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
Sep 22, 2025 • 56min
Bay Area Manufacturing: A Thing of the Past or the Future?
In this engaging discussion, Kate Gordon, CEO of California Forward and former energy policy official, dives into place-based development strategies alongside Mathew Bogoshian, Executive Director of AMCC, who sheds light on rebuilding manufacturing capacity and workforce ecosystems. Adhiti Bandlamudi, a KQED reporter, offers insight into local reactions to California Forever's ambitious plan for a new manufacturing town in Solano County. The conversation explores the evolution of manufacturing, environmental concerns, and the promise of regional economic revitalization.
Sep 22, 2025 • 56min
USAID Died Slowly, Alongside America’s Role in Global Health
Elissa Miolene, a global development reporter, discusses the devastating effects of USAID program cuts on humanitarian aid. Hana Kiros from The Atlantic highlights the 'fire sale' of abandoned assets and how partner nations are scrambling to cope with the sudden loss. Carson Cristiano, executive director of CEGA, emphasizes the dangers of lost data and the long-term impact these cuts pose for global health efforts. Together, they paint a stark picture of America's retreat from its crucial role in international development.
Sep 19, 2025 • 55min
Live on Forum: PRXZM
Nick Ortega and Emma Maidenberg, the creative minds behind the synth-pop duo PRXZM, dive into their unique fan-driven approach to music. They share how their Twitch livestreams foster authentic interactions, allowing fans to influence their compositions. The duo also discusses the thrilling remix of the Forum theme song, blending disco vibes with a personal touch. Plus, they reveal the story behind their formation and how they engage their community through innovative musical challenges. Tune in for insights into their artistic journey!
Sep 19, 2025 • 55min
Trump’s Immigration Crackdowns: A Conversation with Florida
Marisa Lagos, a KQED politics correspondent, Tom Hudson, president of news at WLRN, and Jasmine Garst, an NPR immigration correspondent, dive into the contrasting immigration policies of California and Florida. They discuss DeSantis's aggressive enforcement tactics compared to Newsom’s sanctuary laws. The conversation highlights the impact of these policies on labor shortages in agriculture, family dynamics, and education, revealing how communities are navigating the complexities of immigration enforcement amidst shifting political landscapes.
Sep 18, 2025 • 55min
What’s Driving California’s Shrinking Prison Population?
Joining the discussion are Nigel Duara, a justice reporter with a focus on California's criminal justice policy; Heather Harris, a research fellow specializing in criminal justice; and Caitlin O'Neill, a principal fiscal analyst. They explore California's dramatic decrease in prison population, driven by new policies and courtroom mandates. The conversation highlights the implications of prison closures on local communities, budgetary savings, and evolving rehabilitation opportunities, along with the rationale behind shifts in parole and sentencing policies.
Sep 18, 2025 • 56min
How to Be a Tourist in Your Own Town
Join Peter Hartlaub, a savvy culture critic from the San Francisco Chronicle, and Pendarvis 'Pen' Harshaw, arts columnist at KQED, as they dive into the hidden gems of the Bay Area. They discuss the fantastic Doors Open California program, encouraging locals to explore historic sites and underappreciated attractions. From quirky spots like the Albany Bulb to scenic ferry rides, they reveal the joys of being a tourist in your own backyard. This lively conversation inspires a new appreciation for local adventures.
Sep 17, 2025 • 56min
LA Immigrant Communities on Edge After Supreme Court Ruling on ICE Arrests
Join law professor Ahilan Arulanantham, California Attorney General Rob Bonta, immigration advocate Marissa Montes, and journalist Andrea Castillo as they unpack the ramifications of a recent Supreme Court ruling on ICE arrests. They discuss the heightened fears among immigrant communities in Los Angeles and the potential for increased racial profiling. The guests share insights on state legal strategies, the on-the-ground impact of raids, and how people can support affected families amid ongoing changes in immigration enforcement.
Sep 17, 2025 • 56min
How Bruce Lee Helped Shape Asian American Culture
Jeff Chang, a journalist and author of "Water Mirror Echo," dives deep into Bruce Lee's life and his pivotal role in shaping Asian American culture. Chang reveals Lee's journey from a challenging childhood in Hong Kong to becoming a martial arts icon in the U.S. The discussion highlights Lee's innovative Jeet Kune Do, his unique contributions to cinema as an anti-colonial force, and his lasting cultural impact that resonates with diverse communities. Lee's philosophical insights and relevance in today's world, especially during the pandemic, add intriguing layers to his story.
Sep 16, 2025 • 56min
Elie Honig on the Challenges and Perils of Prosecuting a President
Elie Honig, a senior legal analyst for CNN and former federal prosecutor, dives into the complex challenges of prosecuting U.S. presidents in his engaging discussion. He highlights the historical implications of holding leaders accountable, from Nixon to Trump. Honig critiques recent DOJ controversies, including the increased politicization and the firing of career prosecutors. He emphasizes the need for a semi-permanent special counsel to navigate these intricate legal and political landscapes, ensuring justice amidst powerful influences.
Sep 16, 2025 • 56min
In Search of Home Part 1: How to Prevent Homelessness
Rob Collinson, an assistant professor at the University of Notre Dame, discusses effective strategies to prevent homelessness. He emphasizes that keeping people housed is more economical and less traumatic than providing aid after they've lost their homes. The conversation explores innovative community initiatives, the dynamics between landlords and tenants, and the importance of addressing root causes like financial instability and health crises. With insights from real-life experiences, the discussion highlights systemic solutions that can make a significant impact in combating homelessness.
