Consider This from NPR

Discover how stringent immigration policies are impacting both undocumented and legal immigrants. The podcast dives into the unsettling experiences of a U.S. citizen lawyer detained at the border, highlighting concerns over privacy and government authority. It also examines the repercussions for activists and dissenters, raising critical questions about civil liberties. Personal stories enhance the discussion on political scrutiny and the challenges faced by legal professionals, exposing the potential erosion of fundamental rights.

The podcast dives into how new tariffs impact American businesses across various sectors. Business owners, from a frywall inventor to machinery manufacturers, share their struggles in adapting to fluctuating costs and supply chain issues. A spice company and a commercial shrimper provide insights into the emotional toll of these policy changes. The discussion highlights the broader economic implications and the urgent need for innovation and adaptation in the face of uncertainty.

Martha Gimbel, the executive director and co-founder of the Budget Lab at Yale, discusses the implications of President Trump's aggressive tariff policies. She takes listeners on a virtual shopping trip, revealing how everyday items like t-shirts and medications will cost significantly more due to these tariffs. Gimbel highlights the disproportionate impact on lower-income households and the broader economic effects, including potential GDP losses. The conversation unfolds the complexities of global trade, showing how different nations adapt to this tariff landscape.

After 25 years of being 'eliminated,' measles is making a disturbing comeback in the U.S., particularly in West Texas where tragic deaths have occurred. Experts discuss the challenges of increasing vaccination rates amidst rising cases. The impact of federal funding cuts on local health services exacerbates the crisis. Enhanced communication about the disease's severity and strategizing public health funding are critical to prevent future outbreaks. History offers valuable lessons on how to combat this preventable illness effectively.

Lisa Hagan, an NPR reporter who covered NatalCon, dives into the intriguing pro-natalist movement gaining momentum in the U.S. She discusses how figures like Elon Musk and JD Vance champion the cause of increasing birth rates. The conversation touches on modern society's changing expectations regarding family, the clash between traditional values and contemporary feminism, and the motivations driving this demographic concern. The rise of pronatalism reflects a broader debate on the implications of declining fertility rates for America's future.

Deportation is a multi-layered process riddled with complexities. The discussion unpacks various methods, such as expedited removal and voluntary return, highlighting political implications. Legal challenges come to the forefront, especially concerning due process and wrongful deportations during the Trump administration. The podcast breaks down critical steps in the deportation process, revealing the risks faced by individuals. Finally, the struggles within the immigration court system, including backlogs and lack of representation, paint a stark picture of the current immigration landscape.

Vincent Acovino, a producer for NPR, dives into the dynamic world of video games, spotlighting their massive $187 billion revenue potential. He discusses the industry's serious challenges like massive layoffs and the integration of AI. Acovino brings insight from the recent Game Developer's Conference, illustrating the stark divide between large and small developers. The conversation reveals the tension between AI and artistic creativity, emphasizing how independent studios are navigating these turbulent times as they strive to innovate in a fast-evolving landscape.

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.