The Brian Lehrer Show

Three of our favorite segments from the week, in case you missed them.100 Years of 100 Things: Fascism (First) | The 'City of Yes' Plan Passes City Council (Starts at 39:00 ) | 2024's Best Sports Writing (Starts at 1:23:00)If you don't subscribe to the Brian Lehrer Show on iTunes, you can do that here.

The podcast launches its holiday gift guide, encouraging support for local businesses in New York's suburbs. Listeners highlight unique offerings, like handcrafted ocean-inspired decor and holiday psychic readings. It also features Aitoro's Appliance Company's legacy and community role. A special segment spotlights a card game designed by young innovators, showcasing the creative spirit thriving in the region. Tune in for great ways to shop local this season!

Felipe Rodriguez, an adjunct professor at John Jay College and former NYPD detective sergeant, dives deep into the shocking shooting of a prominent insurance CEO in Midtown Manhattan. He analyzes the complexities of the ongoing investigation, emphasizing urban evidence collection and the challenge of public cooperation. Rodriguez discusses the suspect's evasion tactics and prior surveillance, while also touching on the moral implications of the crime. Finally, he highlights public outcry over healthcare accountability and the need for corporate responsibility in light of this tragic event.

Pierina Ana Sanchez, NYC Council Member and chair of the housing committee, and Dan Garodnick, Director of City Planning, dive deep into the recently approved housing initiative, 'City of Yes.' They discuss the critical goal of adding 82,000 new housing units over the next 15 years amidst NYC's housing crisis. The duo emphasizes the need for community involvement and tailored solutions to ensure that development aligns with neighborhood character. They also touch on new zoning reforms and the financial commitments aimed at promoting homeownership and preventing displacement.

Ilya Marritz and Hilary Burns, reporters at The Boston Globe, delve into the complex landscape of culture wars in higher education. They discuss 'The Harvard Plan,' exploring the unique pressures on elite campuses. The transformation of academic environments, the rise of political correctness, and challenges such as anti-Semitism are highlighted. Personal accounts of student activism reveal how identity politics shape experiences. They also tackle the impacts of recent affirmative action rulings on diversity, shedding light on the difficult balance institutions must strike in today's polarized society.

Kate Shaw, a law professor at the University of Pennsylvania and co-host of the Strict Scrutiny podcast, dives into the Supreme Court's recent discussions on gender-affirming care for minors. She details the ongoing legal challenges against Tennessee’s ban, backed by local families and the Biden administration. The debate raises critical questions about sex discrimination, parental rights, and the efficacy of treatments for gender dysphoria. Shaw sheds light on the constitutional implications and the evolving landscape of medical care amidst political pressures.

Jane McManus, a prominent sports writer and NYU professor, shares insights from her extensive career and her role as editor of The Year's Best Sports Writing 2024. They discuss the evolving narratives in sports and the prominence of women's sports. McManus recounts a unique journey of a fan turned roller derby participant, emphasizing personal connections in the sport. The dialogue also touches on the camaraderie between tennis legends and critical issues like inclusivity and storytelling in contemporary sports journalism.

Anthony Kuhn, NPR international correspondent in Seoul, dives deep into South Korea's political chaos. He discusses the recent martial law declared by President Yoon Suk Yeol and the backlash it has ignited, including calls for impeachment and public protests. Kuhn highlights the tense atmosphere among lawmakers, military unpreparedness, and historical context affecting the current situation. He also touches on how this turmoil could impact U.S. foreign policy and relations with North Korea, making for a gripping analysis of a nation's crossroads.

Murad Awawdeh, President and CEO of the New York Immigration Coalition, shines a light on the pressing issues faced by immigrants under recent policies. He discusses the dire living conditions of families in temporary shelters, emphasizing the safety and isolation concerns. Awawdeh highlights the emotional turmoil of deportation fears, the potential for family separations, and the need for comprehensive advocacy and legal support. He calls for humane reforms to protect immigrant rights while navigating the complexities of employment challenges.

David Brooks, a contributing writer at The Atlantic and author of How to Know a Person, dives into the history and future of meritocracy in the U.S. He discusses how recent Supreme Court rulings are reshaping university admissions and explores the flaws in standardized testing. Brooks critiques the overemphasis on IQ and lineage in elite schools, advocating for recognition of emotional intelligence and non-cognitive skills. With insights into personal growth and transformative education, he calls for a more inclusive understanding of success in today's society.