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by KQED
Forum tells remarkable and true stories about who we are and where we live. In the first hour, Alexis Madrigal convenes the diverse voices of the Bay Area, before turning to Mina Kim for the second hour to chronicle and center Californians’ experience. In an increasingly divided world, Mina and Alexis host conversations that inform, challenge and unify listeners with big ideas and different viewpoints.
Latest Episodes
The most recent episodes — sign up to get AI-powered summaries of each one.
- 2 days ago54 min
What’s a Fictional Love Story You’ll Never Forget?
Novels, poetry, plays and short stories about love have existed for as long as we’ve had novels, poetry, plays and short stories. In its latest project, The Atlantic’s books team set out to capture the English language’s 50 most unforgettable love stories. They spoke with scholars, librarians, critics, authors and romance bookshop owners to hear their top picks. The list begins with Philip Sidney’s sonnets “Astrophil and Stella” from 1591 and ends with 2024’s Lambda Literary Award winning novel “The Safekeep” by Yael van der Wouden. Some of the installments were seminal for the romance genre; for others, how romantic they truly are is the subject of debate. We’ll talk with two of the Atlantic’s Books editors about how certain love stories stand the test of time, and we’ll speak with an author about what it takes to craft an “unforgettable” love story. Guests: Emma Sarappo, senior associate editor, The Atlantic Boris Kachka, senior editor, The Atlantic Nicole Dennis-Benn, author, “Here Comes the Sun” and “Patsy”, associate professor in creative writing, Bryn Mawr College, new novel “Black Gold” will be published in January 2027 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
- 2 days ago54 min
With a Democratic Congress, Will Trump Change His Foreign Policy?
Now a lame duck facing a Democratic congress, President Trump has some critical decisions to make on foreign policy. In his second term, Trump has joined forces with Israel to start a war in Iran, invaded Venezuela and captured its leader, dropped sanctions against Russia as Ukraine peace talks loom, and threatened to annex Greenland. What will the next two years hold and will the new Congress change his course abroad? Guests: David Sanger, white house and national security correspondent, New York Times, author, “New Cold Wars: China’s Rise, Russia’s Invasion and America’s Struggle to Defend the West” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
- 3 days ago55 min
What the Democratic Wave Means for the Next Congress
After seismic midterm victories, Democrats will face pressure to govern and Republicans face a reckoning; Speaker Mike Johnson says he won’t run for minority leader. We talk with a panel of national political correspondents about what Democrats can realistically do with their new power, the choices that lie ahead for Republicans and what these election results mean for the future of American politics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
- 3 days ago54 min
Bay Area Lawmakers on How They’ll Use Their New Power in Congress
In a town hall-style Forum, we’ll hear from Bay Area members of Congress about their plans, priorities and the possibilities for investigating the Trump administration. The conversation comes in the wake of the midterm elections, where Democrats won majorities in both houses of Congress. We’ll ask these Bay Area officials how they’ll use their power in Washington and what they will prioritize. And they’ll hear from you about what issues you want addressed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
- 4 days ago54 min
How California Voted in the 2026 Midterms
We discuss post-election results, analysis and what to expect as major California races are finalized. With reporters from across the California Newsroom, we’ll talk about the contest for governor and key congressional seats, along with statewide ballot propositions and consequential local races. And we’ll answer your questions about what the election results mean for the future of California and national politics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
- 4 days ago54 min
How Did the Bay Area Vote on Local Races and Ballot Measures?
We recap the election results here in the Bay Area. Voters decided on key Congressional races, including who will replace former Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Representative Eric Swalwell. And they weighed in on measures that could increase the mayor’s power in San Francisco and Oakland. We’ll review what races have been called, which are pending and what the results say about the political tide here in the Bay. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
- 5 days ago54 min
Why Eating Well is Simpler Than You Think
Figuring out what to eat can feel more complicated than ever. Are eggs healthy, or not? Is everything labeled ultra-processed bad for us? How much protein is enough protein? Stanford nutrition scientist Christopher Gardner says eating well is easier than you might think and that there’s more agreement among researchers than the latest viral diet fads suggest. We talk to Gardner about what the evidence shows. His new book is “Food Sense.” Guests: Dr. Christopher Gardner, professor and director of nutrition studies, Stanford University; author, “Food Sense: What to Eat and Why” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
- 5 days ago54 min
Why Is Water So Expensive in California?
San Jose has the most expensive water in the country, according to a new report from Food & Water Watch. The report finds that, nationwide, household water bills have increased by an average of 62% over the last decade, and California is home to more than half of the 25 most expensive water systems in the country. So what’s driving up the cost of our household drinking water and is there a better way to pay for this essential service? We’ll hear from water policy experts about the hidden costs behind your water bill, how everything from climate change to agricultural policy is shaping rates, and what it would take to make water more affordable for Californians. Guests: Max Gomberg, senior policy advisor on water equity and affordability; formerly Climate and Conservation manager, State Water Resources Control Board Mary Grant, water policy director, Food & Water Watch Karla Nemeth, executive director, Association of California Water Agencies Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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About KQED's Forum
Forum tells remarkable and true stories about who we are and where we live. In the first hour, Alexis Madrigal convenes the diverse voices of the Bay Area, before turning to Mina Kim for the second hour to chronicle and center Californians’ experience. In an increasingly divided world, Mina and Alexis host conversations that inform, challenge and unify listeners with big ideas and different viewpoints.
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