The Brian Lehrer Show

Katie Honan, a senior reporter at The City and co-host of FAQ NYC, dives into the chaotic world of the NYC mayoral campaign. She recounts a bizarre incident where cash was slipped in a bag of chips, raising serious ethics questions. Honan discusses the unsettling culture of toxic masculinity among candidates and how it impacts public perception. Plus, she shares insights on Zohran Mamdani's unique scavenger hunt and the ongoing struggles with public safety and police controversies that are shaping the election landscape.

Dan Lamothe, a U.S. military and Pentagon reporter at The Washington Post, delves into President Trump's directive for the National Guard to ready itself for civil disturbances. He analyzes the potential impact on cities like Chicago and New York, questioning the legality of military involvement in policing. The discussion touches on historical precedents, the mental health effects on service members, and public skepticism about using the Guard for urban security. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on military roles during protests and emergencies.

Stephen Nessen, a transportation reporter for WNYC and Gothamist, discusses the groundbreaking pilot program for Waymo's driverless cars in Manhattan and Brooklyn. He explores the potential impacts on traditional taxi drivers and rideshare services, sparking concerns over job security. Personal stories reveal how these vehicles offer comfort and hope, especially for individuals with disabilities. The conversation also delves into safety and regulatory issues, emphasizing the ethical dilemmas surrounding accountability in the operation of autonomous vehicles in dense urban environments.

Ileana Najarro, an Education Week reporter focused on race in U.S. schools, joins linguist Kate Menken, a CUNY research fellow and co-editor of Language Policy. They dive into the Trump administration's controversial rescission of guidance for English Language Learners, outlining the dire implications for over 5 million students. The discussion highlights the impact on discrimination and support, the importance of home languages in learning, and crucial strategies for helping older students thrive academically despite these policy changes.

Gen Z is diving into nostalgia for the late '90s, longing for life before smartphones. Listeners share heartfelt stories about simpler times and the genuine connections they miss. A social psychologist discusses how nostalgia can enhance meaningful living in today’s digital world. The trend toward analog experiences like vinyl records and board games showcases their craving for tangible interactions. This yearning highlights the desire for mindfulness amidst a hyper-connected society.

Liz Krueger, a New York State Senator and Finance Committee chair, fiercely opposes gas pipeline projects due to environmental concerns. Rich Schrader, NRDC's Government Affairs Director, advocates for clean energy and warns of the risks these pipelines pose to local waterways and state climate goals. They discuss the political maneuvering behind the pipeline proposals and the urgent need for renewable energy initiatives like the Empire Wind Project. The conversation highlights the delicate balance between energy needs and environmental sustainability in New York.

Shawn Donnan, a senior writer for Bloomberg News focused on trade and global business, is joined by Lydia DePillis, a New York Times reporter specializing in the American economy. They discuss the evolving landscape of U.S. investment, highlighting Intel's critical role influenced by government incentives. The conversation critiques recent U.S. trade agreements and examines the complexities of foreign investment promises. They also explore the delicate balance between government intervention and economic stability, alongside concerns over capitalism and Federal Reserve independence.

The discussion kicks off with the shockwave caused by Microsoft employees sharing salaries via an internal spreadsheet. Listeners share their own eye-opening experiences with pay transparency at work. The podcast explores the cultural taboos surrounding salary conversations and the legal rights employees have regarding wage discussions. It's a riveting dive into the ethics of salary disclosure and its impact on workplace dynamics.

Anna North, a senior correspondent at Vox, dives into the commercialization of youth sports, revealing how they’ve shifted from community fun to a profit-driven enterprise. She discusses the staggering 46% rise in costs since 2019 and the societal pressures pushing families to invest heavily in their children's athletic futures. The conversation also touches on the participation divide among socioeconomic groups, the emotional toll on young athletes, and the burdens of balancing sports with education. It's a candid look at the hidden forces shaping childhood athletics.

Tom Nichols, a seasoned staff writer at The Atlantic and former professor of national security affairs, dives into the tactics that Democrats have used against Trump. He analyzes California Gov. Newsom's humorous social media strategies aimed to provoke Trump, discussing their effects on political communication. Nichols also delves into the complexities of Republican loyalty to Trump, asserting the need for a more united Democratic front against authoritarianism. The conversation explores broader issues of divisive politics and the importance of swift action in the current political climate.