1 big thing

"Nothing, nothing, can come in the way of saving our democracy. That includes personal ambition." President Biden explained his move to the American people in an address Wednesday night. Now, a new race lies ahead -- one no longer so focused on the past, between two candidates who've already done the job of president. So what is it about? Axios co-founders Mike Allen and Jim VandeHei take us inside their reporting. Guests: Axios co-founders Mike Allen and Jim VandeHei, authors of the Axios "Behind the Curtain" column Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura and Jay Cowit. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 25 July 2024

Based on this week's Republican National Convention, the assassination attempt on former President Trump seems to have unified the GOP. Alex Thompson is national political correspondent for Axios, and he says while conventions often put cleavages and frictions on display, Saturday's events have made many of those frictions within the party virtually disappear. Alex joins us for a special episode from the RNC in Milwaukee to lead us through this moment for the GOP. Plus: Axios' Sophia Cai recounts the threats she and other journalists faced after the Saturday shooting. Guests: Alex Thompson, Axios national political correspondent; Sophia Cai, national politics reporter at Axios. Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura and Jay Cowit. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 18 July 2024

The October 7th Hamas terrorist attack and Israel's ensuing war in Gaza have made Jews around the world look closer at the core of their faith and the role of Israel. Legal and religious scholar Noah Feldman has been digging into his own Jewish faith as he watches political and intergenerational conflict play out around him, on college campuses and beyond. He explores all this in a new book, and speaks with Niala for the first of several conversations on 1 big thing about faith in America today--and how changing religious identities affect us all. Guests: Noah Feldman, professor of law at Harvard University and author of "To Be a Jew Today: A New Guide to God, Israel and the Jewish People." Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura and Jay Cowit. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 11 July 2024

As we celebrate 248 years of being a democracy, has the U.S. Supreme Court become the most powerful branch of government? We put that to Jeff Rosen, president and CEO of the National Constitution Center, who in his latest book delves deep into the thinking of the founding fathers. For a special July 4th episode we asked him for his take on the immunity ruling and the SCOTUS term behind us, and his own 1 big thing: how the founding fathers' thinking about the courts and democracy matters today. Guests: Jeffrey Rosen, president and CEO of the National Constitution Center and host of We the People, a weekly podcast of constitutional debate; author of The Pursuit of Happiness: How Classical Writers on Virtue Inspired the Lives of the Founders and Defined America Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura and Jay Cowit. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 4 July 2024

One in every three adults in the U.S. has some kind of criminal record. That makes finding a job much harder, and has consequences not just for individuals and communities, but also takes a major economic toll on the country. One leader says businesses can advance the effort for so-called second chance hiring much faster than government. How her organization encourages businesses to help each other put more people back into the workforce. Guests: Maha Jweied, CEO of the Responsible Business Initiative for Justice Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura and Jay Cowit. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 27 June 2024

Climate change, inflation, and unreliable supply chains are just some of the challenges small-scale farmers globally are facing today. Alloysius Attah grew up on a farm in Ghana and has seen it all first hand. Now, as tech advances in agriculture and AI have opened new possibilities for farmers, he's helping small-scale farmers take advantage by providing access to critical information in their native languages. His organization Farmerline started in Africa and now works with more than 2.2 million farmers, reaching more than 50 countries. Guests: Alloysius Attah, co-founder and CEO of Farmerline Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura and Jay Cowit. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 20 June 2024

Reshma Saujani, founder of Girl Who Code, saw the pandemic push women out of the workforce and make existing workplace inequalities worse. "We have not made the workforce work for moms," she says. With her campaign called Moms First, she launched a tool last year that uses generative AI to help moms-to-be apply for paid leave benefits in New York. Soon it will be available in all other states where paid leave is available. For our second conversation on using AI to uplift people and promote equality, Reshma joined Niala to talk about the impetus for the tool, and why she thinks AI can be a major force for good. Guests: Reshma Saujani, Founder of Girls Who Code and Moms First Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura and Jay Cowit. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 13 June 2024

Some 38 million people live in poverty in this country – nearly 12 percent of the population. The problem remains especially bad in New York City, where the poverty level among kids alone has jumped 66% since 2021. The Robin Hood Foundation has provided millions of dollars of grants to fight poverty in New York for more than 3 decades. Now, its CEO says the foundation famous for using investment principles to tackle poverty is enlisting AI in the fight. Niala spoke with Rich Buery Wednesday live on stage at the Axios AI+ Summit, part of New York Tech Week. Guests: Rich Buery, Jr., CEO of the Robin Hood Foundation Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura and Jay Cowit. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 6 June 2024

Elections officials have faced violent threats since the 2020 presidential election, and five months out from the next vote, Secretaries of State are on the front lines. Colorado's Democratic Secretary of State Jena Griswold has seen a 600% rise in threats against her in recent months. Niala spoke to Secretary Griswold about protecting elections and officials in the lead-up to 2024. Guest: Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura and Jay Cowit. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 30 May 2024

Interest in birdwatching has been booming, and Ed Yong is one of the millions who have fallen hard. Yong is a Pulitzer-prize winning science writer previously of the Atlantic, where he was one of the first journalists to deeply investigate long COVID. He says birding has has a transformative impact on his life in the last year, and hopes the same might be true for COVID long haulers. Plus: one unique effort to save a bird population in Hawaii. Guests: Ed Yong, science writer and author of "An Immense World"; bird conservation researcher and journalist Anders Gyllenhaal. Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura and Jay Cowit. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 23 May 2024

In his more than 15 years in pro football, NFL quarterback Steve Young made his name on the field as one of the most efficient passers of all time. But after his retirement, he turned his career to private equity, co-founding the firm HGGC in 2007. Now, Young is watching the recent surge in private equity investments in sports teams, and making the case for private equity buyers in the NFL. Axios business editor Dan Primack sat down with Young to talk about his business and the future of football--and why he says "football is made for girls"--in this special episode taped live at Axios BFD in San Francisco. Plus: Dan Primack gives us the big picture on private equity and pro sports, and why it matters. Guests: Steve Young, NFL legend and private equity investor; Dan Primack, Axios business editor Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura and Jay Cowit. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Listen back: our recent conversation with WNBA legend Sue Bird Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 16 May 2024

Fei-Fei Li is widely known as the godmother of AI, thanks to her groundbreaking research in the field. You can draw a straight line from her early work to the generative AI of today. Now, she's at the forefront of what comes next, which includes bringing together generative AI and robotics for use across industries. Niala visited Dr. Li's lab at Stanford last week and spoke with her about the very latest applications of AI, and what's at stake in their development. Guests: Dr. Fei-Fei Li, professor in the Computer Science Department at Stanford University and co-director of Stanford's Human-Centered AI Institute; Ryan Heath, Axios global tech correspondent and co-author of Axios AI+ Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura and Jay Cowit. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 9 May 2024

Republican lawmakers have come a long way on climate change since the days of tossing snowballs in the U.S. Senate a decade ago. Today, an 80+ member Conservative Climate Caucus wants to elevate Republicans' voices on climate, while maintaining conservative principles. But former President Donald Trump is still at odds with that mission. The Caucus' new chair, Iowa Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks, tells us her plan. Guests: Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks, Republican representing Iowa's representing 1st Congressional District and Chair of the Conservative Climate Caucus; Jael Holzman, climate and energy reporter for Axios Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura and Jay Cowit. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 2 May 2024

Retired WNBA legend Sue Bird knows just how far women's basketball has come. Arguably the greatest WNBA player in history, she was also part of negotiating a major collective bargaining agreement in 2019 that set the stage for big changes for players. "We've been trying to get people to pay attention, to see what we've all seen behind closed doors," she says, "and now it feels like society finally caught up with us." Sue was one of the voices this week at TN50: The Business of Women's Sports Summit from Axios and Deep Blue Sports + Entertainment, and she spoke with Axios' Sara Fischer on the sidelines of the event about the momentum behind women's basketball and the work still ahead. Guests: Sue Bird, WNBA player for 19 years with the Seattle Storm, and Partner & Chief Strategy Officer, Deep Blue Sports + Entertainment Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura and Jay Cowit. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 25 April 2024

