The Brian Lehrer Show

Journalist John Strausbaugh, author of "The Village" and "The Wrong Stuff," discusses the vibrant cultural tapestry of Greenwich Village. He highlights its history as a haven for artists during Prohibition and the rise of bohemian culture in the 1950s coffee houses. Strausbaugh shares personal anecdotes about the impact of gentrification on the artistic community, reminisces about the area's folk music scene, and reflects on the socio-economic changes spurred by NYU's expansion. His insights reveal the enduring spirit of this historic neighborhood.

Jim Newell, Slate's senior politics writer, provides sharp insights into the current political landscape. He discusses Trump's controversial comments about a potential third term and the complexities of the 22nd Amendment. Newell also unpacks the implications of 'Signalgate' for party loyalty and national security, revealing fractures within the Republican Party. Additionally, he analyzes Elise Stefanik's nomination as UN ambassador and the GOP's struggles with budgetary decisions, particularly around Medicaid cuts, amidst shifting voter demographics.

Clay Risen, New York Times reporter and author, delves into McCarthyism's lasting effects, linking its history to contemporary political power struggles and censorship. Andrew Marantz, from The New Yorker, analyzes the troubling trend of young men gravitating towards right-wing ideologies, emphasizing the influence of the manosphere. Meanwhile, Avery Trufelman, host of Articles of Interest, traces the evolution of preppy fashion, revealing how a style rooted in elite institutions transformed into a significant cultural symbol, shaped by socio-historical factors and modern media.

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.