On Point with Meghna Chakrabarti

Lori Wallach, director of the Rethink Trade Program, and Mark Joseph Stern, a senior writer on court issues, join to tackle the Supreme Court's upcoming decision on Trump’s tariffs. They delve into the constitutional authority of the president regarding tariff implementation and discuss its potential impact on executive power. Wallach highlights how tariffs affect small businesses and the historical delegation of trade authority from Congress. Stern explains the implications of recent judicial trends that may expand presidential control.

Dr. Robert Wood, Chief of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology at Johns Hopkins, and Dr. David Hill, a pediatric allergist at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, dive deep into the puzzling rise of peanut allergies in the U.S. They reveal how past avoidance recommendations backfired, leading to increased prevalence. The LEAP study shows that early introduction can drastically reduce allergy risk. They discuss the evidence behind public health guidance and caution against attributing allergy trends to single factors, emphasizing a balanced approach in allergen introduction.

In this intriguing discussion, guests explore the connections between Mary Shelley's Frankenstein and the current landscape of artificial intelligence. Scott Kalura shares insights on Guillermo del Toro's vision for his new adaptation, while Eileen Hunt delves into Shelley's inspirations and the moral dilemmas of creation. Christopher DiCarlo raises alarms about AI as a contemporary Frankenstein, addressing the ethical governance and risks of AI advancements. The conversation prompts listeners to ponder the responsibilities of creators in a rapidly evolving tech world.

Jack Beatty, an insightful news analyst, dives into the aftermath of the 2024 election. He discusses the significance of Gary Jacobson's analysis for understanding the political landscape. Motivated ignorance among Republican voters is explored, alongside Trump's unique ability to forge identity through collective grievances. Beatty analyzes why Democrats struggled to resonate with voters, especially swing voters prioritizing economic concerns. He warns of the consequences of hyperbolic campaign rhetoric and emphasizes the need for regionalism as a potential remedy for political discord.

Katie Herzog, a journalist and author, shares her tumultuous 20-year journey with alcohol, delving into her early experiences and the realization of her problem drinking. She reveals her struggles with traditional sobriety methods, including AA, and how discovering the Sinclair method, which uses naltrexone, offered her a new path. Dr. Joseph Volpicelli, an addiction specialist, discusses the science behind naltrexone and the reasons it remains underutilized. Together, they explore the complexities of addiction, medication, and personal recovery stories.

Kyle Orland, a senior gaming editor at Ars Technica, discusses EA’s evolution from a developer-centric studio to a gaming giant monetizing through franchises and microtransactions. David Cole, CEO of DFC Intelligence, explores the implications of Saudi PIF and others' investments, raising concerns about cultural influence in gaming. Joshua Rivera, a culture writer, reflects on how this buyout could shift game content and gamer trust, linking it to broader trends in the industry that favor free-to-play models over traditional titles.

In this enlightening discussion, Michelle Munson, a social work professor, talks about how technology and societal factors impact Gen Z's mental health. Rachel Holloman, a suicide prevention director, shares alarming statistics about Georgia's rising rates and the challenges of rural access. Tricia Baker, who founded Attitudes in Reverse after her son's suicide, emphasizes the importance of school education and breaking stigma. Together, they explore cultural disparities and innovative strategies for prevention, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive mental health support.

Jared Walzak, Vice President at the Tax Foundation, discusses the significant rise in property taxes and compares today’s abolition efforts to the 1970s tax revolt. Carla Wagner, a realtor and founder of Axe My Tax, shares her experiences with Michigan's property tax challenges and the push for tax repeal to aid homeowners. Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen explains Indiana's recent legislation to cut property taxes while facing budget shortfalls, emphasizing the delicate balance between tax cuts and funding essential services.

Bonnie Tsui, an author and journalist, dives into the fascinating world of human muscles, drawing from her personal martial arts background. She explores how even the tiniest muscles can evoke powerful emotions, like those causing goosebumps. Bonnie highlights the Olympic showcase of diverse muscle attributes and considers the psychological and health benefits of strength training. She also discusses the biology of different muscle types, sex differences in muscle mass, and the importance of celebrating varied forms of strength in our society.

Jack Beatty, an On Point news analyst, shares insights on Washington state’s pioneering long-term care social insurance program. He frames it as a model for potential political reforms across the U.S. Beatty dives into the program's mechanics, discussing wage deductions and eligibility criteria. He warns of federal paralysis affecting future social policy and explores the implications of electoral trends, population shifts, and the need for regional cooperation. The discussion highlights the personal impact of these policies, making a compelling case for balancing political strategies with human costs.