The Daily

Misty Copeland, the American Ballet Theater’s first Black female principal dancer, discusses her groundbreaking career and the decision to retire. She reflects on the challenges of legacy and representation in ballet, particularly for dancers of color. Copeland shares personal insights about motherhood and the evolving relationship with her own mom. The conversation also delves into the importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in dance, highlighting the need for transformation in the ballet community as she prepares for her next chapter.

Azeen Ghorayshi is a New York Times reporter focused on sex, gender, and science. She discusses the contentious landscape surrounding medical care for transgender minors, highlighting the surge in state-level bans on treatments. The conversation delves into the historical context of youth gender medicine, featuring pivotal moments, the impact of political decisions, and the urgent need for accessible care. Ghorayshi also shares personal accounts of individuals navigating their identities amidst these challenges and reflects on the potential future of gender-affirming healthcare.

Catie Edmondson, a Congressional correspondent for The New York Times, dives into the turbulent political landscape surrounding a major domestic policy bill pushed by President Trump. She highlights the complexities of party loyalty versus constituent needs, especially with proposed Medicaid cuts that could affect millions. The discussion reveals internal Republican conflicts, public scrutiny, and surprising bipartisan support for clean energy. Edmondson also touches on how influential figures like Elon Musk are shaping the legislative debate.

Marc Santora, a New York Times reporter covering the war in Ukraine, dives into the audacious Operation Spider’s Web. This innovative drone strike caused extensive damage to Russian airpower while showcasing Ukraine's strategic ingenuity. Santora discusses how this operation redefines modern warfare and reveals Ukraine's ability to challenge traditional military tactics. He also explores the implications of U.S. support and the use of advanced technology in aerial assaults, emphasizing the evolving landscape of conflict.

Rachel Abrams and Natalie Kitroeff join Michael Barbaro as the new co-hosts, delving into their journalism backgrounds and the power of storytelling. They discuss the significance of female characters in comics that influenced their careers. Their investigative journeys include a deep dive into the Sinaloa cartel's role in the fentanyl crisis. The trio highlights the art of audio storytelling and shares personal connections to movements like Me Too, emphasizing the camaraderie developed through their collaborative efforts.

Shane Goldmacher, a national political correspondent for The New York Times, unpacks the dramatic shift in the electoral map shaped by Donald Trump. He reveals how Democrats are facing alarming trends in over 1,400 counties, with a notable erosion of support among working-class and Latino voters. Goldmacher discusses the internal debates within the party about strategy and communication, emphasizing the widening class divide and the urgent need for reevaluation to reclaim lost ground.

Kirsten Grind and Megan Twohey, investigative reporters at The New York Times, unveil the tumultuous personal life of Elon Musk, exploring his chaotic relationships and troubling substance use during his rise alongside President Trump. They discuss how Musk's erratic behavior affects his public responsibilities and the alarm raised by those close to him. The conversation addresses the implications of Musk's tumultuous life on his influential role, raising significant questions about accountability and the intersection of personal struggles and power.

In this discussion, psychiatrist Samaiya Mushtaq shares her poignant journey through love, divorce, and remarriage, revealing her struggle to meet emotional needs within an idealized relationship. She confronts feelings of shame and loneliness when choosing to leave her marriage, ultimately finding self-affirmation and personal growth. The conversation extends to navigating love in the Muslim community post-divorce, the complexities of online dating with shared values, and the emotional resilience required to couple duty with love during crises, such as her partner's humanitarian work in Gaza.

In a candid chat, Grammy-winning singer Miley Cyrus reflects on her journey from childhood stardom to becoming a pop icon. She shares her struggles with fame and the importance of personal connections over external validation. Miley opens up about her experiences at events like the Met Gala, discussing feelings of being a misfit. The conversation delves into family dynamics, resilience, and the emotional complexities of her musical identity. With humor and warmth, she emphasizes the necessity of authenticity and mental health support in the industry.

In this discussion, Jeanna Smialek, the Brussels bureau chief for The New York Times, tackles the ramifications of a recent federal court ruling against President Trump’s tariffs. Victor Schwartz, a small wine importer and lead plaintiff in the lawsuit, shares his daring decision to stand against the trade war. They explore the legal journey that challenges the president's authority and its implications for U.S. trade relations. Together, they navigate the complexities of tariffs and the future of international trade.