Slate Daily Feed

Gary Rivlin, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of 'AI Valley', shares his insights on the intense competition in the AI landscape. He discusses how tech giants like Microsoft and Google are locked in a trillion-dollar race, and the challenge of acquiring top AI talent in a market rife with 'acquihires'. Rivlin also explores diverse perspectives on AI's impact, from its potential benefits in medicine to concerns around employment and surveillance, emphasizing the urgent need for responsible regulation.

David Spiegel, a psychiatrist and leading authority on hypnosis from Stanford University, joins to unravel the mysteries of hypnosis beyond Hollywood clichés. He discusses its therapeutic benefits in managing stress, pain, and enhancing athletic performance. Listeners are treated to a practical demonstration, as Dr. Spiegel tests the host's hypnotizability and guides him through a self-hypnosis exercise aimed at tackling procrastination. He also explores ethical considerations and innovative tools like his app, Reveri, which teaches self-hypnosis techniques.

Megan Greenwell, journalist and author of "Bad Company: Private Equity and the Death of the American Dream," shares her gripping journey from editor-in-chief of Deadspin to uncovering the dark side of private equity. She discusses how the industry's profit-driven motives led to the disintegration of editorial integrity, affecting both employees and communities. With tales from various impacted individuals, Greenwell highlights the emotional toll and systemic injustices wrought by private equity takeovers, illuminating a pressing narrative of modern American life.

The podcast kicks off with a discussion on the Chiefs' alarming 0-2 start, questioning if their aging roster is catching up with them. Sidney Crosby's potential exit from the Penguins is explored, raising questions about the loyalty owed to legendary players. Angel Reese's public criticism of her teammates in the WNBA adds spice, alongside an analysis of playoff dynamics. The legality of the 'tush-push' play creates further debate, and the panel reflects on deeper issues, including domestic violence allegations in the NFL that demand attention.

A listener's inquiry about a toddler's reluctance to share kicks off a lively conversation on parenting and child development. The hosts dive into why sharing is a complex challenge at this age and offer practical tips for parents. They also share humorous anecdotes about family dynamics, including a teenage crush story with an exchange student. As they reminisce about their move to Detroit, they reflect on the biking culture, navigating new environments, and the importance of modeling sharing for children.

Hasan Piker, a prominent Twitch streamer and left-wing political commentator, reflects on his relationship with Charlie Kirk after Kirk's tragic death. He dives into the challenges of live streaming political discourse and the emotional toll of political violence on commentators. Piker critically examines the effectiveness of political debates, the media's role in shaping perceptions of extremism, and the alarming rise of radicalization among youth. He emphasizes the need for ongoing activism despite safety concerns and the murky waters of online rhetoric.

Laura Reiley, a writer for the Cornell Chronicle, shares her heart-wrenching journey as the mother of Sophie, whose vibrant spirit concealed deep struggles with depression. After Sophie’s tragic suicide, Reiley discovered chilling ChatGPT logs that included her daughter’s final thoughts. The conversation probes the unsettling role of AI in emotional crises and therapy, contrasting digital support with vital human connection. They discuss the implications of chatbots in mental health, emphasizing the need for transparency and awareness in their use.

A controversial ICE raid at a Hyundai plant disrupts operations and raises fears about foreign investments in the U.S. Meanwhile, Oracle's stock skyrockets due to AI deals, inching it closer to a trillion-dollar valuation. The hosts also critique JP Morgan's extravagant new skyscraper, likening it to a Vegas hotel while discussing corporate real estate trends. Plus, a quirky segment features a playful rivalry between Zuckerberg and Zuckerberg, adding a lighthearted touch to serious financial discussions.

Virgie Tovar, writer and podcaster known for her take on GLP-1 marketing, dives into the complex landscape of #BodyPositivity. She discusses the unsettling rise of weight loss drug ads targeting plus-size creators and the cultural backlash against body positivity. Tovar tackles the ethical concerns of marketing tactics that exploit body image narratives while exploring the intersection of fat phobia and racism. She emphasizes the movement's roots in activism and the ongoing challenges influencers face in an ever-changing societal context.

Dive into the intriguing world of music charts as the dynamics of No. 1 debuts are unraveled. Discover how Mariah Carey's 'Fantasy' reshaped the scene in 1995 and explore the balance between instant hits and fleeting fame. The discussion tackles the influence of American Idol on chart success, cultural shifts in the late '90s, and the evolution of music consumption. Controversies around iconic tracks like Michael Jackson's 'You Are Not Alone' highlight the complexities of lasting popularity. It's a captivating look at the rise and fall of chart-topping bangers!