The Brian Lehrer Show

Earlier this month, the top United Nations court opened two weeks of hearings into what countries worldwide are legally required to do to combat climate change. Nikki Reisch, director of the climate and energy program at the Center for International Environmental Law, explains the hearings so far and what relief they may provide for vulnerable nations.

Listeners call in to share tips on how to survive - and maybe even have fun at - their work holiday parties. 

Mohammed Aly Sergie, editor of Semafor Gulf, talks about the latest developments in Syria.

Mayor Adams holds one off-topic press conference per week, where reporters can ask him questions on any subject. Elizabeth Kim, Gothamist and WNYC reporter, recaps what he talked about at this week's event, including the not guilty verdict in the Daniel Penny subway chokehold case.

John Cassidy, staff writer at The New Yorker, talks about the latest national economic news, including the jobs numbers, healthcare frustrations and President-elect Trump's pick for Treasury secretary. 

Errol Louis, political anchor of Spectrum NY1 News, host of Inside City Hall and The Big Deal with Errol Louis, New York Magazine columnist and host of the podcast You Decide, talks about the latest NYC news, including the deadlocked jury* in the Daniel Penny trial, Mayor Adams's refusal to rule out switching to the Republican party and more. [*Note, this took place before the jury returned a verdict in the Penny trial.]

As our centennial series continues, John Fricke, historian focused on The Wizard of Oz and Judy Garland and the author of The Wonderful World of Oz: An Illustrated History of the American Classic (Down East Books, 2014), talks about the enduring impact of the story of The Wizard of Oz.

Three of our favorite segments from the week, in case you missed them.100 Years of 100 Things: Fascism (First) | The 'City of Yes' Plan Passes City Council (Starts at 39:00 ) | 2024's Best Sports Writing (Starts at 1:23:00)If you don't subscribe to the Brian Lehrer Show on iTunes, you can do that here.

The podcast launches its holiday gift guide, encouraging support for local businesses in New York's suburbs. Listeners highlight unique offerings, like handcrafted ocean-inspired decor and holiday psychic readings. It also features Aitoro's Appliance Company's legacy and community role. A special segment spotlights a card game designed by young innovators, showcasing the creative spirit thriving in the region. Tune in for great ways to shop local this season!

Felipe Rodriguez, an adjunct professor at John Jay College and former NYPD detective sergeant, dives deep into the shocking shooting of a prominent insurance CEO in Midtown Manhattan. He analyzes the complexities of the ongoing investigation, emphasizing urban evidence collection and the challenge of public cooperation. Rodriguez discusses the suspect's evasion tactics and prior surveillance, while also touching on the moral implications of the crime. Finally, he highlights public outcry over healthcare accountability and the need for corporate responsibility in light of this tragic event.