KPBS Midday Edition

It's the time of year for Padres fans' favorite words: Play ball!On today's arts and culture show, we get a peak into Padres Opening Day and hear from a Carlsbad chef in the running for a major award.Plus, our Midday Movies critics highlight women directors for Women's History Month, from trailblazers to emerging new voices.Then, the weekend preview of upcoming events in the music scene.Guests:Jacob Aere, producer, KPBSEric Bost, chef and owner of several Carlsbad restaurantsBeth Accomando, arts reporter, KPBSYazdi Pithavala, host, MoviewallasJulia Dixon Evans, arts reporter, KPBS

Laughter and joy have always been central to the Black experience.The '90s especially were a golden era for Black comedy. But it didn't just start then — there were others that paved the way for shows like Living Color, Martin, and A Different World.The truth is: Black comedians have always shaped culture and civic discourse in America.We sit down with broadcaster and author Geoff Bennett to talk about his new book, "Black Out Loud," which explores Black comedy's history and cultural influence.Guest:Geoff Bennett, co-anchor of PBS NewsHour, author of "Black Out Loud: The Revolutionary History of Black Comedy from Vaudeville to '90s Sitcoms"

Across the country, hundreds of thousands of children are living in the foster care system.It's an experience that author David Ambroz knows all too well.In his memoir, "A Place Called Home," Ambroz recounts his experiences in and out of the poverty cycle — growing up homeless and later unprotected in the foster care system.In spite of these harrowing experiences, his memoir is also a story about love, strength and solutions.We sit down with Ambroz ahead of an upcoming appearance at the San Diego Writer's Festival.Guest:David Ambroz, child welfare expert and author, "A Place Called Home"

The San Diego Unified School Board voted this week to rename César Chávez Elementary School.It's one of many efforts to remove Chávez' name from schools, parks and other spaces following allegations of sexual abuse and rape that surfaced last week.We unpack the layers of issues surrounding Chávez' legacy and what this means for survivors of sexual assault.Guest:Jean Guerrero, investigative journalist and author of the substack, "UNSILENCING"

In 1992, federal agents and a white separatist family faced off in a remote part of Idaho, culminating in a violent standoff that became known as the Ruby Ridge incident.The 11-day siege is chronicled in the book, "End of Days: Ruby Ridge, the Apocalypse, and the Unmaking of America."Tuesday on Midday Edition, we hear from the author about the confrontation that transpired, the family's belief in the apocalypse, and how it foreshadowed conspiracy-driven politics — and the ongoing resurgence of white Christian nationalism.Guest:Chris Jennings, author, "End of Days: Ruby Ridge, the Apocalypse, and the Unmaking of America"Events:San Diego Writer's Festival - March 28

The latest release of files by the Justice Department have shed light on Jeffrey Epstein's relationships with prominent researchers across the country.That includes several researchers affiliated with UC San Diego — Deepak Chopra and V.S. Ramachandran.Epstein helped them fund research into whether autistic children had telepathic abilities.We break down the research and what it reveals about Epstein's interests and the level of scrutiny in research funding.Guest:Lucas Robinson, reporter, The San Diego Union-Tribune

On Thursday, the Federal Communications Commission and Justice Department approved Nexstar Media Group's $6.2 billion acquisition of rival Tegna.The deal puts San Diego's CBS, CW and FOX affiliates and KUSI under the same ownership.Monday on Midday Edition, we talk about what this merger could mean for San Diego's journalism landscape and information ecosystem amid declining trust in news.Guest:Lynn Walsh, assistant director, Trusting News

A rapid effort is well underway to erase Cesar Chavez' name from schools, parks and monuments following allegations last week about the labor leader's sexual abuse of women and girls.San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria has signed an executive order directing city departments to remove public references to Chavez.This week, the San Diego Unified School Board will vote on whether to begin the renaming process for César Chávez Elementary School.But historians know that the full story of the farmworkers' movement does not begin or end with Chavez. We sit down with a scholar to unpack that history and the significance of this moment.Guest:Verónica Martínez-Matsuda, associate professor of history, UC San Diego