Hospitals are supposed to be safe havens in a war. But Avril Benoît, the U.S. executive director for Doctors Without Borders (MSF) says that's not the case in places including Sudan, where this week marks a year since the start of a brutal civil war. More than 14,000 people there have been killed, 8 million have been displaced, and some 25 million are in dire need of humanitarian aid as the health system crumbles. But the world's eyes--and dollars--are elsewhere, leaving groups like MSF begging for international help. Benoît tells Niala how Sudan shows us the fragile state of humanitarian law in crisis zones today. Guests: Avril Benoît, executive director for Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières in the United States Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura and Jay Cowit. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 18 April 2024

The majority of U.S. school buses today are diesel, emitting pollutants harmful to the environment and to kids. Highland Electric Fleets is behind the largest electric school bus project in America, and its founder and CEO says the buses are healthier, quieter, and a cost savings over time. But upgrading is complicated and costly, and uptake is slow. How CEO Duncan McIntyre is trying to make school buses greener, and what's standing in the way. Plus: Axios reporters Jael Holzman and Nathan Bomey provide context and a look at what's next. Guests: Duncan McIntyre, CEO and founder at Highland Electric Fleets; Jael Holzman, Axios energy and climate reporter; Nathan Bomey, Axios business reporter Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura and Jay Cowit. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 11 April 2024

Autonomous weapons are no longer science fiction - and they're becoming a top priority for major military powers. Anna Hehir of the Future of Life Institute says we need an international treaty to ban some of the most dangerous autonomous weapons, and that we have a unique window now to do just that. Plus: Axios co-founder Mike Allen on how Washington is thinking about AI and weapons of war, behind the scenes. Guests: Anna Hehir, autonomous weapons lead at the Future of Life Institute; Axios co-founder Mike Allen, author of Axios AM and Axios PM Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura and Jay Cowit. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 4 April 2024

Recent elections have shown us the power of bad actors using AI. But what about AI itself that's just...flawed? Dr. Alondra Nelson has investigated this, with surprising results. Nelson was involved in some of the government's earliest talks about how to thoughtfully manage AI and democracy during her tenure in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy in the Biden administration. She spoke with Axios' Ina Fried at the Axios What's Next Summit in Washington D.C. last week about chatbots in the 2024 elections and more. Plus: Niala talks to Gordon Crovitz of Newsguard about how major brands are unintentionally funding disinformation through advertising. Guests: Dr. Alondra Nelson, former acting director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy in the Biden administration, professor at the Institute for Advanced Study; Gordon Crovitz, co-CEO and co-editor in chief of NewsGuard, former publisher of The Wall Street Journal. Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura and Jay Cowit. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 28 March 2024

West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin may have a D next to his name, but he's been known to buck his party on major issues, including climate. In November, the Senator announced his retirement from the Senate, just as other more moderate Senate voices like Kyrsten Sinema and Mitt Romney depart, too. Niala speaks to Sen. Manchin live on stage at the Axios What's Next Summit in Washington, D.C. this week, where he makes his case for capturing voters in the center, and keeping the U.S. involved in oil and gas production. Plus, Axios politics reporters Hans Nichols and Alex Thompson give us context. Guests: Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.); Axios' Alex Thompson and Hans Nichols. Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura and Jay Cowit. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 21 March 2024

U.S. workers today have enormous momentum and leverage. 2023 was a year of walkouts, with the number of U.S. workers on strike more than doubling. Lee Saunders is president of AFSCME, one of the country's largest unions, and he says with workers engaged as never before, this is the moment to make progress for American labor. The power of workers in 2024, and how one union leader wants to wield it. Plus, Axios markets correspondent Emily Peck with the big picture. Guests: Lee Saunders, the president of the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees; Emily Peck, markets correspondent for Axios. Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura and Jay Cowit. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 14 March 2024

It's estimated only one percent of medical research spending globally goes toward female-specific conditions that aren't related to cancer. But even as underfunding of women's health persists -- companies focused on women's health are innovating. Dr. Sara Naseri is working to reframe menstrual blood as a diagnostic tool rather than waste, with her company called Qvin. It received FDA clearance in January of this year for a new kind of blood test: a diagnostic menstrual pad. Plus, Axios senior health care editor Adriel Bettelheim on innovations in women's health. Guests: Dr. Sara Naseri, CEO and co-founder of Qvin; Axios' Adriel Bettelheim Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura and Jay Cowit. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 7 March 2024

