Commonwealth Club of California Podcast

Joshua Seftel, a documentary filmmaker known for his impactful storytelling, joins Nancy Blackwell, a mother navigating life after losing her son to a school shooting. They discuss the emotional heart of their film, 'All the Empty Rooms,' which memorializes the bedrooms of children lost to gun violence. Nancy shares her journey through grief, emphasizing the importance of keeping her son's room intact as a living tribute. The filmmakers reflect on how empathy, rather than anger, can inspire change, aiming to evoke humanity in their poignant portrayal of loss.

Ken Stern is a longevity expert, founder of the Longevity Project, and former NPR CEO with a passion for healthy aging. He reveals that the secret to living a vibrant life lies in social connections rather than just diet and exercise. Highlighting examples from countries like Singapore and Italy, Stern discusses the power of intergenerational ties and active engagement. He critiques U.S. policies and emphasizes the need for a mindset shift towards valuing social health to improve life in later years. Expect captivating stories and actionable insights for thriving at any age!

Michael McFaul, former U.S. ambassador to Russia and Stanford professor, discusses his book, Autocrats vs. Democrats. He warns about the aggressive rise of China and Russia's strategies amid a new cold war. McFaul emphasizes the need for America to adapt, defending democracy-promotion efforts and highlighting the importance of foreign assistance. He contrasts the ideological tactics of Russia and China's state-led models. Lastly, he calls for stronger support for Ukraine and the revitalization of democratic institutions globally.

Cecillia Wang, the National Legal Director of the ACLU and a trailblazer as the first woman and woman of color in her role, dives deep into the ACLU's strategy for defending civil rights in troubled times. She discusses over 110 lawsuits against the Trump administration on issues like birthright citizenship and voting rights. Wang reveals how the upcoming Supreme Court term could reshape civil liberties and encourages ordinary citizens to take action in protecting democracy. Her insights spotlight the critical balance of advocacy and legal strategy.

Carla Marinucci, a veteran political journalist, joins Dan Schnur, a political analyst and professor, and Melissa Cain, a legal and political expert, to dissect the state of politics as the year wraps up. They delve into the implications of the recent Dana Williamson indictment and its potential fallout for leaders like Gavin Newsom. The panel also discusses the decisive Prop 50 win as a litmus test for Democratic messaging and takes a hard look at the Republican party's post-election fractures, all while reflecting on Nancy Pelosi's retirement.

Joe Manchin, former U.S. Senator, discusses his complex legacy in West Virginia’s energy landscape, emphasizing the need for balanced climate policies while acknowledging the community's roots in coal. He critiques the dismantling of the Inflation Reduction Act, advocating for common sense and compromise in energy discussions. Joining him, Thomas Ramey from Solar Holler shares insights on transitioning from coal to solar in Appalachia, highlighting innovative job creation and respecting coal heritage through initiatives that embrace local pride and economic sustainability.

Davi Neustein, a sustainability consultant, sheds light on Brazil's hosting choices for COP30 and innovative bioeconomy strategies. Ilana Seid, representing Palau, passionately discusses the urgent climate impacts on small island nations and their advocacy for stronger climate action. Deborah Sanchez emphasizes the importance of funding models that support Indigenous and local communities, sharing success stories that enhance food security and livelihoods. Together, they highlight the critical role of local voices in shaping effective climate solutions.

Justice Anthony Kennedy, a retired Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, delves into his influential three-decade tenure on the bench. He shares how Western values shaped his views on dignity and liberty and emphasizes the importance of separating personal beliefs from judicial duty. Kennedy discusses landmark rulings on abortion, same-sex marriage, and free speech, revealing how social science informed his opinions. He also warns against the dangers of polarized discourse and stresses the need for civility in democracy, reminding listeners of the profound impact of the Constitution.

In a compelling discussion, journalist Julia Ioffe, author of "Motherland: A Feminist History of Modern Russia," explores the evolution of women's roles in Russia from the revolutionary era to today. She reveals how Soviet ideals transformed into a constricted view of femininity and motherhood, reflecting on her family's history and the loss of professional prestige amongst women. Ioffe addresses the implications of postwar policies on familial structures and masculinity, while challenging Western perceptions of feminism, asserting its rich roots in Russian history.

Kenneth P. Vogel, an investigative reporter for The New York Times and author of "Devil's Advocates," dives into the shadowy realm of foreign lobbying. He reveals how powerful Americans profit by working with corrupt foreign interests, tracing the origins of this industry back to Nazi influence. Vogel shares tales of figures like Robert Stryk and Rudy Giuliani, showcasing their controversial dealings. He also explores how lobbying can shape U.S. policy, exposing the blurred lines between influence and outcome in a world fueled by money and connections.