Slate News

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.

In this discussion, Gabby Reece, a retired professional volleyball player and co-founder of XPT Fitness and Laird Superfoods, shares her journey from athlete to advocate for sustainable fitness. She emphasizes the importance of creating a personalized exercise routine, highlighting the integration of nutrition and mental wellness. Gabby explores strength training's benefits for women, encouraging resilience over societal ideals. The conversation also touches on building community support and the motivation to maintain consistent fitness practices.

Gina Kolata, a medical reporter for The New York Times, shares insights on sickle cell anemia's latest gene therapy developments. Deb Cromer discusses her son Kendrick's inspiring journey as the first to receive this treatment. They explore the emotional and logistical challenges families face, particularly regarding access to this groundbreaking therapy. The conversation highlights hopes for a potential cure while addressing systemic barriers and the importance of awareness in the journey to understanding this condition.

Colleen Long and Rebecca Little, co-authors of "I'm Sorry for My Loss," bring personal stories and research on pregnancy loss and reproductive care in America. They explore the emotional and political dimensions of these topics, emphasizing the need for better conversations around miscarriage and abortion rights. The duo discusses racial disparities in maternal health, societal stigma, and the urgent call for improved healthcare access. They also highlight the shifting political landscapes affecting women and underscore the importance of empathy in supporting those grieving loss.

Senator Sheldon Whitehouse from Rhode Island, an expert on judicial issues and dark money, discusses the current chaos in U.S. politics post-Trump's transition. He delves into the Senate's crucial decisions regarding judicial confirmations amidst allegations of misconduct. Whitehouse emphasizes the impact of wealthy individuals on the judiciary and the need for public awareness to combat exploitation. He also critiques Democratic leaders for their inaction on pressing issues like dark money, judicial reform, and the importance of active citizen engagement.

This week: Bluesky feels like the Twitter of old. Will that last? Emily Peck, Elizabeth Spiers, and Anna Szymanski discuss the new popularity of the social platform and whether or not it’s becoming a liberal bubble. Then, Indian billionaire Gautam Adani is being charged with fraud by federal prosecutors for bribing Indian officials for solar energy contracts. Also, there’s a rising trend of “anti-work” businesses. The hosts discuss what that means and if there is any real marketing juice behind a political label. In the Slate Plus episode: Should we quit cleaning?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

Leah Nylen, an antitrust reporter for Bloomberg News with a keen focus on Google's legal battles, discusses the Department of Justice's push to potentially spin off Google Chrome. She explores the impact of political shifts on Google's antitrust scrutiny and regulatory uncertainties. The conversation delves into Chrome's dominance in the digital ecosystem and its significance in Google's business model. Nylen also addresses the implications of Chrome's separation from Google and the evolving landscape of antitrust enforcement.

Dan Diamond, a healthcare reporter for The Washington Post, joins the discussion to dive into Donald Trump’s controversial Cabinet selections, spotlighting their troubling pasts and how these might affect governance. The talk shifts to new public health policies, particularly regarding the Affordable Care Act, and hints at the challenges of merging political agendas with public health. Additionally, the Texas curriculum's integration of the Bible in schools raises eyebrows, prompting debates about inclusivity and the future of education.

Molly O'Toole, an immigration and security reporter at the LA Times, dives into the complexities of mass deportation in the U.S. She discusses Trump's promised deportations and the psychological tactics behind immigration policies. The conversation touches on the ethical dilemmas of targeting long-term undocumented individuals versus recent arrivals. O'Toole examines past U.S. deportation strategies, drawing parallels to historical events and underscores how shifts in public perception impact current policies.