Rainbow Radio

PROBRAM SUMMARY:Quick recapRainbow Radio host Craig presented a comprehensive Sunday morning program covering weather updates, local news, LGBTQ+ community updates, and cultural commentary. The show featured extensive discussion about the recent Super Bowl halftime show featuring Bad Bunny, which symbolically represented Puerto Rico and the broader Americas, while also addressing the removal and subsequent reinstallation of rainbow flags at the Stonewall National Monument. Craig shared insights about internet history and technology, highlighted upcoming arts and cultural events in Laguna Beach, and concluded with a message about finding space and patience in life's transitions. The program also included regular features like local business spotlights, weather updates from meteorologist Dave, and community service announcements about wildfire safety.Super Bowl: Unity and DiversityCraig reflected on the Super Bowl, highlighting its unifying power and the message of unity through diversity. He noted the game's representation of collaboration across differences and its cultural significance in bringing people together, regardless of their backgrounds. Craig also discussed the halftime show's emphasis on acknowledging the diverse cultures and languages of the Americas, particularly Puerto Rico, and how this recognition fosters a sense of belonging and shared identity. He concluded that the Super Bowl, beyond being a game, serves as a platform for storytelling and cultural reflection, promoting a message of shared purpose and collective excellence.Spanish Language and Cultural ImpactCraig discussed the Super Bowl as a vision of unity through diversity and culture. He then explored the prevalence of Spanish speakers in the Americas, highlighting that more people speak Spanish than English across the hemisphere. Craig emphasized the importance of recognizing Spanish as a powerful language that shapes culture, commerce, and community, rather than viewing it as a secondary language. He concluded by discussing Puerto Rico's history and its complex relationship with the United States, touching on themes of conquest, exploitation, and resilience.Puerto Rico's Resilience and SupportCraig discussed the challenges faced by Puerto Rico, highlighting the impact of the imposed fiscal board and the need for a partnership based on respect and representation. He emphasized the resilience of the Puerto Rican people and their creative response to hardships. Craig also shared insights about Bad Bunny's support for his native community through concerts and his music. Additionally, he promoted the Cliff Restaurant in Laguna Beach and provided updates on local news, including the Festival of Arts and Pageant of the Masters' nomination, the Laguna Beach Community Land Trust's tax-exempt status, and an upcoming compost giveaway. The segment concluded with a weather forecast for the area.Bad Bunny's Super Bowl ImpactCraig discussed the impact of Bad Bunny's performance at the Super Bowl, highlighting its cultural significance and representation of a diverse, multicultural America. He emphasized that the performance showcased unity through music and challenged the notion that American culture is monolithic. Craig also addressed the role of the United States Department of Justice, stating that while the president appoints its leadership, it operates under constitutional limits and is subject to congressional oversight. He urged Congress to fulfill its constitutional duty to oversee the DOJ and hold it accountable when necessary.Congress's Constitutional Oversight DutyCraig discussed the importance of Congress's constitutional duty to oversee and investigate the executive branch, particularly the DOJ, emphasizing that failure to do so is complicit neglect. He called for Congress to initiate transparent oversight hearings, use the power of the purse to condition funding on lawful compliance, enforce subpoenas, and affirm that no agency is above the Constitution. Craig also highlighted the need for accountability and the role of the internet in fostering connection and shared knowledge, comparing its values to those of the LGBTQ+ community.Stonewall Flag Removal ControversyCraig discussed the removal of rainbow flags from the Stonewall National Monument, a site significant to the LGBTQ rights movement. He explained that the flags were removed under the direction of the Trump administration, citing federal flag rules, which sparked outrage and a strong response from the LGBTQ community and allies. Despite the removal, Craig emphasized that the movement and its message of visibility, dignity, and belonging could not be erased. He concluded by highlighting the resilience of the LGBTQ community and the importance of continued defense of rights, including the right to marry.LGBTQ Rewatch Party ExperiencesCraig discussed the phenomenon of rewatching parties for a popular series in LGBTQ-friendly bars across the United States, highlighting the communal experience and emotional connection these gatherings foster. He emphasized the importance of sharing stories and creating spaces for visibility and connection in a world that often asks LGBTQ people to stay invisible. Craig also shared a personal story about a shelf symbolizing space for healing and reflection, encouraging listeners to embrace openness and permission to pause. He concluded by inviting listeners to share their thoughts and suggestions for the show and reminded them to prepare for rain and President's Day.

Stephen Jerrome — a Laguna Beach resident, writer, photographer, and pianist whose creative journey spans from New Zealand to Hollywood and beyond. Stephen captured L.A.'s vibrant art and club scene in the '80s and '90s, traveled the world through his lens, and now shares his latest novel, The London Year, with a release date of November 15th.

