Sunday morning news specials and documentaries
Tune in for a new special on Sundays at 5 a.m. on 91.5 FM.
May 18, 2025: APM, Call to Mind, 'The Aging Mind'
Studies show that one in four older adults live with a mental illness, such as depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. But many older people don’t get the help they need. And America’s aging population is expected to double by 2050. This program explores the unique mental health challenges of older adults, and the models in place to care for them. We’ll hear from mental health providers, direct care workers, and older Americans living with mental health issues. The program explores therapeutic solutions and improved treatment systems to help older adults and their wellbeing.
May 11, 2025: Radiolab Kids, WNYC, 'Terrestrials: Going Deep'
We explore the depths of ocean and outer space to uncover new intelligences that are helping us to better understand our world. First, we meet a captive octopus who manages to escape from its tank, slide down a pipe, and return to the ocean. Yes, this is a true story! Beloved author Sy Montgomery explains how this octopus jailbreak is anything but rare to the species and instead may be an example of a convergently evolved intelligence. Then, we journey to space with an astrophysicist who is blind, Wanda Díaz-Merced. She is revolutionizing the field by using sound to unlock cosmic mysteries and hear the crash of invisible gravitational waves. Join us on this wondrous romp through the depths to discover the people and creatures pushing us past the edge of what we think we know.
May 4, 2025: Radiolab Kids WNYC, 'Terrestrials: Air'
In this episode we look to some of the air’s most fearsome creatures to discover softer sides that reframe our understanding of what it takes to survive. The first story centers on a trio of bald eagles—two males and one female—nesting and raising chicks together, defying the species' aggressive territorial reputation and reshaping notions of what a "natural" family looks like. Through insights from wildlife biologist Ed Britton and Indigenous artist Nataanii Means, the episode highlights the more collaborative side to our national symbol. The second story dives into the world of tsetse flies, as entomologist Dr. Sammy Ramsey and Kenyan scientist Dr. Paul Mireji reveal why these reviled creatures are some of the best mothers in the animal kingdom and also “guardians” of African savannah.
April 27, 2025: Open to Debate (formerly Intelligence Squared), 'Was Trump Right to Be Hard on Soft Power in the Middle East?'
The U.S. has long balanced military strength with soft power in the Middle East through agencies like USAID. With the Trump administration reversing these policies, is this a necessary realignment — or a costly retreat? Those against these changes argue this will boost rivals like Iran and China and harm America’s image. Those hailing them argue it’s a necessary correction, favoring clear, transactional geopolitical goals over costly diplomacy. Now we debate: Was Trump Right to Be Hard on Soft Power in the Middle East?
April 20, 2025: APM Presents' Americans Reconnect, 'Talking Across the Political Divide'
The U.S. is facing a crisis of polarization, where Americans often act with outrage and disdain towards people whose politics don’t match theirs. But that’s not the full picture. Our groundbreaking program Americans Reconnect: Talking Across the Political Divide features stories rarely heard about people from opposite political viewpoints finding understanding and common ground under seemingly impossible circumstances. We weave together these emotionally riveting stories with expert interviews that not only document this polarized moment in American history but also show how we can transcend it.
April 13, 2025: Open to Debate (formerly Intelligence Squared), 'Is Objectivity Essential to Journalism?'
For decades, objectivity has been cited as journalism's gold standard, promising that journalists would stick “to the facts" and deliver both sides of the story, excluding their personal views. Those in support say it builds trust and gives newsreaders the information they need to form their own opinions. Those against say it suppresses certain valuable viewpoints and that some issues don’t merit the "both sides" treatment. Now, we debate: "Is Objectivity Essential in Journalism?”
April 6, 2025: Monumental, 'Whispers in Wilmington'
We’re used to recognizing someone powerful with a statue. But what happens when there’s no statue or memorial to a traumatic event? Whoever lives with the impact of that painful history has to confront the kind of power it takes to keep it hidden for so long. In this episode, we uncover the story of the only successful coup d’etat ever to happen on American soil. This act of racial violence was designed to eliminate all memory of a highly successful Black community in Wilmington, North Carolina, back in 1898. That suppression involved racist mobs as well as historians, city planners, journalists and countless others. They conspired for decades to make a Black community’s onetime prosperity and strength unimaginable. Almost unimaginable.
March 30, 2025: Open to Debate (formerly Intelligence Squared): 'Should We Address the Gender Wage Gap?'
