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557 episodes — Page 8 of 12

Heating Up: Iran Fallout, Weinstein Trial, Australia Fires

The year is off to a rocky start for the US and Iran. Last week, the US killed a top Iranian general linked to attacks on hundreds of Americans. Now, Iran is threatening to retaliate. We’ll dive in. Meanwhile, it’s day one for the Harvey Weinstein trial in New York, more than two years after an explosive report detailed allegations of decades of sexual assault. We’ll explain why bringing him to justice has taken so long. Also on today’s show: we’ll survey the damage from Australia’s deadly bushfires, and how celebrities spoke up about it at the Golden Globes. PS: if you want to help the fire relief efforts, here’s the link we mentioned in the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 6, 202012 min

Sea Changes: Impeachment, Climate Crisis, Anti-Austerity Protests

Last year brought with it some big stories about change - stories that we’ll probably see more of in 2020. So before we ring in the new year, here are some of the major ‘sea change’ stories that were on our radar: the impeachment of the President of the United States, huge protests against climate change, and a wave of anti-government fervor around the globe. Editor's Note: this is a pre-recorded episode. We'll be back with our regular programming on Monday at 5pm ET. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 3, 202011 min

Power Players: The People Who Shaped 2019

When the history books are written, we think a few names from 2019 will stand out. Greta Thunberg helped make climate change protests mainstream. Boris Johnson won a big election and pushed Brexit toward the finish line. Volodymyr Zelensky catapulted from comic actor to Ukrainian president, only to find himself embroiled in an American political drama. Carrie Lam became the target of mass pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong. And both on and off the soccer field, Megan Rapinoe cemented her reputation as a force to be reckoned with. Enjoy our recap of the power players of 2019. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 30, 201913 min

Money Moves: Trade War, Interest Rates, Unemployment Rate

With New Year's resolutions right around the corner, we want to talk about money. If you’re looking to make a fresh start, knowledge is power. New year, new you, right? And what better place to start fresh than with your wallet. We’re going to take a look at the big economic stories of the past year – from a trade war to changing interest rates to employment data – and explain how they could affect your money as we head into 2020. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 27, 201910 min

And the most complicated story of 2019 was...

We asked our listeners which 2019 story you still want explained. At the top of the list: Brexit. Totally fair. British voters chose to leave the European Union in 2016, but here we are three years later and … that still hasn’t happened. So we’re gonna get into why Brits wanted to Brexit in the first place, why that was easier said than done, and where the Brexit process currently stands. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 23, 201912 min

Making the Cut: Voter Purges, Impeachment Trial, Brexit

Some election officials are making a list, checking it twice – and cutting hundreds of thousands of people from their voter registration rolls. We’ll explain why those moves are making people nervous ahead of the 2020 elections. Meanwhile, impeachment is heading to the Senate. Or is it? We’ll break down what’s holding up the process. Also on today’s show: another big Brexit vote, and a picture that’s leaving us at a loss for words. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 20, 201912 min

Taxation and Representation: Obamacare in Limbo, Debate Diversity, and Wakanda

The future of Obamacare is limbo again, after a federal court struck down the individual mandate as unconstitutional. We’ll explain how this decision could impact you, and the future of health insurance in America. Meanwhile, tonight is the sixth Democratic primary debate. But the lineup on stage has some people wondering if the frontrunners reflect the diversity of voters. Also on today’s show: A new study finds dozens of Fortune 500 companies paid zero federal taxes in 2018, and why Wakanda and the USDA are breaking up. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 19, 201912 min

The Rest is History: Impeachment Vote, Teen Vaping, Missy Robbins

Today the House of Representatives prepared to impeach a President of the United States for the third time in US history. The Constitution doesn’t exactly provide a ‘how-to’ guide for what happens next, but lawmakers in the Senate are already preparing for a trial. Meanwhile, a new study shows a dramatic rise in teen vaping, particularly when it comes to vaping marijuana. Also on today’s show: award-winning chef and restaurant owner Missy Robbins offers a pro tip on business partnerships. Click here for more on what to expect in the impeachment story. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 18, 201912 min

