The Daily

Podbit · The Daily

Why Everyone Cares About This World Cup

Explore episode Jun 29, 2026
Society & Culture
Farhad's Visa: An Act of God

Why Everyone Cares About This World Cup · Jun 29, 2026 Society & Culture

Farhad spent five years trying to get a US visa before the Iranian Revolution. One day he showed up at the embassy — the whole street was filled with people. Then a consular officer called his name with no microphone, no speaker, just his voice. Farhad has replayed that moment every day of his 47 years in America.

Where this was said

Introduction to Farhad and Kevin

At 21:39 · chapter starts 20:20

Natalie Kitroeff sets up the personal story that will dominate the rest of the episode. Producer Anna Foley went to Los Angeles just hours before Iran's first 2026 World Cup game and sat down with a father and son — Farhad and Kevin — who are lifelong Iranian team fans. Their story, Kitroeff explains, is about the 'complex business of sorting out national pride and fandom — in the middle of war.'

Similar podbits

Society & Culture
Erin Brockovich on the Data Center 'Full-On Assault'

Zuck's Meta Manifesto, Data Center Wars, and AI Slop Pushba… · Aug 11, 2026 Society & Culture

Erin Brockovich describes data center expansion as 'a full-on assault' hitting communities across water, electricity, noise, air pollution, and land loss. She calls it the biggest bipartisan conversation she's seen in her 30-year career — and warns that tech companies didn't see the coming backlash.

Society & Culture
Could Bobby and Andrew Adopt a Kid on a Timeshare Basis?

Tortilla Face · Aug 10, 2026 Society & Culture

Bobby watching a father hold his baby triggered an existential moment: he and Andrew might be missing fatherhood. They priced out adoption ($40K–$70K private, $0–$2K foster care) and briefly considered adopting a child to timeshare like a condo.