Consider This from NPR

Playback uses the public episode URL (iTunes / creator feed). We do not store MP3 files.

• How will the Fed’s interest rate hike affect costs, the midterms?

  Sep 16, 2026 · 7:56

  The Federal Reserve voted to raise its benchmark interest rate for the first time in three years. That means it will cost more to borrow money - at a time when many people are feeling squeezed by high prices.  How could the Fed's decision affect people's finances and the midterms? This episode was produced by Gurjit Kaur and Karen Zamora, with audio engineering by Tiffany Vera Castro. Our director is Jonas Adams. It was edited by Rafael Nam, Kelsey Snell, Patrick Jarenwattananon and Tinbete Ermyas. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• Tech leaders are debating how risky AI is. What does Bill Gates think?

  Sep 15, 2026 · 10:53

  AI leaders are warning about the threats posed by further advances of the technology and actively asking it to be regulated. What does Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft, think about the future of AI and where it should go? This episode was produced by Connor Donevan and Erika Ryan with audio engineering by Valentina Rodríguez Sanchez. Our director is Jonas Adams. It was edited by Patrick Jarenwattananon and Tinbete Ermyas. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• Some AI leaders want more safeguards. Is there political will to make that happen?

  Sep 14, 2026 · 13:14

  In recent days, warnings and risks surrounding AI have taken an existential turn. A former Anthropic employee stated that "the people building AI earnestly believe that it could kill us all by the end of the decade." And Anthropic's CEO urged AI companies to "pace the frontier" in developing new technologies. But is there political will to make that happen? This episode was produced by Sophia Paliza-Carre and Karen Zamora, with audio engineering by Tiffany Vera Castro. Our director is Jonas Adams. It was edited by Kara Platoni, Brett Neely, Rebekah Metzler, Sarah Handel and Tinbete Ermyas. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• Tech CEO worries about AI development spur political reaction

  Sep 13, 2026 · 5:30

  Top U.S. lawmakers are calling for talks to begin on Capitol Hill about a regulatory framework for artificial intelligence, after the heads of some of the most prominent tech companies called for a slowdown of their own industry’s development of AI. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. This episode was produced by Daniel Ofman. It was edited by Brett Neely, Michael Levitt and Sarah Robbins. Our director is Jordan-Marie Smith. And our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• 25 years after the 9/11 attacks, where does the trial stand?

  Sep 11, 2026 · 10:54

  The 9/11 attacks resulted in thousands of deaths -- and US response was massive, including new wars and surveillance programs. But what about the trial? More than two decades after the attacks, it's still stuck in limbo. Why? This episode was produced by Connor Donevan, Michelle Aslam and Karen Zamora, with audio engineering by Hannah Gluvna and Eowyn Fain.  Our director is Jonas Adams. It was edited by Sarah Handel and Tinbete Ermyas. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• Are big AI companies gambling with our lives?

  Sep 10, 2026 · 9:44

  The warning in former Anthropic researcher Jacob Coxon’s resignation announcement is stark. “The people building AI earnestly believe that it could kill us all by the end of the decade,” he writes. “No other human activity poses this level of danger.” Coxon is urging Anthropic and other big artificial intelligence companies to slow their development of super intelligent agents.  He says the current race dynamic could threaten human existence. Coxon talks with NPR's Scott Detrow about why he’s worried and what he hopes will change. This episode was produced by Connor Donevan and Jeffrey Pierre, with audio engineering by Hannah Gluvna. Our director is Jonas Adams. It was edited by Patrick Jarenwattananon Tinbete Ermyas. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• After a difficult trial, how do jurors move on?

  Sep 9, 2026 · 6:52

  The Lindsay Clancy case ended in a mistrial last week. Clancy was on trial for killing her three children in 2023. Neither Clancy nor her attorneys deny that she killed her children – but they argued she was experiencing postpartum psychosis. And while the jury couldn't reach a unanimous decision on a charge, the jurors now have to live with the facts of the case and the graphic evidence they witnessed. What kind of support exists for jurors after experiencing a difficult trial? This episode was produced by Michelle Aslam and Mia Venkat.  With additional reporting in from Deborah Becker.  It was edited by Matt Ozug and Tinbete Ermyas. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• The Smithsonian's leader is stepping down. Where does the Institution go from here?

