Boston Public Radio Podcast

Short show today because of NPR Special Coverage on Trump's immunity Supreme Court hearing. Andrea Cabral offered reactions to SCOTUS hearings. Corby Kummer on the cost/benefit analysis of living next to a Dunkin’ Donuts Who's the a-hole? A dinner host asked a friend to bring tomato paste... now the friend wants the dinner host to pay them back. We discussed with our listeners.

We opened the lines to discuss the pro-Palestinian protests happening across the nation on campuses. Melissa Hoffer is the state’s first-ever Climate Chief. She joined to talk about her role and the latest environmental headlines. Juliette Kayyem weighed in on pro-Palestine protests on college campuses and more. Meredith Goldstein returned to recap her latest Love Letters advice columns. Sy Montgomery talked about new research on animal consciousness and homesick celebrity seal. Nancy Gertner reacted to the latest Supreme Court news… she also weighed in on Thursday’s Trump immunity hearings, prosecution of January 6th rioters, and more. We wrapped up the show with a very thorough discussion on brushing your teeth.

It’s a love double header with Love Letters columnist Meredith Goldstein on what to tell your husband when he won’t brush his teeth, and more relationship advice. Then, naturalist Sy Montgomery discussed why scientists are pushing a new paradigm for animal sentience, saying even insects have feelings.

NBC Sports Boston's Trenni Casey talked about controversy on the Brandeis women's basketball team, new conversations about WNBA pay, and Thursday’s NFL draft. Mass. League of Community Health Centers' Michael Curry weighed in on a possible SCOTUS ban on sleeping outside, new reporting on health disparities worsened by weight loss drugs like Ozempic, and why Massachusetts is committed to spending $1B over the next eight years to support people leaving long-term care facilities. Former Rep. Joe Kennedy III and former Somerville Mayor Joe Curtatone joined for the latest in our series about clean energy companies in the Northeast. Joe Kennedy is currently president of the nonprofit energy group Citizens Energy. Curtatone is president of the Northeast Clean Energy Council. Biplaw Rai & Kwasi Kwaa from Comfort Kitchen talked about an eventful first year for their restaurant and being finalists for the James Beard Foundation’s “Best New Restaurant” award. CNN's John King talked about Trump on trial & other political news of the day.

Today on the podcast, Jim Braude and Margery Eagan talk to the NAACP’s Michael Curry, to get an analysis of how the Supreme Court is considering whether cities can punish people for sleeping outside, and the health disparities once again brought to the fore by weight loss drugs. Then Margery grabs her Massachusetts pitchfork and makes a very coherent and well-formed case that we should put tolls on the border with New Hampshire, to keep … well, no one knows why Margery wants the tolls.

Today on the podcast, Jim Braude and Margery Eagan get analysis of day one of Trump’s hush money election interference trial in New York with retired federal Judge Gertner. Then it's Harvard’s Khalil Gibran Muhammad on DEI criticism and pro-Palestine protests at college campuses across the U.S.

It's Earth Day. We opened the lines to discuss how to be environmentally friendly. Head of the Northeast region of the EPA David Cash helped us kick of Earth Day 2024, talking about the latest environmental news. Charlie Sennott checked in for his weekly world news roundup… this week he’ll talk about Congress securing billions for Ukraine, Israel, & Taiwan, and how leaders in those countries are responding. Art Caplan talked about the potential for AI to be used to help treat mental health and more. The Revs. Irene Monroe & Emmett Price discussed the radical and relevant-to-this-day message of Passover. Khalil Gibran Muhammad is the Ford Foundation Professor of History, Race and Public Policy at Harvard Kennedy School. He weighed in on pro-Palestine protests at campuses across the U.S., including several here in Boston… he’ll also talk about national pushback to DEI efforts on college campuses. Nancy Gertner offered a quick analysis of opening statements at today’s Trump trial in Manhattan. We wrapped up the show discussing airplane etiquette.

We opened the lines to discuss Trump's Hush Money trial and if people are still paying attention. For Live Music Friday, violinist/composer and disability rights activist Gaelynn Lea joined alongside Berklee's Adrian Anantawan to usher in the first concert by Berklee's Music Inclusion Ensemble, a group platforming musicians with disabilities GBH’s Callie Crossley on Nikki Haley’s new job after dropping out of the presidential race, the pro-Palestinian protest at Columbia University and more. GBH’s Jared Bowen talked about “The Drowsy Chaperone” playing at the Lyric Stage through May 12 and “The Harlem Renaissance And Transatlantic Modernism” showing at the Metropolitan Museum of Art through July 28. Longtime NPR “Only A Game” host Bill Littlefield and Boston Globe’s Dan Shaunessy ahead of the 34th annual Literary Lights dinner on Sunday. The event honors outstanding writers from the Northeast. Embrace Boston Executive Director Imari Paris Jeffries on the upcoming Embrace Ideas Festival in June. Happening over Juneteenth weekend, the theme is “Inspiring the Resistance: Building a Culture of Repair for the Origins of our Discontent.” We ended the week with a debate on toes out in the workplace.

Today on the podcast, Jim Braude and Margery Eagan hear from NBC’s Chuck Todd about chaos in the Republican Party around the future of speaker Johnson, and Democrats’ opportunity both go low and go high. Then they end the show with a dive into the profound and perverse with Am I the A-Hole, asking the audience if a KitchenAid stand mixer makes a quality gift for a woman who doesn’t cook. Even better, how about a Crockpot?

NBC's Chuck Todd returned for his weekly D.C. roundup, including thoughts on the foreign aid bill. Then, we opened the phone lines to discuss the pros and cons of school breaks. Former secretary of public safety Andrea Cabral gave her take on the trials of Donald Trump & Karen Read, plus a recent SCOTUS ruling on workplace discrimination, and parents fined $50 for changing their toddler in a public park after a bathroom emergency. Boston Globe business columnist Shirley Leung discussed a new Globe series on housing affordability in Boston and outdoor dining in the North End. Environmentalist Bill McKibben talked about whether the movement is losing momentum and why John Kerry says we’re in a “critical moment” for staving off the worst impacts of climate change. MIT economist Jon Gruber gave an explainer on the state of the economy, cooling interest rates and the bumpier-than-expected soft landing. We ended the show with AITA. This week, it's a case of unused gifted kitchen appliance.

