Foreign aid accounts for 1% of the U.S. federal budget.

These funds are used to fight famine and disease worldwide. This week, the Senate will debate cutting $7.9 billion earmarked for these efforts.

In July, the Humanitarian Research Lab at Yale had federal funds rescinded. They are currently operating by with the help of individual donors.

Today, we get an update on humanitarian crises and international conflicts around the globe. We'll also discuss the future of humanitarian aid in the United States and abroad.

GUESTS:

• Lila Hassan: Independent Investigative Journalist
• Nathaniel Raymond: Executive Director of the Humanitarian Research Lab at the Yale School of Public Health
• Provash Budden: Deputy Senior Vice President of Emergency Programs at Americares

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Farmers in Connecticut and beyond are being impacted by federal funding cuts. In May, the USDA made cuts to programs that help fund farms and food banks.

More recently, the USDA recently cut DEI programming. This included programs on urban forestry, equitable land access and environmental justice. But we could see increased spending for other farm programs in the “Big Beautiful Bill.”

Today, we speak to those working in the agricultural industry around our state. Last week, Governor Ned Lamont signed the CT Farm Bill. We’ll talk about what that means for farmers.

GUESTS:

• Bryan Hurlburt: Connecticut Department of Agriculture Commissioner
• Bonnie Burr: Department Head and Assistant Director of the Extension at the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources at the University of Connecticut
• Juan Pablo Yepes Tobón: Windham Community Food Network Coordinator
• Freedom Gerardo: Founder/Co-Owner of the Seamarron Farmstead, LLC

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Shakespeare’s plays have been performed for over 400 years, but artists are still finding bold new ways to bring them to life.

This hour, we’re joined by creatives behind two inventive productions hitting Connecticut stages this summer: one blends breakdancing with Hamlet, the other infuses A Midsummer Night’s Dream with the vibrant energy of Bollywood.

We explore why these centuries-old stories continue to resonate, and how modern reinterpretations keep them relevant.

GUESTS:

• Nina Pinchin: Director of Breakdancing Shakespeare, The Hartford Stage
• Brandon Couloute: Choreographer of Breakdancing Shakespeare, The Hartford Stage
• Rebecca Goodheart: Producing Artistic Director, Elm Shakespeare Company
• Deshik Vansadia: artistic director, The Shakespeare Co. of India

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