Apple News In Conversation

T.J. Raphael, a journalist known for her investigations into maternity homes, dives into the dark realities of these facilities in the post-Roe climate. She shares the story of Abbi Johnson, who faced immense pressure to give her child up for adoption. Raphael reveals the emotional burdens young mothers endure and the manipulative nature of maternity homes, often rooted in restrictive ideologies. The discussion also addresses adoption complexities and the socio-economic factors that influence these critical decisions, highlighting a pervasive illusion of choice.

Elizabeth Bruenig, a staff writer at The Atlantic, shares her haunting insights from witnessing five executions, including two failed attempts. She delves into the emotional and ethical complexities of the death penalty in America, contrasting it with humane practices in euthanasia. Bruenig discusses her personal connection as a relative of a murder victim and the moral dilemmas that arise from capital punishment. The conversation raises crucial questions about justice, mercy, and the changing landscape of public opinion on this divisive issue.

In this engaging discussion, Amanda Hess, a New York Times culture critic and author of 'Second Life: Having a Child in the Digital Age', shares her insights on tech's influence in modern parenting. She explores how pregnancy tracking apps impact expectant mothers emotionally and the societal pressures surrounding them. Hess also critiques parenting influencers, revealing the complexities of digital advice versus traditional support. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of community and social connections in navigating the challenges of parenthood.

Evan Osnos, a staff writer at The New Yorker and author of 'The Haves and Have-Yachts', digs into America's fixation on the ultra-wealthy. He discusses the stark wealth divide and how today’s billionaires are both envied and resented. Osnos explores opulent super yachts as symbols of this new Gilded Age, critiques CEO pay disparities, and reveals the veiled influence of billionaires in politics. He also reflects on what future historians might learn from today's symbols of affluence and the societal values they represent.

In this engaging discussion, national-security reporter Garrett Graff delves into his recent book on UFOs, revealing how the Pentagon has spread disinformation about sightings to protect secret operations. He questions whether we've truly been visited by extraterrestrial life and examines the implications of recent congressional hearings on UFO phenomena. Graff also explores humanity's mathematical likelihood of encountering alien life and reflects on the profound cultural obsession with UFOs and the resulting distrust in government narratives.

In this engaging discussion, journalist Megan Greenwell, author of "Bad Company: Private Equity and the Death of the American Dream," sheds light on the often opaque world of private equity. She reveals how acquisitions can devastate communities, using poignant stories like that of a former Toys R Us employee. The episode also highlights grassroots efforts, like those in Riverton, Wyoming, where locals fight to reclaim healthcare services. Greenwell calls attention to the pressing need for transparency and regulatory reform in the private equity landscape.

Joseph Kosinski, known for directing high-octane films like Top Gun: Maverick, and legendary producer Jerry Bruckheimer, discuss the making of F1: The Movie. They share insights into filming real F1 races for authenticity and the rigorous training actors underwent to drive Formula cars. The duo emphasizes the emotional storytelling inherent in motorsport and the thrill of high-speed racing. They hope the film inspires new fans and filmmakers, capturing the exhilarating essence of Formula 1 like never before.

Scott Payne, a retired FBI agent, spent over two decades infiltrating dangerous extremist and criminal groups, including neo-Nazis and motorcycle gangs. He shares gripping accounts of the emotional toll his work took on him while navigating the dark world of hate. Payne exposes the alarming recruitment strategies of extremist groups and describes harrowing events, such as extremist hate camps. His insights stress the urgent need to understand and combat the growing threat of domestic extremism in America.

Rob Sheffield, a Rolling Stone journalist and author of 'Heartbreak Is the National Anthem,' discusses Taylor Swift's transformative influence on the music industry. He highlights her groundbreaking journey from country to pop, emphasizing her songwriting and empowering female artists. The conversation covers her recent reclaiming of master recordings and the emotional depth of songs like 'Dear John.' Sheffield also reflects on the astonishing success of the Eras Tour, showcasing Swift's unique bond with fans and her innovative storytelling techniques.

David Armstrong, a ProPublica health-care reporter battling a rare blood cancer, dives into the shocking pricing of the cancer drug Revlimid. He reveals how this lifesaving medication, costing mere cents to produce, is sold to patients for nearly $1,000 per pill. Armstrong discusses the monopolistic tactics of pharmaceutical companies that keep prices high and access low. He also explores the troubling history of related drugs and the broader implications of America's drug pricing crisis, urging a need for reform in the healthcare system.