Go behind the headlines: From the economy and health care to politics and the environment – and so much more – On Point hosts Meghna Chakrabarti and David Folkenflik speak with newsmakers and real people about the issues that matter most. On Point is produced by WBUR for NPR.
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The On Point podcast is an incredibly smart program that dives deep into current issues and provides listeners with comprehensive and well-informed discussions. The host, Magna, is highly knowledgeable on a wide range of topics and her expertise shines through in every episode. I listen to this show daily and often find myself going back into the archives to catch up on past episodes. The programming is truly amazing and I am grateful for the valuable information it provides.
One of the best aspects of this podcast is the host, Magna. She is a skilled interviewer who asks insightful questions and steers the conversations exceptionally well. Her intelligence and ability to navigate complex topics make each episode engaging and thought-provoking. Additionally, the show covers a variety of subjects with a global perspective, allowing listeners to stay informed about what's happening in the world beyond their immediate surroundings. It's like Fresh Air with Terry Gross, but with more focus on politics and a broader worldview.
Another highlight of this podcast is Meghan Chakrabarty, who is brilliant in her guest selection and interviewing skills. The show makes an effort to present a balanced view of issues by inviting guests from diverse perspectives, which I really appreciate. The recent fora discussing the war in Gaza with both Israeli and Palestinian guests exemplify this commitment to balanced reporting. However, one minor issue I have is the excessive adulation of Jack Beatty in the "Jackpod" series. While his knowledge and commentary are valued, it would be better if his contributions were allowed to speak for themselves without excessive praise.
I also want to express my gratitude for having a dedicated weekly show with Jack Beatty as he brings valuable analysis and intelligence to each episode. His presence on the show adds depth and insight that greatly enhances the listening experience. Furthermore, I agree with another listener who shared their plan to leave America if Trump gets elected in 2024. It's reassuring to hear that others are considering similar options, and it's important to keep our options open if undesirable political outcomes arise.
In conclusion, The On Point podcast is an exceptional program that offers deep dives into current issues and keeps listeners well-informed. The host, Magna, is incredibly knowledgeable and skillful in her interviewing style. The show covers a wide range of topics and presents a balanced view of issues, which is highly appreciated. While there may be minor flaws such as excessive praise and occasional meandering in the host's delivery, these are outweighed by the overall quality of the programming. I highly recommend this podcast to anyone seeking intelligent discussions on important topics.
It's not just phones anymore. More teachers and even entire U.S. school districts are cutting back the time students spend on laptops and other screens. How do students really learn -- and do screens help or hurt? *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
On Point news analyst Jack Beatty on the chasm between what politicians say when they are running for office and what they can do in office, and why he thinks 2026 is the year of the demagogue. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
One in 5 Americans say they've seen a ghost. But what if it was really our brain that had tricked us into thinking we saw something we didn't? In the "Science of the Supernatural" psychology professor Melissa Maffeo argues how a paranormal experience could be our brains just misinterpreting the external world. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
Highly toxic wastewater from America's fracking boom is buried in deep underground wells. But in some places that toxic waste is bubbling upwards -- threatening local drinking water. How Marietta, Ohio is trying to fight fracking waste. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
Highly toxic wastewater from America's fracking boom is buried in deep underground wells. But in some places that toxic waste is bubbling upwards -- threatening local drinking water. How Marietta, Ohio is trying to fight fracking waste. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
Flock cameras are used by thousands of police forces across the country to track vehicles. But a growing popular backlash has led to cities canceling their Flock contracts. What that says about the tension between public safety and privacy in America. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
Since Google Maps launched in 2005, the little blue dot has come to symbolize a transformation in how we navigate through the world -- wholly reliant on GPS. But what do we lose when we no longer get lost? *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
Since Google Maps launched in 2005, the little blue dot has come to symbolize a transformation in how we navigate through the world -- wholly reliant on GPS. But what do we lose when we no longer get lost? *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
When politicians talk about America's working class, they often mean blue collar workers without college degrees. But as more workers feel financially squeezed, should we expand that definition? *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
Sharon McMahon has built a huge online audience with her explanations of how America's system of government works. She tells Jack and Dorey why her non-partisan approach to political understanding can rebuild trust. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
We think of ladybugs as cute red beetles associated with good luck and gardening. But the real ladybug story involves poaching, trafficking and a struggle for survival. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
Americans have been told for decades to toss plastic into the recycling bin. But only a small share actually gets recycled. Now, California is trying to overhaul the system by cracking down on misleading labels and holding companies responsible for their plastic waste. Will it work? *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
Music. Books. Film. Artificial intelligence is changing how we express ourselves. Is AI a tool for creativity -- or a barrier? *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
In his new book, "Walking Red Flag: Dating Advice from Your Favorite Guy Friend," comedian Jared Freid offers tips, tricks and real talk on modern dating. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
James Spooner grew up as a punk rocker with a mohawk. But as a mixed-race kid, he didn't always feel like he belonged. Then, he found Afro-punk -- and pushed it into the spotlight. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
On Point news analyst Jack Beatty talks to author Ann Larson about her new book "Clean Up on Aisle Five”; the realities of grocery store workers, their place in our society and economy and what it says about the need for dignity in essential labor. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
You might think a healthy brain starts and ends in your head – but there are miles and miles of neuron fibers that connect your brain with nearly every corner of your body. Why a healthy brain needs a healthy body. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
A tunnel. A bright light. Reuniting with deceased loved ones. Many people who have near-death experiences have remarkably similar stories. Why? *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
