Slate Daily Feed

Kat Lonsdorf, a news reporter at NPR, sheds light on the complexities faced by National Guard members during domestic deployments. She discusses their discomfort over vague missions, the reluctance to speak publicly due to community backlash, and the blurred lines between military and local law enforcement. Kat also explores the legal implications of these activations, the impact on Guard resources, and the considerations surrounding potential political ramifications as these tactics could affect future elections.

Danielle Lerner, a journalist and advocate for perinatal mental health, shares her personal journey with postpartum depression. She unveils the often-hidden symptoms and discusses how shame can hinder seeking help. Danielle emphasizes the importance of preparing ahead of time and finding support, like postpartum doulas and peer networks. She offers practical tips for both those experiencing postpartum challenges and their loved ones, highlighting that mental health struggles are temporary and there’s hope through community and treatment.

Rev. Jim Matulski, a longtime minister, reflects on the toll of the AIDS crisis through his poignant 1991 sermon. He explores his exhaustion and grief over the countless losses, connecting the congregation's avoidance of church services to communal sorrow. Matulski highlights Magic Johnson's HIV announcement and its impact on societal awareness of AIDS. The conversation culminates in a discussion on how shared grief can transform into collective action, emphasizing the need for empathy, support, and resilience in the face of loss.

Jeff Horwitz, a tech reporter for Reuters, dives into how Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, profits from scam ads, which make up 10% of its revenue. He reveals that Meta platforms are involved in a third of all successful scams in the U.S. The conversation explores Meta's internal estimates, their lax enforcement of ad policies, and the challenges they face balancing revenue with user safety. Horwitz also discusses the implications for scam victims and the company's future amidst growing scrutiny and legal risks.

This week, a Trump-backed proposal for 50-year mortgages ignites outrage among conservatives. The hosts debate whether these long-term loans truly solve housing affordability or just inflate prices. They also discuss the potential influence of billionaires if the White House limits proxy advisers in shareholder voting. Lastly, Robinhood's new cash delivery service raises questions about its practicality and safety. Expect lively banter filled with insights into these timely financial issues!

Josh Lora, known as TellTheBees and author of the viral essay 'Boyfriendland', dives into modern dating culture and the intriguing question of whether having a boyfriend is now seen as embarrassing. He discusses TikTok trends that idolize men, the backlash to perceptions of heterofatalism, and the cringe-worthy expectations surrounding intimacy today. Josh highlights how social media shapes our views on relationships, noting the disturbing normalization of public humiliation in romantic content. It's a thought-provoking look at love in the digital age!

Retired federal judge Mark L. Wolf discusses his decision to leave the bench, citing alarming threats to the rule of law. He emphasizes the need for judges to uphold integrity amidst political pressure. California Attorney General Rob Bonta joins to reveal his state's proactive legal strategies against federal overreach, particularly concerning SNAP benefits and election integrity. Together, they highlight the crucial role of state litigation in defending democracy and the urgency for citizens to engage in the fight for justice.

In a new, very special Death, Sex & Money and Slate Money crossover, Felix Salmon and Anna Sale are once again joined by Felix’s financial advisor Adrianna Adams from Domain Money to talk about…parents. They dig into the emotions of trying to take care of your aging parents while also growing your own wealth, the importance of setting goals, and how to deal with aging children AND aging parents at the same time.  For a visual experience, you can watch this episode on YouTube. Podcast production by Cheyna Roth. Video production by Micah Phillips. Get more Death, Sex & Money with Slate Plus! Join for exclusive bonus episodes of DSM and ad-free listening on all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe from the Death, Sex & Money show page on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/dsmplus to get access wherever you listen. If you’re new to the show, welcome. We’re so glad you’re here. Find us and follow us on Instagram and you can find Anna’s newsletter at annasale.substack.com. Our email address, where you can reach us with voice memos, pep talks, questions, critiques, is deathsexmoney@slate.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Andrew Ross Sorkin, a renowned financial journalist and bestselling author, as he dives into the cataclysmic 1929 stock market crash. He examines the era's optimism, the impact of figures like banker "Sunshine Charlie" Mitchell, and how their decisions ripple through today's speculation, including AI and crypto. Sorkin contrasts the moral dilemmas of speculation, recounts the human cost of the crash, and critiques the responses that fueled the downturn. His insights on leverage and contemporary parallels provide a thought-provoking look at our financial landscape.

Dive into the world of Mutt Lange, a superproducer whose memorable stadium-ready sound revolutionized music. Discover how he crafted iconic hits for bands like AC/DC and Def Leppard, transforming their sound and topping charts. Learn about his humble beginnings in Southern Africa and his move to London, where he honed his craft. From producing unforgettable anthems to diversifying into pop with acts like Billy Ocean, Lange’s influence is surprisingly vast. Get ready for an exploration of a true hitmaker who poured sugar on every track!