KQED's Forum

In this enlightening discussion, travel advisor Mackenzie McMillan reveals Canadian concerns about visiting the U.S. due to political tensions. Pete Hillan shares insights on how the California hotel industry is bracing for a downturn with a projected 9% drop in international visitors. Hailey Branson-Potts emphasizes the emotional and economic repercussions in the Coachella Valley, while Kenny Cassady highlights the impacts on vacation rentals in Palm Springs. Together, they explore the challenges facing California's tourism amid changing international dynamics.

EW (Joe) Friday, former director of the National Weather Service, warns about severe funding cuts to NOAA that threaten weather accuracy and safety. Geoff Brumfiel from NPR discusses how the cuts impact crucial scientific groups like the atomic spectroscopy unit at NIST, affecting national security. Katherine Wu from The Atlantic highlights the grassroots monitoring of terminated grants by independent scientists. Together, they explore the looming consequences of these budget reductions on public health, research innovation, and the future of science under political pressures.

Chloe Dalton, a writer and political advisor, discusses her heartwarming experience nursing an injured newborn hare. She shares the profound lessons this bond taught her about trust, presence, and the reality of loss. Dalton reflects on the emotional struggle of caring for a wild animal while acknowledging its untamed nature. Through her personal anecdotes, she emphasizes the importance of patience and observation, revealing how such connections with wildlife can enrich our lives and foster empathy for all living creatures.

Scott Shafer and Marisa Lagos from KQED's politics team discuss the tensions between California and the Trump administration. They dive into how Democratic leaders are strategizing against federal policies and the adjustments California Republicans are making. The duo highlights concerns about civil liberties amid an authoritarian shift and the political frustrations within the Democratic Party. They also explore the future of California's political landscape, including potential candidacies and the impact of federal constraints on state governance.

David Folkenflik, NPR's media correspondent, dives into the urgent threat facing public broadcasting from the Trump administration's funding cuts. Joined by Michael Isip, Connie Leyva, and Dina Polkinghorne, they discuss how crucial public media is for rural communities, where it serves as their primary news source. The conversation touches on legal challenges to the funding cuts, the vital role of advocacy, and the potential fallout for children’s programming. Together, they stress the importance of maintaining independent reporting in a politically charged environment.

Agustin Fuentes, a Princeton biological anthropologist and author of "Sex is a Spectrum," challenges traditional binary notions of sex. He discusses how cultural assumptions shape our understanding of gender and highlights the complexities of human reproductive biology. Fuentes draws parallels with intersex earthworms and sex-switching fish, advocating for a more fluid understanding of sexual identity. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing the spectrum of gender and its implications for personal identity, particularly for trans and intersex individuals.

Rana Mitter, the S.T. Lee Chair in U.S.-Asia Relations at Harvard Kennedy School, sheds light on the volatile U.S.-China trade relationship. He discusses the staggering tariffs—145% on Chinese imports—impacting both economies. Mitter highlights the complexities of trade negotiations, the misconceptions about who bears the burden of tariffs, and China's growing tech prowess. He urges for cultural exchanges and dialogue to ease tensions, while outlining the hopeful signs of reopening communication channels under the Biden administration.

Join Steve Young, the Mayor of Benicia, who discusses the community's anxiety over the Valero refinery closure, a major employer and taxpayer. Josh Sonnenfeld from the Blue Green Alliance sheds light on the balance between economic sustainability and environmental health. Severin Borenstein, a UC Berkeley professor, provides insights into the financial impacts and the need for a just transition for displaced workers. Together, they navigate the complex interplay of local jobs, pollution, and California's shift away from fossil fuels.

Laila Lalami, celebrated author of 'The Dream Hotel' and five other novels, dives into a chilling future where AI surveils our dreams to predict criminal behavior. She discusses the unsettling implications of government monitoring and how technology reshapes personal privacy and identity. Through the story of a mother ensnared in a web of data collection, Lalami sheds light on societal fears around safety versus autonomy. The conversation also touches on the emotional toll of constant scrutiny, emphasizing resilience and the human spirit amid dystopian realities.

Jessica Battilana, a cookbook author and staff editor at King Arthur Baking, shares her baking wisdom with flair. She highlights common baking mistakes and essential tips for crafting perfect desserts, like chocolate chip cookies and pie crusts. Discover the science behind leavening agents and the art of dough relaxation. With personal connections to baking, Battilana emphasizes how it brings joy and comfort during challenging times. She also dives into egg substitutes and mastering brioche, making complex baking techniques accessible to all.