Slate Daily Feed

Justin Wolfers, an economist and professor at the University of Michigan, dives into the recent Fed rate cut amid a struggling economy. He explains that the cut is merely a reaction to weak data, not a solution for rising unemployment and stagflation risks. The conversation highlights how ICE raids threaten technology transfer and foreign investment, further complicating the U.S. manufacturing landscape. Wolfers also discusses the unpredictable impacts of tariffs, job growth issues, and the potential long-term harm from cronyism.

Reporter and former Care & Feeding host Aymann Ismail joins Elizabeth & Lucy to talk about how to approach conversations with kids about violence in the news. The hosts discuss ways to frame scary or divisive headlines, how to balance honesty with reassurance, and how parents can manage their own reactions while guiding kids through uncertain times. Plus, Lucy reflects on her own experience processing the past week’s difficult news.Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask questions, share feedback, and suggest future topics. You can also call our phone line: (646) 357-9318.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an extra weekly grab-bag of content on the Plus Playground, an ad-free experience across the network, and support the work we do here on Care and Feeding. Sign up now at slate.com/careplus — or try it out on Apple Podcasts.Listen to Opportunity Gap wherever you get your podcasts: ⁠⁠https://lnk.to/opportunitygapPS!careandfeeding⁠ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Quinta Jurecic, a staff writer at The Atlantic, dives deep into the tumultuous state of the FBI amidst growing political pressures. She discusses the implications of appointing leaders like Kash Patel, known for prioritizing loyalty over capability. The conversation reveals frustrations among agents forced to divert resources away from critical investigations. Jurecic also explores the emotional toll of working in a toxic environment and the ethical dilemmas facing bureaucratic institutions today, urging a reflection on the preservation of civil liberties amid rising tensions.

Ben Mathis-Lilley, Slate's senior writer and acclaimed humorist, shares insights from his eleven years at the publication. He reflects on how humor can serve as a coping mechanism in today's politically charged environment. The conversation touches on the cultural shift towards supportive male friendships and digital detox strategies, including leaving platforms like Twitter for healthier online communities. With a lighthearted approach to navigating virality and online discourse, Ben's wit shines through as he bids farewell to his audience.

Join Dan Kois, a former Slate writer and author known for his recent New Yorker profile on chef Samin Nosrat, as he dives into the world of rock mockumentaries. They explore 'Spinal Tap II,' reflecting on themes of aging and nostalgia, while also critiquing the class dynamics in the series 'The Girlfriend.' The conversation then shifts to revering Hollywood legend Robert Redford, discussing his dual role as a star and director, and his lasting impact on cinema. Kois's insights blend humor with poignant reflections on culture and creativity.

Sarah Brown, Senior Editor at the Chronicle of Higher Education, shares insights into the turbulent landscape of colleges under political pressure. She examines claims of radicalization in higher education and how this narrative is shaped by right-wing figures. The conversation reveals the resilience of institutions like Columbia and Penn amid backlash over policies on gender identity. Additionally, Brown discusses the implications of federal funding changes and highlights the challenges faced by university leaders in navigating this contentious environment.

Gary Rivlin, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of 'AI Valley', shares his insights on the intense competition in the AI landscape. He discusses how tech giants like Microsoft and Google are locked in a trillion-dollar race, and the challenge of acquiring top AI talent in a market rife with 'acquihires'. Rivlin also explores diverse perspectives on AI's impact, from its potential benefits in medicine to concerns around employment and surveillance, emphasizing the urgent need for responsible regulation.

Megan Greenwell, journalist and author of "Bad Company: Private Equity and the Death of the American Dream," shares her gripping journey from editor-in-chief of Deadspin to uncovering the dark side of private equity. She discusses how the industry's profit-driven motives led to the disintegration of editorial integrity, affecting both employees and communities. With tales from various impacted individuals, Greenwell highlights the emotional toll and systemic injustices wrought by private equity takeovers, illuminating a pressing narrative of modern American life.

The podcast kicks off with a discussion on the Chiefs' alarming 0-2 start, questioning if their aging roster is catching up with them. Sidney Crosby's potential exit from the Penguins is explored, raising questions about the loyalty owed to legendary players. Angel Reese's public criticism of her teammates in the WNBA adds spice, alongside an analysis of playoff dynamics. The legality of the 'tush-push' play creates further debate, and the panel reflects on deeper issues, including domestic violence allegations in the NFL that demand attention.

A listener writes in about a toddler who loves bringing toys to the playground but rarely wants to share them. The hosts unpack why sharing is so tough at this age, how parents can set expectations, and their own philosophies on how kids—and adults—learn to share. Plus, check-ins: Lucy brings a delightfully funny Italian-American teen romance story to the table.Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask questions, share feedback, and suggest future topics. You can also call our phone line: (646) 357-9318.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an extra weekly grab-bag of content on the Plus Playground, an ad-free experience across the network, and support the work we do here on Care and Feeding. Sign up now at slate.com/careplus — or try it out on Apple Podcasts.Listen to Opportunity Gap wherever you get your podcasts: ⁠⁠https://lnk.to/opportunitygapPS!careandfeeding⁠ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.