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Investigation exposes bribery and fraud in college admissions

caption: Harvard campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts
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Harvard campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts

How did you get into college? We look at the scandal that federal authorities are calling the biggest college admissions scam ever prosecuted by the U.S. Justice Department. We also look at why King County has halted its inquests, and what that means for those awaiting justice. And we replay our interview with author Lindy West, whose new Hulu show "Shrill," is out this week, based on her book.

Listen to the full show by clicking the play button above, or check out one of the show’s segments below. You can also subscribe to The Record on your favorite podcast app.

College Admissions Scandal

The unfolding scandal accuses more than 800 families of using bribery and fraud to get their kids into elite schools. But what’s the line between what’s illegal and what some wealthy parents are already doing? And how much does it matter where you go to college? Sarah Brown is senior reporter for the Chronicle of Higher Education; Delece Smith-Barrow is senior editor at The Hechinger Report.

Lindy West on "Shrill"

A re-airing of our 2016 interview with Lindy West, interviewed by Jeannie Yandel, about the book "Shrill." The book inspired the TV show, "Shrill," debuting this week on Hulu.

King County Inquests

After Charleena Lyles was killed by police in 2017, an inquest into her death was ordered. Two years later, her family is no closer to answers - King County Executive Dow Constantine put the inquest process on hold. Since then, the number of pending inquests has risen to 15. Crosscut’s David Kroman explains why.

Biking Rules

Spring has nearly sprung, meaning prime biking weather is upon us. In anticipation, KUOW listener Richard wondered why Seattle asks so little of its cyclists: no licensing, no helmet, no problem. KUOW reporter Casey Martin ventured out on two wheels to find the answer.


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