The Brian Lehrer Show

Ryan Kailath, an arts and culture reporter for WNYC and Gothamist, dives into the vibrant cultural scene of New York City’s summer music festivals. He highlights the thrilling lineups for SummerStage and Celebrate Brooklyn!, featuring artists like Marcus Miller and Tank and the Bangas. Kailath discusses the diverse musical genres, including the unique Blacktronica festival. He also touches on the cancellation of certain performances, the advantages of early arrival for concerts, and the importance of celebrating Juneteenth through music and film.

Michael Kimmelman, architecture critic for The New York Times and author of 'The Intimate City Walking New York', delves into the dramatic transformation of New York City's skyline over the last century. He highlights key historical milestones like the Brooklyn Bridge and discusses how technological advancements paved the way for skyscrapers. Kimmelman examines public opinions about iconic landmarks versus newer buildings that block views and critiques the modern development at Hudson Yards for lacking New York's character, emphasizing the need for vibrant street-level experiences.

The podcast dives into President Trump's bold proposal of a 100% tariff on foreign films. Industry professionals share their mixed feelings about this plan, revealing ongoing challenges since the pandemic and strikes. The discussion highlights the competitive dynamics between states like New York and New Jersey for production incentives. Moreover, it critiques the viability of using tariffs as a strategy while emphasizing the allure of international locations like Canada for filmmakers. Listeners voice their concerns about federal support for the arts in light of changing policies.

In this engaging discussion, Jessica Steier, an expert in public health, and Linda Birnbaum, a leading scientist emeritus, tackle the contentious topic of water fluoridation. They explore its historical significance in dental health and recent claims of cognitive risks for children. Delving into the National Toxicology Program's findings, they highlight the need for further research. The duo engages in a lively debate on the implications for public health policies, especially regarding access for disadvantaged communities. Tune in for insights that challenge common perceptions!

Michael Hill, WNYC Morning Edition host, and Briana Vannozzi, anchor for NJ Spotlight News, dive into the heated debate among New Jersey's Democratic gubernatorial candidates. They unpack key issues like immigration policy and the state's sanctuary status, balancing public safety with protections for undocumented immigrants. The conversation also tackles affordable housing and taxation strategies, revealing the candidates' stark differences. Lastly, they discuss the political risks for Democrats in the upcoming race amid redistricting and the complexities of education equity in New Jersey.

Babe Howell, a CUNY Law professor focusing on the impact of gang policing on marginalized communities, joins Peter Moskos, a former police officer and author, to dissect the NYPD's controversial gang database. They discuss allegations of racial discrimination and its effect on Black and Latino communities. The conversation dives into the database's flaws, including biases in data collection and the inaccuracies in crime statistics. They advocate for reform and community engagement to tackle gang violence more effectively.

In this engaging discussion, John Cassidy, a staff writer at The New Yorker and author of Capitalism and Its Critics: A History, dives into the long-standing criticisms of capitalism. He traces these critiques from the Industrial Revolution to today's challenges with AI. Cassidy examines the complex legacy of thinkers like Adam Smith, the Luddite protests against industrialization, and the intertwined nature of capitalism and government. He also reflects on the evolution of consumer capitalism and the persistent inequalities it generates.

Mark Joseph Stern, a legal affairs writer at Slate and co-host of the Amicus podcast, offers insights into the Supreme Court's end of term. He discusses the importance of judicial independence within the political landscape and reflects on the late Justice Souter's legacy. Stern delves into the ramifications of a Newark mayor's arrest over First Amendment rights and critiques the accountability issues in law enforcement practices. He also examines recent Supreme Court decisions, particularly the impact of the 'shadow docket' on military and immigration policies.

Listeners share cherished memories of baseball legend Yogi Berra, from his humble beginnings to his impactful career. Insights about youth sports highlight the pressures faced by young players. The discussion unpacks Yogi's unique approach to the game and his famous humorous sayings. Beyond baseball, his advocacy for education and civil rights is celebrated. Personal anecdotes illustrate Berra's kindness and lasting influence, culminating in a touching tribute for his 100th birthday.

Richard Buery, CEO of Robin Hood and chair of Mayor Adams' Charter Revision Commission, discusses potential changes to New York City's electoral system. He highlights a shift from ranked choice voting to nonpartisan open primaries, aiming to boost voter engagement and increase turnout in off-year mayoral elections. Buery also addresses the housing crisis, advocating for better balance between development needs and community concerns, while exploring how charter revisions could assist financially struggling nonprofits. It's a compelling look at how structural changes could impact NYC's future.