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
May 21, 2024 • 23min
Is Killing a Protester Still a Crime?
Christopher Hooks, a contributing editor at Texas Monthly, discusses the controversial case of Daniel Perry, a man pardoned by Texas Governor Greg Abbott for killing a protester at a Black Lives Matter demonstration. They explore self-defense claims, gun laws, and political implications, comparing this case to Kyle Rittenhouse's. The podcast delves into state violence, protest crackdowns, and societal reactions to such incidents.
May 20, 2024 • 24min
What Are Presidential Debates For?
Alan Schroeder discusses the significance of presidential debates, the historical struggles of candidates in unscripted situations, the evolution and challenges of debates, the impact of live audiences and corporate sponsorship, the strategic decisions of Trump and Biden, and fact-checking challenges in live debates.
May 19, 2024 • 29min
The Dark Side of GoFundMe
Nora Kenworthy, author and professor, discusses the drawbacks of healthcare crowdfunding, including inequality and lack of success. They explore the evolution of crowdfunding post-financial crisis and its impact on healthcare. The podcast delves into the complexities of GoFundMe campaigns, including inequalities and technological influences, highlighting the ethical dilemmas and unintended consequences faced by campaigners.
May 17, 2024 • 21min
Too Stonks Too Furious
Guest Alex Kirshner, a contributing writer for Slate, discusses the impact of meme stocks on the market and how the Gamestop stock frenzy has changed stock market dynamics. The podcast explores the rise of meme stocks, the role of retail investors in market movements, and the evolving trends in stock trading amidst changing dynamics.
May 16, 2024 • 25min
Why Miss USA is Imploding
Guest Constance Grady, senior Culture correspondent for Vox, discusses the recent resignations in the Miss USA organization, raising questions about the relevance of national pageants and the emphasis on appearance over talent. The podcast delves into the controversies, allegations of bullying and harassment, and the organization's dismissive response to the turmoil, shedding light on the troubled history of Miss USA.
May 15, 2024 • 25min
Can Fox News Still Sway an Election?
Slate correspondent Justin Peters discusses Fox News' influence in elections, the network's manipulation tactics, and its future amidst competition and legal challenges. They explore the network's role in the 2024 election and the impact of its coverage on Donald Trump's presidency.
May 14, 2024 • 23min
The Fight for Joe Manchin’s Seat
Zach Shrewsbury, a Democratic primary candidate for U.S. Senate in West Virginia, discusses his progressive campaign focusing on issues like extraction state exploitation, healthcare, alternative energy, and reproductive rights. He challenges the status quo in coal country, honors John Brown's activism, promotes economic transition to clean energy jobs, and aims to appeal to a diverse range of voters by offering a fresh perspective in the political landscape.
May 13, 2024 • 24min
MAGA Eating Itself Alive
Slate senior writer Ben Mathis-Lilley discusses how the MAGA wing of the Michigan GOP is causing chaos and infighting within the party. They've limited fundraising and leadership, distrust each other, and are grappling with post-election suspicions, leading to a state of civil war for control within the party.
May 12, 2024 • 25min
Would You Choose Your Child’s Sex?
Emi Nietfeld, a software engineer and author, discusses the controversial topic of choosing a child's sex through IVF in the US. The podcast explores societal norms, ethical dilemmas, and the commercialization of IVF. It also delves into the historical context of anti-discrimination laws and the complexities of genetic testing in embryo selection.
May 10, 2024 • 18min
Meet the Trump Campaign’s A.I. Guy
Global investigative journalist Garance Burke discusses the role of Brad Parscale in utilizing A.I. for political campaigns, focusing on his innovative strategies, concerns over misuse, and the transformation of campaigns with influencers. The podcast delves into the ethical debates surrounding A.I. in elections, highlighting Parscale's impact on Trump's campaign and the lack of regulations in the political AI arms race.