Regina V. Cates is a bestselling author, spiritual coach, and heart-centered activist whose work empowers people to reclaim their truth and lead with love. Her new book, The Real Conversation Jesus Wants Us to Have: A Call to Bravery, Peace, and Love, arrives just in time for Pride Month, offering a bold and compassionate roadmap for those seeking to heal from religious trauma and rediscover faith rooted in inclusion, not shame.Raised in a conservative Texas community, Cates endured abuse, rejection, and years of self-loathing before making a radical choice: to live with purpose, compassion, and authenticity. Her journey from trauma to self-liberation fuels her mission to uplift those marginalized by fear-based doctrine, especially LGBTQ+ individuals longing to reconnect with their spiritual identity.In 2004, she founded Romancing Your Soul, an organization dedicated to guiding people toward empowered, heart-led lives. Her previous book, Lead with Your Heart, became an international bestseller, and her podcasts are heard in over 75 countries. With decades of experience as a speaker and advisor, Regina continues to be a powerful voice for healing, connection, and courageous love in a divided world.Now available on Amazon, The Real Conversation Jesus Wants Us to Have is a timely and transformative read for Pride Month—and for anyone ready to reclaim their spiritual voice..

About Regina V. CatesRegina V. Cates is a bestselling author, spiritual coach, and heart-centered activist whose work empowers people to reclaim their truth and lead with love. Her new book, The Real Conversation Jesus Wants Us to Have: A Call to Bravery, Peace, and Love, arrives just in time for Pride Month, offering a bold and compassionate roadmap for those seeking to heal from religious trauma and rediscover faith rooted in inclusion, not shame.Raised in a conservative Texas community, Cates endured abuse, rejection, and years of self-loathing before making a radical choice: to live with purpose, compassion, and authenticity. Her journey from trauma to self-liberation fuels her mission to uplift those marginalized by fear-based doctrine, especially LGBTQ+ individuals longing to reconnect with their spiritual identity.In 2004, she founded Romancing Your Soul, an organization dedicated to guiding people toward empowered, heart-led lives. Her previous book, Lead with Your Heart, became an international bestseller, and her podcasts are heard in over 75 countries. With decades of experience as a speaker and advisor, Regina continues to be a powerful voice for healing, connection, and courageous love in a divided world.Now available on Amazon, The Real Conversation Jesus Wants Us to Have is a timely and transformative read for Pride Month—and for anyone ready to reclaim their spiritual voice..

New York, NY – Latvian-born singer/songwriter and fashion model Keeana Kee is set to release her boldest and most soul-stirring single yet, “Small Fragile Woman,” along with a powerful music video that drops on April 27.Produced by Arturo Brambilla Cabrera and penned by Keeana herself, “Small Fragile Woman” is a cinematic-pop ballad that radiates vulnerability, courage, and quiet defiance.This emotionally charged track reveals a new depth to the NYC-based artist — one that speaks truth to power, tenderness to pain, and strength to silence.From soft, haunting beginnings to a sweeping, emotionally potent climax, the track moves with live strings and cinematic weight. The production is both intimate and grand — building from raw, confessional verses to an anthemic chorus that echoes strength through fragility.The final vocal arrangement delivers a soaring, unforgettable close, reinforcing the song's core message: true power is often found in the most delicate places.“This song comes from a deeply personal place,” says Keeana Kee. “It's about standing tall even in your most vulnerable moments. I wrote it for everyone who's ever been made to feel small yet found the courage to rise. I wanted to create something that would give voice to the quiet fighters — those who don't shout but endure.”Lyrically, “Small Fragile Woman” tackles the emotional impact of bullying and societal judgment, offering a moving portrayal of what it means to fight for dignity, belief, and self-worth. Keeana's poetic imagery and stirring vocals transform the song into an anthem for anyone who's ever felt silenced, underestimated, or dismissed — particularly women and members of the LGBTQ+ community.One standout lyric encapsulates the heart of the song: “See me fall on my knees, holding head high full of beliefs.”It's a declaration of resilience — a refusal to be broken.The accompanying music video extends that message with striking visuals. Raw, expressive, and deeply symbolic, it features a powerful dance narrative performed by women. The choreography becomes a poetic dialogue — a fierce push and pull between pain and perseverance, softness and strength. It pays tribute to those who fight their battles in silence and rise with grace in the face of adversity.More than just a song, “Small Fragile Woman” is a movement — a statement of defiance wrapped in elegance. It's a love letter to every woman who's ever been told she was too soft to survive, too emotional to lead, too fragile to fight.Keeana Kee, long known for using her platform to elevate conversations around women's empowerment and LGBTQ+ visibility, continues her mission to create music that resonates on both emotional and social levels.With “Small Fragile Woman,” she reminds us:Small is not weak. Fragile is not broken. And silence can roar.Watch the “Small Fragile Woman” Official Music Video on YouTube/VEVO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FszwLDWTfKwStream “Small Fragile Woman” everywhere: https://hypeddit.com/t82t7k

