We look back on 2024's most interesting science stories with Smithsonian's Joe Spring, from Bird Flu to the hunt for life on the moons of Jupiter. Then, film critic Ty Burr reviews his favorite movies of the year. Also, it was Brat Summer, but what happened the rest of the year? NPR's Aisha Harris surveys the year in pop culture.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A 7.0 earthquake off the coast of Northern California in early December triggered a tsunami warning for parts of the California and Oregon coasts. We ask Lori Dengler, professor emeritus of geology at Cal Poly Humboldt, how prepared the area is for a tsunami. Then, François Brunelle has spent nearly 25 years photographing pairs of nearly identical strangers. His work has caught the eye of other artists, researchers and geneticists interested in the phenomenon of doppelgangers. Also, Cuban pianist and composer Chucho Valdés talks about his new album, "Cuba and Beyond."Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Is California ready for 'the big one'?

So long 2024: The year in review

Zanny Minton Beddoes, Editor-in-Chief of The Economist, looks back on the year in world news. Then Mara Kardas-Nelson's book "We Are Not Able to Live in the Sky" explores whether microcredit hurts more than it helps. Microfinancing was once hailed in the U.S. as the ultimate bipartisan solution to global poverty. And we talk to Jessica B. Harris, the author of "A Kwanzaa Keepsake and Cookbook" on the first night of Kwanzaa.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The biggest international news stories of 2024

Robin Young and Karyn Miller-Medzon revisit their 2019 trip to Iceland when they explored the enduring presence of elves, or "hidden folk" in Icelandic culture. Also, on the first night of Hanukkah, Leah Koenig offers some recipes for the Jewish Festival of Lights. She's the author of "The Jewish Cookbook." And for dessert, Peter DiMario reflects on the new cookbook he co-wrote with Judith Choate. "Jiggle!" expands the repertoire of gelatin far beyond the Jell-O mold.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

'We smile about it, but we're serious': Searching for elves in Iceland

Charles King's new book "Every Valley" tells the backstory of "Messiah," a staple of the Christmas season widely considered George Frideric Handel's masterpiece. Then, musicologist Martin Clarke discusses the moment of musical ecstasy that accompanies a particular arrangement on "O come, all ye faithful." Find out why the "word of the father" chord has been called "the best chord of Christmas." Also WBUR editor Sara Shukla shares an appreciation of "The Muppet Christmas Carol," and reflects on why it's especially significant to her this year.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Hark! The podcast angels sing: Christmas music from 'Messiah' to the Muppets

David Wallace Wells, author of "The Uninhabitable Earth," reviews the year in climate. The head of the United Nations has described 2024 as a "master class in climate destruction." Then, author Tana French leaves the Dublin police squad where she's set her previous books and sets out for the country in a series of novels where small town politics conceal deadly secrets. "The Hunter" is out in paperback. Also, NPR's James Mastromarino recommends some of the best new board games to play with friends and family this holiday season.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Natural disasters and political setbacks: The year in climate change

The House voted down a second try at reaching a deal to avert a government shutdown at midnight on Friday. ABC's Rick Klein discussed what's to come. And, striking Amazon workers — members of the Teamsters Union — are seeking recognition of their union, better working conditions and higher pay. Randy Korgan — the Teamster's National Director for Amazon shares more about the ongoing strike. Then, data centers are driving a huge surge in electricity demand as artificial intelligence and cloud computing grow. Brian Singer, an analyst at Goldman Sachs, looks to the future of data and electricity usage.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Musk, Trump and a divided House send government toward shutdown

A person in Louisiana has been hospitalized with the first severe case of H5N1 bird flu in the U.S. This comes as California Governor Gavin Newsom declares a state of emergency to deal with an outbreak spreading among dairy cows in California. Dr. Abdul El-Sayed of the Wayne County Department of Health, Human and Veterans Services in Michigan joins us to discuss. And, two experts on human rights violations recently visited suspected mass graves in Syria. Stephen Rapp, former U.S. ambassador at large for war crimes, and Mouaz Moustafa of the Syrian Emergency Task Force share what they saw. Then, terminally ill children got to take a magical plane ride to Santa's Workshop. We speak with Captain Bob Zimmerman, who piloted the trip.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

What we know about the first severe case of bird flu in humans

A new report released by House Republicans backs President-elect Trump's push to criminally investigate former Republican Rep. Liz Cheney for her role in investigating the Jan. 6 insurrection. And, Luigi Mangione, the man accused of killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, has been indicted on terrorism charges. WNYC reporter Samantha Max shares what we know so far. And Wendell Potter — former Cigna executive-turned-whistleblower — explains how Wall Street has driven up health care costs. Then, is there a teacher on your holiday shopping list? The Washington Post's Michelle Singletary shares some gift ideas that teachers will love.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

House Republicans push criminal probe of Liz Cheney over Jan. 6 panel

President-elect Donald Trump is assembling a cabinet of wealthy business people and holding meetings with some of the nation's most powerful CEOs. Political science professor Stephen Nelson joins us to explain why it could be a sign of oligarchy in the United States. And, Trump's lie about Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio helped define a fiery presidential campaign. Now, PolitiFact is calling it the "Lie of the Year." Editor-in-chief Katie Sanders joins us to discuss the impact the lie has had on Haitian immigrants. Then, four-time Grammy-winning musician Zakir Hussain died Saturday at the age of 73. We pay tribute to his legacy by revisiting Hussain's 2023 conversation with host Deepa Fernandes.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Mar-a-Lago's revolving door: the billionaires influencing Trump

Negotiations have stalled among seven states trying to reach a deal on how to use a dwindling supply of water from the Colorado River. Arizona State University's Kathryn Sorenson tells us what's at stake. And, we look into President Biden's wave of commutations and pardons with University of St. Thomas School of Law professor Mark Osler. Then, for an 18-year-old in Gaza, keeping up his workout routine is one of the ways he copes with war in his homeland. Mohammed Hatem joins us to share how exercise provides solace.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

As the Colorado River runs low on water, 7 states fight over how to share it

Republicans in the North Carolina General Assembly voted to reduce powers for Democrats who won key races in the Tar Heel state this November. WRAL-TV's Laura Leslie explains what this vote means. Then, this weekend the Geminids meteor shower will be visible, but could be harder to see because of what's known as the Cold Moon, the last full moon of the year. Sky and Telescope's Kelly Beatty joins us. And, we hear recommendations for gifts to spend your hard-earned money on this year from The Cut's Bianca Nieves.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Democrats won in North Carolina. Now, Republicans are restricting their powers

Former Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman is among nearly 100 former intelligence and national security officials who have expressed concern about President-elect Trump's pick of Tulsi Gabbard as director of national intelligence. Sherman joins us to explain why she's concerned the selection of Gabbard could lead allies to think twice about sharing intelligence with the United States. Then, a bipartisan group of lawmakers introduced legislation this week that would prevent companies that own pharmacies from also owning pharmacy benefit managers, middlemen that oversee prescription drug benefits for companies. "Full Disclosure" host Roben Farzad talks about what the legislation seeks to do. And, according to a new investigation from ProPublica, formaldehyde is in the air we breathe, causing more cancer than any other airborne chemical. ProPublica's Topher Sanders tells us more.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Why Trump's pick for intelligence chief worries national security officials

Syria's notorious Sednaya prison was known as a "human slaughterhouse," where tens of thousands of people were detained, tortured and killed during the country's 13-year civil war. Jaber Baker was a prisoner at Sednaya. He discusses what it was like inside the prison. Then, Ash Lazarus Orr is a transgender activist from West Virginia. They talk about the road ahead for trans communities in West Virginia. And, renowned hula teacher Vicky Holt Takamine recently won the prestigious Dorothy and Lillian Gish Prize, valued at more than $450,000. Holt Takamine joins us to talk about the rich history of the Hawaiian tradition.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Inside Syria's 'slaughterhouse' prison

