Slate News

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.

Lily Hay Newman, a senior writer for WIRED specializing in information security, shares essential insights on protecting your digital life while traveling. She discusses the alarming rise of traveler detentions at U.S. borders and the complex dynamics of digital privacy. Listeners gain valuable tips on minimizing their digital footprint and safeguarding personal information. Moreover, Newman highlights the unique powers of Customs and Border Protection, emphasizing the need for awareness and preparedness to navigate privacy challenges in today’s surveillance age.

Warner Brothers' breakup redefines its media strategy, showcasing the challenges in a shifting landscape. The conversation dives into the explosive valuations in AI, comparing the current hype to the dot-com bubble. Insights into Trump’s immigration policies reveal their impact on labor markets, exacerbating shortages in key industries. Humorous discussions also glance at the decline of after-work socializing, blending economic woes with light-hearted commentary.

Mark Joseph Stern, a senior writer at Slate focusing on law and LGBTQ rights, joins the conversation to dissect recent tumultuous events in the U.S. The podcast dives into the deployment of National Guard troops to quell protests in Los Angeles, igniting tensions between local and federal authorities. They also discuss a U.S. Senator's dramatic encounter with law enforcement and the implications for civil rights. As misinformation and erosion of trust in democracy grow, Stern emphasizes the need for truth and legal advocacy in these precarious times.

Elon Musk has ridden off into the sunset acrimoniously (maybe), but the Department of Government Efficiency is just getting started. Will DOGE continue wildly cutting or is something even more chaotic coming next?  Guest: Makena Kelly, senior writer at WIRED.  Want more What Next TBD? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen. Podcast production by Evan Campbell and Patrick Fort. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Emily Bazelon, John Dickerson, and guest host Juliette Kayyem discuss the ominous juxtaposition of Trump sending National Guard troops and Marines to quell mostly peaceful protests in LA with his impending military parade in DC, RFK Jr. firing the entire CDC vaccine advisory board and what this means for the future of vaccines, and a unanimous Supreme Court decision that makes it easier to win “reverse discrimination” cases. Here are this week’s chatters:   Emily: David Marchese for the New York Times: The Interview: Ocean Vuong Was Ready to Kill. Then a Moment of Grace Changed His Life; Ocean Vuong for the New York Times (Opinion): My Brother’s Keeper.   John: The University of Cambridge: Medieval Murder Maps; podcast series: Medieval Murders.   Juliette: Graham Dunbar for the Associated Press: What the Trump travel ban means for the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympic Games; Chelsea Jones for CBS News Miami: Will ICE agents be at Miami’s FIFA Club World Cup games? Sheriff Cordero-Stutz responds after deleted CBP post.   Listener chatter from Katie Johnston in Bangor, Northern Ireland: Sophie Hardach for the BBC: How the humble chestnut traced the rise and fall of the Roman Empire   For this week’s Slate Plus bonus episode, Emily, John, and guest host Juliette Kayyem discuss favorite dark comedy drama Hacks, which tackles the relationship between two women of differing generations and clashing opinions with witty banter and emotional richness.   In the latest Gabfest Reads, Emily talks with author Susan Dominus about her new book, The Family Dynamic: A Journey into the Mystery of Sibling Success.   Email your chatters, questions, and comments to gabfest@slate.com. (Messages may be referenced by name unless the writer stipulates otherwise.)   Research by Emily Ditto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump is sending the troops to California, while also getting ready for a big birthday parade—for himself and the US Army—in DC. Does grasping for symbols of military strength smack a bit of desperation?  Guests: Jamelle Bouie, columnist at the New York Times Jeremy Lindenfeld, reporter and Capital and Main local news fellow. Want more What Next? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen. Podcast production by Ethan Oberman, Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme, and Rob Gunther. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices