KPBS Midday Edition

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

What does it take to live a happier, healthier and longer life?The city of San Marcos is exploring that question through its recent partnership with the Blue Zones project. The term "Blue Zone" refers to a community where residents live longer.Wednesday on Midday Edition, we hear from a San Marcos-based physician about what the initiative entails, what it means to be a "Blue Zone" community and what this approach could mean for wellness and care.Guest:Dr. Jorge Otañez, associate chief medical officer, TrueCare San MarcosLinks:March 17 - Blue Zones Ignite San Marcos Community Keynote Event

February is Black History Month.This year, there's even more reason to celebrate — as we recognize 100 years of commemoration.Black History Month began in 1926 when Black historian Carter G. Woodson created a week to celebrate the vast achievements of Black men and women.That week eventually grew into the monthlong celebration we know today.On Midday Edition, we discuss the evolution and perseverance of Black History Month over 10 decades. And, the importance of celebrating Black history in 2026.Guest:Olutoyosi "Toyo" Aboderin, professor of History and Africana Studies at the University of San Diego

Across the globe, more than one billion people are celebrating Lunar New Year — ushering in the Year of the Fire Horse with good food and good company.We discuss local celebrations including the upcoming San Diego Tết Festival, featuring traditional performances and cultural activities.Also, we sit down with two restaurateurs to learn about the culinary traditions of Lunar New Year from a Vietnamese and Chinese perspective.Guests:Tri Luu, board director and chair of partnerships, Vietnamese American Youth AllianceVan Nguyen, 2025 Miss Vietnam San Diego pageant queenKim Phan, owner of Kingfisher, Crab Hut and Phở Gà Go restaurantsAllen Chan, owner of Jasmine Seafood Restaurant

Civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson died Tuesday at the age of 84.Over his decades long career in activism and politics, Jackson advocated for disenfranchised communities across a range of issues, building an inclusive "rainbow coalition" in the process.On Midday Edition Tuesday, we take a look back at Jackson's memorable visit to the San Diego-Tijuana border in the summer of 1984, and how issues he highlighted decades ago remain relevant in 2026.Guest:Seth Mallios, professor of anthropology, Kit and Karen Sickels Endowed Chair in University Heritage and Community Engagement, San Diego State University

President Donald Trump last week announced the repeal of a major Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulation on greenhouse gasses — the 2009 "Endangerment Finding."For the past 16 years, the scientific conclusions that: greenhouse gases in the atmosphere threaten public health and greenhouse gases from motor vehicles contribute to pollution threatening public health, have guided EPA emission standards under the Clean Air Act. Now, scientists and environmental groups warn that removing the finding could have grave implications for public health.One of the scientific foundations of that policy is rooted in San Diego research dating back to 1958. We outline the connection and why local scientists are concerned.Guest:Tammy Murga, environment reporter, KPBS

Throughout Black History Month, we are profiling Black trailblazers with San Diego ties who have made an impact in their respective fields.Monday on Midday Edition, we sit down with a community leader who is fighting for racial and economic justice through her work at the San Diego nonprofit, Center on Policy Initiatives.Then, photographer Atiba Jefferson has captured some of the biggest cultural icons and moments in skateboarding, sports and music.On Feb. 18, he will speak at San Diego State University for a retrospective on his career. We hear from both Jefferson and SDSU professor Neftalie Williams aboutJefferson's legacy in skateboarding, and how his work has permeated into other parts of culture.Guests:Kyra Greene, executive director, Center on Policy InitiativesAtiba Jefferson, skateboard photographerNeftalie Williams, professor, director, SDSU Center for Skateboarding, Action Sports, and Social Change

The city of San Diego has officially recognized Feb. 13 as Sew Loka Day.Founded in 2013, the sewing shop and studio has been at the helm of San Diego's growing slow fashion movement.Thursday on Midday Edition, we sit down with Sew Loka's founder to talk about the significance behind the recognition, what Sew Loka means to the community, and her own journey through fashion.Then, Black Comix Day returns this weekend. Since 2018, it has celebrated Black creators and artists working in the comics industry. KPBS' Beth Accomando previews the event.Guests:Claudia Rodríguez-Biezunski, founder, Sew LokaKeithan Jones, comic artist, founder of Black Comix DayBryttney Mischele, artist

The psychological impacts of President Donald Trump's mass deportation campaign are far and wide. On our Wellness Wednesday show, we hear from a local psychologist on the mental health impacts she is seeing in immigrant communities.Then, a recently filed lawsuit alleges Costco misled shoppers about ingredients used in its popular rotisserie chickens. We hear more about what people need to know to better understand what's in their food.Plus, last month's release of Chat GPT Health kickstarted a new era of AI chatbots as a tool for health care. We hear more about the ways artificial intelligence is changing how we get medical advice and treatment.Guest:Mariela Shibley, clinical psychologist, founder, Immigration Psychology PartnershipsAaron Gross, professor, University of San Diego; director of USD's The Center for Food Systems TransformationEric Topol, director and founder, Scripps Research Translational Institute

The 2026 midterm elections are nine months away.President Donald Trump has repeatedly said the federal government should "nationalize" or "take over" some state elections.California officials are resisting those calls. They say they're ready to fight back.We sit down with California Secretary of State Shirley Weber to hear about state officials' plans to counter federal interference.Guest:Shirley Weber, California Secretary of State

Writer Jamaica Kincaid joins Midday Edition Tuesday to talk about her work, and how her childhood in Antigua continues to impact her writing. She will be appearing at the 31st annual Writer's Symposium by the Sea on Feb. 26.

Each year, the Prebys Foundation recognizes local leaders who are making a lasting impact on the community, from arts and culture and youth success to health and wellbeing.Monday on Midday Edition, we sit down with Carmen Chavez, executive director of the nonprofit Casa Cornelia Law Center and one of the 2026 Prebys Leadership Award recipients. She talks about her work providing legal aid to those who have suffered human rights and civil rights abuses.Guest:Carmen Chavez, executive director, Casa Cornelia Law CenterResources:All in for San Diego: 2026 Prebys Leadership Awards Celebration

Bad Bunny's historic Super Bowl halftime show brought us 13 minutes of lively music, bold dancing, vibrant storytelling — and even an actual wedding.The performance provided a history lesson of his home, Puerto Rico. It was also a celebration of all Americans, beyond borders.We break down the significance of the show and what it means in today's political climate with Jean Guerrero, award winning journalist and author.Guest:Jean Guerrero, investigative journalist and author of "Hatemonger: Stephen Miller, Donald Trump, and the White Nationalist Agenda”

In November, a whistleblower within the San Diego Association of Governments — or SANDAG — was awarded millions of dollars after being fired in 2023.Lauren Warrem was a former finance official who raised questions about flaws in SANDAG's toll collection system. Now, SANDAG is being ordered to pay Warrem's attorneys more than $1.7 million.We break down the latest in the toll collection saga and what it means for SANDAG moving forward.Guest:Jeff McDonald, investigative reporter, San Diego-Union Tribune

The convention Indigi-Con is returning for its second year, with a focus on connecting Native creators and celebrating Indigenous-led stories past, present and future.Thursday on Midday Edition, we hear about how Indigi-Con is amplifying Indigenous stories across all disciplines and bringing together tradition and futurism.Then, KPBS arts reporter Beth Accomando previews The Old Globe Theatre's latest iteration of the play Hedda Gabler, starring Katie Holmes in the eponymous role.And finally, curious about what's going on in the arts this weekend? KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans has you covered. We also preview the latest episode of "The Finest" featuring hometown hero Jessica Sanchez.Guests:Johnny Bear Contreras, public artist, founder of Eyaay Ahuun FoundationChag Lowry, executive director of Indigenous Futures Institute, comic book creator and publisherBarry Edelstein, artistic director, The Old GlobeJulia Dixon Evans, arts reporter, host of "The Finest" podcastLinks:2026 Indigi-Con programming2026 Indigi-Con registration

As Black History Month kicks off, we are sitting down with San Diego trailblazers making an impact in their communities.Wednesday on Midday Edition, Cheryl Morrow, daughter of Black hair care pioneer Willie Morrow, talks about how she has championed her family's legacy and paved a path of her own in the world of hair, beauty, and media.Guest:Cheryl Morrow, CEO of California Curl, owner of Morrow Publishing and San Diego Monitor News Network

