The Daily

Michael Crowley covers U.S. foreign policy and is joined by global health reporter Stephanie Nolen. They dive into the controversial dismantling of U.S.A.I.D. by the Trump administration, exploring its historical significance in American soft power. The conversation highlights the agency's successes and failures and underscores the dire consequences for global health initiatives and international relationships. They emphasize the growing influence of adversaries like China amid America's decreasing aid capabilities, raising alarms about the future of American humanitarian efforts.

Keith Bradsher, the Beijing bureau chief for The New York Times, sheds light on the escalating trade tensions between the U.S. and China. He explains how China has established a manufacturing powerhouse, posing a significant challenge to U.S. interests. The conversation covers Trump's tariffs as a strategic response and their mixed effectiveness in revitalizing American manufacturing. Bradsher raises critical questions about the future of U.S.-China relations and whether America can regain its competitive edge.

The podcast dives into the fascinating history of milk consumption, revealing its role in human nutrition and the risks associated with raw milk. It highlights the growth of the raw milk movement in America, alongside the push for a return to tradition amidst ongoing health concerns. Researchers explore potential benefits, such as reduced allergy rates in children, while weighing the health risks posed by harmful bacteria. The discussion encourages informed debate around a contentious topic that straddles tradition and modern public health.

Denzel Washington, the iconic actor renowned for his commanding presence, shares transformative experiences that shaped his life. He opens up about a life-altering prophecy and his journey back to faith, reflecting on personal and artistic growth. The conversation dives into the complexities of sobriety and the impact of roles on his identity. Denzel also discusses the emotional nuances of performing live on Broadway in 'Othello,' while candidly addressing the sting of Oscar snubs and the importance of faith in a chaotic world.

Joe Coscarelli, a culture reporter for The New York Times and co-host of 'Popcast (Deluxe)', dives into the explosive feud between Kendrick Lamar and Drake. He unpacks how Lamar's diss track 'Not Like Us' transformed the music scene and fueled the rivalry. The discussion touches on themes of artistic identity and authenticity, along with the cultural impact of their contention. Plus, the anticipation for Kendrick's potential Super Bowl performance heightens the stakes, illuminating society's fascination with celebrity conflicts.

Shane Goldmacher and Reid J. Epstein, political correspondent and reporter for The New York Times respectively, dive into the Democratic Party's struggles against Trump's dominance. They discuss the internal divisions over strategy and identity, addressing the need for the party to reconnect with a diverse electorate. The conversation highlights the tension between popular issues and candidate appeal, and explores how upcoming elections may shape democratic strategies amidst ongoing protests and voter discontent.

Jonathan Swan, a White House reporter for The New York Times, offers keen insights into Elon Musk's bold incursion into federal operations. The discussion covers Musk's controversial tactics that leave agencies in chaos, including his takeover of USAID. Swan reveals the tension between public service and private interests, while highlighting the growing mistrust towards bureaucratic norms. The podcast also dives into the ideological battles over USAID's budget, framed within a larger political agenda questioning 'woke' policies, ultimately illuminating the clash of technology and governance.

Ana Swanson, trade reporter, Matina Stevis-Gridneff, Canada bureau chief, and Simon Romero, international correspondent, dive into the brinkmanship that nearly sparked a trade war between North America. They discuss last-minute negotiations and the economic fallout looming over Canada and Mexico. The trio unpacks how tariffs could wield political power and examine Prime Minister Trudeau's potential retaliatory measures. They also explore the broader implications of U.S.-Mexico relations and the emotional stakes of shifting alliances in trade dynamics.

In this discussion, Kevin Roose, a tech columnist for The New York Times, tackles the surprising emergence of DeepSeek, a Chinese startup shaking up the AI landscape. He highlights how DeepSeek's capabilities rival top U.S. models while being far more cost-effective. The conversation explores the shifting power dynamics in tech, emphasizing the rise of smaller, innovative companies and the role of open-source software in democratizing AI. Roose also touches on the geopolitical implications of AI advancements and the increasing tension between China and Silicon Valley.

Dive into the world of chronic pain, where personal accounts reveal its devastating impact on daily life and mental health. Experts discuss the complexities of this often-misunderstood condition and the evolving science behind it. Discover groundbreaking research aimed at revolutionizing pain management, including innovative treatments that could reshape the future of care. Personal narratives highlight both the struggles and the glimmers of hope for those navigating the relentless battle with chronic pain.