Big Deals: Budget Breakthroughs, Boeing, Happy Birthday Simpsons

The House just passed a budget bill to fund the federal government through next September. The budget was only possible after lots of behind-the-scenes dealmakings, and the finished product includes some measures on election security and gun violence research that could have a big impact. Meanwhile, Boeing says it’s pushing ‘pause’ on production of its 737 Max aircraft. We’ll break down why this plane has made major headlines this year, and what it means for the US economy that Boeing will no longer make it. Also on today’s show: why some Democrats are vying for the ‘impeachment manager’ track, and ‘The Simpsons’ turns the big 3-0. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 17, 201911 min

Keep On Keepin’ On: Trade Deals, Protests in India, Climate Talks

The Trump administration reached two blockbuster trade deals last week – or so we thought. Turns out there are still some big question marks surrounding the future of the US-China trade war and the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Meanwhile, people across India are protesting a controversial new citizenship law. We’ll break down what the law says and why people are speaking out against it for very different reasons. Also on today’s show: why the latest UN climate summit ended with no new solutions, and one airport’s clever take on a Christmas tree. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 16, 201912 min

Two Roads Diverge: Late-Night Impeachment Quarrels, Brexit’s Open Road

Today the House Judiciary Committee gave the go-ahead for a full House vote on impeachment, but the process was anything but tidy. Committee members were at each other's throats last night, and this morning’s committee vote was along strict party lines. We’ll explain what’s next in the process. Meanwhile, UK voters took a lot of the guesswork out of Brexit last night when they handed the ruling Conservative Party a landslide election victory. That means Brexit’s back on track and dreams of a do-ever are all but dashed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 13, 201914 min

Now Boarding: Trade Courts, Parental Leave, Ugly Sweaters

The World Trade Organization’s top court stopped functioning this week after the US blocked the appointment of new judges. That means major trade disputes may go unresolved. We’ll explain how that could give the US new weapons in its trade battle with China, but could also inject uncertainty into the global economy. Meanwhile, it turns out Congress can walk and chew gum at the same time: the House of Representatives just passed a bill granting 12 weeks of paid parental leave to federal employees. We’ll explore just how historic that would be. Also on today’s show: Sen. Bernie Sanders unveils an ‘internet for all’ plan, and another reason to celebrate ugly sweaters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 12, 201913 min

Upgrades: New NAFTA, Executive Order, Campaign Transparency

People on both sides of the aisle in DC might finally be on the same page about something: a new trade deal with Mexico and Canada. We’ll explain what you need to know. Meanwhile, President Trump announced he’s signing an executive order aimed at combating anti-Semitism that could affect how the US interprets Judaism. We’ll explain what this has to do with the Civil Rights Act. Also on today’s show: how the presidential candidates are talking about money, and Time Magazine’s youngest Person of the Year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 11, 201914 min

High Crimes: Hearings at the Hague, Articles in the House, and Shifty DNA

The government of Myanmar is in court this week over allegations of genocide, and the actions of the country’s Nobel Peace Prize-winning leader is raising some eyebrows. We’ll explain why this case could have international implications. Meanwhile, Democrats in the House of Representatives have officially decided on two articles of impeachment against President Trump. We’ll break down what’s in them, and what ended up on the cutting room floor. Also on today’s show: a day to celebrate human rights, and a medical marvel that could really change you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 10, 201913 min

One More Time: Another Russia Report, Olympic Bans, Hong Kong Protests

If you thought you were done hearing about Russian interference in the 2016 election – think again. The Justice Department Inspector General dropped a 476-page report today on the origin story of the probe. We’ll explain why his team decided to investigate the investigation. Meanwhile, Russia got a pretty big slap on the wrist today. We’ll explain how a history of doping scandals got Russia uninvited from the 2020 Olympics. Also on today’s show: more protests in Hong Kong, and more women in Finland showing the world who’s boss. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 9, 201914 min

