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Latest episodes

Jun 5, 2025 • 41min
The Network: Saint-o-tec
Marta Martínez, a producer at Latino USA and co-host of 'The Network', dives into the groundbreaking DIY abortion methods developed by Brazilian women. She shares how, in the mid-80s, a remarkable discovery enabled women to safely manage abortions at home despite strict laws. The conversation highlights the stark realities of women's health in Brazil, the significant drop in maternal mortality rates, and how informal networks empower women amid legal and societal challenges. This fascinating discussion sheds light on resilience and innovation in reproductive health.

May 29, 2025 • 2min
Introducing "The Network" from NPR and Futuro Media
Decades ago, Brazilian women made a discovery that allowed them to have safe abortions without a doctor, regardless of the law. Now, as abortion restrictions rise across the United States, their method is shaping how American women have abortions, too. In this three-part series, hosts Victoria Estrada and Marta Martinez of Futuro Media's Latino USA chart the global, loosely connected network that brought this abortion method to millions of women. All episodes will be available for NPR+ subscribers on June 5 and for all listeners on June 12. To listen to this series sponsor-free and get early access, sign up for Embedded+ in Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

11 snips
Feb 21, 2025 • 28min
Alternate Realities: Facing the Facts
Zach Mack's father, a bold thinker with unconventional beliefs, shares his ten predictions that sparked a family bet. The discussion reveals stark contrasts between his bold forecasts and the current political landscape, particularly around Trump and Biden. Tensions around differing beliefs within the family come to a head, especially concerning identity acceptance. Their heartfelt conversations reveal both emotional complexities and a glimmer of hope for reconciliation as they navigate love, judgment, and understanding amidst their diverging perspectives.

39 snips
Feb 21, 2025 • 32min
Alternate Realities: Down the Rabbit Hole
A reporter bets his father on politically apocalyptic predictions, leading to a deep dive into familial ideological divides. The discussion reveals how conspiracy theories strain relationships, highlighting generational patterns and stubbornness. Emotional dialogues between father and child shed light on the challenges of addressing misinformation and the quest for understanding amidst conflicting beliefs. Insights from a political scientist emphasize the psychological roots of these convictions, making the journey toward connection both poignant and hopeful.

23 snips
Feb 21, 2025 • 27min
Alternate Realities: A Strange Bet
In a captivating discussion, reporter Zach Mack shares his journey investigating his father's dive into conspiracy theories. He reveals their emotional struggle as they clash over radical beliefs, with Zach fearing his father’s radicalization while his dad believes Zach is misinformed. Their unique bet of $10,000 over predictions for 2024 adds tension to their dynamic. By exploring deeply held beliefs and societal fears, they navigate the challenges of understanding contrasting perspectives within their family. Can they bridge their ideological divide?

Feb 14, 2025 • 3min
Introducing Alternate Realities from NPR
Zach Mack and his dad are living in separate realities, and it's tearing their family apart. Like so many Americans, Zach's dad has gotten swept up in conspiracy theories. After years of circular arguments, the father challenged his son to a bet: $10,000 on ten politically apocalyptic predictions that would all happen in 2024.In this three-part series, we follow Zach on an intimate journey to bring his father back from the rabbit hole. All episodes will be available for NPR+subscribers on February 21 and for all listeners on February 23.To listen to this series sponsor-free and get early access, sign up for Embedded+ in Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

24 snips
Dec 19, 2024 • 56min
Five Fingers Crush The Land from NPR's Throughline
Sean Roberts, a renowned professor at George Washington University and author on Uyghur issues, joins Rob Schmitz, an NPR reporter with extensive coverage of the Uyghur crisis. They delve into the rich cultural identity of the Uyghur people, discussing their traditions, music, and the oppressive challenges they face in China. The conversation highlights the impact of the 9/11 attacks on China's policies, the harsh realities of detention camps, and the resilience of the Uyghur community amid efforts to erase their existence.

10 snips
Dec 19, 2024 • 42min
The Black Gate: Arresting Your Brothers and Sisters
Explore the gripping journey of the Kuchar family struggling against geopolitical pressures while trying to share their story. Delve into Sabar Baghda's complex role as a businessman caught between aiding Uyghurs and facing mistrust. Uncover the moral turmoil of individuals surveilling their own community under China's oppressive regime. Learn about the psychological impacts of navigating identity and allegiance within a state of control. The discussion culminates in reflections on identity and heritage amidst adversity, emphasizing the power of journalism.

18 snips
Dec 12, 2024 • 32min
The Black Gate: Like a Bullet from a Gun
Abdullatif Kucar, a Uyghur father and vocal advocate for his community, recounts his heart-wrenching journey to reunite with his children, taken by state-run boarding schools amidst Chinese government oppression. He shares the emotional toll of separation and the stranglehold of surveillance that complicates his search. The podcast dives into the psychological scars faced by Uyghur children and highlights the broader implications of these experiences on identity and resilience. Kucar's relentless quest exemplifies a father's love against a backdrop of geopolitical strife.

17 snips
Dec 5, 2024 • 28min
The Black Gate: Vanished in the Night
Emily Feng, NPR's dedicated China correspondent, dives deep into the harrowing story of Abdullatif Kucar, a Uyghur man searching for his wife and children detained by the Chinese government. She highlights the oppressive realities faced by Uyghurs in Xinjiang, revealing the emotional toll of their separation. The podcast also touches on the historical context of the Uyghur struggle against oppression and the deceptive narratives surrounding the detention camps. Personal testimonies and leaked documents provide a poignant look into their plight.