KQED's Forum

In this engaging discussion, Catherine Gudis, a history professor and author, explores the rich cultural history of billboards, while Wendy Liu, a critical tech writer, critiques their impact on community identity. Matt Stevens, a culture critic, sheds light on how billboards shape the entertainment landscape in Southern California. The trio dives into nostalgic memories of hand-painted signs, the tension between traditional and digital advertising, and how these visual markers reflect California's evolving values. They invite listeners to share their own billboard stories, highlighting their quirky charm.

Jill Tucker, a K-12 education reporter for the San Francisco Chronicle, Noliwe Rooks, chair of Africana Studies at Brown University, and Michael J. Petrilli, president of the Thomas B. Fordham Institute, delve into the significant implications of budget cuts to the Department of Education. They discuss the historical context of these cuts, their impact on local schools, and the troubling future for civil rights oversight. The conversation also critiques the tension between federal and local control, emphasizing the need for a focus on educational equity and community-driven solutions.

Join Luke Broadwater, a seasoned White House reporter for The New York Times, alongside Ankush Khardori, a senior writer at POLITICO and former federal prosecutor, as they dive into the tumultuous waters of President Trump's connection to Jeffrey Epstein. They discuss the intense demands for transparency from Trump's base and the implications of ongoing investigations. The guests explore conspiracy theories swirling around the case, the political fallout for the GOP, and how narratives are shaped in the media landscape. Get ready for a thought-provoking analysis!

Brian Goldstone, a journalist and author, dives into the paradox of working homelessness through the stories of five families in Atlanta in his book, illuminating the unseen struggles of those employed yet unhoused. Dr. Margot Kushel, an expert in homelessness and housing, emphasizes the urgency for more inclusive definitions and systemic changes to address the crisis. They discuss societal misconceptions, the economic realities of full-time work without housing, and the pressing need for comprehensive solutions and public awareness to combat this growing issue.

Garrett Graff, a seasoned journalist and historian who specializes in law enforcement and democracy, dives into the recent tripling of ICE's budget, which now surpasses even the FBI's. He paints a stark picture of this funding surge, describing it as "turbo-charging" a lawless immigration enforcement regime. Graff addresses the dangerous implications for accountability and civil liberties, and the shift in ICE's focus from serious criminals to undocumented migrants. He also highlights the community's growing fears and calls for reform amidst this unprecedented expansion.

In this engaging discussion, Josh Jackson, the author of 'The Enduring Wild' and founder of the Forgotten Lands Project, dives into the hidden treasures of California's public lands. He discusses the overlooked Bureau of Land Management areas and their ecological significance. The conversation highlights the imminent threats these lands face from exploitation and proposed sell-offs. Personal narratives enrich the exploration of unique landscapes, urging listeners to advocate for the protection and mindful enjoyment of these shared spaces.

Join pop culture writer Sezín Devi Koehler, critic Angelica Jade Bastién, and KQED’s Carly Severn as they dive deep into the captivating world of Keanu Reeves. They celebrate his iconic roles across four decades, exploring themes of masculinity and representation. The conversation highlights his unique blend of kindness and intensity, especially in the 'John Wick' series, while dispelling myths about his acting talent. Listeners are invited to share their favorite performances, underscoring Reeves’ enduring impact on cinema and culture.

Michael Isip, President and CEO of KQED, joins Media correspondent David Folkenflik, public television advocate Kate Riley, and KZYX director Andre de Channes to discuss significant congressional cuts to public media funding. They explore the $1.1 billion in rescindments set to impact local programming and educational initiatives. The guests share the emotional toll on public stations, the fight for sustainability amidst financial crises, and the vital role these organizations play in community storytelling and support.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta, a key figure in legal resistance against the Trump administration, discusses his lawsuits challenging policies on immigration and National Guard deployments. He delves into the implications of sharing Medicaid data with ICE and advocates for the protection of immigrant rights. Bonta shares insights on maintaining civic engagement in response to federal overreach and highlights the importance of inclusive policies for California's diverse communities, emphasizing the state's commitment to constitutional rights.

In this insightful discussion, Yuriy Gorodnichenko, a UC Berkeley economics professor, unpacks the staggering costs of rebuilding Ukraine, estimated up to $1 trillion. BBC Ukraine reporter Zhanna Bezpiatchuk shares compelling on-the-ground stories from war-torn Irpin. Margie O'Driscoll highlights innovative rebuilding efforts at the Center for Innovation, while architect Eugene Chumakov discusses designing the State Tax University for sustainability and accessibility. Together, they explore the resilience and hope emerging from a devastated landscape.