KQED's Forum

Elizabeth Bruenig, a staff writer for The Atlantic and Pulitzer Prize finalist, shares her transformative experiences witnessing five executions. She reflects on the complex emotions surrounding mercy and compassion, as well as the stark discrepancies between execution accounts and autopsy findings. The discussion delves into the evolving methods of execution and examines the dark history of capital punishment in America. Bruenig challenges listeners to reconsider the ethics of the death penalty, advocating for personal transformation and redemption.

Oscar Villalon, editor of Zyzzyva, discusses the magazine's pivotal role in showcasing West Coast writers. Daniel Handler, known as Lemony Snicket, shares insights on the importance of community in literature. Ingrid Rojas Contreras reflects on the Bay Area's unique literary tapestry and its supportive scene. They explore the intersection of literature and film, emphasizing personal connections in storytelling. The trio also celebrates Zyzzyva's 40-year legacy and discusses the challenges and triumphs of nurturing new literary voices.

Greta Morgan, a talented musician known for her work with Vampire Weekend and author of "The Lost Voice: A Memoir," shares her powerful journey after losing her singing voice due to a severe case of COVID-19. She discusses how this loss led to a profound self-discovery, allowing her to reconnect with her inner voice and embrace new forms of creativity. Morgan's heartfelt reflections on identity, resilience, and the healing power of nature showcase her transformation and inspire listeners to find strength in adversity.

Janet Bishop, the Thomas Weisel Family chief curator at SFMOMA, co-curated a retrospective of influential artist Ruth Asawa. Along with close friend Andrea Jepson, they explore Asawa's iconic wire sculptures and her profound impact on arts education. The discussion highlights how Asawa transformed everyday materials into extraordinary art and her commitment to nurturing creativity in schools. Personal anecdotes illustrate her legacy as both an artist and community advocate, emphasizing her lasting influence in the art world.

Rick Steves, renowned travel writer and host of Rick Steves Europe, shares his journey from aspiring piano teacher to globetrotting author. He recounts his transformative experience on the Hippie Trail in 1978 that sparked his passion for travel. Topics include the deeper meanings behind travel, the importance of cultural exchange, and the challenges posed by social media in travel journalism. Steves advocates for responsible tourism that enriches local communities and fosters genuine connections in an increasingly superficial travel landscape.

LaRussell, an independent rapper from Vallejo and founder of Good Compenny, shares his journey from local backyard concerts to a rising star in hip hop. Celebrated for his innovative approach to music, he discusses leaving empty, his collaborative efforts with his collective, and the significance of community engagement. He introduces a unique offer-based ticketing system for fans and reflects on personal challenges while showcasing his artistic evolution. LaRussell's heartfelt performance captivates, highlighting resilience and connection through music.

Join writer Liz Pelly, a contributing editor at The Baffler and author of 'Mood Machine', as she unpacks Spotify's backstory. Discover how this once-democratic platform transformed into a major label's playground, sidelining independent artists and fueling ghost artists. Liz delves into the challenges of algorithm-driven playlists, the nostalgia for authentic music discovery, and the financial woes artists face. With insights from industry veterans and her own research, she advocates for a reevaluation of music's value in our streaming-dominated world.

Join Merrill Garbus, the dynamic frontwoman of Oakland's art-pop duo Tune-Yards, as she shares her innovative approach to music creation. Discover how her hometown influences her sound, especially in live performances that blend intricate rhythms with personal narratives. She delves into the emotional layers of her new album, 'Better Dreaming,' and discusses identity and community through her lyrics. Expect vibrant insights into the creative process, the power of authenticity, and the celebration of resilience in music.

Join celebrated authors Kaveh Akbar and Tommy Orange as they dive into their unique creative partnership. Kaveh, known for his National Book Award finalist "Martyr!" and Tommy, acclaimed for "There There," discuss their vibrant friendship and the joy of exchanging 'cheer notes' during their writing processes. They explore themes of collaboration, the complexities behind creating impactful literature, and the significance of community in poetry. Their insightful conversation sheds light on the connections between art, personal struggles, and historical narratives.

August Lee Stevens, a Bay Area musician and rising star, shares her journey from classical piano to releasing her debut album, "Better Places." She reflects on the emotional depth of her music and the influence of her hometown of Hercules. In captivating live performances, she combines indie soul with classical roots, touching on themes of family and personal growth. Joined by fellow vocalists, they explore songwriting's emotional resonance and the balance of change and stability in both life and art.