Judson Jones, a meteorologist and reporter for The New York Times, and Nicholas Bogel-Burroughs, a national reporter for The Times, delve into the harrowing aftermath of Hurricane Helene. They discuss the storm's rapid escalation from Category 1 to Category 4 and its unexpected path of destruction across multiple states, especially North Carolina. Eyewitness accounts reveal the chaos of swift floods and mudslides, showcasing the urgent rescue efforts and deep emotional toll on affected communities. This is a gripping exploration of nature’s fury and human resilience.

Peter Baker, Chief White House correspondent for The New York Times, dives into the contrasting foreign policy visions of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump as global conflicts escalate. He discusses Harris's diplomatic strategies versus Trump's confrontational approach, particularly concerning Ukraine and Iran. The conversation also touches on their differing views on China and the implications of their policies for U.S. relations in the Middle East. Baker highlights how these perspectives might reshape America's role on the world stage amid rising geopolitical tensions.

Sarah A. Topol, a journalist who reported for The New York Times Magazine, dives deep into the harrowing story of Ivan, a captain who deserted the Russian army. She shares gripping accounts of soldiers escaping wartime service, revealing their cunning maneuvers and emotional struggles. The podcast explores personal testimonies of fear, the fight for asylum, and the moral dilemmas faced by these deserters. Each narrative highlights the chaos of military life and the profound toll the war takes on families and society.

Explore the harrowing journey of Ivan, a Russian army captain who flees the chaos of war in Ukraine with his wife, Anna. This poignant narrative uncovers the brutality of military life and the profound moral dilemmas faced by soldiers. The impact of corrupt systems and societal pressures emerges as key themes, revealing the stark contrast between duty and personal desires. Hear the emotional stories of families caught in the turmoil and the desperate need for hope amidst the bleak realities of conflict.

John Oliver, the host of Last Week Tonight, shares insights from a decade of blending comedy with social issues. He reflects on the balance between humor and outrage, emphasizing the impact of his show on real-world change. Oliver discusses the challenges of the evolving media landscape and the responsibilities tied to the journalist label. He also opens up about parenting amid political turmoil and the importance of addressing serious topics with children while keeping conversations engaging. Prepare for a mix of laughs and poignant observations!

Emma Fitzsimmons, City Hall bureau chief for The New York Times, provides insights into the unprecedented indictment of New York City Mayor Eric Adams. She discusses the serious allegations of campaign finance violations and luxury gifts, examining how this scandal threatens his leadership. Fitzsimmons highlights Mayor Adams' tumultuous rise to power amid post-pandemic challenges, the ethical ramifications of his actions, and the growing public disillusionment with his administration as he battles ongoing investigations.

In this engaging discussion, investigative reporter Jessica Silver-Greenberg exposes alarming abuses within the mental health care system, focusing on the for-profit Acadia Healthcare. She reveals how profit motives can overshadow patient welfare, featuring Kathy McKenzie, who shares her personal experience with involuntary commitment. They delve into the manipulative tactics used to extend hospital stays and the emotional toll on patients. The episode sheds light on urgent ethical concerns while calling for a reevaluation of mental health practices.

Ben Hubbard, the Istanbul bureau chief for The New York Times and an expert on Hezbollah and the Israeli-Lebanese conflict, delivers critical insights on the recent surge of violence in Lebanon, marked by deadly Israeli airstrikes. He traces the historical roots of the Israel-Hezbollah rivalry and discusses Hezbollah's growing influence in the region, especially in light of its alliance with Iran. Hubbard also explores the shifting sentiments in Lebanon against Hezbollah amid ongoing socio-economic turmoil and analyzes the group's strategic responses following the recent Hamas attacks.

Conor Dougherty, a housing reporter for The New York Times, dives into the complexities of the U.S. housing crisis. He traces its roots back to the 2008 financial meltdown and discusses how a drastic decline in home construction has led to a housing shortage. Dougherty highlights the affordable housing challenges in cities like Kalamazoo, where rising rents threaten community stability. He emphasizes the need for effective government interventions to address these issues and the ironic struggle of cities attracting wealth while losing affordability.

Adam Satariano, a technology correspondent for The New York Times, dives into the intriguing world of Telegram, a messaging app with nearly a billion users that has become a hotspot for illicit activities. He discusses the recent arrest of founder Pavel Durov, highlighting his journey from a Soviet upbringing to a tech pioneer. The conversation covers Telegram's duality, where it champions free speech but also attracts extremists and the criminal underworld. Satariano reveals the challenges of balancing user privacy with responsibility and regulatory scrutiny.