Luigi Mangione, 26, has been charged in the killing of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson, who was shot on a sidewalk in Midtown Manhattan last week. The Baltimore Banner's Justin Fenton tells us more. Then, after the sudden downfall of the Bashar al-Assad regime in Syria this past weekend, we hear from Rehab Alkadi, a refugee who entered the U.S. via Chicago in 2015. And, the New York Mets made history this week when it signed Dominican superstar outfielder Juan Soto to a record $765 million contract. Sports Business Journal's Mike Mazzeo joins us.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

From star student to suspected CEO killer: What to know about Luigi Mangione

The United States is assessing what's next for Syria after 13 years of civil war came to an abrupt end this weekend when Syrian rebels seized control of Damascus, ending the repressive 50-year rule of the Assad family. Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad fled to Russia. Security analyst Jim Walsh talks about what lies ahead for Syria, the Middle East and United States foreign policy. Then, President-elect Trump's pick to head the FBI, Kash Patel, lists officials in his 2023 book that he calls "members of the executive branch deep state." Trump has called it a blueprint "to help us take back the White House and remove these gangsters from all of government!" Former FBI special agent Asha Rangappa joins us. And, police on Monday arrested a person of interest in the shooting death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. The New York Police Department says investigators found a document on Luigi Mangione that indicates "ill will toward corporate America." The killing of Thompson is raising fresh questions about what many people regard as a broken U.S. health care system. We speak with Georgetown University's Sabrina Corlette.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

What's next for Syria after the fall of Assad

The House DOGE Caucus met Thursday with Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, who Trump picked to operate the new unofficial Department of Government Efficiency. Caucus Co-chair Rep. Pete Sessions, a Republican from Texas, talks about where he thinks government can be cut. Then, UNESCO has recognized cassava bread as a key part of humanity's cultural heritage. The Miami Herald's Jacqueline Charles explains what kasav, or cassava bread, means to Haiti. And, 2024 brought surprising hits, huge flops, and mass layoffs to the video games industry. We discuss the year's best games and biggest trends with Here &amp; Now's James Perkins Mastromarino.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Republicans eye Social Security in plans to cut government

A new report by one of the world's most prominent human rights organizations accuses Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians during its war in Gaza. Kristine Beckerle, co-author of the report, joins us. And, President-elect Donald Trump's pick for defense secretary, Pete Hegseth, is under scrutiny for his lack of experience, sexual assault allegations and claims he acted inappropriately when he worked at Fox. NPR's David Folkenflick joins us. Then, Poppy Rose has hiked all 48 of New Hampshire's 4,000-foot peaks. Poppy Rose is a fluffy, white, 2-pound bunny. Her owner Bree Schuette brought her on hikes until Schuette developed a rare autoimmune disorder. Now, her friends continue to take Poppy out on hikes while Schuette recovers.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Amnesty International accuses Israel of genocide in Gaza

The Supreme Court heard a challenge Wednesday to Tennessee's ban on puberty blockers and hormone therapy for transgender minors. Slate's Mark Joseph Stern looks at what the case could mean for transgender children across the country. Then, South Korean lawmakers are calling to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol after an intense night of political drama sparked by several hours of martial law. Sydney Seiler, senior advisor for the Center for Strategic and International Studies, joins us. And, pro-labor groups in Wisconsin won a court case that restored the ability of unions to bargain collectively. WUWM's Chuck Quirmbach tells us more.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

What's at stake in the Supreme Court transgender care case?

Eight children between 2 and 17 years old have arrived in the U.S. from Gaza to receive specialized medical treatment for life-threatening injuries. Here &amp; Now's Chris Bentley reports. And, Islamist opposition group in Syria's reignited civil war is on the rise. Nazareth University scholar of Middle East politics Sefa Secen joins us to explain what this means for U.S. troops there. Then, the National Institute of Standards and Technology is issuing new guidelines for passwords, designed to make passwords easier to manage and more secure. Carnegie Mellon University's Lorrie Cranor joins us.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Palestinian children arrive in U.S. for medical treatment

President Biden announced on Sunday that he is pardoning his son Hunter Biden. Richard Painter, a former White House ethics lawyer under former President George W. Bush, weighs in. Then, Colorado Gov. Jared Polis is leading an effort by governors to "safeguard democracy" when President-elect Donald Trump takes office again. Polis joins us. And, the holiday shopping season is also the most wonderful time of the year for scammers. Expert Jorij Abraham talks about how to spot and stop scams during the busiest shopping season of all.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

'Same old story': Ethics lawyer reacts to Hunter Biden's pardon

Rich Benoit of Rich Rebuilds posts popular do-it-yourself car repair videos on YouTube. He talks about his new memoir. Then, some drivers will soon have to pay $9 to bring their cars into the most congested parts of Manhattan. WNYC's Stephen Nessen tells us more. And, 74-year-old Linda Vanderloop just finished the Appalachian Trail with her daughter Hanna, setting the record as the oldest known woman to thru-hike the trail. Vanderloop joins us.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Rich Rebuilds' journey from Harvard drop-out to YouTube sensation

Three tribes in the Southwest are hoping federal lawmakers will pass a water rights deal in the remaining weeks of the year. The agreement would allow many communities to bring piped water to the Navajo Nation, where about a third of households do not have clean water. We hear about the deal from Ethel Branch, attorney general of the Navajo Nation.  And, think twice before getting sucked down the rabbit hole of Black Friday madness. Maurie Backman of Motley Fool Money reveals the secret marketing tactics that make holiday sales deceiving. Then, American songwriter Tom Paxton is preparing to give his final public performances next year. The 87-year-old musician reflects on his life and career.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Navajo leaders push for landmark water deal

After more than a year of fighting between Israel and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, a 60-day ceasefire has taken effect. Middle East correspondent Borzou Daragahi explains what may follow. And, a Texas library moved author Linda Coombs' history book "Colonization and the Wampanoag Story" to the fiction section. Now, it's rightfully back in the nonfiction area and Coombs joins us to discuss her book and Native American history. Then, spend your holiday weekend relaxing with a movie on your TV. Film critic Ty Burr offers some recommendations of what to stream.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

What the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire means for the Middle East

The Transportation Security Administration is expecting to screen more than 18 million people this Thanksgiving week — a 6% increase from last year. TSA Administrator David Pekoske tells us more. Then, a new survey found 63% of adults say that speeding and aggressive driving are major problems where they live. We talk about the rise of road rage with Dean DeSoto, CEO of the Community Alliance for Traffic Safety in San Antonio, Texas, and Colten Bonk, one of DeSoto's former students who overcame anger issues and alcoholism. And, hot dish? Or hotdish? Maybe both! Food Network star Molly Yeh talks about the power of the upper Midwest's signature meal.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Flying this Thanksgiving? Here's what to expect

Former far-right Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro has been indicted with dozens of others in an alleged attempt to overthrow the government after Bolsonaro lost reelection in 2022. NPR's Carrie Kahn joins us. Then, Beth Dozier is socially liberal but was raised in a conservative family. Back in 2020, the election tore her family apart. For 2024, they decided to put family over politics. We speak with Beth Dozier and her father, John William Dozier. And, resident chef Kathy Gunst has dreamed up three new dessert suggestions for this Thanksgiving.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro indicted in alleged coup plot

The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, accusing them of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Leila Sadat, law professor at Washington University, joins us. And, Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson is banning transgender people from using bathrooms on the House side of Capitol Hill that don't correspond to their gender assigned at birth. It's in response to the election of the first openly transgender member of Congress. News and politics editor at Teen Vogue Lex McMenamin unpacks the controversy with us. Then, 10 years of rule by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Hindu nationalist party have taken India's government in an authoritarian direction. Journalist Rahul Bhatia's book "The New India" explores the unmaking of the world's largest democracy.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Netanyahu is a wanted man in International Criminal Court

President-elect Donald Trump says he plans to nominate former TV host Dr. Mehmet Oz to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The agency oversees insurance programs covering more than 150 million Americans. Julie Rovner of KFF News breaks down Dr. Oz's views on health care. Then, the ACLU filed a lawsuit this week against ICE, seeking more information about how it might carry out large-scale deportations in the incoming Trump administration. The ACLU's Eunice Cho joins us. And, comedian, actor and author Jenny Slate recently released "Lifeform," a new collection of essays about life, love and having a child. Here &amp; Now's Emiko Tamagawa speaks with Slate.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Trump picks Dr. Oz to run Medicare and Medicaid

Ukraine fired U.S-supplied long-range missiles into Russia for the first time, a U.S. official confirmed to NPR. Washington Post chief Ukraine correspondent Siobhán O'Grady joins us to break down what the development means and look back at 1,000 days of war in Ukraine. And, the Department of Justice is set to take another crack at breaking up what it perceives to be a monopoly held by Google's parent company Alphabet. Roben Farzad, host of the podcast "Full Disclosure," explains the ideas being considered. Then, popular video game company Roblox says it is taking new steps to keep children safe after a financial research firm labeled the platform a "pedophile hellscape." Roblox chief safety officer Matt Kaufman explains what he thinks those changes will accomplish.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Ukraine launches U.S.-made missiles into Russia for first time

We look at President-elect Donald Trump's picks for his incoming administration and what's expected from the next Republican-controlled Congress with USA Today's Francesa Chambers and NBC's Scott Wong. And, a jury found the Virginia-based contractor CACI liable for "conspiring with" U.S. soldiers to "inflict torture" at Abu Ghraib prison in Iraq. We take a look at the decision with The New York Times' Mattathias Schwartz. Then, Sy Montgomery, author of the bestselling "The Soul of an Octopus," talks with us about her new book, "What the Chicken Knows," which explores the extraordinary individuality and intelligence of the ordinary fowl.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Gaetz, RFK Jr. and a Republican trifecta

We break down President-elect Donald Trump's controversial nomination of former Rep. Matt Gaetz for Attorney General with Marc Caputo, national political reporter with the Bulkwark. And, clinical psychologist Dr. Ramani Durvasula joins us to discuss how to cope with narcissistic people. Then, we look into the future of U.S.-Israel relations with Aaron David Miller, senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

With Matt Gaetz as AG, Trump would have a loyal attack dog leading the DOJ

President-elect Donald Trump has picked former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee to serve as his ambassador to Israel. The Washington Post's John Hudson explains what this could mean for U.S. policy. And, Trump has pledged to deport millions of undocumented people during his next administration. Pew Research Center's Jeff Passel breaks down what that could mean for the industries that employ them. Then, we remember jazz legend Roy Haynes who died on Tuesday.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

What does Trump's pick for ambassador to Israel mean for war in Gaza?

President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to cut federal jobs, move positions out of the Washington metro area and eliminate the federal Department of Education. The Washington Post's Lisa Rein explains the impact of these promises. And, the CEO of oil giant ExxonMobil wants President Trump to rethink his promise to pull the U.S. out of the Paris climate agreement. Full Disclosure host Roben Farzad explains why. Then, schools across the U.S. are replacing their asphalt playgrounds with trees and shade structures. Danielle Denk from the Trust for Public Land explains how this benefits everyone.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Trump wants to fire federal workers. What will that mean?

Global climate talks begin next week. How will the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump affect them? Attracta Mooney of The Financial Times explains the environmental implications of his win. And, Democratic strategist David Axelrod breaks down what lessons the Democrats can learn from Trump's victory. Then, a new study found that a group of bacteria in wastewater can break down PFASs or forever chemicals. Northwestern University chemist William Dichtel joins us to discuss what the discovery means.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Trump win casts a shadow on UN climate talks

President-elect Donald Trump made significant gains among Latino communities during the 2024 election. MSNBC contributor Julio Ricardo Varela explains why.  And, Trump will face multiple foreign policy challenges in his second term. NPR's Emily Feng in Beijing, Daniel Estrin in Tel Aviv, Charles Maynes in Tblisi, Georgia, and Eyder Peralta in Mexico City join us. Then, forget about the Red Delicious. We are living in a golden age of apples with more than 20 different varieties available at grocery stores. David Bedford, an apple researcher at the University of Minnesota, joins us.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Why so many Latino voters backed Trump

Former President Donald Trump will return to the White House next year. The Washington Post's Michael Scherer explains how Trump won. Then, Jacorie McCall is a Black voter who supports Trump and has worked on past Republican campaigns. He reacts to the victory. And, Axios' Margaret Talev takes a look at Trump's likely policies on issues ranging from immigration to health care to taxes and foreign policy. Plus, Here &amp; Now's Peter O'Dowd reports from Arizona. Finally, former Pennsylvania Rep. Jim Greenwood, co-founder of Pennsylvania Republicans for Harris-Walz, talks about which political messages did and didn't resonate in the battleground state.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

How Trump won again

State rules differ on when mail-in ballots can be counted. That might lead to delays in getting vote totals. NPR's Miles Parks joins us to break down when we'll know the results. And in a presidential election, the winner isn't always the one who wins the popular vote. It comes down to the Electoral College. University of Pennsylvania professor Kermit Roosevelt shares a refresher on how the Electoral College works. Then, we take a look at the bygone tradition of baking an election cake. Baker Ellen King, co-owner of Hewn Bread in Evanston, Illinois, joins us with a recipe for her election cake and a look at the past and future of the tradition.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

When will we know election results?

Politico's Kyle Cheney talks about his reporting that former President Donald Trump will declare himself the winner on Tuesday night no matter what, and what kind of legal paths he might exploit to regain the White House. Then, mega-donors have contributed more than $2.5 billion in this election — more than twice the amount they gave in 2020. The Washington Post's Clara Ence Morse explains who the top donors are and how big money is changing elections. And, singer-songwriter Tom Paxton is playing his final tour. Here &amp; Now's Robin Young caught up with Paxton at Club Passim in Cambridge, Massachusetts, to hear more about his life and career.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

What happens if Trump declares himself the winner before all the votes are counted?

Getting the final election results might take several days. The New York Times' Nick Corasaniti joins us to discuss what could happen during those days of uncertainty. And, TikTok sensation Geo Rutherford makes videos about lakes around the world with eerie histories. She talks to us about her new book, "Spooky Lakes: 25 Strange and Mysterious Lakes that Dot Our Planet." Then, the Los Angeles Dodgers clinched a win in Game 5 to seal a World Series win. Earlier in the season, one lucky fan got to catch several balls between innings. LAist's Josie Huang reports.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Planning for post-Election Day lawsuits and disinformation

On Tuesday, Kamala Harris spoke at a huge rally at the Ellipse in Washington D.C, where the Jan. 6 riot began. University of Chicago political violence expert Robert Pape joins us to talk about what could be ahead for the country. Then, critics of the National Archives and Records Administration say the agency is trying to water down the thorniest parts of American history, according to new reporting from the Wall Street Journal. Reporter Rebecca Ballhaus tells us more. And, a new $11 billion wind farm and transmission line will produce clean energy for cities in the Southwest. As part of our ongoing climate series Reverse Course, Here &amp; Now's Peter O'Dowd traveled to remote parts of New Mexico and Arizona to report on the challenge of adding new transmission lines to the U.S. grid.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Could the 2024 election normalize political violence?

