The Daily

Eric Lipton, an investigative reporter for The New York Times, dives into the challenging saga of the Navy's littoral combat ships. He reveals how these ships, initially seen as a game-changer, became a financial burden due to mechanical failures. The podcast uncovers grassroots lobbying to save these flawed vessels despite calls for their retirement, highlighting the fierce tug-of-war between military officials and Congress shaped by campaign contributions. Listen in as Lipton explores the complex relationship between national security and accountability in today’s military landscape.

Menopausal hormone therapy was once the go-to treatment but took a dive in credibility after a flawed study raised alarms. A staggering 85 percent of women face menopausal symptoms, yet they often remain underserved in healthcare. Experts argue there’s a cultural blind spot around women’s suffering, which is often dismissed. Personal journeys highlight the confusion surrounding menopause and the importance of open conversations with healthcare providers about treatment options.

Kenneth P. Vogel is an investigative correspondent for The New York Times, detailing the rapid rise of legalized sports betting in the U.S. He explores how the industry transitioned from illegal to mainstream, particularly around high-profile events like the Super Bowl, which is expected to attract $16 billion in bets. Vogel discusses the societal implications, the role of lobbying in legalization, and how platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel revolutionized the betting landscape. He also raises concerns about consumer protections and the oversight of this booming market.

Conor Dougherty, an economics reporter and author, joins Emma Goldberg, a reporter on the future of work, to discuss San Francisco's downtown crisis post-pandemic. They explore how remote work has left many offices empty, stunting the city's recovery efforts. The duo questions the roles of tech companies and rising housing costs in shaping urban dynamics. Listeners will also hear about the personal impacts on local business owners like Maria, highlighting the need for innovative solutions to revitalize communities and address inequities.

Mike Baker, the Seattle bureau chief and a national correspondent for The New York Times, lends his insights on the tragic death of Tyre Nichols and the disbanded Memphis Scorpion unit. He discusses how this specialized team, initially hailed for crime reduction, became a source of community fear due to its brutal tactics. The conversation highlights the urgent need for police reform and accountability, as well as the complex challenges faced by Memphis's police leadership amidst the push for change.

Ben Hubbard, the Istanbul bureau chief for The New York Times, provides compelling insights on the devastating 7.8-magnitude earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria. He shares heart-wrenching accounts from survivors and the immense loss their communities face. The discussion highlights the urgent need for humanitarian aid and the unique challenges of recovery in an already war-torn region. Hubbard also emphasizes the resilience shown by individuals in the face of such catastrophic events, showcasing both the human cost and the human spirit.

Edward Wong, a diplomatic correspondent for The New York Times, dives deep into the recent incident of a Chinese spy balloon over the U.S. He discusses the unexpected political fallout, questioning the balloon's true purpose and exploring the diplomatic tensions it ignited. Wong analyzes the implications for U.S.-China relations, covering Taiwan's strategic importance and escalating conflicts. The conversation sheds light on how such events shape international diplomacy amidst a backdrop of critical geopolitical challenges.

Juan Tamariz, a legendary Spanish magician, has mesmerized audiences for over five decades with his close-up magic style. He discusses the emotional connection between magician and audience, transforming magic into an intimate experience. Tamariz reflects on the cultural significance of magic in Spain and shares stories of influential figures in the craft. The conversation dives into the artistry behind spontaneous performances and explores philosophical aspects of magic, blurring the lines between coincidence and illusion.

Apoorva Mandavilli, a science and global health reporter for The New York Times, delves into the implications of the Biden administration's decision to end the COVID-19 public health emergency. This transition signals a new phase in pandemic response, complicating access to tests and treatments, particularly for those uninsured. The conversation also touches on the political ramifications of ceasing Title 42 and addresses the evolving perspectives on living with COVID-19, emphasizing the importance of personal risk assessments as society adapts to a new normal.

Adam Nagourney, West Coast cultural affairs correspondent for The New York Times, shares insights on a potential overhaul of the Democratic presidential nominating process. He discusses the possibility of South Carolina replacing Iowa as the first primary state, highlighting the importance of demographic representation. The conversation dives into the historical significance of Iowa and the implications of this shift on candidate dynamics. Nagourney emphasizes the balance between increasing voter engagement and the risk of limiting candidate choices in the evolving political landscape.