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Today, Explained

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Today, Explained is Vox's daily news explainer podcast. Hosts Sean Rameswaram and Noel King will guide you through the most important stories of the day. Part of the Vox Media Podcast Network.
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Today, Explained is Vox's daily news explainer podcast. Hosts Sean Rameswaram and Noel King will guide you through the most important stories of the day. Part of the Vox Media Podcast Network.
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Published 2025-04-27

Retire? In this economy?!

30 min
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With 401(k)s taking a hit and the fate of Social Security uncertain, we get some advice for how to talk to the elders in your life about work and retirement.

This episode was produced by Carla Javier and Gabrielle Berbey, edited by Miranda Kennedy, fact-checked by Melissa Hirsch, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Jonquilyn Hill. Photo credit: Momo Productions/Getty Images. 

Call us with your questions about personal style: 1-800-618-8545. You can also send us a note at vox.com/askvox.

Listen to Explain It to Me ad-free by becoming a Vox Member: vox.com/members.

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With 401(k)s taking a hit and the fate of Social Security uncertain, we get some advice for how to talk to the elders in your life about work and retirement.

This episode was produced by Carla Javier and Gabrielle Berbey, edited by Miranda Kennedy, fact-checked by Melissa Hirsch, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Jonquilyn Hill. Photo credit: Momo Productions/Getty Images. 

Call us with your questions about personal style: 1-800-618-8545. You can also send us a note at vox.com/askvox.

Listen to Explain It to Me ad-free by becoming a Vox Member: vox.com/members.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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Published 2025-04-25

The most dangerous award

25 min
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There’s a brand-new category coming to the Academy Awards: Best Stunt Design. A writer and two stunt performers explain why it took almost a century.


This episode was produced by Hady Mawajdeh, edited by Jolie Myers with help from Amina Al-Sadi, fact checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Listen to Today, Explained ad-free by becoming a Vox Member: vox.com/members. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast.


On the set of Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome. Photo by Warner Bros. Pictures/Sunset Boulevard/Corbis via Getty Images.

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There’s a brand-new category coming to the Academy Awards: Best Stunt Design. A writer and two stunt performers explain why it took almost a century.


This episode was produced by Hady Mawajdeh, edited by Jolie Myers with help from Amina Al-Sadi, fact checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Listen to Today, Explained ad-free by becoming a Vox Member: vox.com/members. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast.


On the set of Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome. Photo by Warner Bros. Pictures/Sunset Boulevard/Corbis via Getty Images.

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Published 2025-04-24

The startup that cried dire wolf

26 min
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Colossal says it's brought the dire wolf back from extinction — but the accuracy of that claim and the ethics of de-extinction are in question.


This episode was produced by Devan Schwartz, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Further reading: The Dire Wolf Is Back. Listen to Today, Explained ad-free by becoming a Vox Member: vox.com/members. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast.


Colossal’s Dire Wolves, Romulus and Remus, at one month old. Photo credit Business Wire.

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Colossal says it's brought the dire wolf back from extinction — but the accuracy of that claim and the ethics of de-extinction are in question.


This episode was produced by Devan Schwartz, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Further reading: The Dire Wolf Is Back. Listen to Today, Explained ad-free by becoming a Vox Member: vox.com/members. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast.


Colossal’s Dire Wolves, Romulus and Remus, at one month old. Photo credit Business Wire.

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Published 2025-04-23

How the Abrego Garcia standoff ends

25 min
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Sen. Chris Van Hollen of Maryland recounts his visit with Kilmar Abrego Garcia. Former prosecutor Elie Honig explains the three scenarios that could end this legal standoff.


This episode was produced by Miles Bryan and Amanda Lewellyn, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Listen to Today, Explained ad-free by becoming a Vox Member: vox.com/members. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast.


Sen. Van Hollen during his meeting with Garcia at an undisclosed location in San Salvador. Photo by Sen. Van Hollen's Office via Getty Images.

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Sen. Chris Van Hollen of Maryland recounts his visit with Kilmar Abrego Garcia. Former prosecutor Elie Honig explains the three scenarios that could end this legal standoff.


This episode was produced by Miles Bryan and Amanda Lewellyn, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Listen to Today, Explained ad-free by becoming a Vox Member: vox.com/members. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast.


Sen. Van Hollen during his meeting with Garcia at an undisclosed location in San Salvador. Photo by Sen. Van Hollen's Office via Getty Images.

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Published 2025-04-22

Conclave (2025)

26 min
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We try to divine who will follow Pope Francis and introduce you to one of his many legacies: the first millennial saint.


This episode was produced by Victoria Chamberlin and Avishay Artsy, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard and Gabrielle Berbey, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Listen to Today, Explained ad-free by becoming a Vox Member: vox.com/members. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast.


Pope Francis praying with priests at the Vatican several years ago. Photo by FILIPPO MONTEFORTE/AFP via Getty Images.

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We try to divine who will follow Pope Francis and introduce you to one of his many legacies: the first millennial saint.


This episode was produced by Victoria Chamberlin and Avishay Artsy, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard and Gabrielle Berbey, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Listen to Today, Explained ad-free by becoming a Vox Member: vox.com/members. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast.


Pope Francis praying with priests at the Vatican several years ago. Photo by FILIPPO MONTEFORTE/AFP via Getty Images.

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Published 2025-04-21

American_history_v9_final_FINAL_THIS ONE

25 min
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Government websites have erased references to American heroes like Harriet Tubman and Jackie Robinson in order to comply with Trump’s anti-DEI push. But America is no stranger to revisionist history.


This episode was produced by Amanda Lewellyn, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Noel King.


Listen to Today, Explained ad-free by becoming a Vox Member: vox.com/members. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast.


Jackie Robinson, who integrated Major League Baseball in 1947, posing in his batting stance. Photo credit Bettmann/Getty Images.

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Government websites have erased references to American heroes like Harriet Tubman and Jackie Robinson in order to comply with Trump’s anti-DEI push. But America is no stranger to revisionist history.


This episode was produced by Amanda Lewellyn, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Noel King.


Listen to Today, Explained ad-free by becoming a Vox Member: vox.com/members. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast.


Jackie Robinson, who integrated Major League Baseball in 1947, posing in his batting stance. Photo credit Bettmann/Getty Images.

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Published 2025-04-20

Is climate progress doomed?

29 min
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Many worry that the clean energy transition will be derailed by the Trump administration. But there's reason to believe otherwise.


Listen to Explain It to Me ad-free by becoming a Vox Member: vox.com/members.


Call in your question at 1-800-618-8545.


This episode was produced by Avishay Artsy, edited by Miranda Kennedy, fact checked by Melissa Hirsch and engineered by Matthew Billy. Photo of wind turbines in a storm in western Iowa by Jim West/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images. 



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Many worry that the clean energy transition will be derailed by the Trump administration. But there's reason to believe otherwise.


Listen to Explain It to Me ad-free by becoming a Vox Member: vox.com/members.


Call in your question at 1-800-618-8545.


This episode was produced by Avishay Artsy, edited by Miranda Kennedy, fact checked by Melissa Hirsch and engineered by Matthew Billy. Photo of wind turbines in a storm in western Iowa by Jim West/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images. 



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Published 2025-04-18

Mar-a-Lago makeover

26 min
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There is a very distinct “look” many people in the MAGA world have adopted, and comedian Suzanne Lambert is making a career calling it out. Mother Jones senior editor Inae Oh says it’s bigger than bronzer.


This episode was produced by Gabrielle Berbey, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Listen to Today, Explained ad-free by becoming a Vox Member: vox.com/members. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast.


Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem at the White House. Photo by Ken Cedeno/UPI/Bloomberg via Getty Images.

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There is a very distinct “look” many people in the MAGA world have adopted, and comedian Suzanne Lambert is making a career calling it out. Mother Jones senior editor Inae Oh says it’s bigger than bronzer.


This episode was produced by Gabrielle Berbey, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Listen to Today, Explained ad-free by becoming a Vox Member: vox.com/members. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast.


Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem at the White House. Photo by Ken Cedeno/UPI/Bloomberg via Getty Images.

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Published 2025-04-17

Trump v. Mangione

25 min
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The Trump administration is seeking the death penalty for Luigi Mangione, who is scheduled back in court this week. Plus, a closer look at a work that may have inspired Mangione (the Unabomber’s manifesto).


This episode was produced by Hady Mawajdeh, edited by Jolie Myers, fact checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Listen to Today, Explained ad-free by becoming a Vox Member: vox.com/members. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast.


Luigi Mangione appearing at a February hearing for the murder of UHC CEO Brian Thompson. Photo by Curtis Means - Pool/Getty Images.

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The Trump administration is seeking the death penalty for Luigi Mangione, who is scheduled back in court this week. Plus, a closer look at a work that may have inspired Mangione (the Unabomber’s manifesto).


This episode was produced by Hady Mawajdeh, edited by Jolie Myers, fact checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Listen to Today, Explained ad-free by becoming a Vox Member: vox.com/members. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast.


Luigi Mangione appearing at a February hearing for the murder of UHC CEO Brian Thompson. Photo by Curtis Means - Pool/Getty Images.

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Published 2025-04-16

Why Harvard is fighting back

25 min
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Harvard is refusing to play along with the Trump administration's demands of elite universities, whereas at least 10 Florida public universities are openly cooperating with ICE.


This episode was produced by Miles Bryan and Devan Schwartz, edited by Miranda Kennedy, fact checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Listen to Today, Explained ad-free by becoming a Vox Member: vox.com/members. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast.


Harvard University's unofficial turkey mascot during a February college basketball game. Photo by Erica Denhoff/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images.

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Harvard is refusing to play along with the Trump administration's demands of elite universities, whereas at least 10 Florida public universities are openly cooperating with ICE.


This episode was produced by Miles Bryan and Devan Schwartz, edited by Miranda Kennedy, fact checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Listen to Today, Explained ad-free by becoming a Vox Member: vox.com/members. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast.


Harvard University's unofficial turkey mascot during a February college basketball game. Photo by Erica Denhoff/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images.

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Published 2025-04-15

Art of the (Iran) deal

26 min
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Iran allegedly plotted to assassinate President Donald Trump late last year. But that’s not stopping the Trump administration from trying to strike a nuclear deal with Iran.


This episode was produced by Gabrielle Berbey and Travis Larchuk, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Noel King.


Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members

Further reading: Revenge by Alex Isenstadt.


Newspaper front pages at a kiosk in Tehran as talks with the US begin. Photo by ATTA KENARE/AFP via Getty Images.

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Iran allegedly plotted to assassinate President Donald Trump late last year. But that’s not stopping the Trump administration from trying to strike a nuclear deal with Iran.


This episode was produced by Gabrielle Berbey and Travis Larchuk, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Noel King.


Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members

Further reading: Revenge by Alex Isenstadt.


Newspaper front pages at a kiosk in Tehran as talks with the US begin. Photo by ATTA KENARE/AFP via Getty Images.

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Published 2025-04-14

It’s China’s turn

25 min
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China has spent years preparing for this trade war — and for a world no longer dominated by the US.


This episode was produced by Miles Bryan, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Noel King.


Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


A store at a Beijing shopping mall displaying its advertising banner. AP Photo/Andy Wong.

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China has spent years preparing for this trade war — and for a world no longer dominated by the US.


This episode was produced by Miles Bryan, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Noel King.


Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


A store at a Beijing shopping mall displaying its advertising banner. AP Photo/Andy Wong.

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Published 2025-04-13

What if college isn't for everyone?

29 min
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For decades, high schools and parents have prioritized college for all graduating seniors. Now, more students are asking if there's another way.


This episode was produced by Victoria Chamberlin, edited by Miranda Kennedy, fact-checked by Colleen Barrett, engineered by Matthew Billy and Patrick Boyd and hosted by Jonquilyn Hill. Photo by Michael Blackshire / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images. 

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For decades, high schools and parents have prioritized college for all graduating seniors. Now, more students are asking if there's another way.


This episode was produced by Victoria Chamberlin, edited by Miranda Kennedy, fact-checked by Colleen Barrett, engineered by Matthew Billy and Patrick Boyd and hosted by Jonquilyn Hill. Photo by Michael Blackshire / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images. 

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Published 2025-04-11

Watercooler TV is back

26 min
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The Pitt, The White Lotus, and Severance have people talking about TV again. A writer from The Pitt and Vulture's Kathryn VanArendonk explain why.


This episode was produced by Hady Mawajdeh, edited by Miranda Kennedy, fact checked by Miles Bryan, engineered by Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


A scene from the medical drama The Pitt. Photograph by Warrick Page/Max via HBO.

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The Pitt, The White Lotus, and Severance have people talking about TV again. A writer from The Pitt and Vulture's Kathryn VanArendonk explain why.


This episode was produced by Hady Mawajdeh, edited by Miranda Kennedy, fact checked by Miles Bryan, engineered by Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


A scene from the medical drama The Pitt. Photograph by Warrick Page/Max via HBO.

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Published 2025-04-10

Laura Loomered the NSA

25 min
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President Trump fired the head of the NSA — not because of a cyber attack, but because conservative activist Laura Loomer said so. How did she become so influential?


This episode was produced by Gabrielle Berbey and Victoria Chamberlin, edited by Miranda Kennedy, fact checked by Amanda Lewellyn, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Noel King.


Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


Far-right activist Laura Loomer. Photo by Jacob M. Langston for The Washington Post via Getty Images.

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President Trump fired the head of the NSA — not because of a cyber attack, but because conservative activist Laura Loomer said so. How did she become so influential?


This episode was produced by Gabrielle Berbey and Victoria Chamberlin, edited by Miranda Kennedy, fact checked by Amanda Lewellyn, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Noel King.


Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


Far-right activist Laura Loomer. Photo by Jacob M. Langston for The Washington Post via Getty Images.

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Published 2025-04-09

Plastic rain, plastic rain

25 min
View

We (mostly) got rid of acid rain, but now there’s another scary thing falling from the sky.


This episode was produced by Avishay Artsy, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Miles Bryan, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Further reading: We got rid of acid rain. Now something scarier is falling from the sky. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images.

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We (mostly) got rid of acid rain, but now there’s another scary thing falling from the sky.


This episode was produced by Avishay Artsy, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Miles Bryan, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Further reading: We got rid of acid rain. Now something scarier is falling from the sky. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images.

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Published 2025-04-08

The nostalgia economy

25 min
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President Donald Trump’s tariffs are meant to return America to a throwback economy — and culture. An economist who advises the White House makes the case for why looking to the past is the best plan for the future.


This episode was produced by Miles Bryan, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Amanda Lewellyn, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Noel King.


Further reading: The powerful force behind Trump's tariffs. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


President Trump during his “Make America Wealthy Again” trade announcement event last week. Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images.

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President Donald Trump’s tariffs are meant to return America to a throwback economy — and culture. An economist who advises the White House makes the case for why looking to the past is the best plan for the future.


This episode was produced by Miles Bryan, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Amanda Lewellyn, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Noel King.


Further reading: The powerful force behind Trump's tariffs. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


President Trump during his “Make America Wealthy Again” trade announcement event last week. Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images.

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Published 2025-04-07

Project 2025’s next chapter

25 min
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Project Esther offers a blueprint for casting some campus protesters as part of a “Hamas Support Network,” making it easier to detain and deport them. Critics say the plan doesn’t fight antisemitism — and could make it worse.


This episode was produced by Amanda Lewellyn, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Noel King.


Further reading: Project Esther: A National Strategy to Combat Antisemitism. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


An exterior view of The Heritage Foundation building. Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images.

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Project Esther offers a blueprint for casting some campus protesters as part of a “Hamas Support Network,” making it easier to detain and deport them. Critics say the plan doesn’t fight antisemitism — and could make it worse.


This episode was produced by Amanda Lewellyn, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Noel King.


Further reading: Project Esther: A National Strategy to Combat Antisemitism. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


An exterior view of The Heritage Foundation building. Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images.

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Published 2025-04-06

Is a house still a good investment?

30 min
View

Given the economy and interest rates, homebuying doesn't seem like it’s necessarily the way to go anymore. So consider this not your parents’ real estate advice. 


If you have a question about a story that matters to your life, give us a call at 1-800-618-8545.


This episode was produced by Hady Mawajdeh and Carla Javier. It was edited by Miranda Kennedy, fact checked by Melissa Hirsch, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and hosted by Jonquilyn Hill. Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images.

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Given the economy and interest rates, homebuying doesn't seem like it’s necessarily the way to go anymore. So consider this not your parents’ real estate advice. 


If you have a question about a story that matters to your life, give us a call at 1-800-618-8545.


This episode was produced by Hady Mawajdeh and Carla Javier. It was edited by Miranda Kennedy, fact checked by Melissa Hirsch, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and hosted by Jonquilyn Hill. Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images.

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Published 2025-04-04

Pray for Hooters

26 min
View

The “breastaurant” filed for bankruptcy this week. Many say good riddance, but Peter Rothpletz explains why he’ll remember his “conversion therapy with a side of ranch” fondly.


This episode was produced by Victoria Chamberlin, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Further reading: Why dads take their gay sons to Hooters. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


Hooters Girl Charmaine Fobbs as staff prepared for the grand opening of the Hooters Casino Hotel in Las Vegas in 2006. Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images.

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The “breastaurant” filed for bankruptcy this week. Many say good riddance, but Peter Rothpletz explains why he’ll remember his “conversion therapy with a side of ranch” fondly.


This episode was produced by Victoria Chamberlin, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Further reading: Why dads take their gay sons to Hooters. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


Hooters Girl Charmaine Fobbs as staff prepared for the grand opening of the Hooters Casino Hotel in Las Vegas in 2006. Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images.

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Published 2025-04-03

The day after "Liberation Day"

25 min
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It's unclear what Trump's latest tariffs liberate us from. Tariffs can be good policy when done right, but this latest round is scrambling America's alliances and economy.


This episode was produced by Devan Schwartz and Gabrielle Berbey, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard and Amanda Lewellyn, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Noel King.


Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


President Donald Trump after signing executive orders imposing tariffs during the “Make America Wealthy Again” event in the White House Rose Garden. Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images.

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It's unclear what Trump's latest tariffs liberate us from. Tariffs can be good policy when done right, but this latest round is scrambling America's alliances and economy.


This episode was produced by Devan Schwartz and Gabrielle Berbey, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard and Amanda Lewellyn, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Noel King.


Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


President Donald Trump after signing executive orders imposing tariffs during the “Make America Wealthy Again” event in the White House Rose Garden. Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images.

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Published 2025-04-02

Why young people are getting cancer

25 min
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It’s not just Dwyane Wade, James Van Der Beek, and Kate Middleton; younger and younger people are getting cancer more and more. Vox’s Dylan Scott lays out what we know, and Kate Zickel explains how she survived cancer with hope intact.


This episode was produced by Victoria Chamberlin, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


NBA Hall of Famer Dwyane Wade speaking about his cancer diagnosis on the Today Show. Photo by Nathan Congleton/NBC via Getty Images.

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It’s not just Dwyane Wade, James Van Der Beek, and Kate Middleton; younger and younger people are getting cancer more and more. Vox’s Dylan Scott lays out what we know, and Kate Zickel explains how she survived cancer with hope intact.


This episode was produced by Victoria Chamberlin, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


NBA Hall of Famer Dwyane Wade speaking about his cancer diagnosis on the Today Show. Photo by Nathan Congleton/NBC via Getty Images.

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Published 2025-04-01

Hasan Piker explains himself

29 min
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Last week we talked about Hasan. Now we talk to him — about the Democrats, protein, and not giving in to nihilism.


This episode was produced by Miles Bryan, edited by Amina Al-Sadi with help from Miranda Kennedy, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


Political commentator Hasan Piker talks to Sean Rameswaram in an interview for Today, Explained.

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Last week we talked about Hasan. Now we talk to him — about the Democrats, protein, and not giving in to nihilism.


This episode was produced by Miles Bryan, edited by Amina Al-Sadi with help from Miranda Kennedy, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


Political commentator Hasan Piker talks to Sean Rameswaram in an interview for Today, Explained.

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Published 2025-03-31

Not Coming to America

25 min
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Traveling to the United States is getting tricky, but there are ways to be careful.


This episode was produced by Hady Mawajdeh and Amanda Lewellyn, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Further reading: How worried should legal immigrants be about Trump’s deportations? Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


Signs and flowers on a tree near where ICE agents apprehended Tufts University graduate student Rumeysa Ozturk. Photo by Scott Eisen/Getty Images.

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Traveling to the United States is getting tricky, but there are ways to be careful.


This episode was produced by Hady Mawajdeh and Amanda Lewellyn, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Further reading: How worried should legal immigrants be about Trump’s deportations? Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


Signs and flowers on a tree near where ICE agents apprehended Tufts University graduate student Rumeysa Ozturk. Photo by Scott Eisen/Getty Images.

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Published 2025-03-30

Blinded by the headlights

31 min
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Drivers and passengers are right: Car headlights are brighter now. And the solutions aren't simple.


If you have a question for us, please give a call at 1-800-618-8545 or send a note at vox.com/askvox.


This episode was produced and sound designed by Hady Mawajdeh, edited by Miranda Kennedy, fact checked by Melissa Hirsch, engineered by Patrick Boyd and hosted by Jonquilyn Hill. Photo by zhen li for Getty Images. 

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Drivers and passengers are right: Car headlights are brighter now. And the solutions aren't simple.


If you have a question for us, please give a call at 1-800-618-8545 or send a note at vox.com/askvox.


This episode was produced and sound designed by Hady Mawajdeh, edited by Miranda Kennedy, fact checked by Melissa Hirsch, engineered by Patrick Boyd and hosted by Jonquilyn Hill. Photo by zhen li for Getty Images. 

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Published 2025-03-28

Huge week for the group chat

26 min
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This week offered some lessons on, among other things, how to text responsibly 👊🇺🇸🔥


This episode was produced by Gabrielle Berbey and Avishay Artsy, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Further reading: Here Are the Attack Plans That Trump’s Advisers Shared on Signal, Texting do's and don'ts for 2024. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


Democratic Congressman Jared Moskowitz holds up a posterboard showing emojis used by President Trump's national security officials in the Houthi group text chat. Image courtesy of the office of Jared Moskowitz.

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This week offered some lessons on, among other things, how to text responsibly 👊🇺🇸🔥


This episode was produced by Gabrielle Berbey and Avishay Artsy, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Further reading: Here Are the Attack Plans That Trump’s Advisers Shared on Signal, Texting do's and don'ts for 2024. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


Democratic Congressman Jared Moskowitz holds up a posterboard showing emojis used by President Trump's national security officials in the Houthi group text chat. Image courtesy of the office of Jared Moskowitz.

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Published 2025-03-27

Fear is the economy killer

25 min
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The biggest threat to the American economy might be the American consumer’s sour mood.


This episode was produced by Miles Bryan and Carla Javier, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Jonquilyn Hill.


Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


A "99 cent Up & Less" sign in a Brooklyn neighborhood. Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images.

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The biggest threat to the American economy might be the American consumer’s sour mood.


This episode was produced by Miles Bryan and Carla Javier, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Jonquilyn Hill.


Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


A "99 cent Up & Less" sign in a Brooklyn neighborhood. Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images.

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Published 2025-03-26

The “Joe Rogan of the left”

27 min
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Data on who didn’t vote for the Dems is finally coming in and it’s clear that they have a problem. Can Hasan Piker be the solution?


This episode was produced by Amanda Lewellyn and Travis Larchuk, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


Hasan Piker at a 2018 event in Washington, DC. Photo by Kris Connor/Getty Images for The Young Turks.

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Data on who didn’t vote for the Dems is finally coming in and it’s clear that they have a problem. Can Hasan Piker be the solution?


This episode was produced by Amanda Lewellyn and Travis Larchuk, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


Hasan Piker at a 2018 event in Washington, DC. Photo by Kris Connor/Getty Images for The Young Turks.

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Published 2025-03-25

Trump's judge grudge

25 min
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Judges, including one of his own Supreme Court appointees, are trying to rein President Trump in. In return, Trump is threatening to impeach judges.


This episode was produced by Gabrielle Berbey and Devan Schwartz, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett During President Donald Trump's address to Congress earlier this month. Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images.

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Judges, including one of his own Supreme Court appointees, are trying to rein President Trump in. In return, Trump is threatening to impeach judges.


This episode was produced by Gabrielle Berbey and Devan Schwartz, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett During President Donald Trump's address to Congress earlier this month. Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images.

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Published 2025-03-24

Make America Measles Again (MAMA)

25 min
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The US eliminated measles, but now it’s making a comeback — and RFK Jr’s advice isn’t exactly helping.


This episode was produced by Avishay Artsy, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


A sign offering measles testing outside of Seminole Hospital District in Seminole, Texas. AP Photo/Julio Cortez.

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The US eliminated measles, but now it’s making a comeback — and RFK Jr’s advice isn’t exactly helping.


This episode was produced by Avishay Artsy, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


A sign offering measles testing outside of Seminole Hospital District in Seminole, Texas. AP Photo/Julio Cortez.

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Published 2025-03-23

Gen Sex

30 min
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Gen X women are freeing themselves from the hangups of the '90s, and having the best sex of their lives. Media portrayals of middle-aged women are starting to catch up too.


If you have a question for us, please call us at 1-800-618-8545 or send a note at vox.com/askvox.


This episode was produced and sound designed by Victoria Chamberlin, edited by Miranda Kennedy, fact checked by Melissa Hirsch, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Jonquilyn Hill.


Actress Demi Moore at a press conference for the film "The Substance." Photo by ZOULERAH NORDDINE/AFP via Getty Images. 


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Gen X women are freeing themselves from the hangups of the '90s, and having the best sex of their lives. Media portrayals of middle-aged women are starting to catch up too.


If you have a question for us, please call us at 1-800-618-8545 or send a note at vox.com/askvox.


This episode was produced and sound designed by Victoria Chamberlin, edited by Miranda Kennedy, fact checked by Melissa Hirsch, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Jonquilyn Hill.


Actress Demi Moore at a press conference for the film "The Substance." Photo by ZOULERAH NORDDINE/AFP via Getty Images. 


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Published 2025-03-21

Snow White and the Seven Controversies

27 min
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Disney’s new live action Snow White has a little something to upset everyone, from casting to Israel-Palestine to President Trump. Slate’s Nadira Goffe and Vox’s Constance Grady explain.


This episode was produced by Devan Schwartz, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


Disney "Snow White" actress Rachel Zegler joins Sneezy & Sleepy on the red carpet for the movie premiere in Hollywood. Photo by Phillip Faraone/Getty Images for Allegra.

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Disney’s new live action Snow White has a little something to upset everyone, from casting to Israel-Palestine to President Trump. Slate’s Nadira Goffe and Vox’s Constance Grady explain.


This episode was produced by Devan Schwartz, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


Disney "Snow White" actress Rachel Zegler joins Sneezy & Sleepy on the red carpet for the movie premiere in Hollywood. Photo by Phillip Faraone/Getty Images for Allegra.

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Published 2025-03-20

No kids on the block

25 min
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The pro-natalism movement argues that people need to have more babies. Some want to prevent economic implosion, others want to protect traditional family values. And some of the loudest voices in the movement are now in the White House.


This episode was produced by Miles Bryan, edited by Jolie Myers and Miranda Kennedy, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Noel King.


Further reading: The movement desperately trying to get people to have more babies. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

This episode was made in partnership with Vox's Future Perfect team. Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


SpaceX and Tesla CEO Elon Musk holding one of his children on his shoulders. Photo by Riccardo De Luca/Anadolu via Getty Images.

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The pro-natalism movement argues that people need to have more babies. Some want to prevent economic implosion, others want to protect traditional family values. And some of the loudest voices in the movement are now in the White House.


This episode was produced by Miles Bryan, edited by Jolie Myers and Miranda Kennedy, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Noel King.


Further reading: The movement desperately trying to get people to have more babies. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

This episode was made in partnership with Vox's Future Perfect team. Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


SpaceX and Tesla CEO Elon Musk holding one of his children on his shoulders. Photo by Riccardo De Luca/Anadolu via Getty Images.

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Published 2025-03-19

The autocrat's prison

25 min
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The US is deporting alleged members of the gang Trén de Aragua and paying El Salvador to house them in a mega-prison. But we don’t know if the deportees are actually gang members at all.


This episode was produced by Avishay Artsy and Amanda Lewellyn, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Noel King.


Further reading: Inside El Salvador's notorious CECOT mega-prison. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


More than 250 suspected gang members deported from the U.S. arriving in El Salvador's mega-prison. Photo by El Salvador Presidency / Handout/Anadolu via Getty Images.

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The US is deporting alleged members of the gang Trén de Aragua and paying El Salvador to house them in a mega-prison. But we don’t know if the deportees are actually gang members at all.


This episode was produced by Avishay Artsy and Amanda Lewellyn, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Noel King.


Further reading: Inside El Salvador's notorious CECOT mega-prison. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


More than 250 suspected gang members deported from the U.S. arriving in El Salvador's mega-prison. Photo by El Salvador Presidency / Handout/Anadolu via Getty Images.

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Published 2025-03-18

Silencing the Voice of America

25 min
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President Donald Trump has ordered the federally funded broadcaster to be “eliminated.” Longtime VOA correspondent Steve Herman explains why it will be missed.


This episode was produced by Gabrielle Berbey and Travis Larchuk with help from Miles Bryan, edited by Miranda Kennedy, fact-checked by Laura Bullard and Amanda Lewellyn, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Further reading: Behind the White House Curtain. Trump tapped Kari Lake to run VOA. Then he dismantled it. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


Longtime VOA correspondent Steve Herman in front of the White House. Photo by Sarah Silberger.

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President Donald Trump has ordered the federally funded broadcaster to be “eliminated.” Longtime VOA correspondent Steve Herman explains why it will be missed.


This episode was produced by Gabrielle Berbey and Travis Larchuk with help from Miles Bryan, edited by Miranda Kennedy, fact-checked by Laura Bullard and Amanda Lewellyn, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.


Further reading: Behind the White House Curtain. Trump tapped Kari Lake to run VOA. Then he dismantled it. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


Longtime VOA correspondent Steve Herman in front of the White House. Photo by Sarah Silberger.

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Published 2025-03-17

An America First trap

25 min
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This isn’t the first time we’ve tried to go America First. The last time helped blow up the economy and our relationships with our allies.

This episode was produced by Amanda Lewellyn, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard and Travis Larchuk, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Noel King.

Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members

Canadian and American flags flying on the Canadian side of the Ambassador Bridge in Windsor, Ontario. Photo by GEOFF ROBINS/AFP via Getty Images.

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This isn’t the first time we’ve tried to go America First. The last time helped blow up the economy and our relationships with our allies.

This episode was produced by Amanda Lewellyn, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard and Travis Larchuk, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Noel King.

Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members

Canadian and American flags flying on the Canadian side of the Ambassador Bridge in Windsor, Ontario. Photo by GEOFF ROBINS/AFP via Getty Images.

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Published 2025-03-16

Did diversity ever work ... at work?

30 min
View

There's a backlash against corporate DEI efforts, and it’s not just from the right. It's everywhere. What does that mean for employees?

This episode was produced by Hady Mawajdeh, edited by Miranda Kennedy, fact-checked by Melissa Hirsch, mixed by Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Jonquilyn Hill.

Photo credit: jeffbergen for Getty Images.

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There's a backlash against corporate DEI efforts, and it’s not just from the right. It's everywhere. What does that mean for employees?

This episode was produced by Hady Mawajdeh, edited by Miranda Kennedy, fact-checked by Melissa Hirsch, mixed by Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Jonquilyn Hill.

Photo credit: jeffbergen for Getty Images.

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Published 2025-03-14

What if we stopped shopping?

26 min
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Fed up with consumerism, Mia Westrap went a whole year without buying unnecessary stuff. She went viral, and so did her goal. Now, the Buy Nothing movement is fighting back against mindless consumption by doing...nothing.

This episode was produced by Victoria Chamberlin, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Matt Billy, and hosted by Noel King.

Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


A crush of shoppers on Oxford Street in London. Photo by Dan Kitwood/Getty Images.

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Fed up with consumerism, Mia Westrap went a whole year without buying unnecessary stuff. She went viral, and so did her goal. Now, the Buy Nothing movement is fighting back against mindless consumption by doing...nothing.

This episode was produced by Victoria Chamberlin, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Matt Billy, and hosted by Noel King.

Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


A crush of shoppers on Oxford Street in London. Photo by Dan Kitwood/Getty Images.

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Published 2025-03-13

The man who helped kill DEI

29 min
View

Policy in the second Trump administration is being driven by a small group of thinkers from the online right. We talk to one of them about how he got DEI dismantled.

This episode was produced by Miles Bryan with help from Carla Javier, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Noel King.

Further reading: The deeply online origins of MAGA 2.0 by Andrew Prokop. The Origins of Woke by Richard Hanania. Richard Hanania, Rising Right-Wing Star, Wrote For White Supremacist Sites Under Pseudonym. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members

Photo courtesy of Richard Hanania.

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Policy in the second Trump administration is being driven by a small group of thinkers from the online right. We talk to one of them about how he got DEI dismantled.

This episode was produced by Miles Bryan with help from Carla Javier, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Noel King.

Further reading: The deeply online origins of MAGA 2.0 by Andrew Prokop. The Origins of Woke by Richard Hanania. Richard Hanania, Rising Right-Wing Star, Wrote For White Supremacist Sites Under Pseudonym. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members

Photo courtesy of Richard Hanania.

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Published 2025-03-12

Deporting Mahmoud Khalil

25 min
View

The Trump administration has fallen short of its promise to deport millions. The White House now seems focused on attention-grabbing arrests, including that of a Palestinian activist and leader of the Columbia student protests.

This episode was produced by Avishay Artsy and Gabrielle Berbey, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard and Amanda Lewellyn, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Noel King.

Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members

Mahmoud Khalil, who was a student negotiator in the pro-Palestinian protest encampments on the Columbia University campus last year. AP Photo/Ted Shaffrey.

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The Trump administration has fallen short of its promise to deport millions. The White House now seems focused on attention-grabbing arrests, including that of a Palestinian activist and leader of the Columbia student protests.

This episode was produced by Avishay Artsy and Gabrielle Berbey, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard and Amanda Lewellyn, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Noel King.

Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members

Mahmoud Khalil, who was a student negotiator in the pro-Palestinian protest encampments on the Columbia University campus last year. AP Photo/Ted Shaffrey.

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Published 2025-03-11

Teslump

25 min
View

Protests against Tesla embody the outrage against Elon Musk’s DOGE-e behavior. But Musk doesn't seem to care. And given his position in the federal government, he may not have to.

This episode was produced by Devan Schwartz, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Noel King.

Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


A burned Tesla Cybertruck being inspected after four Cybertrucks were set on fire at a storage lot Sunday night.

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Protests against Tesla embody the outrage against Elon Musk’s DOGE-e behavior. But Musk doesn't seem to care. And given his position in the federal government, he may not have to.

This episode was produced by Devan Schwartz, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Noel King.

Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


A burned Tesla Cybertruck being inspected after four Cybertrucks were set on fire at a storage lot Sunday night.

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Published 2025-03-10

A Walz to Remember

28 min
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Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz sat down with Sean Rameswaram over the weekend at SXSW in Austin, Texas, to talk about 2024, 2025, and what might help his party in 2028.

This episode was produced by Hady Mawajdeh with help from Travis Larchuk, edited by Miranda Kennedy, fact-checked by Laura Bullard and Amanda Lewellyn, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.

The whole SXSW interview with Governor Walz will be up on Vox's Youtube channel later this week. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


Sean Rameswaram and MN Governor Tim Walz arrive to the SXSW stage for the Today, Explained interview in Austin this weekend. Photo by Getty Images/Vox Media.

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Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz sat down with Sean Rameswaram over the weekend at SXSW in Austin, Texas, to talk about 2024, 2025, and what might help his party in 2028.

This episode was produced by Hady Mawajdeh with help from Travis Larchuk, edited by Miranda Kennedy, fact-checked by Laura Bullard and Amanda Lewellyn, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.

The whole SXSW interview with Governor Walz will be up on Vox's Youtube channel later this week. Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members


Sean Rameswaram and MN Governor Tim Walz arrive to the SXSW stage for the Today, Explained interview in Austin this weekend. Photo by Getty Images/Vox Media.

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Published 2025-03-09

Why does dating suck for guys?

26 min
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The rules of romance have changed, and many young men feel they can't keep up. We get some tips from a Texas men's relationship coach.

This episode was produced by Hady Mawajdeh and Carla Javier, edited by Miranda Kennedy, fact checked by Melissa Hirsch, mixed by Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Jonquilyn Hill.


Shutterstock image by fstop Images.

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The rules of romance have changed, and many young men feel they can't keep up. We get some tips from a Texas men's relationship coach.

This episode was produced by Hady Mawajdeh and Carla Javier, edited by Miranda Kennedy, fact checked by Melissa Hirsch, mixed by Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Jonquilyn Hill.


Shutterstock image by fstop Images.