Going Viral: Measles in Samoa, Uber Safety Data, Yuletide Insults

Health officials in the island nation of Samoa are fighting a deadly measles outbreak. We’ll explain why anti-vaxxers in Samoa and in the US could be complicating their efforts. Meanwhile, Uber just released a massive safety report on incidents that occurred during trips in the US. We’ll dig into the company’s latest efforts to make its service safer. Also on today’s show: Airbnb cracks down on party homes, and why you should cut London’s charming Christmas tree some slack. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 6, 201913 min

Look Back in Anger: Abuse Claims, Pension Strikes, Talkative Robots

A handful of states are passing laws to help victims of child sexual abuse seek justice. We’ll explain why one new law in New Jersey could end up helping victims across the country. Meanwhile, French workers took to the streets to protest a proposed change to the pension system. We’ll connect the dots between France’s recent history of protests and how this new one is playing out. Also on today’s show: the positives and negatives of negative interest rates, and a rebooted robot returns to space. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 5, 201913 min

I Fought the Law: Impeachment, Hospital Bills, Salon Chemicals

The impeachment inquiry into President Trump jumped to a new House committee today, and it’s starting to feel a bit like law school. We’ll explain where the impeachment process stands and what’s still to come. Meanwhile, the Trump Administration wants hospitals and insurers to share their price lists for medical treatments, but hospitals aren’t having it. We’ll crunch the numbers on why hospitals don’t want to comply. Also on today’s show: a worrisome link between certain beauty products and risk of breast cancer, and an unexpected use for coffee husks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 4, 201913 min

You Get What You Give: Champagne Tariffs, Giving Tuesday, Rapinoe

President Trump is handing out tariffs left and right, and countries aren’t psyched about it. The latest target? French champagne, among other things. We’ll explain why tariffs have become the President’s economic weapon of choice. Meanwhile, the House Intelligence Committee has released its report on the impeachment inquiry. We’ll tell you what happens next. Also on today’s show: how to give back on Giving Tuesday, and a soccer legend wins the gold - again. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 3, 201913 min

Feuding: NATO Summit, Gun Rights, Black Friday vs. Cyber Monday

The UK is hosting a big NATO summit this week to celebrate the alliance’s 70th birthday. But budget fights and membership debates could kill the festive atmosphere. We’ll break down what to expect when the alliance gathers for tea in the English countryside. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court heard oral arguments in a major case today that could shape the future of gun rights in America. Also on today’s show: how Cyber Monday is giving Black Friday a run for its money, and how one town in Colorado opened its doors to stranded Thanksgiving travelers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 2, 201912 min

What’s Going On: Mass Imprisonment in China, Impeachment Drama, ‘Dear Santa’

Newly-leaked government documents are pulling back the curtain on China’s mass detention of ethnic minorities. We’ll get into how the docs provide important details about China’s crackdown on Uighurs and how the rest of the world is responding. Meanwhile: the impeachment process is far from over, and a federal judge just ordered a key witness to testify before Congress. We’ll explain why the House Judiciary Committee really wants to talk to former White House counsel Don McGahn. Also on today’s show: how bad weather could complicate Thanksgiving, and how to play Santa for kids in need. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 26, 201913 min

Following: Navy Secretary Out, Michael Bloomberg, Wild Turkey

The Secretary of the Navy is out. We’ll connect the dots between President Trump’s controversial pardons of service members and what they have to do with the Navy Secretary’s sudden departure. Meanwhile, former NYC mayor Michael Bloomberg got into the presidential race over the weekend. We’ll explain why some are expressing concerns about his baggage. Also on today’s show: Hong Kong voters show up for democracy, and a Wisconsin turkey is making headlines ahead of Thanksgiving. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 25, 201912 min