  Sep 8, 2026 · 9:20

  Lonnie G. Bunch III, secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, is stepping down from his post at the end of the year. The Smithsonian, which includes museums, libraries and a zoo, has been a frequent target of criticism by President Trump. How might the leadership change affect the revered Institution? This episode was produced by Jeff Pierre and Elena Burnett, with audio engineering by Hannah Gluvna and Damian Herring. Our director is Jonas Adams. It was edited by Matt Ozug and Tinbete Ermyas. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• As a new school year begins, how are students and parents feeling?

  Sep 7, 2026 · 9:07

  Labor Day marks the unofficial end of summer and the beginning of a new school year. Across the country, more than 54 million students have returned to the classrooms. NPR spoke with students and teachers in different parts of the country to hear how they're feeling as the school year begins. This episode features reporting by Elizabeth Miller of Oregon Public Broadcasting, Beth Wallis of KOSU, and NPR's Jonaki Mehta. VPM’s Megan Pauly also contributed reporting to this episode. This episode was produced by Lauren Migaki and Karen Zamora, with audio engineering by Ted Mebane. Our director is Marc Rivers. It was edited by Nirvi Shah, Steven Drummond and Tinbete Ermyas. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• 9/11 changed America's place in the world. What did Russia and China learn?

  Sep 6, 2026 · 12:28

  After the September 11th attacks, both Russia and China saw an opportunity to forge a closer relationship with the United States.  Then, the U.S. fought wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and weathered the financial crisis of 2008.  What did Russia and China learn about the United States along the way?  This episode was produced by Daniel Ofman and Kathryn Fink.It was edited by Janaya Williams and Sarah Robbins.Our director is Alejandra Marquez Janse.And our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• Unraveling the story about George Santos' insider trading on Kalshi

  Sep 5, 2026 · 9:26

  This week, the popular prediction market known as Kalshi banned former Congressman George Santos for life and fined him more than 70-thousand dollars — after he engaged in insider trading on the site.   That came as no shock to NPR technology correspondent Bobby Allyn. Earlier this year, Allyn broke the story that Santos was under investigation by the Justice Department for manipulating the market about whether he would or would not attend this year’s State of the Union address. For Reporter’s Notebook, Allyn talks about how he broke the story and the fallout from it. This episode was produced by Gabriel Sanchez.  Our director is Alejandra Marquez Janse. It was edited by Adam Raney. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• The Lindsay Clancy case ends in a mistrial. Where might it go from here?

  Sep 4, 2026 · 10:06

  A judge has declared a mistrial in the trial of Lindsay Clancy, who faced murder charges for killing her three children in 2023. The deliberations took nearly seven days - and revealed tension among the jury. What does the mistrial reveal about where this case may be headed? This episode was produced by Sophia Paliza-Carre and Elena Burnett, with audio engineering by Eowyn Fain.  Our director is Alejandra Marquez Janse. It was edited by Carmel Wroth, Sarah Handel and Tinbete Ermyas. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• Remembering feminist trailblazer Gloria Steinem

  Sep 3, 2026 · 9:24

  Gloria Steinem, the trailblazing journalist and women’s rights activist, has died. She was 92. Throughout her life, Steinem challenged gender stereotypes, advocated for women’s equality and founded numerous feminist organizations. What will her legacy be? This episode was produced by Elena Burnett, Lauren Hodges and Karen Zamora, with audio engineering by Éowyn Fain and Ted Mebane. Our director is Jonas Adams. It was edited by Mallory Yu and Tinbete Ermyas. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• How is the death of Pierre Damas Bel resonating with Ohio’s Haitian community?

  Sep 2, 2026 · 7:52

  On Monday, Pierre Damas Bel died. His family believes he died by suicide, motivated by the loss of his temporary protected status -- a loss that many Haitian immigrants experienced earlier this summer. As a result, President Trump’s immigration policies have become a flashpoint in Bel's death. How is it resonating with the Haitian community in Springfield, Ohio? This episode was produced by Erika Ryan and Karen Zamora, with audio engineering by Becky Brown, Éowyn Fain and Ted Mebane.  Our director is Jonas Adams. It was edited by Sarah Handel and Tinbete Ermyas. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• What do we know about the company behind President Trump’s Venezuelan oil deal?

  Sep 1, 2026 · 10:34

  President Trump has touted his agreement with Venezuela as the greatest oil deal in the world. Behind the deal is a company - and a man - who energy analysts say may not be up for the task of developing Venezuela's vast oil reserves. What more do we know about the company behind the deal? This episode was produced by Elena Burnett, Sophia Paliza-Carre and Karen Zamora, with audio engineering by Éowyn Fain and Ted Mebane. Our director is Jonas Adams. It was edited by Tara Neil, Justine Kenin, Sadie Babits and Tinbete Ermyas. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• What does the Lindsay Clancy trial tell us about treating maternal mental health?

  Aug 31, 2026 · 14:53

  Lindsay Clancy is currently on trial for killing her three children. Prosecutors say the murders were intentional, but her defense team says she was suffering from severe postpartum psychosis -- a condition that does not have a distinct diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. That's the handbook used to identify mental health conditions, so patients often have a hard time getting proper care. The case has put a spotlight on maternal mental health and how its treated by the public and healthcare professionals. What does it reveal? WBUR’s Deborah Becker contributed reporting to this episode. It was produced by Megan Lim and Karen Zamora, with audio engineering by Éowyn Fain, Hannah Gluvna and Ted Mebane. Our director is Jonas Adams. It was edited by Justine Kenin and Tinbete Ermyas. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• Will the unusual oil deal between the U.S. and Venezuela work?

  Aug 30, 2026 · 6:17

  President Trump says a new deal with Venezuela would give the U.S. control of more than 65 billion barrels of oil reserves. NPR's energy and climate correspondent Julia Simon explains the hurdles that remain before the oil can start flowing. This episode was produced by Henry Larson.  It was edited by Sarah Robbins and Catherine Laidlaw. Our director is Jason Fuller. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• President Trump is trying to change how elections are run. Where do things stand?

  Aug 28, 2026 · 8:47

  In his second term, President Trump has made moves to overhaul how key aspects of elections in the U.S. are run. This includes signing two executive orders: One is aimed at new registration requirements, the other at voting by mail. Both are being challenged in court. With midterm elections fast approaching, where do things stand? This episode was produced by Alejandra Marquez Janse, with audio engineering by Ted Mebane and Kwesi Lee.  Our director is Jonas Adams. It was edited by Kelsey Snell, Tinbete Ermyas, and Christopher Intagliata. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• As the climate changes, is the deadly flooding in Nepal a sign of things to come?

  Aug 27, 2026 · 6:00

  The flooding in Nepal has left hundreds dead and many more missing.  Many scientists believe the flooding is the result of a melting glacier. What do we know about the link between the disaster in Nepal and climate change? This episode was produced by Henry Larson, Megan Lim and Kai McNamee, with audio engineering by Tiffany Vera Castro.  Our director is Jonas Adams. It was edited by Sadie Babits, Sarah Handel and Tinbete Ermyas. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• Can a landmark settlement protect children from social media?

