Podcast Summary: The 7 by The Washington Post

Episode: Justice Department investigates Jerome Powell; Iran protests; Golden Globes winners; and more
Host: Hannah Jewell
Date: January 12, 2026

Overview

In this episode, Hannah Jewell breaks down the seven most important stories of the day—from the Justice Department's high-stakes investigation into Jerome Powell, to escalating unrest in Iran, political maneuvering around the U.S. midterm elections, the booming anti-aging industry, significant trends in American jobs, and the highlights from the Golden Globes. The episode offers a brisk yet substantial tour of national and international developments, politics, data, culture, and entertainment.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Criminal Investigation of Fed Chair Jerome Powell

[00:33 – 02:00]

• The Justice Department has opened a criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, linked to the renovation of the Fed’s headquarters.
• Powell launched an unusually direct video statement, accusing the Trump administration of trying to pressure the Fed to lower interest rates.
• Powell insists that threats of prosecution will not affect his service.
• Trump, who originally nominated Powell in 2017, has for much of his second term publicly criticized Powell for not slashing interest rates.

Notable Quote:

“The threat of criminal charges is a consequence of the Federal Reserve setting interest rates based on our best assessment of what will serve the public rather than following the preferences of the president. This is about whether the Fed will be able to continue to set interest rates based on evidence and economic conditions, or whether instead monetary policy will be directed by political pressure or intimidation.”
— Federal Reserve Expert [01:21]

2. Deadly Crackdown on Protests in Iran

[02:00 – 03:19]

• Massive anti-government protests broke out in Iran late last month, with internet blackouts imposed Thursday night by authorities.
• U.S.-based rights groups estimate hundreds of protesters have been killed; these are considered the largest anti-regime demonstrations since the 1979 revolution.
• The protests began over economic grievances but have escalated into calls for regime change.
• The Trump administration is considering potential military action in response to the crackdown.
• President Trump claimed that Iran reached out to propose talks.

3. Protests and Federal Response in Minneapolis

[03:19 – 04:16]

• The Trump administration plans to deploy more federal officers to Minneapolis after the fatal ICE shooting of Renee Good.
• Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized the federal response, while Vice President J.D. Vance and other officials place blame on the victim.
• Democrats demand a full investigation led by local authorities; tensions escalate as the FBI blocks Minnesota officials from participating in the inquiry.

4. Trump’s Maneuvers Ahead of Midterm Elections

[04:16 – 05:17]

• Trump is working to alter election rules before ballots are cast in the 2026 midterms, reminiscent of his 2020 tactics.
• Methods include demanding redrawn congressional districts, prosecuting political opponents, and attempting to end voting by mail and voting machines.
• He fears a Democrat-controlled Congress could investigate or impeach him and block his agenda.

5. The Longevity Industry Boom

[05:17 – 06:29]

• The anti-aging and longevity sector is thriving, with 800+ clinics nationwide marketing treatments such as lasers, molecular infusions, heavy metal detox therapies, and “young plasma exchange.”
• These treatments largely lack robust clinical evidence; critics warn of exaggerated claims and risky protocols.
• The industry is lobbying for governmental approval and for aging to be certified as a treatable condition.

6. The Evolution of American Jobs

[06:29 – 07:26]

• The Washington Post’s Department of Data analyzed how employment trends have shifted since 1969:
  • Silent Generation & early Boomers: Computer systems analyst was top-growing job.
  • Millennials: App developer.
  • Others: Construction workers, customer service reps at various times.
  • Secretaries and administrative assistants have faced significant declines due to technological changes beginning in the 1980s.

7. Highlights from the Golden Globes

[07:26 – 09:13]

• Two films stand out:
  • “Hamnet” won Best Drama, focusing on Shakespeare’s family.
  • “One Battle after Another” nabbed Best Comedy; Teyana Taylor received Best Supporting Actress.
• Teyana Taylor’s moving speech was highlighted:

Notable Quote:

“To my brown sisters and little brown girls watching tonight. Our softness is not a liability. Our depth is not. That is not too much. Our light does not need permission to shine. We belong in every room we walk into. Our voices matter and our dreams deserve space.”
— Teyana Taylor [08:28]

• Timothée Chalamet emerged as an Oscars frontrunner, winning Best Actor for “Marty Supreme.”

Notable Quote:

“My dad instilled in me a spirit of gratitude growing up. Always be grateful for what you have... [It’s] allowed me to leave this ceremony in the past empty handed, my head held high, grateful just to be here. But I'd be lying if I didn't say those moments didn't make this moment that much sweeter.”
— Timothée Chalamet [09:00]

• The Washington Post newsletter will feature the complete winners list and best-dressed highlights.

Memorable Moments & Quotes

• Federal Reserve’s fight for independence:
  “This is about whether the Fed will be able to continue to set interest rates based on evidence and economic conditions, or whether instead monetary policy will be directed by political pressure or intimidation.” — Federal Reserve Expert [01:21]

• Teyana Taylor’s inspiring Globes speech:
  “Our light does not need permission to shine. We belong in every room we walk into.” [08:28]

• Chalamet on gratitude and achieving recognition:
  “I'd be lying if I didn't say those moments didn't make this moment that much sweeter.” [09:00]

Important Segment Timestamps

• [00:33] Jerome Powell investigation begins
• [01:21] Federal Reserve Expert’s warning on central bank independence
• [02:00] Iran protests & crackdown
• [03:19] Minneapolis ICE shooting fall-out
• [04:16] Trump midterm election strategies
• [05:17] Longevity clinics & treatments
• [06:29] Major shifts in American jobs
• [07:26] Golden Globes—top winners
• [08:28] Teyana Taylor’s acceptance speech
• [09:00] Timothée Chalamet’s acceptance speech

Tone:
Direct, fast-paced, and informative—delivering authoritative insights into the day's most pressing issues, with moments of inspiration and cultural flair.