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
Jan 10, 2025 • 56min
Respite from Strong Winds Expected in Los Angeles Wildfires; All Hail the Humble and Glorious Bean
Saul Gonzalez, co-host of The California Report, shares updates on the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, detailing the heartbreaking impact on the community. Steve Sando, founder of Rancho Gordo, and chef Jessica Battilana discuss beans as a culinary star, exploring their nutritional benefits and unique cooking methods. They emphasize the cultural significance of beans and how to elevate them from side dishes to the main attraction, inviting listeners to celebrate this humble yet versatile staple in their meals.
Jan 9, 2025 • 56min
What Has Martha Stewart Meant to You?
R.J. Cutler, an Academy Award-nominated director, shares insights from his documentary on Martha Stewart, revealing the complexities behind her rise to fame and her struggles, including a prison sentence. He discusses a candid dinner that uncovered unexpected aspects of her life and the unique challenges faced by powerful women. The conversation also touches on Martha's enduring legacy and her resilience through adversity, as well as the profound connections she fosters, particularly between mothers and daughters.
Jan 9, 2025 • 56min
Los Angeles Fires Continue to Rage; Is Time Running Out for TikTok?
Anthony Edwards, a newsroom meteorologist at the San Francisco Chronicle, analyzes the devastating wildfires sweeping through Los Angeles, highlighting the severe winds and drought worsening the crisis. Emily Baker White, an investigative reporter at Forbes, discusses the imminent Supreme Court case surrounding TikTok and its potential ban, while legal expert Jessica Levinson unpacks the constitutional implications. The conversation explores the complex interplay between national security concerns and First Amendment rights amidst a culture of intensifying scrutiny on social media.
Jan 8, 2025 • 56min
Los Angeles Fires Destroy Homes, Force Evacuations; What Will You Remember about Jimmy Carter?
Stuart E. Eizenstat, former chief White House domestic policy adviser, discusses the impactful policies of Jimmy Carter’s presidency, highlighting the Camp David Accords and his focus on human rights. Jonathan Alter reflects on Carter’s complex legacy and his post-presidential humanitarian efforts. Mary Frances Berry shares insights on civil rights developments during Carter’s administration. Meanwhile, Saul Gonzalez covers the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, emphasizing community resilience and the urgent need for better disaster preparedness.
Jan 8, 2025 • 56min
Bay Area Cities Welcome New Leadership
Scott Shafer, a senior editor at KQED, discusses the inauguration of San Francisco's new mayor, Daniel Lurie, and the challenges he faces. Alex Hall updates listeners on Oakland's interim mayor, Kevin Jenkins, and Congresswoman Barbara Lee's mayoral candidacy following a recall. Guy Marzorati highlights the urgent issues of public safety, homelessness, and the fentanyl crisis that new leaders must tackle. The conversation emphasizes the necessity for collaboration amidst a complex political landscape, shaping the future of the Bay Area.
Jan 7, 2025 • 56min
The Board Games that Gen Z Loves to Play
Callie Holtermann, a New York Times reporter focused on Gen Z's culture, joins Gwendolyn Reza, co-owner of Games of Berkeley, and Angela Lin, the renowned Mahjong Mistress. They explore the board game renaissance among younger generations, highlighting the social connections formed through classic games like Uno and Mahjong. The guests discuss the dynamics and strategies in games, how they bridge generational gaps, and share personal anecdotes that illustrate the communal joy and deeper relationships fostered through play.
Jan 7, 2025 • 56min
An Exit Interview with SF Transit Director Jeff Tumlin
In this discussion, Jeff Tumlin, the former director of the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency, reflects on his challenging tenure leading Muni through a pandemic that drastically altered public transit. He sheds light on the recovery of Muni compared to BART and the essential adaptations made during this period. Tumlin discusses the impacts of rideshare services, the complexities of urban infrastructure, and emphasizes the importance of community engagement for improving transit in San Francisco. His insights provide a glimpse into the future of urban transportation.
Jan 6, 2025 • 56min
Pro-Eating Disorder Communities Find New Spaces Online
Caitlin Tiffany, a staff writer at The Atlantic specializing in internet culture, and Dr. Jennie Wang-Hall, a psychologist focused on eating disorders, explore the disturbing rise of pro-eating disorder communities on social media, particularly on X. They discuss how minimal content moderation allows harmful narratives to thrive, impacting adolescents. Topics include the normalization of toxic behaviors through algorithm-driven feeds, the need for better support systems for those affected, and the complexities of addressing body image issues in an increasingly digital world.
Jan 6, 2025 • 56min
Remembering What (Really) Happened on January 6
Sarah Wire, senior political correspondent for USA Today, recounts her immediate experiences reporting from the Capitol during the January 6 attack. Hanna Rosin, host of Radio Atlantic, delves into the troubling narratives surrounding the event, including Trump’s revisionist claims. They discuss the emotional toll on lawmakers and journalists during the chaos and explore the continuing fight for accountability through the 'Justice for January 6' movement. Together, they reflect on how the attack reshaped American democracy and the ongoing struggle against misinformation.
Jan 3, 2025 • 56min
Trump Allies Already Pressuring State Leaders on Immigration
Hamed Aleaziz, a New York Times reporter on immigration policy, joins experts like Ahilan Arulanantham from UCLA Law and Francisco Ugarte, managing attorney with the SF Public Defender's office. They unpack the implications of a recent threat directed at California's sanctuary policies by Trump ally Stephen Miller’s organization. Discussions include potential legal repercussions for state officials, strategies for resisting federal deportation efforts, and the promising response from local jurisdictions in defending immigrant rights and challenging federal overreach.
