Amherst College’s Ilan Stavans on what independence means in America in 2025. Plus, his thoughts on the chilling effect ICE raids are having on immigrant communities in New England.

Brian McGrory, Boston University head and former Boston Globe editor, gives his take on the indefinite suspension of Jimmy Kimmel and larger attacks on free speech, plus the Pentagon’s new media restrictions. 

Axios business editor Dan Primack on the AI race with China, the latest on TikTok’s sale, and why the Fed’s interest rate reduction might not be enough to stop a recession. 

The Revs, Irene Monroe and Emmett G. Price III, on how Charlie Kirk’s death and evangelical roots are being received by Black Christians. 

Then, we open the phones lines to hear how listeners are embracing the season of flannel, pumpkin spice everything and cozy sweaters.