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Jay Willis, Editor-in-Chief of Balls & Strikes, dives into the controversial decision by the Justice Department to drop charges against NYC Mayor Eric Adams. The conversation reveals a web of political maneuvering, suggesting potential quid pro quo implications. Willis discusses the mass resignations of federal prosecutors and the ethical dilemmas faced in the Justice Department. He explores how political loyalties and the integrity of legal processes are intertwined, raising questions about accountability and the future of justice in America.

As What Next celebrates President’s Day, please enjoy this episode from our colleagues at How To. What Next will be back in your feed tomorrow.Jeff and his family lost their home last month in the L.A. wildfires. Since then, he’s been hyperfocused on insurance claims, an epic to-do list, and finding a “temporary” place to live for the next several years. But Jeff hasn’t experienced the emotional punch of the devastation yet. In fact… he just feels numb. On this episode of How To!, Courtney Martin brings on Laurel Braitman, author of What Looks Like Bravery: An Epic Journey Through Loss to Love. In a moving (and sometimes funny) conversation, Laurel tells Jeff how she’s still processing what she lost in a 2017 wildfire, and they talk about the heartbreak, grief—and glimmers of hope—that follow the sudden loss of your family’s home.Artwork mentioned: It’s Going Down Like a House on Fire by Nyx Coker.If you liked this episode check out: How To Survive a Disaster.Do you have a problem that needs solving? Send us a note at howto@slate.com or leave us a voicemail at 646-495-4001 and we might have you on the show. Subscribe for free on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen.How To’s executive producer is Derek John. Joel Meyer is our senior editor/producer. The show is produced by Rosemary Belson, with Kevin Bendis.Want more How To!? Subscribe to Slate Plus to unlock exclusive bonus episodes. Plus, you’ll access ad-free listening across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Visit slate.com/howtoplus to get access wherever you listen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chris Hayes, MSNBC news anchor and author of "The Siren's Call," dives into the complexities of modern attention in a world rife with distractions. He discusses the superficial nature of social media interactions and their impact on meaningful engagement. Hayes explores how technology influences our social dynamics and highlights the human thirst for recognition amidst the chaos. He emphasizes the need for deep focus and critical reflection to navigate the challenges posed by our attention-driven culture.

Harry Litman, a former U.S. attorney and creator of the Talking Feds podcast, and Sam Bagenstos, a law professor at the University of Michigan and former general counsel for HHS, delve into the chaos of federal governance. Litman discusses the fallout from the 'Thursday Night Massacre' and the impact on the Department of Justice's integrity. Meanwhile, Bagenstos warns of the dangers of Elon Musk's disruptive influence on government functions, emphasizing the need to rethink our understanding of a constitutional crisis amidst shrinking federal capabilities.

Emily Bazelon talks with author Rich Benjamin about his new book, Talk to Me: Lessons From a Family Forged by History. They delve into Rich’s complex family history— particularly the experiences of his grandfather, Daniel Fignolé. Fignolé was the president of Hatti in 1957 before being ousted by a coup that involved American influence. Rich and Emily discuss how the political upheaval had a lasting impact on Rich and his family, the immigrant experience of “internalizing America” and the lasting scars of trauma.   Tweet us your questions @SlateGabfest or email us at gabfest@slate.com. (Messages could be quoted by name unless the writer stipulates otherwise.)Podcast production by Cheyna Roth. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The discussion kicks off with Trump's controversial suspension of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and its implications for bribery. They dive into FEMA's alarming fund transfer in New York City, raising questions about public trust in government financial moves. Inflation takes center stage, particularly the surprising surge in egg prices, linked to a bird flu outbreak. The hosts reflect humorously on urban farming trends amid economic instability, while also celebrating female representation in cinema and examining shifts in cultural norms across various fields.

David A. Fahrenthold, an investigative reporter from The New York Times, explores the intriguing dynamics between Elon Musk and Sam Altman over Musk's $97.4 billion bid for OpenAI. Is it a genuine offer or just a chance to troll? The conversation dives into the implications of their rivalry on AI development, the ethical shift of OpenAI from nonprofit to for-profit, and how Musk's potential acquisition could reshape governance in the tech landscape. This engaging discussion highlights the power struggle shaping the future of artificial intelligence.

This discussion dives into the brewing constitutional crisis as President Trump clashes with the courts over his actions. The hosts analyze the implications of chaotic governance, highlighting the shift in power dynamics between Congress and the presidency. They also critique the complexities surrounding NIH funding and its impact on biotechnology. Plus, they delve into workplace political polarization and the principle of 'disagree and commit.' Finally, they touch on the potential threats posed by AI and share insights on notable TV shows highlighting contemporary issues.

Michael Schulman, a staff writer at The New Yorker and author of 'Oscar Wars,' dives deep into the controversy surrounding the film Emilia Pérez. He critiques its bizarre mix of a trans narrative and cartel themes, raising concerns about artistic execution and stereotypes. Schulman discusses the polarizing reception of the film, which has scored 13 Oscar nominations but faces harsh criticism. He also highlights the complexities of Oscar campaigning, especially regarding representation and the implications of recent controversies in the awards race.

Among his recent executive orders, Donald Trump moved to halt aid to South Africa over a land law and extended political asylum to South Africa’s white Afrikaner population.Where does Trump’s seemingly spotty understanding of South Africa come from? How could having close advisors who grew up in apartheid-era South Africa, like Elon Musk, influence him?Guest: Chris McGreal, writer for The Guardian US who reported from South Africa during the end of apartheid.Want more What Next? Join Slate Plus to unlock full, ad-free access to What Next and all your other favorite Slate podcasts. You can subscribe directly from the What Next show page on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen.Podcast production by Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme, Rob Gunther, and Ethan Oberman. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.