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
Feb 27, 2025 • 56min
SF Music Week Promotes Local Industry as Economic Engine
Join Jordan Kurland, co-owner of Noise Pop, and Nastia Voynovskaya, KQED Arts editor, as they delve into San Francisco's music scene revitalization. Laline St. Juste shares her journey as a musician and label founder, spotlighting local talent. Tina Davis discusses the significant role of independent labels in the industry. The conversation covers the impact of social media, the importance of live music, and community support, all while celebrating the unique rhythm of the Bay Area's diverse musical landscape.
Feb 27, 2025 • 56min
Trump Whistleblower Alexander Vindman on Why the U.S. Has Turned Its Back on Ukraine
In a compelling discussion, Alexander Vindman, a retired Army lieutenant colonel and whistleblower during Trump's impeachment, shares insights from his book, 'The Folly of Realism.' He critiques the U.S.'s recent shifts in foreign policy toward Ukraine and the implications of a strategic minerals deal with the country. Vindman highlights the growing unreliability of the U.S. as an ally amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions, and underscores the moral imperative of supporting Ukraine in its struggle against Russian aggression.
Feb 26, 2025 • 56min
California Takes ‘Good Cop/Bad Cop’ Approach to President Trump
In this enlightening discussion, Guy Marzorati, Marisa Lagos, and Scott Shafer, all KQED politics correspondents, dissect California's political maneuvering under Trump’s administration. They explore Attorney General Rob Bonta's lawsuits and Governor Gavin Newsom's balancing act for federal aid. The trio speculates on potential gubernatorial candidates, including the intriguing possibility of Kamala Harris running. They also delve into the challenges Dems face amid shifting voter sentiments and discuss strategies for effective messaging in these turbulent times.
Feb 26, 2025 • 56min
Trump Purge Hits Bay Area Federal Workers
Courtney Rozen, a federal workforce reporter for Bloomberg Law, joins Max Stier, CEO of the Partnership for Public Service, to discuss the recent purge of federal employees. They highlight the chaos and uncertainty faced by workers, detailing personal stories and the implications for vital government services. The duo explores legal battles around wrongful terminations and the potential impacts on consumer protection agencies. They also emphasize the need for modernization within the federal workforce and the importance of supporting public servants.
Feb 25, 2025 • 56min
FAA Firings, Recent Crashes Spark Airline Safety Fears
Todd Yeary, a former air traffic controller with 13 years of experience, brings insights on the recent FAA workforce cuts and their potential risks to aviation safety. Bill McGee, with 40 years in the airline industry, discusses the critical need for accountability and improved safety measures. Lori Aratani, a transportation reporter, highlights public anxiety over air travel following tragic recent events. Together, they address the implications of staffing shortages, near misses, and the overall confidence in air travel amidst ongoing concerns.
Feb 25, 2025 • 56min
The Growing Strength of the Christian Nationalism in Politics
Sarah McCammon, a National Political Correspondent for NPR and co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, teams up with journalist Katherine Stewart, author of 'Money, Lies, and God,' to dissect the rising wave of Christian nationalism in politics. They delve into how this movement shapes the political landscape, intertwining faith with governance, and reinforcing patriarchal norms. The conversation explores the implications for democracy, potential voter suppression tactics, and the complex relationship between religion and political strategies in contemporary America.
Feb 24, 2025 • 56min
What Trump’s Order to “Dramatically Reduce” Presidio Trust Means for the Beloved Park
Barbara Boxer, former U.S. Senator who helped establish the Presidio Trust, joins Gabe Greschler, a politics reporter, and Chris Lehnertz, CEO of Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy. They dive into President Trump’s surprising order to reduce the Trust, exploring its historical significance and potential impacts. The discussion highlights the Presidio’s self-sustaining model, the complex dynamics of public-private partnerships, and community concerns over funding cuts. They also touch on controversial proposals that could reshape the beloved park.
Feb 24, 2025 • 56min
The Stories Behind Our First and Last Words
Linguist Michael Erard, author of "Bye Bye I Love You," unpacks the emotional power of first and last words in our lives. He illustrates how these utterances mark significant transitions, from a child’s first step into language to the poignant farewell moments at life's end. Through anecdotes from various cultures, Erard highlights the complex ties between words, gestures, and emotional connections. He invites listeners to reflect on their own meaningful linguistic moments and share stories of firsts and lasts that resonate deeply.
Feb 21, 2025 • 56min
Kent Dunlap on the Biology, Evolution and Cultural History of the Neck
Kent Dunlap, a professor of biology at Trinity College and author of "The Neck: A Natural and Cultural History," explores the neck’s fascinating multitasking functions. He discusses its evolution from fish ancestors to its roles in swallowing and breathing. Dunlap highlights cultural perceptions, such as neck tattoos and elongation practices, while revealing the health impacts of modern lifestyles, including 'tech neck.' He also offers practical tips for improving neck health in a world dominated by screens.
Feb 21, 2025 • 56min
Bay Area Latin Jazz Legend John Santos and Friends Perform Live
Join Grammy-nominated percussionist John Santos, a celebrated figure in Latin jazz and founder of Machete Records, as he hosts a vibrant live performance with his talented band. They discuss the rich rhythmic influences of Puerto Rican and Cape Verdean heritage. Santos reflects on preserving oral histories through music and explores the diverse rhythms that shape Latin fusion. The conversation delves into the historical ties between Cuban music and jazz, celebrating cultural resilience and the unifying power of music in challenging times.
