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The hosts of NPR's All Things Considered help you make sense of a major news story and what it means for you, in 15 minutes. New episodes six days a week, Sunday through Friday.Support NPR and get your news sponsor-free with Consider This+. Learn more at plus.npr.org/considerthis
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 18, 2024 • 11min
Looking ahead to the DNC, the Harris-Walz campaign prepares for a defining moment
 The landscape of the presidential race is rapidly changing with Kamala Harris at the helm. Her rise, following Biden's exit, brings both excitement and tension among Democratic leaders. As thousands converge in Chicago for the convention, her pivotal speech could redefine her campaign. The journey from Milwaukee to Chicago adds emotional depth, revealing personal reflections from delegates. Amidst unpredictable political dynamics, strategies are emerging for reaching voters in traditionally less supportive areas. 

Aug 16, 2024 • 11min
'The Sixth Sense' and a career of plot twists
 Haley Joel Osment, renowned for his role in The Sixth Sense, discusses the film's monumental impact on his career and the cinematic landscape. He reflects on the collaborative efforts that shaped the movie's emotional depth and its haunting atmosphere, thanks to its unique setting and practical effects. Osment also candidly navigates the ups and downs of early fame, sharing insights on how child actors manage their careers as they grow. Lastly, they explore the film's enduring cultural legacy and unforgettable quotes that continue to resonate today. 

Aug 15, 2024 • 11min
Trump is promising mass deportations. His own record shows it's not so simple
 The podcast explores Donald Trump's bold promises for mass deportations if re-elected. It reveals internal documents showing the gulf between his rhetoric and the reality of immigration enforcement. Challenges such as staffing shortages, legal hurdles, and practical execution of such policies come to light. Historical comparisons to past deportation efforts illustrate the complexities involved. Overall, it raises critical questions about the feasibility and implications of Trump's immigration agenda. 

Aug 14, 2024 • 9min
A new Israel-Hamas cease-fire talk starts this week. Is anything different?
 The podcast dives into the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, highlighting the urgent humanitarian crisis faced by civilians in Gaza. It explores the complexity of ceasefire talks, emphasizing the pressures on U.S. and Arab mediators. Tensions continue to rise, with a sense of insecurity impacting daily life in the region. Perspectives are shifting among Israelis, raising questions about leadership motivations. As negotiations unfold, the stakes remain high for both Palestinian civilians and Israeli hostages. 

Aug 13, 2024 • 8min
The plan to tackle customer service bots and subscription fatigue
 The Biden administration unveils plans to tackle consumer pain points like automated customer service and subscription cancellations. Neera Tanden explains the push for easier cancellation processes, equating them with signup simplicity. The focus is on improving customer service, balancing chatbots with human support, and advocating for transparent pricing practices. This initiative aims to alleviate frustrations and ensure that consumers feel valued, ultimately aiming to reduce the everyday hassles that cost time and money. 

Aug 12, 2024 • 12min
How a candidate's military service can help or hurt their campaign
 The discussion dives into the political ramifications of Tim Walz's comments on his military service, igniting controversy over 'stolen valor.' Many see this as a tactic, reminiscent of those used against John Kerry. The podcast highlights how military backgrounds can serve as both an asset and a liability in campaigns. It questions whether Walz is misrepresenting his service or falling prey to political smear tactics. This exploration underscores the deep intersections of military service and integrity in political narratives. 

Aug 11, 2024 • 11min
Young people are dying of opioid overdoses. Are students and campuses prepared?
 The alarming rise in opioid overdose deaths among young adults has surged by 34% since 2018, fueling urgent conversations on campuses. Personal stories highlight the struggles with addiction and the need for better support systems. Colleges are beginning to tackle this crisis through naloxone distribution and peer-led training programs. Moreover, awareness among students is growing, with initiatives aimed at educating peers about fentanyl dangers and promoting safe practices, like carrying Narcan for emergencies. 

Aug 9, 2024 • 10min
How is the plot to attack a Taylor Swift concert related to ISIS-K?
 Ashley Jackson, Co-director of the Center on Armed Groups and an expert on ISIS, discusses a recent terrorist plot targeting Taylor Swift concerts in Austria. She explains the motivations behind ISIS-K, including its tactics of decentralized operations and online recruitment. The conversation dives into how such attacks aim to regain relevance for the group amidst losing territorial power. Jackson also emphasizes the ongoing evolution of concert security in the face of these emerging threats. 

Aug 8, 2024 • 8min
How Team U.S.A. weightlifter Olivia Reeves became a gold-medal favorite
 A young weightlifter from Chattanooga is on the brink of Olympic glory, carrying the hopes of American women in the sport. At just 21, Olivia Reeves combines tenacity and talent, supported by her coach and family legacy. As she prepares for the Olympics, the balance between rigorous training and academic life becomes her daily challenge. With a rich history of weightlifting shaping her journey, viewers may witness a groundbreaking moment for U.S. women in the Olympics. 

Aug 7, 2024 • 11min
How Nancy Pelosi came to call the shots
 Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the House Emerita and author of 'The Art of Power,' dives into her remarkable political journey. She reflects on balancing family and faith while becoming a powerful female leader in a male-dominated arena. Pelosi discusses her role in shaping Joe Biden's campaign decisions and shares pivotal moments from her career, including the passage of the Affordable Care Act. Her insights on power dynamics and accountability keep listeners captivated, providing a unique perspective on wielding influence in politics. 


