Skimm This

Ed Sheeran’s IRL A-Team, “Heated Rivalry” Hits Women’s Soccer, “Devil Wears Prada 2” Sporty Spottings

Wed, 06 May 2026 16:05:00 -0000

The “Devil Wears Prada 2” movie features two athlete cameos – one is a player from Anne Hathaway’s favorite basketball team and the other is a golfer who we wouldn’t blink twice at. Blake spotted both of them during the film, proving that Well Played works, y’all. In other sporty news, we learned nepo babies – or should we say horsies? – exist everywhere, and Ed Sheeran’s football club is the new A-Team.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

Tom Holland’s “Bero Padel Classic” ft. a Zendaya wardrobe malfunction
Why Ashton Kutcher walked so Anthony Davis could run
Serena Williams’ heartfelt post from the Miami Grand Prix about her longtime F1 friend
Our favorite athlete looks from the Met Gala

Send Its:

Tom Holland helps Zendaya: https://www.instagram.com/reels/DXwsrHIOzeA/
Lola Tung and Kelley O’Hara team up for a sapphic soccer movie: https://www.them.us/story/lola-tung-ripe-kelley-ohara-casting
Ed Sheeran celebrates with Ipswich town: https://www.instagram.com/reels/DX2cgpCBO34/
Bam Adebayo and Anthony Davis prank A’ja Wilson: https://youtu.be/r4E-oW3iCi8?si=Ki_D1wnpPsEiTxnm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Vrabel & Russini’s Romance Rumors, Megan’s Hot Girl Summer 2.0, and Chloe Kim’s Princess Treatment

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 15:40:00 -0000

The takeaway from this week’s sports and pop culture news is that love isn’t real. From the romance rumors between Mike Vrabel and Dianna Russini to Megan thee Stallion breaking up with Klay Thompson over cheating allegations, we’ve lost all faith in men…except Myles Garrett. He can stay.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

A breakdown of all of the photos and rumors surrounding Mike Vrabel and Dianna Russini
Our favorite picks from the 2026 NFL draft (based on vibes only)
Why Myles Garrett picked up Chloe Kim on the Time 100 Gala red carpet
Trinity Rodman’s moisturizer of choice, plus her inspo for her first goal of the season celly
Caroline shows off her broadcaster voice growth, eight years later

Send Its:

Myles Garrett gives Chloe Kim princess treatment: https://www.instagram.com/p/DXhXzDijqQb/
Cynthia Erivo defies gravity – and notches a personal best: https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/cynthia-erivo-london-marathon-wicked-defying-gravity-1236232574/
Trinity Rodman’s 100th appearance + goal celly: https://www.nwslsoccer.com/news/matchweek-3-wrapped-angel-city-s-record-stays-perfect-denver-smashes-attendance-record-and-milestone-moments
She also uses this for moisturizer: https://www.instagram.com/p/DXnpJW8jJjC/
Caroline’s first on-air appearance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BtRkZ5bethI

Chapters

00:00 - Welcome and catch-up
01:29 - The Vrabel & Russini Rumors
14:09 - NFL Insiders vs. Reporters
21:28 - Gender Dynamics in Sports Media
25:20 - Klay Thompson & Megan Thee Stallion Breakup
32:45 - Tennis News: Morgan Riddle & Taylor Fritz
33:46 - Stomach Bug at the Madrid Open
34:43 - NFL Draft Highlights & Emotions
44:04 - Chloe Kim & Myles Garrett at Time 100
45:55 - Trinity Rodman: Beef Tallow & Milestones
47:34 - Cynthia Erivo Defies Gravity at the London Marathon
49:16 - Breaking the 2-Hour Marathon Record
51:00 - Broadcast Voices & Instructor Persona
56:10 - Wrap Up and Personal Updates

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Megan & Sue Call It Quits, West Takes Amanda to the Ball Game, and Noah Lyles’ First Look Flop

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 17:42:00 -0000

Megan Rapinoe and Sue Bird announced that after a decade together, they’re separating. Excuse us while we fly our flags at half staff. On the opposite end of the love spectrum, Olympic track and field athlete Noah Lyles got married – and probably fired his videographer after sharing the absolute flop of a first look at his bride. Let’s just hope his wife’s love language isn’t “words of affirmation.”

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

The controversial question a reported asked Azzi Fudd in her first Dallas Wings press conference
Which Olympian-producing women’s sport Quinnipiac University downgraded from D1 to club level
The WNBA’s Natasha Cloud is teamless – and why the new CBA could have something to do with it
Whether Dexter “Sexy Dexy” Lawrence could help Joe Burrow finally get a ring

The iconic story behind the Boston Marathon’s first woman runner – and how she’s honoring herself 60 years later

Send Its:

Noah Lyles first look flop: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/p/DXHhjx5jez_/⁠⁠
Bobbi Gibb statue: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/p/DXU3OgxE9Kg/⁠⁠
Erin Andrews does IVF at 47: ⁠⁠https://youtu.be/zZga9XWSyZU?si=VQJvJjh_UTOYIea9&t=1923⁠⁠
Victoria Beckham goes Gap: ⁠⁠https://www.gapinc.com/en-gb/articles/2026/04/gap-and-victoria-beckham-announce-multi-season-col⁠⁠

Topics

⁠02:07⁠ - Amanda Batula & West Wilson at the Yankees Game

⁠05:44⁠ - Megan Rapinoe & Sue Bird Breakup

⁠08:11⁠ - Azzi Fudd’s Awkward Press Conference

⁠17:29⁠ - "Sexy Dexy" to the Bengals

⁠24:55⁠ - Noah Lyles’ Wedding "First Look" Fail

⁠28:46⁠ - The Iconic Boston Marathon Sculpture

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hudson Williams’ Peloton Play, Coco’s Critics Get Shut Down, and WNBA Draft Orange Carpet Recap

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 16:51:00 -0000

Coco Gauff sported her natural hair in a recent ad for Miu Miu and the internet showed us why we can’t have nice things. The no. 3 ranked tennis player shut down criticism about her appearance and more importantly, to encourage young Black girls to embrace their natural hair. Meanwhile, the WNBA rolled out its orange carpet for the 2026 draft, and this year’s draftees showed up and showed out on one of the biggest nights of their lives.

In this episode, we also cover:

Propaganda we’re falling for, AKA Hudson Williams’ Peloton ad
Well Played friends of the pod who showed up to Coachella
The Australian runner who beat Usain Bolt’s 20-year record in the 200m sprint
The shocking pay difference between the 2025 and 2026 WNBA draft class, thanks to the league’s new CBA
A self-indulgent recap of the Alix Earle and Alex Cooper beef

Send It:

Meet Gout Gout: https://sports.yahoo.com/olympics/article/australian-sprinter-gout-gout-breaks-under-20-record-with-blazing-200m-time-surpassing-legendary-olympian-usain-bolt-184411317.html
Pope Leo balls out with Harlem Globetrotters: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2IYKsgfO0HQ
Laufey, Hudson Williams, and the Council of Wasia: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yNa8jP4zoJo&list=RDyNa8jP4zoJo&start_radio=1
This couple at the Pacers game is all of us: https://www.threads.com/@thedankbrew/post/DW__SuSEZJE?xmt=AQF0MSzRnAYJn5UQchQP8TGsWhUf5ilzN3tp0mLpbd49Ot5K5HfogDuEUdsLI0GQi_giHrRo&slof=1
Plus, when Shaq offered to buy their engagement ring: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kVxAaY4ZBss

Follow Well Played: @wellplayedbytheskimm

Follow Blake: @blaaakkkke

Follow Caroline: @cghendy

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Angel Reese Dreams, Khloe and Lamar Tell All, and the Royal Baby of Buffalo Arrives

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 15:54:00 -0000

This March Madness, the category was “upset.” At least on the women’s side. South Carolina upset UCONN — the overwhelming favorite on the women’s side – which failed on its mission to win the natty two years in a row. Then, UCONN coach Geno Auriemma literally upset South Carolina coach Dawn Staley in a post-game screaming match. We dive into his allegations, his half-assed apology, and why we’re tired of seeing women have to take the higher road.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

Angel Reese kicks off WNBA free agency trade, going from the Chicago Sky to the Atlanta Dream
Khloe Kardashian and Lamar Odom share the reality behind Odom’s addiction in a new episode of “Untold”
Josh Allen and Hailee Steinfeld’s first public engagement after having their baby girl
Rapper J. Cole’s new sporty side quest that literally no one asked for
Madison Keys recaps the Amanda Batula and West Wilson drama

Send It:

Royal Baby of Buffalo enters the chat: https://www.instagram.com/p/DWpTKnYkk9G/
Rory McIlroy’s Masters Menu: https://www.masters.com/en_US/news/articles/2026-03-18/for_mcilroy_a_masterful_menu_with_a_touch_of_home.html
J. Cole off to China: https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/48374160/rapper-j-cole-signs-chinese-league-nanjing-monkey-kings
Madison Keys on the Summer House drama for The Tennis Channel: https://www.instagram.com/p/DWsJINjDngv/

The “Pregnancy Penalty”, Martha Stewart vs. Jalen Brunson, Gold Medal ASMR with Laila Edwards

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 17:57:00 -0000

Marathoner Emma Bates went viral after sharing that her sponsor, UCan, dropped her once they learned she was pregnant. While UCan denied the allegation, it still reminded us of an unfortunate reality for women athletes – that the “pregnancy penalty” still exists. We break down what the penalty is, why some women athletes view pregnancy as a “death sentence” to their career, and how athletes like Allyson Felix have fought to stop it.

In this episode, we also cover:

Naomi Osaka retirement rumors swirling after her comments around motherhood and her tennis career
Shaq addressing the AI-generated texts between him and Sabrina Carpenter
NWSL smashing record attendance (again) – and the Denver Summit player who proved representation does matter

Which teams made it to the Final Four, and how Blake and Caroline’s brackets are doing

Send Its:

Carson Pickett’s heartwarming moment with young fan: https://www.instagram.com/reels/DWcSRqXEjN_/
Shaq’s AI-generated texts: https://youtu.be/rOxlgU75f7w?si=D7XQPSA24hqA5wqz&t=18
The Stewart-Brunson fracture: https://people.com/martha-stewart-said-nba-player-broke-her-toe-courtside-11871039
Miss Thailand contestant breaks it down: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DWeaQ_PDRRM/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chappell Roan Upsets Soccer Star, the WNBA’s Protection for Pregnant Players, and the Fernando Mendoza of Basketball

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 17:56:00 -0000

It finally happened – the WNBA voted to ratify its new collective bargaining agreement, months after the deadline passed. It’s a major win for professional women’s basketball players and the league, which will offer what it calls “the first comprehensive revenue-sharing model in women's professional sports history.” With just weeks until the season starts, the off-season – and free agency chaos – begins.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sinners’ Stars Go Sport Mode, Chloe Kim’s Meet Cute, and Misty Copeland on Her Oscar’s Appearance

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 21:23:00 -0000

The internet was all in on Timothée Chalamet’s Oscars run last year for “Marty Supreme” (guilty as charged). The Academy? Not so much. The ping-pong flick struck out, Chalamet walked back his ballet take, and he left empty-handed. Meanwhile, ballerina Misty Copeland had a front-row seat, performing onstage during Sinners’ “I Lied to You.” She joins us on Well Played to talk about getting the call from Ryan Coogler, what society gets wrong about women’s strength, and her journey back after hip replacement surgery.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

Chloe Kim and Myles Garett’s unlikely matchmaker
Boston Legacy’s record-breaking home opener – and why the record won’t last long
Misty Copeland on how she gained a newfound strength post-retirement
How Oksana Masters went from orphan in Ukraine to most decorated Paralympian
Where to find our March Madness brackets

Send Its:

Dua Lipa, Callum Turner, and Jannik Sinner give us a lesson in body language: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DV4oi-7D4DV/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
Indian Wells’ Whitney Houston challenge: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DV1Xi3GigJ7/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
Learn about Chandler Bing: https://vucommodores.com/roster/chandler-bing/
Christian McCaffrey goes to (fashion) jail: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DV0Apt5jR1j/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
Bonus: Oksana Masters article from “The Player’s Tribune” https://projects.theplayerstribune.com/oksana-masters-the-hard-part-out-loud/p/1

Follow Misty Copeland: @mistyonpointe Learn about Aveeno x Togethxr's "The Strength Issue": @aveeno @Togethxr Follow Well Played: @wellplayedbytheskimm Follow Blake: @blaaakkkke Follow Caroline: @cghendy

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe Burrow & Jessica Alba Dating Rumors, Travis Returns, and Bracketology 101 ft. Mackenzie Brooks

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 17:10:00 -0000

Mercury is in retrograde which can only mean one thing — breakups. From Dak Prescott and Sarah Jane Ramos calling off their wedding to Luka Dončić’s fiancée deleting all of her photos with the star hooper, this week gave us nothing but drama in the love department. Plus, Caroline recaps this week’s free agency frenzy and CBS’ betting analyst, Mackenzie Brooks, gives practical advice on how to actually win your March Madness pool.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

Who promptly shut down the Joe Burrow and Jessica Alba dating rumors
Why some are mad after Sydney Leroux’s annual International Women’s Day post
How Tobin Heath’s jersey retirement came full circle, ft. Brandi Chastain
Why no one — not even elite athletes like Aryna Sabalenka — is safe from their moms comments on their appearance

Send Its:

Italians at the World Baseball Classic: https://www.instagram.com/p/DVmhwuWDezX/?hl=en
Sydney Leroux’s iconic International Women’s Day post: https://www.instagram.com/p/DVpJv2Bj8Fs/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&img_index=6
Steven’s Institute lax bros support at spelling bee: https://www.instagram.com/p/DVoQ_QMDij2/
Iridocyclitis: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/oOrWDt1o1gk
Practicing sports is embarrassing: https://www.instagram.com/p/DVoQ_QMDij2/

Follow Mackenzie Brooks: @kenzbrooksbets

Follow Well Played: @wellplayedbytheskimm

Follow Blake: @blaaakkkke

Follow Caroline: @cghendy

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Harry Styles’ Marathon Hack, Trinity Slides into DMs, and Azzi Goes WAG Status ft. Dawn Staley

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 19:41:00 -0000

Harry Styles ran two marathons and all he got was peeing advice that we may or may not adopt. Heavy on the “may not”. Trinity Rodman and Cameron Brink reminded us that Gen Z almost always finds love using the internet, and made us yearn for the Carolyn Bessette Kennedy and JFK Jr. days of romance (are you team red roses or white orchids?). And in actual sports news, Caroline tells us who to look out for post-NFL Combine.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

Charles LeClerc’s first wedding – implying there is a second
How Azzi Fudd and Sarah Strong led UCONN women’s basketball to dominance this season
Comparing the NBA and WNBA’s salary caps ahead of the women’s CBA deadline on March 10
Dawn Staley’s advice for Bam Adebayo when it comes to A’ja Wilson
A four-for-one Alysa Liu Send It, from her trip to “Watch What Happens Live” to meeting Daniel Radcliffe

Send Its:

Soccer player gives seagull CPR: https://www.instagram.com/reels/DVXHV-vkxgj/
UCONN vs. UMass breakaway lights out: https://www.ctinsider.com/sports/uconn/article/hockey-umass-mullins-center-lights-viral-score-ot-21949129.php
Who’s Alysa Liu’s Olympic crush?: https://www.instagram.com/p/DVSW-YTFHTn/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=cd0deea4-8a44-408a-be19-2aafadcb19b8
And who’s the mascot who dressed like her?: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/q_wuyZ33cJs

Follow Dawn Staley on IG: @staley05

Follow Well Played on IG: @wellplayedbytheskimm

Follow Blake on IG: @blaaakkkke

Follow Caroline on IG: @cghendy

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How Women Won the Winter Olympics ft. Brenda Song | Well Played

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 16:59:00 -0000

Women won big time at the Winter Olympics, taking home more than half of Team USA’s gold medals. But a story involving President Trump and the US men’s hockey team has clouded the moment, raising questions about support for the women. After the team declined a White House visit, Flavor Flav offered to host them instead. Yes, really. Meanwhile, Megan Thee Stallion linked up with Laila Edwards, and figure skater Amber Glenn pushed for more conversation about competing on your period.

Send Its:

Irvine PD curling PSA: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DU_3DPSElHu/
Bratz Doll x Alysa Liu: https://www.instagram.com/p/DVFCiaFEp-x/?img_index=1
Myles Garrett’s poetry: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/oJqb-h06gG0
Lindsay Vonn’s almost-amputation: https://www.instagram.com/p/DVGlrZuDYhq/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Moms Win at the Olympics, Taylor Swift Intro's “Blade Angels”, and the Canadian Curling Scandal

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 18:23:00 -0000

(Almost) the entire pod is about the Olympics this week. Sorry, not sorry. Caroline and Blake beg the question: why are winter Olympic athletes so much more unhinged than the summer ones? From a Norwegian biathlete’s very public cheating confession to a gold medalist’s credit card fraud conviction, we dive deep into the most wild stories from the week.

In this episode, we also cover:

Why the NFLPA can no longer publish its report cards publicly – and why that’s a loss for the league
What Joe Judge gets wrong about fatherhood in Trinidad Chambliss’ eligibility testimony
What Breanna Stewart’s off-season move to play in Turkey could mean for the WNBA season
A Canadian curling scandal ft. the Swedish…surveillance state?

Going for the Golds:

Milan-Cortina c*ndoms restocked at the village: https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/olympics/2026/02/17/winter-olympics-condom-supply-shortage/88715151007/
Taylor Swift presents…the “Blade Angels”: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DU1aS--Aan4/?igsh=ZGg3Mm15aTc2NWJl
Benoit Richaud’s changes outfits more than his skaters: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DU3CTbdjY95/

Follow Well Played on IG: @wellplayedbytheskimm

Blake on IG: @blaaakkkke

Caroline on IG: @cghendy

theSkimm on IG: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lindsay Vonn’s Controversial Call, Stefon Fumbles Cardi B, and Why Bad Bunny Had Bush People

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 17:45:00 -0000

After spending eight straight days together, Blake and Caroline are back in NYC with another episode of “Well Played.” We recap our Super Bowl experience with some exclusive intel on the Cardi B and Stefon Diggs break up, say goodnight to the NFL season, and send it to the Winter Olympics which is our collective fixation.

In this episode, we also cover:

A special giveaway for one new follower of @wellplayedbytheskimm on IG
How Lindsay Vonn shut down armchair experts around her recent leg fracture
Who Surya Bonaly is, and why she’s getting her flowers in the wake of Ilia Malinin’s backflip
The extremely practical backstory of Bad Bunny’s bush people
The Dyson Air Wrap’s missed opportunity at the Winter Olympics

Going for the Golds:

Maddie Schiza’s professor is the MVP: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2PhOOl7PCvw⁠
The Winn Brothers winning our hearts: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/reels/DUeuk7cjPth/⁠
The unsung hero of the ski jump: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/reels/DUcy2jeAq8w/⁠
NJ Devils are salty over these Team USA brothers: ⁠https://x.com/wyshynski/status/2020968647259304015?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2020968647259304015%7Ctwgr%5Ede395a3c80c9caf589ba60125b8775e96a2c3718%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fgonepuckwild.com%2Fdevils-quinn-hughes-photoshop-jack-hughes-wild-trade⁠

Follow Well Played on IG: @wellplayedbytheskimm

Blake on IG: @blaaakkkke

Caroline on IG: @cghendy

theSkimm on IG: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bravo Meets Winter Olympics, Tom Brady’s Sad Girl Era, and Listener Questions on Super Bowl LX

Sat, 07 Feb 2026 19:35:00 -0000

Tom Brady showed us just how much of a teen girl at heart he is with a recent series of Instagram stories. Did Gisele have anything to do with it? Caroline has thoughts. We also answer listener questions around the Super Bowl, like what “game odds” even mean and a vibe-check of the Seahawks and Patriots O & D-lines.

In this episode, we also cover:

What our Bravo taglines would be as podcasters
Carlos Alcaraz proving “if he wanted to, he would” after his Australian Open win
A convo with Nordic combined skier, Annika Malacinski, on why her brother can compete at the Olympics but she can’t
Whether Lewis Hamilton is next on the “Kardashian kurse” list
How to tune into the Winter Olympics opening ceremony this Friday

Fun Stuff that aren’t Send Its:

Bravo taglines: https://www.bravotv.com/the-daily-dish/team-usa-athletes-real-housewives-taglines-2026-winter-olympics-video
Sam Darnold’s bird-app: https://www.tiktok.com/@vikingzfanpage/video/7463889814689975582
Crotch-enlargement scandal: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/m-UFFj3SNW8

Annika Malacinski: @annika.malacinski

Blake on IG: @blaaakkkke

Caroline on IG: @cghendy

theSkimm on IG: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trinity’s Pay Day, the NBA’s Kardashian Kurse, and Coco’s Relatable Crashout ft. Cameron Brink

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 19:06:00 -0000

Sorry boys, but Kendall Jenner’s getting the last laugh around the “Kardashian Kurse". Well, at least she did in her Super Bowl ad with Fanatics Sportsbook. WNBA star Cameron Brink joins Well Played to talk about why she wants Alex Consani on her pod, the most “big brother” thing about Steph Curry, and the biggest difference in her routine since her ACL injury. Finally — we have big news surrounding Well Played and Super Bowl LX. If you see us in the Bay, say hey.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

Donna Kelce and Andrea Swift’s girls trip to the…Sundance Film Festival?
How Travis Kelce’s supporting a women’s ice hockey player’s historic journey to the Olympics

Send Its of the week, including how Shaun White is handling his separation from Nina Dobrev, a Redbull athlete to watch at the Olympics, Derrick Rose’s positive masculinity, and Kendall Jenner addressing the “Kardashian Kurse”

Cameron Brink: @cameronbrink22

Blake on IG: @blaaakkkke

Caroline on IG: @cghendy

theSkimm on IG: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Heated Rivalry Meets the NFL, Noami Stuns the Open, and the Beckhams are Beefing ft. Jeanie Buss

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 17:19:00 -0000

The NFL postseason is in full chaos mode, and this week Blake and Caroline are breaking down the Chicago Bears game that put fans through an emotional roller coaster. From pivotal play calls to high-pressure moments, they dig into what went wrong, what worked, and what Caleb Williams’ performance reveals about the road ahead. Plus, Caroline is making sure we all know who to root for in the NFL playoffs based on the characters in “Heated Rivalry.” In this episode of “Well Played”, we also cover: -Why the Beckham beef is back in the spotlight -Which WNBA star is joining “Hunting Wives” -Why Chloe Kim is spending so much time in the pedicure chair -The reason Fernando Mendoza’s story has us in our feels -What it was like for former Laker’s owner Jeannie Buss as a woman in a male-domited industry (hint: not easy) Plus Caroline and Blake conduct a sniff test with Literie’s new 2026 FIFA World Cup collection candles. Use code SKIMM10 for 10% off your order at https://literiecandle.com. Editor's note: In this episode Blake and Caroline discuss a NHL hockey team selling jerseys to support Pride. The correct team was the Ottawa Senators. Jeanie Buss on IG: @jeaniebuss Blake on IG: @blaaakkkke Caroline on IG: @cghendy theSkimm on IG: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Heated Rivalry’s Hollywood Takeover, Ilona Maher’s Lesson in Clapbacks and Playoff Josh Returns ft. Ali Truwit

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 20:17:00 -0000

The “Heated Rivalry” craze that started in 2025 spilled into the new year, with everyone (us) foaming at the mouth over the Heated Rivalry boys. Hollanov/ HudCon/our boyfriends dominated the Golden Globes, where Julia Roberts revealed her football fandom, Hailee Steinfeld debuted her bump on the red carpet, and Timothée Chalamet took home the gold statue for Best Actor for playing the insufferable lead in “Marty Supreme”. Plus, Caroline breaks down everything you need to know about last weekend’s wild card round – and what’s to come in the no-man’s-land of the NFL post-season.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

Ali Truwit’s journey from losing her foot in a shark attack to medaling at the Paris Paralympics
The unprecedented matchup between Indiana-Miami in the college football finals – and how much it’ll cost to watch the game IRL
George Kittle’s relatable request post-Achilles tear
How Alysa Liu made the Olympic figure skating squad, despite retiring at 16
Our takeaway from Ilona Maher’s response to a body-shaming troll

Check out Ali's work with "Love, Your Mind" and find mental health resources at LoveYourMindPlaybook.org.

Ali Truwit on IG: @⁠alitruwit⁠

Love, Your Mind IG: @love_yourmind

Blake on IG: @blaaakkkke

Caroline on IG: @cghendy

theSkimm on IG: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From Skateboards to Boardrooms: How a CEO Paved Her Way to Her Dream Job

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 21:10:00 -0000

For many of us, following our passions doesn’t always pay the bills. But sometimes, the right idea (and a little grit) can change that.

In this special episode created in partnership with Capital One Venture X Business Card, we sat down with Kristen Dermer, a CEO who took her childhood passion for skateboarding and turned it into a career. Kirsten, the co-founder of Spohn Ranch, told us all about how she built her award-winning skatepark design-build business from the ground up. Click play, lean back, and prepare to get inspired.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Josh & Hailee Are Having a Baby, the Chiefs Dynasty is Dead, and End of Year Awards ft. Olivia Culpo

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 20:54:00 -0000

Josh Allen and Hailee Steinfeld are expecting their first child together. Hailee shared the news in her “Beau Society” newsletter. But Josh Allen kinda gave it away with his empathic morning sickness on the sidelines. We wrap the last episode of the year with our annual Wellies, including categories like “Most Exhausted PR Team” and “Diva of the Year.” Disagree with the nominees? Sound off in the comments.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

An update on the Sherrone Moore case out of the University of Michigan

Why motherhood made Olivia Culpo mourn who she was before having her baby

How Ann Michael Maye’s “Bakemas” killed Drake Maye’s win

Why we’re not surprised A’ja Wilson is a co-chair for the Met Gala’s host committee

Introducing the greenest flag in college football, Fernando Mendoza

Thanks to our presenting sponsor Capital One Venture X Business Card! Visit ⁠https://skimmth.is/48YzMGy⁠ to learn more.

Well Played will be on winter break for the next few weeks. Until then – thank you for all of the support in 2025. This show would be nothing without you! See you in the New Year, love you mean it byeeeeeeee! - Blake & Caroline

Follow Olivia Culpo on IG: @oliviaculpo

Follow Olivia Culpo on TikTok: @oliviadangerculpo

Follow Blake on IG: @blaaakkkke

Follow Caroline on IG: @cghendy

Follow theSkimm on IG: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alix and Braxton’s Breakup, Heated Rivalry Recap, and the Regina George of College Football ft. Amanda Anisimova

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 17:42:00 -0000

The hottest show in sports right now has nothing to do with quarterbacks or point guards, but it has everything to do with gay guys who play pro-hockey – and we’re into it. Blake recaps the hockey smut show, Heated Rivalry, while Caroline breaks down the Notre Dame college football playoff drama, à la Regina George and the Plastics. Plus, the WTA’s no. 4 tennis player, Amanda Anisimova, drops by the studio to chat about going pro at 15, what happened when she prioritized her mental health, and more.

In this episode, we also cover:

The Chiefs sh*tting the bed in front of the girl gang, aka: Taylor Swift, Selena Gomez, and Lena Dunham
Alix Earle and Braxton Berrios calling it quits
The effectiveness of the positive vibes bunny in the Eagles locker room
Which game NFL fans dubbed “Pookie Bowl”

SEND ITS:

Tampa Bay Bucs support women in sports: https://www.instagram.com/p/DR-BirwDvCT/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
The auntie who loved up on AJ Brown: https://www.instagram.com/p/DR0Q2khkbId/?img_index=1&igsh=MXJ6OTQzYW9jZG40Yw%3D%3D
Angel Reese x Paige Bueckers collab when??? Right now: https://www.si.com/wnba/sky/news/sky-star-angel-reese-paige-bueckers-unite-marketing-campaign
Lando Norris becomes the F1 World Championship with McLaren: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DR-J9mYCUU-/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

Follow Blake on IG: @blaaakkkke

Follow Caroline on IG: @cghendy

Follow theSkimm on IG: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Conrad and Steven’s Kiss Cam, Kiffin’s Messy (CFB) Divorce, and a Silent Struggle in Women Sports

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 17:18:00 -0000

Caroline breaks down the soap opera drama of Lane Kiffin’s recent divorce from Ole Miss for the younger, hotter LSU. Who knew a middle-aged white guy would occupy so much of our brain space? It’s also high-season for celeb-watch on the NBA sidelines, from Benny Blanco and Selena Gomez cuddling up to Conrad and Steven giving us an alternate ending for “The Summer I Turned Pretty” on the kiss cam.

In this episode, we also cover:

The NWSL’s Sydney Leroux reveals how her silent health struggle is more prevalent in women’s sports than we believe
Recapping DWTS season 13, plus Alix Earle shutting down rumors about her boyfriend, Braxton Berrios
Why Ben Johnson went shirtless for the city of Chicago
How Post Malone’s Cowboys fandom goes beyond hometown loyalty
Petty Boys of the NFL week 13 edition, ft. Aaron Rodgers, Shelby Harris, and Cam Heyward

SEND IT:

“The Summer I Turned Pretty” alternate ending at the Knicks game: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DRp7Uq8ASOA/
The Ottawa Charge proposal: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DRisb8ejTMp/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&utm_medium=email
Bald man finds solution for women athletes (yes, his baldness *is* relevant): https://www.espn.com/college-sports/story/_/id/47109557/2025-ncaa-volleyball-tournament-players-hair-band-tiy-brand-jerritt-elliott
Megan thee Stallion and Klay Thompson are the gift that keeps on giving: https://www.instagram.com/p/DRm2Y2dD0yf/

Follow Blake on IG: @blaaakkkke

Follow Caroline on IG: @cghendy

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played LIVE at the National Women's Soccer League Championship with Sarah Spain

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 20:26:00 -0000

Well Played headed to the West Coast for a LIVE podcast recording at the NWSL Championship weekend. Joined by special guests Sarah Spain, we recapped the NWSL awards, handed out a few of our own (hi, Midge Purce), and set the scene for the title match, including alll the drama the led to the big game. Plus, we mentioned our favorite storylines from a season that proved — yet again — that women’s soccer is operating on another level. theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke Caroline’s IG: @cghendy Sarah's IG: spain2323 Want more sports? Sign up for theSkimm’s sports newsletter at theskimm.com/sports.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ciara and Russ Address Baby No. 5, LeBron and Bronny Go Freaky Friday, and Timothée and Adam Ball Out

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 17:34:00 -0000

Since at least late 2024, Russell Wilson has left thirsty comments on his wife Ciara’s Instagram posts asking for baby number five – aka, “Cinco.” Blake and Caroline join Ciara in her public plea to give her uterus a break. In other ick-worthy news, Sky Sports addressed the patronizing launch of their women-centric sports TikTok account, “Halo”. Matcha lattes and hot girl walks not included – thank God.

In this episode, we also cover:

How LeBron and Bronny body swapped, “Freaky Friday” style
The case for why Golden State Warriors player Draymond Green needs therapy
NFL week 12 highlights, including the Bills bouncing back, the return of spitgate, and the Chiefs dynasty…ending?
The Knicks ultra fan who used his visit to the Vatican to give Pope Leo a custom jersey
Jordyn Woods’s heartfelt gift for Karl Anthony Towns’ 30th birthday
Why Adam Sandler and Timothée Chalamet were at a high school gym together

SEND IT:

Jordyn Woods x KAT’s 30th birthday: https://www.instagram.com/p/DRGb3TiDQut/?img_index=1
Pope Leo gets his Knicks jersey: https://www.instagram.com/p/DRFILiOjIj8/?hl=en
Adam and Timmy ball out: https://www.instagram.com/p/DRLBtYvkS0S/?img_index=1

OTHER STUFF TO KNOW:

We will be at the NWSL Championships this weekend! Join us for a LIVE recording of Well Played at 2 PM on Saturday at the lot at creekside, 140 S. Montgomery Street in San Jose, California.

ICYMI, our interview with Gotham FC’s Jaedyn Shaw: https://youtu.be/zriAtGJiXzA?si=sdr015p-ZC0YE--p&t=2066

Follow Blake on IG: @blaaakkkke

Follow Caroline on IG: @cghendy

Follow the pod on IG: @wellplayedpod

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe Burrow's Crystal Collection, Dua Lipa's Sporty Day off, and Prince Harry's Apology ft. Jaedyn Shaw

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 21:02:00 -0000

Bengals fans, rejoice. The streets are saying Joe Burrow will return by Thanksgiving after healing his turf toe. Shocked he’s already making a comeback? Us too. Blake and Caroline suspect it’s all thanks to an Etsy witch – with a side of Joe’s crystal collection. Meanwhile, Dua Lipa spends a sporty day off.

In this episode, we also cover:

Why Prince Harry issued an apology to Canadians post-World Series

Dak Prescott’s heartfelt speech surrounding the death of Cowboys defensive end, Marshawn Kneeland

Which swatch of red lipstick Daniel Jones wore during the Colts game

Why Jaedyn Shaw shut down the “underdog” comments surrounding Gotham FC

Serena Williams and Ciara break it down – and which one of them couldn’t get back up

SEND IT:

Klay Thompson is the greenest flag: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQw_i1qEsvK/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Jonas Brothers + Jason Kelce – aka girl dads – unite: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQ4N2THCvud/?igsh=MTNuc3Q2MzZ5NWszMQ==

Origins of Dua LaPeep: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4jar6nzgmm4

Dua Lipa’s book club: https://tertulia.com/editorial-list/dua-lipa-complete-book-club-picks?srsltid=AfmBOoryU4Vl7KA_lYJvoyJ3_21MKtbkGI78xO-NB33wz-brVyLWOdo3

Ciara, Serena, and Venus: https://www.instagram.com/p/DQzWxmCiUEW/

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s IG: @cghendy

theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm

Want more sports? Sign up for theSkimm’s sports newsletter at theskimm.com/sports.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Beckhams Go Royal, Simone Shares Candid Confessions, and the IRL Pink Pony Club

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 16:20:00 -0000

David and Victoria Beckham graduated from “Mr. and Mrs.” to “Sir and Lady” after the soccer legend was knighted for his service in sport and charity. It was a decade-long process – and apparently included some expletive-filled emails when he got passed over years ago. The family gathered to celebrate, but we couldn’t help but notice one noticeably absent Beckham. Meanwhile, Simone Biles shared a “get unready with me” TikTok we didn’t know we needed full of cultural confessions. Simone, if you’re reading this: it would be our honor to show you how to use a dishwasher.

In this week’s episode, we also discuss:

Caroline’s crash out over the Jets trade of Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams
Hellen Obiri breaking the NYC Marathon course record – and her parents adorable reaction
Clayton Kershaw’s dad bod on full display, plus whether Shohei Ohtani is secretly fluent in English
What we want out of the next Cardi B and Robert Kraft sighting
Joe Burrow’s Halloween costume that had us asking…why so serious?

Send Its:

Cardi B and Kraft are suite-side besties: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQkokwUgEBU/?igsh=MThyaHZyY3F6bmNzbA==
Simone Biles’ “get unready with me” confessions: https://www.tiktok.com/@simonebilesowens/video/7566672113323560222?lang=en
Chappell Roan at the National Horse Show: https://www.instagram.com/p/DQf0kTcDv_t/
Miley Stewart isn’t Hannah Montana…Cam Dicker is: https://www.tiktok.com/@chargers/video/7567119748417195295?lang=en
Ms. Terry (aka Nick Saban’s wife) is all of us: https://www.instagram.com/p/DQnRrDjDrxA/

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s IG: @cghendy

theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm

Want more sports? Sign up for theSkimm’s sports newsletter at theskimm.com/sports.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bieber Balls Out, a Taylor Touchdown Celly, and College Football’s Firing Boom

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 15:56:00 -0000

It was a big week in basketball news. Justin Bieber played in a rec league designed for “CEOs, VIPs, and people from all walks of life” (you may raise your eyebrows) while the NBA faces two scandals of its own. One deals with illegal sports betting and rigged poker games. The other? Jaylen Brown’s hairline. Also: Blake and Caroline surprise each other with sporty Halloween costumes for the pod, so watching on YouTube or Spotify is a must this week.

In this week’s episode, we also discuss:

The moment we became Justin Fields stans

A World Series game so crazy, Blake and Caroline are even intrigued

U.S. Soccer’s work to support pregnant and post-partum players on the USWNT

Why getting fired as a college football coach is almost as lucrative as being an active one

How to watch the NWSL Decision Day games this coming Sunday

Send Its:

The Lions fan who welcomed a new member into the fandom: https://www.instagram.com/p/DQPezPlgcIC/?img_index=2&igsh=NHU0NWI4ajRuYW14

Panthers players got us feeling old: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQKT1fSkRJC/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

The A’ja Wilson effect on Bam Adebayo’s game: https://www.instagram.com/p/DQO_avMga6L/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Travis Kelce hits the “The Fate of Ophelia” touchdown celly: https://www.tiktok.com/@courtneymarycrain/video/7566093931478273335

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s IG: @cghendy

theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm

Want more sports? Sign up for theSkimm’s sports newsletter at theskimm.com/sports.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Simone’s First Flip Back, Sho-Time at the Series, and the Gross Trend in Women’s Sports Betting

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 23:41:00 -0000

Shohei Ohtani showed us why he’s Him while the uncs of the NFL faced off in Thursday Night Football. Vintage Joe Flacco and Aaron Rodgers game to play, which left fans with a 2010s sense of whimsy. Simpler times. Meanwhile, Simone Biles flipped for the first time since getting her new cherries (IYKYK) and NFL WAGs Kylie Kelce and Olivia Culpo got clear on two things: 1) men need to stop saying “we’re pregnant” when expecting a baby and 2) that becoming a mom will probably give you an identity crisis – and that’s OK.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

Drake Maye putting up Tom Brady-esque numbers
Which WNBA star is Dallas Cowboys’ CeeDee Lamb’s good luck charm
Why Mike Vrabel always addresses women first in press conferences
Whether Joe Burrow is emo or dressing up as Conrad Fischer from “The Summer I Turned Pretty” for Halloween

Thanks to our presenting sponsor, Beats! Visit beatsbydre.com to learn more.

Send Its:

Bridget Condon of NFL Network shows us moms really can do it all: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPym4v0jlJj/?igsh=YmdkNzFkaW9yNjM4
Simone Biles debuts her first flip in a year: https://people.com/simone-biles-alludes-to-new-boob-job-11830995
80-year-old Natalie Grabow makes us feel like we can do anything: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/J-S3Hd9frrw
Maya Rudolph shares hot take on athletes on SNL: https://www.tiktok.com/@nglwithkylie/video/7561980555223436575

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s IG: @cghendy

theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm

Want more sports? Sign up for theSkimm’s sports newsletter at theskimm.com/sports.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Timmy Takes Kylie to the Ballgame, Women Track Stars Get their Purse, and Frat Bros Run the Giants

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 17:30:00 -0000

Thursday night was tough for the city of Brotherly love. The Eagles, Phillies, and Flyers fell to their foes. Giants rookies Cam Skattebo and Jaxson Dart – aka the frat bros running the Giants – showed Jalen Hurts and friends who’s boss. Meanwhile, we learned the solution to the so-called male loneliness epidemic: gather hundreds of male sports fans, let them take their shirts off, and swing in unison. Turns out camaraderie might just be the secret sauce.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

Which Olympian recognized us at ATHLOS, the women’s only track-and-field invitational (yes, this is a brag)

Whether Baker Mayfield is Him, aka: MVP

Why Phoenix Mercury fans actually stayed after the WNBA Finals (hint: it has nothing to do with good sportsmanship

Our favorite Send Its of the week, including the Colts cheerleaders winning our hearts, the Parent Trap nostalgia on DWTS, and the star-studded Lakers pre-season hype video

Send Its:

Lakers pre-season hype video: ⁠https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/46533657/los-angeles-lakers-natalia-bryant-preseason-hype-video⁠

Colts cheerleaders win us over: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/p/DPuHdh4ARBU/⁠ / ⁠https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPlw-b8jZje/⁠

Timmy takes Kylie to the ball game: ⁠https://people.com/timothee-chalamet-kylie-jenner-step-out-at-yankees-game-day-after-revealed-new-shaved-head-11827077⁠

Elaine Hendrix and Lisa Ann Walter reenact our favorite Parent Trap scene: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/p/DPrNR41ke8Q/⁠

Caroline’s IG: ⁠@cghendy⁠

Blake’s IG: ⁠@blaaakkkke⁠

theSkimm’s IG: ⁠@theskimm⁠

Want more sports? Sign up for theSkimm’s sports newsletter at ⁠theskimm.com/sports⁠.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hockey (Smut)’s New Fans, Wide Receiver Divas, and Travis’ Wood with Gisele Thompson

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 19:23:00 -0000

Heads up — this episode may contain references to Taylor Swift’s “The Life of a Showgirl.” Actually – it definitely will. You’re welcome, Swifties (Caroline). Sorry skeptics (Blake).

The NFL’s week 5 delivered on upsets, which has some analysts saying that Drake Maye has arrived, Trevor Lawrence can’t fumble, and Jalen Hurts’ offense needs help. It’s us. We’re analysts.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

A Caroline-approved haiku about week 5, written by Blake
AJ Brown not beating the wide-receiver diva allegations
How Cathy Engelbert responded to Napheesa Collier’s scorched-Earth presser
Dissecting the hate Ayesha Curry received for her Call Her Daddy interview
How Gisele Thompson really feels about playing without her sister + former teammate, Alyssa Thompson

Send Its:

Reese Witherspoon gives advice to highdiver Molly Carlson: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPUGhmvDdKW/
CeeDee Lamb is…daddy?: https://www.tiktok.com/@flockcarter/video/7557773703849823518
Jerry Jones apparently flips the bird at Jets fans: https://www.instagram.com/p/DPcthGgjP_3/?img_index=1&igsh=d3N0amcyMTdnOGQ
Isaac Rochelle references (almost) every track from “The Life of a Show Girl”: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPckmk8kQL5/?igsh=Y3Zveng1d2ZpcDRo

Gisele’s IG: @giselethomp

Caroline’s IG: @cghendy

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm

Want more sports? Sign up for theSkimm’s sports newsletter at theskimm.com/sports.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Napheesa Comes for Cathy, the NFL’s Turf Curse, and Micah Parsons Plays His Ex

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 15:11:00 -0000

Napheesa Collier went scorched earth. In her season exit interview, she publicly called out Cathy Engelbert and WNBA leadership for their lack of accountability around some of the most pressing issues facing players. Blake and Caroline break down the WNBA drama from last week, starting with Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve’s $15,000 fine and suspension to Collier’s mic-drop moment. With the CBA deadline coming up at the end of the month, time will tell how her statement will affect negotiations – and the future of the league.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

Why Odell Beckham Jr. called MetLife “DeathLife” after Malik Nabers’ ACL tear
A passionate monologue from Caroline on why ties need to be banned in pro-sports
Micah Parson’s feelings about his non-refundable field-level suite at Cowboys stadium
Team Europe’s reaction to the harassment Rory McIlroy’s wife faced at the Ryder Cup

Smelling salts: Y/N (Aaron Rodgers says yes)

Send Its:

SMU volleyballer Natalia Newsome’s 40-inch vertical: https://www.instagram.com/p/DPEcz5DjTDz/?img_index=1&igsh=MTNlNTEzZHp2cXp3Ng==
Detroit Lions endzone celly: https://www.instagram.com/p/DPJuV-WEU9G/
Angel City FC’s Claire Emslie proving women can do anything: https://www.instagram.com/p/DPJuV-WEU9G/?hl=en
RIP to a real one, Roscoe Hamilton: https://www.instagram.com/p/DPMB7EUDGID/?hl=en

Caroline’s IG: @cghendy

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm

Want more sports? Sign up for theSkimm’s sports newsletter at theskimm.com/sports.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Olivia Culpo’s Post-Baby Bod Talk, Cardi B’s WAG Debut, and Why Golf’s for the Girls with Amanda Balionis

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 17:28:00 -0000

Anna Hall. Simone Biles. Olivia Culpo. The WAGs are defrosting – and we didn’t know how badly we needed it. Simone served sideline looks with her custom Jonathan Owens gear while Olivia got real on her post-baby bod. In other barely sports news, the cast of Bring It On brought it back with a reunion that might have you feeling old. Don’t worry, us too.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

How much you’d have to pay to run like Harry Styles
A’ja Wilson’s reaction to Bam Adebayo giving her the MVP trophy
How UCF trolled UNC à la Bill Belichick and Jordon Hudson
Why Serena Williams, Chloe Kim, and Nelly Korda are influencing our next athleisure purchase

Send Its:

Skims x Nike ad featuring our fave women athletes: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DO58Q6hDiW7/
Josh Hart’s unintentional NYFW walk: https://people.com/knicks-star-josh-hart-on-runway-help-2-year-old-twins-model-11813710
Devonta Smith is MVP in this Eagles’ fans life: https://6abc.com/post/eagles-wr-devonta-smith-fianc-surprise-fan-battling-cancer-autographed-jersey/17836647/
Bring It On reunion: https://www.instagram.com/p/DO6rbelEiLK/?img_index=1

Amanda’s IG: @balionis

Caroline’s IG: @cghendy

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe Burrow’s Turf Toe, Carlie’s Colts Kill It, and Taylor Makes an Entrance with Ali Krieger

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 19:17:00 -0000

We’re pouring one out for the Bengals’ Joey B, who’s out for the next three months recovering from turf toe. Blake begs the question: why couldn’t it be a sexier injury? Elsewhere in the midwest, the Colts are killing it for the first time in *checks watch* a long time. Some say it’s thanks to the new QB on the block, Daniel “Indiana” Jones. Our verdict? It’s thanks to Carlie Irsay-Gordon, who’s been prepping her whole life for this. Plus, we catch up with former USWNT member, Ali Krieger, about life post-retirement and what cross-sport solidarity means for the future of women’s sports.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

One detail Travis shared about his proposal to Taylor
Why fans think Shaun White and Nina Dobrev ended their engagement
Where Gigi Hadid and Bradley Cooper watched the Eagles game this week
How Jennifer Hudson played a role in Paige Bueckers learning about her ROTY status

Send Its:

Ali Krieger’s IG: @alikrieger

Caroline’s IG: @cghendy

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm

PS: Did you know theSkimm has a sports newsletter? Sign up at theskimm.com/sports.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Swifties Enlist for Travis, Spitgate Suspensions, and Sabalenka’s Equal Pay Purse with the WNBA’s Kate Martin

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 16:50:00 -0000

NFL Week 1 served up more drama than we could chew. Josh Allen & co. pulled off a comeback for the ages (yes, we know it’s only Week 1). Swifties mobilized to defend Taylor’s fiancé after a slap on the field. And a bright green dildo made its NFL debut – cue Caroline’s public apology for potentially playing a part. Plus, Golden State Valkyries star Kate Martin joins us to talk about making franchise history and reacting to Caitlin Clark’s season-ending injury.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

A wild fun fact about winners of the US Open, Aryna Sabalenka and Carlos Alcaraz
The iconic title given to Ben Shelton at Trinity Rodman’s recent match
How Chelsea FC Women is destigmatizing playing while on their periods
The woman reminding us to stop stealing sports memorabilia from children

Send Its:

Thanks to our presenting sponsor Yes Way Rose! Visit yeswayrose.com to learn more.

Caroline’s IG: @cghendy

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm

PS: Did you know theSkimm has a sports newsletter? Sign up at theskimm.com/sports.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Naomi Osaka’s Return, Arch Manning’s It-Boy Status, and Glen Powell Goes Collegiate with Kristin Juszczyk

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 18:55:00 -0000

Did you miss us? Cause we missed you. We’re inching closer to the end of Honey Deuce season, AKA: the end of the US Open. Coming out of the weekend, convos surrounding Naomi Osaka’s return to dominance flooded our feeds. Her talents brought her this far, but we’re convinced Billie Jean Bling and Althea Glitterson – her sparkly Labubu sidekicks – will bring her to the end. Plus, a recap on the first weekend in college football and a look ahead at week 1 of the NFL season.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

How many Honey Deuces Blake spilled at the US Open
Serena Williams' reaction to her sister's new doubles partner
Who clipped another Dallas athlete’s wings
How Chapel Bill dropped the ball during his UNC debut
Why some people are calling Caitlin Clark’s Nike logo “Temu Chanel”

Send Its:

Caroline’s IG: @cghendy

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm

PS: Did you know theSkimm has a sports newsletter? Sign up at theskimm.com/sports.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Emergency Pod: Taylor and Travis are Engaged

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 00:48:00 -0000

It's a love story, baby she said yes. Blake and Caroline hop on an emergency pod recording to chat about the engagement news and what it means for Travis’ 13th season in the NFL.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Taylor Swift’s Big Reveal on New Heights, Ronaldo Put a Rock On It, and The Summer Everyone Watched Women’s Sports

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 20:15:00 -0000

Swiftie skeptics, this one's for you. Caroline successfully pulled Blake into the buzz around Taylor Swift’s album drop on boyfriend Travis Kelce’s pod, “New Heights”. And spoiler alert: the theories came true after a 10 PM Instagram tease from Miss Swift herself. Doesn’t she know we’re in bed by then? In other sporty-ish news, Cristiano Ronaldo gifted his now fiancée Georgina Rodriguez a rock – not a ring – and Tom Brady edges closer and closer to a mid-life crash out after seeing his statue outside of Gillette Stadium.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

Trinity Rodman’s post-rehab ritual we’re stealing
How umpire Jen Pawol made MLB history over the weekend
Myles Garrett’s press conference that left literally nothing to the imagination
How we know LeBron James is in trouble with Savannah

Send Its:

“The Summer I Turned Pretty” cast at a New York Liberty game https://www.instagram.com/p/DNL1l3zgRms/?igsh=YzJobGhzZ3U1b2Y3
Chad Ochocinco Johnson heartbroken over the Claire’s bankruptcy news https://www.complex.com/sports/a/alex-ocho/chad-ochocinco-heartbroken-over-reports-claires-filing-for-bankruptcy
Angel City FC using ultrasound equipment to see Claire Emslie’s baby https://www.instagram.com/reel/DNQfwziNwhy/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
LeBron hits the pilates reformer with Savannah https://www.instagram.com/reel/DNA9fJqADxw/

Trinity Rodman’s double chocolate cake recipe, compliments of Aubrey Kingsbury: https://www.instagram.com/p/DNGrk8kPt3p/?img_index=1&igsh=MWVnNmJraHV1NWxsMg%3D%3D

Cake: https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/17981/one-bowl-chocolate-cake-iii/

Frosting: https://www.justataste.com/5-minute-chocolate-buttercream-frosting-recipe/?fbclid=PAQ0xDSwMIPU9leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABpwiC7U0gXBjB0KzdtjlwDNS_7nhkNWuaK-Nvp0o95m88paPgnJgvsUK8DhFv_aem_0Z26kMqASwKs-XQDmz3QRQ

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s IG: @cghendy

theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm

PS: Did you know theSkimm has a sports newsletter? Sign up at theskimm.com/sports.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trinity Rodman’s Big Comeback, Cyclists Losing Their Periods for the Podium, and Luka Dončić’s Hot Boy Summer

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 16:14:00 -0000

Trinity Rodman is so back. After spending months sidelined with a back injury, the Washington Spirit forward made her return and scored a game-winning goal. Tears, hugs, and a vulnerable celebration ensued. Blake and Caroline also dive into why the women’s Tour de France has some cyclists talking about periods, infertility, and overtraining.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

Blake and Caroline’s recap of Diana Taurasi’s docuseries premiere in New York
The will-they-won’t-they situationship between Micah Parsons and Jerry Jones
Just how fast Caitlin Clark clocked Jordan Chiles’ disloyalty to the Fever
The tea on the potential $325 million sale of the Connecticut Sun
Why Luka Dončić is gaining honorary millennial status

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s IG: @cghendy

theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm

PS: Did you know theSkimm has a sports newsletter? Sign up at theskimm.com/sports.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Travis’ Engagement Era, Jokic’s Horse Girl Energy, and Bend It Like Beckham’s Back

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 20:08:00 -0000

This episode of Well Played was recorded before a shooting in New York City on Monday in which the NFL headquarters may have been the target. Police say a gunman armed with a long gun killed at least five people in a Manhattan office building, including himself.

While a motive has not been confirmed, authorities say a note found in the shooter’s wallet referenced the brain disease CTE. We want to note that week’s episode includes conversations about football and the NFL that were recorded prior to news of the shooting.

Mr. Taylor Swift – aka Travis Kelce – singlehandedly brought us Christmas in July with a 13-photo Instagram dump featuring mostly him and Taylor. Blake and Caroline discuss deeply important info about the couple, including thoughts on Travis losing his 90s heartthrob hair, their potential engagement era, and Travis’ cameo in Happy Gilmore 2. Meanwhile, Sophie Cunningham shared the punishment she received for telling refs how she really feels about them via TikTok.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

Freaking out over Hailee Steinfeld mentioning Well Played in her newsletter, Beau Society
Who’s backing up Micah Parsons for being Jerry Jones’ public enemy of the week
Nikola Jokic proving he’s just a horse-lover who happens to be great at basketball
What Bend It Like Beckham and the NWSL have in common

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s IG: @cghendy

theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm

For info on when and how to watch your favorite NWSL team, visit ⁠nwslsoccer.com/schedule/regular-season⁠.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Caitlin Claps Back, Happy Gilmore Returns, and a Very Hailee Hard Knocks

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 22:44:00 -0000

The WNBA All Stars made a statement with just six words on a black shirt that read, “Pay Us What You Owe Us.” The tension continues to mount between the league and its players, who are asking for better pay and work conditions in their new CBA. But after an awkward press conference – where one All Star threw another under the bus – fans were left wondering what the strategy is and how they’ll accomplish it without some solidarity.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

A long recap of Caroline’s wedding and mini-moon and an even longer recap about Blake’s trip to the All Star Game
The real story behind the Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd hard launch
Which celebs – and how many – make a cameo in the Happy Gilmore sequel
Why the Bills were chosen for Hard Knocks despite having a great record
Where A’ja Wilson keeps her Olympic gold medals, a year out from the Paris Olympics

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s IG: @cghendy

theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm

PS: Did you know theSkimm has a sports newsletter? Sign up at theskimm.com/sports.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg thee Stallion Cuffs Klay, Sinner and Świątek Slay, and Tobin Heath’s Next Play

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 19:15:00 -0000

Meg thee Stallion is the newest NBA WAG. While we love to see our girl happy, we’re a little concerned about what it all means for Hot Girl Summer going forward. Across the pond, Swiatek and Sinner swept the Wimby finals, and the Royal family got first-row seats to the action…except for seven-year-old Prince Louis, who respectfully declined to show face. He’s not beating the iPad kid allegations.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

A quick intro about our guest host, Greydy Diaz
WNBA 🤝NWSL – the women hoopers investing in a different ball-game
Which Wimbledon celebs in attendance we’d want to sit next to
Whether Olivia Culpo’s maternity hospital bag was over-the-top
What it would take for Luka Doncic to hang out with us

Greydy’s IG: @greydydiaz

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm

PS: Did you know theSkimm has a sports newsletter? Sign up at theskimm.com/sports.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Courting Season at Wimbledon, Burrow’s Batmobile Reversal, and Live Tasting the Strawberry Pasta

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 16:39:00 -0000

Wimbledon’s serving more than just tennis. Celebs donned their Wimbledon whites while several top-seeded players bid us a “pip-pip cheerio” in early exits. Only three Americans remain, including Ben Shelton, who’s racking up wins and admirers – just ask Trinity Rodman. In other tennis news, Iga Swiatek shared her favorite post-game meal of strawberry and sour cream pasta. Naturally, Blake and Caroline had to try it live.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

The literal bloody hell moment one celeb had in her Wimbledon whites
Which WNBA legend is set to get the first-of-its-kind statue made of her
The real reason why Joe Burrow paused his $3 million Batmobile order
Why renting out a French chatêau couldn’t get Stefon Diggs out of the dog house
How Chicago Cubs fans made it clear they’re not members of Alex Cooper’s “Daddy Gang”

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s IG: @cghendy

theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm

PS: Did you know theSkimm has a sports newsletter? Sign up at theskimm.com/sports.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

LeBron’s Farewell Tour, Brady-Sweeney Sweetness, and the WNBA Expands

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 18:58:00 -0000

This week in Pretty Boys of the NFL, Tom Brady apparently hit it off with Sydney Sweeney at the Bezos-Sànchez wedding across the pond in Venice. Blake begs the very important question — can Tom Brady even flirt? Back home, Tight End University kicked off, where players came for the football and stayed for an impromptu Taylor Swift concert. Thanks, Travis.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

A recap of our time in the Stubhub suite for a recent Liberty game
Kelsey Plum sharing the real reason many WNBA stars are in a shooting slump
Ben Shelton confirming what Caroline knew to be true – butter yellow is in
The prettiest boy in the NFL who refused to play because it was “too cold”
How we want to see sporty enemies squash the beef, à la Coco and Aryna

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s IG: @cghendy

theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm
PS: Did you know theSkimm has a sports newsletter? Sign up at theskimm.com/sports.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Paige and Azzi Hard Launch, OKC’s Gen Z Kings, and Aaron Rodgers’ (Fake) Marriage

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 15:57:00 -0000

It was a winning week for Gen-Z ballers. Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd finally hard-launched their relationship on Instagram after months of speculation. Then, the Oklahoma City Thunder won the NBA Championship with an average roster age of 24.7. Subtract a couple of pandemic years (girl math), and they’re basically 22. Their post-win celebration? Let's just say it reflected their age.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

The only woman who could get Stephen A. Smith to… stop talking
How Sophie Cunningham stood on business — and what it reveals about WNBA reffing
Tom Brady proving yet again that he’s the GOAT at Fanatics Fest
How Kylie Kelce plans to help Dawn Staley’s post-coaching dreams come true
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander shows why he’s league *and* dad MVP after Game 7

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s IG: @cghendy

theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm

PS: Did you know theSkimm has a sports newsletter? Sign up at theskimm.com/sports.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Emma Watson’s Sporty Second Act, Caitlin and Tyrese are Besties, and the Kelces Land in Cannes

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 16:42:00 -0000

Emma Watson swapped scripts for sports on a certain Oxford University athletic team. Caroline has some words for her, if that gives you any clue about which sport it is. Also across the pond, the Kelce boys take Cannes Lions Festival to talk about the success of their podcast, New Heights. But the real star of the show? The outfit Jason wore in his panel there.The dad vibes are strong with this one.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

How the midwest brought Caitlin Clark and Tyrese Haliburton to BFF status
The impact Clark’s injury absence had on WNBA viewership
Our inaugural “Pretty Boys of the NFL” segment, ft. Jalen Hurts’ second wedding, Joe Burrow’s thirst traps (debatable) and the Kelce bros in France
Why Tyreek Hill and Noah Lyles need couples therapy
How JJ Spaun came back from a late-night parenting emergency to win the US Open

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s IG: @cghendy

theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm

PS: Sign up for the Skimm Sports newsletter at theskimm.com/sports

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Coco Manifests a Victory, Alex Cooper Tells All, and Olympian Laurie Hernandez Stops By the Studio

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 20:30:00 -0000

Coco Gauff made history with her victory at Roland Garross, despite controversial comments from her opponent after the match. And did you see her tiny trophy - what was that all about? Meanwhile, Alex Cooper’s new documentary dropped and her story from playing soccer in college is worth hearing.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

Carlos Alcaraz matching Rafa Nadal’s championship pace
Aaron Rodgers signed with the Steelers, but his ring finger is what has us talking
The WNBA initiative that’s spreading across the country
Our new partnership with the NWSL
Laurie Hernandez dishes on her time as an Olympic athlete and how she learned to put her mental health first

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s IG: @cghendy

theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm

Check out: YourMindIsTheMVP.com

PS: Sign up for the Skimm Sports newsletter at theskimm.com/sports.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cardi B Diggs a New Man, Kylie’s Kourtside Curse, and Josh Allen Finally Gets His Ring

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 17:18:00 -0000

Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs was caught on video giving a mysterious bag of pink powder to women on a yacht – and he still managed to hard launch on IG with Cardi B. Meanwhile, the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Runway Show featured some of our favorite athletes – hi, Jordan Chiles – and one of the most infamous Housewives of the wine-mom variety.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

Who’s taking the post-Knicks loss harder, Samantha Jones or Kylie Jenner?
The certifiably most random celeb spotting at the Allen-Steinfeld wedding
Why OKC + Indiana’s short commute could bring better balling in the finals
A major investment in women’s sports from Major League Baseball
Why our curse-watch is on for Saquon Barkley post-Madden cover debut

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s IG: @cghendy

theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Caitlin’s Billion Dollar Play, Aura Farming the Knicks, and Ilona Maher Joins the Chat

Tue, 27 May 2025 22:10:00 -0000

After the Knicks stumbled in the Eastern Conference Finals, we have just one question: is Timothée Chalamet okay? From Haliburton’s choke celly to KAT’s revenge tour, the NBA playoffs are delivering. Blake and Caroline chat about all the sports today (yes, even ultramarathons) and are joined virtually by Ilona Maher to talk rugby, body acceptance, being chronically online.