Why does speaking up for the Palestinian people prompt such backlash? And more broadly, should colleges and schools cancel speakers just because some disagree with their perspectives? We opened the lines to discuss. Jim Aloisi & Stacy Thompson return for our monthly transit panel. Their list of topics included slow-and-steady financial progress for the MBTA, and record funding from Beacon Hill Democrats. Corby Kummer zooms in from Greece to talk about a NYTimes piece on the best restaurants in Boston Robert Stoner from the MIT Energy Initiative joins to talk about the potential for clean hydrogen power in getting us out of the climate crisis. Andrea Campbell joined for “Ask the AG”. She spoke about news on AI, her new initiative to address youth gambling, and more.

Today on the podcast, hosts Jim Braude and Margery Eagan hear from The GoundTruth Project’s Charlie Sennott on the latest on the Middle East, and if a paywall in journalism is needed to pay the bills. Then they talk with the audience, asking... have you ever been trapped in a conversation that seems to never end? How do you gracefully exit a conversation?

It's day two of Trump's hush money trial and finding potential jurors proves difficult. We opened the lines to discuss. NBC Sports Boston's Trenni Casey with a marathon recap, the Celtic's honoring Mike Gorman and rumors that Rory McIlroy is in talks with Saudi-backed LIV. GroundTruth's Charlie Sennott on Iran's weekend attack on Israel and how to rebuild the pipeline for local news. NYU medical ethicist Art Caplan discussed why providers should barter with patients to settle medical bills, why Americans are sleeping less, and new information that connects the US bird flu outbreak to chicken waste fed to cattle. CNN's John King with the latest political headlines. Former education secretary Paul Reville discussed Mass. reading reform, why the cost of college keeps rising and a Gobe Magazine-Emerson College poll finding that conservatives think the value of college is declining. We wrapped up our show by talking about how to get out of a conversation early.

We opened the show by discussing the 128th Boston Marathon Retired Federal Judge Nancy Gertner on the start of Trump's criminal trial in NY 2018 marathon winner Des Linden, on her memoir "Choosing to Run" Former police commissioner and prolific marathoner Bill Evans Journalist Susan Zalkind on "The Waltham Murders" Bobbi Gibb, on her historic 1966 marathon Sy Montgomery & Matt Patterson, on their book "Of Time and Turtles" – because life's a marathon, not a sprint, and we could learn a thing or two from the way turtles experience time.

Today: Retired Judge Nancy Gertner walks us through day one of the first ever criminal trial against a former president – Donald Trump facing criminal charges for “hush money” payments to the adult film actress known as Stormy Daniels.

MBTA general manager Phillip Eng joined for "Ask The GM" Callie Crossley discussed the death of OJ Simpson and backlash against a Black Romeo & Juliet co-star. For Live Music Friday, Winkler, an Allston-based indie pop group performed. Dr. Katherine Gergen Barnett discussed spiking rates of anxiety and depression among young people, and how worried should we really be about bird flu. Corby Kummer discussed France going the way of the all-you-can-eat buffet, and a new EPA rule aimed at curbing PFAs in drinking water. We ended the show this week by discussing a Porta-Potty report by one of our own producers - the great Hannah Loss.

Today: MBTA general manager Phillip Eng joins Jim and Margery at the Boston Public Library on April 12, 2024.

Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley discussed her thoughts on Biden's action on student loans and the war in Gaza. NBC's Chuck Todd discussed the latest national political headlines. Andrea Cabral discussed the former Trump exec Allen Weisselberg sentenced to jail for lying; and the parents of a Michigan school shooter being sentenced to 10-15 years for their role. Tatishe Nteta, professor of political science at UMass Amherst, discussed the role of Black voters this election. Boston Globe's Shirley Leung discussed the boom in people buying second homes on the cape during the pandemic; and people tearing up their pavement in Somerville to beat the city heat. AITA for going to rave when my boyfriend's grandma passed away? We posed the question to our listeners to debate.

Today: Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley praises the Biden administration's latest move on student debt, and discusses the election abortion issue. NBC political director Chuck Todd discusses the upcoming Trump trial, and sticking his own neck out over editorial differences at NBC news.

Today: Behavioral scientist Michael Norton has a new book about the calming power of rituals, "The Ritual Effect."

Trenni Casey, anchor and reporter for NBC Sports Boston, discussed the end of March Madness and the impact of sports gambling on college athletes. Juliette Kayyem, Harvard national security expert, talked about Marjorie Taylor Greene's latest attempt to oust the House Speaker and what that means for democracy. Harvard behavioral scientist Michael Norton discussed his new book "The Ritual Effect" all about the calming power of rituals. GBH education reporter Kirk Carapezza & Jon Marcus of the Hechinger Report discussed the new season of their podcast "College Uncovered." Naturalist and author Sy Montgomery discussed the impending cicada infestation and why some indigenous leaders are trying to protect whales by granting them legal personhood.

Boston Mayor Michelle Wu joins Jim and Margery at the Boston Public Library for Ask The Mayor on April 9, 2024.

Boston Mayor Michelle Wu joins Jim and Margery at the Boston Public Library for Ask The Mayor on April 9, 2024.

Boston Mayor Michelle Wu joined for "Ask The Mayor". NBC's Sue O'Connell discussed the return of Melania Trump on the campaign trail at a fundraiser for a conservative LGBT group, and a Vatican document that casts gender fluidity as a threat to human dignity. Jordan Renouf of Brick Street Bagels and Lindsey Gaudet & Ed Thrill of Goldilox Bagels join to discuss the Boston bagel boom. New Yorker essayist Adam Gopnik discusses his recent piece on the "forgotten history of Hitler's establishment enablers" CNN's John King joined to cover the latest national headlines. We wrapped up the show by talking about legalizing marijuana

BU journalism director Brian McGrory discussed the Steward Healthcare crisis, the threat of a "demographic cliff" at colleges and the rise of a nonprofit news outlet covering state news. Marco Werman joined us live from Israel where he's reporting for The World. NYU medical ethicist Art Caplan discussed why patients are losing trust in doctors. Plus, he explained what patients should know about using beta blockers for anxiety, as the drugs become easier to access through telehealth visits. The Revs Irene Monroe & Emmett G. Price III dove into Trump's popularity with Christian nationalists and how religions have responded to solar eclipses in the past. NOVA producers Caitlin Saks & Chris Schmidt called in from a NASA solar eclipse livestream location in Arkansas in the path of totality, and discussed their new documentary "Great American Eclipse."

Today: We talk with The World co-host Marco Werman, reporting from Israel this week documenting six months since the October 7th attacks. Plus, a dispatch from the eclipse’s path of totality, with NOVA producers Caitlin Saks and Chris Schmidt.

Sen. Ed Markey talked about what Congress can & should do to hold Steward Health Care accountable Performers from the gender-swapped, touring edition of Sondheim’s Tony-winning Company joined for Live Music Friday ahead of a string of shows at Citizens Opera House through folks at Broadway in Boston Callie Crossley talked about the WNBA (with Angel Reese announcing her move to the league & a renewed contract for Brittney Griner.) Travel writer Christopher Muther dishes on his latest escapades… this week that’s his trip to Grenada, a new Ritz-Carlton cruise line, the UAE, and now London Jared Bowen reviewed some of the latest in arts & culture… this week that’s Company, Firelei Báez at the ICA, and Dune 2 Shirley Leung talked about the New England businesses cashing in on Eclipse mania. She’ll also talk about Massachusetts billionaires who made the recent Forbes list, and a new development project on Bromfield street We wrapped up the show by discussing how people are preparing for the eclipse on Monday

Today: Senator Ed Markey talks about his recent teardown of Steward Health Care and its yacht loving CEO. Plus, the latest on US’ aid to Israel and Gaza … And what it’s like working with his Trump-loving GOP colleagues. Then, performers from the gender-swapped, touring edition of Sondheim’s classic, Tony-winning “Company” join for Live Music Friday

Today: Margery's back in the host seat. Jim and Margery speak with Maya and Gili Roman; they've been advocating for the release of the remaining hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, including one of their family members.

We started the show by discussing how people feel about their employers texting them outside of work hours. Maya and Gili Roman have been advocating for the release of the remaining hostages held by Hamas in Gaza (including one family member), they returned to our show to discuss their campaign. Retired Federal Judge Nancy Gertner talked about back-and-forth between DOJ special prosecutor Jack Smith and the judge overseeing the Trump classified documents case. Chris Burrell joined to expand on his latest reporting about the health costs of living around Boston Harbor. Sue O’Connell on House Republicans’ push to rename Dulles Airport after Trump, hiring freezes on Beacon Hill, Ozempic on shelves at CostCo, and reporting on how animals will react to next week’s solar eclipse. Joe Curtatone & Serge Abergel from Hydro-Quebec Energy Services joined for the latest iteration of our series about sustainable energy in the northeast. AITA for sleeping with my dog in the bed?

Today: Sue O’Connell fills in for Margery. Carol Rose from the ACLU of Massachusetts talks about what’s at stake with the upcoming Supreme Court abortion pill case, and a gunshot detection system that’s drawing criticism in Somerville. Then, folks from HellaBlack Volume 6, that’s an arts showcase put on through the Boston Center for the Arts, join us to discuss the April 8 bonanza – featuring drag star Killah Croc, show curator Amanda Shea, and aerialist Ky Bernard.

We opened the lines to discuss the Israeli airstrike that killed seven aid workers. Trenni Casey, anchor/reporter NBC Sports Boston, discussed March Madness, and the death of Larry Lucchino. National security expert Juliette Kayyem discussed the latest on a deadly earthquake in Taiwan. ACLU of Mass executive director Carol Rose discussed the latest mifepristone hearing in the Supreme Court, another abortion case being argued later this month, and a free speech/NRA case. #HellaBlack curator Amanda Shae and drag queen Killah Croc joined to discuss Monday's #HellaBlack festival at Boston Center for the Arts. Aerialist Ky Bernard joined with them to perform at the library. CNN's John King joined remotely to discuss the latest in national politics and his experience near the Texas border.

Today: Sue O’Connell fills in for Andrea Cabral who was supposed to fill in for Margery Eagan. We’ve got live music on a Tuesday, courtesy of the American Spiritual Ensemble – carrying on the legacy of Black spirituals – what the group’s founder, Dr. Everett McCorvey calls America’s “mother music.” Then, from the Dope Labs podcast: Titi Shodiya Zakiya Whatley have a new collaborative series with the Museum of Science all about next week’s solar eclipse – they’ll join us to discuss

We had a check in with our listeners on EV vehicles. Live Music Tuesday with American Spiritual Ensemble founder & director, Dr. Everett McCorvey, as well as decorated singer Angela Brown. Andrea Cabral joined via zoom to discuss RFK saying Biden is more dangerous to democracy than Trump, and a judge expanding Trump's gag order in Stormy Daniels case. Lee Pelton, Boston Foundation, discusses Nubian Square's revitalization. Titi Shodiya & Zakiya Whatley are executive producers and hosts of Dope Labs podcast. They joined ahead of an event tonight at the Museum of Science. Food policy analyst Corby Kummer joined via zoom to discuss a new $20 minimum wage for fast food workers in California. We wrapped up the show by talking about.... theft. What's the line in taking complimentary hotel items?

Today: We get your thoughts on new research showing working with your hands improves cognition and mood. [Insert Mr. Darcy hand flex gif here] Then, disinformation scholar Joan Donovan discusses the digital media landscape in 2024.

Michael Curry of the NAACP discussed Trump circulating a video of a hogtied Biden, Mass. advocacy groups pushing for an end to early elementary suspensions, and the US changing how it categorizes race & ethnicity for the first time in nearly 30 years. The Groundtruth Project's Charlie Sennott discussed Easter around the world and the news that another Russian defector was murdered. Medical ethicist Art Caplan reviewed the Supreme Court hearing on mifepristone and how Portland's approach to decriminalizing drugs compares to Portugal's. The Revs discussed Trump's bible grift, whether Jesus was a vegetarian and a new trend in spirituality that involves belief in aliens. Disinformation scholar Joan Donovan joined to discuss dangerous trends in social media, and how journalists and consumers can better tell fact from fiction. Cambridge City Councilor Burhan Azeem called in with an April Fools joke.

Today: It's Live Music Friday with La Donna Musicale. And, Former state rep. Marie St. Fleur is the first Haitian American to hold public office in Massachusetts. She joins us with Marline Amedee, co-founder and president of the Haitian Community Partners Foundation to discuss the local response to Haiti’s humanitarian crisis.

