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Claudia Grisales, NPR's congressional correspondent, and Austin Serrett, a professor of political science, explore the recent budget bill that has ignited political controversy. They discuss tax cuts for the wealthy, significant Medicaid reductions, and surprising provisions on immigration and artificial intelligence. The duo delves into the potential implications of stripping judicial authority, warning it could undermine checks and balances. Their analysis reveals how the bill’s complexities could reshape American policies and affect everyday lives, urging public engagement in crucial legislative matters.

This week, Amanda Becker, Washington correspondent at the 19th, discusses the U.S. revoking visas for Chinese students amidst shifting immigration policies. Sophia Kaya, a White House reporter for Politico, shares insights on Elon Musk's criticism of a new tax bill. Eva McKend, CNN's national politics correspondent, highlights the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the complexities of U.S. involvement in the region, noting global calls for ceasing military actions amid dire conditions.

Matt Sepik, a Correspondent for Minnesota Public Radio, Robert Klemko, a Staff Writer at The Washington Post focused on criminal justice, and Sonia Pruitt, a former police captain and current professor, delve into the aftermath of George Floyd's murder. They discuss the evolving landscape of police reforms, the impact of political shifts under the Trump administration, and the challenges to accountability in policing. Insights on innovative crisis intervention strategies and the vital role of community engagement also highlight the ongoing struggle for change in law enforcement.

Jordan Thomas, a cultural anthropologist and former hotshot firefighter, teams up with Amy Cardinal Christensen, a Métis fire expert, to discuss the evolving nature of wildfires. They delve into the historical and cultural significance of fire, emphasizing Indigenous practices and the need to reframe how we perceive wildfires. With climate change intensifying fire behaviors, the duo advocates for innovative management strategies that honor both ecological and cultural legacies, showcasing the urgent need for holistic approaches in combating wildfires.

Guests Kirtland DeVille, an associate professor in radiation oncology, Paul Offit, a pediatrician and vaccine expert, and Selene Gounder, a public health senior fellow, delve into the pressing issue of prostate cancer. They discuss the crucial role of early detection, particularly for at-risk groups, and debunk myths about symptoms. The conversation shifts to the FDA's potential restrictions on COVID-19 vaccines, exploring the implications for public health and the ethical complexities involved. Their insights emphasize proactive health management during these challenging times.

In this enlightening chat, Kelsey McKinney, creator of the Normal Gossip podcast and author of 'You Didn't Hear It From Me, Mostly True Notes on Gossip,' dives into the human fascination with gossip. She explores why gossip is a learned behavior that shapes our communication and social dynamics. McKinney discusses its dual nature, revealing how it can connect people or cause harm, especially in contexts like workplaces and communities. Through personal anecdotes and cultural insights, she unravels the complexities of gossip in today's digital age.

Arthur Delaney, a Senior reporter at HuffPost, and Megan Scully, Congress editor for Bloomberg News, join Margaret Tollib, a Senior contributor to Axios and director of Syracuse University's Institute for Democracy, Journalism, and Citizenship. They dive into the contentious House spending bill and President Trump's meeting with President Ramaphosa, unpacking diplomatic tensions. The discussion highlights the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, legal reforms affecting online privacy, and the complexities of Medicaid cuts, reflecting on how these issues shape political discourse.

In this episode, food and agriculture reporter Marsha Brown discusses alarming cuts to USDA funding, revealing how they hinder food distribution and exacerbate hunger across the nation. Brian Green, CEO of the Houston Food Bank, shares how these changes impact food banks, noting that some areas face child food insecurity as high as 50%. Funwe Tita, a farmer dedicated to culturally significant produce, highlights the challenges African immigrant farmers face while trying to preserve their heritage amidst economic strain and funding cuts.

Rhiannon Giddens, a Grammy and Pulitzer Prize-winning folk musician, shares her love for North Carolina's musical heritage, alongside her collaborator Justin Robinson, a Grammy-winning vocalist. They dive into the banjo's powerful cultural symbolism and discuss the Black Banjo Gathering's significance in honoring African roots. Giddens reflects on motherhood's complexities, challenging traditional definitions of a 'good mother,' while both artists emphasize the role of music in building community and fostering authentic connections in a diverse world.

Join Kimyana Burke, a senior policy fellow and former state literacy director, Chad Alderman, an education analyst and founder of Read, Not Guess, and Emily Hanford, a senior producer at APM Reports, as they tackle the pressing issue of declining U.S. reading scores. They explore the surprising literacy gains in Mississippi and Louisiana, dissect effective teaching strategies, and discuss the shocking history of flawed reading curricula. Discover what makes these states unique and how their success stories can guide national education reform.