Boston Public Radio Podcast

If prosecutors say they’ll drop charges on the condition Trump never holds public office again…would you be ok with that? Or, are you not convinced he’d take a deal in the first place? We opened the phone lines to hear from listeners. Carol Rose of ACLU Massachusetts discussed the limits on media in the courtroom for Trump’s arraignment, the Supreme Court ruling on redistricting/Voting Rights Act, and the ACLU’s new campaign on location data privacy. Art Caplan discussed fraudsters duping vulnerable & homeless people into signing up for healthcare plans they can’t afford, and the continued discussion over widespread use of Ozempic for weight loss. Juliette Kayyem analyzed the Trump arraignment, gave insight on some Nazi demonstrations outside Disney, and talked about the four Colombian children found alive in the jungle weeks after their plane crashed. GBH News Arts editor Jared Bowen discussed a Dutch painting taken by Nazis during WWII that is now promised to the MFA; and, he previewed which Boston-

First, we opened up the phone lines to hear from you about reactions to some anti-pride backlash at a Burlington middle school. We opened the Trenni Casey, anchor/reporter for NBC Sports Boston, discussed Lionel Messi turning down a lucrative deal with the Saudi league to join MLS, and more on the PGA/LIV merger. Ibram X. Kendi, director of Boston University’s Center for Antiracist Research, and illustrator Joel Christian Gill joined via zoom to discuss their graphic novel adaptation of Kendi’s book “Stamped From The Beginning”. Kevin O’Connor of This Old House discussed his new show “Team Rubicon”. Sue O’Connell joined remotely from Florida having just returned from the courthouse where Trump is expected to be arraigned today. We ended the show with calls from listeners on about all-things-Trump ahead of his arraignment.

Today: We opened the lines to get listener reactions on the unsealed indictment of former president Donald Trump. Michael Curry discussed the gene-based therapies transforming treatments for sickle cell disease. Curry is CEO of the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers. Imari Paris Jeffries, executive director of Embrace Boston, discussed this weekend’s Embrace Ideas Festival along with chef Krayla Brice, who’s participating in a chef’s panel during the festival. ProPublica reporter A.C. Thompson discussed his latest film investigating big truck crashes for Frontline, titled “America’s Dangerous Trucks,” which airs Tuesday night. Reverends Irene Monroe & Emmett Price discussed the impacts of AI in religion — Is your priest using ChatGPT to build their sermons? Comedian John Early joined ahead of a show at the Wilbur Theatre this week.

Former President Trump has been indicted for a second time. The seven counts against him include conspiracy to obstruct and willful retention of documents and false statements. Listeners called and texted in to share their reactions. We have Adrianna Boulin from the newly-formed Boston Pride For The People & Chastity Bowick former executive director of the Transgender Emergency Fund. Rick Steves is in town for his show with the Pops, he'll make an appearance. Sue O’Connell is part of the Speak Now original series where staff members of NBC Boston Stations and Telemundo share stories of LGBTQ+ pride. She'll also touch on The Ultimatum's new queer season. Retired federal judge Nancy Gertner will take a deep dive into news of Trump's indictment. Mary Gauthier joins for Live Music Friday ahead of a show at Club Passim.

E.J. Dionne from the Washington Post joined to discuss last night’s townhall with Mike Pence and other D.C. headlines. Then we opened the phone lines to check in on the Canadian wildfire smoke blanketing the North East. How are people coping with the air quality hazards? Andrea Cabral explained George Santos’ mystery bail guarantors, the arraignment of Charlestown resident Matthew Nilo on serial rape charges, the possibility of new charges for President Trump and other legal headlines. Steve Curwood hosts PRX’s Living on Earth. He joined us in advance of his conversation with David Leonard at the BPL to talk about climate change. Carolyn Beeler from The World is currently stationed in Ukraine. She joined us from Kyiv via Zoom to talk about her work, what she’s seeing, and the environmental devastation that’s playing out as a byproduct of the war. Economist Jon Gruber is back from sabbatical, a few weeks before he officially becomes chair of M.I.T’s department of economics. He offered his thoughts on the