  Aug 26, 2026 · 10:51

  The owner of Facebook and Instagram has agreed to change the way its platforms work.  Can those changes be enforced? And are they enough to protect the mental health of young people?  Major changes are coming to the way young people experience Facebook and Instagram. They're part of a proposed landmark multi-billion dollar settlement between Meta and several states over claims its social media platforms knowingly hook young people. Meta has denied the allegations raised in the lawsuit brought by a coalition of states. This episode was produced by Kai McNamee, Marc Rivers and Karen Zamora, with audio engineering by Ted Mebane. Our director is Jonas Adams. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning, who edited this episode along with Sarah Handel, Christopher Intagliata and Diane Webber. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• Saying goodbye to Dolly Parton

  Aug 25, 2026 · 11:34

  Dolly Parton's singular performing career spanned seven decades and only grew in prominence over that time.  With that bright crystalline voice and signature twang, Parton was one of country music's most recognizable and universally adored ambassadors to broader popular culture. Parton died on Tuesday at the age of 80. This episode was produced by Erika Ryan, Matt Ozug and Karen Zamora, with audio engineering by Ted Mebane.  Our director is Jonas Adams. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning, who also edited this episode. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• The world leader saying no to President Trump

  Aug 24, 2026 · 7:11

  The United States was scheduled to impose new 50 percent tariffs on Canada, hitting about $20 billion worth of goods. But then, about a week ago, President Trump took to Truth Social to exclaim — with capital letters and exclamation points — that Canada and the U.S. had reached a trade deal. That deal, it turned out, was not final. Three days later, Canada walked away from the negotiating table. Trump then imposed the new tariffs he’d originally promised on many Canadian products. And to threaten even more tariffs on Canadian autos. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has said Canada won’t back down — and promised to match U.S. tariffs quote “dollar for dollar.”But what’s the view from inside his country, and who is going to pay the price? This episode was produced by Alejandra Marquez Janse and Karen Zamora, with audio engineering by Ted Mebane.  Our director is Jonas Adams. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning, who edited this episode along with Patrick Jarenwattananon. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• Is President Trump changing the rules-based world order?

  Aug 23, 2026 · 8:41

  For years, President Trump has been openly criticizing multilateral organizations like NATO and the United Nations. Criticisms like these were once rare from American presidents, since the US had such a prominent role in these organizations and the order they brought to global affairs. How might this shift affect how countries deal with conflict and one another? Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. This episode was produced by Christopher Harland-Dunaway.  Our director is Elena Burnett.  It was edited by Tinbete Ermyas.  Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• A veteran political reporter shares the lessons she learned hearing from swing voters

  Aug 22, 2026 · 10:17

  As a political correspondent, NPR's Ashley Lopez regularly speaks to voters about their worries, and their dreams.  But finding swing voters in swing states — the people who can decide elections — can be a difficult assignment.  For this week’s Reporter’s Notebook, Lopez talks about her larger takeaways from working on NPR’s Swing Voter Project.  This episode was produced by Kai McNamee. It was edited by Ben Swasey and Adam Raney. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• The value of community living for people with disabilities

  Aug 21, 2026 · 10:07

  Cody and Kaleigh Brendle grew up just inland of the Jersey Shore. The siblings, who both have disabilities, came of age knowing it is their right to live, learn and work in their community. Not long ago, millions of people like them could have been segregated in institutions. Then in 1999, in a case known as Olmstead, the Supreme Court ruled states must serve adults with disabilities in their communities when possible. Now, the Trump administration is trying to reverse course.  NPR’s Jonaki Mehta spent time with the Brendles, who share what it means to live as disabled people integrated in their community. This episode was produced by Janet Woojeong Lee, Erika Ryan and Karen Zamora, with audio engineering by Ted Mebane. Our director is Jonas Adams. It was edited by Steve Drummond, Nirvi Shah and Sarah Handel.  Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• The U.S. national debt is $40 trillion. Are Americans paying for it?

  Aug 20, 2026 · 8:19

  The US national debt has soared to $40 trillion - a record high. How does that figure affect the lives of everyday Americans? This episode was produced by Megan Lim, with audio engineering by Ted Mebane. Our director is Jonas Adams. It was edited by Janaya Williams and Tinbete Ermyas. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• Data shows women are leaving the workforce. What does that say about the economy?

  Aug 19, 2026 · 9:19

  For decades, one of the most reliable trends in the American economy has been the growing number of women working. But lately, government data shows women’s participation in the labor force has been falling. What's behind this trend - and what does it tell us about the state of the US economy? This episode was produced by Linah Mohammad and Karen Zamora, with audio engineering by Hannah Gluvna and Robert Rodriguez.  It was edited by Sarah Handel and Tinbete Ermyas. Our director is Alejandra Marquez Janse. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• Can the courts prove Meta got kids addicted to social media?

  Aug 18, 2026 · 9:35

  Concerns about social media have prompted a group of attorneys general to sue Meta. Could their case change the way social media is used? Meta’s lawyers are in federal court to defend against accusations from four state attorneys general that the company’s social media platforms are designed to hook children. Meta denies the allegations. We hear what happened on the first day of court. This episode was produced by Elena Burnett, Jeffrey Pierre and Karen Zamora, with audio engineering by Robert Rodriguez. Our director is Alejandra Marquez Janse. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning, who also edited this episode along with Ravenna Koenig, Kara Platoni, Diane Webber, Janaya Williams and Mallory Yu. Note: The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, a charity founded by Zuckerberg and his wife, is a financial supporter of NPR. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• The questions Jason Arday's life and death raise for academia

  Aug 17, 2026 · 9:04

  Sociology professor Jason Arday was lauded as the youngest-ever Black professor appointed at the University of Cambridge in 2023. But since landing that position, he’d been, according to his family, “subjected to a campaign of sustained abuse,” stemming from scrutiny about his work and record. Arday faced growing accusations of plagiarism and fraud, was found dead in London on August 14th, just days after he resigned from Cambridge.  His death is raising new questions about how fairly Black academics are elevated and criticized in comparison to their peers. In this episode, we explore those questions with University of Southern California Professor Shaun Harper, whose research focuses on race, gender, and equity in education and other spheres.  For sponsor-free episodes of Consider This, sign up for Consider This+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.  Email us at considerthis@npr.org.  This episode was produced by Michelle Aslam and Jeffrey Pierre, with audio engineering by Robert Rodriguez. Our director is Alejandra Marquez Janse. It was edited by Christopher Intagliata and Ashley Brown.  Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• After the fall of the Orbán regime, can Hungary mend its damaged democracy?

  Aug 16, 2026 · 9:22

  Former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán ruled Hungary with an iron fist for 16 years. After he was unseated in a landslide election last April, many Hungarians wonder if the new government led by Peter Magyar can mend the deeply damaged democracy.  This episode was produced and edited by Michael Levitt. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. For sponsor-free episodes of Consider This, sign up for Consider This+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.  Email us at considerthis@npr.org. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• President Trump is changing norms of transparency. How are lawmakers responding?

  Aug 14, 2026 · 9:38

  This week, President Trump made headlines when he confirmed he was secretly removed from Air Force One in Turkey last month, following a credible threat from Iran. The confirmation came days after The Washington Post reported on an elaborate ruse to keep the president safe. This is just one of the quiet ways the Trump admin has tried to evade scrutiny. Are lawmakers doing anything to address it? This episode was produced by Mia Venkat and Jordan-Marie Smith, with audio engineering by Damian Herring. Our director is Jonas Adams. It was edited by Kelsey Snell, Sarah Handel and Tinbete Ermyas. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• Reported conditions on the USS Abraham Lincoln are concerning. What can lawmakers do?

  Aug 13, 2026 · 9:49

  This week, news broke that conditions aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln have deteriorated. MS Now and other outlets have reported that service members have jumped overboard. NPR has not independently verified this reporting.  Congressional lawmakers are demanding answers about conditions on the naval carrier, but is there more they can do? This episode was produced by Lauren Hodges, with audio engineering by Ted Mebane.  It was edited by Andrew Sussman and Tinbete Ermyas. Our director is Jonas Adams.  Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• Democrats want to take back Congress. Did Tuesday’s primaries reveal a path forward?

  Aug 12, 2026 · 8:11

  Voters in half a dozen states went to the polls on Tuesday. For Democrats – who hope to win back Congress in the fall – it was a night of mixed messages about which direction the party should embrace. Did Tuesday's results hint at which path the Democrats may take? This episode was produced by Linah Mohammad and Kathryn Fink, with audio engineering by Ted Mebane.  It was edited by Patrick Jarenwattananon and Tinbete Ermyas. Our director is Jonas Adams. And our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• The elaborate ruse used to conceal Trump's whereabouts

  Aug 11, 2026 · 9:53

  The scene of President Trump boarding Air Force One after last month’s NATO summit in Turkey is one that TV cameras and photographers have captured countless times.  What happened in the moments after that was far from routine, according to exclusive reporting from the Washington Post. The Post reports that Trump was shuttled in an airport catering truck to a smaller military plane in which he then secretly departed, even as the White House announced he was flying aboard Air Force One. The operation was prompted by an Iranian assassination threat, a U.S. official familiar with the operation told the Post. We should note that NPR has not independently confirmed this reporting. New information about how the White House handled the president’s security is raising questions about safety and transparency. This episode was produced by Elena Burnett and Karen Zamora, with audio engineering by Tiffany Vera Castro and Ted Mebane. Our director is Kai McNamee. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning who also edited today’s episode along with Janaya Williams. For tickets to a live taping of Sources & Methods, NPR’s national security podcast, visit this link: npr.org/sourcesliveshow. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• Peeling paint, the reflecting pool and the case Trump can't let go

  Aug 10, 2026 · 8:27

  President Trump's Department of Justice walked away from the case against David “Davey” Hearn. Prosecutors charged Hearn with vandalism in relation to peeling paint in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. The charges have since been dismissed. But President Trump can't let the case go . Trump continues to insist it was so-called vandalism that led to peeling paint and blooming algae on the National Mall reflecting pool – not a botched repair project as prosecutors ultimately concluded. What's it like to have the President beat the drum for your arrest? This episode was produced by Jason Fuller and Linah Mohammad, with audio engineering by Ted Mebane. Our director is Kai McNamee. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning who also edited today’s episode along with Patrick Jarenwattanon. For tickets to a live taping of Sources & Methods, NPR’s national security podcast, visit this link on or after Tuesday, August 11: npr.org/sourcesliveshow Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• How Iran's 'Axis of Resistance' reshaped war in the Middle East

  Aug 9, 2026 · 9:23

  Part of what has made Iran so effective in the war with the U.S. is its vast network of allies in the region. Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen, and Iran-backed Iraqi militias are often referred to as the “Axis of Resistance.” Peter Salisbury, a professor at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs, explains the Axis of Resistance and how it’s shaping the war. This episode was produced by Henry Larson and Daniel Ofman It was edited by Sarah Robbins and Michael Levitt. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. For sponsor-free episodes of Consider This, sign up for Consider This+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.  Email us at considerthis@npr.org. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• Evidence-based reporting can be a parent's best friend

  Aug 8, 2026 · 9:54

  Information around children's health is more accessible than ever. It's also never been more difficult to navigate that information. NPR's Maria Godoy talks about how her evidence-based reporting aims to help parents make decisions and find practical strategies - without feeling overwhelmed by today's often confusing headlines.  This episode was produced by Linah Mohammad and Vincent Acovino. It was edited by Jeanette Woods. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. For sponsor-free episodes of Consider This, sign up for Consider This+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.  Email us at considerthis@npr.org. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• How is settler violence shaping life in the Israeli-occupied West Bank?

  Aug 7, 2026 · 9:33

  President Trump and his Board of Peace are working to find a diplomatic end to the war between Israel and Hamas. But as they work towards an agreement, incidents of settler violence are increasing in the other Israeli-occupied territory, the West Bank NPR visited the region to learn how that violence is shaping daily life there. This episode was produced by Nuha Musleh, Christine Arrasmith and Karen Zamora, with audio engineering by Peter Elena, Becky Brown and Ted Mebane. It was edited by James Hider and Tinbete Ermyas. Our director is Elena Moore. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• Why do so many doctors and nurses avoid treating patients with addiction?

  Aug 6, 2026 · 9:46

  In the US, about a quarter of a million people die each year from alcohol and drug-related illness, despite proven medical treatments for addiction.  So why aren’t doctors prescribing them more? This episode was produced by Liz Baker and Kathryn Fink, with audio engineering by Ted Mebane.  It was edited by Maureen Pao and Tinbete Ermyas. Our director is Elena Moore, and our executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• What do Tuesday’s primaries signal about where the Democratic Party is headed?

  Aug 5, 2026 · 7:52

  Tuesday's Democratic primaries were a success for both the establishment and progressive wings of the party. These results are fueling a tug-of-war between two sides -- over who gets to control the party's message and priorities ahead of the midterm elections. What do Tuesday's primaries signal about where the Democratic party is headed? This episode was produced by Michelle Aslam and Karen Zamora, with audio engineering by Tiffany Vera Castro and Becky Brown. It was edited by Mallory Yu and Tinbete Ermyas. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• What are the implications of a shrinking supply of U.S. missiles?

  Aug 4, 2026 · 10:52

  After months of war with Iran, the United States is facing a new challenge: stockpiles of some precision missiles are almost depleted, NPR has learned from a U.S. official who is not authorized to speak publicly on the matter. In this episode, we hear more about the implications of this weapons shortage – which one official says could make the U.S. more vulnerable in other parts of the world – and how these weapons differ from the U.S. supply of offensive weapons. For sponsor-free episodes of Consider This, sign up for Consider This+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.  Email us at considerthis@npr.org.  This episode was produced by Kathryn Fink, Elena Burnett and Karen Zamora, with audio engineering by Ted Mebane and Zo van Ginhoven. Our director is Jonas Adams. It was edited by Andrew Sussman, Patrick Jarenwattananon and Ashley Brown.  Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• Can AI can help job-seekers facing one of the hardest obstacles?

  Aug 3, 2026 · 7:28

  While there’s a lot of fear right now about AI taking people’s jobs, AI could actually help people get jobs – including those with some of the most significant barriers to employment. Tens of millions of Americans have some kind of criminal history. And helping those with low-level crimes and non-convictions on their records used to be a painstakingly slow and expensive process.  In this episode, we explore how a new AI-powered app could provide a new path to employment for job-seekers who face some of the toughest hurdles in the market. For sponsor-free episodes of Consider This, sign up for Consider This+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.  Email us at considerthis@npr.org.  This episode was produced by Megan Lim and Jason Fuller, with audio engineering by Zo Van Ginhoven and Ted Mebane.  It was edited by Emily Kopp and Ashley Brown.  Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• Much of the western US is facing a drought. What’s the best way to deal with it?

  Aug 2, 2026 · 8:40

  Across the western US, many states are dealing with extreme heat and drought-like conditions. In times like these, water — and access to it — becomes a contentious issue. A new plan put forth by the federal government aims to allocate water from the Colorado River between states and Native American tribes. What's in the plan - and will it work? This episode was produced by Daniel Ofman, with audio engineering by Becky Brown. Our director is Marc Rivers. It was edited by Michael Levitt and Tinbete Ermyas. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning.  Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• When it comes to climate change, is there a point when adaptation isn't enough?

  Jul 31, 2026 · 7:46

  Wildfires are raging across large swaths of Europe, prompting hundreds of thousands of people to flee their homes. The fires are the latest weather event on a continent that has experienced a lot of heat this summer, which scientists say has created conditions that make wildfires more likely. But at what point is it too late to adapt to a changing climate?  For sponsor-free episodes of Consider This, sign up for Consider This+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.  Email us at considerthis@npr.org. This episode was produced by Michelle Aslam and Karen Zamora, with audio engineering by Ted Mebane. Our director is Jonas Adams. It was edited by Mallory Yu and Tinbete Ermyas. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• 98 teens got together to craft an AI bill. Here’s what happened.

  Jul 30, 2026 · 9:10

  98 high school students from across the country gathered in a mock student senate.  The goal was to come up with a bill that would guide schools on how to deal with the chaos created by AI. NPR's Cory Turner attended to see how things developed. For sponsor-free episodes of Consider This, sign up for Consider This+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.  Email us at considerthis@npr.org. This episode was produced by Lauren Migaki, Linah Mohammad, and Vincent Acovino, with audio engineering by Ted Mebane.  Our director is Jonas Adams. It was edited by Nirvi Shah and Tinbete Ermyas. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show's perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• What does the recent Hugging Face hacking incident teach us about the future of AI?

  Jul 29, 2026 · 7:44

  It’s a science fiction nightmare: What happens if the machines take over? The world got a potential taste of that last week, when OpenAI, the maker of ChatGPT, said two of its models had autonomously hacked into another AI company. OpenAI says its technology carried out the attack during a cybersecurity test. The incident has highlighted fears that losing control of AI could pose broader safety concerns for the real world.  For sponsor-free episodes of Consider This, sign up for Consider This+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.  Email us at considerthis@npr.org. This episode was produced by Elena Burnett and Kathryn Fink, with audio engineering by Ted Mebane. Our director is Jonas Adams. It was edited by Mallory Yu and Tinbete Ermyas. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• The anti-crime push in Memphis is also an immigration operation

  Jul 28, 2026 · 9:07

  When President Trump announced the creation of a federal task force to fight violent crime in Memphis, Tenn., and called for the deployment of the Tennessee National Guard, officials did not say immigration enforcement was a goal. Yet the influx of federal agents into Memphis has led to widespread immigration arrests – most involving people without criminal convictions. It has created constant fear within the immigrant community in Memphis. NPR’s Kat Lonsdorf reports. For sponsor-free episodes of Consider This, sign up for Consider This+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.  Email us at considerthis@npr.org. This episode was produced by Kai McNamee and Alejandra Marquez Janse. Our director is Jonas Adams. It was edited by Alina Hartounian and Patrick Jarenwattananon. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• What happens when AI chatbots handle a mental health crisis?

  Jul 27, 2026 · 15:31

  Artificial intelligence is transforming how we gather information and communicate with one another. It’s also changing how some people seek out mental health care.  But what happens when this sophisticated technology is used to deal with serious mental health issues? For sponsor-free episodes of Consider This, sign up for Consider This+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.  Email us at considerthis@npr.org. This episode was produced by Jason Fuller, with audio engineering by Ted Mebane and Valentina Rodriguez Sanchez. Our director is Jonas Adams. It was edited by Diane Webber and Tinbete Ermyas. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• Presidents Trump and Zeleneskyy meet this week. What’s their relationship like?

  Jul 26, 2026 · 7:38

  Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to meet with President Donald Trump on Tuesday. His visit comes amid a tumultuous time in Ukraine, where protests took place as a result of Zelenskyy firing a popular defense minister. As the two leaders prepare to meet, what's their relationship like - and how might it shape the war in Ukraine? For sponsor-free episodes of Consider This, sign up for Consider This+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.  Email us at considerthis@npr.org. This episode was produced by Daniel Ofman. It was edited by Tinbete Ermyas. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

• The unexpected cost of tariffs for some small business owners

  Jul 25, 2026 · 9:39

  When President Trump invokes tariffs - he promises they’ll benefit Americans. But the experience of some small business owners tells a different story.  For this week's Reporter's Notebook, Host Debbie Elliott speaks with NPR Business Correspondent Alina Selyukh about what she learned about the unexpected costs small businesses are shouldering. For sponsor-free episodes of Consider This, sign up for Consider This+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.  Email us at considerthis@npr.org. This episode was produced by Gabriel Sanchez. Our director is Erika Ryan. It was edited by Emily Kopp and Adam Raney. Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy