Maine Calling

This is a rebroadcast of an earlier show (original air date July 29, 2020); no calls will be taken. This show is part of our ongoing coverage of topics relating to Maine's bicentennial, and is the fourth in our series on the history of Maine. The years from World War I through World War II led to lasting changes in Maine. We'll learn about how the efforts of those on the homefront altered Maine's landscape and industries. We'll also talk about notable Maine leaders of that era, and what impacts

This show is a rebroadcast of an earlier program (original air date June 15, 2020); no calls will be taken . We talk with author and journalist Colin Woodard about his new book, "Union: The Struggle to Forge the Story of United States Nationhood." "Union" is a historical study of how a myth of national unity was created and fought over in the 19th century. This included the idea that the United States' national identity was an Anglo-Saxon one, which laid the foundation for the white nationalist

During these extraordinary times, many of us are trying to capture what we are feeling and witnessing by writing down memories, events, thoughts. Three acclaimed Maine writers join us to share their thoughts on writing personal stories. They’ll also discuss Hall’s highly anticipated new novel, "Beneficence," the re-release of Wood’s novel "Ernie’s Ark," and the re-release of Morgan’s "Undecided: Navigating Life and Learning After High School." We’ll also talk with Kerri Arsenault, the author of

Two experts join us to discuss the latest medical news about COVID-19: new information about transmission of the virus; evidence of chronic symptoms; effects on children; new treatments and therapies; testing for the virus and its antibodies; the prospects for a vaccine and how that will impact the pandemic.

Last year, Maine's lobster fishery brought in almost $500 million to the state, and even more when you count the economic benefits to dealers, processors and restaurants. Now, with the pandemic hindering the market for lobsters locally and around the world, this signature industry has been impacted severely. We will talk about how the industry is facing challenges, and what efforts are underway to find new ways to market lobsters and connect with consumers.

The solvency of social security is certain to be a major topic in the up coming election. We’ll discuss how and why social security was implemented 85 years ago (When FDR signed legislation enacting Social Security, on 8/14/1935, he said, “We have tried to frame a law which will give some measure of protection to the average citizen and to his family against the loss of a job and against poverty-ridden old age.”) We’ll learn how the social welfare program is funded, and how the recession

Kurt Andersen is an author, editor, commentator, and was host and co-creator of the public radio program Studio 360 . He joins us to discuss his new book (published 8/11), Evil Geniuses: The Unmaking of America - A Recent History. The book examines how the American economy has gone from the rise of the middle class earlier in the 20th century, to a troubling turn where big business and the wealthy began to undo the earlier progress, leading to what remains an unfair economic and social system

In the wake of protests over racial injustice, many are left wondering: What's next? We'll discuss what ways people can continue to engage with the ongoing fight against systemic racism, and what actions lead to more meaningful outcomes in the long run.

Governor Janet Mills addresses the pressing issues facing the state during the pandemic. We'll discuss the controversies over how to continue to reopen the economy, how to start the school year, and how to enforce Covid-19 safety guidelines statewide. We will also find out what financial support the state is offering those suffering from the pandemic, and how Maine is paying for these funds. Maine CDC director Nirav Shah also join us for a few minutes for an update on the ongoing work to stem

In recent years, Maine has attracted a gradual influx of people from other states, mostly moving here for the quality of life. For the sake of the state's economic health, there have been concerted efforts to attract more people--especially younger people--to live and work here. Now, with the Covid pandemic forcing people to work from home, many have discovered the appeal of living in Maine and working remotely. We'll hear about the benefits and the challenges posed by this trend, and talk to