PGA Golf has merged with LIV Golf. We asked listeners about their reactions and if the saying “money is the root of evil” is true. French Ambassador to the US Laurent Bili joined ahead of a meeting with Mayor Wu. He also attended the BIO International Convention this week. Medical ethicist Art Caplan discussed Merck suing the US government to stop the Medicare drug price negotiation program in the Inflation Reduction Act and more. Thais Rocha is co-owner of Dani’s Queer Bar, and co-founder of LGBTQ Nightlife Events in Boston. She discussed the efforts to get Dani’s, a space for sapphic, trans, and non-binary people, launched. Globe’s Shirley Leung discussed her column on bus-only lanes in Seaport & more globe coverage on Boston suburbs working to meet the MBTA/housing law requirements. How has your name shaped you or others around you? We heard from listeners including a Bob and someone named Leaf to hear what they had to say. Food policy analyst Corby Kummer discussed the James Beard Award winner

NBC Sports Boston anchor/reporter Trenni Casey discussed the French Open and updates on Harvard’s investigation into their former women’s hockey coach. We opened the phones to hear about new bike lanes in West Roxbury and Boston’s jaywalking reputation. Who are the streets for? And what do listeners think about adding more bike lanes and other traffic slowing measures? Boston Globe travel writer Christopher Muther discussed his recent columns that highlight safe places for queer travelers in 2023, and a profile of Kennebunk, Maine (not to be confused with Kennebunkport). National security expert Juliette Kayyem discussed All State and State Farm insurance companies announcing they will not sell new coverage to homeowners in California, citing worsening climate conditions. Kayyem also discussed a meeting between Trump’s lawyers meeting and the DOJ regarding the classified documents case. How much PDA (public displays of affection) is too much? We took calls and texts from listeners. Then, CNN chief nation

Today on Boston Public Radio: Jesse Mermell and Charlie Chieppo join for a politics panel discussing the debt ceiling deal, President Biden’s fall, and more. Then we opened the lines to hear from listeners about Biden’s age and whether it matters to voters. Michael Curry discusses Compass Medical’s abrupt closure, struggling independent pediatric practices, and Mass hospitals piloting ChatGPT. Curry is CEO and President of the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers. Boston Globe columnist Marcela Garcia discusses some of her latest pieces: ‘How to protect undocumented workers from exploitation’ and ‘Barking up the right tree: Regulate doggy day cares in Massachusetts.’ Reverends Irene Monroe and Emmett Price discuss the hateful rhetoric of Ron DeSantis’ pastor, and a new study that finds more Americans choose in-person religious services over virtual worship. Scott Kirsner is co-designer of the Boston Innovation Trail, a walking tour of the city’s STEM sites through history. He joins with Namr

The 2023 Scripps spelling bee crowned it’s winner, Dev Shah, last night. So we held our own spelling bee and challenged the brave callers. Comedian and podcaster Jamie Loftus has written her first book called Raw Dog, a comprehensive exploration of the beloved hot dog. She joined to discuss. Sue O’Connell talked Pride Month in Boston, as well 83-year-old Al Pacino becoming a father. Buster the Bear might’ve made an appearance in her segment as well. Corby Kummer discussed food stamp adjustments in the debt ceiling deal, recent controversies surrounding a dairy ad featuring Aubrey Plaza and an exciting offer from a New Zealand pizza company for its customers. Nancy Gertner joined the conversation to discuss the latest news from the nation's highest court. The Kendall Square Orchestra's annual Symphony for Science, taking place this weekend, performed for Live Music Friday. We ended the show by talking about all things hot dogs.

Chuck Todd talked about the debt ceiling agreement and other D.C. headlines. We opened the phone lines to talk Pride Month: what do people think of corporations co-opting Pride, and those on the right lashing out on Pride-themed products and events? Andrea Cabral returned for her law & order roundup. This week it was legal paranoia in the Trump circle, the story of a Boston police lieutenant with a history of DUIs getting another DUI, a South Boston dog trainer pleading not guilty to animal cruelty and more. Paul Reville weighed in on the sex-ed in Massachusetts schools debate we started on yesterday’s show. He also discussed big spending by BPS, the ongoing debate around cell phone bans and in-state college tuition aid for undocumented immigrants. Director Sammi Cannold & actor Caesar Samayoa from A.R.T’s “Evita” zoomed in to talk about the revival production. James Bennett II talked about some great (and cheap) things to do in an around Boston for June, plus why trashy books make for the best s

