The Daily

A sandwich shop in Phoenix faces an overwhelming surge of homelessness, impacting daily operations and community dynamics. The owners navigate chaotic scenes outside their doors, revealing the harsh realities of street life. They show resilience amid chaos while also emphasizing small acts of kindness toward those in need. The podcast highlights personal stories and the emotional toll on both the homeless and local businesses, showcasing a pressing humanitarian crisis that demands urgent attention and compassionate solutions.

Ben Protess, an investigative reporter for The New York Times, dives into the historic indictment of Donald Trump, the first former president to face criminal charges. They discuss the hush money payments linked to the 2016 election and the potential legal ramifications. Protess unpacks the complexities of the case, including challenges in proving felony charges amidst overlapping state and federal laws. The conversation highlights the political implications for the upcoming 2024 presidential race and Trump’s claims of political persecution.

Michael S. Schmidt, a national security correspondent for The New York Times, delves into baseball's groundbreaking rule changes aimed at revitalizing the sport. He highlights the introduction of a pitch clock and adjustments to player positions to increase engagement. Schmidt examines the paradox of excessive home runs contributing to gameplay boredom and discusses how new rules can enhance the pace of the game. The conversation balances humor with a critical look at baseball's evolving identity and its impact on fan experience.

Patrick Kingsley, the Jerusalem bureau chief for The New York Times, discusses the recent decision by Prime Minister Netanyahu to pause a highly controversial judicial restructuring plan amidst massive public protests. He delves into the mounting tensions between right-wing factions and a dissatisfied public demanding democratic norms. The dialogue highlights how military reservists have played a key role in opposing changes, illustrating the political struggle over judicial independence and the potential implications for Israel's democracy.

Sean Keenan, a freelance reporter for The New York Times, delves into the escalating conflict over the proposed police training facility, dubbed 'Cop City,' in Atlanta. The discussion highlights how this site has become a battleground for national debates on policing and community safety. Keenan describes the dramatic clashes between protesters and police, evolving from peaceful gatherings to violent confrontations. He also addresses the complex mix of environmental concerns and the necessity for police reform as activism intensifies in the area.

Natasha Singer, a Technology reporter for The New York Times, dives into Utah's groundbreaking law requiring parental consent for minors to access social media. She discusses the law's implications in addressing the mental health crisis among teens, alongside rising concerns about bullying and exploitation. Singer also contrasts Utah's approach with California's legislation, highlighting challenges in enforcement and the potential for innovative solutions to ensure children's online safety. This insightful conversation sheds light on the future of social media regulation.

In this engaging discussion, Dan Brooks, a New York Times Magazine contributor and author residing in Montana, profiles Donovan Danhausen, the eccentric wrestling star. They dive into Danhausen's transformation from a struggling indie wrestler to a beloved figure, highlighting how his humor and quirky persona captivated fans. The conversation also touches on his experience as an artist navigating anxiety before performances and the unique bond wrestlers create with audiences. Danhausen's evolution illustrates a fresh take on professional wrestling, blending individuality with theatrical flair.

Jim Tankersley, a White House correspondent for The New York Times, dives into the Biden administration's recent report highlighting the economic risks posed by climate change. He discusses the complexities of aligning government funding with climate-friendly policies and critiques existing practices that unintentionally lead to risky behaviors, like flood insurance and mortgage lending. Tankersley emphasizes the urgent need for the government to provide better information and withdraw support from harmful environmental practices to foster safer, more informed public decisions.

A.O. Scott, a longtime film critic for The New York Times, reflects on his departure from film criticism after 23 years. He discusses the impact of franchise dominance on storytelling, revealing how superhero films have overshadowed diverse narratives. Scott delves into the challenges of traditional criticism in the age of streaming, where audience consumption has changed drastically. He expresses bittersweet emotions about the evolving landscape of cinema and the diminishing significance of theatrical releases, raising concerns about the future of film appreciation.

Barney Frank, a former Congressman pivotal in reshaping financial regulation post-2008, joins David Enrich, The New York Times' business investigations editor. They delve into Frank's legacy regarding the relaxation of banking regulations and its consequences in today's financial landscape. With a recent bank failure, they explore the implications of his decisions, the turbulent journey of mid-sized banks, and the ongoing debates about the stability of the banking system amidst potential systemic risks. Frank reflects on his career's challenges and contradictions.