Here & Now Anytime
The news you need to know today — and the stories that will stick with you tomorrow. Plus, special series and behind-the-scenes extras from Here & Now hosts Robin Young, Scott Tong and Deepa Fernandes with help from Producer Chris Bentley and the team at NPR and WBUR.
Episodes
Why Trump's pick for intelligence chief worries national security officials
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
12/12/24•22m 46s
Inside Syria's 'slaughterhouse' prison
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
11/12/24•27m 35s
From star student to suspected CEO killer: What to know about Luigi Mangione
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
10/12/24•17m 36s
What's next for Syria after the fall of Assad
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
09/12/24•20m 47s
Republicans eye Social Security in plans to cut government
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 & Now's James Perkins Mastromarino.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
06/12/24•25m 36s
Amnesty International accuses Israel of genocide in Gaza
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
05/12/24•26m 34s
What's at stake in the Supreme Court transgender care case?
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
04/12/24•19m 23s
Palestinian children arrive in U.S. for medical treatment
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 & 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
03/12/24•20m 19s
'Same old story': Ethics lawyer reacts to Hunter Biden's pardon
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
02/12/24•23m 55s
Rich Rebuilds' journey from Harvard drop-out to YouTube sensation
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
29/11/24•25m 2s
Navajo leaders push for landmark water deal
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
28/11/24•30m 45s
What the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire means for the Middle East
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
27/11/24•28m 53s
Flying this Thanksgiving? Here's what to expect
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
26/11/24•26m 37s
Fixing the FBI, and the fight over who should fix it
The Federal Bureau of Investigation has become a target of Republicans. Former FBI agent Michael German talks about what may happen to the FBI under the incoming Trump administration. And, challenging drought conditions this fall across the U.S. has impacted cranberry harvests in the Northeast. Massachusetts cranberry grower Steve Ward talks about what that means for Thanksgiving. Then, multi-award-winning artist John Legend has a new album out — and it's an album for kids. Legend joins us to talk about the inspiration behind it and how he worked with his family on it.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
25/11/24•24m 2s
Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro indicted in alleged coup plot
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
22/11/24•24m 10s
Netanyahu is a wanted man in International Criminal Court
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
21/11/24•25m 52s
Trump picks Dr. Oz to run Medicare and Medicaid
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 & Now's Emiko Tamagawa speaks with Slate.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
20/11/24•23m 59s
Ukraine launches U.S.-made missiles into Russia for first time
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
19/11/24•26m 14s
Here's why Elon Musk probably can't slash $2 trillion from the federal budget
President-elect Donald Trump has tapped wealthy entrepreneurs Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to cut the federal budget. But just how much waste is there to trim? The Brookings Institution's Elaine Kamarck explains. Then, Tracey Danka voted for Trump. But her husband Ed Danka voted for Kamala Harris. The couple discusses how they get along, despite their political disagreements. And, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. has called for an end to the practice of putting fluoride in water. University of Iowa's Steven Levy takes a closer look at what that would mean for dental health.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
18/11/24•25m 18s
Gaetz, RFK Jr. and a Republican trifecta
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
15/11/24•29m 33s
With Matt Gaetz as AG, Trump would have a loyal attack dog leading the DOJ
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
14/11/24•26m 29s
What does Trump's pick for ambassador to Israel mean for war in Gaza?
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
13/11/24•22m 17s
Trump wants to fire federal workers. What will that mean?
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
12/11/24•18m 49s
Putin, Trump and Ukraine's uncertain future
How might Russia's war on Ukraine change after President-elect Trump takes office? NPR's Joanna Kakissis explains. Then, Here & Now's Karyn Miller-Medzon brings us to a Boston hospital that is helping Ukrainian doctors rebuild their country's decimated health care system. And, President-elect Donald Trump has promised to place tariffs on goods from China. Scott Kennedy of the Center for Strategic and International Studies joins us to explain what that could mean for consumers. Then, a new artificial intelligence-fueled platform called Fight Health Insurance helps people generate appeals to denied health insurance claims. Holden Karau, the site's creator, joins us to explain how it works.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
11/11/24•28m 0s
Trump win casts a shadow on UN climate talks
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
08/11/24•23m 49s
Why so many Latino voters backed Trump
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
07/11/24•27m 37s
How Trump won again
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 & 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
06/11/24•31m 16s
When will we know election results?
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
05/11/24•22m 7s
What happens if Trump declares himself the winner before all the votes are counted?
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 & 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
04/11/24•21m 26s
Can swapping news bubbles help bridge the political divide?
Minnesota Public Radio News wanted to test the theory that people can find common ground on tough topics, so they invited two people with different backgrounds and political views to swap news sources. MPR News' Catharine Richert joins us to discuss the experiment. Then, vaccines delivered through a spray into the nose could offer better protection and fewer side effects than traditional vaccine shots in the arm. McMaster University professor Fiona Smaill explains how these vaccines work. And, a globally famous grizzly bear died recently after being hit by a car south of Jackson, Wyoming. Renowned photographer Thomas Mangelsen reflects on Grizzly 399's life and legacy.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
01/11/24•24m 20s
Planning for post-Election Day lawsuits and disinformation
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
31/10/24•24m 2s
Could the 2024 election normalize political violence?
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 & 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
30/10/24•24m 25s
How Trump's MSG rally is playing in Pennsylvania
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 & 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
29/10/24•23m 37s
Immigration questions, answered
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 & Now's Chris Bentley reports.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
28/10/24•28m 26s
Biden apologizes for federal Indian boarding schools
President Biden formally apologized on Friday to tribal communities for the federal Indian boarding schools that operated for 150 years and separated Native American children from their families. Native News Online founder Levi Rickert reacts. Then, are you having a hard time remembering things? Experts say they're seeing more people in their 20s, 30s and 40s experience memory issues. Boston College psychology professor Elizabeth Kensinger joins us. And, novelist Jeff VanderMeer's "Absolution" is a surprise sequel to his celebrated "Southern Reach" trilogy. Here & Now's Chris Bentley talks to VanderMeer.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
25/10/24•28m 20s
Why James Carville is sure Harris will win
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
24/10/24•26m 50s
Former chief of staff warns of a second Trump term
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
23/10/24•29m 10s
Threats of political violence are rampant. What could happen after the election?
The upcoming election has brought threats of political violence against judges and election workers. Rachel Kleinfeld, senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, joins us. And, new research suggests the virus that causes chickenpox and shingles may be linked to dementia. STAT's Megan Molteni explains. Then, Ukulele virtuoso Jake Shimabukuro has a new album out called "Blues Experience." He teamed up with a founding member of Fleetwood Mac, Mick Fleetwood, on it and joins us to talk about his music.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
22/10/24•30m 1s
How election deniers could disrupt the 2024 election
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
21/10/24•24m 24s
After Yahya Sinwar's killing, hostages' family members have new fears
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 & 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
18/10/24•28m 53s
Hamas leader killed in Gaza
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
18/10/24•27m 33s
How Michigan's Arab American community could decide the 2024 election
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
16/10/24•32m 14s
Everybody thinks polling is broken. Here's what you should know.
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
15/10/24•33m 27s
How Pennsylvania is ramping up security ahead of Election Day
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
14/10/24•26m 7s
Trump vows to 'save vaping'
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
11/10/24•29m 45s
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. 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 & Now's Deepa Fernandes reports from Michigan.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
10/10/24•26m 24s
The billionaires who control Texas GOP politics
We'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast. Take the survey here or at wbur.org/survey. Hurricane Milton is expected to make landfall on Florida's west coast Wednesday night or early Thursday. Rep. Jared Moskowitz talks about his bipartisan call for Congress to pass another $15 billion for the Federal Emergency Management Agency's disaster response. Then, an investigation by The New York Times and ProPublica finds that two billionaire preachers hold the keys to the Republican Party in Texas. Reporter Ava Kofman talks about two men, their influence and interests. And, Alt.Latino's Anamaria Sayre and Felix Contreras discuss this year's performances at El Tiny.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
09/10/24•29m 9s
How Tampa is preparing for Hurricane Milton
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
08/10/24•29m 44s
1 year of Israel-Hamas war: Palestinian family and Nir Oz resident tell their stories
We'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast. Take the survey here or at wbur.org/survey. The Supreme Court is beginning a new term, with cases about guns and transgender care on the docket. Slate's Dahlia Lithwick joins us. Then, Irit Lahav survived the Hamas attack on her kibbutz last year. Lahav describes how Nir Oz residents are doing and whether they want to return to their homes on the border with Gaza. And, Dr. Alaa Ali is a Palestinian American doctor in Dearborn, Michigan, who has a large family network in Gaza. Over the past year, he's lost more than 100 people in his immediate and extended family there. Ali tells the story of his relatives.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
07/10/24•30m 5s
For star Saoirse Ronan, filming 'The Outrun' filled her with gratitude
We'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast. Take the survey here or at wbur.org/survey. Dockworkers have temporarily suspended their strike at ports along the East and Gulf coasts after reaching an agreement with the United States Maritime Alliance. Director of the National Economic Council Lael Brainard joins us. Then, one family tells their story of surviving the catastrophic flooding in the mountains near Asheville, North Carolina. Plus, Hurricane Helene unleashed devastating floods in East Tennessee. At least 11 people died. WUOT's Pierce Gentry reports. And, Saoirse Ronan about her new film "The Outrun." Ronan stars as a young woman struggling with alcoholism in the Orkney islands of Scotland.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
04/10/24•29m 27s