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
11 snips
May 27, 2025 • 29min
What Would You Pay to Stay Alive?
David Armstrong, an investigative reporter at ProPublica and author of "The Price of Remission," dives into the staggering costs of life-saving medications like Revlimid. He highlights the shocking disparity between the mere 25-cent production cost and the thousand-dollar price tag, raising ethical concerns about drug pricing. Armstrong also shares the emotional toll on patients and the quest for reforms, as well as the complex history of Revlimid's development. His insights illuminate the ongoing struggles within America’s healthcare system.
15 snips
May 26, 2025 • 44min
The Glaring Problem with Headlights
In this enlightening discussion, automotive lighting expert Daniel Stern and headlight activism moderator Paul Gatto dive into the growing concern over blinding car headlights. They unravel the history of headlight design, revealing how advancements meant for safety have created a dazzling problem on the roads. The pair share personal stories and examine the activism surrounding headlight regulation, shedding light on a movement advocating for safer standards. With headlight glare now a major issue for drivers, they tackle the urgent need for regulatory changes.
9 snips
May 25, 2025 • 30min
TBD | Crypto's Big Win
Hilary Allen, a Professor at American University’s Washington College of Law, dives into the intertwining worlds of politics and cryptocurrency. She discusses the influential financial contributions of the crypto industry during elections and the implications of the bipartisan GENIUS Act. Concerns about regulation and the potential risks posed by stablecoins are examined, especially in light of historical financial crises. Allen critiques the unexpected support for crypto among Democrats, highlighting the challenges of achieving financial inclusion while safeguarding economic stability.
8 snips
May 23, 2025 • 6min
Bonus: Main Character: The One Big Beautiful Bill
The passage of Trump's 'One Big Beautiful Bill' has stirred up a whirlwind of political action. Experts analyze its journey through the House and the upcoming challenges in the Senate. The chaotic 24-hour debate reveals both the absurdity and the intensity surrounding the bill's presentation. Internal conflicts rise within the Republican Party as deficit hawks and moderates clash over fiscal conservatism versus social welfare. It's a fascinating look at the messy art of legislation.
39 snips
May 23, 2025 • 38min
TBD | Inside OpenAI's Empire
Karen Hao, a reporter and author of "Empire of AI: Dreams and Nightmares in Sam Altman's OpenAI", dives into the transformative journey of OpenAI, revealing how it evolved from a nonprofit focused on safe AI to a competitive powerhouse chasing artificial general intelligence. She discusses the organization's culture of secrecy, the chaotic dynamics during its transition to for-profit, and the unexpected rise of ChatGPT, which drastically altered its trajectory. Karen also highlights internal power struggles and the implications of corporate control on society.
13 snips
May 22, 2025 • 26min
Can A “Morality Coalition” Succeed Against Trump?
Reverend Doctor William J. Barber II, a passionate pastor and professor, dives deep into the intersection of faith and politics. He contests Republican budget decisions through moral arguments and highlights the urgency of advocating for vulnerable populations. The discussion showcases the resilience of the Moral Mondays movement, the pain of redistricting in North Carolina, and the role of empathy in religious leadership. Barber calls for collective action and a reevaluation of healthcare as a moral imperative, challenging listeners to unite against injustice.
18 snips
May 21, 2025 • 30min
If Trump Guts FEMA, Are Tornado Victims On Their Own?
Thomas Frank, editor for E&E News’ climate finance team, dives into alarming proposals targeting FEMA under the Trump administration. He discusses the chilling implications of cuts to disaster relief and how these changes could affect victims of tornadoes and severe weather. The conversation touches on the complexities of federal aid, state preparedness, and the evolving challenges of climate-related disasters. Frank shares insights into the controversial relationship between FEMA and politics, emphasizing the urgent need for reliable disaster response in an unpredictable climate.
22 snips
May 20, 2025 • 28min
Here’s How the GOP Cuts Medicaid
Leo Cuello, a research professor at Georgetown's McCourt School and healthcare policy expert, discusses the GOP's push to impose work requirements on Medicaid. He argues that these requirements, based on flawed data, primarily benefit financial interests rather than those in need. Cuello highlights the failures of similar policies from the 1990s, illustrating how they lead to significant insurance losses for individuals, including working citizens. He critiques the costly bureaucratic hurdles and societal implications of such measures, revealing the precarious situation for millions accessing healthcare.
14 snips
May 19, 2025 • 29min
Is Immigration Still Trump’s Strongest Issue?
Adrian Carrasquillo, author of the Huddled Masses newsletter from The Bulwark, dives into the shifting dynamics of immigration as a pivotal political issue. He discusses the alarming surge in detentions affecting families, especially among farm workers, and the anxiety rippling through immigrant communities. The conversation also highlights Latino voters' disappointments with Trump's policies and their focus on economic concerns. Furthermore, Adrian reflects on the complexities of immigration policy and the need for strategic responses from the Democrats in this charged climate.
14 snips
May 18, 2025 • 28min
TBD | You’ve Been Deepfaked
In this discussion, Samantha Cole, cofounder of 404 Media and author, teams up with Joanne Chew, an artist and deepfake victim. They delve into the alarming world of deepfake technology, particularly its effects on privacy and identity. Chew shares her harrowing experience with non-consensual deepfake pornography, illustrating the emotional toll on victims. The conversation also critiques legislative efforts like the Take It Down Act, debating their implications for free speech and the broader fight against online abuse.
