The Daily

Nate Cohn, chief political analyst for The New York Times, shares insights from a new nationwide poll assessing President Trump's first 100 days in office. He reveals a significant shift in public sentiment, highlighting declining approval ratings especially around immigration and economic policies. Cohn discusses the disconnect between Trump's aggressive actions and voter expectations, as well as the potential vulnerabilities within the Republican Party. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by rural communities amidst these policies.

Charles Homans, a reporter for The New York Times, discusses the unsettling phenomenon of 'Tedpilling,' where people find resonance with the Unabomber's manifesto, especially regarding technology's impact on society. He explores the growing sympathy for Kaczynski's critiques across political divides, raising alarm about how his ideas are shaping modern debates. Homans delves into the cultural dialogue surrounding his radical beliefs, igniting reflection on the implications for today's youth and the tech industry amidst ongoing technological anxieties.

In this engaging conversation, Isabel Allende, a celebrated Spanish language author with over 80 million copies sold, reflects on her turbulent childhood in Chile and the impact of fear on society. She shares insights on how personal narratives intertwine with historical events, particularly in her new book about the Chilean Civil War. Allende discusses the emotional connections fostered through writing and the importance of storytelling in humanitarian efforts. The discussion emphasizes the complexities of aging and memory, highlighting the power of kindness in challenging times.

Adam Liptak, a Supreme Court correspondent for The New York Times, dives into a crucial case about parental control over children's education, particularly regarding LGBTQ-themed books like 'Pride Puppy' and 'Uncle Bobby’s Wedding.' He discusses the clash between parental religious beliefs and the need for inclusivity in school curricula. Liptak explores how this legal battle may reshape educational content and the implications for diversity in literature. The conversation highlights the broader societal debate over parental rights versus educational inclusivity.

In this insightful discussion, April Hemmes, a dedicated soybean farmer from Iowa, shares her firsthand experiences navigating the U.S.-China trade war. She discusses the dire implications of soaring tariffs on her livelihood and the broader farming community. April emphasizes the deep connection between American farmers and the Chinese market, reflecting on the historical ties that are now threatened. Her passion shines through as she articulates fears of financial instability and her hopes for a return to stable trade relations.

Julie Turkewitz, Andes bureau chief for The New York Times, sheds light on the controversial deportations of Venezuelan migrants labeled as gang members by the Trump administration. She reveals the troubling lack of evidence supporting these claims and shares personal stories of those affected, including a heartbreaking discovery by a woman recognizing her husband in a disturbing photo. Discussions include the flawed criteria used to label individuals as gang members, highlighting the serious implications for families and the urgent need for due process.

Jason Horowitz, the Rome Bureau Chief at The New York Times, explores the transformative impact of Pope Francis on the Catholic Church. He discusses the pope's progressive leadership and initiatives, as well as his struggles with traditionalists. Horowitz reflects on significant moments from Francis's papacy, such as his outreach to marginalized communities and his stance on global issues like immigration and climate change. The conversation also hints at the challenges ahead for the church following his passing and the importance of a successor who can continue his mission.

Stacy Cowley, a business reporter at The Times specializing in consumer finance, dives into the end of student loan forgiveness. She highlights the shockwaves this policy shift sends through millions of borrowers, with payments resuming after a lengthy pause. Cowley discusses the emotional toll and potential damage to credit scores, and how this reckoning on student debt may reshape public views on higher education funding. The conversation raises urgent questions about the future of student loans and the financial strain Americans now face.

The podcast reveals how analytics have transformed the role of starting pitchers in baseball. It highlights the remarkable debut of rookie Paul Skenes, who struck out ten batters in a single game. As teams prioritize data-driven strategies, starting pitchers face reduced workloads and the rise of relievers. This shift raises questions about the balance between individual achievements and team performance. The episode also examines the evolving landscape of talent assessment and the challenges pitchers encounter in adapting to modern practices.

Nate Bargatze, a stand-up comedian renowned for his clean and relatable humor, shares his journey from having a magician father to navigating the landscape of mainstream comedy. He discusses the importance of authenticity in his craft and reflects on his aspirations to create family-friendly entertainment in Nashville. Nate dives into personal anecdotes, touches on balancing traditional stand-up with more contemporary themes, and dreams of building a theme park that nurtures creativity while maintaining his humble roots.