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 3, 2024 • 56min
Will California’s Latest Efforts to Combat Plastic Bag Waste Work This Time?
Rob Bonta, California's Attorney General, discusses the state's new ban on all plastic grocery bags, challenging previous regulations that inadvertently increased waste. He addresses a recent lawsuit against ExxonMobil regarding misleading claims about plastic recycling effectiveness. Joined by experts like Susanne Rust and Jenn Engstrom, they delve into the realities of recycling, legislative complexities, and the necessity for stronger actions against plastic pollution. Insights reveal the ongoing struggles and innovative strategies for a sustainable future in California.
Oct 2, 2024 • 56min
JD Vance and Tim Walz Face Off in VP Debate
Scott Shafer, a senior editor at KQED’s California Politics and Government, discusses the intense vice presidential debate between Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Ohio Senator JD Vance. With tight polls in battleground states, Shafer and guests analyze the candidates' contrasting debate styles and their stances on crucial issues like the economy, immigration, and gun violence. They explore how such performances might influence voter perception and electoral outcomes, reflecting the charged atmosphere of the current political landscape.
Oct 2, 2024 • 56min
Mark Farrell Wants to be Mayor…Again
Mark Farrell, who briefly served as San Francisco's mayor in 2018, is back on the campaign trail, advocating for change. He paints a picture of a city in decline, grappling with homelessness and safety issues, especially in the Tenderloin, which he believes needs national intervention. Farrell discusses his moderate stance in a progressive landscape and the urgency of revitalizing downtown by converting office spaces to housing. He reflects on his experiences in office and highlights the importance of effective leadership in addressing these pressing urban challenges.
Oct 1, 2024 • 56min
Election 2024: Proposition 32 Would Raise California’s Minimum Wage
Farida Jhabvala Romero, a labor correspondent for KQED, discusses California Proposition 32, which proposes raising the minimum wage to $18 by 2026. She highlights how this measure could promote economic fairness and uplift low-wage earners. In contrast, Joseph Sanberg, an anti-poverty advocate, argues against the increase, warning it may lead to higher prices and job losses. The conversation reveals the deep divides among Californians on this critical issue, emphasizing the potential impact on various worker demographics across the state.
Oct 1, 2024 • 56min
Hurricane Helene and the Changing Wreckage of Climate Change & Notable Bills Gov. Newsom Signed and Vetoed this Legislative Session
Abrahm Lustgarten, a senior environmental reporter at ProPublica, discusses the aftermath of Hurricane Helene and its devastating impact on communities. He highlights how climate change is intensifying weather events and pushing urban planning towards resilience strategies. The conversation also touches on California’s legislative landscape, including notable bills signed and vetoed by Governor Newsom, such as the contentious laws around legacy admissions and AI regulations, reflecting on their implications for social equity and disaster preparedness.
Sep 30, 2024 • 56min
Pioneering Journalist Connie Chung on a Lifetime of Newsmaking
Connie Chung, a pioneering journalist and the first Asian national network news anchor in the U.S., shares her journey through the male-dominated news industry of the 70s and 80s. She opens up about her experiences covering monumental events, from Watergate to the Oklahoma City bombing, and reflects on the challenges of sexism she faced. Chung discusses her emotional evolution, the impact of her work on future generations, and the duality of triumph and turmoil in her career. Her new memoir, 'Connie,' adds depth to her inspiring narrative.
Sep 30, 2024 • 56min
Aaron Peskin on Why a Progressive Should be the Next San Francisco Mayor
Aaron Peskin, a long-time San Francisco political figure and the current president of the Board of Supervisors, discusses his vision for the city as a progressive mayoral candidate. He shares insights on revitalizing neighborhoods through community engagement and the imperative for affordable housing, emphasizing the importance of local voices in policy-making. Peskin also tackles issues of cleanliness in the city and addresses corruption in local government, advocating for reforms that enhance public trust and community involvement.
Sep 27, 2024 • 56min
What Are Your Favorite Solo Activities?
Rebecca Ratner, a renowned marketing professor, joins food editor Luke Tsai to dive into the rising trend of solo activities among younger generations. They discuss the joys and benefits of dining alone, highlighting how it can enhance creativity and mental well-being. Personal stories reveal the liberation found in solitary pursuits, often underestimated by society. The conversation also explores the difference between loneliness and healthy solitude, encouraging listeners to embrace their personal interests and the power of alone time.
Sep 26, 2024 • 56min
Caroline Crampton on the History of Hypochondria…and Her Own Struggles with Health Anxiety
Journalist Caroline Crampton explores the cultural history of hypochondria and her own battles with health anxiety after surviving cancer. She delves into the evolution of hypochondria into modern health anxiety, sharing impactful personal anecdotes. The conversation reveals the complexities of navigating health worries, the role of the internet in exacerbating anxieties, and the transformative power of community support. Crampton also discusses therapeutic techniques and the societal influences that shape our perceptions of health issues.
Sep 26, 2024 • 56min
Snacking Is Taking Over the Way We Eat
Ellen Cushing, a writer for The Atlantic, dives into the fascinating evolution of snacking in American culture. With 95% of adults snacking daily, she explores how this trend has replaced traditional meals, influenced by marketing and societal shifts. The podcast uncovers the contrast between American and European snacking habits, the health implications of constant grazing, and the environmental challenges posed by snack packaging. Cushing also discusses the cultural pressures around food choices and the addictive qualities of modern snacks.