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

Why Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is making Caroline’s “Mount Rushmore of Perfect Husbands”
The one very important thing Coco Gauff forgot to bring to her French Open match
How the Colts’ owner set his daughters up for franchise takeover
The mom who’s reminding us that athleticism doesn’t stop where motherhood begins
How Ilona Maher really feels about being the face of American women’s rugby

Ilona’s IG: @ilonamaher

Ilona’s Podcast: @houseofmaher

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s IG: @cghendy

theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

NBA Goes Mormon Wives, Caitlin and Angel Set the Record, and the Bieber Curse Strikes

Wed, 21 May 2025 15:28:00 -0000

Men and women’s pro-hoops popped off last weekend. The Knicks upset the Celtics to make their first final four appearance in over 20 years. Meanwhile, the WNBA saw record crowds, a Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese showdown, and their foul-filled play everyone’s still talking about. Blake and Caroline break down the play and ask: if Caitlin and Angel moved on, why can’t we?

In this episode of Well Played, we also cover:

The latest rumor out of the Jordon Hudson and Bill Belichick saga
How we know a woman designed the New York Liberty’s championship ring
Whether Paige Bueckers blew it in her WNBA debut
The relatable way Nikola Jokic will spend his days after the Nuggets’ exit from the playoffs
Justin and Hailey Bieber date night with the Maple Leafs, plus which rapper accused JB of the team’s loss

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s IG: @cghendy

theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Giannis Ponders a Breakup, Belichick Tries to Bounce Back, and is the NBA Draft Lotto is Rigged? ft. Allison Kuch

Tue, 13 May 2025 19:52:00 -0000

Over the weekend, rumors swirled that Bill Belichick’s 24-year-old girlfriend was banned from UNC football facilities. The school shot that down quickly. But between the post-CBS interview shakeup to Jordon’s recent Miss Maine competition, TBD if either of them will even make it to week one of the season. Plus, Allison Kuch joins us to talk about life since husband left the NFL – and how she got her “pink” back.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

Whether the Mavs got first pick thanks to a widely circulated conspiracy theory
Paul Pierce’s walk of shame to work after the Celtics’ game two loss
Kylie Jenner and Jordyn Woods reuniting at the Knicks game
How one women’s soccer player highlighted the difficulties women athletes face finding jobs post-retirement

Follow Allison IG: @allisonkuch

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s IG: @cghendy

theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Met Gala Balls Out, NBA Flagrant Father, and LeBron Plays Hard to Get ft. Tara and Hunter Davis-Woodhall

Wed, 07 May 2025 00:03:00 -0000

Met Gala Monday showed us just how much influence athletes have on culture. From Simone Biles and Angel Reese serving on the host committee to even the least fashion-forward (hi, Joe Burrow) showing up to the carpet, the intersection of sport and fashion is hard to ignore. And we’re here for it.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

A recap of Blake and Caroline’s trip to Tampa covering DICKS Varsity Team debut
Which athletes served (and which didn’t) on the Met Gala carpet
How to parent your parents: a lesson from Tyrese Halliburton ft. Giannis Antetokounmpo
AJ Brown’s proposal to his fiancée, and which R&B singer helped tie the knot
How Tara and Hunter Davis-Woodhall’s lives financially changed pre and post-Paris Olympics

Follow the Woodhalls IG: @thewoodhalls

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s IG: @cghendy

theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

WAGS Meet HABs, Brenda Song’s Lakers Love, and Run Club Dating ft. Comedian Phoebe Robinson

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 20:25:00 -0000

As women athletes show up more and more in the zeitgeist, so do their husbands and boyfriends. But Blake and Caroline couldn’t help but wonder: do HABs get the same treatment as WAGs? Plus, 2 Dope Queens host and comedian Phoebe Robinson answers the question: should you date someone in your run club?

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

How Shadeur Sanders failed to nepo-baby his way through the NFL draft
Why some think Travis Kelce unfollowed Ryan Reynolds this week on IG
A soft-launch of a new segment called “Lore Keeper”, with inspo from Deux Moi
Who just made this Bill Belichick interview even more awkward than it already was
Our Send Its this week featuring Brenda Song giving her all for the Lakers, some brotherly love in the NHL, and an attack at the hands of the Tarp Monster

Phoebe’s IG: @dopequeenpheebs

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s IG: @cghendy

theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A Swiftie Twist at the Kentucky Derby, Suni Lee in the Stands, and the Stanley Cup’s Single Girl Spring

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 17:49:00 -0000

Swifties just about lost it when the organizer of a Kentucky Derby gala announced plans of a potential Taylor tour. In other “barely sports” news, Blake explains why the baddies are taking over the Knicks courtside seats, and what to make of the Stanley Cup exuding single girl energy on Instagram.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

Why Blake is putting down the mic to pursue an athletic career (it’s not a goodbye, it’s a see you later)
Whether Trinity Rodman is eying a bigger move off the pitch while recovering from a back injury
The drama surrounding Deion Sanders, featuring a brief segment Blake likes to call “why should I care about this man?”
Why we’ll 100% see Suni Lee court-side during the Knicks playoff run
Our favorite Send Its of the week, including the Michigan gymnast who stuck the landing in love and Nicolas Cage stepping up to the plate

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s IG: @cghendy

theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

WNBA Draft Highlights, McIlroy’s Masterpiece, and LeBarbie James Gets a Kendoll ft. Aliyah Funschelle

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 22:34:00 -0000

Caroline and Blake attended the WNBA draft last night and have many thoughts. While Blake beefed with the Dallas Wings mascot, a controversial celeb gave a nod to Caroline. Plus, we get an inside look at the orange carpet from content creator Aliyah Funschelle, who joins us in the studio to chat about exclusive interviews with athletes (and Paige Buecker’s after party with Nike).

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

Whether pro-women golfers will ever see a Masters tournament of their own
The golfer who dared to defy golfing fashion rules
LeBron gets his own Barbie doll, and we all know it’s not little girls buying them
Paige Bueckers bought how many boneless buffalo wings?
A bonus smell test for candles kindly gifted by Literie

Follow Aliyah: @aliyahfunschelle

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s IG: @cghendy

theSkimm’s IG: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: UConn Crowned Queen, NCAA’s Getting Greedy, and Scottie Scheffler’s a Mama’s Boy

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 18:41:00 -0000

Paige Bueckers and co. brought UCONN’s women basketball to its first March Madness win in almost a decade. After tearful celebrations, Coach Geno Auriemma shared some choice words for the NCAA. Something to the tune of “you don’t care about student athletes”, especially the women.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

The $2.8 billion NCAA settlement that’ll potentially fund Caroline’s wedding
The one thing connecting Geno Auriemma and Caroline’s mom (mama mia!)
Who told Caitlin Clark she’ll have to earn her spot on a roster, just like the rest of us
Bill Belichick’s three-quarters-of-a-life crisis ft. his recent photo op with Lil Wayne
What Jason Kelce would rather endure for a whole season than give birth
The first-ever Women’s College All-Star Combine (plus WNBA Draft preview)
Bonus: our “Queen of the Week” shoutout to listener Whitney, who says the show helps her bond with her (mostly boy) students

Follow theSkimm on Instagram: @theskimm

Caroline’s Instagram: @cghendy

Blake’s Instagram: @blaaakkkke

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: Bueckers Getting Buckets, The LeBronversation, and Men Play with their Torpedos

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 17:03:00 -0000

LeBron is not holding back anymore on all his foes. Caroline and Blake take a chance to react to their favorite details from his latest ESPN interview. Meanwhile, March Madness is (mostly) a snoozefest and we know why. Turns out it has something to do with…chalk?

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

The controversial Torpedo bat that has the Yankees playing better than ever
The Women’s Final Four and Paige Buecker’s eye-popping statline
Whether the Tush Push is about to be banned in the NFL
Trinity Rodman and Ben Shelton appear in public for the first time together
A major win for American figure skating by 19-year-old Alysa Liu
Morgan Wallen is an April Fool (and so is the guy who rubs banana peels on his face)

Caroline’s Instagram: @cghendy

Blake’s Instagram: @blaaakkkke

theSkimm’s Instagram: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

JuJu’s Bad Juju, Lindsey Vonn Makes a Comeback, and Athletes Go IG Official

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 17:28:00 -0000

Blake and Caroline predicted a Trinity Rodman and Ben Shelton hard launch, but Tiger Woods and Vanessa Trump? Not on our bingo cards. Several couples made their relationships IG official this week, and there might be a potential power couple budding between JuJu Watkins and Jayden Daniels. That is, unless Jayden’s mom can help it.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

Which famous athlete took credit for connecting Trinity and Ben
Lindsey Vonn's triumphant milestone
How many billions women’s sports will generate in revenue this year
The women college hoopers opening up about their mental health struggles
March Madness drama that has nothing to do with on-the-court action

Caroline’s Instagram: @cghendy

Blake’s Instagram: @blaaakkkke

theSkimm’s Instagram: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

March Madness is for the Girls, Ted Lasso Returns, and a Teenage Sports Prodigy Takes Over ft. Shawn Johnson East

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 16:15:00 -0000

Before Simone and Suni came Shawn Johnson, the Olympic gold medalist who shot to fame during the Olympics 17 years ago. Yup, we feel old too. Shawn joins Blake and Caroline in the studio to talk about fans literally crawling under bathroom stalls to get her autograph, why she couldn’t go back to high school, and her biggest piece of advice to teenaged athletes on the brink of stardom.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

March Madness 101 and how to fill out your bracket
The Cowboys player beefing with his former teammate
Why Blake has secondhand embarrassment over the WAGs drama in San Francisco
The return of Ted Lasso (with a much-appreciated twist)
A 14 year-old just took the field in a NWSL game (and Shawn has some words of wisdom to share)

Shawn’s Instagram: @shawnjohnson

Caroline’s Instagram: @cghendy

Blake’s Instagram: @blaaakkkke

theSkimm’s Instagram: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Timmy and Kylie Take Indian Wells, Tennis Scores a Mat Leave Win, and the Lip Readers Take On LeBron

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 17:23:34 -0000

Last week Blake and Caroline wondered which sports league would take the lead on supporting players’ families, and the Women’s Tennis Association said “allow me.” The WTA clinched a historic win for its players who are now eligible for 12-months of maternity leave, grants for fertility treatment, and more.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

Yay or nay: the PDA between Kylie and Timothée Chalamet
Why LeBron gave lip readers everywhere something to chew on after scolding Stephen A. Smith
The one caveat behind a massive donation to all competing US Olympic athletes
Why recent NFL trades could lead to uniting Ciara and Norman + justice for gingers
Josh Allen’s new salary breakdown to the seconds (try not to cry)
Our Send Its of the week including Bill Belichick’s youthful rebrand, the highdiver who’s celebrating – not shaming – her cellulite, and Grandma Kitty, Steph Curry’s no. 1 fan

Caroline’s Instagram: @cghendy

Blake’s Instagram: @blaaakkkke

theSkimm’s Instagram: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: Harry Runs in Style(s), Serena Splurges (on a WNBA Team), and LeBron Calls Out the Haters Ft. Lexie Brown

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 18:59:48 -0000

Commentators nationwide took a hard look in the mirror when LeBron called out the “weird energy” in sports media, where coverage of NBA players is nothing but negative. Seattle Storm player Lexie Brown joins us in the studio to chat about how that negativity led her to delete her Twitter, how she trained her brain to always see the positive, and why she finally took her own mental health seriously, thanks in part to a partnership with Love, Your Mind.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

Why one NFL team’s treatment of families was deemed “almost disrespectful”
Whether Travis will keep giving Swifties a reason to pay attention to the NFL
Who Simone Biles gave a heartwarming shout out to
Our top Send Its of the week, including Coco Gauff and Timothée Chalamet matching at the Oscars, Serena trading tennis for basketball, and Paul George’s retirement from podcasting

Follow Lexie: @lexiebrown

Lexie’s podcast: Full Circle

Love, Your Mind resources: loveyourmindtoday.org

Love, Your Mind IG: @love_yourmind

Blake’s IG: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s IG: @cghendy

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: Bieber Hits the Ice, Yankees Let Their Hair Down, and the Terrifying Trend Facing Women Athletes

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 20:52:32 -0000

It’s 2025, so why do we have to tell people to stop stalking women in sports? On the heels of tennis player Emma Raducanu and track star Gabby Thomas sharing their stalking stories, Blake and Caroline discuss why women athletes are at higher risk for harassment, the role social media plays, and how leagues can do better to protect them.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

Blake and Caroline’s strong feelings about the Yankees’ controversial beard-ban
Who Napheesa Collier gave half of her Unrivaled 1v1 prize money to
Whether JJ Watt will come out of retirement for…an English goalkeeper?
A preview of the NFL’s sorority rush week, AKA: the Combine
Justin Bieber getting feisty on the ice in a celeb hockey game

Caroline’s Instagram: @cghendy

Blake’s Instagram: @blaaakkkke

theSkimm’s Instagram: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: NBA All Star Agony, 4 Nations Face Off (and Fist Fight), and UCONN Snaps a Streak

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 19:30:14 -0000

The NBA hoped to get fans to care about the All Star Game this year and…it seriously backfired. After only 42 minutes of game time during the 3-hour broadcast, fans were left scratching their heads at the new format, the constant stoppages, and Kevin Hart’s (bad) jokes. Blake and Caroline look to the NHL’s 4 Nations for inspiration on how the ballers can make next year better.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

Why the NBA revamped the All-Star game format, and why fans still hated it
Wemby and Chris Paul exploiting a loophole in the skills challenge
How the list of the top-100 highest paid athletes in 2024 includes zero women
Women’s college hoops heating up with No. 7 UCONN’s win over No. 4 USC
Our top “Send Its” of the week including Saquon pulling a ball boy into the Eagles parade, Lebron ditching the All Star game to work out with his daughter, and the three-peat winner of the dunk contest

Caroline’s Instagram: @cghendy

Blake’s Instagram: @blaaakkkke

theSkimm’s Instagram: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: Eagles Fly, Kendrick Flares, and the Football Fellas Do Fashion

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 18:51:18 -0000

While the actual Super Bowl game might’ve been boring, Blake and Caroline found plenty to talk about: like Jalen Hurts winning the MVP, Travis Kelce’s post-game walk of shame, and whether or not the Eagles are poised to become a dynasty.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

Why this was a Super Bowl for haters of all kinds
Decoding Kendrick’s halftime performance
How many times Taylor Swift was shown during the game (hint: not a lot)
The women who won the Super Bowl, including the first Black woman coach and Jalen Hurts’ management team
Our top Send Its for the week, including Bradley Cooper’s side hustle, Nike’s first commercial in almost 30 years, and a rapid fire round of fashion police

Caroline’s Instagram: @cghendy

Blake’s Instagram: @blaaakkkke

theSkimm’s Instagram: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: Luka’s a Laker, Iowa Honors Caitlin, and our Super Bowl Bingo Card ft. Lily Shimbashi of Sportsish

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 21:51:47 -0000

It’s Super Bowl week, but the drama in the sports world never stops. Luka Doncic got caught up in what many experts are dubbing the “worst trade in NBA history” while A’ja Wilson and Bam Adebayo hard launched their relationship at the South Carolina alumna’s jersey retirement. After covering big headlines of the week, Caroline and Blake share Super Bowl rituals plus what they’ve got their eye on as the big game approaches.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

Why Mavericks’ fans haven’t slept since Luka Doncic’s trade to the Lakers
Caitlin Clark (potentially) having the fastest jersey retirement since leaving Iowa
Why Blake and Caroline are butting heads when it comes to Super Bowl watch habits
WTF prop bets actually are and which ones you should care about
Lily’s reactions to what’s on our Super Bowl bingo cards, including how often Taylor Swift will appear on the broadcast and who Kendrick Lamar is bringing out during his halftime show

Lily’s Instagram: @sportsish

Caroline’s Instagram: @cghendy

Blake’s Instagram: @blaaakkkke

theSkimm’s Instagram: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: Bye Bye Bills, Tom Brady’s Eggplant Envy, and WNBA Blockbuster Trade

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 19:51:00 -0000

It’s official - the Chiefs and Eagles are Super Bowl-bound. Caroline and Blake break down the controversial fourth-down review that may have cost the Bills an AFC Championship, plus other takeaways from this past weekend’s games.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs potentially reaching a new milestone
Tom Brady’s on-air confession about Nick Foles, aka Big D*ck Nick
An American triumph at the Aussie Open
Naomi Girma’s historic transfer to Chelsea FC
Empire State Building, Caroline’s certified op
The Knicks’ new sideline sweetie, Timothée Chalamet

Caroline’s Instagram: @cghendy

Blake’s Instagram: @blaaakkkke

theSkimm’s Instagram: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: Taylor and Caitlin Take KC, SportsTok Returns, and The “Hot Jock” of the NFL Postseason

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 19:35:29 -0000

While many NFL fans were swapping conspiracy theories about refs helping the Chiefs get a win, Taylor Swift and Caitlin Clark cozied up in their private skybox. Don’t worry, Taylor didn’t give anything for TikTok lip-readers to call her on as she whispered secrets to her new bestie. Blake and Caroline discuss what she might’ve been saying in the weekend's most widely memed moment.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

Ryan Reynolds invested in another football club while battling a $400 million lawsuit from Justin Baldoni
Coco Gauff’s RIP message to TikTok, plus the role the app has played in elevating athletes in pop culture
Caroline casts the four remaining playoff teams as the hot jock, boy-next-door, bully, and shy girl
Brittany Mahomes bounced back to the sidelines after giving birth just days before
Saquon Barkley is having a moment and Alex Cooper was there
Our favorite Send Its of the week including Ilona Maher’s broken nose, Josh Allen’s Golden Retriever Energy on full display, and the Lions dirty dancing in the end zone

Caroline’s Instagram: @cghendy

Blake’s Instagram: @blaaakkkke

theSkimm’s Instagram: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: NFL Fashion (Taylor’s Version), Eagles Book Club, and the Commanders’ Doink of Destiny

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 18:52:01 -0000

Travis Kelce might’ve spilled the beans on when Swifties can expect “Reputation: Taylor’s Version” during his recent appearance on The Pat McAfee Show. Plus, if you ever wanted to rep your favorite NFL team à la Taylor Swift, now’s your chance thanks to the launch of “Off Season” by Kristin Juszcyzk.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

How the Cardinals pulled through for the Rams in the wake of the California wildfires
Baby Names: Mahomes and Kelces edition
What we know about the man charged with stalking Caitlin Clark in Indianapolis
Wii Sports meets the Australian Open, while Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula dedicate their wins to LA firefighters
What Caroline and Blake think Eagles’ wide receiver AJ Brown should’ve been reading instead of “Inner Excellence”
The Commanders are heading to the playoffs for the first time in how long?
Caroline’s vibe check on Deion Sanders as a potential Cowboys coaching hire and Mike Vrabel taking over with the Pats

Caroline’s Instagram: @cghendy

Blake’s Instagram: @blaaakkkke

theSkimm’s Instagram: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: Zendaya Picks a Challenger, Love Island: NFL Edition, and Football Playoffs Preview

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 19:38:50 -0000

The NFL regular season has come to close, which means the real games are about to begin: it’s head coach recoupling season. Caroline and guest co-host Claudia Rupcich tackle all the head coaching vacancies, Love Island-style.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

Super Bowl predictions and the best round-one playoff matchups
Why Jimmy Butler and Tyreek Hill are both trying to get out of Miami
What’s going on with the Fox Sports sexual misconduct lawsuit
Caitlin Clark knows why NBA ratings are down
Simone Biles receiving another well-deserved award
College Football Playoff predictions before the much-anticipated semifinals
Our top Send It moments of the week, including Zendaya’s major red carpet reveal (looks like Tashi’s taken), the Golden Globes x NFL crossover moment, and a High School Musical celebration on the gridiron

Caroline’s Instagram: @cghendy

Claudia’s Instagram: @claudiarupcich

theSkimm’s Instagram: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Force of Habit: Tools and Tricks for Hacking Goal Setting

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 14:00:00 -0000

If you've ever tried to build or break a habit, you know how challenging it can be.

For this special episode created in partnership with Noom, we tapped Dr. Leah Katz — a clinical psychologist and author who specializes in self-compassion and goal-setting — to break down the science behind habits and recommend some tips we can all use.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: Joe Burrow’s Girlfriend Emergency, Bella Hadid the Horse Girl, and the Heisman Hate Parade

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 20:07:53 -0000

Joe Burrow is the latest high-profile NFL player whose home was burglarized this season. But what should’ve been a good old fashioned burglary exploded when the internet found out that Olivia Ponton made a 911 call reporting the incident, not to be confused with Olivia Holzmacher, his college sweetheart. Caroline and Blake wonder whether JB and OG Olivia split up (his pre-season bleach job is damning evidence) and dive into a Reddit conspiracy theory about Ponton’s potential motives.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

Who’s salty over Caitlin Clark winning TIME’s “Athlete of the Year”
Why the Heisman winner’s fiancée hijacked the headlines surrounding the award ceremony
Bella Hadid winning the “Rookie of the Year” title in horsing around
The diva player among the 49ers, why Josh Allen’s bound to be MVP, and Patrick Mahomes playing hairdresser for his wife
The top athletes and moments winning “The Wellies” in our inaugural end-of-year awards segment

Blake’s Instagram: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s Instagram: @cghendy

theSkimm’s Instagram: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: Timothée Chalamet’s True Calling, OnlyFans Field Flashing, and the Caitlin Clark Price Tag

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 19:10:43 -0000

Pink puffers? In. Pencil stache? Out. This past weekend, Timothée Chalamet sported both as he won over skeptics with his impressive College GameDay calls. Caroline was colored impressed, and Blake lost her Timmy-ick which has been brewing since “Little Women” tanked his stock.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

Caroline explaining the new College Football Playoff format to Blake like she’s five
The jaw-dropping price tag on the WNBA’s most anticipated season-opening game
Comparing Juan Soto’s record signing with the Mets to the salaries of LeBron, Tom Brady, and the entire WNBA
Whether the Chiefs can continue squeezing out Ws or if they’re wearing down
What one Giants player allegedly did to distract the Saints (shoutout OnlyFans)
Bill Belichick’s ploy to make the NFL jealous, and whether TB thinks it’ll work
Our favorite Send It moments of the week, including yet another dance from the celly king, the Grinch dancing with Lions’ cheerleaders, and Boise State taking trolling to a whole new atmosphere thanks to Google Earth

Blake’s Instagram: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s Instagram: @cghendy

theSkimm’s Instagram: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: Josh Allen’s Famous Fiancé, The Boys Are Brawling, and is T-Swift IRL Hermione?

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 19:23:19 -0000

Rivalry week in college football resulted in more than a few squabbles, and now the fun police are telling us to plant our school flag somewhere else. Caroline shares her thoughts on the weekend’s biggest brawl between Ohio State and Michigan, her alma mater. You can probably guess which side Hendy is taking.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

The wild comment Josh Allen’s ex made over his engagement to Hailee Steinfeld (and how she tried to take it back)
Texans LB Azeez Al-Shaair’s dirty hit on Trevor Lawrence, and a lesson on how not to apologize after you hurt someone
Debates on whether Travis Kelce stole Ravens kicker Justin Tucker’s mojo, and if Taylor Swift is secretly casting spells to help the Chiefs win every close game
A lesson in poor clock management ft. the Chicago Bears, with a side of head-coach-firing
Our favorite Send Its of the week, including the ASU coach who gave his staffers bonuses out of his own pocket, the mullet-like quality behind Donna Kelce’s pants, and the Team USA lacrosse player who’s part…shark?

PS: Leave us a review on your preferred podcast app. We’d love to know what you think of the show.

Blake’s Instagram: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s Instagram: @cghendy

theSkimm’s Instagram: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: Kendrick & Weezy’s Halftime Tea, Embiid’s Snitch Hunt, and Talking (NFL) Turkey with Mina Kimes

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 21:15:17 -0000

There’s a snitchuation in the Sixers’ locker room. In an emergency meeting after losing to Miami, Joel Embiid caught the Heat from his teammates. All was fine until the locker room chat leaked to ESPN. Now, Embiid is on a snitch hunt in a case similar to the Snooki and J-Woww letter from Jersey Shore. Blake and Caroline also dive deep into the one person the Internet thinks it might be.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

NFL teams and players as Thanksgiving dishes, in a segment we’re calling “It’s Giving”
Placing bets on whether Jerry Jones will put the damn curtains up at this Thursday’s Cowboys’ game
Why Kendrick Lamar called out Lil Wayne on his new album (yes, it has to do with sports)
The Giants getting roasted by their own players, why everyone loves Saquon Barkley right now, and Baker Mayfield slaying from multiple angles with NFL Analyst, Mina Kimes
Send Its for this week, including how Jason Kelce’s daughters reacting to their new baby sibling, a 46-mile Chappell Roan running path in San Francisco, and Simone Biles’s husband hitting her signature move after a fumble

Mina’s Instagram: @minakimes

Mina’s Show: The Mina Kimes Show featuring Lenny (her dog)

Blake’s Instagram: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s Instagram: @cghendy

theSkimm’s Instagram: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: Tyson’s Cheeks, A Cowboy Carter Christmas, and the Princess of Genovia’s Courtside Clash

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 17:48:00 -0000

This past weekend, 60 million viewers tuned in to watch the Tyson-Paul fight. As a bonus that literally no one asked for, viewers also caught a view of Mike Tyson’s butt cheeks. Blake and Caroline chat about how Netflix fumbled the bag with its streaming capabilities, and predict whether the streamer will get its act together in time for Beyonce’s NFL Christmas Day performance.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

The Princess of Genovia’s clash with OG Anunoby at the Knicks game last week
Marta’s jaw-dropping goal that clinched the Pride’s spot in the NWSL finals
A roundup of WNBA news in our feeds this week, including the Dallas Wings’ first draft pick, athletes investing in new WNBA franchises, and an investigation into the Seattle Storm coaching staff
Why Caroline’s excited for an inevitable Chiefs-Bills rematch, and why next week’s Thanksgiving game is bound to be a dud
Our top “Send It” moments this week: thousands wish a 100-year-old superfan happy b-day, the $800K bag secured on College GameDay, and the volleyball player who left us in tears

PS: Leave us a review on your preferred podcast app. We’d love to know what you think of the show.

Blake’s Instagram: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s Instagram: @cghendy

theSkimm’s Instagram: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: The Bruins Back Brianna Chickenfry, The Pope Saves the Saints, and the Taylor Swift Effect with Nora Princiotti

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 19:24:18 -0000

This week, we let the liquor talk. Caroline flexes her pop culture knowledge by breaking down why Brianna Chickenfry got the support of Boston Bruins players after her highly publicized split from country star Zach Bryan.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

How divine intervention played into the Saints snapping their losing streak
The beef between NBA stars Jaylen Brown and Giannis Antetokoumpo
The Mike Tyson and Jake Paul fight and why Blake and Caroline will not be tuning in live
The Ringer’s Nora Princiotti on Taylor Swift’s impact on the NFL, what Jerry Jones needs to do about the glaring problem inside AT&T Stadium, and why the Lions are poised for a playoff run in the NFC
The top “Send It” moments of the week, including the Oxford Police Department instructing Ole Miss students where to put the goalposts after their upset win over Georgia, LeBron breaking his own record, and breakdancer Raygun in… the NFL?

Nora’s Instagram: @noraprinciotti

Blake’s Instagram: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s Instagram: @cghendy

theSkimm’s Instagram: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: Kelce Spikes a Cell, Drake Disses DeRozan and Rodgers Goes Goop

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 18:06:00 -0000

This episode features a major theme: men behaving badly. Between the election, time change, and Halloweekend, players, fans, and coaches all found a way to make headlines this week.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

Blake and Caroline’s marathon cheering recap
Why Joel Embiid got physical with journalist Marcus Hayes in the 76ers locker room
A shocking viewership stat about the World Series and NCAA women’s basketball
NFL plays of the week including Garrett Wilson’s one-handed TD and Saquon Barkley’s Simone Biles-esque backwards hurdle
How Aaron Rodgers and Gwyneth Paltrow are more alike than we thought
Caroline’s takes on Puka Nacua and Brian Branch’s ejections in week 10
Our favorite “Send It” moments of the week, including a wiener dog who stormed the field, the Pistons taking the subway, and the most subtle trash-talking from a Lions fan at Lambeau

Blake’s Instagram: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s Instagram: @cghendy

theSkimm’s Instagram: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: Shaq’s Uncomfy Comments, D-Wade’s Unfortunate Statue, and the NFL’s Uncrustable Craze

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 21:00:00 -0000

Shaquille O’Neal’s appearance on Angel Reese’s podcast, “Unapologetically Angel”, served as a reminder for everyone but especially men: never comment on women’s bodies, period. Blake and Caroline share their thoughts on his uncomfy comments.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

Hendy’s Halloween plans (working) and Blake’s latest visit to the University of Michigan
Why people are losing their sh*t over the Dwayne Wade statue, and why Blake believes it serves as a lesson in confidence
Rating Anthony Edwards’ trash-talking against Bronny Jr., plus whether Bronny can break thru Lebron’s legacy
New York Road Runners upcoming marathon with insights about the race from the org’s SVP of Strategic Partnerships, Christine Burke
NFL Week 8 highlights including the insane hail mary from the Washington Commanders, Trevon Diggs getting feisty with a reporter, and Anthony Richardson pulling out from his game because he was … tired?
Our favorite “Send It” moments of the week, including Giannis’s press conference costume, the Uncrustable Craze feeding the NFL, and Ilona Maher latest viral TikTok.

Blake’s Instagram: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s Instagram: @cghendy

theSkimm’s Instagram: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: Liberty Critics Cry Foul, Bronny’s Debutante Ball, and Mahomes Loves His Dad Bod

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 17:34:29 -0000

Blake and Caroline react to the New York Liberty’s insane OT win over the Minnesota Lynx in the WNBA Finals. Meanwhile, the NBA season kicks off today and the people can’t help but wonder: will Lebron and Bronny Jr. take the court together in their first regular season game?

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

WTF the “Sports Equinox” is and when it’s happening
The theatrical albeit botched fake injury of one Alabama Crimson Tide player
The problematic response from Myles Garrett after Browns QB Deshaun Watson finally tapped out due to injury
The unlikely key to the Chiefs’ clinching their 6-0 record (hint: no athletic skills required)
The relatable Real Housewives-esque tagline of Stefon Diggs
Our favorite “Send It” moments from this week, including the adorable dog on the WNBA sidelines, ScarJo trolling the Mets, and Tom Brady’s…hologram?

Blake’s Instagram: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s Instagram: @cghendy

theSkimm’s Instagram: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: The Sabrina Carpenter Curse, Davante Adams Jets Off to NYC, and Rating TD Celebrations with Megan Gailey

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 21:12:29 -0000

The Cowboys had their most devastating loss yet after Sabrina Carpenter wore a Cowboys sweatshirt. It deepened rumors that Sabrina cast a hex on several sports teams after donning their merch, leading Blake and Caroline to question: is Sabrina a teenage witch?

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

The WAGs who made our favorite touchdown celebration of the week
Why Donte DiVicenzo and Rick Brunson were beefing on the court after the Knicks and T-wolves pre-season game
The woman who just became the NHL’s first female coach
Several health updates coming out of NFL week 6 including: Jim Harbaugh’s 2-0 heart arrhythmia record, the broken leg that’s likely to cost Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson his season, and Tua’s post-concussion return ft. Megan Gailey
Why Eagles coach Nick Sirianni is apologizing to fans after his team…won?
Who Megan is rooting for in the WNBA and MLB playoffs

Listen to Megan’s show “Sports, Bitches” wherever you get your podcasts and be sure to follow her on all socials:

Megan’s Instagram: @bettermegangailey

Blake’s Instagram: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s Instagram: @cghendy

theSkimm’s Instagram: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: Lebron and Bronny Make History, the Chiefs WAGs Take Bravo, and NFL Audibles with Annie Agar

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 20:53:00 -0000

It finally happened. In a preseason game over the weekend, Lebron James and his son Bronny Jr. made NBA history as the first father-son duo to play in a game together. TBD on how the regular season actually rolls out. For this week’s Tuesday Morning Quarterback, Caroline and Blake invite TikToker and podcast host Annie Agar to chat about the breaking news out of the Jets, major diva wide receivers, and speculation about several failing QBs.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

Travis Kelce’s real boo who he recently spent $70K on
Savannah James’ 2K character of choice (sorry, Lebron)
Coco Gauff’s stunning win over Karolina Muchova at the China Open
Guest Annie Agar’s takes on sitting rookie QBs, what the Browns’ front office needs to do to salvage the team, and the iconic moments from the Raven and Falcons wins
Amanda’s comeback to discuss the Liberty’s chances in the finals
Four viral moments of the week you need to send to your sports-loving group chats

Listen to "The Offensive Line with Annie Agar" wherever you get your podcasts and be sure to follow her on all socials:

Annie Agar IG/TikTok: @annieagar5
Blake’s Instagram: @blaaakkkke
Caroline’s Instagram: @cghendy
theSkimm’s Instagram: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: Tom Brady’s Baker Beef, Washington’s Rookie Sensation, and WNBA Playoffs with Erin Foley

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 20:18:42 -0000

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

Baker Mayfield calling out Tom Brady for girl bossing too close to the sun
Why UNLV star quarterback Matt Sluka is sitting out the season in the name of securing the bag
How Serena Williams’ husband, Alexis Ohanian, is changing the game for women athletes
Guest Erin Foley’s takes on the stats we’re thinking about in Week 4 of the NFL: Patrick Mahomes’ 12-0 record, Jayden Daniels’ 82.1% completion rate, and more
Why some WNBA players are calling out Indiana Fever fans
How to engage in friendly chirping on the sidelines of a WNBA game ft. Spike Lee
What Caitlin Clark remembers most from her rookie season (hint: it has nothing to do with her broken records)

Listen to Erin’s show, Herlights, wherever you get your podcasts, and give her a follow on IG @erinkfoley.

Blake’s Instagram: @blaaakkkke

Caroline’s Instagram: @cghendy

theSkimm’s Instagram: @theskimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: NFL Week 3 Upsets, Caitlin’s Record Rookie Card, and White Sox Historic Woes

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 18:45:00 -0000

Favorite after favorite fumbled the bag in week 3 of the NFL season, leaving sports journalists wondering: is this the year of the upsets? NFL insider Caroline Hendershot joins Amanda and Blake to give her POV and to share a special announcement you won’t want to miss.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

Why true crime fans everywhere are rejoicing in the to get Jordan Chiles’ bronze medal back
The 120th L the White Sox took this week and how their social media team is responding
Dodgers player Shohei Ohtani’s inauguration as the president of the 50/50 club
The record sale price on Caitlin Clark’s rookie card (hint: it’s higher than her salary)
A’ja Wilson’s league MVP three-peat, plus a WNBA playoffs roundup from Amanda
NFL headlines including Raiders’ coach making “business decisions”, Bryce Young’s benching, and a milestone for women in the NFL
What Amanda, Blake, and Caroline are “stiff-arming” this week (we’re looking at you ticket resellers)

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: Tua’s Tapped Out, Caitlin’s Controversial Click, and Winning Your Fantasy League with Matthew Berry

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 20:51:00 -0000

Apparently if you say “injuries” three times in the mirror, Week 2 of the 2024 NFL season will appear. Amanda and Blake tackle the injury stories squashing the hopes and dreams of fantasy football leaguers everywhere.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

NFL Hall of Famer Shannon Sharpe’s response to when an “intimate moment” was captured on his Instagram Live
WNBA player Caitlin Clark’s explanation as to why she liked Taylor Swift’s endorsement of Kamala Harris
Tom Brady’s victory lap over Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney in English football
What it’ll take for Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa to retire after his latest concussion
How many flags were thrown after five athletes were hit with the illegal hip drop tackle (spoiler alert: 0)
In or out: guardian caps on NFL player’s helmets
A nod to A’ja Wilson who became the first WNBA player to score 1000 points in a season
Fantasy Football legend Matthew Berry’s advice on how to maximize your chances this season, plus his roasting of Blake’s celebrity Skybox draft pick

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: Rodgers Stumbles, Brady Fumbles, and Kendrick Humbles

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 19:02:32 -0000

Week 1 of the NFL season is in the books, and Amanda is joined by special guest-host Claudia Rupcich of theSkimm to break it all down.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll cover:

Tom Brady’s awkward debut as the highest paid commentator in sports
A’ja Wilson and Bam Adebayo (seemingly) having their relationship spoiled by the mayor
Steph Curry and Klay Thompson’s viral WNBA moment
The controversial arrest of Miami Dolphins WR Tyreek Hill prior to Sunday’s game
Aaron Rodgers’ disappointing MNF performance
This year’s selection for the Super Bowl halftime show
All the famous faces seen at the US Open final (we’re looking at you Taylor Swift)
Alex Morgan’s illustrious career comes to a close

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: The NFL Returns, Tom Brady’s Vlogger Era, and Who’s Serving (Looks) at the US Open

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 20:03:00 -0000

Football is back, and so are Amanda and Blake (fresh off their post-Olympics mini vacation) for another episode of Well Played. They’re ready to bring you weekly episodes about the sports stories dominating your feeds. Between major sporting events like the US Open and the kickoff of the NFL season, there’s a lot to get to this week.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll cover:

Whether Tom Brady’s Youtube career sparks joy or gives us the ick (spoiler: kinda both?)
The power of AI in sports via Yahoo Fantasy Football’s unsolicited roast of Amanda’s team
The BBC sports commentator who is seeing his doctor instead of taking full accountability for sending sexually explicit texts to his coworkers
Why some are calling the Paralympics TikTok account “edgy”
A quick Skimm of the NFL rule changes for kickoffs and hip-drop tackles, plus a preview of this weekend’s games
Why this year’s US Open feels like Fashion Week 2.0 with a side of tennis and Honey Deuces

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: We Are the Champions, Jordan Chiles Summons an Army, Raygun’s Breaking Conspiracies, and Sha’Carri’s Bombastic Side Eye

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 19:09:09 -0000

We’re pouring one out for the Paris 2024 Olympics in the last episode of Well Played: Olympics Edition. From the most heartwarming moments to the most memeable ones, Amanda and Blake settle the score on the most iconic outcomes of the Games, plus what’s to come in the Los Angeles Games in 2028 (yes, we’re already talking about them).

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

An update on USA Gymnastics’ appeal against the CAS stripping Jordan Chiles of her bronze medal
The moment Tom Cruise did the absolute most at the closing ceremony
The buckets Team USA had to pull off to defend its Olympic winning streak in basketball
Reactions to the Sha’Carri Richardson’s side-eye that dominated our feeds this weekend
Track & field legend Carl Lewis’s response when the men’s team botched the 4x100m final for the 5th straight time
A comprehensive list of Amanda’s award-winning Olympics moments

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: Breaking Free, Skinner Sends an “SOS”, Olympic Bromances, and the Skateboarder Who Gives a Duck

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 18:32:31 -0000

Sunday marks the end of the Olympics, and the vibes are big time sad. The US still has time to clinch more medals with team sports and track wrapping up this weekend, and the debut of the sport we’ve all been waiting for: breaking.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

If Simone Biles is responsible for taming the internet bullies coming for McKayla Skinner
Why India’s woman wrestler, Vinesh Phogat, was disqualified and how much agency athletes have over their well-being
This week’s track and field gold wins by Gabby Thomas, Cole Hocker, and Quincy Hall
The offensive trio leading the USWNT to the gold medal match against Brazil this weekend
The history behind biting Olympic gold medals, plus the secret ingredient in this year’s medals (hint: it might be making one Parisian landmark structurally less sound)
Amanda’s (potentially?) hot take on proposing at the Games

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: Farewell to Women’s Gymnastics, Exes Competing Together, and Team USA Track & Field Wins

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 18:49:00 -0000

We’re over halfway through the Paris Olympics and back with our fourth episode of Well Played: Olympics Edition. After learning about the pair of Czech exes that slayed the tennis doubles competition, listeners learn that Amanda has a Hallmark rom-com in the works about the famed Olympic couple.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

The bulge that prevented a French pole vaulter from winning (yes, that bulge)
More poo problems in the Seine and its effects on athletes
Why, in her expert track & field opinion, Amanda believes both Noah Lyles and Kishane Thompson won the 100m race
Sha’carri Richardson’s first Olympic medal, plus the famed Jamaican athletes who bowed out of the 200m this week
How Simone Biles torched reporters after copping her final medal of these games
The bullying of Algerian women’s boxer, Imane Khelif

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: Golden Girls at the Olympics, Biles Throws Shade, Memeification of the Games, and Paris Has a Shallow Pool Problem

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 18:51:00 -0000

We are seven days into the 2024 Paris Olympics and back for another episode of Well Played: Olympics Edition. Amanda and Blake chat about the MyKayla who decided to go after the US women’s gymnastics team. Rest assured, McKayla Maroney had nothing to do with it.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

The *chefs kiss* TikToks Suni Lee and Simone Biles executed after winning the team all-around gold medal, plus how protecting their physical and mental health paid off for the gymnasts so far
The emotional moment the US women’s rugby sevens team took home the bronze
How rugby player and social media queen, Ilona Maher, managed to recruit Jason Kelce to be the no. 1 fan of the team à la Flavor Flav
If “boundary king” Stephen Nedoroscik will have his second Clark Kent moment on the pommel horse this weekend
One theory on why Olympic swimmers are breaking less world records this year
Whether Amanda and Blake would stay in the Olympic Village or flee to a bourgeois hotel

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: Olympics Opening Weekend, Last Supper Slip Up, Canada Caught Cheating, and Gymnastics Takes the Floor (Routine) Ft. Molly Carlson

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 18:52:21 -0000

We’re back with our second episode of Well Played: Olympics Edition. Amanda and Blake dive into their thoughts on the opening ceremony. As it turns out, they worried too much about unsightly denim outfits and not enough about the potential for inclement weather that fell upon athletes stuck on boats.

In this episode of Well Played, we’ll also cover:

The cheating scandal shaking up the Canadian women’s soccer team
The iconic viral swimmer who took over our feeds this weekend (no, not Katie Ledecky)
Whether Simone Biles will be hampered her injury, and the bittersweet moment watching Suni Lee qualify for the team all-around finals
The lore behind the “Boundary King” who scored the men’s US gymnastics team its first medal since 2008
Team USA literally towering over Team Japan in women’s basketball, plus what Diana Taurasi said to reporters about playing basketball at her age
A convo with Canadian high diver Molly Carlson on her experience plunging in the Seine

PS: Like what you hear? Subscribe to Well Played on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you’re listening now. Be sure to rate the show 5-stars too. We’ll be back in your feed on Thursday.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Played: Olympics Preview, Swimming the Seine, Biles Bounces Back, and Opening Ceremony Ft. Allyson Felix & Sam Mewis

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 18:30:00 -0000

In the first ever episode of Well Played, presented by theSkimm, hosts Amanda Duberman and Blake Lew-Merwin preview the biggest Olympic stories dominating your feeds ahead of the opening ceremony kicking off the games tomorrow.

In this episode of Well Played, we cover:

Swimming in the river Seine: yay or nay?
Team USA denim outfits, and the singular reason Amanda is all about them
How the opening ceremony looks different this year (spoiler alert: it’s floating)
What to expect from the US women’s soccer team with former USWNT member, Sam Mewis
Why we’re hyped for the return of the GOAT, Simone Biles
How the Olympics are becoming more inclusive for mom athletes with guest Allyson Felix

Subscribe to Well Played on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you’re listening now.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Breaking the Cycle: Exploring the Educational Impact

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 14:00:00 -0000

1 in 3 students are chronically absent from school.* One surprising reason? A lack of access to clean clothes. We teamed up with Whirlpool to explore this hidden educational crisis.

For the final episode in our three-part series, our host, psychologist and parent educator Dr. Jazmine McCoy, will cover: how chronic absenteeism impacts a student’s educational growth; the two factors that can determine a child’s success rate – and the most critical grade level to catch regression; how chronic absenteeism affects school funding; and the success of Whirlpool’s Care CountsTM program. In this episode you’ll hear from: Dr. Richard Rende, a developmental science psychologist and researcher; Damon Carraby, the director of national corporate partnerships at Teach For America; McKenzie Roney, the managing director of national corporate partnerships at Teach For America; and Nelly Martinez, senior brand leader at Whirlpool.

Sources: *Based on “Monitoring Data Matters Even More: A Review of State Attendance Data Policy and Practice in School Year 2022-23,” updated June 2023. Damon Carraby, [9:45-9:53], based on Care Counts™ program metrics consider only 2022–2023 school year results according to Impact YOY data

This miniseries was Skimm’d by Dr. Jazmine McCoy, along with our producers Monica Perry and Lizzy Bryce, and scriptwriter Sarah Title. This episode was created in partnership with Ginni Media.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Breaking the Cycle: School as a Social Environment

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 14:00:00 -0000

1 in 3 students are chronically absent from school.* One surprising reason? A lack of access to clean clothes. We teamed up with Whirlpool to explore this hidden educational crisis.

For the second episode in our three-part series, our host, psychologist and parent educator Dr. Jazmine McCoy, will cover: how chronic absenteeism affects a student’s social-emotional learning experience; how chronic absenteeism impacts their mental health; and the signs you can look for in your own child. In this episode you’ll hear from: Dr. Richard Rende, a developmental science psychologist and researcher, and McKenzie Roney, the managing director of national corporate partnerships at Teach For America.

Sources: *Based on “Monitoring Data Matters Even More: A Review of State Attendance Data Policy and Practice in School Year 2022-23,” updated June 2023. Dr. Jazmine, [2:27 - 2:43], based on “A Theory of Human Motivation” in Psychological Review, 1943. Dr. Rende, [6:16 - 6:28], based on the Department of Education Report "Chronic Absenteeism in the Nation's Schools," updated 2019. Care Counts™ program metrics consider only 2022–2023 school year results according to Impact YOY data.

This miniseries was Skimm’d by Dr. Jazmine McCoy, along with our producers Monica Perry and Lizzy Bryce, and scriptwriter Sarah Title. This episode was created in partnership with Ginni Media.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Breaking the Cycle: Exposing a Hidden Educational Crisis

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 17:00:00 -0000

1 in 3 students are chronically absent from school.* One surprising reason? A lack of access to clean clothes. We teamed up with Whirlpool to explore this hidden educational crisis.

For the first episode in our three-part series, our host, psychologist and parent educator Dr. Jazmine McCoy, will cover: what chronic absenteeism is and why it matters; what typically causes it; and what Whirlpool is doing to help break the cycle. In this episode you’ll hear from: Dr. Richard Rende, a developmental science psychologist and researcher; Damon Carraby, the director of national corporate partnerships at Teach For America; McKenzie Roney, the managing director of national corporate partnerships at Teach For America; and Nelly Cecila Martinez, senior brand leader at Whirlpool.

Sources: *Based on “Monitoring Data Matters Even More: A Review of State Attendance Data Policy and Practice in School Year 2022-23,” updated June 2023. Dr. Jazmine, [2:14 - 2:24] based on “Higher Chronic Absenteeism Threatens Academic Recovery from the COVID-19 Pandemic,” updated October 2023. Dr. Jazmine, [2:24 - 2:28] based on NCEO report “Students with Disabilities and Chronic Absenteeism”. Dr. Rende, [2:33 - 3:02], based on Department of Education Report "Chronic Absenteeism in the Nation's Schools," updated 2019. Dr. Rende, [3:31 - 3:38], Based on “Monitoring Data Matters Even More: A Review of State Attendance Data Policy and Practice in School Year 2022-23,” updated June 2023.

This miniseries was Skimm’d by Dr. Jazmine McCoy, along with our producers Monica Perry and Lizzy Bryce, and scriptwriter Sarah Title. This episode was created in partnership with Ginni Media.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jen Psaki on Working at the White House, Seeking Feedback Throughout Her Career, and Raising Her Kids

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 12:00:00 -0000

This is an episode of the podcast "9 to 5ish with theSkimm". Listen to the show wherever you get your podcasts.

When Jen Psaki became President Obama’s White House Communications Director, she was pregnant. Later, she became President Biden’s Press Secretary, and she had to navigate her role as a mom and as the White House’s chief spokesperson. A big challenge, considering when you work for the president, you’re expected to be on call 24/7. Today, we spoke to Jen about what doing both actually looked like for her – from the hard realities to the help she got along the way.

In this episode, Jen shares:

What a job interview with the president is like
Why she regrets not seeking feedback early in her career
Her non-traditional approach to mentoring
What she learned from not getting the job she wanted the first time
How she set boundaries, even when on call 24/7

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Seriously Good News: Making Recess More Accessible

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 21:00:00 -0000

The news cycle can be exhausting (trust us, we know). But it’s important for all our mental health to take a break from the negativity — even if it’s just for a few minutes. So together with Ford, we set out to find good news to help us do just that.

For the final episode of our three-part mini-series, we feature an elementary school determined to build an accessible playground so all students can play — and they've almost raised $1 million.

In this episode, you’ll hear from Betsy Julien, the Minnesota teacher leading this project, and several of her fifth- and sixth-grade students. Plus, hear about some more good news that made us smile.

This episode is Skimm’d by Alex Carr and our producers Monica Perry, Pam Segall, and Liz Smith. This episode was created in partnership with Wonder Media Network.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Seriously Good News: The Science Behind A Feel-Good Hit

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 21:00:00 -0000

For the second episode of our three-part mini-series, we chatted with the artist behind the feel-good viral hit, “If I Were A Fish.” Plus, we asked a music psychologist why songs like this one make us feel so seen.

In this episode, you’ll hear from corook, who wrote the trending tune, and Dr. Susan Rogers, a professor at Berklee College of Music who holds a PhD in music perception and cognition. Plus, hear about some other headlines that made us smile.

This episode is Skimm’d by Alex Carr and our producers Monica Perry, Pam Segall, and Liz Smith. This episode was created in partnership with Wonder Media Network.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Seriously Good News: A Restaurant Run By Grandmas

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 20:50:00 -0000

For the first episode of our three-part mini-series, we visited Enoteca Maria, a Staten Island restaurant where the food is cooked by grandmas — affectionately called “nonnas” — from all around the world.

In this episode, you’ll hear from owner Joe Scaravella, resident nonnas Kathy and Anna, and a couple of very satisfied customers. Plus, hear about some other good news that made us smile.

This episode is Skimm’d by Alex Carr and our producers Monica Perry, Pam Segall, and Liz Smith. This episode was created in partnership with Wonder Media Network.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Skimm This: State of Women… and Career

Thu, 04 May 2023 21:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Skimm This. We're back in your feeds to bring you fresh episodes that help you live smarter. This time, instead of weekly episodes, we’ll be dropping miniseries throughout the year that will focus on your wellbeing. And to kick things off, we’re taking a look at the state of women in America, with a series that offers a look into the realities that millennial women in the US face today.

In this final episode, we’re talking about the state of women and their careers.

First up: We’ll start with the data – and why women are concerned about career setbacks
Then: We’ll explain how women are taking action to shore up their careers, despite being weighed down by societal norms and economic realities
Finally: We interviewed an expert about how to start a side-hustle, or secondary income stream

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Jannese Torres, creator and host, Yo Quiero Dinero

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts
Listen to our other podcast, 9 to 5ish with theSkimm

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Andrew Callaway, Elie McAfee Hahn.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Skimm This: State of Women… and Health

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 21:00:00 -0000

In this third episode, we’re talking about the state of women and their health.

First up: We’ll start with the data – and why women’s well-being is in crisis
Then: We’ll explain how women are starting to advocate for their health in order to navigate a broken system
Later: We interviewed an expert about how you can advocate for yourself before, during, and after your appointments
Finally: We’ve got a script you can use to find a therapist

P.S. Learn more about the different types of therapy here.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

LaTasha Seliby Perkins, physician, assistant professor of medicine, Georgetown University School of Medicine

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts
Listen to our other podcast, 9 to 5ish with theSkimm

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Andrew Callaway, Elie McAfee Hahn.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Skimm This: State of Women… and Money

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 21:00:00 -0000

In this second episode, we’re talking about the state of women and money.

First up: We’ll start with the data, and explain how women are feeling about their finances right now
Then: We’ll explain how women are securing their financial futures, despite a rocky economy
Later: We interviewed an expert about how women can create a more resilient financial future by paying off their debt, and freeing themselves of financial shame
Finally: We’ve got a script you can use if you’re thinking about hiring a financial planner

P.S. Learn more about different types of financial pros here. And here’s a useful debt tracker.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Ashley Feinstein Gerstley, founder of the Fiscal Femme

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts
Listen to our other podcast, 9 to 5ish with theSkimm

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Andrew Callaway, Elie McAfee Hahn.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Skimm This: State of Women... and Society

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 21:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Skimm This. We're back in your feeds to bring you fresh episodes that help you live smarter. This time, instead of weekly episodes, we’ll be dropping miniseries throughout the year that will focus on your wellbeing. And to kick things off, we’re taking about the state of women in America, with a series that will offer a look into the realities that millennial women in the US face today.

In this first episode, we’re talking about the state of women and society.

First up: We’ll start with the data – and why 74% of millennial women agree, “Society treats women like second-class citizens”
Then: We’ll explain how women are starting to reclaim their power, and rewrite the rules of being a woman in America
Later: We interviewed an expert about how you can start to reclaim your time, and rebalance the invisible labor at home
Finally: We’ve got a script you can use to delegate your responsibilities at home

P.S. Send this to a man.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Eve Rodsky, New York Times bestselling author

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts
Listen to our other podcast, 9 to 5ish with theSkimm

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Andrew Callaway, and Elie McAfee Hahn.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A Final Sign Off for Skimm This, But Not a Goodbye

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 21:40:00 -0000

We’re back in your feed after a week off with…some news. But it’s not the news of the week, which we’ve been bringing you since 2019. It’s actually some personal news. After four amazing years, one pandemic, 451 episodes, and hundreds of interviews with some of the biggest newsmakers and experts, we’re reimagining this podcast feed. So we’re going to be taking some time away from the mic while we put that into motion.

We’ve loved being there for you through the world’s craziest and most confusing moments, and helping you navigate every stage of your life, from taxes to toddlers. And we’re excited to bring you more in the future. So, stay tuned.

In the meantime, for more Skimm, you can check out:

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One Way or Another: Kevin McCarthy, Abortion Pills, Being Happier

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 21:49:00 -0000

First: The GOP can’t seem to get their House in order. Between a fight over who should be Speaker, and a congressman elect’s sketchy past, the 118th Congress got off to a rocky start. We’ll break it down.
Next: We’ve got the context on the other major stories from the week – including an update on Buffalo Bills’ safety Damar Hamlin and a major change for abortion pill access. Plus the latest on the atmospheric river turning the West Coast…into a literal river.
Then: Every year, The Economist releases an issue filled with their biggest predictions for 2023. We sat down with its deputy editor to get an inside look on what to expect from 2023. And PS: it’s not all bad news.
Finally: We’re taking a look at one New Year’s resolution we can all get behind: being happier. We’re asking an expert to tell us four small changes we can make to actually feel happier.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Tom Standage, Deputy Editor, The Economist
Dr. Marisa Franco, Psychologist, Professor at the University of Maryland

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. We had additional help from Alaisha Key. Engineered by Elie McAfee-Hahn and Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sweater Weather: Arctic Blast, January 6th Report, Listening Back on 2022

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 21:30:00 -0000

First: We’ve got the context on the week’s biggest headlines – from how to travel safely during this weekend’s bomb cyclone to President Zelensky’s visit on Capitol Hill. Plus, an update on Elon Musk’s future at Twitter.
Then: The January 6th committee dropped its final report, wrapping up a year of hearings and investigations. We’re saving you the reading and skimming the three things you need to know about what they found.
Finally: 2022 was a busy year. From the Russian invasion of Ukraine and an FBI raid at Mar-a-Lago, to Serena Williams retiring and a bombshell royal exposé. We’re listening back to all of it by ending our final show of 2022 with the year in sound.

