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
Aug 4, 2025 • 56min
Dr. Elias Zerhouni Reminds Us Why 'Disease Knows No Politics'
Dr. Elias Zerhouni, former NIH director and a professor at Johns Hopkins, shares his inspiring journey from war-torn Algeria to the heights of American medical research. He discusses the vital role of immigrants in innovation and the need to protect science from political influence. Zerhouni tackles the politicization of public health, especially during the pandemic, and calls for strategic reforms to safeguard health organizations like the NIH. His memoir highlights the ongoing challenges of funding and the importance of unbiased scientific advancement.
Aug 4, 2025 • 56min
Democrats Have Lost Diverse Voters. Can They Get Them Back?
In this conversation, Yale professor Daniel Martinez HoSang, an expert on voters of color, discusses how discontent has shifted the political landscape for Democrats, particularly among Latino and Black voters. Republican strategist Mike Madrid, co-founder of The Lincoln Project, highlights the misalignment between the party’s policies and the concerns of younger voters. They explore the implications of changing loyalties, economic challenges, and the need for meaningful engagement to regain lost support ahead of the crucial 2026 midterms.
Aug 1, 2025 • 56min
Forum from the Archives: Jahari Stampley Family Trio Performs Live
Jahari Stampley, an award-winning jazz pianist known for his genre-blending talents, shares the stage with his family trio, including his mother and fellow musicians. They discuss the creative journey behind his forthcoming album, 'What A Time,' highlighting the interplay of late-night reflections and spontaneous jams. Listeners get a glimpse into their deep familial bond through music and anecdotes of transformative experiences. Their live performance bursts with improvisation and emotional resonance, showcasing the significance of community and family in shaping their artistry.
Aug 1, 2025 • 56min
Grateful Dead Keeps on Truckin’ for Its 60th Anniversary
David Gans, a musician and author known for his deep connection to the Grateful Dead, joins Hollie Rose, who lived on the Dead Tour in the late '80s and now shares her experiences as an author. Together, they delve into the band's rich history and improvisational style, exploring how their music fosters an enduring community. With stories spanning decades, they celebrate personal journeys and the profound impact of Grateful Dead concerts, highlighting iconic performances and the unique bond formed among fans.
Jul 31, 2025 • 55min
Forum from the Archives: Have You Lost Something That Once Defined You?
Greta Morgan, a talented musician and author known for her work with The Hush Sound and Vampire Weekend, shares her poignant journey after losing her voice due to a neurological disorder from COVID-19. She explores how this drastic change taught her to listen deeply, even experiencing the sensation of hearing the stars during a meteor shower. Topics include the healing power of songwriting, redefining her identity as an artist, and the emotional resilience required to navigate loss and adapt to new forms of creative expression.
Jul 31, 2025 • 56min
Kaiser Bans Gender-Affirming Surgery For Minors. What's Next for Transgender Healthcare?
S. Baum, a correspondent focusing on trans issues, and Michelle Jurkiewicz, a clinical psychologist and co-author of 'Gender Explained', shed light on Kaiser Permanente's shocking decision to halt gender-affirming surgeries for minors. They discuss the emotional toll this policy has on families and patients, navigating healthcare systems under political pressure. The conversation reveals the broader implications for transgender healthcare rights, emphasizing the urgent need for accessible care and community support amid evolving political landscapes.
Jul 30, 2025 • 56min
Why Your Energy Bill Has Gotten So Expensive (and What Can Be Done About It)
Costa Samaras, a professor and director at Carnegie Mellon, and Michael Wara, a Stanford sustainability policy expert, dive into the rising costs of energy bills across the U.S. They examine how factors like aging infrastructure and increased demand from data centers are skyrocketing prices. The duo also discusses California's unique challenges with electrification, wildfire resilience, and the push for renewable energy. Although concerns are raised, they also highlight strategies for improving energy efficiency and making the grid more sustainable.
Jul 30, 2025 • 56min
Forum from the Archives: Tijuana River Pollution Reaches Crisis Point in San Diego County, Scientists Warn
Paloma Aguirre, the Mayor of Imperial Beach, advocates urgently for solutions to the calamity of Tijuana River pollution. Soumya Karlamangla, a National Correspondent for The New York Times, shares sobering reports on the environmental disaster wreaking havoc on the community. Paula Stigler Granados, an expert in Environmental Health, explains the alarming chemical and health impacts affecting local residents, linking pollution to serious health issues. The discussion paints a dire picture of the crisis and highlights the need for immediate action to protect public health.
Jul 29, 2025 • 56min
Forum from the Archives: ‘Twist’ Explores Sabotage, Repair and the Hidden Cables Connecting Us
Colum McCann, a National Book Award-winning author known for novels like 'Apeirogon,' delves into his latest work, 'Twist,' which examines the critical role of underwater cables in global communication. He explores themes of sabotage and repair, particularly how these cables are vulnerable to geopolitical threats. The discussion uncovers the personal and societal implications of our interconnected lives while highlighting the emotional nuances of technology. McCann also shares reflections on identity and the complexities of human connections in an increasingly digital world.
5 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 56min
Where Mainstream Immigration Reporting Falls Short, Ethnic Media Outlets Step Up
Memo Torres, a writer and director at L.A. Taco, discusses the shift from food journalism to covering ICE raids in Los Angeles. Julian Do emphasizes how ethnic media elevates immigrant voices, while Madeleine Bair highlights her work with El Tímpano, helping Latino and Mayan Mam immigrants navigate resources through innovative formats. Tanay Gokhale sheds light on the struggles of the Indian American community, stressing the importance of providing timely and relevant information. Together, they explore how ethnic media is crucial in advocating for and informing vulnerable communities.
