On Point | Podcast

Join Brian Stone, Director of the Urban Climate Lab at Georgia Tech, and Atlanta City Council member Liliana Bakhtiari as they delve into the innovative solutions to combat rising summer temperatures. They discuss Atlanta's pioneering cool roof ordinance and its role in mitigating the urban heat island effect. The conversation highlights how cool roofs enhance energy efficiency and work alongside solar panels. They also tackle the economic aspects of adopting new roofing technologies, emphasizing the need for collaboration and funding to ensure inclusion in climate initiatives.

J. Michael Luttig, a retired federal judge with a distinguished legal career including serving under Ronald Reagan, discusses the alarming state of America's judiciary. He critiques the erosion of the rule of law during the Trump era and labels it a war against the judiciary instigated by a 'tyrannical wannabe king.' Luttig tackles the evolving conservatism within the courts, expresses concern over rising threats to judges, and highlights the Supreme Court’s troubling inaction amid pressing constitutional issues. His insights shed light on the urgent need for accountability and integrity in the legal system.

Louise Wateridge, a senior emergency officer for UNRWA, Alex Duvall, a Tufts professor and famine expert, and Abir Barakat, a displaced university professor, discuss the grim reality of food shortages in Gaza. They share heart-wrenching stories highlighting the struggle for dignity amidst starvation. The conversation also addresses the psychological impacts of famine and the challenges faced by humanitarian organizations amid ongoing conflict. The guests shed light on the denial of famine by authorities, emphasizing the urgent need for awareness and action.

Join Prue Hart, a leading researcher on ultraviolet radiation and immune health from the University of Western Australia, and Richard Weller, a medical dermatologist from the University of Edinburgh, as they discuss the surprising healing powers of sunlight. They delve into the therapeutic effects of UV light for conditions like multiple sclerosis and Crohn’s disease. The conversation navigates the balance between sunlight's health benefits and the risks of skin cancer, while revealing fascinating insights on cardiovascular health and the evolution of skin pigmentation.

Jack Beatty, an insightful On Point news analyst with a knack for intertwining history, literature, and politics, dives into the intricacies of strength in leadership. He articulates how Donald Trump’s unconventional political style projects power through a lack of restraint. The conversation explores economic strategies driven by fear and examines negotiation styles, focusing on environmental policy challenges. Beatty touches on the complexities of political rhetoric and the evolving perceptions of immigration enforcement, illustrating the ever-shifting dynamics of modern leadership.

Joan Williams, a renowned scholar on social inequality and author of 'Outclassed,' explores how the Democratic Party has alienated working-class voters. She discusses a revealing Wall Street Journal poll showing increasing disconnection and disapproval from the party. Williams analyzes the class culture gap, cultural values disparities, and shifts in political allegiance, highlighting the necessity for Democrats to reconnect authentically with everyday Americans. She advocates for a focus on relatable issues and understanding the diverse economic concerns that impact voter loyalty.

Patrick McGee, Financial Times reporter and author of 'Apple in China', dives deep into the transformative role Apple has played in shaping China’s economy. He reveals how Tim Cook's pivotal decisions during Consumer Day 2013 redefined Apple’s operational model. The discussion also highlights Apple's strategic focus on innovation within China, raising questions about labor practices and economic policies. Furthermore, McGee uncovers the staggering $70 billion revenue Apple generates in China and explores the implications of this financial footprint on U.S. manufacturing.

Paul Offit, a pediatrician and vaccine expert at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, shares his insights following controversial changes to the CDC's vaccine advisory panel. He discusses the implications of including members with anti-vaccine views and the historical context of vaccine skepticism. Offit emphasizes the crucial need for transparency in vaccine safety and criticizes the erosion of public trust amidst misinformation. The conversation highlights how these shifts could affect children's health and public policy in America.

Ed Larson, a historian and professor at Pepperdine University, dives into the Scopes ‘monkey’ trial's pivotal role in American history. He discusses how this early 20th-century case set the stage for ongoing battles over science and religion in education. Larson highlights William Jennings Bryan's efforts against evolution amid a changing society and explores the trial's cultural implications, revealing how its legacy continues to spark debates about curriculum content and educational freedom. This timeless clash remains relevant today.

Ethan Mollick, an Associate Professor at Wharton and an AI researcher, challenges the prevailing fears about technology. He emphasizes the need for proactive engagement with AI rather than fear-based discussions. The conversation highlights how human creativity can shape AI's integration into daily life, balancing its benefits and risks. They humorously explore AI's emotional mimicry while stressing the importance of agency in this evolving landscape. Mollick advocates for a thoughtful approach to AI's role in education and communication amidst a rapidly changing world.