The Daily

Ruth Graham, a New York Times reporter focused on faith and politics, teams up with Al Mohler, President of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Together, they delve into the profound transformation of American evangelicalism and its impact on politics. They discuss how the aftermath of the Capitol events reshaped voter attitudes and the growing disconnect between faith and political engagement. The conversation highlights the rise of Christian nationalism and the evolving responsibilities of church leaders in today's polarized landscape.

Nicholas Bogel-Burroughs, a national news reporter for The New York Times, shares insights on the aftermath of Hurricane Ian in Florida. He discusses the staggering destruction and emotional challenges faced by residents, with personal stories highlighting the chaos during and after the storm. The allure of coastal living amidst hurricane risks is examined, alongside the resilience of the community as they begin to rebuild. The impact of the energy crisis, exacerbated by the storm, adds another layer of complexity to the recovery efforts.

The podcast follows Kirill, a young man evading Russia's controversial draft for the war in Ukraine. He shares how the mobilization announcement has shattered lives and strained family ties, particularly among those opposed to the war. The narrative highlights the treacherous escape routes to Kazakhstan and the emotional toll of fleeing one's homeland amid conflict. It also contrasts personal struggles with the broader geopolitical landscape and the pressing realities of life under an oppressive regime.

Farnaz Fassihi, a New York Times reporter covering Iran, provides insights into the protests ignited by the tragic death of Mahsa Amini. She discusses how Amini’s case has sparked a powerful movement among women, challenging oppressive laws and demanding gender equality. Fassihi highlights the deep-rooted grievances, including economic struggles and corruption that fuel widespread dissent. The conversation reflects on the resilience of Iranian women, uniting against authoritarianism in a transformative push for change in their society.

David A. Fahrenthold, an investigative reporter for The New York Times specializing in nonprofits, delves into pandemic-era fraud. He reveals how lax oversight led to about $5 trillion in relief funds being exploited, resulting in one of the largest frauds in U.S. history. With billions stolen, the episode discusses enormous scams in federal programs, including the Federal Child Nutrition Program's vulnerabilities. Fahrenthold sheds light on the challenges law enforcement faces in prosecuting these cases and the urgent need for improved oversight in future crises.

Jason DeParle, a senior writer for The New York Times and expert on poverty, uncovers the remarkable 59% drop in child poverty in America since the 1990s. He discusses how safety net programs and political compromises have redefined the landscape for struggling families. Personal stories, like that of Cece Jackson from West Virginia, illustrate the real-life impact of these programs. The conversation also touches on the historical shifts in social policy and the implications of recent global events, highlighting both progress and ongoing challenges.

Kim Tingley, a contributing writer for the New York Times Magazine, dives into the fascinating world of circadian rhythms and their impact on our health. She reveals that our bodies operate with multiple biological clocks, each playing a vital role in our overall well-being. Tingley discusses how disrupting these rhythms can affect everything from metabolism to recovery. With insights on light exposure, timing of meals, and genetic influences, she makes a compelling case for leveraging our body's natural clock to enhance health and longevity.

Jim Clyburn, a key Democratic Congressman from South Carolina, discusses the struggle for unity in defending democracy leading up to the midterms. Robert Draper, a journalist focused on conservative politics, highlights the alarming rise of election denialism in Arizona and its ramifications for electoral dynamics. Together, they explore the complexities of American identity and the evolving political landscape, questioning whether the nation can rise above division and reclaim its foundational values.

Ruth Graham, a national correspondent for The New York Times specializing in religion, and Kevin Thompson, a former evangelical pastor who left due to political conflicts, discuss the crisis facing the evangelical movement. They explore declining church attendance post-pandemic, the political rifts within congregations, and the struggle of pastors to address faith amid divisive ideologies. Thompson shares his journey grappling with vulnerability and the challenges of fostering empathy for racial justice in a resistant environment.

Anton Troianovski, Moscow bureau chief for The New York Times, offers keen insights into Putin's recent military announcements. He discusses the potential draft in Russia, aiming to mobilize hundreds of thousands in response to battlefield challenges. Troianovski delves into the implications of Putin framing the war as a defense against the West, raising alarm with nuclear threats. Additionally, he highlights the rising domestic unrest and protests against the war, painting a picture of growing dissent among the Russian populace.