The Strand

The half-hour program will take you on a worldwide journey through arts, culture and entertainment.

Novelist Harriett Gilbert, who has been presenting arts programs on BBC World Service for over ten years, will present the Monday and Friday editions of The Strand, as well as a new hour-long version of an established favorite, World Book Club, on the first weekend of every month.

Mark Coles, an award-winning broadcaster and acclaimed music journalist, will present the Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday editions of The Strand as well as an hour-long compilation program on Saturdays.

Find more information about The Strand.

Arts & Culture

NPR

China Laces Up Its Chuck Taylors

China's consumer market is massive, and breaking in isn't easy. Some U.S. products have struggled. But in recent years, an old American sneaker has become an unlikely success story: the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star.

Food

NPR

Does Offering Smaller Portions At Restaurants Help People Eat Less?

Asking for less food isn't something most people think about when ordering from a menu. A new study suggests that asking people if they want less food and, in turn, fewer calories, before they order is key.

Politics

NPR

Potential Conflicts At Freddie Mac Draw Scrutiny

A federal watchdog confirmed it is looking into Freddie Mac investments that act as bets against homeowners being able to refinance. In addition, U.S. senators are expected to probe Freddie Mac's investment practice at a hearing on Capitol Hill on Thursday.

Technology

NPR

Amazon Expands Streaming With Viacom Deal

Amazon announced Wednesday that it will expand the selection on its streaming service through a new deal with Viacom. Included in the deal are Paramount movies, as well as shows from Comedy Central, Nickelodeon, MTV and more. This deal isn't exclusive, in that much of the material is on other streaming services already such as Hulu and Netflix.