KPBS Midday Edition

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

This past year has been marked by intensified immigration enforcement, as federal agents continue making violent arrests and targeted sweeps across the country.The act of deportation represents one of the most consequential parts of the Trump administration's immigration policy, and is the end goal for these aggressive raids.Monday on Midday Edition, a filmmaker and historian dive into the origins of deportation and how racism can influence modern immigration policy.Guests:Alex Rivera, filmmaker and associate professor, Arizona State University Sidney Poitier New American Film SchoolKelly Lytle Hernández, Thomas E. Lifka Endowed Chair in History, professor, University of California Los Angeles

Lawmakers in both chambers of Congress say they're concerned that ongoing operations against alleged "narco-terrorist" boats could be unlawful.Last week, two survivors of a Sept. 2 strike on an alleged drug trafficking boat were reportedly killed while clinging to debris in the water.We talk about where the investigation stands and how Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is responding.Guest:Andrew Dyer, military and veteran affairs reporter, KPBS

Writer and journalist Sam Quinones, known for his reporting on America's opioid epidemic, turns to a new subject in his book “The Perfect Tuba.” It's a celebration of the often-overlooked instrument and the musicians and band leaders he met across the country.Plus, with the holidays approaching, arts reporter and KPBS Cinema Junkie Beth Accomando shares a perfect gift idea for the cinephile in your life.And arts and culture reporter Julia Dixon Evans joins us with a look at this weekend's holiday events, from December Nights and SoNoFest to the Winter Wonderland Festival in Escondido.Guests:Sam Quinones, author and journalist, "The Perfect Tuba"Danny Reid, author, "Pre-Code Essentials: Must-See Cinema from Hollywood's Untamed Era, 1930-1934"Kim Luperi, author, "Pre-Code Essentials: Must-See Cinema from Hollywood's Untamed Era, 1930-1934"Julia Dixon Evans, arts and culture reporter, KPBS

About 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. It's the second-leading cause of cancer-related death for American men, behind lung cancer, according to the American Cancer Society.Wednesday on Midday Edition, we invite Jerry McCormick to tell the story of his own diagnosis and his efforts to spread awareness of the disease.Then, we get a medical perspective on prostate cancer, from getting screened to available treatments.Guests:Jerry McCormick, prostate cancer awareness advocateDr. Ramdev Konijeti, director of the Genitourinary Oncology Program at Scripps Cancer Center, surgeon with Scripps Clinic

The Trump administration announced Tuesday that it will withhold administrative SNAP funding from more than 20 Democratic-led states if they do not provide data on people receiving assistance.It is another threat facing the largest anti-hunger program in the United States.Wednesday on Midday Edition, we talk about what you need to know about these changing eligibility requirements and the state of food insecurity in San Diego.Guests:Alondra Alvarado, president and CEO, San Diego Hunger CoalitionBenyamin Chao, policy manager for health and public benefits, California Immigrant Policy Center

Latina writers and readers will gather for the first Latina Authors Book Fair & Showcase at KPBS on Wednesday, Dec. 3.Responding to an industry where Latinas/os represent only 8% of published authors, the event will highlight Latina authors' journeys and encourage others to publish their own.On KPBS Midday Edition, we sit down with the co-hosts of the event, authors Elsa Sevilla and Erica Alfaro.Guests: Elsa Sevilla, host of Historic Places with Elsa Sevilla and author of Camera Ready: From Hardship to SpotlightErica Alfaro, author of Harvesting Dreams

For 30 years, Chula Vista leaders have sought to bring a new four-year public university to San Diego's South County. Now, that dream is closer to becoming a reality.

December marks the start of flu and COVID-19 season.Experts are worried about low vaccination rates this year. Only about 1 in 5 eligible residents have received their flu shots so far, according to recent data.We discuss what to expect for the upcoming flu and COVID-19 season. Plus, tips for staying healthy beyond vaccines.Guest:Dr. Pia Pannaraj, infectious disease specialist at Rady Children's Hospital

As San Diego's senior population continues to grow, so does the need to care for them. Many seniors are facing challenges from Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. Often, that responsibility falls to family members.California has over 7 million family caregivers. It's a role that comes with low pay, no sick days, and additional mental stress. On Midday Edition Monday, we have a conversation about some of the challenges that family caregivers face.Guests:Martha Rañón, vice president, Southern Caregiver Resource CenterShannon Patel, social worker, George G. Glenner Alzheimer's Family CentersLilly Ribner, family caretakerResources mentioned:Southern Caregiver Resource CenterGeorge G. Glenner Alzheimer's Family CentersSan Diego County's Family Caregiver Support Program

Last month, 14-year-old Mikey Jimenez was driving in a restaurant parking lot in El Centro when police officers opened fire on the vehicle, killing him.Now, his family is calling for an outside, independent investigation.Wednesday on Midday Edition, we talk more about the ongoing investigation and how Jimenez's death has reverberated in the community.Guest:Kori Suzuki, South Bay and Imperial Valley reporter, KPBS

It's that time of year: time to figure out what you're bringing to Thanksgiving dinner. For many of us, that decision can feel overwhelming.If you've been putting that off, we've got you covered with some last-minute Thanksgiving shortcuts — in effort, not flavor.Sam the Cooking Guy joins us to answer audience questions and give us a live, in-studio cooking demonstration.And, if all else fails — you can always go out to eat. We sit down with lifestyle journalist Jackie Bryant to get her recommendations for restaurants serving Thanksgiving dinner.Guests:Samuel Zien (Sam the Cooking Guy), cookbook author, restaurateur and YouTuberJackie Bryant, lifestyle journalist and journalism professor at San Diego State University

Thanksgiving is a time to express gratitude, and it's an opportunity to give back to community, and spend time with family.Tuesday on Midday Edition, we hear from a local group using mutual aid to address food insecurity in San Diego.Then, a conversation with a local leadership coach about how to make the most of family time this holiday season.Guests:Nica MaryJane Hermosillo-Vanella, founder and CEO, Feeding DaygoLorri Sulpizio, director, Conscious Leadership Academy, University of San DiegoResources mentioned:Amor al ValleFeeding Daygo LinktreeMutual Aid Hub

November marks National Hip-Hop History Month, and San Diego has a thriving hip-hop community and make its mark on the culture.Tuesday on Midday Edition, we sit down with a local hip-hop veteran to talk about San Diego's ever-evolving hip-hop scene, his own artistry, and how he continues to shine a light on artists, both up-and-coming and established.Guest:Ric Scales, hip-hop artist, curator, promoterResources mentioned:Slappin' Hands showcaseSoul Disciples"F**k Ric Scales" album

Every November, we recognize Native American Heritage Month — honoring the history and contributions of Indigenous people in the United States.But for many leaders, honoring this history is a year-long commitment. That includes educating the next generation and teaching the public the truth about the past.We sit down with two Kumeyaay leaders dedicated to preserving the language and spreading awareness about their cultural heritage.Then, we learn about local efforts to spread awareness about missing and murdered Indigenous people (MMIP) in the San Diego region. We also discuss what resources are available for community members.Guests:Stan Rodriguez, director of Kumeyaay Community College and chair of the Kumeyaay Studies department at Cuyamaca CollegeNicholas Calaway Smith, ‘Iipay-Kumeyaay educator and language preservation advocateDanielle Bush, program director, MMIP San DiegoSummer Elliott, housing services liaison, Strong Hearted Native Women's CoalitionResources:Feather AlertMMIP San Diego Resource Center

About a dozen police agencies in San Diego County use automated license plate readers.A new KPBS investigation found those agencies are also searching cameras owned by private businesses — with limited oversight.Plus, almost all requests for shelter have failed since San Diego began clearing freeway camps. We talk about problems within the shelter system and why it's so hard to secure a spot.And, we talk about why residents in Jacumba are pushing back on a 600-acre solar project that would surround the town.Guests: Scott Rodd, investigative reporter, KPBSGustavo Solis, investigative border reporter, KPBSBlake Nelson, homelessness reporter, The San Diego Union-TribuneElaine Alfaro, East County reporter, KPBS

Over the past 30 years, Point Loma Nazarene University professor Dean Nelson has sat down with some of the most prominent writers in the literary world to talk about their craft.He compiles the insights from those conversations into two new books, "Talking to Writers" — one focused on fiction, the other nonfiction.Then, our Midday Movies critics unpack the concept of "tactical frivolity" and discuss films that use satire, humor and theatricality to respond to the political moment.And finally, it's another busy weekend in the arts. KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans shares her top picks for things to do.Guests:Dean Nelson, author, director of Point Loma Nazarene University's Journalism Program, founder of Writer's Symposium By the SeaBeth Accomando, arts reporter, KPBSYazdi Pithavala, podcast host, MoviewallasJulia Dixon Evans, arts reporter, KPBS

For many parents today, managing kids' screen time and technology use often feels like a full-time job.Growing evidence shows a correlation between excessive screen use and mental health issues, as families struggle to establish rules and guidelines around technology.We speak with Jean Twenge, a local researcher and author, about "10 Rules for Raising Kids in a High-Tech World."Guest:Jean Twenge, professor of psychology at San Diego State University, author of "10 Rules for Raising Kids in a High-Tech World"

Don't put away your umbrellas just yet.San Diego County is expecting another rainstorm late Thursday, after heavy rainfall earlier in the week. We break down the forecast.Plus, we take a look into progress being made at this year's United Nations climate conference in Belém, Brazil — also known at COP30. We also unpack why the United States is skipping the conference this year.Guest:Alex Tardy, former National Weather Service meteorologist, founder of Weather EchoDavid Victor, professor of innovation and public policy at UC San Diego's School of Global Policy and Strategy

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