Throughline

NPR
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Aug 21, 2025 • 49min

The Queen of Tupperware

Alina Seljuk, NPR's business correspondent, delves into the fascinating rise and fall of Tupperware, while Bob Kealing, author of *Life of the Party*, shares insights on Brownie Wise, the trailblazing woman behind its success. Alison Clarke, an expert on 1950s America, discusses how Tupperware revolutionized domestic life and empowered women. They explore Brownie's groundbreaking sales strategies and the cultural significance of Tupperware parties, revealing how these gatherings offered women financial independence and community in a rapidly changing world.
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14 snips
Aug 14, 2025 • 48min

We the People: Succession of Power

John Feerick, Norris Professor of Law at Fordham Law School and author of The Twenty-Fifth Amendment, discusses the crucial topic of presidential succession. He shares the urgency that led to the creation of the 25th Amendment following JFK's assassination. Feerick highlights historical instances revealing the complexities of presidential incapacity. His reflections emphasize the need for clear guidelines that can maintain government stability during crises, illustrating why constitutional clarity is essential in preserving democracy.
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18 snips
Aug 7, 2025 • 48min

We the People: Cruel and Unusual Punishment

Carol Steiker and John Bessler, experts on capital punishment, dive deep into the complexities of the Eighth Amendment. They explore what defines cruel and unusual punishment and discuss its historical roots, including significant figures like Cesare Beccaria. The conversation touches on legal challenges surrounding specific cases, particularly the infamous firing squad execution. Racial disparities in the death penalty and landmark rulings like Furman v. Georgia highlight the ongoing moral debates surrounding justice and punishment in America.
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49 snips
Jul 31, 2025 • 49min

We the People: The Right to Remain Silent

In this engaging discussion, legal scholars Corinna Barrett-Lane and Donald Tripps dive deep into the complexities of the Fifth Amendment and the right to remain silent. They explore why many suspects waive their Miranda rights, despite the protections they offer. The conversation uncovers the historical context of police coercion and the challenges surrounding involuntary confessions. They also reflect on landmark cases like Brown v. Mississippi and the evolving relationship between civil rights and law enforcement, shedding light on the urgent need for clarity in legal protections.
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10 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 40min

Embedded: The Network

In the mid-1980s, Brazilian women discovered a safe way to have abortions at home, significantly reducing mortality rates. This grassroots movement has inspired similar networks worldwide, highlighting the role of midwives and community support. The podcast delves into the maternal health crisis in Brazil, revealing heartbreaking stories linked to restrictive laws and unsafe procedures. It also discusses the life-saving impact of Cytotec, emphasizing its role in women's empowerment and the ongoing struggle for reproductive rights across the globe.
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35 snips
Jul 24, 2025 • 47min

We The People: Canary in the Coal Mine

Michael Smith, an Assistant Professor of Law at St. Mary's University and an expert on the Third Amendment, dives into the surprising relevance of this oft-overlooked constitutional provision. He discusses historical violations, including the quartering of troops during crises like Hurricane Katrina. Smith draws parallels between past grievances and contemporary issues of civil liberties, urging listeners to reconsider how this amendment ties into modern political violence and police militarization. It's a compelling exploration of our legal protections against government overreach.
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5 snips
Jul 18, 2025 • 2min

Congress has voted to eliminate government funding for public media

The podcast dives into the recent cuts to federal funding for public media and what this means for local communities. It highlights the critical role public media plays in delivering trustworthy news and narratives, especially in rural areas. The discussion emphasizes the urgent need for listener support to keep these essential services alive and thriving. It's a call to action for everyone who values accessible and reliable media in their lives.
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72 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 51min

Edward Said and the Question of Palestine

Timothy Brennan, author of 'Places of Mind, A Life of Edward Said,' discusses the profound impact of Edward Said on the Palestinian narrative and his critique of Western portrayals of the Middle East. The conversation highlights Said's advocacy for Palestinian rights, his insights on identity shaped by conflict, and the significance of his work 'Orientalism.' Brennan also explores the ongoing humanitarian crisis, the role of academic activism, and Said's hopes for coexistence amidst political turmoil, making a compelling case for reshaping narratives around Palestine.
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192 snips
Jul 10, 2025 • 49min

What Makes Us Free?

Dive into the intriguing world of neoliberalism, tracing its origins to a pivotal 1947 gathering in the Swiss Alps. Discover how this ideology evolved to influence our views on freedom, responsibility, and government roles. Explore the complex relationship between personal liberty and societal constraints, as well as the transformative impact of the New Deal during the Great Depression. The podcast also delves into Milton Friedman’s economic theories and their profound influence on modern politics and personal identities, unraveling the anxieties shaped by neoliberal ideals.
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51 snips
Jul 3, 2025 • 51min

Does America Need a Hero?

Michael Goodrum, a cultural history professor, discusses the evolution of Captain America as a symbol of American values. Comic book writer Danny Fingerroth shares insights from his time working with Stan Lee, emphasizing how heroism adapts over decades. Steve Englehart illuminates the complexities of morality in storytelling, particularly during times of conflict. Together, they explore how cultural shifts and significant historical events have shaped the iconic character, prompting listeners to reconsider what it truly means to be a hero in a changing America.

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