The Brian Lehrer Show

Shayla Love, a staff writer at The Atlantic, dives into the fascinating history of the American wellness movement. She discusses influential figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Sylvester Graham, revealing how their ideas shaped modern health perspectives. The conversation explores the tension between alternative therapies and conventional medicine, as well as how personal health journeys, like Love's own battle with chronic illness, complicate societal views on wellness. It's a thought-provoking look at a century of wellness ideals.

Volunteering doesn't have to be a daunting task! Listeners share their fun and easy ways to give back to their communities, especially during the holiday season. Unique opportunities abound, and inspiration flows as people recount their experiences. This discussion promotes a culture of community involvement, dispelling myths about the time and resources required for volunteering. Get ready to be motivated to make a difference without the stress!

Alvin Bragg, the Manhattan district attorney, shares insights from his role in pivotal legal cases and initiatives aimed at reform. He discusses the recent indictments of Luigi Mangione and Ingrid Lewis-Martin, addressing the intersections of mental health and public safety. Bragg also highlights significant NYPD reforms, like the dismissal of the Internal Affairs chief, and the implications of Mayor Adams' political connections amid corruption allegations. The conversation emphasizes community collaboration and the complexities of jury decisions in high-profile cases.

Jonathan Lemire, co-host of MSNBC’s Morning Joe, dissects the recent federal funding deal that spared a government shutdown, highlighting key inclusions and omissions. He also delves into Trump's provocative speech in Arizona, particularly his controversial takes on transgender identity. The conversation touches on the broader impact of these remarks on political discourse and society, as well as the intricate dance of bipartisan negotiations and the challenges facing marginalized communities amidst shifting political tides.

Delve into the challenges of navigating health insurance denial claims in New York, with tips on appealing decisions and understanding your rights. Transitioning to holiday traditions, explore the evolution of Christmas shopping from a meaningful celebration to a consumer holiday influenced by cultural shifts. Finally, celebrate the creativity of photography as winners of a contest share their stunning images and the stories behind them, highlighting the emotional resonance captured in everyday moments.

Listeners submitted over 700 stunning photos, showcasing creativity and skill. A special guest judge explored the emotional impact of the winning images. The discussion dives into a powerful black and white shot, 'Weight of the World,' presenting its artistic significance. Highlights include insights into the deeper stories captured in everyday moments and the beauty found in common scenes. The podcast also looks ahead to the upcoming Photoville festival, inviting photographers to participate in celebrating visual storytelling.

Damian Woetzel, President of The Juilliard School, is dedicated to enhancing accessibility and affordability in performing arts education. He discusses innovative programs aimed at underrepresented students and the importance of inclusivity in music, dance, and drama. The transformative partnership with Washington Heights Inwood Charter Music School showcases the positive impact of music education on community engagement and academic success. Woetzel emphasizes the need for a balance between tradition and innovation to nurture diverse artistic talent.

Tracey Tully, a New York Times reporter known for her investigative work on New Jersey, discusses a significant drop in traffic stops by state troopers and the alarming rise in accidents that followed. She highlights the connection between these changes and a new union directive aimed at more equitable enforcement. Tully also delves into a tragic truck accident that underscores enforcement disparities and explores emotional experiences tied to traffic encounters, illustrating broader issues of community trust in law enforcement.

Katie Fallow, Deputy Litigation Director at the Knight First Amendment Institute at Columbia University, discusses critical legal aspects of President Trump's defamation lawsuits against media outlets like ABC. She explores the implications these actions have on journalism and democracy. Fallow explains the chilling effects of such litigation on free speech, referencing landmark cases like New York Times v. Sullivan. The conversation also touches on how powerful figures may misuse legal strategies to silence dissent, raising concerns over media integrity and political discourse.

David Brand, housing reporter for WNYC and Gothamist, rounds up the latest housing-related news, including that a real estate group has sued over the new law banning broker fees, disputes over landlords not returning security deposits and more.