The Daily

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.

Carl Zimmer, a science writer for The New York Times, dives into the Omicron variant's surprising characteristics. He explains how Omicron fuels record-breaking COVID-19 cases while sparing the lungs, potentially leading to milder symptoms compared to past variants. Discussions include the CDC’s controversial decision to shorten isolation periods and the rising trend of hospitalizations among children. Zimmer emphasizes the ongoing challenges schools face with students returning after breaks and examines broader cultural implications of the pandemic.

Jack Healy, a national correspondent for The New York Times, shares compelling stories from Texas following the destructive winter storm. He highlights the emotional and financial struggles of Iris Cantu and Suzanne Mitchell as they navigate homeownership challenges amid the aftermath. The discussion underscores the deep impact on families, revealing issues of social inequality and resilience in the face of adversity. Healy also emphasizes the importance of community and the emotional toll that comes with rebuilding lives after such disasters.

Sarah Mervosh, a national reporter for The New York Times, joins to share heartwarming stories from the Good Shepherd Nursing Home as they emerge from lockdown. Residents reflect on their feelings of isolation and the emotional joy of reconnection through shared meals and activities like a lively penny auction. The podcast captures poignant moments of laughter and community spirit, highlighting both the challenges and triumphs of life returning to normal after a difficult year.

Glauber Contessoto, a 33-year-old Dogecoin millionaire, shares his wild journey from a speculative investment to a life-changing fortune. He highlights the volatile nature of cryptocurrency, illustrating both exhilarating gains and gut-wrenching losses. Glauber discusses his personal struggles in Los Angeles, his dreams of homeownership, and the impact of social media on the crypto boom. His story reflects the shifting landscape of financial aspirations, underlining the tension between traditional goals and the allure of digital wealth.

In this insightful discussion, Officer Harry Dunn, a Capitol Police officer who faced the chaos of January 6th firsthand, recounts his harrowing experiences during the Capitol siege. He shares how he initially expected a regular day but was plunged into a violent storm of riots and chaos. Dunn particularly highlights the emotional toll and racial discrimination he and his Black colleagues faced. He reflects on the significant weight of duty and the ongoing impact of that day on his life, emphasizing the complex legacy of the Capitol.