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It’s August. Which usually means college students are heading back for the fall semester. But this year, back-to-school tailgates and freshman orientation look a little different. Think: hand sanitizer relay races. We’ll break down how some of the biggest campuses in the country are planning to open safely. And what the concerns are from some faculty, parents, and students. Also: we’re talking about TikTok. The app millions have become addicted to during the pandemic is back in the headlines this week, after President Trump threatened to ban it and US companies try to buy it. So: should you delete it? We’ll explain the privacy concerns surrounding the app. (For more on the executive orders President Trump signed overnight about TikTok, check out this morning’s Daily Skimm.) On this episode, you’ll hear from: Art Markman, professor of psychology at the University of Texas at Austin and the Chair of the Academic Working Group for Fall Planning Caroline Garrison, a sophomore journalism major at the University of Missouri Audrey O’Shaughnessy, a sophomore American Studies major at Notre Dame 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 Julia Nutter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At the start of July, in an effort to protect federal monuments and buildings, President Trump started deploying federal agents to cities across the country. But in Portland, Oregon, that effort backfired. In a city where protests had started to calm down, thousands of people started turning out against what they saw as a federal occupation. We’ll break down what’s been happening in Portland, how things came to a boiling point this past week, and why the Trump admin is sending agents to more cities. Also this week: the race for a COVID-19 vaccine reached a new milestone. Biotech company Moderna started its phase three trial in the US. We’ll tell you what this means for the vaccine timeline. And finally: a record number of Black women are running for Congress this year. We talk to Kimberly Walker, who’s in the race for Florida’s 12th Congressional District, about why she decided to run. On this episode you’ll hear from: Esther Krofah, Executive Director of FasterCures at the Milken Institute Kimberly Walker, candidate for Florida’s 12th Congressional District 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 has everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox. This podcast was Skimm’d by Alex Carr, Hadley Malcom, Julia Nutter, Marion Lozano and hosted by Justine Davie. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Congress is back in session. And the major topic up for discussion: another economic stimulus package. Some big deadlines are coming up (think: the $600/week federal unemployment benefit is about to expire). And as new COVID-19 cases continue to spike, states, small businesses, and families are looking for another economic boost. We’ll break down what economists say needs to be included in the next legislation - and why public health and economic health are one in the same right now. Also: the late congressman and civil rights icon John Lewis fought for voting rights for decades. We’ll explain why lawmakers say passing the Voting Rights Advancement Act could restore protections for millions of voters – and honor Lewis’s legacy. And finally: we’ll introduce you to the Radical Monarchs - the subject of a new film on PBS. It’s like the Girl Scouts, but with a twist of social justice. Members earn badges for learning about climate change, and allyship, and other issues that impact their communities. We spoke to the group’s co-founders about why having these conversations with young women is crucial. On this episode, you’ll hear from: Kathryn Edwards, associate economist at the RAND Corporation Dr. Damon Jones, economist and associate professor at the University of Chicago Anayvette Martinez, co-founder of the Radical Monarchs Marilyn Hollinquest, co-founder of the Radical Monarchs 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 has everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Even though it's the middle of summer, all eyes are on the fall. Specifically, how schools are supposed to reopen in the middle of a global pandemic. And as COVID-19 cases rise in a number of states, parents, teachers, and officials are at odds over how to do it. We’ll break down the debate over getting kids back to class, and what the challenges are to reopen. Also: one of the biggest sports franchises in the United States announced: it's getting a name change. The Washington NFL team said it will retire its name, the Redskins, as well as its logo. We’ll explain why this name change is a long time coming for activists, and what to look for next in the fight to get rid of racist imagery and logos. On this episode, you’ll hear from: Dr. Sara Bode, pediatrician and a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics Council on School Health Kathy Gebhardt, Vice President of the Boulder Valley School District in Boulder, CO 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Now that you’ve made it through your Netflix queue, you might be wondering when sports are coming back. After sports leagues postponed their seasons back in March, some - like the National Women’s Soccer League - are stepping back onto the field for the first time. We’ll break down the efforts and challenges in keeping players safe. And talk to one league that’s knocking it out of the park: the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (aka: roller derby.) Also, in case you missed it: the Chinese government has taken its boldest step yet in eliminating freedoms of Hong Kong residents. We’ll tell you how this latest move by China has a global impact. And finally, we’re