Slate News

Noel Brewer, a Gillings Distinguished Professor in Public Health at UNC and former CDC Advisory Committee member, discusses the shocking dismissal of the committee's members by Health Secretary RFK Jr. They dive into the implications for vaccine confidence and public trust amidst rising skepticism. Brewer highlights how the committee's role affects vaccine guidance during public health crises and the challenges in bridging the gap between vaccine-hesitant individuals and credible recommendations. This conversation unpacks the delicate balance of health policy and public perception.

Lily Hay Newman, a senior writer for WIRED specializing in information security, shares essential insights on protecting your digital life while traveling. She discusses the alarming rise of traveler detentions at U.S. borders and the complex dynamics of digital privacy. Listeners gain valuable tips on minimizing their digital footprint and safeguarding personal information. Moreover, Newman highlights the unique powers of Customs and Border Protection, emphasizing the need for awareness and preparedness to navigate privacy challenges in today’s surveillance age.

Mark Joseph Stern, a senior writer at Slate focusing on law and LGBTQ rights, joins the conversation to dissect recent tumultuous events in the U.S. The podcast dives into the deployment of National Guard troops to quell protests in Los Angeles, igniting tensions between local and federal authorities. They also discuss a U.S. Senator's dramatic encounter with law enforcement and the implications for civil rights. As misinformation and erosion of trust in democracy grow, Stern emphasizes the need for truth and legal advocacy in these precarious times.

Warner Brothers' breakup redefines its media strategy, showcasing the challenges in a shifting landscape. The conversation dives into the explosive valuations in AI, comparing the current hype to the dot-com bubble. Insights into Trump’s immigration policies reveal their impact on labor markets, exacerbating shortages in key industries. Humorous discussions also glance at the decline of after-work socializing, blending economic woes with light-hearted commentary.

Elon Musk has ridden off into the sunset acrimoniously (maybe), but the Department of Government Efficiency is just getting started. Will DOGE continue wildly cutting or is something even more chaotic coming next? Guest: Makena Kelly, senior writer at WIRED. Want more What Next TBD? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen.Podcast production by Evan Campbell and Patrick Fort. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Emily Bazelon, John Dickerson, and guest host Juliette Kayyem discuss the ominous juxtaposition of Trump sending National Guard troops and Marines to quell mostly peaceful protests in LA with his impending military parade in DC, RFK Jr. firing the entire CDC vaccine advisory board and what this means for the future of vaccines, and a unanimous Supreme Court decision that makes it easier to win “reverse discrimination” cases.Here are this week’s chatters: Emily: David Marchese for the New York Times: The Interview: Ocean Vuong Was Ready to Kill. Then a Moment of Grace Changed His Life; Ocean Vuong for the New York Times (Opinion): My Brother’s Keeper. John: The University of Cambridge: Medieval Murder Maps; podcast series: Medieval Murders. Juliette: Graham Dunbar for the Associated Press: What the Trump travel ban means for the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympic Games; Chelsea Jones for CBS News Miami: Will ICE agents be at Miami’s FIFA Club World Cup games? Sheriff Cordero-Stutz responds after deleted CBP post. Listener chatter from Katie Johnston in Bangor, Northern Ireland: Sophie Hardach for the BBC: How the humble chestnut traced the rise and fall of the Roman Empire For this week’s Slate Plus bonus episode, Emily, John, and guest host Juliette Kayyem discuss favorite dark comedy drama Hacks, which tackles the relationship between two women of differing generations and clashing opinions with witty banter and emotional richness. In the latest Gabfest Reads, Emily talks with author Susan Dominus about her new book, The Family Dynamic: A Journey into the Mystery of Sibling Success. Email your chatters, questions, and comments to gabfest@slate.com. (Messages may be referenced by name unless the writer stipulates otherwise.) Research by Emily Ditto Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump is sending the troops to California, while also getting ready for a big birthday parade—for himself and the US Army—in DC. Does grasping for symbols of military strength smack a bit of desperation? Guests: Jamelle Bouie, columnist at the New York TimesJeremy Lindenfeld, reporter and Capital and Main local news fellow.Want more What Next? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen.Podcast production by Ethan Oberman, Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme, and Rob Gunther. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Gaza, two million people are at risk of starvation, as Israeli-controlled aid has been repeatedly interrupted and marked by violence towards aid workers and chaos at distribution sites. Guests:  Mohammed Mhawish, journalist and writer from Gaza City.Alex de Waal, Executive Director of the World Peace Foundation at the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts, author of the 2017 book, Mass Starvation: The History and Future of Famine. Want more What Next? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen.Podcast production by Ethan Oberman, Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme, Isabel Angell, and Rob Gunther.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Christina Cauterucci, a senior writer for Slate and host of Outward, delves into the evolving relationship between corporate America and Pride celebrations. This year, corporate sponsorship is waning, prompting discussions about the sincerity of corporate involvement. The conversation humorously critiques corporate pride marketing while emphasizing the disconnect between genuine community needs and commercialism. The podcast also highlights grassroots pride movements in smaller towns, showcasing resilience and a return to community values amid rising challenges.

In this Money Talks: Felix Salmon is joined by Barry Lam, host of Slate’ philosophy podcast Hi-Phi Nation to help him explain how the GOP sees the budget deficit in the “Big Beautiful Bill” using philosophical arguments. Want to hear that discussion and hear more Slate Money? Join Slate Plus to unlock weekly bonus episodes. Plus, you’ll access ad-free listening across all your favorite Slate podcasts. You can subscribe directly from the Slate Money show page on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/moneyplus to get access wherever you listen. Podcast production by Jessamine Molli and Cheyna Roth. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.