American women are, on average, paid 84 cents for every dollar men make, according to the Department of Labor. Those in favor of closing the gap see it as a point of fairness and equity that would bring economic benefits and say that interventions are needed to foster a more equitable workforce. Those not in favor argue wage disparities reflect individual choices regarding career paths, work-life balance and tenure, rather than systemic discrimination. Now we debate: Should We Address the Gender Wage Gap?
March 23, 2025: Open to Debate (formerly Intelligence Squared), 'UN Efforts in the Middle East: Helping or Hurting?'
UNRWA and other peacekeeping forces in the Middle East play an important role in the Israel-Palestine conflict, but do they do enough? Those saying they help argue that they act as buffers between warring factions, preventing wider regional escalation. Those saying they hurt argue they fail to maintain neutrality. Now we debate: UN Efforts in the Middle East: Helping or Hurting?
March 16, 2025: Monumental, 'The Suffragist in the Basement'
When it comes to women and monuments in the U.S., we seem to prefer mythical or allegorical women — think a lady in robes holding the scales of justice in front of a courthouse. It’s rare to see real women being honored for their actual accomplishments. But for decades, there was one statue in Wyoming that was an exception. Wyoming is known as the “equality state” because it was the first in the nation to pass women’s suffrage. And it recognized that history with a statue of Wyoming’s first Justice of the Peace and suffragist, Esther Hobart Morris, which stood outside the state Capitol building for 60 years. But today, that statue of Morris now lives underground in the Capitol basement. In this episode, we look at what the story of this one monument reveals about how women are mythologized and erased.
March 9, 2025: Open to Debate, 'Is Musk’s DOGE Dodging the Law?'
Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency, known as DOGE, have taken on a contentious role in the new Trump administration, which has affected federal agencies and thousands of workers. But are DOGE’s actions legal? Those arguing they aren’t worry it is overstepping and violating the Constitution. Those supporting DOGE’s actions say it is operating under strict oversight while fulfilling its mandate.
March 2, 2025: WABE, Health Wanted" 'Public Health and the Black Community'
Historically, health and medical systems have mistreated and exploited Black communities, and the impact of these injustices continues to affect Black health today. On Health Wanted we’re taking the opportunity to acknowledge both the failures of health equity and the triumphs of Black and African American researchers and community members who propel health forward.
Feb. 23, 2025: Open to Debate, 'UNRESOLVED: The Future of the Supreme Court'
In recent years, multiple proposals have been made to change how the U.S. Supreme Court operates in its current form. Would these reforms help – or hurt? What is the future of the highest court in the land? In partnership with Johns Hopkins University as part of our inaugural “Hopkins Forum”, our featured guests will discuss term limits, expanding the Supreme Court, and whether external ethics codes should be applied.
Feb. 15, 2025: Open to Debate, 'Has Legalizing Sports Gambling Become a Bad Bet?'
Sports fans can place bets on their favorite teams and athletes faster and easier than before, thanks to legalized sports gambling. But was it the wrong bet to make? Advocates say it’s been good for fans, the economy and the sports industry. Those who say that what’s happened since legalization is a bad thing, say it has driven a rise in gambling addiction and created a public health crisis. Now we debate: Has Legalizing Sports Gambling Become a Bad Bet?
Feb. 9, 2025: WABE, 'Health Wanted: Screen Time and Mental Health'
Screens! We love looking at them. At work, at home, on the bus, on the toilet. There’s no time we don’t like looking at a screen, unless of course, that screen is populated with a notification about exactly how much time we’ve spent looking at it, and then suddenly the phone is face down. On today’s show, we confront our screen obsession head on, to try and get a handle on the impact they have on our lives, and if it might be time to unplug.
Feb. 2, 2025: Open to Debate, 'Prescription Weight Loss Drugs For All?'
GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro have opened doors for people to lose weight. Should everyone have the option to take it? Those arguing “yes” say obesity needs to be treated using every available tool, especially for people for whom diet, lifestyle changes, and exercise aren’t enough. Those arguing “no” are concerned about its side effects and the risks if people don’t take them as directed. Now we debate: should prescription weight loss drugs be available for all?
Jan. 26, 2025: Open to Debate, 'Can America and Its Allies Tolerate A Nuclear Iran, or Is It Time to Stop Them Now?'
