KQED's Forum

Rhaina Cohen, an NPR producer and writer, explores the transformative effects of friend-powered parenting, while Phil Levin, founder of Live Near Friends, discusses innovative community living solutions. They delve into the emotional and practical benefits of raising kids alongside friends, addressing challenges like differing parenting styles and communal support. Personal anecdotes highlight the joys of shared responsibilities and the idea of ‘friend-based parenting,’ creating a supportive and enriching environment for both parents and children.

Jeff Sheehy, a long-time AIDS activist and first openly HIV+ member of the SF Board of Supervisors, joins infectious disease expert Monica Gandhi from UCSF and Jennifer Kates of KFF. They discuss the evolution of HIV treatment from a death sentence to manageable conditions. The guests reflect on historical activism, examine the impact of funding cuts on AIDS research, and emphasize the need for continued advocacy and community support. Personal stories highlight the resilience of communities and the ongoing fight against stigma.

Alice Callahan, a nutrition and health reporter for The New York Times, joins experts Christopher Gardner from Stanford and Stuart Phillips from McMaster University to tackle the protein frenzy fueled by social media. They debunk myths surrounding protein intake and discuss the risks of overconsumption. The guests emphasize the importance of individualized dietary needs, particularly for athletes and aging populations. They also explore the balance between whole foods and supplements, urging listeners to critically assess their protein sources amid online misinformation.

Robert Macfarlane, renowned nature writer and author of "Is a River Alive?", delves into the profound relationship between humans and rivers. He discusses the idea of rivers as living entities that shape both ecosystems and cultures. Macfarlane shares insights from diverse locations, highlighting the significance of indigenous perspectives and the spiritual connections people have with these waterways. He emphasizes the need for ecological awareness and community engagement in revitalizing urban rivers, offering a compelling call to respect and protect our vital lifelines.

Bridget Read, features writer for New York Magazine and author of 'Little Bosses Everywhere,' unpacks the deceptive allure of multi-level marketing (MLM) schemes. She reveals that 99% of participants earn little to no profit, likening their odds to gamblers in a casino. The conversation dives into the historical ties between MLMs and the political right, exposing how these companies exploit economic hardships. Read also discusses the cultural implications of MLMs, especially for women seeking flexible work, shedding light on the emotional toll and societal pressures they face.

Sujata Srivastava, Chief Policy Officer of SPUR; Alex Sagues, a senior vice president at CRBE specializing in retail; and Dr. Daniel G. Chatman, UC Berkeley's planning department chair, tackle the growing issue of vacant ground-floor retail in the Bay Area. They discuss the disconnect between retail demand and supply, the lingering effects of the pandemic on consumer behavior, and the need for innovative planning to revive urban spaces. Strategies include exploring flexible zoning, community-focused initiatives, and adapting to changing retail landscapes to fill these crucial areas.

Russell Berman, a staff writer at The Atlantic, and Claudia Grisales, a congressional correspondent at NPR, dive into the complexities of President Trump's budget bill. They discuss the bill's significant rollback on clean energy initiatives and alarming Medicaid cuts. The conversation highlights the contentious political landscape, including GOP infighting and public backlash against tax benefits for the wealthy. With implications for vulnerable communities and healthcare access, they reveal the far-reaching consequences of this extensive legislation.

Joining the conversation are Jake Tapper, CNN anchor and chief Washington correspondent, and Alex Thompson, national political correspondent for Axios. They dive into their new book that critiques President Biden’s leadership and the alleged cover-up of his decline. They discuss the Democratic Party's struggle with accountability and internal loyalty, the influence of media on public perception of Biden's health, and the urgent need for transparency in political reporting. The dialogue challenges listeners to consider the future direction of the Democratic Party amidst these controversies.

Join Robert Samuels, a National Political Reporter at The Washington Post and co-author of 'His Name is George Floyd', alongside Clyde McGrady, a National Correspondent at The New York Times. They reflect on the five-year mark since George Floyd’s murder, exploring the lasting societal changes and the racial reckoning that followed. Samuels questions whether the backlash against progress overshadows the gains made. They discuss the emotional legacy of Floyd’s story and the ongoing struggles within the racial justice movement.

Join Cesar Hernandez, an associate restaurant critic at The San Francisco Chronicle, Dominica Rice-Cisneros, chef and owner of Bombera in Oakland, and Victor Escovedo of Papalote Mexican Grill as they dive into the world of the Mission-style burrito. They explore its mysterious origins, cultural significance, and how it's evolved over time. Personal anecdotes highlight cherished memories tied to burritos, while they discuss innovative trends from local eateries and the art of making homemade flour tortillas. Listeners share their favorite spots, making it a tasty community celebration!