

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

Feb 7, 2024 • 21min
A Mass Shooter’s Mom Found Guilty
Yesterday, a jury found Jennifer Crumbley guilty of involuntary manslaughter for the mass-shooting carried out by her son Ethan at his high school in Oxford, Michigan. How will this conviction change the way school shootings are prosecuted? Can future violence be prevented by holding the parents accountable?Guest: Quinn Klinefelter, host and Senior News Editor for 101.9 WDET in Detroit.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on What Next. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 6, 2024 • 24min
Inside a Gaza Hospital
Dr. Seema Jilani, a pediatrician with experience in conflict zones, discusses her time working in a Gaza hospital. She highlights the dire conditions, lack of resources, and low standards of care. The podcast explores the chaotic atmosphere, treating urgent cases with limited means, and the challenges faced by healthcare professionals. It emphasizes the need for a sustained ceasefire to prevent a complete collapse of the healthcare system.

Feb 5, 2024 • 23min
The Media Is Missing the Trump Bump
Guest Max Tani, media reporter at Semafor, discusses the impact of Donald Trump's entry into the presidential race on the journalism industry. They explore the 'Trump bump' phenomenon and its temporary benefits, but also raise concerns about its effects on democracy and the challenges faced by news organizations.

8 snips
Feb 4, 2024 • 27min
Streaming Is Cable Now
Alex Cranz, managing editor at the Verge, discusses the increasing number of streaming services and their impact on ad options, rising costs, and the types of shows being made. The podcast explores the challenges faced by streaming services, including content bloat and the impact of ads on show production. It also discusses the potential for collaboration among streaming services and the future of the industry.

Feb 2, 2024 • 23min
The Taylor Swift Deepfake Saga
Guest Emanuel Maiberg, journalist and co-founder of 404 Media, discusses the disturbing trends surrounding non-consensual A.I. generated pornographic images of Taylor Swift. They explore the challenges faced by victims, the seedy world of AI-generated abuse, and the urgent need for more guardrails on AI technology.

Feb 1, 2024 • 25min
Vince McMahon: Full-Time Heel
Dave Scherer, founder of PWinsider.com, talks about Vince McMahon's departure from professional wrestling and the controversies surrounding WWE. They discuss McMahon's rise to power, the changed landscape of WWE, the allegations against McMahon, and the response from sponsors and executives. The podcast also touches on the enduring popularity of professional wrestling and the recent billion-dollar deal between WWE and Netflix.

Jan 31, 2024 • 21min
Has Trump Already Beaten Fani Willis?
Ankush Khardori, former federal prosecutor, joins to discuss the allegations surrounding Fulton County DA Fani Willis and the implications for the Trump election interference case. They delve into the unusual filing, Willis' admissions, and potential political interference in the messy case.

Jan 30, 2024 • 24min
Inside America’s First Execution By Nitrogen
Rev. Jeff Hood, an anti-death penalty activist, discusses the controversial execution of Kenneth Smith using nitrogen gas in Alabama and shares his experiences supporting inmates during executions. The episode explores the physical reactions of the inmate, concerns raised by the United Nations, and the public debate surrounding the execution. It also emphasizes the importance of compassion and love towards all individuals involved in the process.

Jan 29, 2024 • 27min
Are Two States Still the Solution?
Dov Waxman, professor of political science, discusses the declining support for a two-state solution between Israelis and Palestinians. The podcast explores alternative solutions, the establishment of Israel, and the decline of public support. The speaker emphasizes the need for new approaches to resolve the conflict.

Jan 28, 2024 • 20min
Why Is Everybody Sick?
Keren Landman, senior health reporter at Vox, discusses the increase in illnesses post-pandemic and whether it's due to perception or actual prevalence. She explores the prevalence of cold and flu viruses before and during COVID-19, the impact of reduced immunologic guard, and unresolved issues in healthcare policies contributing to widespread illness.