Iran is getting closer to developing its first nuclear weapon. With tensions rising in the Middle East, should the U.S. and its allies take a stand? Those calling to stop Iran now argue this is a “now or never” moment for the region. Those calling for tolerance say while it’s not ideal, it is manageable, and maintaining diplomacy should be the focus. Now we debate: Can America and Its Allies Tolerate A Nuclear Iran, or Is It Time to Stop Them Now?
Jan. 19, 2025: The Stoop podcast, 'Black Enough'
Whether it's the way we talk, the music we hear, or the clothes we wear- many Black people at some point were made to feel 'not Black enough’, including Leila and Hana.
In this special from The Stoop podcast, Leila explores with broadcast journalist Joshua Johnson what it means to be told she ‘talks white’, Hana talks to a psychologist as she wonders if she has to like everything Black to avoid getting called out, and we go deep with comedian W. Kamau Bell who's felt awkward in Black circles and in front of Black audiences.
What does it really mean to be ‘Black enough’?
Jan. 12, 2025: Open to Debate, 'Could Longevity Science Extend Your Health Span By Decades? Should the Government Fund It?'
Would you want to live to 100? If so, should the government invest in efforts to make it possible? Those arguing “yes” say that extending health spans could transform public health and help people live much longer. With tech advancements and government funding, longevity science is a worthy investment. Those arguing “yes” say that we should prioritize creating healthier, more fulfilling lives today rather than chasing the uncertain promise of extended lifespans. Now we debate: Could Longevity Science Extend Your Health Span By Decades? Should the Government Fund It?
Jan. 5, 2025: NPR Special Report: The Life and Legacy of Former President Jimmy Carter
Though he only served one term, Jimmy Carter occupies a unique place among U.S. presidents. His presidency was defined by challenges at home and abroad, but his overall legacy is largely shaped by his post-presidential work. We explore how Carter ascended to the presidency, and how he will be remembered. NPR Hosts Ari Shapiro and Linda Wertheimer bring us a special report looking back at the life and service of Former President Jimmy Carter.
Dec. 29, 2024: Things That Go Boom: 'A New Leaf'
Stories from nuclear weapons experts, an Air Force Paratrooper, and Sweden's top feminist foreign policy experts about the risks it takes to build peace at home and abroad
Dec. 22, 2024: WPR, To the Best of Our Knowledge: Winter Holiday Wonders: 'Wintering In The Wild'
Think it's cold now? Bundle up for an hour with walruses and reindeer shamans. What can we learn from the natural world – from animals, from the water – about surviving and even celebrating winter?
Dec. 15, 2024: NPR, NPR Specials' Seeking Common Ground: Conversations Across the Divide'
Over the last few years and through this year’s contentious election season, there has been a coarsening in the way many Americans talk to each other. In this one-hour NPR Special Program, "Seeking Common Ground," host Debbie Elliott explores how some are trying to bridge divides. We hear from reporters across the NPR Network who looked for examples of people working through their differences.
Dec. 8, 2024: GBH, Humankind: 'Protecting the Public'
In the wake of the George Floyd murder by a Minneapolis police officer in 2020, some law enforcement agencies are making efforts to improve their responsiveness to the local community. This is the intriguing story of how public safety is being expanded in some venues to include not just police and fire services but also social workers and related professionals. How people of varying backgrounds come together for the public good.
Dec. 1, 2024: Open to Debate (formerly Intelligence Squared): 'The Pursuit of Happiness: Virtue or Pleasure?'
Happiness is a complex emotion and mental state that can be achieved through virtue or pleasure. But should it be for the good of the individual or society? Those in favor of virtue point to the Stoics and the Founding Fathers, saying you should strive for a life of moral virtue and rationality. Those in favor of pleasure say everyone should be able to experience it and define their sources of happiness. Now we debate: The Pursuit of Happiness: Virtue or Pleasure?
Nov. 24, 2024: Face Off, Airwave Media: 'Face-Off: Nuclear weapons and the Danger of War over Taiwan'
In this episode we talk to a nuclear arms expert about China’s rapidly expanding nuclear arsenal and what dangers this brings as the United States and China become more hostile to each other. Tong Zhao, an expert on nuclear weapons, explains China’s strategy of wanting to be on par with the United States. Can China and the US conduct arms talks to reduce the threat? In part two, we talk to Lyle Goldstein, a military strategist, about why Taiwan, an island with 24 million people 8,000 miles from the United States, is the biggest flashpoint in U.S.-China relations. The U.S. sends arms to Taiwan to help it defend itself against an invasion from China. What will happen in the future?
Nov. 17, 2024: Face Off, Airwave Media 'Face-Off: The U.S. vs China'
In this episode we look at two historical moments in which China and the U.S. nearly came to blows over spying incidents gone wrong. In part one: An American surveillance plane and a Chinese fighter jet collide over the south china sea in 2001. In part two: Two young CIA agents were flown to northern China in 1952, part of a bizarre Cold War operation to overthrow Mao Zedong. The two Americans were arrested, and jailed for 20 years. Fast forward to today: How does China spy on the U.S. now?
Nov. 10, 2024: Open to Debate: 'Has The Electoral College Outlived Its Usefulness'
Five American presidents — two in the last 20 years — have assumed office without winning the popular vote. As the nation gears up for another contentious presidential election, some are calling for an end to the Electoral College. They argue that the college subverts the will of the American people by unfairly prioritizing rural and swing states over the nation’s majority. But others say the Electoral College, which the Founders established in the Constitution, is necessary to ensure voters in less populous states have a voice in picking our president. Has the Electoral College outlived its usefulness? This debate is presented in partnership with the Northwestern Pritzker School of Law as part of the Newt and Jo Minow Debate Series.
Nov. 3, 2024: KUER RadioWest: The KKK's Plot to Take Over America
At the height of its power, the Ku Klux Klan was run by a depraved charlatan named D. C. Stephenson, until a woman's deathbed confession brought him down.
Oct. 27, 2024: Open to Debate: 'Should Israel Strike Iran?'
Tensions between Iran and Israel have escalated in recent months and are at a low point after a series of assassinations and rocket strikes. Is it time for a larger military response? Those who urge Israel to strike argue Iran is an existential threat to their survival. Those who are against striking Iran in an unprecedented way say that there are high risks and better options. Now we debate: Should Israel strike Iran?
Oct. 20, 2024: Open to Debate: Election 2024: 'Are Identity Politics Holding Us Back?'
During election seasons, Democrats and Republicans leverage identity-based platforms to engage voters. Those who think identity politics isn’t holding us back argue identity politics offers a pathway for inclusion and empowerment for historically-sidelined groups. Those who believe it does hold us back argue it prevents constructive dialogue on solutions that benefit everyone, and risks alienating large segments of the population. Now we debate: In the 2024 presidential election, are identity politics holding us back?
Oct. 13, 2024: Long Lead, PRX: 'Long Shadow: Rise of the American Far Right'
Recent winner of an Edward R. Murrow Award, Long Lead presents "Long Shadow: Rise of the American Far Right." Journalist and historian Garrett Graff explores how the modern domestic extremist movement grew from a fatal shootout on a mountaintop in Idaho to a riot on the steps of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. How did America get the far right so wrong? What will it take now to get it right? Find out on "Long Shadow: Rise of the American Far Right."
Oct. 6, 2024: APM Presents: 'The Breakthrough of ’48: When Civil Rights Won the White House'
During this historic presidential election season — when issues of race and states’ rights are prominent themes — comes a compelling radio program about another pivotal presidential election in 1948 that saw Harry Truman win on a platform of civil rights, setting the stage for the landmark civil rights laws of the 1960s. Based on veteran journalist Samuel Freedman’s celebrated new book, “Into the Bright Sunshine,” this documentary uses first-person interviews and compelling archival audio to recall a pivotal moment in American history that remains relevant and revealing today.
Sept. 29, 2024: Long Lead, PRX: 'Long Shadow: In Guns We Trust'
America has a problem, one that is uniquely ours: gun violence. For centuries, America attempted to balance the right to bear arms and all the dangers that come with it through regulation. But in the last three decades, that balance has shifted. The gun has become enshrined as a political symbol in America — one that simultaneously represents our cherished values of freedom, democracy, and individualism, as well as our deepest shame. How did we get here? And can we ever find a way forward?
Sept. 22, 2024: Open to Debate: 'Wokeness in Public Schools: Helping or Hurting Students?'
Public schools have in recent years begun incorporating topics around race, sex, and gender into K-12 classrooms. Are public schools moving in the right direction to address students’ needs? Those who say students benefit argue that learning them helps create socially aware, empathetic, and responsible citizens. Those who argue they harm students say children may be learning what should be left to parents to discuss. Now we debate: "Wokeness in Public Schools: Helping or Hurting Students?"
