The Daily

Julia Bond, assistant apparel designer at Adidas and a passionate advocate for racial justice, has been protesting for accountability at her company regarding systemic racism. She shares her personal journey from being an aspiring designer to confronting workplace discrimination. Bond highlights her emotional experiences, the need for genuine apologies from leadership, and the struggle to maintain activism while navigating job security. Her courageous stand is a powerful call for change in corporate cultures across the industry.

Dana Goldstein, a national correspondent for The New York Times, dives into the heated debate over school reopenings during COVID-19. She highlights the tension between political pressure and teachers' safety concerns, particularly in Florida. Goldstein addresses teachers' demands for protective measures and the emotional toll of remote learning. The discussion reveals the struggles between families wanting in-person classes and educators seeking safe environments, showcasing a complex landscape where public health and education needs collide.

Alex Burns, a national political correspondent for The New York Times, dives into Joe Biden's groundbreaking selection of Kamala Harris as his running mate. They discuss the historical significance of her candidacy as the first Black and Asian American woman on a major party ticket. Burns analyzes the strategic implications of this choice, the importance of voter representation, and how her diverse background could sway moderates and core voters alike. The conversation also touches on the complexities of their partnership and the current political landscape.

Jonah Bromwich, a New York Times Styles reporter, joins to delve deeper into the nuances of cancel culture. He shares insightful anecdotes about navigating the unpredictable world of social media backlash. The discussion highlights the complexities of accountability and the superficial nature of online outrage. Bromwich emphasizes how political narratives can be easily distorted and the deep impact on public figures caught in the crossfire. This episode sheds light on the tangled web of cancel culture in today’s digital landscape.

Jonah Bromwich, a reporter at The New York Times, delves into the origins of cancel culture and its significant implications for the 2020 election. He discusses how social media has transformed public opinion, leading to intense scrutiny of figures like J.K. Rowling and Kanye West. The conversation reveals the balance between accountability and artistic freedom, tracing how events like a Central Park encounter spotlight racial bias. Bromwich advocates for open debate amid the growing intolerance for opposing views in today's cultural landscape.

John Aldridge, a seasoned lobsterman, recounts his terrifying experience of falling overboard 40 miles from shore. He vividly shares the emotional struggles of isolation while fighting for survival in the dark Atlantic waters. The community’s response is highlighted as friends and Coast Guard crews mobilize for a frantic search, showcasing the deep bonds within the fishing community. Aldridge reflects on family ties and the harrowing moments faced at sea, ultimately emphasizing the human resilience in desperate situations.

Jack Dorsey, co-founder and CEO of Twitter, reflects on the platform’s role in political discourse following the 2016 election. He candidly discusses Twitter's past mistakes and the pressing issues of misinformation and polarization. Dorsey highlights the power residing in users' hands and the complexities of moderating interactions. He emphasizes the need for transparency in algorithms and thoughtful implementation of features to foster better engagement. Ultimately, he envisions a more global, inclusive Twitter where meaningful conversations can thrive.

Vivian Yee, a New York Times correspondent based in Beirut, offers a firsthand account of the devastating ammonium nitrate explosion that ripped through the city. She vividly describes her terrifying experience as her apartment became a demolition site. The conversation delves into the chaos that ensued on that fateful day, the urgent need for assistance in local hospitals, and the overwhelming resilience of the Lebanese people amidst destruction. Yee's insights capture both the horror and the kindness that emerged in the aftermath.

Sharhonda Bossier, deputy director at Education Leaders of Color, shares her inspiring journey as an activist against police brutality. She reflects on the profound lessons taught by her grandmother about challenging authority and the painful history of her community. Bossier discusses the tragic story of Latasha Harlins, which opened her eyes to systemic injustice. The conversation also dives into the complexities of leaderless movements, the emotional toll on activists, and the transformative power of collective action for social justice.

Reid J. Epstein, a Campaign and Elections reporter for The New York Times, dives into the uncertainties surrounding mail-in voting for the upcoming presidential election. He discusses the impact of the pandemic on traditional voting practices and examines the contrasting experiences of Georgia and Montana in implementing these new systems. The podcast addresses security concerns, discusses myths about voter fraud, and highlights how effective mail-in voting can boost voter turnout despite logistical challenges. Epstein's analysis offers critical insights into the future of voting in America.