Today on Boston Public Radio:

– New York Times bestselling author Larry Tye discussed his new biography on Sen. Joseph McCarthy, “Demagogue: The Life and Long Shadow of Senator Joe McCarthy.”

– We opened lines to talk with listeners about the legacy of Joe McCarthy, and America’s love affair with bullies.

– CNN analyst Juliette Kayyem discussed Tuesday's massive explosion in Beirut, and talked about a shift in tone from some GOP governors on coronavirus safety.

– Medical ethicist Art Caplan discussed an ethical quandary at Brigham and Women’s hospital over testing of Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine, and the dangers of fraudulent coronavirus cures that are floating around the internet.

– Jane Oates, president of the nonprofit WorkingNation, defended the country's $600-a-week unemployment benefits, and addressed critiques of the program from some congressional Republicans.

– We opened lines to talk with parents about your experiences juggling work from home while caring for the kids.

– NBC Sports Boston reporter and anchor Trenni Kusnierek discussed layoffs at her own station, and broke down the latest updates on the return of sports.