KQED's Forum

Colum McCann, a National Book Award-winning author known for his deep explorations of human connections, discusses his novel "Twist". He dives into the hidden world of underwater cables that underpin global communication and the threats of sabotage that loom over them. McCann reveals how his protagonist, a journalist, grapples with personal turmoil while addressing global dependencies on these cables. The conversation also reflects on identity, belonging, and the intricate relationships we maintain, both digitally and personally.

Janet Bishop, the chief curator at SFMOMA, co-curated the Ruth Asawa Retrospective, celebrating the artist's distinct crocheted wire sculptures and their evocative shadows. Andrea Jepson, a close friend of Asawa and muse for the fountain 'Andrea,' shares insights on their collaborative efforts in arts education. They discuss Asawa’s life journey, her roots in Black Mountain College, and her profound impact on the Bay Area art scene and educational initiatives, highlighting the blend of art and community in her legacy.

Marcia Brown, a food and agriculture reporter for Politico, Colin Carter, a distinguished professor of agricultural and resource economics at UC Davis, and Zach Pelka, co-founder of Une Femme wines, dive into the effects of tariffs and the trade war with China on California's farmers. They discuss the staggering losses in the almond industry and rising grocery prices. The conversation also highlights the urgent need for legislative support and the financial strain on farmers navigating the chaotic trade landscape, emphasizing the role of immigrant labor in this sector.

Viet Thanh Nguyen, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and USC professor, shares his journey as a refugee from Vietnam and the ongoing impact of the Vietnam War. He reflects on the trauma experienced by individuals and communities, emphasizing the resilience of the Vietnamese diaspora. Nguyen discusses lessons from the past, the cyclical nature of history, and the artistic legacy shaped by these experiences. His latest essay collection explores the role of artists in political discourse, shedding light on identity and cultural heritage.

Susie Neilson and Megan Fan Munce, reporters at The San Francisco Chronicle, dive deep into California's home insurance crisis. They reveal how major insurers are using faulty data, leaving many wildfire survivors underinsured when they need it most. Personal stories illustrate the emotional and financial toll on affected families. The discussion emphasizes the need for homeowners to reevaluate their coverage and highlights the importance of transparency and reform in the insurance industry.

In this discussion, Tyler TerMeer, CEO of the San Francisco AIDS Foundation, promotes harm reduction strategies. Keith Humphreys, a psychiatry professor at Stanford, delves into the implications of scaling back public access to clean smoking supplies. Sydney Johnson, a KQED News reporter, reveals how these policy shifts might increase risky behaviors among drug users. They explore the complexities of addiction, the need for comprehensive treatment options, and the balance between community perceptions and evidence-based practices.

Declan Walsh, Chief Africa Correspondent for The New York Times, shares his insights on the ongoing civil war in Sudan, now in its second devastating year. He discusses the staggering humanitarian toll, including over 150,000 deaths and 13 million displaced. Walsh highlights the military dynamics in Khartoum and the international implications of foreign interventions, particularly from the UAE and Russia. He delves into U.S. foreign policy challenges, the complexities of ethnic tensions, and the urgent need for humanitarian aid as the crisis deepens.

MacKenzie Chung Fegan, restaurant critic for The San Francisco Chronicle, and César Hernandez, associate critic, join in to discuss the rebirth of the Top 100 Restaurants list after six years. They dive into their selection process, emphasizing a balance of culinary excellence and accessibility. Hear about standout spots like Burdell in Oakland and the excitement of emerging dining trends. The duo shares personal food obsessions and the impact of restaurant recognition, all while celebrating the vibrant Bay Area food scene.

Angus Chen, a cancer reporter for Stat News, joins oncologist Dr. Adil Daud from UCSF to discuss alarming federal budget cuts affecting cancer research. They explore how slashes to the NIH budget threaten decades of progress in treatment and patient care. Personal anecdotes illustrate the emotional turmoil faced by patients relying on clinical trials, as well as the impact on crucial research initiatives for high-mortality cancers. The conversation emphasizes the need for continued advocacy and funding to sustain vital advancements in cancer treatment.

Stephanie Flanders, head of Bloomberg Economics, shares her insights on how Trump's tariffs have shocked U.S. markets. Lori Wallach, a trade expert, discusses the retaliatory actions from China and their potential to destabilize global relations. Economist Kyle Handley weighs in on the long-term effects these tariffs may have on American manufacturing and job growth. Together, they navigate the complexities of trade dynamics, automation, and the dire consequences of miscalculating economic policies.