Pennsylvania could decide the presidential race. Spotlight PA's Katie Meyer joins us to break down how the campaign is shaping up in the key battleground state. And, new research shows that more Americans than previously thought consider themselves living "paycheck to paycheck." Roben Farzad, host of the "Full Disclosure" podcast, joins us to explain what this means. Then, the Gulf of Mexico has long been an oil hub. But Here &amp; Now's Chris Bentley reports on efforts to integrate energy from offshore wind turbines.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

How Trump's MSG rally is playing in Pennsylvania

Throughout the presidential campaign, border policy and migration have remained major talking points. We put your thoughts and questions to Immigration reporter Jack Herrera. Then, the Muslim American advocacy group Emgage Action has endorsed Kamala Harris for president. CEO Wa'el Alzayat talks about the challenges Harris faces in getting firm support from Muslim and Arab American communities. And, funds from the Biden administration's signature climate law are helping to promote job training programs and efforts to diversify West Virginia's coal-dependent economy. Here &amp; Now's Chris Bentley reports.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Immigration questions, answered

We get the view on the 2024 election from two veteran strategists. First, pollster and communications specialist Frank Luntz talks with us about why he thinks Vice President Kamala Harris has lost momentum. Then, famed Democratic political consultant James Carville tells us why he is certain Harris will win the presidential race. And, on election day, voters in 41 states will vote on more than 140 ballot measures. Ballotpedia's Ryan Byrne joins us to talk about the trends.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Why James Carville is sure Harris will win

Less than two weeks before the election, Donald Trump's former White House Chief of Staff tells the New York Times that he believes the former president meets the definition of a fascist. The Washington Post's Philip Bump tells us more. Then, Matthew Broderick stars in a new adaptation of "Babbitt," the acclaimed Sinclair Lewis novel. Broderick talks about how the play brings the 1922 book into the present. And, more than 24 million Americans listen to noncommercial music stations each week. For Public Radio Music Day, we highlight two of those stations.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Former chief of staff warns of a second Trump term

A watchdog group is warning about possible efforts by election deniers to disrupt the certification of votes this year. Noah Bookbinder, president of Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, joins us. Then, what's next for the hostages still being held in Gaza? Former Israeli hostage negotiator Gershon Baskin talks about how to move toward a hostage release and the end of Israel's war against Hamas in Gaza. And, sea glass collecting has grown in popularity in the last 10 years. Host Robin Young goes glassing on Boston's Revere BeachLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

How election deniers could disrupt the 2024 election

What does the death of Oct. 7 architect Yahya Sinwar mean for the hostages still in Gaza? Sharone Lifschitz, whose father is being held hostage, joins us to talk about why she and other hostage families are pushing Israel to negotiate a deal.  And, Fox News launched a Spanish-language news program called "Fox Noticias." Author Paola Ramos talks with us about how former President Donald Trump is making inroads in the Latino community. Then, Here &amp; Now's resident games expert James Perkins Mastromarino breaks down some spooky, newly released games perfect for the Halloween season.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

After Yahya Sinwar's killing, hostages' family members have new fears

Israel says a military operation in Gaza killed, Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, the architect of the Oct. 7 attack. We get the latest from Daniel Levy of the U.S. / Middle East Project. Then, what should voters know about mail-in ballots? Elections expert Wendy Underhill joins us, along with Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab, who shares his concerns about the timely delivery of ballots by the U.S. Postal Service. And, the film "Hundreds of Beavers" was made on a low budget during two Wisconsin winters. Since then, the film has developed a cult following. We speak with co-writer Ryland Brickson Cole Tews.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Hamas leader killed in Gaza

The swing state of Michigan has a big Arab American population. Many Democrats in that community want to abandon their party over its support of Israel's war in Gaza. Host Deepa Fernandes traveled to Michigan to report on how voters are feeling. And, Vice President Kamala Harris did a town hall Monday night with popular radio host Charlamagne tha God, while Former President Donald Trump did an interview with Bloomberg News. NPR's Ron Elving joins us to talk about what those interviews revealed. Then, in his new book "Framed," John Grisham and his co-author Jim McCloskey write about people who were convicted of crimes because of poor policing and incompetent "expert witnesses." Grisham joins us.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

How Michigan's Arab American community could decide the 2024 election

Republican Sen. Ted Cruz and Democratic Rep. Colin Allred will face off in a debate Tuesday night. KUT's Blaise Gainey tells us about the close Senate race. Then, how much do polls matter to the election? NPR's Domenico Montanaro discusses what people should look for in polling. And, aid trucks have made it into North Gaza after a customs dispute led to Israel blocking entry for relief agencies. UNWRA's Juliette Touma joins us. Plus, French singer Yseult stole the show at this year's Olympics closing ceremony when she sang "My Way" by Frank Sinatra. Now, she's out with a brand new album called "Mental." She joins us to talk about it.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Everybody thinks polling is broken. Here's what you should know.

We'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast. Take the survey at wbur.org/survey. Elections departments across Pennsylvania are heightening security efforts and trying to tackle misinformation as the political climate heats up. Votebeat Pennsylvania's Carter Walker joins us. And, Asheville, North Carolina, was home to a thriving arts district before Hurricane Helene swept through. Fleta Monaghan, the founder of an art studio and school, tells us how the community is working to recover. Then, Monty Python founding member Eric Idle's new book, "The Spamalot Diaries," tells the story of how the film "Monty Python and the Holy Grail" became the Tony-winning Broadway musical "Spamalot." Idle joins us to talk about the book.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

How Pennsylvania is ramping up security ahead of Election Day

We'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast. Take the survey here or at wbur.org/survey. We discuss the latest in politics with Jonathan Martin of Politico and Julia Terruso of the Philadelphia Inquirer. Then, former President Donald Trump is vowing to "save vaping." His promise comes after he reportedly met with a leading e-cigarette representative. Tevi Troy, author and former lobbyist for JUUL, joins us. And, Yom Kippur begins Friday night. Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove of the Park Avenue Synagogue talks about the holiday, last year's Oct. 7 attacks, and what it means to be Jewish today.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Trump vows to 'save vaping'

We'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast. Take the survey at wbur.org/survey. Florida is cleaning up after Hurricane Milton blew through the state, leaving millions without power. NPR's Greg Allen and Florida resident Tricia Rand join us to explain the impact of the storm. And, the Environmental Protection Agency finalized a rule requiring all lead pipes to be replaced in a decade. Federal officials say it will improve public health. EPA Administrator Michael Regan joins us. Then, longtime Palestinian rights activists, Huwaida Arraf and Adam Shapiro, live in Michigan. Many Arab Americans there are divided on whether to vote for Democrat Kamala Harris or for a third-party candidate in the 2024 election. Here &amp; Now's Deepa Fernandes reports from Michigan.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

How politics divide an Arab American family in Michigan

We'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast. Take the survey at wbur.org/survey. Tampa General Hospital director of public safety Tony Venezia joins us to talk about how the hospital is preparing for Hurricane Milton. The hospital installed a temporary flood wall ahead of Hurricane Helene, but Milton is expected to be much stronger. And, the new book "Play Nice: The Rise, Fall, and Future of Blizzard Entertainment" profiles the video game developer's meteoric rise and the controversies that followed. Author Jason Schreier joins us. Then, Virginia-based singer and rapper Anees joins us to discuss his hit song "Sun and Moon," his family history, and his outspoken support for Palestinians.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

How Tampa is preparing for Hurricane Milton

We'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast. Take the survey at wbur.org/survey. The number of election deniers and conspiracy theorists is growing in official capacities related to the election. Marc Elias — one of the attorneys who helped overturn nearly every legal challenge related to the 2020 election — joins us to share his concerns. And, Najat Aoun Saliba, a member of Lebanon's parliament, joins us from Beirut for an update on the Israeli airstrikes Thursday. Then, after learning their children had a rare genetic disease that would eventually take their eyesight, a family from Montreal set off on a world journey. Parents Edith Lemay and Sébastien Pelletier say they want their children to see as much as they can while they have the time.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

If you were going blind, what would you want to see?

