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
27 snips
Oct 3, 2025 • 29min
TBD | Who Owns TikTok Now?
Emily Baker White, a senior writer at Forbes and author of 'Every Screen on the Planet: The War Over TikTok,' discusses TikTok's fascinating algorithm, shaped by insights from young curators in Mexico City. She reveals how the platform used data from various sources to refine its recommendations and explains the controversial 'heating' feature that allowed manual boosts. The conversation delves into the implications of a U.S. takeover, questioning whether control over the algorithm would actually change user experience and content diversity.
31 snips
Oct 2, 2025 • 34min
Actually the Government Shut Down Months Ago
David Dayen, executive editor of The American Prospect and an investigative journalist specializing in government policy, dives into the complexities of the ongoing government shutdown. He discusses how Trump's view of a shutdown as a power move has backfired, outlining the implications for federal services and worker pay. Dayen also highlights the executive branch's financial control, the political theater surrounding layoffs, and the public's shifting blame. He warns of the deeper fight over congressional power and how Democrats can leverage the situation for healthcare advocacy.
50 snips
Oct 1, 2025 • 30min
The Department of War…From Within
Idrees Ali, a national security correspondent for Reuters, shares his insights on a peculiar gathering of military leaders at Quantico. He critiques Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's emphasis on grooming and his controversial remarks on diversity. Ali discusses Trump's suggestion to deploy troops in American cities, the risks of eroding public trust in the military, and the Pentagon's shift in focus towards the Western Hemisphere. The conversation also touches on press access challenges and the climate of uncertainty within military leadership.
43 snips
Sep 30, 2025 • 29min
Trump’s Revenge Tour Is Here
Ankush Khardori, a senior writer for POLITICO and former federal prosecutor, delves into the shaky legal ground of Trump's indictment against James Comey. He critiques the poorly drafted charges and discusses how they reflect broader rhetorical strategies of labeling opponents as corrupt. Khardori also highlights the tension between the president's power and flimsy legal cases, while outlining Trump's long-standing grudge against Comey. He warns Democrats against future retaliatory actions and stresses the importance of evaluating prosecutions on their individual merits.
44 snips
Sep 29, 2025 • 29min
The Gaza Flotilla That’s Under Attack
Zue Jernstedt, a veteran and member of About Face: Veterans Against the War, discusses her compelling journey on the Veterans Boat of the Global Samud Flotilla. She shares the mission to deliver vital aid to Gaza amidst an Israeli blockade, the intense military harassment they faced at sea, and her disillusionment with political leaders following her father's death. Zue also highlights the importance of solidarity and raising awareness, while distinguishing between Zionism and Judaism in the quest for equality.
52 snips
Sep 28, 2025 • 28min
TBD | Trapped in a Tesla
Dana Hull, a Bloomberg senior reporter focused on Tesla and Elon Musk, shines a light on critical safety issues with Tesla door handles. She shares harrowing stories of passengers trapped in crashes due to the unintuitive design. Multiple incidents reveal how rescuers struggle to open doors during emergencies. Hull discusses the risks associated with Tesla’s flush handles and regulatory gaps in safety testing. She emphasizes the need for better awareness among owners and first responders, while hinting at Tesla's plans for redesigning these problematic features.
18 snips
Sep 26, 2025 • 4min
Bonus: The Senator Calling Trump’s Bluff
As the government faces a funding deadline, Senator Chris Van Hollen shares his strategy against giving Trump a blank check. He highlights the potential fallout of a shutdown on Maryland's federal employees and essential services nationwide. Van Hollen also discusses the Democrats' plan for a one-month continuing resolution aimed at restoring health care. Additionally, he emphasizes the need for safeguards to prevent illegal withholding of funds, advocating for higher vote thresholds to protect appropriated budgets.
36 snips
Sep 26, 2025 • 32min
TBD | How Trump Got Obsessed with Autism
Dan Diamond, White House correspondent for The Washington Post, discusses the alarming announcement linking Tylenol to autism. He examines the public health community's shocked reaction and clarifies the lack of evidence supporting the claim. Diamond reveals the political motivations behind the announcement and the historical context of Trump and RFK Jr.'s fixation on autism. The conversation also highlights the dangers of oversimplifying complex medical issues and advises families on navigating conflicting medical messages.
18 snips
Sep 25, 2025 • 27min
Jimmy Kimmel Got His Job Back. She Didn’t.
Karen Attiah, a former Washington Post columnist known for her advocacy on press freedom, shares her insights on the precarious state of journalism. She discusses the chilling effects of recent firings and the growing threats to media professionals, spotlighting her own dismissal. Karen recounts her experience working with Jamal Khashoggi and the moral dilemmas faced in editorial decisions under Jeff Bezos. She also critiques the observed double standards in permissible rhetoric, highlighting the disconnect between conservative speech and the consequences faced by dissenters.
18 snips
Sep 24, 2025 • 33min
A Surgeon in Gaza’s “End Game”
Dr. Mohammed 'Adeel' Khaleel, a skilled spinal surgeon from Texas, shares his harrowing experiences volunteering in Gaza. He discusses the worsening conditions in hospitals overwhelmed by war casualties, including countless children with severe injuries. Dr. Khaleel details the chaos of delivering medical supplies, living in hospitals, and the emotional toll of leaving behind patients and colleagues. He highlights the stark realities of malnutrition affecting recovery and reflects on the grim prospects for the future of healthcare in Gaza.
