KPBS Midday Edition

Acclaimed author and activist Don Winslow thought he would retire from writing after his last novel, "City in Ruin" came out in 2024.But this year, he marks his return to fiction with a collection of six novellas, "The Final Score."Thursday on Midday Edition, Winslow talks about exploring identity in his latest work, his decision to return to writing, and his advocacy in the current political moment.Then, KPBS' Beth Accomando sits down with the co-founder of Riot Productions to talk about their latest play, "Audition Sides," which tells a love story between two actors stuck in a callback audition.And finally, there is plenty to do in the arts this weekend. KPBS' Julia Dixon Evans shares all the events to check out, plus a preview of what to check out in "The Finest."Guests:Don Winslow, author and activist, "The Final Score"Sarah Alida LeClair, playwright and actress, "Audition Sides;" artistic director and founder, Riot ProductionsJulia Dixon Evans, arts reporter and host of "The Finest," KPBS

Roughly 31,000 Kaiser Permanente nurses and healthcare workers in California and Hawaii went on strike this week. The union alleges unfair labor practices amid prolonged contract talks.Workers on the picket lines are fighting for safe staffing levels and fair wages for caregivers.We discuss what healthcare workers are fighting for, how Kaiser Permanente is responding, and what patients need to know.Guests:Heidi de Marco, health reporter, KPBS

Over 42 million Americans have student loan debt, with a total of more than $1.6 trillion owed.Late last year, the Trump administration announced plans to begin garnishing the wages of borrowers in default on student loans, but backtracked earlier this month. The result has created confusion for many facing student loan debt.Tuesday on Midday Edition, we breakdown some of the biggest changes in the federal student loan system and what borrowers need to know.Then, a new book chronicles the origins of the U.S. student loan system and looks at student debt as an issue of civil rights.Guests:Aissa Canchola Bañez, policy director, Protect BorrowersJamal Watson, higher education journalist, professor and associate dean of graduate studies at Trinity Washington University, author of “The Student Debt Crisis: America's Moral Urgency"

Mass protests against the current regime in Iran have been ongoing since late December.Iranian security forces have killed thousands. Many more have been arrested. It's been called the deadliest unrest in the country since the 1979 revolution.A near-total internet blackout continues, limiting communication and adding to uncertainty.We sit down with one Iranian American in San Diego, concerned about the safety of her friends and family in Iran and grappling with anxiety about the future.Guest:Bibi Kasrai, Iranian American entrepreneur who has lived in San Diego since 1996

For more than a year, plans for a $10 billion data center have been quietly moving forward in Imperial County.By some estimates, it could rank among the largest data centers in the world.The center would use immense amounts of energy and water. But the developer is openly trying to avoid California's environmental review process.We sit down with KPBS reporter Kori Suzuki to discuss his three-part investigation digging into the controversy.Guest:Kori Suzuki, South Bay and Imperial Valley reporter, KPBS

San Diego County Board of Supervisors Chair Terra Lawson-Remer ordered flags on county property to be flown at half-staff in response to recent violence involving federal immigration enforcement agencies in Minnesota.Lawson-Remer joins Midday Edition Monday to talk about her reaction to the killing of Alex Pretti by a federal officer Saturday, and what local leaders are doing to try to prevent similar violence in San Diego County.Guest:Terra Lawson-Remer, District 3 county supervisor and chair, San Diego County Board of Supervisors

Two years ago today, historic flooding devastated neighborhoods and displaced communities across San Diego.The destruction also left many arts and culture spaces in ruin.Thursday on Midday Edition, we sit down with two local arts groups — Graffiti Gardens and PASACAT — to talk about the hardships that came from the flooding and how they have rebuilt since.Then, Oscar nominations are out! Our Midday Movies critics share their reactions to everything, from new record-setting nominations to the biggest snubs of the year.Guests:Maxx Moses, graffiti artist, owner of Graffiti GardensAnamaria Labao Cabato, executive director, PASACATBeth Accomando, arts reporter, Cinema Junkie host, KPBSYazdi Pithavala, podcaster, Moviewallas

San Diego's Rady Children's Hospital this week announced that it will stop offering gender-affirming care under the threat of losing federal funding.The hospital is the only in San Diego County dedicated solely to pediatric care.On Midday Edition, we speak with the leader of a prominent transgender advocacy group ahead of a planned protest this weekend.Guest:Kathie Moehlig, founder and executive director, TransFamily Support Services

On Jan. 22, 2024, floods devastated San Diego neighborhoods in the Chollas Creek watershed.Thousands of residents were forced out of their homes that day. Videos show cars completely submerged in water. Some escaped on kayaks, while others gathered on their rooftops.On Midday Edition, we talk about San Diego's ongoing effort to fix its stormwater system. And, where litigation stands between the city and flood survivors.We also check in with Jessica Calix, who continues fighting for her community two years after losing her Southcrest home.Plus, the story of a flower shop that flooded again this month for the second time in less than two years.Guests:Maura Fox, communities reporter, The San Diego Union-TribuneJessica Calix, survivor of the 2024 floodsMeg Blancato, co-owner, Native Poppy

The U.S. government released new dietary guidelines earlier this month. The guidance adds greater emphasis on proteins and healthy fats, and limits processed and ultra-processed foods.On Midday Edition Tuesday, we get reaction from health and food experts to the new guidelines, and what families should take away from them.Guests:Cheryl Anderson, dean, professor, Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health & Human Longevity Science, UC San DiegoTraci Roberts, nutritionist, UC San Diego Health

One year ago, Donald Trump was sworn into office for the second time.Experts agree that his first term was largely unpredictable. But his second term has been marked by an even greater sense of volatility, unprecedented action and seismic shifts in both domestic and foreign policy.We break down the major policies that defined the first year of Trump's second term. And, what we should expect heading into the midterms.Then, we sit down with organizer of San Diego's "Free America" Walkout, joining a national demonstration protesting Trump's policies.Guests:Casey Dominguez, professor of political science and international relations, University of San DiegoLisa Doell, organizer, "Free America" Walkout San Diego

Each year on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we look back at the reverend's legacy and how his fight for racial and economic justice resounds today.But the holiday comes during a politically and socially turbulent time in the United States and amid recent efforts to undermine King's legacy — like the Trump administration's removal of Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth as free entry days to national parks.Monday on Midday Edition, we reflect on what we can learn from King's teachings and values in 2026, and how it continues to inspire community leaders in San Diego and beyond.Guests:Montague Williams, professor of church, culture, and society; director of the Pilgrimage Innovation Hub, Point Loma Nazarene University; author of “Church in Color: Youth Ministry, Race, and the Theology of Martin Luther King Jr.”Leonard Thompson III, president and CEO, M.A.N.D.A.T.E. RecordsMartin Luther King III, eldest son of Martin Luther King Jr., global human rights advocate

This week, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria delivered his annual State of the City speech. We talk about where the city is and where it's headed.Plus, a former San Diego sailor is sentenced for selling Navy secrets to China.And, we check in on the state of San Diego sports ahead of San Diego FC's upcoming season.Guests:Andrew Bowen, metro reporter, KPBSMariana Martínez Barba, City Hall reporter, Voice of San DiegoAndrew Dyer, military and veteran affairs reporter, KPBSRyan Finley, sports editor, The San Diego Union-Tribune

25 years ago, Point Loma's Liberty Station began its transformation from military base to arts center.It was renamed Arts District Liberty Station — and soon became a cultural hub for the city.In fact, it was recently designated as a California Cultural District for its contribution to the arts.Thursday on Midday Edition, we talk about the place Liberty Station has in San Diego's arts and culture scene.Then, KPBS' Beth Accomando previews a documentary being screened at the 36th annual San Diego International Jewish Film Festival.Then, the KPBS arts and culture podcast "The Finest" premieres its second season. We get a special sneak peek at what is to come — from risograph printing to hometown heroes.Guests:Lisa Johnson, president and CEO, Arts District Liberty StationRachel Laing, assistant deputy director in economic development, city of San DiegoAbby Ginzberg, filmmaker, "Labors of Love: The Life and Legacy of Henrietta Szold"Julia Dixon Evans, arts reporter and host of "The Finest," KPBSResources:Emerging Artist Residencies — Arts District Liberty Station

