Slate News

Jamie Raskin, U.S. representative for Maryland’s 8th congressional district, is a key figure in the fight against Trump, having led his second impeachment and efforts to remove him from the ballot. Raskin discusses the rising tensions between autocracy and democracy in the U.S. He reflects on voters' responses to recent constitutional crises and the Democratic Party's electoral challenges. The conversation also tackles strategies to strengthen democracy, emphasizing the importance of collective action and civil rights in the face of political turmoil.

Join Alison Fragale, an organizational behavior professor and author of "Likeable Badass," as she explores how women can enhance their social influence. Discover the unique challenges women face in healthcare and the intricate dynamics of gender and race. Fragale emphasizes the importance of effective communication and the power of storytelling for building supportive networks. Learn how embodying the 'likable badass' concept can lead to greater confidence and assertiveness in professional settings, ultimately transforming workplace dynamics for women.

Nitish Pahwa, a business writer at Slate, dives into the turbulent world of X, formerly Twitter. He discusses the emotional struggles tied to leaving social media and the growing migration of users to platforms like Blue Sky and Threads. Pahwa highlights the impact of Elon Musk’s ownership on community dynamics and the rising tide of misinformation. With government initiatives reshaping online discourse, he warns listeners about the risks involved in staying on X, ultimately questioning what the future holds for social media engagement.

Christina Carrega, a reporter at Capital B News, specializes in issues affecting the African-American community. She explores the recent election's fallout and the emergence of new Black political leaders, particularly women, who are reshaping representation. Key discussions include Angela Alsobrooks and Lisa Blunt Rochester's historic Senate wins, the necessity of local elections, and evolving strategies for advancing Black political influence. Carrega highlights the importance of grassroots movements in navigating the challenges ahead for Black institutions and communities.

Joining the discussion are Dr. Sarah Miller, a family physician specializing in vasectomies, and Dr. Brian Nguyen, an associate professor researching male contraception. They explore the necessity of shared responsibility in reproductive health. The talk dives into the evolution of male contraceptive options, like innovative gels and reversible vasectomies. They challenge societal misconceptions around masculinity and encourage open dialogues on sexual health, emphasizing how important it is for men to actively join the conversation.

Mark Joseph Stern, a senior writer at Slate known for his legal expertise, and Mary Anne Franks, a George Washington Law School professor focused on civil rights and technology, dive into the chaos surrounding Matt Gaetz's potential nomination as Attorney General. They discuss the dangers this poses to judicial integrity and law enforcement neutrality. The conversation shifts to free speech in the digital age, critiquing how powerful figures like Elon Musk distort public discourse while exploring the balance between protecting marginalized voices and the marketplace of ideas.

In this discussion, McKenna Kelly, a senior political writer for Wired, delves into the 'manosphere' and its pivotal role in Trump's political comeback. She highlights how key influencers reshaped narratives and voter engagement strategies. The conversation also covers the Trump campaign's shift from traditional media to popular podcasting, tapping into younger audiences. Kelly further explores evolving masculinity and the Democratic party's struggle with social media strategies, emphasizing how these dynamics play into modern political landscapes.

Caitlin Dickerson, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist from The Atlantic, joins to discuss the complexities of immigration under a potential Trump administration. The conversation dives into the ramifications of mass deportation, highlighting logistical challenges and the impact on families. They explore the controversial nomination of Matt Gaetz for Attorney General, and the broader implications for the Republican Party. The hosts also reflect on the need for Democrats to learn from recent electoral defeats and reconnect with working-class voters.

The hosts dive into the emotional hurdles parents face in today’s complicated political climate. They share strategies for fostering resilience in kids while navigating tough discussions about current events. There's a heartfelt exploration of the unique challenges military families encounter, especially during relocations. The conversation also highlights the significance of teaching children about civic engagement and gender equality in an increasingly divisive society. Overall, it’s a mix of reassurance, advice, and community wisdom for parents.

Sam Adams, a senior editor and writer for Slate, dives into the nuances of Saturday Night Live's political satire. He critiques the show's often toothless humor in tackling figures like Donald Trump, questioning its effectiveness in today's polarized climate. Adams explores SNL's legacy as it turns 50, reflecting on its origins in counterculture and the challenge of evolving with contemporary politics. The conversation also speculates on how SNL might adapt its comedic approach moving forward, balancing humor with serious political engagement.