Viewpoints

Redrawing The Rules: Why The Recent Case Of Gerrymandering In Texas Stands Out Texas' latest push to redraw political districts has sparked national debate over the boundaries of fair representation. With maps shifting political power and lawsuits mounting, political experts warn how this maneuver could set a dangerous precedent that reshapes elections and weakens voter influence. Part 1: Food Insecurity In The U.S.: One Teen's Story & One Expert's Warning Synopsis: Sustained higher grocery costs and shrinking safety nets are pushing more Americans into food insecurity. Through the story of Nevada high schooler Veronique Valdez and analysis from United Nations food policy expert Jean-Martin Bauer, we cover how hunger is reshaping daily life for millions of individuals and families and the crucial role of comm Viewpoints Explained: The Generational Breakup With Alcohol Fewer Americans are drinking, and young adults are driving this trend. Health concerns, wellness trends, and new alcohol-free spaces are shifting habits and redefining what socializing looks like today. Culture Crash: Jessica Chastain, Vince Gilligan, And Why AppleTV+ Is Doubling Down For years, we've viewed AppleTV+ as a low-key streamer that's produced some hits, but isn't in the same category as Netflix as HBO Max. We cover its stacked upcoming lineup and what we're most excited to watch as the weather turns cooler. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Texas' latest push to redraw political districts has sparked national debate over the boundaries of fair representation. With maps shifting political power and lawsuits mounting, political experts warn how this maneuver could set a dangerous precedent that reshapes elections and weakens voter influence. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/redrawing-the-rules-why-the-recent-case-of-gerrymandering-in-texas-stands-out Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sustained higher grocery costs and shrinking safety nets are pushing more Americans into food insecurity. Through the story of Nevada high schooler Veronique Valdez and analysis from United Nations food policy expert Jean-Martin Bauer, we cover how hunger is reshaping daily life for millions of individuals and families and the crucial role of community resources and nonprofits in fighting hunger. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/part-1-food-insecurity-in-the-u-s-one-teens-story-one-experts-warning Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It sounds like science fiction, but researchers in Japan are testing a treatment that could make your teeth grow back. We cover the first human trial that's now underway. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/viewpoints-explained-what-if-we-never-needed-dentures-or-implants-again Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With “Superman” launching the new DCU, “Peacemaker” season two cements its place in the universe. We cover the return of the hit HBO Max series. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/culture-crash-from-superman-to-peacemaker-james-gunns-new-dcu-takes-shape Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SEG. 1: The Secret Ingredient To Better Confidence & Connection Synopsis: Improv isn't just comedy. It's a crash course in listening, adaptability, and connection. Comedian and author Max Dickins shares how stepping into the unscripted can boost confidence and reshape the way we interact, from the stage to the office to everyday life. Seg. 2: Arctic Story – Charting The Unknown: From Barents' Expeditions To The Modern Arctic Meltdown Synopsis: Four hundred years after explorer William Barents braved the Arctic's icy unknown, journalist Andrea Pitzer retraces this same path across a region that's now vanishing at record speed. The story of survival and discovery collides with today's rapid melt, offering us a glimpse of what lies ahead if we continue on this same path. Viewpoints Explained: What If We Never Needed Dentures Or Implants Again? Synopsis: It sounds like science fiction, but researchers in Japan are testing a treatment that could make your teeth grow back. We cover the first human trial that's now underway. Culture Crash: From “Superman” To “Peacemaker”: James Gunn's New DCU Takes Shape Synopsis: With “Superman” launching the new DCU, “Peacemaker” season two cements its place in the universe. We cover the return of the hit HBO Max series. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Improv isn't just comedy. It's a crash course in listening, adaptability, and connection. Comedian and author Max Dickins shares how stepping into the unscripted can boost confidence and reshape the way we interact, from the stage to the office to everyday life. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/the-secret-ingredient-to-better-confidence-connection Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Four hundred years after explorer William Barents braved the Arctic's icy unknown, journalist Andrea Pitzer retraces this same path across a region that's now vanishing at record speed. The story of survival and discovery collides with today's rapid melt, offering us a glimpse of what lies ahead if we continue on this same path. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/arctic-story-charting-the-unknown-from-barents-expeditions-to-the-modern-arctic-meltdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Just 12 percent of police officers are women and only 3 percent are in leadership positions in America. We cover one initiative that's focused on driving more women into this public-facing sector. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/viewpoints-explained-why-are-so-few-women-in-this-industry Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While digital dominates the box office and on streaming platforms, the texture and scale of 70mm film screenings continue to drive movie lovers to the theater. We cover this art form and why we're a fan. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/culture-crash-the-magic-of-film-why-70mm-screenings-outshine-digital Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Part 2: Beyond Lesson Plans: Balancing Delays & Highlighting Progress Teaching today means far more than covering math problems and reading lists. It's managing the ripple effects of the pandemic, lingering academic delays, and the daily pressures kids bring with them. Alongside the frustrations are signs of progress, as schools adapt with new resources and evolving approaches. In part two of this story, we cover how teachers are finding the silver lining in these challenges and what are some key focuses heading into this school year. The Hidden Housing Crisis For America's Seniors For millions of older Americans, the dream of aging in place is colliding with the reality of inaccessible and unaffordable housing. Retrofitting homes is often out of reach financially, downsizing isn't the easy fix it appears to be, and without these changes, independence and safety become harder to hold onto in later life. We cover this quiet crisis and what resources are available to take proactive steps early on. Viewpoints Explained: Why Are So Few Women In This Industry? Just 12 percent of police officers are women and only 3 percent are in leadership positions in America. We cover one initiative that's focused on driving more women into this public-facing sector. Culture Crash: The Magic Of Film: Why 70mm Screenings Outshine Digital While digital dominates the box office and on streaming platforms, the texture and scale of 70mm film screenings continue to drive movie lovers to the theater. We cover this art form and why we're a fan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For millions of older Americans, the dream of aging in place is colliding with the reality of inaccessible and unaffordable housing. Retrofitting homes is often out of reach financially, downsizing isn't the easy fix it appears to be, and without these changes, independence and safety become harder to hold onto in later life. We cover this quiet crisis and what resources are available to take proactive steps early on. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/the-hidden-housing-crisis-for-americas-seniors Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Teaching today means far more than covering math problems and reading lists. It's managing the ripple effects of the pandemic, lingering academic delays, and the daily pressures kids bring with them. Alongside the frustrations are signs of progress, as schools adapt with new resources and evolving approaches. In part two of this story, we cover how teachers are finding the silver lining in these challenges and what are some key focuses heading into this school year. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/part-2-beyond-lesson-plans-balancing-delays-highlighting-progress Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We review the new horror film, “Weapons” directed by Zach Cregger and starring Ozark alum Julia Garner, Oppenheimer standout Aldren Ehrenreich and Academy Award nominee Josh Brolin. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/culture-crash-barbarian-film-director-zach-cregger-does-it-again-with-weapons Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Researchers are utilizing the latest in artificial intelligence to see if it could be a key partner in helping to improve the speed, accuracy, and reliability of catching cancer early. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/viewpoints-explained-the-race-to-improve-cancer-screening-and-detection Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Part 1: Beyond Lesson Plans: How Teachers Navigate Tech, Bullying & A Lack Of Connection In The Classroom A new school year is underway, and teachers aren't just juggling lesson plans, but are navigating a maze of social media drama, tech distractions, and the emotional needs of their many students. This week, in part one of this two-part story, two educators join us to share how they're navigating the often-invisible challenges that follow kids into the classroom. Pop's Power Shift: From Madonna To Taylor Swift, Chappell Roan And Olivia Rodrigo Earlier this month, the online announcement of Taylor Swift's twelfth studio album, “The Life of a Showgirl” almost crashed YouTube because millions of Swifties flooded the platform. This week – We cover how female pop stardom has reached record new heights and how early female pop stars like Madonna paved the way for future musicians in this genre. Viewpoints Explained: The Race To Improve Cancer Screening And Detection Researchers are utilizing the latest in artificial intelligence to see if it could be a key partner in helping to improve the speed, accuracy, and reliability of catching cancer early. Culture Crash: “Barbarian” Film Director Zach Cregger Does It Again With "Weapons" Synopsis: We review the new horror film, “Weapons” directed by Zach Cregger and starring Ozark alum Julia Garner, Oppenheimer standout Aldren Ehrenreich and Academy Award nominee Josh Brolin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Earlier this month, the online announcement of Taylor Swift's twelfth studio album, “The Life of a Showgirl” almost crashed YouTube because millions of Swifties flooded the platform. This week – we cover how female pop stardom has reached record new heights and how early female pop stars like Madonna paved the way for future musicians in this genre. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/pops-power-shift-from-madonna-to-taylor-swift-chappell-roan-and-olivia-rodrigo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A new school year is underway, and teachers aren't just juggling lesson plans, but are navigating a maze of social media drama, tech distractions, and the emotional needs of their many students. This week, in part one of this two-part story, two educators join us to share how they're navigating the often-invisible challenges that follow kids into the classroom. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/part-1-beyond-lesson-plans-how-teachers-navigate-tech-bullying-a-lack-of-connection-in-the-classroom Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We review the newest album by Paramore's frontwoman Hayley Williams. Paramore may be an early 2000's millennial throwback, but Williams keeps it fresh and unexpected with this latest drop. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/culture-crash-paramores-hayley-williams-is-back-with-new-music Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We cover this invisible danger in the water – and what you should (and shouldn't) do if you find yourself quickly getting pulled into this situation. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/viewpoints-explained-the-lifesaving-tip-that-could-save-you-in-this-emergency Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Segment 1: Lonelier By Design: The Quiet Decline Of Community Spaces Are you familiar with the term, ‘third place'? These are the local cafes, diners, public parks, park district centers and other places that foster connection and feel accessible and welcoming. Many of us take these areas, and the benefit they bring, for granted. Yet, for many, especially senior citizens and low-income individuals, these spots are a lifeline. Sadly, these places are disappearing across the country as prices rise and people shift their habits. We cover the importance of these hubs and the broad-ranging health impacts and consequences without them. Segment 2: The Foolproof Way To Find Joy In Cooking Again Most people would agree that eating out and staying in are two very different experiences. Chef and cookbook author Alison Roman explains that being able to have people over and cooking for people you love provides a different way to spend your time and money. We speak with Roman this week about how to simplify this process, choose recipes that lead you to success and don't leave you confused and overwhelmed. Viewpoints Explained: The Lifesaving Tip That Could Save You In This Emergency We cover this invisible danger in the water – and what you should (and shouldn't) do if you find yourself quickly getting pulled into this situation. Culture Crash: Paramore's Hayley Williams Is Back With New Music We review the newest album by Paramore's frontwoman Hayley Williams. Paramore may be an early 2000's millennial throwback, but Williams keeps it fresh and unexpected with this latest drop. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you familiar with the term, ‘third place'? These are the local cafes, diners, public parks, park district centers and other places that foster connection and feel accessible and welcoming. Many of us take these areas, and the benefit they bring, for granted. Yet, for many, especially senior citizens and low-income individuals, these spots are a lifeline. Sadly, these places are disappearing across the country as prices rise and people shift their habits. We cover the importance of these hubs and the broad-ranging health impacts and consequences without them. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/lonelier-by-design-the-quiet-decline-of-community-space Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most people would agree that eating out and staying in are two very different experiences. Chef and cookbook author Alison Roman explains that being able to have people over and cooking for people you love provides a different way to spend your time and money. We speak with Roman about how to simplify this process, choose recipes that lead you to success and don't leave you confused and overwhelmed. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/the-foolproof-way-to-find-joy-in-cooking-again Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fall 2025 is shaping up to be a goldmine for film lovers, with new releases from top directors like Spike Lee, Kathryn Bigelow, Paul Thomas Anderson, and the Safdie brothers. We preview the most anticipated movies of 2025 still to come. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/culture-crash-from-kurosawa-remakes-to-stephen-king-revivals-the-fall-film-lineup Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Third spaces like libraries and parks are disappearing, and with them, the everyday connections that reduce social isolation. It's a quiet shift with wide-reaching effects on health, equity, and daily life in the U.S. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/viewpoints-explained-why-its-getting-harder-to-just-hang-out Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After more than 60 years of global humanitarian work, the U.S. Agency for International Development has been quietly dismantled, leaving a massive void in aid efforts around the world. This week, we explore what led to the closure, the political forces behind it and why experts warn the ripple effects both at home and abroad could be devastating. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/from-soft-power-to-silence-the-collapse-of-usaid Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last month's catastrophic flood in Texas killed over 130 people - a tragedy that experts say could have been prevented with improved physical warning systems and regulated land use. We break down the underestimated danger of flash flooding and what you need to know to survive if you're ever caught in rising water. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/flash-floods-how-to-recognize-react-and-survive Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scientists are bringing extinct species back to life using cutting-edge genetic engineering, but is resurrecting ancient animals a fascinating innovation or a dangerous human disruption of nature? Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/viewpoints-explained-ancient-genes-modern-labs-the-quest-to-revive-these-species Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We review the hit HBO show, “Succession” and why this dramatic masterpiece spanning four seasons is worth watching more than once. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/culture-crash-why-succession-will-always-be-a-great-rewatch Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While towns and cities sleep, a bustling animal world emerges. This week – we explore the hidden nighttime lives of urban wildlife - from foxes in Berlin to possums in American backyards – and cover why it's essential to appreciate and protect these often-unseen creatures that we share our world with. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/the-living-night-uncovering-natures-hidden-third-shift Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Despite big efforts in recent years to boost diversity in classical music, the genre is still exceedingly difficult to break into. According to an industry wide study conducted last year by the League of American Orchestras, African Americans made up just 2 percent of professional orchestras nationwide. Violinist and educator Brendan Slocumb and activist Afa Dworkin discuss what's holding the industry back and how improved early access music programs in public schools are vital to creating opportunity for historically excluded populations. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/strings-attached-the-inequities-still-shaping-classical-music-today Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After a decade of misfires, DC's latest Superman reboot, directed by James Gunn, delivers a hopeful, heroic take on Clark Kent. We review the latest Superman film now in theatres. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/culture-crash-finally-a-superman-worth-believing-in Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Around the world, birth rates are plunging as young adults prioritize careers, grapple with rising living costs, and confront an uncertain future. As populations shrink, economies face tough questions about how to adapt to these changing trends. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/viewpoints-explained-is-society-ready-for-fewer-babies Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The wellness industry is booming, but how much is genuine, and how much is simply clever marketing? Journalist Hayley Krischer joins us to unpack the murky world of viral wellness trends and how millions have gotten sucked into this cycle of continuous buying. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/the-wellness-boom-hope-hype-and-hard-truths Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Private equity sounds like distant Wall Street jargon, but it's reshaping the very fabric of daily American life from hospitals and pharmacies to brands that play a vital role in communities. This week - We cover how exactly a private equity firm works and the hidden drivers behind these corporate takeovers. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/private-equity-101-how-takeovers-are-reshaping-america Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We review the recent horror film, “28 Years Later”. For the past year, it's been a highly anticipated release, but is the new movie overhyped or well deserving of the attention? Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/culture-crash-enjoy-a-good-scare-our-take-on-28-years-later Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Across America, millions of students in lower-income areas lack daily access to the internet and other software, leaving them behind in a digital-first world. We highlight Ed Farm - an innovative nonprofit that's working to boost these communities. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/viewpoints-explained-closing-the-digital-divide-one-classroom-at-a-time Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the 1970s and 80s, the serene beauty of the Pacific Northwest became the unlikely backdrop for some of America's most notorious serial killers. Pulitzer Prize-winning author Caroline Fraser, who grew up near Ted Bundy's hunting grounds, revisits this dark chapter to dig deeper into why this region became a hotspot for violent crime. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/where-killers-lurked-the-pacific-northwests-deadly-history Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Diners are an American staple. It's where you stop for a piece of pie and a cup of coffee from coast to coast. But small, mom and pop diners are slowly disappearing to larger chains. We uncover how old-school waitresses at these are key to communities and what it's like being in this industry for 40, 50 or 60+ years. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/from-sunrise-to-last-call-the-women-behind-the-counter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are humans capable of withstanding the lengthy trip to Mars? We cover the scientific research that's shedding some doubt on future human missions to the far away planet. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/viewpoints-explained-new-questions-emerge-around-spacex-and-nasas-mission-to-mars Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Bear's fourth season dials down the frenzy and leans into reflection, giving its characters—and viewers—more room to breathe. We offer our review of the latest season of the hit show. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/culture-crash-yes-the-bear-is-still-that-good Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Across the U.S. and around the world, major cities are slowly sinking. This phenomenon—called land subsidence—is driven by groundwater overuse, rapid urban development and is intensified by climate change. In this segment, experts Tom Parsons and Pietro Teatini break down what's causing the ground to drop, why it's happening faster in some places than others, and what can be done to slow or manage the damage before it's too late. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/why-are-all-major-u-s-cities-sinking Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As inflation and housing costs rise across the U.S., a growing number of retirees are looking beyond the border for a more affordable lifestyle. We speak with a couple enjoying their retirement in Ecuador, and a longtime expat who made the move more than two decades ago. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/why-more-retirees-are-choosing-this-option Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Warner Bros. and DC Comics have handed James Gunn the keys to Superman. Will it be a success? Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/culture-crash-wheres-the-song-of-the-summer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Since the Taliban's return, Afghan women have vanished from public life—barred from school, work, and many public places. As individual rights and economic prosperity continue to erode, many Afghans are living in a homeland that no longer feels like home. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/viewpoints-explained-afghanistan-four-years-on-whats-left-for-women-under-taliban-rule Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As wildfire season stretches into winter and blazes burn hotter and faster than ever, former firefighter Kelly Ramsey reflects on her time battling fires during California's brutal 2020 and 2021 season. She shares her candid experience with us of what it's like to fight fire in a system that's breaking under its own weight. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/burning-year-round-the-new-reality-of-firefighting-in-america Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It looked like progress—new highways, modern bridges—but in cities across America, those blueprints masked something else entirely. In Detroit and beyond, entire Black neighborhoods were destroyed, and communities were split by concrete. We uncover the deeper implications of transportation policy in the mid 1900's and how cities today are trying to get back to these once-connected and diverse communities. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/highways-to-displacement-the-hidden-history-of-urban-renewal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Juneteenth marks the true end of slavery in the U.S., but its meaning runs deeper than just a date. We uncover how the holiday came to be and its significance today. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/viewpoints-explained-what-juneteenth-reveals-about-american-history Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

By this time last year, the charts were packed with new pop powerhouses. But this year the usual summer music buzz feels oddly quiet. We look at what's behind the pop music slowdown. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/culture-crash-wheres-the-song-of-the-summer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From McDonald's to Taco Bell, fast food is in nearly every American town and city —but how did we get here, and what does our obsession with speed and convenience say about our culture? We trace the rise of fast food and explore its broader impact on health, business, and the American family. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/americas-deep-ties-to-the-rise-of-fast-food Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A high-stakes legal fight is unfolding between Harvard University and the current administration. At the center: international students, federal funding and questions about free speech on campus. We look at how one of the country's top schools became a political flashpoint—and what's at stake beyond the Ivy League. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/harvard-university-vs-president-donald-trump-inside-the-upheaval-in-higher-education Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices