Timely, smart and in-depth news, interviews and conversation from NPR & WBUR
Tenn. laws denied Allie Phillips an abortion. Now she's running for office
South Carolina voters Rev. Leo Woodberry and ex-Democrat Chris Saley talk about the first Democratic primary taking place on Saturday. And, Allie Phillips discusses her campaign for a seat in the Tennessee House of Representatives and how the state's abortion restrictions impacted her. Then, singer Darius Rucker talks about his Hollywood Walk of Fame star, country album "Carolyn's Boy, and upcoming summer with Hootie & the Blowfish.
2/2/2024 • 32 minutes, 38 seconds
Todd Minor's son died from a TikTok trend. Now he's pushing for social media safety
Semafor's Joseph Zeballos-Roig joins us to talk about a House bill expanding business and child tax credits. And, business analyst Jill Schlesinger joins us to break down the changes taxpayers may encounter this filing season. Then, Todd Minor, whose son died as a result of a TikTok challenge, shares his experience fighting to address safety on social media platforms at a recent Senate hearing.
2/1/2024 • 28 minutes, 35 seconds
How schools are using AI — and what students think about it
CBS's Camilo Montoya-Galvez and the Washington Post's Arelis Hernandez talk about what lawmakers are proposing to do to stop a huge wave of immigration and how people at the southern border feel about those measures. And, Juliette Touma, director of communications for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees, joins us to discuss what the pause in funding by the U.S. and other nations means for Palestinians in Gaza and the allegations against 12 of the agency's employees accused of participating in the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas. Then, the use of artificial intelligence technology in schools is on the rise. Chalkbeat's Michael Elsen-Rooney explains how teachers are utilizing this technology in classrooms. And two high school seniors share their thoughts on AI helping them understand assignments.
1/31/2024 • 30 minutes, 46 seconds
Lack of paid leave is a systemic issue for working parents
Illinois lawmakers proposed a food additive ban that would eliminate substances such as titanium dioxide. Food policy writer Helena Bottemiller Evich joins us to discuss. And, the baby clothing brand Kyte Baby has faced backlash on social media for not accommodating an employee's request to work remotely while her newborn was in intensive care. It's indicative of a larger issue around lack of paid leave in the U.S. Dawn Huckelbridge, the founding director of the nonprofit "Paid Leave for All," joins us. Then, Ohio State University professor César Cuauhtémoc García Hernández joins us to talk about his new book "Welcome the Wretched: In Defense of the 'Criminal Alien,'" which explores the history of U.S. immigration policy.
1/30/2024 • 26 minutes, 16 seconds
Gender pay gap persists, 15 years after Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act
Human rights attorney Noura Erakat for her thoughts following the International Court of Justice's preliminary ruling on South Africa's genocide case against Israel. And, Brian Katulis, senior fellow and vice president of policy at the Middle East Institute, talks about what the U.S. response to the Iranian-backed militia attack could mean for the wider conflict in the Middle East. Then, new data analysis indicates that voters under 30 hold increasingly polarized political views depending on their gender. Young women have moved sharply to the left in the past decade, while young men tilted more conservative. The Atlantic's Derek Thompson discusses the implications. Plus, 15 years ago, former President Barack Obama signed the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act into law to bolster strengthened worker protections against pay discrimination. Equal pay activist Lilly Ledbetter and the National Women's Law Center Fatima Goss Graves, talk about how pay transparency laws and other policies can help close the gender pay gap.
1/29/2024 • 32 minutes, 17 seconds
Jamie Oliver's new cookbook uses simple ingredients to make delicious meals
As former President Donald Trump moves closer to securing the GOP nomination after winning the New Hampshire primary, Senators are reconsidering an emerging bipartisan deal to stop the flow of migrants into the country. NPR's Ron Elving and Politico's Eugene Daniels join us. And, Mexico is suing American gun manufacturers. Julian Aguilar, breaking news reporter and producer for The Texas Newsroom, joins us to explain why. Then, chef, restauranteur and cookbook author Jamie Oliver's new cookbook is called "5 Ingredients Mediterranean." In it, Oliver shows readers how to use limited ingredients to make simple, delicious meals. He joins us to talk about the book.
1/26/2024 • 31 minutes, 18 seconds
The consequences of jailing parents over kids' truancy
The Dana Farber Cancer Institute, affiliated with the Harvard Medical School, has been accused of publishing studies that contain data manipulation. STAT's Angus Chen tells us more. And, more than three months after the start of the war, the question remains: what is next for Gaza? Khaled Elgindy, senior fellow and director of the program on Palestine and Palestinian-Israeli Affairs at the Middle East Institute, shares some perspective. Then, in some states a child's truancy results in parents — often single mothers — being prosecuted and jailed. Johns Hopkins University School of Education professor Robert Balfanz talks about the criminalization of absenteeism and the consequences for students and parents.
1/25/2024 • 30 minutes, 52 seconds
After Trump's win in NH, should Haley stay in the race?
Former President Donald Trump beat former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley by 11 points in the New Hampshire primary. But Haley says her campaign is far from over. Political strategists Jamal Simmons and Matt Mackowiak join us to discuss whether Haley should stay in the race. And, Boeing says that loose bolts caused the door plug blowout on the Alaska Airlines 737. It's caused distrust between Boeing and airlines. Here & Now transportation analyst Seth Kaplan joins us. Then, legendary CBS newscaster Charles Osgood died on Tuesday at age 91. Osgood was best known for hosting CBS Sunday Morning for 22 years. Humorist and CBS correspondent Mo Rocca, worked with Osgood and joins us.
1/24/2024 • 23 minutes, 33 seconds
How politics can corrupt nonpartisan election mapmaking
Texas Democratic Rep. Vicente Gonzalez talks about why he thinks President Biden is not doing enough to stop the flow of migrants into the country. And, Cameroon became the first country in Africa to launch a new vaccine campaign to inoculate hundreds of thousands of children against the deadly disease. Malaria killed more than 600,000 people across the world in 2022. The vast majority of those deaths occurred in Africa in children under the age of 5. STAT's Andrew Joseph tells us more. Then, to avoid gerrymandering, 22 states have some kind of independent commission to handle map drawing every ten years. But a new investigation from ProPublica has some insight into how politics can corrupt nominally nonpartisan mapmaking. ProPublica's Marilyn Thompson joins us.
1/23/2024 • 25 minutes, 4 seconds
How voters feel about Trump and Haley ahead of New Hampshire primary
After Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis dropped out of the 2024 presidential face, former President Donald Trump faces off against former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley. Three voters in New Hampshire share how they're feeling before heading to the polls. And, the state of Washington is suing to stop the takeover of Albertsons — the owner of Safeway, Acme and Tom Thumb — by rival Kroger. State Attorney General Bob Ferguson joins us to talk about how the merger would impact Washington. Then, Husband and wife Chris and Julie Ramsey drove an electric vehicle from the North Pole to the South Pole. The pair joins us to talk about how the car and electric vehicle infrastructure held up throughout the journey.
1/22/2024 • 25 minutes, 2 seconds
Chicago mayor talks immigration as city shelters reach breaking point
Mayors from all over the country are meeting in Washington D.C. this week to discuss immigration and other pressing issues in their cities. We get the latest from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. And, ABC's Rick Klein and USA Today's Francesca Chambers discuss hy GOP presidential candidate Nikki Haley may be seeking to lower expectations on how she'll do in the New Hampshire primary next week and whether lawmakers will agree on an immigration deal next week. Then, after the stadium was buried in snow, the Buffalo Bills paid volunteers $20 an hour to help shovel it out. Del Reid, co-founder of Bills Mafia, as the team's fans are called, talks about why they did it.
1/19/2024 • 25 minutes, 2 seconds
We store a lot on the cloud. But how safe is it?
Pakistan and Iran are launching airstrikes on each other, raising tensions in the Middle East. Here & Now security analyst Jim Walsh joins us. And, many of us save important information from banking passwords to family photos on the cloud. But our growing dependence on cloud technology comes with risks. John Pendleton of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace joins us to talk about it. Then, Dr. David Hasan was a member of the first medical team to enter Gaza since Oct. 7. He joins us to talk about what he experienced while in Gaza. And, more than 100 people are still believed to be held hostage by Hamas. Their relatives are pushing for their release. Maya Roman is calling for the release of Carmel Gat. Roman's cousin is Gat's sister-in-law.
1/18/2024 • 31 minutes, 28 seconds
Carbon capture projects in Louisiana spark pushback from activists
President Biden invited top Republican and Democratic congressional leaders to the White House Wednesday to discuss the aid package for Ukraine and Israel that he proposed last year. We get the latest from NPR's Mara Liasson. And, the Supreme Court is considering a case involving herring fishing, but the implications could ripple across federal agencies. Ryan Mulvey, a lawyer at Cause of Action who has worked with the fishing company at the center of the Supreme Court case, and Kate Shaw, professor of Law at the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, join us. Then, Grist's Lylla Younes talks about the Environmental Protection Agency's decision to let Louisiana approve new carbon capture projects.
1/17/2024 • 24 minutes, 30 seconds
'Make Way for Ducklings' sculptor depicts the brutality of Ukraine war
The Biden administration issued strikes against Houthi militants in Yemen. Some progressive lawmakers in the U.S. think he should have consulted Congress before launching the attacks. California Democratic Rep. Ro Khanna joins us. And, former President Donald Trump won the Iowa Caucus, especially capturing the votes of evangelicals. Prominent Iowa evangelical Bob Vander Plaats and Julian Zelizer, professor of history and public affairs at Princeton University, join us. Then, Nancy Schon is best known for her beloved "Make Way for Ducklings" sculpture in Boston. But much of the 95-year-old sculptor's other work deals with darker themes. A new piece depicts the brutality of Russia's war in Ukraine, and Schon joins us to talk about her life and work.
1/16/2024 • 30 minutes, 44 seconds
Martin Luther King Jr.'s daughter says his teachings are more important than ever
Record-cold temperatures in Iowa mark the start of a historic election season. The Des Moines Register's Stephen Gruber-Miller joins us. And, in Washington D.C., the streets were flooded this weekend with voices demanding the United States stop sending aid to Israel and ensure a permanent pause in the fighting. USA Today's Cybele Mayes-Osterman was at the protest. Then, Rand Corporation Yemen expert Alexandra Stark about the dangers posed as Houthi rebels in Yemen and the U.S. and its allies trade air strikes. Plus. Martin Luther King Jr.'s daughter Bernice A. King Says her father's teachings are more important than ever. WABE's Julien Virgin hears from her about celebrating MLK's 95th birthday.
1/15/2024 • 24 minutes, 44 seconds
Meet the school counselor bringing free college classes to her high school students
The U.S. and UK with the support of many allies struck Houthi rebels late Thursday night in retaliation. Yemen scholar Stacey Philbrick Yadav joins us to talk about this major escalation in the Middle East. And, as his civil trial plays out, former President Donald Trump spoke out of turn in court during the closing to verbally attack both the judge presiding over the case and New York Attorney General Letitia James. Jonah Bromwich, a New York Times reporter covering the trial, joins us. And, a high school counselor in rural Alabama with little resources is getting creative to help her working-class students get a taste of college. National School Counselor of the Year Diana Virgil joins us to talk about her efforts. Then, only about 2% of teachers in Arizona are Indigenous. But a program at the University of Arizona seeks to get more Native teachers in classrooms. Noor Haghighi, who has been writing about this in the publication Arizona Luminaria, and Valerie Shirley, co-director of the Indigenous Teacher Education Program at the University of Arizona, join us.
1/12/2024 • 25 minutes, 25 seconds
Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen on where the economy stands as inflation falls
Some parts of the government will start to run out of money on Jan. 19 if Congress doesn't agree on government spending. Rep. Rosa DeLauro, a Democrat from Connecticut, discusses the looming deadline for lawmakers to fund the government. And, proceedings began Thursday at the International Court of Justice for South Africa's case accusing Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians. The Guardian's Chris McGreal breaks it down for us. Then, new inflation data shows consumer prices continue to cool. Still, prospective voters in this year's election tell pollsters they feel anxious about the economy. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen us for an in-depth conversation on what all this economic data means for Americans.
1/11/2024 • 25 minutes, 7 seconds
Librarian finds social media fame in showing the joy of local libraries
Advisors and strategists say that President Biden should be concerned about losing Black voters. Political strategists Jamal Simmons and Matt Mackowiak join us to talk about support for the president as caucuses in Iowa and New Hampshire approach. And, NASA has delayed the first attempt to put Americans on the moon in five decades. The first Artemis mission to the moon was scheduled for early this year, but is now pushed back to 2025. Derrick Pitts, chief astronomer director of the Fels Planetarium at The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, joins us. Then, Mychal Threets joins us to talk about the social media audience he's garnered by sharing content that highlights the joys and opportunities of a local library.
1/10/2024 • 30 minutes, 38 seconds
2023 marked the hottest year on record
Climate scientists from the European Union are raising the alarm about a new report that finds 2023 was the warmest year on record. Carlo Buontempo, director of the Copernicus Climate Change Service, joins us. And, about 170 Boeing 737 Max 9 planes are grounded after a door latch blew out on an Alaska Airlines flight over the weekend. Bloomberg News' Peter Robison explains what this incident means for the reputation of Boeing. Then, an Israeli airstrike killed journalist Hamza al-Dahdouh and a colleague on Jan. 7. Hamza is the son of Wael al-Dahdouh, Gaza's bureau chief for Al Jazeera. MSNBC's Ayman Mohyeldin knows the family and talks about the dire conditions for reporters in Gaza.
1/9/2024 • 23 minutes, 43 seconds
Are phones making kids dumber? A new study says so
The Federal Aviation Administration has ordered airlines to ground more than 170 Boeing 737 Max 9 aircrafts after one of the planes had a 4-foot panel blow out mid-flight. Here & Now transportation analyst Seth Kaplan joins us. And, some residents on Lahaina are still recovering from the wildfires over the summer. Protesters demand Hawaii Democratic Gov. Josh Green do more to provide long-term housing for displaced families. Green and grassroots organizer Jordan Ruidas join us. Then, students' test scores have been falling for years across many developed nations, including the U.S. New data suggests screen time might be to blame. The Atlantic's Derek Thompson joins us.
1/8/2024 • 26 minutes, 49 seconds
Is Smokey Bear's message outdated? Burnie the Bobcat thinks so
The United States is amid another COVID-19 surge. This time a new variant, JN.1, is the dominant strain. Dr. Michael Osterholm discusses the new strain and the importance of vaccinating against COVID-19. And, NBC's Sahil Kapur and the Washington Post's Isaac Arnsdorf talk about President Biden putting Jan. 6 front and center in his re-election campaign, and how former President Donald Trump is too as he fights lawsuits stemming from his attempts to overturn the 2020 election. Then, since 1944, The U.S. Forest Service has used Smokey Bear as a symbol to encourage wildfire prevention. But a new exhibit in California asks the public to envision an alternative fire message and what a new mascot could look like. Curator Emily Schlickman tells us more.
1/5/2024 • 26 minutes, 14 seconds
It's time to break up with glittery makeup
The Washington Post's Nick Miroff joins us to give an update on the Southern border. A record level of migrants crossed it in December and pressure on the Biden administration is mounting. And, beauty journalist Jessica DeFino says it's best to leave glitter in 2023. Even though its sparkle is alluring and it's been increasingly showing up in the makeup world in recent years, glitter is rich with dangerous microplastics. Then, energy and energy transition received a lot of attention throughout 2023. Amid COP28 promises and war in the Middle East and Ukraine, what's the forecast on energy stories in the new year? Energy expert and vice chairman of S&P Global Daniel Yergin joins us to answer that.
1/4/2024 • 23 minutes, 26 seconds
Why one Ohio therapist changed her mind about gender-affirming care for kids
Tensions between Lebanon and Israel run high after Hamas confirmed that one of their top leaders died in an attack in Beirut. While Israel has not claimed responsibility, the blast has stoked fears of a widening regional conflict. The Washington Post's Sarah Dadouch tells us more. And, the hacking of the small public water authority in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, is making people pay a little more attention to warnings about the vulnerability of all U.S. utilities to international cyberattacks. Cybersecurity lawyer Stewart Baker joins us. Then, Carey Callahan is a therapist in Ohio who detransitioned. She previously said she was against gender-affirming care for kids, but is now advocating against bans on trans health care. She tells us more about her story.
1/3/2024 • 30 minutes, 51 seconds
Drink less and reduce your risk for cancer, new study says
A Coast Guard airplane and a passenger jet collided at Tokyo's Haneda Airport. The Coast Guard plane was headed to Japan's west coast to provide aid following the devastating New Year's Day earthquake. Tokyo bureau chief for the Washington Post Michelle Ye Hee Lee joins us. And, the Israel Supreme Court struck down a provision to weaken the judiciary. And Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says the war against Hamas will continue for "many more months." NPR's Daniel Estrin joins us. Then, new findings show that reducing or eliminating alcohol consumption decreases the risks of certain type of cancers. STAT cancer reporter Angus Chen joins us.
1/2/2024 • 20 minutes, 50 seconds
How to rebuild Gaza with dignity and agency for Palestinians living there
"Open Gaza," which brings together environmentalists, planners, and scholars from Israel, Gaza, the West Bank, the U.S., the UK, India and beyond to share their visions for creating a better place for Gazans and Palestinians. Co-editor Dean Shariff Sharp tells us more. And, KPMG economist Diane Swonk shares her economic outlook for 2024. Then, copyright law expert Jennifer Jenkins talks about the thousands of recordings, lyrics, novels and movies from the 1920s that emerged from copyright protection on Jan. 1, 2024.
1/1/2024 • 34 minutes, 8 seconds
2023 in review: Top films, songs and food over the past year
Film critic Ty Burr joins us to break down his picks for the top movies of 2023. His list includes blockbuster hits like "Barbie" along with newer releases such as "Poor Things" and "The Holdovers."And, our resident chef Kathy Gunst spent 2023 eating in cities across the world. She joins us to round up the best dishes she tried throughout the year and offers recipes for some of her own recipes for dishes inspired by restaurant fares. Then, the hosts of NPR's Alt.Latino, Anamaria Sayre and Felix Contreras join us to share their top songs of 2023, including music from Rawayana, Maria José Llergo and more.
12/29/2023 • 35 minutes, 36 seconds
2023 saw extreme weather events — and their normalization
University of Michigan law professor Barbara McQuade talks about efforts in states such as Maine, Wisconsin, Michigan and Colorado to remove former President Donald Trump from the 2024 ballot based on the 14th Amendment's insurrection ban. And, by all accounts, a year of weather extremes: the most powerful storms, the hottest recorded temperatures, the deadliest wildfires. New York Times writer David Wallace-Wells says it was also a year of normalization — where events that once would have terrified us have simply become part of the landscape. He talks about the year's most important climate stories, including a few that bring hope. Then, NPR's Neda Ulaby remembers the musicians who passed away this year, including Sinead O'Connor, Tina Turner and Tony Bennett.
12/28/2023 • 29 minutes, 12 seconds
Voting rights in 2023: Some states expanded access, others restricted it
Indigenous teens traumatized by years of flooding and fire in Hawaii are leading a legal battle for climate justice. Two of the plaintiffs join us to reflect on a year of tragedy and hope. And, in 2023, voting was a fraught topic. Residents of some states saw increased measures to make voting more accessible, but those in others saw restrictions like bans on ballot drop boxes which served to restrict voting access. Liz Avore of the Voting Rights Lab joins us. Then, the cultural reach of video games has never been greater than in 2023. But working conditions for the people who make games have been dire, too. Here & Now's James Perkins Mastromarino unpacks the top games that came out this year along with the state of the gaming industry.
12/27/2023 • 33 minutes, 25 seconds
Want to read more 2024? Start with this year's best books
The Supreme Court is deliberating over whether to greenlight a controversial agreement that would force the Sackler family to pay $6 billion to communities, hospitals, and families harmed by the opioid epidemic Massachusetts mother Cheryl Juaire, who lost two sons to overdose, and Pennsylvania's Cynthia Munger, whose son is recovering from substance abuse disorder, join us. And, CBS News business analyst and host of "Jill on Money" Jill Schlesinger has some timely advice to start the New Year strong and smart with your finances. Then, "The Stacks" podcast host Traci Thomas talks about some of her favorite books of 2023 as well as the importance of year-end lists.
12/26/2023 • 27 minutes, 14 seconds
Our resident chef breaks down her picks for the best cookbooks of 2023
The news headlines this year were dominated by conflict, from Gaza to Ukraine to Myanmar. The Washington Post's Ishaan Tharoor joins us to unpack the year in global news stories. And, Here & Now resident chef Kathy Gunst joins us to break down her favorite cookbooks that came out in 2023. Among her top picks are "Ever-Green Vietnamese" by Andrea Nguyen, "Veg-Table" by Nik Sharma and "Love is a Pink Cake" by Claire Ptak. Then, music journalist Betto Arcos joins us to sample some of the best music from around the world.
12/25/2023 • 33 minutes, 16 seconds
How new federal money for solar power could help Puerto Rico's energy grid
Radio Iowa's Kay Henderson and Semafor's Shelby Talcott talk about how the Supreme Court could shape the 2024 race with a ruling on presidential immunity and whether Colorado can exclude former President Donald Trump from the ballot. And, the recent death of a 5-year-old in a Chicago migrant shelter is highlighting a serious and growing crisis in the city. Chicago Sun-Times reporter Michael Loria joins us. Then, new federal money aims to install solar panels on 40,000 low-income households in Puerto Rico. Since Hurricane Maria devastated the island's power grid in 2017, many people who can afford it have switched to solar seeking more reliable electricity. David Ortiz, Puerto Rico program director for Solar United Neighbors, talks about the work his group has been doing.
12/22/2023 • 27 minutes, 58 seconds
Let the good times — and dice — roll with the best board games of 2023
Homelessness is up 12% nationwide. And cities around the country are holding memorials to honor people who died this year while experiencing homelessness. Niki Wattson, who helps unhoused people in Indianapolis, joins us. And, this year is expected to see record spending on holiday gifts, and a big chunk of that spending goes toward gifts for children. University of Virginia Professor Allison Pugh joins us to talk about raising kids who aren't materialistic in a world defined by consumerism. Then, looking for a board game to play over the holidays with friends or family? NPR's gaming lead James Perkins Mastromarino breaks down the best releases of the year.
12/21/2023 • 21 minutes, 19 seconds
Cook up homemade food gifts for everyone on your list this holiday
The Colorado Supreme Court has decided that former President Donald Trump is ineligible to hold office again because he encouraged the Jan. 6 insurrection. ABC News' Rick Klein talks about the political implications. And, new reporting by ProPublica shows a flurry of activity after Clarence Thomas told a congressman that U.S. Supreme Court justices need to make higher salaries. Joshua Kaplan is covering the story. Then, ACLU attorney David Donatti talks about his group's decision to sue over the measure signed by Gov. Greg Abbott on Monday, which allows for state troopers to arrest migrants. Plus, are you still looking for holiday gifts? Resident chef Kathy Gunst shares three new recipes for food gifts.
12/21/2023 • 27 minutes, 34 seconds
Male birth control: A new drug focuses on Vitamin A, not hormones
As negotiations to overhaul the current immigration system continue, Congressional Hispanic Caucus chair Rep. Nanette Barragan says that Hispanic lawmakers must be included in talks about the U.S.-Mexico border. And, a small trial is underway for a new form of male birth control. For years, scientists have known that a deficiency of vitamin A causes male infertility. And this new method focuses on Vitamin A instead of hormones. Annalisa Merrelli, a reporter for STAT, joins us. Then, Cuban jazz pianist Harold Lopez Nussa just wrapped up his U.S. tour. He joins us to talk about his latest album, his influences and how homesickness colors his work.
12/19/2023 • 24 minutes, 23 seconds
Is regifting taboo? Not if you follow this etiquette
The trial of media billionaire and pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai is getting underway in Hong Kong. Critics of the Chinese Communist Party have rallied to his defense since his arrest in 2020. The Washington Post's Shibani Mahtani joins us. And, as the pressure to find the perfect holiday present for your loved ones mounts, you may be considering repurposing something that someone else gave you as a new and shiny gift. But is regifting a rude thing to do? Michelle Singletary, personal finance columnist for the Washington Post, says no, as long as you follow some rules of etiquette. Then, "ONEFOUR: Against All Odds" tells the story of the Australian-Samoan drill rap group ONEFOUR and their charged relationship with the police. ONEFOUR manager Ricky Simandjuntak and filmmaker Gabriel Gasparinatos talk about the Netflix documentary.
12/18/2023 • 25 minutes, 29 seconds
Major pharmacies are sending medical records to police. They don't need a warrant
CVS, Kroger and Rite Aid are among major pharmacies sending patient records to law enforcement agencies without a warrant or contacting a lawyer. Rep. Sara Jacobs (D-CA) joins us to talk about the congressional inquiry she was part of that unearthed this revelation. And, Israel is pumping sea water into tunnels underneath Gaza as part of its campaign to eradicate Hamas. The Wall Street Journal's national security correspondent Nancy Youssef joins us. Then, the Associated Press's Darlene Superville and Fox News' Chad Pergram join us to talk about the week in politics, including the GOP's impeachment inquiry of President Biden and the pressure to pass a border deal before the lawmakers' holiday break.
12/15/2023 • 26 minutes, 42 seconds
Major pharmacies are sending medical records to police. They don't need a warrant
CVS, Kroger and Rite Aid are among major pharmacies sending patient records to law enforcement agencies without a warrant or contacting a lawyer. Rep. Sara Jacobs (D-CA) joins us to talk about the congressional inquiry she was part of that unearthed this revelation. And, Israel is pumping sea water into tunnels underneath Gaza as part of its campaign to eradicate Hamas. The Wall Street Journal's national security correspondent Nancy Youssef joins us. Then, the Associated Press's Darlene Superville and Fox News' Chad Pergram join us to talk about the week in politics, including the GOP's impeachment inquiry of President Biden and the pressure to pass a border deal before the lawmakers' holiday break.
12/15/2023 • 26 minutes, 42 seconds
The Alliance Defending Freedom helped overturn Roe. Mifepristone is its next target
The Alliance Defending Freedom is challenging the use of mifepristone, a commonly used abortion pill. The group also worked to overturn Roe v. Wade. David Kirkpatrick, staff writer at the New Yorker, joins us to talk about the group. And, at COP28, world leaders agreed to triple renewable energy by 2030 and move away from fossil fuels. What does that mean for the energy sector of our economy? MSNBC's Ali Velshi joins us to answer that. Then, a large Confederate monument is set to be removed from Arlington National Cemetery by the end of the year. Historian Leslie Rowland joins us to talk about the significance.
12/14/2023 • 24 minutes, 38 seconds
COP28 takeaways: Moving away from fossil fuels using carbon capture
Global leaders agreed to a deal at Dubai's COP28 climate conference that would transition away from fossil fuels. Carbon capture and removal technology is one way to do that. But critics say the agreement doesn't go far enough. Grist's Naveena Sadasivam and Here & Now's Peter O'Dowd join us. And, Coast Guard agents off the coast of Florida are intercepting and detaining thousands of migrants including children traveling alone. Most of them are from Haiti. Seth Freed Wessler investigated this for ProPublica and joins us. Then, keep your eye to the sky on Wednesday and Thursday nights for the peak of the Geminid meteor shower. Sky & Telescope senior editor Kelly Beatty joins us to explain what to look for.
12/13/2023 • 25 minutes, 10 seconds
A Texas woman's fetus has a fatal condition. She still can't get an abortion
The Texas Supreme Court blocked a woman seeking an abortion after she learned her fetus had a condition that is almost always fatal. Professor of law at Rutgers Law School Kimberly Mutcherson joins us. And, Historian Andrew Bacevich writes that the Israel-Hamas War will end in failure for both sides, and he warns that the U.S. should not become enmeshed in the conflict. Bacevich joins us to discuss. Then, Kinnan Abdelhamid was one of the three students of Palestinian descent shot in Vermont last month. Abdelhamid joins us to talk about the lasting trauma of the attack.
12/12/2023 • 28 minutes, 35 seconds
'How to Dance in Ohio' spotlights autistic Broadway actors
Israeli forces are detaining civilians in Gaza. The Israeli military says these detainments are necessary to find Hamas militants hiding in Gaza, but provided no evidence that those they've detained are fighters. Washington Post reporter Miriam Berger joins us for more. And, New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell took a trip to COP28 to talk about how her city is adapting to threats of climate change. Cantrell joins us to talk about it. Then, "How to Dance in Ohio" opened on Broadway on Sunday and stars seven autistic actors. The show is based on a documentary of the same name and follows the leads navigating the excitement and nerves before their first formal dance. Actors Desmond Luis Edwards and Conor Tague join us alongside director Sammi Cannold.
12/11/2023 • 25 minutes, 41 seconds
Carbon removal technology: How far have we come and what does the future hold?
Here & Now's Peter O'Dowd and Chris Bentley visited locations across the U.S. to understand how carbon removal technology is working to reverse some effects of climate change. They unpack the promising future of this technology and the limitations of it. And, O'Dowd reports on carbon capture technology that sucks CO2 directly from the air and stores it in concrete used to make buildings, roads and more. While it's certainly helpful in the fight against climate change, critics say it doesn't go far enough. Then, Israeli airstrikes killed Palestinian poet and writer Refaat Alareer on Wednesday along with 6 members of his family. Yousef Aljamal, a fellow Palestinian writer and a close friend of Refaat, joins us to talk about Refaat's life and work.
12/8/2023 • 24 minutes, 30 seconds
A 'concrete' solution to climate change; Depths of Wikipedia
A new direct-air-capture plant in Tracy, California, will pull up to 1,000 tons of carbon dioxide directly out of the air each year. The company that built it says the removed carbon will be permanently sequestered inside concrete. As part of our Reverse Course series, Peter O'Dowd went to a concrete plant in San Jose to understand how it works. And, Grist's Jake Bittle talks about the Marshall Islands' plan to adapt to the effects of climate change. Then, writer Annie Rauwerda makes a habit of getting lost among the seemingly endless digital archives of Wikipedia. She created an Instagram account to document some of the best facts she's found. Rauwerda tells us about the weird and wonderful world of Wikipedia.
12/7/2023 • 29 minutes, 18 seconds
These machines suck climate-warming carbon right out of the air
Scientists are looking toward carbon removal or ideas to pull greenhouse gasses right from the atmosphere. NPR's Camila Domonoske joins us to talk about direct air capture, or machines that can pull carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere. And, as Democrats and Republicans go back and forth over border funding, The Washington Post's Arelis Hernández joins us to talk about what's really going on at the U.S.-Mexico border. Then, a new study published by the American Psychological Association found that keeping a joyful secret, like a promotion at work or plans for a marriage proposal, can make you feel better than sharing the news right away. One of the study's authors, Katie Greenaway, joins us.
12/6/2023 • 23 minutes, 15 seconds
Carbon capture startups dive for climate solutions in the ocean
As money pours into companies promising to take greenhouse gasses out of the atmosphere, there's a small but fast-growing sector of startups that want to leverage one of the world's biggest carbon sinks to clean up humanity's climate pollution: the ocean. For our series Reverse Course, Chris Bentley reports on some of the scientists and entrepreneurs developing ways to enhance the ocean's natural ability to take carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere. And, researchers at the Pacific Northwest National Lab are also looking into how native eelgrass could fight ocean acidification, and how algae could offset carbon emissions in the construction industry. Bentley tells us more. Then, NPR's Aya Batrawy shares the latest from the COP28 summit in Dubai.
12/5/2023 • 25 minutes, 40 seconds
How spreading rock dust on farms could be a climate solution
Enhanced rock weathering can help remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and instead store it deep within the Earth where it remains for eons. Numerous companies are tapping into this process. Here & Now's Chris Bentley reports and investigates other land-based carbon capture methods. And, Israel is using artificial intelligence to strike non-military targets in Gaza. Israeli investigative reporter Yuval Abraham joins us.
12/4/2023 • 30 minutes, 21 seconds
What war means for future Palestinian and Israeli political leadership
Palestinian journalist and storyteller Maram Humaid joins us from Gaza to talk about the end of the seven-day ceasefire. And, as Israel restarts its war against Hamas in Gaza, international political consultant Alon Pinkas talks about the political forces at play in Israel. Tahani Mustafa, senior Palestine analyst at the International Crisis Group, weighs in on what the war means for Palestinian political leadership in Gaza and the West Bank. Then, when the Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan two years ago, the militant regime deemed music morally corrupt and banned it. But, as Kabul fell, pianist and composer Arson Fahim found refuge at the Longy School of Music in Cambridge, Massachusetts. WBUR's Andrea Shea reports.
12/1/2023 • 28 minutes, 46 seconds
Oil production dominates international climate conversations
This year's COP climate summit begins Thursday in Dubai. Nigel Purvis, a former U.S. climate negotiator and current CEO of Climate Advisers, joins us to talk about the controversy that will likely ensue when the summit gets underway. And, Oil production is expected to be a central point of discussion both at COP28 and the latest meeting of the OPEC+ group of oil-producing nations. MSNBC anchor and chief economic correspondent Ali Velshi joins us. Then, Henry Kissinger died on Wednesday at age 100. He had an instrumental role in forging relations between the U.S. and China in the 1970s. He also played a heavy role in the carpet bombing of Cambodia from 1969 to 1973. Journalist James Mann and professor at Harvard University Fredrik Logevall join us.
11/30/2023 • 25 minutes, 27 seconds
On college campuses, Israel-Hamas war spotlights free speech concerns
Juliette Touma, director of communications for the United Nations Palestine Refugee Agency, talks about what is going on inside Gaza as the temporary ceasefire continues between Israel and Hamas. And, college campuses across America are reeling from heightened tensions, protests and polarizing views in light of the Israel-Hamas war. CEO of PEN America Suzanne Nossel explains the discord that's playing out on university campuses and how higher academia can address and resolve concerns over free speech on their campuses. Then, scientists, including those at NASA, are interested in studying UFOs. But there's a big challenge; it's difficult to collect the data to draw scientific conclusions. Alan Tu of WHYY's The Pulse reports.
11/29/2023 • 23 minutes, 19 seconds
How religious lobbyists made sure abortion bans stayed as strict as possible
During an extension of the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, White House officials expect more hostages to be released. Christoper O'Leary, the U.S. government's former director of hostage rescue and recovery, about tactics and strategies to release Americans and others still held. And, Amazon has become the top shipper in the U.S. surpassing the UPS. The feat has only heightened concerns about Amazon and monopolization. Roben Farzad, host of public radio's "Full Disclosure," joins us. Then, there have been debates in many states about what constitutes an exception to strict abortion bans. Very few exceptions have been granted, largely because of successful lobbying by anti-abortion religious activists.
11/28/2023 • 25 minutes, 52 seconds
One economic hurdle people with disabilities face? A limit on savings
As Palestinian prisoners return as part of the hostage exchange with Israel, The Washington Post's Louisa Loveluck tells us about it. And, Hagai Levine, head of the medical and resilience team for the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, talks about working with the freed hostages. Then, it's been decades since the government set how much money someone with a disability can keep in savings and still be eligible for Supplemental Security Income benefits. Now a bipartisan proposal in the Senate seeks to raise asset limits from $2,000 to $10,000. Disability rights advocate Patrice Jetter is supportive of the change, but says it's complicated.
11/27/2023 • 27 minutes, 34 seconds
'The Gun Machine' Ep. 8: Accounting for the true cost of gun violence
This final episode features a conversation about what it means to survive a shooting. And, host Alain Stephens discusses the first-ever White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention and how the federal government can better support survivors. Find the full podcast on Here & Now Anytime.
11/24/2023 • 46 minutes, 5 seconds
Make Thanksgiving leftovers taste even better the second time around
After spending much of Thanksgiving day cooking, you've probably got some leftovers taking up space in the fridge. From a vanilla pudding to a frittata, our resident chef Kathy Gunst offers recipes to transform those leftovers into something possibly even better than the first time you ate them. And, it's been 10 years since Kevin Kwan's novel "Crazy Rich Asians" hit bookstore shelves. The author joins us to break down the inspirations behind the book, the film adaptation that came after and Asian representation in media. Then, there are thousands of wild horses running free on Native American reservations. Tribal governments are left in charge of managing them. On the Spokane Reservation, one woman is working to rehome the animals. Ashley Ahearn reports.
11/24/2023 • 30 minutes, 44 seconds
Feast your ears on Dwight Garner's memoir about eating
Mark Kurlansky's new book "The Core of an Onion" includes the history, interesting facts and recipes including the allium. He tells us about it. And, if ever a book was meant to be savored, it's Dwight Garner's new memoir"The Upstairs Delicatessen: On Eating, Reading about Eating, and Eating While Reading." In it, the New York Times literary critic takes readers on a journey through his food and book-obsessed childhood. Then, "Magic: the Gathering" released a huge new product inspired by Aztec, Mayan, and Olmec history. Guatemalan-American art director Ovidio Cartagena explains how he incorporated Mesoamerican cultures into "Lost Caverns of Ixalan."
11/23/2023 • 33 minutes, 27 seconds
Have we lost empathy amid war in the Middle East?
How does climate change shape wildfires? That's the question John Vaillant's book "Fire Weather: A True Story from a Hotter World" seeks to answer. He joins us to talk about fire and the warming planet. And, the war between Israel and Hamas has become increasingly polarized, leading some to question whether we've lost empathy altogether. Jamil Zaki, a psychologist who's devoted his career to studying empathy, joins us to discuss. Then, the new book "Critical Hits: Writers Play Video Games" features essays about video games from acclaimed writers. Authors and "Critical Hits" editors Carmen Maria Machado and J. Robert Lennon join us.