Patricia (Tricia) O'Brien, M.S. Tricia is a true advocate for healing, community, and transformation. She has dedicated her life to lifting others up, drawing from her own powerful journey through adversity. With a background in psychology and social psychology, Tricia has led impactful initiatives in nonprofit leadership, helping vulnerable communities find stability and purpose. Dawn Price, M.A "Executive Director Dawn Price has led Friendship Shelter since 2008 and has more than four decades of nonprofit management experience. She currently serves on Orange County's Continuum of Care Board, where homelessness system priorities are set. Dawn holds an MA in mass communication from Drake University and a certificate in non-profit leadership from Northwestern University. "

Patricia (Tricia) O'Brien, M.S. Tricia is a true advocate for healing, community, and transformation. She has dedicated her life to lifting others up, drawing from her own powerful journey through adversity. With a background in psychology and social psychology, Tricia has led impactful initiatives in nonprofit leadership, helping vulnerable communities find stability and purpose. But her story goes beyond titles and credentials. Having faced deep personal challenges—including growing up in a dysfunctional home, battling mental health struggles, and ultimately embracing her authentic self through transition—Tricia's resilience is a testament to the power of self-acceptance and empathy. A devoted parent, grandparent, and leader, she continues to inspire change, whether through career development programs, advocacy, or using music as a tool for healing.

Dr. Neal Baer: We discuss all things important; from AIDS and Art, the "Science of Effective Storytelling", his new book, "The Promise and Peril of CRISPR", to "New Media" in reaching out to underserved populations.Dr. Baer currently holds positions as Lecturer in the Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology at the Yale School of Public Health, Lecturer on Global Health and Social Medicine at Harvard Medical School, and Senior Fellow at the University of Southern California Annenberg School of Journalism.Dr. Baer is a physician, author, and award-winning showrunner and television writer/producer who is a passionate public health advocate and uses media to tell impactful stories related to medicine, public health, and social and scientific issues. Some of his media credits include serving as a Writer and Executive Producer on the George Foster Peabody Award- and Emmy Award-winning series ER (1994-2000) and Executive Producer and Showrunner on A Gifted Man (2011-2012), Under the Dome (2013-2015), Designated Survivor (2019), and Baking Impossible. He was the Executive Producer and Showrunner of the NBC television series Law & Order: Special Victims Unit from 2000 to 2011, a period during which the series won multiple awards including six Emmy awards and a Golden Globe.

On November 14th, Toni and I shared the airwaves on KXFM for an hour in a station takeover to raise funds for Rainbow Radio! With many laughs and insightful observations on everything from music to living life to the fullest. We covered it all.

Keeana Kee is a Latvian-born, London-raised fashion supermodel and dynamic music artist who has been making waves in New York City since 2016. Known for her breezy, tropical sound and vibrant personality, Keeana's music blends sensuality and fun, drawing influences from her favorite divas and Latin rhythms. Her debut single, “Coconut Rum and Coke,” produced by Latin Grammy winner Maffio, introduced her to the music scene with its passionate themes and LGBTQ+ advocacy. Keeana's latest track, “Sweet Heaven,” features Afropop beats and offers a poignant critique of harsh border policies, showcasing her commitment to socially conscious art. Keeana, a trailblazer in both fashion and music, continues to explore new creative avenues, including acting. She maintains a deep connection with her fans through her music and community involvement, including her role in ISINA, Inc., a talent mentorship program. With a strong sense of self and a dedication to authenticity, Keeana Kee's journey from Eastern Europe to global stages is a testament to her resilience and passion for both her craft and personal identity.

Willing to bear his soul, Sunflower Kid translates his experiences coming of age through life, love and loss with electrifying lyricism. With self-reflection beyond his years, his songwriting effortlessly encapsulates the journey of a resilient 20-something with nuance, honesty, and depth of character. His music is available on all streaming platforms for you to listen. 

Jim Fielding is a respected leader in brand strategy, consumer products and experiences, and storytelling. He is a passionate advocate and philanthropist for the Queer Community, higher education, and diversity, equity and inclusion . As author of All Pride, No Ego (Wiley, Aug. 15, 2023), he is committed to safe and authentic spaces for all individuals.

Sunflowr Kid: Willing to bear his soul, Sunflower Kid translates his experiences coming of age through life, love and loss with electrifying lyricism. With self-reflection beyond his years, his songwriting effortlessly encapsulates the journey of a resilient 20-something with nuance, honesty, and depth of character. His music is available on all streaming platforms for you to listen.

Alex Mohajer is a candidate for California State Senate in the 37th Senate District, representing Orange County. Since 2021, he has served as President of the Stonewall Democrats, one of the nation's oldest LGBTQ+ political advocacy organizations. If elected, he will be the first LGBTQ+ legislator elected from Orange County and the first openly gay Iranian man elected anywhere in the world.

Billie Joe Wright, Communications Director Lavender Democrats OC