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
Dec 3, 2024 • 56min
The ‘Seductive Promise’ and Peril of Microfinance
Mara Kardas-Nelson, an independent journalist and author, sheds light on her book about microfinance's complex reality, especially for impoverished women in West Africa. Laurie Styron, CEO of CharityWatch, discusses the challenges of transparency in charity donations. They explore harrowing stories of women jailed for unpaid microloans and question the sustainability of high-interest models. The conversation also emphasizes responsible charitable giving and alternative solutions to poverty, urging a more thoughtful approach to philanthropy.
Dec 2, 2024 • 56min
Why We ‘Love to Hate’ Comic Sans
Simon Garfield, author of "Comic Sans: The Biography of a Typeface," dives into the quirky journey of Comic Sans, from its unintentional creation at Microsoft to its polarizing reputation. He discusses how this beloved yet loathed font became emblematic of a cultural debate on typography. Garfield highlights its surprising acceptance in educational settings for dyslexia and its role in the ironic humor of online culture. Listeners learn how font choices reflect personal expression and societal attitudes in a digital age.
Dec 2, 2024 • 56min
How Should the Media Cover the Next Trump Administration?
Brooke Gladstone, Host and Managing Editor of 'On the Media' and author of 'The Trouble with Reality,' joins Jon Allsop, a journalist from Columbia Journalism Review, to delve into the complicated relationship between the media and the Trump administration. They explore how journalists can navigate misinformation, the impact of social media under Elon Musk, and the challenges of maintaining credibility. The conversation highlights the evolving role of media amidst rising skepticism and the need for integrity in political discourse.
Nov 29, 2024 • 56min
Forum From the Archives: Miranda July Wrestles with the Female Midlife Crisis in ‘All Fours’
Miranda July, an acclaimed actor, screenwriter, director, and author, shares insights from her latest novel, 'All Fours.' She vividly explores the complexities of the female midlife crisis through the story of a 45-year-old artist on an unexpected road trip. July addresses themes of marital ennui, fears of aging, and the pursuit of self-identity. She invites listeners to reflect on personal transformation, the evolving nature of relationships, and the significance of embracing growth and creativity during life’s transitional phases.
Nov 29, 2024 • 56min
Forum From the Archives: Rebecca Nagle on the Long and Ongoing Battle for Tribal Sovereignty and Land
In this engaging conversation, Rebecca Nagle, a journalist and Cherokee Nation member, shares insights from her book 'By the Fire We Carry.' She discusses the landmark Supreme Court decision that restored vast tribal lands in Oklahoma and its implications for Native American sovereignty. Nagle explores her family's complex legacy amidst this ongoing struggle, reflecting on historical trauma and contemporary issues of tribal identity. Listeners gain a deeper understanding of the fight for land justice and the vital connections between history and modern Indigenous rights.
Nov 27, 2024 • 56min
Forum From the Archives: Pioneering Journalist Connie Chung on a Lifetime of Newsmaking
Connie Chung, the first Asian American to anchor a national news program in the U.S. and co-anchor of the CBS Evening News, shares her groundbreaking journey in journalism. She candidly discusses the rampant sexism of the 70s and 80s, her rise from a secretarial role to prominent broadcaster, and the emotional challenges of covering major events. Chung also reflects on her dual identity and the importance of representation in media, revealing her struggles with self-acknowledgment despite her countless achievements.
Nov 27, 2024 • 56min
Forum From the Archives: Small and Big Acts of Kindness Shine in New Book from Upworthy
Lucia Knell and Gabriel Reilich, co-authors of "Good People: Stories from the Best of Humanity" and key figures at Upworthy, dive into inspiring tales of kindness. They share heartwarming stories, like a son's 2,500-mile journey to save a dog and a compassionate airport janitor's act of comfort. Discussing the importance of positive storytelling in countering negativity, they highlight how small gestures can create a ripple effect, fostering empathy and community during challenging times.
Nov 26, 2024 • 56min
What Role Did the Manosphere Play in the Election?
Joshua Citarella, an artist and internet culture writer, dives into how the manosphere is shaping young men's political views, particularly after recent elections. He discusses the spectrum of content found in this online space, from benign advice to extremist ideologies. The conversation highlights how casual podcasts can radicalize young men and the impact of misinformation in male-centric media. Citarella emphasizes the urgent need for open dialogues about gender dynamics and the interplay between digital culture and politics in today's society.
Nov 26, 2024 • 56min
john a. powell on Polarization and 'The Power of Bridging'
Join john a. powell, Director of UC Berkeley’s Othering & Belonging Institute, as he delves into societal divisions and the pressing need for connection. He discusses the concept of 'othering' and how it contrasts with our innate desire for belonging. Navigating political polarization, powell emphasizes the power of empathetic listening over debate. He advocates for storytelling as a bridge to understanding diverse perspectives, highlighting shared humanity as a means to foster genuine connections—even during heated political times.
Nov 25, 2024 • 56min
Parental Burnout is the Latest Public Health Crisis
Claire Cain Miller, a New York Times reporter specializing in gender and family issues, joins clinical psychologist Keith Sutton to delve into the escalating crisis of parental burnout. They discuss how the rise of intensive parenting has led to unprecedented stress. Miller highlights that working mothers invest as much time with their kids as stay-at-home moms did decades ago. Sutton emphasizes the mental health implications, especially amplified during the pandemic, prompting a call for systemic support and community connection to counteract this trend.
