KQED's Forum

Nicholas Wu, a congressional reporter for Politico, and Russell Berman, a staff writer at The Atlantic, dive into the potential fallout of a government shutdown on California. They discuss the Democrats' demands for healthcare subsidies and the Republican resistance, explore how Senate dynamics affect the situation, and analyze the stakes for Californians, including possible interruptions to federal services. Wu highlights the unprecedented threat of mass firings, while Berman debates the strategic risks for Democrats if they push for a shutdown.

Ada Limón, a renowned poet and former U.S. Poet Laureate, dives deep into her new poetry collection, Startlement. She explores the intricate relationship between nature and humanity, voicing her desire to create a unique connection through art. Limón discusses her process of integrating old poems into a cohesive narrative, her reflections on mortality, and how her Latinx heritage influences her work. She also emphasizes the importance of curiosity amid despair, and the role of poetry in advocating for environmental awareness.

Ada Tseng, a writer and editor known for her Hollywood Careers series, and Jon Healey, a former LA Times reporter, explore the evolving landscape of Hollywood. They discuss how AI is reshaping industry roles, from casting to creative tasks. Ada offers insights on the rise of self-taped auditions post-COVID, while Jon emphasizes the importance of networking over cold emails. They advise aspiring professionals on viable entry-level jobs, the value of joining unions, and the necessity of marketing oneself in today's entertainment world.

In this discussion, guests include Azul Dahlstrom-Eckman, a KQED news editor reporting firsthand on Marin's e-bike scene, Asha Weinstein Agrawal, an expert on transportation safety at San Jose State University, and Talia Smith, Marin County's legislative director. They explore Marin's landmark ban on fast e-bikes for riders under 16 due to rising accident rates. The conversation delves into e-bike classifications, safety concerns, and the unique challenges of regulating these devices while balancing convenience and youth appeal.

In this insightful discussion, Ethan Elkind, Director of the Climate Program at UC Berkeley, and Guy Marzorati, KQED correspondent, dive into California's ambitious new climate legislation. They explore how recent bills aim to lower electricity costs while reinforcing the energy grid against wildfires. The guests shed light on the intense negotiations that led to these initiatives and the potential impacts on both consumers and the oil industry. They also address environmental justice concerns and the broader political context, making for a compelling analysis.

Maggie Graham, a cultural historian and designer and author of "The Invention of Design: A Twentieth-Century History," dives deep into the evolving nature of design. She critiques the myth that design alone can solve massive societal issues, highlighting the interplay between aesthetics, politics, and technology. Topics include the Cold War's influence on design thinking, the vital role of ethnographic user research, and the need for responsible AI integration. Graham urges participatory design for addressing structural inequalities, emphasizing design's potential beyond mere visuals.

Julia Vargas-Jones, a CNN correspondent focused on U.S.-Latin America relations, joins investigative reporter Juliana Dal Piva and Jack Nicas, Brazil bureau chief for The New York Times. They delve into the historical significance of Bolsonaro's coup conviction and its implications for democracy in Brazil and the U.S. The trio discusses the political fallout for Bolsonaro's allies, the connection between MAGA and Bolsonaro's movements, and how U.S. tariffs are impacting Brazil's political landscape. They explore institutional differences that affect accountability in leadership.

Pranav Dixit, a Business Insider reporter focusing on tech and immigration, discusses the chaos following Trump's hefty new H-1B visa fee. Tanay Gokhale, a journalist covering the Bay Area Indian community, highlights the panic felt by immigrant communities and the long-term uncertainties faced. Immigration attorney Emily Neumann offers legal insights into the implications of the fee, potential exemptions, and the likelihood of litigation. Together, they explore how the tech industry's hiring landscape might change amidst this upheaval.

Shadi Hamid, a Washington Post columnist focused on U.S. politics, and Jeremy W. Peters, a National reporter for The New York Times specializing in free speech, dissect the aftermath of Charlie Kirk's killing. They discuss how influential Republicans are using grief for political gain while undermining democratic norms. Hamid highlights the jarring contrast between Kirk’s widow’s forgiveness and Trump’s aggressive rhetoric. They also explore the implications of zero-sum politics and the need for a national dialogue to strengthen democracy and free speech.

Christina Cross, an associate professor of sociology at Harvard University and author of "Inherited Inequality," delves into the misconceptions surrounding family structure and racial inequality. She challenges the notion that two-parent households are solely responsible for children's success, highlighting systemic issues like discrimination in housing and education. Cross discusses how the Moynihan Report shaped policies that unfairly target Black families and emphasizes the significant role of income in opportunity gaps. Her insights reveal the necessity of a broader understanding of family dynamics in addressing racial disparities.