Duolingo’s Iran War Problem, Airport Auctions & Eviction Wins

The Trump Administration’s latest round of sanctions against Iran, dubbed “Operation Economic Outcast,” includes restrictions on cooperation between Iran and American universities. Starting this month, Duolingo banned Iranian citizens from taking its English Test, which many U.S. colleges require for international applicants. Host Megan Harris, executive producer Mallory Falk, and contributor Colin Williams discuss how the language learning company has been swept up in the U.S.-Iran War. We also share our favorite finds from PIT’s annual auction of lost items (thousands of earbuds, stuffed animals, a Mercedes… the list goes on); how the shift to fall signals earlier sunsets but also a Dolly Parton-themed corn maze; and a win for renters and housing advocates around evictions.

And in our members-only bonus segment, we track the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra’s itinerary for its big biannual European tour and why that matters here at home.

Learn more about the sponsors of this Friday, September 4th episode:

Carnegie Library

Propel Schools

Film Pittsburgh

For the Love of Our Parks

Notes and references from today’s show:

Duolingo D-Day: Iranians question latest US sanctions targeting education [Al Jazeera]

U.S. Sanctions Cut Off Aspiring Iranians From Tests Needed for Study Abroad [New York Times]

U.S. blocks Duolingo English Test in Iran as part of sweeping economic crackdown [Biz Times]

New visa rules to go into effect for international students [Pitt News]