Press Play with Madeleine Brand

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Host Madeleine Brand looks at news, culture and emerging trends through the lens of Los Angeles.

KCRW


    • Aug 14, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • daily NEW EPISODES
    • 50m AVG DURATION
    • 1,185 EPISODES

    4.4 from 137 ratings Listeners of Press Play with Madeleine Brand that love the show mention: madeleine, madeline, kcrw, brand, add, topics, great show, guests, stories, always, listen, love.


    Ivy Insights

    The Press Play with Madeleine Brand podcast is truly a gem in the world of media. From the first episode I listened to, I was captivated by Brand's soothing voice and her ability to dive deep into important topics. It quickly became my favorite show, as it felt like I was having a conversation with an old friend. The variety of stories and interviews presented on this podcast is not only topical and interesting, but also thought-provoking and relevant. Whether discussing national politics or shedding light on local issues in Los Angeles, Press Play never fails to keep me engaged.

    One of the best aspects of this podcast is Madeleine Brand's exceptional interviewing skills. She has a unique ability to ask thought-provoking questions that elicit meaningful responses from her guests. Her interviews are always insightful and informative, leaving me with a greater understanding of the subject matter at hand. Additionally, the production value of this podcast is top-notch. It is clear that great care is taken in crafting each episode, resulting in a polished and professional listening experience.

    However, one area where this podcast could improve is in its musical choices. While the outro music is pleasant enough, adding some variety to the background music throughout the episodes would enhance the overall listening experience. Additionally, while the focus on gubernatorial interviews is helpful for voters in California, expanding these types of interviews to include senators and congress members from other states would further contribute to listeners' knowledge and engagement.

    In conclusion, The Press Play with Madeleine Brand podcast is an exceptional addition to anyone's podcast rotation. With its engaging host, thoughtful interviews, and diverse range of topics covered, it is no wonder why it has become a favorite among many listeners. Whether you are looking for a deeper understanding of current events or simply enjoy well-crafted storytelling, Press Play delivers it all with grace and intelligence. Tune in and prepare to be informed and entertained by this outstanding podcast.



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    Latest episodes from Press Play with Madeleine Brand

    Many Americans falsely think crime is rising. Blame ‘copaganda'

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2025 51:03


    President Trump claims crime is rising in D.C., when it’s actually down there — and across the country. Critics say his rhetoric is part of a longer history of “copaganda.” The Dodgers hit a rough patch, losing to the Angels and slipping to second place in the NL West. LAFC made headlines by signing soccer star Son Heung-Min. Tennis legend Venus Williams returns to the US Open at 45. Critics review the latest film releases: “Highest 2 Lowest,” “Nobody 2,” “The Knife,” “Went Up the Hill.” Who doesn’t love noodles? Japchae is served hot or cold, with bouncy and chewy sweet potato starch noodles. Hiyashi chuka is cold and found in many ramen shops.

    Family shares impact of CHLA ending its gender-affirming care

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2025 50:47


    After two months of denied access, Rep. Brad Sherman tours LA’s secretive ICE facility, raising questions about masked raids, detainee living conditions, and oversight rights.  Matt, 19, got hormones and surgery through CHLA. After the hospital ended its gender-affirming care, he turned to a new clinic but is considering leaving the U.S.   By now, you or someone you know has probably ridden a Waymo in LA. What lies ahead for the company, its rivals, human ride-share drivers, and customers? Around 160,000 Americans still receive dial-up internet. AOL is ending the service. KCRW takes a trip down the memory superhighway.

    What does back-to-school season look like for Pali High?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2025 52:24


    Pali High starts its new academic term on August 13. Instruction will still temporarily happen at the old Sears in Santa Monica. There’s optimism for rebuilding the old campus and community. Over the weekend, an Israeli airstrike killed Anas Al-Sharif and four other Al Jazeera journalists in what the Israeli military said was a targeted attack on their media tent. In the novel “Wanting,” two childhood friends grow up and commit to lives they feel were never meant for them, and begin questioning their choices.  In the early 1990s, there was no bigger football team than the Dallas Cowboys. The team won three Super Bowls in four years, before the dynasty fell apart amid rampant allegations of drug use and violence.

    Woody Guthrie's never-before-released songs are relevant today

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2025 58:39


    A new chapter is unfolding in the power struggle between President Trump and cities as he sends the National Guard into DC — and defends the LA deployment in court.  UC regents are meeting to discuss whether to settle with the Trump administration over their freezing of grants. But an appeals court may unfreeze the money first. New research reveals the death toll from the January fires in LA County may be far higher than official counts. Many deaths linked to smoke, stress, and health disruptions are unreported.  “Woody at Home, Volume 1 and 2” contains Woody Guthrie’s 22 previously unreleased songs that protest against racism, facism, and corruption.

    How does LAUSD superintendent see his role in protecting students from ICE?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 8, 2025 54:02


    LAUSD starts its new academic term a week from today. Superintendent Alberto Carvalho talks about student proficiency in math and reading, enrollment, and protecting kids from ICE raids.  Writer Peter Beinart says American Jews need to reckon with Israel’s conduct in the war in Gaza, and they should support equality for Palestinians. Critics review the latest film releases: “Freakier Friday,” “It’s Never Over, Jeff Buckley,” “Weapons,” and “Souleymane’s Story.”

    ‘The Devil Wears Rothko' traces Knoedler Gallery fake art scandal

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2025 52:26


    The Trump administration froze UCLA’s roughly 800 grants, covering research into medicine, science, energy, and climate. How are scholars and the university responding? Luke Farritor, a 23-year-old tech prodigy with no government experience, is at the center of sweeping federal cuts reshaping how government works.  For about a decade, the director of the Knoedler Gallery ended up buying fake art from a Bonnie and Clyde-like duo. An FBI criminal probe and lawsuits ensued.  Garlic brings its unique aroma, pungency, heat, and sometimes mellow nuttiness to each dish you’re making.

    Inside Nobu Matsuhisa's global sushi empire

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 5, 2025 53:09


    Texas lawmakers are trying to gerrymander their way to five more Republican seats in Congress. California Democrats want to retaliate — can they? Will fully autonomous military machines be the future of war, or will nations like the U.S. abide by certain constraints? Nobuyuki Matsuhisa — whose signature sushi flavors feature citrus, cilantro, and spice — owns restaurants and hotels worldwide. He’s the focus of a new documentary.  Influencers have been posting videos of themselves sampling Erewhon products, and now the store has become one of LA’s biggest tourist destinations.

    ‘He's become untouchable': Jeff Buckley is star of new documentary

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 4, 2025 53:54


    A federal appeals court upholds a ruling that blocks ICE from broad immigration stops in LA, raising questions about what this means for immigrant communities and enforcement moving forward. President Trump’s attempt to end birthright citizenship is not faring well in court. This time, the Supreme Court may not save him. COVID ticked up in parts of California and is expected to peak in the LA area in late August. Should you get boosted now? Jeff Buckley’s vocals drew comparisons to Nina Simone and Led Zeppelin’s Robert Plant. He died at age 30, but his fan base is still strong today. He’s the subject of Amy Berg’s new documentary.

    Major Western nations recognize Palestinian statehood

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2025 53:54


    France and Canada have promised to formally recognize Palestine at the U.N. General Assembly in September. The U.K. will join them if Israel doesn’t agree to a ceasefire with Hamas. Humans are extracting fresh water from underground aquifers, accelerating the drying of land all over the world and driving sea level rise, according to a new study. Critics review the latest film releases: “The Naked Gun,” “Bad Guys 2,” “Together,” and “Folktales.” Consider these cold soup recipes: One from Eastern Europe, one from Spain, and one starring the summer ingredient corn. 

