WAMC's The Roundtable is an award-winning, nationally recognized eclectic talk program. The show airs from 9am to noon each weekday and features news, interviews, in-depth discussion, listener call-ins, music, and much (much) more!
The Roundtable podcast is a must-listen for anyone who enjoys insightful and thought-provoking discussions. As someone who looks forward to snow days and long weekends, I find great joy in being able to listen to the panel live. However, even when life gets busy, I am grateful for the convenience of podcasts, allowing me to catch up on episodes at my own pace. The Roundtable has become an integral part of my listening routine ever since I discovered it while working in Albany, NY.
One of the best aspects of The Roundtable is the diversity of opinions and perspectives brought to the discussion by the panelists. They do not shy away from expressing their own viewpoints and are not afraid to challenge conventional wisdom. This makes for a refreshing and engaging listening experience, as I get a well-rounded understanding of various topics. The depth of knowledge and expertise displayed by the panelists is truly impressive, covering a wide range of subjects including current events, politics, culture, and more.
Another standout aspect of this podcast is its ability to keep me informed about important issues happening outside my listening area. Even though I do not live within range of WAMC's broadcast signal, I am grateful that I can still stay connected through their podcast. The Roundtable provides valuable insights into regional news as well as national and international events.
While there are many positives about The Roundtable podcast, it is important to acknowledge that some listeners may find it challenging if they prefer a more neutral or balanced approach in their news roundup talk shows. As mentioned earlier, the panelists express their opinions freely and passionately which may be perceived as biased by some individuals seeking a more impartial analysis.
In conclusion, The Roundtable podcast has become an invaluable source of information and entertainment for me. It has elevated itself above other news roundup talk shows due to its willingness to take a strong stand on key issues while maintaining intellectual rigor and respect for different perspectives. Whether I have the luxury of listening live during a snow day or catching up on episodes at an accelerated pace, I always find myself engrossed in the discussions. The Roundtable is a podcast that continues to impress and inspire me with its engaging panel and insightful conversations.
French accordionist Théo Ould has been described by Le Monde as having “a masterly technique and an inexhaustible wealth of phrasing.” Ould began his musical education at the Marseille Conservatoire at the age of 6 and has become a rising star on the classical music scene.Ould is on his debut solo tour of the United States and Capital Regional Classical will present him in a tango-inspired concert on Sunday at Union College's Memorial Chapel in Schenectady, New York.
In the new book “We Tell Ourselves Stories: Joan Didion and the American Dream Machine,” “New York Times” Film Critic Alissa Wilkinson, examines Didion's influence through the lens of American mythmaking.
The Roundtable Panel: a daily open discussion of issues in the news and beyond. Today's panelists are President of Beyond Plastics, former EPA Regional Administrator, and co-author of the book "The Problem with Plastic" Judith Enck, Partner with the Albany law firm of Whiteman Osterman & Hanna, Cianna Freeman-Tolbert, Siena University Professor of Economics Aaron Pacitti, and Siena University Economics Majors Sophia Tagliafierro and Jack Reilly.
Our next guest has been nominated for 16 Academy Awards winning twice for “Blade Runner 2049” and “1917.” Few cinematographers have shaped the look and language of modern cinema as profoundly as Roger Deakins. Over the course of five decades, he has worked with some of the most influential directors of our time brining to life films that have become visual touchstones: “The Shawshank Redemption,” “No Country for Old Men,” “Skyfall,” and “1917” to just name a few. In his new book “Reflections on Cinematography” Deakins steps out from behind the camera to explore the craft and curiosity that have guided his life's work. The book offers not only behind the scenes insights into some of the most enduring films of the past century but also a thoughtful meditation on observation, a light movement, and human behavior shape what we see and how we understand story.
Sifting through layers and layers of myth and legend—from nineteenth-century dime novels to prestige dramas to the casino billboards outside of present-day Deadwood— author Peter Cozzens unveils the true face of Deadwood South Dakota. He does so in his new book “Deadwood: Gold, Guns, and Greed in the American West.” It is the true story of the Black Hills goldrush settlement once described as the most diabolical town on earth.
The Roundtable Panel: a daily open discussion of issues in the news and beyond. Today's panelists are public policy and communications expert Theresa Bourgeois, Ulster County Comptroller and the former president and CEO of the Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley March Gallagher, and Investment Banker on Wall St. Mark Wittman.
This week's Book Picks comes from welcome Rachel Person of Northshire Books in Saratoga Springs and Manchester Center, VT and Joan Grenier of Odyssey Bookshop in South Hadley, MA join us this morning to present some of the finest authors and books that are making their way to store shelves this season.
Grammy Award-winning producer and guitarist extraordinaire, John Pizzarelli salutes the legendary Tony Bennett celebrating over 60 years of unparalleled artistry in the show: John Pizzarelli Trio: Tony Bennett – The Art of Excellence at the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center in Great Barrington, MA on Saturday, December 20th at 8:00 pm.
Emmy-nominated author, journalist, and critic Amanda Vaill will discuss her new joint biography of Angelica and Elizabeth Schuyler. Two women as formidable as and in some respect stronger than the men they loved, married, and mothered. She will be doing a pair of events in our region; she is the author of “Pride and Pleasure: The Schuyler Sisters in an Age of Revolution.”Amanda Vaill will be in Saratoga Springs tonight at the Northshire Bookstore at 6 pm. She will also be at The Book House at Stuyvesant Plaza in Albany, NY on Saturday December 6th at 2 pm.
The Roundtable Panel: a daily open discussion of issues in the news and beyond. Today's panelists are Professor of Political Studies, Vice President for Academic Affairs, and Director of the Center for Civic Engagement at Bard College Jonathan Becker, Dean of the College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity at the University at Albany Robert Griffin, Senior Fellow for Health Policy at The Empire Center for Public Policy Bill Hammond, and CEO of The Business Council of New York State Heather Mulligan.
Judith Enck, whose new book "The Problem with Plastic" confronts one of the defining environmental issues of our time. Enck brings decades of experience - from her work at the EPA to her leadership of Beyond Plastics - to this investigation into the plastics crisis: how a material once celebrated for innovation now chokes our oceans, clogs our recycling systems, pollutes our air and bodies, and wreaks havoc in communities bearing the brunt of petrochemical extraction and waste.
The newly renovated Troy Savings Bank Music Hall will welcome two-time Grammy Award-winning Albany Symphony for dazzling holiday performances on December 13 and 14.Audiences will enjoy Haydn's most famous work, the “Surprise” Symphony; Mozart's greatest concerto, his Piano Concerto No. 20 in d minor, Bach's joyful, virtuosic Brandenburg Concerto No. 5, and the thrilling world premiere of a work by an extraordinarily brilliant 14-year-old composer, Isaac Thomas. On December 7th, families can revel in the sparkle of Magic of the Season, the Capital Region's most beloved holiday spectacular, returning with its heartwarming blend of music, community, and festive delight. Maestro David Alan Miller is here with all the details.
Arias in the Afternoon: Lifting Every Voice is an afternoon of music and history in support of the Underground Railroad Education Center on December 14th at 1PM at the New York State Museum.Join MC Rex Smith for the beauty of Handel's Messiah with a performance by Daniel Pascoe Aguilar alongside the Smithsonian's Voices and Votes exhibit, as they confront our complex history and continue the fight for education and truth.
The Roundtable Panel: a daily open discussion of issues in the news and beyond. Today's panelists are Specialist in Government and Public Services Healthcare Consulting Azmat Ahmad, The Empire Report's JP Miller, and Former Times-Union Associate Editor Mike Spain.
Renowned singer-songwriter, Jules Shear, who will take the stage at the historic Byrdcliffe Theater in Woodstock, New York for one night only – this coming Saturday, December 6 at 8 p.m. From iconic hits such as Cyndi Lauper's "All Through the Night," The Bangles' "If She Knew What She Wants," to Jules' own pop hit, "Steady," Jules Shear's songwriting has left an indelible mark on the world of music.
Proctors Collaborative welcomes Music Haven back for another year with the 2025-26 Passport Series. The series brings world-class music from four continents to stages in Schenectady and Saratoga Springs. This immersive cultural journey transports audiences to Québec, Sweden, the Middle East, and Colombia - without leaving the Capital Region.The series will get underway this December 5th with Mélisande at 7:30 p.m. this Friday at GE Theatre at Proctors in Schenectady. Then they have events schedule all the way through May.
