Consider This from NPR

Selena Simmons-Duffin, NPR's dedicated COVID-19 reporter, dives into the overwhelming strains on hospitals due to the ongoing Delta surge. She discusses the urgent push for booster shots, particularly for immunocompromised individuals, as millions await their first vaccine. The conversation highlights the varied responses from states like Texas and Florida to the crisis, emphasizing the importance of combined public health strategies. Simmons-Duffin also touches on the critical role of community awareness in navigating these challenges.

The podcast dives into the chaotic days of Afghanistan's takeover by the Taliban, featuring gripping personal accounts from those in crisis. General David Petraeus discusses the rapid fall of the Afghan government and the surprising misjudgments by the U.S. There are chilling scenes from Kabul's airport, illustrating the desperate attempts of Afghans to escape. Further, it examines the challenges of building a military in a context that was constantly shifting and the broader implications of the U.S. withdrawal on Afghan society, especially for women and girls.

William Yetter, a police officer in Salinas, California, candidly discusses the shortcomings in his law enforcement duties, including failing to investigate a stolen bike and not filing reports on time. He sheds light on the consequences of such neglect, particularly for vulnerable community members like De La Luz. The conversation dives deep into systemic failures in police response, especially during critical cases like the heartbreaking disappearance of a 13-year-old, Cecilia. Yetter's reflections highlight a pressing need for accountability and reform in policing.

In the last week, the Taliban have gained control of large sections of Afghanistan faster than most people expected. The Pentagon is dispatching troops to assist in evacuating staff from the American embassy in Kabul, where refugee camps are growing more crowded. The U.N. says the country may be on the brink of a humanitarian catastrophe. State Department spokesperson Ned Price told Audie Cornish the 300,000-member Afghan military needs "the willpower" to stand up to the Taliban. In participating regions, you'll also hear a local news segment that will help you make sense of what's going on in your community.Email us at considerthis@npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR Privacy Policy

John Kerry, the U.S. Special Envoy for Climate, discusses the dire warnings from a recent U.N. report on climate change, stressing the urgency of international action. He describes the report’s findings on irreversible damage and labels the upcoming U.N. climate summit in Scotland as our 'last best hope.' Kerry also highlights the challenges the Biden administration faces in implementing significant climate policies domestically while emphasizing the need for global cooperation and substantial financial commitments to support developing nations in their climate transitions.

Ping Huang, NPR's science desk health reporter, shares vital insights on keeping children safe as they head back to school amid the Delta surge. She discusses the alarming rise in hospitalizations among children and the absence of remote learning options. The conversation emphasizes the contentious debates surrounding mask mandates and vaccine requirements for school staff, highlighting the challenges parents face in prioritizing health while ensuring education. Practical advice for managing children's health during this critical time is also covered.

Samantha Power, the Administrator for USAID and former U.S. ambassador to the UN, sheds light on the devastating humanitarian crisis in Ethiopia's Tigray region. She discusses her eye-opening visit to the area, where over 400,000 people face famine. Power reveals the alarming reality of ethnic conflict leading to violence against civilians, and the obstacles humanitarian aid faces from the ongoing strife. She also emphasizes the urgent need for international support to address this escalating disaster.

A new report from the UN reveals that climate change is escalating at an alarming pace. Extreme weather, including wildfires in Turkey, Greece, and Italy, poses immediate threats to communities. The podcast underscores the urgent need for emissions reductions to avoid crossing dangerous temperature thresholds. Personal stories highlight how individuals are adapting to climate-related disruptions affecting their lives and traditions. It’s a wake-up call for collective action against the mounting climate crisis.

Eric Jones, Stockton Police Chief, discusses his mission to tackle racial bias within law enforcement. He dives into the complexities of police-community relations, sparked by a troubling incident involving a young Black teen. Jones reflects on historical injustices tied to policing, stating a need for reform. He shares insights on anti-bias training and confronting the legacy of policing while addressing systemic racism in investigations. Highlighting the emotional toll on families, he advocates for accountability and understanding in police practices.

Kelsey Snell, NPR's congressional correspondent, dives into the monumental $1 trillion infrastructure bill after months of bipartisan negotiation. She discusses the Senate's impending vote and the political stakes for Democrats amid compromises. The talk highlights the balance between traditional projects like roads and bridges and the missed opportunities for progressive elements. Snell also examines the bill's impact on climate efforts and the importance of inclusive decision-making in promoting sustainability. Urban planning and equity take center stage in this transformative moment.