We'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast. Take the survey here or at wbur.org/survey. Israel is vowing to retaliate after Iran fired ballistic missiles into Israel on Tuesday. So how does Iran view the escalating conflict with Israel? Author Trita Parsi weighs in. Then, four previously unknown recordings of the late Pakistani singer Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan have been rediscovered and released on a new album called "Chain of Light." Composer Michael Brook and scholar Hussein Rashid join us. And, the Nintendo Museum opens in Kyoto, Japan, on Wednesday. NPR's Anthony Kuhn reports.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A look inside Kyoto's new Nintendo Museum

We'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast. Take the survey at wbur.org/survey.  Israel has launched its first ground invasion into Lebanon since 2006. NPR international correspondent Ruth Sherlock joins us. And, misinformation about the election is spreading online. Renee DiResta joins us to discuss the Stanford institution she helped lead that aimed to fight election disinformation until it also became the target of disinformation. Then, Oct. 1 is Jimmy Carter's 100th birthday. Longtime radio host Diane Rehm interviewed him more than 10 times and joins us to reflect on his legacyLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Jimmy Carter celebrates his 100th birthday

We'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast. Take the survey here or at wbur.org/survey. The vast majority of people who are arrested in this country cannot afford to pay bail — which is why states across the U.S. have tried to change the system. Marc Levin, chief policy counsel for the Council on Criminal Justice, tells us about those efforts. Then, New York City Mayor Eric Adams has been indicted on federal charges of bribery and fraud, allegations he denies. WNYC's Bahar Ostadan tells us more. And, about 7 million American adults are suffering from some form of problem gambling, according to the National Council on Problem Gambling. Heather Hugelmeyer, senior director of behavioral health at Northwell Health in New York, talks about how to recognize and cope with gambling addiction.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Breaking the Bond: What bail reform looks like across the U.S.

We'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast. Take the survey at wbur.org/survey. According to legal experts, the end of cash bail for nonviolent misdemeanor offenses made the justice system in the Houston area more fair. But it hasn't made the city's jail complex any safer. Here &amp; Now's Peter O'Dowd and Houston Public Media's Lucio Vasquez report on the alarming trend of inmates dying while incarcerated. And, several election officials received packages containing white powder last week. Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold was one of those officials. Though the powder was found to be harmless, Griswold joins us to discuss heightened safety concerns leading up to the election. Then, Scottish radio broadcaster Fiona Ritchie retires this month from the NPR program "The Thistle &amp; Shamrock" that she's hosted since 1981. She joins us to talk about her career and her favorite music.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Breaking the Bond: Why bail reform hasn't made Houston's jail safer

We'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast. Take the survey here or at wbur.org/survey. Local governments around the country are reconsidering the use of cash bail. But those changes often lead to political backlash. Here &amp; Now's Peter O'Dowd continues his series from Harris County, which ended cash bail in 2019 for most misdemeanors. Then, we talk with Abbas Alawieh, a leader of the Uncommitted movement in Michigan. He has relatives in Lebanon who are trying to find safety from Israeli airstrikes against Hezbollah. And, author Ann Patchett talks about her new children's book — called "The Verts: A Story of Introverts and Extroverts."Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Breaking the Bond: Political backlash follows effort to reform cash bail in Texas

The World Meteorological Organization found that our planet is on track to break record levels of heat over the next five years And we may pass a major climate change threshold. MSNBC's Ali Velshi joins us. And, Columbia University professor Katherine Keyes talks about the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that found drug overdose deaths increased by 2% last year. Then, between 1976 and 1982, Donna Summer had more top-10 hits than any other recording artist. Now, the new documentary "Love to Love You: Donna Summer" tells the singer's whole story. Summer's daughter Brooklyn Sudano made the movie. We speak with Sudano.

'Love to Love You, Donna Summer'; Drug overdoses in U.S. slightly increased in 2022

South Carolina lawmakers Katrina Shealy and Margie Bright Matthews — two of five "sister senators," a bipartisan group of the only women in the state senate who are banding together to fight a near-total ban on abortion in a special session that starts this week — join us. And, STAT's Brittany Trang talks about a promising study that tested a patch for toddlers with peanut allergies. Then, "The Stacks" podcast creator and host Traci Thomas shares recommendations from the more recent crop of audiobooks.

Women senators fight South Carolina abortion ban; Audiobooks recommendations

Special counsel John Durham issued a report that criticizes the FBI for its investigation into the 2016 Trump campaign. Washington Post reporter Devlin Barrett joins us to talk about the report. And, you've probably seen a sign that says "We Buy Ugly Houses" in your neighborhood somewhere. A new report from ProPublica uncovered the ugly side of the company's business tactics. Anjeanette Damon, one of the ProPublica reporters who reported the story, joins us. Then, Bisa Butler creates vibrant, electrifying quilt portraits using scraps of clothes. Her pieces weave together the culture and history of Black American life. Her new exhibit, "The World is Yours," is on display now at the Jeffrey Deitch Gallery in New York. Butler joins us to talk about her work and inspirations.

Ugly side of We Buy Ugly Houses; Bisa Butler's art weaves together history and hope

Sheriff David Hathaway of Santa Cruz County, Arizona, talks about the situation along the border after the end of the border policy known as Title 42. Then, The City reporter Gwynne Hogan discusses the struggle to find shelter for thousands of migrants being sent to New York City. Over the weekend, Mayor Eric Adams announced that the shuttered Roosevelt Hotel will be used as a temporary shelter. And, if you're like most Americans, you may not have slept particularly well last night. Sleep-promoting cereal, ice cream and chocolate bars are gaining traction. But do they work? Charles Czeisler, chief of the Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, weighs in.

Can cereal and ice cream help you sleep?; The end of Title 42

A water shortage on the Colorado River has put tremendous strain on the states that rely on it as a main water source. The fate of California's Salton Sea is tied to the future of the river, and a catastrophic drought has only worsened conditions. As the river's water supply dwindles lower and lower, farmers in different states fight over the allocation of resources. Farmers who rely on the water to grow crops are needing to cut way down on water consumption, but some states are still receiving significantly more water than others. Tensions are especially high between farmers in Arizona and California. But there have been some efforts to reduce the water needed to maintain agricultural industries, and vertical farming is one of them. It won't replace traditional field agriculture, experts say, but it's a step toward growing crops with fewer resources. Here &amp; Now's Peter O'Dowd reports on the devastation of the Colorado River and its rocky future. 

The fate of the imperiled Colorado River and attempts to mitigate disaster

The public health order Title 42 comes to an end Thursday. We speak with two migrants to hear why they left their home countries and hope to claim asylum in the U.S. Jennifer Babaie, director of legal services at Las Americas immigrant advocacy center, also joins us. And, over the past 50 years, one-third of North America's birds have disappeared, according to a 2019 study. Journalists Anders Gyllenhaal and Beverly Gyllenhaal talk about their new book "A Wing And A Prayer: The Race To Save Our Vanishing Birds." Then, Nintendo releases its biggest game in years on Friday, the latest in the massively influential "Legend of Zelda" series. It comes after the "Mario" movie broke records. The Washington Post's Gene Park tells us more.

'The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom' drops; Efforts to save birds in danger

On Tuesday, a jury in Manhattan found former President Donald Trump liable for sexual abuse and defamation of writer E. Jean Carroll. Jane Manning, director of the Women's Equal Justice Project and a former sex crimes prosecutor, joins us. And, researchers found that 19th-century whaling logs contribute to climate science as sailors meticulously logged currents, weather and more. Timothy Walker from the University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth approached Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution with the idea for research. Then, the National Trust for Historic Preservation has released its 2023 list of the most endangered places in the U.S. Included in the list of 11 are a gas station, a church and a cemetery. Katherine Malone-France, chief preservation officer with the National Trust for Historic Preservation, joins us. 

Whaling logs and climate change; The 11 most endangered places in the U.S.

Brett Cross, whose son Uziyah Garcia was killed in the mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, talks about the bill in the Texas legislature that would raise the minimum age to buy certain semi-automatic rifles from 18 to 21. And, author and cardiologist Sandeep Jauhar discusses his new book "My Father's Brain: Life in the Shadow of Alzheimer's," which intertwines information about the disease and how it's treated with his own family's story of coping when his father developed Alzheimer's. And, proponents of the No Mow May movement are urging homeowners not to mow those lawns for the month to preserve and create habitat for birds, butterflies and bees that pollinate our plants. We hear more about the movement and why it's controversial.

'My Father's Brain' explores the effect of Alzheimer's disease; No Mow May 

A man drove his SUV into a crowd of people outside a shelter for migrants in Brownsville, Texas, Sunday morning. The driver killed 8 people and injured 10 others. Gaige Davila, a reporter for Texas Public Radio's Border and Immigration Desk, joins us. And, are we coming to the end of the digital media era? Ben Smith, author and former editor-in-chief of Buzzfeed News, joins us to talk about his new book "Traffic: Genius, Rivalry and Delusion in the Billion-Dollar Race to Go Viral" and why he thinks the age of digital media is ending. Then, more than 700 child care providers are shutting down for the day in at least 20 states. They're rallying for better pay for educators and more affordable care for families. We speak with BriTanya Brown, the owner of a child care business in Stamford, Texas, and advocate Latoya Gayle.

Is the digital media era ending?; A Day Without Child Care

Jacob Wideman was arrested at work and brought back to prison for failing to make an appointment with a psychologist on a particular day, as directed by his parole officer. Two months later, he faced the Arizona parole board again. The parole board voted to keep Jake in prison, where he remains, possibly for life. In the final episode of Violation, we discuss what happens now and what Jake's legal options are. And we return to thorny dilemmas about the criminal justice system: When someone commits a terrible crime, as Jake did, is there anything they can do to prove they deserve to be free again? We also return to the question of why Jake killed Eric Kane in 1986. There's one last piece of the puzzle that might bring a little more clarity, and Jake tries to explain it in his own words. Listen to the full series on Here &amp; Now Anytime. Find a transcript and photos here.

What options remain for Jacob Wideman?

AP's Darlene Superville and Fox News' Chad Pergram discuss the week in politics, including new revelations about Supreme Court justice Clarence Thomas' financial ties, as well as high-stakes debt ceiling negotiations and immigration changes next week. And, King Charles III is set to be crowned this weekend in a highly publicized coronation. And while thousands of people are likely to turn out and watch, not everyone is a fan of the monarchy. Femi Oke, host of Al Jazeera English's "The Stream," joins us. "The Great American Baking Show" — the U.S. version of "The Great British Bake Off" — debuts on the Roku channel Friday. Judges Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith tell us about the new show.

Discontent looms over King Charles III's coronation; 'The Great American Baking Show'

New reporting from ProPublica found that billionaire Republican donor Harlan Crow paid private school tuition for Justice Clarence Thomas's grand-nephew. The revelation comes after a hearing this week on Supreme Court ethics. Amanda Frost, law professor at the University of Virginia, tells us more. And, Grist's Jake Bittle talks about his investigation into "water brokers" that are profiting off of the Western water crisis. Then, two Gen Z activists — Republican Joe Mitchell and Democrat Teddy Landis — share what they think fellow 20-something voters want to hear on issues such as abortion and gun control.

How one company is making millions on water; The impact of Gen Z voters

Congress has a June deadline to raise the debt ceiling, but there's a tense political standoff to be settled. It's not the first time something like this has happened. In 2011, Republicans were also trying to secure spending cuts in exchange for raising the debt limit. NPR's Ron Elving joins us. And, the Syrian refugee crisis has been going on for 12 years now, and it hasn't shown many signs of improvement. Political violence and natural disasters have forced more than 14 million Syrians out of their homes. Cate Blanchett — actor and United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees goodwill ambassador — discusses her recent trip to Jordan and meetings with Syrian refugees. Then, gun violence and mass shootings are daily occurrences in the U.S., but new research shows that rates of gun violence differ across the country. Colin Woodard, researcher and director of the Nationhood Lab at Salve Regina University in Rhode Island, joins us. 

Cate Blanchett on Syrian refugee crisis; Gun violence rate differs across regions

On the one-year anniversary of the leak of the Supreme Court's Dobbs decision, the Senate Judiciary Committee is hearing from legal experts Tuesday on ethics and the Supreme Court. "Amicus" podcast host Dahlia Lithwick joins us. And, there are reports that Vice Media is preparing to file for bankruptcy. Roben Farzad, host of public radio's "Full Disclosure," tells us more. Then, does rent control improve housing affordability in the long run? Economist Rebecca Diamond was part of a study in San Francisco that found that in the long run, rent control drove up rents because it led a number of landlords to convert their housing to other uses and it reduced the supply of rental units.

Research finds rent control reduces affordability in long run; Supreme Court reform

First Republic Bank is the third bank to fail this year, and the largest. What does this tell us about the financial system? Karen Shaw Petrou, co-founder and managing partner of Federal Financial Analytics, joins us. And, May Day marks labor rights around the world. In France, citizens protest pension reform that plans to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64. NPR Paris correspondent Eleanor Beardsley joins us. Then, who owns history? When documentation of historical events is often stored behind paywalls, the answer is unclear. Filmmaker Richard Misek joins us to talk about his new documentary, "A History of the World According to Getty Images."

May Day protests erupt in France over pension reform; Who owns history?

Six months after Jacob Wideman was released from prison on home arrest, his parole officer told the parole board that Jake was doing well. But other people were coming to a different conclusion. In Part 6 of Violation, we hear interviews and testimony from Jake, his attorneys, parole officials and others as we piece together the events leading up to the parole violation that sent Jake behind bars again — possibly for life. Subscribe to Here &amp; Now Anytime for new episodes each Friday. Find a transcript and photos here.

How a parole violation sent Jacob Wideman back to prison — possibly for life

Congress is still divided over the debt limit. Republicans passed a bill that would raise the debt ceiling — but dramatically cut spending. But it's unlikely to pass in the Democrat-controlled Senate. Rep. Jim Clyburn, assistant House Democratic leader, joins us. And, are our pets actually miserable? Animal ethicist Jessica Pierce joins us to answer that uncomfortable question. Then, banks and investment firms using ESG — environment, social and governance investing — are the subject of a new culture war. Opponents say that firms using ESG strategies are pushing a liberal agenda, but proponents say they're just making smart business decisions.

Is your pet miserable?; Investors and opponents on ESG strategies

Sen. Dick Durbin, Democrat of Illinois and chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, speaks about the Republican plan to raise the debt ceiling while cutting spending and about attempts at Supreme Court ethics reform. And, we get the latest on the clash between Disney and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis from MSNBC economics correspondent and anchor Ali Velshi. Then, by now, many are familiar with QAnon, the once-fringe conspiracy group that gained millions of supporters in the U.S. and abroad over the last 5 years. What's the latest on the group, particularly as former President Donald Trump gears up for the 2024 primary? Author Will Sommer joins us to talk about his new book, "Trust the Plan: The Rise of QAnon and the Conspiracy That Unhinged America," a deep dive into QAnon.

