The Daily

Jeanna Smialek, a New York Times correspondent specializing in the Federal Reserve and the economy, dives into the complex world of inflation. She discusses how rising interest rates aim to curb consumer spending while highlighting the psychological aspect of inflation expectations. Smialek explains how consumer beliefs can create a self-fulfilling prophecy, impacting spending habits and demand. She emphasizes the importance of public perception and adaptive behaviors in the face of rising prices, offering a compelling look at the interplay between economics and everyday life.

Jenny Vrentas, a sports reporter for The New York Times, dives into the controversial journey of NFL quarterback Deshaun Watson, who faces over 20 allegations of sexual misconduct yet continues to thrive in the league. She discusses the intense scrutiny surrounding Watson, the dynamics of his press conferences, and the unsettling patterns of behavior revealed through his reliance on multiple massage therapists. The conversation raises critical questions about ethics, accountability, and the power dynamics in professional sports.

Annie Karni, a Congressional correspondent for The New York Times, dives into the unexpected bipartisan support for a same-sex marriage bill following the Supreme Court's overturning of Roe v. Wade. She highlights how personal connections to the LGBTQ+ community have softened Republican stances. The discussion reveals the strategic efforts by Democrats to garner enough votes amidst a narrow majority, and the emotional complexities surrounding both gay marriage and abortion rights are explored. It’s a riveting look at how political dynamics continue to evolve.

David Yaffe-Bellany, a reporter for The New York Times specializing in cryptocurrencies and fintech, discusses the shocking decline of the crypto market, particularly the fall of Celsius Network, which managed over $20 billion. He explores how the recent market downturn has exposed vulnerabilities in crypto that mimic traditional finance. Yaffe-Bellany also highlights the shift in perception of cryptocurrency from a risky asset to mainstream acceptance, and the impact of economic turbulence on investors seeking stability.

Cory Silverberg, a Canadian author and advocate for inclusive sex education, discusses the challenges of teaching children about sexuality. They critique traditional children's books for lacking representation, particularly for diverse family structures. Silverberg emphasizes the importance of open dialogue, highlighting their work, 'Sex is a Funny Word,' which covers various facets of intimacy, including disability and gender nonconformity. The conversation encourages families to foster personal discussions about sensitive topics, transforming the landscape of sex education.

In this engaging discussion, Christopher Flavelle, a climate reporter for The New York Times, unpacks the alarming crisis of the Great Salt Lake drying up. He reveals the ecological, economic, and health implications of shrinking waters in Utah, highlighting the urgent need for legislative action. The podcast dives into the vulnerability of local communities affected by toxic dust and air quality issues. Flavelle emphasizes the necessity for proactive strategies to manage water resources while grappling with climate change and population growth.

Andrew Goldstein, a federal prosecutor who played a vital role in the Mueller inquiry, discusses the immense pressure from the January 6th committee on the Attorney General regarding potential charges against Donald Trump. He dives into the complexities of prosecuting a former president, including legal challenges around intent and obstruction of justice. Goldstein also explores the nuances of political speech versus unlawful actions and the implications of witness tampering. His insights reveal the delicate balance between legal accountability and political ramifications in this unprecedented situation.

Pam Belluck, a health and science writer for The New York Times, dives into the profound impact of abortion bans on miscarriage care. She shares poignant stories of women facing heartbreak amid restrictive laws, illustrating the fears healthcare providers encounter when balancing legal compliance with patient care. The discussion highlights the emotional and practical challenges families face, revealing how legislation complicates the treatment of miscarriages while addressing broader implications for women's health across the U.S.

Somini Sengupta, an international climate correspondent for The New York Times, delves into Europe's record-breaking heat wave and its alarming implications for climate pledges. She discusses how soaring temperatures in the UK highlight the urgent need for effective climate action. The conversation shifts to the challenges faced by the U.S. and Europe in meeting their commitments, emphasizing the ongoing reliance on fossil fuels. Sengupta also touches on the inequities in global climate impacts, underscoring a growing urgency for immediate collective response.

Ben Hubbard, the Beirut bureau chief for The New York Times, dives into President Biden's controversial engagement with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. They discuss Biden’s shift from branding Saudi Arabia a 'pariah' to seeking collaboration amid rising oil prices. Hubbard highlights the tense fist bump at their meeting, the implications for human rights post-Khashoggi, and the strategic outcomes, including efforts in technology and regional security. It’s a captivating exploration of the complexities in U.S.-Saudi relations.