
Headlines From The Times
614 episodes — Page 8 of 13
Coyotes go urban; humans freak out
In June, at a Manhattan Beach City Council meeting, residents lined up to share their concerns about a predator that roams their streets, terrorizing them and killing their pets: coyotes. They’re an important part of the American West, but suburbanites are now advocating for their wholesale extermination. But is there another option, a way to co-exist peacefully?Today, we examine this controversy.
How Los Angeles got so overcrowded
Los Angeles for decades advertised itself as an American Eden. But it ignored repeated warnings about the consequences of overcrowding on the working class. Now, when the situation is worse than ever, calls to fix it continue to go nowhere.Today, we talk about an L.A. Times analysis that found that more people are squeezing into fewer rooms in L.A. than any other large county in America. And it’s been a disaster for public health, even before COVID-19 began to spread. Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: L.A. Times housing reporter Liam Dillon and features reporter Brittny MejiaMore reading:Packed In: Overcrowded housing in Los Angeles has brought death by designL.A.’s love of sprawl made it America’s most overcrowded place. The poor pay a deadly priceOne family’s desperate act to escape overcrowding
Late-night TV fights for its life, again
For decades, late night television talk shows were where America snuggled up together and we laughed. The hosts were household names, but also very male and white. Things diversified a bit last decade with hosts like Trevor Noah and Samantha Bee. But now Bee’s show is gone and Noah is on his way out.Today, what’s next for late-night television? It’s a uniquely American genre whose obituary has been written again and again, yet somehow continues to stumble along. Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: L.A. Times television critic Lorraine AliMore reading:Trevor Noah’s exit won’t just hurt ‘The Daily Show.’ It’ll hurt all of late night‘Full Frontal With Samantha Bee’ is the latest casualty in late-night TV’s reshuffleAfter a major cast shake-up, ‘SNL’ confronts its weaknesses — but can’t overcome them
Sheriff Villanueva's unlikely rise to power
There’s a lot to unpack when it comes to Alex Villanueva’s path to becoming the top cop in Los Angeles County. And that’s exactly what LAist Studios and KPCC do in a new five-part podcast series hosted by Frank Stoltze. Today, we play episode 1 of “Imperfect Paradise: Sheriff.”The show begins with a scene of a very strange press conference: Villanueva is threatening to open a criminal investigation into L.A. Times reporter Alene Tchekmedyian and Stoltze questions the sheriff about it. From there, Stoltze reflects on his time covering policing in L.A. County and explains how Villanueva is the product of a department that has been riddled with scandals for decades: racial profiling, jail violence and deputy gangs.Host: Frank StoltzeMore reading:Your guide to the L.A. County sheriff election: Alex Villanueva vs. Robert LunaDozens of Sheriff Villanueva’s donors received permits to carry guns in publicColumn: L.A. County’s sheriff leans on his Latino identity. Does he exemplify our worst traits?
Dedicated to Art Laboe
Art Laboe’s voice filled Southern California airwaves for more than 70 years. But beyond being a beloved disc jockey whose show was eventually broadcast across the nation, Laboe spread a radical message of racial unity way before such messages became mainstream.The prolific “Oldies but Goodies” radio legend died Oct. 7 of pneumonia. His death comes at a time when we need his message of tolerance more than ever. So today, a tribute to Art Laboe. Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: TimesOC feature writer Gabriel San RománMore reading:L.A.’s radio community pays tribute to Art Laboe, a legend and mentor: ‘End of an era’Column: I’m playing an Art Laboe album to counteract the noxious vibe from L.A. City HallArt Laboe dies; his ‘Oldies but Goodies’ show ruled the L.A. airwaves

The leaked tape that upended L.A. politics
EThis week, the Los Angeles City Council made national headlines for all the wrong reasons. In a closed-door meeting, City Council President Nury Martinez made racist and disparaging remarks about colleagues to fellow council members, Kevin de León, Gil Cedillo and a well known labor leader.The subsequent fallout has upended L.A. politics just before a crucial mayoral election. So now what? Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: L.A. Times reporter Benjamin OreskesMore reading:L.A. council members made racist comments in leaked audio. Read our full coverageBreaking down crucial moments in the racist leaked recording of L.A. councilmembersThe fall of Nury Martinez: A blunt talker undone by her words

Gavin Newsom versus the world
It’s hard to avoid Gov. Gavin Newsom these days, even if you don’t live in California. He frequently attacks other governors, lobs daggers at members of his own Democratic Party, and expounds on the “California way” when talking about everything from abortion access to combating climate change and more. All this action on the national stage has people asking, is Newsom low-key testing the waters for a presidential run in 2024? And if not, what’s his endgame? Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: L.A. Times columnist Mark BarabakMore reading:Column: Is Gavin Newsom running for president? Or is he just desperate for attention?Column: If Newsom sees himself as president, he should move into position to run. That’s what he’s doingNewsom slams red state governors on D.C. trip, stoking speculation about his future
Mexico's fermented drinks bubble up
For hundreds of years, Mexican fermented drinks like tepache, tejuino and pulque were looked down upon by polite society. But a younger generation in Mexico has embraced them for their taste and curative powers.Now, they’re having a moment in the United States — and becoming a multimillion-dollar industry. Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: L.A. Times food editor Daniel HernandezMore reading:Foggy, fizzy, buzzy: Searching for the fermented drinks of Mexico on the streets of L.A.Between heaven and earth, a spirited communion on Day of the DeadRecipe: Homemade tepache
The Iranian diaspora rises up
Mahsa Amini died Sept. 16 in Iran after an encounter with the country’s so-called morality police. Since her death, Iranians have taken to the streets in protest of the country’s modesty laws. But what began as a call for women’s rights in Iran has since ballooned into something so much bigger.Today, we hear from the Iranian diaspora about why they’re protesting in solidarity. Read the full transcript here.Host: L.A. Times podcast producer Asal EhsanipourGuests: L.A. Times diaspora reporter Sarah ParviniMore reading:‘Woman, life, freedom’: L.A. protest over Iran draws thousands‘Nothing to lose’: Iran’s protesters step up their defiance as a potential showdown loomsIn protests over death of Mahsa Amini, internet is key to planning. Can Iran block access?
The sketchy test sending moms to prison
There’s a test used across Latin America to determine whether a baby was born dead or alive. And depending on the result, it could allow prosecutors to bring murder charges against mothers who might have had a still-born birth. And there’s an even bigger problem. This test is 400 years old and very unreliable.Today, how the so-called flotation test is sending women to prison for killing their newborns, when they say that they’re innocent. Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: L.A. Times foreign correspondent Leila MillerMore reading:An unreliable 400-year-old test is sending mothers to prison for killing their newbornsAcross Latin America, abortion restrictions are being loosenedThousands of feminists march in Mexico City: ‘I am scared to simply be a woman in Mexico’
The rise, fall and rise of Lula
Brazilians are heading to the polls on Sunday to choose between two very different candidates: current president Jair Bolsonaro and a former one, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, more popularly known as Lula. The icon of the left spent years in prison on corruption charges but is now on the cusp of regaining the presidency.Today, we talk about how that happened. Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: L.A. Times Latin America correspondent Kate LinthicumMore reading:Three years ago he was in prison. Now he’s poised to be Brazil’s next presidentEchoing Trump, Brazil’s president prepares for election loss by declaring vote riggedCOVID-19 cautionary tales from India and Brazil

The fight to become L.A. County sheriff
Alex Villanueva was elected as Los Angeles County sheriff in 2018 with support from progressives riding an anti-Trump wave. But since he took office, he has shifted to the right. His opponent in the November election, retired Long Beach Police Chief Robert Luna, leads in the polls.But at a time when issues surrounding law enforcement are part of a national conversation, how much do they differ? We talk about it, as we hear from both candidates at a debate this month. Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: L.A. Times law enforcement reporter Alene TchekmedyianMore reading:Luna, Villanueva trade charges in antagonistic L.A. sheriff debateAlex Villanueva thought his ‘Quien es más Latino?’ strategy would sink his opponent. NopeSheriff Villanueva in tight race as challenger Robert Luna has edge in new poll

Masters of Disasters: Broken records!
