Laura Coates

Sen. Elissa Slotkin, a former CIA analyst focused on national security; Stephen A. Smith, a fiery sports and cultural commentator; and Laura Coates, a former federal prosecutor turned legal analyst. They spar over TSA and federal worker pay, the risks and goals of military action with Iran, insider trading and prediction markets, Big Tech liability, parenting and platform responsibility, and fairness in sports.

Ray Romano, the beloved comedian and actor of 'Everybody Loves Raymond' fame, shares his amusing insights on family dynamics during the holidays. Laura Coates, CNN's chief legal analyst, dives into the political nuances surrounding holiday traditions and representation. Walter Kirn, novelist and cultural commentator, reflects on nostalgia and how classic sitcoms like Archie Bunker shape societal discussions on race and class. The trio blends humor with deep cultural reflections, addressing the complexities of inclusion in today's media landscape.

Laura Coates, CNN legal analyst and anchor, offers sharp legal perspective. Stephen A. Smith, outspoken sports and media personality, brings energetic debate. Elissa Slotkin, Michigan senator and former CIA analyst, speaks on national security. They tackle UFO jokes, DOJ probes, AIPAC and Israel politics, generational shifts in the Democratic Party, populist momentum, and tensions between defense spending and domestic priorities.

When Laura Coates decided to become a prosecutor in Washington, D.C., she was told that the job would be “human misery.” She says she remembers thinking, “If there's one person in the justice system who could do something about human misery, surely, it's the powerful prosecutor.” After four years, she quit.Laura’s book is Just Pursuit: A Black Prosecutor’s Fight For Fairness.We need your help. We are conducting a short audience survey to help plan for our future and hear from you. To participate, head to vox.com/podsurvey, and thank you!Say hello on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Sign up for our occasional newsletter, The Accomplice. Follow the show and review us on Apple Podcasts: iTunes.com/CriminalShow.We also make This is Love and Phoebe Reads a Mystery.Artwork by Julienne Alexander. Check out our online shop. Episode transcripts are posted on our website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tim Alberta is a staff writer at The Atlantic and author on evangelicalism in America. Laura Coates, a CNN anchor and legal analyst, joins alongside Buck Sexton, a former CIA analyst and radio show co-host. They humorously explore the influence of evangelicals in politics, especially their support for Trump. The discussion tackles voter engagement strategies, particularly among young Black men, while also critiquing gender identity and masculinity in today’s political landscape. Additionally, they offer a witty take on absurd political endorsements amidst serious global issues.

Laura Coates, a CNN legal analyst and host, joins as co-host to dissect the vibes from the recent DNC. They highlight standout speakers and Tim Walz's inspiring pep talk. New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham brings her insights, discussing shifts in political endorsements, particularly RFK Jr.'s surprising move to back Trump. The conversation also tackles the importance of authenticity in political messaging and features a humorous take on the rising influence of celebrities in elections, blending politics with relatable anecdotes.

Matthew Perry, famed for his role in 'Friends' and author of a candid memoir on addiction, shares his journey through addiction and survival with poignant humor. CNN anchor Laura Coates discusses the evolving landscape of politics and social media's role in shaping public opinion. Social psychologist Jonathan Haidt emphasizes the mental health crisis in Gen Z, attributing it to social media pressures. The trio navigates personal growth, accountability, and the absurdities of modern society, blending humor with critical insights.

Rep Matt Gaetz is interviewed about his tweets on Michael Cohen. The largest college admissions scam is discussed, along with wealth in the American educational system. The podcast also explores concerns about the safety of Boeing 737 Max planes and the benefits of technological advancement.

Rianna Croxford, BBC investigations correspondent, shares her insights from interviewing individuals close to Sean Combs, revealing troubling dynamics in his workplace. Laura Coates, CNN anchor and former federal prosecutor, discusses eye-opening perspectives from an alternate juror that could have swayed the trial's outcome. They explore the implications of Diddy’s verdict on consent and control in the music industry, while reflecting on broader cultural conversations surrounding power, celebrity, and the unfolding Me Too movement.

Laura Coates, CNN learns about psychological torture faced by hostages. Israel and Hamas violate truce. Koch Network backs Nikki Haley against Trump. Hunter Biden ready to testify. CIA Chief pushes for broader hostage deal. Sports Illustrated under fire for A.I. content. Sean Combs steps down amid lawsuits.