Plain English with Derek Thompson

Philip Landrigan, an epidemiologist and pediatrician from Boston College, discusses the alarming prevalence of microplastics and their potential harm to human health. He explains how these tiny particles can infiltrate our bodies, highlighting their links to cardiovascular diseases. The conversation delves into the inefficacy of recycling practices and what steps individuals and governments can take to mitigate exposure. Landrigan emphasizes the need for urgent research and systematic changes to combat plastic pollution for a healthier future.

John Ourand, a sports correspondent with Puck News, delves into the NBA's incredible new $76 billion media rights deal despite declining viewership. He tackles the paradox of rising revenue in a fragmented media landscape, contrasting it with the NFL's stable influence. Ourand discusses the complexities of sports contracts in the age of cord-cutting and highlights the growing prominence of the WNBA and other women's sports, emphasizing the need for new broadcasting agreements to harness their surging popularity.

David Leonhardt, a seasoned writer and editor at The New York Times, discusses a transformative moment in American economics. He highlights a growing bipartisan consensus on government intervention in trade and technology, especially regarding China. The conversation reveals how infrastructure subsidies, tariffs, and technology restrictions are reshaping economic policy. Leonhardt also connects current shifts to historical crises that have sparked innovation, pointing to the need for a neopopulist approach to better align with working-class concerns.

Kirk Goldsberry, author of ‘Hoop Atlas,’ dives into the evolution of basketball strategy and the players who transformed the game. He highlights how Michael Jordan's reluctance to embrace three-point shooting paved the way for a revolution in the sport. The conversation explores the cultural impact of stars like Allen Iverson and Manu Ginóbili, while also discussing the rise of versatile centers like Nikola Jokic. Goldsberry explains the shift from mid-range games to today's 'sprawl ball,' illustrating how these players shaped modern basketball.

Joining the discussion is David Wallace-Wells, a bestselling science writer and columnist for The New York Times, renowned for his insights on climate and societal challenges. The conversation tackles the contentious link between smartphones and rising teenage depression, especially among girls. David emphasizes the need for a nuanced perspective, arguing that cultural factors and increased mental health awareness contribute significantly to the crisis. The debate explores whether the impact of screen time is truly as detrimental as often portrayed, urging listeners to reconsider common narratives.

Gideon Lewis-Kraus, a New Yorker staff writer and expert on flying car technology, dives into the tantalizing yet frustrating history of flying cars. He explores why these futuristic vehicles have remained elusive, despite advances in technology. Lewis-Kraus discusses the fascinating gap between society's expectations and reality, shining a light on innovative possibilities like urban air taxis. He also unpacks regulatory hurdles and niche applications, arguing that a flying car revolution might be closer than we think.

In this insightful conversation, Sean Illing, known for his work on the Gray Area podcast, explores how modern society has adopted cult-like dynamics. They discuss the allure of devotion in fandoms, using Taylor Swift's dedicated following as a prime example. Sean highlights the shift from casual fandom to intense allegiance and how identity is becoming more significant in politics. He also dives into the psychological impact of media on building exclusive communities, illustrating how today’s cultural trends reflect the characteristics of traditional cults.

Natan Sachs, Director of the Center for Middle East Policy at Brookings, breaks down the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. He discusses the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza, where tens of thousands of civilians have been killed and millions displaced. Sachs explores the complexities of ceasefire negotiations and whether Hamas's leadership seeks the kind of peace that global protests demand. He also tackles the implications of U.S. military aid to Israel and the recent shift in Iran-Israel tensions, revealing a deeper geopolitical landscape.

Omar Wasow, a political science professor at UC Berkeley and a key voice on the history of protests, shares insights on the current wave of protests sweeping across college campuses in response to the Gaza war. He discusses how the dynamics of protests have evolved since the 1960s, highlighting the impact of media coverage on public opinion. Wasow explains why some protests succeed while others backfire, and the critical role of peaceful activism in shaping societal change. His analysis draws parallels between past and present movements, shedding light on strategies for effective engagement.

Ravi Agrawal, editor-in-chief of Foreign Policy magazine, dives deep into India's shifting political landscape under Prime Minister Modi. He highlights India's rise as the world's most populous nation and its implications for global dynamics. The discussion reveals the surge of Hindu nationalism and its contrast with India’s historical values. Agrawal also examines the legacy of past violence, the rapid digital transformation, and the growing pains of democracy amid a flourishing digital economy. This multifaceted analysis paints a vivid picture of a nation in flux.