Record heat. Record drought. Record floods. Record hail. Record bad air. In a world where climate disasters seem to break records every year, do records even mean anything anymore? And if not, then what’s next when it comes to measuring climate misery?Today, we reconvene our Masters of Disasters to examine this existential question. Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: L.A. Times wildfire reporter Alex Wigglesworth, L.A. Times energy reporter Sammy Roth, and L.A. Times air quality reporter Tony Briscoe.More reading:Destructive rain in Death Valley, flooded Vegas casinos mark a summer of extreme weatherAs forests go up in smoke, so will California’s climate planCalifornia’s epic heat wave is over. Here’s what we learned
Crimes for rhymes?
EThere are dozens if not hundreds of cases involving prosecutors using rap lyrics that are about crimes as evidence of actual crimes, even when there was no other credible evidence. But finally, the recording industry and California lawmakers are pushing to put an end to the practice.Today, we talk about groundbreaking legislation that could limit how music is used as evidence in criminal court. Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: L.A. Times columnist Erika D. SmithMore reading:Column: America loves rap, not Black people. Don’t be fooled because this bill protects lyricsRapper ‘Tiny Doo’ and college student arrested under controversial gang law get day in court against policeSan Diego council approves $1.5M payout to two men jailed under controversial gang law

Legal pot in California sparks corruption
Ever since California legalized cannabis in 2016, the state’s weed market has become a multi-billion dollar industry. It’s estimated to be the largest legal market of its kind in the world. But whenever you get that much money anywhere; well, you’re gonna get political corruption.Today, our investigation into how illegal moves around marijuana are plaguing city halls across the state. Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: L.A. Times investigative reporter Adam ElmahrekMore reading:$250,000 cash in a brown paper bag.’ How legal weed unleashed corruption in CaliforniaLegal Weed, Broken Promises: A Times series on the fallout of legal pot in CaliforniaWould this California town have become so pro-cannabis if not for a councilwoman’s pot industry ties?

How L.A.’s next mayor will handle homelessness
Housing L.A.’s homeless population has unsurprisingly proved to be a herculean task. With tens of thousands of people on the streets, it’s become a top issue for this year’s mayoral election in November. But until now, neither candidate — Congresswoman Karen Bass and real estate developer Rick Caruso — had offered specifics on the type of housing they would create, where it would be or how much it would cost.So we asked. Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: L.A. Times reporters Ben Oreskes and Doug SmithMore reading:Bass and Caruso have talked big on homelessness. Now they’re offering some detailsCan Bass or Caruso solve the L.A. homeless housing crisis? Here are their divergent plansBass, Caruso sling mud over USC scholarship, alleged hacks and homelessness fixes
Back to the moon — and beyond?
Sometime soon, NASA plans to launch a powerful new rocket. The launch is part of an ambitious quest to get people back to the moon for the first time in half a century — and just maybe, even further.Today, why the U.S. and its partners are determined to go back to the moon and the role politics plays when we reach for the stars. Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: L.A. Times business reporter Samantha MasunagaMore reading:NASA’s return to the moon is delayed again after scrub because of fuel leakColumn One: 50 years after Apollo 11, the moon’s allure still resonatesReaders remember the Apollo 11 moon landing, 50 years later

How illegal cannabis smoked California
California voters legalized cannabis in 2016, and one of the issues that was supposed to be solved was the violence and environmental wreckage associated with the drug’s illegal trade. But that hasn’t happened.Inside California’s famed “Emerald Triangle,” a region north of San Francisco known for its weed, there’s an estimated 5,000 to 10,000 illegal cannabis farms alone. The under-the-radar cultivation is messing with once-peaceful communities. Today, we get into this issue. Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: L.A. Times investigative reporter Paige St. JohnMore reading:Legal Weed, Broken Promises: A Times series on the fallout of legal pot in CaliforniaNobody knows how widespread illegal cannabis grows are in California. So we mapped themThe reality of legal weed in California: Huge illegal grows, violence, worker exploitation and deaths
A wildfire with your Airbnb?
