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The Daily

The New York Timeswww.nytimes.com
This is what the news should sound like. The biggest stories of our time, told by the best journalists in the world. Hosted by Michael Barbaro, Rachel Abrams and Natalie Kitroeff. Twenty minutes a day, six days a week, ready by 6 a.m. 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.
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Episodes

R.F.K. Jr.’s Newest Mission: Getting Us Off Antidepressants

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s public health crusade questions the widespread, long-term use of psychiatric drugs, particularly SSRIs, pushing for federal policies to encourage safe deprescribing. The initiative has revealed an "open secret" in medicine: doctors are often better at starting treatments than stopping them. While the medical community shows mixed reactions, some experts acknowledge the need for better tapering guidelines and support for patients who feel "numb" or experience severe withdrawal symptoms, all while balancing the risk of stigmatizing essential mental health treatment.

Jun 22, 202632 min

Can a Bad Man Be a Good Father?

Author Tom Junod delves into the intricate life of his father, Lou, a captivating figure who maintained a hidden world of affairs and secrets behind a facade of masculine charm. Through memoir and detective work, Junod uncovers the profound impact of his father's choices, from personal betrayals to the shocking revelation of a half-sister. The episode explores how Tom reconciles deep love and admiration with the pain of his father's lies, ultimately finding peace and understanding in his enduring, ambivalent legacy.

Jun 21, 202647 min

Danny McBride Thinks Men Learned All the Wrong Lessons From Movies

Actor and writer Danny McBride delves into his latest short story collection, "Thrilling Tales of Modern Men," reflecting on themes of masculinity and how growing up with media influenced his perceptions of manhood. He shares personal anecdotes, including his mother's puppet ministry, his family's complex relationship with church, and the inspiration behind his hit show "Righteous Gemstones." McBride also offers insights into the evolving landscape of R-rated comedies, parenting in the digital age, and his approach to satire by focusing on timeless human flaws.

Jun 20, 202638 min

Did Iran Come Out on Top in the Peace Deal?

This episode breaks down the new US-Iran peace deal, revealing that while the US secured a 60-day ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, Iran received significant financial benefits including unlocked assets and revived oil sales, with potentially new sovereign rights over the Strait. Critics argue the deal is a strategic blunder, especially concerning Iran's nuclear program, missile capabilities, and funding for proxy groups. The discussion highlights President Trump's focus on immediate economic stability and the resulting strain on US-Israeli relations.

Jun 19, 202633 min

The Untold Story of Jeffrey Epstein’s Death

Warning: This episode discusses suicide. Hours after Jeffrey Epstein arrived at the Metropolitan Correctional Center in Manhattan, an employee expressed concern over his distraught state, saying in an email to the jail staff, “just to be on the safe side and prevent any suicidal thoughts can someone from Psychology come and talk with him.” The reporter Charles Homans details The New York Times’s major new investigation, which tries to answer the question: Did the world’s most powerful and well-c...

Jun 18, 202641 min

The Battle Over A.I. in the Classroom

This episode explores the transformative impact of AI in American classrooms, highlighting the tension between tech companies pushing their products and parents' concerns about critical thinking. It contrasts chaotic AI rollouts with careful approaches, focusing on a teacher's innovative "AI Driver's Ed" course that empowers students to critically engage with AI. The discussion underscores the importance of an "AI civics" approach to prepare students for a human-driven future.

Jun 17, 202632 min

A Gen Z Revolution at the Movies

Hollywood's long-standing problem of attracting young people to movie theaters has been unexpectedly solved by two low-budget horror films, "Obsession" and "Backrooms." Made by young directors who got their start on YouTube, these films have become massive box office hits by tapping into Gen Z anxieties and fostering vibrant online discourse. Their success proves that young audiences seek original, event-like experiences rather than older franchises, offering a new roadmap for the industry.

Jun 16, 202629 min

Inside Trump’s New Deal With Iran

This episode delves into President Trump's recently announced preliminary deal with Iran, featuring insights from David Sanger who spoke directly with the president. The agreement aims to end the war, lift blockades, and restart nuclear negotiations, though its actual text differs from Trump's claims. The discussion also highlights the significant rift between the US and Israel, as Prime Minister Netanyahu strongly opposed the terms, and questions whether the war truly achieved more than a return to the pre-conflict status quo.

