The Daily

Wesley Morris, a culture critic for The New York Times, shares his thoughts on the monumental legacy of Sidney Poitier, Hollywood's first Black matinee idol. Morris emphasizes Poitier's impact on representation in film and culture, asserting he is the greatest American movie star. They reflect on Poitier's journey from humble beginnings in Cat Island to redefining Black identity on screen. Discussion includes his iconic roles that intersected with the civil rights movement and challenged racial stereotypes, highlighting the profound societal changes he inspired.

Quentin Randall, a first-grader from Chicago, shares his poignant perspective on remote learning during the pandemic. He highlights the challenges of adapting to online schooling and the emotional toll it has on young students. The discussion reveals a stark contrast between the ambitions of city officials and the realities faced by children and their families. Through Quentin's eyes, listeners grasp the deep impact of educational disruptions and the urgent need for a balance between safety and learning.

David Sanger, a White House and national security correspondent for The New York Times, shares his insights on the precarious situation between the U.S. and Russia over Ukraine. He discusses the tense diplomatic talks aimed at preventing war in Europe. Sanger analyzes Putin's military buildup and the Biden administration's strategies, including potential sanctions. The complexities of NATO's role and Russia's demands are explored, shedding light on the geopolitical stakes and the unpredictable outcomes of this international standoff.

In this discussion, Emily Anthes, a science and health reporter for The New York Times, reveals the surprising dynamics of the current Omicron surge. She highlights how mild illness still contributes to rising hospitalizations, stressing the strain on healthcare systems, particularly in places like Winston-Salem. Shortages of staff complicate care, while medical anxiety grows as patients delay procedures. Anthes also talks about new initiatives aimed at improving access to testing, accentuating the unpredictable nature of this ongoing pandemic.

Kyle Buchanan, a pop culture reporter and awards season columnist for The New York Times, dives deep into the intriguing history of the Golden Globes. He outlines the origins of the event and its significant impact on celebrity culture over the decades. Buchanan shares insights on the recent controversies surrounding the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, including legal challenges and accusations of corruption. He also discusses the role of humor in dissecting the awards culture, ultimately reflecting on the Golden Globes' decline and the complex relationship between Hollywood and the awards.

Pauline Boss, a family sciences researcher and author known for her work on ambiguous loss, shares insights from her book, ‘The Myth of Closure.’ She discusses the emotional complexities of grief, especially in cases of ambiguous loss such as missing loved ones or enduring long illnesses. Boss highlights how the pandemic has intensified feelings of 'frozen grief,' making it difficult for many to find closure. With six non-linear guidelines, she explores coping mechanisms, emphasizing the need to find meaning and maintain connections with what has been lost.

Join Alexander Burns, a national political correspondent for The New York Times, as he dives into the precarious state of American democracy post-2020 election. He discusses the failed attempts to overturn election results and how these events have set the stage for future threats. The conversation highlights the legislative shifts in Republican-controlled states aimed at tightening voting rules and the impact of Trump's strategies on public trust in elections, raising alarms about the future of democratic processes.

Liz Cheney, a Republican representative from Wyoming and a vocal critic of Donald Trump, discusses her steadfast stance against the former president's actions post-2020 election. She reflects on the January 6 Capitol riot, sharing her condemnation of the rhetoric that led to the attack. Cheney also speaks about the backlash she faced from her party for prioritizing integrity over loyalty, emphasizing the need for accountability and truth within the GOP. The conversation reveals the ongoing struggles within the Republican Party and the challenges of navigating this turbulent political landscape.

Alan Feuer, a criminal justice reporter for The New York Times, dives into the chaotic events of January 6, revealing an unexpected mix of rioters, including everyday citizens. Through riveting FBI interviews, he examines the motivations behind their participation and the implications for American democracy. The discussion explores the herd mentality experienced during the riot, as personal accounts highlight the emotional struggles of those involved. Feuer raises questions about personal accountability and the complexities of individual choices in the face of mass actions.

Sarah Kliff, an investigative reporter for The New York Times specializing in healthcare and medical billing, sheds light on the booming but flawed prenatal testing market. She discusses alarming rates of false positives in tests for rare genetic disorders and the emotional toll it takes on expectant mothers. Kliff highlights the lack of regulation and informed decision-making in this rapidly evolving field. The conversation underscores the need for better support and transparency to empower parents navigating these complex testing landscapes.