We opened the lines to talk about the rising costs of higher education. Nancy Gertner on the latest in Trump legal drama. Callie Crossley discussed Beyonce’s new album & more. Laury Gutiérrez & Daniela Tosic from La Donna Musicale joined for Live Music Friday ahead of a series of concerts in April, “More & More Morenas” Jared Bowen explained why Harvard is ditching its skin-bound book, and North Korean TV censoring scandalous American blue jeans. Former State Rep. Marie St. Fleur & Marline Amadee from the Haitian Community Partners Foundation discussed their work creating support systems for Haitian migrants coming to New England. We ended the show with Peeps. Many peeps.

Today: Alejandra Caraballo of the Harvard Law Cyberlaw Clinic discusses a new report that Meta is failing to curb anti-trans hate. And, it's Am I The A-Hole day. We ask listeners about people who drive, or park in the bus lane.

Vox podcast critic Nick Quah discussed the final season of "Stolen" and a new season from Serial Productions. Food policy analyst Corby Kummer discussed the rise in food co-ops and in people ordering DoorDash directly to their hotel room. Former secretary of public safety Andrea Cabral discussed a judge's gag order on Trump for his Manhattan criminal trial, and his potential financial windfall from taking Truth Social public. Alejandra Caraballo of the Harvard Law Cyberlaw Clinic discussed X's new doxxing policy and a new report that Meta is failing to curb anti-trans hate. Tech writer Andy Ihnatko discussed the DOJ's anti-trust lawsuit against Apple.

Today: We open the lines to hear from men and women who have chosen not to have children. The benefits of a DINK - that's Double Income No Kids - lifestyle, and the struggles with the social isolation. Then, we’re looking to the sun – not directly, of course – with Sky & Telescope’s Kelly Beatty. Everything you wanted to know about next month’s solar eclipse, but were too afraid to ask.

NBC Sports Boston anchor/reporter Trenni Casey discussed some March Madness drama from LSU coach feuding with The Washington Post. National security expert Juliette Kayyem discussed the latest on the Baltimore bridge collapse. Kelly Beatty, senior editor at Sky & Telescope, discussed how to prepare for next month's solar eclipse. Boston Globe business columnist Shirley Leung discussed Trump's Truth Social going public and the pros and cons of choosing not to have children.

Today: Governor Maura Healey joins Jim and Margery at the Boston Public Library on March 26, 2024. They discuss new mandates on overflow migrant shelters in Massachusetts, and the Supreme Court hearing on mifepristone.

Today: Travel guru Rick Steves joins us on the show. He’s celebrating 40 editions of his first-ever guidebook, “Europe Through the Back Door” and is fresh off a trip to Italy. And, Trump notches a win in court – having to pay just half of what he was originally sentenced in a New York fraud case. He’s now got 10 more days to come up with $175 million. We open the lines to get your thoughts.

Gov. Maura Healey joined to take questions and touch on the Supreme Court abortion hearing today. Media maven Sue O'Connell discussed Trump's court win yesterday and also Boeing CEO stepping down. Michael Curry of the Mass League of Community Health Centers & NAACP joined to discuss the Supreme Court abortion hearing today, and delivered his latest bite sized reparations lesson. Carlo Ratti of MIT's Dept of Urban Studies and Planning discussed congestion pricing, as the Boston City Council weighs the policy here. We wrapped up the show by discussing Western Mass and share the spotlight with them. We asked listeners if they venture out there.

The GroundTruth Project's Charlie Sennott discusses the latest in Israel/Gaza and on the terror attack in Russia, as well as the gang violence in Haiti. Medical ethicist Art Caplan discusses the first ever transplant of a genetically altered pig kidney into a human, Princess Catherine's cancer diagnosis announcement, plus a rise in women getting off birth control due to misinformation online. Rick Steves joins us fresh off a trip to Italy, he'll talk about traveling to Europe in Spring and his latest tips for local guides when dealing with Americans who don't share the "European perspective" on things. The Reverends Irene Monroe and Emmett Price join to discuss clergy in Boston calling on white churches to support reparations, and Pope Francis' health during this Holy Week.

Kate Middleton is the champion of working from home. We opened the lines to discuss that and a four day work week. Darlene Wynn, Athene Wilson & Leon Beal joined for Live Music Friday, ahead of their show at the Regent Theater, “Boston’s Best Divas of Soul” Callie Crossley reflected on the passing of veteran journalist Sarah-Ann Shaw, weighs in on the Apple DOJ lawsuit, and news re: the upcoming Beyoncé album. Andy Borowitz just re-launched his much-loved Borowitz Report on Substack, it’s already garnered 350,000 subscribers. He joined to talk about its return. Michael Scelfo & Brian Moy are two local chefs who’ve built business around the food of their youth – Michael at Josephine in Somerville and Brian at Chinatown’s China Pearl. They talked about their love of food & decade-long friendship. We wrapped up this week by discussing door etiquette. Do you hold the door open for others?

Today: Darlene Wynn, Athene Wilson & Leon Beal join Jim and Margery at the Library ahead of their show at Arlington’s Regent Theater: It’s “Boston’s Best Divas Of Soul.” And, our favorite satirist Andy Borowitz is back with a newly launched Borowitz Report.

Today: Today on the podcast … Massachusetts may become the 49th state to ban “revenge porn” – how very progressive of us. We talk with Andrea Cabral about it. It's Am I The A-Hole day: Is a husband a jerk for boarding the plane when his wife’s in line getting her Starbucks order, causing her to miss the flight? Or, is the wife the jerk for insisting on a light venti mocha cookie crumble frappuccino, instead of hoofing it to seat 28-F.

Chuck Todd on the latest D.C. headlines. We opened the lines to discuss allowance and financial responsibility with young ones. Andrea Cabral on drunken debauchery at this year’s St. Patrick’s day parade, Worcester enforcing distracted driving laws and more. Paul Reville weighs in on Gov. Healey opposing the ballot to end MCAS graduation requirements. Matthew Gilbert reviews some recent TV shows – this week that’s Three Body Problem, Palm Royale, Nolly, The Regime, and Apples Never Fall. AITA for getting on my flight? A husband catches his flight on time leaving his wife who was getting Starbucks behind. We opened the lines to debate who the a-hole is.

