KQED's Forum

Zach Mack, host of Vox Media's "Alternate Realities," shares his personal journey as he attempts to rescue his father from the depths of conspiracy theories, even betting him $10,000 on outrageous beliefs. Joined by Dr. Joe Pierre, a UCSF psychiatrist, they discuss the emotional turmoil of navigating family dynamics impacted by misinformation. Topics include strategies for empathy in conversing with loved ones trapped in conspiratorial thinking, the effects of social isolation on beliefs, and the importance of patience and understanding.

Too $hort, the iconic West Coast rap legend and executive producer of "Freaky Tales," narrates a wild journey through 1987 Oakland. Tamra Goins, a former member of the rap duo Dangerzone, shares her experiences from that vibrant music scene. Filmmaker Ryan Fleck discusses the film's nostalgic homage to punk culture and hip-hop. They delve into personal stories about local legends, the impact of the East Bay music scene, and how their upbringing shaped their creative endeavors. Prepare for a trip filled with cultural reflections and unforgettable anecdotes!

Join Fresno Poet Laureate Joseph Rios, El Cerrito's Tess Taylor, and former San Francisco Poet Laureate Tongo Eisen-Martin as they explore the vital role of poetry in civic life. They discuss how poetry can bridge cultural gaps and foster empathy within communities. The guests unveil exciting projects, from new poetry curriculums to multi-generational workshops, aiming to inspire future poets. With personal reflections on place and identity, they emphasize poetry's transformative power in creating connections and promoting local narratives.

Lori Carr Mims, managing partner at Keker Van Nest & Peters, shares insights on representing asylum seekers while combating the Trump administration's tactics. Investigative reporter Jessica Silver-Greenberg discusses how law firms are pressured under executive orders, raising constitutional alarm. Former associate Rachel Cohen reveals her protest against the collaboration of Skadden with Trump, highlighting internal dissent within firms. Professor Raymond Brescia analyzes the broader implications for democracy and the legal profession's integrity in these trying times.

Gil Duran, a freelance journalist and creator of the newsletter "The Nerd Reich," dives into the controversial influence of Silicon Valley billionaires like Elon Musk and Peter Thiel on U.S. governance. He discusses how these tech elites leverage their wealth to challenge democratic norms and push radical ideologies. Duran reveals how this powerful group aims to establish tech-driven governance, with alarming implications for democracy and society. He also outlines their connections to autocratic trends, urging listeners to engage in informed activism.

Omar El Akkad, a journalist and acclaimed author of "American War" and "What Strange Paradise," discusses his latest non-fiction work critiquing Western hypocrisy regarding the Gaza conflict. He reflects on how identity and storytelling shape perceptions of war and migration. Focusing on America's moral failures, he examines the impact of political systems on the Palestinian plight and the emotional complexities faced by individuals in conflicting cultural realms. Through personal anecdotes, he emphasizes the urgent need for meaningful advocacy and understanding in today's society.

Nick Miroff, a staff writer at The Atlantic specializing in immigration, sheds light on the chilling effects of the Trump administration's mass deportation campaign. He shares the story of a Turkish PhD student held by ICE and discusses the recent revocation of student visas targeting critics of Israel’s actions in Gaza. Miroff also reveals how immigration officials assess gang affiliations using tattoos, and he critiques the authoritarian tactics shaping these policies, exposing the vulnerabilities faced by immigrant communities.

Join Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Anne Applebaum and Harvard professor Steven Levitsky as they dissect the mechanics of modern autocracy. They explore how figures like Trump manipulate government to curb dissent, drawing parallels with regimes in Hungary and India. The conversation delves into competitive authoritarianism, the erosion of democratic norms, and the influence of factionalism. Applebaum and Levitsky discuss the vital lessons from history that can help recognize and combat rising authoritarian trends in today's political climate.

Javed Kaleem, an education reporter for the Los Angeles Times, sheds light on the implications of the Trump administration's scrutiny of California universities. Steve Hetz, a neuroendovascular surgeon at UCSF, discusses the severe impact of funding cuts on research and patient care. Meanwhile, Michael Chwe, a UCLA political science professor, emphasizes the political tension surrounding DEI practices. They unravel the fears faced by international students and faculty amidst hiring freezes and federal investigations, painting a vivid picture of today's educational landscape.

Barbara Lee, a longtime East Bay Congresswoman and candidate for Oakland mayor, shares her vision for the city amid its upcoming election. She emphasizes the need for effective leadership and collaboration to unite Oakland and tackle challenges like public safety and affordable housing. Lee discusses her Congressional experience, focusing on building partnerships between labor and business to foster economic stability. She advocates for community engagement, transparency in governance, and revitalizing the city's image to address pressing urban issues.