Introducing 'Horizons' and 'Compass Points' from PBS News

PBS News Launches New Programs: "Horizons" & "Compass Points"

Key Concepts:

• Ultra-processed foods: Foods high in sugar, fat, salt, and artificial additives, linked to chronic diseases.
• MAHA movement: A movement advocating for changes to the food system, led by RFK Jr., focused on improving American health.
• Global Order Disruption: The rapidly changing international landscape and America’s role within it.
• Overextension of American Power: The idea that the US has limited resources and spreading them too thin weakens its influence.
• Restraint in Foreign Policy: A foreign policy approach advocating for limited intervention and focusing on domestic priorities.

New Program Introductions

PBS News announced the launch of two new original programs: "Horizons From PBS News," hosted by William Brangham, and "Compass Points From PBS News," hosted by Nick Schifrin. These programs represent a strategic investment in fresh reporting and new formats, undertaken despite recent federal funding cuts. The goal is to expand the depth and reach of PBS News journalism, available on PBS, YouTube, and as podcasts.

"Horizons From PBS News" – Focus on Ultra-Processed Foods

The debut episode of "Horizons," hosted by William Brangham, focuses on the impact of ultra-processed foods on American health. The program investigates why the US experiences disproportionately high rates of chronic diseases like hypertension, diabetes, and obesity. Brangham highlights the role of the food system in contributing to these health issues and examines potential solutions, including those proposed by the MAHA movement led by RFK Jr.

A key interview features Ashley Gearhardt, a researcher at the University of Michigan specializing in food and addiction. Gearhardt explains that ultra-processed foods are engineered to exploit the brain’s reward centers, resembling addictive substances like cigarettes or alcohol rather than natural foods.

Quote: “Many of the products that we see in the grocery store, although we call them food, actually resemble much more of something like a cigarette or an alcoholic beverage on their impact on the reward centers of the brain than they do a fruit or a vegetable.” – Ashley Gearhardt, University of Michigan

Gearhardt further details how food companies prioritize “turning cravings into corporate wins” and utilize “indulgence as a main profit engine.” This highlights the deliberate design of these foods to be hyper-palatable and addictive.

"Compass Points From PBS News" – Examining America’s Place in a Changing World

"Compass Points," hosted by Nick Schifrin, will analyze America’s position in a rapidly evolving global landscape. Each week, the program will provide insights into critical international issues and their implications for the United States. The inaugural episode centers on the impact of Donald Trump’s foreign policy approach, framing him as a “disrupter” on the world stage.

Schifrin’s episode features three guests representing diverse perspectives: Victoria Coates of The Heritage Foundation (representing Trump’s perspective), Kori Schake (a former national security official advocating for traditional foreign policy), and Jennifer Kavanagh of Defense Priorities (advocating for restraint).

Quote: “There are other limits on American power. And that is overextension. One of the big reasons that the United States did not take action in the Middle East this week is because it doesn't have the assets in the region.” – Jennifer Kavanagh, Defense Priorities

Kavanagh argues that the US faces limitations due to “overextension” – spreading resources too thinly across the globe. She points to the lack of assets in the Middle East as an example, attributing it to deployments in Latin America. She emphasizes that demonstrating power requires the ability to confront adversaries who can retaliate, not simply those who cannot.

Logical Connections & Programmatic Approach

Both programs demonstrate a commitment to in-depth reporting and expert analysis. "Horizons" focuses on a domestic issue with significant health implications, while "Compass Points" addresses the complexities of international relations. Both programs aim to provide clarity and context to complex issues, offering viewers a deeper understanding of the forces shaping their lives and the world around them. The launch of these programs signifies a strategic shift towards diversifying PBS News’ content and reaching audiences through multiple platforms.

Availability

"Horizons" with William Brangham premieres on Saturday, and "Compass Points" with Nick Schifrin premieres on Sunday, on local PBS stations. Both programs will also be available on the PBS News YouTube page and as podcasts.