Slate Daily Feed

Jill Lepore, an esteemed historian and law professor at Harvard, discusses the urgent need to reimagine the U.S. Constitution amidst today's political polarization. She emphasizes the importance of the amendment process as a tool for societal renewal and reflects on underrepresented voices in constitutional history. The conversation also critiques the current state of presidential power, advocates for public engagement in constitutional discourse, and the necessity for a living Constitution that adapts to modern governance.

Ed Zitron, author of the newsletter Where’s Your Ed At and host of Better Offline, shares his critical insights on the current state of artificial intelligence. He discusses the potential bursting of the A.I. bubble, drawing parallels to past tech booms. Zitron highlights the financial struggles of companies like OpenAI and the unrealistic expectations investors have about generative A.I.'s profitability. With a sharp focus on the skepticism surrounding inflated valuations, he warns of the societal implications if these technologies aren’t implemented sustainably.

This week, public health expert Josh Sharfstein shares insights from his experience as a former health commissioner and FDA official. He discusses the troubling implications of recent CDC changes, including risks to public health and vaccine accessibility. The conversation also covers the political ramifications of the Trump administration's legal challenges as they near the Supreme Court and the complicated landscape of a potential government shutdown. The team weighs in on how these issues could reshape public trust and health initiatives moving forward.

Abdallah Fayyed, a policy correspondent at Vox, dives into the extravagant redecoration of the Oval Office during Trump's presidency. He discusses how Trump's aesthetic choices reflect his self-centered worldview and affect the U.S. government's image. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of presidential opulence, critiquing the shift from traditional elegance to a more branded, flashy style. Fayyed raises fascinating questions about identity, authority, and the impact of cultural defense messaging in current discourse.

This conversation dives into strategies for helping kids stop thumb-sucking without resorting to bribes or battles. The hosts share personal anecdotes about navigating budgeting challenges and international moves, adding a touch of humor. There’s a heartfelt discussion on the impact of financial conversations with children, stressing the importance of empathy and open dialogue. Plus, they reflect on how household scents change with different family members while tackling the emotional complexities of thumb-sucking and sensory needs in kids.

Luke Broadwater, a White House reporter for The New York Times, dives into Donald Trump's efforts to consolidate power within independent agencies like the Federal Reserve and his influence over Congress. The conversation highlights rising tensions in D.C. as both parties prepare for budget battles, scrutinizing Trump’s controversial governance tactics and their implications. Broadwater also discusses the challenges posed by Trump's possible biases against federal institutions and the future of accountability in American politics.

The discussion sparks over a controversial $55K job posting in the fashion podcast scene, igniting a fiery TikTok backlash. It highlights the struggles of living in NYC on such a salary, intertwining reflections on hustle culture with personal career anecdotes. The hosts tackle the broader implications of job compensation in creative industries, spotlighting the tension between passion and financial stability. Insights into public accountability and societal expectations round out the debate, making for an engaging examination of modern job realities.

This week, Isaac Butler, author of The Method, joins the discussion. They explore the 1990s crime film Caught Stealing featuring Austin Butler, spotlighting its unique blend of humor and grit. The panel shifts to The Thursday Murder Club adaptation, examining challenges in portraying aging characters. They also delve into A24's artistic impact, discussing their innovative approach amidst industry changes and the potential risks of AI in filmmaking. This lively conversation is filled with nostalgic reflections and critical insights into modern cinema.

Lindsey Darvin, a sports management professor at Syracuse University and editor of the Journal of Electronic Gaming and Esports, joins to discuss the intersection of video gaming and women’s sports. She highlights how gaming platforms like FIFA and NBA 2K are improving visibility for female athletes. The conversation dives into the biases still present in gaming culture and how these virtual sports can foster inclusivity. The hosts also review the dramatic shifts in college football, including trades and disappointing coach debuts.

David Kirkpatrick, a staff writer at the New Yorker, dives into the financial machinations of the Trump family during Trump's presidency. He discusses how Trump capitalized on his position, raking in billions through various ventures, including overseas deals and NFTs. Kirkpatrick raises intriguing questions about the legality of these practices, exploring the blurred lines between political and personal profit. The conversation also sheds light on public perception and the unique nature of corruption in this administration.