Skimm This

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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: Stop AAPI Hate National Sexual Assault Online Hotline Mental Health Resources for the AAPI Community Ignoring Your Emotions Is Bad for Your Health. Here's What to Do About It. 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

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

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

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

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 [email protected]. 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 [email protected] 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

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” Let us know what questions you have about what’s going on in the news right now. Email us at [email protected] 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 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

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 Let us know what questions you have about what’s going on in the news right now. Email us at [email protected] 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

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 Let us know what questions you have about what’s going on in the news right now. Email us at [email protected] 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

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” Let us know what questions you have about what’s going on in the news right now. Email us at [email protected] 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

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

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 Let us know what questions you have about what’s going on in the news right now. Email us at [email protected] 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

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. Let us know what questions you have about what’s going on in the news right now. Email us at [email protected] 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 Eugenia Cassidy, Justine Davie, and adapted for audio by Peter Bonaventure. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Let us know what questions you have about what’s going on in the news right now. Email us at [email protected] 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

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 Let us know what questions you have about what’s going on in the news right now. Email us at [email protected] 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

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

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 Let us know what questions you have about what’s going on in the news right now. Email us at [email protected] 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

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

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

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” Let us know what questions you have about what’s going on in the news right now. Email us at [email protected] 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

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

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 Let us know what questions you have about what’s going on in the news right now. Email us at [email protected] 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

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 Let us know what questions you have about what’s going on in the news right now. Email us at [email protected] 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, Marion Lozano, and Luke Vargas. With additional support from Peter Bonaventure and Ciara Long. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Let us know what questions you have about what’s going on in the news right now. Email us at [email protected] 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, Marion Lozano, and Luke Vargas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Let us know what questions you have about what’s going on in the news right now. Email us at [email protected] 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 Ellen Burke, Alex Carr, Marion Lozano, and Luke Vargas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Let us know what questions you have about what’s going on in the news right now. Email us at [email protected] 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, Marion Lozano, and Luke Vargas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Let us know what questions you have about what’s going on in the news right now. Email us at [email protected] 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, Marion Lozano, Julia Nutter, and Luke Vargas Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Let us know what questions you have about what’s going on in the news right now. Email us at [email protected] 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 Olivia Reingold, Justine Davie, Marion Lozano, and Julia Nutter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Let us know what questions you have about what’s going on in the news right now. Email us at [email protected] 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. 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