Should Massachusetts mandate sex education in schools? At the top of the hour we opened lines to hear what listeners had to say. State Senator Jason Lewis made an appearance. Medical ethicist Art Caplan explores the implications of a genetic test aimed at assessing the risk of heart disease and heart attacks in younger individuals. Additionally, he delves into the reasons why many people consider a "natural death" more favorable than the potential trauma associated with CPR. National security expert Juliette Kayyem analyzes the repercussions of Stewart Rhodes' 18-year sentencing and shedding light on the risks posed by artificial intelligence. She argues that people should not fear AI. Poet Richard Blanco shares a collection of his poems, which celebrate the beauty and serenity of open spaces and natural parks. Summer is right around the corner. Boston Globe business columnist Shirley Leung explores Boston's vibrant Peking duck scene, as well as examines the Greater Boston Y's pursuit of alternative offer

The Celtics ended their playoff run with a loss to the Heat last night. So, we opened the phone lines to ask listeners about the pain of losing. And, what was harder to watch … the Celtics, or the end of Succession? NBC Sports Boston reporter Trenni Casey discussed the Celtics' loss last night. Plus, how wartime politics are making its way into the French Open. GBH News analyst and editor-in-chief at the GroundTruth Project Charlie Sennott discussed the latest in Ukraine, back from a recent trip to Bucha. Jim Aloisi, former transportation secretary, and Stacy Thompson, executive director of Livable Streets, joined for a transit panel. GBH executive arts editor Jared Bowen joined fresh off a Broadway binge to discuss the shows he saw over the weekend. CNN’s John King joined via zoom for the latest on the debt ceiling deal and more in politics. New Zealand will make all passengers on their national airline weigh themselves before boarding. They say it’s part of a survey to gather data about load distribut

As we head into the Memorial Day weekend, we started off by asking listeners how they plan to celebrate the holiday. And whether they are taking any special precautions to avoid wild animal encounters. Workman Song is a Martha’s Vineyard-based Americana band. They joined for Live Music Friday ahead of their performance at Boston Calling. Sue O’Connell dished on her headline-grabbing encounter with a wild coyote in Roxbury. Karen Tran runs the Tik Tok Tiny Felted Joy. She joined to teach Jim and Margery a thing or two about her craft. Andy Ihnatko discussed a handful of tech stories, including the Surgeon General’s warning about social media use, those fake Pentagon pictures, EU regulations on AI and other tech headlines. Maura Healey joined us for one hour of “Ask the Governor.” She talked about the Rachael Rollins investigation, offshore wind investments, getting banned in Russia, what’s going at the MBTA and more…

Ron DeSantis announced that he’s running for president in a conversation with Elon Musk that was filled with technical issues. We opened the lines to hear from listeners on their thoughts on the perfectly time glitches. EJ Dionne will discuss his latest columns in the Washington Post. He'll focus on what's going on in DC and Congress. Andrea Cabral will provide insights on the ongoing movement concerning Supreme Court ethics, the continuing aftermath of the Rachael Rollins scandal, and other noteworthy legal headlines. Sandra Bernhard, an actress, singer and star of the one-woman show "Spring Affair," will be joining us. She's been on Will and Grace and American Horror Story. Shirley Leung will share her latest report regarding Mayor Wu and Boston's business community. She will also discuss the news that Ayanna Pressley is working towards renaming the post office by South Station in honor of the late community activist Caroline Chang. Rick Steves, renowned and beloved travel personality, will talk about

Elon Musk and Florida governor Ron DeSantis are reportedly announcing DeSantis’ bid for president today…on twitter. We asked listeners whether Musk’s actions have changed their use of the social media platform. Peggy Shukur (New England ADL) and Idit Klein (Keshet) discussed the ADL’s new report on extremism in Massachusetts. Juliette Kayyem weighed in on fake AI images of a burning Pentagon that went viral this week, and the U-Haul truck that crashed into a White House security barrier. She also discussed headlines out of the G-7 summit, and the latest on the trial of Jack Teixeira. Amal Amon, Samia Komi, and Omnia Fadelelsaid, are all natives of Sudan who moved to Massachusetts in the early 2000’s. They joined us to discuss the war in Sudan and how it’s impacting the lives of their loved ones still in Sudan. Corby Kummer discussed an Atlantic piece on what we do and don’t know about the drawbacks of eating fast. He also talked about the state of COVID-era restaurant policies and some expanded SNAP ben

