Consider This from NPR

Nancy Pelosi, the former Speaker of the House and influential Democratic leader, discusses her ongoing impact on U.S. politics. At 84, Pelosi remains a key figure, playing a pivotal role in urging President Biden to reconsider his re-election. She shares insights about her forthcoming memoir and reflects on her strategic leadership and the respect she commands within the party. The conversation dives into the nuances of political messaging and the enduring legacy she leaves in shaping new Democratic leaders and California's political future.

Get a glimpse into the inspiring friendship between two elite U.S. marathon runners, Clayton Young and Conner Mantz, as they gear up for the Paris Olympics. Their bond, built on years of training together, highlights the unique blend of rivalry and support. Discover how they tackle challenges like heat and humidity, and the importance of shared faith in their athletic journeys. With goals set on gold, their story is a powerful testament to teamwork and perseverance in the face of competition.

Anj Marie Hancock, Director of the Kirwan Institute for the Study of Race and Ethnicity, discusses the profound challenges facing Vice President Kamala Harris as she pursues the Democratic nomination. Hancock highlights the backdrop of racial and gendered attacks from Donald Trump, emphasizing how these criticisms reflect broader societal biases. The conversation also explores strategies Harris can employ to combat such detrimental rhetoric, focusing on the importance of moving discourse from personal attacks to substantive policy discussions.

The discussion delves into Kamala Harris's groundbreaking career, marking her as a trailblazer in American politics. Her journey includes significant milestones as California's attorney general, senator, and vice president. The podcast highlights her unique identity and the influence of her personal narrative on her political strategies. Comparisons are drawn to past leaders, examining how her approach differs. The conversation also touches on her campaign focus, particularly on reproductive rights and critical policies shaping the Democratic agenda.

Kamala Harris is at a crossroads as she prepares for a potential presidential run. She's tasked with defending President Biden’s immigration policies, all while Republicans ramp up criticism. Facing scrutiny for not visiting the southern border, her credibility is being tested. As migrants arrive in new locations, the political stakes rise, forcing Harris to navigate a delicate balance between past critiques and current responsibilities. The evolving landscape of immigration could significantly shape her future in politics.

Tamara Keith, NPR's Senior White House Correspondent, shares her insights on President Biden's surprising decision to endorse Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor. They discuss how this shift impacts the Democratic Party's unity and strategy leading up to the election. Keith emphasizes the challenges Harris will face in uniting the party and the significance of the upcoming Democratic National Convention. The conversation also dives into the reactions within the party, blending relief and anxiety as they adapt to this new leadership landscape.

In this engaging discussion, Robin Tanamachi, a Professor of atmospheric science and dedicated storm chaser at Purdue University, dives into the riveting world of tornado research. She breaks down the mysteries of why tornadoes form and highlights the advancements in storm-chasing technology since the 1996 film Twister. With personal anecdotes, Tanamachi shares the thrills, risks, and ethical dilemmas of storm chasing while balancing family life. Tune in for insights on how pop culture influences our understanding of severe weather!

Louise Radnowski, a sports reporter for The Wall Street Journal, dives into the aftermath of the Larry Nassar scandal and the creation of the U.S. Center for SafeSport. She discusses the cultural shifts in USA Gymnastics aimed at fostering safer environments for young athletes. Despite recognized improvements, concerns about the effectiveness of safety measures and the ongoing pressures on SafeSport are examined. The episode highlights the important challenges that still need addressing for the protection and well-being of future Olympians.

Rising temperatures are causing severe storms and wildfires, leading to skyrocketing home insurance rates. This financial strain is reminiscent of past crises and threatens housing affordability, particularly for first-time buyers. Insights from experts reveal the challenges insurers face due to insufficient climate-related data. The discussion also highlights disparities in rate hikes across different housing types, urging a need for better strategies and stakeholder collaboration to address these pressing issues.

Franco Ordonez, NPR's sharp-eyed correspondent on the Republican National Convention, delves into the explosive aftermath of a recent assassination attempt on Donald Trump. He unpacks how this shocking event is reshaping Trump's rhetoric and strategy as he prepares for his keynote speech. The discussion highlights surprising endorsements from former rivals, showcasing party unity, and touches on Trump's efforts to sway working-class voters. Tensions loom, leaving listeners intrigued about how strength and vulnerability play into his campaign narrative.