The Brian Lehrer Show

Maria Ponce Sevilla, Director of Development at Mixteca Organization Inc., sheds light on the vibrant Mexican communities in NYC, especially during Cinco de Mayo. She discusses the significance of the holiday, rooted in the Battle of Puebla, and shares compelling personal stories from the community. The celebration's unique NYC flavor blends traditional customs with modern trends. Maria also addresses the challenges faced by immigrant communities, emphasizing the crucial support provided by nonprofits like Mixteca in navigating changing federal policies.

Three of our favorite segments from the week, in case you missed them.NYC Health Department Braces for Federal Budget Cuts (First) | REAL ID, for Real This Time (Starts at 27:34) | 100 Years of 100 Things: Women in the Military (Starts at 42:14)If you don't subscribe to the Brian Lehrer Show on iTunes, you can do that here.

Randy Mastro, the First Deputy Mayor of New York City, shares insights on Mayor Adams' ambitious $115 billion budget proposal. He discusses plans to boost after-school programs, adding 5,000 slots for K-5 students, a significant step for children's education. Mastro highlights the proposal's focus on public safety and community resources amidst falling crime rates, and addresses potential challenges like the loss of child care vouchers for thousands of families. He emphasizes the importance of fiscal resilience in these uncertain economic times.

Sam Schechner, a technology reporter at The Wall Street Journal, opens up about feeling less intelligent due to reliance on AI. He highlights the cognitive decline linked to GPS and smartphones, sharing personal anecdotes and listener experiences. The conversation emphasizes the need for mindful technology use to preserve critical thinking and cognitive skills. Schechner also discusses balancing traditional learning methods with AI to enhance educational experiences while avoiding mental stagnation. Engaging activities are recommended for maintaining brain health.

Kadia Goba, a congressional correspondent for Semafor, dives into the intricate battle within GOP leadership over a sweeping budget package. The discussion reveals the contentious SAVE Act, which critics warn could disenfranchise millions of married women. Goba sheds light on internal GOP struggles between fiscal hawks and hard-right members, and the implications of potential Medicaid cuts. Additionally, the podcast addresses the complexities of Trump's tax cuts and the controversial debate over tariffs, all while noting the broader political consequences as elections loom.

Louisa Tatum, Career Services Manager at the New York Public Library, shares invaluable insights for job seekers without a college degree. She discusses the importance of tailored career counseling and offers strategies for leveraging transferable skills. Listeners learn about effective networking in the digital age and how to navigate career transitions through apprenticeships. Tatum also emphasizes opportunities for upward mobility in fields like sales and technology, providing practical tips for building confidence and connections.

Walt McClure, Director of Public Information at the NYS Department of Motor Vehicles, clarifies the urgent need for REAL ID ahead of the May 7 deadline. He discusses how this ID affects air travel and federal building access, shedding light on residency requirements and the differences between REAL IDs and enhanced IDs. McClure also addresses common challenges New Yorkers face in securing the necessary documentation, including name discrepancies and the complexities of the application process. Plus, insights on costs and the impact of voter ID laws add depth to the conversation.

Nick Miroff, a staff writer for The Atlantic specializing in immigration, delves into the controversial deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia to a dangerous prison in El Salvador, raising significant due process concerns. He shares insights on the intricate negotiations between the Trump administration and the Salvadoran president. Additionally, Miroff discusses the recent release of Columbia student Mohsen Mahdawi from immigration detention, highlighting the ongoing judicial tensions and the complexities surrounding U.S. immigration law.

Sean Spiller, President of the New Jersey Education Association and former mayor of Montclair, is on a mission to become New Jersey's next governor. He discusses his dual role in education and local government, emphasizing the importance of advocating for working-class communities. Spiller tackles pressing issues like affordability, housing, and educational equity, sharing his achievements in Montclair, including rent control initiatives. He also addresses the challenges of political campaign financing and the need for transparency in union operations.

Join Jane Martinez Dowling, Chief of Student Pathways at NYC Department of Education, and Marjorie Parker, CEO of JobsFirstNYC, as they tackle youth workforce development. They discuss innovative career education initiatives, emphasizing internships and personalized advising. The importance of aligning school curricula with workforce demands is highlighted, alongside strategies for enhancing literacy and computational skills. Both guests share insights on alternative pathways for students, aiming to close the skills gap and prepare NYC youth for meaningful employment.