Explain It to Me

Journalist and organizer Kim Kelly joins host Jonquilyn Hill to discuss the recent rise in labor wins and energy surrounding unionization efforts in 2023. They explore the impact of big companies like Starbucks and Amazon on labor conditions and public perception, as well as the history of labor unions in the US and the difficulties in organizing. They also touch on sustainable farming practices, the power of organizing, and the future of the labor movement.

The podcast explores chronic absenteeism in schools, its impact on students and schools, and potential solutions. It discusses the increased rates of absenteeism during the pandemic and the challenges faced by English learners and students with disabilities. Strategies to improve attendance include family engagement, addressing health issues, and forming community partnerships. The podcast highlights Connecticut as a leading state in addressing chronic absenteeism.

Sherry Molock, a researcher and retired pastor, runs a suicide prevention program out of Black churches in NY. They discuss the mental health crisis among black youth, the lack of research on suicide risk for black adolescents, and the importance of integrating mental health and faith communities. The chapter also explores the impact of identity and historical trauma on mental well-being.

Learn about the social and environmental impacts of fast fashion, including worker exploitation and clothing waste. Discover the controversies surrounding fast fashion, such as classism and overconsumption. Understand the importance of mindful clothing purchases and the need for change in the fashion industry. Explore the origins of American consumerism and the impact of NAFTA on the fashion industry. Delve into global efforts to combat clothing waste. Compare EU due diligence laws with US policies. Hear about the negative effects of fast fashion on the environment and other podcast recommendations.

Former President Barack Obama discusses the impact of AI on democracy, the challenges of regulating social media, and the importance of smart regulatory framework. They explore the implications of generative AI on free speech and the need for alternative platforms to avoid bias.

Exploring why everything still feels expensive despite the economy being in a good spot. Analyzing factors contributing to inflation, the Federal Reserve's plan, and the impact on the economy. Delving into the slow recovery, uncertain future trajectory of inflation, and cautiousness surrounding the labor market. Examining government interventions to mitigate inflation and the challenges of the supply chain crisis. Discussions on potential interest rate cuts, impact on consumer sentiment, and upcoming elections.

Jonquilyn Hill, host of The Weeds, sits down with Vox senior reporter Whizy Kim to explain the controversial BDS movement and with Cornell professor and author Lawrence B. Glickman to discuss the history and effectiveness of boycotts. They explore the core demands of BDS, the power of consumer activism, and the political nature of boycotts. They also touch on the Bud Light boycott and the evolution of Twitter.

The school choice movement is gaining popularity due to the pandemic, but does it come at the expense of public schools? This podcast explores the origins of school choice, the impact on public education, and the political strategy behind it. It also discusses the approval of a religious charter school, the tension between policy and parental concerns, and the disparities between public and private schools.

Vox senior correspondent Ann discusses the challenges faced by the sandwich generation, caring for children and aging loved ones at the same time. They explore the gaps in eldercare policy, the emotional challenges of caregiving, the declining ratio of caregivers, and the limitations of Medicare and Medicaid. Additionally, they discuss the difference in costs and care between nursing homes and at-home caregiving, the challenges faced by caregivers, and the need for better elder care policies and support.

This podcast explores why health insurance is tied to work in the United States, delving into the history of health insurance, the importance of Obamacare, the attempt at single-payer healthcare, and the potential for states to experiment with healthcare policies.