The U.S. Surgeon General has issued an advisory on a mental health crisis. We asked listeners how they believe social media is impacting children and teens. Trenni Casey discussed the passing of Rick Hoyt, an iconic figure in the Boston Marathon who passed away at the age of 61, as well as her experience at the Taylor Swift concert. Victor RosaTrio, who was wrongfully convicted and spent over 30 years behind bars, has just won a $13 million settlement. He joined alongside his lawyer, Mark Loevy-Reyes, to discuss his case and the implications of the settlement. Ross Mathews, known for his career as Jay Leno's intern, now co-hosts the Drew Barrymore Show and serves as a judge on RuPaul's Drag Race. He talked about his upcoming show at the Wilbur on June 9th. John Davidson, renowned for holding the record as the most frequent guest-host for the late Johnny Carson, now runs John Davidson's Club Sandwich in Sandwich, New Hampshire. He shared insights on how to make the most of your 80s and may even treat us to

It’s graduation season. We had listeners call in to share who their commencement speakers were. Michael Curry & Jennifer Nassour joined for a politics panel. They discussed the fallout from the Rachael Rollins scandal, budget talks in Washington, Dianne Feinstein & more… Former Federal Judge Nancy Gertner defended the advisory committee that recommended Rachael Rollins, plus, other court headlines. Jared Bowen returned for an arts roundup. He discussed a sound installation at MAAM and Women & Abstraction at the Addison Gallery of American Art and an auction of Donna Summer’s wardrobe. We also got his thoughts on the SCOTUS Andy Warhol/Prince prints ruling and the new Little Mermaid film. Reverends Emmet G. Price III and Irene Monroe offered their perspective on new data showing Americans are switching religions at a growing rate. They also talked scandal at the megachurch Hillsong, and a RNS piece asking whether faith makes a person more civic-minded. Odie Henderson is the Boston Globe’s film

Overall, birth rates are declining. Yet, women having kids in their forties increased. We began the show by asking listeners why they think women are waiting to have kids. Dr. Katherine Gergen Barnett joined to discuss life "post-COVID", Biden-Harris' administration efforts to combat the mental health crisis in the nation and more. She’s the Vice Chair of Primary Care Innovation and Transformation at Boston Medical Center and Clinical Associate Professor at Boston University Medical School. GBH’s Callie Crossley, newly crowned by the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce as a “2023 Distinguished Bostonian", shared her thoughts on the Rachael Rollins scandal, the Supreme Court's ruling against Andy Warhol, and more. Sue O'Connell provided insights on the recent anti-trans laws in Florida, Kansas City's potential as the first-ever LGBT sanctuary city, and the incident involving Harry and Meghan's car chase. Tracy Chang from Pagu and Jimmy Liang from JP Fuji Group joined us to celebrate AAPI heritage month and

Rachel Rollins is in the headlines. We wanted to hear thoughts from listeners if and when someone can come back from disgrace. Ron Mitchell and Mel Miller discuss the leadership change at the Bay State Banner. Andrea Cabral addresses an ethics probe into Rachael Rollins' conduct as US Attorney, leading to her resignation. Shirley Leung from the Boston Globe talks about hearings on Beacon Hill to address the gender and racial wage gap, a public transit/housing law in Brookline, and the Globe's support for imprisoned WSJ reporter Evan Gershkovich. Michael Curry talks about the Mass League of Community Health Centers launching a new research division, the challenges posed by an influx of migrants in Massachusetts, and the significant life expectancy gap between Back Bay and Nubian Square. Ismael Samad, co-founder of Nubian Square Markets, and Kamaal Jarrett, founder of Hillside Harvest, discuss the grand opening of Nubian Markets, showcasing flavors from the African diaspora. We wrapped up the show by aski

We opened the lines to hear what people think about Elon Musk’s comment on how working from home highlights income inequality and is immoral. Medical ethicist Art Caplan discussed new research revealing increased brain activity prior to death, and the FDA's lift of the blood donation ban on gay and bisexual men. National security expert Juliette Kayyem examined cyberattacks on the Philly Inquirer and city of Lowell, and the immediate consequences of the end of Title 42. David Hogg from March For Our Lives and John Rosenthal of Stop Handgun Violence joined us to discuss gun violence in America. Jan De Leon Griffin, organizer of the "100 Words" Boston writing competition, and authors Rhiannon Varmette, Oswald Guy, and Miranda Norman joined us to share details of the program and read the winning submissions. Martha Stewart is on the cover of Sports Illustrated’s Swimsuit edition this year, at 81 years old – the oldest person ever to be featured on the cover. We closed to show with listener reactions.