New laws in at least 14 states are forcing teachers to rethink how they teach history when it comes to race in particular. For the last day of this Black History Month, one education leader on why having more Black teachers, and leaning into Black teaching traditions, can help all students get a better handle on American history. Plus, Axios Miami's Sommer Brugal on the education view from Florida, more than a year and a half since Florida's "Stop WOKE Act" went into effect. Guests: Sharif El-Mekki, founder and CEO of the Center for Black Educator Development and a former school principal; Sommer Brugal, Axios Miami reporter. Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura and Jay Cowit. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 29 February 2024

Last year was one of the worst in recent memory for layoffs across media. Job losses in digital, broadcast and print news increased almost 71 percent from 2022, according to a recent report. Victor Pickard, professor of media policy and political economy at the University of Pennsylvania, says the current situation amounts to a "systemic market failure." To fix it, he proposes a bold new plan. Plus, Axios' Sara Fischer with her top reasons for journalism's decline; and Karen Rundlet, CEO of the Institute for Nonprofit News, on the local and nonprofit news efforts giving her hope. Guests: Victor Pickard, professor of media policy and political economy at the University of Pennsylvania Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura and Jay Cowit. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 22 February 2024

Anthropologist Helen Fisher has long been trying to answer the question: why do you fall in love with one person rather than another? Her research says we've evolved four basic styles of thinking and behaving linked with the dopamine, serotonin, testosterone, and estrogen systems. Fisher used that research to create a questionnaire that's been taken by 15 million people in 40 countries, shedding light on how we choose our mates. She's also one of the experts behind the Singles in America survey from Match.com, the most recent of which shows that people are using AI in online dating, and are increasingly trying alternatives to monogamy. Plus, Axios' Carly Mallenbaum on legal protections for polyamorous relationships. Guests: Helen Fisher, anthropologist and chief science advisor to Match.com; Axios lifestyle reporter Carly Mallenbaum. Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura and Jay Cowit. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 15 February 2024

It's harder than ever to define what it means to be evangelical in America. But one constant? The Trump support. "The MAGA base is very real inside these evangelical spaces and it's not accurate to try to separate them," says scholar Kristin Kobes Du Mez, who herself has an Evangelical background. She tells Niala why white Evangelical power is stronger than ever for Republicans in 2024. Plus: Axios' Sophia Cai on what she's seen covering the Evangelical vote on the campaign trail, and why it matters that more pastors are spreading their word on social media. Guests: Kristin Kobes Du Mez, professor of history and gender studies at Calvin and the author of the book "Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation." Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 8 February 2024

This marks the end of so-called "Dry January," a phenomenon that's been growing in popularity. But for many, alcohol is still a daily struggle; it's the most common substance abuse addiction in the United States, affecting at least 1 out of every 10 people. Sean Daniels is a playwright and recovering addict whose critically-acclaimed autobiographical play "The White Chip" returns Off-Broadway today. Niala talks to Sean about using humor on stage to save lives. Plus, listeners tell us what Dry January meant for their lives this year. Guests: Sean Daniels, playwright of "The White Chip" and director of The Recovery Project at Florida Studio Theatre. Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 1 February 2024

There are more than 3 billion video gamers worldwide. Many come--and stay--for the community. Today: AI is changing gaming for these communities, and the head of one major video game developer says we need to advance gaming for users through responsible AI. Niala talks with Songyee Yoon of NCSoft, from the Axios House at the World Economic Forum, and gets context from Axios' global technology correspondent Ryan Heath. Plus: Stephen Totilo, author of the Game File newsletter, with a reality check on the human vs. AI touch in gaming today. Guests: Songyee Yoon, president and chief strategic officer of South Korean-based video game developer NCSoft; Ryan Heath, Axios global technology correspondent and co-author of Axios AI+; Stephen Totilo, author and founder of Game File and former gaming reporter at Axios. Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 25 January 2024

Indigenous leaders are helming efforts to tackle the world's problems, from climate change to violence against women. And Fawn Sharp, Vice President of the Quinault Indian Nation and former President of the National Congress of American Indians, says "the world is starting to recognize they need us more than we need them." Niala Boodhoo sat down with Fawn in Davos, Switzerland at the annual World Economic Forum to talk about why Indigenous leadership matters now. Plus: Axios' Neil Irwin with a reality check on the World Economic Forum and the themes from this year's gathering. Guests: Fawn Sharp, vice president of the Quinault Indian Nation, former president of the National Congress of American Indians, and Indigenous Co-Chair for the World Economic Forum; Neil Irwin, Axios chief economic correspondent. Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 18 January 2024

January 6th, 2021 put our founding document to the test. And constitutional scholar Noah Feldman says, that although we survived our stress test, "our EKG went up and down a lot more than you would like it to do in what is supposed to be a 21st century democracy." What we've learned about the strength of our Constitution--and where its cracks show--ahead of our presidential election this fall. Plus: Axios' Alex Thompson on the piece of the Trump ballot story many of us may be missing. Guests: Noah Feldman, Harvard Law professor and constitutional studies scholar, Bloomberg Opinion columnist, and author of the forthcoming book, "To Be a Jew: a New Guide to God, Israel and the Jewish People"; Alex Thompson, Axios national political correspondent. Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 11 January 2024

Misty Copeland is the rare ballerina who's recognizable well beyond the world of ballet. In 2015, she became the first Black woman to reach the title of principal dancer with the prestigious American Ballet Theatre. Throughout her career, Misty has spoken out about being one of the few Black dancers on the professional stage, and why early and equal access to the arts is so important. Through her foundation, she’s trying to connect more young people to ballet through after-school programs. Niala Boodhoo spoke to Misty this week about forging new paths in an old art form, and why that matters for equity and inclusion beyond the stage. WATCH: Misty Copeland dancing at the 2015 Vail International Dance Festival. Guest: Misty Copeland, principal dancer with American Ballet Theatre, and founder of the The Misty Copeland Foundation. Author of several books, most recently "The Wind at My Back.” Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 4 January 2024

For years, we've heard that China is an unstoppable economic engine. In 2023, that changed. One stat says it all: in the third quarter this year, foreign direct investment in China was negative for the first time in modern history. Today for the holidays we're bringing you another special episode of 1 big thing where we spotlight a leader from within our own newsroom. Axios' Bethany Allen-Ebrahimian explains why China's economic miracle has ended, but its power is still growing. Guests: Bethany Allen-Ebrahimian, Axios China reporter and author of "Beijing Rules: China's Quest for Global Influence." Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 28 December 2023

"As a passionate Muslim and a passionate Jew, we have come together to humbly share a path forward for how to transcend the construct of 'us vs. them' and side with humanity instead." That's from a recent open letter to college students across America, written by Daniel Lubetzky, founder of KIND Snacks, and Lonnie Ali, co-founder of the Muhammad Ali Center and wife of the late Muhammad Ali. Lonnie and Daniel have both witnessed the growing hatred on American college campuses as the Israel-Hamas war rages on, and they say students themselves are at the heart of the solution. In their letter, they detail what they call ten ways to side with humanity, including: "It helps, not hurts, your cause to empathize with the pain of the other side" and "to get the full story, pop your social media bubble." Plus: the new challenges for DEI programs on college campuses. Guests: Daniel Lubetzky, founder of KIND Snacks and co-founder of the Starts with Us movement; Lonnie Ali, co-founder of the Muhammad Ali Center, and wife of the late Muhammad Ali. Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 21 December 2023

Extreme weather is being increasingly linked to climate change, thanks to the work of scientists the world over. But Dr. Fredi Otto's contribution is unique: she is getting it done faster. That hurricane, that drought, that wildfire? Her team at World Weather Attribution can say the extent to which climate change was a factor, but within weeks, not years. In other words, she leads the world's only rapid reaction force of climate scientists. Why she says linking extreme weather events to climate change matters more than ever. Plus: the agreement that came out of COP28. And: Niala's Dubai dispatch on the smog blanketing the climate conference Guests: Dr. Fredi Otto, co-founder of World Weather Attribution, and a Senior Lecturer in Climate Science at Imperial College London Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 14 December 2023

UN climate conferences don't generally start off with a bang. But COP28 in Dubai this year did just that, when on day one a Loss and Damage fund was created to support developing nations hit hardest by climate change. It's been a 30-some year fight to get here for climate activists like Harjeet Singh, but he says the new fund is not enough. How one key climate activist says civil society can hold top emitters accountable. Guests: Harjeet Singh, Head of Global Political Strategy for Climate Action Network International; Andrew Freedman, senior climate reporter for Axios and co-author of the daily Axios Generate newsletter Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 7 December 2023