The Roundtable Panel: a daily open discussion of issues in the news and beyond. Today's panelists are Joseph Palamountain Jr. Chair in Government atSkidmore College Beau Breslin, Senior Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute Robert Pondiscio, and Political Consultant and lobbyist Libby Post.
Each weekday morning, The Roundtable's Joe Donahue is joined by various experts, journalists, educators, and commentators to discuss current events. On Roundtable Panel: The Week in Review, we feature your favorite panelists discussing news items from the previous week.
The Troy Savings Bank Music Hall will celebrate its reopening with Lea Salonga's “Stage Screen & Everything in Between” on Tuesday December 2nd at 7:30.Salonga is known for her roles on stage and in film. Her Broadway credits include “Les Misérables,” “Flower Drum Song,” "Allegiance,” the revival of “Once On this Island,” “Here Lies Love,” “Stephen Sondheim's Old Friends,” and, of course, “Miss Saigon” - for which she won a Tony Award in 1991.She performed the singing voice for Princess Jasmine in the Disney film “Aladdin” and the title character in “Mulan.” Her most recent album is a holiday record called “Sounding Joy.”
The Troy Savings Bank Music Hall has embarked on a transformation to preserve its historic charm while evolving into a dynamic, year-round hub for community engagement and creative expression. By reimagining the former banking spaces, they are opening up new opportunities for education, celebrations, and gatherings.Their re-opening celebration concert is on December 2nd with actress and singer, Lea Salonga. To tell us more, we welcome Jon Elbaum, Executive Director of the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall.
Best-selling author and illustrator Jan Brett launches the national tour for her new book “The Christmas Sweater” in Rutland Vermont on Friday, November 28th. It is the kickoff to her bus tour where she visits 23 cities in just 17 days. The new Christmas classic features an adventurous boy and an adorable pug in a Christmas sweater who saves the day! With more than 44 million books in print she is one of the nation's foremost illustrators of children's books. The Friday event will be presented by Phoenix Books and will feature a live drawing demonstration takes place at the Paramount Theater in Rutland Vermont at 5 pm.
The Roundtable Panel: a daily open discussion of issues in the news and beyond. Today's panelists are Former Vice President for Editorial Development at the New York Press Association Judy Patrick, Executive Director of The Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York Nic Rangel, Mayor of the City of Albany Kathy Sheehan, and Associate Professor in the department of sociology at Vassar College Catherine Tan.
This week's Book Picks comes from Matt Tannenbaum from The Bookstore in Lenox, Massachusetts and Kira Wizner from Merritt Bookstore in Millbrook, New York.
Universal Preservation Hall, “UPH”, is a year-round performing arts, and community events venue located in Saratoga Springs, New York. The former Methodist church has been transformed into a state-of-the-art performance facility.UPH combines a 700-seat theatre-in-the-round Great Hall with a community event space, offering year-round music and entertainment in downtown Saratoga Springs. Teddy Foster is the Director at Universal Preservation Hall and has been with the project since the beginning when it was a just dream.
The Roundtable Panel: a daily open discussion of issues in the news and beyond. Today's panelists are Stuart Rice Honorary Chair at the University of Massachusetts Amherst's College of Information and Computer Sciences (CICS) and Faculty Associate at the Berkman Klein Center for Internet and Society at Harvard University Fran Berman, Joseph Palamountain Jr. Chair in Government at Skidmore College Beau Breslin, The Empire Report's JP Miller, and Former Times-Union Associate Editor Mike Spain.
Ozoz Sokoh is a culinary anthropologist, food historian, and author of the new cook book “Chop Chop: Cooking the Foods of Nigeria” (Artisan, 2025). In the tradition of Julia Child's “Mastering the Art of French Cooking” and Madhur Jaffrey's “An Invitation to Indian Cooking,” “Chop Chop” offers both a cultural history and a hands-on introduction to the flavors of Nigeria.We spoke with Ozoz in a CulinaryArts@SPAC and WAMC on the Road event in Saratoga Springs, New York on November 15. At the event, we were all treated to authentic Nigerian dishes including a goat pepper soup, chin chin, puff puff, jollof rice, and more prepared by Keobi Restaurant of Albany, New York.
