KQED's Forum
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.Want to call/submit your comments during our live Forum program Mon-Fri, 9am-11am? We'd love to hear from you! Please dial 866.SF.FORUM or (866) 733-6786 or email forum@kqed.org, tweet, or post on Facebook.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jan 23, 2026 • 55min
Meklit Hadero Reimagines Ethiopian Folk Songs: Live in Studio
Meklit Hadero, an Ethiopian-born, San Francisco–based singer-songwriter and Ethio-jazz composer, reimagines folk songs with modern arrangements. She performs live with her band, explores Ethiopian scales and the krar, and reflects on diaspora, musical continuity, and creating the Immigrant Orchestra. The session blends tradition, jazz influence, and joyful communal singing.
Jan 22, 2026 • 55min
Orphaned Ukrainian Children Navigate Loss and Recovery Amid War
Anna Nemtsova, an Eastern Europe correspondent, shares her insights from interviewing orphaned Ukrainian children who bear the scars of war. She highlights stories of young caregivers, like 18-year-old Vyshyslav, who take on adult responsibilities after tragic losses. Steven Pifer, a former U.S. ambassador to Ukraine, offers a diplomatic perspective on the ongoing conflict, discussing Ukraine's challenges and potential negotiation paths. The conversation also touches on the rising violence among Russian youth and the dire humanitarian impact of the war.
Jan 22, 2026 • 55min
Could Greenland Become the 51st State?
Eliot Cohen, a strategy expert and commentator, and Susan Glasser, a seasoned political journalist, join Jeffrey Gettleman, a global correspondent for The New York Times, to dissect Trump's controversial interest in acquiring Greenland. They explore Trump's longstanding fixation and the geopolitical implications of such a move. Cohen analyzes the strategic value of Greenland, while Glasser discusses the political motives behind Trump's actions. Meanwhile, Gettleman sheds light on local sentiments and historical ties to Denmark, revealing the complexities of this potential acquisition.
Jan 21, 2026 • 55min
Should California Impose a Tax on Billionaires?
Suzanne Jimenez, chief of staff at SEIU United Healthcare Workers West, advocates for a one-time 5% wealth tax on California billionaires to fund healthcare amid federal cuts. Marisa Lagos analyzes the political landscape, highlighting Governor Newsom's concerns that it might harm the economy. Tech reporter Ryan Mac discusses the mixed reactions from billionaires, including threats to relocate, and the financial complexities of taxing assets primarily held in stock. The conversation circles around wealth inequality and the implications for future tax policies.
Jan 21, 2026 • 55min
What the Closure of California College of the Arts and Vanderbilt Expansion Mean for the Bay Area
Sarah Hotchkiss, a CCA alum and KQED Arts and Culture editor, shares insights on the shocking closure of California College of the Arts and its impact on the local arts scene. Jeff Selingo, a higher education expert, discusses the national implications of college closures and shifts in institutional finances. Laura Waxman of the San Francisco Chronicle reveals how the city aims to revitalize downtown through Vanderbilt's new campus. Together, they explore the losses faced by the community and the evolving landscape of arts education in the Bay Area.
Jan 20, 2026 • 55min
How Much Do You Wanna Bet…On The News?
Danny Funt, a journalist from The Washington Post and The New Yorker, explores the intersection of betting and news. He reveals how prediction markets now bet on everything from elections to celebrity events, prompting newsrooms to cite betting odds for predictions. Funt discusses financial ties between media and betting platforms, raising concerns about integrity and addiction. He cautions that while betting can engage audiences, most bettors ultimately lose, urging listeners to approach market odds with skepticism and call for stronger consumer protections.
Jan 20, 2026 • 55min
‘When Trees Testify’ They Tell the Story of Black American History
Beronda L. Montgomery, a plant biologist and author of "When Trees Testify," explores the rich intersections of botany and Black American history. She shares her emotional encounter with a centuries-old oak tree that connected her to enslaved ancestors. Beronda discusses how the legacy of enslaved expertise shaped the pecan industry and delves into the significance of memorial trees. The conversation highlights the importance of trees as living memorials, symbolizing resilience, while also emphasizing the need for integrating indigenous knowledge in modern plant science.
Jan 19, 2026 • 55min
California’s Iranian Diaspora Despairs Over Brutal Crackdown
In this engaging discussion, Robin Wright, a seasoned New Yorker writer on Middle Eastern politics, Sahar Razavi, a political science expert specializing in Iranian issues, and Shani Moslehi, an advocate for the Iranian American business community, explore the grim realities of the protests in Iran. They discuss the impact of communication blackouts, the regime's narrative control, and the unique generational dissatisfaction fueling protests. The guests also debate U.S. intervention options and envision a hopeful, democratic future for Iran.
Jan 19, 2026 • 55min
Reflecting on Martin Luther King Jr.’s Legacy in the Age of Trump
Jelani Cobb, a staff writer at The New Yorker and a journalism professor, reflects on the complexities of Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy amid today's political landscape. Eva Paterson, a retired civil rights leader, shares powerful memories from the day King was assassinated and contextualizes the cyclical nature of progress. Nicole Lee discusses reclaiming King’s radical vision and emphasizes grassroots mobilization. Together, they tackle the ongoing struggle against systemic injustice and the importance of local activism for social change.
Jan 16, 2026 • 55min
How to Be a 'Super Ager' With Dr. Eric Topol
Dr. Eric Topol, a leading cardiologist and genetic researcher, shares his insights on aging gracefully and maximizing longevity. He emphasizes that lifestyle choices, like exercise and diet, significantly outweigh genetics. The discussion explores immune health, linking it to aging, and the impact of social engagement and activities like dancing on mental well-being. Topol also highlights the role of AI in predicting health outcomes, the importance of balance and strength training, and the potential of fasting for weight management. His practical advice aims to inspire everyone to become 'super agers'.
