KQED's Forum

Declan Walsh, Chief Africa Correspondent for The New York Times, shares his insights on the ongoing civil war in Sudan, now in its second devastating year. He discusses the staggering humanitarian toll, including over 150,000 deaths and 13 million displaced. Walsh highlights the military dynamics in Khartoum and the international implications of foreign interventions, particularly from the UAE and Russia. He delves into U.S. foreign policy challenges, the complexities of ethnic tensions, and the urgent need for humanitarian aid as the crisis deepens.

MacKenzie Chung Fegan, restaurant critic for The San Francisco Chronicle, and César Hernandez, associate critic, join in to discuss the rebirth of the Top 100 Restaurants list after six years. They dive into their selection process, emphasizing a balance of culinary excellence and accessibility. Hear about standout spots like Burdell in Oakland and the excitement of emerging dining trends. The duo shares personal food obsessions and the impact of restaurant recognition, all while celebrating the vibrant Bay Area food scene.

Angus Chen, a cancer reporter for Stat News, joins oncologist Dr. Adil Daud from UCSF to discuss alarming federal budget cuts affecting cancer research. They explore how slashes to the NIH budget threaten decades of progress in treatment and patient care. Personal anecdotes illustrate the emotional turmoil faced by patients relying on clinical trials, as well as the impact on crucial research initiatives for high-mortality cancers. The conversation emphasizes the need for continued advocacy and funding to sustain vital advancements in cancer treatment.

Stephanie Flanders, head of Bloomberg Economics, shares her insights on how Trump's tariffs have shocked U.S. markets. Lori Wallach, a trade expert, discusses the retaliatory actions from China and their potential to destabilize global relations. Economist Kyle Handley weighs in on the long-term effects these tariffs may have on American manufacturing and job growth. Together, they navigate the complexities of trade dynamics, automation, and the dire consequences of miscalculating economic policies.

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.