Consider This from NPR

Explore the historical context of the Chinese Exclusion Era and its parallels with contemporary immigration policies. Discover how the rhetoric around job competition fails to consider the economic repercussions of mass deportation. Delve into the surveillance practices of the time, and examine how Chinese laborers significantly shaped America’s infrastructure. Finally, unpack the long-term impacts of exclusionary laws on labor markets and question the myth that deporting immigrants boosts the economy.

Stephen Colbert and his wife Evie dish on their culinary adventures, reminiscing about their South Carolina roots. They discuss their new cookbook, celebrating traditional meals and the joy of family cooking. Expect funny fishing tales and playful kitchen dynamics, along with the influence of West African cuisine. The couple shares quirky cooking stories, innovative techniques, and treasured family recipes, all sprinkled with humor and heartfelt nostalgia.

Ina Garten, bestselling author and former owner of a Hamptons food business, shares her inspiring journey from a government desk to culinary fame. She discusses how a chance advertisement changed her life and ignited her passion for food. Garten emphasizes the importance of simple, elegant cooking and shares how childhood experiences influenced her culinary philosophy. Her memoir, "Be Ready When the Luck Happens," explores the blend of creativity and business savvy necessary for success in the food industry.

Pastor Chris Morgan, who leads Christ United Methodist Church in suburban Pittsburgh, shares insights from his initiative, 'Do Unto Others,' aimed at bridging political divides within his congregation. He emphasizes the necessity of kindness and respect in navigating heated political discussions. The program fosters meaningful dialogues among neighbors with differing views, reinforcing the values of compassion and empathy. Morgan explores the challenges and transformative power of these conversations, illustrating the potential for unity in a deeply divided society.

Angela Merkel, the first woman to lead Germany as Chancellor from 2005 to 2021, shares her insights from her memoir, "Freedom." She recounts her unique challenges in a male-dominated political landscape, tackling issues like attire in the Bundestag. Merkel reflects on her complex relationships with four U.S. presidents and her diplomatic encounters with Vladimir Putin, revealing psychological tactics used during their discussions. She emphasizes the importance of protecting democratic values and civil discourse in today’s politically charged environment.

Cliff Johnson, an immigration attorney and director of the MacArthur Justice Center at the University of Mississippi, sheds light on the looming threat of ICE raids under the Trump administration. He discusses the emotional toll these actions inflict on undocumented families and local communities. Johnson contrasts the treatment of undocumented workers with corporate executives, emphasizing the stark disparities. He also highlights community resilience efforts since 2019, showcasing how support networks are forming to assist those affected by harsh immigration policies.

Cynthia Erivo, a celebrated stage and screen star known for her portrayal of Elphaba in the film adaptation of Wicked, shares her insights on the beloved character. She discusses the evolution of the Wicked Witch, highlighting her journey from villain to a nuanced figure. Cynthia reflects on her deep emotional connection to the world of Oz and relates to themes of alienation and acceptance. The conversation emphasizes the power of embracing uniqueness, showing how feeling like an outsider can spark personal transformation and new opportunities.

Sharon Horgan, creator and star of the hit Apple TV series "Bad Sisters," dives into the wit and wickedness of the Garvey sisters in Season 2. She reveals how the sisters navigate their tangled relationships, balancing trust issues with deep bonds. Horgan introduces a new character, Angelica, whose nosy antics bring both humor and tension. The conversation also highlights the show's unique blend of darkness and comedy, tackling relatable topics like menopause while maintaining authenticity. Get ready for more secrets and laughter!

Jodi Kantor, a New York Times investigative reporter famed for her work on the Harvey Weinstein case, dives into the striking intersection of Donald Trump's cabinet picks and the #MeToo movement. She highlights how many nominees face serious misconduct allegations, reflecting a trend of loyalty over qualifications. Kantor discusses the implications of these appointments amidst a renewed focus on accountability and the evolving legacy of #MeToo in politics. She also questions the public's perception of truth and justice in the wake of such accusations.

In this discussion, Kat Lonsdorff, an NPR reporter with extensive experience reporting from Tel Aviv, reveals shocking firsthand accounts of sniper drones targeting civilians in Gaza. She highlights testimony from British surgeon Nizam Mamode, who described witnessing drones picking off civilians and children daily. The podcast delves into the severe impact of these attacks on innocent lives and raises urgent ethical questions about drone warfare and civilian safety in conflict zones.