A local Indigenous-owned company is making waves in the beauty industry.N8iV Beauty is a skincare brand that draws from ancestral traditions, infusing that knowledge and plant-based ingredients — like acorn oil — into its products.Last year, the company won a 2025 “Best of Beauty” award from Allure, making them the first Indigenous-owned brand to receive that recognition.Wednesday on Midday Edition, we hear from its founder about how N8iV Beauty is reclaiming space for Native representation in the beauty world.Guest:Ruth-Ann Thorn, tribal member of Rincon Indian Band of Luiseño Indians, founder and CEO of N8iV Beauty

Many parents worry about their kids talking to strangers on the internet. What if those strangers are not human, but bots?Concerns over kids' exposure to artificial intelligence have led to growing efforts to regulate that exposure. We sit down with one San Diego lawmaker who authored a law to put guardrails on toys with AI chatbot capabilities. Guest:State Sen. Steve Padilla, California's 18th District

It's been nearly two weeks since lawmakers returned to Capitol Hill, and a possible health care compromise is still on the table to bring federal health care subsidies back.Last week, the House passed a bipartisan proposal that could extend the subsidies.In the meantime, health care premiums are soaring for many Americans — including right here in California.This Wednesday on Midday Edition, we hear about how rising health care premiums are impacting Californians and what you need to know if you're looking for coverage.Guests:Jessica Altman, executive director, Covered CaliforniaResources:Covered California main websiteFederal Changes to Your Health Insurance — Covered California

Child care providers are bracing for impact amid the Trump administration's efforts to freeze roughly $10 billion in child care and family assistance funding — $5 billion of which are allocated to California.This comes amid allegations from conservative activists of fraud in the child care industry.Tuesday on Midday Edition, we hear from two child care experts about the domino effect this could have on California's child care sector and what protections exist for both families and providers.Then, Somali child care providers are reporting incidents of harassment and surveillance by strangers — including right here in San Diego.Guests:Max Arias, chair person, Child Care Providers UnitedStacy Lee, chief learning officer and senior managing director of early childhood, Children NowKatie Hyson, racial Justice and social equity reporter, KPBS

Take a walk through Balboa Park, and you'll find dozens of historic cottages celebrating cultures around the world.The volunteer-driven "houses" are officially called the House of Pacific Relations International Cottages. They promote education, community and cultural understanding.Now, the House of Somalia is joining them to become the first African country represented by the Balboa Park cottages. We talk about its significance and the Somali community in San Diego.Guest:Rahmo Abdi, president and co-founder, House of Somalia

In recent years, San Diego County jails have seen a sharp increase in overdose deaths. One recovery program in the Vista jail is trying to change that through medication-assisted treatment.More jails are embracing the approach amid the growing fentanyl crisis.We discuss the medication-assisted treatment program and what it could mean for drug rehabilitation in San Diego jails.Guest:Kelly Davis, investigative reporter, The San Diego Union-Tribune

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released updated guidelines for childhood vaccines last week. That advice, however, runs counter to recommendations from California and San Diego County public health officials. On Midday Edition Monday, we hear from a local infectious disease expert on the CDC's changes, and why guidance remains unchanged for families in San Diego County.Guest:Dr. Pia Pannaraj, infectious disease specialist, Rady Children's Hospital

Under a new state law, a statewide board has designated 31 California colleges as Black-Serving Institutions.Two San Diego community colleges made the list — San Diego City College and San Diego Mesa College.On Midday Edition, we sit down with the presidents of the two colleges to talk about what the designation means and how they're serving Black students in San Diego.Guests:Ashanti Hands, president of San Diego Mesa CollegeRicky Shabazz, president of San Diego City College

