Slate Daily Feed

In this enlightening discussion, David Miliband, former UK foreign secretary and current president of the International Rescue Committee, sheds light on the devastating humanitarian crisis in Sudan. He reveals harrowing details of satellite-visible massacres and the trauma faced by displaced civilians. Miliband explains the complex roots of the conflict, including military rivalries and foreign backers. He emphasizes the urgent need for international action and support for life-saving aid, while sharing a poignant survivor's story that highlights resilience and hope.

Kevin Fong, a close friend of Scott Galateria, shares heartfelt memories of their deep bond and the caregiving experiences within the MCC community amid the AIDS crisis. Brickwood Galateria, Scott's brother, discusses the life-changing impact of loss on family and how Scott's legacy spurred his advocacy for civil unions in Hawaii. Together, they reflect on the intoxicating blend of love, community support, and heartache during a turbulent time, illustrating the intertwining of personal grief with collective resilience and activism.

Rebecca Jennings, a features writer at New York Magazine specializing in internet culture, joins to dissect the comebacks of infamous figures Ned Fulmer and Colleen Ballinger. They explore why Fulmer, ousted from the Try Guys for an affair, struggles to regain fan approval despite attempts like his new podcast. Jennings critiques Ballinger's elusive apologies, including her infamous ukulele video amid serious allegations. The duo also debates the effectiveness of influencer apologies and the psychological pull of fame that drives these internet villains to persistently seek redemption.

Join Samantha King, a kinesiology professor and co-author of 'Protein: The Making of a Nutritional Superstar', along with Gavin Whedon, a sociology expert focusing on sport and health. They dive into America's fixation with protein, exploring its historical booms and cultural significance. Discover how protein's journey spans from 19th-century meat extracts to today's protein-fortified foods. They also discuss the misconceptions around protein needs and how bodybuilding culture helped shape modern protein trends, creating an ever-growing market.

The hosts dive into Edgar Wright's adaptation of The Running Man, exploring its blend of wit and bleakness. They discuss its emotional engagement and critique of media in today's fragmented world. Shifting gears, they analyze Netflix's Death By Lightning, praising strong performances but critiquing its writing and historical framing. Finally, they marvel at Rosalía's ambitious album LUX, highlighting its operatic elements and immersive experience. Curious listeners are invited to submit their cultural queries for an upcoming call-in show!

Will Sommer, a senior reporter at The Bulwark specializing in right-wing politics, dives into the unsettling implications of the newly released Epstein files on the MAGA coalition. He discusses how these emails disrupt the usual alignment between Trump and his base, revealing deep fractures within the GOP. Sommer also analyzes Marjorie Taylor Greene's pivot from Trump ally to critic, the influence of Epstein's network on elite connections, and the electoral risks for Republicans embracing extremism, questioning how all this might reshape future elections.

Melody Warnick, an author and journalist known for her insightful books on community and belonging, joins listener Carrie, a rural Virginian exploring relocation. They dive into the emotional complexities of moving, discuss the rise of remote work as a game-changer for city choices, and identify Carrie's priorities like vibrancy and walkability. Melody introduces practical tools like a 10x10 grid to evaluate potential cities. They also consider the importance of community engagement and the role of personal quirks in decision-making.

Tig Notaro, a comedian and filmmaker, discusses her award-winning documentary about her friend Andrea Gibson, who tragically passed from cancer. She shares how their initial creative spark blossomed into a profound friendship. Tig reflects on the complexities of grief while promoting the film and the emotional balance between laughter and sadness it captures. They delve into memorable moments from Andrea's final performances and the close-knit group that supported each other through this journey, emphasizing the importance of community in facing loss.

Joining the show are Dan Devine, a Yahoo Sports writer known for his insights on the Dallas Mavericks, Nitish Pahwa from Slate who specializes in sports streaming issues, and Danny Chow from The Ringer, an NBA expert. They dive into the chaos surrounding Nico Harrison's firing, dissecting how it affects the Mavericks' roster. Pahwa explains the contentious Disney-YouTube TV disputes and its impact on sports streaming. Chow analyzes Victor Wembanyama's phenomenal season and the Spurs' playoff chances as they face strategies aimed at minimizing his dominance.

Kat Lonsdorf, a news reporter at NPR, sheds light on the complexities faced by National Guard members during domestic deployments. She discusses their discomfort over vague missions, the reluctance to speak publicly due to community backlash, and the blurred lines between military and local law enforcement. Kat also explores the legal implications of these activations, the impact on Guard resources, and the considerations surrounding potential political ramifications as these tactics could affect future elections.