Benjamin Wood has written four very different novels that explore the creative process and relationships between parents and children. His fifth novel, Seascraper, is a vividly imagined, layered, and economical mediation on these themes, and it is full of surprises. From a very atmospheric description of a vanishing way of life, to great suspense, to the hint ultimately of optimism in its final characters. The novel was longlisted for the 2025 Booker prize.
The Roundtable Panel: a daily open discussion of issues in the news and beyond. Today's panelists are Professor of Political Science at Hartwick College in Oneonta and Co-Director of the Institute of Public Service Laurel Elder, Preceptor in Public Speaking, Strategic Communications, and Public Relations for the Faculty of Arts and Sciences at Harvard University Terry Gipson, Political Consultant and lobbyist Libby Post, and Professor of Government at Dutchess Community College and President of the World Affairs Council of the Mid-Hudson Valley Dr. Karin Riedl.
Each weekday morning, The Roundtable's Joe Donahue is joined by various experts, journalists, educators, and commentators to discuss current events. On Roundtable Panel: The Week in Review, we feature your favorite panelists discussing news items from the previous week.
Pulitzer Prize–winning Washington Post reporters Carol Leonnig and Aaron C. Davis will tell us about their investigation into the subversion of the Justice Department over the last decade, culminating in President Donald Trump upending this cornerstone of democracy. Their new book in "Injustice: How Politics and Fear Vanquished America's Justice Department."
In “Scrim: A New Orleans Story of Resilience and Rescue,” author Kaye Courington offers young readers an inspiring true tale rooted in the vibrant, storm-tested city she calls home.The book follows a young protagonist and a loyal dog named Scrim as they navigate upheaval with courage, curiosity, and care. Courington's narrative honors the texture of New Orleans - the music, neighborhoods, and communal spirit that endure through hardship -while gently teaching children about preparedness, empathy, and hope.
The Roundtable Panel: a daily open discussion of issues in the news and beyond. Today's panelists are Professor Emeritus of Russian at Hofstra University and author of: Illiberal Vanguard: Populist Elitism in the United States and Russia Alexander Mihailovic, CEO of The Business Council of New York State Heather Mulligan, Siena University Professor of Economics Aaron Pacitti, and economics majors from Siena University -- Micah Moore, Andrew Kirk, and Kylie Castellana.
An award-winning former advertising executive, Marshall Karp is a playwright and a screenwriter, and is the author of the hugely successful NYPD Red Series. His latest is “NYPD Red 8: The 11:59 Bomber.”
Toni Morrison is one of the few Americans to win the Nobel Prize in Literature and remains the only black woman to do so. She remains central to nearly every American conversation, which is why her books are being given a fresh look for a new generation of readers, accompanied by new introductions from some of the best writers at work today.Honoree Jeffers is a poet, novelist, and professor of English at the University of Oklahoma. Some of her work includes "The Age of Phillis," "The Love Songs of W.E.B Du Bois," and most recently "Misbehaving at the Crossroads: Essays & Writings." This morning, we will talk with Honoree, about her introduction to "Beloved."
The Roundtable Panel: a daily open discussion of issues in the news and beyond. Today's panelists are public policy and communications expert Theresa Bourgeois, Senior Fellow for Health Policy at The Empire Center for Public Policy Bill Hammond, and Grants analyst based in Albany Emily Honen.
In "Burned by Billionaires: How Concentrated Wealth and Power Are Ruining Our Lives and Planet," author and a senior scholar at the Institute for Policy Studies in Washington, DC, Chuck Collins chronicles how the actions of the top .01% have severe consequences for the rest of us, especially those of marginalized identities.He will be presenting and having a discussion on his book at the Odyssey Bookshop in South Hadley tomorrow night at 7 PM and with us this morning.
"Luigi: The Making and the Meaning" is the first book to explain why the world was primed for the Luigi Mangione moment, showing the history that led an accused killer to be embraced as an avenger with an affection not seen since Jesse James or Robin Hood.
The Roundtable Panel: a daily open discussion of issues in the news and beyond. Today's panelists are Founder and Academic Director of the Hannah Arendt Center for Politics and Humanities and Professor of Politics, Philosophy, and Human Rights at Bard College Roger Berkowitz, Dean of the College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity at the University at Albany Robert Griffin, and Associate Professor in the department of sociology at Vassar College Catherine Tan.
This week's Book Picks comes from Connie Brooks and Suzanne Kulick from Battenkill Books in Cambridge, NY.
Greg Cope White's memoir “The Pink Marine” is the inspiration for Netflix breakout hit “Boots.” “Boots” tells the story of an 18-year-old closeted gay teenager who enlists in the Marines with his straight best friend. Greg is not only the real-life inspiration he's also one of the show's writers and co-executive producer.
The Roundtable Panel: a daily open discussion of issues in the news and beyond. Today's panelists are Chief of Staff and Vice President for Strategy and Policy at Bard College Malia DuMont, Acting Department Head of Cognitive Science, Tetherless World Senior Constellation Professor of Computer, Web and Cognitive Science Jim Hendler, and The Empire Report's JP Miller.
In the new book “Selected Letters of John Updike” editor James Schiff offers readers a window into that private world drawing from decades of correspondence. Schiff presents a portrait of Updike is both craftsman and confidante, generous, witty, and endlessly reflective about writing and life.
Back for its 37th year, the Fall Festival of Shakespeare includes nearly 500 students from 10 schools in Massachusetts and New York, supported by a cadre of 20 Shakespeare & Company directors, six costume designers, and five production designers.Also, Shakespeare & Company's family-friendly Winter Show returns December 12 – 14th with Sense and Sensibility: a fast-paced, staged reading wherein the wit and romance of Jane Austen's classic tale come to life.
The newly released book "Youth Voting Rights: Civil Rights, the Twenty-Sixth Amendment, and the Fight for American Democracy on College Campuses" uses the history of the 26th Amendment and the ongoing fight to promote and defend youth voting rights as a prism through which to teach the history of the struggle for the fundamental right to vote in the United States.Jonathan Becker is Vice President for Academic Affairs and Professor of Politics at Bard College where he is also the Director of the Center for Civic Engagement. He has published extensively on student voting rights.
The Roundtable Panel: a daily open discussion of issues in the news and beyond. Today's panelists are Bard College Vice Chancellor of Global Higher Education Alliance for the XXIst Century, Executive Vice President and Vice President for Academic Affairs and Director of the Center for Civic Engagement Jonathan Becker, UAlbany Lecturer in Africana Studies Jennifer Burns, and Senior Fellow, Bard Center for Civic Engagement Jim Ketterer.
Each weekday morning, The Roundtable's Joe Donahue is joined by various experts, journalists, educators, and commentators to discuss current events. On Roundtable Panel: The Week in Review, we feature your favorite panelists discussing news items from the previous week.
Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Paul Muldoon is considered “the most significant English-language poet born since the second World War.”His most recent book, “Scanty Plot of Ground: A Book of Sonnets,” is a new anthology of beloved classics, hidden treasures and standout contemporary examples of this ever-vital and enthralling verse form. His latest poetry collection, “Joy in Service on Rue Tagore,” is now out in paperback.
Susan Orlean's latest, “Joyride,” is a memoir of finding her creative calling and purpose that invites to approach life with wonder, curiosity, and an irrepressible sense of delight. She will be in conversation with Joe Donahue at Skidmore College on 11/17 in an event presented by Northshire Bookstore and WAMC on the Road.
The Roundtable Panel: a daily open discussion of issues in the news and beyond. Today's panelists are Joseph Palamountain Jr. Chair in Government atSkidmore College Beau Breslin, Ulster County Comptroller and former President and CEO of the Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley March Gallagher, Executive Director of Communities for Local Power and former White House Advance Lead Anna Markowitz, and Semi-retired, Editor at large/columnist/editorial writer, Times Union Jay Jochnowitz.
The Triplex Cinema in Great Barrington celebrates “Noir-vember” this fall with “The New Hard-Boiled: The Birth of American Neo-Noir,” a five-film series highlighting defining thrillers of the 1960s and 1970s.Screenings will take place Wednesday nights at 7 p.m. and Saturday afternoons at 5 p.m., through November 19 with a special screening of Arthur Penn's “Night Moves” followed by a talkback with Penn's son, Emmy-nominated director Matthew Penn.
Saratoga Performing Arts Center's popular “Sounds of the Season” holiday series returns next month from December 12–14, featuring the acclaimed Irish ensemble Danú, rising jazz sensation Stella Cole, and, Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center performing Bach's Complete Brandenburg Concertos.
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