KPBS Midday Edition

In his first month back in office, President Donald Trump has enacted sweeping and controversial changes impacting many in the San Diego region. From toughening rules on immigration to targeting federal diversity, equity and inclusion programs, from an effort to ban transgender soldiers from serving in the military to a push for federal workers to resign, the scope of change can feel overwhelming.On Midday Edition Tuesday, we hear from San Diego therapists on how recent events have been impacting their practices. They also share tips on what people can do to maintain mental wellness during stressful times.Guests:Lizeth Ma, marriage and family therapistJan Estrellado, clinical psychologist, associate professor, Alliant International University

All month, we are profiling Black trailblazers across our community and highlighting their contributions to San Diego life and culture.On this week's arts show, we sit down with Gaidi Finnie, executive director of the San Diego African American Museum of Fine Art, to talk about his lifelong dedication to sharing Black arts and culture.Also, Mark Twain’s 1885 book, “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” is a beloved American classic with a controversial legacy. KPBS arts reporter Beth Accomando spoke with the author behind the graphic novel, “Big Jim and the White Boy,” which reinterprets the story from Jim's perspective.And finally, KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans previews a new play at the Old Globe about an artist returning to Japan after devastation hits her hometown. Plus, her top arts and culture picks for the weekend.Guests:Gaidi Finnie, executive director, San Diego African American Museum of Fine ArtDavid F. Walker, author, "Big Jim and the White Boy"Keiko Green, playwright of "Empty Ride"Julia Dixon Evans, arts reporter, KPBS

From the books we read to the music we listen to, love is everywhere we look.We bring you 'Valentine's Day Edition,' exploring love stories in all their forms.We hear about KPBS' new Valentine's Day series: 'From San Diego, with love.' Also, the power of romance books and the best date spots in San Diego.Plus, our favorite 'slow jams' and heartbreak anthems.Guests:Marielena Castellanos, KPBS South Bay engagement producerLeslie Gonzalez, KPBS web producerJackie Bryant, business development strategist at San Diego MagazineRandy 'R Dub!' Williams, host of "Sunday Night Slow Jams"

From the labor of enslaved people to propelling labor movements forward for fair wages, Black people have fought for equitable working conditions throughout history.America at large has received the benefits.This year, "African Americans and Labor" is the national theme for Black History Month.On Midday Edition, we discuss the connection between Black worker justice and labor rights. And, the ongoing fight against bigotry and systemic oppression in 2025.Guests:Brisa Johnson, director of the San Diego Black Workers CenterAnta Anthony Merritt, professor of Africana Studies at San Diego State UniversitySatomi Rash Zeigler, executive director of the UC San Diego Labor Center

Yvette.jpg (275x275, AR: 1.0)Making sense of the present means knowing the past.It also means honoring the legacy of Black history and celebrating culture.This Black History Month, we're profiling Black trailblazers and community leaders in San Diego.Yvette Porter Moore is a historian who studies genealogy and DNA research. For the past 20 years, she's been doing the work of piecing together San Diego’s Black History — one photo, one artifact and one DNA test at a time.Her work will be featured in the "Missing Pieces Project" at the San Diego History Center, which will debut on Feb. 26.Guest:Yvette Porter Moore, historian and genealogist with Root Digger Genealogy Research Services

Last month, the Biden administration's Department of Energy announced that it would provide a loan of $1.36 billion to support the growth of the domestic lithium industry. But President Trump’s push to freeze federal funds could threaten that.On Midday Edition Monday, we break down the possible impact of the federal spending freeze and recent developments in Lithium Valley.Plus, a leading environmental advocate in the Imperial Valley talks about the continued fight to ensure local communities benefit from this potentially booming industry.Guests:Philip Salata, environment and energy investigative reporter, inewsourceLuis Olmedo, executive director, Comite Civico del Valle

