KPBS Midday Edition

When a police officer is found dead in her home, who investigates?Ciara Estrada's death in 2018 was quickly ruled a suicide by the San Diego Police Department. Investigators — who were her colleagues — made no arrests. No suspects were identified.Her family says there's more to what happened that night. A new KPBS podcast explores Ciara's story.We take a listen to the first episode and sit down with Katie Hyson, the reporter and producer behind "One of Their Own."Guest:Katie Hyson, racial justice and social equity reporter, KPBS

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced last week that it would remove the “black box” warning labels on hormone therapy for menopause.These labels, which show up on medication packaging, warn of the risks of heart attack, breast cancer, stroke and blood clots. But the FDA now says these risks are based on outdated science.Tuesday on Midday Edition, we hear what this could mean for menopause treatment going forward, and what to know about hormone therapy more broadly.Guest:Dr. Kathryn Macaulay, clinical professor, OB-GYN, director of UC San Diego Menopause Health programResources mentioned:The Menopause Society

Earlier this month, the city of San Diego formally recognized the second Sunday of November as "Slow Fashion Day."Thursday on Midday Edition, we sit down with two of the organizers behind this effort to talk about the role of slow fashion in promoting sustainability, creativity and community.Then, KPBS arts reporter Beth Accomando sits down with Christopher Ashley, outgoing artistic director at the La Jolla Playhouse, as he reflects on his 18-year tenure at the theater.And finally, looking for things to do this weekend? KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans returns with her recommendations for arts events to check out this weekend, from a 'doom metal' concert to bookish events.Guests:Claudia Rodríguez-Biezunski, founder, Sew LokaChristopher Carson, founder, The Homegrown ProjectChristopher Ashley, artistic director, La Jolla PlayhouseJulia Dixon Evans, arts reporter, KPBS

The signing of the 1965 Voting Rights Act symbolized a turning point for American democracy.It wasn't until then that discrimination in voting was banned. It meant outlawing policies like literacy tests and poll taxes. It meant racial gerrymandering could be challenged in court.But now, the Supreme Court is questioning whether to keep Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act — which prohibits discrimination in voting practices and procedures. We discuss the potential implications.Plus, a scholarship for Black students at UC San Diego has been rebranded for all students after a lawsuit by a right-leaning nonprofit. We hear an analysis from a scholar of race and law.Then, we sit down with long-time San Diego civil rights icon Harold (Hal) K. Brown to hear his message for the moment.Guests:Casey Dominguez, professor of political science at the University of San DiegoKhiara Bridges, professor of law at UC BerkeleyHarold "Hal" K. Brown, co-founder and previous chair of the San Diego chapter of the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE), co-developer of the SDSU Afro-American Studies Program/Black Studies (now the Department of Africana Studies), civil rights leader and educatorIMG_4331.jpg (3632x2909, AR: 1.2485390168442765)UT85_D9955-1 Hale - Brown - C.O.R.E's march and Protest - 196 (3000x3000, AR: 1.0)San Diego History Center DO NOT COPY, STORE, OR REPRODUCE THIS IMAGE WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION FROM THE SAN DIEGO HISTORY CENTE

Recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP in San Diego County received their benefits Friday, after a delay due to the government shutdown.Of the about 400,000 people in the region who use SNAP, nearly one-fourth are older adults.Monday on Midday Edition, we hear from two local organizations about the impacts the uncertainty is having on the county's senior community.Guests:Brent Wakefield, president and CEO, Meals on Wheels San Diego CountyDeborah Martin, executive director and CEO, ElderHelpResources mentioned:Meals on Wheels San Diego CountyElderHelpSan Diego Food BankFeeding San Diego211 San Diego

Scientists at Scripps Research recently launched a new clinical trial that will test if a repurposed GLP-1 drug, tirzepatide, can provide possible relief for long COVID symptoms.Monday on Midday Edition, we sit down with Dr. Eric Topol to hear more about the trial and the state of long COVID research and treatment today.Guest:Dr. Eric Topol, executive vice president, Scripps Research Translational InstituteResources: Long COVID Treatment Trial — Scripps Research

An upcoming film screening highlights personal documentary films that explore family history, memory and connection across generations.On Midday Edition Thursday, we hear from San Diego filmmaker Ari Ali about her film "Ben Between Africa," which explores the life and mysterious death of her uncle. She shares how boxes of family letters found in an attic led her to learn more about her own family's intergenerational trauma.The film is being featured as part of "Framing Memories," an event being held at the Museum of Photographic Arts on Thursday, Nov. 13.Then, a new book profiles over 65 skateboarding icons who are shaping the action sports scene and culture. We dive into inclusion in the sport and the impact of skateboarding on popular culture today.And finally, KPBS arts reporter Beth Accomando previews the 26th annual San Diego Asian Film Festival.Guests:Ari Ali, director, "Ben Between Africa"Neftalie Williams, director of SDSU Center for Skateboarding, Action Sports, and Social Change, author of “The Skateboard Life”Brian Hu, artistic director, San Diego Asian Film Festival

In today's fast-paced world, and with all that's happening around us, it can be easy to get overwhelmed. Feelings of stress and burnout, though common, can also have long-term impacts on our health.On Midday Edition Wednesday, we hear from Portia Preston, author of the book "Hustle, Flow, or Let it Go?," about her shame-free and inclusive approach to wellness.Guest:Portia Preston, author, "Hustle, Flow, or Let it Go?"

For private defense attorneys in San Diego and across the country, the ongoing government shutdown has exacerbated their funding situation and left many — specifically those with the Criminal Justice Act (CJA) program — without pay for more than four months.Wednesday on Midday Edition, we dig into how CJA attorneys and other experts are navigating a precarious funding situation and the impacts on the court system at large.Guest:Alex Riggins, federal courts and federal law enforcement reporter, The San Diego Union-Tribune

The results are in: California voters have passed Proposition 50. The measure will allow the state to redraw its congressional districts to open up more seats for Democrats, countering Republican moves in Texas.Reactions are pouring in from California Democrats and Republicans. Some call the effort a partisan campaign, while others say its a step toward preserving democracy.We discuss the details and what Democrats need to do to connect with voters prior to the midterms.Guest:Scott Shafer, senior editor with the politics and government desk, KQED

One-third of San Diego households don't earn enough to cover basic needs, like housing food and transportation.For a lot of people, money is a constant source of anxiety — especially during challenging economic times. We sit down with a financial planner to talk about how to stretch your dollar where it counts. Plus, local community leaders outline how they're showing up to nurture, feed, and protect one another when government systems fail to deliver. We also discuss the power of mutual aid and resource sharing amid delayed paychecks and funding cuts.Guests: Mary Beth Storjohann, financial planner and CEO, Allora WealthDiane Moss, founder and CEO, Project New VillageBrisa Johnson, executive director, San Diego Black Worker CenterAndrea Guerrero, executive director, Alliance San Diego

The special election for Proposition 50 is underway.If passed, the measure could change several Congressional districts in California, flipping five U.S. House seats from Republican to Democratic control.Tuesday on Midday Edition, we preview the potential impact of Proposition 50 on districts in San Diego and what else voters need to know.Guest:Jake Gotta, social media host and reporter, KPBSResources:KPBS Voter Hub

The federal government shutdown is now in its second month, and may become the longest in history later this week.On Midday Edition Monday, we hear about how it is impacting food aid and public health.Guests:Andrea Caldwell, director of government affairs and advocacy, San Diego Food BankRichard Garfein, PhD, Professor, Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, UC San Diego

In October, San Diego State University senior and student athlete Alicia Guerrero stepped up to the podium twice at the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships, winning bronze in discus and shot put.For the past year, Guerrero has trained with SDSU's Adapted Athletics program. It is the first elite collegiate adaptive sports program in California.Monday on Midday Edition, Guerrero talks about her own journey through adaptive sports and her road to the Paralympics.Guest:Alicia Guerrero, student athlete, Adapted Athletics