    Life amid Trump's ICE is tougher than era of illegal street vending in LA

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2025 53:02


    A 2009 Obama-era environmental finding has underpinned a lot of climate-related regulation. It’s now the latest target of the Trump administration. Street vending in LA is now tougher than when it was illegal, a MacArthur Park clothes merchant says. SB 635 would prohibit state agencies from sharing street vendor data with ICE. Ever wonder what your life would look like if you made one radically different choice? Magician Penn Jillette takes that idea and runs with it in his new book. An unattractive little plush doll from China has taken the world by storm. Labubus’ rising popularity also comes with higher price tags, sparking an underground market of counterfeits.

    College grads face highest unemployment rate in 10 years. AI's partly to blame

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2025 52:13


    UCLA is the latest college to settle an antisemitism case, and it will give several million to Jewish organizations. A lawsuit by pro-Palestinian activists remains pending.   6.6% of college-educated 20 to 24-year-olds are unemployed and actively job-hunting, according to the Labor Department. Why are they struggling to launch? Employers in coveted fields are turning to AI instead of hiring recent college graduates. The white-collar sector is threatened.  ‘It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia’ is the defining American sitcom because it satirizes the dark side of human nature, argues M.H. Miller.

    College grads face highest unemployment rate in 10 years. AI's partly to blame

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2025 49:42


    UCLA is the latest college to settle an antisemitism case, and it will give several million to Jewish organizations. A lawsuit by pro-Palestinian activists remains pending.   6.6% of college-educated 20 to 24-year-olds are unemployed and actively job-hunting, according to the Labor Department. Why are they struggling to launch? Employers in coveted fields are turning to AI instead of hiring recent college graduates. The white-collar sector is threatened.  ‘It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia' is the defining American sitcom because it satirizes the dark side of human nature, argues M.H. Miller.

    Lollapalooza begins this weekend. The ‘95 lineup is worth remembering

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2025 52:11


    In response to Texas' plan to redraw its congressional map to add GOP seats, CA Gov. Newsom is threatening to redistrict here to add Democratic seats. Is it legal? Considered the most powerful psychedelic, 5-MeO DMT causes extreme trips that last only 30 minutes. Two startups are trying to take it to market as a depression treatment.  Lollapalooza runs July 31 to August 3 in Chicago. Three decades ago, it was the country's biggest music festival. It peaked with the 1995 lineup, argues NYT culture editor David Malitz. Last week's “South Park” season premiere targeted President Trump for his lawsuits against media companies. What's next for creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone?

    Lollapalooza begins this weekend. The ‘95 lineup is worth remembering

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2025 54:42


    In response to Texas’ plan to redraw its congressional map to add GOP seats, CA Gov. Newsom is threatening to redistrict here to add Democratic seats. Is it legal? Considered the most powerful psychedelic, 5-MeO DMT causes extreme trips that last only 30 minutes. Two startups are trying to take it to market as a depression treatment.  Lollapalooza runs July 31 to August 3 in Chicago. Three decades ago, it was the country’s biggest music festival. It peaked with the 1995 lineup, argues NYT culture editor David Malitz. Last week’s “South Park” season premiere targeted President Trump for his lawsuits against media companies. What’s next for creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone?

    We just lost $1.3 million

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2025 3:46


    ICYMI...something you should know from the team at Press Play. 

    The future of public TV without federal funding

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2025 53:54


    U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli has filed felony charges against 38 ICE protestors, but only secured seven indictments. Some in his office question whether his approach is based on the evidence.  PBS SoCal is losing millions in funding from the federal government. The cuts to public broadcasting will be particularly felt in rural areas. Can the system survive? Critics review the latest film releases: “The Fantastic Four: First Steps,” “AJ Goes To The Dog Park,” “Cloud,” and “Diciannove.” DineLA Restaurant Week is an opportunity to support the local restaurant community after it was hit by COVID shutdowns, the Hollywood strikes, and January wildfires.

    The future of public TV without federal funding

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2025 51:23


    U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli has filed felony charges against 38 ICE protestors, but only secured seven indictments. Some in his office question whether his approach is based on the evidence.  PBS SoCal is losing millions in funding from the federal government. The cuts to public broadcasting will be particularly felt in rural areas. Can the system survive? Critics review the latest film releases: “The Fantastic Four: First Steps,” “AJ Goes To The Dog Park,” “Cloud,” and “Diciannove.” DineLA Restaurant Week is an opportunity to support the local restaurant community after it was hit by COVID shutdowns, the Hollywood strikes, and January wildfires.