According to the Surgeon General, about one in two American adults report experiencing loneliness. As self-help voices continue cropping up in every corner of the internet on staving off loneliness and finding happiness, Laurie Santos of Yale--host of The Happiness Lab podcast--brings a scientific perspective. She says research tell us we're bad at knowing what makes us feel good, but that getting better at it could have far-reaching consequences for society as a whole: "Ultimately, social connection really needs to be our bottom line in terms of public health." Finding connection in lonely times: Why it may matter more than we ever realized. Plus, a push for loneliness legislation. And, intergenerational friendship as a meaningful--but less common--type of social connection. Guests: Laurie Santos, professor of psychology at Yale University and host of The Happiness Lab podcast; Erica Pandey, author of the Axios Finish Line newsletter Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, Alex Sugiura, and Fonda Mwangi. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Axios House Dubai COP28 Events Schedule Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 30 November 2023

As AI keeps getting better, how do we keep up? There's been a lot of news this week about leadership at OpenAI, just one company that's leading the way in the AI space. But amidst that chaos, AI technology keeps marching ahead. Ina Fried, Axios chief technology correspondent and co-author of the AI+ newsletter, has been testing out and writing about AI tools as they emerge and improve, from one that lets you create your own personal deepfake to an AI assistant that lets you attend multiple meetings at once. She shares the latest, and what these tools mean for us all. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 23 November 2023

U.S. politics have gotten more polarized, and more extreme. Today, Tennessee attorney Chloe Akers has a new plan to do something that can feel nearly impossible: elevate the voices in the middle. She tells Niala Boodhoo: "We're not using any other playbook to solve what we believe is the pervasiveness of extremism and how damaging that can be on the democratic process. We are creating a playbook." One Tennessean's new solution to an old problem. Plus, what being a moderate today really means, and a reality check on other efforts to bring people back to the middle. Guests: Chloe Akers, founder and CEO of "The Best of Tennessee"; Axios senior contributor Margaret Talev Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, Fonda Mwangi and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 16 November 2023

Young people were struggling before the pandemic. Today, their mental health challenges are acute—and social media is making it worse. U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy has been sounding the alarm, and he tells Niala Boodhoo: "If we don't do something now, we are at risk of losing a generation of young people." How does the Surgeon General plan to fix America's urgent youth crisis? Plus, a reality check on efforts in Washington and beyond to make social media safer for kids. Guests: U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy; Axios tech and policy reporter Ashley Gold Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, Fonda Mwangi and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 9 November 2023

José Andrés has become a recognized figure on the scene in the aftermath of global disasters. The chef-turned-humanitarian traveled to Haiti more than a decade ago to cook food for victims of the 7.0 magnitude earthquake. Today: he's on the ground in war zones. How does one man lead an emergency response organization as the emergencies keep growing and changing? Plus, an update on food insecurity in the U.S., and why the numbers may come as a surprise. Guests: José Andrés, founder of World Central Kitchen; Axios markets correspondent Emily Peck Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 2 November 2023

On November 2nd, join host Niala Boodhoo for a new show from Axios that digs deep with leaders in business, politics, and culture on the ideas shaping our world. Plus, Axios journalists share context and reality checks all along the way. The bottom line: Listen every week for conversations with leaders and thinkers you know—or need to know—in 20 minutes or less. New episodes every Thursday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 19 October 2023

Hunter Biden on Thursday was indicted for three counts related to his alleged illegal possession of a firearm. And on Capitol Hill, time is running out for Congress to avert a looming government shutdown. Plus, lab-grown meat goes kosher and halal. And, for our last daily show, we answer some of your burning questions. Guests: Axios' Mike Allen, Margaret Talev and Jennifer Kingson. Credits: Axios Today is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, Fonda Mwangi and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 15 September 2023

White mainline Protestants are some of the country's largest religious groups. A new study shows their clergy tend to be more progressive than their churchgoers. We take a look at what that tells us about religion and political divisions in America today. Plus, Senator Mitt Romney underscores our aging political landscape. And, inflation eats away at American incomes. Guests: Axios' Russell Contreras, Emily Peck and Joann Muller. Credits: Axios Today is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, Fonda Mwangi and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 14 September 2023