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Published 2025-03-07

Whey too much protein

26 min
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Added protein really seems to be in all the food lately. Reporter Chris Gayomali says to thank environmental regulations, GLP-1s, and Arnold Schwarzenegger for our modern protein boom.

This episode was produced by Gabrielle Berbey, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Matthew Billy, and hosted by Noel King.

Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members

Protein bars on display at a CVS pharmacy in Queens, New York. Photo by Lindsey Nicholson/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images.

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Added protein really seems to be in all the food lately. Reporter Chris Gayomali says to thank environmental regulations, GLP-1s, and Arnold Schwarzenegger for our modern protein boom.

This episode was produced by Gabrielle Berbey, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Matthew Billy, and hosted by Noel King.

Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members

Protein bars on display at a CVS pharmacy in Queens, New York. Photo by Lindsey Nicholson/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images.

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Published 2025-03-06

The Zizian "death cult"

27 min
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Journalist Max Read explains how a bunch of Silicon Valley computer scientists spun into a cult accused of killings.

This episode was produced by Amanda Lewellyn with help from Travis Larchuk, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Noel King.

Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members

A mugshot of Jack 'Ziz' Lasota, leader of the Zizians, after her arrest in connection with the killing of a Border Patrol Officer in Vermont in January. Image courtesy of the Allegany, MD County Sheriff's Office.

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Journalist Max Read explains how a bunch of Silicon Valley computer scientists spun into a cult accused of killings.

This episode was produced by Amanda Lewellyn with help from Travis Larchuk, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Noel King.

Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members

A mugshot of Jack 'Ziz' Lasota, leader of the Zizians, after her arrest in connection with the killing of a Border Patrol Officer in Vermont in January. Image courtesy of the Allegany, MD County Sheriff's Office.

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Published 2025-03-05

Serving your country while trans

25 min
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Sam Rodriguez is on active duty in the US Navy. They are also trans. Now, the Trump administration wants to remove them from the US military.

This episode was produced by Victoria Chamberlin, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Noel King.

Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members

Photo courtesy of Navy Petty Officer Sam Rodriguez.

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Sam Rodriguez is on active duty in the US Navy. They are also trans. Now, the Trump administration wants to remove them from the US military.

This episode was produced by Victoria Chamberlin, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Noel King.

Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members

Photo courtesy of Navy Petty Officer Sam Rodriguez.

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Published 2025-03-04

Breaking up with Ukraine

25 min
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Why the humiliation of Volodymyr Zelenskyy holds a twisted appeal for Trump's core supporters. And what Europe plans to do about it.

This episode was produced by Avishay Artsy and Devan Schwartz, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard and Kim Eggleston, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.

Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy preparing for the European leaders' summit on Ukraine in London. Photo by Justin Tallis - WPA Pool/Getty Images.

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Why the humiliation of Volodymyr Zelenskyy holds a twisted appeal for Trump's core supporters. And what Europe plans to do about it.

This episode was produced by Avishay Artsy and Devan Schwartz, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard and Kim Eggleston, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.

Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy preparing for the European leaders' summit on Ukraine in London. Photo by Justin Tallis - WPA Pool/Getty Images.

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Published 2025-03-03

The Gulf of America?

25 min
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What started as a liberal joke is now a MAGA reality. Just check your map app. But it’s not just Google, Apple, and Microsoft falling in line.

This episode was produced by Avishay Artsy and Travis Larchuk, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.

Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members

President Donald Trump signing a proclamation renaming the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America aboard Air Force One in February. Photo by ROBERTO SCHMIDT/AFP via Getty Images.

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What started as a liberal joke is now a MAGA reality. Just check your map app. But it’s not just Google, Apple, and Microsoft falling in line.

This episode was produced by Avishay Artsy and Travis Larchuk, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.

Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members

President Donald Trump signing a proclamation renaming the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America aboard Air Force One in February. Photo by ROBERTO SCHMIDT/AFP via Getty Images.

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Published 2025-02-28

The messiest Oscars category

26 min
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The Seed of the Sacred Fig was (secretly) shot in Iran with Iranian actors and an Iranian director. But it’s Germany’s submission for Best International Film.

This episode was produced by Avishay Artsy, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.

Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members

An Oscars ad at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood with a portrait of Oscar host Conan O'Brien. Photo by Barbara Munker/picture alliance via Getty Images.

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The Seed of the Sacred Fig was (secretly) shot in Iran with Iranian actors and an Iranian director. But it’s Germany’s submission for Best International Film.

This episode was produced by Avishay Artsy, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.

Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members

An Oscars ad at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood with a portrait of Oscar host Conan O'Brien. Photo by Barbara Munker/picture alliance via Getty Images.

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Published 2025-02-27

Is flying still safe?

25 min
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Recent airplane crashes and near misses have everyone freaked out, just as DOGE is laying off workers at the agency charged with keeping people safe in the air.

This episode was produced by Victoria Chamberlin and Gabrielle Berbey, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.

Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members

The Delta Air Lines plane that crashed and landed upside down at Toronto International Airport earlier this month. Photo by Katherine KY Cheng/Getty Images.

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Recent airplane crashes and near misses have everyone freaked out, just as DOGE is laying off workers at the agency charged with keeping people safe in the air.

This episode was produced by Victoria Chamberlin and Gabrielle Berbey, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.

Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members

The Delta Air Lines plane that crashed and landed upside down at Toronto International Airport earlier this month. Photo by Katherine KY Cheng/Getty Images.

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