Sept. 15, 2024: WNYC, More Perfect': No More Souters'
David Souter is one the most private, low profile Justices ever to have served on the Supreme Court. He rarely gives interviews or speeches. Yet his tenure was anything but low profile. Deemed a “home run” nominee by Republicans, Souter defied partisan expectations on the bench and ultimately ceded his seat to a Democratic president. In this episode, the story of how “No More Souters” became a rallying cry for Republicans and inspired a backlash that would change the Court forever.
Sept. 8: Open to Debate (formerly Intelligence Squared): 'Does America Need a Third Party?'
While the two-party system has been the standard in the US government, third parties have often challenged this status quo and now advocates to be added to election ballots permanently. Those who agree say third parties offer non-partisan solutions and are more representative of ideologies, unlike the polarized partisanship present now. Those who disagree say the two-party system fosters stability and simplifies voting decisions. Now we debate: Does America Need A Third Party?
Sept. 1, 2024: WPR, To the Best of Our Knowledge'What's Wrong With Work?'
It's not easy in America today to find work that matters, that’s meaningful, and that pays enough to live on. Which is the one thing we don’t talk about. What’s wrong with work — and how do we fix it?
Aug. 25, 2024: Pulitzer Center - 'The Race to Superintelligence'
The Race to Superintelligence is a deep dive into the rapidly expanding world of artificial intelligence. Join us as we explore the groundbreaking, mystifying and world-changing potential of the next machine age.
Aug. 18: Open to Debate (formerly Intelligence Squared) - 'Can Israel Make Peace with Hamas?'
After the Oct. 7 attack, Israel vowed to eradicate Hamas and has been at war with them for nine months. Should Israel agree to a permanent ceasefire? Those who believe they should argue there needs to be logical pathways to peace and preventing further loss of life. Those who are against making peace with Hamas argue a ceasefire deal won’t stop Hamas’s desire to kill Israelis. Now we debate: Can Israel Make Peace with Hamas?
Aug. 11, 2024: Arizona PBS: Pulitzer on the Road - Episode 5: 'Caitlin Dickerson on Children at the Border'
Caitlin Dickerson won the 2023 Pulitzer Prize for Explanatory Reporting, but her 30,000 word piece for “The Atlantic” on family separations at the border also is a masterclass in investigative reporting. Dickerson’s dogged efforts to push back against the denials from government officials that family separations were happening was challenging on many levels. In this episode of the podcast, Dickerson describes how, despite proof from her and other journalists, officials’ rhetoric that the press was not to be trusted added another layer of complexity to the reporting and undermined the public’s trust.
Aug. 4, 2024: Open to Debate (formerly Intelligence Squared) — 'Is Islam Antisemitic?'
Though they share similar values, guidelines, and principles, Islam and Judaism have a long, complicated relationship that has led to tension recorded within the Quran that might engender antisemitism. Those who agree argue that certain Quranic verses could be used to justify some people’s hostility towards Jews. Those who disagree say that references to Jews must be understood in their historical and textual contexts and there have been multiple periods of Muslim-Jewish tolerance. Now we debate: Is Islam Antisemitic?
July 28, 2024: Arizona PBS — Pulitzer on the Road - Episode 2: 'Mstyslav Chernov on Being Trapped in Mariupol'
Mstyslav Chernov and a team of Associated Press journalists captured the horrors of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in Mariupol. He talks about their harrowing coverage that won the prestigious Public Service Award with Nancy Barnes of the Boston Globe.
In this episode, Chernov searches for hope as he considers what it means to bear witness as a journalist. While recounting harrowing episodes from Mariupol, Chernov describes the determination of the Ukrainians to ensure that the journalists continued reporting on the Russian air and land assault on civilians to show the world what was happening. Communications were cut and Chernov saw that for the people of Ukraine, information could be “more important than food and water.”
July 21, 2024: NPR — 'We, the Voters: Issues That Matter'
NPR has been digging into the issues that voters say matter most when choosing a leader. Consistently top of mind for NPR listeners and readers are gun violence, the economy, immigration, reproductive rights, and health care. In this special program, derived from the highlights of the “We the Voters” issue weeks, host Steve Inskeep presents a one-hour dive into these topics to help people make sense of the issues. In new interviews, we will look at the records of Trump and Biden on all of these issues and hear how voters' opinions have evolved.
