Top stories behind the headlines: The Daily best episodes
Are you into The Daily? If not, you should prepare to listen to some of the most touching episodes of the classic podcast from The New York Times. If you are already a fan, you will probably remember some of the titles you will find in this article, and this is an excellent reason to relisten some of them. These picks from the last couple of years are a real treat for anyone who loves to know more about our society. You’ll get hooked on the Sunday reads that bring profound stories to life.
The interviews with experts from the editorial team by Michael Barbaro and Sabrina Tavernise draw you into each news topic. The sound of each episode is just as impressive, with music crafted specifically for the stories being told.
In this selection, you will find more evergreen topics and long reads, as these are the episodes that stay forever in my mind. Next, some episodes portray pivotal moments in the last years that The Daily covered better than any other media. Let’s get started.
The Eclipse Chaser
- Release Date: April 8, 2024
- Duration: 29 minutes
Fred Espenak, known as Mr. Eclipse, shares his lifelong journey chasing solar eclipses. From his first life-changing view to the significant personal events marked by eclipses, discover why these natural spectacles are more than just a visual feast. An inspiring story that might make you look up and watch the skies.
The Sunday Read: ‘What Deathbed Visions Teach Us About Living’
- Release Date: April 7, 2024
- Duration: 26 minutes
Explore the mysterious and comforting world of deathbed visions with Chris Kerr. As a child, Kerr witnessed his father’s vision, which sparked his lifelong interest in these profound experiences. Now a doctor, he investigates what these visions mean for those nearing life’s end and their families and how they bring peace and a sense of connection when the end is near.
The Sunday Read: ‘The Moral Crisis of America’s Doctors’
- Release Date: July 16, 2023
- Duration: 31 minutes
Doctors feel trapped by a healthcare system that prioritizes bureaucracy over patient care. Wendy Dean explores how widespread “moral injury” is among medical professionals, a term that resonated deeply within the community. This episode brings to light the personal and professional struggles of those we depend on for health care.
Our Film Critic on Why He’s Done With the Movies
- Release Date: March 23, 2023
- Duration: 41 minutes
Hear from A.O. Scott as he steps away from film criticism after 23 years. The changing tides of American cinema pushed him towards a new chapter in the Book Review section. What do Netflix, the Marvel fandom and the latest movie habits have to do with this? This episode is a reflective look at the shifts in movie-making and reviewing through the eyes of the Pope of cinema critics.
The Sunday Read: ‘Spirited Away to Miyazaki Land’
- Release Date: March 19, 2023
- Duration: 54 minutes
Explore Ghibli Park with Sam Anderson, who captures the unique experience of entering a world created by Studio Ghibli. From the overwhelming first impressions to the subtle details that represent Miyazaki’s work, discover a place where fantasy meets reality… though sometimes not. Step into a story that combines family dynamics with deep admiration for animation and creativity.
The Sunday Read: ‘Women Have Been Misled About Menopause’
- Release Date: February 12, 2023
- Duration: 52 minutes
Menopausal hormone therapy, once a widespread treatment, fell from grace due to safety concerns from a flawed study. Despite new research supporting its benefits for many, its reputation hasn’t fully recovered. This story about menopausal hormone therapy sparked meaningful conversations across the U.S.
The negligence in women’s health care and the acceptance of women’s pain is a significant cultural issue. When reaching menopause, Susan Dominus decided to research the topic and her story has been so impactful that consultations and health providers’ awareness spiked after its publication.
You can also find a follow-up episode on the topic, Menopause is having a moment, in which Susan Dominus discusses the viral impact of her initial article and continues to advocate for better awareness and treatments for menopause symptoms. These episodes show the power of journalism and the necessary dialogue about women’s health.
A Movement to Fight Misinformation… With Misinformation
- Release Date: February 9, 2022
- Duration: 28 minutes
Uncover the quirky truth behind the Birds Aren’t Real movement. What started as a satirical take on conspiracy theories turned into a widespread discussion on the nature of misinformation. Taylor Lorenz explains how humor became a tool to spotlight and combat false information, offering a unique perspective on the power of satire in today’s media landscape.
An Assault on the Capitol
- Release Date: January 7, 2021
- Duration: 38 minutes
Experience the events of January 6, 2021, when a mob stormed the U.S. Capitol. This episode takes you inside the event through the perspectives of New York Times journalists who were there. Listen as they recount the attack, providing context on the tensions and the stakes involved. It’s a critical look at how words can incite actions and the fragility of democratic processes.
Why They’re Protesting
- Release Date: June 5, 2020
- Duration: 35 minutes
Hear from the voices of the protesters who took to the streets after George Floyd’s death. This episode captures their raw emotions, personal stories and why they felt compelled to act against racial injustice. Their experiences and the community’s collective response explain the deep-seated issues and the urgent need for change.
When you listen to these episodes of The Daily, you’ll discover how top journalism meets the human experience. Each story invites you to learn and connect with the culture around us and how current happenings reshape the world. Don’t miss out. Start listening today.
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