What A Day
What A Day
If you’re looking for hype, fake outrage, and groupthink, kindly keep moving. Our mission at What a Day is simple: to be your guide to what truly matters each morning (and the fun stuff you might have missed) in just 20 minutes. Host Jane Coaston brings you in-depth reporting and substantive analysis on the big stories shaping today and the creeping trends shaping tomorrow—and when she doesn’t know the answers, she asks someone even smarter to fill us all in. Radical, right? New episodes at 5:00 a.m. EST, Monday–Friday in your favorite podcast app and on YouTube. Being informed was never this easy.
Episodes
Mentioned books
7 snips
May 13, 2025 • 27min
Can The India-Pakistan Ceasefire Hold?
In this discussion, Joshua Keating, a senior correspondent for Vox specializing in national security and foreign policy, delves into the recent India-Pakistan ceasefire and its shaky foundations. He highlights how historical context and recent incidents have intensified the conflict. Keating analyzes the influence of leadership and military strategies on the ongoing tensions, including the roles of nationalism and modern warfare. He also addresses the delicate balance in U.S. diplomacy amid these geopolitical dynamics.
29 snips
May 12, 2025 • 22min
Millennials And Gen Zers Step Into Leadership
Amanda Litman, co-founder of Run for Something and author of 'When We're In Charge,' dives into the leadership potential of Millennials and Gen Zers. She reveals how today's younger generations can overcome self-doubt and embrace political roles, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in a digital age. Litman also discusses the rising grassroots political interest among youth and offers practical tips for engaging in local elections as a path to leadership. Join the conversation about challenging norms and stepping boldly into the future!
15 snips
May 9, 2025 • 26min
The First American Pope
Christopher White, Vatican correspondent for the National Catholic Reporter and author of 'Pope Leo XIV', shares insights on the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope. He discusses the challenges facing Pope Leo, including the push for inclusivity within a divided church. White highlights the significance of his American heritage and its political implications. The conversation also delves into the pope's moderate approach, workers' rights, and immigration issues, alongside a mix of current political events and a humorous critique of governance.
24 snips
May 8, 2025 • 27min
Congress, U Up?
Annie Grayer, a senior reporter for CNN focusing on Capitol Hill, dives into Congress's striking inaction amid significant political turmoil. She outlines the internal GOP struggles over President Trump's immigration and tariff policies, revealing why Congress has stalled on pressing issues. Grayer also discusses the implications of economic challenges faced by local businesses due to these political decisions, drawing on a small business owner's perspective. It's a fascinating look at the complexities of governance and the urgent need for congressional accountability.
18 snips
May 7, 2025 • 23min
Elon Musk Go!
Brian Barrett, Executive Editor of News at Wired Magazine, dives into Elon Musk's waning influence on federal government affairs. He discusses Musk's relationship with government efficiency, which has reshaped the lives of many average Americans. The conversation highlights Musk's declining popularity and critical public perception amid his outrageous predictions about the future. Barrett explores the repercussions of potential budget cuts due to Musk's leadership style and the broader implications for society's access to necessary services.
6 snips
May 6, 2025 • 24min
Netanyahu Threatens to Escalate War In Gaza
Ahmed Fouad Alkhatib, a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council and a Gaza native, shares intense insights into the rising tensions in Gaza as Prime Minister Netanyahu threatens a forceful military escalation. He highlights the dire humanitarian implications for civilians, including potential famine, and discusses the stalled ceasefire negotiations. Alkhatib emphasizes the geopolitical shifts in the Middle East, particularly how U.S. diplomacy may reshape perspectives on peace and coexistence between Israelis and Palestinians.
10 snips
May 5, 2025 • 23min
Project 2025: Trump's 100-Day Blitz
David Graham, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author of 'The Project,' dives into the far-reaching implications of Project 2025, a massive policy blueprint from The Heritage Foundation. He discusses how this initiative is reshaping governance under Trump and centralizing power within federal agencies. The conversation highlights the administration's struggles with public trust, Trump's economic claims, and looming legal issues. Graham also touches on the importance of mental health support amidst the chaotic political landscape.
8 snips
May 2, 2025 • 22min
Mike Waltz Loses Job, Gets A New One
Jake Traylor, a White House reporter for Politico, provides a deep dive into the recent upheavals in President Trump's national security team, specifically Mike Waltz’s controversial firing and subsequent nomination to the UN. They discuss the chaotic nature of such transitions and the loyalty dynamics within the administration. Traylor also touches on how these shake-ups could affect the political landscape, especially as pressures mount ahead of critical deadlines and the far-right's influence continues to evolve.
6 snips
May 1, 2025 • 23min
In Trump vs Universities, Students Are Stuck In The Middle
Nathan Elias, editor-in-chief of the Daily Trojan at USC, shares his insights on the ongoing showdown between the Trump administration and universities. He discusses how students navigate the pressures of political demands while striving for diversity and inclusion. Elias highlights student activism and the challenges faced by international students, shedding light on the real effects of funding threats. He also examines the vital role universities play in research and social mobility during turbulent times.
20 snips
Apr 30, 2025 • 25min
Trump is Tariff-ied
Stephanie Ruhle, host of MSNBC's The 11th Hour, dives into the economic landscape as trust in Trump crumbles post-election. She discusses the impact of tariffs on consumer confidence, revealing how Amazon may adjust prices. Ruhle connects these economic policies to political shifts in Canada, where voters turned against Trump. The conversation highlights the unpredictable challenges tariffs pose for businesses and the psyche of consumers dealing with rising prices and market instability.
