Boston Public Radio Podcast

A jury is now deliberating on Trump's case. We opened the lines to ask how listeners are feeling. Chuck Todd returned for his Thursday D.C. roundup. Andrea Cabral on Trump trial drama and what comes next in the classified documents case. Joanna Stern reviews tech for the Wall Street Journal, she talked about new Windows & Mac laptops Michael Curry talked about COVID on the rise with this new “flirt” variant, and neglected long-COVID patients in Black & Brown communities. Eric Deggans reviews TV for NPR. He reviewed John Mulaney’s live-on-Netflix limited run Everybody’s in L.A., The Big Cigar, Couples Therapy, and streaming’s transition back into cable via this new Comcast streaming bundle. AITA for calling out a cliantro sniffer? We opened the lines to debate.

Today: Joanna Stern of the Wall Street Journal discusses her unorthodox phone testing method: dropping smartphones from a drone to test their sturdiness. Plus, we open the lines for Am I The A-Hole day: If you see someone sniffing cilantro in the supermarket … Are you the A-Hole for calling them out for manhandling the produce? Or is the sniffer in the wrong?

Today: Former Somerville Mayor, current head of the New England Green Energy Coalition Joe Curtatone is back, with another major player in the sustainability economy – Amy Duffuor on funding climate tech. And, food policy analyst Corby Kummer joins to talk about what Western Mass is getting right about school meals – a district-wide central kitchen pumping out fresh made meals.

We started the show by asking what the American flag means to you, and get your thoughts on how MAGA-right people have co-opted the symbol. Imari Paris Jeffries of Embrace Boston discussed Haitian heritage month and why he thinks Biden is underestimating how much Black Americans care about climate change. Juliette Kayyem discussed her latest column on Trump's assassination fantasy and this year's hurricane season. Jared Bowen discussed a top-secret Wu-Tang Clan album and Hew Locke's "Procession" at the ICA. Amy Duffuor runs a climate-tech investment fund called Azolla Ventures. She joined with Joe Curtatone of Northeast Clean Energy Council to talk about how to fund climate innovation. Corby Kummer discussed why some restaurants are making the staff meal a paid position, and the new dining reality of restaurants closing early or even midweek. We ended the show with a love-fest on the wonderfulness of big box stores: CostCo, BJ's and Sam's Club.

We started the show by asking listeners how they felt about the closing argument of Trump's trial. Trenni Casey discussed the Celtics's win last night, the death of Bill Walton, and the death of PGA golfer Grayson Murray Charlie Sennott discussed his recent trip to Ukraine, Putin signaling openness to peace talks, and global condemnation of an Israeli strike on Rafah. Katie Theoharides of the Trustees of Reservations discussed beach access this summer, as well as the climate issues they're dealing with re: land in their stewardship. Marcela Garcia of the Boston Globe discussed tensions in Concord over efforts to name the school after Black educator Ellen Garrison. CNN's John King discussed the latest in national politics. We wrapped up by taking calls on "dreamscrolling". Looking up houses on Zillow, pinterest and more.

Today: Katie Theoharides from the Trustees of Reservations discusses local beach access across the state, and other climate change issues. And, "dream-scrolling" is the past-time du jour for those of us who like to fantasize about the good life we could be living. We open the lines to ask listeners if the fantasy can be as sweet as the real thing – how do you escape this dumpster-fire we call everyday life?

We opened the lines to discuss the pros and cons of the beach. Nicholás Emden & Matt Smith joined for Live Music Friday. Matt Smith is the manager at Club Passim, which hosts their longstanding Campfire Festival this weekend. Nicholás Emden is a Chilean-born singer/songwriter and winner of the 2023 New England Music Award "World Act of the Year." Callie Crossley on polling around celebrity election sway (turns out only the Obamas have real influence), and polling about America’s most trusted news anchors. Lydia R. Diamond & Jennifer Mogbock from Toni Stone at the Huntington joined. Lydia is show’s writer/director, Jennifer plays the lead role in the show about the first woman to play baseball in all-male professional leagues. Nancy Gertner discussed recent court headlines. This week she talked Alio flag-gate, SCOTUS rulings on S. Carolina's voting map, President Biden's messaging around courts ahead of November, and the latest re: the Trump classified documents case. Rep. Seth Moulton discussed his views on Israel/Gaza war. We ended the week with an AITA segment on backseat drivers

Today: Congressman Seth Moulton discusses Memorial Day and his views on Israel's war in Gaza. And, "World Act of the Year” Nicholás Emden & Matt Smith join us for Live Music Friday, ahead of Club Passim’s long standing Campfire Festival this weekend.

