What Next | Daily News and Analysis
Slate Podcasts
The problem with the news right now? It’s everywhere. And each day, it can feel like we’re all just mindlessly scrolling. It’s why we created What Next. This short daily show is here to help you make sense of things. When the news feels overwhelming, we’re here to help you answer: What next? Look for new episodes every weekday morning. Get more of What Next with Slate Plus! Join for exclusive bonus episodes of What Next and ad-free listening on all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe from the What Next show page on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, or visit slate.com/whatnextplus for access wherever you listen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jun 23, 2024 • 22min
Is Your Phone Tracking Your Driving?
Kashmir Hill, tech reporter for the New York Times, discusses how cars collect driving data to influence insurance prices without people's awareness. The podcast explores the concerns around monitoring driving habits, data privacy issues, and the impact on insurance rates.
Jun 21, 2024 • 20min
Amazon Wants Your Handprint
Freelance tech and food journalist, Emily Moore, discusses Amazon's palm readers at Whole Foods, swapping vein mapping for groceries. They dive into data security and in-person shopping implications, exploring the balance between convenience and privacy concerns in tech advancements.
Jun 20, 2024 • 29min
Homelessness Before the Supreme Court
Dr. Bruce Murray, chief medical officer of MINT, discusses the Supreme Court case on homelessness in Grants Pass. Legal battles over homeless camping bans, healthcare challenges faced by the homeless, and safety concerns for those sleeping in public parks are explored. Community support and the need for compassionate solutions are emphasized.
Jun 19, 2024 • 49min
Slow Burn: Defend Our Children
Slow Burn Season 9 dives into the controversial campaign led by John Briggs to ban gay teachers in California schools, showcasing the rise of a small-time state senator to a divisive figure in the gay rights movement. The podcast explores the historical context of LGBTQ discrimination in the US, challenges faced by gay teachers in the 1970s, and the story of a closeted gay teacher fighting against discrimination. The clash between Briggs' initiative and the reality of gay teachers is highlighted, along with Harvey Milk's efforts to combat discrimination.
Jun 18, 2024 • 25min
How IVF Became the GOP's Next Battle
Health policy reporter Megan Messerly discusses the GOP's potential battle against in-vitro fertilization post Roe v. Wade. Southern Baptist Convention debates IVF resolution, while GOP senators show support despite voting against protecting it by law. The podcast explores the ethical and legal complexities surrounding IVF as a new battleground within the party.
Jun 17, 2024 • 20min
What's Eating the Economy?
Matt Stoller, Research Director for AELP, discusses the impact of monopolies on the economy, market consolidation in grocery shopping, and the illusion of choice created by big conglomerates. He explores economic termites driving up costs and inflation, emphasizing the need for political solutions to address power dynamics and bring fairness to the marketplace.
7 snips
Jun 16, 2024 • 30min
The FBI Made a Phone Network. It Was A Trap.
Joseph Cox, investigative reporter for 404 media and author of “Dark Wire, the Incredible True Story of the Largest Sting Operation Ever,” discusses the FBI's success with the Anom encrypted phone service trap. Topics include the use of specialized encrypted devices by criminals, the FBI's international crime detection strategy, and the ethical considerations of the undercover phone network operation.
Jun 14, 2024 • 21min
Apple Goes Intelligent
Tech reporter Gerrit De Vynck discusses Apple's move into artificial intelligence. They explore Apple's dedication to privacy, the integration of AI into their devices, challenges faced by tech giants in AI implementation, and the potential impact on human-tech interaction. The episode also touches on Apple's strategies in generative AI and privacy concerns.
Jun 13, 2024 • 24min
She Met the Alitos—and Got Them on Tape
Journalist Lauren Windsor shares furtively recorded conversations with Justices John Roberts, Samuel Alito, and Alito's wife Martha-Ann, providing insights into their private discussions. The podcast explores the ethical dilemmas of obtaining these recordings and the impact on their ultimate goal. It delves into the challenges of undercover journalism and the importance of transparency in investigative reporting.
Jun 12, 2024 • 22min
Wait, Is JUUL Banned or Not?
Health correspondent Jamie Ducharme discusses the FDA's back-and-forth on JUUL ban, concerns about vaping safety, and the future of the e-cigarette industry amidst declining public health concerns. The episode highlights regulatory challenges, Juul's financial setbacks, and shifting consumer preferences, shedding light on the complexities of e-cigarette regulation and its impact on consumer health.
