The Brian Lehrer Show

Julia Ioffe, a journalist and founding partner at Puck, dives into the rich feminist history of Russia in her new book, *Motherland*. She reveals how Soviet policies initially boosted women's roles in professions like medicine and STEM, while discussing early Bolshevik reforms that aimed for gender equality. Ioffe also examines Putin's adoption of traditional gender roles and anti-LGBTQ policies. With insights on gender dynamics, Soviet failures, and contemporary reactions to the war in Ukraine, this conversation sheds light on the complexities of Russian feminism today.

Samantha Maldonado, a senior reporter for THE CITY, dives into the NYC mayoral race and the complexities surrounding it. She analyzes the implications of Eric Adams’s surprise endorsement of Cuomo and Mamdani's unique approach to tackling Islamophobia. The conversation also highlights critical down-ballot races voters should watch during early voting. With concerns about public safety and policy tensions between candidates, Samantha offers insightful takes on the evolving political landscape.

Listeners share heartwarming stories about their beloved pets, from a cat trained to use the toilet to a three-legged rescue cat with a huge social media following. A chihuahua mix surprises everyone with his marathon walks around Manhattan, while a giant fish named Andre enjoys a good head pat. There's a dog who sings and another that saved its owner from a gas leak. Plus, tales of elderly cats and a unique house spider add to the charm. It's a delightful celebration of the special bonds between pets and their humans!

Yasmin Tayag, a Staff Writer at The Atlantic, delves into the intriguing concept of city-owned grocery stores, examining Zohran Mamdani's proposal for New York City. She discusses how other municipalities have fared with similar experiments, highlighting both successes and failures. Yasmin also addresses the challenges of sourcing and pricing groceries in a city context and the unique operational difficulties these stores might face. Amid rising food insecurity, she explores public sentiments and the proposal's potential impact on small local businesses.

Dr. Lyle Cleary, an associate veterinarian at the Center for Avian & Exotic Medicine, delves into the complexities of caring for pet birds. He discusses why birds, particularly intelligent parrots, can be challenging to keep. The risks of escape and the contentious topic of wing clipping are explored, along with the unique personalities of various bird species. Lyle also highlights the emotional bonds birds can form with their owners and advocates for a NYC ban on bird sales to help curb rehoming challenges. Dive into the fascinating world of our feathered friends!

Listeners dive into a quiz that reveals intriguing connections between celebrities and their famous parents. From the Cuomo political dynasty to the Kennedy brothers, each question sparks fun conversation. Discover surprising family ties like Mahmoud Mamdani and director Mira Nair, or Liz and Dick Cheney's political legacy. Participants also identify Fred Trump, Andrew Giuliani, and Anderson Cooper, uncovering the fascinating lineages behind these well-known figures. It's a playful exploration of fame and family!

Elizabeth Kim, a political reporter for WNYC and Gothamist, shares insights from the last mayoral debate featuring candidates Zohran Mamdani, Andrew Cuomo, and Curtis Sliwa. She discusses Eric Adams' unexpected endorsement of Cuomo, sparking speculation about political alliances. The candidates debate Local Law 97, with diverse views on its affordability and implementation. Sliwa opposes it outright, while Mamdani seeks to make compliance easier. They also touch on energy policies and the future of nuclear power, revealing sharp political contrasts.

Bridget Bergen is a senior political reporter and analyst for Gothamist and WNYC, while David Brand covers housing for the same outlets. They dive into the last mayoral debate, unpacking candidates' plans for tackling record homelessness among public school children. Mamdani critiques Cuomo's leadership on this issue, while David explains vacancy rates and affordable housing funding. They also discuss e-bike enforcement strategies and the role of scandals, particularly Cuomo's, in shaping voter perceptions.

Errol Louis is a political anchor at Spectrum NY1, a columnist for New York Magazine, and host of multiple shows, including Inside City Hall. In this discussion, he critiques candidates' responses to recent ICE raids, particularly in Chinatown. He analyzes differing strategies, from Cuomo's assertive tactics to Sliwa's diplomatic approach. Louis also warns about the potential dangers of a clash between NYPD and federal agents, while considering local effects on quality of life and how federal actions might influence local elections.

Eliza Shapiro, a New York Times reporter specializing in affordability, dives into the pressing child care crisis in New York City. She reveals staggering costs that strain families and explores candidates' proposals for universal free child care. Eliza discusses operational challenges and political support, as well as the debate between universal versus targeted benefits. With potential funding sources and the impact of fiscal constraints, she highlights the complexities involved in making expanded child care a reality.