Our Thursday show started with Chuck Todd giving us his D.C. roundup We opened the lines to talk about our values and principles. Andrea Cabral gave her take on cannabis restrictions on Martha’s Vineyard and new sexual accusations against rap mogul Sean Combs. Rick Steves returned from a month-long excursion to Rome, Assisi, Orvieto, Naples, the Amalfi Coast, and London.

Today: Even if you’ve read every article on bird flu, it’s hard to tell exactly what the risk factor is. Two experts from BU and Harvard join us to make sense of it all. And, Rhode Island Senator Sheldon Whitehouse Zooms in to talk about our extremist Supreme Court – and why we should all care about Justice Alito flying an upside-down American flag outside his home after January 6th.

We opened the lines to discuss how climate change will impact elections this year. National security expert Juliette Kayyem discussed the possible collapse of home insurance and Ireland, Spain and Norway recognizing Palestine as a state. Boston Globe business columnist Shirley Leung discussed the best dim sum in Greater Boston, and her latest podcast on Karen Read. Naturalist Sy Montgomery talked about new rules that let every Bostonian keep bees, and the mysterious origins of cockroaches. Nahid Bhadelia, associate professor of infectious diseases at BU & Bill Hanage, Chan school of Public Health epidemiologist joined for a bird flu panel. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse discussed corruption on the Supreme Court. We ended the show today by talking about funny open house experiences.

NBC Sports Boston anchor-reporter Trenni Casey discussed golfer Scott Scheffler getting arrested during the PGA championship, plus, the latest on the PWHL and Celtics playoffs. Michael Curry of the NAACP & MA League of Community Health Centers discussed Biden's outreach to Black voters and the plight of our overworked primary care physicians. Food policy analyst Corby Kummer discussed the rise in grocery prices in Massachusetts and his Boston University commencement speech. Boston Globe travel writer Christopher Muther discussed the "over-the-top pleasures" of Abu Dhabi and his slow travel tour through Canada on a sleeper train. CNN's John King discussed the latest in national politics.

Today: Andrea Cabral fills in for Margery. We talk with New York Times contributing editor Jessica Bennett about the Manhattan trial where Trump, Stormy Daniels and Michael Cohen all give their best performances – Bennett writes about the gender dynamics and sexism at play in the unprecedented criminal case against a former president. Then, as we all know, except maybe the aforementioned former president … Words matter. We get listener thoughts on the words we just can’t stand.

New York Times' contributing editor Jessica Bennett discussed the Manhattan Trump trial from a gender dynamics lens. Medical ethicist Art Caplan discussed how nearly half of cancer patients have medical debt, despite most being insured; and America's inflated "wellness market." Author and etymologist Jess Zafarris discussed her book "Words from Hell." Harvard's Khalil Gibran Muhammad focused on the rollback of DEI and the latest on campus protests. Ilan Stavans of Amherst College discussed how sexism still affects elected politicians who are women, and Mexico's first presidential race where both candidates are women.

Today: The New York Times is out with fresh reporting getting to the heart of politicization on the Supreme Court – Just weeks after the January 6 insurrection, Justice Samuel Alito’s home flew an upside-down American flag, a symbol adopted by Trump supporters contesting Biden’s victory in the 2020 election. The Supreme Court was considering election-related cases at the time. We open the lines to ask your thoughts. Then, Billy Dean Thomas is not only Boston’s City Hall Plaza Engagement Manager, they’re also the city’s very own, self proclaimed “Queer B-I-G.” They’re playing Boston Calling next weekend, but join us first for Live Music Friday – we talk about their two upcoming albums, and the city’s music scene more broadly.

We opened by discussing Justice Alito's upside down American flag Billy Dean Thomas is playing Boston Calling next weekend, and they joined us for Live Music Friday. Callie Crossley reflected on 70 years of Brown v. Board of Education and present-day school segregation... Sue O’Connell checked in from her post covering the Karen Read trial. In addition to the latest there, she also touched on 20 years of same-sex marriage in Mass. Jared Bowen reviewed "Touching the Void" at Chelsea Theater Works, the movie "I Saw the TV Glow," and "Mother Play," playing in New York City. Dr. Katherine Gergen Barnett talked about brain worms, mammograms after 40, and whether we're talking too much about mental health. We ended the show by debating with listeners... Is a hot dog a sandwich?

This week marks 20 years since the first same sex couple got married in Massachusetts. We speak with Margaret Marshall, the author of the historic decision, retired Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court. She talks not just about the legacy of that decision, but about civil disobedience and civic engagement in today’s world.

Margaret Marshall was Chief Justice for the Supreme Judicial Court in 2004, and wrote the historic decision than declared same-sex marriage legal for the first time anywhere in the U.S. She joined to reflect on the 20-year milestone. Former public safety secretary Andrea Cabral reacted to the latest on Trump’s Manhattan trial, controversy around ShotSpotter and the winner of the Westminster Dog Show. Joe Hanson is the new host of GBH’s High School Quiz Show and the host of the web-series Be Smart. He joined to preview HSQS’s upcoming finale & quiz Jim and Margery. Medical ethicist Art Caplan talked about the death of the person who received the first pig kidney transplant, issues with Elon Musk’s brain chip company Neuralink and the proliferation of STIs among the 60+ crowd. Boston Globe Love Letters columnist Meredith Goldstein recapped a few of her latest articles.

Today: Longtime PBS cooking legend Lidia Bastianich is set to get a Lifetime achievement award at the Emmys. She joins us on zoom to talk about her storied career. Then, we’ll follow that up with longtime Globe journalist and best-selling author Larry Tye on his new book “The Jazzmen.”

We opened the lines to discuss the debate Trump and Biden will have next month with listeners. Boston Globe business columnist Shirley Leung discussed the Globe's Tech Power Players of 2024 list Keith Lockhart announced the Boston Pops July 4 plans, embargoed until 12pm Juliette Kayyem discussed the Biden administration's "critical infrastructure" memo, and the battle for Trump's VP. Larry Tye discussed his new book about jazz, "The Jazzmen" Dr. Alok Patel, host of NOVA's new film "Secrets In Your Data" and Eva Galperin, director of cybersecurity for the Electronic Frontier Foundation, joined via zoom to discuss the film, airing tonight. Lidia Bastianich zoomed in to discuss being Lidia, she's getting a lifetime achievement award at the Emmys. We ended the show by visiting the topic of taking care of plants.

Today: What does the DEA rescheduling marijuana really mean for the industry? Not much, says cannabis equity champion Shaleen Title – she’s a former cannabis commissioner here in Massachusetts, and now runs the Parabola Center think tank for cannabis equity. Then, retired federal judge Nancy Gertner will update us on the latest from Michael Cohen’s testimony tying Trump directly to allegations of a catch-and-kill scheme to protect his 2016 election chances.

Trenni Casey, anchor and reporter for NBC Sports Boston, discussed charges of goaltender interference during the Bruins playoff series, the Celtic's win in game four, and a Boston Marathon winner from 2014 fighting to get her prize money. John King, CNN chief national correspondent, discussed young Michigan voters revealing there are deeper problems for Biden over Israel/Gaza, and J.D. Vance joining Trump in court. Chefs (and friends) Tiffani Faison of Tenderoni's and Will Gilson of Puritan Oyster Bar in Cambridge joined for the buddy comedy you didn't know you needed. Shaleen Title, former Mass cannabis commissioner and founder and director of the Parabola Center, discussed marijuana policy and regulation. Retired federal judge Nancy Gertner discussed the latest on the Trump trial in Manhattan.

Today: Musician Rufus Wainwright calls in to talk songwriting and more ahead of a show next week at City Winery Boston. Then, some of our listeners are selfish gluttons, apparently. We get their thoughts on whether they’d take cold showers and wash their laundry in cold water to save the planet.

We opened the show by discussing how much we pay attention to our local legislators and transparency issues GroundTruth Project's Charlie Sennott talked to us over zoom live from Ukraine. He talked to us about the latest going on there and in Israel/Gaza Food Policy Analyst Corby Kummer on rising prices of fast food Reverends Irene Monroe and Emmett G Price III discussed how a court in North Carolina ruled that a catholic school could fire a gay teacher who announced his wedding online Singer/Songwriter Rufus Wainwright joined ahead of his show at City Winery Boston next week If you care about the climate, are you willing to take cold showers? We discussed this with our listeners

It's graduation season, so we opened the show by asking listeners what they remember about their commencement ceremonies. Radius Ensemble is a contemporary chamber group celebrating their 25th season, which culminates next Thursday with a performance at Longy. They'll join to debut brand-new music and celebrate unsung 18th century Black composer Chevalier De St. Georges. NBC Boston's Sue O'Connell gave us the latest on the Karen Read trial, Barron Trump's foray into politics, journalist John Kahn's comments about journalism in 2024, and the RFK brain worm. Doris Kearns Goodwin reflected on her life & legacy, as well as her best-selling new memoir “An Unfinished Love Story: A Personal History of the 1960s." GBH's Jared Bowen talked Boston Ballet’s Spring Experience, a new photography exhibit at the Worcester Art Museum, and a Bedford tennis court’s starring role in the sexy tennis thriller Challengers. Then, we asked listeners about Mother's Day.

Today: Presidential biographer Doris Kearns Goodwin joins Jim and Margery at the Boston Public Library to discuss her new memoir: "An Unfinished Love Story: A Personal History of the 1960s."

Today: Former Massachusetts secretary of public safety Andrea Cabral discusses how the testimony of Stephanie Clifford, aka Stormy Daniels, led to Trump’s lawyers asking for a mistrial. Then it's Am I The A-Hole: This week's prompt involves a man who refused to lend his lawnmower to a neighbor, who proceeded to badmouth him to all their other neighbors. Who's the jerk: The guy who refuses to lend his lawnmower to a neighbor, or the guy who complains about him around town for not lending it out?

NBC's Chuck Todd discussed his latest column on why Trump and Biden should just say sorry for their mistakes and that might save democracy. Andrea Cabral, former public safety secretary, discussed the latest in Trump's trial with Stephanie Clifford & an East Boston firm fined nearly 500k after the death of a window washer who fell due to faulty equipment. Paul Reville, former education secretary, discussed the Congressional hearing on anti-semitism and a SCOTUS cast about Boston exam school admission. Boston Globe film critic Odie Henderson reviewed of the Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, Fall Guy and Nowhere Special. MIT economist Jon Gruber brought an economist's-eye view to bird flu and protecting against future pandemics.

Today: Executive director of the ACLU of Massachusetts, Carol Rose, discusses whether local university and city leaders are crossing first amendment lines on the issue of student protests, and what the American public loses out on without cameras in Trump's courtroom. Then, it’s animal authority Sy Montgomery on an incredible story of an Orangutan treating a wound with a plant, new research into sperm whale communication, and what to do if your dog gets in the way of you getting it on…

We opened the show by asking you about the pros and cons of AirBnB. Sports authority Trenni Casey discussed the Tom Brady roast and the Bruins making it to round two of the Stanley Cup playoffs. Food policy analyst Corby Kummer discussed what, if anything, "queer food" is, which is the focus of a Boston University conference. Plus, why consumers are ditching big brands due to high costs. Lee Pelton of the Boston Foundation discussed campus protests, bringing his perspective as a former President of Emerson College. Conductor Keith Lockhart discussed the spring season of the Boston Pops. Mayor Wu joined for Ask The Mayor.

Boston Mayor Michelle Wu joined Jim and Margery at the Boston Public Library for Ask The Mayor on May 7, 2024.

Brian McGrory, head of BU Journalism, discussed the coming fallout from Steward Healthcare, plus the role of student journalists in covering the campus protests over Israel/Gaza. GBH News analyst Charlie Sennott called in from Ukraine to discuss the latest in the war there, including the US accusing Russia of using chemical weapons against Ukrainians. Medical ethicist Art Caplan discussed a Texas man's lawsuit to investigate his ex's out-of-state abortion, and new recommendations for breast cancer screenings starting at the age of 40. The Revs Irene Monroe and Emmett G. Price III discussed a regression of American Catholicism and women seeking more leadership roles in Black Baptist churches. Nadia Moumine, a competitive powerlifter and Boston-based trainer, joined to discuss gender-inclusive weightlifting, and the rise of female and LGBTQ heavy lifters.

Today: GBH News analyst Charlie Sennott joins us live from Ukraine, on the heels of a fresh infusion of aid from the US. Plus, the latest on ceasefire negotiations between Hamas and Israel. Then, Massachusetts champion powerlifter, Nadia Moumine talks about queerness in the weight lifting community, and dispels some myths about lifting heavy weights.

We took the show to UMass Boston's University Hall, with special guests including UMass Boston Chancellor Marcello Suárez-Orozco, Paul English, founder of Kayak.com and namesake for the UMass Boston Paul English AI Institute, former EPA administrator Gina McCarthy, Nir Eisikovits, founding director of UMB Applied Ethics Center, Gov. Maura Healey and more.

Today: NBC’s Chuck Todd talks about President Joe Biden's remarks today on campus protests, plus how Trump can’t play by anyone’s rules but his own – especially when it comes to a judge’s gag order. And, about a third of Massachusetts voters are unhappy with their healthcare, a new poll shows. We’ll talk with Michael Curry, of the Mass League of Community Health Centers, about this, and, a new bill to highlight missing Black women in Massachusetts.

