The Daily

Keith Bradsher, the Beijing bureau chief for The New York Times and an expert on China's economy, dives into the escalating U.S.–China trade standoff. He discusses China's recent restrictions on rare-earth exports, which could disrupt global supply chains. Bradsher highlights key negotiation points like soybeans and semiconductors, and warns of serious implications for the U.S. and Europe. He also predicts that the upcoming Trump-Xi talks may yield only temporary agreements, emphasizing China's strategic timing and potential risks in the long run.

Hannah Dreier, a New York Times reporter, dives into the unsettling world of private wildland firefighting. She discusses how these crews, often recruiting young workers, face dangerous conditions with little protection. The story of Joel Eisiminger, a firefighter diagnosed with leukemia shortly before turning 25, highlights the health risks and bureaucratic obstacles these workers encounter. Dreier reveals how contractors prioritize profit over safety, leading to dire consequences, and emphasizes the urgent need for policy changes to protect these vulnerable firefighters.

Jonah E. Bromwich, a New York Times reporter specializing in criminal justice, and Jenny Vrentas, who covers sports influence, dive deep into a major gambling scandal engulfing the NBA. They discuss the shocking FBI indictments involving mafia ties, high-stakes poker games, and players potentially rigging bets. The conversation highlights the explosive rise of online betting and the risks it poses to the integrity of sports. They also explore the financial entanglements between leagues and betting companies, raising concerns about widespread manipulation.

Join horror experts Jason Zinoman, a New York Times critic and author known for his insights on modern horror, and Erik Piepenburg, the Times' horror columnist, as they dive into the cinematic world of fright. They dissect the evolution of iconic franchises like "A Nightmare on Elm Street" and "The Exorcist," explore contemporary hits like "Candyman" and "The Conjuring," and debate the cultural significance of classics such as "Halloween" and "Jaws." Plus, they engage in a fun trivia challenge, testing their horror film knowledge!

Join Dan Powell, the Creative Technical Manager at The New York Times, and Marion Lozano, a Senior Sound Designer and Composer, as they share insights into the musical backbone of the show. They discuss the essence of 'Daily' music, highlighting its energetic strings and modern feel. Hear about the clever use of minimal instrumentation, like piano and marimba, designed to complement the dialogue without overshadowing it. They even delve into the parallels between podcast scoring and club music, revealing how they craft tracks that resonate with listeners.

In this insightful conversation, legendary actor Anthony Hopkins reflects on his remarkable life and career. He shares his transformative moment of sobriety, discovering a powerful inner voice that changed his path. Hopkins recounts how personal experiences and inspirations shaped his acting journey, emphasizing the value of gratitude and treating life lightly. He discusses his creative process and the joy of working with younger actors while maintaining a sense of perspective about fame and success. With heartfelt insights on faith, family, and legacy, Hopkins offers a profound glimpse into his artistic and personal evolution.

Luke Broadwater, a White House reporter for The New York Times, dives into the controversial demolition of the East Wing. It was unexpected, despite previous assurances it would remain intact. The discussion highlights Trump's lavish new ballroom vision, the project's soaring costs, and the ethical concerns surrounding private funding. Broadwater stresses the impact of major donors on influence and access, and he examines how this renovation fits into Trump's legacy, raising questions about historical perception and the symbolism of rubble.

Anatoly Kurmanaev, a New York Times reporter focused on Russia and the Americas, dives into U.S. military actions in Venezuela. He discusses the aggressive approach from the Trump administration, which many believe aims for regime change. Kurmanaev reveals the tensions within the U.S. government about how to address Nicolás Maduro's influence, while Venezuelans express desire for change but reject foreign intervention. He cautions on the risks of labeling governments as criminal organizations, highlighting potential destabilization in the region.

Catherine Porter, a New York Times international correspondent based in Paris, delves into the shocking Louvre jewelry heist. She recounts the thieves' audacious tactics, using a truck-mounted ladder and tools to swiftly break in. The operation took only four minutes! Porter discusses the subsequent museum security measures and the public's outrage over cultural loss valued at 88 million euros. She highlights a troubling pattern of museum thefts in France and reveals the investigation's next steps in recovering the stolen jewels.

Nikole Hannah-Jones, a renowned domestic correspondent for The New York Times Magazine and creator of the 1619 Project, dives into how the Trump administration reshaped civil rights. She discusses early executive orders that targeted DEI, erasing multicultural histories from federal platforms. Hannah-Jones highlights the importance of civil rights offices and the alarming trend of diminishing protections, warning of a potential second Nadir for Black rights. Her insights reveal a troubling intersection of politics and civil rights that could redefine the future for marginalized communities.