Code Switch
NPR
What's CODE SWITCH? It's the fearless conversations about race that you've been waiting for. Hosted by journalists of color, our podcast tackles the subject of race with empathy and humor. We explore how race affects every part of society — from politics and pop culture to history, food and everything in between. This podcast makes all of us part of the conversation — because we're all part of the story. Code Switch was named Apple Podcasts' first-ever Show of the Year in 2020.Want to level up your Code Switch game? Try Code Switch Plus. Your subscription supports the show and unlocks a sponsor-free feed. Learn more at plus.npr.org/codeswitch
Episodes
Mentioned books
18 snips
Oct 1, 2025 • 42min
Why Malala Yousafzai is a hero in the West but not back home
Maria Karimji, a Karachi-based freelance reporter, and Sana Meher, a Pakistani journalist and author, dive into the complex perceptions surrounding Malala Yousafzai. They explore why Malala is celebrated in the West but faces skepticism in Pakistan, linking it to distrust of foreign influences. The duo discusses the Malala test as a measure of social attitudes, highlights the backlash against her advocacy, and examines how societal pressures uniquely affect women activists in Pakistan. Their insights shed light on the intricate dynamics of fame, activism, and local versus global narratives.
Sep 24, 2025 • 33min
Is the American dream a scam?
Edgar Gomez, a memoirist and author of Alligator Tears, shares his rich experiences growing up poor and queer in Florida. He discusses the contradictions of the American dream, revealing the hustles he engaged in, like selling bootleg CDs and navigating timeshare tours for theme-park tickets. Gomez reflects on class anxiety and challenges the notion of wealth as a measure of success. He also touches on the importance of community and identity, particularly his connection to Orlando's Pulse nightclub.
Sep 17, 2025 • 44min
The stakes of calling Israel's actions in Gaza a genocide
Mohammed El-Kurd, an author and journalist focused on Palestinian perspectives, joins Omer Bartov, a professor at Brown University specializing in genocide studies. They delve into the terminology surrounding Israel's actions in Gaza, specifically the implications of labeling it as genocide. The conversation explores historical parallels with the Rwandan genocide, the moral responsibilities tied to such designations, and the complexities in public and political discourse. The guests emphasize the urgent need for global recognition and intervention regarding the humanitarian crisis.
Sep 10, 2025 • 43min
How calls for mass deportations went mainstream
Lisa Hagan, an NPR journalist focusing on far-right immigration rhetoric, and Kuo Jingnan, an expert on the normalization of fringe ideas, discuss the surge of calls for mass deportations in American politics. They explore how once-fringe concepts like 'remigration' have entered mainstream discourse, showing alarming parallels with white nationalist ideologies. The conversation reveals the historical roots of these ideas and their implications for national identity and policy, highlighting the troubling rise of anti-immigrant sentiment in both the U.S. and Europe.
Sep 3, 2025 • 41min
Digging into our ancestors' drama
Nicole Hill, a captivating storyteller and host of 'Our Ancestors Were Messy', dives into the intriguing fallout between literary giants Zora Neale Hurston and Langston Hughes. She reveals how their friendship, once rich with collaboration and cultural exploration, unraveled due to differing artistic visions. Hill highlights the significance of their journey through the South, their shared passion for Black folklore, and the emotional nuances of their bond. She also touches on the vibrant tradition of toasting and its role in preserving Black narratives, showcasing the complexities of identity and creativity.
Aug 27, 2025 • 35min
How racism kept Americans out of pools
Jasmine Romero, a talented writer and former Sesame Street actor, is bravely learning to swim while confronting her long-held fears rooted in family tradition. Historian Jeff Wiltie joins her to explore America's swimming pool history, revealing how segregation shaped pool access and created disparities in swimming skills today. They discuss generational trauma related to water within communities of color, the evolving role of public pools, and the emotional journey of overcoming fears for the sake of their children.
15 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 39min
How Trump's D.C. takeover criminalizes homelessness
Jesse Rabinowitz, the Campaign and Communications Director at the National Homelessness Law Center, joins Alex Vitale, a sociology professor and policing expert. They tackle the criminalization of homelessness, highlighting the troubling narrative surrounding D.C.’s homeless population. The discussion includes the harms of heavy police presence and effective alternatives like the Housing First model. They also delve into the implications of federal policies fueling urban decline and systemic disparities that exacerbate homelessness and public safety. It's an eye-opening conversation about compassion versus criminalization.
20 snips
Aug 13, 2025 • 31min
Statelessness, but make it funny
Mo Amer, stand-up comedian and creator of the Netflix series 'Mo', dives deep into the life of a Palestinian refugee navigating the complexities of identity and the American immigration system with humor. He discusses how comedy serves as a tool to address serious immigrant experiences in Houston. Mo shares personal stories about cultural dissonance, code-switching, and the emotional journeys tied to family heritage. He also reflects on the challenges of writing during geopolitical turmoil while advocating for community engagement between Jewish and Palestinian voices.
11 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 32min
Hot weather kills. Who gets protected?
Join Alejandra Barunda, a climate reporter at NPR, alongside Rebecca Hersher and Lauren McGahee, as they dive into the deadly impacts of extreme heat. They share harrowing personal stories of vulnerable populations—like roofers in Florida and inmates in Texas prisons—highlighting systemic neglect and the urgent need for improved protections. The discussion questions which lives society prioritizes in the face of climate-driven tragedies and calls for accountability to prevent further loss.
Aug 2, 2025 • 17min
You told us — what brings you joy
Listeners share their thoughts on what brings them joy and its connection to justice. The power of joy as a form of resistance is highlighted, showcasing resilience in community and solidarity. Personal stories and music are explored as tools for healing during tough times. There's a focus on literature that portrays both joy and pain, emphasizing diverse voices. A joyful garden party serves as a reminder of the importance of connection amidst challenges, encouraging meaningful conversations and community engagement.
