The Brian Lehrer Show

Greg David, a fiscal and economic contributor to The City, and Patrick Spauster, a housing and homelessness reporter from City Limits, dive into the heated debate surrounding rent regulation in NYC. They discuss Mamdani's proposed rent freeze and Cuomo's controversial means testing plan for tenants. The conversation tackles the historical context of rent stabilization, the financial strain on landlords, and the arguments for and against various policies. They also explore the impact of rent regulation on housing supply and tenant protections.

Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers and author of Why Fascists Fear Teachers, dives into the pivotal role education plays in safeguarding democracy. She discusses the widespread misunderstandings of fascism and authoritarianism, arguing for the importance of teaching their histories. Randi highlights how teachers cultivate critical thinking to resist authoritarianism and addresses the tactics used against public schools. She also offers strategies for discussing controversial topics in classrooms and reflects on her departure from the DNC to advocate for working-class issues.

Deirdre Walsh, an NPR congressional correspondent, dives deep into the looming government shutdown. She discusses the federal functions that might be affected and the agencies facing layoffs. The debate among Democrats over negotiating leverage and their health care priorities is highlighted, alongside the potential for public protests. Walsh also sheds light on Congressional pay during shutdowns and the historical blame game that follows such crises, making for a fascinating exploration of high-stakes politics.

Bill McKibben, environmental activist, founder of Third Act and author of many books, most recently: Here Comes the Sun: A Last Chance for the Climate and a Fresh Chance for Civilization (W. W. Norton & Company, 2025), discusses his new book, and reflects on his life's work, both as a climate activist and journalist. 

Mike Hayes, a WNYC/Gothamist reporter and author, dives into New Jersey's affordable housing crisis, rooted in the Mount Laurel Doctrine. He discusses the complexities of mandated housing units and the ongoing legal battles that ensue. Hayes highlights the state's ambitious goal of 84,000 new units, contrasting it with actual housing needs. The podcast also explores local zoning conflicts, political stances of gubernatorial candidates on housing, and how policy changes could impact renters and homeownership in the state.

Ry Rivard, a Politico reporter focused on regional infrastructure, delves into New Jersey's energy issues and the candidates' stances on climate policy. He explains how demand and supply challenges are driving rising electricity costs in the state. Rivard discusses the impact of plant closures and the state's clean-energy initiatives, including nuclear and solar strategies. He also clarifies the implications of New Jersey's participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative and addresses citizen concerns about soaring bills linked to these energy policies.

Yusuf Islam, formerly known as Cat Stevens, shares his profound journey of faith and his name change after a life-altering experience. Callers recount their own fascinating stories, from a punk-inspired prank name to reclaiming cultural identities. One listener changed their name after a childhood accident, while another embraced a secret name only later in life. Discussions also touch on gender transitions, family legacies, and the impact of mob associations on name changes. Each story reveals the powerful significance behind personal names.

Greg Lukianoff, an attorney and CEO of the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, dives into the complexities of free speech in today’s polarized climate. He discusses how both political sides weaponize speech regulations and examines rising censorship among students. Lukianoff critiques the treatment of hate speech under U.S. law and emphasizes the power dynamics in academia. He advocates for radical open-mindedness to bridge divides and warns against the chilling effect of public shaming on employment.

Elizabeth Kim, a political reporter for WNYC and Gothamist, dives into the tumultuous New York City mayoral campaign. She explains the fallout from Zohran Mamdani's protest against Jimmy Kimmel, connecting it to broader candidate strategies. Kim discusses Mayor Adams's controversial comments on transgender student bathroom policies amidst federal pressures and the ramifications for city authority. Frustration mounts over Chuck Schumer's hesitation to endorse Mamdani, igniting debates on demographic appeal and political loyalty among local Democrats.

David Gelles, a reporter for the New York Times and author of "Dirtbag Billionaire," joins to discuss the pressing challenges developing nations face amid climate change. He emphasizes the impact of U.S. policy shifts, particularly after the Paris Agreement withdrawal. Gelles highlights the existential threats to nations like the Marshall Islands from rising sea levels and examines the tricky balance Guyana faces between oil development and rainforest conservation. He also showcases Kenya's strides in electrification, demonstrating hopeful leadership in the climate crisis.