The influence and absurdity of QAnon; Disney takes DeSantis to court

The Environmental Protection Agency is set to impose strict new regulations on power plants. It could force existing plants to rely on technologies like carbon capture and hydrogen. Energy analyst at the Rhodium Group John Larsen joins us. And, discussion of mental health has become less taboo over the years. But is there a right or wrong way to discuss it in the workplace? The Wall Street Journal's Callum Borchers joins us. Then, bans on books in school libraries and elsewhere often target those that tell LGBTQ stories. With laws limiting the right of transgender people often in the news, creator of "The Stacks" podcast Traci Thomas offers a list of books by transgender authors or telling transgender stories. 

How to talk about mental health in the workplace; Books by transgender authors

Harry Belafonte, the musician, actor, and civil rights activist, died Tuesday morning at the age of 96. NPR's Elizabeth Blair looks back on Belafonte's impact on music, culture and equality. And, Bed, Bath &amp; Beyond plans to wind down operations at 360 stores and 120 BuyBuy Baby stores with closing sales beginning Wednesday. But the big box retailer wasn't always circling the drain. Bloomberg Opinion retail columnist Leticia Miranda tells us more. Then, linguist Valerie Fridland talks about her new book "Like, Literally, Dude: Arguing for the Good in Bad Language," which dives into the history of abused speech mannerisms like "ums" and discovers that they have much more value than we think.

Remembering Harry Belafonte; Why 'uhs' and 'likes' belong in our language

Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves signed a new set of laws that would bolster the power of law enforcement and make other changes. The NAACP's Abre' Conner talks about the organization's challenge to the new laws. And, can you pull yourself up by your own bootstraps? It's a myth that defines the American dream. It's also the subject of Alissa Quart's book "Bootstrapped: Liberating Ourselves from the American Dream." Then, the captain of a shrimp boat from Texas won the international Goldman Environmental Prize. Diane Wilson won a $50 million court case against a company dumping harmful plastics into the water. She joins us to talk about the award and her work. 

Can you pull yourself up by the bootstraps? NAACP warns of 'state takeover'

Advocates working to address racial health disparities call a new study about Black physicians "groundbreaking" and "a wakeup call." STAT's Usha Lee McFarling tells us more. And, bills in Republican-led states that push back on so-called "woke" investing and banking have real-life impacts. There are political winners and real-life losers. We look at a small city in Texas that is taking a financial hit because of a law that bans doing business with banks that "discriminate" against the gun industry. Then, Rob Quicke, founder of the College Radio Foundation, tells us about this weekend's 8th-annual Vinylthon fundraiser to support the next generation of radio broadcasters.

Life expectancy improves for Black people who live near Black doctors; 'Woke' banking

Jacob Wideman was released from prison in 2016 after 30 years behind bars and seven hearings in front of the Arizona parole board. You may have heard the term "mass incarceration" — this idea that the U.S. locks up more people than any country in the world. But lately, scholars and activists have also been talking about "mass supervision." There are almost 2 million people in U.S. prisons, but there are almost 4 million people on probation or parole. In Part 5 of Violation, we examine what life is like for the millions of people on parole in the U.S., and describe what happened when Jacob Wideman was on parole. Jake didn't know it when he was first released, but his freedom would only last nine months — and there were people on the outside working to put him back inside. Subscribe to Here &amp; Now Anytime for new episodes each Friday. Find a transcript and photos here.

Life on parole: How a violation put Jacob Wideman back in prison

In recent news, common mistakes that anyone could make like knocking on the wrong door or pulling into the wrong driveway have resulted in gun violence, and in one instance, death. Washington Post national columnist Philip Bump joins us to talk about how paranoia and guns intersect. And, Tommy "Shakur" Ross recently visited two prisons in Norway. He joins us to talk about what he found and California Gov. Gavin Newsom's plan to make the San Quentin prison more like Norway's prisons. Then, board games are having a renaissance. From increased convention attendance to cult followings, their popularity is palpable. Here &amp; Now's resident gamer James Perkins Mastromarino joins us with the latest. 

Looking to Norway for changes to U.S. prison system; Best modern board games

President Biden has signed an executive order that includes directives aimed at making child care more accessible and more affordable. Jen Klein, director of the White House Gender Policy Council, tells us more. And, the violence in Sudan has spilled into a fifth day in spite of a ceasefire being put in place by the two warring sides. Sara Musa El Saeed, NGO Corus International's Sudan Director, joins us. Then, Navy veteran Ed Markowitz is living Canada because his wife is currently barred from living in the U.S. due to federal immigration law. He joins us along with Ashley DeAzevedo, the president of American Families United, a group that is fighting to fix situations like Markowitz's.

Biden's 'historic' child care order; Immigration law seperates family

A special grand jury came back Thursday with no charges for the eight police officers who shot and killed Jayland Walker, a young Black man, in Akron, Ohio, last summer. Activists march for justice on Tuesday. Rev. Raymond Greene Jr., leader of Freedom BLOC, or the Black Led Organizing Collaborative, joins us. And, when Democratic Rep. Justin Jones joined protestors rallying against gun violence, he was expelled from the Tennessee House along with another young, Black lawmaker. They were both reinstated days later. Jones joins us. Then, "The Phantom of the Opera" ended its 35-year Broadway run on Sunday. It's the longest-running musical in Broadway history. Actor George Lee Andrews, who appeared in 9,382 performances, reflects on the show and its end. 

Activists march for Jayland Walker; 'The Phantom of the Opera' ends Broadway run

Former federal prosecutor Ankush Khardori talks about the strengths and weaknesses of the defamation lawsuit brought by Dominion Voting Systems against Fox News. Dominion accuses Fox of knowingly spreading falsehoods about its vote counting in the 2020 presidential election. And, we get an update on the Boston Marathon results from Alex Ashlock, reporter and former Here &amp; Now staffer, at the finish line. Then, our personal finance guru answers your questions on paying down credit card debt. Jill Schlesinger, a CBS News business analyst and host of "Jill on Money," joins us. 

Credit card debt questions, answered; Fox-Dominion defamation case begins this week

Two years after he murdered Eric Kane, Jacob Wideman was transferred from county jail to the Arizona Department of Corrections to begin serving a life sentence. At 18 years old, Jake was thrust into a world where the only way to feel safe was through physical aggression and bravado. He had many years of practice pretending he wasn't suffering from mental health struggles in his youth, but now, Jake had to push those struggles even further out of sight as he faced a series of challenges in prison, each more difficult than the last. In Part Four of the "Violation" podcast, we follow his decades-long journey through the Arizona prison system and hear how he prepared to tell his life story to the parole board.

How Jacob Wideman faced his mental health struggles behind bars

A suspect related to the Pentagon documents leak has been arrested. The suspect is a 21-year-old member of the Massachusetts Air National Guard. Ellen Nakashima, national security reporter for the Washington Post, joins us. And, a new revelation shows Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas sold property to Texas billionaire Harlan Crow and failed to disclose it. Jane Mayer, chief Washington correspondent for the New Yorker, outlines Thomas' history of similar behavior. Then, what is "woke" investing? It's a term given to ESG, or environment, social and governance investing. It's when investment firms consider climate change or other issues when making financial decisions. And some lawmakers want to ban it. Here &amp; Now investigates. 

Clarence Thomas' history of failing to disclose expenses; What is 'woke' investing?

The drug Mifepristone is used in most medication abortions in the U.S. Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk overturned the FDA's approval of the abortion drug. A federal appeals court will grant partial access to the drug while federal rulings play out, but impose stricter regulations about how it can be used. The Washington Post's Caroline Kitchener and The 19th's Shefali Luthra join us. And, e-cigarette manufacturing company JUUL has agreed to settle a case brought by six states and Washington D.C. for lying about the harm of vaping and marketing to children. Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser joins us. Then, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, uses AI technology to predict which children could be at risk for harm. The Justice Department is getting involved after an investigation found the technology may be discriminating against parents with disabilities. 