A Los Angeles Times analysis found that thousands of short-term Airbnb rentals are in California’s most hazardous fire zones. But the company does not provide warnings or evacuation information to guests when they make a reservations, and some customers say the company’s refund policy adds to the potential dangers.Today, as climate change threatens so many aspects of our lives, are even our vacations not safe anymore? Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: L.A. Times reporters Ben Poston and Alex WigglesworthMore reading:In California’s high-risk fire country, Airbnb offers guests no warning or escape planIs your vacation rental in a risky wildfire zone? What you need to knowCalifornia fires are burning faster, hotter, more intensely — and getting harder to fight
Fast cars, furious residents
Street takeovers. Street races. Burnouts. They’re the latest manifestations of car culture in the region — cousins to the drag races, lowrider cruises, V-dub love-ins and other gear-head gatherings that’ve gone on here for decades. But what you’re seeing right now — a lot of people say the scene feels different. And some people say the film franchise “Fast & Furious” is to blame.In a region where car culture is king and stunts are all over social media, residents, politicians and law enforcement have had enough. Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: L.A. Times reporter Nathan SolisMore reading:Inside L.A.’s deadly street takeover scene: ‘A scene of lawlessness’19 cars seized, 27 arrested in illegal street takeover in PomonaLA Times Today: Dangerous street takeovers take a deadly toll on L.A.
A Wyoming wind farm to power California
There’s a Gold Rush right now happening in Wyoming — for wind. Billionaire developers are putting up wind turbines to help power California and turn the American West, long a place where fossil fuels ruled, into a green energy powerhouse.But not everyone is happy. Today, we get into the challenges around what’s planned to be the largest wind farm in the country. Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: L.A. Times energy reporter Sammy RothMore reading:Read our “Repowering the West” series hereThis power line could save California — and forever change the American WestSign up for our Boiling Point newsletter
An unprecedented use of Mexico's military
Mexico president Andrés Manuel López Obrador came into office promising to get the military off the streets. Instead, he’s more than doubled their numbers. He claims there’s just no other way to handle Mexico’s narco-violence.Today, we look at Mexico’s delicate dance with its military. It’s an institution that’s among the most trusted in the nation, and potentially its most dangerous. Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: L.A. Times Latin America correspondent Kate LinthicumMore reading:Mexico’s president vowed to end the drug war. Instead he’s doubled the number of troops in the streetsMexico’s military gains power as president turns from critic to partnerMexico sent in the army to fight the drug war. Many question the toll on society and the army itself
Melanie Lynskey gets very real with us
For her role as Shauna in “Yellowjackets,” Melanie Lynskey has an Emmy nomination for lead actress in a drama series. Today, we've got another episode from our sister podcast "The Envelope." Lynskey joins host Yvonne Villarreal to dish on how this year has helped her feel more empowered and less underestimated, arriving at a place of self-love after struggling with an eating disorder, and why now is the time for ferocious female characters. She also busts out her Drew Barrymore impression and gets a brief, adorable visit from a special guest. Read the full transcript here. Host: Yvonne Villarreal Guest: Melanie LynskeyMore reading: ‘Yellowjackets’ star Melanie Lynskey is celebrating her Emmy nod by ... buying a fridge‘Yellowjackets’ creators break down ‘heartbreaking’ finale — and your fan theoriesSebastian Stan, Melanie Lynskey and more discuss teaching directors about acting

Less loan debt, more midterm love for Dems?
Millions of Americans who attended college could have their debt completely canceled or reduced under a plan announced by President Joe Biden last week. But the move is unsurprisingly stirring debate among the right and left, but for completely different reasons.Today, we talk about how this announcement might impact the midterms. Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: L.A. Times national reporter Arit JohnMore reading:For many with student loans, the interest hurts the most. This congressman would knowStudent loan forgiveness: Everything you need to knowWhy Californians with student loans will gain massively from forgiveness plan
The Haitian dream for America
After displacement from Haiti, an exodus from South America and an epic journey through the Americas, what became of Haitians’ American dream? Today, in the final episode of the “Line in the Land” podcast produced by Texas Public Radio and the Houston Chronicle, we hear from Haitian migrants about where they ended up. Read the full transcript here.Hosts: Joey Palacios of Texas Public Radio, and Elizabeth Trovall with the Houston ChronicleMore reading:Listen to all “Line in the Land” episodesThe Times podcast: Our nation’s Haitian double standardHaitians in L.A. Spread Out and Blend InThis podcast is made possible by the Catana Foundation, supporting the asylum seeker advocacy project, providing more than 100,000 asylum seekers in the U.S. with community and legal support. Learn more at asylum.news. For the Spanish version of this episode, listen here.
Hope, struggles for Afghan refugees in U.S.
EOne year ago this month, U.S. forces left Afghanistan after 20 years of war. Some 94,000 Afghan nationals, American citizens and lawful permanent residents have arrived in the U.S. as part of Operation Allies Welcome, according to the Department of Homeland Security. Today, we hear some of their stories. Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: L.A. Times diaspora reporter Sarah Parvini and photojournalist Marcus YamMore reading:They escaped Afghanistan for California and beyond. But war’s struggles followed themThe things they carried when they fled AfghanistanThe cadence of war and its human toll: A photojournalist’s perspectiveA Times journalist’s diary inside the fall of Afghanistan
On the GOAT-ness of Serena Williams
EIn 1999 in New York, Serena Williams won her first major tennis title at the U.S. Open. Everyone knew she was gonna be a star in the sport and a transformational one too, but few thought she would become the greatest of all time.Today, we talk about the legacy of Serena Williams, not just as an athlete, but as a woman — a Black woman. And what’s next for the tennis icon. Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: Broadcast journalist Cari ChampionMore reading:Column: Serena Williams makes a conscious choice to give up tennis and focus on her familyColumn: The mind of Serena WilliamsLA Times Today: Serena Williams’ legacy on and off the court
Colman Domingo on redemption and forgiveness
For his role as Ali in “Euphoria,” Colman Domingo has an Emmy nomination for outstanding guest actor in a drama series. Today, we've got another episode from our sister podcast, "The Envelope." Domingo joins "The Envelope" host Mark Olsen to discuss how his character — who is the sponsors to a struggling teenage drug addict played by Zendaya — is a symbol of redemption and forgiveness, which he feels our culture desperately needs. He also dishes on why he calls himself a nerd, how he almost walked away from his career, and why being “a shapeshifter” means his real-life looks take people by surprise. Read the full transcript here.More reading:Colman Domingo creates a theater award for Black menThe lives of Colman Domingo: acting in ‘Fear the Walking Dead,’ writing ‘Dot,’ directing ‘Barbecue’ at the GeffenZendaya hopes ‘Euphoria’ fans ‘still see the good’ in Rue after she ‘hits rock bottom’
Goodbye, new gas stations in California?
Surprise, surprise: California cities are banning new gas stations and other cities across the world are watching. The bans are part of an ongoing quest to combat climate change, this time on a local municipal level. The movement is small so far, but now even the car capital of the world, Los Angeles, is thinking about it.Today, what would happen if L.A. hops on this no-new-gas-station brigade. And what we can learn from the cities that’ve already done it. Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: L.A. Times Fast Break Desk reporter Grace TooheyMore reading:California cities ban new gas stations in battle to combat climate changeEditorial: Ban new gas stations? There are better ways for L.A. to ditch fossil fuelsLA Times Today: California cities ban new gas stations to combat climate change
How Haiti got here
When an earthquake devastated Haiti in 2010, the international community pledged billions of dollars toward recovery. Much of that aid never went to rebuilding Haiti – or even to the Haitian people. But Haiti’s instability goes back even farther. In fact, it has a lot to do with outside political forces dating back to the country’s origin story as the world’s first Black republic.Today, episode 4 of “Line in the Land,” a podcast from Texas Public Radio and the Houston Chronicle. We’ll be back with episode 5 next Tuesday. We’re airing an episode from “A Line in the Land” every Tuesday through the end of August.Read the full transcript here.Host: Joey Palacios with Texas Public Radio and Elizabeth Trovall with the Houston Chronicle.More reading:Haiti’s struggle has worsened in the year since the slaying of its presidentAs Haiti reels from crises, U.S. policy decisions are called into questionOp-Ed: The West owes a centuries-old debt to HaitiBinge all the episodes of "Line in the Land" here. Episodes are in both English and Spanish. "Line in the Land" was made possible, in part, by the Catena Foundation, providing more than 100,000 asylum seekers in the U.S. with community and legal support. Learn more at asylum.news
When your anti-Black coworker is Latino
ETwo of the largest race discrimination cases investigated by the federal government in the past decade allege widespread abuse of hundreds of Black employees by supervisors and coworkers at warehouses in Southern California’s Inland Empire. Anti-black bias on the job is sadly nothing new. But as the Latino population across the US, and especially California continues to grow, anti-Black bias by Latinos in the workplace is drawing renewed scrutiny.Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: L.A. Times labor reporter Margot RooseveltMore reading:In California’s largest race bias cases, Latino workers are accused of abusing Black colleaguesHorrific allegations of racism prompt California lawsuit against TeslaFight over jobs divides interests of Blacks, Latinos

Who is America?
