Boston Public Radio

As the longest government shutdown in U.S. history enters its fifth week, the future of federal food assistance remains uncertain.

Rev. Irene Monroe said the film, which is about the relationship between a black pianist and his white driver and bodyguard, is overly reliant on the trope of the "white hero."

Poet Richard Blanco highlighted his favorite works by poet Ada Limón, which are united by a common theme of searching for meaning in "seeming oblivion."

Healey said she is “actively reviewing” the existing policies and procedures that surround the reporting of cases of sexual misconduct.

After Barack Obama left Office, Pete Souza made sure he still remained a part of the national dialogue.

Richard Blanco, the nation's fifth inaugural poet, shared poems that seize on the changing of the seasons as an opportunity to reflect on death, rebirth, and the passage of time.

Today:GroundTruth Project founder Charlie Sennott discusses new developments in the Middle East and Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announcing he will resign.And, NPR TV critic Eric Deggans recaps the Golden Globes, and his favorite shows of last year.

We reflect on the four years since a violent mob attacked the Capitol on January 6, 2021.BU journalism department chair Brian McGrory discusses the flurry of legislation sent to Gov. Healey at the end of the 2024 session, and another exit from a Washington Post editorial staffer after a Jeff Bezos cartoon was killed.GroundTruth Project's Charlie Sennott discusses Israel's continued attacks on Gaza with no ceasefire, as a deadline looms for Israel/Hezbollah's own ceasefire. NPR TV critic Eric Deggans discusses his best shows of 2024 — Shogun, Shrinking, Fight Night — and last night's Golden Globe Awards.It's our first day streaming on YouTube. We ask listeners to text in with their thoughts on which side of the studio is messier --- Jim, or Margery's?The Reverends Irene Monroe and Emmett G. Price III discuss whether Democrats should re-embrace religion and the struggle of politically diverse congregations.Then we talk about RFK Jr.'s war against seed oils in ultra-processed foods. Could beef tallow be a good alternative?

Today:Trust in judicial institutions is historically low. We talk with Communities For Restorative Justice executive director Erin Freeborn, and retired federal judge Nancy Gertner about the impact of restorative justice efforts.Then, Cambridge’s beloved tiny bar & music venue “Toad” is coming back, while Christopher’s next door becomes McCarthy’s. We talk with the McCarthys themselves and hear from their family band for Live Music Friday.

Tommy McCarthy & Co. performed for Live Music FridayNancy Gertner & Erin Freeborn joined to talk about the work of Communities for Restorative Justice, a nonprofit that offers an alternative to the prison system that involves heavy dialogue and punishments decided to by victims rather than judges & juries.Sue O’Connell on Trump’s bid to save TikTok, dry January, and the siri lawsuit.Odie Henderson on his favorite (and least favorite) movies of 2024.

Today:We bring you Jim and Margery's 2014 conversation with a 90-year-old Jimmy Carter, about his book "A Call to Action: Women, Religion, Violence and Power."And, one of Carter's former aides Margaret McKenna reflects on his legacy.