Finland ranked as the happiest country for the seventh year in a row. We opened the lines to talk with listeners about why the U.S. is behind. National security expert Juliette Kayyem on what happens if Trump can't pay his $454 million bond. Ron Mitchell, publisher of the Bay State Banner, discussed how local Haitians are reacting to the humanitarian crisis there. GBH's Jared Bowen joined via zoom to discuss video games as art and more. Naturalist Sy Montgomery and OctoNation founder Warren Carlyle joined via zoom to discuss the latest research showing octopuses actually are social creatures! We ended the show to talk about self checkout lines with listeners.

Today: The annual World Happiness Report came out this week – it’s a yearly ranking of nations by standard of living and general well-being… The top slot again went to Finland, while the U.S. has officially dropped out of the top 20. We get your thoughts. And, it’s the afternoon Zoo with journalist and naturalist Sy Montgomery, and Warren Carlyle founder of www.OctoNation.com. They’re out with a brand-new book about the soulful, otherworldly Octopus – it’s called Secrets of the Octopus.

Today: Trenni Casey, anchor/reporter for NBC Sports Boston, previews the March Madness men's and women's tournaments kicking off this week. Plus, we open the lines to see if any listeners have insight into what's going on with Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton.

How much privacy can a politician be allowed to have? We opened the lines to hear what listeners had to say? NBC Sports Boston anchor/reporter Trenni Casey previewed March Madness. Sue O'Connell of NBC10 brought us all into the Kate Middleton rabbit hole, and discussed Biden's latest exec order on women's health research. Food policy analyst Corby Kummer discussed the BigAg pushback to lab-grown meat, and the packies pushing back against making to-go cocktails permanent. Meredith Goldstein, Boston Globe Love Letters columnist & podcaster, discussed her latest episode on Maura Healey & Joanna Lydgate's relationship. CNN chief national correspondent John King zoomed in to discuss the latest national political headlines. We ended the show by talking about the Kate Middleton theories taking over media.

GBH news analyst Charlie Sennott on the latest out of Israel/Gaza. We opened the lines to discuss Trump's dangerous rhetoric. Senator Elizabeth Warren spoke about the IRS Free File program and her vote for the aid package for Ukraine/Israel. Medical ethicist Art Caplan discussed a rise in murder investigations when deaths involve drugs like fentanyl; and our aging prison population. Ilan Stavans of Amherst College discussed the Jewish woman running for president in Mexico; and the complexities of words like antisemitism/anti-Zionism. We wrapped up the show by talking about the early spring in New England.

Today: Senator Elizabeth Warren joins Jim and Margery in Studio 3 on March 18, 2024. We ask her about the foreign aid holdup in Congress, her calls for peace in Gaza and Israel, Biden’s latest stab at tackling student loan debt, new infrastructure funds coming into the state … Not to mention the topic that really gets her going – taxes, and the IRS’ new free file offering for some Massachusetts residents.

We opened the lines to discuss recent breaking news of Fulton County district attorney Fani Wills being allowed to continue prosecuting the Georgia election-interference case against former president Donald Trump. Performers from Girl From the North Country joined for Live Music Friday. We heard from Sharaé Moultrie and Matt Manuel, plus Ben Biggers and Emerson grad Chiara Trentalange. Callie Crossley on the CEO of the insurance company Chub paying Trump’s $91 million E. Jean Carrol fines, plus Chuck Schumer calling for course correction in Israel. Jared Bowen discussed his experience at the just-opened holocaust exhibit that’s stopping through Boston. He’ll talk about that and other goings-on in the world of arts & culture. We opened the lines to debate whether or not chewing gum is cool. Steve & Dave Welch are two brothers in charge of two separate (and acclaimed) restaurants – Chef Dave’s in Chestnut Hill and Oggi Gourmet in Harvard. Steve is the older brother. They joined to talk about their ventures and families ties and Boston’s food scene. Patti Lupone has won a whole bunch awards during her years as a Broadway and film star, she’s got a retrospective musical revue in April at Symphony Hall, she Zoomed in to discuss her career and what’s ahead.

Today: President and CEO of Embrace Boston Imari Paris Jeffries discusses their call for reparations locally, based on their new Harm Report documenting history of intentional suppression of Black success. Plus, two-time NBA champion and former U.S. Senator Bill Bradley joins us to talk about his documentary “Rolling Along."

Boston Globe business columnist Shirley Leung talked why young people are fleeing Greater Boston, a new $335 million federal investment in Allston, Baby Boomers embracing roommates, and a Boston.com story about East-coast Chinese food. Former secretary of public safety Andrea Cabral talks Healey’s marijuana pardons, reporting on the scaling-back of police reform laws around the country, election officials’ homes getting swatted, and a bill on Beacon hill to shift the burden of sex workers Imari Paris Jeffries from Embrace Boston joins to talk about their new report on reparations. Bill Bradley is a two-time NBA champion and a former U.S. Senator from New Jersey. He has a new one-man theatrical performance on Max called "Rolling Along." Food policy analyst Corby Kummer talks about a push to raise tipped wages in Mass., new science on ultra-processed food and its impact on the brain, the overwhelming nature of supermarkets, and the beloved cabbage.

We opened the show with Jim Rooney, President & CEO of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce on the alarming report that 25% of young people in Boston plan to leave. We opened the lines to discuss the report of younger people planning to leave the city. Transit panel with Stacey Thompson & Jim Aloisi on the silver line extension. Juliette Kayyem on Robert Hur's testimony and more. Jonna Mendez, retired CIA chief of disguise and co-author of “Argo," discussed her new book “In True Face: A Woman’s Life in the CIA, Unmasked." Live music Wednesday, St. Patrick's Day edition, with The Burren owner Tommy McCarthy (on bagpipes) and Lindsay O'Donovan (on piano). CNN's John King with the political headlines. We ended the show discussing dinner party etiquette.

Today on the podcast, Jim Braude and Margery Eagan talk with a fascinating former spy, Jonna Mendez, she’s the retired CIA chief of disguise and co-author of “Argo,” on her new book “In True Face.” Plus a special musical performance ahead of St. Patrick’s Day, with owner of The Burren Tommy McCarthy the wife of the late Brian O’Donovan, Lindsay O'Donovan.

Boston Mayor Michelle Wu joins Jim and Margery at the Boston Public Library on March 12, 2024.

NBC Sports Boston anchor/reporter Trenni Casey discussed the U.S. national women's soccer team winning the inaugural Concacaf Womens Gold Cup. NBC10's Sue O'Connell talked about the Kate Middleton conspiracies and the prospects of a TikTok ban. Tracy Chang of Pagu & Jody Adams of Saloniki discussed their travel tours for foodies. Filmmaker Mary Mazzio discussed "Bad River," a film chronicling the Wisconsin-based Bad River Band, and their fight to save Lake Superior from an aging pipeline, which runs through the Bad River Reservation. Boston Mayor Michelle Wu joined for Ask The Mayor.

Today: 10 years ago Dianne Foley’s son James was killed by Isis militants while reporting on war in Syria. Now, she’s out with “American Mother,” a memoir about her journey through tragedy, and how three days with the man who killed her son changed her life forever. We speak with Diane, her co-author Colum McCann, and Charlie Sennott. Then, Boston Globe film critic Odie Henderson provides a recap of last night’s Academy Awards – including a standout win, best documentary – for the Frontline’s 20 Days in Mariupol.

From Hollywood, Raney Aronson-Rath, executive producer, editor-in-chief at Frontline joined for a few minutes to reflects on last night's Oscar win for their incredible documentary “20 Days in Mariupol.” Diane Foley discussed 10 years without her son James, who was murdered by ISIS. She joined with GBH News analyst Charlie Sennott and Colum McCann. Medical ethicist Art Caplan discussed harmful ageism in healthcare, and four years since WHO declared the coronavirus pandemic. Bill Kristol, editor-in-chief at the Bulwark joins to discuss anti-Trump conservatism & political news. Revs Irene Monroe & Emmett Price discussed the Pope's confusing comments about Ukraine and "white flag" courage. Plus, we'll talk about Ramadan, the holiest month of the year for Muslims worldwide. Odie Henderson, film critic at the Globe, discussed the Oscars. We ended the show by talking about Daylight Savings time, a BPR favorite.

Today: Artist/activist production company White Snake Projects joins for Live Music Friday, to preview their new show, "Sing Out Strong: Emancipated Voices." Artistic director Cerise Jacobs and community director Andres Ballesteros talk with Jim and Margery. Then, we open the lines to hear your thoughts on fast food establishments you'd take to the streets to protect.

White Snake Projects is a community-led artist/activist nonprofit helmed by Cerise Jacobs. Their latest show, Sing Out Strong: Emancipated Voices is all about highlighting the virtues of democracy and voting. They performed for Live Music Friday. GBH's Callie Crossley put to rest rumors that Michelle Obama is running for president in 2024. Plus, why Fulton County is dropping its ethics investigation into Fani Willis, and more. GBH arts editor Jared Bowen talked about the Huntington’s “Eurydice” and “John Proctor is the Villain”, gave some Oscars predictions, and celebrated the 150-year anniversary of the jock strap. Boston Globe business columnist Shirley Leung discussed her latest episode of the Say More podcast, a new lawsuit involving former employees at Sam Adams, high returns on the first year of sports betting and other business headlines. NAACP's Michael Curry discussed the NAACP’s complaint filed against a Western Mass school district, and the National Urban League’s report on racial inequity in the U.S.

Today: Comedian and podcaster Marc Maron is touring the country with his new stand-up show “All In” with a stop in Medford this week. But first, he joins us to reflect on coming up in Boston’s comedy scene, and finding light in the darkness. And, Who’s the a-hole in this situation – the person who pays for a first date with gift cards? Or the person who takes umbrage with it?

NBC's Chuck Todd returned for his weekly D.C. roundup with reactions to Super Tuesday, and predictions for President Biden’s State of the Union address. Andrea Cabral discussed on Mass. GOP votes showing a distaste for Trump, plus AI images of Trump with Black voters that made the rounds online ahead of Super Tuesday. She also touched on the Karen Read case. Comedian Marc Maron is touring the country with his new stand-up show Marc Maron: All In. He joined us ahead of a show at Chevalier Theatre Friday night to reflect on coming up in Boston’s comedy scene in the 80’s and 90’s. Medical ethicist Art Caplan discussed cigarette smoking featured in many Oscar-nominated films, this week’s cyberattack on the largest U.S. healthcare payment system, the ethics of the IVF ruling and more. MIT economist Jon Gruber explained why rising interest rates are not getting factored into U.S. inflation numbers, and how that might be influencing American’s pessimistic views of the economy in spite of recent gains.

Today: BPR's live and local music panel returns, featuring: Brian McCreath, production director for WCRB. Also James Bennett II, arts & culture reporter for GBH, co-host of the Culture Show, and Emmett G Price III, dean of Africana Studies at Berklee and half of All Rev'd Up.

Harvard national security expert Juliette Kayyem on the latest developments in Israel's war in Gaza and the massive Smokehouse Creek fire in Texas. We opened the lines to discuss the results of Super Tuesday and Haley dropping out of the race. NBC Sports Boston anchor/reporter Trenni Casey discussed Dartmouth men's basketball players voting to unionize, and Caitlin Clark leading the pack on all major college point-gatherers. Frontline executive producer & editor-in-chief Raney Aronson-Rath discussed her show's Oscar nom for "20 Days in Mariupol". CRB's Brian McCreath, GBH's James Bennett II, and Berklee's Emmett G Price joined for a music roundtable. We ended the show by discussing having cereal for dinner in light of the comment from Kellogg's CEO.

Today: Boston Police Commissioner and Chief of Police Michael Cox joins Jim and Margery at the Boston Public Library.

Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox joined for "Ask The Commissioner." NBC10's Sue O'Connell previewed the Oscars, more on the student restrained at the Condon School in Boston, and more media analysis. Boston Foundation president Lee Pelton discussed the state of housing, following Milton's vote to reject the MBTA Communities Act. Carol Rose of the ACLU of Massachusetts discussed the Supreme Court's decision to keep Donald Trump on the Colorado ballot and the ACLU's latest legislative work on gerrymandering and voting rights. CNN national correspondent John King zoomed in for Super Tuesday.

Today: Investigative reporter Susan Zalkind has spent the past decade pulling at threads linking the 2011 Waltham triple-homicide, to the 2013 Boston Marathon Bombing. She talks with us about her book detailing it all, “The Waltham Murders.” And, a treatise on paper towels. We’re deforesting the Amazon to fuel a dirty habit here in America. We open the lines to hold a Paper Towels Addicts Anonymous session, the first in our special BPR twelve step plan.

Brian McGrory, head of BU's journalism department, delved into recent polling revealing doubts about Biden among Democrats. We opened the lines to discuss upcoming Super Tuesday and how many are voting "uncommitted" tomorrow. GroundTruth Project’s Charlie Sennott shed light on charges of media bias in coverage of the Israel-Palestinian conflict, with data analysis featured in the latest episode of On the Media. Investigative reporter Susan Zalkind presented her new book “The Waltham Murders: One Woman's Pursuit to Expose the Truth Behind a Murder and a National Tragedy.” The Revs Irene Monroe and Emmett G Price III weighed in on US bishops' response to the Alabama IVF ruling and shared a heartwarming story of a Christian nightclub making space for Jesus. Presidential inaugural poet Richard Blanco read a selection of poems and discussed their profound meanings. We ended the show by discussing the love and hate on Paper Towels.

Today: Live Music Friday with Alex Alvear and his Latin-fusion group Mango Blue. He joins with Michael Feldman, producer of a weekly live music series in Roxbury. And, a new report from GBH news highlights the struggle of people in Massachusetts seeking information about their disabled relatives. GBH features editor Jennifer Moore joins with Harvard researcher and disabilities expert Alex Green.

Alex Alvear & Michael Feldman performed for Live Music Friday, reuniting the band Mango Blue ahead of a free show at Long Live Roxbury brewery & tap room. GBH's Callie Crossley reacted to the Jack Teixeira's guilty plea, plus a legislative push for updated sex education guidelines in Mass., Oprah Winfrey’s departure from WeightWatchers, surge pricing at Wendy’s and more. Arts editor Jared Bowen discussed “Becoming a Man” at the Repertory Theater, “The Lost Generation” at BC’s McMullen Museum of Art, and “Raqib Shaw: Ballads of East and West” at the Isabella Stewart Gardner museum. GBH features editor Jennifer Moore discussed her reporting on lack of access to Mass. public records from state institutions. Shirley Leung talked about this recent Boston Globe series on revitalizing downtown and Mayor Wu’s plans to expand EV charging access in Boston.

Today: Michael Curry, head of the League of Community Health Centers in Massachusetts, joins to discuss how shrinking Medicaid impacts clinics. And, Kelly Beatty, senior editor at Sky & Telescope magazine discusses how we ended up with Leap Days, what’s up with the latest moon landing, and how we can see the coming total eclipse.

Chuck Todd talked about Trump's immunity case, Mitch McConnell stepping down, and more. We opened the lines to get listeners reactions to the Trump trial taking place after the election. Michael Curry on shrinking Medicaid and nominees for the 55th NAACP Image Awards. Andy Ihnatko talked about SCOTUS hearings on social media this week, AI-generated videos getting better and better, and more. Bill McKibben reflected on lost winters becoming the norm & other repercussions of climate change in New England. Kelly Beatty, authority on space, discussed the retirement of the ISS, and why we have space to blame for the extra day in February this year. We ended the show by discussing why learning to say "no" can be difficult.

Today: Bay State Banner Editor and Publisher Ron Mitchell on Boston backing off plans to move the city’s premier math & science academy out of Roxbury, and the NWSL's plans to use White Stadium for a professional soccer league. Then, it’s naturalist and author Sy Montgomery on the scientists working to communicate with Sperm Whales, the planet’s largest-brained animals

We started the show talking about local news and consuming news from social media. Medical ethicist Art Caplan discussed the environmental impact of asthma medications, and the continued restrictions of reproductive rights in America. Juliette Kayyem re-capped the Michigan primary, and fallout from AT&T's widespread outages. Trenni Casey discussed Encore facing fines for taking college sports bets, and the sputtering Sports Illustrated. Ron Mitchell talked about the latest Boston headlines, including White Stadium renovations for NWSL and Mayor Wu's 180 on the O'Bryant. Sy Montgomery talked all-things whales. We ended the show with an AITA segment, what happens when your enemy joins the groupchat?

Attorney General Andrea Campbell answered questions and addressed how lawsuit against the town of Milton. Governor Maura Healey discussed nominating her former partner for SJC and answered more questions. CNN's John King on political headlines. We wrapped up our show to discuss the Michigan protest vote

The GroundTruth Project's Charlie Sennott discussed the Russia and Ukraine war entering its 3rd year. Nancy Gertner discussed Trump's immunity challenge and the latest on challenges to reproductive rights. Sue O'Connell discussed Trump winning South Carolina and the endurance of landlines in the context of the widespread AT&T outages. The Revs Irene Monroe and Emmett G. Price III discussed Trump's theocracy. Food expert Corby Kummer discussed tribal nations taking back their food systems and the viral online feud between a New Yorker and a North End restaurateur.

Today: Tom Rush, mainstay of Club 47 in Harvard Square, now Passim, joins for Live Music Friday. He's got a new album out in March, "Gardens Old, Flowers New". And, Oscar-nominated comedian, writer, SNL-alum and pride of Milton Massachusetts, Jenny Slate. As of today, you can watch her brand-new special Seasoned Professionals on Amazon Prime Video.

We started our Friday show by discussing how Steward Healthcare CEO bought two private jets and multiple yachts. Tom Rush performed for Live Music Friday, ahead of the launch of his new album Gardens Old, Flowers New. Callie Crossley reacted to the passing of AIDS activist Hydeia Broadbent… also Trump’s push to get the RNC to pay his legal bills. Jared Bowen reviewed Winter Experience at Citizens Opera House, Stand Up if You’re Here Tonight at the Huntington, and Raqib Shaw: Ballads of East and West at the Gardner. Dr. Katherine Gergen Barnett talked about drug overdoses in Mass. and a new federal rule expanding methadone access. Jenny Slate has a new stand-up special out today on Amazon Prime, called Seasoned Professional. She joined via Zoom to discuss. We ended the show with discussion on all things squirrel related.

We opened the lines to discuss the UK successfully implementing a 4 day work week. Shirley Leung talked about the aftermath of the Milton vote, Mayor Wu's bold move to revamp Boston's zoning code, and the latest housing boom in Everett as reported by The Boston Globe. Andrea Cabral shed light on the latest legal drama surrounding Trump. She'll also discuss the Brockton High School situation. Victoria Kichuk, the mastermind behind Cocoa Beantown, joined for for a delicious celebration of National Chocolate Month. Boston NAACP President Tanisha Sullivan and Rasshan Hall from the Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts discussed an important initiative – a new coalition advocating for ranked-choice voting in Boston. Jon Gruber provided a deep dive into the economic implications of political corruption worldwide. For this week’s AITA segment we talked about who is to blame for Biden’s dog lashing out and biting a bunch of security service.

Today: We talk with medical ethicist Art Caplan about Alabama’s Supreme Court ruling that frozen embryos have the same rights as people under state law, further restricting the rights of women. Margery Then, aside from National Hot Dog Week, it’s Jim’s second favorite week of the year: national sauna week – we talk with two local sauna owners about the benefits of a hot room and a cold plunge.

Medical ethicist Art Caplan discussed Alabama's supreme court ruling that frozen embryos are people, and why there are discharge delays in Eastern Mass. hospitals. National security expert Juliette Kayyem discussed why the Biden administration is protecting Palestinian immigrants to the US from deportation, and, more on the state of Ukraine aid. Food policy expert Corby Kummer discussed the rise and fall of Drizly, a local startup; and, the passing of Mr. Bob Red Mill, of Bob's Red Mill. It's National Sauna Week. Mark Babson owns Got Sauna and Mark Peloquin owns Moki Sauna -- they joined to celebrate and talk about their Boston winter pop-ups. Naturalist Sy Montgomery discussed the limitations of mammals: they still need to have sex to procreate. Some other animals can do it all by themselves.

Trenni Casey, anchor/reporter NBC 10 Sports Boston, discussed "The Dynasty" on Apple TV and Caitlin Clark breaking the NCAA's all time women's scoring record. Sue O'Connell, host of @Issue on NBC, discussed Julian Assange's efforts to stop his extradition to the US and the intentional addictiveness of dating apps. GBH senior investigative reporter Phillip Martin discussed his latest reporting on efforts to include anti-Semitism in DEI discussions in Newton. Joe Curtatone, president of the Northeast Clean Energy Council, and Zaid Ashai, chairman and CEO of Nexamp, discussed renewable energy with a focus on solar. CNN's John King joined remotely to discuss the latest political headlines.

Michael Curry joined to discuss Friday’s Trump fraud ruling and a new federal rule expanding patient access to methadone. He also continued his mini lessons on racism in America. The GroundTruth Project's Charlie Sennott reflected on Alexei Nevalny’s death, what it could mean geopolitically and why this increases pressure on the Biden Administration to fund more aid for Ukraine. We revisited our conversation with historian Heather Cox Richardson about her new book "Democracy Awakening: Notes on the State of America." Boston Globe travel writer Christopher Muther discussed nonstop Jetblue flights connecting Boston and Dublin/Paris, expensive theme parks, and his favorite 5-star hotels in New England. Ilan Stavans is a writer and academic at Amherst College. He talked about ceasefire demonstrations on college campuses across the U.S., his views on immigration, and the one-year anniversary of his book “The People’s Tongue: Americans and the English Language.”

Today on the podcast … we talk with Amherst College professor Ilan Stavans about the atmosphere on college campuses across the U.S., and why he thinks immigration is the top issue going into this year’s presidential election. Then, it’s our annual Presidents Day call-in quiz … turns out our listeners know a thing or two about presidents, so we might need to make it harder next year…

The world renowned Takács Quartet is in its 49th season – originating from Hungary, they join us for Live Music Friday ahead of a show at the New England Conservatory. Then, founder and president of “Get Konnected!” Colette Phillips is out with a new book “The Includers: The 7 Traits of Culturally Savvy, Anti-Racist Leaders” – She joins us to discuss how white allies can advocate for change in workplaces and communities.

The world renowned Takács Quartet is in its 49th season – originating from Hungary, they join us for Live Music Friday ahead of a show at the New England Conservatory. Then, founder and president of “Get Konnected!” Colette Phillips is out with a new book “The Includers: The 7 Traits of Culturally Savvy, Anti-Racist Leaders” – She joins us to discuss how white allies can advocate for change in workplaces and communities.

The world renowned Takács Quartet is in its 49th season – originating from Hungary, they join us for Live Music Friday ahead of a show at the New England Conservatory. Then, founder and president of “Get Konnected!” Colette Phillips is out with a new book “The Includers: The 7 Traits of Culturally Savvy, Anti-Racist Leaders” – She joins us to discuss how white allies can advocate for change in workplaces and communities.

The world renowned Takács Quartet is in its 49th season – originating from Hungary, they join us for Live Music Friday ahead of a show at the New England Conservatory. Then, founder and president of “Get Konnected!” Colette Phillips is out with a new book “The Includers: The 7 Traits of Culturally Savvy, Anti-Racist Leaders” – She joins us to discuss how white allies can advocate for change in workplaces and communities.

The world renowned Takács Quartet is in its 49th season – originating from Hungary, they join us for Live Music Friday ahead of a show at the New England Conservatory. Then, founder and president of “Get Konnected!” Colette Phillips is out with a new book “The Includers: The 7 Traits of Culturally Savvy, Anti-Racist Leaders” – She joins us to discuss how white allies can advocate for change in workplaces and communities.

The world renowned Takács Quartet is in its 49th season – originating from Hungary, they join us for Live Music Friday ahead of a show at the New England Conservatory. Then, founder and president of “Get Konnected!” Colette Phillips is out with a new book “The Includers: The 7 Traits of Culturally Savvy, Anti-Racist Leaders” – She joins us to discuss how white allies can advocate for change in workplaces and communities.

The world renowned Takács Quartet is in its 49th season – originating from Hungary, they join us for Live Music Friday ahead of a show at the New England Conservatory. Then, founder and president of “Get Konnected!” Colette Phillips is out with a new book “The Includers: The 7 Traits of Culturally Savvy, Anti-Racist Leaders” – She joins us to discuss how white allies can advocate for change in workplaces and communities.

The world renowned Takács Quartet is in its 49th season – originating from Hungary, they join us for Live Music Friday ahead of a show at the New England Conservatory. Then, founder and president of “Get Konnected!” Colette Phillips is out with a new book “The Includers: The 7 Traits of Culturally Savvy, Anti-Racist Leaders” – She joins us to discuss how white allies can advocate for change in workplaces and communities.