Evan Dawson

Artificial intelligence is changing how teachers think about tests, grades and academic integrity, forcing schools to reconsider what meaningful assessment looks like when students have easy access to powerful AI tools. On this episode of ... more

On a recent episode of WXXI's Connections with Evan Dawson, guests discussed New York’s new Medical Aid in Dying Act and the complex personal, medical and ethical questions surrounding end-of-life decisions. The law, which took ... more

On a recent episode of WXXI's Connections with Evan Dawson, science writer Elizabeth Svoboda joined the program to discuss why so many people struggle to balance packed schedules, endless to-do lists and the need to ... more

On a recent episode of WXXI’s “Connections with Evan Dawson,” Rochester City Councilmember Mitch Gruber discussed changes to SNAP eligibility and work requirements that have resulted in thousands of people losing benefits across the Rochester ... more

On a recent episode of WXXI’s “Connections with Evan Dawson,” Nazareth University President Maureen Finney discussed her vision for the institution and the challenges facing higher education. Finney took the helm as colleges confront shifting ... more

On a recent episode of WXXI’s Connections with Evan Dawson, guests examined how entering and remaining in the workforce has become more difficult for teens and young adults. Chitra Nawbatt, author of “The CodeBreaker Mindset,” ... more

On a recent episode of WXXI’s “Connections,” host Evan Dawson explored why conspiracy theories spread so quickly online, particularly when public figures die or face serious health concerns. The discussion followed false claims surrounding the ... more

On a recent episode of WXXI's Connections with Evan Dawson, Assemblymember Andrea Bailey discussed New York’s 2026-27 state budget and the negotiations that shaped the final spending plan. Bailey, who represents the 133rd Assembly District, ... more

On a recent episode of WXXI's Connections with Evan Dawson, a panel of civic leaders and community members discussed what patriotism means in the United States in 2026. The conversation examined a recent Gallup poll ... more

On a recent episode of WXXI's Connections with Evan Dawson, guests Patrick Coyle and Mark Johns discussed whether Congress is too old and how the age of federal lawmakers affects government. The conversation examined concerns ... more

On a recent episode of WXXI's Connections with Evan Dawson, Assemblymember Jen Lunsford discussed the 2026-27 New York state budget and its impact on affordability, public services and residents across the state. Lunsford, who represents ... more

On a recent episode of WXXI's Connections with Evan Dawson, the team behind PBS's long-running hit Antiques Roadshow offered listeners a behind-the-scenes look at how the beloved series comes together. The conversation comes as the ... more

On a recent episode of WXXI's Connections with Evan Dawson, a panel of researchers, policymakers, and industry experts explored the growing concern over microplastics and their potential impact on human health. The discussion examined how ... more

On a recent episode of WXXI's Connections with Evan Dawson, guest host Julie Philipp explored the challenges facing the Adirondack Park as record numbers of visitors flock to the region. The discussion featured officials from ... more

On a recent episode of WXXI's Connections with Evan Dawson, Democratic candidate for New York State comptroller Raj Goyle discussed his campaign for the state's top fiscal oversight position, outlining how his background as a ... more

On a recent episode of WXXI's Connections with Evan Dawson, economist Eric Morris broke down the idea of the “K-shaped economy” and why today’s economic reality feels so different depending on who you are. The ... more

A group of educators and retired teachers joined WXXI’s Connections with Evan Dawson to argue against the continued use of standardized testing in schools, describing current exams as “high stakes” measures that put unnecessary pressure ... more

A Rochester woman shared her experiences navigating the healthcare system with cerebral palsy during a recent episode of WXXI’s Connections with Evan Dawson, detailing the challenges of dealing with Medicaid restrictions, private insurance confusion, and ... more

On a recent episode of WXXI's Connections with Evan Dawson, medical experts from University of Rochester Medicine discussed why the region consistently ranks among the nation’s worst areas for allergies and what families can do ... more