The city of San Diego is considering new rules around electric bicycles. As e-bikes grow in popularity, so have concerns over safety.On Midday Edition Monday, we get a breakdown of the different types of e-bikes available, and what people need to know. We also hear about efforts at the city and state level underway to regulate electric bicycles.Guest:Aria Grossman, policy manager, Circulate Planning & PolicyResources:Media toolkit for electric bicycles

Friday marks the beginning of Nowruz, also known as the Persian New Year.A new children's book, "Celebrate Nowruz!" by a local mother-daughter duo honors the holiday and its significance to millions of Iranian families across the world.Then, the San Diego Latino Film Festival kicks off its 33rd year with nearly 150 films showcasing the best in Latino cinema. KPBS arts reporter Beth Accomando brings us a preview.And if you're looking for things to do this weekend, don't fret. KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans has you covered. From protest art to a musical about public toilets, we dive into all the arts events in your weekend preview.Guests:Zohreh Ghahremani, author, "Celebrate Nowruz!"Susie Ghahremani, illustrator, "Celebrate Nowruz!"Ethan van Thillo, founder, San Diego Latino Film FestivalLuis Martinez, programmer, San Diego Latino Film FestivalCatherina Cojulún, filmmakerJulia Dixon Evans, arts reporter, KPBS

There's nothing like a good friend.They're the people who make you laugh. They have your back. And, they take care of you when times get tough.But making new friends as an adult can be challenging, especially as we try to balance jobs, families and big life changes.On Midday Edition, we take a deep dive into all things friendship — how to make friends, keep friends and everything in between.Our journey takes us from Kate Sessions Park, to the therapy room, Lestat's on Adams Ave, and improv at Liberty Station.Guests: Julianna Domingo, producer, KPBSAshley Rusch, producer, KPBSMitzy Ruelas, licensed marriage and family therapistDan Singley, psychologist and director of The Center for Men's ExcellenceLauren Mapp, co-founder and journalist, Daylight San DiegoMaura Fox, communities reporter, The San Diego Union-TribuneLinks:Daylight San Diego's Third Spaces SeriesLet Me Have It! All Femme Improv Group

The U.S. Postal Service released a new commemorative set of stamps honoring lowrider culture on Friday.The stamps, which highlight five classic lowrider cars, are the latest recognition for lowriding as an important form of expression in Mexican-American communities across the Southwest.Lowriding also faced bans in many communities, including a ban in National City until it was repealed in 2023.On Midday Edition Tuesday, we hear more about the rich history of lowriding and what it has meant for Chicano culture in San Diego through the years.Guest:Alberto López Pulido, professor of ethnic studies, University of San DiegoLinks:Lowrider stampsSan Diego Archival ProjectLowriding: Everything Comes from the Streets

The California legislature has been on a housing blitz, passing major housing policy reforms in recent years.Now, Congress is finalizing a package of housing bills — some of the proposed changes were inspired by California.Some experts say it would be the federal government's most significant housing reform in decades.We talk about what the bill package could mean for housing affordability moving forward, in California and beyond.Guest:Adhiti Bandlamudi, housing reporter, KQED

On Tuesday, the San Diego City Council will be voting on adopting a new working definition of antisemitism.Councilmember Stephen Whitburn is proposing adopting a definition crafted by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance, also known as the IHRA.The definition has been widely adopted by countries, states, cities and schools. But critics say it's imprecise and could have broader implications for freedom of speech.Tuesday on Midday Edition, we look at the history of the IHRA definition, how it's been interpreted and put into practice and competing perceptions of antisemitism.Guests:Jonathan Graubart, political science professor and chair, San Diego State University

Last Tuesday, the city of San Diego recognized 10 local women for their leadership and service, as part of its “Women of Distinction” event.Mayor Todd Gloria named immigration attorney Maria Chavez as this year's citywide honoree.Monday on Midday Edition, we sit down with Chavez to talk about the recognition, her career journey and how current policies and immigration enforcement are impacting her work today.Guest:Maria Chavez, immigration legal director, Partnership for the Advancement of New Americans

Back in January, the City of San Diego implemented paid parking in Balboa Park, incurring both anger and confusion from residents and organizations based out of the park.The city responded with a grace period followed by reductions in fees for city residents and free parking in certain lots.KPBS arts reporter Beth Accomando checked in with arts organizations in the park about how the parking policies are affecting them.Guests:Tim Shields, managing director, Old Globe TheatreMichael Warburton, executive director, San Diego Model Railroad MuseumPeter Comiskey, executive director, Balboa Park Cultural Partnership

Gov. Gavin Newsom last week announced the latest allocation of more than $1 billion for mental health treatment projects and shelter beds.The funding comes through Proposition 1. Passed in 2024, the measure created a $6.4 billion bond to remake California's behavioral health system and expand the availability of treatment beds statewide.A CalMatters report, however, found that none of the programs expected in 2025 under that measure have opened yet.On Midday Edition Monday, we hear about that and about some of the San Diego projects expanding mental health and substance abuse care through Prop. 1.Guest:Marisa Kendall, homelessness reporter, CalMatters

What does it mean to reconnect to one's ancestral homeland?Thursday on Midday Edition, we hear from the director of a new documentary, "Dear Alaska," which explores reconnection and interconnection through the lens of the Indigenous Tlingit people of the Pacific Northwest and San Diego's Native community.Then, the Old Globe is currently staging a new adaptation of Herman Melville's 1853 short story "Bartleby, the Scrivener." KPBS arts reporter Beth Accomando sits down with the playwrights.Guests:Moriah Hayes/Keeyées Tláa, director, "Dear Alaska"Noah Brody, playwright, Fiasco TheaterPaul L. Coffey, playwright, Fiasco Theater

The federal government is requiring the California DMV to cancel commercial drivers licenses for roughly 13,000 truck drivers without permanent legal status.That includes drivers with some work visas, refugee or asylum status, or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) — among other work authorizations.The DMV says it's allowing affected drivers to submit new license applications, but the federal government is barring them from being processed.On Midday Edition, we talk about how the policy is impacting immigrant drivers who are unable to work and anxious about their livelihoods.Guest:Gurvinder Singh, International Humanitarian Aid Director, UNITED SIKHSResources:UNITED SIKHSFreedom Drivers CoalitionSikh CoalitonAsian Law Caucus

You might have seen the social media buzz over Korean beauty products, also known as K-Beauty. It remains a booming industry — South Korea exported a record $11 billion in cosmetics in 2025.Now, K-Beauty has a new hub in San Diego: the skincare store Seoul Glow Lab.Wednesday on Midday Edition, we sit down with the founder of Seoul Glow Lab and one of its estheticians to talk about the boom in Korean beauty, along with the community and education building around it locally.Guests:Katie Hernandez, founder, Seoul Glow LabSabrina Kim, esthetician, Seoul Glow Lab, founder, Soul Care Standard

The San Diego County Board of Supervisors filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration on Tuesday over access to the Otay Mesa Detention Center.Last month, federal and county officials were turned away when they tried to inspect the center. They issued an ultimatum to DHS last week — let them into the facility, or face legal action.We discuss where the lawsuit stands and what happens next.Guests: Terra Lawson-Remer, San Diego County Board of Supervisors Chair

What does it take to heal from the past and build a life and future you actually want?Licensed therapist and author Katherine Woodward Thomas digs into personal transformation, manifestation and more in her most recent book, “What's True About You: 7 Steps to Move Beyond Your Painful Past and Manifest Your Brightest Future.”Thomas will be at the San Diego Writer's Festival later this month. She joined Midday Edition on Wednesday to discuss the book and what it takes to achieve a more authentic self.Guest:Katherine Woodward Thomas, therapist and author of “What's True About You: 7 Steps to Move Beyond Your Painful Past and Manifest Your Brightest Future”

As the Iran war stretches into its second week, concerns are growing around the impact the conflict will have for the global economy. Much of that attention has been on energy prices — particularly, the price of oil and gas. But its impacts can go far deeper.Plus, processing the news and reality of war in the Middle East and immigration enforcement here in the U.S. can weigh on anyone's psyche.For children, consuming media about war without guardrails can be dangerous.We talk about thoughtful ways parents can approach conversations with their kids about the news in today's world.Guests:Daniel Enemark, chief economist, Policy & Innovation CenterKimberly Macias, licensed professional clinical counselor, Thrive Therapy StudioResources for processing the news with kids:BBC NewsroundDOGO NewsNational Geographic KidsTIME for KidsNational Child Traumatic Stress Network

UC San Diego is hosting the 25th Annual Kyoto Prize Symposium this week. The esteemed award is given for lifetime achievement in the fields of technology, science and the arts.One of this year's honorees is Carol Gilligan. Her groundbreaking work highlights how women and girls were excluded in psychological research. In books such as "In a Different Voice," Gilligan explored women's and girls' identity and morality, and developed the concept of "the ethic of care.""I was standing with all women and girls in receiving this prize," she said in an interview with Midday Edition. "And our voices were being recognized."Gilligan joined Midday Edition Tuesday to reflect on what she's learned about the lives of women and girls over the course of her career and share her reaction to receiving the Kyoto Prize.Guest:Carol Gilligan, professor, researcher, author, New York UniversityLinks:Registration for the 25th Annual Kyoto Prize Symposium Laureate Presentations, UC San Diego, March 11-12

The American-Israeli war on Iran has entered its second week.More than 1,300 people have been killed in Iran, according to the Iranian Red Crescent Society.Many fear this could be another "forever war," like the U.S. invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan. We speak to a local professor who recently published an op-ed exploring that question.He also outlines San Diego's connections to the war.Plus, reports emerged last week alleging that military commanders are framing this war as part of "God's plan" and invoking Christian "end times" rhetoric.We discuss the relationship between Christian nationalist theology and U.S. politics, and what that looks like today.Guests:Ibrahim Al-Marashi, associate professor of Middle East History, Cal State San Marcos; visiting lecturer in journalism and media studies, San Diego State UniversityRebecca Bartel, associate professor of religion, San Diego State University

Longtime Rep. Darrell Issa announced Friday he will not seek reelection in 2026 after serving in Congress for more than two decades. San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond also announced last week that he will run for Issa's seat in the 48th Congressional District, reshaping a race with national implications.Voice of San Diego's Scott Lewis joins Midday Edition Monday to talk about the role new congressional maps played in Issa's decision, and to reflect on his political legacy as a Republican leader in Southern California.Guest:Scott Lewis, CEO, editor-in-chief, Voice of San Diego

Each year, the San Diego Public Library honors former children's librarian Clara Breed's legacy through its annual Clara Breed Civil Liberties lecture.Breed is known for advocating for Japanese American youth who were incarcerated during World War II.Author Maggie Tokuda-Hall will be delivering this year's address. She joined Midday Edition Thursday to talk about exploring the history of Japanese American incarceration through the lens of her family's experience and the state of book bans and censorship today.Then, a new play looks back to the night the United States launched the Vietnam War draft lottery. KPBS arts reporter Beth Accomando brings us a preview.And finally, looking for things to do this weekend? KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans shares her top arts and culture picks for the weekend — plus, a preview of the latest episode of "The Finest."

As fighting in Iran and beyond continues into its fifth day, many military families in San Diego are grappling with new stress and uncertainty. On Midday Edition Tuesday, we hear more about the impacts on local military families.Then, the Department of Veterans Affairs released new data last month on veteran suicides. Though the report did see a minor decline in deaths by suicide between 2022 and 2023, the numbers remain high.Over 17 veteran suicide deaths were reported on average each day in 2023.We take a look into how one local military clinic approaches providing mental health care for veterans, military members and their families.Guests:Maggie Meza, executive director, the San Diego Chapter of Blue Star FamiliesShuna Ball, regional clinic director, The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinics at VVSDResources:Blue Star Families Food Insecurity ResourcesBlue Star Families Deployment ResourcesVeterans Crisis Line988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

San Diego's population continues to grow older. That demographic shift brings concerns over how to best help seniors thrive in their later years. Exercise remains an essential element to maintaining health as we age.In his book "Move for Life," San Diego personal trainer Damien A. Joyner shares advice for older adults on ways to stay active and strong, and have fun while exercising.Guest:Damien A. Joyner, fitness expert, author, "Move for Life"

For many in San Diego's Muslim community, Ramadan is a time to pray, fast and reflect on one's faith.Tuesday on Midday Edition, we talk about the cultural and spiritual significance of Ramadan and how it is being honored locally.Guest:Imam Taha Hassane, imam of the Islamic Center of San Diego

A U.S. Supreme Court ruling Monday has put a California state law on gender privacy in schools on hold.The SAFETY Act, passed into law in 2024, prohibits schools from sharing information on student gender identity without student approval.On Midday Edition Tuesday, we hear more about what the ruling means for California schools, students and parents.Guest:Katie Anastas, education reporter, KPBS

Israel and Iran continued to trade airstrikes Tuesday, four days into a war that U.S. President Donald Trump would last several weeks but perhaps longer.Iranians in San Diego are grappling with mixed emotions as they celebrate the death of Ayotallah Ali Khamenei while processing what may come next.On Midday Edition, we sit down with one Iranian organizer who helps us put this week's events in historical context.We also talk about his hopes for Iran moving forward.Guest:Shahram Homayounfar, organizer with the Coalition for Democracy and Human Rights in Iran

Despite recent record-high temperatures across the San Diego region this weekend, the official start of spring is still weeks away.Gardening expert Nan Sterman joins Midday Edition Monday to talk about planting for spring in the wake of our warmer winter.Sterman gives tips on everything from how to choose the right citrus tree to plant, to how to help young children develop a passion for gardening.Guest:Nan Sterman, host, KPBS, "A Growing Passion"Resources:Waterwise Gardener Upcoming EventsWaterwise Gardener How To VideosBooks by Nan Sterman

The Epstein files include the names of many of the world's most rich and powerful.One of them is a prominent figure in San Diego: bestselling author and wellness guru Deepak Chopra. He's mentioned in the files more than 4,000 times.UC San Diego told CNN that Chopra's association with Epstein was "regrettable" and said his affiliation with the school will end at the end of June.“UC San Diego is aware that Deepak Chopra, MD, has been mentioned in files that were recently released by the Department of Justice. Dr. Chopra currently has a Voluntary Clinical Professor (without salary) appointment in the School of Medicine's Department of Family Medicine with an expected job end date of 6/30/26,” UC San Diego told CNN.“While we are not able to comment further on personnel matters, the crimes Jeffrey Epstein committed were horrific, and any association with him is regrettable.”We discuss recent reporting that outlines Chopra's relationship and correspondence with Epstein over the years. And, UC San Diego's decision to end Chopra's affiliation with the school.Also, another revelation that Epstein provided funding for a UC San Diego lab within the department of psychology.Guest:Jakob McWhinney, education reporter, Voice of San Diego

The United States and Israel's coordinated attacks on Iran that started over the weekend continue to escalate.Among the ships involved in strikes include a San Diego-based aircraft carrier — the USS Abraham Lincoln.At least four American soldiers have died in the conflict so far. President Donald Trump says the conflict could take four to five weeks, or far longer.On Midday Edition, we break down the latest news out of Iran with an expert on war, peace and international politics.We also talk about what the war could mean for San Diegans.Guest:Erik Gartzke, professor of political science and director of The Center for Peace and Security Studies at UC San Diego

Olympic bobsledder Kaillie Humphries is coming home to Carlsbad with two new medals after the Milan-Cortina Olympic Games, bringing six medals total.She's widely considered one of the best bobsledders in the history of the sport.We sit down with Humphries to hear more about her journey through the sport and motherhood.Plus, a local student magazine highlighting arts and culture reports back after covering New York Fashion Week — one of the biggest events in the industry.Then, our Midday Movies critics sing the praises of Hong Kong director John Woo and celebrates his impactful work in the world of action cinema.Guests:Kaillie Humphries, Olympic bobsledder and six-time medalistErin Seitzler, editor-in-chief, The Look MagazineBeth Accomando, arts reporter, Cinema Junkie host, KPBSYazdi Pithavala, podcaster, Moviewallas

Acclaimed writer George Saunders is one of the featured authors at this week's 31st annual Writer's Symposium by the Sea in Point Loma.Known for groundbreaking works like "Lincoln in the Bardo" and "Tenth of December," Saunders joined Midday Edition Wednesday to reflect on his writing process, and how he approaches teaching the art of writing to a new generation.Guest:George Saunders, author, "Vigil", "Lincoln in the Bardo"Link:31st Annual Writer's Symposium by the Sea event with George Saunders on Feb. 27

Nearly 50% of all cancer deaths are considered preventable, according to the American Association for Cancer Research.However, there remains a general lack of awareness about early detection and screening.This Cancer Prevention Month, doctors are spreading the word about how to be more proactive about your health. We talk to one local researcher to hear more.Guest:Dr. Svasti Haricharan, professor of biology at San Diego State University, member of UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center, research grantee at American Cancer Society

We hear reaction from local Congressmember Mike Levin following President Donald Trump's State of the Union address.

This Black History Month, we're celebrating local Black leaders across every field — from art, to community organizing and wellness.On Midday Edition Tuesday, we feature two Black women making waves in San Diego's education and food justice scenes.We hear about their lifelong commitments to social justice and equity and the philosophies that motivate them to continue their work.Guests:Ashanti T. Hands, president, San Diego Mesa CollegeDiane Moss, founder and managing director, Project New Village

Officials say at least 62 people have died in Mexico, but none in Tijuana or elsewhere in Baja California.On Midday Edition, we discuss where the violence stands now and what the operation says about the state of U.S.-Mexico relations.Guest:Ev Meade, director of Proceso Pacífico, a peace building group in Culiacán

In commemoration of Black History Month, we are continuing to sit down with local Black trailblazers who are continuing to leave their mark on the community.Brisa Johnson has spent much of her life advocating for social justice in many different capacities, from leading civic engagement initiatives to spearheading the creation of the San Diego Black Worker Center.Monday on Midday Edition, we hear from Johnson about her journey to where she is today and what it means to fight for workers' justice in 2026.Guest:Brisa Johnson, executive director, San Diego Black Worker Center

Voice of San Diego has released its annual Parent's Guide to San Diego Schools. The 2026 guide, available in both English and Spanish, reviews San Diego private schools, in addition to public and charter schools in the region.On Midday Edition Monday, we hear more about what new information is included in this year's guide, and advice for parents on how to best use it.Then, California has expanded public education to children as young as four years old. What impact is it having on private preschools' ability to keep their doors open?Guests:Jakob McWhinney, education reporter, Voice of San DiegoAndrea Sanchez-Villafaña, managing editor, Voice of San DiegoJeanne Kuang, Capitol reporter, CalMatters

There's a lot to worry about when you're in sixth grade. But what happens when you're asked to represent an entire religion and culture?That's the main struggle for Mariam, the protagonist of the new middle grade book, "Hail Mariam." When she's transferred to a local Catholic school, she worries that being the only Muslim American girl will put her at odds with her peers.Thursday on KPBS Midday Edition, we sit down with the author of "Hail Mariam" to talk about how she drew on her own experiences for this story, navigating religious differences as a young person and the beauty in finding common ground.Then, the Oceanside International Film Festival launches its 15th year with a day of surf films at the Brooks Theater. KPBS Cinema Junkie Beth Accomando previews the festival — and the challenges it faces this year.And finally, curious about what to do this weekend? KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans has you covered. We talk about the arts and culture events to check out and preview the latest episode of "The Finest."Guests:Huda Al-Marashi, author, "Hail Mariam"Lou Niles, executive director, Oceanside International Film FestivalCarly Starr Brullo Niles, artistic director and co-director of programming, Oceanside International Film FestivalJulia Dixon Evans, arts reporter and host of "The Finest," KPBSLinks:Feb. 24 - "Hail Mariam" book launch event

Federal officials said Americans are projected to receive larger tax refunds this season.That's after several changes to the tax code under what the White House calls the "One Big Beautiful Bill."How much you get back will depend on many factors, though. We break down what to expect and how to navigate your taxes this season.Guest:Mary Beth Storjohann, financial planner and CEO, Allora Wealth