeating it, and Benjamin Netanyahu's role in nurturing the organization. It also explores the origins of Hamas, their use of suicide bombings, and how they gained political control in Gaza.

Ryan Reilly, Justice reporter at NBC News, and author of Sedition Hunters: How January 6th Broke the Justice System, discusses the role of online sleuths in identifying Capitol riot suspects. He also explores the challenges faced by investigators and the frustrations with the FBI's bureaucratic issues. The podcast concludes by assessing the success of the sedition hunters and their future actions.

Mark Follman, national affairs editor at Mother Jones, discusses the ineffectiveness of mental health interventions and red flags in preventing mass shootings. The podcast explores the limitations of a mental health evaluation and highlights the need for effective solutions, such as threat assessment teams and red flag laws. It also touches on the controversy surrounding gun control and introduces the podcast 'The Gun Machine'.

Experience the aftermath of the devastating wildfires in Lahaina, Maui. Hear stories from survivors seeking shelter in a hotel and the challenges they face. Explore the controversial reopening for tourists and the emotional impact on residents. Understand the impact on hotel employees and the issue of disaster tourism. Learn about the recovery process and moving forward for those affected.

Special guest Nitish Pahwa, an associate business and tech writer for Slate, covers the trial of Sam Bankman Freed. The podcast discusses the defense's strategy, Sam's testimony and portrayal, jury reactions, bar lending consequences, customer deposits, and upcoming trial events.

David Zipper, visiting fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School, discusses the recent suspension of permits for self-driving car companies in California. The podcast explores the incident of a self-driving car hitting a pedestrian and the conflicting regulations surrounding their operation. Safety concerns and the interplay between transportation policy, technology, and society are also discussed.

Tim Miller, political consultant and writer, discusses the unexpected election of Mike Johnson as Speaker of the House and his alignment with Trump. It explores his pressure tactics, promotion of conspiracy theories, and the risks for the Republican party. Additionally, it delves into Johnson's background, challenges faced as a new politician, and the chaos despite selecting a speaker.

Former State Department official, Josh Paul, shares his decision to resign over US arms sales to Israel. He discusses the moral complexities in his role, lack of accountability and debate, and the need for a course correction in US foreign policy towards Israel.