Artificial intelligence is everywhere — from our office buildings, to schools and government agencies.The Chula Vista Police Department is joining cities to use AI to write police reports. Several San Diego County police departments also use AI-powered drones to support their work.Civil liberties advocates are concerned about privacy, safety and surveillance.On Midday Edition, we sit down with an expert in AI ethics to discuss the philosophical questions of responsible AI.Guest:David Danks, professor of data science, philosophy and policy at UC San Diego

On Día de Muertos, the ofrenda — or altar — honors loved ones who have passed away.In Tijuana, one group is raising awareness with a special ofrenda honoring journalists who have been killed from Mexico to Gaza. The ofrenda is on display now at CEART Tijuana. We discuss the details with a long-time Tijuana journalist.Then, we check in with our resident film critics for a special Halloween edition of Midday Movies.Guests:Vicente Calderón, journalist, Tijuanapress.comBeth Accomando, arts reporter, KPBSYazdi Pithavala, podcaster, Moviewallas

Spooky stories aren't all about the fear factor. They often teach us something about our region's history, too.This Halloween season, Midday Edition revisits an archive episode exploring the history behind some of the places considered to be the most haunted in San Diego County, from The Whaley House to the Hotel del Coronado. We also learn about the ghosts rumored to live there.Then, a paranormal expert shares his fascination with the spirit world.Guests:Victor Santana, operations manager for The Whaley House MuseumGina Petrone, heritage manager for the Hotel Del CoronadoDavid Hanson, founder of the San Diego Ghost and Paranormal Group

Three Palestinian American alumni and students from UC San Diego will share their family stories and close connections to Gaza in a panel, "We Are Tritons: From Gaza to UCSD," Tuesday evening.On Midday Edition, we sit down with two of the panelists to hear about their roots in the region, how they stayed connected to Palestinian culture and identity, and how war has impacted their families.Guests:Dania Zanaid, alum, UC San DiegoAli Elfarra, third-year student, UC San Diego

The cheapest housing option in San Diego has long been dorm-style rooms.Those single-occupancy units, or SROs, can be life-changing — for the tenants lucky enough to get placed in them.But they're rapidly disappearing, and the city can't seem to turn that around.Guest:Katie Hyson, racial justice and social equity reporter, KPBS

CalFresh recipients will not be getting their November benefits on time. The delays for California's food assistance program are a result of the ongoing federal government shutdown, which is now nearing the 30 day mark. The delays also come as the region has seen a rise in food insecurity.On Midday Edition Tuesday, we hear how the delays will impact the nearly 400,000 San Diegans who depend on food benefits, and provide resources for those imapacted.Guest:Joseph Kendrick, research manager, San Diego Hunger CoalitionResources:San Diego Hunger Coalition's food assistance resources2-1-1 San DiegoFeeding San DiegoSan Diego Food BankServing SeniorsSalvation Army

October is Filipino American History Month.Monday on Midday Edition, we dive into Filipino American activism and how local community organizers are applying lessons from the past to meet the current political moment.Then, we sit down with a local arts leader with strong ties in San Diego to learn about the thriving Philippine performing arts scene and its rich history.Guests:Amanda Solomon Amorao, director of Dimensions of Culture Program at Thurgood Marshall College, director of Asian American Pacific Islander studies program, UC San DiegoSoul Salas, organizer, Anakbayan San DiegoIan M. Seruelo, attorney and activistAnamaria Labao Cabato, executive director, PASACAT

California voters have until next Tuesday, Nov. 4, to vote on Proposition 50 — which would allow the state to temporarily redraw its congressional maps.With about a week to go before voting is done, we check in on where the race stands and how fundraising is going on both sides.Guest:Jeanne Kuang, capitol reporter for CalMatters