July 14, 2024: Open to Debate (formerly Intelligence Squared) 'Married or Single?'
Over the last few decades, the traditional view of marriage as the cornerstone of adult life has been questioned, with many wondering if marriage is still desirable for personal fulfillment and social stability. Those in favor of marriage argue married individuals report better physical and mental well-being. Those in favor of singledom argue it helps them be more independent and feel free to make life decisions without anyone else’s pressure. Now we debate: Married or Single?
June 7, 2024: Arizona PBS — Pulitzer on the Road — Episode 1: 'Small Town Shakedown'
Hear about how police targeted residents of small town Brookside, Alabama, in an interview with winners for Local Reporting, John Archibald and Ashley Remkus at AL.com, and Neil Brown, president of the Poynter Institute
June 30, 2024: NPR, WWNO & WRKF' — Road to Rickwood: Rebuilding Black Baseball'
On this episode, host Roy Wood Jr. goes back to Birmingham to explore some of the obstacles that prevent more Black youth from taking up America's pastime. He talks to MLB executives, managers, and a player about the importance of promoting this sport within Black communities. Roy also speaks with Birmginham's local baseball community - high school athletes, coaches, parents and the current mayor - to learn how to reignite Black participation in baseball in the city that was once known for carrying the careers of Black baseball legends..
June 23, 2024: NPR, WWNO & WRKF' — Road to Rickwood: Don't Fight Back'
On June 20, 2024, Major League Baseball will host a regular season game at Rickwood Field in Birmingham, Alabama. But the 114-year-old stadium has a long and complicated history. It hosted everything from segregated baseball, a women’s suffrage event, a Klan rally and eventually, the first integrated sports team in Alabama. "The Road to Rickwood" host, Roy Wood Jr. speaks with historians, civic leaders, former Negro League players and more, to learn how Birmingham’s civil rights story played out at America’s oldest ballpark.
June 16, 2024: NPR, WWNO & WRKF — 'Road to Rickwood: Church Pews and Bleachers'
The 1940s are the heyday for Black baseball in Alabama, the peak of the Negro Leagues – starring a high schooler named Willie Mays. But when the Major Leagues integrate, Black teams everywhere start to fold.
June 9, 2024: NPR, WWNO & WRKF — 'Road to Rickwood: The Holy Grail of Baseball'
Birmingham, Alabama was one of the fiercest battlegrounds of the Civil Rights Movement. But in order to understand the struggle, you don't have to look any further than Rickwood Field, the oldest baseball stadium in the country. Across more than 113 years, it's hosted Negro League baseball, a women's suffrage event, a Klan rally and eventually, the first integrated sports team in Alabama.
June 2, 2024: APM Presents — Call to Mind: 'The Burden of Being'
Black women and girls experience discrimination, microaggressions and stereotypes every day. Living with daily racism has a profound impact on the mental health, well-being and lives of all those coping with it. This special program explores the unique mental health burdens of Black women and girls in the United States. Through interviews with mental health providers and people sharing their personal stories, we’ll explore the effects of racism and how care systems can shift to better help Black women thrive.
May 26, 2024: APM Presents — Call to Mind: 'The Homelessness Crisis & Mental Health'
Homelessness in the United States reached a record high in 2023. On any given night, more than 650,000 people experience homelessness. Unsheltered people have higher rates of untreated mental illnesses and substance use disorders than the general population. That can make it difficult to find a permanent place to live. This program will take you to the streets of New York City to hear directly from people who have lived homeless about what they needed most. You’ll also hear from experts who say the best mental health care for people living homeless is no-strings-attached housing.
May 19, 2024: Open to Debate (formerly Intelligence Squared) — 'MOCK TRIAL: Should the Courts Restrict Access to the Abortion Pill?'
The Supreme Court will soon decide on a case surrounding a medication used for abortion, mifepristone, and whether the drug should continue to be available based on claims of safety and ethical considerations. Those in favor of restrictions argue that the FDA fast-tracked its approval without considering health impacts. Those against restriction argue the FDA made its decisions based on safety and efficiency, and it’s being targeted to further infringe on women’s rights. Now we debate: Should the Courts Restrict Access to the Abortion Pill?
May 12, 2024: The Stoop — 'The Many Ways We Mother'
There are many unexpected ways that people step into parenting. In this special from the Stoop, hear stories about redefining family on your own terms. Explore the term "auntie" and how some women find it problematic. Hear about the challenges of IVF for Black women. And we meet a family that shows us how co-parenting can evolve.
May 5, 2024: Foreign Policy — 'The Catch: Of Cod and Country'
On this episode of The Catch hear how one of the Arctic’s most valuable fisheries—cod—is being impacted by the politics of Russia’s war in Ukraine as well as changing fish migration patterns due to climate change. Host Ruxandra Guidi heads to northern Norway to meet with the fishers and processors caught the middle.
April 28, 2024: Open to Debate — 'Is Religion a Force for Good?'
Religion has long shaped human civilization, and many have wondered whether it’s good for society. Those who argue “yes” say it offers a sense of identity and belonging and provides a moral compass to do good acts. Those who argue “no” say that religious beliefs are a source of historical conflict and discrimination and can hinder social progress that clash with modern values. Now we debate: "Is Religion a Force for Good?"
April 21, 2024: GBH, Humankind — 'The Diet-Climate Connection'
Ideal for broadcast around Earth Day: What was the carbon footprint of your dinner last night? Listeners to this sound-rich inquiry will learn that climate scientists increasingly focus on food production as a huge source of heat-trapping gases associated with global warming. We’ll discuss which foods have the lowest and highest environmental footprint, and why. Interestingly health experts recommend our diets emphasize many of the same foods that scientists regard as most climate-friendly. That’s the remarkable diet-climate connection. We'll hear from young people and others who are responding. Includes a best-selling author, who in her twenties kicked open our understanding of this topic decades ago; the long-time Harvard nutrition dept chair; and voices of diners enjoying the fare at Veggie Galaxy restaurant.
April 14, 2024: Open to Debate — 'Has Citizens United Undermined Democracy?'
The landmark Citizens United Supreme Court case is in the news again in this high-stakes election year. Those who agree with the decision say it upholds free speech and broadens discourse. Those against it argue that it allows a disproportionate influence from corporations and special interest groups. Now Open to Debate in partnership with Northwestern Pritzker School of Law’s Newt and Jo Minow Debate Series asks: Has Citizens United Undermined Democracy?
April 7, 2024: Open to Debate (formerly Intelligence Squared) — 'Does Taylor Swift Deserve Her Billion-Dollar Fortune?'
Taylor Swift achieved her billionaire status because of her talent, work ethic, and support from her fans. But some question whether any individual should be able to accumulate so much wealth. Those arguing they should point to philosopher Robert Nozick, who says if someone acquires wealth through just means, they are entitled to it. Those arguing “no” say that luck and systemic advantages often play a role, sometimes involving exploitation, and that billionaires have an outsized influence on policy. Now we debate: Does Taylor Swift Deserve Her Billion Dollar Fortune?
March 30, 2024: Rob Sachs, Foreign Policy: 'The Hidden Economics of Remarkable Women - HERO Training Africa’s New Female Leaders'
In this episode, we learn about two efforts to increase the number of women politicians in Africa. We begin with a surprising reality TV show in Kenya called “Ms President,” where millions of weekly viewers watched dozens of women compete to be the country’s next “head of state,” so to speak. Then, we hear about Nigerian efforts to get more women on the ballot in last year’s election and why they largely failed. Host Reena Ninan - founder of Good Trouble Productions. She is a television journalist who has worked as a White House correspondent, foreign reporter, and news anchor for CBS, ABC, and Fox News.
March 24: APM Presents: "Beyond 'Reality' TV: Inside the Lives of Older Singles"ABC’s “The Golden Bachelor” brought long-overdue attention to the dating lives of older singles. But how much of the reality TV show actually rang true? In this special, Dating While Gray host Laura Stassi sifts through research and talks to older singles about our dating lives, including: tools and strategies to make love connections, ways we’re incorporating – and discarding – traditional arrangements for marriage and living together 24/7, and how we’re navigating new romance around already established family commitments.
March 17: Embodied, A Women's History Month Special — 'Retrieved: Egg Donors Share Their Stories'
Egg donation in the U.S. is a multibillion dollar industry designed to provide infertile folks with the eggs they need to conceive. But how do we decide what human eggs are worth — and how do the characteristics of the donor factor into the equation.