David Yaffe-Bellany, a technology reporter for The New York Times, dives into the surprising comeback of FTX and the crypto industry. He discusses how strategic investments helped FTX recover billions after its collapse, enabling repayments to customers. The conversation highlights growing optimism in cryptocurrency, especially with Bitcoin ETFs gaining traction among major institutions. Yaffe-Bellany also addresses the legal hurdles faced by the industry and explores the implications of cryptocurrencies becoming mainstream financial assets.

Michael Steinberger, a contributing writer for The New York Times Magazine specializing in the economy, discusses the critical flaws in the 401(k) system as the first generation relying on it retires. He highlights the shift from traditional pensions, exposing the risks to lower and middle-income workers. Through personal stories, he emphasizes how structural failures in 401(k) plans have worsened income inequality. The conversation challenges whether retirement should be viewed as a right or a privilege, suggesting a reevaluation of the current retirement landscape.

Join Matt Farley, a prolific musician and filmmaker known for his unique SEO strategies, as he uncovers the quirky tale of a song written about New York Times writer Brett Martin. They dive into themes of identity and vulnerability in the digital age, humorously navigating the unexpected emotional connections art can create. Farley shares his unconventional journey as an artist, balancing creativity with the realities of music distribution and the pressures of modern streaming platforms, revealing how passion drives his relentless pursuit of artistic expression.

Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, a marine biologist and co-founder of a think tank focused on coastal cities, shares her insights on climate change and its emotional landscape. She emphasizes overcoming 'soft' climate denial and fostering hope instead of fear. The conversation navigates the necessity of collective action and innovative solutions amidst political divisions. Johnson advocates for nurturing love for future generations as a motivator for sustainable practices, pushing for a shift in mindset to tackle climate issues effectively.

Mustafa Yowell, a Texan student, Elisha Baker from Columbia identifying as a Zionist, and Jasmine Jolly, a Jewish student from Cal Poly Humboldt, share their passionate insights on the recent campus protests over the Gaza conflict. They discuss their motivations for activism, the complexities of identity intertwined with their beliefs, and how generational perspectives shape their views on Zionism and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Their conversations reveal deep emotional journeys and the importance of dialogue amidst polarized opinions.

Jonah Bromwich, a criminal justice reporter for The New York Times, dives into Michael Cohen's explosive testimony in Donald Trump’s hush-money trial. He reveals how Cohen, once Trump’s right-hand man, could significantly complicate the former president's legal troubles. The discussion highlights Cohen’s intricate relationship with Trump and the courtroom drama during his cross-examination. Listeners get a glimpse of the critical dynamics at play, as well as the impact of Cohen's credibility on the trial's direction.

Christopher Flavelle, a climate change reporter for The New York Times, dives into the crumbling U.S. home insurance market under the pressure of climate change. He reveals how escalating extreme weather is driving homeowners’ premiums sky-high while insurers are pulling out of numerous markets. Flavelle discusses the case study of Marshalltown, Iowa, where residents face a precarious balance between rising costs and limited coverage. The conversation also touches on the role of government in managing risks in high-risk zones as climate challenges become inevitable.

Nate Cohn, Chief Political Analyst at The New York Times, dives into the latest polling that reveals discontent among voters. He discusses why many are leaning toward Trump as a change agent, especially among young and nonwhite demographics unhappy with the economy and foreign conflicts. Cohn highlights Trump’s surprising lead in battleground states and explores the widespread call for political overhaul, emphasizing the vulnerabilities facing Biden and the shifting perceptions in this crucial election landscape.

Jim Tankersley, an economic policy reporter for The New York Times, reveals how President Biden has continued and intensified Donald Trump's trade war with China. Instead of reversing policies, Biden is calling for steel tariffs and considering raising tariffs on electric vehicles to 100%. The discussion highlights shifts in the tech landscape, the focus on domestic production in clean energy, and the evolving U.S. economic strategy aimed at countering foreign competition, especially from China.

Katie Engelhart, a Pulitzer Prize-winning writer for The New York Times Magazine, delves into the emotional complexities of dementia through Diane Norellius's personal journey. They explore the ethical dilemmas families face when cognitive decline alters loved ones' desires. Topics include the tension between preserving autonomy and the need for care, the legal struggles surrounding power of attorney, and the bittersweet nature of navigating intimate relationships amidst severe memory loss. Their candid discussions illuminate the profound impact of dementia on identity and familial bonds.