Youth Are Using Chatbots as Therapists. What Are the Risks?
Policy Minded
Young people are increasingly turning to AI for mental health support—even in moments of crisis. Ryan McBain discusses this trend, the risks it poses, and how AI tools could be made safer for those seeking help.
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Breaking Down the Federal Budget: New Tools from RAND
Policy Minded
What if you knew the economic effects of every line in the federal budget? The RAND Budget Model is making this possible, using AI to break down spending and tax policy. Economist Jeffrey Wenger explains how the Budget Model works, how it can be used, and why it matters to all Americans.
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The Future of China's Military
Policy Minded
China is working to modernize its military. At the same time, the Chinese population is aging rapidly and declining. What happens when China’s military aspirations collide with these two trends?
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Supporting America's Veterans: A Conversation with Carrie Farmer
Policy Minded
In this Veterans Day episode, RAND's Carrie Farmer discusses some of the key issues facing those who served—from finding civilian jobs to accessing high‑quality health care. Farmer breaks down what's working, what's not, and the policy changes that could make a meaningful difference.
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Critical Condition: How to Save the ER
Policy Minded
Long waits, sicker patients, shrinking payments—America's emergency departments are under strain. And without policy action, many could close their doors. Mahshid Abir, a RAND policy researcher and a practicing emergency physician, discusses what’s driving this crisis and what it will take to sustain emergency care in the United States.
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42% of Americans Know Someone Who Died of Overdose
Policy Minded
Overdose remains the leading cause of death for Americans ages 18 to 44. RAND research shows the staggering reach of this crisis: More than 40 percent of Americans know someone who has died of a drug overdose. RAND's Alison Athey shares what's behind the numbers.
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Is Taiwan Prepared for an Attack by China?
Policy Minded
Is Taiwan prepared for a blockade, missile strikes, or even an invasion by China? The answer goes beyond military strength—civilian resilience is a crucial part of Taiwan’s national security. RAND’s Marta Kepe and Scott Harold break down the strengths and weaknesses of Taiwan’s civilian resilience efforts, highlighting the public’s role in preparing for and defending against aggression by China.
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Improving School Safety: What the Evidence Says
Policy Minded
What are the biggest safety issues facing schools today? What might help schools respond to social media threats more effectively? Do teachers feel secure in their classrooms? RAND experts Pauline Moore and Brian Jackson tackle these questions and more, sharing practical insights from their research on creating safer school environments.
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How AGI Could Reshape National Security
Policy Minded
How might the emergence of artificial general intelligence (AGI) reshape global security? RAND experts explore the uncertain future of AGI and identify five major security challenges it could bring—from new “wonder weapons” to sweeping shifts in the balance of global power.
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Why Is It So Expensive to Build Apartments in California?
Policy Minded
RAND research finds that building multifamily housing in California costs more than twice what it costs in Texas. What's driving these high costs? How might California address its housing crisis? And what can other states learn?
info_outlineBig changes to the podcast. Plus, RAND has a new website. For more information on this week’s episode, visit rand.org/podcast.