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Explore the vibrant history of LGBTQ representation in music, tracing the journeys of icons like Little Richard and Freddie Mercury. Delve into the struggles and triumphs faced by queer artists as they balanced public success with private identities. Celebrate milestones such as George Michael's duet with Elton John and the rise of openly queer stars like Lil Nas X. Discover how these musicians challenged societal norms and shaped the evolving narrative of queer identity in the industry, making an indelible mark on pop culture.

Maggie Miller, a POLITICO cybersecurity reporter, dives into the intricate cyber warfare between Iran and Israel. She highlights recent cyberattacks on Iranian banks amidst an internet blackout, shedding light on the disruptions faced by citizens. The conversation explores Israel's sophisticated cybersecurity strategies and Iran's countermeasures, including the roles of both state-sponsored hackers and independent groups. Miller elaborates on the challenges of defining acts of cyber war and the implications for international relations, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity in our digital age.

Steven Cook, a Senior Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, delves into President Trump's controversial bombing of Iran's nuclear facilities, discussing its geopolitical implications and the necessity for diplomacy. The conversation also touches on Zohran Mamdani's stunning victory in the NYC mayoral primary, showcasing the shifting political landscape. Additionally, revelations from a whistleblower expose misconduct related to deportation orders during the Trump administration, raising serious ethical concerns within the Justice Department.

The hosts dive into how to discuss job loss with children, emphasizing honesty and techniques for navigating emotional responses. They share insights on moving back to the U.S. after living abroad and how to support kids through this transition. The discussion includes managing complex topics like politics in a child-friendly manner. Personal anecdotes highlight parenting challenges, emotional intelligence, and the importance of community support. Plus, they celebrate a listener's success in throwing a retro murder mystery birthday party that engaged all the teens!

Ross Barkan, a contributing writer for the New York Times Magazine and Editor-in-Chief of The Metropolitan Review, delves into the remarkable ascent of Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic nominee for New York mayor. They discuss Mamdani's unexpected victory against a more established opponent, fueled by support from first-time voters. Barkan highlights Mamdani’s unique campaign strategies and how they reflect a broader shift in political dynamics. The conversation also addresses the challenges a democratic socialist may face while attempting ambitious reforms like free public transportation.

Candice Lim and Kate Lindsay are joined by Yahoo senior entertainment reporter Kelsey Weekman, who is fresh off the plane from this year’s VidCon. Unlike past years, when TikTokkers took over the Anaheim Convention Center, VidCon 2025 put YouTubers front and center, inducting the first creators into the VidCon Hall of Fame. With platforms like MySpace and Vine coming and going, how has YouTube stuck around? Why can’t TikTok dethrone it? And who on earth is “jmancurly”??? This podcast is produced by Daisy Rosario, Vic Whitley-Berry, Candice Lim, and Kate Lindsay. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Outward, Bryan talks with Slate legal reporter Mark Joseph Stern about a federal judge’s sweeping and controversial ruling in United States v. Skrmetti, which could have massive consequences for access to gender-affirming care. Then, Christina sits down with Congresswoman Becca Balint to talk about what it means to advocate for trans rights inside a Congress where culture war rhetoric, and policy, are escalating fast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week’s show, Julia, Dana, and Steve return to the Rage Virus-infected world first created by Danny Boyle and Alex Garland two decades ago. They talk about 28 Years Later and what the zombie movie sequel has to say about now. A lot it turns out: COVID, Brexit, human mortality, and more. Next, they grapple with the media phenomenon that is Alex Cooper—the spunky and sexually frank host of the blockbuster podcast Call Her Daddy— by discussing the recent documentary about her rise, Call Her Alex. Finally, they analyze the loping, charming, sister-rock appeal of Haim’s new album I quit. In an exclusive Slate Plus segment, the hosts spoil the ending of 28 Years Laters and get into all the film’s twists that make it such a surprising, interesting ride. Endorsements: Dana: More Haim, specifically their 2020 Tiny Desk concert performed on Zoom. Steve: The underappreciated band The Cry. And if you like that, more music from their Manchester-based record label Factory Records. Julia:  The charming hang of The Lonely Island and Seth Meyers Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A jury recently found Greenpeace liable for more than $660 million in damages to the company behind the Dakota Access pipeline for its role in the Standing Rock protests.  But the ramifications extend far beyond Greenpeace. As protests against various Trump administration policies heat up across the country, what does this lawsuit say about how opponents can weaponize the courts to criminalize protesters? Guest: Alleen Brown, independent investigative reporter, editor at Drilled Want more What Next? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen. Podcast production by Ethan Oberman, Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme and Rob Gunther. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this Money Talks: Felix Salmon is joined by author James Frey to discuss his new novel, Next to Heaven, set among America’s ultra-ultra-rich, the real life billionaires he knows who inspired it, and why he thinks money is addicting.  Want to hear that discussion and hear more Slate Money? Join Slate Plus to unlock weekly bonus episodes. Plus, you’ll access ad-free listening across all your favorite Slate podcasts. You can subscribe directly from the Slate Money show page on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/moneyplus to get access wherever you listen. Podcast production by Jessamine Molli and Cheyna Roth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices