The Leonard Lopate Show

Stem Cell Research: A Doctor’s Personal Mission

The debate over stem cell research became very personal for neurologist Dr. Jack Kessler when his own daughter became paralyzed in an accident. Now he believes that stem cells are the best hope for his daughter’s recovery, and he’s devoted his own career to researching them. Dr. Kessler is the subject of a new PBS Independent Lens documentary called "Mapping Stem Cell Research: Terra Incognita." It premieres on Friday, January 18 at 10:00pm on CHANNEL 13 (Thirteen/WNET New York).

Weigh in: Is the debate over stem cell research of personal significance to you?

PBS’s "Mapping Stem Cell Research" website

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Hollywood’s Star Machine

From the 1930s to the 1950s, Hollywood studios worked hard to create their stars. Wesleyan film studies professor Jeanine Basinger explains how the "star machine" selected, groomed, and maintained celebrities like Lana Turner, Errol Flynn, and Tyrone Power – and why that machine no longer works in today’s Hollywood. Basinger’s new book is The Star Machine.

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Is He Dead? A New Mark Twain Comedy

Playwright David Ives adapted a newly-discovered Mark Twain comedy for "Is He Dead?" The play is about a struggling artist who stages his own death to drive up the price of his paintings. It’s at the Lyceum Theatre, at 149 W. 45th St. between 6th and 7th Aves.

Official website for "Is He Dead?" including tickets and information

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Money Changes Everything

Whether it’s a sudden windfall of cash, massive debts, or a disputed loan...money changes lives and relationships. Jenny Offill and Elissa Schappel are editors and contributors of an essay collection called Money Changes Everything..

Weigh in: Tell us about a relationship that was improved or ruined by a change in your financial circumstances.

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