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President Trump’s defense lawyers have wrapped up opening arguments. We’ll break down the case they made, and what’s next for the Senate impeachment trial. Meanwhile, the White House has finally unveiled its plan for peace in the Middle East. But a key player to the deal wasn’t part of it, so TBD on whether the plan will work out. Also on today’s show: a new mobile app to track votes at the Iowa caucuses has security experts concerned. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Trump’s defense team is launching into day two of their opening arguments at the Senate impeachment trial. But leaked excerpts from former National Security Advisor John Bolton’s upcoming book are adding more pressure on senators to consider calling new witnesses. Meanwhile, Trump hosted two back-to-back meetings with Israel’s top two political rivals today. We’ll explain what this has to do with peace in the Middle East. Also on today’s show: the latest updates on coronavirus, and a thing to know when doing your taxes and growing your family. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

House Democrats are wrapping up three days of opening arguments in the Senate impeachment trial of President Trump. Before Trump’s defense lawyers take the mic on Saturday, we’ll take a look at how Democrats laid out the case, and whether it changed anyone’s minds. Then, President Trump became the first sitting president to speak at the March for Life rally today in DC. We’ll explain why his timing is everything. Also on today’s show: how drama over the head of the Recording Academy is overshadowing the biggest night in music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

China is turning to massive quarantines to stop the spread of coronavirus. Now, millions are impacted as transportation comes to a halt ahead of the Lunar New Year. We’ll explain why some experts say quarantines don’t always work as intended. Then, a UN court has ordered Myanmar to take steps to protect its persecuted Rohingya Muslim population. That demand couldn’t have come on a more timely day. Also on today’s show: Delta Airlines shares its profits with employees, and how to get ‘Tinder Verified.’ Here’s a link to our December show on the Myanmar case at the International Court of Justice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hundreds of people have been infected by a virus that originated in China. Now, a case has been diagnosed in the US, too. We’ll explain what the coronavirus is and how officials are handling it. Meanwhile, the impeachment trial is back in session, so expect some long nights ahead. We’ll look into how the first day of oral arguments by the House Managers kicked off. Also on today’s show: how life updates can impact your taxes, and a pro-tip on career negotiations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The world’s biggest movers and shakers are packing up their skis and heading to a place called Davos in the Swiss Alps. That’s right: it’s time for the annual World Economic Forum. We’ll explain what that is and why it’s a big deal. Meanwhile, the Senate spent the day laying out the rules of President Trump’s impeachment trial. We’ll look into what a trial looks like on Capitol Hill. Also on today’s show: why the New York Times’ 2020 endorsement is making headlines. If you have a few extra minutes, we'd love to hear your thoughts. Please take our survey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

All eyes are on the Senate in the run up to next week’s impeachment trial. But new rules could make it difficult, or even impossible, to keep up with what’s going on. We’ll tell you why. Then, we’ll dive into your inbox to help explain all those privacy policy emails you’ve probably been receiving. Also on today’s show: the story behind China’s falling birth rate, and Michigan’s place in the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. If you have a few extra minutes, we'd love to hear your thoughts. Please take our survey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Something new started today: the impeachment trial of the President of the United States. We’ll explain how a one-man media circus gave the start of the trial a run for its money. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin just watered down the powers of his own office. Or, did he? We'll break down why Putin might be up to one of his oldest tricks. Also on today’s show: we look at women who work, and rewind a century to relive a ‘Dry January’ that ended up lasting 13 years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The “i” word is back in the headlines after the House of Representatives sent articles of impeachment to the Senate today. Did Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s decision to hit ‘pause’ on impeachment for almost a month pay off? We’ll dive in. Meanwhile, the US and China signed a “phase one” trade deal today. Whether it’s enough to settle the trade drama is a whole nother story. Also on today’s show: an unmissable debate moment, and career advice from Kate Upton. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One month after a deadly shooting in Florida, the Justice Department is still trying to figure out what happened. But there’s one thing standing in the way of investigators: Apple. We’ll explain why the government and big tech are fighting over data privacy. Meanwhile, tonight is the last democratic debate before the first voters head to the polls. We’ll break down what will and won’t be on stage. Also on today’s show: the WNBA makes money moves, and a record-breaking rapper. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Iran is suddenly on the defensive, facing critics inside and outside the country after it admitted to shooting down a passenger plane last week. We’ll explain how Iran is dealing with widespread protests and how the plane accident could impact the country’s diplomatic standing. Meanwhile, the Australian government is also on the defensive over its climate policies as wildfires continue to rage down under. Also on today’s show: a royal summit, and the big (corporate) winner from today’s Oscar nominations. PS: if you want to help the Aussie fire relief efforts, here’s the link we mentioned in the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Days after a deadly plane crash in Iran, questions remain over what exactly happened. We’ll explain why major media outlets and western leaders are pointing to Iran. Meanwhile, Puerto Rico is still recovering from two huge earthquakes this week. We’ll look into how the devastation following Hurricane Maria two years ago is affecting the island’s recovery efforts. Also on today’s show: the buzziest new gadgets, and the (maybe) first humans on Mars. PS: if you want to help the earthquake relief efforts, here’s the link we mentioned in the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

First there was Brexit, now there’s Megxit. If you checked Instagram (or just the internet) this week, you probably saw the news that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are stepping back from their roles as senior royals. So, what does this actually mean? Can they do that? In this Skimm Special, we explain the decision that shocked the world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Members of Congress had a heated debate today over limiting President Trump’s ability to start a war with Iran. We’ll explain who holds the war-fighting cards in Washington and why Congress rarely raises its voice. Meanwhile, the White House is rolling back rules concerning environmental impact assessments for key infrastructure projects. We’ll dig into why President Richard Nixon thought they were important in the first place. Also on today’s show: tips on how to ask for a pay raise, and a check-up with RBG. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At times this week, it looked like the US and Iran were heading toward an all-out war. And those concerns only intensified last night after Iran attacked a pair of Iraqi military bases where US troops are stationed. We’ll explain the likelihood of war at this moment, or whether it’s possible the two foes will stand down. Meanwhile, we’ll explain why a a CEO-turned-fugitive in Lebanon is making headlines for his unlikely escape from Japan. Also on today’s show: a big royal announcement, and a former ambassador’s advice about negotiating with your boss...even if your boss is the President of the United States. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The latest drama between the US and Iran is catching Iraq in the crossfire. After a deadly US drone strike in Iraq, Iraq’s parliament wants US troops out of the country. We’ll explain how America’s relations with key ally are suddenly at risk. Meanwhile, lawmakers are back at work in the US and the UK. We’ll break down how they plan to tackle two big agenda items – impeachment and Brexit. Also on today’s show: how Facebook is fighting deepfakes, and how your Christmas tree could enjoy a second life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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