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Episodes
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Jul 7, 2025 • 11min
ICYMI: The Megabill, Medicaid And Rural Americans
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.

Jul 7, 2025 • 33min
'If You Can Keep It': American Values
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.

Jul 4, 2025 • 34min
Best Of: Questioning Quantum Mechanics
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.

Jul 3, 2025 • 40min
Why The U.S. Army Made Four Tech Executives Lieutenant Colonels
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.

Jul 2, 2025 • 30min
Unpacking The GOP Megabill
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.

Jul 1, 2025 • 31min
In Good Health: Vaccines, Menopause, And Cardiovascular Disease
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.

Jun 30, 2025 • 23min
'If You Can Keep It': Church And State, Continued
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.

Jun 30, 2025 • 22min
Senator Elissa Slotkin On The Future Of The Democratic Party
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.

Jun 27, 2025 • 1h 25min
The News Roundup For June 27, 2025
Arthur Delaney, a senior reporter at HuffPost, joins forces with Wendy Benjaminson from Bloomberg News and Margaret Tolliv, director at Syracuse University, to dissect NATO's pledge to ramp up defense spending amid global tensions. James Kipfield evaluates the fallout from U.S. airstrikes in Iran and their implications for international relations. Akbar Shahid Ahmed delves into the complexities of aid in Gaza, underlining the tragedy of violence and skepticism surrounding humanitarian efforts. Together, they unravel the intricacies of politics and policy shaping current events.

Jun 26, 2025 • 33min
Best Of: The Future Of Fighting And Preventing Forest Fires
Jordan Thomas, a cultural anthropologist and former hotshot firefighter, and Amy Cardinal Christensen, a Métis Senior Fire Advisor, dive into the changing landscape of forest fires. They discuss how climate change is intensifying wildfires and the urgent need for adaptive strategies. The duo highlights the significance of Indigenous fire management practices, which have been historically overlooked, and stress the lessons that can be learned from these traditions for modern fire prevention. Their conversation underscores the need for a shift towards sustainable and informed fire management.