Tom Plate

Episode 27

May 29, 2020

Tom Plate

U.S. relations with China — from the COVID-19 crisis to democracy protests in Hong Kong — may shape the November 2020 presidential election. Tom Plate, LMU professor and Asia expert, talks about foreign policy disputes and pragmatism in dealing with a superpower.

Off Press Podcasts

View all podcasts
Episode 62 • July 14, 2026

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.

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.

Episode 60 • March 4, 2026

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.