The rate at which artificial intelligence is able to replicate human behavior has increased in recent years. Does that mean it's thinking like us? In the third episode of "Brainwaves," what artificial intelligence teaches us about our own capacity for thought. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
Consciousness is how we are able to feel, dream and imagine. And yet -- scientists haven't figured out how consciousness definitively works. What we know, what we don't and what that tells us about our brains. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
The brain is the organ that makes us who we are. It's our conduit between reality and thought. But somehow, we've only scratched the surface in understanding how the brain actually works. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
The brain is the organ that makes us who we are. It's our conduit between reality and thought. But somehow, we've only scratched the surface in understanding how the brain actually works. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
On Point news analyst Jack Beatty has an epiphany: Retrofitting should be the defining goal of our civilization. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
Lewis and Clark became American legends. But they didn't explore the West alone. A new book profiles the forgotten members of the Corps of Discovery and their remarkable stories. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
Ahmed Fouad Alkhatib is a pro-Palestinian, anti-Hamas expert who grew up in Gaza City. He says a realistic path to peace in the Middle East requires different thinking. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
Texas has a new statewide mandatory reading list for all public school students -- with whole books on the curriculum. Should other states follow suit? *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
Wisconsin elected the first-ever socialist member of Congress in 1910, and Milwaukee was run by socialist mayors for some 50 years. Now, a Democratic socialist is leading a primary race for Wisconsin governor. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
President Trump has called ABC "the worst" and "the most biased network." Now the FCC is threatening to cancel the broadcast licenses of eight ABC TV stations. ABC says that's "retaliation." *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
On Point news analyst Jack Beatty on how “affective polarization” and partisan hatred has come to define American political culture. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
Would-be homeowners across the Sun Belt increasingly find themselves in competition with deep-pocketed private equity firms. Can a new housing law level the playing field? *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
Ty Cobb served as special White House counsel in the first Trump administration. Now, he's one of the president's loudest critics. Ty Cobb talks about why he thinks the president is no longer fit for office. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
How can you wear an XS shirt in one fabric, brand or style -- but an XL in another? *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
Redistributing wealth through things like taxpayer-funded welfare programs gets a lot of pushback in the U.S. But what if income inequality could be fixed, not after the fact, but before it happened? *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
Billions of dollars of federal grants support everything from medical research to community services. Now, the Trump administration wants to tie that money to the president's political priorities. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
Humans have been obsessed with fitness for centuries. But how did this fascination start? In the new book “When Fitness Went Global” historian Conor Heffernan examines the rise of physical culture worldwide. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
In the 1980s, artists like John Mellencamp and Bruce Springsteen sang swelling anthems about working people, family farms and factory towns. But heartland rock is also deeply political -- and often misunderstood. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is asking Congress for a record amount of money, $1.5 trillion, as the U.S.-Israel war with Iran continues. What do those taxpayer dollars pay for? *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
Companies rushed to replace workers with AI. Now, some of these same companies are hiring back human workers. What happened? *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
Democratic Senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut says the “current version of capitalism isn't working” for Americans. What's his plan for his party — and our country? *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller wants to shut down immigration because he believes many immigrants refuse to "assimilate." But what does assimilation mean to immigrants themselves? *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
When his mother fell for an online romance scam, Carlos Barragán flew to Nigeria to track down the con artist. What he uncovered was so much bigger. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
President Donald Trump is escalating his efforts to reshape how American elections are run within the law and on the ground. How will his pressure campaign impact voters ahead of the 2026 midterms? *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
The U.S. has become an increasingly erratic superpower. Now, the world's middle powers are rising. What's next for places like India and Canada in a shifting global order? *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
Approximately 20% of all food waste in America is linked to confusion over date labels. Now, California is banning most food expiration labeling. So, what do expiration dates really tell us? *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
Mathematician Eugenia Cheng wants us to rethink our relationship to math -- and equality. We hear how different paths lead to identical outcomes in math, and how that can help us all in real life. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
For generations, Ellis Island has been America's great symbol of immigration. But another gateway has shaped the nation just as profoundly: El Paso, Texas. We trace one hundred years of migration, violence and memory along the U.S.–Mexico border. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
Donald Trump says “communism is the greatest threat" facing the U.S. And democratic socialists have won a string of elections across the country. What are the differences between communism and socialism — and why are Americans talking about them now? *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
We all have our blind spots, but with AI and the spread of misinformation, we are more vulnerable to them than ever. Can we learn from a master illusionist on how to avoid falling trap to them? *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
Sports fans and casual viewers can become obsessed with a good underdog story. But what draws us towards the longshot winners and unlikely success stories? *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
The Jackpod is taking a short break but we will be back with new episodes as soon as possible. Join the On Point Club for access to other exclusive content. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
Wildfires have burned hundreds of thousands of acres across the U.S. this summer. Now, firefighters are turning to new technology to help battle blazes, from AI cameras to vegetation-munching robots. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint
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