The Daily

Pam Belluck, a health and science correspondent for The New York Times, unpacks the historic FDA approval for over-the-counter birth control pills. She delves into the long journey of contraception, highlighting its transformative role in women's empowerment and workplace equality. The discussion touches on shifting political dynamics, where even some conservatives now advocate for expanded access amidst restrictive abortion laws. Personal anecdotes from young women underscore the significance of accessible reproductive health in their lives, marking a watershed moment for public health policy.

Sheera Frenkel, a technology correspondent for The New York Times, dives into the uproar surrounding AI companies appropriating creative works without consent. She discusses the feelings of exploitation among authors, comedians, and fan fiction writers as their content feeds AI systems. Frenkel highlights notable lawsuits, including one by Sarah Silverman, and the deepening divide between human creativity and AI output. The conversation reflects a growing demand for control over original works in an increasingly digital landscape.

Daisuke Wakabayashi, an Asia business correspondent for The New York Times, delves into the unexpected stagnation of China's economy after the lifting of lockdowns. He discusses alarming signs of slowdown, including diminishing foreign direct investment and rising youth unemployment. The podcast highlights the real estate market's struggles, with vacant properties symbolizing deeper economic issues. Wakabayashi also addresses the shifting perceptions of foreign companies regarding investment in China, amid escalating geopolitical tensions.

Eyal Press, a contributor to the New York Times Magazine and author of 'Dirty Work,' discusses the alarming moral crisis faced by American doctors. He highlights the distress experienced by physicians due to a profit-driven healthcare system that prioritizes efficiency over patient care. The conversation uncovers the emotional toll of ethical dilemmas, rising unionization among medical residents, and innovative models of direct patient care that aim to restore the doctor-patient relationship. Press also sheds light on the growing phenomenon of 'moral injury' in the medical field.

Abbie VanSickle, the Supreme Court correspondent for The New York Times, dives into the life of Justice Clarence Thomas, revealing how his challenging upbringing in Georgia shaped his views on race and opportunity. She discusses his staunch opposition to affirmative action and the significant role he played in the recent Supreme Court ruling against it. Their conversation explores the complexities of Thomas's ideology, his personal struggles, and his argument for a colorblind Constitution versus race-conscious policies.

In this discussion, Richard V. Sims III, Emeritus professor of medicine, shares how affirmative action shaped his medical career amidst systemic racism. Tyler Austin Harper, an environmental studies professor, explores the complexities of college admissions and identity. Recent high school graduate Jia Shin reflects on her experiences with college applications and the pressures of representation. Together, they navigate the profound impacts of the Supreme Court's decision, revealing a spectrum of emotions about affirmative action's legacy.

Ben Casselman, an economy correspondent for The New York Times, discusses the conclusion of the Great Resignation and its lasting implications for workers. He highlights how job quitting rates have returned to pre-pandemic levels, questioning if the gains in wage and job satisfaction for low-wage earners will remain. The conversation dives into the emerging empowerment movements among workers and the challenges presented by potential economic downturns, emphasizing the need for structural changes to protect workers' rights.

In this discussion, David E. Sanger, a White House and national security correspondent for The New York Times, dives into the Biden administration's controversial decision to send cluster munitions to Ukraine. He navigates the ethical concerns surrounding these banned weapons, which have a devastating impact on civilians, especially children. Sanger highlights Ukraine's urgent artillery crisis and the complex dynamics of the ongoing conflict, questioning the balance between military necessity and moral implications in wartime decision-making.

Mike Isaac, a technology correspondent for The New York Times, discusses the launch of Meta's Threads and its rapid growth, surpassing 30 million downloads in just 16 hours. He explores the vulnerabilities of Twitter post-Elon Musk's acquisition and its struggles with user experience and advertiser relations. Isaac analyzes how Threads aims to create a friendlier alternative, leveraging Instagram's user base while navigating challenges of maintaining a positive culture. The tech landscape's shift to new innovations like AI and the metaverse also adds intrigue to this competitive landscape.

Nicholas Casey, a staff writer at the New York Times Magazine based in Madrid, dives into the shadowy world of José Manuel Villarejo Pérez, a notorious Spanish spy. They discuss Villarejo’s extensive audio recordings that brought down some of Spain's elite, revealing deep-rooted controversies and his connections to the Franco regime. The conversation also explores how these secrets intertwine with Spain's dark history of espionage, loyalty, and the repercussions of unveiling uncomfortable truths about powerful figures.