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Vali Nasr, a renowned expert in Middle East Studies, explores the recent protests in Iran fueled by economic collapse and regime responses. Kerry Kennedy from the American Friends Service Committee discusses the dire consequences of Israel banning aid organizations in Gaza, emphasizing the humanitarian risks involved. Klina Ralla from ACLED reveals alarming trends in global conflicts, noting that government actions now drive more violence than insurgencies. The discussion points to critical implications for international policies and regional stability.

New laws are taking effect across the country on Jan. 1. In Hawai'i, there is now a new tax on tourists that will fund efforts to fight climate change. And in Utah, a new law took effect that restricts some people with drunk driving convictions from purchasing alcohol. The Associated Press’ David Lieb breaks down some trends in state laws.And, Zohran Mamdani is now officially the mayor of New York City. He took the oath of office shortly after midnight on Jan. 1. Vox host Astead Herndon interviewed Mamdani days before his inauguration, and joins us to talk about Mamdani’s policies and how he may influence the Democratic Party.Then, piano bar pianist Jesse Rifkin explains what popularly requested songs say about the state of our politics.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Affordable Care Act subsidies are set to expire as the new year begins, and some states are trying to take action. In Georgia, Democrats are pushing for the state to cover the subsidies, but many Republicans there are opposed. Georgia Democratic State Representative Sam Park and Georgia Republican State Senator Ben Watson join us to discuss the state of the debate.And, counting down the last few seconds before the clock strikes midnight is a New Year’s Eve tradition. But did you know it’s a modern phenomenon? Historian Alexis McCrossen explains how it came to be.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The new hit science fiction show “Pluribus” takes place in a world where a hive mind links everyone’s thoughts and actions in the name of collective good. Karolina Wydra plays Zosia and joins us to talk about the show’s popularity and what it says about society.Then, writer-director-producer Rian Johnson and his cousin, composer Nathan Johnson, talk about merging mystery and faith in their newest addition to the “Knives Out” franchise: “Wake Up Dead Man.”Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Next year, the Supreme Court is expected to issue consequential rulings on President Trump's most controversial policies, including his ability to issue tariffs without congressional approval and fire a member of the Federal Reserve. Law professor Barbara McQuade explains more.Then, the Trump administration is suing 21 states and Washington, D.C., to hand over detailed voter data, citing efforts to ensure election security. Loyola Law School professor Justin Levitt details the implications.And, we catalogue NPR staff recommendations from their annual “Books We Love” list, which, this year, contains mainly fiction picks.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Joe Gitter, a senior editor at America's Test Kitchen and co-author of "Cocktails Illustrated," shares his expertise on creating perfect cocktails. He discusses how the book caters to both novices and seasoned mixologists. Gitter reveals the importance of technique, ingredients, and the right glassware. He demonstrates how to make a classic martini and a unique brown butter maple old-fashioned, along with batching tips for Negronis. The episode also highlights the role of ice in cocktail crafting, making the art of mixology accessible and fun!

Kavitha Cardoza, an education journalist and University of Richmond teacher, discusses the alarming 19% drop in international student enrollments in the U.S. due to visa challenges and the Trump administration's impact. She highlights significant economic losses for universities and shifts towards countries like Canada and the UK. Meanwhile, Hall of Fame receiver Drew Pearson relives the iconic 'Hail Mary' play from 1975, sharing behind-the-scenes moments and the cultural significance of the term. It's a blend of education, sports history, and societal change.

Legendary comedian Mel Brooks shares heartfelt memories of his long-time friend Dick Van Dyke, reflecting on their journeys towards a century of life. He highlights Van Dyke’s extraordinary physical comedy and the warmth he brings to audiences. Fiona Whelan-Prine discusses the legacy of her late husband, John Prine, touching on his unique songwriting style and the memorial concerts held in his honor. Lastly, reporter Thomas Danielian explores the Capitol Movie Theatre's centennial celebration, showcasing its significance in the community and how it navigated the pandemic.

In the past 11 months, the Trump administration has stripped more than 1.6 million people of legal status. NPR’s Ximena Bustillo shares more about the largest removal of deportation protections from legal migrants in U.S. history.Then, CBS held a story alleging abuse at a detention center in El Salvador from air. Now, it’s online. NPR media correspondent David Folkenflik details what we’ve learned. And, the U.S.’s interception of oil carriers from Venezuela is deepening an economic crisis in Cuba, which relies on Venezuelan oil. The Wall Street Journal’s Juan Forero explains the impact.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Eric Tucker, a Justice Department reporter for The Associated Press, dives into the latest developments from the Epstein files, highlighting the controversy around redacted documents and how political implications are shaping the narrative. Bourbon historian Susan Riggler discusses Jim Beam's production pause and the impact of tariffs on Kentucky's bourbon industry, revealing changing consumer trends. Lastly, Graham Lee Brewer sheds light on the Lumbee Tribe's long-awaited federal recognition, exploring the political motivations behind it and the objections from other tribes.