The Brian Lehrer Show

Jessica Gould, an education reporter for WNYC and Gothamist, discusses a groundbreaking $23 million deal between Big Tech and the American Federation of Teachers focused on AI training for NYC public school teachers. She highlights the mixed reactions among educators concerning AI's role in teaching, including fears of job displacement and data privacy issues. Teachers share their experiences with AI in grading and literacy, emphasizing the need for ethical use to enhance critical thinking. The conversation also explores innovative strategies that balance technology and personalized education.

Daniel Griffin, MD, PhD, is the Chief of Infectious Disease for Island Infectious Diseases and a clinical instructor at Columbia University. He dives into the pressing public health issues of long COVID and the alarming rise in measles cases. Griffin emphasizes the necessity of vaccinations in combating these diseases and addresses the misconceptions surrounding them. Personal experiences highlight the lingering effects of long COVID, revealing the complex challenges faced by survivors, while discussions around vaccine hesitancy illuminate its role in the resurgence of measles.

U.S. Senator Andy Kim from New Jersey, a former Pentagon and USAID official, discusses pressing issues facing his state and country. His insights on FEMA’s challenges reveal the inefficiencies in disaster response and the effects of funding cuts. Kim also dives into the complexities of U.S. foreign policy regarding military aid to South Korea and Ukraine. He stresses the need for robust leadership amid global tensions, and advocates for climate-related reforms and the importance of community resilience in facing disasters.

Allison Pohle, a travel and tourism reporter for The Wall Street Journal, dives into the TSA's new rule allowing passengers to keep their shoes on during security screenings. She discusses the change's roots in past incidents, like the infamous shoe bomber, and how advancements in scanning technology led to this shift. Pohle shares mixed reactions from TSA employees and travelers, weighing efficiency against security concerns. The conversation touches on other evolving airport security measures, igniting a debate on the balance between safety and convenience.

Bridget Bergen, WNYC's senior political correspondent, dives into New York's vibrant political scene. She analyzes Jim Walden's independent candidacy for mayor, highlighting his past as a federal prosecutor and the challenges he's facing. The conversation addresses the intricate dynamics among candidates like Zora Mamdani and Andrew Cuomo, as well as the impact of campaign financing. Bergen also explores the charged atmosphere of political rhetoric, including allegations of anti-Semitism, and the importance of media engagement in shaping public perception.

Arya Sundaram, a race and immigration reporter for WNYC and Gothamist, reveals horrifying details about the inhumane conditions at the ICE facility in Lower Manhattan, citing overcrowding and lack of basic necessities. U.S. Representative Adriano Espaillat shares his firsthand experience visiting the site, highlighting the obstacles lawmakers face in accessing these federal holding rooms. Together, they discuss the urgent need for transparency and accountability in immigration enforcement, emphasizing the human rights implications of current practices.

Elora Mukherjee, a professor at Columbia Law School and director of its Immigrants’ Rights Clinic, discusses the ramifications of the Trump administration's revocation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for immigrants from seven countries. She outlines the legal complexities and potential recourse available to affected individuals. Elora emphasizes the emotional toll on communities and highlights the importance of understanding immigrant rights amid ongoing challenges. The conversation sheds light on historical context and personal stories behind the legal battles.

Jim Walden, an independent attorney and former federal prosecutor, discusses his candidacy in the NYC mayoral race. He emphasizes a results-driven approach, aiming to address social services and public safety while advocating for marginalized communities. Walden also explains his shift from the Democratic party to independence, motivated by the desire for effective governance. He highlights plans to combat corruption by establishing an independent agency for better oversight and tackles the city’s climate challenges, urging voter awareness of how their choices impact NYC’s future.

Natalie Wynn, the creator of the YouTube channel ContraPoints, dives into the psychology of conspiracy theories and their effects on democracy. Architect and filmmaker James Sanders shares insights on New York’s cinematic evolution, tracing its portrayal in film. Paul Goldberg and Otis Brawley discuss the history and future of cancer research, emphasizing the critical impact of funding on advancements and healthcare delivery, while touching on challenges within the U.S. system. This engaging conversation brings together diverse perspectives on culture, politics, and health.

Ayelet Sheffey, a Senior Economic Policy Reporter at Business Insider, breaks down the significant impacts of President Trump's domestic spending law on student loans. She discusses how recent changes will affect the affordability of medical and law schools for borrowers. The conversation covers the elimination of key forgiveness programs, challenges in repayment plans, and rising tuition costs. Sheffey also highlights bipartisan efforts to tackle student debt and the expansion of financial aid opportunities, offering a glimpse into the evolving landscape of education finance.