The Daily

Dave Philipps, a military and veterans reporter for The New York Times, discusses Pete Hegseth's controversial nomination as Secretary of Defense. He dives into Hegseth's transformative military experiences, including his reflections from Guantanamo and Iraq, shaping his views on military leadership. The conversation highlights Hegseth's evolution from critic to defender of the accused and his advocacy for veterans. Philipps also examines the tension between military ethics and political correctness, offering insights into the complexities of military accountability in today's climate.

Anton Troianovski, the Moscow bureau chief for The New York Times, dives into the escalating conflict in Ukraine just weeks before Trump's inauguration. He discusses the dangerous new phase of warfare, including American-made ballistic missiles striking inside Russia. The episode highlights Ukraine's military operations, North Korean troop involvement, and the potential shifts in U.S. support under the incoming administration. Troianovski emphasizes the chilling nuclear threats from Russia, painting a tense picture of the geopolitical landscape.

Explore the poignant story of Keiko, the famous orca from 'Free Willy,' who suffered in captivity while capturing hearts worldwide. Discover the deep bond between Keiko and his trainer, revealing the emotional struggles faced by captured animals. Delve into the public outcry for Keiko’s rescue and the challenges of relocating him to a more natural habitat. The journey from a movie star to a symbol of ocean conservation is filled with hope and heart-wrenching farewells, leaving listeners questioning the ethics of animal captivity.

Rosé, the talented South Korean singer from the global sensation Blackpink, opens up about her journey as she forges a path as a solo artist. She candidly discusses the emotional challenges of balancing her public persona with her true self. The pressures of K-Pop fame and social media negativity weigh heavily on her, but songwriting offers a therapeutic outlet for healing. As she navigates her identity and reflects on the collaborative future of Blackpink, Rosé reveals the significance of authenticity in her music and personal growth.

Michael S. Schmidt, an investigative reporter for The New York Times who covered the Matt Gaetz saga, offers insider insights into Gaetz's abrupt withdrawal from the attorney general race. He highlights the ethical scrutiny surrounding Gaetz, including allegations of misconduct and the implications of private findings from the House Ethics Committee. The conversation also touches on the broader political fallout for Senate Republicans and the challenges of handling controversies within Trump's administration, amplifying the theme of accountability in politics.

Rick Rojas, the Atlanta bureau chief for The New York Times, provides insight into the tragic murder of nursing student Laken Riley, who was attacked while jogging at the University of Georgia. The crime sparked intense national discussions on immigration and border security, revealing the complexities faced by undocumented migrants. Rojas also highlights the political fallout, including reactions from Georgia lawmakers and a tense moment in President Biden's State of the Union address, showcasing how personal tragedies can become fodder for political narratives.

Lisa Miller, domestic correspondent for The New York Times' Well section, dives into the rising trend of breast reduction surgeries among women. She examines the shift from breast augmentations to reductions, fueled by changing cultural perceptions of beauty. Listeners will be intrigued by personal stories reflecting societal pressures and the emotional journey behind these choices. The discussion also touches on the financial and medical considerations of the procedure, while challenging stigmas around body image and autonomy in today's world.

Explore the personal journeys of activists who transformed their disillusionment into action, driven by the aftermath of political upheaval. Hear from women veterans passionately advocating for reproductive rights and reflecting on their military experiences. Discover how collective action and accessible technology are fueling movements for change. Delve into the emotional landscape of activists grappling with setbacks while embracing reflection as a tool for resilience and renewed purpose in challenging times.

Robert Draper, a domestic politics reporter for The New York Times, dives into Donald Trump's shocking nomination of Rep. Matt Gaetz as attorney general. Draper highlights Gaetz's controversial past and firm loyalty to Trump, questioning the implications for the rule of law and the Republican Party's future. The discussion sheds light on the political chaos surrounding Congressional investigations, ethical allegations, and the power dynamics at play in this unexpected decision. Will Gaetz's appointment reshape the political landscape?

David Gauvey Herbert, a New York Times Magazine contributor, dives into the complex world of competitive cheerleading. He discusses the staggering number of participants and the overwhelming control of Varsity Spirit over the industry. Herbert highlights the physical and emotional toll on young athletes, alongside the rising costs for families. With personal stories of resilience and safety concerns, he advocates for urgent regulatory changes. The conversation reveals a hidden world rife with challenges, from hazardous practices to the need for better support for cheerleaders.