Slate News

Candice Lim is joined by Vox senior correspondent Rebecca Jennings to discuss what their timelines have looked like since the U.S. presidential election was called. From TikToks accusing men of entering their feminine era, to a surge of Americans posting about the 4B movement, they discuss how the dynamic between men and women has become increasingly regressive online, and what battles are yet to come. But first, Rebecca pitches the Netflix Christmas movie that’s even better than Hot Frosty.This podcast is produced by Se’era Spragley Ricks, Daisy Rosario and Candice Lim, with production assistance from Alexandra Botti and Kat Hong. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Dayen, executive editor of The American Prospect, shares insights on the surprising dynamics of Trump's cabinet selections. He discusses shadowy ‘czars’ who may wield significant influence bypassing traditional roles. The conversation delves into chaos as a tactic in Trump's strategy, highlighting the controversial figures nominated. Dayen emphasizes how these appointments could shift power within the administration, reflecting on the challenges and implications for policy-making, especially regarding immigration and trade.

Henry Grabar, a staff writer at Slate, digs into the surprising rise of Donald Trump in traditionally Democratic cities, alongside New York State Representative Ron Kim, who has a deep understanding of his diverse district. They explore how dissatisfaction with Democratic leadership and economic pressures, like rising costs, are reshaping voting patterns. The duo also discusses the complexities of voter support for Trump amidst calls for progressive change, revealing the challenges progressives face in connecting with their constituents.

The hosts dive into the spectacle of the Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson boxing match that left many viewers scratching their heads. They explore the shifting landscape of regional sports networks and the competitive dynamics of the NFL's Chiefs and Bills rivalry. Additionally, insightful commentary on the Winnipeg Jets sheds light on attendance challenges. In a bonus feature, they dissect the NBA’s fascination with three-pointers, adding a playful twist to the discussion.

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.