What Next | Daily News and Analysis

Jon B. Jarvis, the former director of the National Park Service, and Kevin Heatley, a former superintendent of Crater Lake, dive into the concerning future of America's national parks. They discuss alarming staffing shortages and the operational chaos stemming from budget cuts. Jarvis recounts the proud history and evolution of the Park Service, while Heatley shares harrowing stories of vandalism and shutdowns. They also warn of potential privatization threats, drawing cautionary parallels to China's parks, emphasizing the need for proper funding and stewardship.

Mark Bray, a historian and author of *Antifa: The Anti-Fascist Handbook*, shares his harrowing experience after receiving death threats that forced him to flee the U.S. He clarifies his academic distance from Antifa, discussing his motivations to document anti-fascist history. Bray also explores the complex views on violence within anti-fascist movements, the backlash he faced following the Charlottesville rally, and the ongoing ramifications of Trump's rhetoric. Now in Spain, he reflects on his teaching and hopes to return safely to the U.S.

Sara Nelson, the International President of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, discusses the crucial state of labor organizing amid rising financial precarity among flight attendants. She advocates for a general strike to unite unions against government attacks on worker rights. Nelson emphasizes the importance of collective action, connecting immigration issues to labor power. Her inspiring stories include lessons from her early career, strategies like ‘chaos strikes,’ and reflections on labor's historic role in fighting for rights and reform.

Azeem Khan, a cryptocurrency advisor and blockchain developer, joins to discuss the wild world of memecoins. He explains what makes these coins tick, comparing them to penny stocks and highlighting their cultural appeal. Azeem shares insights into launching a successful memecoin, the dynamics of the market, and the pitfalls for unsuspecting investors. As they examine the disastrous launch of their own memecoin, Buenwum, he also warns about the risks involved and the shady practices in the space, ultimately advising listeners to tread carefully in crypto.

Is the president falling into the very trap that launched him back into office by telling people the economy is actually great when they say it isn’t? Is this partially ballroom’d White House as chaotic as its detractors—and Trump’s chief of staff—say it is? Guest: Ben Jacobs, political reporter based in Washingon.This episode is member-exclusive. Listen to it now by subscribing to Slate Plus. By joining, not only will you unlock exclusive episodes of What Next —you’ll also access ad-free listening across all your favorite Slate podcasts. You can subscribe directly from the What Next show page on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen.Podcast production by Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme, and Rob Gunther. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this discussion, Eric Berger, a space reporter at Ars Technica and author on SpaceX, dives into the thrilling concept of space-based data centers. He unveils how SpaceX's upcoming IPO could revolutionize this domain, enabling ambitious projects in orbit. Berger tackles the challenges of building these facilities and the implications for AI growth. He also highlights the concern of space congestion and its environmental impact, while connecting the dots to Musk's broader Mars ambitions. The conversation is an exciting look into the future of data and space!

The discussion highlights the alarming resurgence of antisemitism online, with younger audiences embracing outdated stereotypes. Isaac Saul shares his personal journey from indifference to concern, illuminated by disturbing trends like the Bondi Beach attack. They explore the impact of online influencers spreading harmful narratives and the challenge of mixed political signals on public perception. Engagement over silence is emphasized, advocating for open dialogues about antisemitic views to prevent radicalization and misinformation.

Catherine Rampell, an economics editor at The Bulwark and anchor at MS NOW, dives into the paradox of a slowing economy paired with rising prices. She discusses how consumer spending remains robust despite high costs, the complexities behind the jobs report, and the limited influence presidents have on economic outcomes. Rampell also explores the impact of tariffs on inflation, the Fed's tricky balancing act between inflation control and economic slowdown, and whether reversing certain policies could stabilize the economy.

Will Sommer, a senior reporter at The Bulwark, delves into the controversial figure of Candace Owens and her evolving relationship with Turning Point USA. After Charlie Kirk's murder, Sommer reveals Owens' toxic conspiracy theories and the planned private summit with Kirk's widow. He traces her rise from Gamergate activism to right-wing media, discussing her fallout over antisemitic comments and the implications for the Republican landscape. The conversation hints at how Owens’ rhetoric could impact Turning Point's future and fundraising efforts.

Isobel Whitcomb, a science and environmental journalist, shares her investigative insights into pediatric pain programs, particularly the controversial 'boot camp' clinics. She discusses alarming accounts of teens enduring intense treatments and the skepticism surrounding reported success rates. Drawing from her own chronic pain journey, Isobel contrasts empathetic therapeutic approaches with the harsh realities of these programs. The conversation highlights the need for individualized care, empathy, and attentive listening to truly support young patients.