    How 9/11 gave birth to ICE

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2025 55:14


    LA Mayor Karen Bass said ICE was conducting a “reign of terror” in Los Angeles. Ironically, it was the War on Terror that produced ICE in the first place.  A proposed housing authority to help people affected by Palisades and Eaton Fires is on hold after some residents, like reality TV personality Spencer Pratt, complained. The 2025 California Biennial at the OC Museum of Art features works and artifacts from teen artists and adults reflecting on their teen years. It’s called “Desperate, Scared, but Social.” Ozzy Osbourne died on Tuesday at age 76. He transformed his image from Black Sabbath frontman to irascible TV dad. “The Osbournes” set the scene for the glut of celebrity TV family shows that followed. 

    How 9/11 gave birth to ICE

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2025 52:43


    LA Mayor Karen Bass said ICE was conducting a “reign of terror” in Los Angeles. Ironically, it was the War on Terror that produced ICE in the first place.  A proposed housing authority to help people affected by Palisades and Eaton Fires is on hold after some residents, like reality TV personality Spencer Pratt, complained. The 2025 California Biennial at the OC Museum of Art features works and artifacts from teen artists and adults reflecting on their teen years. It's called “Desperate, Scared, but Social.” Ozzy Osbourne died on Tuesday at age 76. He transformed his image from Black Sabbath frontman to irascible TV dad. “The Osbournes” set the scene for the glut of celebrity TV family shows that followed. 

    The magic of Shari Lewis' Lamb Chop

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2025 53:34


    Since the end of the last cease-fire between Israel and Hamas in March, people in Gaza are facing increasingly dire humanitarian conditions. Over nearly seven decades, research conducted at Hawaii’s Mauna Loa Observatory taught us that global warming is happening and humans are causing most of it. Trump's proposed budget for 2026 would shutter the observatory.  Before “Mister Rogers” or “Sesame Street,” Shari Lewis created, voiced, and performed a diminutive sock puppet named Lamb Chop. Her story is the focus of a new documentary. 

    The magic of Shari Lewis' Lamb Chop

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2025 51:33


    Since the end of the last cease-fire between Israel and Hamas in March, people in Gaza are facing increasingly dire humanitarian conditions. Over nearly seven decades, research conducted at Hawaii's Mauna Loa Observatory taught us that global warming is happening and humans are causing most of it. Trump's proposed budget for 2026 would shutter the observatory.  Before “Mister Rogers” or “Sesame Street,” Shari Lewis created, voiced, and performed a diminutive sock puppet named Lamb Chop. Her story is the focus of a new documentary. 

    NPR stations are losing federal funds. What will they do?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2025 53:36


    NPR, PBS, and member stations will lose $1.1 billion in federal funding. KCRW hears from two people who run smaller stations: KOSU in Oklahoma City and KCBX in San Luis Obispo. Harvard gets its day in court against the Trump administration. In Texas, Trump wants lawmakers to redraw Congressional maps ahead of schedule. “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” was reportedly losing money, though a pending merger for CBS’ parent company may have also factored into the network’s decision to cancel the TV program. Backstreet Boys are out with “Millennium 2.0,” and will perform concerts this summer in Las Vegas. KCRW talks about their long trajectory to fame in the U.S., lawsuit against their manager, and cross-generational appeal. 

    NPR stations are losing federal funds. What will they do?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2025 51:06


    NPR, PBS, and member stations will lose $1.1 billion in federal funding. KCRW hears from two people who run smaller stations: KOSU in Oklahoma City and KCBX in San Luis Obispo. Harvard gets its day in court against the Trump administration. In Texas, Trump wants lawmakers to redraw Congressional maps ahead of schedule. “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” was reportedly losing money, though a pending merger for CBS' parent company may have also factored into the network's decision to cancel the TV program. Backstreet Boys are out with “Millennium 2.0,” and will perform concerts this summer in Las Vegas. KCRW talks about their long trajectory to fame in the U.S., lawsuit against their manager, and cross-generational appeal. 

