Why did modern cities move away from creating shaded public spaces?

Press Play with Madeleine Brand

Why did modern cities move away from creating shaded public spaces?

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Published on Aug 26, 2025, 5:05:01 PM
Total time: 00:50:32

Episode Description

After Kamala Harris declined to run for California governor, the crowded field lacks a clear frontrunner. Former Congresswoman Katie Porter has a slight edge, but Rick Caruso could shake up the race. 

Heat waves are among the deadliest natural disasters. Shade is a vital defense. But in cities like LA, it’s treated as a privilege, not a right.

A new Hulu series revisits the story of Amanda Knox, the American college student studying abroad who was accused of killing her roommate. Knox and Monica Lewinsky are executive producers. 

The colonial-era Mercator map distorts continental size, making Africa look smaller than it is. The 55-nation African Union joins the push to embrace a new world map.

More about Press Play with Madeleine Brand

Host Madeleine Brand looks at news, culture and emerging trends through the lens of Los Angeles.