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sign of the Times: Inflation Cooling, Nuclear Fusion, SBF Arrested

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 21:54:00 -0000

First: We’ve got the context on the week’s biggest headlines – from crypto founder Sam Bankman-Fried’s arrest, to major protests going down in Peru, plus a World Cup wrap up.
Then: We’re sitting down with an expert to get a vibe check on the economy after a big inflation breakthrough this week. The saga isn’t over yet, so we’re asking: what’s 2023 gonna look like for our wallets?
Next: This week, the White House announced we’re one step closer to harnessing the power of nuclear fusion, but what exactly does that mean? We’ll do our best Bill Nye and explain why it’s such a big deal…in 60 seconds.
Finally: Our team is bringing you the stories that we couldn’t stop thinking about this week. We’re discussing a surprising evolution in the way we date, a tech development that could take your healthcare to the next level, a copycat BeReal, and more.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Kathryn Edwards, labor economist
Alaisha, Blake, and Will, Skimm HQ’rs

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Freedom: Griner’s Release, Future of Elections, Deleting TikTok

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 21:40:00 -0000

First: We’ve got the biggest headlines of the week, including Brittney Griner’s release from a Russian prison, the outcome of Georgia’s runoff election, and the Respect for Marriage Act. Plus, the latest on the Trump Organization’s tax fraud charge, and an update on the protests in Iran.
Then: The Supreme Court heard oral arguments for Moore v. Harper, a case that could change how elections are run in the US. We’ll explain the case and why it’s so controversial…in 60 seconds.
Next: Between national security and data privacy concerns, more experts – and even US federal officials – believe we should ctrl-alt-delete TikTok from our lives. So this week, we're asking the tough question: should you remove TikTok from your phone? Two experts help break down the pros and cons of the app, so you can decide for yourself.
Finally: Our team tried the AI avatar app that’s been flooding your social media feeds. And the results were questionable. We’re breaking down why these fun photos actually show the dark side of AI tech.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Emily Baker-White, technology reporter, Forbes
Cleo Abram, video journalist
Ina Fried, chief technology correspondent, Axios

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. We had additional help from Sarah Collins. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Landslide: China Protests, Not-So-Lame Duck Congress, Gaslighting

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 21:40:00 -0000

First: Some of the biggest protests in decades broke out in China last weekend over the country’s strict COVID guidelines and – in some cases – over the Chinese Communist Party’s leadership. We call an expert to explain the historic protests and their impacts worldwide.
Then: Democrats in Congress only have a few weeks to pass some major legislation before a new group of lawmakers heads to DC in January. We're breaking down why this “lame duck" session might be anything but lame...in 60 seconds.
Next: Roadway deaths have been rising – and apparently, it's a uniquely American problem. New reporting shows us why we've seen an increase in roadway deaths in the US and what we can learn from other countries about how to prevent them.
Finally: Merriam Webster declared “gaslighting” as its word of the year. We break out our dictionaries to break down the word’s definition – and why it gets misused.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Sue-Lin Wong, correspondent, The Economist
Emily Badger, cities and urban policy writer, The Upshot, The New York Times
Dr. Ramani Durvasula, clinical psychologist

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thanksgiving Week Special: Colorado Springs, Ticketmaster, Turkey Pardon

Tue, 22 Nov 2022 20:30:00 -0000

First: We’ve got the headlines from the week’s news, including the mass shooting at an LGBTQ+ club in Colorado Springs, a rail strike that could dampen our holiday spirits, and a historic climate agreement.
Then: After technical difficulties shut down ticket sales to Taylor Swift’s Eras tour, Ticketmaster is under fire. We’ll skimm why Taylor Swift fans – and the Justice Department – have bad blood with the ticket selling platform…in 60 seconds.
Finally: President Biden carried on the annual turkey pardon. Meet: Chocolate and Chip.

Skimm This will be back in your feed next Thursday. Have a happy holiday weekend.

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin with help from Alaisha Key. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. theSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Renaissance: FTX Fallout, World Cup Outrage, Setting Boundaries at Holidays

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 21:40:00 -0000

First: We’re covering the week’s biggest headlines: a roundup of midterm outcomes and political news, the latest on the protests in Iran, and the Artemis I rocket launch.
Then: FTX – one of the world’s biggest crypto exchanges – had a pretty abrupt fall from grace. We're talking to an expert about what FTX's demise means for the rest of the crypto world and what potential investors can learn from it.
Next: The World Cup kicks off this weekend, but there’s been a lot of off-the-field drama. We’ll break down why the Cup has become a geopolitical mess…in 60 seconds.
Plus: In partnership with our friends at Slack, we're taking listeners behind the scenes of our digital HQ, and talking about how certain Slack channels help us do our jobs better. Our final channel deep-dive: #parent-life.
Finally: Ever been asked “why are you still single?” or “why aren’t you drinking?” at the Thanksgiving table? For many of us, sitting at the Thanksgiving table can make us wanna pull our hair out thanks to nosy family members and political heat. But this year, setting boundaries is in. So we called a therapist who helps us navigate who to set boundaries with, how to actually set them, and how sticking to them can help keep the peace and our sanity.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Anita Ramaswamy, senior cryptocurrency reporter, TechCrunch
Jana Pollack, senior manager of creative strategy, theSkimm
Nedra Tawwab, therapist and author

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin with help from Alaisha Key. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pressure Cookin: Midterm Results and Surprises, COP27, Thanksgiving Recipes

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 21:40:00 -0000

First: Results from the midterm elections are coming in, and it's a mixed bag. We’re breaking down some major takeaways as we wait to see which party will take control of Congress.
Then: There’s a lot of turbulence in Silicon Valley. We’re sorting through all the drama @ Twitter, the historic layoffs at Facebook, and some good news for your winter getaways, in 60 seconds.
Next: The COP27 conference is putting global conversations about climate change in the spotlight. We’re talking to an expert about how these negotiations are playing out in Egypt, and who’s ready to take action.
Plus: In partnership with our friends at Slack, we're taking listeners behind the scenes of our digital HQ to show how certain Slack channels help us do our jobs better. Next up: #headline-workshop.
Finally: Just in time for Thanksgiving, there's a national turkey shortage. Thanks, bird flu. We’re talking to a chef about two show stopping dishes you can make instead, plus another option that could totally change your Thanksgiving game. You can find the recipes we talked about here and here.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Juliet Eilperin, Deputy Climate and Environment Editor, The Washington Post
Alicia Valenski, Senior Editor, SEO, theSkimm
Maria Corpus, Senior Writer, theSkimm
Becky Krystal, Food Writer, Voraciously The Washington Post

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. We had additional help from Alaisha Key. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Made You Look: Affirmative Action, Salary Transparency, Twitter Takeover

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 20:40:00 -0000

First: We’re breaking down the biggest headlines of the week: the Fed raising interest rates yet again, the growing risk of political violence leading up to election day, and Elon Musk’s chaotic onboarding @ Twitter.
Then: The Supreme Court heard two major cases on affirmative action this week. And according to analysts, the Supremes appear ready to reverse decades of precedent. We talk to an expert about what’s gone down in oral arguments so far, and what the impacts of an affirmative action reversal could look like.
Next: NYC’s new salary transparency law took effect this week, and it could have an impact far beyond the tri-state area. We’re talking to two experts about what’s changing for employees, employers, and those on the job hunt. And how you can take advantage of transparency laws, even if you don’t live in a place that has them.
Plus: In partnership with our friends at Slack, we're taking listeners behind the scenes of our digital HQ to show how certain Slack channels help us do our jobs better. Next up: #people-leaders.
Finally: The midterm elections are next week, and we’re handing the mic over to you to hear what’s on your mind as you get ready to vote.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Seema Mohapatra, MD Anderson Foundation Endowed Professor in Health Law and Professor of Law
Zoe Cullen, Assistant Professor of Business administration, Harvard Business School
Mandi Woodruff-Santos, Career Coach, Co-Host of the Brown Ambition Podcast
Molly Rosen, VP of People, theSkimm
Graelyn Brashear, Senior Director of Audio, theSkimm
Sophie Riese, senior manager of consumer insights and UX research, theSkimm
Skimm’rs Leslie, Katlin, and Jenny

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin with help from Hannah Parker and Alaisha Key. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karma: US GDP, Ye’s Fallout, Midterm Voting

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 20:40:00 -0000

First: We’re breaking down the biggest headlines of the week: US GDP numbers, Ye's (aka Kanye West) fallout, and what you need to know about RSV, a respiratory virus that’s pushing some hospitals to their capacity.
Then: A major investment conference dubbed ‘Davos in the Desert’ took place this week in Saudi Arabia. And despite dirty looks from Team Biden, America's top finance bros attended. We’ll Skimm the drama in the desert…in 60 seconds.
Next: We’re tapping an expert to help break down three of the biggest issues voters are thinking about heading into midterms – from abortion access, to the economy, to the future of democracy.
Plus: In partnership with our friends at Slack, we're taking listeners behind the scenes of our digital HQ to show how certain Slack channels help us do our jobs better. First up: #skimmr-feedback.
Finally: In honor of Taylor Swift’s Midnights, we asked music critic how we should actually be listening to albums. Because it turns out: we’ve been doing it wrong this whole time. As a bonus, Alex asks the big question: is this Taylor Swift’s most millennial album ever?

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Stephanie Davis, pediatric pulmonologist, UNC Children’s Research Institute
Laura Barrón-López, White House correspondent, PBS Newshour
Sophie Riese, senior manager of consumer insights and UX research, theSkimm
Nora Princiotti, co-host of Every Single Album, The Ringer

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin with help from Hannah Parker. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kid Q&A: Sleep On It

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 20:55:00 -0000

Should you let your baby cry it out at night? Is it ever OK to give a toddler melatonin? And maybe most importantly — will you ever get a good night's sleep again? This week, we're teaming up with Boston Children's Hospital to answer your biggest questions about parenting and your kids' health. And for our final episode, we're tackling every parent's favorite topic: sleep. Dr. Judith Owens, director of the hospital's pediatric sleep center, puts a lot of our worries to bed.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kid Q&A: Cold, Flu or COVID?

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 20:55:00 -0000

It's virus season again — though if you feel like it's been virus season nonstop for years, you're not alone. This week, we're teaming up with Boston Children's Hospital to answer your biggest questions about parenting and your kids' health. And today it's all about those respiratory viruses your kids keep bringing home from daycare. We're talking to infectious disease specialist Dr. Kirstin Moffitt to get the rundown on how to manage risk, how to navigate the latest vaccine news, and what to look out for your if your kid does come down with a cold, RSV, flu, or COVID.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kid Q&A : The Tantrum Diaries

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 20:55:00 -0000

We’ve all heard of the “terrible twos.” But what’s really going on when a toddler has a tantrum? And what’s “normal”?

This week, we're teaming up with Boston Children's Hospital to answer your biggest questions about parenting and your kids' health. Starting with those spectacular meltdowns. We've tapped psychologist Dr. Erica Lee to help us understand why kids tantrum, how to help your own toddler when they do, and (crucially) how to stay sane through all of it.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Midnights: Liz Truss, Student Loans, Midterms

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 20:40:00 -0000

First: We’ve got the context on the week’s biggest headlines: Liz Truss is out after 44 days in office, new tax brackets that could mean more cash in your wallet (thanks inflation), and Netflix’s Hollywood comeback.
Then: The U.S. government has officially launched the application for people to apply for student debt relief. We’re breaking down all the info you need to know if you’re eligible. Plus people keep saying it takes less than a minute to fill out… so we’re putting that theory to the test, all in 60 seconds.
Next: We’re Skimming the stakes of the midterm elections - who’s going to control congress, who might run in 2024, and what the future of our election systems looks like. Want to learn more? Check out our midterm election guides.
Also: We’re in a mental health crisis in America. And work, aka the place you spend over 50% of your time, could be to blame. We're talking to the government's top doc about his latest guidelines on how companies can protect their workers mental health.
Finally: There’s been a lot of BGE this fall – Big Gourd Energy. We sat down with one of the nation’s top female mega-pumpkin growers to get a behind the scenes look at the wild world of mega-pumpkins.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Jen Palmieri, Co-host of The Circus, Showtime
Dr. Vivek Murthy, U.S. Surgeon General
Cindy Tobeck, giant pumpkin farmer

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear. We had additional help this week from Hannah Parker.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In This Economy?!: Staying Sane

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 21:00:00 -0000

Sky-high inflation. Rising interest rates. A maybe recession. Oh, it’s just the second financial crisis millennial women are facing in their lifetime. In this special miniseries from the Skimm This team, we're going to give you the tools you need to navigate a rocky economic environment.

Today, we’re talking about staying sane in this economy. All these headlines haven’t been great for our mental health - and we know that financial stress can seriously impact our well-being. So in our final episode, we're Skimm'ing actionable steps you can take today to give yourself peace of mind in the future.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Emily Thorn, Head of Consumer Advocacy, Marcus by Goldman Sachs

PS: The views expressed today by Emily Thorn are her own and do not necessarily reflect the views or institutional opinions of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., Goldman Sachs Bank USA, Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC or any of their affiliates, subsidiaries or divisions. The information provided is for informational use only and is not a substitute for individualized professional advice. Goldman Sachs Bank USA and Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC are not providing any financial, economic, legal, accounting, tax or other recommendation.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Long Time Running: January 6th Committee, Xi Jinping, 5 Years of #MeToo

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 20:40:00 -0000

First: We’ve got the context on the week’s biggest headlines: September inflation numbers (sigh), the final January 6th committee hearing, another escalation in the war in Ukraine, and an update on Venezuelan migrants trying to enter the US.
Then: This month marks five years since journalists broke several #MeToo stories and sparked convos about sexual harassment and assault in the workplace. And as Harvey Weinstein starts his second trial for sex crimes this week, #MeToo’s legacy is still with us. So we're Skimm'ing five things that have happened in the five years years since the first Weinstein story broke – from legislation that's passed to how we think about #MeToo in the workplace.
Next: Chinese leader Xi Jinping is about to take on an unprecedented third term this weekend. We're speaking to The Economist's China correspondent about how he changed the nation – and its position on the international stage – and what we can expect in the future.
Finally: October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. And a lot has changed since the first officially recognized one in 1995, from the decline in death rates to treatment quality. We talk to theSkimm’s senior health writer to learn when you should get your risk evaluated, and how screening tech has changed. PS: Learn more about guidance on early screening and risk for breast cancer here.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Sue Lin Wong, China correspondent, The Economist
Carly Mallenbaum, senior health writer, theSkimm

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In This Economy?!: Investing

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 21:00:00 -0000

In our second episode, we’re talking about investing…in this economy. Because ICYMI, stocks haven’t exactly been on the up and up. We’re going to break down the best investment accounts for your money goals, what a “bear market” means for our finances, and how to develop your investment mindset.

PS: head to Marcus.com for more insights that can help you live your best financial life.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Delyanne Barros, investing coach

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Guess Who’s Back: SCOTUS Returns, NFL Controversy, Twitter and Musk

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 20:40:00 -0000

First: We’re giving you the context on this week’s biggest headlines, including: Biden’s latest move on marijuana, what to expect from the new Supreme Court term, an update on Hurricane Ian recovery efforts, and the anti-regime protests in Iran.
Then: Just when you thought you’d had enough, the internet’s most toxic couple is back on again. We’ll Skimm the messy love story between Elon Musk and Twitter, and why they’re eloping for real this time…in 60 seconds.
Next: The NFL is in the headlines again and – spoiler – it’s not for good news. After the Dolphins’ QB suffered what appears to be two head injuries in back-to-back games, the league’s sketchy history with head injuries is back in the spotlight. We'll break down where the league stands on concussions and how their policies have affected players from the big leagues to high school fields.
Finally: Voice memos are somewhere between a text and a call. But, like crafting the perfect text, there’s an art to it. We spoke with an etiquette expert on the do’s and don’ts of voice memos. So you can still record your thoughts without starting a new podcast.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Leslie Scism, news editor, The Wall Street Journal
Lindsay Jones, senior editor, The Ringer
Skimm HQrs: Sophie, Kat, Cameryn, Melanie, Irina and Andrew
Elaine Swann, founder & CEO, Swann School of Protocol

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In This Economy?!: Budgeting for Inflation

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 20:45:00 -0000

In this first episode, we’re going line by line through your budget to save you money. So yes, we’re talking about cutting back on things like subscription services and late night Amazon purchases. But we’re also digging into how to save money on the essentials, what debts you need to pay off first, and more.

Also, if you need a budgeting template, theSkimm’s got you covered.

PS: head to Marcus.com for more insights that can help you live your best financial life.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Michelle Singletary, personal finance columnist, The Washington Post

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Disturbia: Workplace Surveillance, Putin's War, Hurricane Ian

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 20:40:00 -0000

First: We’ve got the latest on the week’s biggest headlines: Hurricane Ian, Team Biden’s plan to end hunger by 2030, a big development in Alzheimer’s research, and WTF happened to the British Pound this week.
Then: After Ukraine made gains in the war this month, Putin is scrambling to figure out how to keep Russia in the game. We’ll Skimm three of Russia’s strategic pivots and how they could impact the outcome of the war…in 60-ish seconds.
Next: Ever feel like your boss is watching you through your webcam? Do you move your mouse to make it look like you’re doing work? Ya might want to keep it up. Because workplace surveillance has been on the rise since the pandemic started. Our expert told us why workplaces are watching their workers, how it actually backfires on employers, and what this means for the future of work.
Finally: Hate to break it to you but…summer’s officially over. If cold weather and lack of sunshine has a habit of bringing your vibes down, you’re not alone. Seasonal affective disorder affects millions of Americans. We’ve got tips for your routine that could be key to fighting the winter blues. No happy lamps needed.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Hilke Schellmann, assistant professor of journalism, New York University
Dr. Kelly Rohan, professor of psychological science, University of Vermont

PS: Feeling nervous about the economy lately? Don’t worry. We’re launching a miniseries to help you protect your finances and your mental health…in this economy. Catch it in your feed on Monday.

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin with additional help from Alaisha Key. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When September Ends: Adnan Syed, Immigration, the Queen’s Funeral

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 20:40:00 -0000

First: We’re giving you the context on this week’s biggest headlines, including: another interest rate hike, storm damage in Puerto Rico, new anxiety screenings coming to a doctor's office near you, and growing protests in Iran.
Then: Picture this: it’s 2014. You’re anxiously waiting for another episode of Serial to drop in your podcast feed. Fast forward to this week: a major development drops in the Adnan Syed case. We’ll skimm Syed’s case, why Serial put his case in the spotlight, and why it’s back in the news…in 60 seconds.
Next: After several governors sent migrants to Martha’s Vineyard, NYC, and DC, “immigration” and the “border” are being Google-searched more than “abortion” and “inflation”. We call up an expert to help cut through the noise about what’s really happening at the border, whether there’s actually a border “crisis”, and what the federal government is doing to help.
Finally: It was all pomp and circumstance at the Queen's funeral. But have royal funerals always been so fit for a queen? We talk to a reporter to learn how royal funerals have changed over time, get a vibe check on the UK, and what’s to come from the monarchy under King Charles.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Kristie De Peña, vice president of policy and director of immigration, The Niskanen Center
Erin Vanderhoof, staff writer and co-host of Dynasty, Vanity Fair

PS: Calling all Skimm This listeners. Have questions about the news, work, or life? Call and leave us a voicemail at (929) 266-4381. We can’t wait to hear from you.

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin with additional help from Alaisha Key. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Price Tag: Congressional Trading, College Rankings, the Art of Mediocrity

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 20:40:00 -0000

First: We’ve got the top headlines of the week: a national abortion ban on the table just weeks before the midterms, August inflation numbers (sigh), Ukraine’s recent string of W’s, and the DL on the new updates for iMessage.
Then: After a scandal at Columbia University, the college went from #2 to #18 on the US News College Ranking List. But after learning just how the list comes up with its rankings, many are questioning how legit that list even is. We break down what caused Columbia’s fall from grace and the shady side of college-ranking culture…in 60 seconds.
Next: An investigation by The New York Times found that nearly one-fifth of Congress – or their family members – were trading stock in a way that could be considered a conflict, renewing convos around Congressional stock trading and whether it should be allowed. To hear both sides of the spicy debate, we talk to one of the reporters. PS: check out the Times investigation here.
Finally: Being mediocre at your hobbies is in. Chasing perfectionism is out. We talk to a WSJ columnist who investigated the art of being bad at something and how it actually makes your mental health and your life better. Huzzah for participation trophies.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Kate Kelly, domestic correspondent, The New York Times
Rachel Feintzeig, columnist, The Wall Street Journal

PS: Calling all Skimm This listeners. Have questions about the news, work, or life? Call and leave us a voicemail at (929) 266-4381. We can’t wait to hear from you.

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

God Save the Queen: Remembering Elizabeth II, Europe’s Energy Crisis, PSL Season

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 21:29:00 -0000

First: Queen Elizabeth II has died at the age of 96. We’ll take a look at the life and legacy of Britain’s longest-ruling monarch, and what’s next for Buckingham Palace.
Then: We’ve got the context on the biggest headlines of the week: the UN report on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant in Ukraine, California heat waves, a controversial Texas healthcare ruling, and Apple’s latest announcement. Purple iPhone, anyone?
Next: Russia shut off its Nord Stream pipeline indefinitely and European countries are scrambling to figure out how to power their countries. We call an expert who helps explain how we got here, what solutions are on the table, and how this energy crisis could affect the US.
Also: If you’ve been wondering WTF a special master is, you’re not alone. We’ll Skimm a special master’s job description, why Team Trump requested one after the Mar-A-Lago raid, and why this judge’s decision was controversial…in 60 seconds.
Finally: Pumpkin spice latte season is here – but not if inflation can help it. This year, your Starbucks order of a PSL is clocking in at almost $6. Ouch. But lucky for us, it’s pretty easy to recreate the magic from your own kitchen. We call a food writer to tell us how to DIY PSL.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Matt Phillips, markets correspondent, Axios
Becky Krystal, staff writer, Voraciously

PS: Calling all Skimm This listeners. Have questions about the news, work, or life? Call and leave us a voicemail at (929) 266-4381. We can’t wait to hear from you.

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

To The Moon?: New Boosters, Artemis 1, MoviePass 2.0

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 20:40:00 -0000

First: We’ve got the breakdown on some of this week’s headlines, from UN inspectors on the ground at a nuclear plant in Ukraine, to an unfolding water crisis wreaking havoc on residents in Jackson, Mississippi.
Next: Even though it’s the end of summer, the FDA is gearing up for another COVID Winter. We spoke to a doctor about the new booster shots that could be available as soon as next week, and how they’re different from the shots you already have.
Also: NASA’s still trying to shoot for the moon, after aborting a rocket mission on Monday. Ahead of liftoff on Saturday, we’ll explain why we’re headed back to our closest celestial neighbor and what it means for the future of space exploration all…in 60 seconds.
Finally: MoviePass is back…and it’s giving strong “movie theaters aren’t dead” energy. We’ll talk to an entertainment reporter about what’s changed since their last attempt at changing the movie ticket game.

PS: Calling all Skimm This listeners. Have questions about the news, work, or life? Call and leave us a voicemail at (929) 266-4381. We can’t wait to hear from you.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Kavita Patel, primary care physician
Alexandra Canal, Senior Reporter, Yahoo Finance

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Will Livingston, with help from Sami Roberts. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fun Tonight: Student Debt Relief, Electric Cars, Barbiecore

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 20:55:18 -0000

First: We’re sitting down with United States Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona to get the full update on President Biden’s student debt relief announcement.
Next: We’ve got some other big headlines from this week, from the first conviction linked to Breonna Taylor’s death in 2020 to where things stand after six months of war in Ukraine. Here’s a look at life in wartime, from photojournalists on the ground.
Also: A big selling point for the inflation reduction act is a tax credit for electric vehicle purchases. And while it’s getting drivers excited to go green, it's a little unclear which cars actually qualify for cash back. We’ll break it down in 60 seconds.
ICYMI: Quiet quitting has been all over TikTok, but what does the term actually mean? We’re sitting down with an expert to go over what quiet quitting looks like in practice, and what it says about our changing relationship with work.
Finally: It’s a hot pink revolution. Barbiecore has been taking the fashion world by storm, and encouraging people to go bold with some vibrant new looks. We’re talking to an expert about how Barbiecore came to be — and why you should say yes to the pink dress.

PS: Calling all Skimm This listeners. Have questions about the news, work, or life? Call and leave us a voicemail at (929) 266-4381. We can’t wait to hear from you.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Miguel Cardona, United States Secretary of Education
Erica Pandey, Business Reporter, Axios
Katharine Zarrella, Fashion Director, Off duty, The Wall Street Journal

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin with help from Rashaan Ayesh. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dog Days Are Over: Teacher Shortage, Colorado River Drought, Pickleball

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 20:40:00 -0000

First: We’re giving you the context on the biggest headlines for the week: from a major NFL star being sidelined, to Liz Cheney losing her seat in Wyoming. Plus: OTC hearing aids and the Inflation Reduction Act becomes law. PS: Last week we broke down how the Inflation Reduction Act will affect you. Check it out here.
Next: This week, we got one of the biggest changes to US water policy in decades. We’ll Skimm who has to turn off the tap – and how this will affect you even if you don’t live out West – in 60 seconds.
Also: We’re less than three months out from midterm elections. And with TikTok reigning supreme, some people are sounding the alarm about political misinformation on our FYP. We’ll break down the latest news from the platform about how it’s fighting misinformation, and learn how TikTok has influenced elections in other countries.
ICYMI: It’s been a tough two years for students and teachers. And with headlines reading “teacher shortage”, parents and school districts are nervous about going back to school this year. An expert breaks down the impact of student learning losses, what’s driving teachers away from the profession, and the drastic measures some districts are taking to hire and retain teachers.
Finally: There’s one sport taking America by storm: pickleball. Think of it as the modern-day bowling league. We talk to a writer to learn about what it is, why everyone and their mothers (literally) are obsessing, and how it could potentially…save America?! PS: Want to connect with a pickle ball player near you? Check out apps like this one.

PS: Calling all Skimm This listeners. Have questions about the news, work, or life? Call and leave us a voicemail at (929) 266-4381. We can’t wait to hear from you.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Abbie Richards, independent mis and disinformation researcher
Jill Barshay, author, The Hechinger Report
Sarah Larson, staff writer, The New Yorker

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Twist of Fate: FBI Raid, Inflation Reduction Act, BeReal

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 20:40:00 -0000

First: FBI agents searched former president Donald Trump’s home at Mar-A-Lago on Monday. We talked to a Congressional reporter to learn what the FBI was looking for, where this investigation fits in with other Trump trials, and what this could mean for a potential presidential run.
Next: We’ve got the big headlines for the week: July inflation numbers, Facebook’s involvement in a Nebraska abortion case, and Serena Williams retiring from tennis.
Also: The Inflation Reduction Act is making its way to President Biden’s desk. And it’s jam-packed with actions on climate, healthcare, and taxes. We call up an expert to learn what’s in the act and how it’ll impact you for years to come.
Finally: BeReal is the newest social media app taking the US by storm. Butttt with some twists: no influencers, no filters, and no aesthetically pleasing photos. We talked to a reporter who went down the BeReal rabbit hole to learn about our desire for more authentic connections online.

PS: Calling all Skimm This listeners. Have questions about the news, work, or life? Call and leave us a voicemail at (929) 266-4381. We can’t wait to hear from you.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Alayna Treene, congressional reporter, Axios
Lisa Desjardins, correspondent, PBS NewsHour
Sarah Todd, senior reporter, Quartz

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Heated: Brittney Griner, Medical Gaslighting, Hot Girl Sh*t

Thu, 04 Aug 2022 20:40:00 -0000

First: We’ve got the context on the biggest headlines of the week: Brittney Griner’s guilty verdict, monkeypox updates + how to stay safe, the unexpected Kansas abortion vote outcome, and the killing of Al Qaeda’s leader. PS: check out the CDC’s FAQ on the monkeypox vaccine.
Next: House speaker Nancy Pelosi went on a tour of Asia this week. And her summer travel itinerary got international communities buzzing. We’ll give you the DL on why her trip to Taiwan was so controversial and what went down…in 60 seconds.
Also: Has a doctor ever downplayed your symptoms? If so, you’re not alone. There’s even a name for it: medical gaslighting. And it disproportionately affects women, people of color, geriatric patients and LGBTQ+ people. We talk to two experts who break down what medical gaslighting is, what the signs of it are, and how to advocate for your health at the doctor’s office.
Finally: ICYMI, everything is "hot" now. Inspired by pop-culture icons like Paris Hilton and Megan Thee Stallion, people are now calling everything in their lives "hot" – even when it doesn't conform to the word's conventional definition. We speak to a reporter about how the three letter word has recently taken on a new meaning. Plus, a TikTok creator guides us on a "hot girl walk". So lace up those shoes.

PS: Calling all Skimm This listeners. Have questions about the news, work, or life? Call and leave us a voicemail at (929) 266-4381. We can’t wait to hear from you.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Allison, Sidney, and Pam, Skimm HQrs
Dr. Jennifer Mieres, professor of cardiology and chief DEI officer, Northwell Health
Dr. Karen Spencer, professor of health and behavioral sciences, University of Denver-Colorado
Danya Issawi, writer, The Cut
Mia Lind, TikTok creator

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Both Sides Now: Recession Fears, VP Harris on Abortion, Heat Waves

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 20:56:45 -0000

First: We’ve got the latest on the economic news of the week. To sort out the Fed’s interest rate hike, corporate earnings, and the latest GDP report showing another quarter of shrinkage, we phone a friend and learn what all these money moves mean.
Next: Lawmakers in Indiana introduced a near total abortion ban, kicking off a special legislative session this week. Skimm This spoke to VP Kamala Harris in Indianapolis to learn about the federal government’s response since Roe fell — and what we can expect to see going forward.
ICYMI: It’s too darn hot. With extreme heat on the rise worldwide, many cities are scrambling to figure out how to handle it. We talk to an emergency planning coordinator from Seattle who tells us how her city plans to beat the heat. PS: Here’s how you can stay safe and cool during a heatwave.
Finally: From Yosemite to Yellowstone, national park visits boomed during the pandemic as people looked for safe-ish ways to go on vacay. But with parks overcrowded and severe weather taking a toll, one travel expert shares alternative places to go that are just as Instagram-worthy, if not more.

PS: Calling all Skimm This listeners. Have questions about the news, work, or life? Call and leave us a voicemail at (929) 266-4381. We can’t wait to hear from you.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Katheryn Edwards, economist, RAND Corporation
Kamala Harris, Vice President of the United States
Lucia Schmidt, emergency planning coordinator, Seattle Office of Emergency Management
Shannon Lowery, content manager, Visit USA Parks

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

About Damn Time?: Strong US Dollar, Microchip Manufacturing, Shark Sightings

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 20:40:00 -0000

First: We've got the major headlines from this week: President Biden tests positive for Covid-19, heat waves scorch western Europe and 100M in the US, a marriage equality vote in the House, and an election security vote in the Senate.
Next: The Euro and US Dollar are just about equal for the first time in along time, but it isn’t JUST about cheap aperol spritzes (well, maybe to some people). We’ll break down how we got here – and how you can take advantage of a strong dollar – all in 60 seconds.
ICYMI: Monkeypox cases are on the rise, and vaccine appointments are still scarce. We talk to an expert about why cases are spreading, why the government has been so slow to act, and what to expect as new infections continue.
Also: Tiny microchips are the talk of the town in Washington DC. We’ll explain why microchips are getting the A-list treatment on Capitol Hill, and what this means for the future of American tech innovation.
Finally: Baby there’s a shark in the water. Or like, 100 of them. With all the recent shark attacks and sightings in the Northeast, we sat down with a shark expert to learn why it seems like there’s more than usual and what we can do to stay safe at the beach.

PS: Calling all Skimm This listeners. Have questions about the news, work, or life? Call and leave us a voicemail at (929) 266-4381. We can’t wait to hear from you.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Keletso Makofane, PhD, FXB Health & Human Rights Fellow, Harvard University
Will Knight, Senior Writer, Wired
Candace Fields, PhD Student in Predator, Ecology ,and Conservation lab, Florida International University

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. Engineered by Elie McAfee-Hahn and Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cruel Summer: Inflation, COVID Immunity, and Shady TikTok Ads

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 20:40:00 -0000

First: We’re kicking it off with the big headlines for the week: June inflation numbers, what you need to know about the COVID variant dominating the US right now, the launch of the 988 mental health hotline, and why the president of Sri Lanka resigned – over email – today.
Next: President Biden hopped on Air Force one to head to the Middle East for his first visit to the region since his presidency began. We'll explain the Biden agenda and why the trip is causing a lot of controversy...in 60 seconds.
ICYMI: Elon Musk called it quits with Twitter this week. Twitter’s response? Lawyer up, Musk. We talk to a tech reporter to learn more about the breakup and how she thinks it’ll all play out in court.
Also: From foot fetish websites to fancy water, TikTok influencers are making bank off of sponsored content. But some of them are breaking the law at the same time. We talk to a reporter who went down the rabbit hole of undisclosed sponcon to learn why influencers are saying “no thanks” to putting #ad on their posts – and why it’s so hard to stop it. PS: If you think you’re seeing undisclosed spon-con on your FYP, report it to the FTC here.
Finally: We’re throwing it back to the early 2000s mall culture. Specifically to the store with the little pink bag and iconic fashion show, Victoria’s Secret. We chat with the director and EP of a new docuseries that follows the iconic brand’s fall from grace.

PS: Calling all Skimm This listeners. Have questions about the news, work, or life? Call and leave us a voicemail at (929) 266-4381. We can’t wait to hear from you.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Kavita Patel, physician
Rachel Lerman, technology reporter, The Washington Post
Sara Morrison, senior reporter, Recode
Jenny Ewig, executive producer, Victoria’s Secret: Angels and Demons
Matt Tyrnaeur, director, Victoria’s Secret: Angels and Demons

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve Only Just Begun: Brittney Griner, IVF’s Future, Rent and Relationships

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 20:40:00 -0000

First: We’ve got the big headlines for the week: Boris Johnson saying cheerio to being Britain’s PM, a critical week for Brittney Griner in Russia, the latest on the Highland Park shooting, and the newest jobs report.
Next: This week, seven of former President Trump’s allies were subpoenaed. We’ll break down why a Georgia court wants them to testify and how this is different from the House’s Jan. 6 investigation…all in 60 seconds.
ICYMI: Fertility doctors have been sounding the alarm about what a post-Roe America means for patients going through IVF. We’ll explain how abortion and IVF are linked – and where IVF could be threatened. PS: check out theSkimm’s guide to IVF.
Finally: Cuffing season just got a lot more interesting. With high housing prices around the country, couples are saying ‘don’t hate, cohabitate.’ We sat down with a sociologist to learn what happens when couples move in to save $$$, and the secrets to a successful move in.

PS: Calling all Skimm This listeners. Have questions about the news, work, or life? Call and leave us a voicemail at (929) 266-4381. We can’t wait to hear from you.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Natalie Crawford, reproductive endocrinologist and co-founder, Fora Fertility
Sharon Sassler, professor, Cornell University’s Brooks School of Public Policy

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, Blake Lew-Merwin, and theSkimm’s senior health writer Carly Mallenbaum. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

All Shook Up: SCOTUS Fallout and Summer Travel Tricks

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 20:39:00 -0000

First: We’re looking at the fallout in the US after SCOTUS overturned Roe v. Wade last week (think: trigger laws, legal battles, and the scramble to find abortion care). Plus, we sat down with Governor Gretchen Whitmer from Michigan on the complicated future of abortion rights in her state.
Next: Last weekend, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez called for the impeachment of two Supreme Court justices. We’ll break down why AOC wants them gone, who else is beefing with SCOTUS, and if impeachment is even possible – all in 60 seconds.
Then: We’re turning the mic over to our listeners, to hear how they’re thinking about a post-Roe America.
ICYMI: We’ve got the other major headlines from this week, including: final rulings from SCOTUS about the environment and immigration, a bombshell testimony about what happened on Jan. 6, the tragic migrant deaths in TX, and Finland and Sweden joining NATO.
Finally: Summer travel is already hitting some turbulence. So while we wait for the airlines to get their s*** together, we got some insider tips on how you can travel smarter – not harder.

PS: Calling all Skimm This listeners. Want to share how you’re feeling in this post-Roe world? Have questions about the news, work, or life? Call and leave us a voicemail at (929) 266-4381. We can’t wait to hear from you.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Gretchen Whitmer, Governor of Michigan (D)
Skimm This listeners
Misty Belles, vice president, Global Relations at Virtuoso

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. theSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Skimm This Special Report: The Future of Abortion Access

Fri, 24 Jun 2022 20:39:00 -0000

First: The deets on the ruling – how many voted to overturn, who will be impacted, and how Americans are reacting.
Next: Two legal experts enter the chat to talk about the reasoning behind the ruling, how it’s different from the leaked draft opinion, and how it compares to other cases already ruled on this month.
ICYMI: A breakdown on how states’ abortion access will look after today. PS: Check out theSkimm’s guide to abortion access in the US.
Finally: A deeper dive into what is at stake post-Roe, including: women’s health outcomes, economic impacts, and other rights that might be on the chopping block.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Caroline Polisi, lecturer in law, Columbia Law School
Seema Mohapatra, M.D. Anderson Foundation Endowed Professor in Health Law and Professor of Law, Southern Methodist University

We also want to hear from you: how are you thinking about a post-Roe America? Call and leave us a voicemail at ‪(929) 266-4381. ‬

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We Can’t Stop: SCOTUS Rulings, WFH Forever and Psychedelics at Work?!

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 20:35:00 -0000

First: We’ve got the context on this week’s headlines: the biggest takeaways from the Jan. 6 hearings, an update on the bipartisan gun deal and the police response in Uvalde, Biden’s push for a gas tax holiday, and the devastating earthquake in Afghanistan.
Next: Before SCOTUS leaves for summer recess, it’s dropping rulings on cases it heard this year. We sat down with a legal expert to get the TLDR on what they’ve released so far, including a controversial second amendment case that’s creating shockwaves through US cities.
ICYMI: Across the pond, thousands of UK rail workers went on strike. All aboard as we break down why rail workers are walking out, and why it could be bad news for Boris Johnson…in 60 seconds.
Also: We’re kicking off a new segment, Ask Skimm This. As the economy seems to be cooling off, CEOs are tightening the reins. So: does that mean workers can say goodbye to WFH? We’ll ask an expert.
Finally: Some businesses are taking employees on the trip of a lifetime. Think: taking psychedelics with your coworkers to get the creative juices flowing. We'll ask a reporter who investigated this trend WTF is going on. And whether or not psychedelics might be making an appearance at a workplace near you.

PS: Calling all Skimm This listeners. If you have a question for us — about the news, work, or life — call and leave us a voicemail at (929) 266-4381. We can’t wait to hear from you.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Caroline Polisi, lecturer in law, Columbia University
Vivian Giang, senior staff editor, The New York Times
Natasha Loder, health policy editor, The Economist

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Climb: Cancer Breakthroughs, Google’s AI, and Vaccines for Kids

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 20:40:00 -0000

First: We’ve got the context on this week’s headlines: the Fed raising interest rates again, an update from the war in Ukraine, what we learned from the January 6th hearings, why there’s a tampon shortage, and what’s going on with extreme weather.
Next: As the COVID vaccine for kids under 5 got the thumbs up from an FDA panel this week, we asked a pediatrician to answer parents’ burning questions. Daycare’s future? Vaxxed, snacks, and mid-day naps.
ICYMI: The tech industry experienced a WTF moment over the weekend when a Google engineer said the company’s AI was sentient. Meaning: unlike our exes, it has a soul. We'll break down what’s going on and why this isn’t Google’s first AI controversy…in sixty seconds.
PS: This Sunday is Juneteenth. To learn more about the celebration of liberation, check out theSkimm’s guides on the history of the holiday, systemic racism in the US, and where the US stands on reparations.
Also: Recently, there have been some major breakthroughs in cancer research. We’ll ask a scientist to explain two small clinical trials, and how their outcomes could have huge implications for the millions of people living with cancer.
Finally: We chat with the organizer of Dave’s Lesbian Bar to understand the role queer bars played in history—and why now more than ever, they’re more than just local watering holes. Also: check out theSkimm’s guide on how to celebrate Pride.

P.S. Calling all Skimm This listeners. If you have a question for us — about the news, work, or life — call and leave us a voicemail at (929) 266-4381. We can’t wait to hear from you.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Tina Tan, professor of pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University
Dr. Luis Diaz, medical oncologist, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Kristin "Dave" Dausch, organizer, Dave’s Lesbian Bar

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. Engineered by Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ready for Prime Time: January 6 Hearings, Gun Legislation, Crypto in the Midterms

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 20:54:45 -0000

First: We’ve got the context on this week’s headlines: what to look out for in the Jan. 6 hearings, the latest on gun control legislation, and the gymnasts who are seeking $1 billion from the FBI.
Next: Primary elections are chugging along. And there’s one industry that’s making its mark with political donations this election season – crypto. We’ll explain which candidates crypto execs are supporting and why the industry’s got skin in the political game…in 60 seconds.
ICYMI: As we wait for the final SCOTUS ruling on Roe v. Wade, we sat down with the President and CEO of the Center for Reproductive Rights to understand what we can expect if Roe is overturned, who will be most impacted, and what other rights would be threatened by the decision.
Finally: A tick whose bite could give you a red meat allergy might be coming to a summer BBQ near you. We talk to an expert to understand how worried we should be. And two women who are learning to live with their new allergies.

P.S. Calling all Skimm This listeners. If you have a question for us — about the news, work, or life — call and leave us a voicemail at (929) 266-4381. We can’t wait to hear from you.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Nancy Northup, president and CEO, Center for Reproductive Rights
Candice Matthis, blogger, Two Alpha Gals
Debbie Nichols, blogger, Two Alpha Gals
Dr. Scott P. Commins, associate professor of medicine and pediatrics, University of North Carolina School of Medicine

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. Engineered by Elie McAfee-Hahn and Ko Takasugi-Czernowin. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

All Eyes On: School Safety, Women in Afghanistan, and the Queen’s Jubilee

Thu, 02 Jun 2022 21:27:00 -0000

First: We’ve got the context on this week’s headlines: another mass shooting in Tulsa, the end of lockdowns in Shanghai, and the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.
Next: After weeks of negotiating, the EU has finally put its foot down and banned most Russian oil imports. But when we look at the fine print, we learn that not all oil is banned equally. We’ll break down the latest sanctions and why they matter…in 60 seconds.
ICYMI: After the shooting in Uvalde last week, politicians are talking about gun control…and school safety. Aka: metal detectors, armed guards, armed teachers, and more. We’ll ask two educators about how they’re thinking about classroom safety – and what’s best for students.
Later: With SCOTUS ready to strike down Roe v. Wade, we’ve got women’s rights in other countries on our mind. Particularly in Afghanistan. We asked an expert where things stand for women in the country almost one year since the Taliban took control.
Finally: The babysitters club has new members. And for them, $15/hr won’t cut it anymore. An expert told us why babysitters are asking for more money, plus how parents are reacting.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Courtney Powers, high school teacher, Greenwich High School
Dr. David Title, associate professor, Sacred Heart University
Dr. Lina AbiRafeh, aid worker, academic, and women’s rights activist
Lynn Perkins, founder and CEO, UrbanSitter

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. Engineered by Elie McAfee-Hahn and Ko Takasugi-Czernowin. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is America

Thu, 26 May 2022 20:54:37 -0000

First: An 18-year-old gunman killed 19 children and two teachers in Uvalde, TX. We’ll cover the deadliest school shooting since Sandy Hook, and the debate over what it will take to stop another classroom massacre.
Next: As Oklahoma passed the most restrictive abortion law in the US this week, we spoke to an abortion provider to learn how she’s thinking about the future reproductive care in a post-Roe America. PS: theSkimm is tracking the state of abortion rights.
ICYMI: Analysts are saying Wall Street is on the cusp of a bear market. But what does it mean when stocks head into hibernation season? We'll explain what a bear market is, and what it means for your wallet...in 60 seconds.
Later: Have you been wondering WTF monkeypox is? Same. We talked to an expert to understand how it spreads, what symptoms to look out for, and whether or not we need to be concerned.
Finally: This year’s AAPI Heritage Month theme is advancing leadership through collaboration. And we want to know: how are millennial women in the AAPI community bringing that theme to their work and lives? To find out, we spoke to the founders of Heart of Dinner, an org that provides food for the Asian elderly in NYC.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Gigi Gronvall, senior scholar, Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security at the Bloomberg School of Public Health
Andrea Gallegos, executive administrator, Tulsa Women's Clinic
Yin Chang and Moonlynn Tsai, co-founders, Heart of Dinner

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn, with help from Ko Takasugi-Czernowin. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Desperado: Formula Shortage and TikTok Healthcare

Thu, 19 May 2022 20:40:41 -0000

First: We’ve got some of the biggest headlines this week – an update on the war in Ukraine, Tuesday’s primary elections here in the US, COVID boosters for kids, and a major W for the US women’s soccer team.
Next: The baby formula shortage continues to keep parents up at night. We’ll speak to the US Surgeon General, Dr.Vivek Murthy, about the shortage and hear what the White House, government agencies, and lawmakers are doing to increase supply.
ICYMI: After last weekend’s mass shooting in Buffalo, we asked an expert about the rise of racially motivated domestic extremism,, and why politicians are now going after social media platforms in the wake of these attacks.
Later: Spirit and Frontier airlines were ready to say, “I do”. Then, JetBlue came along and shouted “I object”. We’ll break down the airline love triangle that has antitrust regulators’ heads spinning…in 60 seconds.
Finally: From hot girls with IBS to late-in-life ADHD diagnoses, TikTok has basically become the new WebMD. We’ll speak to a psychiatrist to learn why TikTok has turned into the new doctor’s office.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Vivek Murthy, US Surgeon General
Faiza Patel, co-director, Brennan Center for Justice’s Liberty and National Security Program
Dr. Adeola Adelayo, psychiatrist, Banner Health Behavioral Hospital

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn, with help from Ko Takasugi-Czernowin. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Waitin’ On A Sunny Day: Stock Market, Formula Shortage, Blockbuster Boom

Thu, 12 May 2022 20:35:00 -0000

First: Now that Roe v. Wade looks like it’ll be overturned this summer, lawmakers on both sides of the aisle are planning their next moves. We’re speaking to Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) about what’s next for Dems in the fight over reproductive rights.
ICYMI: If you've gone looking for baby formula at Target or Walmart recently, spoiler: it's really hard to find. We'll Skimm what's causing the shortage – and what to do if you’re looking for formula – in 60 seconds.
Next: We’ve got the context on the other major headlines this week – record-high drug overdose deaths, wildfires in New Mexico, the grim findings on Native Americans in US boarding schools, and saying iRIP to the iPod.
Later: High inflation, meet new stock market lows. We asked a financial expert to help us understand the stock market's recent bumpy ride, and what to do if your 401k is stressing you out.
Finally: Grab your popcorn, because summer blockbusters are back. We’ll share what you can expect in theaters this summer. Hint: what’s old is new again.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Sen. Amy Klobuchar, US Senator (D-MN)
Farnoosh Torabi, editor at large, CNET Personal Finance
Rebecca Rubin, film and media reporter, Variety

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. Additional help from Hannah Parker. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Time Machine: Roe v. Wade and Recession Fears

Thu, 05 May 2022 21:25:00 -0000

First: It was the leak heard around the world. We’ll break down the Supreme Court’s draft opinion on Roe v. Wade. Plus, we’ll hear from legal analysts on what this means for people seeking abortions in the months and years to come.
ICYMI: Why are you seeing Donald Trump’s name in the news again? ‘Cause he’s got some skin in the game this primary season. We’ll break down why primary candidates are looking to play their ‘Trump card’...in 60 seconds.
Next: We’ve got two big headlines this week – why the EU is proposing an embargo on Russian oil, and an update on the Brittney Griner case.
Later: GDP numbers, inflation rate, interest rates, job numbers...so much economic data, so little time. We'll ask an expert to help us check the pulse on America’s economic health
Finally: A new study revealed that video conferencing ≠ creativity. We'll ask the author of that study how businesses and employees can get their creative juices flowing, even in a WFH environment.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Seema Mohapatra, visiting professor of law, Southern Methodist University
Caroline Polisi, lecturer in law, Columbia Law School
Kathryn Edwards, economist, RAND Institute
Melanie Brucks, assistant professor of business, Columbia Business School

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. Additional help from Sagine Corrielus. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Unwritten: Twitter’s Future, Teen Mental Health Crisis, and California Drought

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 20:45:00 -0000

First: We’ve got the context on the biggest stories from the week – from the US economy shrinking for the first time since 2020, to a concerning drought warning in the West. PS: learn more about Pfizer’s COVID-19 drug, Paxlovid, here.
Next: Elon Musk turned down a Tweet at the table — and bought Twitter instead. So what happens now? We’ll ask an expert about Musk’s plans, and what’s next for free speech.
ICYMI: The Finns and Swedes have their pencils ready, waiting to apply for NATO membership. We’ll talk about why they’re ditching their historic neutrality, and why NATO is the hottest new club to join…in 60 seconds.
Later: New reports reveal that American teens are in the middle of a mental health crisis. We'll ask a psychologist what’s causing concern. If you know a teen who’s struggling, here are some resources to help.
Finally: Your favorite foliage was actually picked out for you by the Miranda Priestly of houseplants. We'll talk to a reporter who took a deep dive into the global houseplant industry to find out what it takes to become America's next top houseplant.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Rachel Lerman, tech reporter, The Washington Post
Dr. Kara Bagot, Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Pediatrics, Mount Sinai
Katie Van Syckle, senior staff editor, The New York Times

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. Additional help from Sagine Corrielus. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Skimm Special: The Science of Skincare

Tue, 26 Apr 2022 21:00:00 -0000

Harsh scrubs. Toothpaste spot treatments. Chemical face peels. Some of the beauty ‘hacks’ you might see on the internet (or recognize from middle school) can actually be pretty dangerous.

But decades of research and cutting-edge tech can help us take better care of our skin. So together with Droplette, we set out to explore the science that can help us skincare smarter. In this special episode, we break down a few proven ingredients and techniques. So you can figure out which products are right for you and develop the perfect routine.

In this episode, you’ll hear from InStyle Executive Beauty Editor Kayla Greaves and cosmetic chemist and science educator Dr. Michelle Wong of Lab Muffin Beauty Science.

This episode is Skimm’d by Alex Carr and our Senior Director of Audio Graelyn Brashear, with help from Senior Branded Content Editor Liz Smith. It's engineered by Elie McAfee-Hahn and Andrew Callaway.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mood Ring: Airport Drama, Netflix, Sustainable Living

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 20:44:00 -0000

First: Russia is restrategizing in Ukraine ahead of an important deadline. We’ll take a look at how the war is changing.
Next: We’ve also got the other big headlines from the week: from Netflix execs are freaking out right now, to the latest union efforts at Apple. Plus: why millions of student loan borrowers are about to get some relief.
Next up: If traveling has been a nightmare for you, you’re not alone. Are cancellations, delays, and lost bags the new normal? We’ll ask a travel expert how to avoid the mile cry club.
ICYMI: All eyes are on France as they pick a new president. And spoiler: both candidates are controversial. We’ll break down why this election has everyone saying ooh la la…in 60 seconds.
Then: While some people use Earth Day as an excuse to post their vacation pics on IG, we’re asking someone who lives a climate-conscious lifestyle 24/7 for her tips. PS: if you want more tips, read her climate diary here.
Finally: Has your phone been blowing up…but not in a good way? Americans are getting spam texts at record high rates. We’ll break down how to clean up your messages.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Shelby Magid, associate director, the Atlantic Council's Eurasia Center
Matthew Howe, Senior Manager of Travel Intelligence, Morning Consult
Alicia, Rachel, Madison, Skimm HQ’rs
Lucia Priselac, Director, The Uproot Project

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. Additional help from Sagine Corrielus. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Loose Threads: Subway Shooting, Inflation, Abercrombie & Fitch

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 20:37:49 -0000

First: This week, commuters in New York City saw their worst nightmare come to life. We’ll break down what happened on Tuesday morning – and why people across the country are on edge.
Next up: We’ve got the other big headlines from the week: from Elon Musk vs. Twitter, shocking body cam footage sparking protests in Michigan, and the latest from the frontlines in Ukraine.
ICYMI: The latest inflation numbers have people talking about the “r” word: recession. We’ll ask an economist what to expect in the coming months – and how we can prepare for what’s coming.
Then: Following in Florida’s footsteps, states around the US are considering ‘don’t say gay’ bills for their schools. We’ll chat with an expert about how these bills affect the lives of LGBTQ+ youth and what we can do to make safe spaces for young people. PS: If you need more resources for LGBTQ+ support, check them out here.
Finally: We’re taking you back in time to an era where layered t-shirts and Bieber bangs ruled all. We’re talking about Abercrombie & Fitch. But it turns out: there were some dark secrets in those seriously dark storefronts.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Heather Long, economics columnist, editorial board member, the Washington Post
Amit Paley, CEO, the Trevor Project
Alison Klayman, director, ‘White Hot: The Rise & Fall of Abercrombie & Fitch’
Nikki Ogunnaike, digital director, Harper's Bazaar

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. Additional help from Sagine Corrielus. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Skimm Special: COVID and Kids

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 21:00:00 -0000

If you’re a parent of young kids, you’ve probably spent the last two years thinking a lot about your kid’s health and how to keep them safe. Chances are: You’re exhausted, overworked, worried, and confused. So together with Boston Children’s Hospital, we set out to put your mind at ease.

In this special episode, we ask a pediatrician the Q’s that Skimm’r parents told us are keeping them up at night. She answers things like: How should we evaluate risk in our everyday lives? How should parents think about vaccines for their young kids? And what’s the best way to spot a child who is struggling with mental health?

In this episode, you’ll hear from Dr. Kristin Moffitt, pediatric infectious disease specialist at Boston Children’s Hospital.

This episode is Skimm’d by Senior Director of Audio Graelyn Brashear and Senior Manager of Branded Content Jana Pollack. It is engineered by Andrew Callaway.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I Feel It Coming: Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, Surrogacy Shortage, Ukraine

Thu, 07 Apr 2022 20:45:00 -0000

First: We’ve got the context on the biggest stories from the week –from Oklahoma’s abortion ban… to a new date you might want to add to your calendar if you’ve got student loans
Next up: We’ve got an update on what’s going on in Ukraine – and where things stand after Ukraine accused Russia of committing serious war crimes.
ICYMI: If you’ve tried to buy a house recently – it seems like actually closing on a place is harder than winning the lottery. We’ll break down the wild ride that is the housing market, and ask two experts: when are we gonna get some relief? PS: Need tips on buying a home in a crowded market? We’ve got you covered.
Then: Americans are seeking surrogates to start or expand their families…but can’t seem to find anyone. We’ll talk to two experts about why this already complex process just keeps getting harder.
Finally: If you’re in need of some quality R&R, you’re not alone. We’ll tell you about the unexpected place more people are going to get some rest.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Margaret Brennan, Moderator, Face the Nation, CBS Chief foreign affairs correspondent
Odeta Kushi, Deputy Chief Economist, First American Financial Corporation
Nicole Bachaud, economist, Zillow
Dr. Natalie Crawford, fertility physician, board-certified OB GYN
Dr. Lucky Sekhon, infertility specialist, board-certified OB GYN
Amber McMillan, Senior Vice President of Fitness and Weight Loss, LifeTime Gyms

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Will Livingston. Additional help from Sagine Corrielus. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Taking Care of Business: Four-Day Work Week, Facebook vs. TikTok, Fake LinkedIn Profiles

Thu, 31 Mar 2022 20:41:36 -0000

First: We’ve got the context on the biggest stories from the week – from the war in Ukraine, to the latest booster shot recommendations. And a major immigration announcement from the White House.
Next up: A bombshell new report revealed that Facebook’s parent company hired a private firm to dish dirt on fellow social media giant TikTok. We’ll skimm the digital drama…in 60 seconds.
ICYMI: As we head into the third year of the pandemic, scientists are taking a closer look at long COVID symptoms. And new research suggests there are a lot of similarities between long COVID brain fog and other brain conditions. We’ll break down the findings with a professor pioneering this research.
Then: We’re diving into the latest tactic companies are using to keep employees happy: the four day work week. But are permanent long weekends too good to be true? We’ll ask an expert.
Finally: If your LinkedIn has been blowing up recently, you may have been networking...with a robot. Researchers at Stanford found a lot of AI-generated LinkedIn profiles floating around. We’ll tell you how to spot a fake – and keep your network human-only.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Michelle Monje, professor of neurology, Stanford University
Gabriel Stein, head of operations and product, Knowledge Futures Group
Jennifer Liu, work reporter, CNBC Make it

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Will Livingston. Additional help from Sagine Corrielus. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Watch List: SCOTUS Hearings, Russia and China, Oscars

Thu, 24 Mar 2022 20:27:44 -0000

First: We’ve got the context on the biggest stories from the week – from the new Omicron subvariant, to a controversial new abortion bill in Idaho. And a major declaration from the United States that has some people saying: “too little, too late?”
Next up: Biden’s Supreme Court pick Ketanji Brown Jackson headed to Capitol Hill this week. We’ll break down what we learned about Jackson from her marathon confirmation hearings.
ICYMI: Trouble’s brewing at the happiest place on earth. Disney’s CEO is caught in the crossfire between his employees and Florida politicians. We’ll Skimm Disney’s wild ride…in 60 seconds.
Then: As NATO allies met in Europe this week to discuss the war in Ukraine, one global power has notably taken a seat on the sidelines: China. We’ll explain how China could influence the outcome of this war. And why China’s relationship status with Russia is “it’s complicated.”
Finally: Lights, camera, Oscars. Mark your calendars for the Academy Awards this Sunday. And if you’ve still got a lot of movies on your watch list - or you just want to get filled in on Oscars-related drama - we’ve got you covered.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Rebecca Hamilton, associate professor at American University Washington College of Law.
Seema Mohapatra, visiting law professor at Southern Methodist University
David Rennie, the Beijing bureau chief for the Economist
Bridget Armstrong, host of Pop Cultured with the Skimm

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Will Livingston. Additional help from Sagine Corrielus. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

High Gear: Inside Kyiv, Interest Rates, Formula 1

Thu, 17 Mar 2022 20:39:00 -0000

First: We’ll start this week by speaking to someone inside the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv. We've got an inside look at emotions on the ground, the latest on US involvement, and where the war could go from here.
Next up: With Putin playing mind games on his own turf, we’ll take a look at the information iron curtain in Russia.
ICYMI: The Fed announced it’s raising interest rates .25%. We’ll explain why this small step for the Fed is actually a big move for the economy – and your wallet.
Then: Europe and China are seeing major spikes in COVID cases, all thanks to a new “Stealth” variant of Omicron. We’ll explain what you need to know about Omicron’s evil twin.
Finally: Formula One’s appeal is twofold: it’s a high-speed sport with Housewives-level drama. We’ll cover the global car racing competition, its geopolitical controversies, and its glamorous destinations. And the drivers? Let’s just say they’re…hot wheels.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Jane Ferguson, correspondent, PBS NewsHour, contributor, The New Yorker
Alessandra Stanley, co-editor, AirMail
Jean Yung, reporter, Market News International
Carrie Battan, staff writer, The New Yorker

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Will Livingston. Additional help from Sagine Corrielus. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Surface Pressure: Oil Ban, Cyberattacks, Tech CEO TV Shows

Thu, 10 Mar 2022 21:46:00 -0000

First: We’re entering a new phase of the war in Ukraine as Russia ramps up its attacks on civilians. Cue: pressure on the US to hit Russia harder. We’ll break down Biden’s big announcement this week banning Russian oil, the damage it could cause to Russia, and what it means for us here at home.
Next up: We’ll speak to an expert about the other cyber weapons at Russia’s disposal - and what might drive Putin to create online chaos.
ICYMI: If you’re wondering why yachts, private jets, luxury goods, and apartments are also caught in the crossfire of the financial war on Russia, we’ll break down who the Oligarchs are, and why they’re coming under fire.
Then: We’ll break down the week’s other headlines – including a check-in on inflation and an update on the future of crypto in the United States.
Finally: What do WeWork, Theranos, and Uber have in common? Not a lot, but they all have dramatized TV shows chronicling their controversial rise in the tech world. We’ll ask a TV critic: why are we so obsessed with these shady stories?

