Slate Daily Feed

Dive into the drama as a millennial CEO's TikTok rant about clock-watching employees sparks uproar. Explore how social media is reshaping workplace culture and the often chaotic dynamics between bosses and workers. Discover the absurdity of high-profile feuds and the disconnect that can arise when executives share their views online. This discussion sheds light on the blend of branding and employee morale in the age of viral moments, questioning whether CEOs should speak out or listen up.

Christina Carterucci, a writer for Slate, discusses her article on the surprising influence of conservative movements on small-town Pride celebrations. Van Knapp, co-founder of Canyon County Pride in Idaho, shares insights on fostering queer joy in unexpected places. They explore the resilience of LGBTQ+ communities facing political challenges and the importance of grassroots movements. Listeners will hear about innovative ways small towns express Pride, and how events like boat floats defy societal intimidation while celebrating community spirit.

This week, Caity Weaver, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author of 'An Innocent Abroad in Mark Twain’s Paris', joins the hosts to dive into the new documentary 'Pee-wee as Himself'. They explore the complex legacy of Paul Reubens, revealing his dual identity beyond the iconic Pee-wee Herman. The conversation shifts to the quirky charm of 'Pee-wee’s Playhouse' and its subversive themes. Weaver also reflects on her travel piece about American experiences in Paris, linking Twain's humor to modern travel narratives.

Christina Cauterucci, a Slate senior writer and host of Outward, discusses the decline of corporate sponsorship for Pride Month. She humorously critiques the absurdity of corporate Pride marketing, questioning its authenticity. Cauterucci reflects on the tension between celebration and activism, shares her first Pride experience, and highlights the grassroots revival of local Pride events. With rising political pressures, she suggests that community-driven efforts are becoming essential for genuine LGBTQ+ representation.

Barry Lam, the host of Hi-Phi Nation and a philosopher focused on economics, joins to engage in a thought-provoking discussion about the GOP's approach to budget deficits. They delve into philosophical arguments from Hume and Descartes that inform contemporary fiscal debates. The conversation covers the intricacies of political rhetoric, the paradox of prediction, and the implications of legislative baselines. Lam also highlights how language shapes political discourse and the perils of selective skepticism in understanding economic realities.

This discussion features Bethel Habte, a personal finance coach dedicated to helping people achieve financial goals, alongside Mark Blythe, a political economist who tackles large economic trends, and Rebecca Auman, a practical witch merging intuition with advice. They delve into managing finances during inflationary times, the emotional toll of pet ownership's costs, and navigating the complexities of financial decisions tied to love and loss. Listeners gain insights on adapting to economic changes while finding humor in financial struggles.

Kim Ng, a trailblazer in softball and former MLB executive, discusses the promising future of the Athletes Unlimited Softball League and its potential to transform women's sports. Neil Longley, an expert on hockey economics, offers insights into Canada’s frustrating Stanley Cup drought, examining the historical and competitive challenges faced by teams like the Maple Leafs. The conversation touches on the evolving dynamics of women’s sports and the impact of recent legal changes on college athletes’ endorsements, highlighting pivotal moments in sports history.

Elizabeth Goitein, co-director of the Liberty and National Security Program at the Brennan Center for Justice, sheds light on the recent federalization of California's National Guard amid immigration raids and protests. The conversation dives into the legal complexities of deploying troops for civil unrest, examining the implications of the Insurrection Act. Goitein discusses public safety risks associated with military intervention and the broader concerns about federal overreach and citizens' rights in the face of such actions.

Diana Lind, a writer and urban policy specialist, joins the conversation to explore how cities can better support parents. She discusses the challenges of car-dependent environments and emphasizes the importance of creating family-friendly spaces that cater to both children's activities and parents' needs. The talk highlights innovative urban planning in cities like Tokyo and compares the family dynamics across urban areas like Philadelphia and Miami. Lind also shares insights on fostering children's independence and the pivotal role of community in creating supportive environments.

Nancy Scola, a reporter at POLITICO covering technology and society, dives into the dynamic world of antitrust law as it relates to Google. She highlights Gail Slater's critical role as Assistant Attorney General, detailing her unique bipartisan support and the complexities of navigating the current legal landscape. They discuss the potential ramifications of the antitrust case on consumer choice and competition, along with the evolving power dynamics of tech within U.S. politics, especially under different administrations.