Slate Daily Feed

Paul Tenorio, a Senior soccer reporter for The Athletic, dives into the significant changes in the Apple-MLS deal, discussing how the removal of the paywall is set to boost audience engagement. He reveals insights on the new MLS calendar and the impact of Messi’s presence on the league's growth. Meanwhile, John Keenan, a Massachusetts state senator, shares his unexpected reversal on legal sports betting, highlighting public concerns over gambling addiction and his proposed regulatory measures intended to protect consumers. It's a fascinating blend of sports and policy!

Shefali Luthra, a reproductive health reporter at The 19th, dives into the severe impacts of federal funding cuts on Planned Parenthood and other clinics. George Hill, President and CEO of Maine Family Planning, shares the operational challenges faced by his clinics and the tough choice to maintain essential services like abortion amid budget pressures. Together, they explore the political maneuvers behind defunding, the effects on local healthcare access, and the urgent need for sustainable solutions in the face of escalating restrictions.

The hosts tackle the perennial holiday dilemma of the Elf on the Shelf, sharing their comedic horror stories and tips to gracefully end the tradition without losing the magic. They offer creative gift ideas for every type of kid, from exciting experience-based gifts like zoo memberships to practical options like sports tickets and science kits. In an effort to ease holiday stress, listeners are encouraged to transfer elf duties to older siblings and embrace new rituals. Tune in for laughter and thoughtful insights on navigating festive challenges!

Joseph Cox, co-founder of 404 Media and investigative reporter, dives into the world of license-plate tracking. He explains how ICE utilized a license-plate tracking app and the widespread use of automatic readers across the country. The conversation reveals the legal tensions surrounding warrantless searches and how data from surveillance is being used in controversial cases, including a self-administered abortion. Cox also discusses public pushback and practical privacy steps for drivers in this era of increasing surveillance.

Larry Summers resigns amid troubling revelations about his communications with Jeffrey Epstein, prompting discussions about his controversial past. The hosts dive into the complexities of Big Tech regulation, exploring recent antitrust challenges faced by Meta and questioning the efficacy of current regulations. They also dissect the state of the AI market, weighing whether the current investment surge signifies a bubble or genuine innovation, while pondering its implications for the economy.

Join porn historian Noelle Perdue, who has a rich background in adult production and now analyzes the intersection of technology and sexuality. She discusses OpenAI's controversial policy shift on erotic chatbots and how AI is transforming porn production. Noelle raises concerns about AI's role in fostering isolation and unrealistic beauty standards. She also explores the impact of generative porn on human connection, arguing that the rise of AI porn might fail as people yearn for authentic relationships and content.

Mimi Rocah, a former assistant U.S. attorney and district attorney, shares her insights into the Justice Department's recent controversies. She discusses how survivors of Jeffrey Epstein's abuse can shape our understanding of justice. They touch on political interference in legal proceedings, particularly in high-profile cases like James Comey’s. Rocah critiques prosecutorial malpractice, highlighting issues such as faulty grand jury instructions and the importance of judicial scrutiny to maintain accountability within the DOJ.

David Yaffe-Bellany, a tech reporter from The New York Times specializing in cryptocurrency, dives into the complexities of the crypto world. He discusses Trump’s controversial promise to halt SEC investigations, which some argue complicates regulation. The conversation explores recent findings on illicit money flow within major exchanges like Binance, alongside the challenges of quantifying crypto crime. Yaffe-Bellany also highlights how the industry's shift toward institutional players is reshaping its original goals and investor sentiment.

Jake Sullivan, the former National Security Advisor and co-host of The Long Game, shares insights on U.S.–Saudi relations during Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's recent visit. He highlights how Saudi Arabia benefits from validation and defense partnerships, while addressing the complex dynamics around Khashoggi's murder and regional strategy. The discussion also touches on technology risks and the importance of a credible inquiry into the Epstein files, revealing the intertwined nature of international policy and domestic politics.

Caity Weaver, a writer at The Atlantic notable for her insights on the penny, dives into the ongoing debate about discontinuing the one-cent coin. She discusses how pennies have become more of a nuisance than a necessity, often gathering dust instead of circulation. Weaver also reveals a legal loophole allowing the Treasury to halt minting without Congress. With lessons from Canada on phasing out coins, she prompts a reevaluation of longtime traditions and questions whether the penny still holds value in our economy.