talking about getting into 'good trouble.' As in the new documentary "John Lewis: Good Trouble." The film’s producer Erika Alexander shared how lessons from Lewis’s life fighting for social justice starting in the 1960s are just as relevant to social movements today. On this episode, you’ll hear from: Kelley O’Hara, two-time World Cup champion, Utah Royals FC defender and member of the US Women's National Team, and host of the new podcast, Just Women’s Sports Dr. Jonathan Kim, chief of sports cardiology in the division of cardiology at Emory University Erica Vanstone, Executive Director of the Women's Flat Track Derby Association Erika Alexander, producer of "John Lewis: Good Trouble" 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In some states, primary voting during COVID-19 has been off to a rocky start. Long lines and crowds at the polls aren’t great for social distancing. And as cases continue to spike across the US, some states are looking to expand their ‘vote by mail’ options ahead of November. We’ll break down what voting for president could look like in a global pandemic and what experts say election officials and lawmakers should start doing now to prepare us. Also: ahead of the fourth of July, some lawmakers are pushing to add a 51st state to the union. We’ll explain the (long) history of Washington DC’s quest for statehood and why it’s coming up again. And finally, the new documentary “(In)Visible Portraits” has been described as “a love letter to Black women, from Black women.” We sat down with the filmmaker to discuss how she’s looking to reveal history you may not have learned about in school. On this episode, you’ll hear from: Myrna Pérez, Director, Voting Rights & Elections Program, Brennan Center for Justice Oge Egbuonu, director of “(In)Visible Portraits” 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the number of new COVID-19 cases rises in some states, the debate continues about what role the government should play in helping people protect each other. And specifically: whether masks need to be required. We’ll explain why there’s been confusion over masks, what scientists and the CDC are saying now, and why local and state officials are at odds. Also: a recent Supreme Court ruling has given the LGBTQ+ community something to celebrate during Pride Month. We’ll break down the SCOTUS decision about protecting LGBTQ+ Americans at work. And why activists and politicians are saying: there’s more to be done. On this episode, you’ll hear from: Dr. Jade Pagkas-Bather, infectious diseases attending physician, clinical epidemiologist and Instructor of Medicine at the University of Chicago Department of Medicine 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In recent weeks, there’s been a renewed push to remove symbols of the Confederacy: including flags, statues and the names of some military bases. Some protestors have been tearing statues down. And local officials are also making moves to remove them. We’ll break down why the debate around getting rid of these statues is really a debate about how we understand history- and the legacy of slavery in the US. Also: all 50 states have started reopening. But health experts are warning: COVID-19 is still here. And as cases spike, state and local governments are at odds. And finally, we ‘press pause’ with some sea turtle news. Here are some soothing sea turtles videos to kick off your weekend. On this episode, you’ll hear from: - LeAndrea Mack, Miss Juneteenth 2019 in Kansas City - Dr. Jalane Schmidt, associate professor in the Department of Religious Studies, University of Virginia, co-founder of the Charlottesville, VA chapter of Black Lives Matter 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As protests continue in the US, some demonstrators are now calling to ‘defund the police.’ And those calls are already having an impact. Cities like Minneapolis, New York, and Los Angeles are considering some major changes to their police departments. We’ll break down what it actually means to defund the police, and why some protestors say that doesn’t go far enough. Also: we’re still in a global pandemic. But many public health experts don’t think protests should stop. We’ll explain why medical professionals say it’s important that demonstrators are still able to protest against racism and police brutality. And finally, you may have seen that viral video from former NFL athlete Emmanuel Acho, host of the new online series, “Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man.” We spoke to Acho about why these conversations are necessary, and how he plans to grow the series. On this episode, you’ll hear from: Lynda Garcia, Policing Campaign Director for The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, former trial attorney in the Special Litigation Section in the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice Kimberly Burke, research fellow at the Center for Policing Equity Dr. Jaime Slaughter-Acey, social epidemiologist and Assistant Professor in the Division of Epidemiology and Community Health at the University of Minnesota Emmanuel Acho, former NFL athlete, current NFL analyst and host and creator of “Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man.” 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

People across the US have flooded into the streets to protest police violence against black Americans. We’ll break down some of the concerns protests are highlighting, including disparities in how law enforcement treats black Americans, as well as police militarization. We’ll also talk to an expert about some potential solutions. Also: if you’re seeing calls to donate to a bail fund and wondering how those work, we’ll explain. And finally, we’re ‘pressing pause’ to highlight the creative ways people are documenting their lives during the COVID-19 pandemic. On this episode, you’ll hear from: Kimberly Burke, research fellow at the Center for Policing Equity Bernadette Rabuy, senior policy analyst at the Prison Policy Initiative 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As of this week, one in four US workers has filed for unemployment benefits. But economists say the historic numbers don’t tell the whole story. And they’re warning that women, and in particular women of color, are being disproportionately affected. We’ll break down what this record unemployment means, how the situation compares to past recessions, and what the impact is on women and women of color. Also: now that unemployment is at a record-high, a lot of people are looking for work. We spoke to a career expert to get some tips on how to job search during a pandemic. And finally, you asked and we Skimm’d: who’s even hiring right now? Not a trick question. Think: anyone who’s seeing an increase in demand. Like food and delivery services. On this episode, you’ll hear from: Kathryn A. Edwards, associate economist at the RAND Corporation Amanda Augustine, career expert for TopResume What’s something about the COVID-19 pandemic that you’ve been looking for more answers on? Email us at [email protected] and call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370. You might hear your message on the show and have your question answered. If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Back in March, Congress passed a historic $2 trillion stimulus bill that reached millions of Americans. You may have received a check in the mail or a boost in unemployment insurance. But researchers and economists are saying the money Congress spent so far may not be enough. We’ll break down what still needs work, and what experts say Congress should prioritize. Also: you may have seen some headlines this week about some big stores going bankrupt. We’ll tell you why COVID-19 has pushed them into bankruptcy. And why it could impact what your next trip to the mall looks like. And finally, you asked and we Skimm’d: how is COVID-19 more dangerous than the seasonal flu? We’ll tell you why experts say it’s not a fair comparison. Hint: even though the symptoms are similar, they’re caused by different viruses. On this episode, you’ll hear from: Dr. Jay Shambaugh, director of the Hamilton Project at the Brookings Institution and former member and chief economist of the White House Council of Economic Advisers Henrietta Treyz, founder, managing partner and the director of economic policy at Veda Partners Dr. Gloria Gonzalez-Rivera, professor of economics at University of California-Riverside Nancy Rapoport, Garman Turner Gordon Professor of Law, William S. Boyd School of Law at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas Vince Tibone, retail sector head at Green Street Advisors On next week’s episode, we’re devoting our entire show to the topic of unemployment. Have you recently been impacted? If so, we’d love to hear your story and perhaps include it on next week’s show. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370. If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The race for a COVID-19 vaccine is underway. But don’t hold your breath. This race could take years. We’ll tell you why, and what’s being done to try to speed up the process. Also: you may have seen some headlines this week about COVID-19 and children. New research shows kids are more at risk of getting sick than realized. On top of that: a mysterious illness that could be linked to COVID-19 is infecting children around the country. We’ll break down what this means for parents on the lookout. And finally, you asked and we Skimm’d: why is it taking so long to get your stimulus check? Hint: you may need to check your mailbox. On this episode, you’ll hear from: Dr. Maria Elena Bottazzi, co-director of Texas Children's Hospital Center for Vaccine Development and Associate Dean, National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine Dr. Rinke Bos, Principal Scientist at Janssen Vaccines & Prevention in Leiden, the Netherlands Dr. Roderick Slavcev, Associate Professor, School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo Dr. Lawrence Kleinman, professor and vice chair of the Department of Pediatrics at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and attending physician at Bristol-Myers Squibb Children's Hospital What’s something about the COVID-19 pandemic that you’ve been looking for more answers on? Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370. You might hear your message on the show and have your question answered. If you want to add theSkimm to your daily routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The CDC has been working on new guidelines for how states should start to reopen. But the White House is putting them on ice and telling the agency to make some changes. Meanwhile: the unemployment rate is now the highest it’s been since the Great Depression. We’ll tell you why the real picture might be even more bleak. Also on today’s show: Tara Reade’s allegations against former VP Joe Biden make more headlines, and an update on the fatal shooting of Ahmaud Arbery. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show. If you want to add theSkimm to your morning routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The latest unemployment numbers are in, and no surprise: they’re not very good. We’ll explain why -- despite all the bad economic news -- the stock market is doing relatively okay. Meanwhile: some small schools in Montana are among the first to reopen since the pandemic began. But local superintendents are finding ways to enforce social distancing measures in the classroom. Also on today’s show: we’ll dive into why the death of Ahmaud Arbery in February sparked widespread public outcry this week. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show. If you want to add theSkimm to your morning routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The White House coronavirus task force is getting a makeover. Sort of. We’ll explain what today’s change-up is all about and how it impacts you. Meanwhile: major grocery and fast food chains are showing cracks in the food supply chain as meat processing plants are forced to close. Also on today’s show: Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is in the hospital. But she was able to call into oral arguments today -- along with the rest of the Supremes -- to hear a case regarding free birth control coverage. We’ll explain why this case is a big deal. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show. If you want to add theSkimm to your morning routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is a rebroadcast of our Skimm Special that originally aired on April 18th. We’ll be back tomorrow with new episodes. Across the world, economies have essentially been on pause due to COVID-19. The unintended consequence? A significant decrease in air pollution and carbon emissions. We talked to climate experts about how the pandemic is highlighting the human impact on the planet. And what that can teach us about the steps individuals and governments need to take to tackle climate change. You’ll hear from: Dr. Elizabeth Sawin, co-director of Climate Interactive, a think tank that builds computer simulations related to climate change solutions. Anthony Leiserowitz, director of the Yale Program on Climate Change Communication, which specializes in understanding Americans’ attitudes toward climate change. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Federal stay-at-home guidelines are officially expiring tonight. But since it’s states that call the shots on reopening, not much is going to change when the clock strikes midnight. Meanwhile: there’s encouraging news from the world of medicine. We’ll break down two headlines about a COVID-19 treatment and a possible vaccine, and why America’s top infectious disease expert says things are looking up. Also on today’s show: Los Angeles is testing almost everyone for COVID-19, and France is planning a fancy charity auction to support local hospitals. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show. If you want to add theSkimm to your morning routine, sign-up for our free newsletter the Daily Skimm. It’s everything you need to know to start your day, right in your inbox. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We knew the economy wasn’t doing well. But a new report out today shows us just how bad it really is. We’ll dive into what ‘gross domestic product’ is all about and why it matters that it’s down. Meanwhile: a new poll says a lot of Americans are worried that COVID-19 will disrupt this year’s presidential election. We’ll explain why one proposed solution — voting by mail — isn’t exactly easy. Also on today’s show: the recent shake up of the film industry has the Oscars changing its ways. Earlier this month, we hosted a live online presentation called Recessions, Skimm’d. We explained what recessions are, why they’re a big deal, and how you can be prepared for when one comes up. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The White House released new guidelines for how states should ramp-up their testing programs. We’ll explain how this could impact your state. Meanwhile: the Federal Reserve is coming to the rescue for cities and states. We’ll tell you how the new moves could help you. Also on today’s show: JetBlue Airways just became the first major airline to require passengers to wear masks. We’ll look at why this didn’t happen earlier. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re starting to learn more about COVID-19 antibody testing. But these tests might not be ready for primetime yet. We’ll explain what they are and why researchers are telling us to slow our roll. Meanwhile: more Georgia businesses opened their doors today. We’ll tell you what that could mean for your state. Also on today’s show: the CDC added new COVID-19 symptoms to look out for. We’ll dive into what that could mean for the future of testing. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Trump signed the bill to re-up the Paycheck Protection Program. But: there might be another snag. We’ll dive into why it still may not get small businesses the help they need. Meanwhile: a new study out of New York says that the outbreak may have been more widespread than initially thought. We’ll tell you why that might actually bring some good news to the fight against the virus. Also on today’s show: a survey of artists finds nearly all have been impacted by COVID-19. We’ll tell you how. If you or someone you know is an artist or creative worker who needs help, the National Endowment for the Arts has a list of resources you can check out, including Artist Relief. If you’re interested in helping seniors who need help shopping for groceries, you can donate to Meals on Wheels, which has a COVID-19 response fund. You can also join Nextdoor, where lots of communities are discussing how to help local seniors. This morning we hosted a live online presentation called, “How to Save Money During COVID-19.” We talk about how to cut back expenses, negotiate with businesses you pay every month, and lower your debt payments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The House of Representatives is expected to pass another major stimulus bill to get more money into the hands of small businesses. We’ll dive into why convincing small businesses to put their names in the hat for this financial lifeline will still take some work. Meanwhile: this week’s new unemployment numbers are in. We’ll explain what “earnings season” is, and how the latest word from Wall Street could mean more bad news for workers. Also on today’s show: Georgia plans to take its first step towards normal life tomorrow. We’ll explain what that could mean for your state. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Officials say the first known death from COVID-19 in the US happened weeks earlier than they realized. We’ll tell you what that might mean for the projection models everyone has been relying on. Meanwhile: a new study shows that a drug some were hopeful about might not actually help fight COVID-19. We’ll look at how the search for a COVID-19 treatment is going. Also on today’s show: a new software update you might not want to miss. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last night, President Trump announced he’ll sign an executive order to suspend immigration into the US. But the administration has already made a number of changes to immigration procedures since the pandemic began. We’ll explain. Meanwhile: the Senate has reached a deal to refresh the Paycheck Protection Program. We’ll explain what that might mean for your favorite neighborhood bakery. Also on today’s show: an appeals court is allowing Texas to restrict abortion. We’ll dive into the debate over what medical procedures are considered ‘essential’ in the age of the pandemic. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most public health experts agree: we need more testing to start lifting stay-at-home orders. But in the US, officials disagree on how to get more tests. We’ll explain how this impacts you. Meanwhile: people across the country defied social distancing measures this weekend to protest. We’ll explain what message protestors are trying to send. Also on today’s show: the price of oil dips into the negatives for the first time. We’ll look at why that happened and why it’s such a big deal. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Across the world, economies have essentially been on pause due to COVID-19. The unintended consequence? A significant decrease in air pollution and carbon emissions. We talked to climate experts about how the pandemic is highlighting the human impact on the planet. And what that can teach us about the steps individuals and governments need to take to tackle climate change. You’ll hear from: Dr. Elizabeth Sawin, co-director of Climate Interactive, a think tank that builds computer simulations related to climate change solutions. Anthony Leiserowitz, director of the Yale Program on Climate Change Communication, which specializes in understanding Americans’ attitudes toward climate change. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The White House has new advice for states that might want to lift their stay-at-home orders. We’ll tell you what these new guidelines actually mean for you. Meanwhile: you might be hearing a lot about a new antiviral drug that could be used to fight COVID-19. We’ll explain why doctors say remdesivir has a lot of promise, but also a few shortcomings. Also on today’s show: millions of people are still waiting for their stimulus checks. We’ll look into the reasons your payment might not have come yet. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the fourth week in a row, US unemployment claims have risen by the millions. We’ll explain what Congress is doing to try to curb that trend. Meanwhile, there’s a new test that some say could help us get back to normal life. We’ll break down what these antibody tests are all about. Also on today’s show: we’ll explain why — despite orders to stay put — some people are venturing outside to protest. This morning, theSkimm hosted a live online presentation, Unemployment, Skimm’d. We explain what the latest unemployment numbers mean for your wallet, and how to navigate the unemployment benefits process. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A new report from the US Commerce Department says shopping carts across America are way emptier than usual. We’ll tell you what a drop in retail sales means for the rest of the economy. Meanwhile: President Trump says he’s halting funding to the World Health Organization. We’ll dive into how this could impact the global fight against COVID-19. Also on today’s show: after a week of negotiations, ten airline companies will accept billions of dollars in federal aid. We’ll explain how that aid impacts us. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

States are teaming up to figure out how and when to lift their stay-at-home orders. We’ll explain why that’s causing tension with the White House. Meanwhile: over 80 million people are supposed to get their stimulus payouts by tomorrow. We'll tell you who that applies to and who’s left out. Also on today’s show: a US Navy sailor has died after COVID-19 spread onboard the USS Roosevelt. We’ll look at why the military’s handling of these outbreaks is becoming a big story. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There’s been a lot of talk lately about when it’s OK to ‘reopen the economy.’ Public health experts say one thing that could get us to that point is contact tracing. We’ll explain why. Meanwhile: meat processing plants across the country have been shutting down over COVID-19 concerns. We’ll look at what this means for the food supply chain and those who work in it. Also on today’s show: there’s some big news about the global oil supply. We’ll tell you what it could mean for you at the gas pump. Plus: Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders officially endorses his old rival, former Vice President Joe Biden. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week’s new unemployment numbers are in, and things still aren’t good. We’ll look at what states are doing to keep up with the worsening jobs crisis. Meanwhile: as unemployment skyrockets, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is making moves to keep essential workers at work. Also on today’s show: grocery shopping during a pandemic already has its challenges, but food banks across the country are facing a lot more hurdles. We’ll explain why. Plus: how far can you take social distancing? Try outer space. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re seeing clearer trends that black Americans may be at disproportionately higher risk of falling ill and dying from COVID-19. We’ll break down why public health experts say this is happening. Meanwhile: Wuhan — the Chinese city where the pandemic started — ended its 76-day lockdown. We’ll look at what’s next for its residents. Also on today’s show: Europe’s top finance officials left a never-ending meeting deadlocked. We’ll tell you why that’s a big deal. Also, big 2020 news today as Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders makes his way to the exit. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Voters are heading to the polls to cast their ballots in the Wisconsin primary despite orders from the governor to stay home. We’ll dive into the drama and look at what voting during a pandemic could mean for November’s general election. Meanwhile: President Trump has been promoting a drug that he says is a ‘game-changer’ for the fight against COVID-19. But America’s top medical officials are urging caution. We explain the big debate over hydroxychloroquine. Also on today’s show: Japan was one of the first countries to deal with COVID-19 cases, but only just enacted its strongest stay-at-home measure. We look at why the country waited until now to declare a state of emergency. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Health officials are warning that this will be an especially tough week. Are hospitals ready? A new federal report gives us an indication. Meanwhile: the United Nations says that reported incidents of domestic violence are on the rise during the pandemic. We’ll look into why that is. Also on today’s show: we share a few ways you can say thanks to healthcare workers near you. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline by calling 1-800-799-7233. If you're unable to speak safely, you can log onto thehotline.org or text LOVEIS to 22522. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When news broke that COVID-19 had hit the US, many of us were told not to wear masks unless we were sick. Now the US government is reportedly reconsidering that guidance. We’ll tell you why. Meanwhile, US unemployment data for the month of March just got released. We’ll break down what the numbers mean and why they’re getting so much attention today. Also on today’s show: we check up on New York’s new floating hospital, and explain why celebrities are reading children’s books on social media. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We woke up this morning to some record-breaking unemployment numbers — as huge as they are, they may not even be showing the full picture. We’ll explain why. Meanwhile: the US’s secret stockpile of emergency medical equipment is running low. We’ll explain what the stockpile is and why this is happening at precisely the wrong moment in history. Also on today’s show: two cruise ships get the green light to dock in Florida after days of pleading. We tell you why more cruise ship drama is likely to come. This morning, theSkimm hosted a live presentation: Recessions, Skimm’d. We explained what recessions are, why they’re a big deal, and how you can be prepared for when one comes up. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The US intelligence community is reportedly warning that China hid key info about the severity of its COVID-19 outbreak. We’ll walk you through what that could mean for other countries that relied on Chinese data as they crafted their own epidemic response plans. Meanwhile: it’s Census Day. We’ll explain what that means and how COVID-19 is complicating the count. Also on today’s show: more states are telling residents to stay at home after the White House revealed models showing dire statistics about the likely course of the COVID-19 pandemic. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A US Navy Captain is pleading for help containing a COVID-19 outbreak onboard an American aircraft carrier in Guam. We’ll explain why the Navy is facing similar problems as cruise ships, and why having a nuclear power plant and fighter jets on board make this situation totally different. Meanwhile, a field hospital opened today on a grassy patch of Central Park, famous for its sunbathers and picnickers. We look at why these makeshift medical facilities are cropping up all over the country. Also on today’s show: a story so cute, we can’t even bear it. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Grocery delivery workers went on strike today. We’ll explain how the COVID-19 pandemic is impacting the delivery industry and how consumers can respond. Meanwhile: the White House extends social distancing guidelines until the end of April. But it remains up to states to decide how to actually enforce them. We look at a few approaches different states are taking. Also on today’s show: trivia night just got a reboot. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s 2020 and women’s median earnings are about 80 cents for every dollar a man makes. Cool cool. That’s known as the gender pay gap. Ahead of Equal Pay Day on March 31st, we wanted to find out why this gap has persisted for so long, and what’s being done about it. That includes steps you can take. Yes, you. We talked to: Jennifer Klein, chief strategy and policy officer for Time’s Up Claire Wasserman, founder of ladiesgetpaid.com Maria Colacurcio, CEO of pay analysis software Syndio Skimm more: Wasserman recommends approaching your HR department about setting up a professional sponsorship program. Here’s what that can mean. Research has shown that salary transparency can help close the gender pay gap. Read up here and here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Trump just signed the most expensive relief bill in US history, but it wasn’t exactly a cakewalk. We explain the drama that had lawmakers scrambling to fly back to the Capitol. Meanwhile, officials at the World Health Organization have been warning for weeks that developing nations could have a tougher time coping with COVID-19. We break down why that is and why more developed nations should care. Also on today’s show: what it means now that UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has tested positive for COVID-19, and the new fashion trend that Walmart says WFH life is driving. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The latest US unemployment numbers are in. They’re historic, and not in a good way. We’ll break down the data and look at how Congress is trying to patch up the unemployment insurance system in the middle of a health crisis. Meanwhile: how do world leaders hold an emergency summit when they’re supposed to be social distancing? We’ll explain the plan G20 leaders put together to fight COVID-19 while governing-from-home. (Here’s what their WFH confab looked like.) Also on today’s show: how dating sites are helping people connect remotely. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Senate leaders say they’ve reached a historic deal to help Americans and American businesses deal with the economic fallout of COVID-19. The $2 trillion relief package will also steer billions of dollars to hospitals and local governments to respond to the ongoing health crisis. We’ll tell you what’s (probably) in the bill and why each part of it matters. Meanwhile, New York is being called an ‘epicenter’ of COVID-19. We’ll explain why New York has been hit so hard and what the rest of the country might be able learn from its experience. Also on today’s show: states are asking Amazon and other online retailers to do more to crack down on COVID-19 price gouging, and our recs for the best zoo webcams (links below). Here’s a penguin frolicking through a field at the Santa Barbara Zoo Here are live streams of snow leopard cubs at the Melbourne Zoo Here’s a live feed of a coral reef in Australia Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370 to shout-out a loved one or share how you’re helping your community during the pandemic. You might hear your message on the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 2020 Summer Olympics won’t be happening in summer 2020 anymore. We’ll explain how the decision to postpone the Olympics could impact more than your TV habits. Then: officials around the US are ordering the release of some inmates as a way to slow down COVID-19. Plus: we look at how the pandemic could complicate November’s general election. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Senate is divided over a bill that’s supposed to help Americans deal with the economic fallout of COVID-19. We’ll tell you the latest. Meanwhile, President Trump appears anxious to send Americans back to the office. We’ll tell you why, and what other officials have to say about it. Also on today’s show: why some private companies might help the government produce hospital equipment, and a distance runner’s solution for working out at home. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The US is sealing itself off from its neighbors, with big restrictions on the Mexico and Canada borders. We’ll explain why, and take a look at the other big COVID-19 news of the day. Meanwhile, if you’ve been to a supermarket lately, you may have noticed shelves looked a bit...grim. But experts say: don’t panic. Also on today’s show: we spoke with Dr. Deborah Birx, the White House coronavirus response coordinator. If you want to send a message to a loved one reminding them why it’s important to keep social distancing, let us be your megaphone. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370. You might hear your message on the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

China just reported no new locally-transmitted COVID-19 cases for the first time since the outbreak began. We’ll explain why that’s great news, but why China isn’t quite out of the woods just yet. Meanwhile, the federal government is giving Americans three extra months to pay their taxes. But taxpayer beware! That April 15th tax filing deadline is still very much a thing. Also on today’s show: we’ll look at why ‘panic-buying’ groceries isn’t the most urgent food issue we should be worried about. We’d love to hear your tips for helping your community during the COVID-19 outbreak. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Healthcare workers are on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic. We’ll dive into the risks they’re facing as they work around the clock to save lives. Meanwhile, the US government is coming up with ways to help Americans cope with the economic crisis. We’ll explain why one option being discussed is checks in the mail. Also on today’s show: one listener tells us how she’s ‘Zoom’-ing in to keep her community together. We’d love to hear your tips for helping your community during the COVID-19 outbreak. Call and leave us a voicemail at: 646-461-6370. ** Dr. Lewis Nelson is the Chair of the Department of Emergency Medicine at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School and also a practicing physician treating patients at University Hospital. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices