The Daily

Annie Correal, a dedicated reporter for The New York Times, recounts her family's harrowing experience during the Dixie Fire in Northern California, where generations have deep roots. Vanessa Kingdon, a resilient local resident, shares the challenges her family faced while protecting their property. They discuss the emotional turmoil of urgent evacuations, the tough decisions to stay and fight flames, and the complex dynamics within their community. Their compelling stories highlight the struggle between safety, duty to home, and the psychological toll of living amid a crisis.

Nicholas Britell, a celebrated film and television composer with credits like 'Succession' and 'Moonlight,' dives into the evolution of his music. He discusses the fusion of classical and contemporary styles, particularly the groundbreaking use of hip-hop in film scores. Britell shares his creative collaboration with directors, exploring the emotional depth behind his compositions. He reflects on his unique journey from a Harvard-educated pianist to a transformative force in movie music, blending diverse influences while crafting memorable soundtracks.

Michael Paulson, a theater reporter for The New York Times, dives into the revival of Broadway, focusing on the hit musical 'Six.' The conversation explores the emotional rollercoaster of the show's abrupt shutdown on opening night due to the pandemic. Paulson highlights how 'Six' reimagines the wives of Henry VIII as modern pop icons, bringing a fresh feminist perspective. He discusses the challenges and hopes of cast and crew as they navigate a return to the stage, capturing the resilience and excitement within New York's vibrant theater scene.

Erin Griffith, a technology reporter for The New York Times, delves into the extraordinary tale of Elizabeth Holmes and her blood-testing startup, Theranos. The discussion highlights the clash between ambition and ethics in Silicon Valley, with Holmes initially celebrated as a tech innovator. Griffith also examines the broader implications of Holmes' legal troubles for women in tech. The podcast scrutinizes the trial's complexities, including the debate over entrepreneurial intent and the potential fallout for the tech industry's reputation.

Natalie Kitroeff, a New York Times correspondent covering Mexico and Central America, discusses the recent decriminalization of abortion in Mexico by the Supreme Court, marking a significant victory for the feminist movement. She delves into the cultural conservatism still prevalent in many states, where medical professionals may resist performing abortions. Kitroeff highlights ongoing protests and the complexities of implementing the ruling, posing questions about the future of reproductive rights in a country where public opinion remains largely opposed to legalization.

Katie Thomas is a healthcare reporter for The New York Times, bringing an eye-opening discussion on the troubling use of antipsychotic drugs in nursing homes. She reveals the alarming rise in misdiagnoses of schizophrenia among elderly residents and shares the poignant story of David Blakeney, whose health drastically declined after receiving questionable treatment. The conversation critiques systemic failures in regulations and calls for urgent reforms to ensure dignified and compassionate care for the vulnerable in these facilities.

Jim Tankersley, a White House correspondent for The New York Times, delves into the Biden administration's surprising pivot toward vaccine mandates amidst rising COVID-19 cases. They discuss how frustrations with voluntary programs led to this decisive policy shift aimed at the unvaccinated. The conversation highlights federal requirements for workplace safety, the backlash from conservative politicians, and the debate around personal liberties versus public health. Tune in for keen insights on the evolving landscape of vaccination efforts!

Explore the profound impact of September 11 on individual and collective memories. Personal stories reveal how memories of that tragic day have shifted and morphed over time. The phrase 'never forget' takes on deeper meaning as emotional narratives intertwine with psychological insights. Reflecting on memory's role in shaping identity, the podcast captures the nuances of loss and the layers of grief that persist. Join in a thoughtful examination of what we remember and how it defines us today.

Kevin Roose, a technology columnist for The New York Times, discusses the profound influence of the 9/11 conspiracy documentary 'Loose Change' with early adopter Jason Burmus, a contributor to the film. They delve into how the documentary birthed a wave of skepticism and activism regarding government narratives. Key insights include its viral spread and the evolution of conspiratorial thinking, tracing connections to current issues like COVID-19 mandates and political unrest. Their conversation uncovers the lasting effects on public perception and community dynamics.

In this discussion, Terry Albury, a former FBI special agent, shares his transformation from counterterrorism enforcer to whistleblower, revealing the ethical dilemmas he faced. Janet Reitman, a contributing writer for The New York Times Magazine, probes into Albury's disillusionment post-9/11, focusing on the FBI’s controversial tactics against Muslim communities. They examine the moral complexities of national security versus social justice, highlighting the impact of aggressive surveillance, systemic biases, and the chilling effects of leaking classified information.