“Chaotic, dusty, loud—and perfect.”That's how writer Mariano Velez describes life in Calexico in his short story collection, “Mostly Made-Up Stories from a Small Town Nobody,” based on his own upbringing in the region during the 1970s and 1980s.Thursday on Midday Edition, we hear from Velez about the inspiration behind the book.Then, KPBS' Beth Accomando sits down with comics curator Caitlin McGurk to talk about her Eisner Award-winning book detailing the legacy of cartoonist Barbara Shermund.And finally, in your weekend preview, KPBS' Julia Dixon Evans shares her top event picks and pays tribute to San Diego musician Tim Lowman, who passed away late last year.Guests:Mariano Velez, author, “Mostly Made-Up Stories from a Small Town Nobody” Caitlin McGurk, curator of comics and cartoon art at the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum, author, "Tell Me a Story Where the Bad Girl Wins: The Life and Art of Barbara Shermund"Julia Dixon Evans, arts reporter and "The Finest" host, KPBS

The city of San Diego is suing the federal government over their construction of wire fencing on city-owned land in Marron Valley, near the U.S.-Mexico border.The lawsuit accuses federal agencies of trespassing and causing environmental damage on protected land. "They are taking city property without telling us, without paying for it, without even communicating about it," said San Diego City Attorney Heather Ferbert. "They have to comply with the Constitution, even though they're the federal government. They're not exempt from that."On Midday Edition, we breakdown the lawsuit and the allegations.Guest: Tammy Murga, environment reporter, KPBS

Five years ago, insurrectionists stormed the U.S. Capitol.Four died during the attack, including Ashli Babbitt from San Diego. In the days and weeks that followed, five police officers died — some by suicide. Today House Democrats held a special hearing to observe what happened that day. They called for accountability and accused President Donald Trump and his supporters of attempting to "whitewash" history. "Even five years later, there are things that I can't shake," said Congresswoman Sara Jacobs, who represents San Diego's 51st District. "Thinking through what I could use as a weapon if I needed to: pens, my high heels. Being sure that the elevator doors were going to open and someone with a machine gun was going to be right there."On Midday Edition, we discuss the legacy of Jan. 6 and the lack of repercussions for insurrectionists. Plus, San Diego connections to the violence. Guests:Will Carless, USA Today reporter covering extremism and emerging issuesCarl Luna, professor emeritus of political science, San Diego Mesa College

For people who live and work near the Tijuana River, raw sewage-turned-airborne pollution is a facet of daily life.Tuesday on Midday Edition, we hear about a new reporting series from inewsource diving into the impact of the sewage crisis on more than 100 community members.Plus, what could Medi-Cal cuts mean for the San Diego healthcare system? We dig into the possible impacts.Guests:Philip Salata, energy and environment reporter, inewsourcePaul Sisson, healthcare reporter, The San Diego Union-Tribune

With the new year comes new resolutions, from self-care and beauty to exercise — all of which feed into this broader idea of wellness. Monday on Midday Edition, we hear from a local yoga instructor and the founder of the Block Club to talk about their respective approaches to achieving wellness and how they are starting those conversations in the community.Guests: Sally Morgan, yoga instructor, founder of Seeking Satya La Raza Webb, co-founder and chief operating officer, The Block Club

Democratic Rep. Scott Peters, D-Calif., joined Midday Edition on Monday to discuss why he objects to recent U.S. military action in Venezuela, and what role he sees for Congress going forward.Guest:Rep. Scott Peters, D-Calif., 50th District

On the last day of 2025, we're taking a look back at some of our favorite conversations from the show this year.In this second episode of Midday Wrapped, KPBS Midday Edition host Jade Hindmon is joined by KPBS Roundtable host and Midday Edition producer Andrew Bracken to talk about a few of their favorite segments from the year.Guests:Andrew Bracken, Midday Edition producer and Roundtable host/producer

As 2025 comes to a close, the Midday Edition team is reflecting on some of our favorite conversations from the year — and we're splitting it into two parts.In this first episode of Midday Wrapped, producers Julianna Domingo and Ashley Rusch take listeners behind the scenes and share some of their favorite segments from 2025.Guests:Julianna Domingo, Midday Edition producer, KPBSAshley Rusch, Midday Edition producer, KPBS

For the past five years, crews have been dismantling the San Onofre Nuclear Plant — which was shut down in 2013.The plant is easily recognizable by its iconic twin domes along Interstate 5. But now, the domes' days are numbered, as crews prep to remove them.We discuss the decommissioning effort and what this all means for the San Diego County landmark.Guest:Alexander Nguyen, multimedia producer, KPBS

Slop. Rage bait. Gerrymandering. Aura farming.Those are just some of the top words of 2025, according to Merriam-Webster and the Oxford English Dictionary.Every December, these dictionaries release lists of the top words that defined the year. In 2025, terms related to technology and artificial intelligence took center stage.On Midday Edition, we talk with word expert Martha Barnette about the most popular phrases of 2025. And, the importance of touching grass.Guest:Martha Barnette, co-host of "A Way With Words" and author of "Friends with Words: Adventures in Languageland"

The Kumeyaay creation story is the subject of a new piece of sculpture art on San Diego State University's Imperial Valley campus.The piece is part of the university's "Living Land Acknowledgement" series, which brings the words of the Kumeyaay land acknowledgement to life through art.Thursday on Midday Edition, we hear from the artist behind the piece.Then, roll out the red carpet! Filmmakers and studios are campaigning for the chance to be recognized at awards ceremonies this year. Our Midday Movies critics share their favorites for your consideration.And finally, the holiday season is chockful of things to do and events to check out, especially in the arts. We share our top picks then celebrate the best of 2025, according to KPBS staff.Guests:Johnny Bear Contreras, public artist, founder of Eyaay Ahuun FoundationBeth Accomando, arts reporter, KPBSYazdi Pithavala, critic, Moviewalla podcastJulia Dixon Evans, arts reporter, host of "The Finest," KPBSResources:What made our year: KPBS 2025 staff picks

The holiday season is in full swing, and it's a time when everyone is expected to be jolly and celebrate.But some people may not feel that way. Maybe you are stressed, depressed or just thin on patience.Wednesday on Midday Edition, we hear from a local therapist about navigating all the stress that can come with the season.Guest:Jacob Sadan, associate marriage and family therapist, Sharp Mesa Vista

Last spring, California voters narrowly passed Proposition 1 to reform behavioral health care across the state.It calls for a $6.4 billion bond to fund behavioral health beds and housing, and hands more money to the state to focus on treating serious mental illnesses and addiction.Now, county officials say they've been forced to cancel 21 contracts with agencies that provide preventative services.We talk about what this means for behavioral health services and community members in San Diego County.Guest:Lisa Halverstadt, senior investigative reporter, Voice of San Diego

Last week, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors approved a $3.5 million increase to the sheriff's budget to phase out triple bed bunks.Tuesday on Midday Edition, we hear about the latest reporting on conditions in San Diego County jails and in-custody deaths across the region.Then, a new book explores the role coroners, death investigators and state institutions have played in covering up the circumstances around deaths in custody.Guests:Kelly Davis, investigative reporter, The San Diego Union-TribuneTerence Keel, author of "The Coroner's Silence: Death Records and the Hidden Victims of Police Violence," professor of Human Biology & Society, and African American Studies, UCLA

The media landscape in San Diego is changing.As broadcast giants Nexstar Media Group and Sinclair Broadcast Group purchase American media outlets, conservative ownership is taking over local television in San Diego.Sinclair Broadcast Group is now bidding to buy E.W. Scripps, which owns 10News — San Diego's ABC affiliate.On Midday Edition, we discuss the implications of local news consolidation and how it impacts information access.Guest:Dean Nelson, professor of multimedia journalism, Point Loma Nazarene University

Since Donald Trump's reelection, hundreds of scholars have warned that the United States is sliding from a democracy toward some form of authoritarianism. Experts point to the erosion of democratic values, from civil liberties to free and fair elections.This is not the first time the United States has confronted authoritarianism on its own soil. Scholars argue that it is rooted in the racist policies of the Jim Crow era in the 19th and 20th centuries.On Midday Edition, we discuss the significance of that history and lessons for the present political moment. Plus, a San Diego trailblazer offers a personal perspective on the Civil Rights Movement and the ongoing fight against racism and discrimination.Guests:T.J. Tallie, professor of history, University of San DiegoDee Sanford, board member for the Jackie Robinson Family YMCA, chair of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Human Dignity Award Breakfast

At least 15 people were killed during a Hanukkah celebration in Australia when two gunmen opened fire Sunday.In the wake of the attack, San Diego law enforcement are ramping up security measures at Hanukkah events and places of worship.Monday on Midday Edition, we hear from a local rabbi on how the recent attack in Australia is impacting him and his congregation.Guest:Rabbi Yeruchem Eilfort, director, Chabad at La Costa and Coastal Chabads

Documentaries expose us to slices of history that may be overlooked by traditional media.Jordan Peele's new "High Horse: The Black Cowboy" docuseries explores the real history of Black cowboys in the American West.We talk about the significance of the series and defining influence of Black cowboys and cowgirls — from the rodeo to fashion and music. We also hear from one of the "Compton Cowboys" on keeping that legacy alive in Southern California.Then, we take a visit to Warwick's Bookstore in La Jolla, which has won Publishers Weekly's Bookstore of the Year award for playing an active role in the community through vibrant literary events.Plus, a preview of arts and culture events happening this weekend.Guests:Olutoyosi Aboderin, professor of History and Africana Studies, University of San DiegoRandy Savvy, founder and CEO of Compton CowboysNancy Warwick, owner, Warwick's BookstoreJulia Dixon Evans, arts reporter, KPBS

Every student has unique learning needs, and meeting those needs is key to success. That's especially true for students who receive special education services.In the San Diego Unified School District, 1 in 5 students use those services — one of the highest rates in California.This week, district leaders announced plans to address "systemic issues" in the district's special education program. That includes advocating for more funding from the state and federal government.We discuss the details with the superintendent of the district.Guest:Fabi Bagula, superintendent for the San Diego Unified School District

It's the holiday season, which is primetime for scam artists — especially those who target the elderly.San Diego County's Elder Justice Task Force found that over a one-year period, seniors in the county were scammed out of more than $130 million.Wednesday on Midday Edition, we sit down with San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan talk about her office's efforts to curb these scams and what seniors and their loved ones need to know.Guest:Summer Stephan, San Diego County District Attorney

The holiday season often means extra spending on gifts and travel. But amid rising costs, inflation and a weakening labor market, the financial stress can be a lot.Wednesday on Midday Edition, we zoom out and check in on the state of San Diego's economy. We discuss affordability, consumer spending during the holidays, health care costs and more.Guest:Daniel Enemark, chief economist, San Diego Regional Policy & Innovation Center

‘Tis the season for last-minute holiday shopping. For some of us, that means anxiously tracking online orders or rushing through department stores.But, this year, you might consider shopping local. It's a great way to support San Diego's vivid food, art and culture scenes.We talk about the KPBS gift guide filled with 31 local gift ideas showcasing the very best of San Diego.Plus, a third generation San Diegan is out with the third edition of "100 Things To Do In San Diego Before You Die." The author David Swanson will join us with a list of experiences you can "gift" loved ones.Guests:Julia Dixon Evans, arts reporter and host of "The Finest," KPBSDavid Swanson, author of "100 Things To Do In San Diego Before You Die"

A 16-year-old boy was shot by police in downtown San Diego last January.Konoa Wilson was fleeing gunshots fired at him by another person when an officer fatally shot him, according to his family and a KPBS review of camera footage provided by the San Diego Police Department.This week, the San Diego City Council voted unanimously to pay $30 million to Wilson's family.It's considered one of the largest settlements over a police killing in U.S. history, surpassing the $27 million paid to the family of George Floyd.We discuss the details of Wilson's case and the significance of the settlement from a police accountability perspective.Guests:Andrew Bowen, metro reporter, KPBSShawn Fields, law professor at Cal Western School of LawChristy Lopez, professor of law at Georgetown Law