The latest on abortion pill; Does AI discriminate against parents with disabilities?

Dr. Jason Smith is the chief medical officer at the University of Louisville Hospital. The hospital treated victims of Monday's mass shooting at a bank in the city, and Smith joins us to talk about the emotional toll that doctors, nurses and other emergency room workers face when treating gunshot victims so frequently. And, the Department of the Interior has offered two potential plans of action to cut water usage from the imperiled Colorado River. Here &amp; Now's Peter O'Dowd reports on the federal government's attempts to protect the large reservoir after 23 years of drought. Then, jazz legend Herbie Hancock turns 83 on Wednesday. The pianist and composer joins us to discuss life, death, music and his decades-long friendship with a fellow jazz icon, the late saxophonist Wayne Shorter. 

The emotional toll of treating gunshot victims; Herbie Hancock on life and friendship

The U.S. Department of Justice is appealing a ruling suspending the Food and Drug Administration's approval of mifepristone, a drug used in medication abortions. If the ruling holds, it would effectively ban the sale of the pills across the country. We hear from Laurie Bertram Roberts, executive director and co-founder of the Mississippi Reproductive Freedom Fund. And, we talk with the University of California Riverside's Jan Blacher, the co-author of a new study about high rates of expulsions from preschools for autistic kids. Then, in "Above Ground," Clint Smith writes about the everyday joy, anxiety and exhaustion of parenthood with young children. He joins us.

Why so many autistic kids get expelled from preschool; Clint Smith's 'Above Ground'

The abortion drug Mifepristone has been used effectively and safely for medical abortions for more than 20 years. But amid conflicting federal rulings over abortion, the drug's future remains unclear. Mary Ziegler — legal historian, law professor and author — joins us. And, it's been 25 years since the Good Friday Agreement ended decades of violence in Northern Ireland. Father Kevin Mullan reflects on the peace deal and on building bridges between religious communities. Then, the Merrie Monarch Festival, often called the "Olympics of hula," celebrates its 60-year anniversary this week. It's the world's most prestigious hula competition and is held in Hilo. Kimo Kahoano, the competition's longtime host, joins us.

Irish priest on 25 years since Good Friday peace agreement; The 'Olympics of hula'

What happens at parole boards is a huge part of Jacob Wideman's story — and his story tells us a lot about the parole system in America. After serving 25 years behind bars for killing his summer camp roommate, Eric Kane, Wideman went before a parole board in Arizona for the first time. Starting with his first hearing in 2011, he was denied parole over and over. Except for one time. Part 3 of the "Violation" podcast, examines parole boards, largely secretive institutions that operate in many states with few rules and little oversight. Subscribe to Here &amp; Now Anytime for new episodes each Friday. Find a transcript and photos here.

Life without parole: How the board works — and doesn't — in the U.S.

AP's Darlene Superville and NBC's Sahil Kapur talk about the latest in politics this week, including a published report that Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas did not disclose lavish travel and vacations hosted by a conservative donor. And, the Washington Post's Sarah Dadouch talks about the Israeli airstrikes on Friday morning. The attacks came in response to a barrage of rockets that were fired from south Lebanon toward northern Israel. Then, NBC Out's Jo Yurcaba talks about the Biden administration's proposal to change Title IX. It would outlaw broad bans on trans athletes but still allow some restrictions on participation. Logan Casey of the Movement Advancement Project also joins the conversation to share more about the status of anti-trans bills in state legislatures.

Biden's transgender athlete proposal; Israel launches airstrikes on Lebanon, Gaza

Michigan Radio's Rick Pluta about the politics that led to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's signing Wednesday of a bill to repeal a 1931 abortion ban in Michigan, which went into effect after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade last June. And, resident chef Kathy Gunst shares three new recipes for Passover, Easter, or other spring celebrations. Then, film scoring professor Jon Burlingame looks at some classic TV themes and talks about his new book, "Music for Prime Time: A History of American Television Themes and Scoring."

3 recipes to spring into Passover and Easter; Michigan abortion ban repealed

Milwaukee County Judge Janet Protasiewicz defeated former State Supreme Court Justice Daniel Kelly in a divisive election on Tuesday for an open Supreme Court seat. Chuck Quirmbach of WUWM in Milwaukee explains the results and what we can expect now from the court. And, WBEZ's city government reporter Mariah Woelfel talks about Brandon Johnson's win in the Chicago mayoral election. Then, former President Donald Trump pleaded not guilty Tuesday to 34 felony charges. He's accused of covering up payment to an adult film actress to conceal an alleged affair and influence the 2016 election. Election lawyer Jerry Goldfeder explains the charges. Plus, in Los Angeles, a street medicine team is turning to technology to better serve the needs of people who are homeless. STAT's Mohana Ravindranath joins us. 

The charges against Trump, explained; Health care for LA's unhoused population

Republican state lawmakers in Tennessee are moving to expel three Democrats from office for chanting along with gun control demonstrators at the state capitol. Blaise Gainey, political reporter at WPLN in Nashville, joins us. And, OPEC+ — a group of oil-producing nations — voted to cut oil production by more than one million barrels a day. This came as a surprise to the White House and has already led to a surge in oil prices. Roben Farzad, host of public radio's "Full Disclosure" joins us. Then, 50 years ago, Porter Halyburton, a Navy lieutenant junior grade at the time, was listed as "killed in action" after being shot down over North Vietnam. However, he was alive and survived as a prisoner of war for more than 7 years. Halyburton tells his story in a new book called "Reflections on Captivity" and joins us. 

Gun control controversy in Tennessee; 'Reflections on Captivity' tells of POW life

Wisconsin voters on Tuesday will decide the whether the state Supreme Court will have a conservative or liberal majority. The outcome will likely determine abortion access, election law and whether a heavily-Republican gerrymandered map will remain in place. WUWM news reporter Chuck Quirmbach joins us. And, journalist Brian Stelter talks about how the media is covering the first-ever indictment of a former president. Then, the Arizona Game and Fish Department started its annual desert tortoise adoption program this week. More than 300 animals are available this year, mostly because people illegally breed them at home. Here &amp; Now's Peter O'Dowd met a few of the reptiles to learn how they adapt to the harsh desert climate and why the population of some species has dropped rapidly in recent years.

Adopting a desert tortoise; How media is covering the Trump indictment

USA Today White House correspondent Francesca Chambers and NPR senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro talk about the first-ever indictment of a former president on charges related to a hush money payment scheme and cover-up. And, millions of people on Medicaid could lose their coverage in the coming weeks as pandemic-era protections end. Dr. James Schultz joins us. Then, the communal aspect to the celebration of Ramadan includes congregations of prayers and community dinners full of traditional foods special to this month. Muslim chefs Ifrah F. Ahmed and Nafy Flatley tell us all about their tasty Ramadan recipes. 

What Trump's indictment means; Ramadan recipes from two Muslim chefs

Was Jacob Wideman a "bad seed"? The question emerged not long after Jake murdered his summer camp roommate, Eric Kane, in 1986 seemingly with no motive. In this latest episode of "Violation," a podcast series from The Marshall Project and WBUR, author John Edgar Wideman tells the story of his brother Robby, who received a life sentence for his role in a robbery where a man died, and how his son related to Robby. Subscribe to Here &amp; Now Anytime for new episodes each Friday. Find a transcript and photos here.

Home

Discover

Sign up for free to listen for longer

Home

Discover

Sign up for free to listen for longer

So long 2024: The year in review

Mark as played

Share

About the episode

View all episodes