This Saturday, Latino authors from all over the world will converge in San Diego for the 27th annual International Latino Book Awards.Thursday on Midday Edition, we sit down with its co-founder and a renowned author to talk about the significance of the awards and what they see for the future of Latino literature.Plus, the La Jolla Playhouse is debuting a musical adaptation of the 1988 hit film "Working Girl" with original music by Cyndi Lauper. KPBS' Beth Accomando spoke with the team behind the musical — including Lauper — and their love for Broadway.And finally, looking to tap into San Diego's arts and culture scene? In your weekend preview, KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans talks about a new fair focused on unconventional art, Día de Muertos events and some live music to check out.Guests:Kirk Whisler, co-founder, Empowering Latino FuturesVictor Villaseñor, writer, "Guarding StarDust"Cyndi Lauper, singer, composer, lyricist, "Working Girl"Christopher Ashley, director, "Working Girl"Theresa Rebeck, book writer, "Working Girl"Cat Gunn, artist and curator, Harvest & GatherJulia Dixon Evans, arts reporter and "The Finest" host, KPBS

The popular podcast "Hidden Brain" is celebrating its 10th anniversary of telling stories about how our minds influence our actions and decisions.Host Shankar Vedantam joined Midday Edition Wednesday to talk about how the show has evolved over the years, and what makes the human mind such a fascinating subject.Guest:Shankar Vedantam, host/ executive editor, "Hidden Brain"

What if you could go back and relive past regrets? That's the premise behind Mitch Albom's latest book "Twice."Albom is a bestselling author known for the celebrated bestselling memoir "Tuesdays with Morrie," "The Five People You Meet in Heaven," and "The Little Liar."He joined Midday Edition Wednesday to talk about his work and the life lessons he's picked up during his career as an author, sportswriter and philanthropist.Albom also shared what he has planned for his upcoming event in San Diego at Point Loma Nazarene University on Monday, Oct. 27.Guest:Mitch Albom, author

The city and county of San Diego are ramping up their efforts to limit local cooperation with immigration enforcement in the region.Wednesday on Midday Edition, we dive into the San Diego City Council's latest vote to restrict cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).Guest:Andrew Bowen, KPBS, metro reporter

Solitary confinement is the focus of a new court filing in a class-action lawsuit against San Diego County and the Sheriff's Office.A request for a preliminary injunction was filed in federal court last week asking a federal judge to limit how long people can be held in solitary confinement.More than a dozen people have described inhumane conditions inside separation cells in San Diego jails.We sit down with two reporters to discuss the details of the latest lawsuit and how we got here.Guests:Kelly Davis, investigative reporter, The San Diego Union-TribuneJeff McDonald, investigative reporter, The San Diego Union-Tribune

Reports of anti-Jewish bias statewide have doubled between 2021 and 2024, according to the California Department of Justice.Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed a bill aiming to tackle antisemitism in schools — igniting questions over whether the government should be involved in defining antisemitism in educational settings.And, how legislators should balance the needs of Jewish communities alongside concerns about censorship.On Midday Edition, we discuss the bill's journey through the legislature and what it says about the broader conversation around antisemitism in the United States.Guests: Yue Stella Yu, politics reporter, CalMattersMikhail Zinshteyn, higher education reporter, CalMatters

Dozens of American medical workers have volunteered in the Gaza Strip since 2023. That includes local emergency room nurse Amanda Nasser. She traveled to Gaza in August and treated patients at Nasser Hospital, one of the few functioning hospitals in the region.Monday on Midday Edition, we hear about Nasser's experiences on the ground and how she is reflecting on her journey since returning from Gaza in September.Guest:Amanda Nasser, nurse practitioner

More than one billion people across India and around the world celebrate Diwali, according to survey data from Pew Research.The five-day festival symbolizes victory of light over darkness.California Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed a bill recognizing Diwali as an official state holiday.We discuss its significance with one of the bill's authors.Guests:Darshana Patel, California State Assemblymember representing the 76th District

Shrapnel from a Marine artillery round struck a California Highway Patrol vehicle on Saturday. The mishap took place along the Interstate 5 during celebrations to mark the U.S. Marine Corps' 250th birthday. We get the latest on the event, and the live-fire exercise behind the incident.Plus, a recap of Saturday's "No Kings" protests in San Diego, and what issues were on the minds of protesters.Guests:Andrew Dyer, military and veterans affairs reporter, KPBSKatie Anastas, education reporter, KPBS

