The Brian Lehrer Show

Lindsay Nash, an associate and clinical professor of law at Cardozo Law, brings her expertise to the discussion about a Tufts student's detention for pro-Palestinian beliefs. She unpacks the controversial intersection of free speech rights and immigration law, addressing concerns about government overreach. The conversation delves into the chilling effects of doxing and the implications of ICE's tactics on public perception. Nash highlights critical legal considerations for students and the broader implications for political expression in academic settings.

A reporter dives into the cognitive changes retirees may encounter, like memory decline and depression, and offers strategies to stay sharp. Listeners hear inspiring stories about finding new purpose through hobbies, social interactions, and exercise. The conversation highlights the vital role of continuous learning and engagement in maintaining mental health during retirement. Personal anecdotes from callers illustrate the challenges faced and the fulfilling paths chosen to enhance their golden years.

Ryan Kailath, an arts and culture reporter from WNYC/Gothamist, dives into the complexities of New York City’s outdoor dining scene as the season kicks off. He sheds light on the confusing and costly approval process restaurants face, comparing this year’s outdoor setups to the pandemic surge. The discussion also touches on the economic struggles for local eateries, particularly affecting immigrant-owned businesses amid deportation fears. Kailath emphasizes the need for community support as restaurants adapt to the ever-changing landscape.

In this engaging discussion, Andrew Marantz, a staff writer at The New Yorker and author of 'Antisocial,' delves into why young men have swayed toward Trump and the left's missed opportunities. He examines the role of male influencers in the 'manosphere' and underscores the sense of alienation felt by these voters. Marantz emphasizes the importance of genuine policy changes over mere social media soundbites, while calling out the Democratic Party's failures in connecting with disillusioned young men seeking empowerment in the political landscape.

Elie Mystal, a justice correspondent for The Nation and author of Bad Law, shares his insights on laws he considers detrimental to society. He introduces his 'Bill of Wrongs,' tackling issues like felony murder and gun manufacturer immunity. Mystal critiques pre-1965 laws, asserting their exclusionary nature undermines justice. He also discusses the impact of the Armed Career Criminal Act on mass incarceration. With a focus on social justice, he advocates for the repeal of harmful laws and the importance of revisiting constitutional validity.

Bill Grueskin, a Professor at Columbia Journalism School and former senior editor at The Wall Street Journal, dives into the fiery congressional hearing where NPR and PBS leaders confronted accusations of liberal bias. He discusses the significance of public broadcasting amid calls for funding cuts and the challenges of unbiased reporting in politically charged climates. Grueskin also sheds light on the implications of media coverage on sensitive topics, emphasizing the need for integrity and support in independent journalism.

David Graham, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author of 'The Project,' dives into Columbia University's controversial compliance with the Trump administration to secure $400 million in federal funds. He discusses the protests and legal actions from faculty that highlight concerns over academic freedom. The conversation explores the broader implications for higher education governance amid federal pressures and the complications of free speech on campus. Additionally, Graham touches on the challenges of private communication in government and the political dynamics surrounding U.S. military actions.

U.S. Representative Mikie Sherrill (D, NJ-11) talks about her campaign to be the Democratic nominee for governor of New Jersey, and her work in Washington.   

Polo shirts, khaki shorts, and boat shoes: the classic uniform of elites on their days off. As our centennial series continues, Avery Trufelman, host of the podcast Articles of Interest, delves into the last 100 years of preppies and their clothes.

As our centennial series continues, Clay Risen, New York Times reporter and the author of Red Scare: Blacklists, McCarthyism, and the Making of Modern America (Scribner, 2025), goes through the history of the Cold War-era struggle inside the US between the FDR progressives and social conservatives and how it continues to reverberate.