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy opened an impeachment inquiry into President Biden, on Tuesday. The move could result in months of divisive hearings in Congress as both President Biden and former President Trump, who was impeached twice, campaign for the presidency. Plus, the United Auto Workers union gears up for a strike. And, the pluses and perils of homeownership in America today. Guests: Axios' Alex Thompson and Felix Salmon. Credits: Axios Today is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, Fonda Mwangi, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Robin Linn and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 13 September 2023

What's it like to fly into the eye of a hurricane? Niala joins a team of NOAA Hurricane hunters tracking Hurricane Lee to understand the science gathered on these missions, and how it helps create the forecasts that millions depend upon. Plus, monitoring AI for hate speech. And, the FDA approves updated COVID-19 vaccines. Guests: Axios' Russell Contreras and Adriel Bettelheim; NOAA's Alan Hough, Jack Parrish and Kevin Doremus. Credits: Axios Today is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, Fonda Mwangi, Robin Linn and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 12 September 2023

A 6.8 magnitude earthquake hit Morocco late Friday night near Marrakech. More than 2,100 people were killed and over 2,400 injured, as of Sunday. The death toll is expected to rise as rescuers continue to search through the rubble for survivors. Plus, how local governments are handling the humanitarian crisis for migrants across U.S. cities. And, what to know about the weekend's G20 summit in India. Guests: Axios' Hans Nichols and Stef Kight. Credits: Axios Today is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, Fonda Mwangi, Robin Linn and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 11 September 2023

The 2024 presidential election is looking different from elections past for a number of reasons. A former president is running against a current president, which has only happened a handful of times in U.S. history, and each of the frontrunners has a distinctly low-profile campaign for now. Plus, your car has the power to gather and sell data about your life. And, your experiences with Narcan. Guests: Axios' Alex Thompson and Felix Salmon. Credits: Axios Today is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, Fonda Mwangi, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Robin Linn and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 8 September 2023

It's been about a month since the Lahaina wildfire broke out on Maui, and now the local community is facing another hardship: a severe economic downturn. The big picture: Most of Hawai'i's residents depend on tourism to pay the bills. With the drop in travel to Maui, locals and government officials are now urging people back. Plus, a new era for Airbnb. And, the latest from Ukraine and Blinken's surprise visit to Kyiv. Axios Today staff reading recommendations: Mobility: A Novel The Great Silence The Thursday Murder Club Romantic Comedy The Covenant of Water The Verifiers The Philosophy of Modern Song Guests: Axios' Sara Kehaulani Goo and Alex Fitzpatrick. Credits: Axios Today is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, Fonda Mwangi, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Robin Linn and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 7 September 2023

It's been a rocky start to the school year when it comes to COVID. A late summer surge has already led to class cancellations in places like Kentucky and Texas. We dig deeper on how schools are dealing with this latest COVID wave. Plus, women are closing the labor force gap with men. And, the fallout continues from Spanish soccer's "MeToo" moment. Guests: Axios' Adriel Bettelheim and Emily Peck; Power Plays' Lindsay Gibbs. Credits: Axios Today is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, Fonda Mwangi, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Robin Linn and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 6 September 2023

There's been a focus on the restriction or attempted restriction of voting rights in the last several years. But as Axios' Eugene Scott reports, there have been even more state led moves to expand voting access. Why it matters: Voting could look different for many people in 2024. Plus, low-quality health care is costing employers -- and workers -- big. In-flight telemedicine is coming soon. And, Narcan is arriving over-the-counter...but at too high a price? Guests: Axios' Eugene Scott, Tina Reed, and Alex Fitzpatrick Credits: Axios Today is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, Fonda Mwangi, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Robin Linn, and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 5 September 2023

Republican presidential candidates are starting to distinguish themselves in the week following the first debate. And this week it was all about Vivek Ramaswamy and Nikki Haley. For our politics State of Play, we check the status of the GOP presidential primary contenders. Plus, testing the resilience of our oceans. And, ransomware hackers on the prowl over Labor Day weekend. Go deeper (7 min. read) Guests: Axios' Mike Allen, Alison Snyder and Sam Sabin. Credits: Axios Today was produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, Fonda Mwangi, Robin Linn and Ben O'Brien. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can send questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 1 September 2023