A new middle grade book takes us to the San Diego neighborhood of Palm City, where a young girl is growing up against the backdrop of the Vietnam War.The book, “Yoli's Favorite Things,” follows 12-year old Yolanda or "Yoli" as she makes a pact with God to keep her brother Chuy from getting drafted.Thursday on Midday Edition, we hear about how the author folded much of her own upbringing and life into the novel, and the significance "The Sound of Music" plays in the story.Plus, a new documentary "Rebel with a Clause" follows a grammar expert as she takes her pop-up grammar table on a cross-country road trip. KPBS arts reporter Beth Accomando previews the film.And, thinking about what to do this weekend? KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans has you covered in our weekend arts preview.Guests:Patricia Santana, author, “Yoli's Favorite Things”Ellen Jovin, grammarian, "Rebel with a Clause"Brandt Johnson, filmmaker, "Rebel with a Clause"Julia Dixon Evans, arts reporter and host of "The Finest," KPBS

Parents of toddlers are familiar with the problem of kids putting things in their mouths that they shouldn't. A new picture book called "That's Not Food!" captures that experience in a creative and hilarious fashion.On Midday Edition Wednesday, San Diego author Mara Altman talks about how raising twin toddlers inspired her to make a children's book featuring dishes like "slime pie" and "cactus pancakes."Guest:Mara Altman, author, "That's Not Food!"

In late September, President Donald Trump issued an executive order calling antifa a "domestic terrorist organization."Experts say the order is on shaky legal grounds, antifa — short for anti-fascist — is more of an ideology than an organization.Still, the Trump administration appears eager to prosecute those it labels antifa.A 2021 case involving alleged antifa supporters in Pacific Beach could gain new significance on the national level. We discuss the details.Guest:Alex Riggins, federal courts and federal law enforcement reporter, The San Diego Union-Tribune

We are wrapping up Hispanic Heritage Month with a book that celebrates the vast contributions and vibrant histories of Latinos across San Diego.“We Made San Diego” compiles the diverse stories of important figures and organizations who shaped the region as we know it today.It has earned various awards over the years, including an International Latino Book Award in 2021.Wednesday on Midday Edition, we hear from the author behind the book, what inspired her to preserve these stories and her own personal journey as a longtime San Diegan.Guest:Maria Garcia, author, activist and podcast host, "We Made San Diego"

As Hispanic Heritage Month comes to a close, we are sit with Latinx leaders who are giving back to the community.Tuesday on Midday Edition, we sit down with the executive director of the Emilio Nares Foundation to talk about health care access for underserved communities, and how her family's history of advocacy launched her into a life of community service.Guest:Elsa Morales-Roth, executive director, Emilio Nares Foundation

TikTok continues to take the world by storm — and the geopolitical conflict around it is ballooning.The Trump administration says a group of American investors is expected to take over TikTok's U.S. data operations from ByteDance, its Chinese parent company.Tuesday on Midday Edition, we hear about a new book that chronicles the rise of TikTok, and its profound impact on our political and social landscape today.Guest:Emily Baker-White, Forbes investigative reporter and author, "Every Screen on the Planet: The War Over TikTok"

Gov. Gavin Newsom has vetoed several bills that were part of the statewide reparations effort.The vetoed bills are related to university admissions, home buying and unjust property seizures.This comes days after Newsom signed Senate Bill 518 to establish a state bureau for descendants of American slavery.We discuss what the governor's decisions mean for the first-in-the-nation reparations effort in California.Guest:Katie Hyson, racial justice and social equity reporter, KPBS

Indigenous Peoples' Day is a celebration of Indigenous resilience, culture, history, art, protest and storytelling.In San Diego County, there are 18 federally recognized tribal reservations — more than any other county in the United States.On Midday Edition, we sit down with Indigenous leaders to discuss the value of tradition, oral history and imaginative storytelling in preserving culture.Guests:Ethan Banegas, professor at San Diego State University and member of the Barona Band of Mission IndiansJoely Proudfit, department chair of American Indian Studies and director of California Indian Culture & Sovereignty Center at California State University, San MarcosDestinee Morales, former Miss Kumeyaay 2013-14; member of San Pasqual Band of Mission Indians

