KQED's Forum
KQED
Forum tells remarkable and true stories about who we are and where we live. In the first hour, Alexis Madrigal convenes the diverse voices of the Bay Area, before turning to Mina Kim for the second hour to chronicle and center Californians’ experience. In an increasingly divided world, Mina and Alexis host conversations that inform, challenge and unify listeners with big ideas and different viewpoints.Want to call/submit your comments during our live Forum program Mon-Fri, 9am-11am? We'd love to hear from you! Please dial 866.SF.FORUM or (866) 733-6786 or email forum@kqed.org, tweet, or post on Facebook.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jun 12, 2025 • 56min
Deployment of Marines and National Guard to LA Raises New Authoritarianism Concerns
Juliette Kayyem, a national security expert and former Department of Homeland Security official, teams up with David Graham, an Atlantic writer covering the Trump administration. They dissect the alarming deployment of Marines and National Guard troops to Los Angeles, citing it as a sign of growing authoritarianism. The duo explores the legal and civil liberties implications of such military involvement in domestic protests. With echoes of past civil movements, they warn about the dangers of normalizing military force and the urgent need for public scrutiny of government actions.
Jun 12, 2025 • 56min
What Protests of the Past Can Teach Us About Protests of Today
Omar Wasow, an assistant professor at UC Berkeley specializing in protest movements, and Andrew Couts, a cybersecurity editor at WIRED, delve into the dynamics of activism. They discuss the historical context of protests, emphasizing the lessons learned from past movements like the civil rights era. The conversation examines the emotional complexities of protests today, the impact of surveillance technology, and strategies for nonviolent demonstrations. They also explore how modern media shapes public perception and the importance of inclusivity in activism.
Jun 11, 2025 • 56min
The ‘Take It Down Act,’ Explained
Paresh Dave, a Senior Writer at Wired, Jasmine Mithani, a Data and Technology Reporter for The 19th, and Aisha Wahab, California State Senator, dive into the implications of the new 'Take It Down Act.' They discuss how this law aims to combat revenge porn and deepfakes, while highlighting the importance of protecting vulnerable communities. The trio explores the challenges in enforcing this legislation, concerns over free speech, and the urgent need for tech companies to ensure accountability. They also offer advice for victims navigating this complex legal landscape.
Jun 11, 2025 • 56min
SF Parks Alliance Collapse Leaves Residents and Community Groups Scrambling for Answers – And Money
Joe Eskenazi, a seasoned journalist focused on San Francisco politics, joins Michael Barba, who investigates government accountability, and Ildiko Polony, the passionate executive director of Sutro Stewards. They delve into the shocking collapse of the San Francisco Parks Alliance, revealing the mismanagement of $3.8 million that left local organizations in turmoil. The guests discuss the urgent need for accountability and transparency, as well as the lasting impact on community parks and habitat restoration efforts. Solutions and future directions for support are also explored.
Jun 10, 2025 • 56min
Tijuana River Pollution Reaches Crisis Point in San Diego County, Scientists Warn
Paloma Aguirre, Mayor of Imperial Beach, highlights the urgent need for solutions to the ongoing pollution crisis affecting her community. Soumya Karlamangla, a national correspondent for The New York Times, discusses the daily flow of untreated sewage into the Tijuana River and its severe health impacts. Paula Stigler Granados, an associate professor at San Diego State University, emphasizes the dire connection between pollution and health risks. Together, they explore the need for collaborative action, community engagement, and federal investment to tackle this environmental disaster.
Jun 10, 2025 • 56min
Quilt Exhibit at Berkeley Museum Chronicles Black Lives in California
Ora Clay, a talented quiltmaker and member of the African American Quilt Guild of Oakland, joins Elaine Yau, Associate Curator of the Berkeley Art Museum, to discuss the exhibit showcasing African American quilts from California. They delve into the emotional and historical significance of these quilts, tracing stories of migration and resilience from the South to the West. The conversation highlights how humble materials convey powerful narratives, preserving family heritage and cultural identity in stunning artistic forms.
Jun 9, 2025 • 56min
Trump Deploys National Guard Troops to Los Angeles
Saul Gonzalez, co-host of The California Report, discusses the National Guard's deployment in LA amid protests against ICE raids. Ahilan Arulanantham, a UCLA law professor, shares insights on the legal implications of this controversial move. Gustavo Solis, an investigative border reporter, highlights the impact of ICE enforcement on immigrant communities. Together, they explore reactions to the military presence, California's legal challenges against the Trump administration, and the evolving landscape of immigration policy amid civil unrest.
Jun 9, 2025 • 56min
California Rooftop Solar Is at a Crossroads
Sammy Roth, climate columnist for The L.A. Times, joins Mohit Chhabra from the NRDC and Bernadette Del Chiaro from the Environmental Working Group to dissect the future of California's rooftop solar. They explore the precarious balance between utility regulations and incentives that have historically favored solar adoption. As new policies threaten to undermine these gains, they discuss the implications for consumers and the state’s renewable energy goals. The conversation highlights the growing tension between centralized utility power and decentralized solar energy.
Jun 6, 2025 • 56min
Tune-Yards’ Merrill Garbus on How She Makes Her Signature Sounds, Live in Studio
Merrill Garbus, the dynamic singer from the Oakland-based art-pop band Tune-Yards, shares her unique musical journey. She dives into how personal experiences in Oakland inspire her thought-provoking lyrics and captivating rhythms. The discussion highlights her innovative use of vocal techniques, including yodeling, and the emotional depth of their new album, "Better Dreaming.” Garbus also reflects on the impact of parenthood on her songwriting and the importance of inclusivity in her music, making it both a personal and universal experience.
Jun 6, 2025 • 56min
How Apple Fueled China's Economic and Technological Rise
Patrick McGee, San Francisco correspondent for the Financial Times and author of 'Apple in China', discusses the intricate ties between Apple and China's economic ascent. He reveals how China strategically allowed Apple's operations to bolster its tech industries. The conversation highlights labor practices in Apple's manufacturing, the risks of technology transfer to competitors like Huawei, and the implications of geopolitical tensions on Apple's future. McGee also touches on the challenges Apple faces in diversifying production outside of China.
