KQED's Forum

Michael Osterholm, a renowned epidemiologist and director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy, discusses the American Academy of Pediatrics' surprising decision to continue recommending COVID-19 vaccines for young children, diverging from CDC guidance. He addresses the implications of federal cuts to vaccine research funding and critiques the motivations behind conflicting health messages. Osterholm emphasizes the urgency for transparency in discussing vaccine safety and the importance of mRNA technology in preparing for future pandemics.

Join writer and artist Rel Robinson, along with authors Rita Bullwinkel and Brontez Purnell, as they explore the rich tapestry of thoughts stored in our phone's Notes app. They discuss how these seemingly mundane notes can reveal deep personal insights and creativity. From capturing fleeting ideas and bad dreams to the emotional weight of daily reminders, the conversation highlights the intimacy of digital journaling. Be prepared to reflect on your own hidden moments and inspirations held within the notes on your device.

Adam Bonica, an associate professor at Stanford, dives deep into the chaotic landscape of Democratic fundraising practices. He highlights how alarmist texts often prioritize consultant profits over effective campaign strategies, leaving candidates with a meager share. This discussion critiques the ethics of manipulating vulnerable populations, especially seniors, and the resultant public disillusionment. Bonica calls for transparency and a reevaluation of tactics, encouraging listeners to reclaim trust in democratic engagement amidst the spam deluge.

Join Annalee Newitz, a science journalist and sci-fi writer, as she dives into the world of her latest novella, set in a dystopian 2060 San Francisco. Discover the unique story of robots running a noodle shop while navigating themes of identity, citizenship, and community in a post-apocalyptic landscape. Newitz discusses the possibilities of friendly AI, emotional connections, and the future of human-robot relationships, all while reflecting on San Francisco's resilient spirit amidst challenges like climate change and societal upheaval.

Mary Ziegler, a law professor specializing in reproductive rights, and Shefali Luthra, a reproductive health reporter, dive into California's complex legal battles over abortion rights post-Roe v. Wade. They discuss how lawsuits are threatening providers and patients alike, the controversial decision of major retailers like Costco to avoid stocking abortion medications, and the tension between healthcare practices and religious beliefs. With a focus on the implications for both Californians and national trends, the conversation sheds light on the shifting landscape of reproductive healthcare.

Buffy Wicks, a California State Assembly member driving CEQA reforms, joins industry expert Patrick Kennedy and policy analyst Sarah Karlinsky. They discuss the challenges of California's housing crisis, highlighting the urgent need for new policies to accelerate development. Aditi Bandlamudi provides insights into local housing issues, emphasizing the impact of environmental regulations on building costs. The panel debates whether recent legislative changes can truly ease the housing shortage while balancing community concerns with sustainability.

Michael McFaul, former U.S. Ambassador to Russia and director at Stanford's Freeman Spogli Institute, joins Edward Fishman, global energy policy expert and Columbia adjunct professor. They delve into Trump's controversial meeting with Putin in Alaska, discussing potential ceasefire ideas like 'land swaps.' The conversation highlights Ukraine's exclusion from talks, ongoing military tensions, and the shifting public sentiment in Ukraine amid war fatigue. They also explore the challenges facing U.S.-Russia relations and the implications for international diplomacy.

Ethan Elkind, Director of the Climate Program at UC Berkeley, and Wade Crowfoot, Secretary of the California Natural Resources Agency, dive deep into California's ongoing struggle between housing development and environmental protection. They explore the recent CEQA reforms aimed at streamlining housing production. The conversation highlights the tension between legislative measures and ecological concerns, emphasizing the need for modernized regulations to address both climate change and housing demands effectively.

Remember the flexed arm hang? The mile run? The Presidential Fitness Test – a battery of physical challenges that has prompted both dread and pride in students since the Eisenhower administration – is getting a reboot under the current administration. We’ll look at what California is currently doing to encourage youth fitness and what we’ve learned from more than 50 years of health data collected by school fitness tests, including the updated version that took hold under the Obama administration in 2012. And we want to hear from you: what are your memories of the Presidential Fitness Test? What do you think about its return? Guests: Hannah Thompson, assistant research professor of Community Health Sciences, UC Berkeley; incoming director for the UC Nutrition Policy Institute Taylor Tobin, freelance journalist who writes about food, health and lifestyle Renata Simril, CEO and President of the LA84 Foundation, and President of the Play Equity Fund Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the surface, being a perfectionist may not seem so bad. What’s wrong with wanting straight A’s or an impeccable home or conflict-free relationships? But, therapists have long warned that not managing perfectionism properly can lead to anxiety, depression and a wide range of other problems. Perfectionism manifests in various ways. Sometimes people expect themselves to be perfect or feel like they will never be good enough for others. Sometimes they expect the people around them to be perfect and end up disappointed. We’ll talk about the different kinds of perfectionism with experts who can help you keep it in check. Guests: Leslie Jamison, author; her recent article in The New Yorker is titled, "The Pain of Perfectionism" - her books include "Splinters: Another Kind of Love Story" and "The Empathy Exams" Sahaj Kaur Kohli, therapist, writer, speaker, and founder, Brown Girl Therapy; author of the book, "But What Will People Say? Navigating Mental Health, Identity, Love, and Family Between Cultures" Angela Li, licensed clinical psychologist, Based in San Francisco Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices