Explain It to Me
Vox
Should I buy a house? Why do I say “like” so much? Should Gen Z bother to save for retirement?Explain It to Me is the hotline for the issues that matter to your life. Send us your questions about health, personal finance, relationships, and anything else that matters to you. Host Jonquilyn Hill will take you on a journey to find the answers, whether it's to the halls of Congress or the local bar. You’ll get the answers you were looking for, and sometimes ones you didn't expect — and always with a dose of humor. New episodes every Sunday. Part of Vox and the Vox Media Podcast Network.
Episodes
Mentioned books
20 snips
Mar 23, 2025 • 30min
Gen Sex
Marae Silkoff, an author known for her viral piece on aging and sex, and Lisa Whittington-Hill, writer of "Girls Interrupted," discuss the vibrant sexual renaissance of Gen X women. They explore the freedom from '90s hangups, new dynamics in dating after 40, and the empowerment of women embracing their sexuality in midlife. The conversation also critiques the portrayal of middle-aged women in media, highlighting the shift towards more positive and authentic narratives. Get ready for an enlightening take on aging, love, and liberation!
Mar 16, 2025 • 31min
Did diversity ever work...at work?
There's a backlash against corporate DEI efforts, and it’s not just from the right. It's everywhere. What does that mean for employees? This episode was produced by Hady Mawajdeh, edited by Miranda Kennedy, fact-checked by Melissa Hirsch, mixed by Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Jonquilyn Hill.Photo credit: jeffbergen for Getty Images Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
11 snips
Mar 9, 2025 • 30min
Why does dating suck for guys?
In this discussion, Charlie McKeever, The Happy Man Coach from Austin, Texas, shares insights on modern dating challenges for men. He explores how dating rules have evolved, examining the impact of dating apps and societal expectations. Charlie highlights the struggles of communication in a disconnected dating landscape, the emotional toll of ghosting, and the balance between assertiveness and judgment. He also emphasizes the value of supportive men's groups and the importance of fostering genuine connections beyond physical intimacy.
44 snips
Mar 2, 2025 • 34min
Ok for real, what is a REAL ID?
Carla Javier, a supervising producer at Explain It To Me, teams up with Justin Oberman, one of TSA's first employees, to unravel the ongoing saga of the REAL ID Act. They delve into the cultural implications and logistical hurdles of its delayed implementation, exploring how airport security has evolved post-9/11. The conversation touches on public resistance regarding civil liberties, the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic, and what the future might hold as the new enforcement deadline approaches.
Feb 26, 2025 • 2min
We’ve got some news for you!
Tune in for exciting updates as the hosts announce a new Sunday schedule for content! They dive into the importance of women's representation in media and how listeners can engage by submitting questions. Don't miss out on insightful discussions and the chance to have your queries explored!
26 snips
Feb 19, 2025 • 28min
Why can't I sleep?
Jade Wu, a behavioral sleep specialist, dives into the perplexing world of sleep challenges. She discusses the critical link between sleep and overall health, revealing how our unique sleep patterns influence our daily lives. Jade also explores the unsettling phenomenon of sleep paralysis, offering insights into its benign nature. Additionally, she highlights the benefits of napping and provides valuable tips for night owls seeking to align their routines with more conventional schedules, ultimately emphasizing the importance of quality sleep for wellness.
Feb 12, 2025 • 35min
Should I freeze my eggs?
Anna North, a senior correspondent at Vox specializing in reproductive health, joins the discussion on the realities of egg freezing. She challenges the notion that it’s a simple solution for women balancing career and family. The conversation dives into the emotional and financial implications, personal stories of heartbreak, and the complex truths behind the procedure's effectiveness. Listeners hear about the industry's growth and the importance of making informed choices in navigating fertility and family planning.
23 snips
Feb 5, 2025 • 9min
We have some questions for you
Diving into the gaming industry's perplexing layoffs despite profits, the discussion unpacks factors like AI and consumer trends. They also tackle food safety concerns surrounding mayonnaise amid recent recalls and explore the challenges of different sleep patterns, including sleep paralysis. The conversation expands to personal relationships and societal definitions, inviting listener engagement. Additionally, they weigh in on curiosities about car headlights and the collectible card market, offering tips on building adult friendships through social apps.
35 snips
Jan 29, 2025 • 28min
Is flying ethical?
Sigal Samuel, a senior reporter at Vox and author of the ethical advice column 'Your Mileage May Vary', dives into modern dilemmas. She tackles questions like whether flying is ethical in the context of climate change and our responsibilities. Sigal discusses the impact of social media on personal ethics and the struggle between self-care and community care. Her insights on value pluralism help listeners navigate complex moral terrain, encouraging a healthier dialogue about sustainability and personal values.
Jan 22, 2025 • 39min
Why can I make a citizen's arrest?
David Sklansky, a Stanford Law School professor and author of Criminal Justice in Divided America, dives into the often misunderstood topic of citizen's arrests. He clarifies who has the legal authority to detain someone and the historical context behind these actions. The discussion highlights the ethical responsibilities of individuals and the risks of vigilantism, especially in light of recent societal tensions. Listeners gain insights into the balance between community involvement and professional law enforcement, reframing notions of justice and personal safety.
