The hosts dive into Trump's recent cabinet appointments and the potential economic consequences. A fascinating debate unfolds around Maurizio Cattelan's $6.2 million banana artwork, touching on the surreal nature of conceptual art. They also discuss Warren Buffet's philanthropic strategies, particularly his unique family inheritance plan. The conversation hilariously blends serious economic insights with absurdity, showcasing the interplay between wealth, art valuation, and public perception.

Chase Strangio, co-director of the ACLU’s LGBT & HIV Project and the first openly trans lawyer to argue before the Supreme Court, joins for a deep dive into the monumental Supreme Court case United States v. Skrmetti. They discuss the striking hypocrisy in the conservative legal movement regarding parental rights versus trans rights, especially in light of Tennessee's restrictive SB1 law affecting healthcare for trans minors. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of anti-trans legislation and the ongoing struggles for equality within the LGBTQ community.

Brandon Tensley, a politics reporter for Capital B News, delves into the implications of Trump’s cabinet selections on the Black community. They discuss the trend of favoring media-savvy candidates, concerns over health and educational policies, and the potential threats to racial equity under a Trump administration. The conversation also highlights the positioning of Black Republicans and the importance of vigilance in political appointments that could affect marginalized groups. It’s a thought-provoking exploration of current and future political dynamics.

Will Oremus, a technology writer at the Washington Post, dives into the shifting social media landscape after recent elections. He explores the rise of Bluesky as an alternative to the transformed X, examining its unique features and user dynamics. The conversation highlights the challenges facing new platforms, user migration towards engaging political discourse, and innovative moderation strategies. Oremus also sheds light on the competitive rivalry with Threads and the fragmentation of online communities based on political ideologies.

Annie Lowrey, a Staff writer at The Atlantic with a keen eye on economics, joins for a lively discussion on Trump's threatened tariffs, unpacking their potential economic fallout and the complexities of corporate-political interactions. The conversation dives into the 'bro economy,' highlighting the risky world of sports betting and cryptocurrency, and how it exploits young men. They also explore the implications of FCC leadership changes and the ongoing debates around censorship and media dynamics in this contentious political landscape.

The discussion highlights Sarah McBride's historic victory as the first openly transgender member of Congress. The hosts critically examine the implications of this win alongside the surge in anti-trans politics. They delve into the complexities of representational politics and the Democratic Party's shortcomings in supporting trans rights. The conversation also explores the intersection of economic issues with anti-trans sentiment, calling for a more genuine political commitment to address systemic injustices faced by marginalized communities.

In this enlightening discussion, Marcia Brown, a food and agriculture reporter at POLITICO, dives into the rising cost of eggs due to avian flu. She explains how increasing cases affect food prices and the broader implications for supply chains. The conversation highlights the challenges federal agencies face in handling outbreaks amid public health risks. Brown shares insights on farmers' frustrations with federal responses and how factors like deportations complicate tracking the virus, ultimately intertwining public policy with food safety.

Join Linda Greenhouse, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and former Supreme Court reporter for the New York Times, as she discusses the complexities surrounding abortion rights in the U.S. She dives into recent Supreme Court actions on mifepristone and the intriguing arguments from states claiming population growth is at stake. Greenhouse also highlights the resurgence of anti-abortion rhetoric, pro-natalist trends, and their political implications. This vital conversation reveals the evolving landscape of reproductive health and rights in America.

In this Money Talks: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs are being targeted by “anti-woke” pundits. Emily Peck is joined by Simone Foxman of Bloomberg to explain why DEI is under fire from conservatives, and what these programs might look like under Trump’s second term – if they exist at all. Want to hear that discussion and hear more Slate Money? Join Slate Plus to unlock weekly bonus episodes. Plus, you’ll access ad-free listening across all your favorite Slate podcasts. You can subscribe directly from the Slate Money show page on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/moneyplus to get access wherever you listen.Podcast production by Jessamine Molli and Cheyna Roth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jaden Edison, a public education reporter for the Texas Tribune, dives into the heated debate over Texas' new curriculum that integrates Bible stories into schools. He discusses the blurred lines between teaching and preaching, raising questions about First Amendment violations. The conversation explores the implications of religious content on inclusivity, historical accuracy, and political maneuvers behind the curriculum changes. Edison sheds light on how these educational reforms reflect and impact the diverse values across Texas.