Post Reports

Brittany Shammas, a local enterprise reporter for The Washington Post, shares her transformative experience of swapping her smartphone for a flip phone for a month. She initially questions her phone habits after noticing her baby's imitation and an overwhelming seven-and-a-half-hour daily screen time. Through the experiment, Brittany discovers the joys of being present, reading more, and experiencing a slower pace of life. Though she misses some conveniences, she ultimately returns to her smartphone with a mindful approach, reducing her screen time and rethinking her tech habits.

Dan Merica, co-anchor of The Washington Post's politics newsletter, and Jeremy Roebuck, Justice Department reporter, dive into the recent release of the Epstein files and Trump’s unexpected support for this legislation. They discuss how the DOJ retains certain redaction powers, limiting full transparency. The conversation also highlights Trump's recent political struggles and strategic pivots, including his focus on exposing Democrats linked to Epstein. Finally, they touch on critical issues like gerrymandering in Texas and its impact on upcoming elections.

Jacob Bogage, a White House economic policy correspondent for The Washington Post, joins to discuss the discontinuation of the penny. He reveals how the decision can save the government $56 million a year and addresses concerns about prices changing as a result. Bogage traces the penny's rich history and cultural significance while assuring that cash transactions will adjust smoothly without it. He highlights the balance between nostalgia and practical utility, suggesting that it's time to evolve beyond low-value coins.

Michael Birnbaum, White House correspondent for The Washington Post, shares insightful analysis of U.S.-Saudi relations. He discusses the lavish welcome given to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and the stark contrast to the backlash following Jamal Khashoggi's murder. Birnbaum explores the geopolitical pressures that maintain ties with Saudi Arabia, as well as potential personal and business connections between Trump and the crown prince. The conversation covers defense deals, the investment landscape, and MBS's push to reshape Saudi Arabia's image through culture and sports.

In this engaging discussion, Rick Maese, a seasoned sports reporter from the Washington Post, delves into the gambling epidemic sweeping through sports. He explores how modern sportsbooks operate, revealing the surge in mobile betting and prop bets. Recent scandals involving NBA coaches and players raise questions about integrity and addiction. Maese warns that while legalized betting offers some safety, the industry teeters on the edge of compromising trust and competition. Is the thrill of sports betting worth the risks? Tune in for insights!

Samantha Sherry, a Features reporter for The Washington Post, shares insights from Blexit's visit to Howard University during homecoming, revealing mixed student reactions ranging from protests to interest in financial literacy. Sabrina Rodriguez, a national politics reporter, discusses the rising share of Black voters supporting Trump in 2024 and the Republican Party's strategic outreach efforts. They explore the potential longevity of these shifts and the appeal of conservative messaging among young Black voters.

Join journalist Billy Baker, author of "We Need to Hang Out," as he dives into the importance of adult friendships. He discusses the loneliness epidemic and shares his personal journey into male loneliness after a Globe assignment. Discover the concept of the 'Velvet Hook'—soft, regular connections that keep friendships alive. Billy provides practical tips, like prioritizing friendship as a daily task and using shared interests to form bonds. He even challenges listeners to reach out to someone they miss. Friendship can be cultivated, one courageous ask at a time!

Join Dan Merica and Matthew Choi, political reporters from The Early Brief, as they navigate the newly released Epstein emails revealing troubling ties to Donald Trump. They delve into the political motivations behind the timing of the email release and explore the White House's reaction and GOP pushback. The conversation shifts to the recent government shutdown, dissecting why it ended, the lessons learned for both parties, and the implications for future negotiations. Don't miss their insights on how affordability could shape the upcoming midterms!

Karen DeYoung, Senior National Security Correspondent for The Washington Post, and Samantha Schmidt, Mexico City Bureau Chief, explore the turbulent U.S.-Latin America relationship under Trump. They discuss U.S. military actions against Maduro and the precarious tension with Venezuela. The conversation delves into Colombia's shifting dynamics under President Petro, the influence of migration on policies, and America's backing of right-leaning leaders. Together, they unravel the historical context and modern strategies shaping U.S. involvement in the region.

Susannah George, an International correspondent for The Washington Post, and Peter Spiegel, managing editor at the same outlet, delve into the astonishing journey of Ahmed al-Sharaa. Once a designated terrorist, al-Sharaa toppled Assad and made history by visiting the White House as Syria's leader. They discuss al-Sharaa's past, including his imprisonment and shift from insurgent to revolutionary leader. The conversation covers his efforts for Syria's future, the need for U.S. support, and the challenges of reconciliation in a fractured nation.