The Daily

Kyle Buchanan is a pop culture reporter for The New York Times and an expert on awards season, while Madison Malone Kircher reports on internet culture and is a longtime Wicked fan. They explore the impact of the new film, Wicked: For Good, discussing the challenges of adapting its second act and how audience expectations shape the narrative. The duo debates the film's political messages, the chemistry between stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, and the overall reaction from fans who have followed the franchise. They also reflect on the marketing strategies and fandom that fuel its ongoing success.

Join bestselling author and YouTube creator John Green as he dives into the complexities of hope and suffering. He shares profound insights from his time as a children's hospital chaplain, reflecting on how witnessing pain reshaped his understanding of the human experience. John also discusses the challenges of online fame, the power of YA fiction, and his ambivalence towards social media. With a new adult novel in the works, he emphasizes the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in both writing and life.

In this thought-provoking discussion, the parents of Allie, a transgender teen, bravely share their journey of relocation from Tennessee to Connecticut for their child's safety and care. They recount the challenges of navigating gender-affirming treatments amidst governmental pushback, personal fears, and the emotional toll on their family. From early signs of Allie's identity to the struggle for medical options and eventual triumph in a supportive community, their story highlights resilience in the face of adversity.

Cade Metz, a technology reporter for The New York Times specializing in AI, delves into the current concerns surrounding the A.I. bubble. He discusses the staggering investments from tech giants like Amazon and Google, driven by both optimism and fear of missing out. Cade contrasts this situation with the dot-com bubble, highlighting potential risks tied to debt financing. He also tackles the uncertainty surrounding the achievement of Artificial General Intelligence and the possible broader implications for industries, including healthcare.

In this engaging discussion, Annie Karni, a Congressional correspondent for The New York Times, decodes the rebellious wave among Republicans that led to the decision to release Jeffrey Epstein's files. Carl Hulse, the Chief Washington correspondent, provides insight on how this reflects changing congressional dynamics and Trump’s influence. Representative Thomas Massie shares his inspiring journey spearheading the discharge petition, revealing the pressure he and others faced. Together, they unravel the implications of this pivotal House vote.

David Gelles, a climate reporter for The New York Times, and Brad Plumer, an energy policy expert, dive into the shifting dynamics of global energy. They discuss China's ascendance as a leader in clean tech, showcasing its dominance in solar, wind, and electric vehicles. Gelles highlights how China's massive renewable projects enhance its geopolitical influence, while Plumer explains how U.S. energy policy has evolved, grappling with its reliance on fossil fuels and potential green tech competitiveness. The conversation reveals a critical energy showdown between superpowers.

Conor Dougherty, a housing and development reporter for The New York Times, dives into Trump's controversial 50-year mortgage proposal, a bold challenge to traditional mortgage norms. He elaborates on its potential to lower monthly payments while highlighting serious concerns about total interest costs and slower equity buildup. Discover why housing affordability remains a daunting issue and how local policy, rather than federal mandates, is pivotal in addressing the longstanding housing shortage.

Join James Poniewozik, chief television critic for The New York Times, and Alissa Wilkinson, movie critic and documentary expert, as they dive into the booming world of streaming documentaries. They discuss Ken Burns's contribution to the genre, recount personal memories of PBS documentaries, and explore the rise of true crime. From the poignant storytelling in 'The Last Dance' to recommendations like 'Pee-wee as Himself' and the introspective 'Camera Person,' this conversation highlights the evolution and variety of documentary filmmaking today.

Tina Brown, a veteran magazine editor known for her roles at Vanity Fair and The New Yorker, shares her candid views on the elite and the royals. She laments the loss of magazine gatekeepers and reflects on her nostalgic experiences in media. Brown dives into the complexities of the Epstein scandal, pointing out how society still embraces powerful figures. She offers her thoughts on Harry and Meghan's missteps and calls for greater transparency in the monarchy. With sharp critiques of modern media figures, Tina's insights are both revealing and provocative.

Eshe Nelson, an economics and business reporter for The New York Times based in London, dives into the transformation of GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy. She discusses the upcoming pricing changes that promise broader access, stemming from a significant agreement struck with pharmaceutical companies during the Trump administration. The conversation also covers how Ozempic evolved from a diabetes drug to a weight-loss sensation, and the ensuing supply challenges faced by its maker, Novo Nordisk, amid skyrocketing demand.