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Kristine Berzina, senior fellow and head of geopolitics at the Alliance for Securing Democracy
Nicole Perlroth, cybersecurity journalist, advisor to CISA, and author
Kathryn VanArendonk, critic, Vulture

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr. Additional help from Sagine Corrielus and Hannah Parker. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie Mcafee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gimme Shelter: Refugees in Europe, Inflation, Headline Stress Disorder

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 21:50:00 -0000

First: Over a million refugees have left Ukraine as Russia continues to attack the country. We'll speak to a professor about what’s next for those leaving and how Europe has historically handled an influx of displaced people. Looking for ways to help Ukraine? Check out our guide.
Next up: This war isn’t just being fought militarily. The West has also used global finance as a weapon to hit Russia back. We’ll break down the types of sanctions that have been imposed, and ask an expert how we might feel the impact of those sanctions, too.
Then: President Biden did his annual check-in with the nation during his State of the Union address. We spoke to a political reporter about what the next year might look like.
ICYMI: Baseball is canceled. Well, kind of. We’ll Skimm the drama between the players union and the owners in the MLB…in 60 seconds.
Finally: When news alerts are high, your anxiety might be high too — and you’re not alone. So we ask a licensed psychologist her best tips to decompress from the headlines. Because peace of mind is a truce we can control.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Serena Parekh, Director of the Politics, Philosophy, and Economics Program, Northeastern University
Megan Greene, Senior Fellow, Harvard Kennedy School, Global Chief Economist, Kroll Institute
Kadia Goba, national politics reporter, Buzzfeed News
Dr. Carolyn Rubenstein, licensed psychologist

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr. Additional help from Sagine Corrielus. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Heartbreak Warfare: Russia Invades, Equal Pay, Dating App Scams

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 21:47:00 -0000

First: It finally happened. Russia has launched a major invasion of Ukraine. We know the headlines probably feel scary and chaotic right now. So we’re going to cut through the noise by talking to two experts in Europe about what we can expect next.
Next up: We’ll give you the context on the other headlines from the week — including more countries rolling back COVID protocols, a major new report on maternal health in the pandemic, and Texas at the center of controversy (again).
Then: The US Women’s National Soccer team just scored a major victory…in the fight for equal pay. We’ll Skimm the historic settlement between the players and their employer in 60 seconds.
Plus: The men convicted of murdering Ahmaud Arbery were just found guilty of federal hate crimes charges. We’ll ask an expert why hate crimes are historically so hard to prosecute, and how this case could mark a turning point in the fight against hate.
Finally: If you’ve seen the Tinder Swindler, you might have thought about deleting your online dating profile. But we have two dating pros to the rescue, who share how we can stay safe while swiping.

P.S. Calling all Skimm This listeners. If you have five minutes to answer some multiple choice questions, please tell us what you want to hear more of on the show. Go to theskimm.com/podsurvey.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Richard Ensor, journalist, the Economist
Melinda Haring, Deputy Director, Atlantic Council’s Eurasia Center
Arusha Gordon, Associate Director of the James Byrd Jr. Center to Stop Hate, the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law.
Yue Xu and Julie Krafchick, co-hosts, Dateable podcast

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr. Additional help from Hannah Parker. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Ugly Truth: Russia-Ukraine, No More Guac, Rom Coms

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 21:30:00 -0000

First: Tensions at the Ukrainian border seem to be at a boiling point, as the US warns a Russian invasion is imminent. We spoke to a reporter on the ground in Ukraine’s capital city Kyiv to see what life has been like amid rising tensions.
Next up: We’ll give you the context on the other headlines from the week — including more drama at the Olympics, a major settlement for the families of Sandy Hook victims, and the latest from a high-profile federal hate crimes trial.
Then: Last week, Congress passed a historic #MeToo bill. We’ll break down how this bill will change workplace safety, with help from someone who knows a thing or two about standing up to their boss: Gretchen Carlson.
ICYMI: Your avocado habit is about to get a lot more expensive. And no, we’re not just talking about inflation. We’ll break down the surprising reason guac is definitely going to cost extra.
Plus: If you’ve heard people say it’s time to start “living with COVID,” you’re not alone. We asked two experts what that phrase actually means, and how we can assess our own risk going forward.
Finally: Romantic comedies are back, baby. We’re breaking down the surprising rom-com renaissance with a film critic.

P.S. Calling all Skimm This listeners. If you have five minutes to answer some multiple choice questions, please tell us what you want to hear more of on the show. Go to theskimm.com/podsurvey.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Isabelle Khurshudyan, foreign correspondent based in Moscow, the Washington Post
Gretchen Carlson, advocate and founder, Lift Our Voices
Dr. Crystal Watson, senior scholar, Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, assistant professor, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
Dr. Janet Baseman, professor of epidemiology and associate dean, University of Washington School of Public Health
Natasha Alvar, film editor, Cultured Vultures

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr. Additional help from Sagine Corrielus. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Ice: Big Tech, Crypto’s Super Bowl Play, Olympic Drama

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 21:39:00 -0000

Suit up, Skimm’rs. This week, we’re all about the competition: Winter Olympics drama. The Super Bowl, which, yes, we’re watching for the ads. And big tech, where some power players are trying to avoid a losing streak. Plus, the latest on protests in Canada’s capital and mask mandate rollbacks.

First: We’ve got updates on a landmark #MeToo bill that passed in Congress, which states are relaxing their mask mandates, the controversy over Florida’s “don’t say gay” bill, escalating protests over COVID restrictions in Canada, and (sorry, have to) inflation.
Next up: From Meta’s massive losses to Spotify’s Joe Rogan headache to Peloton’s job cuts, some of Silicon Valley’s former stars are having a bad year so far. Tech journalist and podcast host Kara Swisher puts it all in context.
Then: Crypto’s the new kid on the block(chain) this Superbowl Sunday. We explain how the industry’s using Superbowl ads as a moment to go mainstream.
Plus: The shooting death of Amir Locke by Minneapolis police has put a new spotlight on no-knock warrants. What are they, and why are they a target for reform? University of Chicago law professor Shannon Fairley explains. Here’s theSkimm’s guide on police reform.
Finally: Figure skating has been delivering big-time Olympic drama this week, from huge firsts to the doping scandal sequel nobody was looking for. Joining us to break it down are former star skaters and Olympic medalists Ashley Wagner and Scott Hamilton.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Kara Swisher, host of Sway, co-host of Pivot, and a tech columnist for the New York Times
Shannon Fairley, professor from practice, University of Chicago Law
Ashley Wagner and Scott Hamilton, former Olympic figure skaters and commentators for Peacock

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

P.S. Calling all Skimm This listeners. If you have five minutes to answer some multiple choice questions, please tell us what you want to hear more of on the show. Go to theskimm.com/podsurvey.

Skimm'd by Alex Carr. Additional help from Sagine Corrielus. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

War of Words: Banned Books, Winter Olympics, Spotify Drama

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 21:46:00 -0000

First up: We’ve got the latest on the US military operation in Syria, a potential COVID-19 vaccine for kids under five, and a bombshell lawsuit alleging racial discrimination in the NFL. Plus, the latest data shows rents in major cities are sky high.

Next: Speaking of sport and scandal…the Winter Olympics are kicking off in Beijing this week. We’ll talk to one reporter about diplomatic boycotts and the controversy surrounding the games.

ICYMI: Spotify is facing the music after major musicians and podcasters started boycotting the platform. The reason? COVID-19 misinformation. We’ll break down the debate.

Plus: A record number of books are being banned from school libraries across the US. We’ll talk to several experts about which books are being banned, why, and what that impact could be on students and teachers.

Finally: Everyone’s talking about Wordle. We’ll tell you five things you need to know about the not-so-grassroots online game that recently got bought for a casual seven figures.

P.S. Calling all Skimm This listeners. If you have five minutes to answer some multiple choice questions, please tell us what you want to hear more of on the show. Go to the skimm.com/podsurvey.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Alicia Mazzarra, senior research analyst, Center on Budget and Policy Priorities
David Rennie, Beijing bureau chief, The Economist
Nora Pelizzari, director of communications, National Coalition Against Censorship
Nadra Nittle, education reporter, the19th
Kalynn Bayron, author, "Cinderella is Dead"
Keiawnna Pitts, parent, Round Rock Black Parents Association
Carly Mallenbaum, Skimm Well writer

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Ciara Long. Additional help from Sagine Corrielus. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wild Ride: SCOTUS, Stock Market, NFL Quarterbacks

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 21:41:00 -0000

First up: Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer is retiring. We called up a law professor to find out what this means for the court’s future.

Next: We’ve got the latest on tensions at the Russia-Ukraine border, as well as the stock market’s wild ride this week and why this year’s tax filing season is off to a rocky start for the IRS. BTW, here’s theSkimm’s guide to completing your tax return.

Then: Dr. Fauci says Omicron may peak by mid February, and the WHO said we might be near the end of the COVID-19 pandemic’s “emergency phase.” We asked a doctor if things are looking up.

ICYMI: What do Peloton, Unilever, and Kohl’s have in common? Before this week, not much. But now, all three companies are being targeted by activist investors. We’ll break down what activist investing is, and what it means for companies and shareholders.

Plus: We’ve spent the last few weeks completing the How To Skimm Your Life Challenge, from upgrading our snack game to optimizing our to-do lists. This week, we’re Skimming our mental health — specifically, how to recover from burnout.

Finally: There were four Superbowl-worthy NFL games last weekend. And we’ve still got weeks til the actual Superbowl. We talked to one sports reporter about why football is so fun to watch right now (never thought we’d say it) and what to expect for the rest of the season.

P.S. Calling all Skimm This listeners. If you have five minutes to answer some multiple choice questions, please tell us what you want to hear more of on the show. Go to the skimm.com/podsurvey.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Kavita Patel, primary care physician and fellow, Brookings Institution
Seema Mohapatra, Murray Visiting Professor of Law, Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law
Dr. Laurie Santos, Yale professor and co-host, the Happiness Lab
Lindsay Jones, senior NFL writer, The Athletic

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Ciara Long. Additional help from Sagine Corrielus. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Under Pressure: Biden At One Year, Voting Rights, and Return to Office

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 22:44:00 -0000

First up: We’ve got the latest on voting rights legislation in the Senate, 5G versus airlines, the Texas synagogue standoff, and how to get free COVID-19 tests and N95 masks.

Next: We called up White House press secretary Jen Psaki to talk about President Biden’s priorities for his second year in office.

ICYMI: UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson is in hot water for breaking lockdown rules in 2020. Rules his administration made. We’ll spill the tea in 60 seconds.

Then: After months and months of postponed RTO plans, some companies are now scrapping plans to head back to the office altogether. We’ll ask one reporter if we’re past the point of no return when it comes to going back IRL.

Plus: It’s review season — which means it’s your chance to ask your boss for that raise or promotion you’ve been after. We talked to one expert about how to make the ask.

Finally: Sundance Film Festival starts this week — and this year, you don’t have to go in person to watch some of indie cinema’s hottest new offerings. We’ll ask the festival’s director why making Sundance accessible is so important to the world of movie-making.

P.S. Here’s where to order your free COVID-19 tests, and here’s what’s playing at this year’s Sundance Film Festival.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Jen Psaki, White House press secretary
Rachel Feintzeig, work and life columnist, Wall Street Journal
Amanda Augustine, career coach, TopResume
Tabitha Jackson, director, Sundance Film Festival

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Ciara Long. Additional help from Sagine Corrielus. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Get It Together: Senate Filibuster, US-Russia, and Your Paycheck

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 21:28:00 -0000

First up: We’ve got the latest on how hospitals are coping with Omicron cases amid a staffing shortage, rising inflation (again), the latest scandal to hit top US universities, and Prince Andrew getting thrown some royal shade.

Then: The US and Russia are squaring off again – and these talks are giving people some major Cold War vibes. We’ll ask one expert why things are so tense right now, and why Putin’s got Team Biden running in circles.

ICYMI: Djokovic might be warming up for the Australian open, but immigration officials still haven’t decided if he should even be in the country. We’ll bring you up to date on the twists and turns of Djokovic’s Australian visa drama.

Next: The debate over the filibuster is back and if you forgot exactly what the filibuster even is…you’re not alone. We’ll run through a quick definition, and break down both sides of the spicy debate over changing it.

Finally: At theSkimm, we do New Year’s resolutions a little differently. Today, we’ll fill you in on one of the ways we’re getting smarter this year: making sure our paycheck deductions are going to the best health insurance and retirement options.

P.S. Here’s what all those acronyms for different kinds of retirement plans actually mean.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Andrea Kendall-Taylor, senior fellow and director of the Transatlantic Security Program, Center for a New American Security
Marsha Barnes, personal finance expert and founder, The Finance Bar

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Ciara Long. Additional help from Sagine Corrielus. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Where Do We Go From Here? Capitol Insurrection, 5G, Back to School

Thu, 06 Jan 2022 21:41:00 -0000

First up: We’ve got the latest on school closures across the country, COVID-19 boosters for teenagers, the jury’s verdict in the Elizabeth Holmes trial, and Apple hitting $3 trillion dollars.

Next: Verizon and AT&T’s 5G rollout is threatening to ground planes in major cities all over the US. We’ll break down why — and how the airlines and mobile networks plan to fix it.

Then: One year ago today, rioters stormed the Capitol building in DC. We’ll ask two experts: what’s happened since then? And what’s being done to make sure nothing like this ever happens again?

Plus: Biden’s got beef with the meat industry. We’ll explain why a few major meatpackers have got the President’s attention.

Finally: It’s been 20 years since the first Harry Potter movie hit theaters. We’ll talk to one journalist about the legacy of those movies - and what the HBO anniversary special left on the cutting room floor.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Molly Reynolds, senior fellow, Governance Studies, Brookings Institute
Seamus Hughes, deputy director, George Washington University Project on Extremism
Karla Rodriguez, pop culture reporter, Complex

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Ciara Long. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

NSFW: Omicron Surge and Swear Words

Thu, 23 Dec 2021 21:19:55 -0000

First up: We’ve got the latest on the end of the Kellogg’s workers’ strike, the government hitting pause on student loan repayments again and emergency FDA authorization for Pfizer’s at-home COVID-19 pill.

Then: If you’ve been wondering why we’re all still scrambling for rapid tests two years into the pandemic… you’re not alone. We Skimm’d Biden’s announcement this week on the plan for tackling Omicron - which includes revamping testing.

Next: Season Three of COVID-19 just dropped, and a lot of people are getting positive tests for the first time. We’ll ask two doctors what we should do if we test positive.

Plus: If you’re planning some serious sofa time over the holidays — whether you’re isolating at home, or just relaxing — we’ve got you covered. We’re sharing some of theSkimm staff’s top TV, film, book, and podcast recs from 2021.

Finally: We’re really done with being in a f****** pandemic. And apparently it’s showing up in all our language, because we’re all cursing a lot more. We’ll break down why, and what you can do if you wanna clean things up.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Amber D’Souza, infectious disease epidemiologist, Johns Hopkins University
Dr. Lipi Roy, medical director, Housing Works
Dr. Kavita Patel, primary care physician and fellow, Brookings Institution
Skimm HQ’rs Alaisha, Andrew, Anthony, Ciara, Clem, Erika, Graelyn, Niven, and Sarah

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Ciara Long. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

And Just Like That: Omicron, Kentucky, Peloton

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 21:32:17 -0000

First up: We’ve got the latest on the tornado damage in Kentucky, Congress raising the debt ceiling, and the big USA Gymnastics settlement.

Then: This week, Congress passed the annual National Defense Authorization Act, funding the military for the next year. But this year’s bill was different. We’ll break down a major change that’s meant to curb sexual assault in the armed services.

ICYMI: The Golden Globes nominations dropped this week… and basically no one cared. We’ll get into how the award ceremony’s scandal-tainted history is affecting its cultural relevance.

Next: Experts say Omicron is about to surge here in the US. We called up Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, to answer our questions about staying safe over the holidays.

Plus: It seems like no-one can stop talking about inflation. Including the Federal Reserve, who met this week to try to lower prices. But while we wait for new policies to kick in, we’ve got some expert advice on how to rework your budget in the meantime.

Finally: Peloton got some bad press after the first episode of the ‘Sex And The City’ reboot aired… and the workout-from-home company fired back with its own ad. We’ll ask a marketing expert: how much trouble did this actually cause for Peloton?

P.S. Here’s what you can do to help victims of the recent tornadoes in the Midwest and the South.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Kelly Kennedy, managing editor, The War Horse
Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
Marguerita Cheng, Certified Financial Planner
Whitney Headen, CEO, 19th and Park creative agency

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Ciara Long. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Reality Dating Shows Are Bad. Why Do We Love Them?

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 23:49:00 -0000

Today: we're sharing the latest episode of another Skimm podcast, Pop Cultured with theSkimm. Skimm This will be back in your feed with the week's news on Thursday.

The Bachelorette’s Michelle Young is making Bachelor nation history. For the first time since the franchise premiered in 2002, the man who'll soon be handed that final rose is guaranteed to be a man of color. It may seem like reality dating shows are making some slow progress on diversity. But why aren’t they keeping up with our IRL views on love and relationships?

You’ll hear from:

Bethonie Butler, TV and pop culture reporter for the Washington Post.

Joanna Weiss, Editor-in-Chief of Experience magazine and contributing editor to POLITICO Magazine

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Senior Producer and Host Bridget Armstrong. Produced by Alaisha Key. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s senior director of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Naughty List: Russia, China, Texas Redistricting

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 21:39:00 -0000

First up: President Biden and Vladimir Putin had an awkward Zoom this week to discuss the growing tension at the border of Ukraine. But just like any convo you’ve had with a friend slash enemy, this one… didn’t solve much.

Next: Speaking of US frenemies, this week Biden bucked the social norms by RSVPing ‘no’ to the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics… as did Canada, the UK and Australia.

ICYMI: We’ve got the latest on the Department of Justice suing Texas over its redistricting maps, new data about teens’ mental health, and Angela Merkel’s auf wiedersehen after 16 years as German Chancellor.

Then: It’s looking more likely that SCOTUS might overturn Roe v. Wade next year. We’ll talk to two experts about how access to abortion affects our finances, our health and our mental wellbeing.

Finally: Art Basel just wrapped in Miami, with a new addition this year: NFTs. We’ll ask one art reporter what this new convergence of art and tech means for the future of the art market.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Marta Perez, assistant professor of obstetrics & gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine
Caitlin Myers, economics professor, Middlebury College
Anna Brady, art markets editor, the Art Newspaper

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Luke Vargas, and Ciara Long. Additional help from Sagine Corrielus. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How to Save a Life: Omicron and Abortion Care

Thu, 02 Dec 2021 22:04:11 -0000

First up: The word of the week is definitely “Omicron.” We called up a doctor friend to break down what we do and don’t know about the new COVID-19 variant.

Next: We’ll get into this week’s other big headlines, from a school shooting in Michigan to a controversial new Twitter policy, and the start of Ghislaine Maxwell’s trial.

Then: The Supreme Court heard a major abortion case this week about Mississippi’s ban on abortions after 15 weeks. We listened in on the hearing and asked an expert about how the Supremes might rule.

ICYMI: Barbados kicked out Queen Elizabeth II as head of state this week and honored … Rihanna that same evening? We’ll break down what happened in 60 seconds.

Finally: The Royal Family viewed through a horror lens. Thick Italian accents and fur coats. And two tennis stars’ intense training regimen. We’ll check in with Thrillist film critic Esther Zuckerman to hear about the three films we need to watch now.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Namandje N. Bumpus, director, department of pharmacology and molecular sciences, Johns Hopkins Medicine
Tatum Hunter, personal technology reporter, The Washington Post
Seema Mohapatra, visiting professor of law, Southern Methodist University School of Law
Esther Zuckerman, senior entertainment writer, Thrillist

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Luke Vargas, and Ciara Long. Engineered by Peter Bonaventure. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Table Topics: Oil Prices, Rittenhouse, and Ethical Debates

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 21:46:00 -0000

First up: We’ve got a breakdown of the week’s biggest stories – including anti-lockdown protests in Europe, what President Biden is doing to lower gas prices, and why more Americans are saying they don’t want to have children.
Next: We’ll break down the verdict in the Kyle Rittenhouse trial, and speaking to an expert about the bigger implications of this trial for gun rights in the United States.
Then: We’ve got updates on the status of Chinese tennis star Peng Shuai, and we’ll follow up on those labor strikes from October.
Plus: If your family keeps complaining about the cost of this year’s Thanksgiving dinner, we’ve got some tips on how to limit the impact rising inflation will have on your wallet.
Finally: If your dinner table debates get a little too spicy this year, it might be time to call in the oracle of Delphi – or at least her AI replacement. Here’s where you can find her.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Cheryl Bader, clinical associate professor of law, Fordham
Liwei Jiang, PhD candidate, University of Washington

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Luke Vargas, and Ciara Long. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bad Boys? Gosar, Putin, and Elon Musk

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 21:53:00 -0000

First up: We’ll break down the headlines, including what got settled at a meeting between the leaders of the U.S. and China, why the sports world is on edge after the disappearance of a Chinese tennis star, new consumer spending data, and why the House voted to censure Republican Paul Gosar.

Next: Vladimir Putin is causing headaches for world leaders again. We’ll ask one expert: why is Russia stirring up trouble with Poland and Ukraine, and firing missiles into space?

Then: We’ve got an exclusive chat with Mayor Pete — or rather, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg — on what the newly-passed infrastructure bill will mean for your town or city.

ICYMI: Elon Musk has been all over the news lately: selling Tesla stocks, insulting politicians, and telling the U.N. he’d help solve world hunger if they showed him a plan. We’ll save you a scroll down his Twitter feed with a breakdown of what he’s been up to … in 60 seconds.

Plus: November is Native American Heritage Month. We’ll speak to one expert about the dark history of American assimilation policies, and what new research is uncovering.

Finally: Ahead of Thanksgiving, we called up a few of our doctor friends to ask what they’re doing to celebrate the holiday safely this year.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

John E. Herbst, senior director of the Atlantic Council’s Eurasia Center and former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine
Pete Buttigieg, U.S. Secretary of Transportation
Dr. Susana Grajales Geliga, co-director, Genoa Indian School Reconciliation Project
Dr. Celine Gounder, clinical assistant professor of medicine and infectious diseases, New York University’s Grossman School of Medicine
Dr. Amber D’Souza, infectious disease epidemiologist, Johns Hopkins University

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Luke Vargas, and Ciara Long. Additional support from Sagine Corrielus. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shivers: Astroworld, COP26, and Inflation

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 21:45:00 -0000

First up: Nine people died in a stampede at Travis Scott’s Astroworld music festival last weekend. We called up one local reporter who was on the scene to explain what happened, whether this tragedy could have been prevented, and what it means for live music.

Next: Congress finally passed its $1.2 billion infrastructure bill. We’ve got the details on how the money’s gonna be spent.

Then: The U.N.’s climate talks are starting to wrap up. We’ll talk to a climate reporter about what new commitments countries brought to the negotiations, as well as what they didn’t.

ICYMI: We’ve got a roundup of some of this week’s biggest stories, from Nicaragua’s elections and Belarus’ border to how a hand signal learned on TikTok saved a life.

Plus: We’ll break down this week’s top business headlines, including the U.S. welcoming back foreign visitors and why everyone from Amazon to Spectrum is begging you to work for them.

Finally: We’ve got an infrastructure bill, but we’re still waiting on its counterpart: the social spending bill that, at one point, contained paid family leave. We’ve got an update on what’s holding it up.

P.S. Here’s how to do the TikTok hand signal for distress, and here’s the research on why wish-lists for gifts are better for everyone.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Joey Guerra, music critic, The Houston Chronicle
Juliet Eilperin, deputy climate editor, The Washington Post
Dr. Carolyn Rubenstein, psychologist

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Luke Vargas, and Ciara Long. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

20/21 Vision: Election Results, Greenwashing, and Let’s Go Brandon

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 20:12:00 -0000

First up: We’ve got a breakdown of what went down in elections all over the country this week, and what it could mean for next year’s midterms.

Next: We’ll get into this week’s other big stories, from the latest on COVID-19 vaccines for kids to workplace vaccine mandates and Facebook’s retreat from facial recognition.

Then: Texas’ restrictive abortion law wound up in front of the Supreme Court again this week. We listened in on the arguments — and called up two of our lawyer friends to tell us what’s likely to happen next.

Plus: The U.N.’s yearly climate talks around underway — and people keep talking about greenwashing. We’ll explain what it actually is and how you can avoid it.

ICYMI: You might have heard someone say “Let’s Go Brandon!” at some point in the last few weeks. Here’s why it probably isn’t aimed at a Brandon near you.

Finally: New research finds women are better investors than men. We’ll talk to an expert about why that might be.

P.S. Here’s a tool you can use to figure out if your fave clothing company is as sustainable as it says it is, and here’s a tool to help screen your investments.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Caroline Mala Corbin, professor of law, University of Miami School of Law
Seema Mohapatra, visiting professor of law, Southern Methodist University School of Law
Debbie Carlson, freelance investing reporter, Marketwatch
Elisabeth Schenk, Clean Clothes Campaign, Public Eye
Lorna Kapusta , Fidelity Investments

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Luke Vargas, and Ciara Long. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Here Today, Gone Tomorrow: Paid Leave, Facebook, the Planet

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 20:29:58 -0000

First up: So much for paid family leave. Democrats unveiled a more than $1 trillion spending bill this week, but it’s leaving a lot of people disappointed. We’ll catch up with one Capitol Hill reporter to find out why.

Next: We’ve got the latest on Pfizer’s COVID vaccine for kids under 12, the coup in Sudan, the U.N.’s scary climate report and the U.S. asking passport holders: is your gender M, F or X?

ICYMI: The midterm elections aren’t until 2022, but Election Day next Tuesday could set the tone for next year’s midterms. We’ll break down what to look out for.

Then: October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. We’ll explain what miscarriages are, and we’ll ask two fertility specialists: what are the best things to say to someone who’s going through one?

Let’s talk biz: A bunch of companies announced their Q3 earnings this week, and plenty of them announced more price increases for consumers. We’ll explain what’s driving that.

Plus: Facebook has had so much bad press lately, but the headlines are barely making a dent in the company’s profits. We’ll talk to one reporter about Facebook’s handling of the “Facebook Papers” scandal.

Finally: If the “nature is healing” memes got you through some dark moments last year, now there’s actual science to show you’re not alone. Literally, memes are good for our health. We’ll get into just why that is.

P.S. We’ve got resources for anyone dealing with loss or grief after a miscarriage here.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Alice Miranda Ollstein, healthcare and Capitol Hill reporter, POLITICO
Keach Hagey, investigative reporter for media and tech, The Wall Street Journal
Dr. Natalie Crawford, fertility physician
Dr. Temeka Zore, fertility specialist and board-certified OB/GYN
Jessica Myrick , professor of media studies, Penn State University

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Luke Vargas, and Ciara Long. Additional support from Sagine Corrielus. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Strike Three: Labor Unions, Netflix, and Twindemics

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 20:55:15 -0000

First up: We’ve got the latest on COVID booster shots, over-the-counter hearing aids, a breakthrough organ transplant, and a high-profile kidnapping in Haiti.

Next: Congress’ January 6th investigation is picking up steam. We’ll break down what info they’re after, and why former Trump advisor Steve Bannon is coming up in all of this.

ICYMI: It’s flu season again, and experts are warning about a “twindemic.” We’ll Skimm what that could look like … in 60 seconds.

Then: Netflix employees staged a virtual walkout this week, after the streaming giant defended the release of a controversial Dave Chapelle comedy special. We listened in on Netflix’s earning call to figure out where the company really stands.

Plus: Workers are getting ready to walk all over the country, as labor unions prepare to strike for better pay, conditions and hours. We’ll look at why so many strikes are happening that this month has been dubbed “Striketober.”

Finally: We’ve spent the last year craving a vacation. And it seems like Saudi Arabia heard our prayers… although we can’t say hanging out on an oil rig is exactly our speed.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Kate Bronfenbrenner, director of labor education research, Cornell University
Alex Press, staff writer, Jacobin
Kathryn Dill, early careers reporter, the Wall Street Journal

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Luke Vargas, and Ciara Long. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hate on Me: Texas, Football, The Great Reshuffle

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 20:42:59 -0000

First up: We’ve got the latest on I.C.E. ending worksite immigration raids, Social Security payments increasing, and the F.D.A.’s first approval of a vape pen.

Then: We’ve spent a lot of time talking about COVID-19 vaccines — but what about treatments? We’ll ask one expert about the difficult work of discovering COVID treatments, Merck’s new pill, and any new treatments we can expect.

Next: Texas has made a lot of headlines this year, from restricting voting rights and abortion access to easing up on gun control. We’ll talk to one reporter about why Texas is testing so many hot-button issues right now.

ICYMI: Millions of Americans are looking to switch careers, but actually making that switch can be tricky. We’ll explore what’s complicating “The Great Reshuffle,” and how some companies are trying to improve things.

Finally: Is the #MeToo movement finally coming for big-league sports? We’ll talk to theSkimm’s own Bridget Armstrong about football’s dirty (and not little) secret, and why the music industry — and hip hop in particular – is also waiting for its #MeToo groundswell.

P.S. We’ve got a whole new show dedicated to all things pop culture. Listen and subscribe here.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr Judith Currier, professor of medicine, UCLA
Renuka Rayasam, Texas correspondent, Politico
Kathryn Dill, early careers reporter, Wall Street Journal
Justina Nixon-Saintil, VP and global head of corporate social responsibility, IBM
Bridget Armstrong, host, Pop Cultured with theSkimm

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Luke Vargas, and Ciara Long, with help from Sagine Corrielus. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How the F Is That Legal?! Facebook, South Dakota, NWSL Abuse

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 20:48:14 -0000

First up: We’ve got the latest on a groundbreaking new malaria vaccine, the Facebook whistleblower in front of Congress, the abortion battle in Texas, and how South Dakota became a global tax haven.

Next: It might start taking longer — and costing more — to mail a letter. And that’s not all: it’s getting pricier to catch an Uber and heat your home (with natural gas). We’ll break down why.

ICYMI: Tech companies are in a war for your attention at work, and Microsoft came to flex … with a lot of notifications.

Then: Three coaches from the National Women’s Soccer League have been fired since August over allegations of misconduct, including one bombshell case of sexual coercion. We’ll talk to a former player about how the system leaves women’s soccer players vulnerable, and why that needs to change.

Finally: If you binged ‘Squid Game’ last weekend … us too. We’ll chat with a culture writer about why we’re all so obsessed.

P.S., If Squid Game left you craving more, here are a few recs for what to watch next.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Alexandra Samuel, freelance tech correspondent and author, "Remote, Inc."
Haley Kopmeyer, former NWSL goalkeeper, integrated partnerships manager, Just Women’s Sports
Hanh Nguyen, senior culture editor, Salon

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Luke Vargas, and Ciara Long, with help from Sagine Corrielus. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Who’s in Charge Here? Congress, IG for Kids, Holiday Shortages

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 20:32:53 -0000

First up: We’ve got the latest on a major congressional hearing on Afghanistan, plus why March Madness isn't just for the boys anymore.

Next: Congress is running up against a few key deadlines — from a resolution to fund the government and avoid hitting the debt ceiling. We asked a DC reporter: why are reps cutting it so close?

ICYMI: There’s been a lot of buzz (and confusion) about booster shots lately. We’ll break down who’s eligible … in 60 seconds.

Then: We’ve got a roundup of this week’s most important tech stories, from Apple’s foray into depression diagnosis to Facebook hitting pause on Instagram for Kids and NYC’s new bill to protect food delivery workers.

Plus: Supply chain woes mean it might already be time to start shopping for the holidays. We’ll look at why retailers are struggling to stock their shelves.

Finally: We’ve heard a lot about the importance of “the Latino vote” in 2020. But politicians keep missing the mark when it comes to engaging Latino voters. We’ll talk to two experts about what political campaigns should be doing differently, and why understanding Latino voters is good for all voters.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Kadia Goba, national politics reporter, Buzzfeed News
Abha Bhattarai, retail reporter, The Washington Post
Lisa García Bedolla, professor, UC Berkeley
Stephanie Valencia, co-founder, Equis Labs

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Luke Vargas, and Ciara Long, with help from Sagine Corrielus. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Handle with Care: Worker Shortages, Haiti, Debt Ceilings

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 20:46:37 -0000

First up: Thousands of Haitian migrants are gathering at the U.S.-Mexico border. We’ll break down why they’re there and why the U.S. government’s response is stirring up controversy.

Then: We’ve got the latest on Pfizer’s vaccine for kids under 12, new rules for travelers entering the U.S.., Canada’s elections, and the first legal challenges to the new abortion law in Texas.

ICYMI: This week, we listened in on world leaders having a real life reunion at the U.N. General Assembly. We’ve got the details on their discussions.

Plus: We’ve heard a lot of warnings lately about the U.S. hitting its “debt ceiling.” We’ll break down what the debt ceiling is, why it exists, and how Congress is responding.

Next: The U.S. is facing a childcare shortage. And a nursing shortage. We’ll take a deep dive into both industries and explore why solving these staffing shortages won’t be easy.

Finally: The 2021 Emmys kicked off this year’s awards season. We’ll discuss the highs, lows, and expectations for other awards shows.

To share your story from the front lines of the childcare and nursing industries, leave us a voicemail at (646) 461-6370.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Lindsey Harris, president, Alabama State Nurses Association
Heather Long, economics correspondent, The Washington Post
Bridget Armstrong, senior audio producer, theSkimm, host of “Pop Cultured with theSkimm”

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Luke Vargas, and Ciara Long, with help from Sagine Corrielus. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fauci, Facebook, and Forests

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 20:49:41 -0000

First up: We’ve got an exclusive interview with Dr. Anthony Fauci, where we got the chance to ask about everything from vaccine mandates on airplanes and in schools to his biggest pandemic mistakes.

Next: We’ll get into the latest headlines, from explosive revelations about the final days of the Trump administration, to the results of California’s recall election, and why college students are swapping wine for weed.

Then: The federal government is trying to stop Texas’s restrictive new abortion law. We quizzed a legal expert on whether that and other legal efforts are likely to succeed.

ICYMI: Remember the freakout over Google Glass? Facebook hopes you forgot. It’s launching Ray Bans featuring a hidden camera, and doing so at a time when it’s reputation already isn’t great.

Finally: We’ll look at the chillest new prescription some doctors are starting to write. Hint: there’s no co-pay. (Here’s how to find an outdoor space nearby if you’re itching to get outdoors.

P.S., Here’s what happened when Joanna Stern tried out Facebook’s hybrid camera-glasses.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Anthony Fauci, director, National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases
Caroline Polisi, legal analyst and adjunct lecturer at Columbia Law School
Joanna Stern, senior personal technology columnist, The Wall Street Journal
Jennifer D. Roberts, associate professor, kinesiology, University of Maryland

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Luke Vargas, and Ciara Long, with help from Sagine Corrielus. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If We Could Turn Back Time: 9/11, California’s Recall, (Offline) Dating

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 21:03:56 -0000

First up: We’ve got the latest on the week’s biggest headlines, from El Salvador’s adoption of Bitcoin to the removal of Virginia’s most prominent Confederate statue, the newest COVID-19 variant, and Britney’s conservatorship.

Next: It’s back to school time… but there’s no vaccine for kids under 12. So, we called up an expert to find out everything we need to know about schools, kids and COVID-19.

Then: It’s the 20 year anniversary of 9/11, and even if we were too young to remember all of it, the terrorist attack and our government’s response to it has shaped all of our lives. We’ll look at the legacy of September 11th, two decades later.

ICYMI: California governor Gavin Newsom’s in trouble, and facing possible removal from office in an election next week. We’ve got the details you need to know on California’s recall election … in 60 seconds.

Plus: We were glued to our gaming consoles growing up… but for kids in China, that might not be so easy any more: China’s banning kids from playing more than 3 hours of video games a week. We’ll explain what’s going on.

Finally: Match Group is going official with the S&P 500, a sign that dating apps are here to stay. But don’t worry, if they still make you nervous, we’ve asked an expert for some dating-app survival tips.

P.S. Here’s a map of public symbols of the Confederacy around the U.S., and updates on their status.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Celine Gounder, clinical assistant professor of medicine and infectious diseases, New York University’s Grossman School of Medicine
Laura Dugan, professor of human security, Ohio State University
Nastasia Griffioen, doctoral researcher, Games for Emotional and Mental Health Lab
Lindsey Metselaar, influencer and host of the "We Met at Acme" podcast

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Luke Vargas, and Ciara Long, with support from Peter Bonaventure. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stormy Weather: Abortion Access in Texas, Hurricane Ida, and Smoky Wine

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 20:42:11 -0000

First up: We’ve got the details on Texas’ new abortion law, and what experts say it could mean for abortion rights across the U.S.

Next: We’ll take stock of the damage after Hurricane Ida caused damage from the Gulf Coast all the way to the Northeast.

Then: The U.S. has officially left Afghanistan. But what happens to the Afghans who were left behind and are hoping to leave? We get the latest details from PBS NewsHour’s Jane Ferguson.

ICYMI: Forget cable news-style business updates. We’re bringing you the latest financial news on three companies that are here to stay: Zoom, IKEA, and Amazon.

Plus: SCOTUS has a secret agenda — and it’s being put to use more and more frequently. We’ll dive into the “shadow docket” and some of the big decisions it’s being used to make.

Finally: We don’t love breathing in wildfire smoke. We also don’t love drinking it. Luckily, one company has a plan to save California’s wine country from ashy bouquets — using artificial intelligence.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Caroline Kitchener, staff writer, The Lily
Jane Ferguson, special correspondent PBS NewsHour and contributor The New Yorker
Katerina Axelsson, founder and CEO, Tastry

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Luke Vargas, and Ciara Long, with support from Peter Bonaventure. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Long Way Home: Chronic COVID and the Afghan Airlift

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 20:13:55 -0000

First up: We’ve got the latest on evacuations from Afghanistan, and the deteriorating security situation around Kabul airport.

Next: We’ll break down this week’s biggest headlines, from a report on COVID-19’s origins to school closures — plus a big decision by streaming platform OnlyFans.

ICYMI: The F.D.A. and Pfizer made it official this week, in the form of full approval for the pharma company’s COVID-19 vaccine. We’ll break down why that’s different to emergency authorization, and what it could mean for vaccine mandates.

Then: Some millennials are living a double life - working two full time jobs while their bosses have no clue. We asked one reporter what’s behind this latest work trend - and why bosses may actually be the ones driving them to double up on Zoom calls.

Finally: COVID-19 has been debilitating for “long haulers”, who’ve suffered symptoms for months on end. We’ll talk to two women dealing with “long COVID” about their experience, and hear from a doctor about what we know now that we didn’t several months ago.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Anna Roberts Gevalt, long COVID patient
Chimére L. Smith, long COVID patient and advocate
Rachel Feintzeig, work and life columnist, The Wall Street Journal
Dr. Hana Akselrod, COVID-19 Lead, GWU Medical Faculty Associates

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Luke Vargas, and Ciara Long, with support from Peter Bonaventure. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sending Out an SOS: The Taliban Return, Booster Shots, Havana Syndrome

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 20:43:55 -0000

First up: The week’s biggest story is Afghanistan. We’ll break down how the Taliban took over so quickly, whether more people can get out safely, and what’s next for the country.
Next: We’ll bring you the latest on the major earthquake in Haiti and the latest data breach affecting over 40 million people. Hint: if you’re a T-Mobile user, tune in. And click here for tips on how to keep your information safe.
Also: Remember hot girl summer? Enter: shot girl fall, because boosters are coming soon to a pharmacy near you.
Plus: We finally have the latest Census data. We’ll tell you three things you need to know about how America’s changed in the last 10 years.
Finally: We’re trying our hands at true crime, for a story about a mystery that’s stumped the entire U.S. intelligence community for five years.

P.S. Here are the orgs we mentioned helping in Afghanistan:

Volunteer to support Afghans being evacuated to the US
Become an Airbnb host for resettled Afghans
For lawyers: help process special immigrant visas
Donate airline miles with Miles4Migrants
Donate to the Afghan Journalists Safety Committee
Make your voice heard here at home

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Kelly Kennedy, managing editor, The War Horse
Lina Abirafeh, executive director, the Arab Institute for Women

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Luke Vargas, and Ciara Long, with support from Sagine Corrielus. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Best Laid Plans: Afghanistan, Droughts, and Back to School

Thu, 12 Aug 2021 21:01:15 -0000

First up: We’ve got the latest on Afghanistan, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo’s resignation and the CDC’s new guidelines on getting vaxxed while pregnant.

Next: Kids are heading back to school IRL. We’ll dive into why keeping kids safe is more complicated than it sounds, and is causing some political throwdowns.

Also: Fire up your phones. Vaccine passport apps are coming. We’ll skimm the process of signing up for them, to see if it’s as easy as advertised. (Here’s a link to some apps that are started to get used in a lot of places.)

Plus: Apple recently it’s gonna work with the U.S. government to stop child abuse. We’ll get into why the move is raising the eyebrows of some privacy advocates.

Finally: Lakes, reservoirs, and rivers across the Western U.S. are drying up. We called up two experts to figure out why, and to learn about what the future could hold.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Laura Meckler, national education reporter, The Washington Post
Sharon B. Megdal, director, Water Resources Research Center, University of Arizona
Becky Bolinger, assistant state climatologist, Colorado

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Luke Vargas, and Ciara Long, with support from Sagine Corrielus. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Real World: Vax Mandates, Dr. Vivek Murthy and MTV’s 40th

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 19:58:00 -0000

First up: We’ll break down this week’s big stories, from the results of a sexual harassment investigation into Gov. Andrew Cuomo, to a new federal eviction moratorium, and what selling COVID vaccines means for pharma company profits.

Next: We’ve got an exclusive interview with President Biden’s top doc, a.k.a. U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy.

Also: We’ve been hearing a lot about COVID-19 vaccine mandates lately, from employers to universities. We’ll talk with a legal expert about who can actually issue mandates, and how.

Plus: Have you heard politicians and athletes invoking “HIPAA” to dodge questions on their vaccine status. We’ll bring you up to speed on what really HIPAA means … in 60 seconds.

Finally: Happy birthday, MTV. 40 years after its founding, we’ll look back at the history of a channel that revolutionized the music industry and reality TV.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Vivek Murthy, United States Surgeon General
Diane Hoffmann, director, Law and Health Care Program, University of Maryland Carey Law School
Amanda Ann Klein, author, "Millennials Killed the Video Star: MTV's Transition to Reality Programming"

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Bridget Armstrong, Luke Vargas, and Ciara Long, with support from Sagine Corrielus. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2020 2.0: Pandemic Woes and Endless Wars

Thu, 29 Jul 2021 21:00:00 -0000

First up: We keep hearing about people getting COVID … who already got the vaccine. We’ll tell you what you need to know about these breakthrough infections, and why health rules around the country are changing fast.

Next: We’ll break down this week’s big stories, from the first hearing on the January 6th Capitol riot to the possible end of a key pandemic economic lifeline.

Also: U.S. troops are leaving Iraq before the end of the year... kinda. We’ve got the context on what’s changing and not changing.

Then: Last week, drug distributors and the pharma giant Johnson & Johnson reached a $26 billion dollar settlement related to the opioid epidemic. Is it enough?

Plus: There were a ton of new scams during the pandemic. We’ve got the lowdown on the most common consumer complaints of 2020, and how to avoid them.

Finally: We’ll chat with a sports reporter about the biggest headline from the first week of a very busy Olympics, on and off the field of competition.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Valerie Bauman, senior investigative reporter, Bloomberg Law
Susan Grant, director of consumer protection and privacy, Consumer Federation of America
Lindsay Czarniak, host, On Her Turf

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Luke Vargas, and Ciara Long, with support from Sagine Corrielus. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Carry Me Away: To Tokyo, Space, and All the Weddings

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 20:51:00 -0000

First up: We’ll break down this week’s big stories, from COVID cases at the Olympics to chip shortages and Jeff Bezos’ big adventure.

Next: COVID cases are soaring again in the U.S. – that is, among the unvaccinated. We’ll talk to a researcher about the factors that have (and haven’t) made hesitant Americans change their minds about the vaccine in recent months. If you want to check out the full study, you can find it here.

Also: What does “back to normal” even look like? We’ll ask one journalist who’s been tracking how far away 50 countries are from pre-pandemic life.

Plus: Trying to fit two years worth of weddings into a single Wedding Season is crushing our meticulous budgeting skills. We’ll talk to an expert on how we can stay on track with all the wedding gifts we have to buy.

Finally: We’re not seeing ghosts, but we’re hearing them. A new doc featured some deep-faked voice AI to mimic late chef Anthony Bourdain’s voice. Can that ever be ethical?

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Ashley Kirzinger, associate director for public opinion and survey research, Kaiser Family Foundation
James Fransham, data journalist, The Economist
Bola Sokunbi, founder, Clever Girl Finance
Karen Hao, senior AI editor, MIT Technology Review

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Luke Vargas, and Ciara Long. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Déjà Vu: Cuba Protests, Vax Debates, Sky-High Home Prices

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 20:30:00 -0000

First up: We’ll break down this week’s big stories, from anti-government protests in Cuba to Texas Dems literally fleeing the state.

Next: Between booster shots and new side effect warnings, we’ll break down this week’s COVID vaccine news … in 60 seconds.

Then: More than 35 million tax returns are MIA. We’ll explain the delays at the IRS, plus what’s going on with Biden’s new Child Tax Credit program. (P.S. If you’re wondering where your tax refund is, this IRS tool might come in handy)

ICYMI: Finding an affordable house right now feels impossible. We’ll speak to some experts about why the housing market is so bananas, and how long it’s gonna stay like this.

Plus: 100 American cities just got their fitness report cards. We asked an expert to break down what makes a city healthy and how each of us can take control of our health regardless of where we live.

Finally: We’ll catch up with a reporter at the Cannes Film Festival about the glitz, glamour and some upcoming releases.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

NiCole Keith, Ph.D., member of the American Fitness Index Advisory Board, American College of Sports Medicine
Daryl Fairweather, chief economist, Redfin
Tricia Lee, real estate broker (@SoldByTriciaLee)
Anicee Gohar, film correspondent

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Luke Vargas, and Ciara Long. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From A to Z: Haiti, Olympic Drama, Girl Groups

Thu, 08 Jul 2021 20:51:12 -0000

First up: Haiti’s president was assassinated in his home this week. We’ll get into what just happened and what this could mean for the country.

Next: Gas prices are way up. We’ll break down why that is, and how long the new prices might last.

Then: We’re checking in on three stories from recent episodes to see what’s changed -- about the Delta variant, the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, and the job market.

ICYMI: The Tokyo Olympics were already a hot mess. Now, simply qualifying for the games is causing drama. We’ll break down three controversies and look at the athletes whose performances could still save the day.

Finally: It’s been 25 years since the Spice Girls spiced up our lives. We’ll ask a music writer about their legacy and why there aren’t more girl bands around today.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Alyssa Goldstein Sepinwall, history professor, California State University San Marcos
Kavitha Davidson, sports culture writer, The Athletic
Brittany Spanos, staff writer, Rolling Stone

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Luke Vargas. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. With additional support from Ciara Long. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

(Not) Cool for the Summer: Surfside, Crazy Heat, Cosby Released

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 20:46:43 -0000

First up: Bill Cosby was released from prison yesterday. We’ll explain the Pennsylvania Supreme Court’s shocking decision to release him early.

Next: We’ll break down this week’s other big stories, from the Supreme Court’s voting rights decision to why it’s been so hot on the West Coast.

Then: It’s been a week since a condo building in Surfside, Florida collapsed. We’ll recap what went wrong, and also ask a housing expert: who’s supposed to make sure these things don’t happen in the first place?

ICYMI: We’re talking all things Delta variant. Like: do I need to mask up, even if I’m vaccinated? And does my vaccine protect against it?

Finally: We’re seeing “Help Wanted” signs everywhere — at restaurants, grocery stores, retailers, and more. We’ll get into why millions of Americans aren’t rushing back to work, and what companies and state governments are doing to change that.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Fatima Goss Graves, President and CEO, National Women’s Law Center
Kate Walz, senior staff attorney, National Housing Law Project
Vanessa Kerry, CEO, Seed Global Health

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Luke Vargas. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. With additional support from Ciara Long and Peter Bonaventure. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stronger Than Yesterday: Antitrust Laws, Britney, Pride Diplomacy

Thu, 24 Jun 2021 19:50:09 -0000

First up: We’ll break down what Britney Spears told a court about her conservatorship this week, plus two more big SCOTUS decisions on college athletes and Snapchat free speech.

Next: No matter where you live, you’ve probably heard about an increase in “violent crime” lately. We’ll ask an expert why we’re seeing these trends and if President Biden’s new plan to combat crime could help.

Then: Big Tech rules the world. But Congress is trying to change that. A bipartisan group of legislators introduced five antitrust bills this month to make Big Tech … a lot less big. We’ll break down both sides of the debate about whether to rein them in.

Plus: Earlier this year, President Biden promised to prioritize LGBTQ+ rights in America’s dealings abroad, via diplomacy, trade and immigration policy. We’ll investigate how well the U.S. is living up to that promise.

ICYMI: A few days ago, the Goldman Prize gave us this year’s real-life superheroes — six people whose environmental work is saving the planet. We’ll speak to one winner about how she got the plastic industry to back down in her home country.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Louisa Aviles, director, Group Violence Intervention, John Jay College of Criminal Justice
Sarah Kate Ellis, president and CEO, GLAAD
Jessica Stern, executive director, OutRight Action International
Gloria Majiga-Kamoto, winner, Goldman Environmental Prize

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Luke Vargas. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. With additional support from Ciara Long. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Heat of the Moment: Biden Meets Putin, SCOTUS, and Juneteenth

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 20:51:30 -0000

First up: Biden and Putin had their first face-to-face meeting. We’ll tell you what was on the agenda (hint: nuclear weapons and cyberattacks) and whether this meeting was more than just a photo op.
Next: We’ve got the context on recent reports about the Trump-era Department of Justice obtaining the info of journalists and politicians, and what’s going on with the latest heat wave out West.
Then: The Supremes are about to take their summer vacay, but before they go, they tend to drop some bombshells. And two major decisions broke today. We’ll explain the cases we have our eye on.
Finally: Saturday is Juneteenth. We’re taking a look at how companies have been thinking about diversity, equity, and inclusion differently over the last year.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Torrey Taussig, research director for the Project on Europe and the Transatlantic Relationship at the Harvard Kennedy School
Caroline Polisi, legal analyst and adjunct lecturer at Columbia Law School
Evelyn Carter, Managing Partner, Paradigm
Janelle Jones, Chief Economist, Department of Labor

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Bridget Armstrong and Alex Carr. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Call Them What You Want To: Voting Bills, COVID Variants, Royal Offspring

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 20:42:47 -0000

First up: We’ll break down Biden’s first overseas trip as president, how the U.S. hopes to stay the world’s top tech country, why its RIP for Keystone XL and what leaked docs show the ultra-wealthy really pay in taxes.

Next: This week, the F.D.A. approved a new Alzheimer’s drug — but not everyone’s thrilled. We’ll get into why experts aren’t so sure about aducanumab.

Then: Dozens of bills restricting voters’ rights have passed in states all over the U.S. this year. We’ll dive into some of the most common restrictions being passed, and the impact they’re likely to have. You can find theSkimm’s breakdown of voting rights bills by state here.

ICYMI: A 6-3 conservative majority in the Supreme Court and aging liberal judges has some calling for Justice Breyer to step down. We’ll break down why a guy with a lifetime gig might choose to throw in the towel early.

Plus: What’s in a name? A lot, if you ask the W.H.O — which is asking news outlets to call COVID-19 variants by Greek letter nicknames.

Finally: Hear ye, hear ye. There’s a new royal baby in town. So we’re talking royal baby names with an expert… and breaking down why Meghan and Harry’s choice of Lilibet Diana might be a diplomatic masterstroke.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Eliza Sweren-Becker, counsel, Brennan Center for Justice
Omid Scobie, royals correspondent, Harper's Bazaar, author, “Finding Freedom”

P.S. If your appetite for learning about the royals knows no bounds, check out our list of 9 essential royal reads.

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Luke Vargas. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. With additional support from Ciara Long. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New School: Naomi Osaka, Global Vax Access, Teaching Tulsa

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 20:14:00 -0000

First up: We’ll break down Israel’s (likely) government shakeup, Biden’s latest moves on the southern border, and new data about female CEOs.

Next: We’ll look at why tennis star Naomi Osaka’s decision to take a break from competition is about so much more than sports.

Then: While the U.S. deals with vaccine hesitancy, a lot of countries have no shots, period. We’ll talk to a health reporter about how the U.S. can (and should) turn the global vaccine shortage around.

ICYMI: This week was the 100 year anniversary of the race massacre in Tulsa, Oklahoma. We asked two experts why schools don’t teach students about that and the dozens of similar events that happened in what’s known as the “Red Summer.”

Finally: We’ll get the lowdown from a book critic about why adding a kinda dark-sounding work of foreign fiction to our summer reading list is worth it.

P.S. You can get your copy of this year’s International Booker Prize winner here.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Natasha Loder, health policy editor, The Economist, host, “The Jab” podcast
Dr. Shanedra Nowell, associate professor of social studies education, Oklahoma State University
Heather Goodenough, social studies teacher, Oklahoma
Lily Meyer, writer, translator and book critic

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Luke Vargas. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. With additional support from Ciara Long. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Something’s in the Air: Pollen, COVID Origin Theories, Police Reform

Thu, 27 May 2021 20:54:00 -0000

First up: Let’s break down some headlines, from America’s top diplomat visiting Israel to Belarus faking an airline bomb threat.

Next: President Biden wants U.S. intelligence to figure out the origins of COVID-19. That’s reviving an old theory that the pandemic could have come from a laboratory.

Plus: It’s been a year since George Floyd was murdered. We’ll break down what progress has been made — and where activists say there’s more to do.

ICYMI: In a bid to get past the partisan standoff in Congress, politicians are reconnecting with some old friends: earmarks. We break down how the controversial practice could help — or hurt — in Washington D.C.

Finally: If you can’t stop sneezing … we know why. We’ll chat with a pollen expert about tips to cope and why pollen forecasting could offer some sweet relief.

Interested in joining our team? Check out our audio producer job opening here.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Judith Browne Dianis, Executive Director, The Advancement Project
Fiona Lo, pollen scientist, University of Washington

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Luke Vargas. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. With additional support from Ciara Long. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Correction: A previous version of our story on earmarks featured an archival news audio clip claiming that $500,000 had been earmarked for studying "shrimp on a treadmill." That news clip failed to mention that funding was spent on a variety of scientific projects.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Price Is Not Right: Mideast Fighting, Inflation, Summer Travel

Thu, 20 May 2021 20:45:00 -0000

First up: We’ve got the context you need on the Mississippi abortion law heading to the Supreme Court, the new hate crimes bill that just passed Congress and President Biden showing off an electric pickup.

Next: Nearly two weeks of Israeli-Palestinian fighting has caused fighting… among US lawmakers. We’ll break down what’s going on with America’s diplomatic relationship with Israel, and what some politicians are hoping to change.

Plus: U.S. military intelligence says reports of UFOs are legit. But do we know anything about them?

Then: If you’re thinking about planning a vacation this summer, you might want to act fast. We’ll tell you why everything from flights to rental cars is in extra high demand right now.

ICYMI: You may have heard the word “inflation” come up recently. If you need a quick refresher, we’ve got you. We’ll explain how inflation works, why people are talking about it right now, and ask an expert if it’s worth getting worried.

Finally: On our other podcast, Skimm’d from the Couch, we sat down with Stacey Abrams this week to talk career goals. You can catch our full interview here.

Interested in joining our team? Check out our audio producer job opening here.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Anna Palmer, founder and CEO, Punchbowl News
Darlene Brown, Texas AirBNB operator, owner, Bonhost
Dr. Kristen Broady, fellow, Brookings Metropolitan Policy Program
Stacey Abrams, voting rights activist and former Georgia House representative

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Luke Vargas. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. With additional support from Ciara Long. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is This Gonna Be Forever?

Thu, 13 May 2021 20:50:00 -0000

First up: Renewed Israeli-Palestinian conflict is threatening to spiral into all-out war. We’ll break down what you need to know.

Then: We’re giving you the context on two more events that have been making headlines this week: Liz Cheney’s demotion, and a Pfizer vaccine for teens.

Next: A major pipeline in the US got hacked over the weekend. We’ll tell you WTF a ransomware attack is, why they’re so common, and why the US is typically a major target.

ICYMI: We’re speaking with one of the cofounders of the nonprofit Stop AAPI Hate to talk about the hate crimes that Asian Americans have faced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Finally: We’ve been feeling kind of embarrassed about our screen time over the past year… but should we be? We investigated whether this pesky new habit is really so bad.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Lily Hay Newman, senior writer, WIRED
Manjusha P. Kulkarni, co-founder, Stop AAPI Hate
Wendy Zukerman, host, “Science Vs,” a podcast from Gimlet, A Spotify Studio

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Luke Vargas. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. With additional support from Ciara Long. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shoot for the Moon

Thu, 06 May 2021 20:58:00 -0000

First up: We’ve got the context on this week’s biggest headlines, from Trump’s Facebook ban to what’s going on with federal eviction protections and protests in Colombia.