Since the start of 2021, L.A. Times national correspondent Tyrone Beason has been on the road. He’s doing what a lot of us are thinking about: he’s on a quest to find out what’s up with the United States. In a year-long series called “My Country,” Beason has been trying to find the things that bind us, while also trying to make sense of the issues that keep tearing us apart.Today, we check in with Beason and hear some of his dispatches. Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: L.A. Times national correspondent Tyrone BeasonMore reading:Read Tyrone Beason’s full “My Country” series hereIn the vastness of the Inland Empire, people of color find ‘peace in these troubled times’This California wine country town is multicultural. So why do so many feel invisible?
Better call Rhea Seehorn
For her role as the ethically flexible attorney Kim Wexler in “Better Call Saul,” Rhea Seehorn is nominated for outstanding supporting actress in a drama series. She joins “The Envelope” host Yvonne Villarreal to delve into the show’s last twists and turns and talk about the scariest day on the set. Seehorn also discusses her efforts to balance gratitude with confidence and shares stories about how her father’s alcoholism shaped her. Read the full transcript here.Host: Yvonne VillarrealGuests: Rhea SeehornMore reading:Rhea Seehorn knows her ‘Better Call Saul’ character is toast. And she’s loving every minuteA couple that schemes together, dreams togetherRhea Seehorn on reading a ‘Better Call Saul’ script: ‘I’m not dead yet. Are you dead?’
Babies at a bargain, pricey problems
Decades ago, when you couldn’t conceive or carry a child, your options for becoming a parent were limited. But then in 1978, in-vitro fertilization became possible. But IVF can be very expensive. And one method in particular can lead to heartache and scandal.Today, how one woman’s attempt to offer more affordable surrogacy services collapsed, leaving in its wake heartbroken couples, frustrated surrogates and an FBI investigation. Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: Former L.A. Times national correspondent Emily BaumgaertnerMore reading:She promised babies at bargain prices using surrogates in Mexico. Now the FBI is investigatingLA Times Today: Why the FBI is investigating surrogates in MexicoThe audio of the first test tube baby, Louise Brown, is from a video news release produced by London Television Service and made available by the BFI National Archive.
Life and death in the Darién Gap
To get to the U.S. border from South America, Haitians have to trek through an isolated stretch of jungle called the Darién Gap. In the latest episode of “Line in the Land,” a podcast produced by the Houston Chronicle and Texas Public Media, Haitian migrants take listeners with them on a jungle journey like no other. Read the full transcript here. Hosts: Joey Palacios and Elizabeth TrovallMore reading:Lost in the deep of DarienCrossing the Darién GapThis remote sliver of northwest Colombia is one of the world’s busiest migration corridorsBinge all the episodes of Line in the Land here. Episodes are in both English and Spanish. A Line in the Land was made possible, in part, by the Catena Foundation, providing more than 100,000 asylum seekers in the U.S. with community and legal support. Learn more at asylum.news

The parents at the epicenter of a culture war
ELast year, frustrations over COVID-related school closures slammed into the nation’s culture war and tipped an election. It all started in Virginia’s Loudoun County, whose schools became a lightning rod as they grappled with mask mandates, a bathroom policy for transgender students and efforts to fix systemic racial discrimination.Today, we discuss how conservative parents in Virginia began a powerful nationwide movement and how Democrats are trying to win this important voting bloc back. We also explore how parents in Loudoun County really feel. Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuest: L.A. Times White House reporter Courtney SubramanianMore reading:Focus on the economy, not ‘critical race theory’ or sex ed: Inside Democrats’ plan to win back parentsSchool boards become battle zones over COVID-19 rules, critical race theory, trans studentsOpinion: Teachers have to put the welfare of transgender students before their own beliefs

Why Wyoming's "brand" hates Liz Cheney
You might know Liz Cheney for her recent leadership of the House select committee investigating the January 6 Capitol insurrection. Her prominent role in the televised hearings has boosted her status nationally, but back at home, in conservative Wyoming, Cheney has effectively been disowned. Her vote to impeach President Trump and the decision to take part in the investigation has forced her into a sort of exile from her home state.
Sweet, scary, sad, silly Bill Hader
EBill Hader became popular on "Saturday Night Live" with silly characters like Stefon, but his titular character on the HBO show "Barry" is more twisted and brilliant. It’s a great dark comedy about a hitman who wants to become an actor and how his worlds collide. In this conversation with “The Envelope” host Mark Olsen, Bill brings both the fun and the darkness: He’s pleasant and light, and he laughs while talking about some of the most disturbing things on his show. Read the full transcript here.
House music forever
This summer, some of the biggest names in music decided that we all need to dance. Drake, Beyoncé, Charlie XCX, Bad Bunny — they all departed from their usual styles to create albums inspired by a genre called house music.Today, we talk about how house music became the sound of liberation and why it’s back and more mainstream than ever.Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: L.A. Times pop music reporter August BrownMore reading:Beyoncé returns with liberating house jam ‘Break My Soul’The Gold Line carries house music to downtown L.A.The Beyoncé effect: ‘Break My Soul’ propels ’90s star Robin S and the Great Resignation
A Haitian Odyssey Episode 2: Chile
Today, we offer episode 2 of “A Line in the Land,” from our friends at Texas Public Radio and the Houston Chronicle. It’s a podcast that explores the human story behind the Haitian immigration journey. On this episode, hosts Elizabeth Trovall and Joey Palacios try to answer the question of why many Haitians went to Chile after Haiti’s devastating 2010 earthquake. And what happened to those refugees when the Chilean government became more hostile to immigration.
Taiwan prepares for China's wrath
Last week, Nancy Pelosi became the first House Speaker in a quarter century to visit Taiwan. China viewed Pelosi’s trip as a direct challenge. As tensions over the self-governed island ratchet up, Taiwan is preparing for war. But are its people ready?
Jennifer Coolidge welcomes her closeup
Jennifer Coolidge has a career full of memorable roles, from the “American Pie” franchise to the “Legally Blonde” series and the mock documentaries of Christopher Guest. But it wasn’t until her role in HBO’s hit “The White Lotus” that she finally earned critical respect. Today, Coolidge talks about her life and career — and what’s next. Read the full transcript here.Hosts: Mark Olsen and Yvonne VillarrealGuests: Jennifer CoolidgeMore reading:Column: Jennifer Coolidge has been a big deal for years; with an Emmy nod, she’s starting to believe itJennifer Coolidge gets vulnerableJennifer Coolidge dreamed of being a dramatic actor. ‘White Lotus’ was her chance e-envelope-podcast
Vin Scully, the greatest
Vin Scully was the broadcaster for the Dodgers baseball franchise for 67 years, from its time in Brooklyn through its move to Los Angeles. In the process, he not only became a sports legend; he became a summer soundtrack for generations of fans in Southern California and beyond.Today, we remember the life and legacy of Vin Scully. Read the full transcript here.Host: Former fellow for The Times, Angel CarrerasGuests: L.A. Times sports columnist Bill Plaschke, Los Angeles Dodgers broadcaster Jaime Jarrín, sportscaster Bob CostasMore reading:Complete coverage: Remembering the life of Dodgers announcer Vin Scully (1927-2022)Column: Vin Scully’s voice, a serenade of rebirth, will live on forever in Los AngelesColumn: Vaya con Dios, Vin Scully — a beacon of possibility for generations in L.A.
