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
Oct 30, 2024 • 56min
Washington Post, LA Times Pulling Harris Endorsements Spark Outrage
Mariel Garza, a journalist and former editorial editor of the Los Angeles Times, discusses the editorial board's internal conflicts over endorsements. David Folkenflik from NPR highlights the influence of billionaire ownership in media. Sewell Chan, from the Columbia Journalism Review, delves into the broader implications of not endorsing candidates, questioning media integrity and public trust. The trio examines why endorsements matter in a polarized landscape and the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists when balancing personal beliefs with professional duties.
Oct 29, 2024 • 56min
How Silicon Valley Became the ‘New Lobbying Monster’
Charles Duhigg, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of "Supercommunicators" and "The Power of Habit," delves into the overwhelming influence of Silicon Valley on American politics. He discusses how Big Tech is pouring millions into super PACs to sway elections, particularly around crypto and AI. Duhigg highlights aggressive ad campaigns and lobbying tactics used to shape regulatory environments. He warns about the implications of tech's newfound political power, raising questions about democracy and the future of electoral integrity.
Oct 29, 2024 • 56min
How Much Do We Need to Worry About the Election Being Overturned?
Jim Rutenberg, a seasoned reporter from The New York Times, Ian Millhiser, a Vox senior correspondent with a focus on the Supreme Court, and Jessica Marsden from Protect Democracy dive into the pressing issues surrounding election integrity. They discuss the unsettling rise of the election integrity movement post-2020, the risks of non-certification in battleground states, and the wavering confidence in democratic processes. The conversation emphasizes the importance of accountability, legal reforms, and public trust in safeguarding elections against potential threats.
Oct 28, 2024 • 56min
‘Band People’ Highlights the Working Musicians Behind the Scenes
Franz Nicolay, a musician and author of "Band People: Life and Work in Popular Music," joins fellow artist Jason Narducy to delve into the hidden lives of session musicians and backup singers. They discuss the emotional ties within bands, the delicate balance of creativity and commerce, and the unique challenges musicians face, particularly drummers and bass players. With personal anecdotes, they illuminate the unsung heroes of the music world and highlight gender dynamics that persist in the industry.
Oct 28, 2024 • 56min
Is Social Media Activating or Repelling Voters This Election Cycle?
Morgan Sung, host of "Close All Tabs," dives into the fusion of politics and internet culture, while Sapna Maheshwari, a New York Times business reporter, dissects TikTok's role in the election. They discuss how political campaigns leverage memes and viral content to engage younger voters, and the potential pitfalls of misinformation. The conversation highlights the evolution of digital campaigning, the impact of social media on journalism, and how these platforms create echo chambers that may reinforce existing beliefs. It's an engaging look at today's political landscape!
Oct 25, 2024 • 56min
Edie Falco and Tony Shalhoub Star in New Radio Play 'It Happened Here 2024'
Edie Falco, renowned for her roles in "The Sopranos" and "Nurse Jackie," and Tony Shalhoub, famous for "Monk" and "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel," collaborate on a gripping radio play, "It Happened Here 2024." Alongside playwright Richard Dresser, they explore a chilling future where fascism takes hold in America. The trio discusses the emotional landscape of political division, the normalization of extremist rhetoric, and the importance of creative expression as a coping mechanism in uncertain times. Their insights challenge listeners to reflect on the current political climate.
Oct 25, 2024 • 56min
Neuroscientist Daniel Levitin on Using Music as Medicine
Neuroscientist Daniel Levitin, also a musician and author, dives into the healing power of music, tracing its significance back 20,000 years. He discusses how music can relax, uplift, and assist in treating conditions like trauma, depression, and Alzheimer’s. Levitin highlights fascinating neuroscience behind music's impact on our brain and its therapeutic potential, including its role in improving motor skills for those with Parkinson's. The conversation blends engaging stories with a reminder of music's emotional resonance in our lives.
Oct 25, 2024 • 56min
Should You Be Giving Your DNA to Consumer Health Companies?
Kristen V. Brown, a staff writer for The Atlantic, and Hank Greely, a Stanford law professor, dive into the booming world of consumer DNA testing. They discuss the surprising limitations of tests from companies like 23andMe and the serious privacy risks involved. Discover the implications when these companies vanish and the fate of your genetic data. The conversation also unpacks existing legal protections, the ethics of collecting DNA, and the balance between potential health insights and privacy concerns.
Oct 24, 2024 • 56min
R.L. Stine on the Stories that Give Us ‘Goosebumps’
R.L. Stine, the mastermind behind the iconic 'Goosebumps' and 'Fear Street' series, joins the discussion alongside Forum producers Caroline Smith, Mark Nieto, and Blanca Torres. They reminisce about how Stine's spine-tingling tales ignited their childhood love for reading. The conversation highlights the delicate balance of crafting scary yet age-appropriate stories and the lasting cultural impact these works have had. Through personal anecdotes, they celebrate the way 'Goosebumps' continues to connect generations, blending fear and fun.
Oct 24, 2024 • 56min
Election 2024: How the Demographics of American Voters Are Changing
Mindy Romero, founder of the Center for Inclusive Democracy, Jason McDaniel, political science professor, and Jocelyn Kiley, senior research director at Pew Research, dive into the evolving landscape of American voters. They unpack significant shifts, noting the rise of Latino and Asian American eligible voters, alongside a decline in white voters. The discussion reveals how education levels and economic factors influence political affiliations, as well as the need for candidates to engage diverse electorates amidst these changes, especially leading up to the 2024 elections.