    ICE's deportation campaign leaves many agents morally conflicted

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2025 53:43


    Former and current ICE officials and agents told The Atlantic morale is low due, in part, to the relentless pressure from the Trump administration to arrest people. After a judge blocked federal agents from carrying out “indiscriminate” raids and denying detainees access to lawyers, an attorney says compliance is “spotty.” Critics review the latest film releases: “Smurfs,” “Eddington,” and “I Know What You Did Last Summer.”

    ICE's deportation campaign leaves many agents morally conflicted

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2025 51:42


    Former and current ICE officials and agents told The Atlantic morale is low due, in part, to the relentless pressure from the Trump administration to arrest people. After a judge blocked federal agents from carrying out “indiscriminate” raids and denying detainees access to lawyers, an attorney says compliance is “spotty.” Critics review the latest film releases: “Smurfs,” “Eddington,” and “I Know What You Did Last Summer.”

    Opposing Trump's immigration stance is ‘personal' for Sen. Alex Padilla

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2025 53:16


    Senator Alex Padilla says the vast majority of people getting caught up in Trump’s immigration raids and detentions are those without serious criminal convictions. He also weighs in on the Jeffrey Epstein files and Trump’s push to cut federal funding for NPR and PBS.  Trump’s budget gives ICE $75 billion for recruitment and the construction of new jails. Historically, police expansions are rife with corruption, according to journalist and historian Garrett Graff.  Michelle Huneven is rebuilding her Altadena home after the Eaton Fire. Her latest book follows a family across multiple decades and locations as they struggle with grief, dislocation, and addiction. When used judiciously, lavender can add an air of mystery to a dish, amplifying flavor without calling attention to itself.

    Opposing Trump's immigration stance is ‘personal' for Sen. Alex Padilla

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2025 50:45


    Senator Alex Padilla says the vast majority of people getting caught up in Trump's immigration raids and detentions are those without serious criminal convictions. He also weighs in on the Jeffrey Epstein files and Trump's push to cut federal funding for NPR and PBS.  Trump's budget gives ICE $75 billion for recruitment and the construction of new jails. Historically, police expansions are rife with corruption, according to journalist and historian Garrett Graff.  Michelle Huneven is rebuilding her Altadena home after the Eaton Fire. Her latest book follows a family across multiple decades and locations as they struggle with grief, dislocation, and addiction. When used judiciously, lavender can add an air of mystery to a dish, amplifying flavor without calling attention to itself.

    Expect a surge in EV purchases as federal tax credits will expire

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2025 52:00


    In March, President Trump signed an executive order to begin shuttering the Department of Education. A lower court forced him to stop the process, but on Monday, the Supreme Court overturned it.  President Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill” eliminates federal tax credits for new and used EVs and plug-in hybrids purchased after September 30, 2025. How will this affect consumers and manufacturers? The number of immigrants leaving the U.S. this year may surpass the number of those who arrive. Liberal and conservative economists warn of impacts. Once dominated by ceremonies and roses, reality TV dating is leveling up. “Love Island” has real-time twists, social media presence, and viewing parties.

    Expect a surge in EV purchases as federal tax credits will expire

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 15, 2025 49:29


    In March, President Trump signed an executive order to begin shuttering the Department of Education. A lower court forced him to stop the process, but on Monday, the Supreme Court overturned it.  President Trump's “Big Beautiful Bill” eliminates federal tax credits for new and used EVs and plug-in hybrids purchased after September 30, 2025. How will this affect consumers and manufacturers? The number of immigrants leaving the U.S. this year may surpass the number of those who arrive. Liberal and conservative economists warn of impacts. Once dominated by ceremonies and roses, reality TV dating is leveling up. “Love Island” has real-time twists, social media presence, and viewing parties.

    LA-based Caltex Records is the biggest Iranian music label

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2025 54:20


    A federal judge says ICE has been racially profiling people it detains at raids in California. And a second judge says the LAPD has been targeting journalists at anti-ICE protests.  Lawmakers toured the high-security immigration detention center called Alligator Alcatraz, where conditions differ depending on who you ask. The Miami Herald reports over 250 detainees have no criminal record. People who heavily rely on AI have brains that are less active and less original, according to new research.  LA-based Caltex Records represents most mainstream Iranian music released since the 1950s. A 25-year-old Iranian immigrant founded it after the 1979 revolution.

    LA-based Caltex Records is the biggest Iranian music label

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2025 51:49


    A federal judge says ICE has been racially profiling people it detains at raids in California. And a second judge says the LAPD has been targeting journalists at anti-ICE protests.  Lawmakers toured the high-security immigration detention center called Alligator Alcatraz, where conditions differ depending on who you ask. The Miami Herald reports over 250 detainees have no criminal record. People who heavily rely on AI have brains that are less active and less original, according to new research.  LA-based Caltex Records represents most mainstream Iranian music released since the 1950s. A 25-year-old Iranian immigrant founded it after the 1979 revolution.

    DOJ eval of Epstein case makes MAGA mad

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 11, 2025 54:07


    Right-wing figures who stoked conspiracy theories about alleged sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein, and some on the left, aren’t buying the DOJ’s assessment that there’s no further evidence to release. Maestro Leonard Slatkin opens up about his family, the story of the Hollywood String Quartet, and how the Summer of Angels festival honors their legacy. Critics review the latest film releases: “Superman,” “Kill the Jockey,” “Apocalypse in the Tropics,” and “To A Land Unknown,” Making your own ice cream sandwich? Focus on baking the cookie: chocolate chip, brownie, red velvet, snickerdoodle, peanut butter. Then choose an ice cream flavor that supports it. 

    DOJ eval of Epstein case makes MAGA mad

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 10, 2025 51:36


    Right-wing figures who stoked conspiracy theories about alleged sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein, and some on the left, aren't buying the DOJ's assessment that there's no further evidence to release. Maestro Leonard Slatkin opens up about his family, the story of the Hollywood String Quartet, and how the Summer of Angels festival honors their legacy. Critics review the latest film releases: “Superman,” “Kill the Jockey,” “Apocalypse in the Tropics,” and “To A Land Unknown,” Making your own ice cream sandwich? Focus on baking the cookie: chocolate chip, brownie, red velvet, snickerdoodle, peanut butter. Then choose an ice cream flavor that supports it. 

    What pushed 5 American families into homelessness

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 10, 2025 51:15


    President Trump’s Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller has pushed for hardline immigration policies. Some people, including Mayor Karen Bass, wonder if Miller wants revenge on his hometown. A number of Republicans opposed Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill,” then voted for it anyway. Is Trump more powerful than ever?  Journalist Brian Goldstone set out to uncover the true scope of homelessness, and followed five families for more than five years. His new book is “There Is No Place for Us.”

    What pushed 5 American families into homelessness

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2025 49:14


    President Trump's Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller has pushed for hardline immigration policies. Some people, including Mayor Karen Bass, wonder if Miller wants revenge on his hometown. A number of Republicans opposed Trump's “Big Beautiful Bill,” then voted for it anyway. Is Trump more powerful than ever?  Journalist Brian Goldstone set out to uncover the true scope of homelessness, and followed five families for more than five years. His new book is “There Is No Place for Us.”

    Feds are trying to show bravado, test LA: Bass on troops in MacArthur Park

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 8, 2025 50:43


    Federal troops paraded through MacArthur Park on Monday in an astonishing show of force. Mayor Karen Bass says LA is a testing site for a national project.  The Atlantic’s Elizabeth Bruenig has spent years closely covering capital punishment. She’s written a powerful and deeply personal meditation on what witnessing executions has revealed to her about her own faith, and the power of forgiveness. NPR’s Eric Deggans reviews the latest in TV: “Ballard,” “Dexter: Resurrection,” “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds” (season three), and “Billy Joel: And So It Goes.”   

    Feds are trying to show bravado, test LA: Bass on troops in MacArthur Park

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 8, 2025 48:42


    Federal troops paraded through MacArthur Park on Monday in an astonishing show of force. Mayor Karen Bass says LA is a testing site for a national project.  The Atlantic's Elizabeth Bruenig has spent years closely covering capital punishment. She's written a powerful and deeply personal meditation on what witnessing executions has revealed to her about her own faith, and the power of forgiveness. NPR's Eric Deggans reviews the latest in TV: “Ballard,” “Dexter: Resurrection,” “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds” (season three), and “Billy Joel: And So It Goes.” 

    What will National Weather Service cuts mean for fire warnings in CA?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 8, 2025 52:08


    Staffing shortages at the NWS in Central Texas are being scrutinized for possibly affecting the flood response there. What does this mean for CA’s upcoming fire season? The first major trial challenging Trump’s immigration policy began today in Boston. An association of university professors is arguing that non-citizen students were arrested for exercising their First Amendment rights. Hawaii is increasingly unaffordable for native residents. After her family’s land is threatened, Sara Kehualani Goo reconnects with her heritage in a new memoir. This summer marks the 85th birthday of Bugs Bunny and the 35th anniversary of “Bugs Bunny at the Symphony.” Conductor George Daugherty talks about the concert’s creation and enduring appeal. 

    What will National Weather Service cuts mean for fire warnings in CA?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 7, 2025 49:37


    Staffing shortages at the NWS in Central Texas are being scrutinized for possibly affecting the flood response there. What does this mean for CA's upcoming fire season? The first major trial challenging Trump's immigration policy began today in Boston. An association of university professors is arguing that non-citizen students were arrested for exercising their First Amendment rights. Hawaii is increasingly unaffordable for native residents. After her family's land is threatened, Sara Kehualani Goo reconnects with her heritage in a new memoir. This summer marks the 85th birthday of Bugs Bunny and the 35th anniversary of “Bugs Bunny at the Symphony.” Conductor George Daugherty talks about the concert's creation and enduring appeal. 

    Accusations against ICE are piling up, now legal action is here

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 3, 2025 53:09


    Several civil rights groups filed a class-action lawsuit alleging that ICE agents are targeting people based on race and holding them in “deplorable” conditions. ICE raids, the fire threat, or budget reasons are the reasons some LA-area communities won’t be having Independence Day festivities. But illegal fireworks will continue. Critics review the latest film releases: “Jurassic World Rebirth,” “40 Acres,” “Heads of State,” and “The Old Guard 2.” Michael McKean shares behind-the-scenes tales from “Spinal Tap,” the film’s lasting impact, and a career filled with comedy, music, and satire.

    Accusations against ICE are piling up, now legal action is here

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 3, 2025 50:38


    Several civil rights groups filed a class-action lawsuit alleging that ICE agents are targeting people based on race and holding them in “deplorable” conditions. ICE raids, the fire threat, or budget reasons are the reasons some LA-area communities won't be having Independence Day festivities. But illegal fireworks will continue. Critics review the latest film releases: “Jurassic World Rebirth,” “40 Acres,” “Heads of State,” and “The Old Guard 2.” Michael McKean shares behind-the-scenes tales from “Spinal Tap,” the film's lasting impact, and a career filled with comedy, music, and satire.

    REIT evictions fall hard on Black Angelenos, study finds

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 3, 2025 52:47


    Immigration detention and enforcement may be getting around $150 billion in additional funding over the next four years. What will that go to? Some Black tenants are disproportionately being evicted by Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) in LA, a new UCLA study finds. KCRW hears from two sisters who’ve experienced this. Amelia Earhart is known as a pioneering aviator who died tragically — her remains are likely still lying in the Pacific Ocean. However, her choice to circumnavigate the globe was reckless, says author Laurie Gwen Shapiro. LACMA opened its new David Geffen Galleries building to the public last week for a sneak peek. Down the street, Blum Gallery closes after over 30 years in LA. 

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