The Brian Lehrer Show

Discover the hidden world of mushrooms thriving in New York City’s parks. Learn about the vibrant community fostered by the New York Mycological Society and its founder. Explore diverse fungi across the five boroughs, from Central Park to Staten Island. Understand the seasonality of foraging and the legal limitations involved. The discussion also highlights the importance of responsible exploration, encouraging listeners to appreciate nature while being mindful of its ecosystems.

Jon Campbell, an Albany reporter for WNYC and Gothamist, dives into the delay of New York's state budget and the friction between the governor and legislative leaders. He explores the contentious debate over changes to criminal discovery laws and their implications for public safety versus defendants' rights. The discussion also highlights various political maneuvers and the impact of current events on upcoming elections, including the ongoing issues surrounding mask mandates and mental health commitments. It's a deep dive into the complexities of state politics!

In this riveting discussion, Jonathan Zimmerman, a historian of education at the University of Pennsylvania, dives into a century of American public education. He unpacks the evolution from community schools to state-run systems, highlighting compulsory education and urbanization's impact. Zimmerman addresses funding disparities, the effects of the No Child Left Behind Act, and contrasts U.S. and European educational models. The conversation also tackles the future of public schooling amid debates on vouchers, sparking insights on education's role in shaping society.

Mark Graham, Director of the Wayback Machine at the Internet Archive, plays a crucial role in preserving digital history. He discusses the challenges of maintaining web content as companies move away from preservation. Graham highlights initiatives like the End of Term Archive to safeguard U.S. government sites and stresses the importance of transparency in community governance. Personal anecdotes reveal the significance of capturing personal narratives, ensuring that voices from the past, like those of WWII veterans, remain accessible for future generations.

Faith Hill, a staff writer at The Atlantic, discusses the increasing reliance on grandparents for childcare and the pressures this puts on their retirement plans. She explores the evolving role of grandparents in modern families, detailing how economic challenges push them into active caregiving. Personal anecdotes reveal the joys and struggles of co-parenting, as well as the impact on family dynamics. The conversation also touches on the guilt some grandparents feel as they juggle work and caregiving, highlighting the complex realities of modern grandparenting.

Adrienne Adams, New York City Council speaker, talks about her campaign to be the Democratic nominee for NYC mayor and the issues facing the city. 

Emily Bazelon, a staff writer for The New York Times Magazine and Yale Law School fellow, shares her insights on the clash between the Trump administration and the judiciary over deportations. She discusses the implications of using the Alien Enemies Act and a recent case involving a Salvadoran man facing wrongful deportation. Bazelon highlights the threats to judicial independence, explores legal ethics in crises, and reflects on lessons from Watergate that resonate with today's political landscape.

Jennifer Toh, a skilled allergist and immunologist, dives into the nitty-gritty of spring allergies and their impact on our lives. She explains how seasonal allergies evolve over time and offers insights on choosing effective antihistamines, like Allegra, over others. The discussion touches on the immune system's reaction to tree pollen, reveals the surprising effects of climate change on allergies, and emphasizes the importance of consulting with specialists. Toh even shares personal stories about common remedies and strategies for relief.

Anna Louie Sussman, a freelance journalist with a focus on gender and reproduction, dives into her investigative series on human embryos. She discusses the rising popularity of IVF, particularly its ethical implications and the legal intricacies surrounding embryo rights. Sussman highlights accessibility barriers faced by minorities, emotional dilemmas in embryo management, and the contentious nature of embryo banking. Her insights reflect how evolving laws and societal perceptions shape reproductive choices, making for a thought-provoking conversation.

Brigid Bergin is a senior political correspondent for WNYC with in-depth knowledge of New York City politics, while Elizabeth Kim writes for Gothamist and WNYC, keeping tabs on the mayoral race. They discuss Andrew Cuomo's rocky campaign, highlighting the controversies over missing public funds and a recent hefty donation from Bill Ackman. The conversation dives into the challenges of voter perception, the impact of recent polling, and even touches on the backlash surrounding Cuomo's use of AI for his housing plan.