Apple News In Conversation

Jonathan Blitzer, a seasoned immigration staff writer for The New Yorker and author of 'Everyone Who Is Gone Is Here', sheds light on the troubling deportation of Venezuelan migrants. He highlights the harrowing journey of Andrew, a gay makeup artist, wrongfully detained for supposed gang affiliations. Blitzer critiques ICE's practices, revealing the lack of criminal records among deportees. The discussion exposes political silence amid community efforts to support those affected, emphasizing the urgent need for advocacy in the face of injustice.

Gardiner Harris, an investigative journalist and author of 'No More Tears,' exposes the troubling history of Johnson & Johnson. He reveals the dark realities behind their baby powder scandal, including contamination with asbestos. Harris discusses the company's role in the opioid epidemic and highlights systemic failures in healthcare oversight. He calls for ethical reforms to hold corporations accountable, emphasizing the need for transparency to protect public health. A riveting exploration of corporate malfeasance and its real-world consequences.

Leah Feiger, Senior Politics Editor at Wired, and Zoë Schiffer, Head of Business and Industry at Wired, dive into the tumultuous changes within federal agencies sparked by Elon Musk's controversial initiatives. They share insights from over 150 sources, revealing the confusion and upheaval affecting federal workers. Topics include Musk's 'Doge' efforts to inject startup-style management, alarming data privacy threats, and the real human impacts of these technological transformations, urging a shift towards personal stories amid broader political narratives.

Brian Kelly, founder of The Points Guy, is a travel expert known for helping people leverage credit card points and frequent-flyer miles. He shares practical strategies for planning luxurious trips at a fraction of the cost. Kelly discusses how to maximize travel rewards, the importance of flexibility, and direct airline bookings. He also emphasizes tips for traveling with kids, including kid-friendly destinations. With insights from his new book, he debunks myths about flight pricing and highlights the advantages of using travel technology.

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.