KQED's Forum

Mike Hutchinson, Vice President of the Oakland School Board, sheds light on the district's efforts to manage lead contamination in drinking water at schools. Activist filmmaker Alex Bledsoe shares insights from his documentary OAKLEAD, revealing the historical context of lead poisoning in Oakland. Kelly Hardy, from Children Now, discusses the health impacts of lead on children and the necessity for improved safety measures. Together, they tackle community activism, challenges in communication, and the urgent need for funding and effective solutions.

In this episode, Assembly member Phil Ting discusses his groundbreaking bill banning legacy admissions in California, aiming for fairer college access. Nanette Asimov sheds light on how this legislation could reshape university admissions and promote diversity. Jessie Ryan advocates for equitable opportunities, stressing the importance of supporting first-generation students. Catharine Hill offers insights on the implications for higher education, arguing for merit-based systems to replace legacy privileges. A compelling conversation on equity and the future of college admissions!

Vikram Amar is a law professor at UC Davis who once clerked for a Supreme Court Justice. Rory Little, a constitutional law professor in San Francisco, has a background as a federal prosecutor. Melissa Murray, from NYU, co-hosts a podcast on judicial matters. They delve into the Supreme Court's new term, discussing pivotal cases on trans rights and the implications for youth hormone therapy. The conversation also tackles gun rights, ethical issues surrounding justices, and how these decisions may shape the 2024 presidential election.

Samuel Estreicher, a public law professor at NYU, William G. Gould IV, a labor law expert and former NLRB chairman, and labor correspondent Farida Jhabvala Romero dive into the looming legal threats against the National Labor Relations Board from giants like SpaceX and Amazon. They discuss the NLRB's critical role in safeguarding worker rights and the historical context behind these challenges. The implications of these lawsuits on unionization efforts and labor rights in America are examined, shedding light on the potential future of organized labor.

Justin Barker, a local animal rights activist, discusses alarming findings about the San Francisco Zoo's outdated facilities, including flooding and inadequate water for the animals. Tara Duggan, a reporter at the San Francisco Chronicle, shares insights on the critical report that spurred calls for action. Former Oakland Zoo director Joel Parrott highlights ethical considerations in zoo management and the importance of prioritizing animal welfare over attractions. The conversation delves into the need for accountability and reform in animal care practices.

Gabriella Paul, a reporter for WUSF, provides on-the-ground insights into the devastating impacts of Hurricanes Helene and Milton on Florida, especially in Pasco County. Gerard Albert III shares how these storms have affected rural communities in North Carolina like Asheville. Author Porter Fox discusses the science behind 'supercharged hurricanes' and their link to climate change. Together, they explore the emotional toll on residents, ongoing recovery challenges, and the urgent need for effective climate action in a world facing more frequent storms.

In this engaging discussion, science writer Josh Luke Davis, from the Natural History Museum in London and author of "A Little Queer Natural History," unveils the rich tapestry of queerness in nature. He shares intriguing examples, like male clownfish changing sexes and same-sex giraffe behavior. The conversation dives into the historical biases of scientific research on queer animal behaviors, the societal implications of these findings, and the remarkable parenting success of queer couples in the animal kingdom, prompting a re-evaluation of conventional beliefs about sex and gender.

Eric Deggans, TV critic for NPR, shares insights on Saturday Night Live's cultural impact, while Joanna Robinson from The Ringer discusses its influence on politics and satire. Stephen Tropiano, a screen studies professor, provides historical context. They delve into iconic sketches like 'Black Jeopardy' and analyze how SNL navigates a polarized landscape. The conversation highlights the show's ability to blend humor with serious issues, reflecting on its lasting relevance as it marks 50 years of comedy and commentary.

Daniel Lurie, founder of Tipping Point Community and a mayoral candidate, dives into his vision for San Francisco. He reflects on his upbringing influenced by his father's legacy as a rabbi, emphasizing public service. Lurie tackles chronic homelessness, advocating for innovative solutions and systemic reforms. He highlights the need for accountability in nonprofits amid crises like fentanyl addiction. Passionate about revitalizing the city, he discusses grassroots fundraising and the importance of community representation to drive transformative change.

Much has been written about Ronald Reagan, but historian Max Boot’s new biography, which draws on new archival sources and interviews with nearly a hundred people who knew Reagan best, is being hailed as definitive. Boot says Reagan was possessed of “myriad contradictions and inconsistencies:” a skeptic of government who presided over vast spending increases; a gun rights advocate who supported tough gun laws; a man of strong convictions but little intellectual depth. We talk to Boot about why he did not want to write either a “hagiography or a hit job” of the former president and California governor, and both the contrasts and connections he sees between Reagan and Donald Trump. Boot’s new book is “Reagan: His Life and Legend.” What policy, event or moment do you most associate with Ronald Reagan?Guests:Max Boot, senior fellow for national security studies, Council on Foreign Relations - columnist, Washington Post; author, "Reagan: His Life and Legend" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices