What Could Go Right?

This week on The Progress Report, hosts Zachary Karabell and Emma Varvaloucas share a roundup of positive news from around the globe. Starlink has surged to become Nigeria's second-largest internet provider, offering much-needed fast and reliable connectivity despite government concerns about foreign control. Japanese scientists have made a breakthrough by growing an 11-gram, nugget-sized chunk of lab-grown chicken, promising a more scalable and eco-friendly future for meat production. In Singapore, conservationists are creating a pangolin sperm bank to help save this heavily trafficked, endangered mammal, highlighting innovative efforts to preserve biodiversity. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is the U.S. facing a Brexit-like polarization from the rest of the world? Zachary and Emma speak with Gillian Tett, journalist, author, Chair of the Financial Times' Editorial Board, and Provost of Kings College, Cambridge. They discuss the intentions and longevity of Trump's tariffs, the positives and negatives of AI on education, and how echo chambers have impacted world politics. Gillian also talks about Europe's response to US-China trade tensions and the global rise of customized consumer culture. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's episode of The Progress Report, Zachary and Emma discuss positive news stories, including New Mexico's free childcare program that has lifted 120,000 people out of poverty, an FBI initiative addressing unresolved crimes in Indian Country across the US, and the signs of life on a distant planet that NASA just detected. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does the future of the Middle East look like? Zachary and Emma speak with Dr. Jon Alterman, senior vice president and director of the Middle East Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, where he holds the Brzezinski Chair in Global Security and Geostrategy. They discuss the complexities of achieving peace between Israel and Palestine, the evolution of a new Syria, and the socioeconomic growth of many Gulf states, particularly Saudi Arabia. Dr. Alterman also touches on the resilience of the Iranian regime and other regimes fueled by oil. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Progress Report, Zachary Karabell and Emma Varvaloucas dig into some seriously overlooked good news. Brazil and South Korea have both pushed back against anti-democratic power grabs—and won. From Bolsonaro facing trial to South Korea's president getting the boot after a wild six-hour martial law stunt, democracy is holding its ground. Emma also pulls a gem from a dense World Bank report: more people than ever now have some form of social protection, like pensions or cash transfers. Plus, a surprising stat from Nepal shows extreme poverty has plummeted—though the story behind it is a bit complicated. It's a reminder that while progress doesn't always make headlines, it's definitely happening. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What can be done to change United States foreign policy? Zachary and Emma speak to US foreign policy experts and co-hosts of the American Prestige podcast, journalist Daniel Bessner and historian Derek Davison. Daniel is the author of Democracy in Exile and Derek runs the Foreign Exchanges newsletter. They discuss the American public's engagement with foreign policy, the impacts of US global dominance, potential for a reformed policy that considers global interests, and why we shouldn't call Donald Trump a fascist. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's Progress Report, Zachary Karabell and Emma Varvaloucas highlight some truly global good news—stories that are too often buried under the avalanche of daily doomscrolling. Emma brings data from the World Health Organization showing that maternal mortality has dropped by over 40% since 2000, with real success stories in sub-Saharan Africa. Then they shift to Japan, where the world's first 3D printed train station was built and installed in just a week. Also, electric buses are quietly transforming city transit worldwide, from the Netherlands to Nigeria, with China leading the charge. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What would the U.S. look like after a corporate breakup? Zachary and Emma speak with author of the BIG newsletter, host of the Organized Money podcast, and director of research at the American Economics Liberties Project, Matt Stoller. They discuss the major political issues from concentrated economic power, the bipartisan movement against monopolies, the ways in which big tech has influenced the healthcare system, and the power of a fair market for Americans. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's episode of The Progress Report, Emma highlights positive news stories, including potential changes in the World Bank's nuclear energy policy, innovative cancer treatments, decreasing breast cancer mortality rates, and bipartisan efforts to combat ticket price gouging. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why doesn't the media name and shame the real villains of the climate change story? How can tobacco industry-like litigation impact fossil fuel companies? What are the obstacles of transitioning to a clean energy future? Zachary and Emma speak with journalist, author, and founder of the Heated Substack, Emily Atkin. They discuss the Trump administration's impact on worldwide climate policy and financing, the power of 24 American states participating in fossil fuel lawsuits and Paris Agreement goals, and how Germany walked back its renewable energy stance after Japan's Fukushima nuclear disaster. Emily also emphasizes the need for transparent journalism when covering climate issues. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Progress Report, Zachary and Emma discuss recent bipartisan agreements on U.S. gun laws including the Supreme Court's upholding of Biden-era rule on ghost guns, the impact of Obamacare on healthcare access, and Uganda's record-breaking rapid response to an Ebola outbreak. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is Trump's massive government reform necessary? Can the U.S. build better after DOGE? How efficient are government programs like food stamps and Medicaid? Zachary speaks with Vox co-founder and author of the Slow Boring Substack Matthew Yglesias. They discuss current Republican strategies, ideas for a Democratic response, American and Canadian relations, and the many changes that the federal government has seen in Trump's second term. With an eye on both challenges and opportunities, they examine how political turmoil can spark meaningful reform, the complexities of policy continuity, and the need for fresh strategies and coalitions to navigate an evolving political climate. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Progress Report, Zachary and Emma discuss some encouraging developments around the world, including a new nasal surgery in London that restores smell for long COVID patients, promising advancements in HIV prevention with the lenacapavir injection, and Oslo's push to electrify construction sites for a quieter, more sustainable future. The conversation underscores recent positive advances in technology. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, Zachary and Emma are diving into a global health crisis that doesn't get nearly enough attention—tuberculosis (TB). It's one of the deadliest infectious diseases in the world, yet it has been largely ignored by wealthy nations and Big Pharma. But one person who refuses to let that stand is #1 New York Times bestselling author, YouTuber, and activist John Green. You probably know him for his bestseller The Fault in Our Stars or his YouTube series Crash Course, but he's also been waging a public battle to make TB treatment more accessible. His new book, Everything Is Tuberculosis, explores the history, science, and injustices surrounding this disease. We talk to John about why he took on this fight, how public pressure actually changed corporate policies, and what we can all do to help. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Progress Report, Zachary and Emma dig into the rape kit backlog, the long-term effects of war, and the idea that good news often arises from the resolution of past issues. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of recognizing progress and constructive stories to foster collective well-being. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Will the U.S. no longer be an economic superpower in the future? How dangerous is TikTok for Americans? And do tariffs necessarily lead to increased domestic manufacturing? In the midst of tariffs and counter-tariffs and lots of economic uncertainty, Zachary and Emma speak with Noah Smith, economist and writer of the "Noahpinion" Substack. They discuss President Trump's economic maneuvers, our fragmented media ecosystem, and how much of a threat China really is. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Season 7! This week, Zachary Karabell and Emma Varvaloucas discuss the duality of news, focusing on the positive amidst the negative. They explore the impact of the Trump administration on American politics, the importance of understanding diverse voter perspectives, and the role of information in shaping political decisions. The conversation emphasizes the disconnect between government actions and daily life, advocating for a deeper engagement with local politics. They explore the dynamics of democracy, accountability, and the influence of the Trump administration, emphasizing the need for vigilance and active participation in governance. The discussion also touches on the global perspective of American politics, highlighting the resilience of international communities and the complexities of global interrelations. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Can you do us a favor? We're looking for your feedback on our show. If you've enjoyed listening to it, please take a moment to fill out this quick survey: theprogressnetwork.org/survey. Happy Holidays! We'll see you in the New Year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How many U.S. states have increased their minimum wage in 2024? Have greenhouse gas emissions gone down in the EU this year? Has the ozone layer begun to heal itself? Zachary and Emma wrap up 2024 by reflecting on positive developments around the world in the past year, one that many consider a year to forget. They revisit conversations with memorable guests and discuss their favorite conversations from this season, ranging from climate change to immigration to the many impacts of social media. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we're bringing you an episode from our friends at Pushkin Industries. The show is called What's Your Problem.  In this episode, host Jacob Goldstein sits down with data scientist Hannah Ritchie. Hannah is the deputy editor of Our World in Data, and the author of Not the End of the World: How We Can Be the First Generation to Build a Sustainable Planet. Hannah's problem is this: How do you use data to get past the doomsday headlines and solve big problems to achieve sustainability?  Listen to What's Your Problem wherever you're listening now and check out Our World in Data: https://ourworldindata.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's Progress Report, Emma discusses significant advancements in medical science, particularly in bone marrow transplants, highlighting a startup called Ossium that is innovating donor matching. She also covers Colombia's legislative success in banning child marriage after a long campaign, the discovery of the world's largest single piece of coral, and political changes in Gabon following a military coup, including the introduction of term limits for presidents. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do Americans overcome political polarization? Is not having a monolithic Latino or Black vote good for America? What are some benefits and drawbacks to a Trump presidency? Zachary and Emma speak with Robert Wright, author of "Why Buddhism is True” and host of the podcast and newsletter "NonZero.” They discuss Trump's possible impact and strategies, and the potential implications for U.S. relations with China and Iran. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's Progress Report, Zachary and Emma discuss various stories that highlight progress in society. They cover the cloning of the black-footed ferret as a conservation effort, innovations in breast pump technology, trends in American life expectancy, and the recent developments in sexually transmitted infections. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How can Americans interact with the opposing political party after such a divisive election? Can community building help Americans look past what is happening at the federal level? Are there groups of people that should now be looking to leave the United States? In their first conversation since the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election, Zachary and Emma speak with Ana Marie Cox, political commentator and host of her podcast, "Another Day with Ana Marie Cox." They discuss what campaign promises Trump could deliver on, how to recover from an emotionally draining election, and the power of human connection in overcoming political divides. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this Progress Report, Zachary and Emma reflect on the recent election results, discussing the implications of Donald Trump's potential second term and the broader political landscape in the U.S. They emphasize the importance of moving beyond outrage and focusing on constructive governance while acknowledging the complexities of American democracy. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why are the elderly our top candidates for a Mars mission? How bad is sexual intercourse while researchers are asking questions? What's it like to be mugged by monkeys? Zachary and Emma speak with Mary Roach, the eclectic and quirky author of several books about what she calls "curious science," including "Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers" and "Bonk: The Curious Coupling of Science and Sex." They discuss body decomposition, the psychological and physical challenges of a Mars mission, and the importance of looking at the lesser-known aspects of human science. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's Progress Report, Zachary and Emma discuss various topics including the upcoming US presidential election, concerns about political violence, historical context of such violence, recent changes in citizenship rights in Malaysia, and innovations in aviation regulations. They emphasize the importance of focusing on positive developments in the world while acknowledging the challenges and fears surrounding political dynamics. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Has western civilization fallen behind the rest of the world? Should the United States and Great Britain establish better foreign policy with the rising Global South? What can history teach us about global viewpoints? Zachary and Emma speak with Peter Frankopan, global history professor at Oxford and author of several books including his recent title, "The Earth Transformed." They discuss the worldwide effects of the United States' recent domestic focus, what to learn from India's neutral stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, how Middle Eastern nations are part of a world on the move, and if the world is heading toward a new dark age. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's Progress Report, Zachary and Emma discuss positive developments in various sectors, including election insights, advancements in mRNA vaccine technology, the environmental impact of COVID-19 on flu strains, and the discovery of lithium deposits in the U.S. They emphasize the importance of focusing on constructive news amidst a landscape often dominated by negativity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How does one define utopia? Is it a place, a plan, or a proposal? Have we come closer to utopia through progress in feminism? Zachary and Emma speak with Kristen R. Ghodsee, ethnographer, professor, and author of "Everyday Utopia: What 2,000 Years of Wild Experiments Can Teach Us About the Good Life." They discuss the history of utopian movements, the danger of fearing change, and how weirdos and dreamers help move society forward. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's Progress Report, Zachary and Emma discuss various positive developments in the world, including breakthroughs in drug development for schizophrenia and lung cancer, advancements in weather forecasting, and the importance of effective public communication during emergencies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why is there a need for optimism? Are we really worse off than we were decades and centuries ago? How could the next generation be the "greatest generation"? Zachary and Emma speak with Bill Burke, founder of the Optimism Institute and host of its Blue Sky podcast. They discuss the world's shift from utopian technology glee to dystopian AI fear, the ways that pessimism could halt progress, and how looking back through history can brighten one's outlook. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Progress Report, Zachary and Emma discuss positive news stories that highlight progress in various areas. They explore the recent stabilization of obesity rates in the US, the decline in fentanyl overdose deaths, conservation efforts for Florida manatees, and the global increase in marine protected areas as part of the UN sustainable development goals. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What is going on in the Middle East now that the conflict has expanded to include Hezbollah? How has the United States struggled to bring resolution and peace to this part of the world? And where does the region go from here? Zachary and Emma speak with Steven A. Cook, expert on U.S.-Middle East policy and Arab politics, and author of "The End of Ambition: America's Past, Present, and Future in the Middle East." They discuss politics, economics, and power across various states, not limited to Israel and Palestine but including Iran, Lebanon, Egypt, and growing Qatar, as well as Steven's recent time spent in the West Bank. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sharing an episode of To See Each Other, a show that complicates the narrative about small town Americans in our most misunderstood, and often abandoned, communities. This season, host George Goehl travels to Lincoln County, Wisconsin to follow a small town battle for the last remaining public nursing home in the community. It's a heart-pounding roller coaster of a fight - in a swing state that could determine the election. Over the course of the show, a universal truth emerges: That in every complicated set of politics, when we refuse to give up on each other, we can build a better future. You can listen to more episodes of To See Each Other at https://link.chtbl.com/toseeeachother?sid=whatcouldgoright Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's Progress Report Zachary and Emma discuss positive developments in the world amidst grim headlines. They explore innovative energy solutions in urban transit, breakthroughs in diabetes treatment using stem cells, and the latest trends in global poverty, highlighting the resilience and progress being made in various sectors. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do we know which information on social media is real? How can we overcome campaigns of disinformation and misinformation? Zachary and Emma speak with Jiore Craig, global and political media strategist. They discuss the formats that disinformation campaigns use, how they target age groups differently, and various ways for users to combat these campaigns. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's Progress Report, Zachary and Emma discuss various positive developments around the world, including economic updates on interest rates and inflation, the introduction of an at-home flu vaccine, and social changes in reproductive rights. They also touch on the significance of Jordan's achievement in eliminating leprosy, emphasizing the importance of focusing on uplifting news amidst the often negative headlines. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What are the effects of having so much technology at our fingertips? Are we connected to too much information at once? Is technology shortening our attention spans? Zachary and Emma speak with Gloria Mark, psychologist and author of "Attention Span: A Groundbreaking Way to Restore Balance, Happiness and Productivity." They discuss the decrease of attention span over the years, ways to read and listen without distraction, and the emotional residue left by social media. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's Progress Report, Zachary and Emma discuss news stories including the recognition of new species in Australia and the significant anniversary of the Violence Against Women Act. They discuss the implications of these events on society and the importance of reporting in understanding crime statistics. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are Americans really opposed to immigration? Zachary and Emma speak to author and professor Zeke Hernandez about immigration in the United States, and how it impacts the culture and economics of our society. They talk about the current legal immigration system and how the failures therein lead to illegal immigration, and discuss how public perception around immigration is distorted by politics and incentives driven by a vocal minority. They also touch on the failure of the most recent bipartisan legislation and how it targeted enforcement over reform, and also what comprehensive immigration reform might look like if the needs of the US economy shift in the future. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's Progress Report, Zachary and Emma discuss some positive news and developments happening around the world. They highlight the surprising optimism among likely voters in the US, the decrease in extreme poverty in Brazil, and the useful climate change tools provided by Google. The conversation touches on the shifting attitudes towards progress and the importance of addressing inequality. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is fundamental change possible in a polarized two-party system? Zachary and Emma speak with Forward Party Founder Andrew Yang to discuss the current state of the primary system in the United States and what positive change might look like. They talk about what ranked choice voting is, some key benefits of that system, and the hurdles it faces. They discuss the likelihood of achieving popular but challenging reforms like term limits and stock trading in Congress. The conversation also touches on the dysfunction within the current political system, the incentives that reinforce that dysfunction, and the need to reconfigure the system to reward doing the right thing so that good public servants keep their jobs. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's Progress Report covers a range of topics, including the banning of wild animals in circuses, the reduction of air pollution in China, and the ban on ghost guns in Oregon. The conversation also touches on the future of zoos and the potential for changes in gun laws. Despite the polarizing nature of the gun control debate, there seems to be a consensus on moderate measures to control guns. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we're sharing an episode of a podcast we think you'll really like – BBC's The Global Story. Indonesia is building a brand-new capital city - twice the size of New York – in the middle of a rainforest. The current capital city, Jakarta, suffers from pollution, congestion, flooding, is prone to earthquakes and is also one of the fastest sinking cities in the world. The new high-tech metropolis called Nusantara aims to be carbon-neutral and better protected from natural disasters. But the project is facing some major hurdles and has fallen well behind schedule. On this episode Caitríona Perry is joined by Astudestra Ajengrastri and Rebecca Henschke to find out if Nusantara can live up to its environmental promises and if Jakarta will still be saved from sinking beneath the ocean. Find more episodes of The Global Story at https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-global-story/id1715473158 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's Progress Report, Zachary and Emma discuss lesser-known news stories that highlight positive developments and meaningful change. They cover topics such as a gel that stops bleeding from wounds in seconds, the world's first trial for an mRNA-based vaccine against lung cancer, the elimination of maternal and neonatal tetanus in Guinea, and the stability of the Doomsday Glacier. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How has the Democrats' shift to Kamala Harris upended the election cycle? Zachary and Emma speak with Pulitzer Prize winning journalist and author Evan Osnos to discuss the current state of the Biden presidency and the rise of Kamala Harris. They look at the factors that led to Biden's decision to drop out of the presidential race and the impact of his decision on the Democratic Party. They discuss the role of social media and the potential impact of this energy on the election for both candidates. The conversation also touches on the reasons why voters in places like West Virginia have turned away from the Democratic Party and the impact of right-wing propaganda. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Where should humans draw the line with gene editing? Is CRISPR the "holy grail" of science, or is editing human DNA ethical at all? Zachary and Emma speak with Kevin Davies, executive editor of The CRISPR Journal and author of "Editing Humanity." They discuss gene editing, specifically CRISPR, and its implications for mankind's future, the successes of gene editing for agriculture and treating sickle cell disease, and Chinese biophysicist He Jiankui's unlawful meddling in the DNA of three embryos, now kids living in China with unknown health effects. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's Progress Report, Zachary and Emma discuss various news stories, highlighting both the good and bad news. They cover topics such as the development of smart insulin, Europe warming faster than the rest of the globe, human adaptation to heat, and a decrease in opioid overdose deaths in the US. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why have leading publications been obsessed with Donald Trump for so long? What's the master thesis behind political and cultural schisms in the US? And why are the nation's elite all talk and no walk about social justice? Zachary and Emma speak with Musa Al-Gharbi, sociologist and author of "We Have Never Been Woke: The Cultural Contradictions of a New Elite." They discuss The New York Times and other publications' fascination with Donald Trump as a politician over the years, the journey of "jumping class," and how Ivy League universities are schools for elites that turn away the disadvantaged. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Progress Report, Emma discusses three news stories: the pro-democracy protests in Bangladesh, the projected peak of world population, and state-level initiatives in the United States. The main themes include political unrest and democratic movements, population growth and sustainability, and state-level experimentation and regulation. The takeaways include the power of grassroots movements, the potential positive impact of declining population growth, and the importance of state-level action in shaping policy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices