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.
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.
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The most dangerous award
23 min
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The startup that cried dire wolf
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.
23 min
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How the Abrego Garcia standoff ends
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.
23 min
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Conclave (2025)
We try to divine who will follow Pope Francis and introduce you to one of his many legacies: the first millennial saint.
23 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.
23 min
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Is climate progress doomed?
Many worry that the clean energy transition will be derailed by the Trump administration. But there's reason to believe otherwise.
25 min
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Mar-a-Lago makeover
23 min
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Trump v. Mangione
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).
23 min
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Why Harvard is fighting back
23 min
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Art of the (Iran) deal
24 min
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It’s China’s turn
China has spent years preparing for this trade war — and for a world no longer dominated by the US.
23 min
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What if college isn't for everyone?
For decades, high schools and parents have prioritized college for all graduating seniors. Now, more students are asking if there's another way.
26 min
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Watercooler TV is back
23 min
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Laura Loomered the NSA
22 min
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Plastic rain, plastic rain
23 min
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The nostalgia economy
23 min
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Project 2025’s next chapter
23 min
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Is a house still a good investment?
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.
27 min
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Pray for Hooters
24 min
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The day after "Liberation Day"
23 min
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Why young people are getting cancer
23 min
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Hasan Piker explains himself
27 min
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Not Coming to America
Traveling to the United States is getting tricky, but there are ways to be careful.
23 min
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Blinded by the headlights
Drivers and passengers are right: Car headlights are brighter now. And the solutions aren't simple.