On Point | Podcast

Doug Clemens, a Missouri state representative and former chair of the Westlake Bridgeton Landfill Advisory Group, and Linda Maurice, author of "Nuked", delve into the grim legacy of nuclear waste in St. Louis. They discuss the eerie history of Coldwater Creek, where community members faced health crises from radioactive exposure. Their conversation reveals alarming cancer clusters linked to past uranium processing and underscores ongoing cleanup challenges. With poignant personal stories, they advocate for environmental justice and highlight the need for effective waste management.

Mark Bergen, a reporter at Bloomberg and author of 'Like, Comment, Subscribe,' teams up with YouTuber Cam James, known for his engaging deep dives into financial scams. They discuss YouTube's monumental growth over 20 years and its transformative power in education and entertainment. From the initial skepticism of traditional media to fostering diverse voices, they explore the platform's ability to empower creators. They also tackle the challenges of navigating algorithms and maintaining authenticity while sharing personal anecdotes that illustrate the platform's impact.

Jack Beatty, an On Point news analyst known for his insightful connections between history, literature, and politics, delves into the new mission of the EPA under Lee Zeldin. He tackles the impact of proposed cuts to environmental regulations and the potential rise in cancer rates. Beatty discusses influential environmental literature, like 'Silent Spring,' and critiques government's inefficiencies that affect social security and personal benefits. The conversation also addresses America's struggle to balance its pluralistic ideals with current realities, highlighting the need for a deeper appreciation of federal workers.

Kirk Goldsberry, an insightful NBA analyst and author, joins Mike D'Antoni, a two-time NBA Coach of the Year, to explore the seismic shift the three-point revolution has made in basketball. They discuss how teams have tripled their three-point attempts and whether this trend is negatively impacting the game. Insights on the evolution of coaching strategies, positionless play, and the balance between analytics and aesthetics give listeners a deep dive into modern NBA dynamics. They also contemplate potential changes to the 3-point line and its implications for the future.

Carol Corbett Burris, an education advocate and former principal, and Scott Peters, a research director at NWEA, dive into the hot-button issue of eliminating honors programs in schools. They discuss the tension between promoting equity and maintaining academic rigor. Perspectives from parents and educators reveal concerns about high-achieving students being left behind. The conversation emphasizes the need for diversified curricula and effective teacher training to support all learners amidst ongoing educational reforms.

Join Dave Sparrow, President of the Professional Aviation Safety Specialist at AFL-CIO and former Air Force member, alongside Michael Huerta, the 17th FAA administrator. They delve into the urgent need to modernize America's aging air traffic control system and the limitations posed by outdated funding models. The conversation highlights shocking communication failures and the struggles of air traffic controllers amidst inadequate infrastructure. They also explore the importance of updating technology and training to ensure the safety and efficiency of national airspace.

Thuy V. Nguyen, an associate professor in psychology and head of the Solitude Lab, shares her insights on the benefits of solitude. She clarifies the distinction between solitude and loneliness, emphasizing how alone time can enhance emotional regulation and creativity. Personal anecdotes showcase the calming effects of solitude, revealing its potential for personal growth. Listeners share their empowering experiences, highlighting how embracing solitude can foster reflection and inspire strength, all while navigating societal pressures.

Hilke Shelman, an investigative reporter and NYU journalism professor, dives into how AI is reshaping the job market. She discusses unsettling experiences job seekers face with AI-driven interviews and the biases that can arise in candidate screening. Shelman emphasizes the need for workers to adapt to AI's role in hiring while also critiquing the reliance on technology. The conversation highlights the delicate balance between efficiency and human connection in job recruitment, urging for a more equitable approach to hiring amidst the evolving landscape.

Jack Beatty, a keen On Point news analyst known for his insights into history, literature, and politics, dives deep into Elon Musk’s complex relationship with governance. He discusses Musk's controversial political engagements and their implications for taxpayers and policy. The podcast touches on the moral complexities surrounding figures from Trump’s administration, while engaging listeners on Musk's societal impacts. Beatty also critiques short-term thinking in business, exposing how it undermines long-term progress and innovation.

Nelson Raúl de Zabla, a digital editor who fled El Salvador after government threats, joins Manisha Gilman, a political science professor and author, to discuss life under President Bukele's iron fist. They delve into the dramatic drop in homicide rates contrasted with the staggering imprisonment of 2% of the population. The conversation reveals controversial government tactics, hidden gang deals, and the erosion of civil liberties. They also reflect on how these developments echo concerns about democracy within the U.S.