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
Sep 19, 2024 • 56min
Have You Tried The ‘No-Buy Challenge?’
Adriana Morga, a financial literacy reporter at the Associated Press, discusses the rising trend of the 'No-Buy Challenge.' People are pledging to limit purchases to essentials, aiming to reduce impulse spending and debt. The conversation dives into why we overspend, from emotional triggers to societal pressures. Morga shares personal insights from participants, emphasizing the balance between minimizing consumption and enjoying life. The impact on mental health and relationships is explored, along with practical tips for embracing mindful spending.
Sep 19, 2024 • 56min
Should Students be Allowed Cell Phones in School?
Diego Ochoa, a superintendent in San Mateo-Foster City School District, and Maximus Simmons, a junior at Oakland High School, dive into the hot topic of cell phone policies in schools. They discuss California's impending legislation on restricting cell phone use and share insights from students and educators about its impact on concentration and engagement. Ochoa emphasizes the benefits of phone-free environments, while Simmons highlights student perspectives on the balance between tech use and classroom focus. Together, they explore the complex role technology plays in education today.
Sep 18, 2024 • 56min
What to Expect From the Rest of Wildfire Season…And How to Stay Safe
Wildfires in Southern California have devastated over 100,000 acres, prompting urgent discussions on safety and recovery. Experts reveal the alarming health risks of wildfire smoke, including links to respiratory issues and even dementia. The mental toll of evacuations and property loss is also examined, highlighting the psychological impact on affected individuals. Additionally, practical advice for managing indoor air quality during wildfire events is shared, emphasizing the importance of clean air centers and community support amidst the crisis.
Sep 18, 2024 • 56min
California’s Brutal Underground Market for Puppies Exposed in L.A. Times Investigation
The podcast uncovers the dark realities of California's underground puppy market, revealing how unethical breeders in the Midwest flood the state with sick puppies. Investigative reporters share insights from their extensive investigation, emphasizing the financial pressures driving neglectful breeding practices. Listeners are urged to thoroughly vet breeders and consider adoption from shelters to combat the cruelty of puppy mills. Personal stories highlight the importance of responsible pet ownership and animal welfare advocacy.
Sep 17, 2024 • 56min
Election 2024: California Congressional Races To Watch
Scott Shafer, senior editor at KQED’s California Politics, dives into the critical congressional races shaping California's political landscape. He discusses the fierce competition between Republicans defending their seats and Democrats vying to protect key districts, particularly in the Central Valley and Orange County. The conversation illuminates voter sentiments around local issues like cost of living and crime, and highlights the influence of grassroots support and redistricting on electoral outcomes, making 2024 a pivotal year for congressional control.
Sep 17, 2024 • 56min
Ayana Elizabeth Johnson asks ‘What If We Get It Right’ on Climate Change?
Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, a marine biologist and climate activist, pushes the conversation on climate change by asking, “What if we get it right?” She shares her vision of a positive future fueled by innovative solutions and community engagement. Johnson highlights the power of hope and personal agency in climate action, discussing the role of art in activism and the transformative impact of local initiatives. The talk reveals insights on living roofs and the necessity of proactive policies to support climate-displaced communities, emphasizing that every action counts in the fight for sustainability.
Sep 16, 2024 • 56min
Why Do We Love to Hate-Watch TV?
Alissa Wilkinson, a New York Times film critic, delves into the intriguing world of hate-watching TV shows. She discusses how streaming algorithms can lead us to shows that provoke frustration rather than enjoyment. The conversation explores the emotional ties and community bonding that arise from sharing disdain for a show. Wilkinson distinguishes hate-watching from guilty pleasures and examines how societal anxieties and modern technology fuel this phenomenon. Listeners share their own hilarious hate-watching experiences, revealing its cultural significance.
Sep 16, 2024 • 56min
Is Too Much Local Democracy to Blame for the Housing Crisis?
Jerusalem Demsas, a staff writer at the Atlantic and author of "On the Housing Crisis: Land, Development, Democracy," delves into the complexities of America’s housing crisis. She argues that local governance, with its tangled zoning boards and committees, is a significant yet overlooked culprit. While many point fingers at greedy developers or corrupt politicians, she reveals how these hyper-local decisions play a critical role. Demsas emphasizes the implications for marginalized communities and discusses the necessity for reform to tackle the housing shortage.
Sep 13, 2024 • 56min
How AI in Video Games is Affecting Performers
Mandalit del Barco, an NPR correspondent focusing on the entertainment industry, and Alberto Menache, a motion capture artist and co-founder of NPCx, explore the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike against video game companies. They discuss the fight for protections against unauthorized AI replicas, emphasizing the importance of consent, transparency, and fair compensation. The conversation highlights the critical role of voice actors, the implications of generative AI on creativity, and the necessity for solidarity among performers in an evolving industry.
Sep 13, 2024 • 56min
The Bay Area Orchestras Bringing Classical Music To A City Near You
The Bay Area boasts a surprising number of symphonies and philharmonic orchestras, each working to engage diverse audiences. Local music directors share insights about their upcoming seasons and innovative programming. A highlight includes the premiere of 'Two Black Churches,' exploring cultural themes. The discussion emphasizes the importance of community involvement, representation of underrepresented composers, and strategies for attracting younger audiences. The vibrancy and accessibility of the classical music scene shine through as local orchestras strive to revitalize their engagement.