In San Diego County, Black murder defendants are charged with a special circumstance at a higher rate than white murder defendants. Data show that the gap grew significantly wider when the current district attorney took office and is bigger than in nearby counties.New reporting from KPBS dives deep into the data and highlights how California's controversial special circumstance murder law has impacted one San Diego family.On Wednesday, KPBS reporter Katie Hyson joined Midday Edition to talk about the history of special circumstances that can lead to life without parole, what local data reveals and what advocates believe is meaningful reform.Guest: Katie Hyson, KPBS Racial Justice and Social Equity Reporter

As the Trump administration's aggressive immigration crackdown continues, local therapists say that community members are feeling mental health impacts as a result, including right here in San Diego.Wednesday on Midday Edition, we hear from a South Bay-based therapist about the impact she is seeing on her clients, and how she and other mental health care professionals are responding to the moment.Guest:Lizeth Ma, licensed marriage and family therapist

San Diego is a special place for whale watching. Blue whales, humpbacks, and gray whales are among the species San Diegans can see at various times of year. The waters off San Diego serve as a migratory corridor for many whale species, as well as a place for others to feed.On Midday Edition Tuesday, we hear from local whale experts Nicole Schriber and Domenic Biagini to learn more about some of these giant marine mammals that San Diegans can experience.Right now, gray whales are passing through San Diego, and can be seen from shore."This has been a really exciting gray whale season because it's the first one where the whales have looked healthy in about half a decade," Biagini said.Guests:Domenic Biagini, captain and owner, Gone Whale WatchingNicole Schriber, graduate student, UC San Diego's Scripps Institution of Oceanography

"Race: Power, Resistance & Change" at the Museum of Us in Balboa Park opened late last year and is expected to remain on display on a semi-permanent basis.A group of artists, researchers, community members and museum staff began working on the exhibit nearly a decade ago. It centers on how race has shaped laws and daily life in San Diego.Brothers Einar and Jamex De La Torre, who live and work in San Diego and Baja California, joined Midday Edition on Tuesday to discuss "Castaways," a mixed media piece they created for the exhibit. They also share why they believe San Diego is an important place to tell stories about race and what responsibility they believe the exhibit places on visitors.Guests:Einar and Jamex De La Torre, artists

Last week, San Diego County leaders approved the use of nearly $9 million in county reserves for new Tijuana River sewage fixes.The funds will pay for a pipeline extension project in the Tijuana River Valley designed to mitigate airborne contaminants, provide additional air purifiers for households exposed to the pollution, and support long-term public health studies.Supervisor Paloma Aguirre, whose District 1 includes the affected communities and who spearheaded the spending plan, joined Midday Edition on Tuesday to discuss a detailed breakdown of the funding and the need for an epidemiological study.Guest:Paloma Aguirre, San Diego County Supervisor

Last week, the U.S. Department of Energy announced that it is seeking interest from states to host sites that would support the full nuclear fuel lifecycle, including reprocessing spent fuel and storing nuclear waste.The department is seeking input through April 1.U.S. Rep. Mike Levin, D-CA-49, has been urging the federal government to establish a safe and long-term management program for spent nuclear fuel, of which 3.5 million pounds are stored at the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station.Levin joined Midday Edition last Thursday to discuss the department's call for input, whether the initiative will accelerate the removal of nuclear waste at San Onofre and the $100 million he secured for this issue.Guest:Mike Levin, U.S. Representative for California's 49th District

Last week, independent journalists Don Lemon and Georgia Fort were arrested by federal agents after covering an anti-ICE protest Jan. 18.Fort and Lemon were released from custody Friday. But journalism organizations and free speech advocates are sounding the alarm."It's an unprecedented assault on freedom of speech and freedom of the press to say that reporting the news is a crime," said David Loy, legal director of the First Amendment Coalition. "Journalism is not a crime."Monday on Midday Edition, we look at what these arrests signal about press freedom and the First Amendment in the current political moment.Guest:David Loy, legal director, First Amendment CoalitionResources:"Know Your Rights" page — The First Amendment Coalition

San Diego economist Daniel Enemark joins Midday Edition to talk about the state of the economy, as new data highlights the difficulties many San Diegans face in getting by.One major concern for Enemark is the disconnect between median income and housing costs."The real challenge is will incomes rise faster than housing prices?" he said. "If that's the case, then we could see some relief, albeit slowly over many years."Guest:Daniel Enemark, chief economist, Policy & Innovation Center

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