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This week: Elon Musk posted enough misinformation on social media to get a bill blocked and necessitate a government shutdown. Felix Salmon, Emily Peck, and Anna Szymanski discuss the multi-billionaire’s tweetstorm that convinced congress not to pass a bi-partisan spending bill and how he has been able to so blatantly buy that power. Then, Anna helps break down the economic crisis that is unfolding in Brazil and gets wonkish on the latest Fed rate cut and trade deficit. And finally, Amazon and Starbucks workers across the country have gone on strike. Emily explains the subtleties of the disputes.In the Slate Plus episode: What’s your gift giving strategy?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

It wasn’t a great week for speaking truth to power. ABC’s decision to settle Donald Trump’s defamation lawsuit to the tune of $16 million at the behest of parent company Disney sent shockwaves through newsrooms around the country. Coupled with Trump’s lawsuits pending against publishers, journalism prize organizations, CBS, and this week’s news that the President-elect is suing an Iowa pollster and the newspaper that published her poll for “election interference”, rising fears about the freedom of the press are pretty understandable. On this week’s Amicus, Dahlia Lithwick is joined by storied media columnist Margaret Sullivan and First Amendment scholar Sonja R West to understand the protections in place and the pinch points for a free press under Trump. Want more Amicus? Join Slate Plus to unlock weekly bonus episodes with exclusive legal analysis. Plus, you’ll access ad-free listening across all your favorite Slate podcasts. You can subscribe directly from the Amicus show page on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/amicusplus to get access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Reports of flocks of drones, flying overhead nightly, are coming in from New Jersey down to Maryland. Are they UFOs? Nefarious foreign powers? Something even more pernicious? Something even more banal?Guest: Jon Ostrower, editor-in-chief of The Air Current.Ben Mathis-Lilly, Slate senior writerWant 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Julie Huygen, a researcher for Slate's Political Gabfest and a former national security lawyer, joins the conversation. They dive into the troubling capitulation of media and corporations to Trump, and how Musk's influence is reshaping accountability. The discussion also covers a potential government shutdown's implications, reflecting on political strategies from both parties. Finally, they tackle the complex legalities surrounding TikTok, balancing national security concerns with free speech rights.

Molly Parker, an investigative reporter for Capitol News Illinois and a Local Reporting Network fellow at ProPublica, dives into the complex world of food deserts. She shares insights on how local grocery stores can thrive in low-income areas, especially against giants like Walmart. The discussion highlights the challenges independent stores face and the critical importance of community access to fresh produce. Parker also explores legislative efforts aimed at supporting these vital local markets and their role in enhancing food equity.

David Folkenflik, NPR's media correspondent, dives into the groundbreaking defamation settlement between ABC News and Donald Trump. He explores how this deal underscores the precarious state of media, particularly as Trump's second term looms. The conversation touches on the implications for press freedom, highlighting the network's decision to cover Trump's legal expenses and support his presidential library. Folkenflik critiques the blurring lines between media accountability and political influence in an increasingly polarized landscape.

Chris Molanphy, a renowned chart analyst and the voice behind the Hit Parade podcast, dives into the unexpected success of Shaboozey’s country hit "A Bar Song (Tipsy)." The discussion explores how this hip-hop-inflected track tied the record on the Billboard Hot 100, drawing parallels with Lil Nas X's "Old Town Road." Listeners will be intrigued by the cultural significance of Black artists in country music, the genre's evolving landscape, and Shaboozey's unique journey bridging hip-hop and country, all infused with humor and insightful commentary.

Barry Hertz, Deputy Arts Editor and Film Editor at The Globe and Mail, delves into the surprising success of the documentary 'Am I Racist?' and its implications for Hollywood. He discusses how conservative media, particularly the Daily Wire, is reshaping the film landscape with productions like 'Lady Ballers.' Hertz highlights the challenges creatives face as studios navigate political backlash while trying to maintain diverse representation. The conversation also critiques the oversimplification in modern blockbusters that often ignore significant social issues.

Dr. Darshan Shah, a board-certified surgeon and the founder of NextHealth, dives into the fascinating world of longevity science. He shares his journey from surgery to establishing a longevity clinic, discussing cutting-edge treatments like sauna therapy and cryotherapy. Shah emphasizes the importance of mitochondrial health and the role of mindset in wellness. He advocates for a proactive approach to healthcare, showcasing how understanding biomarkers can empower individuals to take charge of their health for a longer, healthier life.

Reflect on the impactful legacy as the podcast series bids farewell. Hear powerful voices discussing the lack of Black representation in leadership and the lasting effects of police brutality. Delve into the importance of voting as a tool for change and the significance of activism. Celebrate memorable moments with creative guests, emphasizing identity in entertainment. Discover the inspiring blend of science and art as a means to foster creativity, while anticipating the show's exciting relaunch in February 2025.