“Skimm This” is a weekly news program that breaks down important stories from the past week and adds context and clarity to answer the questions on your mind. Every Thursday evening.
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Kid Q&A: Sleep On It
Should you let your baby cry it out at night? Is it ever OK to give a toddler melatonin? And maybe most importantly — will you ever get a good night's sleep again? This week, we're teaming up with Boston Children's Hospital to answer your biggest questions about parenting and your kids' health. And for our final episode, we're tackling every parent's favorite topic: sleep. Dr. Judith Owens, director of the hospital's pediatric sleep center, puts a lot of our worries to bed.
Kid Q&A: Cold, Flu or COVID?
It's virus season again — though if you feel like it's been virus season nonstop for years, you're not alone. This week, we're teaming up with Boston Children's Hospital to answer your biggest questions about parenting and your kids' health. And today it's all about those respiratory viruses your kids keep bringing home from daycare. We're talking to infectious disease specialist Dr. Kirstin Moffitt to get the rundown on how to manage risk, how to navigate the latest vaccine news, and what to look out for your if your kid does come down with a cold, RSV, flu, or COVID.
Kid Q&A : The Tantrum Diaries
We’ve all heard of the “terrible twos.” But what’s really going on when a toddler has a tantrum? And what’s “normal”? This week, we're teaming up with Boston Children's Hospital to answer your biggest questions about parenting and your kids' health. Starting with those spectacular meltdowns. We've tapped psychologist Dr. Erica Lee to help us understand why kids tantrum, how to help your own toddler when they do, and (crucially) how to say sane through all of it.
Midnights: Liz Truss, Student Loans, Midterms
First: We’ve got the context on the week’s biggest headlines: Liz Truss is out after 44 days in office, new tax brackets that could mean more cash in your wallet (thanks inflation), and Netflix’s Hollywood comeback. Then: The U.S. government has officially launched the application for people to apply for student debt relief. We’re breaking down all the info you need to know if you’re eligible. Plus people keep saying it takes less than a minute to fill out… so we’re putting that theory to the test, all in 60 seconds. Next: We’re Skimming the stakes of the midterm elections - who’s going to control congress, who might run in 2024, and what the future of our election systems looks like. Want to learn more? Check out our midterm election guides. Also: We’re in a mental health crisis in America. And work, aka the place you spend over 50% of your time, could be to blame. We're talking to the government's top doc about his latest guidelines on how companies can protect their workers mental health. Finally: There’s been a lot of BGE this fall – Big Gourd Energy. We sat down with one of the nation’s top female mega-pumpkin growers to get a behind the scenes look at the wild world of mega-pumpkins. On this episode, you’ll hear from: Jen Palmieri, Co-host of The Circus, Showtime Dr. Vivek Murthy, U.S. Surgeon General Cindy Tobeck, giant pumpkin farmer Want more Skimm? Sign up for our free daily newsletter Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear. We had additional help this week from Hannah Parker.
In This Economy?!: Staying Sane
Sky-high inflation. Rising interest rates. A maybe recession. Oh, it’s just the second financial crisis millennial women are facing in their lifetime. In this special miniseries from the Skimm This team, we're going to give you the tools you need to navigate a rocky economic environment. Today, we’re talking about staying sane in this economy. All these headlines haven’t been great for our mental health - and we know that financial stress can seriously impact our well-being. So in our final episode, we're Skimm'ing actionable steps you can take today to give yourself peace of mind in the future. On this episode, you’ll hear from: Emily Thorn, Head of Consumer Advocacy, Marcus by Goldman Sachs PS: The views expressed today by Emily Thorn are her own and do not necessarily reflect the views or institutional opinions of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., Goldman Sachs Bank USA, Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC or any of their affiliates, subsidiaries or divisions. The information provided is for informational use only and is not a substitute for individualized professional advice. Goldman Sachs Bank USA and Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC are not providing any financial, economic, legal, accounting, tax or other recommendation.
Long Time Running: January 6th Committee, Xi Jinping, 5 Years of #MeToo
First: We’ve got the context on the week’s biggest headlines: September inflation numbers (sigh), the final January 6th committee hearing, another escalation in the war in Ukraine, and an update on Venezuelan migrants trying to enter the US. Then: This month marks five years since journalists broke several #MeToo stories and sparked convos about sexual harassment and assault in the workplace. And as Harvey Weinstein starts his second trial for sex crimes this week, #MeToo’s legacy is still with us. So we're Skimm'ing five things that have happened in the five years years since the first Weinstein story broke – from legislation that's passed to how we think about #MeToo in the workplace. Next: Chinese leader Xi Jinping is about to take on an unprecedented third term this weekend. We're speaking to The Economist's China correspondent about how he changed the nation – and its position on the international stage – and what we can expect in the future. Finally: October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. And a lot has changed since the first officially recognized one in 1995, from the decline in death rates to treatment quality. We talk to theSkimm’s senior health writer to learn when you should get your risk evaluated, and how screening tech has changed. PS: Learn more about guidance on early screening and risk for breast cancer here. On this episode, you’ll hear from: Sue Lin Wong, China correspondent, The Economist Carly Mallenbaum, senior health writer, theSkimm Want more Skimm? Sign up for our free daily newsletter Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.
In This Economy?!: Investing
Sky-high inflation. Rising interest rates. A maybe recession. Oh, it’s just the second financial crisis millennial women are facing in their lifetime. In this special miniseries from the Skimm This team, we're going to give you the tools you need to navigate a rocky economic environment. In our second episode, we’re talking about investing…in this economy. Because ICYMI, stocks haven’t exactly been on the up and up. We’re going to break down the best investment accounts for your money goals, what a “bear market” means for our finances, and how to develop your investment mindset. PS: head to Marcus.com for more insights that can help you live your best financial life. On this episode, you’ll hear from: Delyanne Barros, investing coach
Guess Who’s Back: SCOTUS Returns, NFL Controversy, Twitter and Musk
First: We’re giving you the context on this week’s biggest headlines, including: Biden’s latest move on marijuana, what to expect from the new Supreme Court term, an update on Hurricane Ian recovery efforts, and the anti-regime protests in Iran. Then: Just when you thought you’d had enough, the internet’s most toxic couple is back on again. We’ll Skimm the messy love story between Elon Musk and Twitter, and why they’re eloping for real this time…in 60 seconds. Next: The NFL is in the headlines again and – spoiler – it’s not for good news. After the Dolphins’ QB suffered what appears to be two head injuries in back-to-back games, the league’s sketchy history with head injuries is back in the spotlight. We'll break down where the league stands on concussions and how their policies have affected players from the big leagues to high school fields. Finally: Voice memos are somewhere between a text and a call. But, like crafting the perfect text, there’s an art to it. We spoke with an etiquette expert on the do’s and don’ts of voice memos. So you can still record your thoughts without starting a new podcast. On this episode, you’ll hear from: Leslie Scism, news editor, The Wall Street Journal Lindsay Jones, senior editor, The Ringer Skimm HQrs: Sophie, Kat, Cameryn, Melanie, Irina and Andrew Elaine Swann, founder & CEO, Swann School of Protocol Want more Skimm? Sign up for our free daily newsletter Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.
In This Economy?!: Budgeting for Inflation
Sky-high inflation. Rising interest rates. A maybe recession. Oh, it’s just the second financial crisis millennial women are facing in their lifetime. In this special miniseries from the Skimm This team, we're going to give you the tools you need to navigate a rocky economic environment. Starting with: adjusting your budget for sky high prices. In this first episode, we’re going line by line through your budget to save you money. So yes, we’re talking about cutting back on things like subscription services and late night Amazon purchases. But we’re also digging into how to save money on the essentials, what debts you need to pay off first, and more. Also, if you need a budgeting template, theSkimm’s got you covered. PS: head to Marcus.com for more insights that can help you live your best financial life. On this episode, you’ll hear from: Michelle Singletary, personal finance columnist, The Washington Post
Disturbia: Workplace Surveillance, Putin's War, Hurricane Ian
First: We’ve got the latest on the week’s biggest headlines: Hurricane Ian, Team Biden’s plan to end hunger by 2030, a big development in Alzheimer’s research, and WTF happened to the British Pound this week. Then: After Ukraine made gains in the war this month, Putin is scrambling to figure out how to keep Russia in the game. We’ll Skimm three of Russia’s strategic pivots and how they could impact the outcome of the war…in 60-ish seconds. Next: Ever feel like your boss is watching you through your webcam? Do you move your mouse to make it look like you’re doing work? Ya might want to keep it up. Because workplace surveillance has been on the rise since the pandemic started. Our expert told us why workplaces are watching their workers, how it actually backfires on employers, and what this means for the future of work. Finally: Hate to break it to you but…summer’s officially over. If cold weather and lack of sunshine has a habit of bringing your vibes down, you’re not alone. Seasonal affective disorder affects millions of Americans. We’ve got tips for your routine that could be key to fighting the winter blues. No happy lamps needed. On this episode, you’ll hear from: Hilke Schellmann, assistant professor of journalism, New York University Dr. Kelly Rohan, professor of psychological science, University of Vermont PS: Feeling nervous about the economy lately? Don’t worry. We’re launching a miniseries to help you protect your finances and your mental health…in this economy. Catch it in your feed on Monday. Want more Skimm? Sign up for our free daily newsletter Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin with additional help from Alaisha Key. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.
When September Ends: Adnan Syed, Immigration, the Queen’s Funeral
First: We’re giving you the context on this week’s biggest headlines, including: another interest rate hike, storm damage in Puerto Rico, new anxiety screenings coming to a doctor's office near you, and growing protests in Iran. Then: Picture this: it’s 2014. You’re anxiously waiting for another episode of Serial to drop in your podcast feed. Fast forward to this week: a major development drops in the Adnan Syed case. We’ll skimm Syed’s case, why Serial put his case in the spotlight, and why it’s back in the news…in 60 seconds. Next: After several governors sent migrants to Martha’s Vineyard, NYC, and DC, “immigration” and the “border” are being Google-searched more than “abortion” and “inflation”. We call up an expert to help cut through the noise about what’s really happening at the border, whether there’s actually a border “crisis”, and what the federal government is doing to help. Finally: It was all pomp and circumstance at the Queen's funeral. But have royal funerals always been so fit for a queen? We talk to a reporter to learn how royal funerals have changed over time, get a vibe check on the UK, and what’s to come from the monarchy under King Charles. On this episode, you’ll hear from: Kristie De Peña, vice president of policy and director of immigration, The Niskanen Center Erin Vanderhoof, staff writer and co-host of Dynasty, Vanity Fair PS: Calling all Skimm This listeners. Have questions about the news, work, or life? Call and leave us a voicemail at (929) 266-4381. We can’t wait to hear from you. Want more Skimm? Sign up for our free daily newsletter Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin with additional help from Alaisha Key. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.
Price Tag: Congressional Trading, College Rankings, the Art of Mediocrity
First: We’ve got the top headlines of the week: a national abortion ban on the table just weeks before the midterms, August inflation numbers (sigh), Ukraine’s recent string of W’s, and the DL on the new updates for iMessage. Then: After a scandal at Columbia University, the college went from #2 to #18 on the US News College Ranking List. But after learning just how the list comes up with its rankings, many are questioning how legit that list even is. We break down what caused Columbia’s fall from grace and the shady side of college-ranking culture…in 60 seconds. Next: An investigation by The New York Times found that nearly one-fifth of Congress – or their family members – were trading stock in a way that could be considered a conflict, renewing convos around Congressional stock trading and whether it should be allowed. To hear both sides of the spicy debate, we talk to one of the reporters. PS: check out the Times investigation here. Finally: Being mediocre at your hobbies is in. Chasing perfectionism is out. We talk to a WSJ columnist who investigated the art of being bad at something and how it actually makes your mental health and your life better. Huzzah for participation trophies. On this episode, you’ll hear from: Kate Kelly, domestic correspondent, The New York Times Rachel Feintzeig, columnist, The Wall Street Journal PS: Calling all Skimm This listeners. Have questions about the news, work, or life? Call and leave us a voicemail at (929) 266-4381. We can’t wait to hear from you. Want more Skimm? Sign up for our free daily newsletter Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts Skimm'd by Alex Carr, Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.
God Save the Queen: Remembering Elizabeth II, Europe’s Energy Crisis, PSL Season
First: Queen Elizabeth II has died at the age of 96. We’ll take a look at the life and legacy of Britain’s longest-ruling monarch, and what’s next for Buckingham Palace. Then: We’ve got the context on the biggest headlines of the week: the UN report on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant in Ukraine, California heat waves, a controversial Texas healthcare ruling, and Apple’s latest announcement. Purple iPhone, anyone? Next: Russia shut off its Nord Stream pipeline indefinitely and European countries are scrambling to figure out how to power their countries. We call an expert who helps explain how we got here, what solutions are on the table, and how this energy crisis could affect the US. Also: If you’ve been wondering WTF a special master is, you’re not alone. We’ll Skimm a special master’s job description, why Team Trump requested one after the Mar-A-Lago raid, and why this judge’s decision was controversial…in 60 seconds. Finally: Pumpkin spice latte season is here – but not if inflation can help it. This year, your Starbucks order of a PSL is clocking in at almost $6. Ouch. But lucky for us, it’s pretty easy to recreate the magic from your own kitchen. We call a food writer to tell us how to DIY PSL. On this episode, you’ll hear from: Matt Phillips, markets correspondent, Axios Becky Krystal, staff writer, Voraciously PS: Calling all Skimm This listeners. Have questions about the news, work, or life? Call and leave us a voicemail at (929) 266-4381. We can’t wait to hear from you. Want more Skimm? Sign up for our free daily newsletter Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts
To The Moon?: New Boosters, Artemis 1, MoviePass 2.0
First: We’ve got the breakdown on some of this week’s headlines, from UN inspectors on the ground at a nuclear plant in Ukraine, to an unfolding water crisis wreaking havoc on residents in Jackson, Mississippi. Next: Even though it’s the end of summer, the FDA is gearing up for another COVID Winter. We spoke to a doctor about the new booster shots that could be available as soon as next week, and how they’re different from the shots you already have. Also: NASA’s still trying to shoot for the moon, after aborting a rocket mission on Monday. Ahead of liftoff on Saturday, we’ll explain why we’re headed back to our closest celestial neighbor and what it means for the future of space exploration all…in 60 seconds. Finally: MoviePass is back…and it’s giving strong “movie theaters aren’t dead” energy. We’ll talk to an entertainment reporter about what’s changed since their last attempt at changing the movie ticket game. PS: Calling all Skimm This listeners. Have questions about the news, work, or life? Call and leave us a voicemail at (929) 266-4381. We can’t wait to hear from you. On this episode, you’ll hear from: Dr. Kavita Patel, primary care physician Alexandra Canal, Senior Reporter, Yahoo Finance Want more Skimm? Sign up for our free daily newsletter Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts Skimm'd by Alex Carr and Will Livingston, with help from Sami Roberts. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.
Fun Tonight: Student Debt Relief, Electric Cars, Barbiecore
First: We’re sitting down with United States Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona to get the full update on President Biden’s student debt relief announcement. Next: We’ve got some other big headlines from this week, from the first conviction linked to Breonna Taylor’s death in 2020 to where things stand after six months of war in Ukraine. Here’s a look at life in wartime, from photojournalists on the ground. Also: A big selling point for the inflation reduction act is a tax credit for electric vehicle purchases. And while it’s getting drivers excited to go green, it's a little unclear which cars actually qualify for cash back. We’ll break it down in 60 seconds. ICYMI: Quiet quitting has been all over TikTok, but what does the term actually mean? We’re sitting down with an expert to go over what quiet quitting looks like in practice, and what it says about our changing relationship with work. Finally: It’s a hot pink revolution. Barbiecore has been taking the fashion world by storm, and encouraging people to go bold with some vibrant new looks. We’re talking to an expert about how Barbiecore came to be — and why you should say yes to the pink dress. PS: Calling all Skimm This listeners. Have questions about the news, work, or life? Call and leave us a voicemail at (929) 266-4381. We can’t wait to hear from you. On this episode, you’ll hear from: Miguel Cardona, United States Secretary of Education Erica Pandey, Business Reporter, Axios Katharine Zarrella, Fashion Director, Off duty, The Wall Street Journal Want more Skimm? Sign up for our free daily newsletter Email us your questions about what’s going on in the news right now Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts Skimm'd by Will Livingston, and Blake Lew-Merwin with help from Rashaan Ayesh. Engineered by Andrew Callaway and Elie McAfee-Hahn. TheSkimm’s head of audio is Graelyn Brashear.