Plus: This week, the White House said it supports waiving patent protections for COVID vaccines. Well break down whether that will help boost the global vaccine supply and why drug companies are annoyed.

Next: Can employers or colleges make people get vaccinated? We’ll take a look at the arguments on both sides.

Then: Whether it’s burnout or boredom, low wages or Zoom fatigue, millennials are making some big professional and financial changes. The logic? YOLO.

ICYMI: Who else knows you only live once? The billionaires competing in the 21st century’s new space race. We’re diving into what the battle between Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos means for the future of space travel.

Finally: It’s been a mother of a year. We’re passing the mic to five moms to hear how its been and what this Sunday means to them.

P.S. You can find theSkimm’s guide to Mother’s Day — from our survey results to gift guides and how to outsource your household work — here.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Lavanya Vasudevan, Assistant Professor of Family Medicine and Community Health, Duke University’s Global Health Institute
Kevin Roose, technology and business columnist, The New York Times
Marina Koren, staff writer, The Atlantic
Jessica, Samii, Rochelle and Stephanie, Skimm’r moms
Stacy Rapacon, theSkimm’s finance editor

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Luke Vargas. Engineered by Andrew Callaway. With additional support from Ciara Long. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What Are You Waiting For?

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 20:47:17 -0000

First up: President Biden’s been in office for 100 days. And while he's giving himself an A for effort, we’ll break down his real report card with what he has – and hasn’t – accomplished so far.
ICYMI: We’ve got the latest on the 2020 Census data, the arrival of some pesky friends, and the drama between Facebook and Apple (pssst: you may have a front row seat).
Next: India is facing a COVID-19 crisis. We’ll explain what’s going on, and what the rest of the world is doing to help.
Later: The U.S. still hasn’t reached herd immunity. One reason? Vaccine hesitancy. We spoke to an expert to ask: how bad is this problem and how are public health agencies trying to change minds?
Finally: Do the words “bedtime procrastination” resonate with you? We’ll break down the concept, and hopefully, help you catch some zzz’s.

PS: Those links we told you about in our sleep segment?

Check out Dr. Sirois’s research here
Here’s the OG “revenge bedtime procrastination” article
And here’s our guide to help you sleep smarter

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Lavanya Vasudevan, assistant professor of family Medicine and community health, Duke University Global Health Institute
Dr. Fuschia Sirois, researcher on health and human psychology, University of Sheffield
Carly M., theSkimm’s health writer

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Ciara Long and Peter Bonaventure. theSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Skimm Special: Your Best and Worst Pandemic Buys

Tue, 27 Apr 2021 20:59:00 -0000

On this special episode of Skimm This, we wanted to take a break from the news for some comic relief, and get a chance to hear some of your voices. A few weeks ago, we asked you to fill out a survey about how the past year has been. The good, the bad, and the ugly. And we started getting a lot of must-read responses to one question in particular: what was your best or worst pandemic purchase?

First up: A wannabe survivalist builds out his basement to store lots and lots of powdered milk. We decided to check in with him...and his wife.
Then: We heard about some toys for kids that didn’t exactly come as advertised.
Next: Millennials are becoming farmers, with new chicken coops and garden boxes sparking joy.
Later: Some purchases ended up being some serious silver linings. Looking at you, new mattress and blow-up swimming pool. And other pandemic buys became new hobbies that are hopefully sticking with us post-COVID.
Finally: We’ll break down the trends from the year’s purchases...and give you some tips on what makes a good one (and how to avoid the bad).

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Luke Vargas, senior audio producer, theSkimm
Skimm’rs Dominique, Lisa, Heather, Mia, Julia, Shelby, Sara, Anissa, Jessica and Kelly

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Check out Skimm Your Life, a newsletter giving your product recommendations and life hacks
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Ciara Long and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Like the Sea We Rise

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 20:34:09 -0000

First up: A jury this week found Derek Chauvin guilty of the murder of George Floyd. We’ll talk to the creator of Chicago’s Civilian Office of Police Accountability about how this historic trial could impact law enforcement trials in the future.
ICYMI: We’ve got the latest news about fake vaccines, global travel warnings and a sleep study you may have texted to your parents in a panic.
Next: The U.S. just set some big climate goals. We’ll break down what those promises actually mean. (Here’s the Daily Skimm’s big Earth Day newsletter)
Later: So much for dolphins in the Venice canals. A year into the pandemic, global emissions are rising again. But there are some silver linings. We’ll talk to a climate reporter about the growing environmental justice movement and how we can make a difference.
Finally: We’ve got a viewer’s guide on Sunday’s Academy Awards and what to binge at the last minute. (P.S. Our team's favorite films last year were Promising Young Woman, First Cow, Bacurau, Greyhound and Emma)

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Sharon Fairley, professor, University of Chicago Law School, and creator of Chicago's Civilian Office of Police Accountability
Helen Mountford, vice president for climate and economics, World Resources Institute
Kendra Pierre-Louis, senior reporter and producer, “How to Save a Planet”
Nicole Sperling, media and entertainment reporter, The New York Times

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Ciara Long and Peter Bonaventure. Our head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fury Road: Minnesota, Infrastructure, and Scream Science

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 20:34:00 -0000

First up: To help understand all of this week’s COVID headlines – including big news about the Johnson & Johnson vaccine – we phoned up a doctor to ask: “Hey did you read that thing?”

Then: We’ve got the latest on the most recent incident of police violence in Minnesota, why Iran is increasing its uranium enrichment, and the latest beef between the U.S. and Russia.

After that: If President Biden has his way, U.S. troops will leave Afghanistan by September 11th, 2021. We’ll break down why ending America’s longest war is so tricky.

Quickly: We’ve got the details on a new plan to slow migration to the U.S. from Mexico, Honduras and Guatemala.

Later: We got a call from the U.S. Commerce Secretary this week. A $2 trillion infrastructure plan is being debated in Congress, and she thinks millennials should be paying attention.

Finally: We’re letting out some steam. And breaking down the science…of screaming.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Celine Gounder, clinical assistant professor of medicine and infectious diseases, New York University’s Grossman School of Medicine
Gina Raimondo, US Commerce Secretary
Noreen MacDonald, chair, department of city and regional planning, UNC Chapel Hill

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Soundtrack to the Summer

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 20:34:00 -0000

First up: We’ve got this week’s biggest headlines, from progress towards a new Iran nuclear deal to border clashes in Northern Ireland and Biden’s latest moves on gun control. (0:46)

Then: This week, Arkansas’ Governor vetoed a bill banning gender-affirming healthcare for minors – only for lawmakers to overturn the veto. We’ll break down a rollercoaster week in the state. (5:22)

Next: President Biden has some big infrastructure plans, but wants to raise corporate taxes to foot the bill. We’ll dive into the pros and cons of that hotly-debated tax hike. (7:55)

ICYMI: Wondering what President Biden’s plan is for student loan forgiveness? We’ve got the deets on what we know so far … in 60 seconds. (13:09)

Plus: 4,500+ Skimm'rs recently told us about the pandemic habit they most want to kick. One of the most common answers? ‘Drinking.’ We asked the experts: are we the only ones? And, how can we cut down if that’s something we want to do? (15:30)

Finally: If you’re bored of hibernating and feeling ready for summer … so are billions of noisy cicadas. We’ll talk to a nature expert and an event planner about what to expect in the next few months. (24:34)

P.S., Here are some of resources we in our show this week:

The ACLU has a tracker where you can check up on any legislation affecting the transgender community in your state.
If you’re looking for guidance on how to cut down on drinking, check out the National Institute for Alcoholism and Alcohol Addiction.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Joan Tucker, senior behavioral scientist, the RAND Corporation
Sherry Price, host, 'Drink Less Lifestyle' podcast
Jillian Smith, event planner and owner, One Touch Events
Amy Moore, lead Teacher and naturalist, Potomac Valley Audubon Society

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trials and Tribulations: Minneapolis, Myanmar, and Amazon

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 20:33:00 -0000

First up: Derek Chauvin’s trial began this week. He’s the former police officer accused of killing George Floyd. We’re taking a look at what we can expect in the courtroom in the weeks ahead. And we’ll break down why America doesn’t have a strong track record when it comes to convicting police officers.

Then: It’s time for headlines. We’re bringing you news from the WHO, Pfizer, Georgia, and New York… and giving you the context on why it all matters.

Next: There’s a tiny but historic election going on in Bessemer, Alabama. Amazon warehouse employees there have voted on whether or not to unionize. We’ll tell you why this one small town is really getting under Jeff Bezos’s skin.

ICYMI: The situation in Myanmar is only getting more dire. After the military took over in a coup back in February, people are continuing to protest, with many protests turning deadly. We’ll tell you about the global response (hint: barely any) and what’s expected to happen next.

Finally: We asked: which quarantine habit are you most trying to shake? And a lot of you said: snacking. Here’s the deal: snacking is good for us. So we asked an expert how we can snack … smarter.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Sharon Fairley, professor, University of Chicago Law School, creator, Chicago's Civilian Office of Police Accountability
Rebecca Rainey, labor reporter, Politico
Krista Linares, registered dietitian, Nutrition con Sabor

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Luke Vargas, with additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This Is Us Trying: Gun Reform, Reparations, Grounded Ships

Thu, 25 Mar 2021 20:43:16 -0000

First up: Less than a week after a mass shooting in Atlanta, there was another massacre – this time in Colorado. We’re diving in to look at what’s changed – and what hasn’t – about gun violence in the US.

Then: From Israel’s elections and a ship stuck in the Suez Canal to Equal Pay Day and Virginia abolishing the death penalty, we’ve got the context on this week’s biggest headlines.

Next: As spring breakers crowd the streets in Miami, we ask an epidemiologist: are we gonna see another surge in COVID outbreaks? And what can we start to enjoy safely?

Plus: Evanston, Illinois just made history as the first city to approve reparations in the US. We’ll break down what reparations are, and how they could work in practice.

Finally: Endometriosis is tricky to diagnose, but it affects at least 10% of women (ages 15-44) in the US. So we asked an expert: what is it, how do we know if we have it, and how can we treat it?

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Nahid Bhadelia, medical director, Special Pathogens Unit, Boston Medical Center
Dr. Natalie Crawford, fertility physician

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This Could Be Anywhere in the World

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 20:44:05 -0000

First up: We’ve got the context on this week’s deadly shootings around Atlanta, where a lone gunman murdered 8 people — 6 of them of Asian descent — in a time when attacks against Asian Americans are rising.

Then: Last weekend, police in London shut down a vigil for Sarah Everard, who was abducted and murdered while walking home from a friend’s house. We break down why Everard’s death matters — not just in the U.K., but everywhere.

Next: We’ve got the context on some of this week’s other big headlines, including big news on same-sex marriage in Japan, a frosty summit in Alaska, and the IRS giving us another month to do our taxes.

Plus: This week, some EU countries temporarily paused their rollout of AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine. We break down how regulators have reacted to concerns over blood clots — in 60 seconds.

ICYMI: Is there a “crisis” at the US-Mexico border? We dive into what’s going on, and what’s changed about immigration policy so far in the Biden Administration.

Finally: Every week, there’s a new financial acronym to learn. First it was SPACs. Now it’s NFTs. We’ll break down why all these new investment crazes are happening.

P.S. Here are some of resources we mentioned if you’re struggling to cope with this week’s news:

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Izzy Capelin, London resident
Valerie Gonzalez, staff reporter, The Monitor (TX)
Kristie De Peña, vice president for policy and director of immigration, the Niskanen Center
Rachel Lerman, technology reporter, The Washington Post

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Looking Back, Springing Forward, and Hitting Up Obama

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 21:45:00 -0000

First up: Today, President Biden signed a long-awaited stimulus bill. We’ll break down three of the biggest wishes he granted and look at who’s gonna be affected. (Here’s the rest of theSkimm on the stimulus bill)

Then: We’ll explain the CDC’s new guidelines about what we can do once we’ve been vaccinated.

Plus: We’ll follow one Skimm HQ’er as she gets her first shot.

Remember Me? TheSkimm sat down with former President Obama this week and asked him what it will take for Americans to truly get to a place of racial equality.

ICYMI: It’s almost time to “spring forward” this weekend for Daylight Savings. We’ll share some tips to make losing an hour less difficult this year.

Finally: A year after the pandemic officially began, we’ll talk to a grief counselor about reckoning with the losses we’ve dealt with — from loved ones to jobs — and how to move forward.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Kat, Skimm HQ’er
Carly M., Skimm HQ’er
Barack Obama, Former President of the United States, author, “A Promised Land”
Dr. Sonya Lott, licensed psychologist

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Doctor's Orders: Talking COVID with the CDC + Beating Zoom Fatigue

Thu, 04 Mar 2021 21:52:51 -0000

First up: We had some questions for the new CDC director, like: if it’s my turn, how do I sign up to get vaccinated?

Then: We’ve got the context on some of this week’s big headlines, including the latest on NY Governor Cuomo, why the Capitol is on high alert, and what’s up with Dr. Seuss.

Next: We’ll explain the fate of the $15 minimum wage … in 60 seconds.

ICYMI: A new report found that political and economic freedoms are declining all around the world, including in the U.S. We’ll tell you why that’s happening — and why we’re still hopeful.

Finally: We all know that Zoom fatigue is real, but now scientists are telling us just how real. We’ve got the scoop on why, and what you can do about it.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Rochelle P. Walensky, director, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Amy Slipowitz, research manager, Freedom House
Professor Jeremy Bailenson, founding director, Stanford Virtual Human Interaction Lab

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Luke Vargas, with additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#VaccineGoals

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 23:06:22 -0000

First up: A few places, including the U.K. and Israel, have successfully rolled out COVID-19 vaccinations. We want to know: how did they do it? And can we copy what they got right?

Then: We’ll fill you in on what you need to know about Johnson & Johnson’s COVID-19 vaccine, which should get FDA approval this week.

Next: We’ve got the context on two of the week’s headlines, involving former President Trump’s taxes and Illinois eliminating cash bail.

ICYMI: The racial wealth gap is still a huge obstacle for Black women. We’ll talk to one woman who’s helping make that gap smaller.

Finally: A lot of Texans are still without running water after last week’s winter storm. This week, we’re talking to one of the volunteers hoping to fix that — literally.

P.S. For more info on the racial wealth gap, check out this handy guide from the Skimm Money team.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Claire Hannan, executive director, Association of Immunization Managers
Saskia Popescu, assistant processor, Biodefense Program, George Mason University
Jala Eaton, founder, "On My Own Financial"
Ryan Gossen, volunteer, Austin Guerilla Plumber Corps

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long. theSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The She-cession Crisis: Policy Meets Reality

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 21:41:51 -0000

On this bonus episode of Skimm This, we're following up our interview with Vice President Kamala Harris by diving into a topic that's been on our minds for a while now: the “she-cession,” a.k.a. how women have been impacted by the economic recession caused by the pandemic.

First up: We’ll hear how about the difficulties two Skimm’rs are facing juggling parenting and work.
Then: Our expert guests put those stories in context and share some of the other experiences they’re hearing about around the country.
Next: The panel reacts to the White House’s COVID relief proposal and discusses the difference between “band-aid” solutions and long-term economic reform.
Later: We’ll discuss the importance of paid family leave and whether a $15 minimum wage will get women back to work.
Finally: Our guests share advice and strategies for changing workplace policies to benefit parents.

Want to share your she-cession story? Email us at audio@theskimm.com. Or call and leave us a voicemail at (646) 461-6470.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Cherita Ellens, CEO, Women Employed
Kathryn Edwards, labor market economist, the RAND Corporation
Skimm'r Faith
Skimm'r Bergen

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Out of This World: Extreme Weather and a Mars Expedition

Thu, 18 Feb 2021 21:49:00 -0000

First up: We’ll break down how one of America’s largest states was brought to its knees by a freak winter storm, and why most of the rest of the country has been so cold.
Then: We’re bringing you the latest on stories from Australia, Tokyo...and at Walmart...and giving you the context on why they matter.
Next: We saw a lot of COVID-related headlines this week. To clear the noise on what’s going on with the pandemic, we phoned a friend. A doctor friend.
ICYMI: “Vaccine passports” might be coming to a country near you. We’ll tell you the arguments for and against so you can decide for yourself.
Later: We’ll break down WTF Clubhouse is... in 60 seconds.
Finally: We’re taking a breaking from these earthly matters to tell you why everyone’s paying attention to Mars.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Stef Cantu, Texas resident
Tayhlor Coleman, Texas resident
Dr. Krutika Kuppalli, assistant professor of medicine, Medical University of South Carolina
Mallory Brooke, owner and chief meteorologist, Nor’easter Weather Consulting
Chloe Sackier, EDL systems engineer, NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

VP Harris on the She-cession

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 21:53:00 -0000

First up: Women are being pushed out of the workforce at an alarming rate. We interviewed Vice President Kamala Harris to learn how the next COVID relief bill could provide women with some relief.

Then: We’re bringing you three headlines – Trump’s Impeachment trial, the rise in hate acts against Asian Americans, and a microchip shortage – and breaking down the context on why they matter.

Next: More than a year into the pandemic, COVID long-haulers (aka people who’ve shown symptoms for weeks or months after having COVID) are still struggling to receive adequate medical care. We’ll talk to two long-haulers and a doctor about why this group of patients is having a hard time getting the attention they need.

ICYMI: We’ll tell you why a cryptocurrency that started as a joke may have the last laugh...in 60 seconds. Thanks, Elon Musk.

Later: Get ready to mark your calendars, because tax season is here. In all seriousness, you’ve gotta do your taxes at some point. Don’t worry, we’ll break down what you need to know???

Finally: We’ll fact-check some pretty uncool statements from the guy running the Tokyo Olympics.

If you’ve been impacted by the “she-cession” we talked about on today’s show, we want to hear your story. Click here to share. Or call and leave us a voicemail at (646) 461-6470.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Vice President Kamala Harris
Chelsea Alionar, COVID long-hauler
Asia Durr, WNBA athlete and COVID long-hauler
Dr. Monica L. Lypson, professor, The George Washington University School of Medicine & Health Sciences
Kesha JonTae, The Millennial Tax Expert

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Justine Davie, and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Skimm Special: Mindfulness Over Matter

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 11:30:00 -0000

ICYMI, the last year has been stressful. But we can’t just unplug, wait a few seconds, and hope that everything returns to "normal" again. No matter how much we might want to.

That's why today, we're gonna dig into something that’s been generating a lot of buzz over the last few months: mindfulness.

First: We’ll hear from a Skimm’r who has used mindfulness to get through some tough moments – at home and in the classroom.

Then: It’s time to dig into the science. As in: What even is mindfulness? Why is everyone telling me how great it is? And, is there any actual evidence that it works?

Later: We’ll explore how mindfulness can help us stay engaged with the world around us.

Finally: What better way to wrap things up than by talking tips, techniques, and ways to apply mindfulness to improve our day-to-day?

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Jennifer Hutchins, middle school English teacher and mindfulness practitioner
Dr. Tara Brach, clinical psychologist, author, “Radical Compassion: Learning to Love Yourself and Your World with the Practice of R.A.I.N.”
Bea Arthur, psychotherapist and CEO, The Difference
Jaclyn London, MS, RD, Head of Nutrition & Wellness, WW (Weight Watchers Reimagined)

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now

Skimm'd by Justine Davie, Ciara Long, Elizabeth Smith, and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Super Bowl, Superspreader?

Thu, 04 Feb 2021 21:53:50 -0000

First up: We’ll ask an expert about whether we should be picky about which COVID vaccine we get, and break down why the COVID vaccines haven’t been distributed equitably so far.
Then: While the NFL is hoping for a safe Super Bowl on the field, doctors are more worried about the fans at home, and are hoping Sunday’s watch parties doesn’t turn into a public health nightmare.
Next: We’re bringing you three headlines – from the US-Mexico border, Canada, and India – and breaking down the context on why they matter.
ICYMI: Some big changes went down this week in Myanmar. We’ll tell you what happened and what’s next...in 60 seconds.
Later: Did the Gamestop madness from last week make you feel like you missed out? We’ll explain the differences between trading and investing. And why you don’t need to make a Reddit account to make money.
Finally: Do you miss airplane wine? We’ve got the thing for you!

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Rhiannon Walker, NFL reporter, The Athletic
Stacy R., finance editor for Skimm Money
Sabrina A. Assoumou, attending physician, Boston Medical Center
Chasity Cooper, communication strategist and wine journalist (Insta)

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Justine Davie, and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Straining to Make Sense of it All

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 21:39:00 -0000

First up: By now you’ve probably heard about some new strains of COVID-19… that kinda sound like spy names. Meet B117, B1351, and P-1. And some bad news: they’re potentially more harmful. We’ll break down what we know so far about how to protect yourself, and whether the vaccines will still be effective against them. (0:58)
Then: This week, all eyes were on...GameStop. And no, that isn’t a typo. We’ll tell you why a lot of people on Reddit have made waves in the stock market. (8:58)
ICYMI: Former President Trump’s second impeachment trial kicks off soon. We’ll tell you what to expect. (11:43)
Next: President Biden repealed former President Trump’s ban on transgender Americans serving in the military. While that’s happening at the federal level, we’ll tell you why you need to keep your eye on legislation on the local level. (14:07)
Later: Protests have broken out all over Russia. We’ll tell you why one man’s return has caused thousands to hit the streets. (18:33)
Finally: We’re helping you Skimm your schedule. Because there are a ton of meetings that could have been emails, right? (23:59)

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Amber D’Souza, professor of epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
Chase Strangio, deputy director for transgender justice, the ACLU's LGBT & HIV Project
Anna Borshchevskaya, senior fellow for Russia, The Washington Institute for Near East Policy
Dr. Kristen Shockley, associate professor of Industrial and Organizational Psychology at the University of Georgia.

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Justine Davie, and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clocking In: Biden Gets to Work

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 21:47:38 -0000

First up: Before handing over the keys to the White House, President Trump made some final moves in office that could have a lasting impact. We’ll Skimm his final acts, from presidential pardons to foreign policy pivots.
Then: President Biden jumped right into the Oval on Wednesday to start rolling out his agenda. We’ll break down what he’s already done in office and what you can keep an eye out for next.
ICYMI: If you watched Wednesday's inauguration, you probably noticed thousands of National Guard troops stationed all over DC. We spoke to an expert about whether added security is here to stay and how Biden could take on the domestic terror threat.
Finally: We’re helping you Skimm your passwords. Seriously.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Brian J. Gerber, director of the emergency management and homeland security program, Arizona State University
Steffanie A.K. Schilling, cybersecurity education and awareness expert

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Justine Davie, and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New Year, New You, New Impeachment

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 21:44:00 -0000

First up: President Trump is now the first president to be impeached twice. We’ll tell you what happened this week and what to expect from a Senate trial. (:54)
Then: It’s been more than a week since the attack on the U.S. Capitol, but the ripple effects are still being felt. We’ll break down last week’s security failure and look at what’s being done to stop something like this from happening again. (4:26)
Quickly: The federal government has announced some big changes to the COVID-19 vaccine rollout policy. We’ll skimm what’s new … in 60 seconds. (11:42)
ICYMI: 140,000 jobs were lost in the last month, and they were all held by women. We’ll explain how the fallout from this past recession disproportionately affects women. (14:01)
Later: Let’s skimm your resume! We spoke to a career expert to break down how to put your best professional self forward on paper. (19:23)
Finally: We’ve got a recap of the hottest (and strangest) tech coming out of the Consumer Electronics Show. Any takers for a $1,000 machine that makes margaritas and ice cream?! (29:20)

PS: Want to tune up your own resume? Join TopResume's career expert, Amanda Augustine, for a free webinar and Q&A next week to learn the New Resume Rules for the New Year.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Jvette Klausen, professor of politics, Brandeis University
Brette Steele, director of prevention and national security, McCain Institute
Kathryn Edwards, economist, RAND Corporation
Yeerang Jang, Skimm’r
Carolyn Nieberding, Skimm’r
Amanda Augustine, career expert, TopResume
Heather Kelly, technology reporter, The Washington Post

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Justine Davie, and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How It Ended: Chaos in Congress

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 21:44:00 -0000

Welcome to Skimm This. Here’s what we’re covering this week:

First up: In D.C., as Congress gathered to certify President-elect Joe Biden's presidential win, a mob of Trump supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol. We’ll break down what happened on Wednesday.
Then: All eyes were on Georgia this week. We’ll tell you what Democrats winning both Senate seats there means for the Biden administration.
ICYMI: The COVID-19 vaccine rollout hasn’t been going according to plan. We’ll explain the holdup in getting vaccines into people’s arms.
Later: Iran made a major announcement this week: they’re enriching their uranium to 20% purity. We won’t give you a chemistry lesson, but we will tell you why this matters and what this means for U.S. diplomacy moving forward.
Finally: Is your fridge a hot mess after the holidays? We’ll speak to an expert to help you Skimm your fridge…so you can finally find your ketchup again.

Fun fact: "Betriebsblindheit" is German for "business blindness." Basically, something you do over and over without questioning. Click here to fill out our podcast survey.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Josh Michaud, associate director for global health policy, Kaiser Family Foundation
Leah Askarinam, editor-in-chief, National Journal’s The Hotline
Holly Dagres, non-resident fellow, the Atlantic Council
Rachel Gurjar, chef, recipe developer, and food writer (IG)

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Justine Davie, and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2020's Big Breakthroughs

Wed, 30 Dec 2020 22:00:00 -0000

We all know 2020 has been a year. And while we may remember it as the year we started matching our facemasks to our sweatpants… it turns out 2020 can be remembered for a lot more than that. This week we’re looking back at the major developments that happened this year in medicine, foreign policy, and entertainment.

First up: It turns out COVID vaccines are not just a turning point for ending the pandemic, but also for fighting things like cancer and heart disease. We’ll break down this year’s medical breakthroughs.
Then: 2020 has been the year of global protests. Specifically, female-led global protests. We’ll explain the positive changes happening in Belarus, Sudan, and Poland, and why they could be a good sign for the future.
Finally: Anyone else miss going to the movies? We sure do. And so does the entertainment industry. We’ll tell you how they’ve pivoted because of the pandemic. And why videogames are making a major comeback.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Jennifer Ashton, ABC News chief medical correspondent, author, "The New Normal"
Samantha Power, former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, author, “The Education of an Idealist”
Giovanni Colantonio, video game reporter
Rebecca Rubin, film and media reporter, “Variety”
Skimm HQ’ers Hadley, Sam N., Maria M., Lindsay, and co-founder Carly Zakin

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Justine Davie, and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You Asked, We Skimm’d: Russian Hacking, the New COVID Strain...and Aliens

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 21:33:00 -0000

This week, we’re answering your questions about what’s going on in the news right now. Here’s what you wanted to know:

First up: What’s the deal with this new strain of COVID that’s been found in the UK?
Then: Why did Russia hack the United States again? And what information did they get?
Next: What’s in the new stimulus package?
And: What’s happening to our alcohol consumption during COVID? And how do we know if it’s a problem?
Also: Why am I seeing headlines about a “galactic federation”?
Finally: Are robots really coming for our jobs?

PS: You can find the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism’s Website, Rethinking Drinking, here. And here is the NIAAA’s Treatment Navigator.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Amber D’Souza, infectious disease epidemiologist, Johns Hopkins University
Dr. George Koob, director of the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
Garrett Kenyon, Los Alamos National Laboratory, and Yijing Watkins, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Justine Davie, and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Your COVID Vaccine Q’s, Skimm’d

Thu, 17 Dec 2020 21:46:00 -0000

Welcome to Skimm This. Here’s what we’re covering this week:

First up: The first Americans have gotten the COVID-19 vaccine. Now that it’s here, we know you’ve got questions. So we called in an expert to Skimm the answers.
Then: Your holiday package forecast? Expect some delays. We’ll tell you what you need to know if you’re planning to do some last minute shopping.
Quickly: This season’s hottest gift? Dry ice. We’ll tell you why…in 60 seconds.
HELP US, HELP YOU! Fill our our 2020 year-end podcast survey here.
ICYMI: Congress is working on another COVID-19 stimulus bill. But longer-term solutions are required to solve some of the most pressing issues in America: hunger and public transportation.
Finally: What better way to kick off the week of Christmas than with...a Christmas star. We’ll explain the once-in-a-lifetime cosmic event that you might spot on the horizon starting December 21st.

P.S., Those resources we told you about in the show? Click here if you or someone you know needs help seeking information on how to obtain food.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Julie Fischer, associate research professor, Georgetown University Center for Global Health Science and Security
Ramona Hood, president and CEO, FedEx Custom Critical
Stacey Nicholas, director of community outreach, Douglass Community Services
Joel Berg, CEO, Hunger Free America
Sarah Kaufman, associate director, NYU Rudin Center for Transportation

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Justine Davie, and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Polar Express: From Pfizer’s Labs to You

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 21:38:00 -0000

Welcome to Skimm This. Here’s what we’re covering this week:

First up: The Electoral College is meeting Monday to finally put this whole election to bed. We’ll tell you what’s expected to go down.
Then: Congress is, once again, deadlocked over whether to pass another Coronavirus relief bill. We’ll explain the holdup.
Quickly: Some major companies (think: Airbnb and Doordash) are going public. If that has you wondering WTF is an IPO… we’ll break it down in 60 seconds.
ICYMI: It’s been a historic week in the fight against COVID-19. But approving a vaccine and successfully “rolling one out” aren’t the same thing. We’ll tell you what challenges lie ahead.
Finally: We’ve got some advice on how to limit your COVID-19 exposure risk if you’re getting into an Uber or Lyft. Pro tip: roll down multiple windows.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Elaine Kamarck, senior fellow in governance studies, Brookings Institution
Wendy Zukerman, host, “Science Vs.” (a podcast from Gimlet, a Spotify Studio)
Kenny Breuer, professor of engineering, Brown University

Want more Skimm?

Sign up for our free daily newsletter
Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now
Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Justine Davie, and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New Admin, Who 'Dis?: Cabinet Picks and Challenges

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 21:48:00 -0000

We’re all pretty excited for a fresh start in 2021.

Before we get there, we’ve got some vaccine news for you and a look at who might get a dose before the end of the year.

Then, there’s one person who’s already making his intentions clear for 2021: President-Elect Joe Biden. We’ve got the who’s who on his cabinet picks and how he’s already making some contrasts between his team and President Trump’s.

Plus, we’re playing catch-up on two crises in Ethiopia and Iran that could cause headaches for Biden’s incoming team.

Finally, there’s a Christmas tree shortage this year, and it’s not the Grinch’s fault. We’ll tell you how to take care of your tree this year - if you can get your hands on one.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Michèle Flournoy, former US undersecretary of defense, co-founder, WestExec Advisors
Bronwyn Bruton, director of programs and studies, The Atlantic Council’s Africa Center
Ariane Tabatabai, Middle East fellow, Alliance for Securing Democracy

Let us know what questions you have about what’s going on in the news right now. Email us at audio@theskimm.com or call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370. You might hear your message on the show.

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Justine Davie, and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kind of a Big Deal: Black Friday 2020

Fri, 27 Nov 2020 10:41:00 -0000

Once the Thanksgiving table is cleared, it’s shopping season. Black Friday may look a bit different this year, but it still kicks off a crucial period for online and real-world retailers as they try to end 2020 on a high note.

This week we’re stepping back from the news and looking at what makes the holiday shopping season so important in 2020 in particular, how marketers are making their sales pitch and why so much is on the line for small businesses.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Anne Roggeveen, professor of retailing and marketing, Babson College
Jordyn Holman, retail reporter, Bloomberg News
Kalyn Chandler Johnson, owner, “Effie’s Paper, Stationery and Whatnot”

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Skimm'd by Ciara Long, with additional support from Peter Bonaventure, Alex Carr, Justine Davie, and Luke Vargas.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You Can’t Sit With Us: COVID and Thanksgiving

Fri, 20 Nov 2020 06:56:00 -0000

A dangerous collision between a pandemic and America’s biggest family get-together is just around the corner.

Before we get to the main course, we’ve got an update on the presidential transition between President Trump and President-Elect Joe Biden (1:08). Quick Skimm: nothing’s really happened so far. We’ll also tell you about Amazon’s big move this week into the world of prescription drugs (7:50).

Then, we’re coming up on the last exit before Thanksgiving. It’s our final chance to rethink our plans as COVID cases in the U-S set new records every day. We’ll give you an update on where things stand and what’s contributing to this latest surge in cases (12:19).

Finally, if you find yourself having to be Top Chef at your holiday dinner this year, we’ve got you covered (22:06). Cue: a smaller feast… but the same well-deserved nap.

BTW: here’s a one-pan, one-pot Thanksgiving dinner that takes three hours or less to put together.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Kristine Simmons, VP of government affairs, Partnership for Public Service
Dr. Fadia Shaya, director of the Center on Drugs and Public Policy, University of Maryland's School of Pharmacy
Vanessa Kerry, CEO, Seed Global Health
Zack Bruell, Cleveland-based chef and restaurateur

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Justine Davie, and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

WFH: Is This Going To Be Forever?

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 09:33:30 -0000

In case you missed it last week, the U.S. just left the Paris Agreement on climate change. We’ve got the details on what could happen next. After that, we’ll explain the status of President Trump’s election lawsuits and what to make of Pfizer’s flashy new COVID-19 vaccine.

Then, as some major U.S. companies indefinitely delay the return to the office, it might be time to consider WFH our new reality. We’ll ask an expert for advice on how to make remote work productive and sustainable over the long-haul.

Finally, we know you’ve already heard about the humans heading to the White House. Well, we’ve got the skinny on the pets-elect headed to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Caroline Polisi, legal analyst and an adjunct lecturer in law at Columbia Law School
Gigi Kwik Gronvall, senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security
Tsedal Neeley, professor of business, Harvard Business School

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Justine Davie, and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Deep Breath: Making Sense of a Crazy Week

Fri, 06 Nov 2020 10:11:00 -0000

It’s been a long week, but it’s not over yet. We’ve got the latest on the Trump campaign’s legal strategy as it tries to stop the vote counts in some states and control which ballots are counted in others. Then, we’ll explain why one state’s 2020 election is likely to spill over into January 2021. Sorry, Georgia!

Need a break from staring at the electoral map? We’ll tell you about some of the other history being made this year, because there really is a first for everything.

And finally: we’ve got some expert advice for dealing with anxiety. Not that we need it...

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Caroline Polisi, legal analyst and adjunct lecturer in law, Columbia Law School
Michele Swers, professor of government, Georgetown University
Sarah McBride, Democratic candidate-elect, Delaware Senate
Lori Gottlieb, psychotherapist and author, “Maybe You Should Talk to Someone”

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Justine Davie, and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Skimm This: Election Update

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 15:31:42 -0000

Welcome to a special bonus episode of Skimm This, breaking down what we know – and don’t know – about the election results so far.

First, the race for the White House. Spoiler: we still don’t have a winner, but we’ll explain which states hold the keys for an electoral college victory and where the vote-count stands right now.

Then, we’ll bring you the latest on who’s likely to have majority control in the Senate and the House.

And finally, we’ll spotlight some key state laws that voters changed at the polling booth – from legalizing drugs to changing their flags.

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Justine Davie, and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last Call: Election Day Expectations

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 08:50:00 -0000

Up first, we’ve got the latest on three developing stories from this week. Including: Amy Coney Barrett officially joining the Supreme Court, a new study on COVID-19 antibodies, and why tech CEOs faced a grilling on Capitol Hill.

And for our main story, you’ve probably seen headlines that, by the end of election night, we might not know who won the presidential race. To prepare you for the different possible election and post-election scenarios, we created a roadmap of different options. Named after…cocktails. Meet: the Old Fashioned, the Spiked Seltzer, and the Long Island Iced Tea. We’ll speak to election experts about how these different scenarios could play out.

Then, we’ve got some tips on how to help some of the older folks in your life cast their ballots safely.

And finally, we’ve got some ideas for this weekend’s (politics optional!) movie night.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Elaine Kamarck, senior fellow in governance studies, Brookings Institution
Mary McCord, legal director, Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection, Georgetown University
Molly Krakowski, senior director of government affairs, JASA
Dawn Porter, director, “The Way I See It”
Beandrea July, freelance film and television critic

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Justine Davie, and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

theSkimm’s Interview with Sen. Kamala Harris

Wed, 28 Oct 2020 20:49:28 -0000

This week, theSkimm sat down with Senator Kamala Harris, the Democratic vice presidential nominee, to talk about everything that’s on her mind in the week leading up to Tuesday’s election.

From how she and Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden would tackle the COVID-19 pandemic, to the impact the Supreme Court’s new lineup might have on women, and her message to millennial women to get them out to the polls.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Senator Kamala Harris (D-CA), Democratic vice presidential candidate

TheSkimm asked both Senator Harris and Vice President Mike Pence to join us in the lead up to election day. And while we haven’t heard back from Pence, we’ve got all the info you need to get to learn more about him, President Trump and Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden at theskimm.com/vote.

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Skimm'd by Eugenia Cassidy, Justine Davie, and adapted for audio by Peter Bonaventure.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Awareness, Meet Action: Battling Breast Cancer During COVID-19

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 08:32:56 -0000

This week, we’ve got updates on three developing stories you’ve probably been hearing about. We’ll break down Pope Francis’s recent comments on same-sex civil unions. We’ve got the latest on new COVID-19 lockdowns happening around the world. And then, what’s going on with foreign interference in the home stretch of the election.

Then, we’ve got an important message from breast cancer doctors and breast cancer survivors about why COVID cannot be a reason to avoid staying on top of your breast health.

Also: there’s already enough focus on the presidential race. But with the Senate up for grabs, we’ll look at the down-ballot races worth paying attention to this November.

Finally, we’ve got the story on something you might notice the next time you log on to Disney+.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Gretchen Herrera, breast cancer survivor
Dr. Kelly Hunt, surgical oncologist at MD Anderson Cancer Center
Dr. Deborah Lindner, chief medical officer, Bright Pink
Wendy J. Schiller, professor and chair of the department of political science, Brown University
Nathaniel Rakich, elections analyst, FiveThirtyEight
Hemant Shah, professor of journalism and mass communication, University of Wisconsin
Dr. Yaba Blay, scholar-activist

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Justine Davie, and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are We There Yet? When to Expect a COVID Vaccine

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 09:15:00 -0000

Research teams from around the world have been hard at work on a COVID-19 vaccine for more than six months. But the big question still remains: When are we going to actually have a vaccine? This week, we spoke to the head of the National Institutes of Health and a leading researcher on the global hunt for a cure about what you need to know about where the search for a vaccine stands.

One thing we should note: while the race for a vaccine is happening at a historic pace, having a “normal” holiday season is probably off the table until most of us can actually get vaccinated. So, we’ve got some tips about dealing with the challenge of getting through the coming months.

Then, President Trump’s Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett was in the hot seat this week during her Senate confirmation hearings, where she was grilled on everything from healthcare to her note-taking style. We’ll break down what this week’s hearings did and didn’t reveal about the next potential justice.

Finally, if you’re a dog person, we’ve got a piece for you. About the scientifically-proven ways to bond... with a cat.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Francis Collins, director, National Institutes of Health
Kalipso Chalkidou, director of global health policy, Center for Global Development
Dr. Vaile Wright, senior director of health care innovation, American Psychological Association

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Justine Davie, and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Skimm Special, Part 3: COVID, Women, and Their Wallets

Mon, 12 Oct 2020 11:15:00 -0000

Over the last few months, most of us have faced some sort of COVID-related lifestyle changes that have disrupted our everyday norms. On today’s Skimm Special, brought to you in partnership with Northwestern Mutual, we’ll hear from a Skimm’r contending with a drop in self-employment income after her counseling job went remote and her office sat empty. Managing new childcare expenses while making a career pivot hasn’t been easy, but she’s not afraid to think outside the box when it comes to making ends meet and still planning for the future.

Whether it’s saving for a rainy day or setting competitive rates for our work, Northwestern Mutual financial advisor Nicole Stokes walks us through the value of keeping expenses in check even while aiming for the stars in our careers.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Kim Wheeler Poitevien, Philadelphia-based counsellor and licensed social worker
Nicole Stokes, Northwestern Mutual financial advisor

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Skimm'd by Ciara Long, Luke Vargas, Justine Davie, and Peter Bonaventure.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whoa, We’re Halfway … Where?

Fri, 09 Oct 2020 08:23:42 -0000

It’s been a week since President Trump announced he’d tested positive for COVID-19. We’ll give you an update on his condition and how this health scare has increased interest in the role of Vice President, including at Wednesday’s VP debate.

And speaking of the election, over four million Americans have already cast their ballots. But it hasn’t been all smooth sailing. We’ll break down the challenges some voters are encountering and walk you through how to make sure your ballot gets counted.

Then, it’s time for a labor market update. Half of the jobs lost at the start of the pandemic have been brought back, but the road ahead is gonna be a long one. We’ll look at which jobs have come back, which haven’t, and what to watch for as the economic recovery continues.

Finally, we’ll get to the fly that launched a thousand memes. You know the one we’re talkin’ about.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Seritta Norige, former Disney World employee
Valerie Wilson, director of the Program on Race, Ethnicity, and the Economy, Economic Policy Institute
Julie Schecter, Skimm’r
Tappan Vickery, director of voter engagement, Headcount
Salvatore Attardo, professor of linguistics, Texas A&M University

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Justine Davie, and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Skimm Special, Part 2: COVID, Women, and Their Wallets

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 09:52:00 -0000

Over the last few months, most of us have faced some sort of COVID-related lifestyle changes that have disrupted our everyday norms. On today’s Skimm Special, brought to you in partnership with Northwestern Mutual, we’ll hear from a Skimm’r whose job disappeared as the US economy slid into a recession earlier this year … just weeks after she signed an expensive new lease. Making ends meet hasn’t been easy, but she’s still optimistic and hopes more education or even entrepreneurship could be on the horizon.

Whether it’s revisiting our budgets or prioritizing savings, Northwestern Mutual financial advisor Nicole Stokes walks us through the value of going back to basics when the world feels upside down.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Chava Vietze, Skimm’r
Nicole Stokes, Northwestern Mutual financial advisor

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Skimm'd by Ciara Long, Luke Vargas, Justine Davie, and Peter Bonaventure.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Special Update: President Trump Tests Positive for COVID-19

Fri, 02 Oct 2020 18:57:33 -0000

President Donald Trump announced Friday morning that he and First Lady Melania Trump tested positive for COVID-19. The news has already sent shockwaves around the world. We’ll break down what we know right now, and what we could expect in the days and weeks to come.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tug of War: The Future of the Supreme Court

Fri, 02 Oct 2020 08:34:00 -0000

The President and First Lady have tested positive for COVID-19. We've got the latest on that developing story in this morning's Daily Skimm.

President Trump’s tax returns are also in the news after a big report by The New York Times. We’ll break down the report's key findings, and hear what Trump and his Democratic opponent Joe Biden had to say about the US tax system at this week’s presidential debate.

And speaking of that debate… if you found it hard to follow, you’re not alone. So now, the Committee on Presidential Debates is saying: “we've got to make some changes.”

Then, we’ll introduce you to Amy Coney Barrett, Trump’s nominee to fill Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s seat on the Supreme Court. We asked three constitutional scholars to explain how her nomination could change the court for decades – and there’s a lot to cover.

We also talked to award winning director Julie Taymor about her new movie “The Glorias,” spotlighting the life of women's rights activist Gloria Steinem.

And finally, the CDC has outlined its health guidelines for having a safe Halloween.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Maya Manian, visiting professor of law, American University
Seema Mohapatra, professor of law, Indiana University, visiting professor, Florida A&M University
Fatima Goss-Graves, President and CEO of the National Women’s Law Center
Julie Taymor, director, “The Glorias”

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Justine Davie, and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Skimm Special, Part 1: COVID, Women, and Their Wallets

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 09:39:14 -0000

Over the last few months, most of us have faced some sort of COVID-related lifestyle changes that have disrupted our everyday norms. Unemployment has skyrocketed, school closures have forced many moms to step back from work, and working from home has shut many women off from informal networking and mentorship opportunities that are key to career growth. On today’s Skimm Special, brought to you in partnership with Northwestern Mutual, we’ll hear from a financial advisor about how the pandemic is affecting the personal finances of millions of Americans, and women in particular. And we’ll also learn how financial planning can help Skimm’rs reach their goals and prepare for the future, even when the world feels upside down.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Chantel Bonneau-Stewart, Northwestern Mutual financial advisor

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Skimm'd by Ciara Long, Luke Vargas, Justine Davie, Marion Lozano, and Peter Bonaventure.

***NOTE*** The reference made by Chantel Bonneau-Stewart at 4:40 regarding 45% of adults having to make changes in regards to debt management can be found in the 2020 Planning & Progress Study, an annual research study from Northwestern Mutual.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

...Ready For It?: Voting Season is Here

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 08:54:51 -0000

As the nation mourns the loss of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, her death leaves a vacancy on the Supreme Court that Republicans are eager to fill ASAP. We’ll break down where the effort to nominate her replacement currently stands.

Then, it’s the moment you’ve all been waiting for: the United Nations General Assembly is back in action over Zoom. Luckily, they all remembered to unmute themselves before diving into the latest on a COVID-19 vaccine.

Also, the 2020 election is less than 40 days away. But in many states, ballots have already been mailed out already and are even getting sent back in. We asked some top Democratic and Republican officials how they’re making their pitch to voters in the home stretch of the campaign and how they’re trying to reach you, the voter, literally everywhere.

Finally, tomorrow is World Contraception Day. But while safe and reliable forms of contraception are more available now than ever, access and affordability remain a huge issue for women around the world.

PS: Have voting questions? We’ve got you covered. Head to theskimm.com/2020 to learn more.

And in case you’re curious, here’s more info on World Contraception Day from the official WCD campaign, the U.N. and the W.H.O.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Wendi Wallace, Deputy Executive Director, Democratic Governors Association
Ronna McDaniel, Chairwoman, Republican National Committee
Dr. Stephanie Frazin, Family Planning Fellow, University of California, San Francisco

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Justine Davie, and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clearing the Air: Making Sense of the West Coast Wildfires

Fri, 18 Sep 2020 10:27:00 -0000

The saga over TikTok is back in the headlines this week. The Chinese-owned social platform is desperately looking for a match before Sunday - the deadline President Trump gave the company to find a buyer before it gets banned from the U-S. We’ll break down the drama over which company is getting TikTok’s final rose.

And: the fires on the West coast have created some of the most unhealthy air quality… in the world. We’ll talk to experts about what can be done to stop each fire season from being worse than the one before. And explain the health risks of breathing in all this smoke. And for info on how to prepare your home for a wildfire, you can learn more here.

Also: live sports are back. But while COVID-19 infections aren’t slowing down the rush to get back on the field, what kind of message does that send?

Finally: come on board… a flight to nowhere. We’ll explain why some airlines are hoping you miss everything about travel, including just being on a plane.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Kate Andrews, Portland, OR resident
Lori Daniels, fire ecologist, University of British Columbia
Haverty Brown, Portland, OR resident
Dr. John Balmes, Professor of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco
Adamma Izuegbunam, volunteer with MasksOakland
Nicole Fisher, public health consultant, HHR Strategies

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Justine Davie, Marion Lozano, and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Back to School: C for Confusion

Fri, 11 Sep 2020 08:37:00 -0000

President Trump is in the hot seat this week regarding COVID-19. A new book - and some audio recordings - reveal him acknowledging the consequences of the virus behind the scenes while downplaying it to the American public. We’ll explain why this is making headlines eight weeks before the election.

And: the West Coast continues to battle severe fires. This year’s fire season is already almost 20 times more advanced than it was this time last year. We’ll break down why scientists say there’s a link between climate change and the drier conditions that help fires spread.

Also: back to school looks really different this fall. Think: less stress picking out your first day outfit. And more masks, confusion, and exhausted parents.

Finally: if 2020 has you asking, what season is it anyway? You’re not alone. We’ll tell you why travel agents and beach towns are hoping this will be the year of the “endless summer.”

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Chandar Lewis, assistant professor in the College of Education at Jackson State University
Skimm’r Stephanie

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Justine Davie, Marion Lozano, and Luke Vargas.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A Tale of Two Housing Markets

Fri, 04 Sep 2020 09:31:00 -0000

All eyes were on President Trump this week as he visited Kenosha, Wisconsin, where Jacob Blake was shot last month. The shooting prompted protests and reignited calls for police reform and racial justice. But the President’s mind was on something else: “domestic terror.” We’ll break down why criminal justice experts say that definition for protests in Kenosha and around the country doesn’t quite fit.

Also: new CDC guidance is causing some people to question the COVID-19 death rate. Now, epidemiologists are trying to separate fact from fiction so that misinformation doesn’t cloud this public health crisis.

And our big story of the week: a tale of two housing markets. On the one hand, mortgage rates are low and big cities are losing residents to the suburbs. But on the other: inventory is down, causing home prices to skyrocket. We’ll explain why this matters, whether or not you’re in the market for a new place.

And finally, we’ve got the latest on summer blockbuster season. Grab your popcorn.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Laura Dugan, professor of criminology, University of Maryland
Mahlissa Martin, first-time homebuyer
Diana C. Minshall, Sotheby's International Realty agent
Michael Neal, senior research associate, Housing Finance Policy Center at the Urban Institute
Jonita Davis, film critic, TheBlackCape.com

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Skimm'd by Ellen Burke, Alex Carr, Marion Lozano, and Luke Vargas.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Movements Bigger than Fear: Kenosha and Belarus

Fri, 28 Aug 2020 08:53:43 -0000

Cellphone video of the shooting of Jacob Blake by Kenosha, Wisconsin police has reignited Black Lives Matter protests around the country. And everyone – from the NBA to the Wisconsin legislature – is considering how to take action.

Also: severe weather is impacting the West Coast and the Gulf Coast, with COVID-19 changing virtually all aspects of emergency response. In California, thousands are being evacuated as wildfires blaze. And in Louisiana and Texas, COVID-19 testing has been suspended as concerns mount that an already-deadly hurricane could become a “super-spreader” event, too.

And our big story of the week: What do you get when you combine COVID-19, social media influencers and girl power? In the Eastern European nation of Belarus, the answer is revolution. We’ll break down what’s driving hundreds of thousands of protesters to call for the removal of “Europe’s Last Dictator.”

We’ve also got some news from the RNC and the latest on a surprise NASA says could come just in time for election day.

To read up on President Trump’s second term agenda, you can check it out here.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Walter Katz, Vice President of Criminal Justice at Arnold Ventures
Hanna Baraban, freelance journalist and international relations and security analyst
Dr. Alla Leukavets, independent political analyst

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Justine Davie, Marion Lozano, and Luke Vargas.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

March, March: How The Fight For Suffrage Still Lives On

Fri, 21 Aug 2020 08:31:00 -0000

This week’s fastest developing story… is all about snail mail. That’s right. Some controversial new changes at the US Postal Service are causing mail delays and making some people worried about voting by mail this November. But now, the Postmaster General is hitting pause on those new changes until after the election. We’ll explain what happened and why some lawmakers are still concerned.

And our big story of the week: it’s the 100 year anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment. And we spoke to a few grandmas about their first time exercising that right. But the fight for suffrage… didn’t end with that amendment. That’s because the 19th Amendment didn’t give all women the right to vote. We’ll break down how the suffrage movement from the 1900s still lives on today.

Also: we’ll tell you about something you may have missed from this week’s Democratic National Convention that has climate activists speaking out. Hint: it’s a good lesson in always hitting “track changes.”

If you want to read more on the Democratic Party Platform, you can check it out here.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Ida Jones, university archivist at Morgan State University
Skimm’r Grandmothers: Florence Blatt, Arlene Krouner, and Ann German

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Justine Davie, Marion Lozano, Julia Nutter, and Luke Vargas

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Skimm Special: Quarantine Memories Worth Keeping

Sun, 16 Aug 2020 23:00:00 -0000

Where were you when heard the country was in a national emergency because of COVID-19? If you can remember where you were, down to what Netflix you were binging, there’s a name for that. In today’s Skimm Special, brought to you in partnership with Shutterfly, we’ll speak with an expert who’ll explain why that memory is crystal clear. Then we’ll hear from Skimm’rs all over the U.S. who celebrated big milestones in quarantine, and made great memories regardless.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Linda Levine, Professor of Psychology and Social Behavior at UC-Irvine
Olivia Hall, recently married emergency medicine doctor in San Francisco
Maryan Adan, New Mission High School’s valedictorian ‘20 and incoming Harvard University freshman
Cydney Mitchell, recently pregnant Atlanta-based interior designer

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Skimm'd by Olivia Reingold, Justine Davie, Marion Lozano, and Julia Nutter

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Breaking With Convention: Why This Year’s Democratic And Republican Conventions Are Making History

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 08:50:38 -0000

The Democratic and Republican national conventions typically represent a major moment in the lead up to an election. But this year - you guessed it - they’re going to look different. And some attendees might be joining from their couch. In this episode, we’ll break down why conventions matter. And talk to Democratic and Republican party officials about what the challenges are this year.

Also: this week was one for the history books. Because presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden announced his running mate: Kamala Harris. She’s the first Black woman and first person of South Asian descent ever on a major party’s presidential ticket. We’ll tell you what to keep an eye on for the rest of the campaign.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Xochitl Hinojosa, senior advisor and communications director for the Democratic National Committee
Cassie Smedile, deputy communications director for the Republican National Committee

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

This podcast was Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Marion Lozano, Julia Nutter, and hosted by Justine Davie.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gym, Class...COVID test?: How Colleges Are Getting Students Back To Class

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 08:52:50 -0000

It’s August. Which usually means college students are heading back for the fall semester. But this year, back-to-school tailgates and freshman orientation look a little different. Think: hand sanitizer relay races. We’ll break down how some of the biggest campuses in the country are planning to open safely. And what the concerns are from some faculty, parents, and students.

Also: we’re talking about TikTok. The app millions have become addicted to during the pandemic is back in the headlines this week, after President Trump threatened to ban it and US companies try to buy it. So: should you delete it? We’ll explain the privacy concerns surrounding the app.

(For more on the executive orders President Trump signed overnight about TikTok, check out this morning’s Daily Skimm.)

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Art Markman, professor of psychology at the University of Texas at Austin and the Chair of the Academic Working Group for Fall Planning
Caroline Garrison, a sophomore journalism major at the University of Missouri
Audrey O’Shaughnessy, a sophomore American Studies major at Notre Dame

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Justine Davie, Marion Lozano, and Julia Nutter.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Escalation Nation: Federal Troops in Portland Have Other Cities on Edge

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 08:37:00 -0000

At the start of July, in an effort to protect federal monuments and buildings, President Trump started deploying federal agents to cities across the country. But in Portland, Oregon, that effort backfired. In a city where protests had started to calm down, thousands of people started turning out against what they saw as a federal occupation. We’ll break down what’s been happening in Portland, how things came to a boiling point this past week, and why the Trump admin is sending agents to more cities.

Also this week: the race for a COVID-19 vaccine reached a new milestone. Biotech company Moderna started its phase three trial in the US. We’ll tell you what this means for the vaccine timeline.

And finally: a record number of Black women are running for Congress this year. We talk to Kimberly Walker, who’s in the race for Florida’s 12th Congressional District, about why she decided to run.

On this episode you’ll hear from:

Esther Krofah, Executive Director of FasterCures at the Milken Institute
Kimberly Walker, candidate for Florida’s 12th Congressional District

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It has everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

This podcast was Skimm’d by Alex Carr, Hadley Malcom, Julia Nutter, Marion Lozano and hosted by Justine Davie.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Against The Clock: What A New Stimulus Package Could Mean For You

Fri, 24 Jul 2020 08:50:22 -0000

Congress is back in session. And the major topic up for discussion: another economic stimulus package. Some big deadlines are coming up (think: the $600/week federal unemployment benefit is about to expire). And as new COVID-19 cases continue to spike, states, small businesses, and families are looking for another economic boost. We’ll break down what economists say needs to be included in the next legislation - and why public health and economic health are one in the same right now.

Also: the late congressman and civil rights icon John Lewis fought for voting rights for decades. We’ll explain why lawmakers say passing the Voting Rights Advancement Act could restore protections for millions of voters – and honor Lewis’s legacy.

And finally: we’ll introduce you to the Radical Monarchs - the subject of a new film on PBS. It’s like the Girl Scouts, but with a twist of social justice. Members earn badges for learning about climate change, and allyship, and other issues that impact their communities. We spoke to the group’s co-founders about why having these conversations with young women is crucial.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Kathryn Edwards, associate economist at the RAND Corporation
Dr. Damon Jones, economist and associate professor at the University of Chicago
Anayvette Martinez, co-founder of the Radical Monarchs
Marilyn Hollinquest, co-founder of the Radical Monarchs

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It has everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Varsity Blues: Why Everyone’s Talking About 'Back to School'

Fri, 17 Jul 2020 08:42:08 -0000

Even though it's the middle of summer, all eyes are on the fall. Specifically, how schools are supposed to reopen in the middle of a global pandemic. And as COVID-19 cases rise in a number of states, parents, teachers, and officials are at odds over how to do it. We’ll break down the debate over getting kids back to class, and what the challenges are to reopen.

Also: one of the biggest sports franchises in the United States announced: it's getting a name change. The Washington NFL team said it will retire its name, the Redskins, as well as its logo. We’ll explain why this name change is a long time coming for activists, and what to look for next in the fight to get rid of racist imagery and logos.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Sara Bode, pediatrician and a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics Council on School Health
Kathy Gebhardt, Vice President of the Boulder Valley School District in Boulder, CO

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“In The Bubble”: How COVID-19 is Changing Sports

Fri, 10 Jul 2020 08:37:56 -0000

Now that you’ve made it through your Netflix queue, you might be wondering when sports are coming back. After sports leagues postponed their seasons back in March, some - like the National Women’s Soccer League - are stepping back onto the field for the first time. We’ll break down the efforts and challenges in keeping players safe. And talk to one league that’s knocking it out of the park: the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (aka: roller derby.)

Also, in case you missed it: the Chinese government has taken its boldest step yet in eliminating freedoms of Hong Kong residents. We’ll tell you how this latest move by China has a global impact.

And finally, we’re talking about getting into 'good trouble.' As in the new documentary "John Lewis: Good Trouble." The film’s producer Erika Alexander shared how lessons from Lewis’s life fighting for social justice starting in the 1960s are just as relevant to social movements today.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Kelley O’Hara, two-time World Cup champion, Utah Royals FC defender and member of the US Women's National Team, and host of the new podcast, Just Women’s Sports
Dr. Jonathan Kim, chief of sports cardiology in the division of cardiology at Emory University
Erica Vanstone, Executive Director of the Women's Flat Track Derby Association
Erika Alexander, producer of "John Lewis: Good Trouble"

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Voting From Home: How COVID-19 is Changing The Vote

Fri, 03 Jul 2020 08:42:00 -0000

In some states, primary voting during COVID-19 has been off to a rocky start. Long lines and crowds at the polls aren’t great for social distancing. And as cases continue to spike across the US, some states are looking to expand their ‘vote by mail’ options ahead of November. We’ll break down what voting for president could look like in a global pandemic and what experts say election officials and lawmakers should start doing now to prepare us.

