San Diego News Matters

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KPBS' daily news podcast covering local politics, education, health, environment, the border and more. New episodes are ready weekday mornings so you can listen on your morning commute.

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    • Oct 3, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 15m AVG DURATION
    • 1,349 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from San Diego News Matters

    Man who worked with US in Afghanistan speaks out after ICE detainment

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 3, 2025 9:26


    First, a man who worked alongside the U.S. in Afghanistan speaks out after he was detained by ICE this summer. Then, Chula Vista is using artificial intelligence to write police reports. Next, we take you behind-the-scenes of the new Navy Seal Museum and what it offers. Finally, an inclusive dance performance is taking place this weekend.

    City of San Diego will no longer go to court to force county to aid vulnerable people

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 2, 2025 15:02


    First, in our latest Why It Matters segment we discuss the controversial decision by the city to not force the county to aid vulnerable people. Then, a grant of 1 million dollars to fund a road safety project was revoked – it's part of a national trend. Next, our sci-tech reporter breaks down TMS and its impact on our brain. Finally, dozens of things across the county this month are free for kiddos, we break it down.

    The Citizens Law Enforcement Review Board has been given more power

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 1, 2025 14:15


    First, the San Diego City Council delayed voting on a series of increases to water and sewage rates in the city. The Citizens Law Enforcement Review Board or CLERB can now investigate healthcare providers in San Diego County jails. Then, we get reaction to an announcement made to almost every general, admiral and senior enlisted leader in the military. Then, we discuss how constant negative headlines in the news can ultimately affect our health. Finally, the Italian Film Festival kicks off its 19th year!

    San Diego sues recycling company over noise, air pollution allegations

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 30, 2025 9:01


    The city of San Diego is suing a recycling company following years of complaints about noise and air pollution. Longtime California legislator Toni Atkins dropped out of the 2026 Governor's race. Then, a scientist gives tips on how to stay safe from dust storms. Finally, we bring you the latest from the city of La Mesa, which has chipped away at plans to develop its city center.

    New analysis warns Colorado River could fall to dangerously low levels

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2025 12:13


    First, new analysis puts the Colorado River at risk. Then, for the first time ever a group of faculty at USD have a union contract. Next, we take you behind-the-scenes of FC's Right To Dream Academy in El Cajon. Finally, another installation of our new segment: The Pod behind the Package.

    SD Unified leaders reverse decision to remove middle school from Bethune K-8

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2025 14:51


    First, San Diego Unified leaders have reversed their initial decision to remove middle school grades from Bethune K-8. And we bring you a preview of the Miramar Air Show as well as the documentary Tura! Then, will a new movie coming to theaters be able to boost the local economy in San Diego? We'll also hear about a non-profit app that's helping to save lives. Lastly, we give you a few ideas on how to spend your weekend in the county!

    San Diego's unemployment rate is at its highest since 2021

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 12:59


    First, new data from the state of California shows San Diego's unemployment rate is the highest it's been in several years. Then, next week the San Diego City Council is set to vote on water rate increases, but the Council President is worried the council might not pass the rate hike. Finally, a preview of the 3rd annual Chula Vista Art Festival.

    Detox center downtown being called first of its kind

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2025 13:49


    First, a new detox center in downtown is being heralded as a first of its kind for the county. Next, a change.org petition having to do with the county's animal shelter has over 2,000 signatures. Then, a group of scientists are looking for solutions to the air quality problems at the Salton Sea. Finally, San Diego International Airport's new Terminal 1 is an unlikely art museum.

    Homeland Security looks to veterans to fill ICE hiring gap

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2025 13:58


    First, the Department of Homeland Security is looking to veterans to fill ICE jobs. Then, ADU's being turned into vacation rentals? Next, local comedians give their take on recent news like Jimmy Kimmel being taken off the air. Finally, Hispanic Heritage Month kicked off in the San Diego Community College District.

