The Daily

Discover the inspiring life of Val Kilmer, who faced throat cancer yet continued to fight creatively and positively. Hear about his artistic endeavors at Hellmell and the deep connection between his health struggles and spirituality. Explore the complexities of fame, identity, and the quest for authenticity in Hollywood. Reflect on profound themes of resilience and hope amidst adversity, alongside personal anecdotes that reveal the transformative power of storytelling and human connection during challenging times.

Bill Murray, the beloved comedic icon behind classics like Ghostbusters, shares insights on his latest film, The Friend. He reflects on his complex past, revealing confusions about his public persona versus private self. The conversation dives into the blend of humor and melancholy in his work, exploring how connections and spontaneity shape his performances. He also candidly discusses the emotional challenges of acting and the nuances of collaboration, making for a thought-provoking and entertaining dialogue.

In this discussion, Peter Goodman, a global economy correspondent, Natalie Kitroeff, the Mexico City bureau chief, and Jeanna Smialek, the Brussels bureau chief, dissect the fallout from Trump’s sweeping tariffs. They analyze how these tariffs are reshaping international trade and the reactions from global markets, particularly the significant shifts in supply chains toward Southeast Asia. The conversation highlights the widening rifts between allies, the potential domestic job market impacts, and the geopolitical tensions that could ensue.

Ana Swanson, a trade and international economics reporter for The New York Times, dives deep into the recent tariffs imposed by President Trump. She discusses the significant impact these tariffs will have on global trade, particularly for countries like China, Japan, and the EU. Swanson highlights the mixed responses from American workers and unions, illustrating a complex landscape of economic interests. The conversation reveals how these measures could reshape not only trade dynamics but also U.S. relationships with other nations and consumer prices.

Nicole Hong, an investigative reporter for The New York Times, delves into the troubling allegations surrounding the colorful dance troupe Shen Yun. She discusses the stark contrast between the troupe’s captivating performances and harrowing claims of abuse from former dancers. Hong reveals connections to the Falun Gong movement and explores the exploitation of performers, alongside the financial sacrifices made by its followers. The conversation uncovers the psychological pressures faced by young artists and the complex financial dynamics underpinning this enigmatic organization.

Reid J. Epstein, a New York Times political reporter, dives into the heated Wisconsin Supreme Court race, highlighting how it's transformed into a battle of Elon Musk's financial clout versus liberal activism. Epstein discusses the implications of Musk's substantial investments tied to his companies and legal issues. The conversation also touches on recent Democratic victories in traditionally Republican areas, raising questions about the evolving political landscape and the role of billionaires like Musk in shaping election outcomes. This local election has turned into a symbol of broader national tensions.

Hamed Aleaziz, an immigration policy reporter for The New York Times, discusses alarming immigration arrests happening on college campuses. He highlights the experiences of three Columbia University students facing deportation, revealing how these cases reflect a broader crackdown on dissent and free speech. Aleaziz explains the precarious situation of international students like Ranjani Srinivasan, who risks her visa due to activism. The conversation sheds light on the emotional toll of current immigration policies and their chilling effect on academic freedom.

Helena Yang, an emergency physician and contributor to The New York Times magazine, dives into the pressing issue of mental health among airline pilots. She discusses the harrowing story of pilot Troy Merritt, who felt compelled to hide his depression to keep flying. The conversation highlights the stigma surrounding mental illness in aviation and the potential dangers it poses to flight safety. Yang advocates for policy reforms and improved support systems, underscoring the need for a cultural shift in how the industry addresses mental health challenges.

Megyn Kelly, a former Fox News anchor turned YouTube host, dives into her bold career evolution and the complexities of modern journalism. She reflects on her transformative journey from law to media, sharing insights from her controversial Trump endorsement. Kelly discusses the backlash she faced over cultural commentary, her shift towards a more opinion-driven platform, and the importance of authentic audience connections. She also announces her new venture, MK Media, signaling her commitment to innovating in the world of podcasts.

Maggie Haberman, White House correspondent for The New York Times, joins fellow journalists to dissect the fallout from a Signal text security breach impacting the Trump administration. They discuss the chaotic blame game within Trump's cabinet and the serious risks posed to military operations by leaked messages. Internal conflicts about technology usage arise, highlighting Trump's anxieties over communication methods. The conversation also touches on military personnel's strong reactions to the reckless disclosure of sensitive information and legal implications following a federal judge's ruling.