Also: ahead of the fourth of July, some lawmakers are pushing to add a 51st state to the union. We’ll explain the (long) history of Washington DC’s quest for statehood and why it’s coming up again.

And finally, the new documentary “(In)Visible Portraits” has been described as “a love letter to Black women, from Black women.” We sat down with the filmmaker to discuss how she’s looking to reveal history you may not have learned about in school.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Myrna Pérez, Director, Voting Rights & Elections Program, Brennan Center for Justice
Oge Egbuonu, director of “(In)Visible Portraits”

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Mask Girl Summer”

Fri, 26 Jun 2020 09:01:22 -0000

As the number of new COVID-19 cases rises in some states, the debate continues about what role the government should play in helping people protect each other. And specifically: whether masks need to be required. We’ll explain why there’s been confusion over masks, what scientists and the CDC are saying now, and why local and state officials are at odds.

Also: a recent Supreme Court ruling has given the LGBTQ+ community something to celebrate during Pride Month. We’ll break down the SCOTUS decision about protecting LGBTQ+ Americans at work. And why activists and politicians are saying: there’s more to be done.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Jade Pagkas-Bather, infectious diseases attending physician, clinical epidemiologist and Instructor of Medicine at the University of Chicago Department of Medicine

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Monumental Change: The Fight To Take Down Confederate Symbols In the US

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 08:34:00 -0000

In recent weeks, there’s been a renewed push to remove symbols of the Confederacy: including flags, statues and the names of some military bases. Some protestors have been tearing statues down. And local officials are also making moves to remove them. We’ll break down why the debate around getting rid of these statues is really a debate about how we understand history- and the legacy of slavery in the US.

Also: all 50 states have started reopening. But health experts are warning: COVID-19 is still here. And as cases spike, state and local governments are at odds.

And finally, we ‘press pause’ with some sea turtle news. Here are some soothing sea turtles videos to kick off your weekend.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

- LeAndrea Mack, Miss Juneteenth 2019 in Kansas City

- Dr. Jalane Schmidt, associate professor in the Department of Religious Studies, University of Virginia, co-founder of the Charlottesville, VA chapter of Black Lives Matter

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Different Things To Different People”: How Calls to ‘Defund the Police’ Could Play Out

Fri, 12 Jun 2020 08:48:27 -0000

As protests continue in the US, some demonstrators are now calling to ‘defund the police.’ And those calls are already having an impact. Cities like Minneapolis, New York, and Los Angeles are considering some major changes to their police departments. We’ll break down what it actually means to defund the police, and why some protestors say that doesn’t go far enough.

Also: we’re still in a global pandemic. But many public health experts don’t think protests should stop. We’ll explain why medical professionals say it’s important that demonstrators are still able to protest against racism and police brutality.

And finally, you may have seen that viral video from former NFL athlete Emmanuel Acho, host of the new online series, “Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man.” We spoke to Acho about why these conversations are necessary, and how he plans to grow the series.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Lynda Garcia, Policing Campaign Director for The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, former trial attorney in the Special Litigation Section in the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice
Kimberly Burke, research fellow at the Center for Policing Equity
Dr. Jaime Slaughter-Acey, social epidemiologist and Assistant Professor in the Division of Epidemiology and Community Health at the University of Minnesota
Emmanuel Acho, former NFL athlete, current NFL analyst and host and creator of “Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man.”

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“A Stopgap for a Much Larger Problem”: What Police Reform Could Look Like

Fri, 05 Jun 2020 08:38:00 -0000

People across the US have flooded into the streets to protest police violence against black Americans. We’ll break down some of the concerns protests are highlighting, including disparities in how law enforcement treats black Americans, as well as police militarization. We’ll also talk to an expert about some potential solutions.

Also: if you’re seeing calls to donate to a bail fund and wondering how those work, we’ll explain.

And finally, we’re ‘pressing pause’ to highlight the creative ways people are documenting their lives during the COVID-19 pandemic.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Kimberly Burke, research fellow at the Center for Policing Equity
Bernadette Rabuy, senior policy analyst at the Prison Policy Initiative

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

‘Female-Led Recession’: How Economists Think Unemployment Will Impact Women and Minorities

Fri, 29 May 2020 08:40:16 -0000

As of this week, one in four US workers has filed for unemployment benefits. But economists say the historic numbers don’t tell the whole story. And they’re warning that women, and in particular women of color, are being disproportionately affected. We’ll break down what this record unemployment means, how the situation compares to past recessions, and what the impact is on women and women of color.

Also: now that unemployment is at a record-high, a lot of people are looking for work. We spoke to a career expert to get some tips on how to job search during a pandemic.

And finally, you asked and we Skimm’d: who’s even hiring right now? Not a trick question. Think: anyone who’s seeing an increase in demand. Like food and delivery services.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Kathryn A. Edwards, associate economist at the RAND Corporation
Amanda Augustine, career expert for TopResume

What’s something about the COVID-19 pandemic that you’ve been looking for more answers on? Email us at audio@theskimm.com and call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370. You might hear your message on the show and have your question answered.

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

More To Come: What Experts Say Congress Should Focus On

Fri, 22 May 2020 05:41:00 -0000

Back in March, Congress passed a historic $2 trillion stimulus bill that reached millions of Americans. You may have received a check in the mail or a boost in unemployment insurance. But researchers and economists are saying the money Congress spent so far may not be enough. We’ll break down what still needs work, and what experts say Congress should prioritize.

Also: you may have seen some headlines this week about some big stores going bankrupt. We’ll tell you why COVID-19 has pushed them into bankruptcy. And why it could impact what your next trip to the mall looks like.

And finally, you asked and we Skimm’d: how is COVID-19 more dangerous than the seasonal flu? We’ll tell you why experts say it’s not a fair comparison. Hint: even though the symptoms are similar, they’re caused by different viruses.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Jay Shambaugh, director of the Hamilton Project at the Brookings Institution and former member and chief economist of the White House Council of Economic Advisers
Henrietta Treyz, founder, managing partner and the director of economic policy at Veda Partners
Dr. Gloria Gonzalez-Rivera, professor of economics at University of California-Riverside
Nancy Rapoport, Garman Turner Gordon Professor of Law, William S. Boyd School of Law at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Vince Tibone, retail sector head at Green Street Advisors

On next week’s episode, we’re devoting our entire show to the topic of unemployment. Have you recently been impacted? If so, we’d love to hear your story and perhaps include it on next week’s show. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370.

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Not So Fast: Creating A COVID-19 Vaccine Is A Marathon, Not A Sprint

Fri, 15 May 2020 08:59:26 -0000

The race for a COVID-19 vaccine is underway. But don’t hold your breath. This race could take years. We’ll tell you why, and what’s being done to try to speed up the process.

Also: you may have seen some headlines this week about COVID-19 and children. New research shows kids are more at risk of getting sick than realized. On top of that: a mysterious illness that could be linked to COVID-19 is infecting children around the country. We’ll break down what this means for parents on the lookout.

And finally, you asked and we Skimm’d: why is it taking so long to get your stimulus check? Hint: you may need to check your mailbox.

On this episode, you’ll hear from:

Dr. Maria Elena Bottazzi, co-director of Texas Children's Hospital Center for Vaccine Development and Associate Dean, National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine
Dr. Rinke Bos, Principal Scientist at Janssen Vaccines & Prevention in Leiden, the Netherlands
Dr. Roderick Slavcev, Associate Professor, School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo
Dr. Lawrence Kleinman, professor and vice chair of the Department of Pediatrics at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and attending physician at Bristol-Myers Squibb Children's Hospital

What’s something about the COVID-19 pandemic that you’ve been looking for more answers on? Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370. You might hear your message on the show and have your question answered.

If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Bigger Picture: Beyond The Record Unemployment Rate

Fri, 08 May 2020 20:55:00 -0000

The CDC has been working on new guidelines for how states should start to reopen. But the White House is putting them on ice and telling the agency to make some changes. Meanwhile: the unemployment rate is now the highest it’s been since the Great Depression. We’ll tell you why the real picture might be even more bleak. Also on today’s show: Tara Reade’s allegations against former VP Joe Biden make more headlines, and an update on the fatal shooting of Ahmaud Arbery.

Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show.

If you want to add theSkimm to your morning routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Putting on the Pressure: Ahmaud Arbery’s Death Sparks Public Outcry

Thu, 07 May 2020 20:52:15 -0000

The latest unemployment numbers are in, and no surprise: they’re not very good. We’ll explain why -- despite all the bad economic news -- the stock market is doing relatively okay. Meanwhile: some small schools in Montana are among the first to reopen since the pandemic began. But local superintendents are finding ways to enforce social distancing measures in the classroom. Also on today’s show: we’ll dive into why the death of Ahmaud Arbery in February sparked widespread public outcry this week.

Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show.

If you want to add theSkimm to your morning routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A First For Everything: The Supreme Court Literally Phones It In

Wed, 06 May 2020 20:27:00 -0000

The White House coronavirus task force is getting a makeover. Sort of. We’ll explain what today’s change-up is all about and how it impacts you. Meanwhile: major grocery and fast food chains are showing cracks in the food supply chain as meat processing plants are forced to close. Also on today’s show: Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is in the hospital. But she was able to call into oral arguments today -- along with the rest of the Supremes -- to hear a case regarding free birth control coverage. We’ll explain why this case is a big deal.

Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show.

If you want to add theSkimm to your morning routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Skimm Special: COVID-19 and Climate Change (Rebroadcast)

Tue, 05 May 2020 20:17:32 -0000

This is a rebroadcast of our Skimm Special that originally aired on April 18th. We’ll be back tomorrow with new episodes.

Across the world, economies have essentially been on pause due to COVID-19. The unintended consequence? A significant decrease in air pollution and carbon emissions. We talked to climate experts about how the pandemic is highlighting the human impact on the planet. And what that can teach us about the steps individuals and governments need to take to tackle climate change. You’ll hear from:

Dr. Elizabeth Sawin, co-director of Climate Interactive, a think tank that builds computer simulations related to climate change solutions.
Anthony Leiserowitz, director of the Yale Program on Climate Change Communication, which specializes in understanding Americans’ attitudes toward climate change.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At the Stroke of Midnight: What Happens When Federal Stay-at-Home Guidelines End?

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 20:36:14 -0000

Federal stay-at-home guidelines are officially expiring tonight. But since it’s states that call the shots on reopening, not much is going to change when the clock strikes midnight. Meanwhile: there’s encouraging news from the world of medicine. We’ll break down two headlines about a COVID-19 treatment and a possible vaccine, and why America’s top infectious disease expert says things are looking up. Also on today’s show: Los Angeles is testing almost everyone for COVID-19, and France is planning a fancy charity auction to support local hospitals.

Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show.

If you want to add theSkimm to your morning routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Turn Down For...Months: Falling US GDP Expected to Keep Dropping

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 19:23:34 -0000

We knew the economy wasn’t doing well. But a new report out today shows us just how bad it really is. We’ll dive into what ‘gross domestic product’ is all about and why it matters that it’s down. Meanwhile: a new poll says a lot of Americans are worried that COVID-19 will disrupt this year’s presidential election. We’ll explain why one proposed solution — voting by mail — isn’t exactly easy. Also on today’s show: the recent shake up of the film industry has the Oscars changing its ways.

Earlier this month, we hosted a live online presentation called Recessions, Skimm’d. We explained what recessions are, why they’re a big deal, and how you can be prepared for when one comes up.

Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fasten Your...Masks?: First US Airline to Require Face Coverings

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 20:28:45 -0000

The White House released new guidelines for how states should ramp-up their testing programs. We’ll explain how this could impact your state. Meanwhile: the Federal Reserve is coming to the rescue for cities and states. We’ll tell you how the new moves could help you. Also on today’s show: JetBlue Airways just became the first major airline to require passengers to wear masks. We’ll look at why this didn’t happen earlier.

Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

All The Rage: Antibody Tests Are ‘In’ But Do They Work?

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 20:18:48 -0000

We’re starting to learn more about COVID-19 antibody testing. But these tests might not be ready for primetime yet. We’ll explain what they are and why researchers are telling us to slow our roll. Meanwhile: more Georgia businesses opened their doors today. We’ll tell you what that could mean for your state. Also on today’s show: the CDC added new COVID-19 symptoms to look out for. We’ll dive into what that could mean for the future of testing.

Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Million Dollar Question: How Many of us Have Had COVID-19?

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 20:15:34 -0000

President Trump signed the bill to re-up the Paycheck Protection Program. But: there might be another snag. We’ll dive into why it still may not get small businesses the help they need. Meanwhile: a new study out of New York says that the outbreak may have been more widespread than initially thought. We’ll tell you why that might actually bring some good news to the fight against the virus. Also on today’s show: a survey of artists finds nearly all have been impacted by COVID-19. We’ll tell you how.

If you or someone you know is an artist or creative worker who needs help, the National Endowment for the Arts has a list of resources you can check out, including Artist Relief.

If you’re interested in helping seniors who need help shopping for groceries, you can donate to Meals on Wheels, which has a COVID-19 response fund. You can also join Nextdoor, where lots of communities are discussing how to help local seniors.

This morning we hosted a live online presentation called, “How to Save Money During COVID-19.” We talk about how to cut back expenses, negotiate with businesses you pay every month, and lower your debt payments.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Business, Unusual: Decoding Wall Street’s Unemployment Warnings

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 19:48:00 -0000

The House of Representatives is expected to pass another major stimulus bill to get more money into the hands of small businesses. We’ll dive into why convincing small businesses to put their names in the hat for this financial lifeline will still take some work. Meanwhile: this week’s new unemployment numbers are in. We’ll explain what “earnings season” is, and how the latest word from Wall Street could mean more bad news for workers. Also on today’s show: Georgia plans to take its first step towards normal life tomorrow. We’ll explain what that could mean for your state.

Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Only as Good as the Data: Newly Discovered Death Complicates COVID-19 Timeline

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 20:29:35 -0000

Officials say the first known death from COVID-19 in the US happened weeks earlier than they realized. We’ll tell you what that might mean for the projection models everyone has been relying on. Meanwhile: a new study shows that a drug some were hopeful about might not actually help fight COVID-19. We’ll look at how the search for a COVID-19 treatment is going. Also on today’s show: a new software update you might not want to miss.

Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Time for a Refresh: Small Business Relief Bill To Get a Vote

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 20:16:30 -0000

Last night, President Trump announced he’ll sign an executive order to suspend immigration into the US. But the administration has already made a number of changes to immigration procedures since the pandemic began. We’ll explain. Meanwhile: the Senate has reached a deal to refresh the Paycheck Protection Program. We’ll explain what that might mean for your favorite neighborhood bakery. Also on today’s show: an appeals court is allowing Texas to restrict abortion. We’ll dive into the debate over what medical procedures are considered ‘essential’ in the age of the pandemic.

Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Low Lows: Oil Prices Go Negative For First Time

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 20:37:42 -0000

Most public health experts agree: we need more testing to start lifting stay-at-home orders. But in the US, officials disagree on how to get more tests. We’ll explain how this impacts you. Meanwhile: people across the country defied social distancing measures this weekend to protest. We’ll explain what message protestors are trying to send. Also on today’s show: the price of oil dips into the negatives for the first time. We’ll look at why that happened and why it’s such a big deal.

Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Skimm Special: COVID-19 and Climate Change

Sat, 18 Apr 2020 10:30:00 -0000

Dr. Elizabeth Sawin, co-director of Climate Interactive, a think tank that builds computer simulations related to climate change solutions.
Anthony Leiserowitz, director of the Yale Program on Climate Change Communication, which specializes in understanding Americans’ attitudes toward climate change.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

That’s (Not) an Order: States Have Final Say About New White House Guidelines

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 20:33:58 -0000

The White House has new advice for states that might want to lift their stay-at-home orders. We’ll tell you what these new guidelines actually mean for you. Meanwhile: you might be hearing a lot about a new antiviral drug that could be used to fight COVID-19. We’ll explain why doctors say remdesivir has a lot of promise, but also a few shortcomings. Also on today’s show: millions of people are still waiting for their stimulus checks. We’ll look into the reasons your payment might not have come yet.

Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A Trend Everyone Hates: Unemployment Rises by the Millions (Again)

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 20:18:10 -0000

For the fourth week in a row, US unemployment claims have risen by the millions. We’ll explain what Congress is doing to try to curb that trend. Meanwhile, there’s a new test that some say could help us get back to normal life. We’ll break down what these antibody tests are all about. Also on today’s show: we’ll explain why — despite orders to stay put — some people are venturing outside to protest.

This morning, theSkimm hosted a live online presentation, Unemployment, Skimm’d. We explain what the latest unemployment numbers mean for your wallet, and how to navigate the unemployment benefits process.

Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Your Shopping Cart Misses You: Retail Has One of its Worst Months Ever

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 20:31:06 -0000

A new report from the US Commerce Department says shopping carts across America are way emptier than usual. We’ll tell you what a drop in retail sales means for the rest of the economy. Meanwhile: President Trump says he’s halting funding to the World Health Organization. We’ll dive into how this could impact the global fight against COVID-19. Also on today’s show: after a week of negotiations, ten airline companies will accept billions of dollars in federal aid. We’ll explain how that aid impacts us.

Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work?: States Unite to Coordinate COVID-19 Response

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 19:56:45 -0000

States are teaming up to figure out how and when to lift their stay-at-home orders. We’ll explain why that’s causing tension with the White House. Meanwhile: over 80 million people are supposed to get their stimulus payouts by tomorrow. We'll tell you who that applies to and who’s left out. Also on today’s show: a US Navy sailor has died after COVID-19 spread onboard the USS Roosevelt. We’ll look at why the military’s handling of these outbreaks is becoming a big story.

Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The List Goes On and On: Can “Contact Tracing” Help Get us Back to Normal Life?

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 20:13:13 -0000

There’s been a lot of talk lately about when it’s OK to ‘reopen the economy.’ Public health experts say one thing that could get us to that point is contact tracing. We’ll explain why. Meanwhile: meat processing plants across the country have been shutting down over COVID-19 concerns. We’ll look at what this means for the food supply chain and those who work in it. Also on today’s show: there’s some big news about the global oil supply. We’ll tell you what it could mean for you at the gas pump. Plus: Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders officially endorses his old rival, former Vice President Joe Biden.

Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jump in Line: As Unemployment Grows, States Struggle to Keep Up

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 20:13:57 -0000

This week’s new unemployment numbers are in, and things still aren’t good. We’ll look at what states are doing to keep up with the worsening jobs crisis. Meanwhile: as unemployment skyrockets, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is making moves to keep essential workers at work. Also on today’s show: grocery shopping during a pandemic already has its challenges, but food banks across the country are facing a lot more hurdles. We’ll explain why. Plus: how far can you take social distancing? Try outer space.

Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Numbers Talk: How the Pandemic is Affecting African Americans

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 19:49:06 -0000

We’re seeing clearer trends that black Americans may be at disproportionately higher risk of falling ill and dying from COVID-19. We’ll break down why public health experts say this is happening. Meanwhile: Wuhan — the Chinese city where the pandemic started — ended its 76-day lockdown. We’ll look at what’s next for its residents. Also on today’s show: Europe’s top finance officials left a never-ending meeting deadlocked. We’ll tell you why that’s a big deal. Also, big 2020 news today as Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders makes his way to the exit.

Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Odd One Out: Wisconsin Votes IRL During Pandemic

Tue, 07 Apr 2020 20:16:36 -0000

Voters are heading to the polls to cast their ballots in the Wisconsin primary despite orders from the governor to stay home. We’ll dive into the drama and look at what voting during a pandemic could mean for November’s general election. Meanwhile: President Trump has been promoting a drug that he says is a ‘game-changer’ for the fight against COVID-19. But America’s top medical officials are urging caution. We explain the big debate over hydroxychloroquine. Also on today’s show: Japan was one of the first countries to deal with COVID-19 cases, but only just enacted its strongest stay-at-home measure. We look at why the country waited until now to declare a state of emergency.

Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rough Road Ahead: Are Hospitals Ready for This Week?

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 20:30:50 -0000

Health officials are warning that this will be an especially tough week. Are hospitals ready? A new federal report gives us an indication. Meanwhile: the United Nations says that reported incidents of domestic violence are on the rise during the pandemic. We’ll look into why that is. Also on today’s show: we share a few ways you can say thanks to healthcare workers near you.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline by calling 1-800-799-7233. If you're unable to speak safely, you can log onto thehotline.org or text LOVEIS to 22522.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Time for a Check-Up: Should Everyone Wear A Mask?

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 20:55:15 -0000

When news broke that COVID-19 had hit the US, many of us were told not to wear masks unless we were sick. Now the US government is reportedly reconsidering that guidance. We’ll tell you why. Meanwhile, US unemployment data for the month of March just got released. We’ll break down what the numbers mean and why they’re getting so much attention today. Also on today’s show: we check up on New York’s new floating hospital, and explain why celebrities are reading children’s books on social media.

Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Wrong Kind of Stunning: 6.6M Americans File for Unemployment

Thu, 02 Apr 2020 20:30:19 -0000

We woke up this morning to some record-breaking unemployment numbers — as huge as they are, they may not even be showing the full picture. We’ll explain why. Meanwhile: the US’s secret stockpile of emergency medical equipment is running low. We’ll explain what the stockpile is and why this is happening at precisely the wrong moment in history. Also on today’s show: two cruise ships get the green light to dock in Florida after days of pleading. We tell you why more cruise ship drama is likely to come.

This morning, theSkimm hosted a live presentation: Recessions, Skimm’d. We explained what recessions are, why they’re a big deal, and how you can be prepared for when one comes up.

Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A Few Very Bad Weeks: Forecasting COVID-19 in the US

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 19:54:06 -0000

The US intelligence community is reportedly warning that China hid key info about the severity of its COVID-19 outbreak. We’ll walk you through what that could mean for other countries that relied on Chinese data as they crafted their own epidemic response plans. Meanwhile: it’s Census Day. We’ll explain what that means and how COVID-19 is complicating the count. Also on today’s show: more states are telling residents to stay at home after the White House revealed models showing dire statistics about the likely course of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

COVID-180°: Convention Centers and Parks Become Hospitals

Tue, 31 Mar 2020 20:31:54 -0000

A US Navy Captain is pleading for help containing a COVID-19 outbreak onboard an American aircraft carrier in Guam. We’ll explain why the Navy is facing similar problems as cruise ships, and why having a nuclear power plant and fighter jets on board make this situation totally different. Meanwhile, a field hospital opened today on a grassy patch of Central Park, famous for its sunbathers and picnickers. We look at why these makeshift medical facilities are cropping up all over the country. Also on today’s show: a story so cute, we can’t even bear it.

Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Strike Now, Shop Later: Delivery Workers Want More Pay for More Risk

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 20:47:12 -0000

Grocery delivery workers went on strike today. We’ll explain how the COVID-19 pandemic is impacting the delivery industry and how consumers can respond. Meanwhile: the White House extends social distancing guidelines until the end of April. But it remains up to states to decide how to actually enforce them. We look at a few approaches different states are taking. Also on today’s show: trivia night just got a reboot.

Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Skimm Special: Equal Pay

Sat, 28 Mar 2020 11:00:00 -0000

It’s 2020 and women’s median earnings are about 80 cents for every dollar a man makes. Cool cool. That’s known as the gender pay gap. Ahead of Equal Pay Day on March 31st, we wanted to find out why this gap has persisted for so long, and what’s being done about it. That includes steps you can take. Yes, you. We talked to:

Jennifer Klein, chief strategy and policy officer for Time’s Up
Claire Wasserman, founder of ladiesgetpaid.com
Maria Colacurcio, CEO of pay analysis software Syndio

Skimm more:

Wasserman recommends approaching your HR department about setting up a professional sponsorship program. Here’s what that can mean.
Research has shown that salary transparency can help close the gender pay gap. Read up here and here.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Signed, Sealed, Delivered: The COVID-19 Stimulus Package

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 20:24:56 -0000

President Trump just signed the most expensive relief bill in US history, but it wasn’t exactly a cakewalk. We explain the drama that had lawmakers scrambling to fly back to the Capitol. Meanwhile, officials at the World Health Organization have been warning for weeks that developing nations could have a tougher time coping with COVID-19. We break down why that is and why more developed nations should care. Also on today’s show: what it means now that UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has tested positive for COVID-19, and the new fashion trend that Walmart says WFH life is driving.

Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3.3 Million Americans File for Unemployment: Is Help on the Way?

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 20:53:23 -0000

The latest US unemployment numbers are in. They’re historic, and not in a good way. We’ll break down the data and look at how Congress is trying to patch up the unemployment insurance system in the middle of a health crisis. Meanwhile: how do world leaders hold an emergency summit when they’re supposed to be social distancing? We’ll explain the plan G20 leaders put together to fight COVID-19 while governing-from-home. (Here’s what their WFH confab looked like.) Also on today’s show: how dating sites are helping people connect remotely.

Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A Really Big Deal: Inside Congress’ COVID-19 Relief Bill

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 20:30:00 -0000

Senate leaders say they’ve reached a historic deal to help Americans and American businesses deal with the economic fallout of COVID-19. The $2 trillion relief package will also steer billions of dollars to hospitals and local governments to respond to the ongoing health crisis. We’ll tell you what’s (probably) in the bill and why each part of it matters. Meanwhile, New York is being called an ‘epicenter’ of COVID-19. We’ll explain why New York has been hit so hard and what the rest of the country might be able learn from its experience. Also on today’s show: states are asking Amazon and other online retailers to do more to crack down on COVID-19 price gouging, and our recs for the best zoo webcams (links below).

Here’s a penguin frolicking through a field at the Santa Barbara Zoo
Here are live streams of snow leopard cubs at the Melbourne Zoo
Here’s a live feed of a coral reef in Australia

Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Not Playing Games: 2020 Summer Olympics Postponed

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 20:39:33 -0000

The 2020 Summer Olympics won’t be happening in summer 2020 anymore. We’ll explain how the decision to postpone the Olympics could impact more than your TV habits. Then: officials around the US are ordering the release of some inmates as a way to slow down COVID-19. Plus: we look at how the pandemic could complicate November’s general election.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Two Strikes: The Senate’s Economic Stimulus Bill

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 20:42:41 -0000

The Senate is divided over a bill that’s supposed to help Americans deal with the economic fallout of COVID-19. We’ll tell you the latest. Meanwhile, President Trump appears anxious to send Americans back to the office. We’ll tell you why, and what other officials have to say about it. Also on today’s show: why some private companies might help the government produce hospital equipment, and a distance runner’s solution for working out at home.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don’t Panic! At the Supermarket: Understanding the Supply Chain

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 20:38:24 -0000

The US is sealing itself off from its neighbors, with big restrictions on the Mexico and Canada borders. We’ll explain why, and take a look at the other big COVID-19 news of the day. Meanwhile, if you’ve been to a supermarket lately, you may have noticed shelves looked a bit...grim. But experts say: don’t panic. Also on today’s show: we spoke with Dr. Deborah Birx, the White House coronavirus response coordinator.

If you want to send a message to a loved one reminding them why it’s important to keep social distancing, let us be your megaphone. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370. You might hear your message on the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mission Zero: China’s Big COVID-19 Milestone

Thu, 19 Mar 2020 20:41:11 -0000

China just reported no new locally-transmitted COVID-19 cases for the first time since the outbreak began. We’ll explain why that’s great news, but why China isn’t quite out of the woods just yet. Meanwhile, the federal government is giving Americans three extra months to pay their taxes. But taxpayer beware! That April 15th tax filing deadline is still very much a thing. Also on today’s show: we’ll look at why ‘panic-buying’ groceries isn’t the most urgent food issue we should be worried about.

We’d love to hear your tips for helping your community during the COVID-19 outbreak. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Not All Heroes Wear Capes: Health Workers Brace for COVID-19

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 20:09:00 -0000

Healthcare workers are on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic. We’ll dive into the risks they’re facing as they work around the clock to save lives. Meanwhile, the US government is coming up with ways to help Americans cope with the economic crisis. We’ll explain why one option being discussed is checks in the mail. Also on today’s show: one listener tells us how she’s ‘Zoom’-ing in to keep her community together.

We’d love to hear your tips for helping your community during the COVID-19 outbreak. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370.

** Dr. Lewis Nelson is the Chair of the Department of Emergency Medicine at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School and also a practicing physician treating patients at University Hospital.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is New: Voting During a Pandemic

Tue, 17 Mar 2020 20:33:24 -0000

The COVID-19 caseload in the US topped 5,000 today, but Florida, Illinois and Arizona kept calm and carried on with primary voting. Meanwhile: are we on the cusp of a lockdown? We’ll explain how federal and local governments are differing in their responses. Also: COVID-19 could create a new kind of medical problem. Listen to what’s keeping the CEO of the American Red Cross up at night.

We’d love to hear your tips for helping your community during the COVID-19 outbreak. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370.

If you or someone you know would like to donate blood, you can learn more at: redcross.org

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Taking Shape: The Fed’s Plan to Stabilize the Economy

Mon, 16 Mar 2020 20:52:57 -0000

The Federal Reserve dusted off its Great Recession playbook on Sunday to find ways to boost the US economy. It cut interest rates to close to zero percent and will buy up $700 billion in financial assets to help get the economy through the COVID-19 pandemic. We’ll break down what these new steps could mean for you and how markets reacted. Meanwhile, social distancing is the new going out. We’ll explain why you should get on board. Also on today’s show: a big commitment at last night’s CNN debate, and a forgery of biblical proportions.

We’d love to hear your tips for helping your community during the COVID-19 outbreak. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Results Pending: The Plan to Increase COVID-19 Testing

Fri, 13 Mar 2020 20:15:32 -0000

President Trump declared a national emergency today over the COVID-19 outbreak, and said more Americans should be able to get tested soon. We’ll explain why the US has been facing a testing shortage and how the plans announced today could address that. Then, 30 million US students rely on school meal programs. But what happens when school’s closed? We’ll dive into the latest plans to feed students being told to hunker down at home. Also on today’s show: we’ll preview what could be an unusually quiet Democratic debate on Sunday, and introduce you to the fiercest bug around.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hold The Plane: The US Preps for COVID-19

Thu, 12 Mar 2020 20:41:01 -0000

Last night President Trump addressed the nation to explain how the US is responding to COVID-19. He talked up the importance of keeping the disease out of the country. But remember: it’s already here. We dive into the complications with testing and treating, and why there’s a lot more work that the US needs to do to be prepared. Meanwhile: if you’re still considering traveling, we’ll tell you what you might need to know when it comes to booking it. Also on the show: it’s Census season, and the government is rolling out a new online option to help you out.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let’s Touch Base: Why Working From Home Doesn’t Work For All

Wed, 11 Mar 2020 20:48:32 -0000

COVID-19 is now officially a pandemic. But as more and more companies are telling their employees to work from home, many people don’t have that luxury. We’ll explain why the lack of unemployment insurance and universal paid sick leave is a pain for the gig economy and for some hourly workers. Meanwhile, a New York judge just handed down a prison sentence for movie producer Harvey Weinstein. We’ll break it down. Also on today’s show: how Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders is faring in the Democratic presidential primary, and a career pro-tip from supermodel Karlie Kloss.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Going the Distance: Italy on Lockdown Mode Over COVID-19

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 19:54:09 -0000

Italians woke up this morning under a nationwide quarantine as the country attempts to stop the spread of COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus. Italy is the latest country to follow China’s playbook by using “social distancing” policies to contain the disease, and it might not be the last. We’ll explain why putting a little space between you and others might buy public health systems some time to figure out how to respond to this unfolding outbreak. Also on today’s show: Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders duke it out in Michigan’s Democratic primary, and India’s Prime Minister skips out on celebrating Holi.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pump the Brakes: The Stock Market and COVID-19

Mon, 09 Mar 2020 20:37:40 -0000

The markets took a nosedive today. And in response, Wall Street found the brakes and stepped on them. We’ll explain what happened and what it means moving forward. Meanwhile, the beginning of the week might have you dreaming about taking a vacation. But heads up: the US government is warning people against booking their dream cruise. Also on the show: Mexico City finds out what a day without women looks like.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When Your Side Hustle is Free: Female Unpaid Labor

Fri, 06 Mar 2020 21:51:39 -0000

The Supreme Court heard its first major case on abortion access with a strong new conservative majority on the bench. We’ll dive into what the outcome of this case could mean for the future of abortion access in the US. Meanwhile, this Sunday is International Women’s Day. We talked to some women – and their partners – about how they share the workload at home. Also on the show: how people around the world are getting creative when it comes to telling people to wash their hands.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Warren Has a Plan… To Find The Nearest Exit

Thu, 05 Mar 2020 21:28:10 -0000

Elizabeth Warren dropped out of the race for the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination. Her next big plan is TBD. Meanwhile, countries around the world are planning stimulus packages to help people and businesses recover from the economic hit of COVID-19. But economists aren’t convinced of their value. Also on the show: the US-Taliban peace deal is getting tested. And now the International Criminal Court is launching a formal investigation into possible war crimes committed during the war in Afghanistan.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

And Then There Were Two-ish: Democratic Field Narrows

Wed, 04 Mar 2020 21:54:16 -0000

With Super Tuesday behind us and nearly all the results in, the 2020 Democratic presidential field is narrowing even more. We’ll explain who won and lost big last night, and what happens next. Meanwhile: health officials are schooling the media on how to talk about COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus. It’s part of an effort to combat misinformation that’s been causing an ‘infodemic’. Also on the show: a potential women’s history museum in DC, and a pro-tip for commanding any room.

Click here for info on COVID-19 from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Super-Sized: Primary Day, COVID-19’s Olympics Impact

Tue, 03 Mar 2020 21:49:35 -0000

It’s Super Tuesday. The biggest primary day so far where voters in 14 states plus American Samoa cast their ballots to pick their preferred nominee. This time around, California has a starring role with the most delegates up for grabs. Meanwhile: COVID-19 is impacting major events around the world, which has some worried about what this could mean for the 2020 Summer Olympics. Also on the show: Apple admits to causing your iPhone to lag on purpose, and the Democratic Republic of Congo discharges its last Ebola patient.

Click here for more on what you need to know about COVID-19.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Not a Test: Why COVID-19 Cases Could Spike

Mon, 02 Mar 2020 21:47:45 -0000

At least six people in the state of Washington have died from COVID-19. As the US government ramps up testing efforts, experts warn to expect a big jump in confirmed cases as results start coming in. Meanwhile: over the weekend, former VP Joe Biden scored a major win in the South Carolina primary -- thanks in part to a big endorsement. Also on the show: Israel heads to polls for the third time in less than a year, and this time around there are a lot more complications.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the Red: The COVID-19 Market Downturn

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 21:55:28 -0000

This week, the stock market has been feeling the pain of COVID-19. We’ll look at what the current economic impact is and what a ‘market correction’ has to do with it. Meanwhile, the US and the Taliban are on the verge of a major peace deal. We’ll break down how the agreement could lead to the end of the US’s longest war. Also on today’s show: a look at pedestrian safety, the annual convention of conservative activists, and a leap-year tradition that could be skipped over.

PS: Click here for more pedestrian safety tips.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scotland’s Quest to End ‘Period Poverty’

Thu, 27 Feb 2020 21:29:29 -0000

Scotland is about to make your ‘time of the month’ a lot easier on your wallet. It will soon become the first country to make tampons and pads free and available for everyone. We’ll explain how that policy aims to tackle the ‘period poverty’ affecting girls and women around the world. Meanwhile, a patient in California has been diagnosed with coronavirus – aka COVID-19. And this case is raising questions about the way the US government is testing for the disease. We’ll tell you why. Also on the show: measuring how companies ‘go green,’ and why seagulls can’t get enough of your lunch.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

COVID-19: Coming to a Community Near You?

Wed, 26 Feb 2020 21:59:23 -0000

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is warning Americans to prepare for COVID-19 to spread within the US. (That’s the new disease caused by coronavirus.) When the CDC says ‘this could be bad,’ they mean major disruptions to your everyday life. But health experts want to make it clear that preparing doesn’t mean panicking. Meanwhile, the Syrian civil war made a surprise appearance in last night’s Democratic primary debate. We’ll explain why the current situation in Syria is so dire, and why millions of people there still need help. Also on the show: Gretchen Carlson shares her advice for what to do if you’re dealing with harassment at work, and talks about her new organization, Lift Our Voices.

Click here to learn more about the situation in Syria and how you can help children and families fleeing conflict.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Out Front: Bernie Sanders Leads the Pack

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 21:55:41 -0000

Must feel good to be first. Bernie Sanders has achieved front-runner status in the 2020 Democratic primary. How is that possible after just three states have voted? We’ll explain the money (and delegate) math involved. Then: President Trump wrapped up a quick trip to India to talk trade with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. But the huge welcome party Trump got doesn’t necessarily mean that the US and India are locking down a trade deal anytime soon. Also on the show: a Zamboni driver hits the ice MVP-style.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Verdict Reached: The Harvey Weinstein Trial

Mon, 24 Feb 2020 21:47:14 -0000

A jury in New York has found Harvey Weinstein guilty of third-degree rape and first-degree criminal sexual assault. He could face more than two decades in prison. We’ll dive into what today’s verdict means, what the jury didn’t convict him on, and what to expect next in the trial that was propelled by the #MeToo movement. Meanwhile: as coronavirus continues to spread, fears are growing that the outbreak is reaching the level of a pandemic. Also on today’s show: we remember NASA mathematician legend Katherine Johnson.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Easy as A, B, Cease: A US-Taliban Truce?

Fri, 21 Feb 2020 22:00:19 -0000

The US and the Taliban have agreed to a reduction of violence for the next seven days. It’s kinda like a test run to see if they can put down their weapons for good, and possibly end America’s longest war. But there’s still a lot that could get in the way and a long way to go. Meanwhile, Russian election interference is back in the news ahead of this year’s big vote. Also on the show: Nevada is crossing its fingers for a smooth caucus this weekend, and we remember the tech legend who gave us ‘copy and paste.’

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Not a Quiet Place: Nondisclosure Agreements in the #MeToo Era

Thu, 20 Feb 2020 21:34:22 -0000

Nondisclosure agreements were a big talker at last night’s democratic presidential debate. We’ll dive into what former New York City mayor Mike Bloomberg had to say, and talk to former Fox News anchor Gretchen Carlson about ongoing efforts to curtail the practice of mandatory NDAs at the office. Meanwhile: President Trump’s longtime advisor Roger Stone was sentenced to over three years in prison today. But Trump’s recent ‘big pardon energy’ could mean that this prison sentence doesn’t mean prison time. Also on the show: the Trump Administration wants Americans step up their stock investment game, and why snapping shrimp are signaling a big problem in the ocean.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Place Your Bets: Nevada’s Culinary Union and Medicare for All

Wed, 19 Feb 2020 21:25:04 -0000

Medicare for All is likely to come up in tonight’s big Democratic primary debate in Las Vegas. But Nevada’s powerful Culinary Union fought hard for its members to enjoy a top-notch private health care plan, and they’re resisting change. We’ll dive into the drama between the union and candidates pushing Medicare for All. Meanwhile, the coronavirus outbreak has led to travel restrictions for nearly half of China’s population, which means that a lot of people aren’t making it to the many manufacturing companies that support the global supply chain. Also on the show: a pro-tip from Love Wellness founder and CEO Lo Bosworth.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scout’s Honor: Why the Boy Scouts of America Filed for Bankruptcy

Tue, 18 Feb 2020 21:58:00 -0000

The Boy Scouts of America has officially filed for bankruptcy as it deals with an onslaught of sexual abuse lawsuits. We’ll dive into what this move means for the future of the organization and for thousands of victims seeking justice. Meanwhile: former New York City mayor Mike Bloomberg has qualified for tomorrow night’s democratic presidential debate. Recent polls show him in second place behind Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders. Also on today’s show: why grasshoppers have proven to be a surprising ally for homeland security officials.

Here’s a link to our December show on “look-back laws.”

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I’m Not Gonna Write You A Love Song: The US and Iran...and Switzerland?

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 21:38:23 -0000

As the coronavirus continues to spread, one of the affected groups has been healthcare workers on the frontlines in China. We’ll dive into how a vaccine could be on the horizon, but still has a long way to go. Then: the Senate votes to rein in President Trump’s power to conduct military strikes in Iran. As tensions increase between the US and Iran, an unlikely middleman is helping the two countries work out their issues and bring much needed humanitarian aid to the Iranian people. Also on the show: why the US government wants to remind you on Valentine’s Day … to take things slow.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Party in the USA: Attorney General Bill Barr RSVP’s Yes

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 21:46:02 -0000

Attorney General William Barr has RSVP’d to a hearing with the House Judiciary Committee. And Dems have a lot of things they want to ask him about. Think: Roger Stone, Jessie Liu, and Rudy Giuliani. Meanwhile: all eyes were on Federal Reserve nominee Judy Shelton today at her confirmation hearing. Her controversial ideas – like bringing back the gold standard – have some senators scratching their heads. Also on the show: why a surge in home sales might not be great for your wallet, and why today is Galentine’s Day. Cheers to you and your beautiful tropical fish.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Juan Guaidó: Started From the Bottom, Now We’re Here

Wed, 12 Feb 2020 21:43:59 -0000

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaidó is back home after a whirlwind trip throughout Europe and the US to drum up support for his cause. It’s been over a year since he defied current president Nicolás Maduro and declared himself the rightful president. And even though Guaidó has the US and over 50 other countries on his side, Guaidó’s campaign may be losing steam. As that political battle rages, the people of Venezuela continue to suffer through a refugee crisis of massive proportions. Also on today’s show: author and entrepreneur Erica Williams Simon talks about big life changes and the power of storytelling.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Merger Story: The New T-Mobile

Tue, 11 Feb 2020 21:50:00 -0000

Today, after years of lawsuits and red tape, a federal judge approved the merger of wireless network giants T-Mobile and Sprint. We dive into why states are making calls to stop this from happening and what it could mean for your next phone bill. Meanwhile, the Philippines is scrapping a decades-old military agreement with the US called the Visiting Forces Agreement. We’ll tell you why that could have major implications for global security. Also on today’s show: the New Hampshire primary is underway, but the midnight vote in Dixville Notch got off to a surprising start.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sticking Points: Budget Plans, Cruise Ship Quarantine, CROWN Act

Mon, 10 Feb 2020 21:40:15 -0000

Today, the Trump administration unveiled its budget proposal for 2021. But since Congress holds the purse strings and Democrats have the majority in the House, it’s likely that this plan might not work out. We’ll dive into the plan’s winners and losers, and why the border wall between the U.S. and Mexico is back in the spotlight. Also on today’s show: China sees its deadliest day of the coronavirus outbreak, and why some of last night’s Oscar winners gave a nod to a new anti-discrimination law.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the Spotlight: Dem Debate Preview, Weinstein Trial, Oscars

Fri, 07 Feb 2020 21:44:07 -0000

It’s Friday night, and some 2020 democratic candidates will be spending theirs in...New Hampshire for the eighth democratic debate. We’ll tell you why some of the candidates are hoping to put this ‘No Good, Very Bad’ week behind them. Meanwhile, football season is already making a comeback with a brand new league called the XFL. And this one’s taking your bets (legally). Also on today’s show: Harvey Weinstein’s defense team calls its first witnesses, and a historic first to keep an ear out for at the Oscars on Sunday.

To receive gambling addiction help 24/7/365, call or text the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Not a Joke: More Investigations, Mask Shortages, Traffic as Art

Thu, 06 Feb 2020 21:54:35 -0000

President Trump’s Senate impeachment trial is over, but that’s not the end of political investigations in 2020. We’ll explain what info Democrats and Republicans in Congress want to track down now. Then, the coronavirus outbreak is causing a global shortage on protective face masks. We hear from one expert on what this could mean for the healthcare workers who need those masks the most. Also on today’s show: Tensions ease in the U.S.-China trade war, and a performance artist fakes a traffic jam.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Now What?: Impeachment’s Final Act, ERA, ‘Cheer’

Wed, 05 Feb 2020 21:29:40 -0000

President Trump’s Senate impeachment trial has come to an end. So, what happens now? Meanwhile, if you spotted members of Congress last night wearing pins with the letters E-R-A and asked W-H-Y, there was a reason for it. We’ll dive into the Equal Rights Amendment and the latest push to ratify it into the U.S. Constitution. Also on today’s show: tips for tax freshmen, and a preview of our chat with Coach Monica Aldama from ‘Cheer’ on Netflix.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Head-Scratching: Caucus Confusion, Censure, Lonesome George

Tue, 04 Feb 2020 22:38:01 -0000

A day after the Iowa Democratic Caucus, we’re told results are still just around the corner. But the damage from a historic vote-counting fail is already being felt, and Iowa could be the biggest loser. Meanwhile, we’ll look at the big issues that might come up in tonight’s State of the Union Address by checking out the guest list. Also on today’s show: Democrats float an alternative to impeachment, and why one lonely creature might not have been the last of his kind.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Huddle Up: Iowa Caucuses, Impeachment Check-in, Shakira Memes

Mon, 03 Feb 2020 21:28:22 -0000

The 2020 primary season kicks off tonight with the Iowa caucuses. But how does a caucus actually work – and why does Iowa get so much clout? Meanwhile, the Senate impeachment trial continues but the end is in sight. We’ll break down what to look for in the coming days. Also on today’s show: why the World Health Organization has a problem with countries imposing travel bans in the midst of the coronavirus outbreak, and why there might be more to Shakira’s viral Super Bowl moment than just another meme.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s Been a Long Road: Brexit Day, Impeachment Trial, Super Bowl Firsts

Fri, 31 Jan 2020 21:26:55 -0000

After more than three years, Brexit is actually happening. We’ll break down what’s next for the UK. Spoiler: there’s still a long road ahead. Meanwhile, the debate over witnesses in the Senate impeachment trial is headed toward a vote. Which means the end is in sight. Also on today’s show: a lot of firsts will be happening on and off the field on Super Bowl Sunday.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This Is a Lot: Coronavirus Updates, Quid Pro Quo, and Locust Invaders

Thu, 30 Jan 2020 21:57:14 -0000

The World Health Organization says that the coronavirus outbreak is a global public health emergency. We’ll break down what this means as countries respond and how the economic impact of this disease is being felt around the world. Meanwhile, a locust invasion is wreaking havoc in East Africa and parts of the Middle East and South Asia. Also on today’s show: question time for senators at the impeachment trial ends today, and a mummy finds his voice.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Back to School: Senate Questions, Tobacco Report Card, Negotiations

Wed, 29 Jan 2020 21:44:03 -0000

Now that opening arguments have wrapped up in the Senate impeachment trial, it’s time for lawmakers to ask the questions. We’ll break down how this process works and what to expect next. Meanwhile, the American Lung Association put out its big annual report on tobacco use. The conclusion? The US government still has a lot of work to do. Also on today’s show: what to know about doing your taxes as a freelancer, and a pro-tip on negotiation from Food52 CEO Amanda Hesser.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Make-or-Break Moment: Trump Defense, ‘Deal of the Century,’ Iowa Voting

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 21:54:00 -0000

President Trump’s defense lawyers have wrapped up opening arguments. We’ll break down the case they made, and what’s next for the Senate impeachment trial. Meanwhile, the White House has finally unveiled its plan for peace in the Middle East. But a key player to the deal wasn’t part of it, so TBD on whether the plan will work out. Also on today’s show: a new mobile app to track votes at the Iowa caucuses has security experts concerned.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Where It Happened: Bolton Leak, Rival Meetings, Quarantine Update

Mon, 27 Jan 2020 21:27:29 -0000

President Trump’s defense team is launching into day two of their opening arguments at the Senate impeachment trial. But leaked excerpts from former National Security Advisor John Bolton’s upcoming book are adding more pressure on senators to consider calling new witnesses. Meanwhile, Trump hosted two back-to-back meetings with Israel’s top two political rivals today. We’ll explain what this has to do with peace in the Middle East. Also on today’s show: the latest updates on coronavirus, and a thing to know when doing your taxes and growing your family.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Great Lengths: Democrats on the Mic, March for Life, Grammys Drama

Fri, 24 Jan 2020 21:57:38 -0000

House Democrats are wrapping up three days of opening arguments in the Senate impeachment trial of President Trump. Before Trump’s defense lawyers take the mic on Saturday, we’ll take a look at how Democrats laid out the case, and whether it changed anyone’s minds. Then, President Trump became the first sitting president to speak at the March for Life rally today in DC. We’ll explain why his timing is everything. Also on today’s show: how drama over the head of the Recording Academy is overshadowing the biggest night in music.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Noble Intentions: Quarantines, Genocide Prevention, Profit-Sharing

Thu, 23 Jan 2020 21:37:57 -0000

China is turning to massive quarantines to stop the spread of coronavirus. Now, millions are impacted as transportation comes to a halt ahead of the Lunar New Year. We’ll explain why some experts say quarantines don’t always work as intended. Then, a UN court has ordered Myanmar to take steps to protect its persecuted Rohingya Muslim population. That demand couldn’t have come on a more timely day. Also on today’s show: Delta Airlines shares its profits with employees, and how to get ‘Tinder Verified.’

Here’s a link to our December show on the Myanmar case at the International Court of Justice.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Check Up: Coronavirus, Impeachment Managers, Negotiating

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 21:27:17 -0000

Hundreds of people have been infected by a virus that originated in China. Now, a case has been diagnosed in the US, too. We’ll explain what the coronavirus is and how officials are handling it. Meanwhile, the impeachment trial is back in session, so expect some long nights ahead. We’ll look into how the first day of oral arguments by the House Managers kicked off. Also on today’s show: how life updates can impact your taxes, and a pro-tip on career negotiations.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

All Talk: Davos, Impeachment Trial Rules, Big Endorsement

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 21:50:28 -0000

The world’s biggest movers and shakers are packing up their skis and heading to a place called Davos in the Swiss Alps. That’s right: it’s time for the annual World Economic Forum. We’ll explain what that is and why it’s a big deal. Meanwhile, the Senate spent the day laying out the rules of President Trump’s impeachment trial. We’ll look into what a trial looks like on Capitol Hill. Also on today’s show: why the New York Times’ 2020 endorsement is making headlines.

If you have a few extra minutes, we'd love to hear your thoughts. Please take our survey.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Warning Signs: Media Access, Privacy Please, China’s Birth Rate

Fri, 17 Jan 2020 21:53:10 -0000

All eyes are on the Senate in the run up to next week’s impeachment trial. But new rules could make it difficult, or even impossible, to keep up with what’s going on. We’ll tell you why. Then, we’ll dive into your inbox to help explain all those privacy policy emails you’ve probably been receiving. Also on today’s show: the story behind China’s falling birth rate, and Michigan’s place in the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr.

If you have a few extra minutes, we'd love to hear your thoughts. Please take our survey.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Take An Oath: Impeachment Trial, New Russian PM, Prohibition

Thu, 16 Jan 2020 21:07:09 -0000

Something new started today: the impeachment trial of the President of the United States. We’ll explain how a one-man media circus gave the start of the trial a run for its money. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin just watered down the powers of his own office. Or, did he? We'll break down why Putin might be up to one of his oldest tricks. Also on today’s show: we look at women who work, and rewind a century to relive a ‘Dry January’ that ended up lasting 13 years.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Back in Business: Impeachment, US-China Trade, Electable Ladies

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 21:54:11 -0000

The “i” word is back in the headlines after the House of Representatives sent articles of impeachment to the Senate today. Did Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s decision to hit ‘pause’ on impeachment for almost a month pay off? We’ll dive in. Meanwhile, the US and China signed a “phase one” trade deal today. Whether it’s enough to settle the trade drama is a whole nother story. Also on today’s show: an unmissable debate moment, and career advice from Kate Upton.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Showdown: DOJ vs Apple, Democratic Debate, Longest Rap

Tue, 14 Jan 2020 21:16:37 -0000

One month after a deadly shooting in Florida, the Justice Department is still trying to figure out what happened. But there’s one thing standing in the way of investigators: Apple. We’ll explain why the government and big tech are fighting over data privacy. Meanwhile, tonight is the last democratic debate before the first voters head to the polls. We’ll break down what will and won’t be on stage. Also on today’s show: the WNBA makes money moves, and a record-breaking rapper.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Damage Control: Protests in Iran, Aussie Bushfires, Royal Shake-Ups

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 22:10:18 -0000

Iran is suddenly on the defensive, facing critics inside and outside the country after it admitted to shooting down a passenger plane last week. We’ll explain how Iran is dealing with widespread protests and how the plane accident could impact the country’s diplomatic standing. Meanwhile, the Australian government is also on the defensive over its climate policies as wildfires continue to rage down under. Also on today’s show: a royal summit, and the big (corporate) winner from today’s Oscar nominations.

PS: if you want to help the Aussie fire relief efforts, here’s the link we mentioned in the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What Now?: Plane Crash Investigation, Puerto Rico, Space Explorers

Fri, 10 Jan 2020 20:55:28 -0000

Days after a deadly plane crash in Iran, questions remain over what exactly happened. We’ll explain why major media outlets and western leaders are pointing to Iran. Meanwhile, Puerto Rico is still recovering from two huge earthquakes this week. We’ll look into how the devastation following Hurricane Maria two years ago is affecting the island’s recovery efforts. Also on today’s show: the buzziest new gadgets, and the (maybe) first humans on Mars. PS: if you want to help the earthquake relief efforts, here’s the link we mentioned in the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Skimm Special: Harry and Meghan

Fri, 10 Jan 2020 17:54:00 -0000

First there was Brexit, now there’s Megxit. If you checked Instagram (or just the internet) this week, you probably saw the news that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are stepping back from their roles as senior royals. So, what does this actually mean? Can they do that? In this Skimm Special, we explain the decision that shocked the world.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let’s Negotiate: War Powers, Impact Reports, Pay Raises

Thu, 09 Jan 2020 22:35:58 -0000

Members of Congress had a heated debate today over limiting President Trump’s ability to start a war with Iran. We’ll explain who holds the war-fighting cards in Washington and why Congress rarely raises its voice. Meanwhile, the White House is rolling back rules concerning environmental impact assessments for key infrastructure projects. We’ll dig into why President Richard Nixon thought they were important in the first place. Also on today’s show: tips on how to ask for a pay raise, and a check-up with RBG.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Where To?: Iran-US Tensions, Great Escapes, ‘Megxit’

Wed, 08 Jan 2020 21:44:22 -0000

At times this week, it looked like the US and Iran were heading toward an all-out war. And those concerns only intensified last night after Iran attacked a pair of Iraqi military bases where US troops are stationed. We’ll explain the likelihood of war at this moment, or whether it’s possible the two foes will stand down. Meanwhile, we’ll explain why a a CEO-turned-fugitive in Lebanon is making headlines for his unlikely escape from Japan. Also on today’s show: a big royal announcement, and a former ambassador’s advice about negotiating with your boss...even if your boss is the President of the United States.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Another Look: The US in Iraq, Deepfakes, Christmas Trees

Tue, 07 Jan 2020 21:58:40 -0000

The latest drama between the US and Iran is catching Iraq in the crossfire. After a deadly US drone strike in Iraq, Iraq’s parliament wants US troops out of the country. We’ll explain how America’s relations with key ally are suddenly at risk. Meanwhile, lawmakers are back at work in the US and the UK. We’ll break down how they plan to tackle two big agenda items – impeachment and Brexit. Also on today’s show: how Facebook is fighting deepfakes, and how your Christmas tree could enjoy a second life.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Heating Up: Iran Fallout, Weinstein Trial, Australia Fires

Mon, 06 Jan 2020 21:14:51 -0000

The year is off to a rocky start for the US and Iran. Last week, the US killed a top Iranian general linked to attacks on hundreds of Americans. Now, Iran is threatening to retaliate. We’ll dive in. Meanwhile, it’s day one for the Harvey Weinstein trial in New York, more than two years after an explosive report detailed allegations of decades of sexual assault. We’ll explain why bringing him to justice has taken so long. Also on today’s show: we’ll survey the damage from Australia’s deadly bushfires, and how celebrities spoke up about it at the Golden Globes. PS: if you want to help the fire relief efforts, here’s the link we mentioned in the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sea Changes: Impeachment, Climate Crisis, Anti-Austerity Protests

Fri, 03 Jan 2020 21:59:52 -0000

Last year brought with it some big stories about change - stories that we’ll probably see more of in 2020. So before we ring in the new year, here are some of the major ‘sea change’ stories that were on our radar: the impeachment of the President of the United States, huge protests against climate change, and a wave of anti-government fervor around the globe. Editor's Note: this is a pre-recorded episode. We'll be back with our regular programming on Monday at 5pm ET.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Power Players: The People Who Shaped 2019

Mon, 30 Dec 2019 21:36:22 -0000

When the history books are written, we think a few names from 2019 will stand out. Greta Thunberg helped make climate change protests mainstream. Boris Johnson won a big election and pushed Brexit toward the finish line. Volodymyr Zelensky catapulted from comic actor to Ukrainian president, only to find himself embroiled in an American political drama. Carrie Lam became the target of mass pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong. And both on and off the soccer field, Megan Rapinoe cemented her reputation as a force to be reckoned with. Enjoy our recap of the power players of 2019.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Money Moves: Trade War, Interest Rates, Unemployment Rate

Fri, 27 Dec 2019 21:36:00 -0000

With New Year's resolutions right around the corner, we want to talk about money. If you’re looking to make a fresh start, knowledge is power. New year, new you, right? And what better place to start fresh than with your wallet. We’re going to take a look at the big economic stories of the past year – from a trade war to changing interest rates to employment data – and explain how they could affect your money as we head into 2020.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

And the most complicated story of 2019 was...

