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
Dec 24, 2023 • 31min
Stephen King Is Just as Confused About Blue Checks as You Are | 2023 In Review
Master of horror Stephen King discusses his confusion about Twitter's blue check verification process. Guests explore the implications of the process, including false indications of subscription and Elon Musk's management of Twitter.
Dec 23, 2023 • 14min
FT News Briefing: Markets, Elections, and A.I. in 2024
Previewing the future of geopolitics, markets, and artificial intelligence in 2024. Uncertainty about a recession, impact of upcoming elections on global markets, and potential business opportunities for generative AI.
Dec 22, 2023 • 24min
Can Hybrid Cars Save Us?
Patrick George, editor-in-chief of InsideEVs.com and contributor to The Atlantic and The Verge, discusses the challenges of transitioning from gas cars to fully electric cars, the rise of hybrid cars as a middle ground solution, the current market share and pricing of electric vehicles and hybrids, the benefits and challenges of hybrid cars, and the path to electric vehicle adoption.
Dec 21, 2023 • 21min
Marvel’s Disastrous Year
Actor Jonathan Majors, dismissed from the franchise after being found guilty of reckless assault and harassment. The podcast explores Marvel's disastrous year, the controversy surrounding Majors, his legal troubles, and the impact on his career. It also discusses the declining quality of Marvel movies, the challenge of comebacks, and the longevity of the franchise's dominance.
Dec 20, 2023 • 21min
When a Miscarriage Becomes a Crime
A law professor discusses the charging of a woman with a felony after her miscarriage in Ohio. They explore the legal uncertainties surrounding miscarriages and how the anti-abortion movement may be using this case. The podcast also delves into the implications of ruling a fetus as a corpse and the isolation and danger the law poses for women in crisis.
Dec 19, 2023 • 23min
Oh the Humanities!
Guest Michael Powell, from The Atlantic, discusses the recent changes at West Virginia University, focusing on practical majors that lead directly to a job. They explore the impact of these changes on the university and its students, as well as the debate around the value of a liberal arts degree. The podcast also delves into the challenges faced by state university systems in the US and the potential decline of these systems.
Dec 18, 2023 • 21min
Where Do Returned Gifts Go?
Amanda Mull, staff writer at The Atlantic, discusses the lack of transparency in retailers' return process. They explore the rise of online sales returns and the influence of Zappos. The podcast also delves into the handling and sorting of returned goods at return facilities, as well as the meticulous process for these products, including reselling, recycling, or destruction. It raises concerns about excessive landfill waste. Additional topics cover the detrimental effects of the consumer system on workers, the environment, and waste overconsumption. Tips for being a mindful online consumer are also shared.
Dec 17, 2023 • 22min
The Case Against CLEAR
David Zipper, a visiting Fellow at Harvard Kennedy School, discusses the fairness and societal implications of Clear, a luxury service that bypasses airport security lines. Topics include the involvement of Clear in security checks, class-based disparities in airline security, and the impact of government policies on trust and justice.
Dec 15, 2023 • 25min
Shein’s Newest Offering? An IPO
Fast-fashion titan Shein is preparing for its initial public offering, even as questions of sustainability and labor practices linger. Guest: Jordyn Holman, business reporter covering the retail industry and consumerism for The New York TimesIf 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 TBD. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dec 14, 2023 • 26min
What Texas Abortion Laws Leave Unsaid
Selena Simmons-Duffin, health policy correspondent at NPR, discusses the legal challenges faced by women seeking abortions in Texas, the complex landscape of abortion laws in the state, and contradictions in the Texas Supreme Court's opinions. The podcast also includes an interview with Simmons-Duffin and closing remarks from the host.