A place of friendship at the border closes
On the U.S.-Mexico border, where San Diego ends and Tijuana begins right next to the Pacific Ocean, there’s a place called Friendship Park. It opened over 50 years ago and was meant to be a symbol of the binational community that stretches across the border. Friendship Park eventually became an unlikely place for poignant cross-border reunions.But since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Friendship Park has been shut down. And there’s a good chance it might not reopen. We get into its history and future today. Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: San Diego Union-Tribune border reporter Kate MorrisseyMore reading:Once a symbol of binational unity, Friendship Park could close to cross-border reunions foreverWall going up in Friendship Park at U.S.-Mexico borderU.S. side of a binational garden at Mexico border bulldozed
A Haitian Odyssey Episode 1: Texas
We bring you episode 1 of “Line in the Land,” a new podcast from Texas Public Radio and the Houston Chronicle that explores the human story behind the Haitians traveling to the U.S.-Mexico border in search of a better life. Read the full transcript here.Hosts: Joey Palacios with Texas Public Radio, and Elizabeth Trovall with the Houston Chronicle.More reading:Inside the brutal 10,000-mile journey Haitian migrants make in search of a homePodcast: Our nation’s Haitian double standardOpinion: Helping one child at a time in Haiti 10 years after the devastation
Her life, her body, her death
On July 16, Gabriella Walsh carried out a decision months in the making; a process involving her loved ones and medical providers. She drank a fatal dose of medication prescribed under California’s so-called death-with-dignity law, which allows some terminally ill patients to request drugs to end their lives.Today, we tell the story of Walsh, and hear her talk about why she decided to end her life on her own terms. Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: L.A. Times reporter Marisa Gerber, and L.A. Times photographer Dania MaxwellMore reading:One last trip: Gabriella Walsh’s decision to die — and celebrate life — on her own termsDeath-with-dignity movement springs back to life in CaliforniaCalifornia lawmakers vote to speed up state process for terminally ill to end their lives
What you need to know about monkeypox
Monkeypox is on the rise, and now officially considered a global health emergency. Cases in the U.S. number in the thousands and only took a week to double here in Los Angeles. The viral disease has, so far, mostly affected the LGBTQ community, but anyone can get it. So how worried should we be?Today, we talk about what to know and answer listener questions. Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: L.A. Times breaking news reporter Grace TooheyMore reading:Monkeypox spreads in L.A. County, but vaccine shortage persists. What to knowWorld Health Organization declares monkeypox a global emergencySan Francisco officials declare state of emergency as monkeypox spreads
The drought, this time in northern Mexico
A drought has drained the reservoirs that provide most of the water for 5 million residents who live around Monterrey, the financial capital of northern Mexico. The crisis has sparked widespread upheaval. Anger is mounting at government officials who allow the region’s factories to continue pulling water from the strained aquifer via private wells while some residents are left without water for days.Today, we take a look at the city and an unfolding crisis that experts say is a stark warning for the rest of Mexico and the American West. Read the full transcript.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: L.A. Times foreign correspondent Kate LinthicumMore reading:Taps have run dry in Monterrey, Mexico, where there is water for factories but not for residentsPodcast: Drought wants your carne asada and iPhoneWestern megadrought is worst in 1,200 years, intensified by climate change, study finds
He took Trump's Jan. 6 close-up
The Jan. 6 House subcommittee investigating the events of that day have poured through thousands of hours of videos. But during the hearings, the public also got a sneak preview of even more moments caught on tape — from a documentary that tells the events of the U.S. Capitol insurrection through a behind-the-scenes view of Donald Trump.Today, we’re talking with documentary filmmaker Alex Holder about his movie “Unprecedented,” which aired this month on Discovery Plus. The documentary offers an inside view into the Trump organization right as Jan. 6 was happening. Read the full transcript here.Host: Gustavo ArellanoGuests: Filmmaker Alex HolderMore reading:Jan. 6 panel to receive Trump family footage from 2020 election and Capitol insurrectionFive takeaways from the Trump Jan. 6 documentary ‘Unprecedented’A new Trump doc was subpoenaed by Jan. 6 committee. It’s not as revelatory as it sounds
What do Gillian Anderson and Eleanor Roosevelt have in common?
It’s Emmy season, so we’ve got another episode of the “Envelope” for you. This time, it’s an in-depth conversation with Gillian Anderson, who plays Eleanor Roosevelt in “The First Lady.” Anderson talks about how Eleanor Roosevelt was the brains behind the FDR presidency, the focus on Roosevelt’s loving relationship with journalist Lorena Hickok in “The First Lady,” and why it took her some time to click with “Sex Education.” Taking on a historical figure isn’t new for Anderson — who also plays Margaret Thatcher in “The Crown” and Catherine’s mother, Joanna, in “The Great.” Nor is portraying a character who stays in her lane, which wasn’t a stretch from Anderson’s own personality. Follow the "Envelope" wherever you listen to podcasts. Read the full transcript here.