Slate News

Joseph Cox, an investigative reporter and cofounder of 404 Media, dives into the shocking risks of telecom security following the massive hack involving AT&T and Sydney Sweeney’s compromised information. He unpacks the dangers of SIM swapping, highlighting how easily hackers can exploit telecom vulnerabilities. The conversation emphasizes the negligence of telecom companies and the pressing need for improved data protection standards. Cox also provides tips on safeguarding personal information in this perilous digital landscape.

On this week’s Slate Money,  Felix Salmon and Emily Peck are joined by Slate’s Henry Grabar and former Slate Money co-host AnnaSzymanski. They dig into Henry’s experience covering the Paris Olympics; what’s in the latest jobs report; and Florida’s experiment with high-speed trains.In the Slate Plus segment, what exactly is the Soup Dumpling Index?Mentioned in the Show:Tom Vailant for The Pudding: Is Sleep Training Harmful?If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and an additional segment of our regular show every week. You’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Slate Money. Sign up now at slate.com/moneyplus to help support our work.Podcast production by Jessamine Molli and Cheyna Roth.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dive into the intricate web of Donald Trump's tumultuous legal battles. Discover his use of over 3,500 lawsuits to shape his narrative and intimidate opponents. Unpack unusual cases, including bizarre trademark disputes, and learn how Trump’s legal tactics reflect broader political maneuvers. The podcast sheds light on the influence of figures like Roy Cohn on his aggressive strategies. Explore how these actions intertwine with public perception and the complexities of navigating the judicial system.

Courtesy of our colleagues at A Word, enjoy this a special interview with America's first Second Gentleman, Doug Emhoff.Many political spouses spend decades preparing for a White House run with their partners. But attorney Doug Emhoff had been married to then-Senator Kamala Harris for just five years when she first ran for the White House. Now, as the first Second Gentleman in history, he’s stepping into the spotlight, sprinting across the country for her whirlwind campaign. On today’s episode of A Word, Jason Johnson talks with Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff about his family, his work combating anti-Semitism and other forms of hate, and campaigning with Vice President Kamala Harris.Guest: Second Gentleman of the United States Doug EmhoffPodcast production by Ahyiana AngelWant more A Word? Subscribe to Slate Plus to immediately access ad-free listening across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Or, visit slate.com/awordplus to get access wherever you listen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dylan Scott, a senior correspondent and editor for Vox, joins the discussion on the alarming rise of cancer among young people. They explore the pressing need for updated screening protocols and the potential of new blood tests, like the FDA-approved Shield Blood Test. The conversation delves into risk factors such as obesity, environmental toxins, and lifestyle choices contributing to this trend. Scott emphasizes the importance of societal responsibility in addressing cancer, advocating for a holistic approach beyond individual health choices.

This week’s chat features Emily Bazelon, a legal commentator, John Dickerson, a seasoned political journalist, David Plotz, a prominent writer and podcaster, and Torie Bosche, a former Slatester. They dive into how Democrats label Trump and Vance as 'weird,' Kamala Harris's potential running mates, and Biden's efforts on Supreme Court reform. The conversation balances serious political analysis with lighter discussions, including puzzling competitions and a chilling look at Edith Roller's journals from the Jonestown tragedy.

Joshua Keating, a senior correspondent covering foreign policy at Vox, delves into the volatile situation in the Middle East. He discusses the recent strike on Hamas leaders and the assassination of Ismail Hania, questioning the future of ceasefire negotiations. The intricate ties between Hamas and Iran are explored, highlighting potential geopolitical shifts. Keating also analyzes Hezbollah's emerging role and the concerns within the Israeli military regarding this conflict. With internal tensions escalating globally, the region's stability hangs in the balance.

Alex Sammon, a politics writer at Slate, dives into America's avocado obsession and its profound impact on Mexico. He explores the avocado's transformation into a superfood, driven by savvy marketing. However, this popularity comes with troubling realities, including environmental degradation and violence linked to drug cartels. Sammon also highlights local resistance efforts against harmful practices, showcasing community struggles for water and the fight to protect their land. The episode underscores the urgent need for reevaluation of avocado consumption in light of its adverse effects.

Molly Henseley Clancy, a sports writer for the Washington Post, delves into the troubling reality of abuse in American gymnastics. She discusses the psychological impact of coaching practices and the dark culture these athletes face. The episode highlights the aftermath of the Larry Nassar scandal and the ongoing struggle for reform and accountability. Clancy also explores the complexities of creating a safe environment for young gymnasts and the evolving landscape of training in gymnastics.

Calling Kamala Harris a “DEI hire” is both sexist and racist, and despite the GOP leadership’s pleading, it has quickly emerged as a favored line of attack from the right. Guest: Dr. Brittney Cooper, professor of gender studies and Africana studies at Rutgers UniversityWant more What Next? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and across 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.Podcast production by Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme and Rob Gunther. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.