11/22/2023 • 35 minutes, 6 seconds
How eSims are helping thousands in Gaza stay connected amid blackouts
New reporting from STAT says the nation's largest insurer, UnitedHealth Group, pushed staff to limit insurance payments by strictly following calculations by an algorithm. It meant some Medicare patients didn't get the rehabilitative care they needed. STAT's Casey Ross talks about the investigation. And, Qatar is mediating hostage negotiations between Israel and Hamas. The country is a U.S. ally, but also home to a Hamas office and a number of Hamas leaders. Professor Gregory Gause talks about Qatar's balancing act. Then, at least 33,000 people in Gaza have stayed connected thanks to the grassroots efforts of people donating electronic sim cards. Egyptian writer and activist Mirna El Helbawi has been leading efforts to get people across Gaza connected to their loved ones and the rest of the outside world.
11/21/2023 • 22 minutes, 44 seconds
UN warns of 'hellish' climate warming; Show-stealing Thanksgiving sides
The United Nation's latest Emissions Gap Report reveals that inadequate policies could lead to three degrees Celsius of global warming this century, a scenario described as "hellish." Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry joins us. And, former First Lady Rosalynn Carter died at age 96 on Sunday. Historian and biographer Scott Kauffman joins us to talk about Carter's life and work, including mental health advocacy and international humanitarian efforts. Then, starting to prep for Thanksgiving? These show-stealing slides will complete your holiday table and even outshine the bird. Our resident chef Kathy Gunst offers recipes for a bright salad, stuffed squash and olive breadsticks.
11/20/2023 • 29 minutes, 48 seconds
'The Gun Machine' Ep. 7: Why it's so hard for the ATF to do its job
This episode of "The Gun Machine" looks at the agency charged with regulating guns, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, known as the ATF. Find the full podcast on Here & Now Anytime.
11/18/2023 • 45 minutes, 47 seconds
Fuel shortages in Gaza; 'Latingrass' duo combines bluegrass, Venezuelan music
Amid fuel shortages and blackouts in internet access, Palestinians in Gaza are disconnected from much of the world, and aid organizations cannot get in contact to help. NPR international correspondent Aya Batrawy joins us. And, the Wall Street Journal has named Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport the best airport this year. Wall Street Journal travel reporter Allison Pohle joins us to break down the rankings. Then, Larry Bellorín and Joe Troop, also known as Larry & Joe, are combining bluegrass music with traditional Venezuelan music in a sound they call 'Latingrass.' The duo joins us to talk about and perform some of their music.
11/17/2023 • 26 minutes, 52 seconds
'Time has not been exhausted yet' hostages taken by Hamas; U.S. ambassador to China
U.S. Ambassador to China Nicholas Burns joins us to discuss President Biden's four-hour meeting with President Xi Jinping of China on Wednesday. And, peace activist Gershon Baskin is called Israel's most famous hostage negotiator. He talks about a deal that's said to be in the works for the release of some hostages being held by Hamas. Then, in NBC's "Found," one woman makes it her job to find missing people who have slipped through the system. We hear from creator and showrunner Nkechi Okoro Carroll.
11/16/2023 • 24 minutes, 22 seconds
Palestinian-American family escapes Gaza; Remembering Israeli activist Vivian Silver
Helal Kaoud spent over a month pleading with American officials to help her father, brother and uncles — all American citizens — get back home after they were trapped in Gaza when the war broke out. She talks about the struggle to get her family back home and how they're doing now. And, Yael Braudo-Bahat, co-director of the group Women Wage Peace, remembers her mentor Vivian Silver, who dedicated her life to building bridges between Israelis and Palestinians. Silver was believed to have been taken hostage on Oct. 7 by Hamas, but was confirmed dead this week. Then, Iceland has thousands of active volcanoes and seismic activity is common there. But over the past few weeks, there have been thousands of small earthquakes, a town had to be evacuated and scientists believe an eruption could happen at any moment. Volcanologist Thorvaldur Thordarson joins us.
11/15/2023 • 25 minutes, 51 seconds
National Climate Assessment warns of sickness, death; Maui tourists return after fire
The fifth annual National Climate Assessment was released and reveals that climate change is already making people sick in the U.S., and sometimes killing people. Grist's Zoya Teirstein joins us. And, a new investigation from ProPublica and The Desert Sun found that just 20 farming families in California's Imperial Valley use more water than some Western states. Janet Wilson, senior environment reporter with The Desert Sun who worked to identify those families, joins us. Then, after devastating wildfires on Maui killed at least 97 people and leveled whole towns, the island is reopening to tourists. Brandon Chu, general manager of the Paia Inn on Maui's North Shore, joins us to talk about recovery efforts.
11/14/2023 • 24 minutes, 15 seconds
Gaza hospitals go dark amidst fuel shortage; Denver mayor on migrant crisis
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to worsen as hospitals struggle to maintain operations with little fuel and dwindling medical supplies. We speak The Washington Post's Sarah Dadouch and Dr. Tanya Haj Hassan about the latest from Gaza as conditions deteriorate inside the area's two largest hospitals. And, Florida Democratic Rep. Angie Nixon faced condemnation from post parties after introducing legislation last week calling for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war. Then, Denver Mayor Mike Johnston talks about the challenges the city is facing from large numbers of migrants seeking asylum.
11/13/2023 • 25 minutes, 55 seconds
'The Gun Machine' Ep. 6: How the NRA gained the power and influence it has
This episode of "The Gun Machine" looks at how the National Rifle Association grew to have the power and influence it has, and helped ensure the firearm industry's unique legal protections. Find new episodes every Saturday on Here & Now Anytime.
11/11/2023 • 43 minutes, 47 seconds
Abortion at center of politics; 'The Race to Be Myself' by Olympian Caster Semenya
Abortion wins on election day are at the heart of many political debates. Additionally, the third GOP presidential candidates debate took place this week, with frontrunner former President Donald Trump absent. Politico's Eugene Daniels and Axios' Margaret Talev join us. And, the National Women's Soccer League final will see OL Reign and NY/NJ Gotham FC face off in San Diego on Saturday. The Gist's Ellen Hyslop joins us. Then, two-time Olympic gold medalist Caster Semenya joins us to talk about her new memoir "The Race to Be Myself." Because of Semenya's elevated testosterone levels, she fought to be recognized as a woman and compete in women's races.
11/10/2023 • 29 minutes, 5 seconds
Gaza aid worker calls for ceasefire; Black voters and abortion rights in Ohio
Pediatrician Dr. Tanya Haj-Hassan, who is with the humanitarian aid organization Doctors Without Borders, joins us to talk about the growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Israel has agreed to have daily, 4-hour humanitarian pauses in fighting in areas of northern Gaza in order to allow civilians to move to safer areas in the south. William Booth, London bureau chief at The Washington Post, joins us. And, Ohio saw wins for abortion rights on election day. Progressive community organizers are reflecting on the role of Black voters, who they've been working to engage and register to vote. Prentiss Haney, co-executive director of the nonprofit Ohio Organizing Collaborative, and his colleague Pastor Lesley Jones join us. Then, November is the time to see some exciting space phenomena. Streaks of light from the Taurid and Leonid meteor showers will be visible this season and the Euclid space telescope is sending its first images from a million miles away. Kelly Beatty, senior editor at Sky and Telescope, joins us.
11/9/2023 • 28 minutes, 41 seconds
UAW's Shawn Fain on successful strikes; 5 years after The Camp Fire
On Tuesday, Democrat Andy Beshear won re-election in a deep-red Kentucky's governor race. Ryland Barton, the managing editor of Kentucky Public Radio, joins us to break down the result. And, the United Auto Workers union scored major victories in tentative contracts with Detroit's Big Three automakers. Union president Shawn Fain joins us to talk about the six weeks of strikes that scored the successes. Then, it's been five years since The Camp Fire in Paradise, California, decimated close to 19,000 structures. Though recovery efforts have been steady, there's still a long way to go as residents continue to bounce back. Here & Now's Ashley Locke reports.
11/8/2023 • 20 minutes, 38 seconds
Utah's Great Salt Lake in crisis; Families of Israeli hostages plead for safe return
Host Scott Tong speaks to Merav Raviv and Itay Raviv, who came to Washington D.C. from Israel to plead for international action to negotiate the safe return of family captured by Hamas in the Oct. 7 attacks. And, prolonged drought and overuse have brought the Great Salt Lake in Utah to the brink of collapse, threatening the lives of the animals and the people who live there. Here & Now's Peter O'Dowd reports. Then, Robert "Mack" McCormick's massive and closely held collection of blues music and research from the 1950s and 60s is seeing the light of day. Susannah Nix, McCormick's daughter, and John Troutman, curator of music and musical instruments at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, join us.
11/7/2023 • 37 minutes, 3 seconds
U.S. life expectancy falls; Hear Lera Lynn's music in new space-western video game
One month into the Israel-Hamas war, Isreali air strikes have killed more than 10,000 people in Gaza. NPR's Lauren Frayer joins us to discuss. And, after steadily climbing for decades, life expectancy in the U.S. has fallen, largely due to chronic illness. Reporter Akilah Johnson contributed to the Washington Post's series "Dying Early: America's Life Expectancy Crisis" and joins us. Then, singer-songwriter Lera Lynn has lent her talents to an unlikely source: a video game. Even though the game "Endless Dungeon" is set on a fantastical space station, players can hear Lynn's new music serenade them at a Western-style saloon. She joins us to talk about it.
11/6/2023 • 24 minutes, 32 seconds
'The Gun Machine' Ep. 5: The police are one of the gun industry's biggest customers
This episode of "The Gun Machine" looks at the rise of military-style weapons, like the Glock pistol, in police departments and federal law enforcement, and the corresponding rise in the budgets of those departments. Find new episodes every Saturday on Here & Now Anytime.
11/6/2023 • 33 minutes, 50 seconds
Phoenix closes major encampment; Romney's path from GOP candidate to pariah
We hear the latest on the war between Israel and Hamas from the Washington Post's Susannah George. And, KJZZ's Katherine Davis Young talks about the closure of The Zone, an encampment of unhoused people that Phoenix officials finished clearing out this week. Then, journalist McKay Coppins about his new book "Romney: A Reckoning," a profile of the senator and former presidential candidate Mitt Romney done with Romney's full cooperation.
11/3/2023 • 39 minutes, 4 seconds
Rabbi interrupts Biden with call for ceasefire; The Beatles release 'final song'
National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby joins us to talk about the Biden administration's response to Israeli strikes on Gaza, calls for ceasefire and how Americans in Gaza are faring. And, Rabbi Jessica Rosenberg interrupted a speech by President Biden to call for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war. We talk with Rosenberg about it. Former hostage negotiator Gershon Baskin joins us to talk about why he's breaking contact with a Hamas member he's known for 18 years. Then, The Beatles have released their 'final song' called "Now and Then." It's been 45 years in the making, with John Lennon writing the first bars in 1978. Author and Beatles aficionado Tim Riley joins us.
11/2/2023 • 28 minutes, 58 seconds
Free tattoo removal for former gang members; Teens talk cyberbullying and fake news
A new study says we have between six to 12 years to get to zero greenhouse gas emissions — a critical goal to keep the planet from warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius and beyond. Co-author Robin Lamboll joins us. And, gang members and victims of sex trafficking are often forcibly branded by pimps and gang leaders, making it difficult to escape. At the Radiance Clinic, dermatologists provide free tattoo removal. Dr. Shadi Kouroush and nurse practitioner Rachel Niemiec tell us more. Then, social media has proven to be detrimental to the physical and mental well-being of children, especially teenagers. High school seniors An'Davantae Bussey and Leanne Nasser talk about how they're navigating the vast digital landscape.
11/1/2023 • 30 minutes, 44 seconds
'The Exorcist' turns 50; 'Alan Wake 2' offers uniquely frightening gameplay
The United Autoworkers Union has reached a tentative agreement with the Big Three automakers: General Motors, Ford and Stellantis. Michigan Radio's Tracy Samilton and final assembly worker at the Ford plant in Wayne, Michigan, Tiffanie Simmons, join us. And, 1973 horror classic "The Exorcist" turns 50 this year. It's had a profound impact on the horror genre since it came out. Author Nat Segaloff joins us to talk about the enduring legacy. Then, it took Remedy Entertainment 13 years to develop the sequel to the cult horror classic video game "Alan Wake." The sequel blends filmed acting and gameplay for uniquely scary scenes. Here & Now's James Perkins Mastromarino reports.
10/31/2023 • 30 minutes, 13 seconds
Psychological impact of witnessing a mass shooting; Fall in love with pumpkin recipes
Israeli tanks and troops are reportedly moving further into Gaza. The Health Ministry in Gaza reports that the Palestinian death toll from the war has surpassed 8,300 people. Reuter's Emily Rose joins us. And, Dr. Sandro Galea talks about the mental health toll of witnessing a mass shooting on kids and teenagers. Then, resident chef Kathy Gunst has come up with three new recipes using fresh pumpkin.
10/30/2023 • 24 minutes, 20 seconds
'The Gun Machine' Ep. 4: Many guns on the streets of the U.S. are illegal
In the fourth episode of the WBUR and Trace podcast, "The Gun Machine," we look at the problem of urban violence and get a snapshot into the types of guns available on the street. These days those include military-grade weapons. Find new episodes every Saturday on Here & Now Anytime.
10/28/2023 • 37 minutes, 30 seconds
What's ahead for new House Speaker; Books offer context to Israel-Palestine history
Rep. Mike Johnson has been elected as Speaker of the House. Chad Pergram of Fox News and Darlene Superville of the Associated Press join us to talk about what is next for him in this role and more in recent political news. And, a 43-foot railroad spike arrived at the steps of the Utah state capitol in Salt Lake City this week. It was commissioned to honor the laborers, mostly of Chinese or Irish descent, who risked their lives building the transcontinental railroad. Max Chang, a leader of the Spike 150 organization, joins us. Then, as the crisis in Israel and Gaza wears on, creator of "The Stacks" podcast Traci Thomas turns to books about the ongoing regional conflict for more context. She shares her picks for fiction and nonfiction books on the subject.
10/27/2023 • 30 minutes, 18 seconds
Who is new House Speaker Mike Johnson?; 'The Persian Version' makes Sundance history
Israel's war with Hamas after the Hamas attack is causing a devastating humanitarian toll in Gaza. Much less importantly, the war also raises questions in Israel about Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his past actions toward Palestinians. The New York Times' Roger Cohen joins us. And, Louisiana politics reporter Greg Hilburn about how Rep. Mike Johnson rose to the speakership and his conservative agenda, which includes work as general counsel for a group that supported hardline stances on LGBTQ rights. Then, writer-director Maryam Keshavar won the Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival for a second time — a first for the festival. Deleted: Now, her film "The Persian Version" is coming out in movie theaters in a rolling national release.
10/26/2023 • 33 minutes, 15 seconds
What's inside Colorado's lawsuit against Meta; Fuel shortage in Gaza
Relief efforts in Gaza may end Wednesday night without renewed fuel deliveries, according to the United Nations Relief Agency. Reuters Jerusalem correspondent Emily Rose talks about the latest in the crisis. And, Colorado is leading a joint federal lawsuit along with dozens of other states against Meta. The states allege Meta intentionally uses features designed to get children and teens addicted to social media sites. Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser shares more details. Then, author Joanna Ho talks about her latest picture book, "Say My Name," and the importance of celebrating names and pronouncing them correctly in order to form meaningful connections with people. Plus, groundbreaking actor Richard Roundtree has died at the age of 81. We remember his life and legacy.
10/25/2023 • 26 minutes, 40 seconds
Grandson of Israeli hostages; Why U.S. allows food additives banned in EU
Palestinian authorities say Israeli attacks have killed at least 5,300 people since the war started after Hamas' attack on Israel, which killed around 1,400 people. The Washington Post's Steve Hendrix shares the latest. And, Daniel Lifshitz, grandson of released hostage Yo-Have-Ed Lifshitz, talks about the ongoing crisis in the Middle East and his hope of still making peace with Palestinians. Then, some food additives that have long been banned in the European Union are still in use in the United States. A report by STAT explains why the Food and Drugs Administration has been slow in banning those potentially harmful additives. STAT's Nicholas Florko joins us. Plus, a new toy certification called MESH embraces mental, emotional and social health. Two members of the MESH task force join us.
10/24/2023 • 33 minutes, 3 seconds
Possible Israeli invasion of Gaza; Meet Youth Poet Laureate Salome Agbaroji
Israel is preparing its forces for a possible ground invasion in Gaza. Gen. David Petraeus, former CIA director and commander of U.S. forces in Afghanistan and Iraq, joins us to talk about it. And, former Trump lawyers Sidney Powell and Kenneth Chesebro were charged alongside Trump for alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 election results in Georgia. They both took plea deals and agreed to testify in future cases. Gwen Keyes Fleming, former district attorney in DeKalb County, Georgia, joins us to discuss what this means. Then, Nigerian-American Salome Agbaroji is this year's National Youth Poet Laureate. She's using her platform to celebrate Blackness and use joy as an act of resistance. Agbaroji joins us to talk about her work and advocacy.
10/23/2023 • 26 minutes, 12 seconds
'The Gun Machine' Ep. 3: Why Americans buy guns
How do you convince a bunch of civilians that they need to keep buying new guns? In Episode 3 of "The Gun Machine," host Alain Stephens talks about the man who wrote that playbook: Samuel Colt. He also helped seed the fantastical version of the American West that is often misremembered as fact today. Find new episodes every Saturday on Here & Now Anytime.
10/21/2023 • 36 minutes, 8 seconds
Voices from Gaza; 'Silver Dollar Road' explores Black landowners losing property
As war rages on between Israel and Hamas, civilians across the region are suffering. We hear an update about the 21-year-old Israeli Adi Meisel, who disappeared after Hamas attacked a music festival. And, we hear from people trapped within Gaza. And, NBC's Sahil Kapur and the Wall Street Journal's Vivian Salama discuss why the leadership crisis in the House GOP deepened this week, and what the political fallout might be from President Biden's trip to Israel this week after the bombing of a hospital in Gaza. Then, director Raoul Peck's new documentary "Silver Dollar Road" centers on one family who had their land taken from them even though several family members live on the property.
10/20/2023 • 26 minutes, 36 seconds
Peace process in Israel-Hamas war; Kathy Gunst's recipes to change up chicken
Egypt has agreed to allow aid trucks into Gaza to help with the ongoing humanitarian crisis. NPR's Jane Arraf joins us to talk about it. And, the Israel-Hamas war is just the latest in conflicts that have plagued the region for decades. Aaron David Miller, former deputy special coordinator for Arab-Israeli negotiations at the State Department, joins us to talk about what the conflict means for the peace process. Then, having chicken for dinner again? Our resident chef Kathy Gunst joins us to offer three recipes to change up your chicken dishes. Those recipes include chicken and white bean chili, chicken adobo and chicken Milanese.