Lunar New Year started last Wednesday. It’s a time to bring in good luck and prosperity, and celebrate a fresh start — specifically, the Year of the Wood Snake.There are many places to celebrate Lunar New Year in San Diego this season. We talk about the upcoming Chinese New Year Fair in downtown and how San Diego's Chinese community has historically commemorated the holiday.Also, KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans sat down with "This American Life" creator and host Ira Glass to talk about what he's learned over the past thirty years of telling stories, ahead of a live show he is bringing to San Diego this weekend.Then, a look ahead to Black Comix Day and other event recommendations in your weekend arts preview.Guests:Jacinta Wong, executive director, San Diego Chinese Historical MuseumIra Glass, host and show creator of "This American Life"Keithan Jones, comics creator, founder of Black Comix Day and KID ComicsBeth Accomando, arts reporter, KPBS

Every year, 35,000 to 40,000 people in California begin the process of reentering society after prison, a process known as “reentry.”Successful reentry depends on many factors, from reliable housing to employment opportunities.Today on Midday Edition, we bring you an episode of "Imperfect Paradise," the narrative podcast from LAist public radio.In this episode, we meet Cesar Quijano who is struggling with addiction and reentry after multiple stints in prison. He discovers ultrarunning, a hobby that turns into his addiction and salvation.Guests: Antonia Cereijido, host of LAist's "Imperfect Paradise"Lucy Copp, producer and reporter at LAistCesar Quijano, ultramarathoner

As flames broke out across San Diego County in January, several neighborhoods were under evacuation orders.Evacuating your home can be a scary and life-changing situation. Experts say it's essential to stay prepared.On Midday Edition, we discuss essential rights for renters affected by the wildfires. Plus, how to care for a loved one or neighbor with dementia during an emergency.Plus, the role incarcerated firefighters play in putting out wildfires across California.Guests:Gilberto Vera, deputy attorney and director with Legal Aid Society of San DiegoBrooke Martindale, CEO & founder of Cheer Home CareKeri Blakinger, staff writer for the LA TimesResources:Legal Aid Society of San DiegoCheer Home CareCheer's Dementia Caregiver SupportWhat to pack in a go bag - Alzheimer's Association of San DiegoAlzheimer's Association Trial MatchAlzheimer's Association 24/7 Helpline - (800) 272-3900Alzheimer's San DiegoSan Diego County Caregiver SupportUC San Diego Alzheimer's Disease Research CenterDonate to Incarcerated Firefighters (Fund for Guaranteed Income)Anti-Recidivism Coalition Firefighter Fund

A new executive order by President Donald Trump would ban transgender troops from serving openly in the military.An estimated 15,000 to 25,000 transgender military personnel serve in the U.S. military.Trump’s executive order gives the Pentagon two months to change its current policy which allows trans troops to serve openly. Several lawsuits have been filed against the ban.On Midday Edition Monday, we discuss the implications of the order for transgender troops and veterans in San Diego County.Guest:Veronica Zerrer, retired U.S. Army Major; advisory council co-chair for the LGBT Center's Veterans Wall of Honor

Last week, the Department of Education dismissed 11 complaints against book bans. The announcement has drawn backlash from the American Library Association and free speech advocacy groups, who are denouncing the rhetoric calling book bans a hoax, as these bans grow across the country.While there are currently no book bans in San Diego County libraries, PEN America's report found that Escondido Union School District banned two books in the 2023-2024 academic year.On Midday Edition Monday, we’ll hear from experts tracking the rise of book bans across public schools and libraries and how they are advocating for the freedom to read.Guests:Jennifer Jenkins, deputy director of customer experience, San Diego Public LibraryKasey Meehan, director of Freedom to Read program, PEN AmericaResources:PEN America Index of School Book Bans 2023-2024SDPL Collection Development Policy The Freedom to Read Statement | American Library Association (ALA)Library Bill of Rights | ALABooks Unbanned InitiativeBooks Unbanned | City of San Diego Official WebsiteSan Diego joins Books Unbanned to protect the freedom to read | Library Foundation SD

