Slate News

Madeline Ducharme, a producer for 'What's Next,' shares her experiences at the DNC. She delves into the event's LGBTQ moments, highlighting a powerful speech from Michigan's attorney general and the lack of transgender discussions. Ducharme critiques the Democratic Party's approach to queer representation, pointing out the disconnect between urgent trans issues and political dialogue. The conversation underscores the need for more inclusive advocacy, especially regarding healthcare and rights for marginalized communities.

Aymann Ismail, a Slate staff writer, shares compelling insights from Springfield, Ohio, a city grappling with the aftermath of political rhetoric and economic turmoil. He discusses the emotional toll of recent bomb threats on Haitian immigrant families and the rising racial tensions in the community. The conversation also highlights Springfield's economic struggles and the complex dynamics surrounding immigration as it seeks revitalization. Ismail challenges misconceptions about housing competition, shedding light on the broader issues impacting the city's residents.

Explore the tumultuous beginnings of Fox News in 1996, rife with technical failures and low viewership. Witness its transformation during the contentious 2000 election, where it played a pivotal role in shaping public opinions and deepening political divides. Delve into the ethical dilemmas surrounding the coverage of George W. Bush's concealed DUI conviction and the controversial early call for Florida. Learn how Roger Ailes' unconventional tactics helped solidify Fox News as a dominant force in American media.

Ari Berman, a national voting rights correspondent for Mother Jones and author of "Minority Rule," dives into the rise of Election Integrity Units across the U.S. He reveals their controversial methods, questioning if they genuinely combat fraud or intimidate voters. Berman discusses alarming cases of law enforcement targeting marginalized communities, particularly voters of color, raising concerns about systemic issues. The conversation also touches on the implications of these units for future elections and the fraught landscape of voting rights, especially in states like Texas and Florida.

Alex Kirshner, a sports analyst specializing in women's golf and athlete safety, joins Lindsay Gibbs, a sports journalist dedicated to women's sports, and Ben Lindbergh, a versatile sports writer. They celebrate the U.S. women’s victory at the Solheim Cup, highlighting key performances and the triumph's significance. The trio also discusses the Oakland Athletics’ controversial move to Sacramento and the implications for fans. Lastly, they address Tua Tagovailoa's alarming concussion, emphasizing the urgent need for improved player safety protocols.

Brian Donovan, a sociology professor at the University of Kansas known for teaching 'The Sociology of Taylor Swift,' discusses the impact of Taylor Swift's endorsement of Kamala Harris. He dives into how celebrity endorsements shape political sentiment and boost engagement among fans. The conversation touches on Swift's evolution from pop star to political influencer, the complexities of fan culture, and the ways in which her endorsement could galvanize voter participation among the Swiftie community.

Laura Joffe Numeroff, author of the beloved children's book 'If You Give a Mouse a Cookie,' joins the discussion about the surprising political ramifications of her work. She shares how the story has been co-opted by conservative groups as a metaphor for welfare and entitlement. The conversation explores the evolving interpretations of children's literature and the broader cultural implications. They discuss the unintended meanings adults derive from such stories and the trends that shape political discourse around them.

Dr. Edith Bracho-Sanchez, a primary care pediatrician, shares vital tips for supporting kids' health this back-to-school season. She discusses the importance of setting health goals and maintaining routines. The conversation highlights mental health challenges faced by students and offers strategies for coping with academic pressures. Dr. Bracho-Sanchez emphasizes creating a nurturing home environment, effective family communication, and prioritizing wellness through nutrition and physical activity. It's a must-listen for parents looking to ease the transition for their children!

Micah Maidenberg, a space business reporter for the Wall Street Journal, discusses the recent successful landing of Boeing's Starliner and the unexpected astronaut return via SpaceX. He dives into the challenges Boeing faces, including investigations and labor issues, while highlighting NASA's shift towards private contractors. The conversation contrasts Boeing's traditional approach with SpaceX’s innovative methods, shedding light on the evolving landscape of American spaceflight and the implications for future missions.

Boeing faces a turbulent year with a massive worker strike revealing deep-seated labor issues. The hosts debate the cultural shift from full meals to snacking, highlighting the quirky notion of 'girl dinner.' They also explore the fallout from the Silicon Valley Bank collapse and the evolving landscape of banking regulations, particularly Basel III. The light-hearted discussion extends to breakfast preferences, contrasting sweet and savory options, while injecting a dose of humor into contemporary topics surrounding labor, finance, and food.