The Daily

In this conversation, poet Shane McCrae opens up about his traumatic childhood as a kidnapped child raised in a racist environment. Shane's memoir, "Pulling the Chariot of the Sun," chronicles his quest for identity and healing through poetry. Wyatt Mason, a contributing writer, adds depth as they discuss how art can emerge from personal pain. The duo explores themes of familial disconnect and the emotional aftermath of abduction, highlighting Shane's journey from trauma to poetic expression and the struggle for recognition in his family.

Eli Saslow, a writer at large for The New York Times, delves into the heavy topic of the fentanyl crisis. He shares a heartbreaking story of friendship and betrayal where one man faces murder charges after trying to save his overdosing friend. The discussion highlights the rising fatalities from fentanyl, the controversial legal measures that attribute blame to users, and the emotional turmoil experienced by those affected. Saslow raises critical questions about justice, addiction treatment, and the societal impacts of harsh legislation.

Mujib Mashal, The New York Times's South Asia bureau chief, breaks down the explosive accusations from Canada against India, claiming state-sponsored assassination of a Sikh leader. He unpacks how this controversy could deepen the rift between Sikhs and Hindus in Canada. The conversation highlights Narendra Modi's political tactics, using such allegations to shift focus from internal issues. Mashal also discusses the muted response from Western allies, revealing the complex web of international relations amid rising tensions.

Paul Tough, a contributing writer for The New York Times Magazine and an expert on education inequality, delves into the shifting attitudes toward higher education in America. He discusses the increasing skepticism among high school students and parents about college's value in today's economy. Tough highlights rising costs, the diminishing financial returns of degrees, and the bleak job market for non-graduates. He emphasizes the need for policy changes to ensure equitable access to education as a public good for future generations.

Christiaan Triebert, a journalist specializing in visual investigations for The Times, shares insights on Ukraine's innovative drone program impacting the conflict with Russia. Serhiy Prytula, a former television host turned key figure in Ukraine's drone efforts, discusses their recent successful fundraising initiative. The conversation highlights the strategic importance of drone strikes, including attacks on Moscow, and the psychological effects on the Russian public. Together, they explore the evolution of drone warfare and its significance in modern military tactics.

Dani Blum, a health and science reporter for The New York Times, dives into the revolutionizing world of weight loss drugs like Ozempic. She discusses how these medications, originally for diabetes, are reshaping societal attitudes towards obesity and beauty. The conversation highlights striking personal stories, the dangers of malnutrition, and the ongoing debates around the body positivity movement. Blum brings attention to the complexities of navigating body image and health in a society grappling with evolving perceptions of obesity.

Claude Dumont Beghi, a prominent lawyer, shares the gripping saga of Sylvia Wildenstein's inheritance battle against her late husband’s powerful family. Discover how Sylvia, a glamorous widow and former model, faced off against her stepsons over her husband’s art and horse legacy. The podcast delves into the dark complexities of the Wildenstein family’s art empire, revealing legal struggles and hidden assets. Beghi exposes the emotional turmoil and intrigue within a dynasty where wealth, tradition, and deception collide.

Luke Broadwater, a congressional reporter for The New York Times, delves into the recent impeachment inquiry initiated by Speaker Kevin McCarthy against President Biden. He explains the allegations surrounding Hunter Biden's business dealings and the lack of strong evidence supporting them. The discussion also highlights the Republicans' internal tensions and strategic challenges, especially as they balance hard-right demands with the need for a credible process. Broadwater further analyzes how this inquiry may impact the political landscape leading into the 2024 elections.

Julian Barnes, a national security reporter for The New York Times, dives into Kim Jong-un's unprecedented visit to Russia to meet President Putin. He reveals how North Korea's artillery stocks are enticing for Russia amid its Ukraine conflict. The two leaders discuss potential arms deals, where North Korea could gain advanced technology and food aid. This alliance raises concerns about the destabilization of global diplomacy and enhances the threat North Korea poses, shifting the international balance as old tensions resurface.

Apoorva Mandavilli, a science and global health reporter for The New York Times, delves into the recent shift to annual COVID vaccinations. She discusses the end of booster shots and the strategic changes as infections rise again. Mandavilli explains who should get the new vaccine and when, while emphasizing the importance of vaccination against long-term effects. The conversation also touches on adapting to evolving public health guidelines, personal responsibility, and the broader implications of these changes amid ongoing global events.