This Saturday, the nonprofit Women of Color Roar Media will host a breakfast celebrating the accomplishments of Black women in leadership and their contributions to San Diego and this country.Plus, KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans sits down with the city of San Diego's new poet laureate, Paola Capó-García, to talk about her hopes for the role.Then finally, the 2025 Oscar nominations are out! Our Midday Movies critics share their hottest takes, from biggest snubs to unexpected nominations.Guests:Cheryl Alethia Phelps, chief communications officer, American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of San Diego & Imperial CountiesAngela de Joseph, founder and president, Women of Color Roar MediaPaola Capó-García, San Diego poet laureateBeth Accomando, arts reporter, KPBSYazdi Pithavala, podcast host, Moviewallas

January is Mental Wellness Month. On Midday Edition Wednesday, we have a conversation about mental wellness in the military and veteran community in San Diego.Two local mental health experts connected to military communities talk about recent efforts to increase access to mental health care, and what challenges military members and veterans commonly face.Guests:Nick Boyd, professor, University of San Diego; principal investigator, USD Tele-Mental Health Training ClinicCarie Rodgers, supervising and consulting psychologist for USD Tele-Mental Health Training ClinicResources:USD's Tele-Mental Health Training ClinicDepartment of Veterans AffairsPsycharmor211 San Diego

Dry January is a period for people to reexamine the role alcohol plays in their lives. This January, outgoing U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy called for warning labels on alcoholic beverages due their link to multiple forms of cancer.As January nears its end, we feature a conversation with a medical expert on the health risks associated with alcohol, as well as some things to keep in mind in terms of drinking.Guests:Dr. Jennifer Au, transplant hepatologist and gastroenterologist, Scripps Cancer Center

In just his short time back in office, President Trump has upended policy through dozens of executive orders — among those have been several meant to reshape climate policy.On Midday Edition Tuesday, we break down some of these policy shifts and look at climate change under the new Trump era.Plus, young people are leading climate action efforts across the country. We hear from one youth climate activist about her reactions to Trump’s recent executive orders and what it could mean for future generations.Guests:David Victor, professor of innovation and public policy at UC San Diego's School of Global Policy and StrategyEmma Weibel, Youth v. Oil intern, Youth4Climate at San Diego350

Jan. 6, 2021 is a day Americans will always remember.Insurrectionists supporting Donald Trump attacked the U.S. Capitol in an effort to overthrow the election.One police officer died, along with four Trump supporters. One of them was a woman from San Diego.Last week, Donald Trump pardoned roughly 1,500 Jan. 6 insurrectionists. On Midday Edition, we discuss the San Diego connections.Plus, we talk about the political message the pardons send and what it could mean for our democracy.Guests:Will Carless, national correspondent covering extremism for USA TodayBarbara F. Walter, professor of international affairs at UC San Diego and author of "How Civil Wars Start and How to Stop Them"

One year ago, business owners, artists, cultural workers and community members in Southeast San Diego were gearing up to celebrate Black History Month in the newly designated San Diego Black Arts and Culture District. Then floodwaters devastated the area and affected many businesses along Imperial Avenue, where the district is located.IMG_5178 (1).jpg (4284x5712, AR: 0.75)The arts community is still rebuilding from the devastation left behind by the floods. We hear from two arts organizations in the district about how they were affected and how they are continuing to move forward, one year later.Then, KPBS arts reporter Beth Accomando previews local film festivals and other arts and culture events with an organizer.Guests:Dajahn Blevins, founder and CEO of San Diego Urban WarriorsLa Raza Webb, co-founder and vice president, The Block ClubBeth Accomando, arts reporter, KPBSBrian Hu, artistic director of the San Diego Asian Film Festival, associate professor at San Diego State University

On Jan. 22, 2024, 2.73 inches of rain covered San Diego in a 24-hour period — the biggest rainstorm since 1850.The fast moving floods were devastating. More than 1,200 people were displaced and their lives forever changed. Hundreds of families have yet to recover. Some are still without a home.On Midday Edition, we discuss the state of the city's stormwater infrastructure a year after the floods. Plus, we hear the stories of a flood survivor and a volunteer working to rebuild homes.Guests:Andrew Bowen, KPBS metro reporterJessica Calix, survivor of the 2024 floodsJuan Chavez, volunteer with San Diego Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD)Untitled

President Donald Trump on Monday signed a slew of executive orders that sought to repeal Biden-era policies. One order repealed a provision that allows transgender people to serve in the military.The move clears the way for a complete ban on trans servicemembers, and could have a huge impact on San Diego.With more anti-trans legislation on the horizon, local LGBTQ+ groups are bracing themselves against continued attacks on the trans and nonbinary community. We check in with the San Diego LGBT Community Center about how they are supporting community members during this time.Plus, there are nationwide efforts to ban gender affirming care for youth. That includes medications that block the onset of puberty for minors diagnosed with gender dysphoria and other forms of medical care.We look at how a growing loss of coverage could affect trans and nonbinary youth and their families.Guests:Gloria Cruz Cardenas, chief impact officer, San Diego LGBT Community CenterDavid Vance, senior manager of advocacy and civic engagement, San Diego LGBT Community CenterKathie Moehlig, executive director, TransFamily Support ServicesDarlene Tando, licensed social worker and therapist, Tando Therapy Team

The fentanyl crisis continues to impact communities across the country and in San Diego.While overdose deaths from fentanyl fell between 2022 and 2023, it is still a leading cause of death in the county. San Diego also remains a major port of entry for the drug.An illustrated reporting project from inewsource highlights the staggering loss caused by fentanyl in our region.Then, continuing our arts and culture coverage — we pull an interview from our archives about an exhibit highlighting youth stories and Arab American art and culture.And finally, what to look forward to this weekend both on the big screen and elsewhere, from concerts to comics.fentanyl 2.png (1135x768, AR: 1.4778645833333333)Guests:Steve Breen, inewsource cartoonist and illustratorBeth Accomando, arts reporter, KPBSEthan Van Thillo, executive director of the Media Arts Center San DiegoResources:Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): 1-800-662-4357American Adoption Centers: (866) 921-2569Crisis Lifeline: 988For Narcan, call 211

San Diego ranks among the most expensive cities in the country, mainly due to high housing and transportation costs, according to U.S. News and World Report.San Diegans also pay some of the highest electricity prices, according to national surveys.The San Diego City Council has voted to establish a new committee dedicated to addressing the cost of living in our region. Committee Chair Sean Elo-Rivera joined KPBS Midday Edition to discuss his plans for creating a more affordable San Diego.Guest:Sean Elo-Rivera, District 9 City Councilmember

President elect Donald Trump is set to take office in less than a week.He’s promised to carry out the largest mass deportation in United States history. And, his administration has vowed to make sweeping reforms that could affect K-12 and higher education across the country.Ahead of Inauguration Day, we take a closer look at how these potential changes in federal immigration and education policy could impact San Diego County.Guests:Gustavo Solis, KPBS Border ReporterAgustina Paglayan, assistant professor at the UCSD School of Global Policy and StrategyResources:Immigrants Rising's "Mental Health Connector" programSan Diego Immigrant Rights ConsortiumUniversity of San Diego Immigration ClinicLegal Aid Society of San DiegoImmigration Services - Alliance San DiegoImmigration Legal Services Department - Jewish Family Service

This Monday marks Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a time to honor King’s legacy and reflect on the progress and ongoing challenges in the fight for civil rights.We’ll hear about one of San Diego’s longest running events paying tribute to King, the Human Dignity Award Breakfast, which will celebrate its 40th year on Friday.Guest:Dee Sanford, event chair, board member, Jackie Robinson Family YMCA 

Donations are pouring in from San Diegans looking to support those impacted by the Los Angeles wildfires.Whether it’s monetary donations, or volunteering your time, there's a lot you can do to help those impacted. But it's important to consider what's actually helpful for survivors, and what's not.On Midday Edition Tuesday, we hear a personal perspective from a survivor of the 2003 Cedar Fire in San Diego.Then, we hear from a local animal center supporting people and their pets affected by the fires.Guests:Sandra Younger, author of "The Fire Outside My Window" and survivor of the 2003 Cedar FireJessica Gercke, public relations director for the Helen Woodward Animal CenterIMG_1015.jpg (5712x4284, AR: 1.3333333333333333)You can find an updated list of resources to help those impacted by LA wildfires here.

The recent wildfires in Los Angeles serve as a powerful reminder of the growing threat of wildfires across California.Monday on Midday Edition, we’ll take a closer look at how to reduce wildfire risk and prepare for a wildfire.Then, how climate change is fueling extreme weather conditions that create the perfect environment for wildfires and what that means for San Diego.Plus, we pull an interview from our archives with author Viet Thanh Nguyen about his most recent children's book, "Simone" which explores the impact of wildfire evacuation on children.Guests:Luca Carmignani, professor, San Diego State UniversityMike Cornette, Fire Captain, public information officer, CAL FIREVarun Sivaram, senior fellow for Energy and Climate, Council on Foreign RelationsViet Thanh Nguyen, Pulitzer Prize-winning authorResources:Ready for WildfireUCANR Fire NetworkAlert San DiegoGenesis ProtectAir Now

Winds are expected to strengthen Thursday night as fire continues to devastate the Los Angeles area. Flames have torched more than 44 square miles across four separate blazes, according to the Associated Press.Here in San Diego County, inland valleys and mountains are under a red flag warning through Friday due to Santa Ana winds and low humidity.Today on Midday Edition, a look at wind and fire conditions for the region and what you need to know as wildfires continue to devastate parts of Southern California.Guest:Alex Tardy, Warning Coordination Meteorologist for the National Weather Service in San Diego County

There’s no doubt — living in San Diego can get expensive. But the good news is that there are so many things to do and enjoy for free. The San Diego Union-Tribune's community guides team shares their bucket list of free events and activities across the region for 2025.Plus, students, teachers and parents at Chula Vista High are worried about cuts to the school's experimental eight-period schedule. KPBS reporter Kori Suzuki looks at how the schedule cuts could impact the school's renowned arts program.And finally, film lovers across San Diego are mourning the loss of Landmark Theatres’ Hillcrest Cinemas, which closed its doors this past Sunday. KPBS Cinema Junkie Beth Accomando reflects on the closure and introduces listeners to the group Popcorn Reef, which puts on alternate film programming.Guests:Abby Hamblin, community guides editor, San Diego Union-TribuneCarlos Rico, community guides reporter, San Diego Union-TribuneKori Suzuki, South Bay and Imperial Valley reporter, KPBSEddie Gurrola, Popcorn Reef

As we embark on a new year, we are talking with two re-elected officials to hear about their priorities for their next terms.U.S. Rep. Mike Levin, a Democrat, represents California’s 49th District. That includes parts of San Diego’s North County and South Orange County. He’ll join us to talk about how he plans to achieve his policy goals with both houses and the presidency being controlled by Republicans.Plus we’ll hear from San Diego County Supervisor Terra Lawson- Remer on her priorities for the next term, which include homelessness, housing and behavioral health.Guests:Mike Levin, U.S. Representative, 49th DistrictTerra Lawson- Remer, San Diego County Supervisor

What are your New Year's resolutions? For many, exercising regularly and improving physical health often top the priority list. One great way to do just that is by venturing into the great outdoors and taking advantage of what San Diego has to offer.On Midday Edition Thursday, we talk about how you can get started on your outdoor resolutions and maintain them.Plus, last September, four local high school students traveled to a remote village in rural Alaska and produced a film about the experience. KPBS arts reporter Beth Accomando sat down with the students to talk about the trip, Carlsbad High's film program, and their biggest takeaways.And finally, KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans shares all the top arts and culture events to check out in January, from classical music to new art exhibits.Guests:Sydney Williams, author of “Hiking Your Feelings,” co-founder of Hiking My FeelingsShelby Stanger, host of REI podcast “Wild Ideas Worth Living," author of “Will to Wild: Adventures Great and Small to Change Your Life"Doug Green, former Carlsbad High School broadcast journalism teacherMaddie Mulligan, student, Carlsbad HighTava Valenti, student, Carlsbad HighJulia Dixon Evans, arts reporter, KPBS

On the last day of 2024, we’re taking a look back at some of our favorite conversations from the show this year.KPBS Midday Edition producers Andrew Bracken, Ashley Rusch and Julianna Domingo sit down to discuss some of their favorite segments and shows from the year.Guests:Andrew Bracken, Midday Edition producer and Roundtable host/producerJulianna Domingo, Midday Edition producerAshley Rusch, Midday Edition producerOur favorite episodes of 2024:Andrew - Building connection through fatherhoodJulianna - Celebrating Pride Week with San Diego drag queensAshley - The love/hate relationship with dating in San DiegoJade - Christian nationalism and the movement of 'ex-vangelicals'Honorable Mentions:Jade's picks:Celebrating Black Music Month with NPR Music's Tiny DeskAshley's picks:Ghost hunting in San DiegoThe value of 'third places'Andrew's picks:San Diego declares June 21 'Slow Jams Day'Finding yourself and others in older adulthoodJulianna's picks:How Filipino farmworkers revolutionized the labor movementSan Diego athletes gear up for the Paralympics

On Midday Edition Thursday, we look at various art exhibits you can pop into this weekend, no paid ticket necessary.Then, we invite you to our Christmas Smackdown edition of Midday Movies, starting with an annual holiday debate: Is "Die Hard" a Christmas movie?Then, we look beyond "Die Hard" to pick the warmest and fuzziest, as well as most action-packed Christmas movies.Guests:Julia Dixon Evans, arts reporter, KPBSBeth Accomando, arts reporter, KPBSYazdi Pithavala, podcaster, Moviewallas

President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to shut down a mobile app used by asylum seekers in the United States. We talk to KPBS border reporter Gustavo Solis about the impact it could have.

We hear about San Diego City Attorney Heather Ferbert's plans to accomplish her goals in her new role.

'Tis the season! We've got a gift guide, book recommendations from San Diego's independent bookstores and sustainable ways to wrap those presents.

On today's show, we discuss the emotional challenges of early motherhood and pregnancy, including postpartum depression and pregnancy loss.

We revisit a conversation about the practice of "memory work" and how it empowers communities to trace their lineage. Then, we dive into the movie "Queer" and the etymology behind the title and word. And finally, your weekend arts preview, from a poetry festival to exhibitions and live music.

We hear about what factors have led to workers to feeling disconnected at work, as employee satisfaction at work matched a record low this year. Plus, California's unemployment system is in need of fixing, according to a new state report.

We talk about some of the biggest stories coming out of the KPBS newsroom, like the community's calls to change K-9 policies. Plus, advocates are pushing for more protections for deported veterans. And finally, an investigation on the city's latest homelessness initiative and how it's falling short of its goals.

An Otay Mesa toll would generate funds to address the ongoing Tijuana River sewage crisis, which threatens the health of South Bay residents.

The KPBS program "Historic Places" looks behind-the-scenes at ongoing efforts to preserve the hotel's buildings. Plus, what the nonprofit arts organization WorldBeat Cultural Center has in store this season. And a weekend arts preview.

We discuss how to embrace aging, and learn how friendship can help us be healthier and happier as we grow older.

We follow up on the state of electric vehicles in California. Plus, how the arrival of the lithium industry in Imperial County could affect local communities — and how environmental advocates are responding.

We're serving up essential turkey tips, and what to do with your leftovers come Friday. Plus, films we're thankful for.

President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to deport millions of undocumented people when he takes office. On Midday Edition, we look into what that could mean for San Diego.

An Imperial Beach nonprofit is premiering a new film about coastal access, surfing and Indigenous life.

Each year, Transgender Day of Remembrance is observed to memorialize those who lost their lives in acts of anti-trans violence. We talk about what this day means to the transgender and nonbinary community in our border region.

On Midday Edition, we're talking to local experts about how sound and music can affect mental health and well-being.

On Midday Edition, we're learning about how team sports can impact neurodivergent kids. Plus, we'll be speaking with the head basketball coach Brian Dutcher.

On Midday Edition, we're looking at a practice that empowers communities to trace their lineage. Plus, a celebration of noir films for 'Noirvember.' And finally, your weekend arts preview.

On Midday Edition, we look at local and national efforts to revive Native American culture, language and history.