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 16, 2025 • 30min
TBD | The Newarkification of Flying
Will Guisbond, a staff reporter for The Air Current, dives into the chaotic world of Newark's Liberty International Airport, where aging tech and staffing shortages create travel nightmares. He highlights how these local problems reflect a national crisis in air traffic control. The podcast discusses the Trump administration's strategies for modernization and the urgent need for reform amid growing air traffic demands. Guisbond also touches on the unique challenges Newark faces, including troubling training failure rates among controllers.
18 snips
May 15, 2025 • 26min
The Qatari Plane Is Just The Start
Andrea Bernstein, an investigative journalist and host of Trump Inc, delves into the extravagant world of Donald Trump's business dealings. She discusses the controversial $400 million deal for a Qatari Boeing 747, raising questions about political integrity and foreign influence. Bernstein highlights the Trump family's shift from traditional real estate to cryptocurrency ventures, revealing a new strategy amid ongoing corruption issues. The podcast also emphasizes the crucial role of investigative journalism in uncovering truths amidst political chaos.
16 snips
May 14, 2025 • 28min
Trump’s Middle East Diplomacy
Gregg Carlstrom, Middle East correspondent for The Economist, dives into the complexities of Trump’s Middle East policies. He discusses Trump's surprising moves like negotiating directly with Hamas and lifting sanctions on Syria. The conversation touches on the U.S. prioritizing financial deals over diplomatic traditions, and the implications of Saudi Arabia potentially joining the Abraham Accords. Carlstrom also analyzes how these developments could impact U.S.-Israel relations and the broader stability of the region.
11 snips
May 13, 2025 • 27min
David Hogg Wants Democratic Politicians to Be Afraid
David Hogg, Vice Chair of the Democratic National Committee and co-founder of Leaders We Deserve, passionately argues for a shake-up in the Democratic Party. He believes that the party's core issues stem from complacency and a lack of accountability among incumbents. Hogg suggests a grassroots strategy akin to the Tea Party's, pressing for younger, diverse candidates to invigorate the party. He emphasizes the need for effective messaging on critical issues like gun control, urging elected officials to actively listen to their constituents.
16 snips
May 12, 2025 • 27min
The War Over Pete Hegseth
Tom Bowman, a seasoned Pentagon reporter for NPR with 28 years of military coverage, delves into the controversial tenure of Pete Hegseth. He discusses Hegseth's inexperience, the chaos unfolding at the Pentagon, and how he prioritizes 'fighting wokeness' over military effectiveness. The conversation highlights issues like contentious firings of military leaders, biases in decision-making, and concerns over Hegseth's handling of sensitive information. Bowman's insights reveal the profound implications of Hegseth's leadership on military readiness and policy.
10 snips
May 11, 2025 • 34min
TBD | Online and Pregnant
Amanda Hess, a critic at The New York Times and author of 'Second Life: Having a Child in the Digital Age,' delves into the complexities of pregnancy in the digital era. She shares her personal experiences with anxiety, isolation, and the overwhelming amount of contradictory online advice. The conversation highlights how technology influences personal health milestones, including the emotional nuances of using apps designed primarily by men. Hess also addresses the impact of eugenics on prenatal testing and advocates for a more inclusive approach to maternal healthcare.
May 9, 2025 • 4min
Bonus Main Character Syndrome: Your Mom
This discussion explores the evolving landscape of motherhood in today's world. It tackles pro-natalism and the skyrocketing costs of childcare, making previous parenting styles feel outdated. Personal anecdotes and listener questions reveal the real challenges mothers face, alongside societal expectations. A special guest brings fresh insights, highlighting the need for support during these transformative times. Perfect timing as Mother's Day approaches!
11 snips
May 9, 2025 • 26min
TBD | Chatbots All The Way Down
Gerrit De Vynck, a tech reporter for The Washington Post, dives into the fascinating world of AI and chatbots. He discusses how consumer demand isn't driving the rapid evolution of AI technology. The conversation highlights the surprising preference of younger users for chatbots over traditional search engines. De Vynck also explores the balance businesses must strike between advanced AI systems and the risks of misinformation. Plus, he touches on the competitive tech landscape and the implications for both users and companies navigating these changes.
25 snips
May 8, 2025 • 30min
Yes, Shelves Will Be Empty
Christopher Mims, a Wall Street Journal tech reporter and author of 'Arriving Today', dives into the looming crisis in U.S. supply chains. He discusses how Trump's tariffs could lead to empty shelves, skyrocketing prices, and even layoffs. Mims explores the vulnerabilities exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the challenges faced by small businesses amidst these economic shifts. He also unpacks the ripple effects of tariffs on consumer behavior and the emotional toll of rising costs this holiday season.
May 7, 2025 • 30min
The Arts of the Deal
In this discussion, Alisa Solomon, Director of Arts and Culture at Columbia Journalism School, and Katy Waldman, New Yorker staff writer, dive into how Donald Trump is reshaping the arts scene. They explore Trump's controversial role at the Kennedy Center and the chaos surrounding grant cancellations at the National Endowment for the Arts. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by artists, particularly regarding diversity and funding under shifting political landscapes, and emphasizes the resilience of the artistic community amidst these pressures.
