Consider This from NPR

Myanmar faces a devastating humanitarian crisis as a recent earthquake adds to the turmoil of an ongoing civil war. Over 3,000 lives were lost, raising urgent questions about the military's grip on power and the fate of ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi. Personal insights from Kim Aris, her son, reveal deep uncertainty about her safety. Amidst these challenges, the podcast highlights political dynamics regarding the Rohingya crisis and offers a glimpse of hope through the resilience of the resistance movement, despite the harsh realities.

Jason Furman, an economist from Harvard and former top advisor to President Obama, discusses Trump's controversial tariff strategies. He analyzes the implications of high tariffs and the complexities surrounding U.S. trade deficits. Furman challenges the notion that these deficits are inherently bad and highlights their nuanced impacts on the economy. The conversation delves into how expanded tariffs could raise prices for American families and affect global markets, stressing the importance of trade openness and its long-term effects on industries like manufacturing.

The federal government is threatening to withhold billions from major universities, igniting concerns over academic freedom. Educators argue these funding cuts represent an attack on higher education, affecting not just campuses but also research and innovation. A philosophy professor shares his insights on the tension between universities and political pressures, while an academic leader highlights the broader implications for local economies and scientific progress. The stakes are high for both students and the future of education.

President Trump views tariffs as a versatile tool for fixing economic issues, from negotiating trade deals to funding tax cuts. This approach raises questions about its effectiveness in protecting American jobs against international competition. Rana Foroohar describes these tariffs as an 'experiment' that might reshape the global economy. The discussion highlights the complexities of trade balances, consumer prices, and the potential for inflation and trade wars arising from these bold economic strategies.

Documentarian Deann Borshay Liem shares her poignant journey as a Korean adoptee, revealing how she uncovered the truth behind her adoption. She reacts to a recent South Korean report exposing widespread adoption fraud and malpractice that impacted tens of thousands of children. Liem discusses the emotional turmoil of discovering her birth mother was alive and the complexities of identity for adoptees. Her insights reflect a powerful call for justice and truth in adoption practices, emphasizing the need for reconciliation and better access to records.

The surge in AI is raising important questions about energy consumption and environmental sustainability. A former AI researcher discusses how her concerns sparked a push for greener practices in tech. The contrast between the fast-paced AI world and cautious nuclear industry reveals diverse engineering cultures. Innovations like liquid cooling and smaller models could enhance energy efficiency, but there's a crucial need for transparency. The discussion also emphasizes recognizing the significant climate costs associated with the AI revolution.

Brian Mann, NPR's national addiction correspondent, shares his insights on the recent decline in opioid overdose deaths. He discusses the surprising factors contributing to this positive trend, such as naloxone distribution and innovative medical treatments. Mann also delves into the contrasting political narratives surrounding addiction and fentanyl, and emphasizes the importance of compassionate solutions. He reflects on his personal connection to the issue, shedding light on the stigma surrounding addiction and the need for empathy in addressing this crisis.

Hadil al-Shalchi, NPR's correspondent, dives into the tumultuous rise of Bezalel Smotrich, an ultranationalist leader reshaping Israeli politics. Once considered fringe, Smotrich now plays a crucial role as finance minister during heightened military actions against Hamas. The discussion unveils his ambitions for the Gaza Strip and the complexities of political coalition-building amid public protests and Netanyahu's legal challenges. Al-Shalchi sheds light on the growing influence of religious Zionism and its implications for both Israeli and Palestinian communities.

Southern Appalachia is grappling with a surge in wildfire risks, fueled by hurricane damage and a dry spring. Experts highlight that climate change and urban expansion are intensifying these threats. The North Carolina Forest Service prioritizes one fire as the top concern in the U.S. Critical discussions revolve around community readiness and the importance of effective vegetation management strategies. With growing fire dangers, preparing for the future is more crucial than ever.

David Cole, former lawyer for the Los Angeles Eight and current National Legal Director for the ACLU, shares fascinating insights about the legal threats faced by student activists. He explores the historical context of the LA-8 arrests and draws parallels to recent deportation threats against two Columbia University students. The discussion sheds light on how these situations reflect broader government attempts to suppress political speech on campuses. Cole emphasizes the chilling effect such actions have on free expression and the vital importance of protecting First Amendment rights.