10/19/2023 • 23 minutes, 18 seconds
Saxophonist Joshua Redman's 'Where Are We; Explosion at Gaza hospital
NPR's Ruth Sherlock talks about a devastating explosion at a Gaza hospital that killed hundreds of people on Tuesday. President Biden says that an explosion at a Gaza hospital appears to have been set off by Islamists. But intelligence remains murky. NPR national security correspondent Greg Myre tells us more. And, wartime leaders often get a wave of popular support. But in the case of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, that does not appear to be the case. International political consultant Alon Pinkas joins us. Then, each song in the new album "Where Are We" by acclaimed jazz saxophonist Joshua Redman is about a place — from New England to Alabama, from Philadelphia to Phoenix. Redman talks about his new record and his musical journey.
10/18/2023 • 31 minutes, 7 seconds
Who is Rep. Jim Jordan?; Alexandra Pelosi's 'The Insurrectionist Next Door'
University of Michigan professor Javed Ali and former U.S. Army intelligence officer and director of the Spy Museum Christopher Costa join us to talk about the war between Israel and Hamas from a military standpoint. And, Ohio Republican Jim Jordan is making a bid for House speaker. Aaron Blake, senior political reporter for the Washington Post, joins us to talk about who Jordan is. Then, Alexandra Pelosi's new documentary "The Insurrectionist Next Door" showcases people who participated in the Jan. 6 riots at the Capitol. Pelosi joins us to explain what she found out by sitting down and having conversations on the topic.
10/17/2023 • 30 minutes, 3 seconds
Medical debt is crushing working-class people; The rich history of Palestine
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is still ongoing, and air organizations are responding. Michael Capponi, founder and president of the Global Empowerment Mission, joins us. To understand the context of the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, one must understand the history of the country of Palestine and the different forces that led to it being occupied by Israel. Rashid Khalidi, professor of modern Arab studies at Columbia University, joins us. And, some local grassroots organizers hope to use funds from the American Rescue Plan to relieve medical debt for residents. Organizers Afua Atta-Mensah "Glitter" Felten tell us what they're pushing for in Florida.
10/16/2023 • 29 minutes, 22 seconds
'The Gun Machine' Ep. 2: Tracing the roots of the culture of fear used to sell guns
Gun advertising sows seeds of mistrust and the promotes need to carry a gun for self-protection. But protection from whom? In Episode 2 of "The Gun Machine," host Alain Stephens talks to historian Carol Anderson about the racist roots of the Second Amendment and travels down to Florida to talk to Black gun owners about why they carry. Find new episodes every Saturday on Here & Now Anytime.
10/14/2023 • 39 minutes, 56 seconds
Misinformation amid Israel-Hamas war; 'World Central Kitchen Cookbook' recipes
Palestinians are evacuating the northern part of the Gaza Strip amid relentless Israeli airstrikes. Norwegian Refugee Council's Shaina Low joins us. As violence escalates in the Middle East, misinformation runs rampant. Even news outlets and President Biden have fallen into the trap. Bellingcat researcher Kolina Koltai joins us to talk about how it's been spreading and how to avoid contributing to it. And, on Saturday parts of the Western and Southwestern United States and parts of Mexico and South and Central America will be able to see an annular eclipse. Sky and Telescope senior editor Kelly Beatty tells us how to see it safely. Then, Chef Jose Andres, founder of World Central Kitchen, talks about the organization's work providing fresh meals to people in crisis. The newly released "World Central Kitchen Cookbook" details some of those recipes.
10/13/2023 • 28 minutes, 35 seconds
Father of missing Israeli man; Palestinians grapple with humanitarian crisis in Gaza
The Washington Post's Sarah Dadouch joins us to talk about the Israeli siege on Gaza. Sagui Dekel-Chen was last seen fighting off Hamas militants who stormed his kibbutz on Saturday morning. He hasn't been heard from since. We speak to his father, Jonathan Dekel-Chen, who is pleading for his son's safe return. And, the Palestinian community is trying to cope with news of family members in Gaza facing displacement, and lack of food, water, or power. Palestinian American Najwa Alsadi, a business owner from New Jersey, joins us. Then, May Pang is the subject of the new film "The Lost Weekend: A Love Story." Pang and the late John Lennon had a relationship from 1973 to 1975 that was later characterized as Lennon's "lost weekend."
10/12/2023 • 28 minutes, 35 seconds
Palestinians trapped without resources; Mother pleads for missing daughter in Israel
NPR's Aya Batrawy talks to Palestinians trapped in Gaza without food, fuel, water or other resources amid numerous Israeli airstrikes. Last weekend, Hamas militants attacked a music festival near the Gaza border. Ahuva Maizel, whose 21-year-old daughter Adi is missing after attending the festival, joins us to explain what her family is feeling. Following the attack last weekend, Israel declared war on Hamas and launched multiple airstrikes on Gaza amid supply blockades as well. Destruction from the strikes has displaced almost 200,000 people in Gaza. Lifelong Gaza resident and translator Jason Shawa joins us.Hamas, the armed group controlling Gaza, has ruled the Gaza Strip since 2007. Khaled Elgindy, a senior fellow at the Middle East Institute and director of its Israeli-Palestinian affairs program, offers context on how the group came to be.
10/11/2023 • 27 minutes, 19 seconds
Biden, Israel and the Middle East; State Department official on war
Vedant Patel, principal deputy spokesperson for the State Department, joins us to talk about the state of the war between Israel and Hamas. And, President Biden addressed the war between Hamas and Israel Tuesday. We discuss the United States' relationship with Israel with Presidential historian Julian Zelizer. Then, journalist Dalia Hatuqa joins us from Ramallah in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. Plus, the multi-billion dollar fraud trial against Sam Bankman-Fried resumes Tuesday after beginning last week. Bloomberg's Zeke Faux shares the latest.
10/10/2023 • 29 minutes, 43 seconds
What to know right now about the deadliest Israel-Palestine conflict since 1970s
Israel struck more than 500 targets in Gaza overnight after Hamas killed hundreds in Israel over the weekend. More than 1,000 people have died, making it the deadliest conflict in the region since the Yom Kippur War of 1973. NPR's Aya Batrawy joins us. And, Johns Hopkins Middle East analyst Laura Blumenfeld joins us to discuss Israel's newly declared war on Hamas. Then, three days after Hamas attack in Israel, opposing groups are still fighting. Jim Walsh, senior research associate at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's Security Studies Program, joins us to talk about the implications of the war.
10/9/2023 • 24 minutes, 37 seconds
'The Gun Machine' Ep. 1: Examining the origin of the U.S.'s gun industry
The symbiotic relationship between the gun industry and the government goes all the way back to the 1790s when the Founding Fathers created an open-source think tank in Massachusetts: the Springfield Armory. Its mission: Make the best guns in the world. From WBUR and The Trace, the podcast series "The Gun Machine" explains how the United States has shaped and been shaped by, the gun industry — and how we all play a role. Find new episodes every Saturday on Here & Now Anytime.
10/7/2023 • 39 minutes, 49 seconds
Designing buildings with extreme heat in mind; How 'bout them apple recipes?
Phoenix suffered through a record-breaking heat wave in July. But due to climate change, high temperatures are the new normal. But architect Marlene Imirzian designed a heat-abating building that could help keep people safe and cool. Here & Now's Peter O'Dowd reports from Phoenix. And, psychologist Carol Gilligan wrote the book "In a Different Voice," stating that women embody a caring voice different from men. Now, she's revising that work. She says that a caring voice is actually accessible to everyone, regardless of gender. Gilligan joins us to talk about her new book, "In a Human Voice."Then, our resident chef Kathy Gunst joins us to share some recipes utilizing a favorite fall fruit: apples. Gunst breaks down a number of apple varieties and offers sweet and savory recipes.
10/6/2023 • 28 minutes, 58 seconds
Video game actors authorize strike amid AI fears; The truth about dinosaurs
In New York City, the fraud trial of former President Donald Trump is ongoing. We speak to The Washington Post's Devlin Barrett for the latest. And, video game actors may join their Hollywood colleagues on the picket line. Voice performers authorized a strike against the industry to protect jobs as AI has already transformed how games get made. Actor and union negotiator Sarah Elmaleh joins us to discuss. Then, science writer Stephanie Warren Drimmer talks about the book she coauthored, "Jurassic Smarts," published by National Geographic for Kids.
10/5/2023 • 20 minutes, 57 seconds
Imani Perry awarded MacArthur 'genius' Fellowship; What is proper phone etiquette?
Sen. Kevin McCarthy is the first Speaker of the House to be ousted by a vote. The role is vacant, and the House is scrambling. Washington Post Live anchor Leigh Ann Caldwell joins us to talk about what's next. And, Republican Rep. Mike Lawler from New York joins us to express his critiques of the vote to oust McCarthy.And, the list of 2023 MacArthur Fellows is out. Imani Perry, a professor and scholar of race, gender, sexuality and African and African American Studies at Harvard University, is one of this year's fellows, and joins us. Then, should you text before calling someone? Are voicemails a thing of the past? Even though phones are not a new invention, the etiquette around them is always changing. Washington Post technology reporter Heather Kelly joins us to talk about common phone faux pas.
10/4/2023 • 29 minutes, 50 seconds
Does net zero CO2 goal go far enough?; Black performers shine in 1940s 'soundies'
The U.S. Supreme Court is hearing a major case that could have vast implications for the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and a slew of bedrock federal agencies and programs. NPR's Chris Arnold explains. And, climate scientists like Kate Marvel are concerned by the notion that humanity can just adapt to rising temperatures, flooding and wildfires. To find out why that's a problem, Marvel discusses some of the difficult truths of the climate situation. Then, the 1980s ushered in the era of MTV music videos. But decades earlier, in the 1940s, there were short music films called "soundies." KJZZ's Jill Ryan takes a look at how Soundies brought Black performers to the spotlight.
10/3/2023 • 27 minutes, 20 seconds
Nobel Prize goes to scientists who helped develop mRNA COVID vaccine; New SCOTUS term
The civil trial against Former President Donald Trump is underway in New York. The judge already ruled that Trump committed fraud, but the trial will settle how much he will pay for it. NPR politics reporter Ximena Bustillo joins us. And, the Supreme Court's fall term begins Monday. The court is facing loud calls for ethics reform and blowback on recent decisions. Imani Gandy, editor at large for Rewire News Group and co-host of the podcast "Boom! Lawyered," joins us. Then, Katalin Karikó, PhD, and Dr. Drew Weissman were awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their work on developing mRNA COVID vaccines. The two scientists join us to talk about the win and future work.
10/2/2023 • 26 minutes, 28 seconds
Introducing 'The Gun Machine': A podcast on the American gun industry
Produced by WBUR, Boston's NPR station, in partnership with The Trace, The Gun Machine looks into the past to bring you a story that most Americans never learned in history class: how early partnerships between mad scientist gunsmiths and a fledgling U.S. government created the gun industry in the Northeast, and how that industry has been partners with the government ever since. Host Alain Stephens examines how this 250-year relationship underpins all Americans' interactions with guns — including our failures in dealing with the fallout of gun violence. The Gun Machine debuts on Oct. 4, 2023.
9/30/2023 • 2 minutes, 23 seconds
Dianne Feinstein's legacy; U2 guitarist The Edge on Las Vegas' new immersive venue
California Democratic Sen. Dianne Feinstein has died at the age of 90. KQED's Marisa Lagos reflects on Feinstein's trailblazing legacy. And, United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain announced Friday an expansion of their strike to include 7,000 additional workers at Ford and GM plants. Michigan Radio's Tracy Samilton talks about the impact of the ongoing strike. Then, if Las Vegas is about big bets, it doesn't get much bigger than a new $2.3-billion venue opening Friday on the Strip called The Sphere. WBUR's Laura Hertzfeld spoke to U2 guitarist The Edge about the band's residency at the immersive venue.
9/29/2023 • 22 minutes, 50 seconds
Shrimpers still homeless, 1 year after Hurricane Ian; 'The Golden Bachelor' airs
Historian Nicole Hemmer joins us to talk about Republican strategy amid impeachment inquiries into President Biden and the looming government shutdown. And, it's been one year since Hurricane Ian made landfall in southwestern Florida. We check in with shrimper Grant Erickson and University of Florida food and agriculture expert David Outerbridge to see how the state has been recovering. Then, the 'Bachelor' franchise has a new twist: A 72-year-old retiree named Gerry Turner is the show's new star. He'll date 22 age-appropriate women on "The Golden Bachelor," which premieres Thursday. NPR's TV critic Eric Deggans joins us to talk about the show.
9/28/2023 • 25 minutes, 31 seconds
The case against Amazon; Master 'The Simple Art of Rice'
Judge Arthur Engoron found that former President Donald Trump, his sons and his companies deceived banks, insurers and others by massively overvaluing his properties and exaggerating his net worth to get loans and make real estate deals. Pultizer-Prize-winning investigative reporter David Cay Johnston tells us more. And, the Federal Trade Commission and 17 states filed an antitrust lawsuit against Amazon, accusing the retail giant of abusing its monopoly power in a way that raises costs for both shoppers and sellers. The Washington Post's Cat Zakrzewski joins us. Then, chef and author JJ Johnson shares rice recipes from all over the world in his new book, "The Simple Art of Rice." He shares tips and tricks.
9/27/2023 • 23 minutes, 45 seconds
Biden joins UAW picket line; 'Sparks' book tells of China's underground artists
In a presidential first, President Biden visits Michigan to join the picketing United Auto Workers on strike. Tamara Keith, senior White House correspondent with NPR, and Princeton University historian Julian Zelizer join us to talk about it. And, attorney Ryan K. Thompson joins us to talk about the lawsuit against Baton Rouge police for alleged abuse at a warehouse known as the "brave cave." Then, a new book called "Sparks: China's Underground Historians and their Battle for the Future" tells the story of underground artists working to document the country's history. The book's author Ian Johnson joins us.
9/26/2023 • 26 minutes, 56 seconds
'Maus' author Art Spiegelman on book banning; What the asteroid sample may reveal
Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J., has been indicted on federal corruption charges. He is accused of accepting bribes and influencing an arms deal with Egypt, among other things. Brent Johnson of the New Jersey Star-Ledger tells us more. And, NASA's OSIRIS-REx mission capsule contains an 8.8-ounce asteroid sample that could help scientists worldwide learn more about the solar system's origins. We speak to Dani Mendoza DellaGiustina, the deputy principal investigator for the mission. Then, the American Library Association has dubbed next week, Oct. 1 through Oct. 7, as Banned Book Week, a time to celebrate reading and fight censorship. One author targeted by book banning is Pulitzer Prize winner Art Spiegelman, who wrote the graphic novel "Maus" as a memoir of his family's experiences during the time of Nazi Germany. Spiegelman talks about the potent irony of having a book about the rise of the Nazis being banned.
9/25/2023 • 23 minutes, 30 seconds
Books to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month; Recipes inspired by Spanish tapas
More than a year ago, the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade and Wisconsin providers stopped providing abortions. But they've resumed, and Tanya Atkinson, CEO of Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin, joins us to talk about it. And, it's Hispanic Heritage Month. We've got a list of book recommendations telling Latinx stories from the creator of "The Stacks" podcast Traci Thomas. Then, our resident chef Kathy Gunst joins us to offer her takes on Spanish-style tapas recipes. They include chickpeas and leeks, fried potatoes and meatballs.
9/22/2023 • 23 minutes, 3 seconds
Culture wars are tearing apart country music; Wall Street investors outbid homebuyers
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is in Washington to meet with President Biden, leaders at the Pentagon and members of Congress. He's asking for more aid from the U.S. in the fight against Russia, but he faces resistance from a small number of Republican lawmakers. Retired Adm. James Stavridis weighs in. And, out-of-state investors are buying up thousands of properties in Indianapolis and converting them to rentals. Their cash offers make it harder for average families to compete. The Indianapolis Star's Ko Lyn Cheang and Claire Rafford join us. Then, Rolling Stone's David Browne talks about the culture wars tearing apart the once close-knit country music industry.
Five Americans who were imprisoned in Iran are back in the U.S. Jared Genser, a human rights lawyer representing Siamak Namazi, one of those recently freed. joins us. Jason Rezaian, a Washington Post global opinions writer who spent 544 days imprisoned unjustly by Iranian authorities, talks with us about how the freed Americans are readjusting to society. And, Climate Week NYC is one of the largest annual events focused on climate change. Grist reporter Zoya Teirstein joins us. Then, Republicans in Wisconsin are working to lock in their redistricting map and impeach newly elected liberal state Supreme Court justice Janet Protasiewicz. Author and Mother Jones correspondent Ari Berman joins us.
9/20/2023 • 30 minutes, 19 seconds
Jazz legend Pat Metheny drops 'Dream Box'; How UAW strike could impact car sales
Michigan Rep. Debbie Dingell weighs in on the auto workers strike, now in day five, and its political impact in the swing state of Michigan. Lou Vitantonio, president of the Greater Cleveland Automobile Dealers' Association, talks about the effect of the auto worker strike on car sales. And, CBC's J.P. Tasker explains the diplomatic dustup between Canada and India over the killing of a Sikh activist in Canada. Then, long-time jazz guitarist and composer Pat Metheny — leader of the Pat Metheny Group for nearly a quarter century starting in the late 1970s — has released the album "Dream Box." He discusses his new work and the inspiration behind it.
9/19/2023 • 29 minutes, 26 seconds
U.S.-Iran prisoner exchange; American cyclist Sepp Kuss wins Vuelta A España
Five Americans have been released from prison in Iran. In exchange, the U.S. released five Iranian prisoners and gave Iran access to $6 billion in oil revenues that were previously frozen under sanctions. Borzou Daragahi, journalist and nonresident senior fellow with the Atlantic Council's Middle East Program, joins us. And, American cyclist Sepp Kuss has won Vuelta A España, the Spanish version of the Tour De France. He is the first American to win in more than a decade. Kuss joins us to talk about the victory. Then, some of the Supreme Court's recent decisions have spurred comparisons to the decisions of the late 1800s. Randall Kennedy, a professor at Harvard Law School, joins us to talk about these comparisons ahead of the new term beginning next month.
9/18/2023 • 23 minutes, 57 seconds
UAW members weigh in on historic Big Three strike; Kim Jong Un's trip to Russia
The United Autoworkers Union has called a historic strike against each Big Three auto manufacturer. We speak with Ford autoworkers and UAW members Tiffanie Simmons and Ryder Littlejohn. And, the death toll from the recent deadly flooding in Libya has continued to climb. Al Jazeera's Malik Traina speaks to us from Tripoli while he waits to gain access to the affected areas. Then, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is on the fourth day of his visit to Russia. Jim Walsh, senior research associate at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's Security Studies Program, talks about the visit.