Mon, 23 Dec 2019 21:43:00 -0000

We asked our listeners which 2019 story you still want explained. At the top of the list: Brexit. Totally fair. British voters chose to leave the European Union in 2016, but here we are three years later and … that still hasn’t happened. So we’re gonna get into why Brits wanted to Brexit in the first place, why that was easier said than done, and where the Brexit process currently stands.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Making the Cut: Voter Purges, Impeachment Trial, Brexit

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 21:01:03 -0000

Some election officials are making a list, checking it twice – and cutting hundreds of thousands of people from their voter registration rolls. We’ll explain why those moves are making people nervous ahead of the 2020 elections. Meanwhile, impeachment is heading to the Senate. Or is it? We’ll break down what’s holding up the process. Also on today’s show: another big Brexit vote, and a picture that’s leaving us at a loss for words.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Taxation and Representation: Obamacare in Limbo, Debate Diversity, and Wakanda

Thu, 19 Dec 2019 21:55:41 -0000

The future of Obamacare is limbo again, after a federal court struck down the individual mandate as unconstitutional. We’ll explain how this decision could impact you, and the future of health insurance in America. Meanwhile, tonight is the sixth Democratic primary debate. But the lineup on stage has some people wondering if the frontrunners reflect the diversity of voters. Also on today’s show: A new study finds dozens of Fortune 500 companies paid zero federal taxes in 2018, and why Wakanda and the USDA are breaking up.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Rest is History: Impeachment Vote, Teen Vaping, Missy Robbins

Wed, 18 Dec 2019 20:51:00 -0000

Today the House of Representatives prepared to impeach a President of the United States for the third time in US history. The Constitution doesn’t exactly provide a ‘how-to’ guide for what happens next, but lawmakers in the Senate are already preparing for a trial. Meanwhile, a new study shows a dramatic rise in teen vaping, particularly when it comes to vaping marijuana. Also on today’s show: award-winning chef and restaurant owner Missy Robbins offers a pro tip on business partnerships.

Click here for more on what to expect in the impeachment story.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Big Deals: Budget Breakthroughs, Boeing, Happy Birthday Simpsons

Tue, 17 Dec 2019 21:37:05 -0000

The House just passed a budget bill to fund the federal government through next September. The budget was only possible after lots of behind-the-scenes dealmakings, and the finished product includes some measures on election security and gun violence research that could have a big impact. Meanwhile, Boeing says it’s pushing ‘pause’ on production of its 737 Max aircraft. We’ll break down why this plane has made major headlines this year, and what it means for the US economy that Boeing will no longer make it. Also on today’s show: why some Democrats are vying for the ‘impeachment manager’ track, and ‘The Simpsons’ turns the big 3-0.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Keep On Keepin’ On: Trade Deals, Protests in India, Climate Talks

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 21:25:02 -0000

The Trump administration reached two blockbuster trade deals last week – or so we thought. Turns out there are still some big question marks surrounding the future of the US-China trade war and the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Meanwhile, people across India are protesting a controversial new citizenship law. We’ll break down what the law says and why people are speaking out against it for very different reasons. Also on today’s show: why the latest UN climate summit ended with no new solutions, and one airport’s clever take on a Christmas tree.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Two Roads Diverge: Late-Night Impeachment Quarrels, Brexit’s Open Road

Fri, 13 Dec 2019 22:14:13 -0000

Today the House Judiciary Committee gave the go-ahead for a full House vote on impeachment, but the process was anything but tidy. Committee members were at each other's throats last night, and this morning’s committee vote was along strict party lines. We’ll explain what’s next in the process. Meanwhile, UK voters took a lot of the guesswork out of Brexit last night when they handed the ruling Conservative Party a landslide election victory. That means Brexit’s back on track and dreams of a do-ever are all but dashed.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Now Boarding: Trade Courts, Parental Leave, Ugly Sweaters

Thu, 12 Dec 2019 21:03:58 -0000

The World Trade Organization’s top court stopped functioning this week after the US blocked the appointment of new judges. That means major trade disputes may go unresolved. We’ll explain how that could give the US new weapons in its trade battle with China, but could also inject uncertainty into the global economy. Meanwhile, it turns out Congress can walk and chew gum at the same time: the House of Representatives just passed a bill granting 12 weeks of paid parental leave to federal employees. We’ll explore just how historic that would be. Also on today’s show: Sen. Bernie Sanders unveils an ‘internet for all’ plan, and another reason to celebrate ugly sweaters.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Upgrades: New NAFTA, Executive Order, Campaign Transparency

Wed, 11 Dec 2019 21:38:06 -0000

People on both sides of the aisle in DC might finally be on the same page about something: a new trade deal with Mexico and Canada. We’ll explain what you need to know. Meanwhile, President Trump announced he’s signing an executive order aimed at combating anti-Semitism that could affect how the US interprets Judaism. We’ll explain what this has to do with the Civil Rights Act. Also on today’s show: how the presidential candidates are talking about money, and Time Magazine’s youngest Person of the Year.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

High Crimes: Hearings at the Hague, Articles in the House, and Shifty DNA

Tue, 10 Dec 2019 21:25:56 -0000

The government of Myanmar is in court this week over allegations of genocide, and the actions of the country’s Nobel Peace Prize-winning leader is raising some eyebrows. We’ll explain why this case could have international implications. Meanwhile, Democrats in the House of Representatives have officially decided on two articles of impeachment against President Trump. We’ll break down what’s in them, and what ended up on the cutting room floor. Also on today’s show: a day to celebrate human rights, and a medical marvel that could really change you.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One More Time: Another Russia Report, Olympic Bans, Hong Kong Protests

Mon, 09 Dec 2019 21:56:11 -0000

If you thought you were done hearing about Russian interference in the 2016 election – think again. The Justice Department Inspector General dropped a 476-page report today on the origin story of the probe. We’ll explain why his team decided to investigate the investigation. Meanwhile, Russia got a pretty big slap on the wrist today. We’ll explain how a history of doping scandals got Russia uninvited from the 2020 Olympics. Also on today’s show: more protests in Hong Kong, and more women in Finland showing the world who’s boss.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Going Viral: Measles in Samoa, Uber Safety Data, Yuletide Insults

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 21:24:29 -0000

Health officials in the island nation of Samoa are fighting a deadly measles outbreak. We’ll explain why anti-vaxxers in Samoa and in the US could be complicating their efforts. Meanwhile, Uber just released a massive safety report on incidents that occurred during trips in the US. We’ll dig into the company’s latest efforts to make its service safer. Also on today’s show: Airbnb cracks down on party homes, and why you should cut London’s charming Christmas tree some slack.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Look Back in Anger: Abuse Claims, Pension Strikes, Talkative Robots

Thu, 05 Dec 2019 21:16:30 -0000

A handful of states are passing laws to help victims of child sexual abuse seek justice. We’ll explain why one new law in New Jersey could end up helping victims across the country. Meanwhile, French workers took to the streets to protest a proposed change to the pension system. We’ll connect the dots between France’s recent history of protests and how this new one is playing out. Also on today’s show: the positives and negatives of negative interest rates, and a rebooted robot returns to space.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I Fought the Law: Impeachment, Hospital Bills, Salon Chemicals

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 21:40:00 -0000

The impeachment inquiry into President Trump jumped to a new House committee today, and it’s starting to feel a bit like law school. We’ll explain where the impeachment process stands and what’s still to come. Meanwhile, the Trump Administration wants hospitals and insurers to share their price lists for medical treatments, but hospitals aren’t having it. We’ll crunch the numbers on why hospitals don’t want to comply. Also on today’s show: a worrisome link between certain beauty products and risk of breast cancer, and an unexpected use for coffee husks.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You Get What You Give: Champagne Tariffs, Giving Tuesday, Rapinoe

Tue, 03 Dec 2019 21:35:26 -0000

President Trump is handing out tariffs left and right, and countries aren’t psyched about it. The latest target? French champagne, among other things. We’ll explain why tariffs have become the President’s economic weapon of choice. Meanwhile, the House Intelligence Committee has released its report on the impeachment inquiry. We’ll tell you what happens next. Also on today’s show: how to give back on Giving Tuesday, and a soccer legend wins the gold - again.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feuding: NATO Summit, Gun Rights, Black Friday vs. Cyber Monday

Mon, 02 Dec 2019 21:23:11 -0000

The UK is hosting a big NATO summit this week to celebrate the alliance’s 70th birthday. But budget fights and membership debates could kill the festive atmosphere. We’ll break down what to expect when the alliance gathers for tea in the English countryside. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court heard oral arguments in a major case today that could shape the future of gun rights in America. Also on today’s show: how Cyber Monday is giving Black Friday a run for its money, and how one town in Colorado opened its doors to stranded Thanksgiving travelers.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What’s Going On: Mass Imprisonment in China, Impeachment Drama, ‘Dear Santa’

Tue, 26 Nov 2019 21:18:34 -0000

Newly-leaked government documents are pulling back the curtain on China’s mass detention of ethnic minorities. We’ll get into how the docs provide important details about China’s crackdown on Uighurs and how the rest of the world is responding. Meanwhile: the impeachment process is far from over, and a federal judge just ordered a key witness to testify before Congress. We’ll explain why the House Judiciary Committee really wants to talk to former White House counsel Don McGahn. Also on today’s show: how bad weather could complicate Thanksgiving, and how to play Santa for kids in need.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Following: Navy Secretary Out, Michael Bloomberg, Wild Turkey

Mon, 25 Nov 2019 21:43:09 -0000

The Secretary of the Navy is out. We’ll connect the dots between President Trump’s controversial pardons of service members and what they have to do with the Navy Secretary’s sudden departure. Meanwhile, former NYC mayor Michael Bloomberg got into the presidential race over the weekend. We’ll explain why some are expressing concerns about his baggage. Also on today’s show: Hong Kong voters show up for democracy, and a Wisconsin turkey is making headlines ahead of Thanksgiving.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Can’t Let It Go: Israeli Political Drama, Debating Pot, ‘Let It Go’ 2.0

Fri, 22 Nov 2019 21:40:32 -0000

It was a busy week in Israeli politics, between a US announcement on West Bank settlements and talk of new elections next year. Then: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was indicted on multiple corruption charges. We’ll break it all down and explain how all the headlines connect. Meanwhile, members of Congress are pushing ahead on a bill to legalize marijuana at the federal level. We’ll explain where the American people stand on the issue. Also on today’s show: Victoria’s Secret ‘rethinks’ its fashion show, and can the new single from ‘Frozen 2’ rival ‘Let It Go?’

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bring Da Ruckus: Impeachment Hearings, Paid Family Leave, Throwback Theme Park

Thu, 21 Nov 2019 21:16:42 -0000

Today was the last day of scheduled impeachment hearings, and we heard from two officials who had front row seats to events at the center of the inquiry. We’ll explain what their testimonies mean for the inquiry. Meanwhile, 10 Democrats running for President got together last night and debated last night – again. One new topic that came up? Paid family leave. Also on today’s show: how to navigate the shorter holiday shopping season, and how South Korea’s feeling nostalgic for the nineties.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We Hear You: Impeachment, Iran Protests, Grammy Noms

Wed, 20 Nov 2019 21:30:07 -0000

The US ambassador to the European Union walked into the impeachment inquiry hearing this morning, and threw just about everybody under the bus. We’ll explain how Gordon Sondland brought President Trump further into the inquiry, and the possible fallout of his testimony. Meanwhile, Iranians have been protesting a hike in gas prices, and the government responded by shutting off the Internet. We’ll explain the conditions that led to these now-deadly protests. Also on today’s show: what to know heading into tonight’s Democratic primary debate, and the new Grammy nominees.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Neverending Story: Impeachment Hearings, Savvy Scammers, OK Boomer

Tue, 19 Nov 2019 21:48:56 -0000

Lawmakers sat for a LONG time today during marathon impeachment hearings on Capitol Hill. Today we finally heard from officials who listened in on President Trump’s now-infamous phone call with the leader of Ukraine. We’ll get into the latest impeachment revelations and how Republicans tried to question the credibility of today’s witnesses. Also on today’s show: why scammers are hungry for gift cards, and why “OK boomer” may be falling out of fashion.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pardon Me?: War Crimes, Hong Kong Schools, Bye Bye Bei Bei

Mon, 18 Nov 2019 21:46:20 -0000

President Trump pardoned Army officers accused of war crimes, and the decision has sparked a heated debate over whether this is a good idea for the military justice system. We’ll explain the reasoning behind this move, and why some in the military are saying this is a bad idea. Meanwhile, student protesters in Hong Kong are starting the week off with a bang. We’ll explain how young people are leading the pro-democracy movement: on campus. Also on today’s show: confusion over a potential e-cigarette ban, and we say ‘bye-bye’ to a national treasure.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Escalating: Impeachment Drama, Bill Blockers, People-Movers

Fri, 15 Nov 2019 21:46:51 -0000

Former US Ambassador to Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch testified in the ongoing impeachment hearings today. She described how her anti-corruption efforts earned her powerful enemies in Ukraine, and led to a smear campaign against her inside the Trump Administration. We’ll explain how Yovanovitch’s testimony today also got under Trump’s skin. Meanwhile, Chanel Miller stopped by Skimm HQ this week and shared a powerful message for other survivors of sexual assault. Also on today’s show: why the most interesting thing about a fancy new Starbucks isn’t the coffee.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Float On: US-Ukraine Relations, Google Cache, Swimming Cows

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 21:23:55 -0000

Thanks to the ongoing impeachment inquiry, we’re hearing about Ukraine a lot lately. Turns out: the US and Ukraine have a history. We’ll explain why the diplomats you’re hearing from during public impeachment hearings are so concerned about the US’s relationship with Ukraine. Also on today’s show: Google tries to get ahold of your cache, and how wild cows are much better swimmers than we thought.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brace Yourself: Impeachment Hearings, Greta at Sea, Really Old Booze

Wed, 13 Nov 2019 22:29:42 -0000

The impeachment inquiry hearings into President Trump finally went public today. There was the usual partisan drama, but also some important new developments. We’ll break down the case Democrats hope to make and how a second phone call with Ukraine could strengthen their impeachment push. Meanwhile, privacy activists are cheering a new court ruling that could have an impact on international travel. Also on today’s show: climate activist Greta Thunberg sets sail back to Europe, and a shipwreck stuffed with liquor.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Out in the Cold: DACA, Bolivia’s President, Arctic Air

Tue, 12 Nov 2019 21:30:19 -0000

The Supreme Court heard one of the biggest cases of the term: whether the Trump admin can end DACA. That’s the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program started by President Obama in 2012. We’ll explain the Trump administration’s case for getting rid of it, and how hundreds of thousands of immigrants could be affected. Meanwhile, Bolivia’s president has fled the country. We’ll connect the dots between his controversial election, and the protests that pushed him to accept political asylum in Mexico. Also on today’s show: what to expect when you’re expecting the first public impeachment hearing, and really cold weather.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dark and Stormy: Hong Kong Protests, Concussion Research, Impeachment Smells

Fri, 08 Nov 2019 21:34:08 -0000

The pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong took a dark turn this week, amid the death of a young student and two violent attacks on politicians. After five months of demonstrations, protesters and the government don’t look anywhere close to making nice. We’ll explain what continued unrest means for the city and its long-storied reputation. Meanwhile, former NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg is thinking about getting into the 2020 presidential race. We’ll break down why Bloomberg’s path to 2020 could start in Alabama. Also on today’s show: new concussion research on female soccer players, and why the impeachment inquiry is starting to literally stink.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hold Up: The US v. Gilead, ‘Recanvassing,’ Buying a House

Thu, 07 Nov 2019 21:05:51 -0000

The US government is suing a major pharmaceutical company over its HIV prevention drugs. We’ll tell you why, and explain how it’s spotlighting a larger movement to make life-saving drugs easier to access. Meanwhile, the governor's race in Kentucky is over. Except: not really. The current governor is challenging the results of Tuesday’s vote — and asking for a ‘recanvass.’ We’ll explain what that means. Also on today’s show: how the housing market might affect your wallet, and another reason why there are #NoExcuses not to vote.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brave New Worlds: Shadow Diplomacy, Cartel Violence, Voting Methods

Wed, 06 Nov 2019 22:02:39 -0000

The outlines of a power struggle between US diplomats and President Trump’s personal attorney are emerging out of transcripts from the House impeachment investigation. We’ll connect the dots on why Rudy Giuliani’s ‘shadow diplomacy’ upset diplomats and caused some to ask the State Department for help that they didn’t end up receiving. Meanwhile, the murder of nine American citizens in Mexico this week is putting the Mexican government in the hot seat over its inability to put an end to cartel violence. And finally, we’ll break down ranked-choice voting and how an alternate way of picking candidates could improve American elections.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One Day You're In: Paris Agreement, Election Day, Being 'Single'

Tue, 05 Nov 2019 21:56:03 -0000

The Trump administration formally told the United Nations that it’s pulling out of the Paris Climate Agreement, making the US the only country in the world to bow out of the landmark deal on climate change. We’ll connect the dots between the international response to the move, and its potential effect on the US economy. Meanwhile, it’s Election Day. We’ll break some of the big races to watch tonight. Also on today’s show: the benefits of having a long weekend every weekend, and a new way to define your relationship status… with yourself.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Smoldering: PG&E’s Future, Iraq Protests, Party Houses

Mon, 04 Nov 2019 21:27:29 -0000

Firefighters are gradually putting out California’s wildfires, but the state’s big power company is just starting to feel the heat as lawmakers call for a government takeover. We’ll explore the challenges facing PG&E and why some politicians argue the utility shouldn't be a for-profit company. Meanwhile, protesters in Iraq are increasingly directing their frustration at Iran. We’ll look at the types of Iranian influence some Iraqis would prefer to live without. Also on today’s show: AirBnB cracks down on ‘party houses’, and a stuck, century-old boat that really wants to break free.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Getting Started: 5G in China, Cystic Fibrosis Drug, NaNoWriMo

Fri, 01 Nov 2019 19:55:45 -0000

Earlier today, China turned on the fifth generation of super-fast Internet, AKA 5G. We’ll connect the dots between what the tech can do – for better and worse – and why there’s been a race to see who can press ‘on’ first. Meanwhile, a new drug treatment could change the lives of a lot of people with cystic fibrosis. We’ll explain why doctors are celebrating. Also on today’s show: we’re kicking off National Novel Writing Month, and saying goodbye to a gem in the UK Parliament.

Here are those links we promised you about 5G health concerns, from The New York Times and the BBC.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Spooktacular: Impeachment Rules, Twitter Ads, Dressed-Up Pets

Thu, 31 Oct 2019 20:30:15 -0000

The House of Representatives set the ground rules for its impeachment investigation into President Trump today. The next phase of the process – televised impeachment hearings – could start in less than two weeks. We’ll break down what to expect going forward and how Democrats and Republicans voted today. Meanwhile, Twitter says it’s so over politics and will start banning political ads next month. We’ll look at how that move affects Twitter’s bottom line. Also on today’s show: grocery delivery wars are becoming a thing, and so is dressing up your pet for Halloween.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New Heights: Middle East Protests, Sea Levels, Phone Bills

Wed, 30 Oct 2019 20:43:33 -0000

Anti-government protests have erupted in Lebanon and Iraq. Young people are leading the charge, and are calling for major economic reforms. We’ll explain what protesters want, and how a key player in the region is getting involved. Meanwhile, new research warns rising sea levels could affect way more people than previously thought. We’ll look at what updated forecasts could mean for future ‘climate refugees.’ Also on today’s show: the Federal Reserve cuts interest rates once again, and some eagles are racking up a really high phone bill.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the Record: The Armenian Genocide, Impeachment, Palladium

Tue, 29 Oct 2019 20:52:49 -0000

The US House of Representatives is taking a historic vote today to recognize the Armenian Genocide of 1915. We’ll break down why mass atrocities dating back more than a century remain a hot-button political issue, and why the US is just getting around to this now. Meanwhile, lawmakers involved in the ongoing impeachment inquiry heard from someone with a front-row seat to President Trump’s phone call with the leader of Ukraine. We’ll fill you on what you need to know about Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Vindman. Also on today’s show: a new Brexit meltdown, and the world’s priciest precious metal.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Say Goodbye?: ISIS Leader, Missouri Abortion Clinic, Phishing

Mon, 28 Oct 2019 20:51:13 -0000

The leader of ISIS died during a US military raid in Syria over the weekend. We’ll explain who Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi was, and what his death means for ISIS – and for the world. Meanwhile, there’s only one clinic in Missouri that can perform abortions, and it could soon be forced to close. We’ll explain how a hearing this week could lead to Missouri becoming the first state in the country without access to abortion services. Also on today’s show: California’s wildfires are heating up, and phishing scams are becoming fishier.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

More Than Meets The Eye: Impeachment Inquiry, Chile Protests, TikTok

Fri, 25 Oct 2019 20:06:05 -0000

It’s been a busy week for the impeachment investigation into President Trump. Some key witnesses testified about the US-Ukraine relationship and Republicans staged a controversial walk-in of a secure conference room. We’ll break it all down and describe the White House’s plans going forward. Meanwhile, protests in Chile are entering their second week. They started in part because of transit fare hikes but are about a lot more than that. Finally, US lawmakers are worried TikTok could pose national security risks.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cancel It?: Student Loans, Revenge Porn, Trading Fees

Thu, 24 Oct 2019 20:32:02 -0000

A top Education Department official is calling it quits, and on his way out the door he’s urging the federal government to cancel most of the country’s student loan debt. We’ll explain why that’s become a popular rallying cry, and what plans are being put forward. Meanwhile, a freshman congresswoman is under a House ethics investigation. We’ll connect the dots on the allegations against her, and why supporters claim she’s a victim of revenge porn. Also on today’s show: how commission-free investing can affect your wallet.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Turn Around: Facebook Updates, Teachers Strike, Bird Alerts

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 20:54:16 -0000

It’s October 23rd. Today, we Skimm’d This:

Facebook co-founder Mark Zuckerberg has been in the news a lot recently, and today he was in the hot seat on Capitol Hill. He faced tough questions about political accounts, political ads and the company’s jump into finance. We’ll break down how Zuckerberg and Facebook are trying to stay on the right side of lawmakers and US officials. Meanwhile, Chicago’s teachers are on strike for the fifth-consecutive school day. We’ll explain what’s behind their fight for better pay, more support staff, and smaller classes. Also on today’s show: rethinking Brexit’s scary-soon deadline, and how one bird is flying high again.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Questionable: Ceasefire, Drone Deliveries, the ‘World’ Series

Tue, 22 Oct 2019 20:44:21 -0000

After five days, the ceasefire between Turkey and Kurdish fighters in Syria has come to an end. As the clock ran down, the Kurds said they had moved away from the border as promised, while Turkey’s president flew to Russia to strike a new deal. We’ll explain how the power dynamics in the region are starting to shift. Meanwhile, CVS and UPS are the latest companies to get into the drone delivery game. The future could be landing on your front porch soon. Also on today’s show: the origins of the World Series, and one emperor’s new groove.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Making Changes: Canadian Elections, Opioid Settlement, and Floppy Disks

Mon, 21 Oct 2019 20:40:29 -0000

It’s Election Day in Canada, and polls are showing a virtual tie between the two biggest parties. We’ll connect the dots between the issues party leaders want to talk about, and the scandals that have dominated the campaign cycle. Meanwhile, the first federal trial in the opioid epidemic was supposed to start today. We’ll explain why a new settlement put that court date on hold. Also on today’s show: one unexpected place is legalizing abortion and same-sex marriage, and another is finally getting rid of floppy disks.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New Vocab: Impeachment Latin, El Chapito, All-Female Spacewalks

Fri, 18 Oct 2019 20:46:00 -0000

The impeachment inquiry is forcing us to dust off our Latin dictionaries and look up “quid pro quo” and “emolumentum.” These words are coming up as we learn more about President Trump’s dealings with Ukraine, and his decision to host the G7 summit at one of his Florida resorts. Meanwhile, infamous drug lord El Chapo may be behind bars in the US, but his Sinaloa Cartel is back in the news after battling with Mexican security forces yesterday. Also on today’s show: a message for anyone undergoing cancer treatments, and one giant leap for womankind.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let's Make a Deal: Brexit, Syria Ceasefire, Auto Worker Strike

Thu, 17 Oct 2019 20:38:28 -0000

With just days to go before a Brexit deadline, UK and EU leaders shook hands on a new withdrawal agreement today. But that hardly means a Halloween Brexit is guaranteed. We’ll explain what could happen when British lawmakers vote on the deal on Saturday. Meanwhile, US pressure on Turkey to halt fighting in Syria appeared to pay off today, as Turkey agreed to a ceasefire to spare US-allied Kurdish fighters. Also on today’s show: how a picket line update could affect you, and something that happened in Vegas that maybe shouldn’t stay there.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Getting Involved: Russia in Turkey, Hong Kong Solidarity, and Good Samaritans

Wed, 16 Oct 2019 18:50:28 -0000

Russian and Syrian troops swooped into parts of northern Syria this week, just days after US troops pulled out. Given the history between Russia and Syria this isn’t much of a surprise, but it could still have a big impact on the future of the ongoing Syrian civil war. Meanwhile, Hong Kong’s leader tried to deliver her ‘state of the union’ speech today, only to have opposition lawmakers shout her off the stage. Now, she’s facing fresh pushback from across the Pacific – in the US Congress. Also on today’s show: Ronan Farrow opens up on the process of reporting the Harvey Weinstein story, and one good Samaritan's clever move to help return a wallet.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Drawing Lines: DC Depositions, Racism in Sports, Amazing Authors

Tue, 15 Oct 2019 20:54:33 -0000

Three senior US officials have answered questions from House lawmakers in recent days, even as the White House has pushed to limit or block officials from complying with an ongoing impeachment probe. We’ll explain how Marie Yovanovitch, Fiona Hall, and George Kent fit into the investigation of President Trump’s dealings with Ukraine. Meanwhile, the sports world is up in arms after players on England’s men’s national soccer team were targeted with racial slurs at a match in Bulgaria. We’ll look at the ways sports officials are trying to rid hate from the game. Also on today’s show: good news for sleepy California teens, and the Booker Prize makes a big exception for two exceptional women.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Law of the Land: Previewing the Supreme Court’s Big Year Ahead

Fri, 11 Oct 2019 20:31:40 -0000

The Supreme Court got back to work this week for a potentially historic term. The court’s reinforced conservative majority is expected to dish out big rulings on cases concerning abortion, immigration policy and maybe even Obamacare. We’ll break down how the court’s changed in recent years, the cases it’s planning to take on and how Chief Justice John Roberts could get roped into DC’s other big political drama.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Not Done Yet: Turkey’s Syria Invasion, Climate Activism, Long Commutes

Thu, 10 Oct 2019 20:07:00 -0000

Turkey launched an attack on Kurdish fighters in northern Syria this week, bringing violence to a region where thousands of ISIS fighters are held in makeshift prisons. We’ll explain how the international community is reacting to the risk that those terrorists could escape. Meanwhile, climate activists are embracing new and diverse tactics to make their voices heard. We’ll look at the Extinction Rebellion’s disruptive tactics and a new climate lawsuit in Alaska. Also on today’s show: Americans’ average commute time is longer than ever, and Sesame Street teaches an important lesson.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Power Struggles: Trump vs. Congress, Fighting Fires, Lithium Batteries

Wed, 09 Oct 2019 19:31:19 -0000

The White House’s refusal to cooperate with an impeachment inquiry in the House of Representatives is setting the stage for a constitutional crisis. We’ll look at what a constitutional crisis actually means, and how Congress could respond here. Meanwhile, protests are going down in Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia. We’ll take you on a whirlwind tour of the latest demonstrations. Also on today’s show: hundreds of thousands of Californians are finding themselves in the dark, and the inventors of the lithium battery get their 15 minutes.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Watch: Chinese Surveillance Companies, Discrimination, The Cosmos

Tue, 08 Oct 2019 20:20:24 -0000

The US government is taking names. The Commerce Department says its adding 28 Chinese companies to a trade blacklist. We’ll connect the dots on what this has to do with reported human rights violations in China, and what it could mean for the ongoing US-China trade war. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court is back on the bench. The Supremes heard two big cases today that could affect millions of LGBTQ-plus workers across the country. Also on today’s show: millennials want to talk about mental health at work, and the latest Nobel Prize award is out of this world.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ready for Battle: Turkey in Syria, Trump's Taxes, Red Blood Cells

Mon, 07 Oct 2019 19:39:44 -0000

Democrats and Republicans are speaking out against the surprising pullback of US troops from northern Syria, saying the Kurdish forces that helped defeat the Islamic State could be at risk. We’ll explain the pushback Trump’s big move is facing on Capitol Hill. Meanwhile: efforts to keep President Trump’s tax returns a secret hit a legal snag on Monday. We’ll survey the pressure he’s under to make the documents public. Also on today’s show: Millennial investment habits and how the secret life of red blood cells could offer clues about treating cancer.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Unmasked: Ukraine Texts, Hong Kong Protesters, and Dino Bones

Fri, 04 Oct 2019 20:46:56 -0000

The former US special envoy to Ukraine has handed over some of his texts as evidence in the House’s impeachment inquiry into President Trump. And now Trump is pulling China into the action, too. Meanwhile, protests in Hong Kong got kicked up a notch. The region’s leader invoked an old law to ban people from wearing masks while protesting. Turns out: there’s history here. Also on today’s show: Haiti’s president is facing some heat, and a dinosaur makes a surprise appearance.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Remedies: Injection Sites, Wine and Cheese Tariffs, and IPO Woes

Thu, 03 Oct 2019 20:14:18 -0000

A federal judge just gave a boost to supervised injection sites, saying a clinic in Philadelphia doesn’t violate drug laws. Activists say the ruling could mark a turning point in the fight to reduce drug overdoses. Meanwhile, Swiss cheese and French wine just got dragged into a US-EU trade spat that’s actually about … airplanes. We’ll connect the dots. Also on today’s show: we’ll break down the rough year for IPOs, and how one adventurous eagle is documenting glacial melt in the Alps.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gettin' Fresh: Impeachment Inquiry, Boeing Whistleblower, Algae

Wed, 02 Oct 2019 20:54:12 -0000

House Democrats are ratcheting up the impeachment inquiry. And now, all eyes are on the State Department, which is trying very hard not to get involved in the Democrats’ investigation. Meanwhile, Boeing is back in hot water after a whistleblower complaint alleges some rifts in the company’s culture when it comes to safety. Also on today’s show: algae’s new party trick.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Super-Massive: China's 70th, Global Banking, and Galactic Mysteries

Tue, 01 Oct 2019 20:49:45 -0000

Today marked 70 years since the founding of the People’s Republic of China, and the country threw a huge birthday party for itself. China’s economic and military rise is impressive, but there are some storm clouds on the horizon, too. We’ll put it all in perspective. Meanwhile: another phone call between President Trump and a foreign leader is under scrutiny. Also on today’s show: the IMF gets a new boss, and why ‘Planet 9’ may not be a planet at all.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Competing Interests: Refugee Crisis, Campaign Finances, Mortgage Rates

Mon, 30 Sep 2019 20:39:23 -0000

Four years after the European migrant crisis reached its peak, European leaders are being called on to once again to address a situation that’s never fully been fixed. Meanwhile, Montana Governor and democratic presidential candidate Steve Bullock wants to set up public financing for his campaign -- but the agency that needs to sign off on it is kinda busy right now. Also on the show: why economists say it could be a great time to buy a home, and our raison d'être.

PS: Where do you like to listen to our show? When do you listen? Tell us what you think about Skimm This by leaving a voicemail at (646) 461-6370. You could hear your voice on our show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Time After Time: Egypt Protests, US Refugee Program, Landmines

Fri, 27 Sep 2019 20:14:29 -0000

Protesters tried to mobilize across Egypt today for a second week of anti-government demonstrations. But security forces were out in force after days of making arrests. We’ll explain why President el-Sisi is coming under fire. Meanwhile, it was supposed to be the UN’s big week, but the General Assembly meetings got buried under news of drama in DC. We’ll bring you up to speed. Also on the show: the US is cutting back its refugee admissions program, and Prince Harry walks in his mother’s footsteps.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Power Moves: Whistleblower Complaint, Israeli Politics, and ‘Gini Index’

Thu, 26 Sep 2019 20:24:26 -0000

The mysterious whistleblower complaint everyone’s talking about...is finally public. So: we got lots of new details. And lawmakers in Congress had lots of questions – especially about why it took so long to see the complaint. Meanwhile, we could be one step closer to figuring out who will govern Israel after last week’s do-over election. Also on today’s show: income inequality is at a new high, and one Skimm’r who’s making her finances work.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Call Me Maybe: Trump and Ukraine, Juul CEO, and 'Apply Thru'

Wed, 25 Sep 2019 20:12:03 -0000

It’s the phone call heard ‘round the world: the White House released what it says is a rough transcript of President Trump’s controversial chat with the president of Ukraine. But not everyone is saying ‘case closed.’ In fact, some are saying ‘case wide open.’ Meanwhile: House Speaker Nancy Pelosi gave her blessing to an impeachment inquiry. We’ll explain what that means IRL. Also on today’s show: a big-name e-cigarette company has a new leader, and McDonald’s has a new way to say ‘you’re hired.’

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What Lies Beneath: UN Speeches, Brexit Ruling, Lost Continent

Tue, 24 Sep 2019 19:09:11 -0000

The UN General Assembly kicked into high gear today and President Trump urged world leaders to take a page out of his ‘America First’ playbook. UN chief Antonio Guterres had a slightly different idea of how to tackle global problems. We’ll compare and contrast. Meanwhile: the UK’s top court has thrown a wrench in Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s political agenda, saying his move to shut down Parliament in the final weeks before Brexit was unlawful. Also on today’s show: it’s National Voter Registration Day, and step aside Atlantis – there’s a new lost continent in town.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Words vs. Action: Trump and Ukraine, UN Climate Summit, and Retirement

Mon, 23 Sep 2019 20:44:22 -0000

It’s only Monday, but President Trump probably can’t wait for the weekend. A mysterious whistleblower complaint is still dominating the headlines, reportedly for a phone call he had with the President of Ukraine. But Trump would prefer people talk about Ukraine … and former VP Joe Biden. We’ll explain what this is all about. Meanwhile, a bunch of countries got together at the United Nations for a special summit on climate. They talked a strong game about going greener, but was it enough? Also on today’s show: millennials share their concerns about retirement, and a royal family outing in South Africa.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Balancing Act: Climate Strikes, Pacific Islands, and Japanese Whisky

Fri, 20 Sep 2019 19:22:54 -0000

The world was gripped by massive student-led climate strikes today. Some say the demonstrations were the largest climate protest in history. We’ll let you know what strikers want and what they’ll be watching for at a big UN climate summit on Monday. Meanwhile: Taiwan’s friend group got a bit smaller this week, as it loses support from two of its traditional backers in the Pacific. Also on today’s show: a quick update on Israel’s election, and the truth about Japanese whisky.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Step Up: Whistleblowers, Russian Protests, and the Washington Monument

Thu, 19 Sep 2019 21:14:35 -0000

A whistleblower is sending Washington into a tizzy today. The House Intelligence Committee is demanding information about a complaint that reportedly has to do with President Trump. Meanwhile: an actor’s arrest is making waves in Russia. And other actors are staging protests. Also on today’s show: a big Chinese tech company is launching a new smartphone model in the middle of a trade war, and the Washington Monument is making it easier to make it to the top.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New Normals: Tent Courts, Interest Rates, and ‘They’

Wed, 18 Sep 2019 20:22:01 -0000

The Trump Administration is unveiling new immigration courts that look a little different than what you might expect. They’re actually tents and shipping containers built right near the US-Mexico border as a part of a big new immigration policy. We’ll explain. Also: the Fed slashed interest rates for just the second time since the Great Recession today, heeding a request by President Trump. Also on today’s show: Greta Thunberg turns the tables in DC, and the dictionary gets nonbinary.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Making Waves: Auto Strikes, Impeachment Hearings, and Channel Swimming

Tue, 17 Sep 2019 20:56:36 -0000

Autoworkers across the country are joining the picket line in a strike against General Motors. They say the company needs to give them better wages and benefits. Meanwhile, President Trump’s former campaign manager was on Capitol Hill today for the first official impeachment hearing. Also on today’s show: Indonesia is making a big change to its child marriage laws, and an American is making waves across the pond.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Awaiting Results: Israeli Elections, Saudi Oil, and Science Prizes

Mon, 16 Sep 2019 20:33:32 -0000

Israelis might be feeling a little déjà vu: they’re heading back to the polls tomorrow to vote for parliament for the second time this year. Current Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has put a lot of issues in play, from the annexation of West Bank settlements to mandatory military service. Meanwhile, half of Saudi Arabia’s oil production was cut off after drones reportedly attacked the country’s largest oil plant on Saturday. Global oil markets are feeling the heat as the plant tries to get up and running again. Also on today’s show: we’re celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month and we share some weird science.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Now What: Gun Control, The Bahamas, and #MeToo

Fri, 13 Sep 2019 20:48:37 -0000

The top ten Democrats in the presidential primary faced off last night for their third debate, and three big ideas emerged from their conversation on gun control. We’ll break them down for you. Meanwhile, the Bahamas is still recovering from Hurricane Dorian, and now they’re preparing for a new potential storm. Also on today’s show: two reporters whose work helped kickstart the #MeToo movement, and why some people aren’t saying ‘TGIF’ today.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Legal Speak: Terms of Impeachment, Opioid Settlement, and the Dem Debate

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 20:31:20 -0000

The House Judiciary Committee formalized its process for potentially impeaching President Trump. Everyone on Capitol Hill has something to say about it. We’ll tell you what’s new here. Meanwhile, the makers of Oxycontin say they’ve reached a tentative settlement with states and local governments across the country, to avoid going to court. But some state officials say the potential settlement isn’t enough to make up for the effects of the opioid epidemic. Also on today’s show: what to expect when you’re expecting a(nother) debate, and Meghan Markle’s back from maternity leave.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Making the Case: Gig Economy Reform and Canadian Elections

Wed, 11 Sep 2019 20:12:46 -0000

California lawmakers are making moves to reform how businesses treat their gig economy workers. Election season is underway, and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is facing a tough reelection campaign. Lucky for Canada, election season is only six weeks long. Also on today’s show: 18 years after the 9/11 attacks, teachers continue to wrestle with how to teach students about a pivotal event that happened before they were born.

PS – We’re hosting an event at Skimm HQ on Friday featuring New York Times journalists Jodi Kantor and Megan Twohey. They won a Pulitzer for reporting on allegations of sexual misconduct against Harvey Weinstein. If you’re in town, join us by RSVPing here. If you can’t make it, call and leave us a voicemail with a question to ask Kantor and Twohey at 646-461-6370.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the Market: John Bolton, NC Special Election, and New iPhones

Tue, 10 Sep 2019 21:16:21 -0000

White House National Security Advisor John Bolton is turning on his ‘out of office’ – for good. President Trump tweeted that he fired Bolton, while Bolton says that he quit. We’ll break down the foreign policy drama that’s led up to today’s news. Meanwhile, voters in North Carolina’s 9th congressional district are experiencing major déjà vu today. They went back to the polls after election officials called for a 'do-over' of the 2018 congressional race. Also on today’s show: Apple’s latest effort to separate you from $1,450.

If you have a few extra minutes, we'd love to hear your thoughts. Please take our survey.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Back to Work: Gun Control Bills, Big Tech Investigations, and Volfefe

Mon, 09 Sep 2019 20:03:05 -0000

Congress is back to work after summer vacation. One big issue lawmakers could tackle? Gun control. It’s been a couple of decades since the last meaningful gun reform was passed, but some lawmakers think it’s time to dive back into the issue after a series of mass shootings last month. Meanwhile: state attorneys general in 48 states, plus DC and Puerto Rico, are launching investigations into Google’s advertising practices. Also on today’s show: Bahamians evacuating after Hurricane Dorian face issues getting to the US, and ‘covfefe’ gets the Wall Street treatment.

PS - GV (formerly Google Ventures) is a minority investor in theSkimm.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Spin-Off: Mortgage Giants, Hurricane Dorian, GOP Primaries

Fri, 06 Sep 2019 20:50:01 -0000

The Trump Administration wants to spin off Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac as private companies. We’ve got the A to Z on Fannie and Freddie and what these proposed changes could mean for you, especially if you’re house shopping or hope to be one day. Meanwhile: Hurricane Dorian made landfall in the US today, after wreaking havoc in the Bahamas. If you want to help relief efforts, you can make a donation to one of these organizations. Also on today’s show: Republican officials in four states may cancel their presidential primaries, and can Facebook be trusted to keep your ‘secret crush’ secret?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Deadlines: Iran Deal, Climate Crisis, NFL Kickoff

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 21:07:08 -0000

It’s almost the end of the week, and deadlines are looming – in Iran. They’re giving major players in Europe until tomorrow to help them out financially before they stop complying with more parts of the 2015 Nuclear Deal. Meanwhile, Democratic presidential hopefuls spent seven straight hours yesterday talking about climate change. We’ll break down where candidates actually differed. Also on today’s show: fantasy football water cooler conversations are about to start back up again, and artificial intelligence is going wild.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Game-Changing: Brexit Lingo, Hong Kong Bill, and Cherokee Nation Delegate

Wed, 04 Sep 2019 20:55:57 -0000

‘Blimey’ isn’t the only British phrase being thrown around in the UK today. All kinds of parliamentary phrases have been flying as the debate over how-to-Brexit heats up. Today, members of Parliament voted to avoid a no-deal Brexit, and against holding snap elections. Meanwhile, Hong Kong’s leader is hoping to cool down protests. She formally withdrew controversial legislation today, but some protesters still aren’t happy. Also on today’s show: a potential new member of Congress, and a new record for a tennis legend.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At What Cost: Taliban Talks, China Tariffs, and a Very Long Cruise

Tue, 03 Sep 2019 20:54:43 -0000

US and Taliban negotiators are reportedly closing in on a deal that lead to a drawdown of US troops in Afghanistan. The deal could be a way to help the US end the longest war in its history, but some worry it could put Afghanistan on a path back to Taliban control. We’ll break down what we know about the deal so far. Meanwhile, the latest round of US tariffs have just kicked in against Chinese products – and these tariffs could hit your wallet. Also on today’s show: another app wants your face, and a new cruise is testing just how much time you want to spend with your friends.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Out of Office: AI and Jobs, Hong Kong Arrests, and Pigs on the Run

Fri, 30 Aug 2019 20:14:43 -0000

Automation and artificial intelligence are supposed to make jobs easier, but sometimes they can take away jobs altogether. This Labor Day weekend, we’re taking a look at the current and future impact of AI on American jobs. Then: the Hong Kong government has arrested protest leaders ahead of a large demonstration planned for this weekend. We’ll explain how the government is changing its tactics. Also on today’s show: Florida is bracing for impact as Hurricane Dorian approaches, and 250 pigs on the run in Vermont.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lift Off: US Space Command, Vaping, ‘Planet’ Pluto

Thu, 29 Aug 2019 21:10:40 -0000

Today President Trump announced the lift-off of a new part of the military: the United States Space Command. We’ll explain what it might look like, and what its role could be. Then: this summer, 22 states have reported cases of people suffering from respiratory illnesses after vaping. We’ll look into what doctors are saying, and why the e-cigarette industry is under pressure. Also on today’s show: Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro takes steps to prevent more fires in the Amazon, and NASA’s chief thinks Pluto should be considered a planet again.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Incoming: UK Parliament Suspension, Hurricane Dorian, Greta Thunberg

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 20:37:38 -0000

Today UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson asked the Queen to suspend parliament, and she said she would. We’ll explain why this is a controversial move, and what this has to do with Brexit. Then: Hurricane Dorian is threatening Puerto Rico, and could continue to Florida this weekend. We’ll look at how Puerto Rico and the federal government are preparing. Also on today’s show: the Democrats might actually be able to fit all their presidential debate candidates on one stage, and Greta Thunberg sails into New York.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Reckoning: Opioid Rulings, Epstein, and Rescuing Rhinos

Tue, 27 Aug 2019 20:01:51 -0000

Johnson & Johnson was hit with a $572 million penalty for its role in fueling the opioid crisis in Oklahoma. The drug company says it will appeal. We’ll discuss how the judgment was reached, and how it could affect similar cases throughout the country. Then: Jeffrey Epstein’s victims were given a day in court in Manhattan, as prosecutors asked the judge to formally drop the charges against him following his suicide. Also on the show: women’s rights advocates scored a victory in Bangladesh, and scientists make a last ditch effort to save the northern white rhino from extinction.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tiebreak: G7 Conclusion, GOP Challengers, and Althea Gibson

Mon, 26 Aug 2019 20:43:36 -0000

G7 leaders are heading home after their latest summit in France. We’ll take a look at three of the big issues they tried to tackle, and what to expect next. Then: former US Rep. Joe Walsh is challenging President Trump in the 2020 Republican primary. We’ll Skimm his résumé for you. Also on today’s show: the 19th Amendment turns 99, and tennis legend Althea Gibson is honored with a statue at the US Open.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cruel Summer: The Amazon, Beach-side Summits, and Taylor Swift

Fri, 23 Aug 2019 20:29:00 -0000

As fires continue to burn across the Amazon, Brazilan President Jair Bolsonaro has blamed NGOs for starting the fires and is picking fights with other countries for telling him how to do his job. We’ll give you the latest on the fires and how the international community is responding. Then: G7 leaders are holding their annual meeting this weekend in Biarritz. But the outlook at this beachside meeting isn’t sunny. Also on today’s show: Taylor Swift dropped her new album ‘Lover’ – and said she’s fighting for her music rights.

Note: We mistakenly said on this episode that São Paulo is the capital of Brazil. Brazil's capital is actually Brasilia. Skimm This regrets the error.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Unraveling: Intel Sharing, Title X Funding, and Amazon Fires

Thu, 22 Aug 2019 19:41:54 -0000

Today, South Korea said it will stop sharing military intelligence with Japan. We’ll look at the reasons why, and examine the possible fallout for the U.S. Then: Planned Parenthood pulled out of the Title X federal funding program, losing access to millions of dollars. We’ll discuss why it’s no longer getting the funding, and what it means for patients. Also on today’s show: cattle ranchers are burning huge swathes of the Amazon to make way for animals, and why our brains find round numbers so satisfying.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Indefinitely, Maybe: Brexit, Migrant Detention, and Robots

Wed, 21 Aug 2019 20:13:07 -0000

The UK’s new Prime Minister Boris Johnson flew to Berlin this afternoon for talks with German Chancellor Angela Merkel. In a quick press conference, they listed a bunch of topics they wanted to cover, but the one everyone is obsessing over: is Brexit. Then: the Trump administration has announced a replacement rule for the Flores Settlement Agreement - which sets standards for how migrant children should be treated in detention. We’ll cover the reasons for the change, as well as critics’ concerns. Also on today’s show: why a bunch of 2020 hopefuls are heading to San Francisco, and why YouTube’s got issues with robot fighting.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let’s Get Digital: Taxes, Texas, and College Football Rankings

Tue, 20 Aug 2019 20:06:31 -0000

France wants big tech firms to pay a 3 percent tax on profits they make in the country. We’ll explain why the companies are siding with President Trump to push back. Then: authorities in Texas reported a coordinated cyberattack on computer systems in 23 towns. We’ll tell you what we know – and why this is becoming a thing across the US. Also on the show: your warm-up for the new college football season, and scientists are turning apple peels into eco-friendly plastics.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pride and Prejudice: Portland Protests, Open Arms, Humanitarian Day

Mon, 19 Aug 2019 20:44:16 -0000

Dueling protests by right-wing and anti-fascist groups in Portland, Oregon over the weekend are raising questions about the definition of domestic terrorism. We’ll break down what happened, and where the law currently stands. Then: Italy is refusing to take in over 100 migrants stuck on a rescue ship. We’ll look at the situation on the boat and in Italian politics. Also on today’s show: the UN is celebrating World Humanitarian Day and scientists have found evidence of a black hole swallowing a neutron star...900 million years ago.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Done Talking: North Korea, Greenland, and Superdeep Diamonds

Fri, 16 Aug 2019 19:40:42 -0000

Today North Korea called off peace talks with South Korea and launched its sixth missile test in a month. We’ll examine when and why diplomatic talks turned sour. Then: President Trump has reportedly been floating his most ambitious real estate purchase to date… all of Greenland. It’s put the island in the headlines, but we’ll tell you why we should actually be talking about Greenland. Also on today’s show: state officials are freaking out over election infrastructure, and super-deep diamonds could hold the clues to what Earth looked like billions of years ago.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Keeping Track: Lead in the Water, Israel Visit Ban, and Greta Thunberg

Thu, 15 Aug 2019 21:02:00 -0000

Thousands of residents in Newark, NJ are grappling with a growing crisis over lead in drinking water. Officials are handing out bottled water instead - and trying to figure out how to fix the pipes. We’ll discuss why lead in drinking water has been a problem across the US, and what officials say should happen next. Then: Israel told Congresswomen Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib that they can’t come to the country. We’ll look at why, and how it might affect US-Israeli relations. Also on today’s show: a look back at the 1969 Woodstock music festival, and tracking Greta Thunberg as she sails across the Atlantic.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Huddled Masses: Green Cards, Abuse Victims, and Berlin Bees

Wed, 14 Aug 2019 21:00:06 -0000

The Trump administration is changing immigration rules to make it more difficult for welfare recipients to obtain green cards. We’ll break down the new rules and the arguments being used to defend them. Then: New York is opening a one-year window for survivors of child sex abuse to bring civil lawsuits against their alleged abusers – no matter how long ago the abuse occured. We’ll look at the possible consequences for institutions linked to abuse. Also on today’s show: people are struggling to keep up with massive student loan debt, and amateur beekeepers are causing a buzz in Berlin.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Grounded: Hong Kong Protests, Cracker Plants, and Chlamydia Vaccine

Tue, 13 Aug 2019 20:29:24 -0000

Protesters and riot police clashed at Hong Kong’s International Airport today in ongoing demonstrations against the government. We’ll examine the background of the protests, and how the world is responding. Then: President Trump visited a cracker plant in Pennsylvania today. We’ll explain what cracker plants do, and why Trump was on site. Also on today’s show: scientists are one step closer to a chlamydia vaccine, and two gay penguins are hoping to make a family.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Burning Questions: Jeffrey Epstein, Russian Missiles, Endangered Species

Mon, 12 Aug 2019 21:11:59 -0000

Jeffrey Epstein’s apparent suicide has left his accusers and the public demanding answers about why he was removed from suicide watch. We’ll explain why the federal facility that held him – and the Justice Department – are under scrutiny. Meanwhile, Russia keeps changing its story about a nuclear-powered rocket explosion that killed seven people last week. We’ll examine how Russia’s mysterious actions fit into a possible new arms race. Also on the show: the Trump administration is limiting protections for endangered species, and a new perfume claims to recreate the scent of Egyptian queen Cleopatra.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SPECIAL EPISODE: A Deep Dive Into Deepfakes

Fri, 09 Aug 2019 20:24:10 -0000

Imagine a computer downloading footage or photos of you from the internet and using them to create a video of you saying something you’ve never said. Sounds more than a little sinister, right? It might not be a sci-fi thing of the future anymore, thanks to advances in deepfakes. On today’s episode, we take a deep dive into deepfakes – what they are, how they are made, and the headaches they can cause. We’ll look at why lawmakers are concerned about their possible effect on elections, but also how researchers are enlisting other computers in the fight to help us spot - and stop - these videos.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lay Of The Land: Climate Report, Immigration Raids, Iowa State Fair

Thu, 08 Aug 2019 21:01:08 -0000

The UN’s latest climate change report says the way we are using land is seriously damaging the planet. We dive into the main findings, what problems we are causing, and what we really need to change. Then, ICE agents arrested some 680 workers at food plants in Mississippi, saying they were not allowed to work in the US. We’ll look at what this means for the workers, their families, and the plants. Also on the show, presidential hopefuls are set to descend on the Iowa State Fair, and scientists are creating ‘Atomik’ vodka from rye grown around Chernobyl.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pressure Points: Venezuela Sanctions, Gun Laws, and "Impeachment"

Wed, 07 Aug 2019 20:49:10 -0000

The Trump admin still has issues with Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro -- and it’s using new sanctions to try to squeeze him out of office. Venezuela calls it “economic terrorism.” We’ll look at whether these sanctions could have their intended effect. Also: today President Trump visited survivors and first responders of the mass shootings in Dayton, OH and El Paso, TX. We’ll look at gun laws in both states. And finally: Monica Lewinsky is producing a TV show about a certain presidential impeachment, and how toilet paper is going eco-friendly.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Language Matters: Mass Shootings, China Currency, and Toni Morrison

Tue, 06 Aug 2019 20:50:00 -0000

We’re still learning more about the two mass shootings that took place in Texas and Ohio over the weekend. Lawmakers are placing blame for these acts of violence on a bunch of things: from violent video games, to mental illness, to anti-immigrant hate speech. We’ll explain the arguments being made. Meanwhile: the US is calling China a ‘currency manipulator’. We’ll explain why China weakening its currency is getting people riled up and how it’s connected to the ongoing trade war. Finally, we wrap up with a few words from Toni Morrison – the groundbreaking African American author who passed away on Monday at the age of 88. Her books and essays transformed her into an icon of American literature. We will miss her.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

No More Words: Mass Shootings in US, Tensions in Kashmir, and Hong Kong Protests

Mon, 05 Aug 2019 20:57:29 -0000

This weekend in the US, there were two deadly mass shootings: one in Texas, and one in Ohio. They were less than 13 hours apart, and at least 31 people were killed. From increasing background checks, to shutting down websites hosting white supremacist content, to making ‘domestic terrorism’ a federal crime, we’ll explain who is calling for what. Meanwhile, tensions between India and Pakistan are running extremely high, after the Indian government announced a plan to revoke the ‘special status’ of the disputed – and until now, largely autonomous – border region of Kashmir. Also on today’s episode: anti-government protesters block the streets of Hong Kong, and Japan is going back to the future with flying cars.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dark and Stormy: Nuclear Treaty, Trade, and Happy Hour

Fri, 02 Aug 2019 20:56:35 -0000

The US officially pulled out of a historic Cold War arms control deal today. The Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty helped the US and Soviet Union reduce their nuclear stockpiles. But these days, President Trump wants to spend more on new weapons, and so does Russian President Vladimir Putin. We’ll explain why there’s no need to build a bunker just yet. The US has also just made its next move in its trade war with China, and China isn’t thrilled. Also on today’s episode: Saudi women are gaining a bit more freedom, and AI is changing happy hour.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Burden of Proof: Criminal Justice Reform, A$AP Rocky, and Robocalls

Thu, 01 Aug 2019 20:15:39 -0000

Onstage at last night’s democratic debate, candidates went after each other on their criminal justice records. Things got heated -- and personal. We’ll explain the history here. Meanwhile, rapper A$AP Rocky took the stand in Sweden today. He’s accused of being involved in a fight, and was charged with assault. Rocky says: ‘not guilty.’ And now US officials are backing him up. Also on today’s episode: good news for phone-owners everywhere, and Woodstock 50 organizers face the music.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Making The Most Of It: Medicare For All, Interest Rates, and Grasshoppers

Wed, 31 Jul 2019 19:50:08 -0000

Medicare for All was all the rage at last night’s democratic debate. And not necessarily in a good way. We’ll tell you why Dems are divided over it, and what to expect for the second part of the debate tonight. Meanwhile: today, the Fed cut interest rates for the first time in a decade. If you’re asking yourself, ‘why now?’ -- you’re not alone. But the Fed chair is telling everyone: think global. We’ll tell you what this news means for your wallet. Also on today’s episode: how one restaurant is taking ‘make lemons out of lemonade’ seriously.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Keeping Watch: Dems Debate, Capital One Data Breach, and Robot Contacts

Tue, 30 Jul 2019 20:05:36 -0000

Live from Detroit, it’s round two of the 2020 democratic primary debates. You know the drill: ten candidates tonight, and ten more tomorrow. But the dynamics have shifted since round one. We’ll tell you what to keep an eye on. Meanwhile, a woman has been charged in one of the biggest data breaches ever. She allegedly stole info from over 100 million credit card applications - including things like Social Security numbers. If this rings a bell: that’s because massive data breaches are kind of a thing lately. We’ll tell you what you need to know. Also on today’s episode: why Katy Perry is in hot water over “Dark Horse,” and contact lenses that let you pretend you’re James Bond.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Next Level: Trump vs. Cities, John Ratcliffe and Greta Thunberg

Mon, 29 Jul 2019 19:33:38 -0000

This weekend President Trump unleashed a Twitter tirade against the city of Baltimore and Maryland Congressman Elijah Cummings. Trump said Charm City is “infested with rodents,” and “dangerous,” reigniting the ‘good country, bad cities’ stereotype. We’ll explain what the numbers say about Baltimore and why Trump could still benefit from his attacks on America's inner cities. Also over the weekend: Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats updated his LinkedIn, announcing he’s stepping down in August. Trump is tapping Congressman John Ratcliffe of Texas to fill the role. We break down why Coats was on the outs with Trump and why Ratcliff's choice is raising some eyebrows. Also on today’s episode: Greta Thunberg’s unconventional plans to get to the US and which summer threats are scarier than Shark Week.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tour de Force: Russia, OITNB and Cycling

Fri, 26 Jul 2019 20:37:16 -0000

Russia targeted U.S voting systems. Right, we’ve heard that before. From Robert Mueller, for example. He really wanted to talk about Russian interference during his testimony on Capitol Hill this week. But yesterday a new report dropped details about just how extensive it was. Spoiler: it was in all 50 states. That was 2016 - but they’re still at it - and other countries are getting in on the game. We’ll explain. Meanwhile: Up to 150 migrants trying to get to Europe died in a shipwreck off the coast of Libya. Both the EU and Libya are being criticised by human rights organizations to change their controversial treatment of migrants. Also on today’s episode: The real world legacy of the final season of “Orange is the New Black” and fun facts about the hardcore cyclists of the Tour de France. Bon week-end.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Not Messing Around: North Korea, The Death Penalty, Heatwave

Thu, 25 Jul 2019 20:02:12 -0000

North Korea is playing with fire – literally. Just a couple weeks after President Trump visited Kim Jong Un in North Korea and agreed to resume denuclearization talks, North Korea tested two missiles this morning. Back in the US, Attorney General Bill Barr is resuming the death penalty, but he’s making some changes to how it’s implemented. Also on today’s show: Europeans and A/V guys everywhere are sweating it out.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Digging deeper: Mueller Testifies, Facebook Settlement, and Self-Care Day

Wed, 24 Jul 2019 20:41:24 -0000

Today, Democrats and Republicans told former special counsel Robert Mueller: ‘have a seat - actually, have two.’ Mueller said he was done talking about his report -- but lawmakers have more questions. We’ll tell you why, and what happened during today’s hearings. Meanwhile, Facebook has to pay $5 billion and change up its privacy rules after an investigation by the Federal Trade Commission. We’ll explain. Also on today’s episode: how self-care is about more than just relaxing, and a very expensive stroll.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Changes: UK Prime Minister, SNAP Benefits, and Wrestling

Tue, 23 Jul 2019 20:37:38 -0000

The UK has a new prime minister. Between dealing with Brexit and tensions with Iran, Boris Johnson has a long ‘to do’ list to tackle. And he doesn’t even have a full cabinet yet. We’ll explain what lies ahead for Johnson and the UK. Meanwhile, a proposed Trump admin rule could cut millions of people off from food stamp benefits. We’ll break down why the admin wants this rule, and who it affects. Also on today’s episode: more women are being nominated to attend US military academies, and a star who wrestled her way to the top.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On The Rise: Tensions with Iran, Puerto Rico Protests and India's Moon Mission

Mon, 22 Jul 2019 20:44:44 -0000

Today, Iranian officials announced that they’ve broken up a CIA spy ring and that they’ve arrested 17 suspected spies. Iran’s claimed this kind of thing before -- and President Trump says reports of arrests aren’t true. But there’s a history here that’ll help you decode today’s headlines. Meanwhile, anywhere from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of people took to the streets in Puerto Rico today, calling for Puerto Rico’s governor to resign. He says he’s staying put. But lawmakers are already talking impeachment. We’ll explain. Also on today’s episode: India makes its way to the south side of the moon, and there’s one less place to document on your Instagram.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SPECIAL EPISODE: To The Moon And Back

Fri, 19 Jul 2019 20:45:00 -0000

Tomorrow is the 50th anniversary of the “giant leap for mankind.” You may have heard of it. On today’s episode, we break down the Apollo 11 mission: what it took to prepare for the mission, and what actually happened over the course of the eight-day-long journey to the moon and back. There was a lot that could have gone wrong. But it was a complete success. And NASA kept returning to the moon. Astronauts not only brought in a new phase of the space race - they brought back some souvenirs. Some of which are just being studied for the first time. Listen in.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alienated: US and Turkey, FaceApp, and Area 51

Thu, 18 Jul 2019 20:21:00 -0000

Turkey just ordered a new missile defense system from Russia. And now the US is telling Turkey: no F-35 fighter jets for you. Basically, the US is worried selling Turkey the F-35s means giving Russia access to top secret tech. We’ll tell you why that’s a concern for the US, and how it affects the relationship with Turkey, a key NATO ally. Meanwhile, another Russian invention is causing people’s hair to go gray: it’s called FaceApp. Some US lawmakers are warning that your uploaded selfies may end up in the Russian government’s inbox. We’ll explain why. Also on today’s episode: tragedy strikes a famous animation studio in Japan, and why the US government is going there...out there.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the Outs: Libra in Congress, Planned Parenthood, and Netflix

Wed, 17 Jul 2019 20:16:01 -0000

Today, the head of Facebook’s global cryptocurrency project got a bipartisan grilling from the House Financial Services Committee. Lawmakers have been raising concerns about the crypto, called ‘Libra’: over who will regulate it, how Facebook will handle people’s private financial data, and whether their approach could break antitrust laws. We’ll break it down. Meanwhile, the president of Planned Parenthood has been ousted from the job after eight months. The organization reportedly wants make fighting for abortion rights a priority. We’ll explain. Also on today’s episode: why Netflix has gone back and edited an old scene from the show ‘13 Reasons Why,” and how Apple is giving us more ways to express ourselves.

PS - If you or someone you know needs it, here’s the number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transfer of Power: Asylum Rule, Ursula von der Leyen and Emmy Nominees

Tue, 16 Jul 2019 20:34:44 -0000

The Trump administration has issued a new rule that’ll mean most migrants heading to the US-Mexico border likely won’t be eligible for asylum. The admin says asylum seekers will have to ask other countries first. And those other countries are saying: who, us? Legal experts say this new rule could violate domestic and international law. We’ll explain why. Meanwhile, soon-to-be former German defense minister Ursula von der Leyen has been elected the new president of the European Commission. She’s making history as the first woman to hold the job - and she’s got a surprising to-do list. Also on today's episode: just how many Emmy awards ‘Game of Thrones’ is nominated for, and a really big lift(-off.)

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Doubling Down: Trump Tweets, Puerto Rico, and Prime Day Protests

Mon, 15 Jul 2019 20:38:54 -0000

Over the past few days, President Trump’s sent out a series of tweets about a group of “‘Progressive’ Democrat Congresswomen.” He suggested they should “go back” to the countries they came from. Today, he doubled down. We’ll tell you who President Trump’s talking about and why -- and how people are reacting. Meanwhile, Puerto Rico is having a bad case of the Mondays. Hundreds of pages of chats between Governor Ricardo Rosselló and others have leaked. And they’re filled with sexist and derogatory comments. All while Puerto Rico is trying to figure out how to pay off billions of dollars in debt. We’ll explain. Also on today’s episode: why some Amazon workers are boycotting Prime Day, and a new name to know on the nightly news circuit.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Incoming: Citizenship Data, ICE raids, and Tropical Storm Barry

Fri, 12 Jul 2019 20:41:20 -0000

President Donald Trump has dropped the idea of adding a citizenship question to the 2020 census. But he says he has a back-up plan to get the data anyway. Which could affect elections across the country. We’ll explain. Meanwhile, Republicans and Dems in Congress are visiting detention camps along the Mexican border - but are coming back with different stories. Today’s hearing comes right before planned ICE raids begin on Sunday. We break it down. Also on today’s episode: a tropical storm makes its way to Louisiana, and a great match at Wimbledon.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don’t @ Me: Social Media Summit, Student Loans, and World Population

Thu, 11 Jul 2019 20:37:43 -0000

Today, the White House hosted a social media summit. None of the big players (think: Facebook, Twitter) were reportedly on the guest list. President Donald Trump and his guests have claimed those companies have an anti-conservative bias. We’ll explain what this summit is all about, and why this is a love/hate relationship for the President. Meanwhile, one of the country’s biggest teachers unions is suing the Department of Education. It all comes back to something called the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. Plaintiffs say the program is actually violating the Constitution. We’ll give you the details. Also on today’s episode: a candidate for state senate in Delaware is writing history, and we talk about all of humanity.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Free Falling: Interest Rates, UK Ambassador’s Resignation, and Ticker Tape

Wed, 10 Jul 2019 20:38:13 -0000

Today, the Federal Reserve’s top guy Jerome Powell spoke. He doesn’t do that much. But when he does - it’s important. Especially when it comes to interest rates. We’ll tell you what you – and your wallet – need to know. Meanwhile, there is drama going down across the pond. (Again.) Some comments the UK ambassador to the US made about President Trump leaked. Now, the ambassador is saying ‘cheerio’ to his post. We’ll explain. Also on today’s episode: why ticker tape parades are a thing, and the unexpected impacts of tariffs.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Picture This: ID Photos, Drug Prices, and Emojis

Tue, 09 Jul 2019 20:28:53 -0000

In a new study, researchers at Georgetown University say FBI and ICE agents are giving millions of people ID checks. Their focus: your photo. Congress never gave the OK on this. And now lawmakers from both sides of the aisle are saying ‘cut it out.’ We’ll explain why. Meanwhile, the Trump administration announced a new rule that would make drug companies advertise their prices in TV ads. This rule was supposed to shame drug companies into lowering those prices. But yesterday, a federal judge said ‘you can’t do that.’ We’ll tell you more. Also on today’s episode: the life of the late Ross Perot, and emojis in court.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Big One: Jeffrey Epstein, The Census, and the World Cup

Mon, 08 Jul 2019 20:08:28 -0000

Jeffrey Epstein, a multimillionaire money manager, was in a New York federal court today to face sex trafficking charges. The indictment comes a decade after he served a light sentence in a Florida plea deal related to similar charges. Meanwhile down in DC, a court battle over the 2020 Census rages on. The Trump administration still wants to add a question about citizenship to the questionnaire, and is trying to make it happen after a confusing back and forth. Also on today’s episode: California’s waiting for the “Big One,” and what it really means to take home the World Cup.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Upping the Ante: Campaign Fundraising, Immigration, and Hot Dogs

Wed, 03 Jul 2019 19:56:06 -0000

‘Tis the season where all the 2020 candidates are letting us know what their campaign bank accounts look like. Some have a lot to brag about. But it isn’t all about the amount of cash – it’s also about who’s ponying up. We’ll break it down. Meanwhile, a federal judge says that migrants who illegally crossed the border seeking asylum can’t be held in detention centers indefinitely. Detention centers are already taking a lot of heat – including from the Department of Homeland Security’s internal watchdog. We’ll explain. Also on today’s episode: the backstory on the Nike sneakers controversy, and how some people plan to get their Fourth of July appetite on.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Calls For Action: Border Facilities, Hong Kong, and Women’s World Cup

Tue, 02 Jul 2019 20:57:20 -0000

About a dozen lawmakers took a field trip to Texas yesterday. To visit two border facilities where migrants are being held. And some lawmakers did not like what they saw. Now there are protests being held around the country to close some migrant detention centers. We’ll break down what’s been happening on the border. Meanwhile, protesters in Hong Kong stormed the city’s Legislative Council and occupied the building. This was the latest in a series of protests concerning mainland China’s encroaching power over Hong Kong. We’ll tell you what’s next for the movement. Also on today’s episode: the US is headed to the Women’s World Cup finals on Sunday, and some celestial sights in South America.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Visiting Hours: Trump in North Korea, OPEC, and Cori Gauff at Wimbledon

Mon, 01 Jul 2019 20:42:09 -0000

This weekend, President Trump became the first sitting US president to set foot in North Korea. This was Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s first meeting since February, when a summit about nuclear weapons and sanctions fell apart. But now the two say: talks are back on. What next? We’ll get into it. Meanwhile, members of OPEC are at the table in Vienna. To talk oil production. And tensions are high – in part because of the US and Iran. We’ll break it all down for you. Also on today’s episode: why Taylor Swift says Scooter Braun is a threat to her ‘reputation,’ and 15-year-old Cori Gauff’s big first impression at Wimbledon.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Heat Is On: Biden and Harris, G20, and the World Cup in Europe

Fri, 28 Jun 2019 21:16:00 -0000

Senator Kamala Harris is getting a lot of attention today after last night’s democratic primary debate. She called out former VP Joe Biden over his record on race. And: busing. There’s a lot of history here -- and for Harris, it’s personal. We’ll break it down. Meanwhile, President Trump is talking trade with world leaders at the G20 Summit in Osaka, Japan. We’ll tell you how those chats are going -- and why some attendees are doing more than just talking. Also on today’s episode: an all-star on the US Women’s National Soccer Team, which probably needs some a/c right about now.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Take Two: SCOTUS, Dems Debate 2.0, and Rapping G20 Grannies

Thu, 27 Jun 2019 20:39:51 -0000

Today, the Supremes dropped the mic on two big issues: partisan gerrymandering and a citizenship question on the census. These rulings really came down to the wire. But they weren’t a simple “yea” or “nay.” We’ll break down what they mean. Meanwhile, we’re halfway through the first 2020 Democratic primary debate. Last night’s candidates covered a lot issues (think: health care and immigration) and there was some daylight between them. But we still have ten more candidates to hear from tonight. We’ll tell you what to watch for. Also on today’s episode: the G20 summit is on, and a certain group of grannies is here for it.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Center Stage: 2020 Debates, Mueller’s Return, and Moon Rocks

Wed, 26 Jun 2019 20:44:23 -0000

The first 2020 Democratic primary debate begins tonight in Miami. But don’t forget: this is a two-night event. Featuring a total of 20 candidates. Some you may have already heard of. Others could be trying to make a good first impression. We’ll tell you what to look out for. Meanwhile, former special counsel Robert Mueller is making a comeback. Because Congress. Mueller dropped the mic a few weeks ago and told the world that he’s tapping out. The House Intelligence and Judiciary Committees said ‘not so fast’ – and subpoenaed him to testify. Now he’s saying ‘fine, I’ll come.’ These hearings are going to be huge. We’ll explain why. Also on today’s episode: NYC’s dueling pride marches, and moon rocks are coming out of a time capsule.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s Personal: Sanctions, E. Jean Carroll, and Climate Change

Tue, 25 Jun 2019 20:43:10 -0000

The Trump administration is sanctioning top Iranian officials, including Iran’s Supreme Leader. The US has been sanctioning Iran for a while already, to get them to change course on nukes – but do sanctions ever actually work? We’ll get into it. Meanwhile, writer E. Jean Carroll has accused President Donald Trump of sexually assaulting her back in the mid ‘90s. Her allegation is getting a lot of attention – in part for how little attention it’s getting. We’ll explain. Also on today’s episode: things are (literally) heating up for 2020 democratic candidates in Miami, and why a certain superfood is so good for you, it’s bad.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

No Quick Fix: Immigration, Middle East Peace, and Women’s Soccer

Mon, 24 Jun 2019 20:39:53 -0000

Immigration and Customs Enforcement was scheduled to target 2,000 families in raids across the country this weekend. But with hours to spare before the raids: President Trump called them off. For now. This is all happening amid renewed focus on conditions for migrants - especially kids - being housed at the border. We’ll break it down. Meanwhile, the US is giving peace in the Middle East another go with a two-day ‘economic workshop’ this week. But the Trump admin isn’t necessarily on everyone’s good side at the moment. We’ll explain why. Also on today’s episode: the USWNT is goals, and a new kind of ‘female Viagra.’

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Take It Back: US and Iran, Police on Social Media, and Harry Potter

Fri, 21 Jun 2019 20:34:55 -0000

President Trump says he approved military strikes on Iran planned for last night – but that he called them off with ten minutes to spare. This is the latest move in the rocky relationship between the US and Iran, and it has the world’s attention. We’ll explain the complexities here. Meanwhile, dozens of police officers in Philadelphia have been put on desk duty after a group uncovered public social media posts that were racist, Islamophobic, and misogynistic. But Philly isn’t the only city where police are under fire for this. We’ll explain. Also on today’s episode: puppy love at Amazon HQ, and your Hogwarts acceptance letter is finally en route.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meet Me In The Middle: China and NK, UK Prime Minister, and Phone Bone

Thu, 20 Jun 2019 20:40:34 -0000

Today, China’s President Xi Jinping and North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un kicked off a two-day summit with the red-carpet treatment. This is the first time in almost 15 years that a Chinese leader has visited North Korea. And some are saying this is China playing mediator between North Korea and the US. We’ll explain why that’s a big deal. Meanwhile, it’s off to the races for the next UK prime minister. Meet your final two contestants: former UK Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson and current Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt. We’ll tell you what to expect going forward. Also on today’s episode: a new UN report says more people are displaced than ever before, and a new 21st century problem is a real pain in the neck.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Owning Up: Reparations, Jamal Khashoggi, and Joy Harjo

Wed, 19 Jun 2019 20:41:55 -0000

Hundreds of people showed up to a House subcommittee hearing today on Capitol Hill. The topic? A bill that would create a commission to study slavery and whether reparations for African Americans are in order. We’ll explain the conversation happening around reparations. Meanwhile, a UN investigator has released a new report about the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. The report says there’s evidence that points to top officials in Saudi Arabia – including the crown prince. We’ll break down what’s new in the report. Also on today’s episode: Joy Harjo is the first Native American US Poet Laureate, and why Adidas may be feeling a little directionless.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ready to Launch: Libra, Trump’s 2020 Campaign, and Boaty McBoatface

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 20:30:58 -0000

It’s only June, but Facebook’s ready for Libra season. The social media giant is about to roll out a new global cryptocurrency called Libra. We’ll explain why Facebook thinks you should turn your $ into ≋. Meanwhile, President Trump will officially announce his re-election campaign tonight at a rally in Orlando. Technically he’s been running ever since he took office in 2017. But there are some nitty-gritty rules sitting presidents are supposed to follow on the campaign trail. We’ll explain. Also on today’s episode: pride flags abound, and Boaty McBoatface is making waves. Again.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Decisions, Decisions: Iran Nuclear Deal, SCOTUS, and Gloria Vanderbilt

Mon, 17 Jun 2019 20:41:12 -0000

The Iran Nuclear Deal is on the rocks. This is the deal Iran, the US and a bunch of major EU and other powers signed back in 2015 to prevent Iran from making a nuclear weapon. Now, Iran’s says it’s about to break one of the promises it made in that deal. We’ll tell you why this is important. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court laid down the law today. We’re breaking down two of the big decisions: double jeopardy and racial gerrymandering. One may impact President Trump’s former campaign chairman, and one is just the first chapter from SCOTUS on the subject. Also on today’s episode: 2020 presidential candidate Cory Booker chatted with theSkimm about a potential question on the upcoming census, and we reflect on the life of the late fashion icon Gloria Vanderbilt.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

History Rhymes: the US and Iran, Flint, and Father’s Day

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 20:15:33 -0000

There were explosions on two oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman this week. The US is pointing the finger at Iran, who’s saying ‘not us.’ These two countries have been going at it for a while – but the implications of this latest fight are global. We’ll break it down. Meanwhile, Michigan prosecutors are dropping criminal charges against officials accused of contributing to the Flint water crisis. But prosecutors say they’re still investigating. We’ll explain. Also on today’s episode: Dads. We asked you to call in and tell us about the fathers or father figures in your life. Hear what our listeners had to say.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fake It Till You Make It: Russia Probe Inquiry, ‘Deepfakes’, and Dads

Thu, 13 Jun 2019 20:37:50 -0000

Special Counsel Robert Mueller dropped the mic a couple weeks ago, but Washington still has some unfinished business with the Russia investigation. The Attorney General has launched an investigation into the original investigation. Pre-Mueller. We’ll tell you more about it – and what it has to do with comments President Trump made on TV last night. Meanwhile, the House Intelligence Committee met today to talk about ‘deepfakes’ - aka manipulated videos that seem real. AI experts warned today: they’re not ready to detect them all. Also on today’s episode: a new poll about dads feeling ‘dad shamed,’ and the Stanley Cup’s post-victory journey.

PS: Father’s Day is this Sunday, and we want to hear about the dads or dad figures in your life. Leave a message at 646-461-6370 and you may hear your voice on the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Waving Flags: Hong Kong Protests, Executive Privilege, and Pulse

Wed, 12 Jun 2019 20:38:24 -0000

There were massive protests in Hong Kong today over a bill that would allow fugitives to be extradited to mainland China. Hong Kong is technically a semi-autonomous part of China. And protesters say this bill is really about China exerting more control over them. We’ll explain. Meanwhile, President Trump dusted off his executive privilege card over documents related to a new question on the 2020 census. The Trump admin wants to ask people if they’re citizens. And Dems in Congress want to see the docs. We’ll break this down for you. Also on today’s episode: the third anniversary of the Pulse nightclub shooting, and C-section parties in Brazil.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Game Time: ‘Safe Third Country’, Iowa, and Kickoff

Tue, 11 Jun 2019 20:50:29 -0000

The US and Mexico struck a deal on immigration before President Trump could impose tariffs on all Mexican imports. But now, Trump is saying ‘more to come.’ That could have to do with Mexico being named a ‘safe third country’ – something Mexico doesn’t really want. We’ll explain why. Meanwhile, 2020 presidential candidates are practically tripping over each other in Iowa. The reason: it’s the first state to say ‘yea’ or ‘nay’ in the presidential primaries. And Iowans want candidates to ‘think local.’ Also on today’s episode: Botswana is the latest African country to decriminalize gay sex, and the US women’s team kicked off its first match in the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Everything's Goin' My Way: Mueller Report, Health Care, and Ali Stroker

Mon, 10 Jun 2019 20:46:21 -0000

This week, lawmakers in Congress are nose-deep in a page-turner: the Mueller Report. Mueller’s not talking … but Dems are hearing from some old school political junkies - like President Nixon’s former White House counsel John Dean - and trying to force other people to show up. We'll explain why. Meanwhile, California lawmakers say it’s time for a check-up. Their new budget plan would give some undocumented immigrants state health care coverage - the first state to do so. Also on today’s episode: Broadway actress Ali Stroker made history at the Tony Awards, and Starbucks is trying green on for size.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Flip it and Reverse it: Emissions Rules, Robocallers, and the Women’s World Cup

Fri, 07 Jun 2019 20:57:56 -0000

Major automakers wrote a letter to two of their pen pals: President Trump and CA Gov. Gavin Newsom. They’re asking them to, pretty please, compromise on emissions standards. Before it’s too late. We’ll tell you why the auto industry wants to pump the brakes. Meanwhile, the FCC passed new rules that could make your hotline bling a little less. Because robocallers. Also on today’s episode: the Women’s World Cup kicks today, and NASA hopes your weekend is out of this world.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Not Forgotten: D-Day and Today, Hyde Amendment, and Long Weekend Forever

Thu, 06 Jun 2019 20:28:39 -0000

World leaders gathered today to mark the 75th anniversary of D-Day, and remember those who fought and those who lost their lives. But the alliances in place since D-Day between the US and Europe are now being tested. We’ll explain how we got here. Meanwhile, 2020 presidential candidate Joe Biden is singling himself out from the rest of the democratic pack in supporting the Hyde Amendment. Which bars the federal government from funding most abortions. We’ll tell you why Biden’s taking heat for backing it. Also on today’s episode: a Gen-Z is making history at the French Open, and the people in the UK want Summer Fridays all year long.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Work, Work, Work: Arms Sales, Mexican Tariffs, and a Mass Wedding

Wed, 05 Jun 2019 20:34:53 -0000

The Trump administration wants to sell $8 billion worth of weapons to Saudi Arabia and some other Middle East countries. But many US lawmakers are saying: ‘bad idea.’ We’ll explain why they don’t want this sale to go through, and how they plan to stop it. Meanwhile, Mexico’s foreign minister Marcelo Ebrard is in DC trying to talk the Trump administration down from raising tariffs. We’ll tell you where that debate stands now - it’s taxing. Also on today’s episode: a mass wedding in Israel with a lot of pride, and 600 million reasons to work, work, work, work, work, work.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Old Wounds: Tiananmen Square, Cuba, and High Heels

Tue, 04 Jun 2019 20:50:00 -0000

It’s been 30 years since Beijing's Tiananmen Square massacre, in which the Chinese government turned the military on its own people. China doesn’t want to talk about it – but some survivors do. And the US has a lot to say. We’ll explain the complex dynamics here. Meanwhile, if you haven’t booked your summer trip to Cuba yet: you may be too late. The Trump administration is restricting some travel to Cuba. We’ll give you the history on this. Also on today’s episode: the end of Ramadan has Muslims on a lunar watch, and Japanese women are taking a stand … against high heels.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Breakin’ Up is Hard to Do: Big Tech, Trump’s UK Visit, and T-Swift

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 20:27:26 -0000

Two major government agencies reportedly have their eyes on Google and Amazon. Because they’ve got antitrust issues. We’ll explain why. Meanwhile, President Trump and the First Lady are across the pond visiting the Royals and UK politicians - but British politics are in a bit of a shambles at the moment. We’ll tell you what you should know. Also on today’s episode: Taylor Swift’s petition for equality, and a (possible) “Jeopardy” spoiler alert.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pressure’s On: Mexico Tariffs, Hollywood Boycotts, and Drake

Fri, 31 May 2019 20:35:36 -0000

President Trump is threatening Mexico with tariffs. Because of immigration. While the US, Mexico and Canada are trying to seal the deal on a new trade agreement. We’ll explain what it all means. Meanwhile, some Hollywood studios are threatening to boycott the state of Georgia after its governor signed one of the most restrictive abortion laws in the US. The film industry has brought 90k new jobs to Georgia. But there’s also a precedent here – we’ll break it down. Also on today’s episode: the FDA wants to take the WTF out of CBD, and an NBA superfan is being asked to stop making headlines.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Now You See Me: Israel’s Parliament, Women Suing the FBI, and Spelling

Thu, 30 May 2019 22:16:43 -0000

Israel’s parliament has dissolved. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu couldn’t get enough support to form a government, and now the country has to vote all over again.This has never happened before in Israel’s history -- we’ll explain what might be coming next. Meanwhile, 16 women filed a lawsuit alleging that they were discriminated against at Quantico, the FBI’s training ground. Some say they faced a hostile work environment and sexual harassment, and they’re calling out some of the FBI’s top guys. We’ll tell you more. Also on today’s episode: New Zealand is budgeting for well-being, and the Scripps National Spelling Bee finals. T-o-u-g-h.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is This Thing On?: Mueller Speaks, Abortion in Missouri, and Graduation Trees

Wed, 29 May 2019 20:51:39 -0000

Special Counsel Robert Mueller turned off his “do not disturb” mode today to give a brief statement. The message: his Russia investigation is officially over and he’s clocking out. He said some words about whether President Trump committed a crime. And went back on silent. We’ll explain. Meanwhile, the last clinic that provides abortions in Missouri might have to stop doing so on Friday. This would make Missouri the first state since 1974 without access to abortion services. We’ll break this down for you. Also on today’s episode: a group that is trying to help farmers deal with stress, and grads with very green thumbs in the Philippines.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Extreme Measures: Opioid Crisis, Mount Everest, and Burnout

Tue, 28 May 2019 20:35:40 -0000

Oklahoma is taking the pharmaceutical company Johnson & Johnson to court today. This is the first state trial connected to the opioid crisis ... which has been determined a public health emergency. We’re going to break down how this got started and how Oklahoma hopes to win this case. Meanwhile, Mount Everest is having a deadly climbing season with human traffic jams on the summit. A lot goes into climbing to the “roof of the world.” We’ll explain what factors might be in play here. Also on today’s episode: the World Health Organization says that burnout is a legitimate medical diagnosis and a 100-year-old German woman is diving into politics.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do It Yourself: Theresa May, Julian Assange, and $20

Fri, 24 May 2019 21:21:47 -0000

British Prime Minister Theresa May is saying “I’m out.” She is only the second woman to hold the position and is leaving after three years – one of the shortest terms for a prime minister in modern times. Her exit - was spurred by Brexit. We’ll explain what’s next for the British mission to leave the EU. Meanwhile, Wikileaks founder Julian Assange has been indicted on 17 new charges for violating the Espionage Act. Journalists are worried about what this could mean for the First Amendment. We’ll explain. Also on today’s episode: same-sex couples in Taiwan are saying “we do,” and there’s a DIY movement to put Harriet Tubman on the $20.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Taking Action: McDonald’s Strikes, HUD and Transgender Rights, and Office Sweaters

Thu, 23 May 2019 20:39:57 -0000

Some McDonald’s workers were on strike today … while the company held its annual shareholder meeting. Employees are asking for better pay, more say, union rights - oh and the higher ups addressing recent sexual harassment claims. We’ll tell you more about it. Meanwhile, the Department of Housing and Urban Development introduced a new proposal that would allow homeless shelters to turn away transgender people for religious reasons. And let shelters put transgender women in facilities with men instead of women. We’ll dive into it. Also on today’s episode: 2020 candidate Kirsten Gillibrand came out with a proposal for a “Family Bill of Rights” and a new study that will help defrost the office tension.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Testing Democracy: EU Parliamentary Elections, DC Drama, and Mars 2020

Wed, 22 May 2019 20:28:40 -0000

Europeans head to the polls starting tomorrow for the European Parliamentary elections. This is the second-biggest election in the world, and has been a bit of a snoozer in the past. But this year people are watching very closely because of a surge of far-right groups. We’ll explain. Meanwhile in DC, President Trump and Democratic leaders had a short meeting on infrastructure today that didn’t go exactly as planned. We’ll break down why both sides are throwing mud. Also on today’s episode: the Department of Education is breaking down student loan debt by college … and college major, and NASA wants to send your name to the Red Planet.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On The Books: Trump’s Finances, CBD, and 'Milkshaking'

Tue, 21 May 2019 20:24:51 -0000

Three House committees want to dive into President Trump’s business financials. Specifically, they want the deets from his accounting firm, Capital One, and Deutsche Bank. Trump and his three oldest children have sued to stop that from happening. We’ll explain the backstory and how judges are weighing in. Meanwhile, a new study says CBD could be the next big thing to treat opioid addictions - specifically heroin. Without creating a new addiction. We’ve got the details. Also on today’s episode: the 100th anniversary of the House of Representatives passing the bill that gave women the right to vote ... and the protesting trend that is taking the UK by milk storm.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Battle Lines: Foreign Fighters, Google, and ‘Game of Thrones’

Mon, 20 May 2019 20:41:01 -0000

John Walker Lindh, a US citizen convicted of helping the Taliban, will be released from federal prison this week. And some lawmakers in Congress says they’re worried Lindh could return to his extremist beliefs. We’ll explain how the US and other countries are grappling with what to do with “foreign fighters” - and whether to bring them back home. Meanwhile, Google is breaking up with Chinese tech giant Huawei, complying with the Trump admin’s blacklist. We’ll tell you what this updated relationship status really means. Also on today’s episode: the Smithsonian has its eyes on a new Asian Pacific American Center in DC and “Game of Thrones” has people talking … hydration.

PS: GV (formerly Google Ventures) is a minority investor in theSkimm

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Numbers Game: Immigration Issues, Indian Elections, and Time Off For Loan Debt

Fri, 17 May 2019 20:41:36 -0000

Yesterday, President Trump announced a new proposal to overhaul the US immigration system - specifically shifting the priorities in the green card system and the asylum program, and strengthening border security. It’s the latest in a series of immigration moves by the administration. We’ll give you an update on where things stand. Meanwhile, 900 million voters have been hitting the polls in India for the last month and a half. And this weekend the national elections come to an end. We’ll give you theSkimm on who’s running and some of the big issues people are paying attention to. Also on today’s episode: some people may be giving up vacation time to pay off student loans, and we say goodbye to Grumpy Cat.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Fine Print: Abortion Laws and Personhood, SAT Adversity Score, Pricey Coffee

Thu, 16 May 2019 20:40:34 -0000

Missouri’s the latest in a line of states taking on a hot-button issue: abortion. State lawmakers across the country are passing bills restricting it -- and hoping the Supreme Court will give the OK. We’ll explain what role trying to define when a fetus becomes a “person” plays the whole debate. Meanwhile, the College Board will assign an “adversity score” to students taking the SATs. It’s supposed to give colleges more context about a student’s background and what hardships they’ve faced. We’ll break it down for you. Also on today’s episode: a new study found that women who followed a low-fat diet had a lower risk of dying from breast cancer, and a chart-topping caffeine fix.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Looking For Fixes: Falling Birth Rates, FAA and Boeing, Office Distractions

Wed, 15 May 2019 20:38:06 -0000

There’s a baby bust in the US: A new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that last year’s birth rate was down 2 percent from 2017 - and was the lowest in 32 years. We’ll explain why fewer babies could be a problem for the economy. Meanwhile, the acting head of the Federal Aviation Administration was taking heat on Capitol Hill today. This hearing comes two months after the administration grounded the Boeing 737 Max airplanes following two deadly crashes. We’ll tell you why lawmakers are concerned about how the FAA gives planes the green light. Also on today’s episode: social media influencers are feeling the gender pay gap, and how your co-workers are keeping you from doing your job.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I Spy: Facial Recognition, Russia Investigation, WhatsApp

Tue, 14 May 2019 20:42:27 -0000

Facial recognition technology is creeping into all aspects of life, and San Francisco could be the first city in the US to block it. Other cities are thinking of following suit -- we’ll explain why. Attorney General William Barr wants to know how the FBI’s Trump-Russia probe got started. And he’s calling for back-up: from the US Attorney in Connecticut. Also on today’s episode: a security flaw on WhatsApp could have given hackers your private info, and some pride for your favorite animated aardvark’s teacher.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Que Sera, Sera: US and Iran, Julian Assange, Doris Day

Mon, 13 May 2019 20:29:10 -0000

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo crashed a meeting of EU foreign ministers today ... and he had Iran on the brain. Tensions between the US and Iran have been heating up for weeks, and now Pompeo is asking US allies: ‘are you with me?’ Meanwhile, Sweden and the US are about to start a game tug-of-war over Wikileaks founder Julian Assange. Sweden just re-opened an investigation into a sexual assault allegation against him. And the US wants Assange on a conspiracy charge. Also on today’s episode: a new report says Asian American and Pacific Islanders are powerful influencers and a key financial force, and we remember the life of Hollywood actress and singer Doris Day.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Going the Distance: US-China Trade Talks, Space Race 2.0, Mother’s Day

Fri, 10 May 2019 20:37:01 -0000

Today, trade talks between the US and China left with them saying ‘no deal.’ Right after the US raised tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese goods from 10 to 25 percent. These two powers have spent months at the negotiating table to come up with a long-term trade deal. We’ll explain how we got here. Meanwhile, Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos unveiled a moon lander called Blue Moon. Bezos says his company, Blue Origin, wants to send people to the moon by 2024. We’ll tell you why private companies have stars in their eyes. And finally: Mother’s Day is just around the corner. Yesterday, we asked you about the moms in your life. You made us cry.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tariffs and Tithing: Uber’s IPO, Catholic Church, Trade Talks with China

Thu, 09 May 2019 20:53:00 -0000

Uber’s heading to Wall Street tomorrow to make its debut on the stock exchange. But the ride-sharing company has seen a lot of backlash lately. Meanwhile, Pope Francis issued a new law that requires officials in the Catholic Church to report sex abuse and any coverup in the church. It’s an issue the Vatican has been grappling with for a while now. Also in today’s episode: how the US and China’s trade war is going to impact your wallet, and a look at baby names trending on your feed.

PS: Our phone number is 646-461-6370. Leave us a voicemail for our Mother’s Day segment, and you might hear your voice on the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Preventative Measures: Maternal Health, Executive Privilege, Bowerbird Project

Wed, 08 May 2019 20:48:34 -0000

There’s a mom crisis in the US. A new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that about 700 women die every year in the US during pregnancy or after childbirth. Those numbers are up about 75% from the year 2000, worse than other high-income countries, and black and Native American women are most affected. We'll explain. Then: President Trump is playing the “executive privilege” card against releasing the unredacted Mueller report...and all of the underlying material the team used to write it. Also on today’s episode: how some states are trying to help high schoolers understand money, money, money, money ... and why “zero waste” is flying high.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tensions Rising: Iran, Contempt of Congress, Magic Mushrooms

Tue, 07 May 2019 21:10:40 -0000

The Trump admin has announced they’re sending a carrier strike group and a bomber task force to the Persian Gulf - saying Iran has threatened US troops in the Middle East. It’s been nearly a year since the US pulled out of the Iran Nuclear Treaty -- and the beef keeps getting bigger. So where does it go from here? Meanwhile, the House Judiciary Committee has “contempt” on the brain after Attorney General Bill Barr skipped their congressional hearing. We’ll explain why that’ll be a whole process. Also on today’s episode: Denver’s deciding how to feel about magic mushrooms and California’s basking with sharks.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One In A Million: Biodiversity In Danger, Chinese Tariffs, and the Royal Baby

Mon, 06 May 2019 20:44:26 -0000

A UN report is warning that one species - us - is threatening a million other species with extinction. Today, we’ll explain why biodiversity matters for humanity and how we can mitigate the damage. Meanwhile: the US and China were supposed to be close to a trade deal - but there are some new hurdles. We’ll tell you how the trade war is impacting folks here. Also on today’s episode: NBA center Enes Kanter is breaking fast for the playoffs and the Royals are celebrating new Baby Sussex.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Reining It In: Sanctuary Cities, Spread of HIV, Kentucky Derby Horses

Fri, 03 May 2019 20:44:47 -0000

Florida’s governor is set to sign a bill telling counties and towns they can’t offer sanctuary to undocumented immigrants. We’ll explain ‘sanctuary cities’ -- and how Florida’s soon-to-be law lines up with the rest of the US. Meanwhile: there’s a new study out that scientists say could stop the spread of HIV. Also on today’s episode: a new jobs report that’ll make your wallet feel full, and fun horse facts when you go Eliza Doolittle this weekend.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Putting Up A Fight: Venezuela, Assange Extradition, and Holocaust Remembrance Day

Thu, 02 May 2019 20:45:03 -0000

Venezuela still doesn’t know who’s in charge. We’ll talk about why the US was predicting a peaceful transition of power - and why now they’re keeping all the cards on the table. Then: the US wants Wikileaks founder Julian Assange to cross the pond. Today he said: rather not. We’ll explain how the extradition process works. And finally: it’s Holocaust Remembrance Day. In Hebrew, that’s Yom HaShoah. A Holocaust survivor -- and the relative of a Skimm HQ’r -- shares his story.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Star Players: AG Bill Barr, Caster Semenya, and Lucy Liu

Wed, 01 May 2019 20:42:09 -0000

Democrats on Capitol Hill had a lot of questions about the attorney general’s pen pal - Robert Mueller. South African elite runner Caster Semenya has been fighting against allegations that she has an unfair advantage because of her high testosterone levels. A court announced this morning that she lost that battle. Also on today’s show: who’s representing on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Update Available: Infrastructure, Venezuelan Protests, and Burkinis

Tue, 30 Apr 2019 20:47:34 -0000

Infrastructure across the US needs a reboot. President Trump met with top Democrats to try to figure out how to make – and pay for – the fixes. In Venezuela, two people are still calling themselves prez. The US says it wants a “peaceful transition” - but today, things weren’t looking that peaceful. Also on today’s show: Sports Illustrated is making history in its swimsuit issue, and Japan is making history in the Imperial Palace.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Paying For It?: US Ransom Policies, Boeing, and Fake Meat

Mon, 29 Apr 2019 20:00:00 -0000

The White House confirmed that North Korea sent them a bill for American prisoner Otto Warmbier – to the tune of $2 million. But the White House says: they didn't actually pay it. Why hostage ransoms are so controversial. Meanwhile, Boeing execs finally faced their shareholders – to explain how the company’s going to bounce back from the 737 Max turbulence. Also on today’s show: a new group of women are saying #NoExcuses, and Burger King is giving you another excuse to go vegan.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trade Ya: China’s Belt And Road Initiative, Gun Laws, Seaweed Bottles

Fri, 26 Apr 2019 20:44:20 -0000

Top officials from around the world met in China today to hear more about their Belt and Road Initiative — a reboot of the Silk Road to improve global trade routes. Here in the US: President Trump was also talking to the NRA about international trade. Of firearms. That was good news for the gun lobbying group, which has been going through a rough spot. Also on today’s episode: a fishy beverage option at the London marathon, and a cheesy celebration for the new royal babe.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I’m Heeeere: Joe Biden, Kim Jong-un, The Kids

Thu, 25 Apr 2019 20:46:56 -0000

Former VP Joe Biden is (finally) in. He announced today he’s running for president in 2020 - as the 20th candidate to join the race. So who – and what – is he up against? In Russia, NK leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin sat down to talk nukes. We’ll tell you what you need to know about their summit. Also on today’s episode: why there are crayons scattered around your office today.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Accounting, Please: Boy Scouts, Big Pharma, Avengers

Wed, 24 Apr 2019 20:50:55 -0000

Thousands of Boy Scouts leaders and volunteers have been accused of sexually abusing children - in cases that go back decades. Lawyers are now just scrambling to rep survivors in lawsuits. What’s changed: states have been expanding statute of limitations laws for child sex abuse. We’ll tell you what you need to know. Meanwhile, the feds are hitting a pharma co and two former execs with drug trafficking charges. They’re the first federal charges issued in the opioid epidemic. Also on today’s episode: news you’ll want to be standing up for, and the cast of “The Avengers” would like to thank… China.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Will They or Won’t They: Impeachment and Citizenship on the Census

Tue, 23 Apr 2019 20:42:17 -0000

Democrats and progressives have been talking about whether to impeach President Trump since he was elected. And even though the Mueller Report didn’t say his admin colluded with Russia, that debate hasn’t gone away. We’ll tell you why some top Dems are saying, ‘cool it.’ Meanwhile, SCOTUS heard arguments today about whether to include a question about citizenship on the 2020 census. Their decision is expected by June. But how could it affect you? Also on today’s episode: Robert Mueller and his team top the best seller list, and why a contestant on “Jeopardy!” is keeping Alex Trebek up at night.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shut It Down: Social Media in Sri Lanka, Border Vigilantes, Plastic Straws

Mon, 22 Apr 2019 20:39:35 -0000

After massive terror attacks in Sri Lanka killed nearly 300 people on Sunday, the gov there has blocked Facebook and other social media sites. Their goal: to prevent more sectarian violence. But does going dark on social media actually work? Meanwhile, in the US, the FBI arrested the leader of a vigilante group in New Mexico. Which has drawn a lot of attention to armed militias at the southern border. We’ll tell you what you need to know. Also on today’s episode: LA says ‘later, bruh’ to plastic straws, and other ideas on how to show the planet you care. Right in time for Earth Day.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Talking About Troubles: Violence in Northern Ireland, 4/20, and Dancing Bans

Fri, 19 Apr 2019 20:50:40 -0000

A young journalist was killed last night during a riot in Northern Ireland. Her death is highlighting tensions along the Irish border. And it comes on the anniversary of a decades-old agreement that’s now at risk. Because Brexit. Then - tomorrow is 4/20. And support for marijuana is at an all-time high. But not everyone’s stoked. Also on today’s show: a Seder with a guest list in the thousands, and a place where dancing is illegal for one night only.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Reports and Rapport: Mueller, US & NK, Facebook

Thu, 18 Apr 2019 20:45:14 -0000

The Mueller report is here. It’s long. It’s complicated. And some of it’s still secret. We’ve Skimm’d what we know so far, and we’ll tell you what to expect next. Meanwhile, North Korea is getting all fired up again. But they’re telling Trump - it’s not you, it’s him. Also on today’s episode: Facebook’s saying “sorry” for mining contacts, and Apple’s trying to give Mother Earth a hand.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alarm Bells: Asylum Seekers, Red Flag Laws, TSA Hair Pat-Downs

Wed, 17 Apr 2019 20:43:43 -0000

The Justice Department is changing policies for asylum seekers waiting for immigration hearings. We’ll explain why fleeing persecution in one country...could mean being detained in another. In Colorado, a massive manhunt for a woman “infatuated” with the Columbine tragedy is over. We’ll tell you why lawmakers there believe new red flag laws could prevent tragedies. Also on today’s episode: why hair is setting off alarms at TSA, and how laser data could help rebuild the Notre Dame Cathedral.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Outbreaks and Breakouts: Measles, GOP Contenders, Climate Change Arrests

Tue, 16 Apr 2019 20:38:02 -0000

The measles virus is still spreading, and tight-knit communities are more vulnerable than others. We’ll explain why -- and tell you what’s being done to help. Also: Trump’s not the only GOP candidate in the 2020 race anymore. We’ll tell you why primary contenders can make things messy. Also on today’s episode: climate change protesters in London are getting arrested, and a new study explains why we’re all so distracted. Wait, what?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Notre Dame Fire, Campaign Cash, and FUCT

Mon, 15 Apr 2019 20:45:05 -0000

The Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris went up in flames today -- we’ll tell you what we know so far. In the US: 2020 presidential candidates are showing us their donation receipts. We’ll explain why the dollar signs are not all that matters. Also on today’s episode: SCOTUS hears a case about the brand that must not be named, and taxpayers are experiencing Instagram vs. reality: Tax Day edition.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Levelling the Playing Field: Reparations, 5G, Game of Thrones

Fri, 12 Apr 2019 20:44:40 -0000

Georgetown students want to help make amends for history. They voted to add a little extra to their tuition to pay reparations to the descendants of Georgetown’s former slaves. President Trump is also trying to help people who have been underserved. By the Internet. He announced initiatives to expand 5G and help people in rural America. Also on today’s episode: how millennials are saving houseplants and how Game of Thrones is going to save our Sunday.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"So Long, Farewell: Julian Assange, Sudan’s President, and Nipsey Hussle"

Thu, 11 Apr 2019 20:51:00 -0000

There were a couple of big arrests today in London and Sudan. And both men could be leaving on a jet plane to face charges. The U.S. wants Wikileaks founder Julian Assange stateside to face a conspiracy charge. Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir has an open invite to the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity and genocide. Also on today’s episode: Nipsey Hussle’s funeral in Los Angeles and signs of voting in India.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the Pipeline: Oil, Gas, and Taxes

Wed, 10 Apr 2019 20:44:45 -0000

President Trump flew to Texas today to visit the heart of the oil and gas industry, and he signed two controversial executive orders while he was there. They’re meant to make it easier to build oil and gas pipelines - which some states have not been happy about. Another thing not getting easier: taxes. Congress just banned the IRS from ever offering a free tax filing service. Also on today’s episode: a legend in the NBA is retiring and we finally get a peek at a black hole.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Middle Men: Drug Prices and the (No Spoilers) Mueller Report

Tue, 09 Apr 2019 20:47:01 -0000

Crazy high drug prices have gotten bipartisan attention lately. Back in February, drug companies pointed fingers at Pharmacy Benefit Managers. Today, five PBM execs were on Capitol Hill and pointed the finger back. Attorney General William Barr was on the Hill, too, getting grilled about the Mueller Report. Also on today’s episode: a duchess’ tax dilemma and a marathon on ice.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In or Out: The Israeli Elections and the West Bank, Cabinet Shakeups and the Border and NCAA Finals

Mon, 08 Apr 2019 20:50:02 -0000

Israel is getting ready to head to the polls, and Prime Minister Netanyahu is giving voters one more thing to think about: the West Bank. The region at the center of the Israeli/Palestinian conflict. NBD. In the US, more shake-ups in the Trump Administration. DHS Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen and her Secret Service Director are out. There are a lot of questions about Nielsen’s replacement. Also on today’s episode: why more defense might make for a March Madness dud, and huge pythons in Florida caught by a honey pot.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s Complicated: Saudis and the US, Ecuador and Julian Assange, Cats

Fri, 05 Apr 2019 20:48:35 -0000

Tensions between Saudi Arabia and the US are heating up. Congress voted to end US military support for the kingdom’s proxy war in Yemen after the Saudi-American journalist Jamal Khashoggi was assassinated last year. Putting President Trump in an awkward spot. In other diplomatic tension, Julian Assange may have overstayed his welcome at the Ecuadorian embassy in London. Packing his bags could land him in jail. And in the US. Also on today’s episode: a Final Four Cinderella story and rude cats.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why Dems Are So Obsessed with President Trump’s Tax Returns

Thu, 04 Apr 2019 20:42:47 -0000

President Trump has gotten a lot of heat for keeping his tax returns under lock and key. Now, Dems are cutting out the middle man and asking the IRS to show them the receipts. But why are the president’s tax returns such a big deal? In other money news, the Dept of Education has been cutting down on who’s eligible for a public student loan forgiveness program. Also on today’s episode: science wants you to take a walk and chill, and Airbnb’s inviting you to a sleepover at Mona Lisa’s house.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sharia Law in Brunei and NATO’s 70th

Wed, 03 Apr 2019 20:35:11 -0000

Human rights groups all over the world are calling out Brunei for harsh new laws. People caught participating in gay sex could now be stoned to death. So we’re breaking down Sharia law and how it’s interpreted across the Muslim world. Meanwhile, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg is visiting Capitol Hill. Just in time for NATO’s bday. But don’t expect a big party. Also on today’s episode: people are seeing red over taxes, and a spy in Mar-a-Lago’s saying ‘sorry about that, Chief.’

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Facebook vs. Fake News

Tue, 02 Apr 2019 20:43:35 -0000

India is headed to the polls soon. Social media there has turned into a mess of fake news. Sounds familiar. Facebook is trying to avoid a repeat of the 2016 U.S. elections. But that’s harder than it sounds. Meanwhile, the US Senate can’t agree on a budget for Puerto Rico relief funding. Also on today’s episode: it’s Equal Pay Day (but not for everyone), and Chicago gets ready to make history.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cutting Aid and Clearing Officials

Mon, 01 Apr 2019 20:35:11 -0000

The Trump Administration is thinking about cutting aid to a few Central American countries. It’s pointing to the border crisis. But how are the two related, again? In other DC news, today we found out that the White House gave security clearances to dozens of officials - even after their applications were denied. Also on today’s episode: Democrats are talking about the robot tax, and Japan says, ‘new era, new us.’

PS: Equal Pay Day is coming up. Leave us a voicemail at 646.461.6370 to tell us how you’ve fought for equal pay at the office. And you just might hear your two cents on the show next week.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

No Deal Brexit. But We Have Lyft-off.

Fri, 29 Mar 2019 20:44:58 -0000

Third time’s the charm. Except when it comes to British Prime Minister Theresa May’s plan to get a Brexit deal approved. Bollocks. Parliament voted down her plan for the third time today. Making a no-deal Brexit look like a definite possibility. We’ll tell you what that could look like. Also on today’s episode: Lyft requests a ride to Wall St, and Skimm’r Melissa tells us about her Woman of the Week.

PS: Equal Pay Day is coming up. Leave us a voicemail at 646.461.6370 to tell us how you’ve fought for equal pay at the office. And you just might hear your two cents on the show next week.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hustling for Healthcare and Decoding 5G: Medicaid Work Requirements and Huawei

Thu, 28 Mar 2019 20:40:47 -0000

A DC judge struck down laws in Arkansas and Kentucky that would require Medicaid recipients to work in exchange for getting free or low-cost government healthcare coverage. Opening up the floor for debate. Meanwhile, the UK is the latest country to call out Chinese tech giant Huawei for being insecure. Also on today’s episode: Sarah Kate Ellis gets ready to present the Carters with some gold, and we get bad news from the produce aisle.

PS: Want to tell us about your Woman of the Week? Leave us a voicemail at 646.461.6370 and you might hear your voice on the show on Friday.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Border Wall Budget and Theresa May’s (Br)exit Strategy

Wed, 27 Mar 2019 20:38:38 -0000

The Pentagon is checking its account - and making bank transfers - to figure out how it’s going to pay for President Trump’s border wall. Not everyone is happy with their fix. Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Theresa May announced that she’s got a brand new Brexit strategy: stepping down. Also on today’s episode: “Hidden Figures” are found on Capitol Hill, and the EU is putting on the brakes. In cars.

PS: Want to tell us about your Woman of the Week? Leave us a voicemail at 646-461-6370, and you might hear your voice on the show this Friday.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nevermind: Trump Admin to the ACA, Chicago Prosecutors to Jussie Smollett, NASA to its All-Female Spacewalk

Tue, 26 Mar 2019 20:42:41 -0000

The Trump Administration wants to take down the Affordable Care Act aka Obamacare. Spoiler: this won’t be the last time you’ll hear about healthcare. Because 2020. Changes to the law could affect you. We’ll tell you about it. Meanwhile, in Chicago, it’s “Empire” actor Jussie Smollett’s lucky day. Prosecutors dropped all charges made against him for allegedly staging a hate crime against himself and cleared his record. Also on today’s episode: an all-female editorial staff at the Vatican says ‘we quit’, and NASA reminds everyone that size matters. When you’re suiting up for zero gravity.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Robert Mueller’s Day Off (And What it Means for Everyone Else)

Mon, 25 Mar 2019 20:45:12 -0000

Mueller…? Mueller…? After two years, Special Counsel Robert Mueller finally turned in his report to the DOJ. And probably had a great weekend … while Attorney General William Barr got down to speed-reading. Today, we’re breaking down the questions that are still swirling around about the report, including the big O(J). Obstruction of Justice. Also on today’s episode: we intro you to the unlikely Brexiter-in-chief, Theresa May, and a certain tech company has some (Apple) News.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Disputed Territories: The Golan Heights and Abortion Rights

Fri, 22 Mar 2019 20:27:42 -0000

President Trump tweeted earlier this week that the US should recognize that Israel’s the boss of a disputed area called the Golan Heights. Making the US the first country to do so. Spoiler: the international community is annoyed. We’ll explain what’s going on. Back at home, Mississippi now officially has one of the strictest abortion laws in the country. Cue: legal pushback. Abortion activists are hoping they can take it to the big leagues: SCOTUS. Also on today’s episode: Skimm’rs Emma and Erica thank their mommas for what they gave ‘em.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Free Speech on College Campuses, NZ Gun Reform, and Balls

Thu, 21 Mar 2019 20:40:05 -0000

President Trump just signed an executive order requiring colleges to support free speech. Which has a lot to do with conservative groups on campus. We’ll tell you what you need to know. Across the world in New Zealand, the gov has made moves to ban the semiautomatic weapons involved in last week’s shootings. Less than a week after they happened. Also on today’s episode: we’re talking Lupita Nyong’o … and balls.

PS: Want to tell us about your Woman of the Week? Leave us a voicemail at 646-461-6370, and you might hear your voice on the show this Friday.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anti-Trusting Tech

Wed, 20 Mar 2019 20:41:11 -0000

The European Union wants big tech companies to play nice with the competition. They don’t think Google’s doing that. So the EU hit Google with a 1.5 billion-euro fine. And that’s not the only antitrust story you’re hearing about today. Meanwhile, back in the US, the FDA just approved a breakthrough drug that could help more than a hundred thousand moms. Also on today’s episode: we spotlight New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern, and it’s finally time to put your sweaters away.

PS: Want to tell us about your Woman of the Week? Leave us a voicemail at 646-461-6370, and you might hear your voice on the show this Friday.

PPS: GV (formerly Google Ventures) and 21 Century Fox are minority investors in theSkimm.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friends in Brazil and Floods in the Midwest

Tue, 19 Mar 2019 20:44:06 -0000

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro and US President Trump caught up in the Oval Office today. They’re big fans. Of each other. Which is kind of a big deal, because the US and Brazil haven’t exactly been BFFs in the past. We’ll break down what’s going on. Meanwhile, a lot of the Midwest is under water. We’ll tell you three big things to know about the situation. Also on today’s episode: there’s a new biography out about the first female Supreme, and Instagram wants you to open your wallet while you scroll.

PS: Want to support flood relief in the Midwest? Here’s how you can help.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why Voting Districts Look Like Abstract Art, French Yellow Vests and Ballsy Women

Mon, 18 Mar 2019 20:46:35 -0000

Gerrymandering: drawing district lines so that some people have more power at the polls. And a big talker ahead of the 2020 election. Today, the Supremes are hearing a Virginia case. And they’ll be hearing from a couple more states this year. So we’re breaking down what you need to know. Also on today’s episode: French yellow vest protesters are back at it, and the NCAA tournament is about to take over your water-cooler conversations.

PS: We'd love to know what you think. Head on over to theskimm.com/feedback to share and be entered for a chance to win a $100 gift card.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

White Nationalism and the Internet

Fri, 15 Mar 2019 20:41:30 -0000

Mass shootings at two mosques in New Zealand are forcing a conversation about the spread of white nationalism … and the internet. Meanwhile, students took action to protest government inaction on climate change. Also on today’s episode: a Skimm’r shares her pick for Woman of the Week.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

‘20 Questions: Citizenship and Beto O’Rourke

Thu, 14 Mar 2019 20:35:35 -0000

There are big questions coming up in 2020. Politicians are trying to get ahead of them. Today, Commerce Sec. Wilbur Ross took the mic on Capitol Hill. The issue on the table: the 2020 census, and whether it should include a question about citizenship. But there’s another questionnaire coming up in 2020. Hint: it’s your ballot. Former Congressman Beto O’Rourke added his name to it today. Also on today’s episode: Christina Koch makes history, and we celebrate Pi Day.

PS: Want us to highlight a woman who’s been crushing the game? Leave us a voicemail at 646-461-6370 and tell us about her.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Behind Bars: The CA Death Sentence and Paul Manafort

Wed, 13 Mar 2019 20:38:00 -0000

California Governor Gavin Newsom hit ‘pause’ on capital punishment in his state. Opening up the floor for a national debate on the death penalty. In other criminal justice news, a judge tacked on more federal prison time for former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort. Now, prosecutors in New York want in on the action. Also on today’s episode: the US jumps on the ‘ground the Boeing Max 8’ bandwagon, and Judge Judy gets a nod from the TV Academy.

PS: Want to tell us about the Judge Judy in your life? Leave us a voicemail at 646-461-6370.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How Rude: Brexit’s Backstop and How “Aunt Becky” Got Her Kid Into College

Tue, 12 Mar 2019 20:40:18 -0000

British parliament rejected PM Theresa May’s latest Brexit plan today. ICYMI, the EU and the UK are getting a divorce. But three years in, they still can’t agree on the terms. The biggest sticking point: the border with Ireland aka ‘the backstop.’ We’ll break it down, guvnah. In other news, the DOJ dropped the curtain on a huge college admissions scam this morning. And they implicate some familiar faces. (Whatever happened to predictability?) Also in today’s episode: millennials break a financial record, and the world wide web celebrates a big birthday.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Just Won’t Budget

Mon, 11 Mar 2019 20:41:04 -0000

President Trump just released his financial wishlist. On it: $718 billion for the Pentagon, way more than the spending cap. But he might get lucky with the money because of something called the Overseas Contingency Operations Fund, aka the Pentagon “slush fund”. Spoiler: it’s controversial. Meanwhile, Boeing is in crisis mode after another one of its planes crashed over the weekend. Also on today’s episode: Swiss moms speak up about maternity leave policies at UBS, and a man almost gets swallowed by a whale.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do Not Pass Go: How Judges Hand Down Prison Sentences

Fri, 08 Mar 2019 21:37:00 -0000

Paul Manafort got muuuch less prison time than prosecutors recommended on Thursday. Which got everyone talking. So today we’re breaking down sentencing laws... and how judges decide who gets to pass Go. In other jailhouse news: former Army intelligence analyst Chelsea Manning is back in prison. She RSVP’d ‘no’ to an invite to testify before a grand jury investigating WikiLeaks, and a judge found her in contempt of court. Also on today’s episode: your pick for Woman of the Week.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Introducing: Skimm This

Fri, 08 Mar 2019 16:54:00 -0000

The news is constantly changing, and in today's world, context is clarity. Skimm This is here to help.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How the Military Handles Sexual Assault

Thu, 07 Mar 2019 21:34:34 -0000

Senator Martha McSally (R-AZ) has everyone talking about how to fix the military’s process for handling allegations of sexual assault. We’re breaking down what you need to know. Meanwhile, former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort is headed to prison … unless the president decides to pardon him. TBD on that. Also on today’s episode: the history of International Women’s Day, and the new Queen of Instagram…

PS: This week, women have been crushing it in the news. Leave us a voicemail at 1.646.461.6370 and tell us which one has your vote for Woman of the Week.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Border Crisis: A Family Matter

Wed, 06 Mar 2019 22:21:27 -0000

The federal government is arguing about whether families migrating across the US-Mexico border are a national emergency. We’ll break down what’s going on. In other news from the feds, the FDA just gave a new antidepressant the thumbs up. But it’s got some baggage. Also on today’s episode: Gayle King keeps her composure, and the International Space Station is getting ready to take one giant leap for womankind…

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Measles and Mardis Gras

Tue, 05 Mar 2019 21:56:40 -0000

You’ve been hearing a lot about the anti-vaccination movement. We’ll give you the context behind the headlines. In other health news, doctors in London say they’ve helped a second HIV patient beat the virus. But they want you to read the fine print. Also on today’s episode: locals in New Orleans have found a way to put the green icing on the (king) cake, and 21-year-old Kylie Jenner is making money moves.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A Tale of Two Presidents: Venezuela’s Political Crisis

Mon, 04 Mar 2019 21:55:00 -0000

Two guys are fighting over Venezuela. One’s got the military behind him. The other has … pretty much everyone else on his side. In other fights over presidential power, US Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) is breaking with his party. And voting to block President Trump’s emergency declaration. Also on today’s episode: we introduce you to suffragist Ida B Wells, and say goodbye to the star of “Beverly Hills 90210”.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices