The Daily

Vianna Cepeda, a high school senior and head drum major for Odessa High School's marching band, shares her journey through COVID-19 quarantine and the emotional challenges it brought to her and her classmates. Alongside Jamie Newman, the school nurse, they discuss the strain on staff as they manage rising cases. The interplay of school spirit and health protocols creates a poignant narrative, revealing how friendships were tested, milestones lost, and the deep bonds formed in the midst of a pandemic.

John Eligon, a National Correspondent for The New York Times specializing in race, delves into the gripping trial of Derek Chauvin. He discusses the emotional testimonies of eyewitnesses, highlighting their shared trauma and guilt over George Floyd's death. The powerful rebuke from a police chief against Chauvin's actions underscores the demand for accountability in law enforcement. Eligon also examines courtroom dynamics, focusing on the prosecution's argument regarding asphyxiation and the contrasting narratives presented during the trial.

Jesse Drucker, an investigative reporter for The New York Times, dives into corporate tax avoidance, spotlighting Bristol Myers Squibb’s controversial offshore tax strategies that cost the U.S. $1.4 billion. The discussion unveils how big corporations exploit international loopholes and the Biden administration's push for a global minimum tax to curb these practices. Drucker examines the legal implications and accountability shifts needed to ensure fair corporate taxation, making a compelling case for reform in how multinational companies navigate tax laws.

Kashmir Hill, a technology reporter for The New York Times known for her insights into online privacy, dives deep into a family's battle against relentless online defamation. She reveals how a single grudge can unleash a torrent of false accusations, impacting innocent lives. The discussion includes the complexities of navigating legal challenges, the emotional toll on victims, and the broader implications of rising online harassment. With a poignant mix of personal stories and investigative grit, the conversation uncovers the harsh realities of reputation management in the digital age.

Hannah Beech, Southeast Asia bureau chief for The New York Times and expert on Myanmar, unpacks the brutal aftermath of the recent military coup. She discusses the courageous civil disobedience movements as citizens resist oppression with symbolic gestures. The conversation also explores how Myanmar's military, historically isolated, views civilians as enemies, leading to tragic violence against unarmed populations. Beech highlights heartbreaking stories, including the tragic fate of children caught in the crossfire, revealing the devastating human cost of this conflict.

Addison Rae, a TikTok sensation and founder of Item Beauty, dives into the evolution of beauty standards influenced by social media. With 78.5 million followers, she shares insights on how her rise to fame led her to launch her beauty line, following in the footsteps of icons like Kylie Jenner. The discussion touches on the unique relationship between influencers and their fans, the transformation of beauty marketing, and how the pandemic has reshaped consumer connections with brands. Rae’s journey illustrates the blending of personal expression and pop-culture dynamics in the beauty industry.

In this discussion, Jim Tankersley, a White House correspondent for The New York Times, dives into President Biden's ambitious infrastructure plan. He highlights how it redefines infrastructure by addressing racial equity and climate change alongside traditional projects. The conversation reveals the plan's $2 trillion targets, like repairing roads and modernizing tech for competitiveness. Tankersley also details the political hurdles, including resistance to corporate tax increases, while emphasizing the plan's broader societal implications.

Jennifer Bates, an Amazon worker from Bessemer, Alabama, candidly shares her journey in the fight for unionization against a corporate giant. She discusses the oppressive atmosphere of constant surveillance and strict performance tracking in the warehouse. Bates emphasizes the emotional toll these conditions take on workers, fueling their desire for change. The podcast reveals the grassroots efforts and struggles of her colleagues as they seek fair representation, shedding light on the broader implications for labor movements across the nation.

Astead W. Herndon, a national political reporter for The New York Times, interviews Raphael Warnock, Georgia's first Black senator and a pastor. They discuss the critical battle over voting rights, which has intensified in Georgia since his election. Warnock shares his journey from faith to politics, addressing racial injustice and the importance of representation. The conversation highlights the impact of recent voting laws on Black and brown communities, along with personal reflections on the ongoing struggle for equality in the face of political chaos.

Nick Corasaniti, a domestic correspondent for The New York Times, dives into the evolving landscape of voting laws in Georgia, a state shifting from red to purple. He discusses the Republican-led push for restrictive voting measures post-2020 and its implications on marginalized communities. The conversation addresses the potential for similar laws in other states and the impact these changes might have on upcoming elections. Corasaniti also highlights the critical role investigative journalism plays in unveiling truths surrounding voter rights.