Jun 15, 202621 min

Do Aliens Exist? Steven Spielberg Believes They Do

In this episode, Steven Spielberg delves into his latest film, "Disclosure Day," revealing its inspiration from real-world UFO reports and his personal conviction that aliens exist. He discusses how filmmaking serves as both a creative outlet and a form of therapy, often reflecting personal experiences and allowing him to confront fears. Spielberg also explores the profound impact of shared cinema, the changing landscape of media consumption, and his plans to deeply engage with AI technology, offering a unique glimpse into his craft and evolving perspectives.

Jun 14, 202639 min

Seth Rogen Knows the Secret to Marriage — and Being Rich in Hollywood

The actor-writer-director-producer on successful relationships (platonic and romantic), Hollywood’s volatility and his role in normalizing weed. 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=podca...

Jun 13, 20261 hr 16 min

1979: How the U.S. and Iran Went From Allies to Enemies

This podcast delves into the complex history of the US-Iran relationship, revealing how America's once close alliance with the Shah, marked by extensive military and economic ties, ironically laid the groundwork for the 1979 Islamic Revolution. It highlights the Shah's controversial Westernization policies, the American diplomatic mission's blindness to rising dissent, and the pivotal role of Ayatollah Khomeini in galvanizing widespread anti-Western sentiment. The episode concludes by examining the tragic long-term consequences of American obliviousness, leading to the current adversarial relationship and a stronger, more entrenched Iranian regime.

Jun 12, 202650 min

The Young Economic Populists Reshaping the Left

This episode explores how college graduates, traditionally conservative, have shifted left politically due to economic pressures. It delves into the rising student debt, underemployment post-Great Recession, and corporate consolidation that has left many feeling indebted and underpaid. The discussion highlights how these unmet expectations have fueled economic populism, reshaping class politics in America.

Jun 11, 202637 min

The Iran War's Devastating Butterfly Effect

The Iran War's less visible consequences, beyond energy prices, are catastrophic for the world's most vulnerable, as global aid systems are dismantled. Reporter Peter Goodman's trip to Somalia reveals a nation crippled by pre-existing droughts and conflicts, now facing mass starvation due to soaring food and fuel costs, a drastic reduction in international assistance, and dwindling supplies of life-saving aid. This man-made disaster signals a grim future for many developing countries.

Jun 10, 202627 min

Maine Votes as Graham Platner’s Past Poses New Conundrums

On Tuesday, Maine will vote in a high-stakes primary contest for a Senate seat that Democrats think they can win back from Republicans for the first time in decades. Democrats are pinning their hopes on Graham Platner, a progressive who has faced a string of scandals. Today, Lisa Lerer and Katie Glueck discuss what this race means for Maine and for the prospects of the Democratic Party. Guest: Lisa Lerer , a national political correspondent for The New York Times. Katie Glueck , a political repo...

Jun 09, 202638 min

Congressional Republicans Try a New Approach: Telling Trump No

From the war in Iran to his plan to use taxpayer money to pay his allies, the Republican-controlled Congress has begun rebelling against President Trump. Today, Julie Hirschfeld Davis, a congressional editor at The New York Times, discusses whether this rebellion is a preview of a new dynamic in Washington, or a temporary show of independence that will vanish just as quickly as it arrived. Guest: Julie Hirschfield Davis , congressional editor at The New York Times. Background reading: Mr. Trump ...

Jun 08, 202630 min

Scott Pelley on His Firing and the ‘Massacre’ at ’60 Minutes’

An exclusive sit-down with the now-former CBS News correspondent. 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 and narrated articles, download The New York Times ap...

Jun 07, 20261 hr 4 min

Everything You Need to Know About the World Cup

The 2026 World Cup in North America is set to be the biggest ever, featuring 48 teams and three host nations. This episode explores the tournament's unique aspects, including the historic qualification of smaller countries and the final appearances of legends like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. It also delves into the controversy over soaring ticket prices and the intense, almost religious, passion of fans who will go to extreme lengths to be part of this global sporting event.

Jun 06, 202637 min

One Town's Blueprint for Resegregating America

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...

Jun 05, 202634 min

How Trump Was Persuaded to Regulate A.I.

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.

Jun 04, 202634 min

Why the Ebola Outbreak Has Been Nearly Impossible to Stop

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.

Jun 03, 202631 min

Popcast: Olivia Rodrigo Tried Writing Love Songs. Then Life Got Messy.

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 ...

May 31, 20261 hr 30 min

Want to ‘Optimize’ Your Happiness? This Happiness Expert Says: Don’t.

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.

May 30, 202648 min

Sites Unseen: What’s Revealed by Traveling With the Blind

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.

May 24, 202627 min

For Mother’s Day, Classic Mom-isms

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.

May 10, 202630 min
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