The Daily

Michael Schwirtz, global intelligence correspondent for The New York Times, breaks down the strategic shift of Ukraine's President Zelensky following a pivotal meeting with President Trump. The discussion highlights how Zelensky is adapting his approach to garner U.S. support amidst the ongoing war with Russia. Schwirtz delves into the complexities of U.S. diplomacy, the evolving relationships among European leaders, and the pressing need for a ceasefire, revealing the uncertain landscape of international politics and negotiations.

Mike Flood, a Republican Congressman from Nebraska, continues to hold town hall meetings despite his party's warnings against them. He passionately defends the importance of this democratic tradition, emphasizing accountability and direct dialogue with constituents. Flood shares personal anecdotes from his encounters, revealing the significant tensions and frustrations voters express about current policies. He navigates heated exchanges and acknowledges the challenges of legislative transparency amidst rising public discontent. It's a compelling discussion on the state of civic engagement today.

Sam Graham-Felsen, a writer known for his candid reflections on loneliness and male friendships, shares his journey of reconnecting with his friends after years of neglect. He discusses the societal pressures that hinder men from expressing vulnerability and how marriage and parenthood shifted his focus away from friendships. Sam emphasizes the importance of nurturing these emotional ties and offers insights into overcoming loneliness by rekindling deep connections. His personal anecdotes resonate, shedding light on the evolving dynamics of male friendships in adulthood.

Chris Voss, a former FBI hostage negotiator and author, shares his expertise on negotiation as the CEO of the Black Swan Group. He emphasizes the power of tactical empathy in resolving conflicts, showcasing how understanding emotions can transform high-stakes situations. Voss discusses overcoming negotiation fears and reframing disagreements as collaborative efforts, while sharing personal anecdotes that highlight the journey of becoming a skilled negotiator. He also reflects on his own growth and experiences, particularly in relation to fatherhood and interpersonal relationships.

David E. Sanger, the White House and national security correspondent for The New York Times, delves into the high-stakes meeting between President Trump and Vladimir Putin. He highlights the strategic advantages for Putin, regardless of the outcome. The discussion covers the absence of Ukrainian representatives, raising skepticism about concessions made during negotiations. Sanger addresses the implications for NATO and the need for continued Western support in light of ongoing geopolitical tensions surrounding the war in Ukraine.

Kyle Buchanan, pop culture reporter for The New York Times, dives into the debates sparked by the list of the top 100 movies of the 21st century. He examines how personal experiences shape our film preferences and spotlights the surprising inclusion of comedies like 'Superbad.' The discussion also highlights cinematic auteurs such as the Coen brothers and Christopher Nolan, the themes of class struggle in 'Parasite,' and the shifting landscape of superhero films. Ultimately, they ponder the timeless appeal of movies in the digital age.

Michael S. Schmidt, an investigative reporter at The New York Times, dives into the renewed accusations against Barack Obama regarding a supposed conspiracy against Trump dating back to 2016. He discusses the alarming press briefings that lack solid evidence yet stoke political tensions. Schmidt also covers the implications of intelligence assessments, the complexities of potential prosecutions, and how these narratives shape public perception amidst ongoing political scandals. The conversation is a fascinating exploration of power struggles within U.S. political institutions.

Devlin Barrett, a New York Times reporter focused on the Justice Department and F.B.I., breaks down President Trump's decision to send the National Guard to Washington, D.C. He discusses the contrasting narratives around crime and how federal involvement shifts local policing dynamics. Barrett highlights the implications of this move, describing it as both a strategic power play and a response to local governance. Listeners will find insights into the political motivations and the historical context behind such military actions in urban areas.

Andrew Ross Sorkin, a prominent columnist and founder of DealBook at The New York Times, shares deep insights from C.E.O.s on Trump’s recent tariffs. He discusses the resilience of the economy amid the trade war and the shifts in corporate strategies as businesses navigate these challenges. Sorkin also highlights anticipated price hikes that could affect sectors like Amazon and Ford, and examines how tariffs are reshaping global supply chains. The conversation raises essential questions about the lasting impacts on profitability and international relations.

Grace Hussar, a writer exploring the intersections of kink and self-acceptance, shares her life-changing journey of overcoming overthinking. Discover how endurance running led her to embrace pain as a means to stay present. Grace delves into the world of rope play, revealing its power in transforming her relationship with pleasure and intimacy. She discusses the dynamics of trust and consent within the kink community while reflecting on vulnerability and the joy of self-discovery, ultimately redefining her understanding of personal agency.