

Plain English with Derek Thompson
The Ringer
Longtime Atlantic tech, culture and political writer Derek Thompson cuts through all the noise surrounding the big questions and headlines that matter to you in his new podcast Plain English. Watch Derek and guests engage the news with clear viewpoints and memorable takeaways. New episodes drop every Tuesday and Friday, and if you've got a topic you want discussed, shoot us an email at plainenglish@spotify.com! Subscribe to our YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@PlainEnglishwithDerekThompson
Episodes
Mentioned books

7 snips
Jul 1, 2022 • 37min
Abortion Pills Are a Game Changer, Plus Our Next Big Culture War
In this discussion, Margot Sanger-Katz, a New York Times writer and expert on abortion and healthcare policy, offers vital insights into the transformative impact of abortion pills on the current debate. The conversation dives into how these pills, now widely accessible, complicate regulatory efforts in conservative states. Sanger-Katz highlights the ethical dilemmas of digital surveillance for abortion access and the changing dynamics within the pro-life movement, emphasizing that the battle over abortion pills might soon define the next cultural conflict.

Jun 28, 2022 • 37min
Five Reasons Everybody Is Wrong About a U.S. Recession—Including Me
Conor Sen, founder of Peachtree Creek Investments and economic columnist for Bloomberg, challenges the prevalent doom-and-gloom narrative surrounding the U.S. economy. He points out that recent income growth and robust job markets are often overshadowed by fears of recession. The discussion dives into the resilience of the banking system and the shift from goods to services, highlighting the booming leisure economy. Sen also addresses the complexities of urban redevelopment amidst rising costs, providing a fresh perspective on the current economic landscape.

Jun 24, 2022 • 42min
The End of Roe v. Wade Changes Everything
Margot Sanger-Katz, a New York Times reporter specializing in health policy and economics, discusses the monumental Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe v. Wade. She highlights the widespread political and social ramifications, including shifts in public opinion and upcoming elections. The conversation dives into disparities in abortion access across states, focusing on the challenges poorer women face. Sanger-Katz also addresses how corporate policies and fertility practices could evolve in a post-Roe landscape, as well as comparisons with global abortion rights.

Jun 24, 2022 • 43min
Why Air Travel Is a Hot Mess Right Now
Scott Keyes, founder of Scott's Cheap Flights, dives into the chaos plaguing the airline industry amid post-pandemic recovery. He explains how a surge in travel demand, coupled with a shortage of pilots and staff, led to widespread flight cancellations. Keyes highlights the decline of business travel and the shift toward leisure trips, revealing how budget airlines are thriving while traditional carriers struggle. The conversation also touches on the impacts of seasonal storms and the complex economics at play as airlines adapt to the current chaotic landscape.

Jun 21, 2022 • 46min
Why Gas Prices Are Skyrocketing—and an Ingenious Plan to Bring Them Down
Skanda Amarnath, the Executive Director at Employ America and co-author of an innovative plan to enhance oil capacity, joins the discussion. He highlights the urgent need to tackle skyrocketing gas prices, now a major economic and political issue. The conversation explores the role of government policies in stabilizing the energy market and suggests strategies like using the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Amarnath also emphasizes the importance of balancing immediate economic relief with long-term climate goals in managing oil supply.

Jun 17, 2022 • 49min
The Big Winners and Losers From the Remote Work Revolution
Julia Hobsbawm, author of 'The Nowhere Office,' dives deep into the remote work revolution. She highlights that office occupancy remains low, prompting questions about who actually benefits from this shift. The conversation also touches on the Great Resignation, noting how women and younger employees are reevaluating their work-life balance. Hobsbawm discusses the impact on traditional office spaces and real estate, suggesting a hybrid model could be the future. She emphasizes the importance of psychological safety in remote teams for fostering collaboration.

Jun 15, 2022 • 41min
The End of the Everything Boom (Plus: The Federal Reserve's Risky Move)
Kevin Roose, a New York Times technology and economy expert, joins to discuss the end of the 'everything boom,' where asset prices soared but are now plummeting. They dissect the Federal Reserve's significant interest rate hike, exploring its implications for borrowing costs and consumer habits. The conversation also touches on the unsustainable nature of millennial subsidies in gig work, exemplified by the rise and fall of MoviePass. Lastly, Roose shares insights into the struggling cryptocurrency market and its parallels with past financial crises.

7 snips
Jun 13, 2022 • 50min
The Big Inflation FAQ: Why It’s So High, How Everyone Got It Wrong, and What's Next
Justin Wolfers, a professor of public policy and economics at the University of Michigan, breaks down the complexities of inflation and its surprising trajectory. He discusses the stark differences between core and headline inflation, emphasizing how volatile prices distort economic health perceptions. Wolfers tackles hot topics like 'greedflation' and the impact of wage growth on inflation. He also critiques the media's pessimism on the economy, despite a robust labor market, providing vital insights into the Federal Reserve's balancing act amidst rising rates.

Jun 10, 2022 • 41min
California’s Elections Sent an Important Message. What Is It?
Ron Brownstein, a CNN senior political analyst and writer for 'The Atlantic', dives into the significant messages sent by recent California elections. He discusses the recall of San Francisco's progressive district attorney and the rise of crime-focused campaigns, notably by Rick Caruso in Los Angeles. Brownstein draws parallels between today's political climate and the chaotic 1970s, emphasizing how perceptions of crime and safety are shaping voter behavior. The conversation sheds light on the delicate balance between justice reform and public safety.

Jun 7, 2022 • 35min
Curiosity Corner: America’s Gun Dilemma, the Future of Corporate Politics, Relationship Advice, and More!
In this engaging session, complex issues around gun control are tackled, linking family dynamics to violence. The conversation shifts to the evolving role of American companies in political discourse, shedding light on corporate activism and employee influence. Reflecting on past controversies, the host offers insights into diversifying viewpoints. Finally, relationship advice is shared, emphasizing self-awareness and the importance of spontaneity for a healthy partnership. A delightful mix of serious topics and personal reflections!


