1A

Sam Block, a journalist and author of 'Shade, the Promise of a Forgotten Natural Resource', joins V. Kelly Turner, an urban planning expert at UCLA, to discuss the escalating threat of extreme heat. They explore how shade can be a vital resource in combating rising temperatures, especially for vulnerable urban populations. The conversation highlights the importance of urban planning that integrates green spaces, addressing inequalities in access to shade, and the need for tailored heat action plans to protect marginalized communities.

Sarah Spivey, a Meteorologist at KSAT News, discusses the devastating effects of a 100-year flood in Central Texas, which has tragically claimed nearly 90 lives. She highlights the heroic rescue efforts amidst ongoing threats of heavy rain. The conversation also dives into the region's unique geographical challenges and shortcomings in flood warning systems. Spivey emphasizes the need for improved alerts and infrastructure to protect communities, while addressing the crucial role of meteorologists during such extreme weather events.

In this discussion, Jessica Glenza, a Senior health reporter at The Guardian, highlights the significant implications of a major tax and spending bill, focusing on its drastic cuts to Medicaid. She explains how these cuts threaten the healthcare access of 11.8 million Americans, particularly in rural areas like Kentucky. Glenza also addresses the critical role Medicaid plays for vulnerable populations and the potential strain on rural healthcare systems. The conversation sheds light on the unpredictable future of healthcare in these communities as they brace for economic challenges.

Alana Ronlevy, managing director of Gallup, and David Brooks, opinion columnist for The New York Times, discuss the core values that define America. They reveal surprising survey insights showing family tops the list of priorities across demographics. The conversation touches on generational shifts in national pride, the intersection of faith and politics, and the role of organized religion in community cohesion. They also explore the tension between governmental support and civil society, highlighting how collective values influence the pursuit of the American dream.

In this discussion, Erica Carlson, a physics professor at Purdue University and host of The Quantum Age, joins Shohini Ghosh, a professor of physics and computer science at Wilfrid Laurier University, to unravel the perplexing world of quantum mechanics. They break down complex topics like quantum computing and its security implications for cryptocurrencies. The duo also dives into quantum materials and their applications in technology, from MRI machines to the aspiring quantum internet, making these scientific concepts accessible and engaging.

Sean McFate, a Georgetown professor and former U.S. Army paratrooper, joins Stephen Levy, Wired editor, and Colonel Molly Salisbury to discuss a groundbreaking initiative. Tech leaders from companies like Meta and OpenAI have been appointed as lieutenant colonels in the U.S. Army Reserves. They aim to fuse Silicon Valley expertise with military operations, addressing modern warfare challenges through technology and psychological strategies. The group navigates the ethical implications and potential conflicts between military values and innovation.

Arthur Delaney, a Senior reporter at HuffPost, and Martha Gimbel, Executive director at Yale's Budget Lab, delve into the controversial GOP megabill and its implications for Americans. They unpack potential tax breaks, particularly for the wealthy, and discuss the legislative journey back to the House. The duo highlights the risks to healthcare funding and the impact on Medicaid. Additionally, they explore immigration provisions and economic consequences, emphasizing the bill's significant ramifications on essential services and the national debt.

Apoorva Mandavilli, a science and global health reporter for The New York Times, joins Samar El-Kaudry, a Professor of Epidemiology at the University of Pittsburgh, to discuss pressing health issues. They delve into the recent cuts to U.S. vaccine funding and the potential global repercussions. The conversation shifts to the critical link between menopause and cardiovascular disease, emphasizing how hormonal changes elevate heart risks for women. Listeners gain insights on the importance of proactive heart health and better communication with healthcare providers during menopause.

Catherine Stewart, a journalist and author focusing on the intersection of faith and politics, joins Ian Millhiser, Vox's senior correspondent on the Supreme Court. Together, they delve into the rising challenges to the separation of church and state, particularly during the Trump administration. The discussion highlights the politicization of religious liberty and recent Supreme Court rulings favoring Christian nationalism. They emphasize the need for grassroots engagement to protect democratic values and maintain a secular public sphere.

Elissa Slotkin, a Michigan Senator and former CIA analyst, brings her unique perspective on pressing national issues. She discusses the challenges facing the Democratic Party as it prepares for midterm elections, emphasizing the need for a fresh economic vision. Slotkin dives into U.S. military actions in Iran and the importance of nonpartisan politics in security matters. Additionally, she reflects on immigration reform, advocating for policies that support small businesses and address fears within immigrant communities.