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill into law on Friday that allows for greater housing density near public transit stations across the state. Senate Bill 79 supersedes local zoning rules in the hopes of increasing housing production in the state.On Midday Edition Monday, we hear from one California housing advocate on why he thinks its passage is "the most significant housing bill that's ever been passed in California."Guest:Ethan Elkind, director, Climate Program, UC Berkeley's Center for Law, Energy and the Environment

Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, we are profiling trailblazers in the community about their commitment to their craft and contributions to the San Diego region.Thursday on Midday Edition, the executive director and CEO of the San Diego Museum of Art talks about her journey into the arts and what she sees for the future of San Diego's thriving, binational arts and culture scene.Then, a unique Halloween attraction puts its own spin on the haunted maze by bringing attention to real-world issues like climate change, animal cruelty and pollution. KPBS arts reporter Beth Accomando previews the socially conscious haunt.And finally, the Chicano Park Museum and Cultural Center celebrates its third anniversary this weekend. KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans speaks with a local printmaker who is featured at the event and previews other events on her radar.Guests:Roxana Velásquez, Maruja Baldwin Executive Director and CEO, San Diego Museum of ArtJaidacyn Madrigal, founder, Fright for FutureJohn Hansen, haunt crew member, Fright for FutureIrie Zepeda, artist, printmaker, Por La Mano Press y Arte founderJulia Dixon Evans, arts reporter and "The Finest" host, KPBS

Many can thank youth sports for wonderful memories out in the sun — tossing a ball, scoring goals and even spraining an ankle or two.KPBS video journalist Mikey Damron explores his youth sports journey — and that of his son's — in his new video series, "Game-Time Decision." We hear the details.Plus, the culture and politics of surfing and skateboarding are the focus of a conference coming to SDSU this weekend.We sit down with Bryce Wettstein, an Olympic skateboarder and the headliner of the conference and Neftalie Williams, a moderator at the conference and the director of SDSU's Center for Skateboarding, Action Sports, and Social Change.Guests:Mike Damron, video journalist, KPBSNeftalie Williams, director of San Diego State University's Center for Skateboarding, Action Sports, and Social Change, professor of sociologyBryce Wettstein, Olympic skateboarder

California's special redistricting election is underway, as ballots for Proposition 50 hit voters' mailboxes. We hear analysis from a local political scientist.Then, San Diego once had a large, thriving and tight-knit Black community in the region. But over the years, policies like redlining and other forces of displacement drove many Black San Diegans from their neighborhoods — that story is explored in a recent exhibit at the San Diego History Center.On Midday Edition, we hear about some of the lost legacy of San Diego's Black community through both personal stories and policy, and ongoing efforts to revitalize that sense of identity in 2025.Guests:Ric Epps, political science professor, Imperial Valley CollegeGaidi Finnie, executive director, San Diego African American Museum of Fine ArtSheri Jones, co-founder, Black San DiegoIMG_7581.jpg (3024x4032, AR: 0.75)

The San Diego Filipino Film Festival (SDFFF) kicks off Thursday with a four-day celebration of Filipino cinema. The festival includes films exploring themes of family, climate change, LGBTQ+ identity and more.Monday on Midday Edition, KPBS arts reporter Beth Accomando looks at how the festival is continuing to celebrate film and community.Guests:Benito Bautista, founder, SDFFFSami Andico, programmer, SDFFF

The California Attorney General filed a lawsuit against the city of El Cajon on Friday over its controversial license plate surveillance program.The lawsuit comes after KPBS reported that the El Cajon Police Department is openly defying a 2023 legal bulletin, which prohibits sharing data from license plate reader systems with outside agencies.We discuss the latest and how the lawsuit fits into the larger conversation around immigration enforcement in San Diego.Guest:Gustavo Solis, investigative border reporter, KPBS