9/15/2023 • 27 minutes, 37 seconds
Memphis' mark on the hip-hop world; Morocco's monarchy and disaster relief
South Dakota Republican Sen. Mike Rounds talks about whether lawmakers should regulate the use of artificial intelligence and a possible government shutdown this month. And, Samia Errazzouki, a postdoctoral fellow at Stanford, talks about Morocco's monarchy and what's behind the government's slow response to a devastating earthquake that has killed thousands of people. Then, rap has always been anchored in regional culture. Zandria Felice Robinson, writer and professor at Georgetown University, explains Memphis' unique rap scene and how this southern city punched above its weight in the burgeoning hip-hop world.
9/14/2023 • 25 minutes, 46 seconds
African leaders want a role in climate solutions; Conservatives plan to dismantle EPA
The death toll is expected to rise in Libya as thousands remain missing after heavy rain and flooding over the weekend. Al Jazeera's Malik Traina talks about the devastating flooding in eastern Libya. And, leaders from across the continent have stressed that the world should not just pity African countries as some of the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Instead, they say there should be more global investment in Africa as an innovator that could lead a clean energy transition. Grist's Katherine Bagley joins us. Then, Project 2025 aims to dramatically reshape federal agencies, reduce their independence, and give more power to the president if a Republican wins in 2024. Paul Dans, the director of Project 2025 at the conservative think tank Heritage Foundation. AP's Lisa Mascaro also talks about Project 2025.
9/13/2023 • 24 minutes, 32 seconds
Auto workers union negotiations; Native American activism through Johnny Cash's music
United Auto Workers are negotiating a new contract, and electric vehicles are at the center of the discussion. Michigan Radio's Tracy Samilton and Belvidere, Illinois, Mayor Clinton Morris, join us to talk about what's been discussed as part of the negotiations. And, the death toll from last week's earthquake in Morocco has reached 2,800. John Johnson, a nurse on the Doctors Without Borders emergency response team, joins us to talk about the organization's efforts south of Marrakesh. Then, it's been 20 years since Johnny Cash died. Colorado Public Radio's Vic Vela looks back on his early hits and how his music spoke up for Native Americans throughout the 1960s.
9/12/2023 • 28 minutes, 2 seconds
Earthquake devastates Morocco; Fair Play game highlights home life inequality
A 6.8 magnitude earthquake devastated the landscape of Morocco and residents are left picking up the pieces. Alice Morrison, writer and resident of the Atlas mountains, joins us. And, the Food and Drug Administration is expected to approve the latest COVID-19 booster shot. Experts say it will protect against the two most prominent variants of the virus. Epidemiologist Abdul El-Sayed joins us. Then, in most living situations, one person ends up taking on the most work around the house. The Fair Play card game seeks to address that inequality and rebalance it without causing conflict. Creator of the game and author of the book of the same name Eve Rodsky joins us.
9/11/2023 • 24 minutes, 39 seconds
Late-summer fruits recipes for scones and jam; Escaped murderer in Pennsylvania
Sahil Kapur of NBC News and Margaret Talev of Axios talk about Republican response to concerns about Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell's health, and the latest polling on President Biden's re-election chances. And, convicted murderer Danelo Cavalcante has been on the run in Pennsylvania for eight days. Cavalcante escaped from prison last Thursday by crab-walking up a wall and scaling a fence. WHYY's Kenny Cooper shares the latest. Then, chef Kathy Gunst shares 3 recipes to make the most of end-of-summer fruits: blueberry and lemon scones, plum clafouti, and blueberry-ginger jam.
9/8/2023 • 24 minutes, 8 seconds
Asylum seekers in peril at the Southern border; NFL football is back. So is betting
Asylum seekers at the U.S.-Mexico border are often subject to arbitrary decisions made by border patrol agents who decide whether they can enter the country or not. And in Texas, a federal judge ruled Gov. Greg Abbott's floating barrier in Rio Grande. Reporter Lillian Perlmutter and Krish O'Mara Vignarajah, president and CEO of Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, join us. And, as more companies return to in-office work requirements, the future of remote work is uncertain. Callum Borchers, columnist at the Wall Street Journal, joins us to explain what happens next. Then, the NFL football season kicks off on Thursday as the Kansas City Chiefs face off against the Detroit Lions. With the return of football comes the return of sports betting, now legal in two-thirds of states. But there's a darker side to the industry. Professor Lia Nower, director of the Center for Gambling Studies at Rutgers University, joins us.
9/7/2023 • 29 minutes, 18 seconds
WVU president defends cuts to language programs; DEI efforts in corporate America
David Miliband, CEO and president of the International Rescue Committee, says he's concerned the war in Ukraine is becoming "normalized." He talks about the war and the humanitarian crisis it has created. And, as part of its plans to make up for a $45 million budget shortfall, the leaders of West Virginia University announced it will end its advanced study of foreign languages programs. Paula Krebs, executive director of the Modern Language Association, explains what's at stake for students, and WVU President E. Gordon Gee shares how he is justifying the cuts. Then, a flurry of hiring of diversity, equity and inclusion specialists followed the murder of George Floyd three years ago. And now, DEI executives leaving their posts or being let go. Professor Shaun Harper, founder and executive director of the University of Southern California Race and Equity Center, joins us.
9/6/2023 • 31 minutes, 36 seconds
United Auto Workers strike likely; Most plastic in the U.S. can't be recycled
Amid demands for higher pay and a shorter workweek, the United Auto Workers are likely to strike when the union's current contract expires next week. University of Michigan Ross School of Business professor Erik Gordon joins us. And, New York City, attempting to reign in the short-term rental market, has placed new rules on Airbnb properties. Roben Farzad, host of public radio's "Full Disclosure," joins us. Then, while Americans often diligently sort and recycle plastics at home, only 5% of plastics in the U.S. can actually be recycled. Judith Enck of the non-profit Beyond Plastics joins us to talk about plastic pollution and solutions to it.
9/5/2023 • 9 minutes, 2 seconds
How to protect yourself from wildfires; The perils of hot neighborhoods
It's been a hot summer. "This is Wildfire: How to Protect Yourself, Your Home, and Your Community in the Age of Heat" explores the relationship between wildfire, humans and nature. Authors Nick Mott and University of Montana professor Justin Angle offer tips on how to prevent fires and stay safe if they do ignite. And, for researchers to find ways to protect American cities from extreme temperatures, they have to know exactly how hot it is. That's why cities like Phoenix and Chicago are undergoing heat mapping projects. Here & Now's Peter O'Dowd and Chris Bentley report on the projects. Then, solar energy is becoming more popular in the U.S. but infrastructure can take up lots of land. Enter floating solar. WUSF's Steve Newborn takes us to a pond in Florida where one energy company is conducting a floating solar pilot program.
9/4/2023 • 29 minutes, 58 seconds
End-of-summer book recommendations; Who was Wallace Stegner?
Even though summer is winding down, there's still enough time to bang out some reading. Creator of "The Stacks" podcast Traci Thomas and hosts Scott Tong and Robin Young offer some of their favorite books they read this summer. And, author Khashayar J. Khabushani joins us to talk about his debut novel "I Will Greet the Sun Again," which follows K., an Iranian-American boy living in Los Angeles. Then, depending on who you ask, Wallace Stegner was either the greatest writer in the American West or a name they've never heard. Melody Graulich is an emeritus professor of English and America Studies at Utah State University and has studied the life of Stegner and his works. She joins us.
9/4/2023 • 35 minutes, 58 seconds
Books banned in schools and prisons; Old Crow Medicine Show's new album
Former lawyer Rudy Giuliani is being sued for defamation by Georgia election workers. Michael Gottlieb, the attorney for two of those workers, joins us. And, Ali Velshi tells us about his new podcast, called "Banned Book Club," which focuses on books prohibited in schools across the U.S. And bans on books don't only apply to schools — Missouri has banned incarcerated people from receiving books in the mail. Dylan Pyles, co-founder of the nonprofit Liberation Lit, joins us to talk about it. Then, Nashville band Old Crow Medicine Show released a new album called "Jubilee." Ketch Secor, one of the band's founders and current frontman, joins us to talk about the new music and his commitment to gun policy reform.
8/31/2023 • 29 minutes, 32 seconds
Tennessee's flawed gun dispossession system; New technology may offer tinnitus relief
Hurricane Idalia made landfall on the Big Bend area of Florida on Wednesday and homeowners are reeling. Pamela Macrae joins us to talk about what she's seen in her hometown of Homosassa. WUFT's Christopher Will also joins us. And, WPLN criminal justice reporter Paige Pfleger joins us to talk about her joint investigation with ProPublica into Tennessee's flawed gun dispossession system. A large number of homicides are carried out by people legally barred from owning guns. Then, sufferers of tinnitus hear buzzing, ringing or other sounds in their ears, sometimes continuously. But new technology could provide some relief. Dr. Brian Fligor, audiologist and tinnitus expert at Tobias & Battite Hearing Wellness in Boston, and one of his tinnitus patients Elliot Gerberg join us.
8/30/2023 • 25 minutes, 45 seconds
Florida braces for deadly storm surge; Feral cats become blue-collar workers
Hurricane Idalia is expected to hit Florida's west coast on Wednesday, and residents are preparing for a potentially deadly storm surge. University of Miami hurricane expert Brian McNoldy joins us. And, when Spain won the women's World Cup, the head of the country's soccer federation, Luis Rubiales forcibly kissed forward Jennifer Hermoso. Why hasn't he been removed from the organization? The GIST's Lauren Tuiskula joins us to talk about how sexual misconduct pervades sports still. Then, Washington D.C.'s rat problem has been steadily worsening, and feral cats are part of the solution. The Humane Rescue Alliance's Blue Collar Cats program rehomes feral cats to live outside at houses around the metropolitan area. Washington Post reporter John Hudson is a participant in the program and joins us, along with Maureen Sosa, HRA's director of pet support.
8/29/2023 • 24 minutes
Organizer on Jacksonville shooting; Long freight trains disrupt rural communities
On Saturday, a white gunman opened fire at a store in Jacksonville, Florida, killing 3 Black people. The gunman used slurs, had swastikas on his weapon and left behind racist writings. Kimberly Allen, CEO of 904WARD, joins us. And, as Hurricane Idalia approaches Florida, residents face an insurance crisis and a governor who's been distracted by a presidential campaign. Politico's Kimberly Leonard joins us. Then, some freight trains can stretch up to 2 miles long. In rural American communities, these trains stopped at stations can block traffic, school buses and more. The mayor of York, Alabama, Willie Lake and Associated Press railroad reporter Josh Funk join us.
8/28/2023 • 25 minutes, 17 seconds
Maui chefs cook up comfort; Blues artist Shemeika Copeland picks up accolades
This week in politics saw former President Donald Trump surrender himself in Georgia, the first Republican primary presidential debate and an impending Congress return. ABC News political director Rick Klein and USA Today White House correspondent Francesca Chambers join us. And, while residents of Maui continue to recover from the wildfires that devastated the island, a group of chefs is preparing thousands of meals per day to feed survivors. Sheldon Simeon, celebrity chef and owner of restaurant Tin Roof, joins us. Then, blues singer Shemeika Copeland just won the Critics Award for Best Contemporary Blues Album of 2022 and Female Blues Artist Of The Year by Living Blues Magazine. Copeland joins us to talk about her music.
8/25/2023 • 31 minutes, 9 seconds
Wagner Group leader reported dead; Recipes to savor the end of summer vegetables
The first Republican primary presidential debate took place last night in Milwaukee. Wisconsin Republican Charlie Sykes joins us to recap the main wins and losses seen from the eight debaters. And, Yevgeny Prigozhin, leader of the mercenary Wagner Group, was listed as one of 10 passengers on a plane that crashed in Russia. Prigozhin is reportedly dead. The Washington Post's Mary Ilyushina joins us. Then, the end of summer means the end of growing season rich with zucchini, corn, tomatoes and more. Resident chef Kathy Gunst offers three recipes to help you use up and savor the last of those seasonal vegetables.
8/24/2023 • 18 minutes, 30 seconds
New school year, new policies in some states; Herbie Hancock honors Wayne Shorter
Experts say that COVID-19 isn't going anywhere. And the newest booster shot should be available in late September and early October. Dr. Ashish Jha, who served as the White House COVID-19 response coordinator, joins us. And, in Florida, Kentucky and Iowa, students starting the new school year will be met with new guidelines and policies. Grant Gerlock of Iowa Public Radio, Kerry Sheridan of WUSF and Jess Clark of Louisville Public Media join us. Then, Herbie Hancock assembles a roster of jazz stars for a tribute concert dedicated to fellow jazz legend Wayne Shorter, who died earlier this year. Hancock joins us to talk about Shorter's life, music and legacy.
Climate disasters have been in the news all summer, from extreme heat in the western U.S. to wildfires in Canada and Hawaii. Rachel Cleetus, policy director of the climate and energy program at the Union of Concerned Scientists, joins us to talk about how to navigate the frequency of disasters. And, a teacher shortage can be felt at schools nationwide. But the Cartwright School District in Phoenix has a potential solution: a 4-day week. Here & Now's Peter O'Dowd spoke with parents, teachers and a principal to see if the plan works. Then, U.S. sprinter Sha'Carri Richardson won the women's 100-meter race at the World Athletics Championship in Budapest on Monday. She set a world championship record. National sports writer for the Associated Press Eddie Pells joins us.
8/22/2023 • 23 minutes, 29 seconds
Lawyer fighting 'forever chemicals': 'Middle School Superpowers' offers parents tips
Rudy Giuliani became known for using racketeering laws to break up New York's mob. Now he's being charged with racketeering in Georgia for attempting to overturn the 2020 presidential election results. The New York Times' Maggie Haberman joins us. And, Robert Bilott is the lawyer that started the fight against PFAS, or "forever chemicals," in water systems. The chemicals are turning up in rainfall and the bodies of humans and animals. Bilott says the legal battle against these harmful chemicals ahead is long. Then, the new book "Middle School Superpowers: Raising Resilient Tweens in Turbulent Times" gives tips, strategies and anecdotes for parents of middle schoolers. Author and school counselor Phyllis Fagell joins us.
8/21/2023 • 34 minutes, 27 seconds
The perfect playlist to wind down the summer; Nat Myers releases album 'Yellow Peril'
Alt.Latino co-hosts Anamaria Artemisa Sayre and Felix Contreras offer a playlist of songs they can't stop listening to from Kumbia Queers to Tainy. And, what makes a track the song of the summer? It has to be "capable of changing the nation's psychic temperature," according to music critic Chris Richards. We look back at songs of the summer dating back to the 1960s with NPR music critic Ann Powers. Then, Nat Myers is putting a new twist on some of America's oldest music. The Korean-American musician's new blues album is called "Yellow Peril," and he describes himself as "a young Asian cat playing old Black music."
8/18/2023 • 35 minutes, 19 seconds
History lost to Maui wildfires; 'Stray Gods' lets players star in interactive musical
The indictment of former President Donald Trump has been made public in Georgia this week, accusing him of conspiring to overturn the 2020 presidential election results in the state. NBC White House reporter Katherine Doyle tells us what to know. And, Brianna Sacks tells us about her reporting on how power lines likely caused the first reported wildfire in Maui. The fires destroyed many homes and the Na'Aikane o Maui Cultural and Research Center, which housed artifacts of Native Hawaiian history. NPR's Jonaki Mehta reports on the devastation. Then, while most video games focus on shooting, spells or swordplay, "Stray Gods" focuses on singing. As players progress in their journey, their choices can change the characters' fates. Composer Austin Wintory joins us to talk about the unique game.
8/17/2023 • 35 minutes, 4 seconds
How communities and grassroots organizations are helping Maui wildfire survivors
A disastrous new school bus system delayed school's start in Louisville, Kentucky. We get the latest from Louisville Public Media's Jess Clark. And, Cardell Wright, president of the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party, reflects on this week's guilty plea by the six white former police officers who tortured two Black men. Then, in Hawaii, thousands of people are still without power. Grist's Gabriela Aoun Angueira says all across Maui, people in neighboring communities have been lining up to offer donations for those in need. Plus, one separated family found a way to be reunited in all the chaos, thanks to the grassroots supply network that's sprung up to keep the community going. NPR's Lauren Sommer went along on their journey.
8/16/2023 • 24 minutes, 2 seconds
Maui resident reflects on loss; Youth plaintiffs win climate case against Montana
Former President Donald Trump was indicted Monday night for attempting to overturn the 2020 election results in Georgia. Princeton University historian Julian Zelizer joins us to talk about what the indictment means, and former Georgia district attorney Gwen Keyes Fleming discusses the legal strengths and weaknesses. And, wildfires devastated the island of Maui and more than 99 people have already died. We speak to Catlin Carroll, a marine biologist who lived in the Lahaina neighborhood and lost her house. Then, in a lawsuit 16 young people filed against the state, a judge ruled that Montana's fossil fuel policies violated a provision in its constitution that guarantees "a clean and healthful environment." Plaintiff Rikki Held and her attorney Nate Bellinger join us.
8/15/2023 • 30 minutes, 58 seconds
Maui recovers from deadliest U.S. wildfire in a century; Coal's future in Kentucky
In Hawaii, residents are mourning after the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than 100 years killed at least 96 people. Bill Dorman of Hawai'i Public Radio shares the latest. And Kekoa McClellan, a spokesperson representing hotel industries in Maui, talks about the future of the industry and how workers are faring after the deadly fires. Then, a small newspaper in central Kansas underwent a raid by local police, resulting in the seizure of computers, cell phones and servers of reporters and editors. Emily Bradbury of the Kansas Press Association tells us about how the illegal raid has raised concern over First Amendment rights. Plus, the world's appetite for coal is dimming as we grapple with the effects of climate change. But the communities in Kentucky that have mined it for generations are struggling to adapt. Louisville Public Media's Ryan Van Velzer reports.
8/14/2023 • 26 minutes, 18 seconds
Where to hit the road this summer; Restoring the Great Barrier Reef
Los Angeles journalist Brendan Borrell and photographer Tom Fowlks embarked on a kayaking journey from Tulare Lake to San Francisco Bay. It took 10 days. We hear from them about the trek. And, summer's winding down, but it's not too late to set out on a road trip. Travel expert and writer Heather Greenwood Davis offers tips about how and where to travel before the warm weather ends. Then, marine heat waves have been damaging the Great Barrier Reef. But scientists are working to restore the damage already done and protect it from even more. Marine biologist Kate Slaughter joins us to talk about these efforts.
8/11/2023 • 28 minutes, 19 seconds
American credit card debt passes $1 trillion; Maui wildfires
At least 36 people are dead on Maui as wildfires continue to burn, forcing thousands of people to flee and destroying hundreds of structures in the historic town of Lahaina. The Honolulu Star-Advertiser's Dan Nakaso shares the latest. Plus, we're joined by Laren Gartner who owns Cheeseburger in Paradise, a business that burned down in Lahaina, Hawaii. And, American credit card debt passed $1 trillion this week. It's another milestone that appears alarming on the surface — but what is the story behind that debt? The Washington Post's Michelle Singletary tells us. Then, Jordannah Elizabeth talks about her book for middle school readers, "A Child's Introduction to Hip-Hop: The Beats, Rhymes and Roots of a Musical Revolution."
8/10/2023 • 29 minutes, 24 seconds
Role of hip-hop in Megan Thee Stallion shooting case; 'A Compassionate Spy' doc
In Ohio, voters rejected a proposal to make the state's constitution harder to amend. Why? Reporter Abbey Marshall tells us about it. And, three years ago, rapper Tory Lanez shot fellow artist Megan Thee Stallion in the foot. We unpack the role of hip-hop in the legal case that ensured with Andscape senior culture writer Justin Tinsley. Then, a new documentary called "A Compassionate Spy" tells the story of Ted Hall, the scientist-turned-spy who gave secrets to the Soviet Union while developing the atomic bomb. Documentary filmmaker Steve James joins us.
8/9/2023 • 24 minutes, 56 seconds
Phoenix expects record-breaking heat deaths; Mapping hot neighborhoods in the U.S.
In Juneau, Alaska, a glacial flood swept at least two houses into the raging river. Several other homes were damaged. Juneau's Deputy City Manager Robert Barr joins us. And, this summer's record heatwave in Phoenix that sent temperatures soaring past 110 degrees for 31 straight days will be historically deadly, according to the Maricopa County medical examiner. Here & Now's Peter O'Dowd reports from Phoenix. Then, federal government scientists are busy this summer mapping the hottest parts of 18 communities in 14 states. Teams of volunteers are fanning out to collect data that will help them better understand the impact that extreme heat has on people living in cities. Here & Now's Peter O'Dowd and Chris Bentley report from Sedona, Arizona, and Chicago, Illinois.
8/8/2023 • 28 minutes, 41 seconds
Should Fed halt rate hikes?; Couple distributes overdose reversal meds at festivals
The Writers Guild of America recently met with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers to discuss contract negotiations. With little progress made, however, the strike will continue indefinitely. The Hollywood Reporter's Alex Weprin joins us. And, as fears of recession cool, some economists think it's time for the Federal Reserve to halt interest rate hikes. Jill Schlesinger, host of the podcast "Jill On Money," is one of them. She joins us to talk about why. Then, Ingela Travers-Hayward and William Perry spent the summer traveling to different music festivals handing out opioid-overdose reversal medications and teaching attendees how to use them to save someone's life. They talk about their non-profit This Must Be The Place and the work they're doing.
8/7/2023 • 22 minutes, 37 seconds
Fans react to lawsuit against Lizzo; 'Food, We Need to Talk'
Margaret Talev of Axios and Marc Caputo of The Messenger talk about the latest indictment against former President Donald Trump and how his legal troubles might impact the 2024 presidential election. And, pop singer Lizzo is facing serious allegations in a new lawsuit filed by three of her former dancers. We get the latest fan reactions from Here & Now's Femi Oke. Then, podcasters and authors Juna Gjata and Dr. Edward Phillips tell us about their new book, "Food, We Need to Talk: The Science-Based, Humor-Laced Last Word on Eating, Diet, and Making Peace with Your Body."
8/4/2023 • 30 minutes, 47 seconds
How to stop multitasking; Rabbi reacts to Pittsburgh synagogue shooter sentence
Rabbi Jonathan Perlman and Stephen Cohen, co-president, of New Light Congregation, one of the three Jewish congregations to meet in the Tree of Life synagogue, react to the jury recommending a life sentence for the shooter. And, does it matter, legally, whether or not former President Donald Trump believed the lies he told about the 2020 election? Can ignorance be a defense? Harvard University's Laurence Tribe weighs in. Then, attempting to multitask usually ends in a worse outcome and can negatively impact our mental health. Oliver Burkeman argues that doing one thing at a time instead is actually a superpower. He joins us to talk about his book, "4000 Weeks: Time Management for Mortals."
8/3/2023 • 28 minutes, 27 seconds
Henrietta Lacks' grandson on settlement; Trump indicted for crimes against democracy
Former President Trump faces his third criminal indictment, which centers on his refusal to accept that he lost the 2020 election and his efforts to remain in power, despite losing. Barbara McQuade, University of Michigan law professor and former federal prosecutor, joins us. And, the family of Henrietta Lacks reached a settlement about the use of her cells for medical research. Ron Lacks — Henrietta Lacks' eldest grandson and the author of "Henrietta Lacks: The Untold Story" — reacts to the long-awaited settlement. Then, Grist reporters Lylla Younes and Jake Bittle talk about the environmental impact of liquefied natural gas export terminals that are popping up at a rapid pace along the Gulf Coast.
WABE's Sam Gringlas talks about the investigation into former President Donald Trump's alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 election results in Georgia. But Trump still leads in Republican primary polls by wide margins, even as GOP support has slipped amid more criminal charges. Princeton University political historian Julian Zelizer tells us more. And, scientists are urgently calling for more research to be done on the long-term effects of prolonged exposure to wildfire smoke. STAT's Megan Molteni joins us. Then, pickleball enthusiast Marcella Meyer created a new family card game called Pickleball Slam incorporating the game's strategies and terminology with an action-packed game including characters ranging from a ballerina, a superhero, a few chefs and a knight in shining armor. She tells us about the game.
8/1/2023 • 28 minutes, 40 seconds
The dark side of South Korea's beauty standards; Arrest made in Gilgo Beach murders
Patrick Braxton became mayor of Newbern, Alabama, in 2020 — but says he has been fighting to hold onto his title after the white former mayor and his council members held a special election and reappointed themselves to their positions. Aallyah Wright of Capital B News tells us more. Then, New York Times reporter Corey Kilgannon tells us about Gilgo Beach, New York, and the suspect in a spree of killings there. And, NPR's Elise Hu talks about her book "Flawless: Lessons in Looks and Culture from the K-Beauty Capital," which looks at the South Korean beauty industry — the third largest cosmetic and skin care exporter in the world.
7/31/2023 • 25 minutes, 35 seconds
'Worst national anthem' singer's redemption; 'Bobi Wine: The People's President'
Talks of new charges against former President Donald Trump and a push for President Biden's impeachment dominate the week in politics. NBC's Scott Wong and USA Today's Francesca Chambers join us. And, in 2011, Harper Grace went viral for singing what's been called the "worst national anthem ever." Grace joins us to talk about her redemption tour and using her platform to speak motivationally, too. Then, a new documentary follows the life of musician and member of Uganda's parliament, Bobi Wine, on his unsuccessful run for the 2021 presidency of Uganda. Wine and his wife Barbie Kyagulanyi join us.
7/28/2023 • 31 minutes, 23 seconds
Blerdcon celebrates Black nerds; Texas pecan farmer caught up in immigration turf war
Dean Scheinert, executive director of the senior day shelter Justa Center, speaks about what concerns him most about homeless seniors in the record-setting heat this month in Phoenix, Arizona. And, pecan farmer Magali Urbina talks about her involuntary entanglement in a turf war between the U.S. Border Patrol and Texas authorities over immigration enforcement. Then, Blerdcon is unique in catering expressly to Black nerds — or blerds. Founder and CEO Hilton George explains the rise of Black nerdom and the events he puts on to celebrate it throughout the year.
7/27/2023 • 23 minutes, 40 seconds
Texas prisons charge more for water amid heat wave; Caring for Colorado's unhoused
A federal judge blocked President Biden's new policy that would make it tougher to apply for asylum at the U.S.-Mexico border. Krish O'Mara Vignarajah, president of Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, joins us. And, there's an ongoing, deadly heat wave in Texas, and the state approved a 50% price increase on water bottles. Paul Flahive, accountability reporter for Texas Public Radio, joins us to discuss the danger of price gouging. Then, we talk with Miriah Nunnaley, director of the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless, about the care the coalition provides to the state's unhoused population. Among those receiving help is Ed Clair, a man who lived on the street throughout the winter and had to have his feet amputated after they froze in the cold weather.
7/26/2023 • 1 hour, 39 minutes, 52 seconds
What not to eat to beat the heat; A national monument to Emmett Till and his mother
Founder and CEO of Blacks in Green Naomi Davis talks about the new national monument and Emmett Till's legacy as the catalyst of the civil rights movement. And, there's another adaptation that can help you survive a heatwave: diet. Washington Post environmental reporter Allyson Chiu shares tips on what to eat to beat the heat. Plus, climate scientist Heidi Cullen talks about a report says the record heat waves we're seeing in the American Southwest and southern Europe have almost no chance of happening without climate change. Then, Chinese prospectors arrived in rural northwest Afghanistan in a kind of new gold rush as they try to corner the market on lithium for electric car batteries. Washington Post correspondent Gerry Shih joins us.
7/25/2023 • 28 minutes, 58 seconds
Alabama's banned voting map; What to do with all the empty office space in NYC
What charges might a federal grand jury recommend for former President Donald Trump in a historic third indictment? University of Michigan law professor Barbara McQuade joins us to discuss. And, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that a new congressional map out of Alabama is racially discriminatory. Bill Britt, editor-in-chief for the Alabama Political Reporter, joins us for the latest in this partisan fight. Then, when COVID-19 shuttered office buildings, more people than ever started working from home. In the years since, hybrid or remote work has continued, leaving office buildings vacant. Manhattan in particular has a massive number of half-empty high rises. Andrew Rice, feature writer at New York Magazine, joins us.
7/24/2023 • 24 minutes, 33 seconds
How Greta Gerwig's 'Barbie' deconstructs a toy icon; Seeing the Perseid meteor shower
Parts of Kentucky are still recovering after flooding this week — one year after areas in the eastern part of the state were devastated by flooding. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear joins us. And, Greta Gerwig's new film "Barbie" might look pretty in pink — but it also tackles heady themes. The director discusses her vision, the legacy of the controversial doll and how she collaborated with star Margot Robbie. Then, the Perseid meteor shower is one of the most dramatic celestial events of the summer. Sky & Telescope's Kelly Beatty explains how to best witness the highly anticipated meteor shower and the rich history behind their discovery.
7/21/2023 • 23 minutes, 35 seconds
Women testify against Texas' strict abortion ban; Universities end legacy admissions
In Texas on Wednesday, a courtroom of lawyers listened to three women share heart-wrenching testimony about the impact the state's abortion ban had on their pregnancies. The Texas Tribune's Eleanor Klibanoff shares the latest. And, Washington Post national immigration reporter Maria Sacchetti explains how new asylum rules have created a 'fragile calm' at the southern border. Then, Wesleyan University will no longer consider an applicant's relationship to previous graduates in its admissions process. The practice of legacy admissions has been under scrutiny since the Supreme Court ruled to ban consideration of race in admissions when it struck down affirmative action. POLITICO's Bianca Quilantan tells us more.
7/20/2023 • 20 minutes, 35 seconds
Heat waves amid climate change; Detroit, 10 years after filing for bankruptcy
As temperatures rise around the world, Europe may be woefully unprepared for extreme heat. Radhika Khosla, who co-authored a study on the topic, joins us. And, much of the country has been experiencing high temperatures. Phoenix hit a new record 20 days in a row of temperatures over 110 degrees. Grist reporter Kate Yoder joins us. Then, China and the U.S. have been in climate talks this week. So far, the talks have yielded few results but evidence that the U.S. and China's willingness to work together. Time senior correspondent Justin Worland joins us. And, 10 years ago, the city of Detroit filed for bankruptcy. Erika Boyd and her wife also opened up a restaurant, Detroit Vegan Soul, around the same time. Boyd joins us to talk about what's happened in the city in the past decade.
7/19/2023 • 29 minutes, 28 seconds
Inside Charleston's new African American Museum; Biden and working-class Americans
Historian Julian Zelizer talks about how President Biden will need to reconcile his support for labor unions with his focus on fighting climate change. And, renewed interest and support for nuclear power in the U.S. is propelling numerous proposals for plants in the West. Caitlin Tan of the Mountain West News Bureau takes us to one small town in Wyoming to hear how locals are preparing. Then, the International African American Museum opened last month in Charleston, South Carolina on Gadsden's Wharf. The port is the location where a vast number of enslaved people were brought to the United States and sold into bondage. Museum president Tonya Matthews tells us more.
7/18/2023 • 25 minutes, 29 seconds
Actions to combat climate change, from hydropanels to climate-smart trees
As effects of climate change become more pronounced and unavoidable, some people are making efforts to offset them and look toward a greener future. Senior editor Peter O'Dowd met with climate-adapted tree farmers in Minnesota working to bring trees that thrive in warmer climates to northern forests as average temperatures climb. On Navajo Nation, he learned about new technology called hydropanels that produce drinking water from the air. In Louisana, producer Chris Bentley spoke with teams plugging abandoned oil wells that leak greenhouse gasses. In Puerto Rico, he saw how one community created its own micro grid using renewable energy.
7/17/2023 • 46 minutes, 57 seconds
How water rights impact heat wave relief on Navajo Nation; Scrabble champion
This week in politics saw fights over spending, FBI testimony and contentious congressional hearings. Rick Klein, political director at ABC News, and Rhonda Colvin, congressional reporter for the Washington Post join us. And, a recent Supreme Court decision on Navajo Nation water usage rights has affected how residents can find relief from extreme heat waves. Nikki Cooley, the co-manager of climate change programs at the Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals, join us. Then, The North American Scrabble Championship kicks off this weekend in Las Vegas. Michael Fagan, who won the tournament last year with the word "levirates," joins us to talk about defending his title this year.
7/14/2023 • 27 minutes, 7 seconds
What the 1997 UPS strike says about today's labor movement; Pelvic health stigma
As labor tensions mount across America, we look back at the 1997 UPS strike, a major victory in the labor movement. Lane Windham, associate director of the Kalmanovitz Initiative For Labor and The Working Poor at Georgetown University, joins us. And, the Associated Press reported on Supreme Court Justices taking trips to colleges and universities, where they sometimes end up in the room with donors and politicians. AP's Brian Slodysko joins us. Then, Dr. Rachel Rubin is a urologist and sexual medicine specialist trying to break the stigma by starting conversations about pelvic health concerns that can impact both younger and older women as they age. She joins us.
7/13/2023 • 30 minutes, 57 seconds
Western drought and carbon emissions; Flooding in Vermont continues
Phoenix is in the middle of a heat wave, with temperatures reaching 110 across the city. David Hondula, Phoenix's director of heat response, joins us. And, drought in the West has increased carbon emissions, Hydropower is a big source of energy and when water is scarce, grid operators often turn to coal and gas plants to make up for lost power. That can have a big impact on the environment and public health even far away. Jake Bittle, staff writer at Grist, joins us. Then, Vermont Gov. Phil Scott has described damage from flooding as "historic and catastrophic," and more rain is on the way. Jake McBride, who lives in Plainfield, joins us to talk about how flooding has impacted the area.
7/12/2023 • 20 minutes, 40 seconds
Why are fans throwing cremains at performers?; Andrew Yang on the new Forward Party
Transatlantic data sharing is back. The European Union has approved an agreement that restores the ability for businesses to transfer personal information of citizens across the Atlantic easily. Roben Farzad, host of public radio's "Full Disclosure," joins us. And, there's been a recent trend of fans heaving bottles, phones and even cremated remains of their loved ones at artists performing on stage. Social psychology professor John Drury explains why this has been happening more and how it may change how we experience concerts. Then, a fledgling political party in the U.S. called Forward is trying to get candidates on the ballot for the 2024 election. The party was started by former Democratic presidential candidate Andrew Yang and former Republican governor of New Jersey, Christine Todd Whitman. They tell us about the party.
7/11/2023 • 22 minutes, 50 seconds
Vietnam bans 'Barbie' movie; What makes an economy 'good' or 'bad'
Leaders of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, or NATO, met at the annual summit in Vilnius, Lithuania. Debate continues over whether to invite Ukraine to join the alliance. John Deni, research professor at the U.S. Army War College, joins us. And, Vietnam has banned Greta Gerwig's "Barbie," set to premiere later this month. In the movie, star Margot Robbie stands in front of a controversial map that reflects China's disputed claim to the South China Sea. And this isn't the first time this issue has caused controversy in Hollywood. Aynne Kokas, author of "Hollywood Made in China," joins us. Then, what does it mean to call the economy "good" or "bad"? The ups and downs of the job market can be one sign of economic health, but there are many others. Kate Raworth, author of "Doughnut Economics: Seven Ways to Think Like a 21st-Century Economist." joins us.
7/10/2023 • 21 minutes, 56 seconds
Thursday breaks hottest day record; Visit a less crowded national park this summer
The average global temperature hit 63 degrees Fahrenheit on Thursday, surpassing the most recent records set by Tuesday and Monday. Marshall Shepherd of the University of Georgia's atmospheric sciences program tells us more about this heat. And, earlier this week, Meta launched Threads, a new app designed to reel in Twitter's disgruntled user base. So far, the launch has been a resounding success. We get the latest from Alex Cranz, managing editor at The Verge. Then, national parks are the perfect summer getaways — but they can get rather crowded during peak season. AllTrails CEO Ron Schneidermann shares his suggestions for alternative hidden gems people can visit instead of some of the more inundated parks.
7/7/2023 • 20 minutes, 3 seconds
The activist who got affirmative action struck down; Hong Kong's bounty on Nathan Law
After a mass shooting in Philadephia on Monday, the city has filed a lawsuit against two gun manufacturers. Philadelphia has seen more than a 300% increase in ghost guns over the past four years. Philadelphia City Solicitor Diana Cortes joins us. And, Edward Blum is a Republican legal activist and made it his mission to end racial preferences in American society. He joins us to talk about what's next after the Supreme Court struck down affirmative action. Then, Hong Kong authorities placed bounties on eight prominent pro-democracy activists living overseas. They're wanted as part of an investigation into mass protests in Hong Kong in 2019. Former lawmaker Nathan Law is one of them and joins us.
7/6/2023 • 23 minutes, 1 second
Climate change education; UPS union contract negotiations fail to meet deadline
Negotiations over a new contract between UPS and its union have stalled, and a strike could be on the way. Insider's Emma Cosgrove talks about what happens next. And, we get the latest on a judge's decision to block government agencies from communicating with tech firms. The ruling came in response to a lawsuit that claims right-wing viewpoints are being suppressed online. The Verge's Richard Lawler joins us. Then, New Jersey is the first state to mandate all of its public schools, starting in kindergarten, to incorporate lessons about climate change into the curriculum. Two teachers tell us about their approaches to climate change education.
7/5/2023 • 23 minutes, 16 seconds
'50 Pies, 50 States'; Berry good treats to celebrate July 4th
Celebrate the summer with a pie, inspired by the ingredients, traditions and flavors of every state in the U.S. Stacey Mei Yan Fong wrote the cookbook "50 Pies, 50 States" and joins us to detail the recipes in her book. And, it's strawberry season. Our resident chef Kathy Gunst shares some treats to sweeten up the summer using fresh berries including muffins, crumble and cake. Then, the NPR Student Podcast Challenge offers a glimpse into what younger people are thinking about. Those topics include weird facts about the founding fathers and the mysteries of zombies, carrier pigeons and more. NPR's Lauren Migaki joins us.
7/4/2023 • 21 minutes, 24 seconds
How extreme heat will change the world; Wildfire manager on tough start to summer
Poor air quality stemming from fires burning across Canada is again choking major American cities. Jane Park, a fire and vegetation specialist at Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada, talks about her work to help manage the fires. And, extreme temperatures are brutal on the human body. Journalist Jeff Goodell's new book, "The Heat Will Kill You First," explores what to do when "the sun feels like the barrel of a gun pointed at you." Then, the mayor of Reno, Nevada, is advocating for cities to address mental health. Hillary Schieve speaks with us about her own personal story of losing three family members during the pandemic who struggled with depression, bipolar disorder and addiction.
7/3/2023 • 30 minutes, 19 seconds
Supreme Court rules against Biden's student debt plan; Reverse Course wrap up
By a 6 to 3 vote, the Supreme Court struck down President Biden's plan to cancel $400 billion in student loan debt. Emily Bazelon of The New York Times Magazine talks about the Supreme Court's ruling on student loans. And the court ruled 6-3 that the First Amendment bars Colorado from "forcing a website designer to create expressive designs speaking messages with which the designer disagrees." Imani Gandy of Rewire News Group tells us more. Then, CSPAN's Jesse Holland and Axios' Margaret Talev talk about the political fallout from big Supreme Court rulings and the latest from the 2024 campaign trail. Plus, all this week, Here & Now has been reporting on small solutions to the big problems caused by climate change in our series Reverse Course. Here & Now's Peter O'Dowd and Chris Bentley discuss reporting the series and some takeaways about climate solutions.
6/30/2023 • 31 minutes, 30 seconds
Creating drinking water 'from thin air'; SCOTUS rules against affirmative action
Up to 2 million Americans don't have access to running water at home and many of those places are in the hottest, driest places in the country. As part of our climate series Reverse Course, Here & Now's Peter O'Dowd visits the Navajo Nation and rural El Paso County, Texas, to learn about a technology that's offering a solution. And, the Supreme Court ruled against affirmative action admissions practices at the University of North Carolina and Harvard University. Alison Byerly, President of Carleton College, joins us. Then, South Koreans all got one to two years younger after a new law went into effect this week. The government adopted international age-counting standards, even though traditional methods will have some cultural relevance. NPR's Anthony Kuhn tells us more.
6/29/2023 • 24 minutes, 8 seconds
Life without parole: How the board works — and doesn't — in the U.S.
What happens at parole boards is a huge part of Jacob Wideman's story — and his story tells us a lot about the parole system in America. After serving 25 years behind bars for killing his summer camp roommate, Eric Kane, Wideman went before a parole board in Arizona for the first time. Starting with his first hearing in 2011, he was denied parole over and over. Except for one time. Part 3 of the "Violation" podcast, examines parole boards, largely secretive institutions that operate in many states with few rules and little oversight. Subscribe to Here & Now Anytime for new episodes each Friday. Find a transcript and photos here.
4/7/2023 • 35 minutes, 14 seconds
Biden's transgender athlete proposal; Israel launches airstrikes on Lebanon, Gaza
AP's Darlene Superville and NBC's Sahil Kapur talk about the latest in politics this week, including a published report that Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas did not disclose lavish travel and vacations hosted by a conservative donor. And, the Washington Post's Sarah Dadouch talks about the Israeli airstrikes on Friday morning. The attacks came in response to a barrage of rockets that were fired from south Lebanon toward northern Israel. Then, NBC Out's Jo Yurcaba talks about the Biden administration's proposal to change Title IX. It would outlaw broad bans on trans athletes but still allow some restrictions on participation. Logan Casey of the Movement Advancement Project also joins the conversation to share more about the status of anti-trans bills in state legislatures.
4/7/2023 • 30 minutes, 2 seconds
3 recipes to spring into Passover and Easter; Michigan abortion ban repealed
Michigan Radio's Rick Pluta about the politics that led to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's signing Wednesday of a bill to repeal a 1931 abortion ban in Michigan, which went into effect after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade last June. And, resident chef Kathy Gunst shares three new recipes for Passover, Easter, or other spring celebrations. Then, film scoring professor Jon Burlingame looks at some classic TV themes and talks about his new book, "Music for Prime Time: A History of American Television Themes and Scoring."
4/6/2023 • 22 minutes, 51 seconds
The charges against Trump, explained; Health care for LA's unhoused population
Milwaukee County Judge Janet Protasiewicz defeated former State Supreme Court Justice Daniel Kelly in a divisive election on Tuesday for an open Supreme Court seat. Chuck Quirmbach of WUWM in Milwaukee explains the results and what we can expect now from the court. And, WBEZ's city government reporter Mariah Woelfel talks about Brandon Johnson's win in the Chicago mayoral election. Then, former President Donald Trump pleaded not guilty Tuesday to 34 felony charges. He's accused of covering up payment to an adult film actress to conceal an alleged affair and influence the 2016 election. Election lawyer Jerry Goldfeder explains the charges. Plus, in Los Angeles, a street medicine team is turning to technology to better serve the needs of people who are homeless. STAT's Mohana Ravindranath joins us.
4/5/2023 • 24 minutes, 30 seconds
Gun control controversy in Tennessee; 'Reflections on Captivity' tells of POW life
Republican state lawmakers in Tennessee are moving to expel three Democrats from office for chanting along with gun control demonstrators at the state capitol. Blaise Gainey, political reporter at WPLN in Nashville, joins us. And, OPEC+ — a group of oil-producing nations — voted to cut oil production by more than one million barrels a day. This came as a surprise to the White House and has already led to a surge in oil prices. Roben Farzad, host of public radio's "Full Disclosure" joins us. Then, 50 years ago, Porter Halyburton, a Navy lieutenant junior grade at the time, was listed as "killed in action" after being shot down over North Vietnam. However, he was alive and survived as a prisoner of war for more than 7 years. Halyburton tells his story in a new book called "Reflections on Captivity" and joins us.
4/4/2023 • 20 minutes, 53 seconds
Adopting a desert tortoise; How media is covering the Trump indictment
Wisconsin voters on Tuesday will decide the whether the state Supreme Court will have a conservative or liberal majority. The outcome will likely determine abortion access, election law and whether a heavily-Republican gerrymandered map will remain in place. WUWM news reporter Chuck Quirmbach joins us. And, journalist Brian Stelter talks about how the media is covering the first-ever indictment of a former president. Then, the Arizona Game and Fish Department started its annual desert tortoise adoption program this week. More than 300 animals are available this year, mostly because people illegally breed them at home. Here & Now's Peter O'Dowd met a few of the reptiles to learn how they adapt to the harsh desert climate and why the population of some species has dropped rapidly in recent years.
4/3/2023 • 23 minutes, 47 seconds
What Trump's indictment means; Ramadan recipes from two Muslim chefs
USA Today White House correspondent Francesca Chambers and NPR senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro talk about the first-ever indictment of a former president on charges related to a hush money payment scheme and cover-up. And, millions of people on Medicaid could lose their coverage in the coming weeks as pandemic-era protections end. Dr. James Schultz joins us. Then, the communal aspect to the celebration of Ramadan includes congregations of prayers and community dinners full of traditional foods special to this month. Muslim chefs Ifrah F. Ahmed and Nafy Flatley tell us all about their tasty Ramadan recipes.
3/31/2023 • 28 minutes, 35 seconds
'Bad seed': Two generations, two terrible crimes
Was Jacob Wideman a "bad seed"? The question emerged not long after Jake murdered his summer camp roommate, Eric Kane, in 1986 seemingly with no motive. In this latest episode of "Violation," a podcast series from The Marshall Project and WBUR, author John Edgar Wideman tells the story of his brother Robby, who received a life sentence for his role in a robbery where a man died, and how his son related to Robby. Subscribe to Here & Now Anytime for new episodes each Friday. Find a transcript and photos here.
3/31/2023 • 41 minutes, 11 seconds
'1,000 Facts About Space' book; MLB opens season with new regulations
The Food and Drug Administration approved the sale of Narcan, a nasal spray used to treat opioid overdoses, for over-the-counter, non-prescription purchase. There are still challenges, like the high cost of this life-saving medication, that may present barriers to access. Dr. Nora Volkow, director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse, joins us. And, Major League Baseball kicks off the season with a host of new regulations designed to speed up the flow of the game a reduce injuries. There's also a first-of-its-kind deal for Minor League players. The Washington Post's National baseball reporter Chelsea Janes joins us. Then, space is vast, stunning and described by many as unknowable. Astronomer Dean Regas is not among them. He's the author of a new book called "1,000 Facts About Space" that's aimed at children but is sure to interest and delight adult readers as well. Regas joins us.
3/30/2023 • 19 minutes, 37 seconds
Nickel Creek drops 'Celebrants'; 'Shocking' Ciudad Juárez fire video
New security footage shows security guards walking away as migrants bang on a cell door during the deadly fire in Ciudad Juarez. Marisa Limón Garza of Las Americas Immigrant Advocacy Center talks about conditions for migrants in the city. And, after massive protests in Israel over a push by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to remake the judiciary, he is temporarily holding off on the plan. Protester Yochai Gross talks about what comes next. Then, the trio Nickel Creek is back with a new album, "Celebrants." Chris Thile and Sara and Sean Watkins join us.
3/29/2023 • 25 minutes, 4 seconds
A history of anthems that empower women; Deadly fire at Juárez immigration center
After a shooter opened fire at a Nashville elementary school on Monday, authorities are still searching for a motive. The attack took place at the Covenant School and left three adults, three children and the shooter dead. Alexis Marshall of WPLN joins us. And, a fire broke out in an immigration center in Ciudad Juárez killing 39 migrants and injuring 29 others. Angela Kocherga, KTEP's news director, joins us to give more information. Then, to close out Women's History Month, we're rounding up some anthems of women empowerment through the years. There are the obvious ones like Gloria Gaynor's "I Will Survive" and Aretha Franklin's "Respect," but we look at where inspiration for those came from and the songs that have come out since. NPR music critic Ann Powers joins us.
3/28/2023 • 23 minutes, 51 seconds
Josh Groban takes on the bloody role of 'Sweeney Todd'; Trump's possible indictment
At least 26 people were killed after a tornado cut through central Mississippi over the weekend. We check in with Royce Steed, Humphrey County's emergency management director. And, what does Trump's possible indictment and rhetoric mean for democracy? Expert Rachel Kleinfeld of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace weighs in. Then, Josh Groban is starring in the titular role of Broadway's larger-than-life new "Sweeney Todd." Directed by Thomas Kail, the show also includes a heavy dose of humor and physical comedy, much of it in the able hands of co-star Annaleigh Ashford who enraptures the audience as Mrs. Lovett. They join us.
3/27/2023 • 29 minutes, 30 seconds
Two sons, lost: How a 1986 summer camp murder devastated two families
In 1986, 16-year-olds Jacob Wideman and Eric Kane were rooming together on a summer camp trip to the Grand Canyon when Jacob fatally — and inexplicably — stabbed Eric. Before long, Jacob turned himself in and eventually confessed to the killing. But he couldn't explain what drove him to do it. This debut episode of Violation, a podcast from The Marshall Project and WBUR, introduces the story of the crime that has bound two families together for decades. Subscribe to Here & Now Anytime for new episodes each Friday. Find a transcript and photos here.
3/24/2023 • 33 minutes, 53 seconds
Oregon students with disabilities face barriers to school; 'My Powerful Hair' book
A new law in Utah has been designed to limit the time children and teenagers spend on social media. It requires those under 18 years old to get parental consent before signing up for sites like Instagram or TikTok and sets time constraints for when minors can use the apps. New York Times technology reporter Natasha Singer joins us. Then, in Oregon, some students with disabilities face an uphill battle to attend school. Schools claim they don't have adequate staffing to support students. Democratic state senator Sara Gelser Blouin has a bill to address the issue. She joins us with Elizabeth Miller, an education reporter at Oregon Public Broadcasting. And, the children's picture book "My Powerful Hair" tells the story of an Indigenous girl who reclaims her heritage by growing her hair long, something older generations were not allowed to do. Author Carole Lindstrom and illustrator Steph Littlebird join us.
3/24/2023 • 30 minutes, 23 seconds
Child care crisis: Teachers 'need to be able to sustain ourselves'; Violation podcast
The only hospital in Sandpoint, Idaho, will stop delivering babies. Idaho has some of the nation's strictest laws restricting abortion access — and now pregnant people in Sandpoint will have to drive about 45 miles to another hospital. Kelcie Moseley-Morris of the States Newsroom joins us. And, the child care industry took a sharp hit in the early days of the pandemic, losing about a third of its workforce. Three years later, the labor force has yet to fully recover. Here & Now's Ashley Locke reports the challenge to retain staff to meet demand basically comes down to low pay. Then, an excerpt from the debut episode of Violation, a podcast from The Marshall Project and WBUR, introduces the story of the crime that has bound two families together for decades. The full first episode drops on Here & Now Anytime this Friday.
A deadly fungal infection is on the rise, a new report shows. Candida auris, or C. auris, is harmless to most, but can be deadly to immunocompromised and elderly people. Dr. Meghan Lyman, chief medical officer in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's mycotic diseases branch, joins us. Then, as anti-LGBTQ legislature and rhetoric flare up across the country, older LGBTQ activists have some wisdom for the younger generations. Barbara Satin is a long-timer faith leader and transgender woman. She joins us along with Kierra Johnson, executive director of the National LGBTQ Task Force. And, spring has officially sprung. Indulge yourself with some rich, sweet and savory brunch recipes from our resident chef. Kathy Gunst shares recipes for fried eggs with asparagus, lemon-ricotta pancakes and buttermilk biscuits.
3/22/2023 • 22 minutes, 48 seconds
Asian seniors find 'sacred space' in ballroom dance; Wyoming bans abortion pills
Wyoming is the first to explicitly ban abortion pills by law. Will Walkey of Wyoming Public Media explains the new law and the legal challenges that lie ahead. And, NPR news editor Larry Kaplow was a print reporter living and working in Baghdad 20 years ago. Kaplow joins us to mark the 20th anniversary of the start of the U.S. war in Iraq. Then, the San Francisco Chronicle's Cecilia Lei spoke with Asian seniors in the San Francisco Bay area, two months after 11 people were killed at an Asian ballroom dance studio in Monterey Park. Lei discovered that "this isn't just about mental or physical exercise, it's about community connection" and joy in the face of tragedy.
3/21/2023 • 23 minutes, 36 seconds
Navajo Nation goes to Supreme Court over water; Chineke! Orchestra on tour
It's been 20 years since U.S. troops stormed into Baghdad at the start of the Iraq war based on the dubious claims of weapons of mass destruction. Retired U.S. Army Gen. David Petraeus calls it a "massive cautionary tale." And, the Navajo Nation has been battling for access to Colorado River water. Before the Supreme Court on Monday, the Navajo Nation will argue the federal government has failed to live up to its duty to provide the tribe with an adequate water supply. Here & Now's Peter O'Dowd reports. Then, the Chineke! Orchestra is on its debut North America tour. The group is one of Europe's top orchestras and the first majority Black and ethnically diverse professional orchestra from the continent. Founder and double bass player Chi-chi Nwanoku joins us.
3/20/2023 • 29 minutes, 45 seconds
Violation trailer: Who pulls the levers of power in the justice system?
Violation, a new podcast from The Marshall Project and WBUR, tells the story of how a horrible crime has connected two families for decades. The series explores suffering and retribution, as well as power and privilege. It also pulls back the curtain on parole boards — powerful, secretive, largely political bodies that control the fates of thousands of people every year. Hosted and reported by The Marshall Project's Beth Schwartzapfel, Violation debuts on March 22. Listen to new episodes each Friday on Here & Now Anytime.
3/17/2023 • 3 minutes, 7 seconds
The groups behind anti-trans legislature; Carbon capture pipelines in Midwest
Texas is moving to take over Houston's public school system. It would be one of the largest state takeovers in U.S. history. Dominic Anthony Walsh, education and families reporter for Houston Public Media and Zeph Capo, president of the Texas American Federation of Teachers, join us. And, Madison Pauly, a reporter at Mother Jones, joins us to talk about her findings of a coordinated effort at the state level that's resulted in a wave of legislation to restrict gender-affirming care for transgender youth. Then, there's an ongoing fight over the proposed construction of a pipeline for carbon capture and storage in the Midwest. Nara Schoenberg of the Chicago Tribune joins us.
3/17/2023 • 26 minutes, 18 seconds
Will selling TikTok to a U.S.-owned company make us safer?; How to master a craft
Security analyst Jim Walsh talks about the release of a video Thursday morning showing that Russian jets interfered with a U.S. drone in international waters over the Black Sea on Tuesday and forced the U.S. military to down it. And, TikTok parent company ByteDance says the Biden administration is ordering it to sell the video-sharing app to an American-owned company or face being banned in the United States. Axios media reporter Sara Fischer tells us more. And, in his new book "The Real Work: On the Mystery of Mastery," New Yorker writer Adam Gopnik attempts new skills including drawing, baking and boxing, and ponders what the experiences teach him. Gopnik talks about the book.
3/16/2023 • 23 minutes, 24 seconds
Former chief on Detroit policing; Margaret Atwood releases short story collection
The Environmental Protection Agency has moved to limit the amount of "forever chemicals" called PFAS in drinking water to the lowest detectable levels. These chemicals have been linked to cancer, birth defects and other health issues. Sharon Lerner, reporter for ProPublica, joins us. And, in 2003, the Detroit Free Press uncovered the use of excessive force and improper arrests and detainments in the Detroit Police Department. Under federal oversight, did the state of policing change? Former Detroit police chief and one of the city's first Black police officers, Isaiah McKinnon, joins us. Then, acclaimed author of "The Handmaid's Tale" Margaret Atwood explores loss, aliens and dead cats in the freezer in her new short story collection, "Old Babes in the Wood." Atwood joins us to discuss the stories.
3/15/2023 • 25 minutes, 46 seconds
Recovering from major bank collapses; 'My Vermont Table' offers tastes of the state
After Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank failed, many customers were left confused. Sheila Bair, former chair of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, joins us to discuss. And, the Federal Reserve is dealing with raising inflation in conjunction with bank failures. Roben Farzad, host of public radio's "Full Disclosure," joins us to talk about the Fed's next steps. Then, President Biden recently approved an oil and gas drilling project in Alaska after campaigning against drilling in 2020. It's just the latest in policy changes that go back on some of Biden's former progressive platforms, angering some Democrats. Princeton presidential historian Julian Zelizer joins us. And, Vermont celebrates six seasons yearly, and each one has distinct ingredients that can make some sweet and savory delicacies. Chef Gesine Bullock-Prado lays out recipes that honor each part of the year in her cookbook, "My Vermont Table."
3/14/2023 • 30 minutes, 30 seconds
3 years of COVID-19; 'Schoolhouse Rock' turns 50. Do we need a new, updated version?
Over the weekend, two major banks in the U.S. failed: Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank. President Joe Biden offered reassurance that the banking system is safe. Kathryn Judge, professor of law at Columbia Law School, joins us. And, we've hit the 3-year mark since COVID-19 broke out. More than 1.1 million Americans have died from the virus and the cause of it remains unknown. Dr. Leana Wen joins us to break down reflections and lingering questions. Then, "Schoolhouse Rock" is 50 years old. The educational, animated songs first premiered in 1973 between Saturday morning cartoons, and are credited with teaching millions about everything from grammar to civics. Paul Ringel, history professor at High Point University in North Carolina, joins us.
3/13/2023 • 25 minutes, 56 seconds
Sen. Warren on debt ceiling, inflation; Oscars; Health concerns post-train derailment
Democratic Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts talks about the looming fight over the debt ceiling and the Federal Reserve's projections that 2 million people will be out of work before the end of the year under the current policy. And, activist Erin Brockovich talks about what she's advising East Palestine residents to do to ensure they get compensation and that the company is held accountable for the accident and the impact on the community. Then, 16 of the nominees in the acting categories at this Sunday's Oscars are first-timers. We get a preview and some predictions from Aisha Harris, co-host of NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour.
3/10/2023 • 22 minutes, 29 seconds
Aboriginal land acknowledgments; Chipperfield: Architects can tackle climate crisis
The Department of Justice issued a report that found that the Louisville Police Department has a pattern of using excessive force and targeting Black residents. Local activists see the report as "vindication," a justification of their long-held claims against the department. Chanelle Helm, an organizer and activist with Black Lives Matter Louisville, joins us. Then, Here & Now's Deepa Fernandes recently visited family in Australia. While listening to the radio, she heard broadcasters acknowledging the indigenous land they were on. That's the norm in Australia, but what is the significance? Aboriginal artist Tess Allas joins us. And, Pritzker Prize-winning architect David Chipperfield's work is often described as "understated." Now, Chipperfield is more interested in how cities develop than in designing individual buildings. He joins us.
3/9/2023 • 30 minutes, 33 seconds
3 delicious date recipes; The Beatbox House goes global
This is the first International Women's Day in 50 years where American women do not have the right to abortion. Washington Post correspondent Abha Bhattarai joins us. And, the State Department sends musicians from all genres to places where people don't have many opportunities to meet performers from America. The Brooklyn-based Beatbox House will travel to Asia for beatbox competitions, workshops and collaborations with local artists. Members Chris Celiz and Gene Shinozaki join us. Then, resident chef Kathy Gunst has delved into dates with three new delicious recipes.
3/8/2023 • 27 minutes, 21 seconds
California residents still digging out snow; Former BET CEO releases 'I Am Debra Lee'
Four Americans were kidnapped in Mexico last week, and according to U.S. and Mexico officials, two of them have been found dead. Another is injured. Alfredo Corchado, Mexico City bureau chief for the Dallas Morning News, joins us. Then, residents of Georgetown, California are still digging themselves out of several feet of snow. The forecast predicts rain next. Georgetown resident Alayna Poplan joins us. And, former Black Entertainment Television CEO Debra Lee released a memoir titled "I Am Debra Lee." The book details her life, including reflections on Aretha Franklin, Chris Brown and a #MeToo moment she endured. Lee joins us to talk about the book.
3/7/2023 • 22 minutes, 39 seconds
Judy Heumann's legacy; 'The Great Escape' tells of human trafficking in Mississippi
Judy Heumann is known as the mother of the disability rights movement. Her advocacy and lobbying eventually led to the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Rebecca Cokley, U.S. disability rights program officer with the Ford Foundation, joins us to talk about what today's activists can learn from Heumann's legacy. Then, an investigation by the Washington Post uncovered evidence of a massacre in Tigray carried out by Eritrean troops just days before a peace deal was made. Katharine Houreld led the investigation and joins us. And, labor organizer Saket Soni's new book "The Great Escape: A True Story of Forced Labor and Immigrant Dreams in America" details his work in helping Indian workers lured to Mississippi to repair oil rigs post-Katrina and essentially imprisoned by their employers. Soni joins us.
3/6/2023 • 26 minutes, 28 seconds
Pandemic food assistance ends; Remembering jazz legend Wayne Shorter
The House Ethics Committee is moving forward with an investigation into New York Republican Congressman George Santos. And President Biden ruffled some feathers on Thursday when he told Senate Democrats he won't stop Republicans from repealing D.C.'s new crime law. USA Today's Francesca Chambers and ABC's Rick Klein join us. And, starting this month, the extra pandemic food benefits have ended and left households with anywhere between $95 and $250 less per month for groceries. Michael Flood, president and CEO of the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, explains what the loss in SNAP means for food assistance services. Jeana Lee, a single mother who's now receiving more than $200 less for groceries starting this month, also joins us Then, NPR contributor Michelle Mercer remembers jazz giant Wayne Shorter.
3/3/2023 • 27 minutes, 50 seconds
What causes Havana Syndrome?; Dispelling misinformation about hospice care
Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met for the first time since the war in Ukraine began a year ago. Both attended the G20 meeting in India. NPR diplomatic correspondent Michele Kelemen joins us. And, Havana Syndrome is an unexplained illness that has plagued and injured American intelligence officers and diplomats worldwide. But U.S. agencies say foreign adversaries are not to blame. Shane Harris, an intelligence and national security reporter at the Washington Post, joins us. Then, former President Jimmy's Carter's stay in hospice has sparked discussion about what this type of medical care entails. Hospice nurse Rebecca Gatian and hospice patient John Shannon join us to explain.
3/2/2023 • 22 minutes, 37 seconds
Sugar farming pollution burns area residents; The origins of a common depression test
WBEZ's Tessa Weinberg talks about what's next in the Chicago mayor's race now that Lori Lightfoot has become the first mayor in 40 years to lose re-election after one term, in part because of high crime rates. And, STAT's Olivia Goldhill explains how the idea for a common test for depression actually came from a marketer for the antidepressant Zoloft. Then, scorching sugar fields is an expedient method of farming. But it is messy and dirty. Tons of ash fall from the sky. Area residents in south Florida call it black snow, and it is making some of them sick. Journalist Sandy Tolan tells us more.
3/1/2023 • 24 minutes, 37 seconds
'The Big Myth' examines belief that free market is a right; MLB introduces new rules
President Biden's plan to cancel billions of dollars in student debt will go before the Supreme Court Tuesday. A number of states have sued, citing government overreach. But do they have the right to do that? Danielle Douglas-Gabriel of the Washington Post and professor William Baude join us. Then, Major League Baseball implemented a pitch clock and other new regulations to speed up the game, which have caused some drama in spring training games so far. Washinton Post national baseball writer Chelsea Janes joins us to unpack the changes. And, Americans have long believed that free markets are a fundamental right. The new book "The Big Myth: How American Business Taught Us to Loathe Government and Love the Free Market" explores where that idea came from and its validity. Naomi Oreskes, who co-authored the book with Erik M. Conway, joins us.
2/28/2023 • 29 minutes, 52 seconds
Rihanna and Lady Gaga are up for Oscars; What happens to train derailment waste?
The Environmental Protection Agency has given approval for contaminated waste to continue to be shipped out of East Palestine, Ohio. Professor Timothy Townsend explains what is likely to happen to the waste. And, if a Texas federal judge rules to temporarily ban mifepristone from the market, women nationwide could lose access to medication abortions. Texas Tribune women's health reporter Eleanor Klibanoff shares the latest on the case. Then, we take our annual listen to the nominees for the Best Original Song at the Oscars with Variety writer and film music professor Jon Burlingame.
2/27/2023 • 24 minutes, 10 seconds
Could vertical farming be a climate solution?; Sick, elderly dog finds forever home
The Russo-Ukraine war is close to hitting its 1-year mark. Dara Massicot, a senior analyst at the RAND Corporation, joins us to talk about Russia's military capacity and the future of the war. Then, vertical farming uses drastically less water than traditional, outdoor farming. While the Colorado River is imperiled and farmers feel the effects, could it be a solution to a hotter climate and water conservation? Here & Now's Peter O'Dowd reports. And, older dogs, specifically those with ailments or special needs, have more trouble finding forever homes than puppies. Bendu is a 10-year-old diagnosed with terminal cancer. He only has 6 months to a year left to live, but recently moved into his forever home and couldn't be happier. Stina Sieg of Colorado Public Radio reports.
2/24/2023 • 29 minutes, 41 seconds
Farmers prepare for fight over Colorado River; Bowl recipes for every meal
Former Jan. 6 special committee member Rep. Adam Schiff of California talks about House Speaker Kevin McCarthy's decision to share the video of the Jan. 6 riot with Fox News host Tucker Carlson. Then, farmers in Yuma, Arizona, and the Imperial Valley of California produce the vast majority of the country's leafy greens in the winter. But a crisis on the Colorado River is threatening the water supply. Here & Now's Peter O'Dowd reports. Then, resident chef Kathy Gunst shares recipes for breakfast, lunch and dinner bowls.
2/23/2023 • 25 minutes, 36 seconds
Salton Sea's ecological disaster; Hurricane clues found in ocean sediment after Ian
A few weeks ago, a train derailed in East Palestine, Ohio, releasing a mix of toxic chemicals into the environment. Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine joins us to talk about the cleanup. Then, the Salton Sea — California's largest lake — is under threat from drought and over-allocation of water from the Colorado River. The lake is shrinking rapidly and many of the surrounding areas are riddled with toxic waste. Here & Now's Peter O'Dowd reports from California. And, it's been five months since Hurricane Ian ravaged Florida, and many residents are still picking up the pieces. Ocean sediments can identify storms going back nearly a millennium, and paleoclimatologist Jo Muller joins us for more.
2/22/2023 • 31 minutes, 27 seconds
The fall of plant-based meat substitutes; Black bookstore owners' recommendations
The Lever's Matthew Cunningham-Cook co-wrote a detailed examination of how the rail industry has fought tougher regulations on freight trains carrying hazardous chemicals through residential neighborhoods such as East Palestine, Ohio. He joins us. And, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced Tuesday that his country would suspend participation in the New START treaty, the last remaining nuclear arms control agreement with the U.S. Massachusetts Institute of Technology security analyst Jim Walsh joins us. Then, plant-based meat substitutes, like Beyond Meat and Impossible Burger, seemed so promising a few years ago when they began being marketed widely. Since then, sales of plant-based meat have slumped. Bloomberg food reporter Deena Shanker tells us why. And, as a bonus, three Black bookstore owners across the country to get their recommendations on books by Black authors they think others would enjoy.
2/21/2023 • 23 minutes, 43 seconds
Bing AI chatbot is not behaving well; What Russian elites really think of Putin's war
Jimmy Carter has entered hospice care at his home in Plains, Georgia. At 98, Carter is the oldest living former president. WABE's Sam Gringlas joins us to discuss his legacy, particularly in Georgia. Then, Microsoft's new Bing AI chatbot hasn't been heaving as it should. The technology is still in its beta version. James Vincent, senior reporter with The Verge, joins us. And, it's been about a year since Russia invaded Ukraine. We get a view from Russia of the war and find out what Russian elites really think about Vladimir Putin's war from The Washington Post's Catherine Belton.
2/20/2023 • 27 minutes, 51 seconds
'Mario' creator Shigeru Miyamoto visits Super Nintendo World; End of StripperWeb
Axios senior contributor Margaret Talev and Associate Press White House reporter Darlene Superville talk over the week in politics. And, legendary game designer Shigeru Miyamoto spoke to NPR about Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood, which opens Friday. He looks back on how he created Mario and how the character evolved. Then, Marla Cruz talks about her piece in New York Magazine about the end of StripperWeb. It was a place where adult entertainment workers across the country could come together to share information and dressing room lore, without having to hide or sanitize their work.
A train carrying toxic materials derailed in East Palestine, Ohio two weeks ago. Now, residents in the area are looking for answers and transparency from officials. Brooks Sutherland, health reporter with the Cincinnati Enquirer, joins us. Then, northern Syria is in the midst of earthquake relief efforts as the Assad regime just began allowing aid to reach affected areas. Louisa Loveluck and Ishaan Tharoor of the Washington Post join us. And, a new podcast out Thursday aims to explore the marginalized histories present in classical music, including the problematic — and often racist — portrayals of Black characters in some of Mozart and Verdi's most famous operas. "Every Voice" host Terrance McKnight joins us.
2/16/2023 • 27 minutes, 59 seconds
First postpartum depression pill; Patients continue to receive costly ambulance bills
Members of a search and rescue team from the Los Angeles County Fire Department are in Turkey assisting with earthquake recovery. LA firefighter Frank Infante speaks to us from Turkey. And, out-of-network ambulance bills can be extremely high and unaffordable for many patients. STAT's Bob Herman joins us. Then, the Food and Drug Administration is reviewing the first-ever pill to target postpartum depression. Psychiatrist Nancy Byatt and mother Stephanie Hathaway — who credits the drug Zulresso with saving her life — tell us more.
2/15/2023 • 22 minutes, 36 seconds
5 years after Parkland shooting; Florida removed content from AP Black history class
Senators received a closed-door briefing on the unidentified aerial objects shot down over North America last weekend. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) joins us to discuss what she's learned. Then, it's been 5 years since a gunman opened fire at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. 17 people were killed. Has anything changed in Florida since the tragedy? WLRN reporter Gerard Albert III joins us to discuss. And, the pilot for an Advanced Placement class on Black history is at the center of a national debate rooted in Florida. The state cut many topics from the final version of the class. University of California Los Angeles history professor Robin D.G. Kelley joins us. And, for Valentine's Day, producer Kalyani Saxena surveyed listeners about their favorite romance tropes and shares some recommendations.
2/14/2023 • 28 minutes, 54 seconds
How a group of Sarah Lawrence students ended up in a cult; Flying objects shot down
People have returned to their homes in East Palestine, Ohio, after the huge train derailment and toxic chemical release. But questions remain. Julie Grant of The Allegheny Front joins us. And, the U.S. has shot down more flying objects, as China accuses the U.S. of illegally flying balloons over its airspace. NPR's Greg Myre shares the latest. Then, last month, 63-year-old Larry Ray was sentenced to 60 years in prison for extortion, sex trafficking and forced labor, after luring his daughter's roommates from Sarah Lawrence College into what authorities are calling a cult. The docuseries "Stolen Youth" follows the students through nearly a decade with Ray. Director Zach Heinzerling and former cult member Felicia Rosario talk about the new series.
2/13/2023 • 22 minutes, 17 seconds
Hollywood's depiction of Brown girls; Earthquake displaces Syrian refugees once again
After moving to Turkey 12 years ago, Syrian refugee Assalah Shikhani is, again, one of the thousands displaced by the recent earthquakes. She joins us. And, the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs clash this weekend in Super Bowl 57 in Arizona. NPR sports correspondent Tom Goldman gives us a preview. Then, when Mindy Kaling's new HBO show "Velma" premiered in January, it was met with a wave of backlash from members of the South Asian community. Many felt that Velma —who in the show is a South Asian teenager — was yet another harmful depiction of supposedly ugly Brown women on TV. Writer Sakeina Syed unpacks the discourse.
2/10/2023 • 22 minutes, 48 seconds
Midwest welcomes large livestock operations; Child care shortages abound across U.S.
Syria is still dealing with the aftermath of a deadly earthquake in Turkey that affected the surrounding area. Doctors Without Borders, or Médecins Sans Frontières, are working on recovery efforts. Syrian officer Sherwan Qasem joins us.Then, Missouri, Nebraska and other Midwest states are trying to attract more CAFOs — concentrated animal feeding operations. CAFOs produce a lot of waste, which some residents are against. Eva Tesfaye of Harvest Public Media reports. And, working parents across the nation are struggling to find child care, some calling dozens of places before finding somewhere with an opening. Child Care Aware of America's Michelle McCready joins us. When California Democrat Jimmy Gomez wore his baby son in a carrier to the House floor last month, he got a lot of attention. He's using that spotlight to work toward addressing issues that affect working families.
2/9/2023 • 28 minutes, 3 seconds
Sen. Booker and Rep. Johnson react to State of the Union; San Diego's poet laureate
Democratic Sen. Cory Booker of New Jersey and Republican Rep. Dusty Johnson of South Dakota share their reactions to Tuesday night's State of the Union address and the potential for a police reform bill. Then, the labor market is strong with unemployment at a 50-year low. And the Federal Reserve is continuing to raise interest rates to bring down inflation. Former Treasury Secretary Larry Summers weighs in. And, the new poet laureate of San Diego says growing up, he didn't feel welcome into the space of poetry. Now, Jason Magabo Perez, the son of Filipino immigrants, is empowering diverse communities to use poetry as a tool to tell their own stories.
2/8/2023 • 26 minutes, 51 seconds
AMC's new movie ticket strategy; Pastor and professor leads nation's psychologists
An earthquake in Turkey left more than 5,000 people there and in Syria dead. The region sits in a very active seismic region. Mustafa Erdik, professor emeritus of earthquake engineering, joins us to explain the science and geology behind the disaster. Then, in an effort to recoup lost profits during the earlier days of COVID-19, AMC Theatres released a plan to charge different fares based on where customers choose to sit. Movie-lover and host of public radio's "Full Disclosure" Roben Farzad joins us. And, despite a history of conflict between faith and mental health, there's some evolution in recent years. Thema Bryant is a pastor, professor and the new president of the American Psychological Association. She says that mental health professionals are acknowledging spirituality in their practice more recently. Bryant joins us.
2/7/2023 • 22 minutes, 2 seconds
Earthquake kills thousands in Turkey, Syria; This teacher challenged book bans
Residents and officials in southeastern Turkey and northwest Syria are assessing the damage from a devastating earthquake that struck the area Sunday, killing more than 2,300 people. NPR's Peter Kenyon joins us from Istanbul. Then, locals in northeastern Ohio are being urged to evacuate the area due to fears of a potential explosion caused by a train derailment. Julie Grant, managing editor for The Allegheny Front, shares the latest. And, Summer Boismier was an Oklahoma high school English teacher who gave her students a QR code that led to the Brooklyn Public Library's page on banned books. Controversy ensued, leading her to quit her job ultimately. She talks about the "brain drain" these state regulations result in, as aspiring educators avoid areas where lessons are strictly regulated.
2/6/2023 • 26 minutes, 1 second
Remembering David Crosby: A good friend shares their decades of music and banter
For the last 30 years, writer Steve Silberman and late rock legend David Crosby remained in constant contact. Now, the author is still in shock after the loss of his dear friend. In this bonus episode, Silberman remembers Crosby's hope, humor and impact on music.