News in Providence
The American Library Association has released its list of the most challenged books of 2025
The ALA says 4,235 titles were challenged at libraries across the country – the second-highest year on record. Forty percent of the challenged works involved LGBTQ+ subjects or the experiences of people of color.
Interview: Beck returns, rides lonesome on new song
We talk with Beck about his gauzy new song, what he’s been up to since releasing his last album seven years ago, and what he (maybe?) has planned for the coming year. Support the show with a review on Apple , Spotify , or wherever you listen to podcasts. And tell a friend!…
Peace talks in doubt as U.S. seizes Iranian ship
President Trump said a U.S. delegation will head to Pakistan to resume talks to end the war with Iran, but Tehran expressed reluctance after the U.S. seized one of its cargo ships in the Strait of Hormuz.
A mine despoiled the beauty of the rainforest. This Goldman Prize winner took action
"We women are the land guardians and keepers," says Theonila Roka Matbob of Papua New Guinea, recognized for her efforts to repair the environmental and social harms caused by a copper and gold mine.
Spanish speakers learn strategies to pass English-only driving test in Florida
A new English-only driving test rule in Florida is fueling a surge in strategy lessons for Spanish speakers where they learn to figure out the questions without having to take English language courses.
Got wearable data? Your doctor can help you connect the dots
The American Academy of Neurology issued guidance on using wearable data devices, like smart watches or Oura rings, to track key health metrics that can help flag serious conditions.
Voters say they feel confused and misled on Virginia’s redistricting vote
Contradictory election mailers, conflicting TV ads and vague wording on the ballot have Virginia voters saying that the campaigns on either side of the redistricting vote are muddying the waters.
Who owns presidential records? Trump’s Justice Department says it’s him
The Trump administration asserts a nearly 50-year-old law requiring the preservation of presidential records is unconstitutional. Historians warn important papers could be destroyed.
Data center disputes have been local. But the midterms might change that
Anger over the data center boom has spilled into politics with voters unseating local politicians who support them. It's become an issue hard to ignore in the midterm elections.
The strange politics of Pilates
Pilates is great. Why are people being weird about it? Pilates is an exercise that has been around for a long time – around a hundred years – but it’s just now coming into vogue in a big way. According to the Sports and Fitness Industry Association report from 2025, Pilates is…
Is anyone gonna do anything about these Iran War trades?
Traders have made millions betting on the Iran War. They are also suspiciously timed. No public information, then boom: a Truth Social post from President Trump. Cue fat windfalls for the traders. It’s starting to look a lot like insider trading. On today’s show, suspicious bets…
U.K police investigating if attacks in London are the work of Iranian proxies
U.K. police said Sunday they are investigating whether a string of arson attacks on Jewish sites in London are the work of Iranian proxies, the latest of which caused minor damage on Saturday night.