STORY IN THE PUBLIC SQUARE
Program Rights Date Range
-
NOLA Code:
SPSQ 1700 H1
Number of Episodes/Length:
24 / 30
Genre:
Collections:
Rights End:
7/5/2029
Producer
Pell Center for International Relations & Public Policy
Presenter
Ocean State Media
Year Produced:
2026
Version:
Base
The series brings audiences to the intersection of storytelling and public affairs. Hosted by Jim Ludes, each episode offers a spirited but respectful dialogue. Often funny, always provocative, conversations moves beyond traditional public affairs programming to consider the impact of narrative and storytelling on public life, today.
Episode List
#1701 Jamie Metzl
Scholars of religion and philosophy, and even some spiritual leaders, have long identified key similarities in the world’s different moral codes. Author and futurist Jamie Metzl asks whether artificial intelligence can distill a compelling moral code that synthesizes the greatest thinking from across humanity.
#1702 Jeffrey Rosen
Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton stand astride the core debates in American history from neutrality to civil rights and beyond. New York Times bestselling author and constitutional scholar Jeffrey Rosen traces that history, the rise and falls of each man’s reputation, and the enduring questions they asked about power, the citizen, and the American state.
#1703 Michael Shermer
Whether it’s the existence of God, UFOs, or the nature of consciousness, we all grapple with mysteries of the universe. Where some find answers in religious faith, New York Times bestselling science writer Michael Shermer challenges people to demand answers rooted in science and skepticism.
#1704 Farnaz Fassihi
The United States and Israel began bombing Iran in February 2026. In the months that followed, we have seen spasms of violence and claims of diplomatic progress. New York Times reporter Farnaz Fassihi covers the conflict, its impact on the Iranian people, and the diplomatic efforts to end it.
Additional episode descriptions, tba
Scholars of religion and philosophy, and even some spiritual leaders, have long identified key similarities in the world’s different moral codes. Author and futurist Jamie Metzl asks whether artificial intelligence can distill a compelling moral code that synthesizes the greatest thinking from across humanity.
#1702 Jeffrey Rosen
Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton stand astride the core debates in American history from neutrality to civil rights and beyond. New York Times bestselling author and constitutional scholar Jeffrey Rosen traces that history, the rise and falls of each man’s reputation, and the enduring questions they asked about power, the citizen, and the American state.
#1703 Michael Shermer
Whether it’s the existence of God, UFOs, or the nature of consciousness, we all grapple with mysteries of the universe. Where some find answers in religious faith, New York Times bestselling science writer Michael Shermer challenges people to demand answers rooted in science and skepticism.
#1704 Farnaz Fassihi
The United States and Israel began bombing Iran in February 2026. In the months that followed, we have seen spasms of violence and claims of diplomatic progress. New York Times reporter Farnaz Fassihi covers the conflict, its impact on the Iranian people, and the diplomatic efforts to end it.
Additional episode descriptions, tba
Program Rights
Broadcast Rights:
Unlimited
Rights Dates:
7/6/2026 - 7/5/2029
School Rights:
1 year
V.O.D. Rights:
Yes
V.O.D. Rights Type:
Concurrent w/ Broadcast Rights via Media Manager
V.O.D Other:
-
Linear Live Streaming:
Yes
Non-Commercial Cable Rights:
Yes
Program Contacts
Contact Type
Viewer
James Ludes
United States
Contact Type
Station Relations
Underwriters
Self-funded