Skimm This

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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