Connections Podcast

What do you know about the New York Health Act? We talk about the bill that could bring single-payer healthcare to New York State. Our guests discuss both sides of the issue: Dr. Rae-Ellen Kavey, M.D., retired pediatric cardiologist Kristi Reisch, parent of a child with a medical condition Bill Hammond , director of health policy at the Empire Center Lev Ginsburg , director of government affairs for the Business Council of New York State, and father of two

Apple is responding to pressure from stakeholders to provide features on its devices that will allow parents to monitor and limit screen time for their children. In response, Apple announced a new app called Screen Time. This hour, we discuss screen time recommendations for children and teens, and the role that both technology companies and healthcare providers have in working with parents to address issues regarding devices and internet use. Our guests: Dr. Elizabeth Murray , M.D., assistant

Last month, while on a tour for prospective students at Colorado State University, a woman called police, saying she was concerned that two young men in the group were not meant to be part of the tour. She said they stood out and were wearing clothing with "weird symbolism." The two young men are Native American and had driven seven hours from New Mexico to take part in the tour. Police patted them down and eventually allowed them to rejoin the tour, but by that time, the group was long gone.

Weekend Connections is a collection of some of the most noteworthy moments from the week on Connections with Evan Dawson. This episode includes conversations about: The debate over trigger warnings; The corrosive power of hate, with Holocaust survivor Helen Levinson; The power of music on memory for people living with dementia; Politics, comedy, and more, with John Cleese.

We hear the story of a local Holocaust survivor. Helen Levinson was born in Poland and was sent to a concentration camp during the war. She escaped with the help of a Nazi guard, but lost her parents and siblings. Her remarkable story is part of a new play called "Survivors" at the Jewish Community Center. We hear Levinson's story in her own words. Our guests: Helen Levinson , Holocaust survivor Alexa Scott-Flaherty, actor who portrays Helen in the play, “Survivors” Freyda Schneider, co-producer

The Democrat and Chronicle is launching a new project aiming at the inequity in our public school system. What have they found, and what might change it? Our guests discuss those questions and more: Julie Philipp , senior engagement editor for the Democrat and Chronicle Justin Murphy , education reporter for the Democrat and Chronicle

Two British newspapers expressed their shock over “thin-skinned, liberal foot-stomping millennials” sympathizing with the monster in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. The newspapers say these “snowflakes” claiming the monster was a misunderstood victim shows how idealistic today’s students can be. It’s just one example in a list of classic works that the newspapers say millennials are misinterpreting. The other titles include “Animal Farm,” “Lolita,” “Lord of the Flies,” and more. What do you think?

The story of a Rochester police officer advising a man to break into the home of his estranged girlfriend has raised a number of questions about women’s safety, gun rights, and allegations of domestic violence. The boyfriend showed up at his ex-girlfriend’s house, looking for some of his possessions. When she refused to let him in and the police arrived, an officer told the boyfriend that if he had lived there – which he had – it was his legal right to break in. That’s when the girlfriend

We're joined by legendary actor, writer, and comedian John Cleese. He'll be in Rochester next month for a screening of "Monty Python and the Holy Grail" at the Kodak Theatre. Cleese joins us to discuss his career and the impact Monty Python has had on the development of modern comedy. We also discuss the role of comedy and satire in today's political climate. Our guests: John Cleese Chris Thompson , comedian, engineer, and activist Allison Roberts , founder of Estrofest comedy troupe and co

An expert in Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia says there are a number of misconceptions about the conditions, and he wants families to understand that people can live well with those diagnoses. One method proven to be effective in engaging people with dementia is personalized music. It's the subject of a remarkable documentary called "Alive Inside," part of the Reel Mind Theatre and Film Series . The film follows a social worker who brings iPods to people living with dementia at nursing