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 20, 2025 • 56min
Will Germany Turn to the Far Right?
Guests Jen Kirby, an independent national security reporter, and Sophia Besch, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, dive into Germany's political landscape. They discuss the impending parliamentary elections and the rise of the far-right Alternative for Deutschland (AfD) party, examining its anti-immigrant stance and neo-Nazi ties. The conversation highlights the implications for both European and U.S. politics, alongside the socio-economic factors driving these developments and their potential impact on democratic values.
Feb 20, 2025 • 56min
Understanding Republicans’ Proposed Cuts to Medicaid
Join experts Larry Levitt, Joanne Kenen, Kristof Stremikis, and Chiquita Brooks-LaSure as they unravel the implications of proposed $880 billion cuts to Medicaid. They discuss its critical role in American healthcare, covering low-income populations, and highlight historical advocacy efforts. The conversation touches on the potential impacts of Medicaid cuts on vulnerable groups and the evolving political landscape. The guests also share insights on the challenges faced by Medicaid amid calls for reform, emphasizing its significance in maintaining access to care for millions.
Feb 19, 2025 • 56min
Vaccination Efforts at Risk Under RFK Jr.'s HHS Tenure
Pediatrician Adam Ratner, an expert on measles outbreaks, voices his concerns over Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s recent confirmation as Health and Human Services Secretary. The conversation delves into the alarming resurgence of measles in Texas amid declining vaccination rates and highlights how vaccine hesitancy, fueled by misinformation, poses a significant threat to public health. Ratner stresses the importance of maintaining herd immunity and effective communication to dispel fears surrounding vaccines, especially in a post-pandemic world.
Feb 19, 2025 • 56min
How to Talk about Black History When Diversity is Under Attack
In this discussion, Michael Harriot, a journalist and author of "Black AF History," Tiffany Caesar, an Africana studies professor, and Adam Harris, an education policy expert, tackle the challenges of celebrating Black history amid political resistance. They delve into the historical significance of Black History Month and critique recent anti-diversity policies. The trio emphasizes the importance of accurately teaching Black history to ensure inclusivity and represents a richer narrative of America, advocating for resilience in educational settings against structural racism.
Feb 18, 2025 • 56min
Impacts of Trump’s Anti-Trans Actions Already Felt in California
Jo Yurcaba, a reporter for NBC Out, covers LGBTQ+ issues, while Jim Mangia leads St. John's Community Health in Los Angeles, supporting the health of the transgender community. Dannie Ceseña advocates for LGBTQ+ health services in California. They discuss the impact of Trump's executive orders, challenges in healthcare access, and the ongoing legal battles affecting trans rights. Personal stories reveal the emotional toll on individuals, emphasizing the need for community support amid growing restrictions and the state's commitment to protecting trans rights.
Feb 18, 2025 • 56min
Yoni Appelbaum’s Book “Stuck” Argues that Progressive Policies Have Frozen Social Mobility
Yoni Appelbaum, deputy executive editor at The Atlantic and author of ‘Stuck,’ dives into the stagnation of social mobility in America. He discusses how historical factors and progressive policies have contributed to a lack of movement, trapping people in place. Appelbaum highlights the challenges of urban housing development, zoning laws, and the economic divide between regions. He advocates for standardized regulations and urban reforms, while emphasizing the importance of both physical and digital community connections.
Feb 17, 2025 • 56min
Forum From the Archives: Travel Writer Pico Iyer Celebrates the Joys of Sitting Still
Pico Iyer, an acclaimed author and travel writer, shares his transformative journey following the loss of his California home to a wildfire. He discusses his retreat to a Big Sur monastery and the profound healing power of solitude and silence found there. Iyer emphasizes the importance of inner journeys over physical travel, detailing how stillness fosters deeper connections and self-discovery. His new book, "Aflame," reflects on these themes, while personal anecdotes highlight the rejuvenating effects of silence amid modern chaos.
Feb 17, 2025 • 56min
Forum from the Archives: What Does Wilderness Mean in our Modern World?
Join Marissa Ortega-Welch, a science journalist and host of 'How Wild,' alongside Phoebe Young, an environmental history professor and author, and Aparna Rajagopal, a DEI advocate in the outdoor sector. They dive into the evolving concept of wilderness in our tech-driven world. Discussions include the historical significance of the Wilderness Act, the impact of climate change on natural spaces, and the challenge of ensuring equitable access for marginalized communities. Personal narratives illuminate the transformative experiences in nature that shape our understanding of wilderness.
Feb 14, 2025 • 56min
Behind the Scenes with the San Francisco Opera
In this insightful conversation, guests Eun Sun Kim, the trailblazing music director and first female conductor of a major U.S. opera company, and Matthew Shilvock, general director of the San Francisco Opera, open up about the passion that drives their productions. Elena Park, a documentary filmmaker, shares a behind-the-scenes look at Kim's interpretation of 'Lohengrin.' The trio discusses the emotional challenges of staging Wagnerian operas, the importance of collaboration in storytelling, and the vibrant training experiences for emerging artists.
Feb 14, 2025 • 56min
Rachel Syme Teaches You How to Write a Memorable Letter
Rachel Syme, a staff writer at The New Yorker and author of "Syme's Letter Writer," passionately discusses the art of letter writing. She highlights how letters serve as vessels for family dynamics, apologies, and emotional clarity. Syme shares insights from her pen pal exchange, which connected 10,000 people globally during the pandemic. The intimacy of handwritten correspondence stands in stark contrast to digital communication, fostering deep connections and nostalgia, while her advice encourages listeners to rediscover the joy of writing heartfelt letters.
