KQED's Forum

Alissa Wilkinson, a New York Times movie critic and author of "We Tell Ourselves Stories," delves into Joan Didion's reflections on how Hollywood shaped American politics. They explore Didion's unique lens on storytelling amid chaos and her critique of political superficiality seen in figures like the Reagans. Wilkinson emphasizes Didion's belief that narrative influences perception, highlighting the contrast between cinematic expectations and the complexities of reality. The discussion also touches on Didion's lasting impact on California culture and modern political dynamics.

Neelam Patil, a chef and educator, alongside Vanessa Silva, founder of Culinary Artistas, dive into the vital skill of teaching kids to cook. They discuss how essential cooking skills can foster independence and creativity. The conversation includes practical tips for safe cooking, fun activities to engage children, and the significance of family connections through food. They also explore the challenges and joys of nurturing young culinary talents, with inspiring anecdotes that make cooking a delightful family affair.

Eric Schmitt, a senior national security correspondent for the New York Times, and Garrett Graff, a journalist and historian, dive into a staggering intelligence breach involving a leaked Signal chat among U.S. military officials. They discuss the fallout from sharing sensitive attack plans over unsecured channels and the implications for national security. The conversation also touches on the accountability lapses within the Trump administration, the potential risks to international alliances, and the ethical concerns surrounding military responses in a tumultuous geopolitical landscape.

Loren Taylor, Oakland’s former City Councilmember, shares his vision as a mayoral candidate. He emphasizes the need for local government experience to tackle budget shortfalls and crime effectively. Taylor discusses innovative solutions for public safety, including programs for homelessness and violence prevention. He calls for community engagement in local issues and underscores the importance of transparent leadership. With an eye on revitalizing District 6, he celebrates community spirit while addressing infrastructure challenges and affordable housing.

In this discussion, Annie Karni and Luke Broadwater, New York Times reporters and co-authors of "Mad House," delve into the chaos of the 118th Congress. They reveal how MAGA extremism has reshaped the political landscape, pushing moderators aside and leading to unprecedented dysfunction. Key highlights include the controversies surrounding the Speaker's ousting and the internal turmoil among Republicans. The guests also touch on the implications of these shifts for democracy and the challenges faced by the Democratic Party in this tumultuous climate.

Adam Chandler, a journalist and author of "99% Perspiration" and "Drive-Thru Dreams," delves into the evolving American work ethic. He challenges the myth of the self-made worker, highlighting rising income inequality despite long hours. They discuss the phenomenon of 'quiet quitting' as a response to hustle culture and the fragile job security in today’s market. Chandler also critiques the romanticism of entrepreneurship, pointing to the need for community support and systemic changes to improve work-life balance and employee well-being.

Mark Bergen, a Bloomberg News reporter and author of "Like, Comment, Subscribe," teams up with Johnny Cole Dickson, a video creator and host of "No Lab Coat Required." They explore YouTube's evolution from a simple sharing site to a cultural powerhouse. The duo discusses the platform’s impact on content consumption, the challenges of misinformation, and its role in education. With anecdotes from creators, they dive into the creator economy's complexities, navigating monetization, authenticity, and YouTube’s community-driven spirit, particularly during the pandemic.

Harvard professor Rebecca Lemov, an expert on the history of science, dives into her new book about brainwashing and mind control. She reveals how soldiers were psychologically manipulated during the Korean War, shedding light on the stigma surrounding their trauma. Lemov also discusses the subtle ways brainwashing pervades our daily lives, especially through social media and misinformation. With intriguing historical examples and modern implications, she highlights the ongoing relevance of these coercive techniques in today's digital world.

Zack Beauchamp, a senior correspondent for Vox, and Vjosa Isai, a New York Times reporter from Toronto, delve into the rising tensions between Canada and the U.S. They discuss the outrage over Trump's tariffs and his provocative remarks, igniting a strong sense of unity among Canadians. The conversation reveals the emotional responses at Toronto's rallies and explores changes in cross-border relations, while also touching on Canada's search for new international alliances amidst this geopolitical turmoil.

Ed Yong, a Pulitzer Prize-winning science journalist and author, shares his insights from covering the COVID-19 pandemic. He discusses the stark contrast between public expectations and the harsh realities exposed during the health crisis. Topics include the U.S. perception of pandemic readiness, the misinformation that shaped public health responses, and the importance of transparent communication to rebuild trust in science. Yong also highlights the societal impact of long COVID and advocates for better understanding and support for affected individuals.