Can’t Let It Go: Israeli Political Drama, Debating Pot, ‘Let It Go’ 2.0

It was a busy week in Israeli politics, between a US announcement on West Bank settlements and talk of new elections next year. Then: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was indicted on multiple corruption charges. We’ll break it all down and explain how all the headlines connect. Meanwhile, members of Congress are pushing ahead on a bill to legalize marijuana at the federal level. We’ll explain where the American people stand on the issue. Also on today’s show: Victoria’s Secret ‘rethinks’ its fashion show, and can the new single from ‘Frozen 2’ rival ‘Let It Go?’ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 22, 201913 min

Bring Da Ruckus: Impeachment Hearings, Paid Family Leave, Throwback Theme Park

Today was the last day of scheduled impeachment hearings, and we heard from two officials who had front row seats to events at the center of the inquiry. We’ll explain what their testimonies mean for the inquiry. Meanwhile, 10 Democrats running for President got together last night and debated last night – again. One new topic that came up? Paid family leave. Also on today’s show: how to navigate the shorter holiday shopping season, and how South Korea’s feeling nostalgic for the nineties. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 21, 201914 min

We Hear You: Impeachment, Iran Protests, Grammy Noms

The US ambassador to the European Union walked into the impeachment inquiry hearing this morning, and threw just about everybody under the bus. We’ll explain how Gordon Sondland brought President Trump further into the inquiry, and the possible fallout of his testimony. Meanwhile, Iranians have been protesting a hike in gas prices, and the government responded by shutting off the Internet. We’ll explain the conditions that led to these now-deadly protests. Also on today’s show: what to know heading into tonight’s Democratic primary debate, and the new Grammy nominees. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 20, 201913 min

Neverending Story: Impeachment Hearings, Savvy Scammers, OK Boomer

Lawmakers sat for a LONG time today during marathon impeachment hearings on Capitol Hill. Today we finally heard from officials who listened in on President Trump’s now-infamous phone call with the leader of Ukraine. We’ll get into the latest impeachment revelations and how Republicans tried to question the credibility of today’s witnesses. Also on today’s show: why scammers are hungry for gift cards, and why “OK boomer” may be falling out of fashion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 19, 201911 min

Pardon Me?: War Crimes, Hong Kong Schools, Bye Bye Bei Bei

President Trump pardoned Army officers accused of war crimes, and the decision has sparked a heated debate over whether this is a good idea for the military justice system. We’ll explain the reasoning behind this move, and why some in the military are saying this is a bad idea. Meanwhile, student protesters in Hong Kong are starting the week off with a bang. We’ll explain how young people are leading the pro-democracy movement: on campus. Also on today’s show: confusion over a potential e-cigarette ban, and we say ‘bye-bye’ to a national treasure. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 18, 201913 min

Escalating: Impeachment Drama, Bill Blockers, People-Movers

Former US Ambassador to Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch testified in the ongoing impeachment hearings today. She described how her anti-corruption efforts earned her powerful enemies in Ukraine, and led to a smear campaign against her inside the Trump Administration. We’ll explain how Yovanovitch’s testimony today also got under Trump’s skin. Meanwhile, Chanel Miller stopped by Skimm HQ this week and shared a powerful message for other survivors of sexual assault. Also on today’s show: why the most interesting thing about a fancy new Starbucks isn’t the coffee. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 15, 201912 min

Float On: US-Ukraine Relations, Google Cache, Swimming Cows

Thanks to the ongoing impeachment inquiry, we’re hearing about Ukraine a lot lately. Turns out: the US and Ukraine have a history. We’ll explain why the diplomats you’re hearing from during public impeachment hearings are so concerned about the US’s relationship with Ukraine. Also on today’s show: Google tries to get ahold of your cache, and how wild cows are much better swimmers than we thought. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 14, 201912 min

Brace Yourself: Impeachment Hearings, Greta at Sea, Really Old Booze

The impeachment inquiry hearings into President Trump finally went public today. There was the usual partisan drama, but also some important new developments. We’ll break down the case Democrats hope to make and how a second phone call with Ukraine could strengthen their impeachment push. Meanwhile, privacy activists are cheering a new court ruling that could have an impact on international travel. Also on today’s show: climate activist Greta Thunberg sets sail back to Europe, and a shipwreck stuffed with liquor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 13, 201913 min

Out in the Cold: DACA, Bolivia’s President, Arctic Air

The Supreme Court heard one of the biggest cases of the term: whether the Trump admin can end DACA. That’s the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program started by President Obama in 2012. We’ll explain the Trump administration’s case for getting rid of it, and how hundreds of thousands of immigrants could be affected. Meanwhile, Bolivia’s president has fled the country. We’ll connect the dots between his controversial election, and the protests that pushed him to accept political asylum in Mexico. Also on today’s show: what to expect when you’re expecting the first public impeachment hearing, and really cold weather. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 12, 201912 min

Dark and Stormy: Hong Kong Protests, Concussion Research, Impeachment Smells

The pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong took a dark turn this week, amid the death of a young student and two violent attacks on politicians. After five months of demonstrations, protesters and the government don’t look anywhere close to making nice. We’ll explain what continued unrest means for the city and its long-storied reputation. Meanwhile, former NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg is thinking about getting into the 2020 presidential race. We’ll break down why Bloomberg’s path to 2020 could start in Alabama. Also on today’s show: new concussion research on female soccer players, and why the impeachment inquiry is starting to literally stink. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 8, 201912 min

Hold Up: The US v. Gilead, ‘Recanvassing,’ Buying a House

The US government is suing a major pharmaceutical company over its HIV prevention drugs. We’ll tell you why, and explain how it’s spotlighting a larger movement to make life-saving drugs easier to access. Meanwhile, the governor's race in Kentucky is over. Except: not really. The current governor is challenging the results of Tuesday’s vote — and asking for a ‘recanvass.’ We’ll explain what that means. Also on today’s show: how the housing market might affect your wallet, and another reason why there are #NoExcuses not to vote. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 7, 201912 min

Brave New Worlds: Shadow Diplomacy, Cartel Violence, Voting Methods

The outlines of a power struggle between US diplomats and President Trump’s personal attorney are emerging out of transcripts from the House impeachment investigation. We’ll connect the dots on why Rudy Giuliani’s ‘shadow diplomacy’ upset diplomats and caused some to ask the State Department for help that they didn’t end up receiving. Meanwhile, the murder of nine American citizens in Mexico this week is putting the Mexican government in the hot seat over its inability to put an end to cartel violence. And finally, we’ll break down ranked-choice voting and how an alternate way of picking candidates could improve American elections. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 6, 201911 min

One Day You're In: Paris Agreement, Election Day, Being 'Single'

The Trump administration formally told the United Nations that it’s pulling out of the Paris Climate Agreement, making the US the only country in the world to bow out of the landmark deal on climate change. We’ll connect the dots between the international response to the move, and its potential effect on the US economy. Meanwhile, it’s Election Day. We’ll break some of the big races to watch tonight. Also on today’s show: the benefits of having a long weekend every weekend, and a new way to define your relationship status… with yourself. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 5, 201912 min

Smoldering: PG&E’s Future, Iraq Protests, Party Houses

Firefighters are gradually putting out California’s wildfires, but the state’s big power company is just starting to feel the heat as lawmakers call for a government takeover. We’ll explore the challenges facing PG&E and why some politicians argue the utility shouldn't be a for-profit company. Meanwhile, protesters in Iraq are increasingly directing their frustration at Iran. We’ll look at the types of Iranian influence some Iraqis would prefer to live without. Also on today’s show: AirBnB cracks down on ‘party houses’, and a stuck, century-old boat that really wants to break free. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 4, 201913 min

