

Post Reports
The Washington Post
Post Reports is the daily podcast from The Washington Post. Unparalleled reporting. Expert insight. Clear analysis. Everything you’ve come to expect from the newsroom of The Post, for your ears. Martine Powers and Elahe Izadi are your hosts, asking the questions you didn’t know you wanted answered. Published weekdays around 5 p.m. Eastern time.
Episodes
Mentioned books

21 snips
May 16, 2025 • 40min
The Diddy trial: Cassie’s "freak-offs" testimony
Anne Branigin, a Style reporter for The Washington Post, dives into the gripping testimony of Cassie Ventura against Sean Combs. Cassie shares harrowing experiences, including allegations of violence and coercion, showcasing the emotional toll of their troubled relationship. The discussion highlights courtroom dynamics, the defense's questioning tactics, and the intense reactions from the jury. Branigin explores how Cassie's account supports the government's case and reveals the dark complexities behind their decade-long relationship.

40 snips
May 15, 2025 • 32min
Trump's big beautiful Boeing from Qatar, and a trade war thaw
Join Cleve R. Wootson Jr. and Natalie Allison, White House reporters for The Washington Post, as they unravel the ethical and security dilemmas behind Trump’s proposed acquisition of a Boeing jet from Qatar. They dive into how this gift could reshape U.S.-Qatar relations amid concerns over human rights. The duo also discusses a fragile thaw in U.S.-China trade, detailing how recent negotiations could influence Trump’s supporters, and what this means for the broader economic landscape. Tune in for an insightful look at complex political dynamics!

19 snips
May 14, 2025 • 21min
The little-known history of birthright citizenship
David Nakamura, an immigration reporter for The Washington Post, shares the inspiring story of Norman Wong, who fights for birthright citizenship and honors his great-grandfather, Wong Kim Ark. They discuss the landmark Supreme Court case affirming citizenship for those born on U.S. soil and the historical significance of this ruling amid anti-immigrant sentiments. The conversation also addresses recent political challenges to birthright citizenship and the personal implications these policies have on families today.

23 snips
May 13, 2025 • 26min
What to know before getting into a driverless taxi
Geoffrey Fowler and Lisa Bonos, tech experts from The Washington Post, dive into the reality of driverless taxis like Waymo as they expand across U.S. cities. They discuss the initial excitement of hailing these autonomous rides and the mixed feelings residents have about safety and legal implications. The conversation highlights the operational challenges, pedestrian interactions, and urban life changes in a world increasingly shared with self-driving cars. Their insights provide a fascinating look at what potential passengers should consider before stepping into a driverless taxi.

20 snips
May 12, 2025 • 18min
A hostage returns as Israel plans to escalate the war
Miriam Berger, a seasoned Middle East reporter for The Washington Post, discusses the release of Edan Alexander, the last U.S. hostage from Gaza, and the emotions surrounding his return. She highlights the devastating toll of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, emphasizing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. As Israel plans to escalate the war, they aim to shift aid distribution control, raising concerns about the impact on civilians. Berger sheds light on the mixed feelings in Israel regarding hostage negotiations and the complexities of ceasefire prospects.

44 snips
May 9, 2025 • 34min
The Diddy trial: Who will decide Sean Combs’s fate?
Culture reporter Anne Branigin from The Washington Post offers a front-row seat to the high-stakes trial of Sean 'Diddy' Combs, facing serious charges including racketeering and sex trafficking. She shares insights on the tense atmosphere in the courtroom and Combs's shifting demeanor. The jury selection process is a focal point, revealing the complexities of finding impartial jurors amidst public scrutiny. Branigin also highlights key players in the trial, providing a glimpse into legal strategies that could shape Combs’s fate.

65 snips
May 8, 2025 • 30min
Is Trump going back on his economic promises?
Naftali Bendavid, Senior Political Correspondent at The Washington Post, and Michael Birnbaum, White House Correspondent focusing on Trump and foreign policy, delve into the shifting economic rhetoric of the Trump administration. They discuss the stark contrast between promises of prosperity and current austerity measures. The conversation explores Trump's tariff strategies and their potential voter impact, alongside how foreign leaders are responding to issues like immigration and Ukraine. Tensions within the Republican Party also come to light amid these discussions.

21 snips
May 7, 2025 • 23min
Are India and Pakistan at risk of war?
Karishma Mehrotra, a South Asia correspondent for The Washington Post, provides insight into the escalating conflict between India and Pakistan, particularly in Kashmir. She details recent military strikes and the tragic loss of civilian lives, reflecting on how these events heighten the risk of war. The discussion also dives into the historical roots of the Kashmir dispute and addresses the critical issue of nuclear tensions between the nations. Ultimately, Mehrotra emphasizes the urgent need for dialogue to avert further escalation.

23 snips
May 6, 2025 • 24min
What ‘Conclave’ gets right about choosing the next pope
Shane O’Neill, a style reporter for The Washington Post, discusses the recent film 'Conclave' and how it reflects the real-life process of electing a new pope after the passing of Pope Francis. He contrasts the dramatic portrayal in the movie with the actual voting mechanisms and the spiritual significance behind them. O’Neill also explores the surge of interest in the film and its thematic ties to authoritarianism, shedding light on the complex dynamics and ideological divides among the cardinals involved in the historic conclave.

36 snips
May 5, 2025 • 24min
Bernie Sanders on his anti-Trump resistance
Bernie Sanders, the Independent senator from Vermont and a champion of progressive policies, addresses the urgency of grassroots movements amid rising discontent with the Trump administration. He shares insights on the need for the Democratic Party to reconnect with working-class voters. Rallying supporters, he emphasizes the fight against wealth inequality and critiques the influence of wealthy donors in politics. Sanders inspires action, urging citizens to overcome voter disillusionment and push for substantial change.


