Embedded

Lifelong conservative moms Melissa Alexander, Mary Joyce, and Sarah Shoop Neumann return to face a GOP-dominated legislature in Tennessee. They broaden objectives beyond gun control to protest bills on abortion, education, police violence, and LGBTQ rights. The women contemplate unseating a lawmaker, challenge pro-gun Republicans, and navigate political landscapes. Personal struggles, transformative journeys, and advocacy at the state Capitol add depth to their story.

Three conservative moms from The Covenant School in Tennessee, driven by a school shooting, courageously enter the world of gun control activism in a Republican-controlled state. They face challenges at the capitol, debate democracy, and advocate for change, but ultimately leave disappointed by the lack of impactful legislation for school safety.

Supermajority is a new 4-part series from NPR's Embedded, in partnership with Nashville Public Radio. As Americans focus on national politics this election year, we zoom in on one state and its political majority. Host Meribah Knight has been following three conservative moms in Tennessee over the course of a year as they learn to navigate their Republican-controlled state legislature. These political newcomers will confront powerful lawmakers, a dizzying legislative process and most importantly – their own long-held beliefs. What can these women accomplish? How will the work change them? And what might it all reveal about democracy? Launching Thursday, June 20. Embedded+ supporters enjoy early and ad-free access.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Morning Edition's Leila Fadel shares intimate stories of displacement in Gaza, including a student's struggle to survive and a family escaping war. The podcast delves into personal experiences amidst the Israel-Hamas conflict, highlighting resilience and challenges faced by individuals in Gaza.

In this insightful discussion, Daniel Estrin, NPR's correspondent in Israel and the Palestinian territories, shares his experiences during the Israel-Hamas war. He highlights the profound human stories behind the conflict, emphasizing the emotional toll on families affected by the violence. Estrin addresses the unique challenges journalists face in Gaza, from military restrictions to the struggle of humanizing victims. Personal narratives from both sides are explored, revealing the shared humanity amidst tragedy and the necessity for deeper understanding and dialogue.

In this Taking Cover update, a U.S. senator wants answers from the Marines about what went wrong - and we meet an Army soldier still serving on active duty who's been denied the truth about his war wounds. To listen to this series sponsor-free and support NPR, sign up for Embedded+ in Apple Podcasts or plus.npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Dr. Morris Tidball-Binz, a forensic expert and UN Special Rapporteur on executions, provides valuable insights into Karima Baloch's mysterious death. He discusses the implications of police reports and the factors surrounding her mental health as an activist. Mary Lynk, who investigates the case, reflects on the emotional challenges of revealing Dr. Morris's findings to Karima's brother, Samir. Together, they examine the systemic issues facing dissidents in exile and Karima's enduring legacy, highlighting the profound costs of activism.

Declan Walsh, former Pakistan bureau chief for The New York Times, offers deep insights into Balochistan’s geopolitics and the military's oppressive tactics. Samir Mahrab, brother of activist Karima Baloch, reveals the heart-wrenching saga of his sister's activism and the broader plight of the Baloch people facing enforced disappearances. They discuss the historical roots of Balochistan's turmoil, the psychological scars of survivors, and the international community's indifference to these human rights abuses.

Delving into the death of activist Karima Baloch, this podcast explores her life in exile, the threats faced by Pakistani dissidents, and questions about the involvement of the Pakistani state. It discusses Karima's disappearance, her struggle for permanent residency in Canada, the silence of international rights groups on crimes in Pakistan, and the lack of investigation surrounding her death.

Ahmed (Wakas) Goraya, a Pakistani human rights activist in exile, shares his harrowing experiences of abduction and torture as he discusses the haunting realities faced by dissidents abroad. He reveals the alarming threats he receives, including an alleged assassination plot in the Netherlands. The conversation extends to fellow exiles like Gulalai Ismail, who detail their struggles against Pakistan’s intelligence agencies. Together, they illustrate the fear permeating the diaspora, highlighting the tangible risks that shadow those who've sought refuge in the West.