Why Is This Happening? The Chris Hayes Podcast

Doug Gordon, a journalist and co-author of 'Life After Cars,' and transportation writer Sarah Goodyear join the conversation on rethinking our car dependency. They explore how cars overburden society and the environment, advocating for pedestrian-friendly alternatives. The duo discusses the social tyranny of car reliance, the cultural marketing behind America’s car love, and international examples of successful urban redesigns. They argue for a future where biking and walking are prioritized, revealing the potential transformation of cities without cars.

Jen Psaki is on a mission to show us how the Democratic party can use this political moment to fight and win again. On Season 2 of her podcast, “The Blueprint,” she interviews the people reshaping the party, starting with Texas Congressman Greg Casar, Chair of the Progressive Caucus. The first two episodes of “The Blueprint with Jen Psaki” are available now, and will continue to drop every Wednesday, from now through mid-November.   Stay right here to listen to a special preview. And for the full episode, search for “The Blueprint with Jen Psaki” and follow the show. Plus, subscribe to MSNBC Premium on Apple Podcasts for ad-free listening. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mary McCord, Executive Director of the Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection and former acting Assistant Attorney General for National Security, dives into the troubling pattern of military deployment in American cities under Trump. She explores the implications of using armed forces domestically and the historical distrust of standing armies among the Founding Fathers. McCord also discusses legal frameworks like the Posse Comitatus Act and the Insurrection Act, uncovering how these laws shape the current landscape of military use against civilians.

In the Trump-era, and within the public health narrative shaped by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a debunked but persistent myth has taken hold: that infant vaccinations cause autism. Despite overwhelming scientific evidence disproving this claim, the narrative remains central to anti-vaccine rhetoric. Professor Richard Grinker, a cultural anthropologist and director of The George Washington University Institute for Ethnographic Research, joins WITHpod to discuss how autism has become a political obsession, recent inflection points, what the research says about autism being underdiagnosed or overdiagnosed and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Trymaine Lee, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and MSNBC contributor, reflects on his near-death experience and its connection to his new book. He discusses the historical and contemporary impact of violence on Black life in America, linking intergenerational trauma to health disparities. Lee delves into the systemic roots of urban violence, the symbolic role of guns, and the emotional toll of repeated loss in his family. He urges a shift in perspective toward understanding Black dignity beyond violence and the vital need for local solutions.

Costa Samaras, a climate and energy expert from Carnegie Mellon, explores the impending electricity crisis as the U.S. faces unprecedented demand driven by AI and data centers. He highlights the rising costs of electricity linked to climate impacts and historical inefficiencies. Discussion includes the challenge of utility infrastructure and the need for targeted investments. Samaras emphasizes innovative solutions like rooftop solar to mitigate price pressures and enhance equity in energy access. Tune in for insights on the future of our electrical grid!

In this enlightening discussion, guests Robert Malley and Hussein Agha, seasoned negotiators in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, delve into their book 'Tomorrow Is Yesterday'. They dissect the recent violence in Gaza, emphasize the failures of the Oslo Accords, and raise critical questions about the future peace prospects. The duo explores the intricate dynamics between U.S. interests and peace efforts, urging a deeper understanding of the conflict's historical roots and complexities. Their insights highlight the urgent need for meaningful dialogue and realistic solutions.

Graham Platner, a Marine, U.S. Army veteran, and oyster farmer, is running for U.S. Senate in Maine to challenge long-time incumbent Susan Collins. He shares insights about his political awakening shaped by military service and community organizing. Platner discusses the challenges faced by working-class candidates, emphasizing the need for grassroots support. He highlights the connection between his love for oyster farming and his commitment to serving his community, aiming to give a voice to those feeling disillusioned by politics.

Erica Chenoweth, a Harvard political scientist, delves into the dynamics of civil resistance and its role in combating authoritarianism. She discusses how just 3.5% of the population engaging in protests can effectively halt such takeovers. The conversation includes the rise of nonviolent strategies, the impact of grassroots movements, and the nuances of competitive authoritarianism in the U.S. Chenoweth emphasizes the importance of historical context and the potential of coordinated civil society efforts to inspire hope and drive democratic change.

Bill McKibben, a prominent environmentalist and author of 'Here Comes the Sun', shares his journey from climate despair to optimism about renewable energy. He highlights the transformative potential of solar power, especially in regions like California and rural Pakistan. The discussion digs into the urgent need for renewable energy to fight climate change and the challenges tied to resource extraction. McKibben emphasizes solar energy’s ability to empower communities and reshapes our future, framing it as a pivotal element in combating environmental crises.