The Daily

Anton Troianovski, Moscow bureau chief for The New York Times, provides expert insights into the escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine. He discusses the significant buildup of Russian troops near the border, pointing to the alarming possibility of invasion. Troianovski delves into Putin's historical motivations regarding Ukraine and highlights the resilience of Ukrainian forces. The conversation also explores the geopolitical implications of U.S. involvement, including potential economic sanctions and the delicate balance of power at play.

Jack Healy, a national correspondent for The New York Times known for his coverage of mass shootings, discusses a groundbreaking legal strategy following the tragic Oxford High School shooting. Healy delves into the decision to charge the shooter's parents with involuntary manslaughter, raising questions about parental accountability and the warning signs that were overlooked. The conversation also explores how this could set a precedent for future cases, highlighting the urgent need for responsibility and preventive measures in protecting youth from violence.

In this insightful discussion, Benjamin Weiser, a New York Times reporter who covers Manhattan federal courts, delves into the intricacies of Ghislaine Maxwell's trial. He reveals the shocking failures during Jeffrey Epstein's incarceration that led to his untimely death, denying victims a chance at justice. The conversation highlights the compelling testimonies from accusers, examining Maxwell's alleged role in recruiting minors for Epstein. Ultimately, it raises critical questions about accountability and the broader implications for the justice system.

The podcast dives into Emily Ratajkowski's complex journey from model to writer, highlighting her struggles with identity in a world obsessed with images. It examines the tangled web of female friendships and male desire, enriched with personal anecdotes and cinematic references. The conversation highlights a revealing interaction during a photo shoot that challenges perceptions of femininity. Throughout, Ratajkowski seeks to redefine her narrative, urging listeners to look beyond the surface of her public persona.

Jesse Green, the Chief Theater Critic for The New York Times, shares insights on the life and legacy of Stephen Sondheim, the legendary composer-lyricist. They reflect on Sondheim's transformative impact on musical theater, exploring his rich and complex storytelling. Topics include his early mentorship under Oscar Hammerstein, the emotional depths of 'Sweeney Todd', and the introspective journey following 'Merrily We Roll Along'. Green's tribute highlights Sondheim’s profound influence on artists and the bittersweet nature of love and creativity.

Adam Liptak, a Supreme Court reporter for The New York Times, dives into the pivotal case challenging Roe v. Wade. He discusses the conservative majority's influence on abortion laws and the ramifications of a Mississippi law that limits abortions after 15 weeks. Liptak uncovers key arguments from both sides and explores the philosophical debates surrounding women's rights versus state control. The conversation also highlights Chief Justice Roberts' attempts to reach a compromise in this divisive legal battle, underscoring the potential risks to reproductive freedoms.

Karen Weise, a technology correspondent for The New York Times, dives deep into Amazon's workforce dynamics and the unique hiring model that thrives on high turnover. She highlights how the pandemic exposed cracks in Amazon's strategy, which relied on a transient workforce rather than skilled retention. The discussion touches on the implications for employee satisfaction and the company's struggles to adapt to rising demand while maintaining worker well-being. This engaging conversation probes the sustainability of Amazon’s labor practices in today's competitive landscape.

Apoorva Mandavilli, a science and global health reporter for The New York Times, dives deep into the Omicron variant's emergence and its 50 mutations. She discusses urgent questions about its transmissibility, severity, and vaccine effectiveness. The swift global response, including travel bans and the importance of increasing vaccination rates, is scrutinized. With the variant declared a ‘variant of concern,’ Mandavilli emphasizes the need for robust research and collaboration to combat future outbreaks and prevent further mutations.

Richard Fausset, a New York Times correspondent based in Atlanta, dives deep into the Ahmaud Arbery case. He discusses the prosecution's surprising strategy to sideline race, focusing instead on legal nuances of self-defense and citizen's arrest. The jury's racial dynamics and how they influenced the verdict are thoroughly examined. Fausset highlights testimonies that challenged the defense's narrative and critiques their reliance on stereotypes. He also unpacks the essential closing arguments that ultimately swayed the jury towards a guilty verdict.

Emily Schmall, a South Asia correspondent for The New York Times, dives into the intense farmers' protests in India that challenged Prime Minister Modi's authority. She explores the reasons behind the protests, linking them to controversial agricultural laws and the adverse effects of government decisions. Discussion includes how the farmers organized peacefully, faced societal challenges during COVID-19, and ultimately swayed public opinion, driving the government to repeal the laws in a dramatic political shift.