Today on Boston Public Radio: We opened the show by taking calls from our listeners to ask if they are returning to public transit following the grand opening of a new branch on the Green Line. The Medford branch connects Tufts University to downtown Somerville. Washington Post Columnist E.J. Dionne, Jr. discussed some of his latest columns, including his plea to conservative Christians to change their mind on same-sex marriage. He also discussed Senator Kyrsten Sinema's decision to switch her party registration.

Stephanie Leydon and Frances Amador of City Life/Vida Urbana discussed the latest installment of "Priced Out,” a GBH News series covering the rising rental costs in Boston, and the tenants organizing for the right to stay housed. Food Policy writer Corby Kummer discusses the return of the restaurant Eastern Standard, free school lunches for children, an angry Olive Garden manager and "Pilk.” Revs. Irene Monroe and Emmett G. Price III talk about the end of Trevor Noah's tenure on "The Daily Show," the release of Brittney Griner, and fractions within the Methodist church over positions on LGBTQ rights. Massachusetts Institute of Technology economist Jon Gruber explained why pedestrian and auto deaths are on the rise in the U.S. despite falling rates globally, and the economic impacts of big cars. Then we ended the show taking our listeners’ calls about what they plan on binging during the holiday season as the Golden Globe nominations are released.