Getting Started: 5G in China, Cystic Fibrosis Drug, NaNoWriMo

Earlier today, China turned on the fifth generation of super-fast Internet, AKA 5G. We’ll connect the dots between what the tech can do – for better and worse – and why there’s been a race to see who can press ‘on’ first. Meanwhile, a new drug treatment could change the lives of a lot of people with cystic fibrosis. We’ll explain why doctors are celebrating. Also on today’s show: we’re kicking off National Novel Writing Month, and saying goodbye to a gem in the UK Parliament. Here are those links we promised you about 5G health concerns, from The New York Times and the BBC. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 1, 201913 min

Spooktacular: Impeachment Rules, Twitter Ads, Dressed-Up Pets

The House of Representatives set the ground rules for its impeachment investigation into President Trump today. The next phase of the process – televised impeachment hearings – could start in less than two weeks. We’ll break down what to expect going forward and how Democrats and Republicans voted today. Meanwhile, Twitter says it’s so over politics and will start banning political ads next month. We’ll look at how that move affects Twitter’s bottom line. Also on today’s show: grocery delivery wars are becoming a thing, and so is dressing up your pet for Halloween. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 31, 201911 min

New Heights: Middle East Protests, Sea Levels, Phone Bills

Anti-government protests have erupted in Lebanon and Iraq. Young people are leading the charge, and are calling for major economic reforms. We’ll explain what protesters want, and how a key player in the region is getting involved. Meanwhile, new research warns rising sea levels could affect way more people than previously thought. We’ll look at what updated forecasts could mean for future ‘climate refugees.’ Also on today’s show: the Federal Reserve cuts interest rates once again, and some eagles are racking up a really high phone bill. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 30, 201912 min

For the Record: The Armenian Genocide, Impeachment, Palladium

The US House of Representatives is taking a historic vote today to recognize the Armenian Genocide of 1915. We’ll break down why mass atrocities dating back more than a century remain a hot-button political issue, and why the US is just getting around to this now. Meanwhile, lawmakers involved in the ongoing impeachment inquiry heard from someone with a front-row seat to President Trump’s phone call with the leader of Ukraine. We’ll fill you on what you need to know about Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Vindman. Also on today’s show: a new Brexit meltdown, and the world’s priciest precious metal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 29, 201912 min

Say Goodbye?: ISIS Leader, Missouri Abortion Clinic, Phishing

The leader of ISIS died during a US military raid in Syria over the weekend. We’ll explain who Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi was, and what his death means for ISIS – and for the world. Meanwhile, there’s only one clinic in Missouri that can perform abortions, and it could soon be forced to close. We’ll explain how a hearing this week could lead to Missouri becoming the first state in the country without access to abortion services. Also on today’s show: California’s wildfires are heating up, and phishing scams are becoming fishier. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 28, 201913 min

More Than Meets The Eye: Impeachment Inquiry, Chile Protests, TikTok

It’s been a busy week for the impeachment investigation into President Trump. Some key witnesses testified about the US-Ukraine relationship and Republicans staged a controversial walk-in of a secure conference room. We’ll break it all down and describe the White House’s plans going forward. Meanwhile, protests in Chile are entering their second week. They started in part because of transit fare hikes but are about a lot more than that. Finally, US lawmakers are worried TikTok could pose national security risks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 25, 201911 min

Cancel It?: Student Loans, Revenge Porn, Trading Fees

A top Education Department official is calling it quits, and on his way out the door he’s urging the federal government to cancel most of the country’s student loan debt. We’ll explain why that’s become a popular rallying cry, and what plans are being put forward. Meanwhile, a freshman congresswoman is under a House ethics investigation. We’ll connect the dots on the allegations against her, and why supporters claim she’s a victim of revenge porn. Also on today’s show: how commission-free investing can affect your wallet. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 24, 201912 min

Turn Around: Facebook Updates, Teachers Strike, Bird Alerts

It’s October 23rd. Today, we Skimm’d This: Facebook co-founder Mark Zuckerberg has been in the news a lot recently, and today he was in the hot seat on Capitol Hill. He faced tough questions about political accounts, political ads and the company’s jump into finance. We’ll break down how Zuckerberg and Facebook are trying to stay on the right side of lawmakers and US officials. Meanwhile, Chicago’s teachers are on strike for the fifth-consecutive school day. We’ll explain what’s behind their fight for better pay, more support staff, and smaller classes. Also on today’s show: rethinking Brexit’s scary-soon deadline, and how one bird is flying high again. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 23, 201912 min

Questionable: Ceasefire, Drone Deliveries, the ‘World’ Series

After five days, the ceasefire between Turkey and Kurdish fighters in Syria has come to an end. As the clock ran down, the Kurds said they had moved away from the border as promised, while Turkey’s president flew to Russia to strike a new deal. We’ll explain how the power dynamics in the region are starting to shift. Meanwhile, CVS and UPS are the latest companies to get into the drone delivery game. The future could be landing on your front porch soon. Also on today’s show: the origins of the World Series, and one emperor’s new groove. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 22, 201912 min

Making Changes: Canadian Elections, Opioid Settlement, and Floppy Disks

It’s Election Day in Canada, and polls are showing a virtual tie between the two biggest parties. We’ll connect the dots between the issues party leaders want to talk about, and the scandals that have dominated the campaign cycle. Meanwhile, the first federal trial in the opioid epidemic was supposed to start today. We’ll explain why a new settlement put that court date on hold. Also on today’s show: one unexpected place is legalizing abortion and same-sex marriage, and another is finally getting rid of floppy disks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 21, 201913 min

New Vocab: Impeachment Latin, El Chapito, All-Female Spacewalks

The impeachment inquiry is forcing us to dust off our Latin dictionaries and look up “quid pro quo” and “emolumentum.” These words are coming up as we learn more about President Trump’s dealings with Ukraine, and his decision to host the G7 summit at one of his Florida resorts. Meanwhile, infamous drug lord El Chapo may be behind bars in the US, but his Sinaloa Cartel is back in the news after battling with Mexican security forces yesterday. Also on today’s show: a message for anyone undergoing cancer treatments, and one giant leap for womankind. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 18, 201911 min

Let's Make a Deal: Brexit, Syria Ceasefire, Auto Worker Strike

With just days to go before a Brexit deadline, UK and EU leaders shook hands on a new withdrawal agreement today. But that hardly means a Halloween Brexit is guaranteed. We’ll explain what could happen when British lawmakers vote on the deal on Saturday. Meanwhile, US pressure on Turkey to halt fighting in Syria appeared to pay off today, as Turkey agreed to a ceasefire to spare US-allied Kurdish fighters. Also on today’s show: how a picket line update could affect you, and something that happened in Vegas that maybe shouldn’t stay there. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 17, 201911 min

Getting Involved: Russia in Turkey, Hong Kong Solidarity, and Good Samaritans

Russian and Syrian troops swooped into parts of northern Syria this week, just days after US troops pulled out. Given the history between Russia and Syria this isn’t much of a surprise, but it could still have a big impact on the future of the ongoing Syrian civil war. Meanwhile, Hong Kong’s leader tried to deliver her ‘state of the union’ speech today, only to have opposition lawmakers shout her off the stage. Now, she’s facing fresh pushback from across the Pacific – in the US Congress. Also on today’s show: Ronan Farrow opens up on the process of reporting the Harvey Weinstein story, and one good Samaritan's clever move to help return a wallet. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 16, 201912 min

Drawing Lines: DC Depositions, Racism in Sports, Amazing Authors

Three senior US officials have answered questions from House lawmakers in recent days, even as the White House has pushed to limit or block officials from complying with an ongoing impeachment probe. We’ll explain how Marie Yovanovitch, Fiona Hall, and George Kent fit into the investigation of President Trump’s dealings with Ukraine. Meanwhile, the sports world is up in arms after players on England’s men’s national soccer team were targeted with racial slurs at a match in Bulgaria. We’ll look at the ways sports officials are trying to rid hate from the game. Also on today’s show: good news for sleepy California teens, and the Booker Prize makes a big exception for two exceptional women. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 15, 201912 min