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The 2026 World Cup is about to descend on North America — spread across three countries, with 48 teams, and 104 games, and with billions of fans across the globe tuning in to watch the biggest sporting event on the planet. Today, Tariq Panja, global soccer correspondent for The New York Times, breaks down everything you need to know about this year’s tournament — the arrival of historic first-timers, like Curaçao, the aging legends like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, who are making their fi...
A real estate investor’s pursuit of cheap land has prompted a lawsuit against a compound in Arkansas that will test whether civil rights laws can stop a whites-only town from existing in America. Today, Debra Kamin, a New York Times investigative reporter, discusses the community and why its members are convinced that in this political climate, no one is going to stop them. Guest: Debra Kamin , an investigative reporter focusing on wealth, power and corruption for The The New York Times. Backgro...
President Trump's recent executive order to voluntarily regulate AI marked a significant shift from his administration's hands-off approach, driven by cybersecurity concerns and pressure from both Silicon Valley and government officials. The episode explores the internal White House debates, including the initial cancellation of the order due to industry backlash and its eventual, quieter signing with reduced stipulations. It also examines the broader calls for more stringent regulation from both populist left and right, along with the AI industry's evolving stance on oversight and the looming question of whether a major crisis will be the ultimate catalyst for comprehensive rules.
Declan Walsh reports from the Democratic Republic of Congo on the alarming Ebola outbreak, highlighting the severe lack of equipment, training, and testing for the rare Bundibuggio strain. He describes shocking scenes in under-resourced hospitals and explains how community denial, conspiracy theories, and violent resistance to aid efforts severely impede containment. The episode delves into the impact of foreign aid cuts and concludes with both the grim potential and a rare story of patient recovery, emphasizing the critical need for education and trust.
Elon Musk's SpaceX prepares for an unprecedented IPO, projected to be the largest ever and potentially elevate Musk to the world's first trillionaire. The offering uniquely targets retail investors and benefits from relaxed index rules, compelling widespread indirect investment. While Starlink shows profitability, overall financial health is strained by ambitious AI ventures. The episode explores the risks of this valuation model and Musk's significant, unchecked control over the company.
This episode takes a walking tour of President Trump's controversial renovation projects across Washington D.C., ahead of America's 250th anniversary. It uncovers issues with secret, no-bid contracts for sites like Lafayette Park and the Reflecting Pool, revealing inflated costs and the use of contractors with close ties to the administration or lacking relevant experience. The most ambitious project, a 250-foot Triumphal Arch, faces significant opposition for its scale and perceived self-aggrandizement, raising questions about historical preservation and presidential legacy.
Olivia Rodrigo sat down with Joe and Jon for her first in-depth conversation about her new album, “you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love,” out June 12. She discussed the many ways her creative process intersects with the extracurricular noise of pop superstardom, whether its managing relationship drama; being targeted for the way she dresses, accusations of pilfering songwriting gestures from Taylor Swift, her onetime idol, or her willingness to speak up about political and social causes in ...
Dr. Laurie Santos, a happiness expert, delves into the paradox of modern happiness, explaining the difference between transient "hedonic" pleasure and deep "eudaimonic" fulfillment. She argues that while some happiness is innate, much is an an active pursuit, cautioning against "toxic positivity" and the counterproductive quest for constant "good vibes." The discussion highlights how technology erodes social connections, leading to a loneliness crisis compounded by perceived "time famine" and overprotective parenting. Santos ultimately emphasizes that true happiness stems from social bonds, meaningful purpose, and a balance of individual resilience with societal support.
This episode details the harrowing experiences of seafarers stranded in the Strait of Hormuz due to ongoing conflict. Captain Virendra Vishwakarma recounts surviving missile attacks and a dangerous, secret escape, while Aung Thu Khant, still trapped, shares the daily fear, monitoring distress calls for dwindling provisions, and coping with the mental toll. Their stories highlight the critical yet often unseen human cost of global trade routes in war zones.
The episode investigates America's growing loneliness crisis and its severe health impacts, focusing on how AI technology is emerging as a potential solution. It tells the story of Jan Worrell, an 85-year-old living in remote isolation, who forms an unexpectedly deep and supportive bond with LEQ, a proactive AI robot. While the AI fills a significant void in her life, the discussion also explores the complex implications, from family concerns about privacy to the fundamental limits of simulated companionship versus true human connection.
The episode delves into the confusing signals from the Trump administration regarding a peace deal with Iran, from initial claims of imminent agreement to subsequent US airstrikes. It explores the true nature of the proposed deal, which primarily aimed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to lower gas prices, while kicking harder issues like Iran's nuclear program down the road. The discussion also covers the political backlash from "Iran Hawks," the White House's defensive responses, and the long-term skepticism about the administration's negotiation strategy given Iran's history.
America faces a new, deadlier drug epidemic driven by potent synthetic substances like nitazines, which are far more lethal and easily manufactured than fentanyl. This episode investigates how these drugs are transforming drug trafficking, particularly within American jails, and explores the complex psychology of users. It also critiques the traditional "war on drugs" approach, advocating for a shift towards public health strategies and harm reduction.
Photographer Andy Isaacson joins a unique trip to India with visually impaired travelers, challenging the visual-centric nature of travel. Through guiding and describing, he learns to engage all senses, experiencing places like Old Delhi and the Taj Mahal with new depth. The journey, inspired by the Travelize company, reveals profound human connections and a fuller understanding of the world, much like the parable of the blind men and an elephant.
Iconic actor Nicolas Cage delves into his unique "art synthesis" approach to acting, where he imports elements from diverse art forms into his performances, exemplified by his upcoming "Spider Noir" series. He reflects on his career, including his willingness to take risks and invite negative reactions, and how he addresses his public "memefication" through films like "Dream Scenario." Cage also shares personal insights, contrasting his impulsive past with his current monastic life dedicated to raising his toddler, and how early television shaped his artistic path.
A new major poll from The Times/Siena suggests that despite his seemingly unchecked power over the federal government and his own party, President Trump’s national support is crumbling to record lows and Democrats are poised to win back many of the key voters who got him into office in 2024. Nate Cohn, the chief political analyst for The New York Times, walks us through the poll’s results and what they mean for the midterms this fall. Guest: Nate Cohn , the chief political analyst for The New Yo...
The U.S. has indicted Cuba's former leader, Raúl Castro, for murder in connection with the 1996 downing of two civilian planes that killed three Americans, marking the latest escalation in the Trump administration's campaign to exert pressure on the island. While a military extraction is unlikely, the U.S. is seeking specific changes, including the removal of Chinese and Russian intelligence posts and incremental political and economic reforms, rather than just outright regime change. This aggressive stance is seen by some as President Trump's attempt to secure a foreign policy win.
The Trump administration announced the creation of a $1.8 billion fund to compensate those who claim they were targeted by the Biden Justice Department and Democrats. Andrew Duehren, who covers tax policy, explains how the fund came about and who might get the money. Guest: Andrew Duehren , who writes about tax policy for The New York Times from Washington. Background reading: The Justice Department announced the $1.8 billion fund on Monday. Mr. Trump’s “anti-weaponization” fund, explained . Pho...
This episode delves into the high-stakes Kentucky House primary where President Trump seeks to remove Rep. Thomas Massie, a fiercely independent Republican who has defied him on several issues, notably the release of the Epstein files. Reporter Robert Draper and producer Caitlin O'Keefe visit Kentucky, observing Massie's defense of his principles at a town hall and interviewing his challenger, Ed Galrine, whose campaign is built entirely on unwavering loyalty to Trump. The race examines the extent of Trump's influence over the Republican Party and the potential risks of strict ideological conformity for general elections.
The episode provides an inside look at the high-stakes lawsuit filed by Elon Musk against OpenAI and its CEO Sam Altman. It chronicles OpenAI's founding as a non-profit, Musk's allegations of a "bait and switch" as it became a for-profit entity, and the heated courtroom testimonies. The discussion highlights the personal animosity, the intense competition in the AI industry, and the broader societal implications of this battle for AI's future. The jury ultimately ruled against Musk, citing the statute of limitations.
The episode delves into the ancient human quest for the fountain of youth and modern scientific breakthroughs in cellular rejuvenation, particularly the work of Shinya Yamanaka, Juan Carlos Ipsezua Belmonte, and David Sinclair. It examines how billionaires are pouring massive investments into companies like Altos Lab, pushing the boundaries of longevity science. The discussion also covers the societal and ethical implications of extending healthy human lifespans, contrasting scientific 'shortcuts' with known benefits of lifestyle changes.
The presumptive Democratic Senate nominee from Maine on his controversies, contradictions and pitch for radical change. Thoughts? Email us at theinterview@nytimes.com Watch our show on YouTube: youtube.com/@TheInterviewPodcast For transcripts and more, visit: nytimes.com/theinterview Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. You can also subscribe via your favorite podcast app here https://www.nytimes.com/activate-access/audio?source=podcatcher . For more podcasts...
This episode delves into the Hantavirus outbreak that began on a polar expedition cruise ship, leading to multiple deaths and a lengthy quarantine for exposed passengers. Science reporter Apoorva Mandavilli explains the virus's origin, its transmission, and its high fatality rate, challenging initial public health assurances. The discussion also critically examines the CDC's delayed response and broader lessons for transparent communication in a post-COVID era.
After a year of harassing and threatening Jerome Powell, the chairman of the Federal Reserve, President Trump replaced him on Wednesday. Colby Smith, who covers the Fed, explains how the president ended one standoff only to create a new one. Guest: Colby Smith , a New York Times reporter covering the Federal Reserve and the U.S. economy. Background reading: The Senate confirmed Kevin Warsh as the new chair of the Federal Reserve. Video: How Jerome Powell managed a chaotic era . Photo: Kenny Hols...
This episode explores President Trump's summit with Xi Jinping in Beijing, highlighting Trump's compromised position due to the Iran conflict. Discussions are expected to cover trade deals, tariffs, and China's growing automotive exports. Beneath these immediate issues, the leaders grapple with profound underlying divides concerning global economic, military, and technological dominance, including nuclear arms, Taiwan's future, and the escalating AI race.
This episode explores why more Americans are seeking religion after decades of declining church attendance and rising secularism. Host Lauren Jackson discusses the "pause" in secularization and a noticeable return to faith, particularly among young men and Gen Z. The discussion highlights the pandemic's role in prompting existential questions, widespread dissatisfaction with modern work and lack of community, and how political turmoil is driving some to seek universalistic ideologies in established religions. Personal stories, including Lauren's own journey from Mormonism and Nick's secret return to Catholicism after political disillusionment, illustrate these complex shifts.
This episode explores whether China is winning the global AI race, highlighting its focus on widespread, real-world AI applications to solve societal problems like an aging workforce and healthcare gaps, contrasting with the US pursuit of Artificial General Intelligence. Despite a period of government control after ChatGPT, China has shifted to allow more innovation, leading to breakthroughs like DeepSeek. However, challenges remain, including an uncertain regulatory environment, chip reliance, and talent migration. The episode concludes that defining a "winner" depends on AI's ultimate destination, with both nations showing distinct advantages.
For Mother's Day, The Daily gathers a touching and humorous collection of 'mom mantras' – the unforgettable sayings and pieces of wisdom mothers impart. Listeners share everything from quirky admonishments to deep life philosophies on topics like acceptance, perseverance, and handling criticism. The episode culminates in host Rachel Abrams asking her own mother for advice for future parents, revealing a beautiful, enduring message of love and forgiveness.
Personal finance guru Ramit Sethi discusses his philosophy of achieving a "rich life" by consciously spending on what you love and ruthlessly cutting elsewhere, backed by understanding core financial numbers. He delves into complex money dynamics within relationships, critiques the ultra-frugal FIRE movement, and addresses the interplay of individual responsibility and systemic barriers in the American financial landscape. Sethi also offers advice for intergenerational financial understanding and reveals his single most impactful financial habit.
This episode delves into the remarkable resurrection of Michael Jackson's reputation and profitability orchestrated by his estate, despite decades of sexual abuse accusations. It explores the strategies used, from the "This Is It" film to a Broadway musical, and the profound challenge posed by the "Leaving Neverland" documentary. Ultimately, the discussion highlights how a new biopic, by carefully sanitizing Jackson's narrative, allowed audiences to embrace his music without confronting the complex controversies surrounding the man.
This episode delves into the rise and fall of Spirit Airlines, examining its revolutionary ultra-low-cost model, controversial marketing, and its significant impact on democratizing air travel in the U.S., known as "the Spirit Effect." It explores the mounting challenges from increased competition and rising costs that led to its demise, including a blocked merger and soaring fuel prices. The episode also captures the emotional reactions from employees and the public, reflecting on Spirit's legacy and what its shutdown signifies for the future of air travel and accessibility, particularly for working-class families.
