The Daily

Sarah Mervosh, a national reporter for The New York Times, delves into the emotional journey of residents at Good Shepherd Nursing Home in West Virginia as they celebrate their first day out of lockdown. She captures the joy and relief that comes from reconnecting after months of isolation, illustrated through vibrant stories and lively recreational activities. The podcast reflects on the significance of social interactions and the resilience of the elderly, showcasing how they navigate their newfound freedom with warmth and laughter.

Apoorva Mandavilli, a New York Times science and global health reporter, shares insights on the unprecedented Covid-19 vaccination efforts in the U.S. The conversation dives into the triumphs and challenges of distribution logistics, highlighting vaccinate hesitancy issues. Mandavilli discusses what life may look like post-vaccination, emphasizing the importance of continued safety protocols. She also touches upon emotional aspects of vaccinations, such as reconnecting with loved ones, while addressing children's vaccination dynamics and navigating social interactions.

Sheryl Gay Stolberg, a Washington correspondent for The New York Times, dives into Joe Biden's long-standing battle for gun control. She sheds light on his advocacy for an assault weapons ban and the political hurdles he's faced since the 1994 legislation. The conversation reflects on the emotional weight of recent mass shootings and the need for bipartisan support. Stolberg also discusses how personal stories are reshaping the narrative around gun safety, and examines the complex landscape Biden must navigate amid resistance from key lawmakers.

Tejal Rao, a California restaurant critic for The New York Times, shares her poignant journey of losing her sense of smell after contracting COVID-19. She reveals the emotional impact this loss had on her relationship with food and explores home remedies and therapies to regain her olfactory abilities. The discussion highlights the profound connection between smell and memory, as well as the importance of patience and mindfulness in the recovery process, all while navigating the complexities of smell training and emotional well-being.

Pam Belluck, a health and science reporter for The New York Times, joins adventure photographer Ivan Agerton, a former marine who faced COVID-19-related psychosis. They discuss Ivan's harrowing experience with paranoia and hallucinations after contracting the virus, highlighting the severe mental health toll of COVID-19. The conversation also unveils the long-term neurological effects, including 'brain fog', and the emotional struggles many survivors endure. They explore hopeful signs of recovery, particularly in relation to vaccination.

Richard Prum, an evolutionary ornithologist at Yale and author of "The Evolution of Beauty," discusses the fascinating intersection of aesthetics and evolution. He explores how animals like peacocks and bowerbirds display beauty for its own sake, challenging traditional views that link beauty solely to survival needs. Prum dives into the elaborate courtship rituals and the concept of beauty as a crucial communication tool in the animal kingdom. He highlights the evolving understanding of how aesthetic traits shape evolution, showcasing the complex interplay of attraction and biology.

The co-hosts dive into the complexities surrounding the N-word, exploring its evolution from a weapon of hate to an emblem of belonging. They share personal stories and reflect on its presence across art and politics, prompting listeners to confront their own feelings about this controversial word. It's a candid discussion about race, language, and power, challenging societal norms and perceptions. The conversation is both introspective and thought-provoking, making it a significant exploration of a loaded term.

Shane Goldmacher, a National political reporter for The New York Times, dives into the turbulent career of Andrew Cuomo, exploring his initial rise as a strong pandemic leader contrasted with his dramatic fall from grace amid allegations of misconduct. Goldmacher discusses Cuomo's tactical political maneuvers, the backlash over nursing home data, and ongoing harassment claims. Surprisingly, some New Yorkers still believe he should remain in office, illustrating the complex dynamics of power and public opinion in today's political landscape.

Nicole Hong, a criminal justice reporter for The New York Times, delves into the troubling rise of anti-Asian violence in the U.S. The shooting spree at Atlanta spas that claimed eight lives, including six Asian women, sparks urgent discussions about the classification of hate crimes. Hong highlights the complexities law enforcement faces when defining these incidents. She also sheds light on historical discrimination against Asian Americans and how it affects today's community, underscoring the need for legal recognition of such violence.

Ben Casselman, an economics and business reporter for The New York Times, delves into the ongoing debate around the $15 minimum wage. He explores the historical context of the minimum wage, tracing its evolution from the Great Depression. Casselman highlights the grassroots 'Fight for 15' movement and its impact on corporate policies, as well as the shifting opinions among economists. The discussion also touches on bipartisan support emerging for wage increases and the political hurdles that remain in advancing this crucial issue.