Slate News

In this engaging discussion, Joseph Cox, co-founder of 404 Media and co-host of the 404 Media Podcast, delves into the shocking practice of airlines selling passenger data to the government. He reveals how the Airlines Reporting Corporation funnels sensitive travel information to Customs and Border Protection without transparency. The conversation raises urgent questions about privacy and surveillance, exploring the ethical implications of such data transactions and the public's growing outcry for accountability and transparency in airline practices.

Discover the latest sounds of summer from Love Island and pop culture! Dive into the brewing controversy around Partiful, the event invite app now tangled in ethical debates due to its founders' past associations. Uncover the connection to Palantir and the implications for user privacy, while pondering why no good invite apps seem to exist anymore. Plus, share your coming-out stories for an upcoming Pride feature!

Chase Strangio, Deputy Director for Transgender Justice at the ACLU, discusses the recent Supreme Court ruling that upheld a Tennessee ban on gender-affirming care for trans minors, revealing the legal and emotional struggles faced by families. He also examines the broader implications of this decision, linking it to previous rulings and the ongoing fight for trans rights. The conversation delves into Justice Kagan's surprising alliances with the conservative justices, pondering what it means for the future of civil rights and judicial strategy.

The hosts dive into the newly passed GENIUS Act, discussing its potential to reshape crypto regulation and payment processing. They highlight the surprising 400% raise for Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders, reflecting on pay equity in sports. The conversation playfully shifts to AI-generated versions of themselves, tackling the implications of AI in podcasting and the challenge of replicating human authenticity. They also delve into the rising trend of interruptions at work and how AI might help manage them.

Drew Harwell, a tech reporter for The Washington Post, dives into the troubling world of memes and immigration policy. He discusses how the Trump administration employs humor to frame mass deportations, transforming serious issues into viral content. Harwell examines the mixed public reactions to such tactics and the implications for political discourse. He highlights a controversial incident where a deported woman's image became a meme, showcasing how personal pain is exploited in the digital age. It's a deep look at the intersection of social media, meme culture, and nationalism in shaping narratives.

This week, the hosts dive into the controversial question of U.S. military involvement in Israel's conflict with Iran. They also tackle the unsettling surge in political violence within the U.S. and the troubling implications it carries for safety and accountability. A significant discussion arises around a Supreme Court decision regarding transgender care for minors, reflecting ongoing tensions in gender rights. Plus, listener contributions spark engaging conversations on the intersection of AI technology and historical research. A real treat for those following pressing political narratives!

Nadira Goffe, a Slate staff writer focused on the Diddy trial, shares the unique dynamics of covering high-profile legal battles alongside independent content creators. She discusses how YouTubers and streamers are reshaping media narratives while attracting massive audiences. The conversation contrasts traditional journalism's ethical standards with the entertaining spin of new media. Goffe reveals insights into courtroom access and the evolving landscape of trial coverage, shedding light on the cultural fascination with true crime.

Seth Tupper, Editor-in-Chief of the South Dakota Searchlight, and Ahilan Arulanantham, Co-Director of the Center for Immigration Law and Policy, delve into the rise of Kristi Noem and her power dynamics within the Trump administration. They discuss her controversial tactics in Homeland Security, highlighting military crackdowns on protests and ambitious immigration policies. The dialogue also touches on Noem's political maneuvers, including the pandemic-related fireworks at Mount Rushmore and her evolving public image amidst legal battles over immigration rights.

In this insightful discussion, Gregg Carlstrom, the Middle East correspondent for The Economist, sheds light on Israel's recent aggressive military actions against Iran, marking a significant escalation. He delves into Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's strategic ambitions for regime change in Iran and the potential fallout from these actions. The conversation also explores the complex dynamics of U.S. involvement in the region, balancing military strategies with diplomatic efforts amidst rising tensions. Carlstrom highlights the implications for both Israeli and Iranian citizens caught in the chaos.

Noel Brewer, a Gillings Distinguished Professor in Public Health at UNC and former CDC Advisory Committee member, discusses the shocking dismissal of the committee's members by Health Secretary RFK Jr. They dive into the implications for vaccine confidence and public trust amidst rising skepticism. Brewer highlights how the committee's role affects vaccine guidance during public health crises and the challenges in bridging the gap between vaccine-hesitant individuals and credible recommendations. This conversation unpacks the delicate balance of health policy and public perception.