KQED's Forum
KQED
Forum tells remarkable and true stories about who we are and where we live. In the first hour, Alexis Madrigal convenes the diverse voices of the Bay Area, before turning to Mina Kim for the second hour to chronicle and center Californians’ experience. In an increasingly divided world, Mina and Alexis host conversations that inform, challenge and unify listeners with big ideas and different viewpoints.Want to call/submit your comments during our live Forum program Mon-Fri, 9am-11am? We'd love to hear from you! Please dial 866.SF.FORUM or (866) 733-6786 or email forum@kqed.org, tweet, or post on Facebook.
Episodes
Mentioned books
11 snips
Jul 4, 2025 • 56min
Forum from the Archives: Rick Steves Reflects on a Life of Travel
Rick Steves, renowned travel writer and host of Rick Steves Europe, shares his journey from aspiring piano teacher to globetrotting author. He recounts his transformative experience on the Hippie Trail in 1978 that sparked his passion for travel. Topics include the deeper meanings behind travel, the importance of cultural exchange, and the challenges posed by social media in travel journalism. Steves advocates for responsible tourism that enriches local communities and fosters genuine connections in an increasingly superficial travel landscape.
Jul 4, 2025 • 56min
Forum from the Archives: Vallejo’s Breakout Star LaRussell Performs In Studio
LaRussell, an independent rapper from Vallejo and founder of Good Compenny, shares his journey from local backyard concerts to a rising star in hip hop. Celebrated for his innovative approach to music, he discusses leaving empty, his collaborative efforts with his collective, and the significance of community engagement. He introduces a unique offer-based ticketing system for fans and reflects on personal challenges while showcasing his artistic evolution. LaRussell's heartfelt performance captivates, highlighting resilience and connection through music.
Jul 3, 2025 • 57min
Forum from the Archives: Liz Pelly on Spotify and the ‘Cost of the Perfect Playlist’
Join writer Liz Pelly, a contributing editor at The Baffler and author of 'Mood Machine', as she unpacks Spotify's backstory. Discover how this once-democratic platform transformed into a major label's playground, sidelining independent artists and fueling ghost artists. Liz delves into the challenges of algorithm-driven playlists, the nostalgia for authentic music discovery, and the financial woes artists face. With insights from industry veterans and her own research, she advocates for a reevaluation of music's value in our streaming-dominated world.
Jul 3, 2025 • 56min
Forum from the Archives: Tune-Yards’ Merrill Garbus on How She Makes Her Signature Sounds, Live in Studio
Join Merrill Garbus, the dynamic frontwoman of Oakland's art-pop duo Tune-Yards, as she shares her innovative approach to music creation. Discover how her hometown influences her sound, especially in live performances that blend intricate rhythms with personal narratives. She delves into the emotional layers of her new album, 'Better Dreaming,' and discusses identity and community through her lyrics. Expect vibrant insights into the creative process, the power of authenticity, and the celebration of resilience in music.
Jul 2, 2025 • 57min
Forum from the Archives: Tommy Orange and Kaveh Akbar Celebrate their Artistic Mind Meld
Join celebrated authors Kaveh Akbar and Tommy Orange as they dive into their unique creative partnership. Kaveh, known for his National Book Award finalist "Martyr!" and Tommy, acclaimed for "There There," discuss their vibrant friendship and the joy of exchanging 'cheer notes' during their writing processes. They explore themes of collaboration, the complexities behind creating impactful literature, and the significance of community in poetry. Their insightful conversation sheds light on the connections between art, personal struggles, and historical narratives.
Jul 2, 2025 • 56min
Forum from the Archives: Star On the Rise: August Lee Stevens Performs Live In Studio
August Lee Stevens, a Bay Area musician and rising star, shares her journey from classical piano to releasing her debut album, "Better Places." She reflects on the emotional depth of her music and the influence of her hometown of Hercules. In captivating live performances, she combines indie soul with classical roots, touching on themes of family and personal growth. Joined by fellow vocalists, they explore songwriting's emotional resonance and the balance of change and stability in both life and art.
Jul 1, 2025 • 57min
Forum from the Archives: What It’s Like to Parent With Your Friends
Rhaina Cohen, an NPR producer and author focused on friendship's role in life, discusses her findings on friend-powered parenting. Alongside Phil Levin, founder of Live Near Friends, they explore communal living's emotional and practical benefits for parents. They share personal stories revealing how raising children with friends alleviates isolation, fosters support, and builds lasting connections. The conversation touches on the evolving complexities of shared parenting and the transformative potential of community ties in enhancing family life.
Jul 1, 2025 • 56min
Forum from the Archives: Fremont's Sid Sriram Fuses New Genres with Family Legacy of Traditional Indian Singing
Sid Sriram, an acclaimed musician from a traditional Indian singing family, shares his journey blending Carnatic music with jazz, R&B, and hip-hop. He discusses the impact of growing up in Fremont while navigating dual cultural identities. Sriram reveals the emotional depth of his songs and how they reflect his personal experiences. Live performances showcase his innovative sound and the healing power of music. He also touches on the responsibility of releasing his upcoming album, 'Siddharth,' and the unique connections his music fosters.
Jun 30, 2025 • 57min
Forum from the Archives: Remembering George Floyd and the Racial Reckoning He Sparked
Join Robert Samuels, a national political enterprise reporter for The Washington Post and co-author of the Pulitzer Prize-winning biography on George Floyd, along with Clyde McGrady, a national correspondent covering race for The New York Times. They delve into the transformative impact of Floyd's death five years ago, discussing protests, the enduring backlash against racial progress, and current challenges in systemic racism. Together, they reflect on the legacy of George Floyd and the necessary continued quest for racial justice in America.
Jun 30, 2025 • 56min
Forum from the Archives: Bay Area Latin Jazz Legend John Santos and Friends Perform Live
Bay Area Latin jazz legend John Santos, a Grammy-nominated percussionist and founder of Machete Records, discusses his roots and influences from Puerto Rican and Cape Verdean cultures. Joined by talented musicians, they perform live, showcasing vibrant rhythms and the rich history of Latin jazz. Santos addresses the challenges of the modern music landscape and the importance of maintaining creative freedom. The group also shares insights on the deep ties between Cuban music and jazz, emphasizing music's role in cultural storytelling and community resistance.
