Episode 61
June 12, 2026
Allan Deck, S.J. on Pope Leo’s A.I. Encyclical
Pope Leo, in his encyclical about artificial intelligence, says advancing technology must serve people, not profit. Allan Deck, S.J., LMU professor of theology, explains that Leo’s message about A.I. is rooted in concern for human dignity, the value of work, and the common good.
Off Press Podcasts
Shirin Mollah on Mega Sports Events
Mega sports events promise huge revenue boosts to their host cities. Los Angeles has held eight 2026 World Cup matches and will host the 2027 Super Bowl and the 2028 Summer Olympic Games. Economist Shirin Mollah discusses whether revenue from these events beats costs when it comes to L.A.’s bottom line.
Edel Rodriguez on Art and Politics
Artist and illustrator Edel Rodriguez, who began drawing as a child, came to America from Cuba in the 1980 Mariel boatlift. Today, his political illustrations appear on magazine covers around the world. He discusses art, censorship, and freedom of expression at the intersection of politics and visual media.
Dana Gioia on Poetry and His L.A. Roots
Poet Dana Gioia, former chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts, talks about his L.A. roots and his Catholicism, and he reads two poems from his latest collection, “Meet Me at the Lighthouse.”