NBC's Chuck Todd returned for his weekly D.C. roundup. Former secretary of public safety Andrea Cabral discussed the re-trial of Harvey Weinstein, the secret life of Shelby Hewitt and the Karen Read trial. Michael Curry talked about a recent poll showing poor access to primary health care in Massachusetts. GBH higher-ed reporter Kirk Carapezza & Boston Globe's Shira Schoenberg joined us to talk about campus protests, the looming “demographic cliff” in college enrollment. GBH executive arts editor Jared Bowen reviewed the Boston production of 'A Strange Loop', the play "Clue," and a city-wide public art event.

Today: A critical – and critically underreported – issue in this country is maternal health. As women’s rights are rolled back across the country, we talk to Jamie Belsito from the Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance and Katie Schubert, President and CEO of Society for Women’s Health Research. All that, plus live music on a Wednesday courtesy of performers from a Boston production of the Pulitzer and Tony-award winning musical "A Strange Loop." We’ll also talk with director Maurice Parent and lead actor Kai Clifton.

Jamie Belsito, founder of Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance & Katie Schubert, President and CEO of Society for Women's Health Research, joined for a women's health panel. National security expert Juliette Kayyem discussed pro-Palestinian campus protests, and the White House's new disaster plan for "worst case scenarios." Director Maurice Parent & actor Kai Clifton of "Strange Loop" discussed the show and some of the cast performed. Ron Mitchell of the Bay State Banner discussed their coverage of Rachael Rollins' regaining her law license, the Trump trials, and sports gambling. Plus, the paper's shift to a new broadsheet format, which starts this week. Boston Globe business columnist Shirley Leung discussed the launch of Boston Asian Restaurant week on May 3, and her latest podcast about the climate crisis with Elizabeth Kolbert.

We opened the show to hear your thoughts on why women lean more liberal than men, at least according to one poll. Trenni Casey, anchor/reporter for NBC Sports Boston, discussed the Patriot's draft, the Celtics and Bruins in the playoffs, and Messi playing at Gillette. Christopher Kimball of Milk Street discussed their new culinary tours around the world. Tech podcaster/writer Andy Ihnatko discussed four big phone companies fined for selling user location data and the recent federal TikTok ban. Food policy analyst Corby Kummer discussed new federal nutrition guidelines for schools and traces of avian flu detected in cow's milk. CNN chief national correspondent John King discussed the latest political headlines. We closed the show by discussing rats -- love 'em or hate 'em, shouldn't we learn to live with them?

Today: A foodie double feature. First, food policy analyst Corby Kummer tells us all about new nutrition guidelines on salt and sugar at school meals … Plus the latest on avian flu making its way into U.S. dairy cows. Then, Christopher Kimball of Milk Street joins to talk about his latest cookbook – a behemoth of a thing: Milk Street 365.

Medical ethicist Art Caplan discusses bird flu in humans, and whether hospitals should screen for weapons at the door. Charlie Sennott discusses the broad college campus protests over Israel/Gaza, and the latest on a ceasefire proposal. Joanna Lydgate, President and CEO of the State United Democracy Center, joins to discuss her work tracking election deniers in state politics. Ilan Stavans, professor of humanities at Amherst College, discusses the meaning behind students' demands for "divestment" from Israel and a new poll that finds Americans are warming to mass deportations of immigrants. David Coffin is leading a new Boston Harbor lighthouse cruise. He's also a sea-shanty singer. He joined to talk the cruise and sing a tune.

Today: Joanna Lydgate joins us in studio to talk about her work ensuring free and fair elections. She’s President and CEO of the State United Democracy Center. And, we get a lesson in sea shanties – and Boston harbor lighthouses – from singer and harbor tour guide David Coffin.

We opened the show to get your reactions to the overturning of Harvey Weinstein's rape conviction in New York. Bermuda Search Party (formerly Q-Tip Bandits) performed for Live Music Friday, ahead of a performance this weekend at the Town & City Festival in Lowell. Howard Mansfield is a writer and author of the new book "I Will Tell No Stories: What Our Fathers Left Unsaid About World War II." He joined via zoom to discuss. NBC Boston's Sue O’Connell debriefed her coverage of the Karen Read trial and the clearing of pro-Palestinian encampments at Emerson College. Executive arts editor Jared Bowen returned for a weekly arts rundown on Beau McCall's "Buttons On!" at the Fuller Craft Museum and Julia Swanson’s “Art Walk Project.” Boston Globe columnist Marcela Garcia talked about the violence in Haiti and what role the U.S. should play. Rep. Bill Keating joined fresh off a trip to Kiev, Ukraine where he met with President Zelensky. Then we ended the show to talk about car horn etiquette.

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.