The Brian Lehrer Show

Michael Froman, president of the Council on Foreign Relations and former U.S. Trade Representative, dives into the intricate history of American trade policies. He discusses the role of tariffs and trade wars, particularly the Smoot-Hawley Act's impact on the Great Depression. The conversation transitions to Keynesian economics, the consequences of trade agreements like NAFTA, and their implications for income inequality. Lastly, Froman reflects on the personal stories intertwined with trade policies, showcasing the human cost of economic decisions.

U.S. Senator Cory Booker, a passionate advocate for social justice from New Jersey, discusses his record-breaking Senate speech and the Democratic response to Trump's agenda. He emphasizes the crucial role of grassroots movements in bridging political divides and tackling urgent issues like healthcare. Booker highlights the importance of civic engagement, drawing connections to historical social movements. He also underscores the need for collective action against authoritarianism, particularly concerning academic freedom and diversity funding.

Elaine Godfrey, a staff writer at The Atlantic, discusses the massive protests against Trump's second administration, which saw thousands marching in all fifty states. She highlights the emotional stakes among activists who view these protests as crucial to social responsibility. Godfrey also points out the creative protest signs, blending humor with serious commentary on societal issues. Personal anecdotes from protesters add depth, while reflections from a centenarian WWII veteran underscore the long-standing frustrations regarding social issues and veterans' organizations.

Three of our favorite segments from the week, in case you missed them.Tariff Chaos (First) | When Family Members Believe Conspiracy Theories (Starts at 41:36) | How to Compost in NYC (Starts at 1:05:21)If you don't subscribe to the Brian Lehrer Show on iTunes, you can do that here.

Sally Goldenberg, senior New York editor at Politico known for her exclusive interview with Mayor Eric Adams, discusses the shifting landscape of the New York City mayoral race. Mayor Adams' bold decision to run as an independent is a key focus, raising questions about his past choices and voter support. The challenges posed by Andrew Cuomo's lead and the strategies of progressive candidates are also explored. Discussions on electoral reforms and the implications of the closed primary system shed light on the dynamics affecting independent voters.

John McWhorter, a Columbia University linguistics professor and author of Pronoun Trouble, delves into the fascinating evolution of English pronouns. He traces the historical journey of the singular 'they', highlighting its acceptance among literary greats while addressing resistance to gender-neutral language. The conversation explores the flexibility of English grammar, the decline of 'thou', and the importance of inclusivity in modern pronoun usage. McWhorter’s insights reveal how language adapts to cultural shifts, making this discussion both enlightening and engaging.

Stephen Nessen, a transportation reporter for WNYC, dives into the MTA's new subway map that revives the colorful 70s-era style. He discusses how the redesign prioritizes functionality and accessibility, especially for those with visibility challenges. Listener reactions are mixed, with some praising the modern look while others voice concerns about navigation difficulties and accuracy. Nessen also touches on the broader context of changes in city transit, including the transition from MetroCard to Omni card, highlighting the importance of effective maps for commuters.

Catherine Ann Edwards, an economist and economic policy consultant, breaks down the chaos following President Trump's new tariffs. She analyzes the predicted $2.4 trillion loss in S&P 500 stocks and how these tariffs will squeeze consumers. Edwards highlights the struggles faced by small businesses amid rising costs and unpredictable rates. Delving deeper, she discusses the impact of automation on job losses, and the disconnect between policymakers and those directly affected. Listeners are encouraged to advocate for their financial security.

Karen Yi, a reporter for WNYC and Gothamist specializing in homelessness and poverty, sheds light on alarming potential cuts to SNAP that could leave 1.8 million New Yorkers, including over half a million children, facing increased hunger. The discussion emphasizes the urgent need for food assistance and the real-life stories of those impacted. Yi critiques media narratives surrounding wealth redistribution, urging listeners to reflect on the harsh realities of food insecurity and the vital role of community support in addressing these pressing challenges.

Allie Volpe, a senior reporter at Vox, dives into the often misunderstood concept of boredom. She elaborates on how boredom can actually unlock creativity and mindfulness when embraced. The conversation touches on the dual nature of boredom, revealing how it can inspire artistic expression yet also lead to negative behaviors. They discuss the adverse impact of social media on attention spans and how technology distracts us from engaging with meaningful activities. Ultimately, Volpe encourages listeners to see boredom as a pathway to deeper fulfillment.