On Point | Podcast

Casey Ross, chief investigative reporter at STAT, dives into the dark side of AI in health insurance claims, particularly with UnitedHealth. He reveals how automated systems can unjustly deny crucial care, impacting vulnerable patients like the elderly. The discussion also touches on the ethical dilemmas of cost-cutting measures, the disconnect between algorithm predictions and actual patient needs, and the ongoing legal scrutiny facing insurers. Ross emphasizes the urgent need for transparency and human oversight in these decision-making processes.

Rebroadcast: 10-step skincare routines, products made from snail mucus. South Korea now exports more cosmetic products than smartphones. But pursuing beauty ideals can come at a social, emotional and physical cost.

Rebroadcast: More Americans are saying they don’t want to have children. But what does life without children really look like?

Rebroadcast: Snowpack is getting less reliable in American winters. And in many places, that's not just an environmental problem, but an emotional one, too.

Rebroadcast: Ultra-processed foods now make up the majority of calories in the typical American diet. Studies show the health effects are about as bad as smoking. What would it take to get back to eating real food?

In this enlightening conversation, New Jersey's newest senator, Andy Kim, emphasizes the need for politicians to reconnect with their constituents, including those who supported both him and Trump. He discusses the pervasive distrust in politics, highlighting the importance of humility and open dialogue to bridge divides. Kim also reflects on the challenges faced by marginalized communities and the necessity of transparency in government actions, especially after January 6th. His insights reveal a commitment to rebuilding trust and accountability in American democracy.

Faiza Patel, Senior Director at the Brennan Center for Justice, shares her expertise on surveillance technology and civil liberties. She discusses the complexities of facial recognition and its biases, particularly towards marginalized communities. Patel highlights the shortcomings of the NYPD’s extensive surveillance systems following the murder of a CEO. She raises ethical concerns about privacy and the integration of military technology in policing. The conversation emphasizes the vital need for regulation and accountability in the face of pervasive surveillance.

Jack Beatty, a seasoned news analyst, dives into the implications of Lori Chavez-DeRemer's appointment as Secretary of Labor. He unpacks the complex landscape of labor representation amidst Trump’s controversial legacy and critiques the influence of corporate interests on politics. The discussion also reveals the intricacies of voter demographics, particularly among white men, and explores how political ads affect marginalized communities, highlighting the urgent need for dialogue on personal autonomy and cultural identity.

Zeke Fox, an investigative reporter at Bloomberg News and author of "Number Go Up," discusses the intriguing intersection of politics and cryptocurrency. Trump calls for a U.S. Bitcoin stockpile, stirring excitement and skepticism. The conversation dives into the political implications of embracing crypto, touching on potential deregulation under his administration. They also humorously discuss the idea of a 'Zeke coin.' Concerns about scams and the evolving regulatory landscape reveal a complex future for crypto in America.

Nicole Santa Cruz, an investigative reporter from ProPublica, delves into the harsh realities of homelessness and encampment sweeps. Mike Johnston, Denver's mayor, shares insights on his House 1000 initiative aimed at tackling unsheltered homelessness. Mark Dones discusses evidence-based strategies for sustainably addressing this crisis. Together, they paint a picture of the emotional toll of encampment sweeps, the necessity of permanent housing, and the complex interplay of community safety and compassion in overcoming homelessness.