The U.S. military is the most powerful and lethal in the world. But several branches of the armed forces have failed to meet their recruiting goals in recent years. That has some experts concerned about whether the country would be prepared to defend itself in the event of war. In a recent piece for the New Yorker, Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist Dexter Filkins writes about the state of the military today. He spoke with Apple News In Conversation host Shumita Basu about the roots of this recruitment crisis, how the current administration plans to address it, and what it could mean for American security in the future.

McKay Coppins, a staff writer at The Atlantic known for his deep dive into the Murdoch family saga, shares the gripping story of Rupert Murdoch's power struggle over his media empire. He walks us through the turbulent court battle sparked by Murdoch's decision to favor Lachlan over James, illuminating the fraught sibling dynamics and James's journey to reclaim his narrative. Coppins also delves into the ideological divides among the brothers during the Trump years and the emotional fallout of their estrangement, revealing a family caught in a dramatic legacy fight.

In this engaging discussion, Jack Crosbie, a contributing writer for Rolling Stone, unpacks the fascinating relationship between Donald Trump and the UFC. He explores how Trump's friendship with UFC CEO Dana White reflects their mutual rise to prominence. The dialogue highlights the intersection of sports and politics, delving into the cultural significance of mixed martial arts in America today. Crosbie also analyzes how combat sports resonate with societal tensions and their unexpected role in the upcoming 2024 election.

Ankush Khardori, a seasoned writer for Politico Magazine and former federal prosecutor, joins the discussions on presidential power during Trump's second term. He dives into the ramifications of controversial pardons and mass firings, revealing how these decisions could reshape the balance of power among government branches. Khardori also unpacks the unitary executive theory, warns of unchecked authority, and explores the complex relationship between the executive and legislative branches. It's a gripping examination of modern governance and potential future implications.

Susan Morrison, the author of "Lorne: The Man Who Invented Saturday Night Live," shares insider insights about the legendary Lorne Michaels. She delves into the chaotic origins of SNL, highlighting how the show emerged from a need for late-night creativity in 1975. Morrison discusses Michaels's unique management style and impact on comedy, blending humor with sharp political satire. As SNL nears its 50th anniversary, she reflects on its evolution and the challenges of its future leadership under Michaels's enduring influence.

Susan Berfield, a Senior investigative reporter at Bloomberg Businessweek, and Natalie Obiko Pearson, a contributing reporter, delve into the dark underbelly of the global human-egg trade. They uncover shocking personal stories that highlight exploitation, particularly among vulnerable young women. The discussion reveals harrowing health risks, ethical dilemmas surrounding donation practices, and a largely unregulated market. Listeners learn about the emotional and financial complexities faced by those involved, prompting critical reflections on reproductive ethics and regulation.

Nicholas Carr, an acclaimed author known for works like 'Superbloom' and 'The Shallows,' dives deep into the shifting landscape of social media. He discusses how platforms went from fostering genuine connections to prioritizing profit and engagement over meaningful interactions. The conversation highlights TikTok's algorithmic influence on user behavior, the rise of AI-generated content, and the implications of potential bans on platforms. Carr emphasizes the need for personal agency to navigate these complexities and restore thoughtful engagement with technology.

Joshua Kaplan, a ProPublica reporter, dives into the tumultuous world of American militias. He discusses the ramifications of Donald Trump's pardons, which have reignited militia activity, highlighting experiences of an undercover operative who infiltrated these groups. Kaplan reveals the dual nature of militias — part community clubs, part paramilitary organizations — and the dangers of extremism, illustrated by a former member's struggle to leave. The conversation also explores the troubling connection between law enforcement and militia affiliations.

In this engaging conversation, Ben Stiller, the creative mind behind 'Severance,' and Adam Scott, who plays Mark Scout, dive deep into the show's emotional layers. They discuss the complex dynamics between Mark's 'innie' and 'outie,' unearthing themes of love that persist amid identity struggles. The pair also tackle fan theories about reality while navigating a fun crossword challenge. Stiller shares insights on the creative process and how 'Severance' evolved from niche to a cultural sensation, revealing the magnetic storytelling that keeps audiences captivated.

Ryann Liebenthal, author of 'Burdened: Student Debt and the Making of an American Crisis', discusses the staggering $1.7 trillion student debt crisis affecting millions of Americans. She reveals how the student loan system evolved from supportive initiatives to a heavy financial burden, especially for lower-income students. Liebenthal critiques current debt cancellation measures and advocates for a complete overhaul of the education financing system, emphasizing the need to view education as a public good rather than a personal investment.