    Experts share concerns over ICE's recruitment strategy

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2025 15:55


    First, as ICE has a goal of hiring 10,000 agents by the end of year, we speak with experts who find serious issues with their recruitment strategy and imagery. Then, local pediatricians are raising concerns over new guidelines for the measles vaccine. Next, scientists at the Sanford Stem Cell Institute report their latest cancer research findings. Finally, we launch our new segment: The Pod behind the Package.

    New CA law requires health insurers to cover COVID-19 vaccines

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2025 14:27


    First, a new California law is now requiring health insurers to cover COVID-19 vaccinations. Then, dozens rallied downtown outside of the federal courthouse. Next, we tell you what goes into a wildfire prevention inspection. Finally, Fil-Am Creator Con sees huge growth in year two.

    Profane audio from top animal services official raises alarm

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2025 11:51


    First, our investigations team has obtained crude audio from a top official at the San Diego County Department of Animal Services. Former employees say it shows the official's attitude towards euthanizing dogs. Then, the contract for roughly 5,700 nurses at Sharp hospitals is up at the end of the month, we bring you the latest on negotiation efforts. Next, a San Diego man pleaded guilty after landing his plane twice illegally on San Clemente Island. Finally, San Diego County's largest school district will soon be making some major changes.

    Rivalry brews over money meant to clean up cross-border rivers

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 17, 2025 12:32


    Fifty million dollars in funding to clean cross-border rivers is facing road blocks.. Then, the National City planning commission votes to block a new biofuel depot. We tell you why. Next, the county has a plan for the nearly 100,000 people at risk of losing their federal food benefits. Finally, we bring you a story about Ramona's Nuevo Memory Gardens and their community watchdogs.

    Community reacts after school board member comes out as transgender

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 16, 2025 15:03


    First, a Republican school board member in North County has come out as transgender, we share how the community reacted. Then, the city of Oceanside is being sued over a controversial warehouse project. Finally, we get a behind-the-scenes preview of Huzzah!, a musical on the stage at The Old Globe.

    Protecting local residents from immigration enforcement

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2025 11:24


    First, elected officials are now considering new policies aimed to protect local residents from immigration enforcement. Next, a San Diego Navy doctor finds herself under investigation after details from her LinkedIn account were shared. Finally, pun definitely intended, we take a deeper dive into what goes into being a volunteer diver at Birch Aquarium.

    Fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk could be another in a trend of political violence

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2025 12:41


    We hear from Public Matters reporter Amita Sharma about the local connections to Charlie Kirk and the impact of his killing. Then, some San Diegans trying to get a COVID vaccine are running into obstacles. Plus, we have some weekend events to check out.

    New plan aims to protect coastline from sea rise

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 11, 2025 13:17


    First, we look at the city of San Diego's new action plan to address rising sea levels. Then, we bring you the story of a different type of neighborhood supermarket. Next, we discuss why San Diego's avocado production numbers are down. Finally, we breakdown tiered parking at the SD Zoo in our next Why It Matters segment.

    San Diego-based law firm sues ICE

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2025 11:30


    First, we tell you about a San Diego-based law firm that just filed a class-action suit against ICE over arrests in immigration court. Then, county supervisors just gave the green light to public health and economic impact studies in areas around the Tijuana River Valley. Next, the Veterans Affairs Secretary was in San Diego to tour the VA Medical Center and more. Finally, our Sci-Tech reporter takes a deeper look into the dangers of kids riding e-bikes.

    Paid parking coming to a Zoo near you

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 9, 2025 14:24


    The San Diego City Council voted to clear the way for paid parking at the San Diego Zoo. Then, a recent study found that over half of young adults look to online community groups for their local news –we breakdown why. Next, a state program that offers college kids scholarship money. Finally, we share what to expect at Politifest 2026.

    Two thirds of permits for housing are in walkable areas

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2025 7:56


    A majority of new housing across the San Diego County is being planned within the city's urban core, which is walkable. Also, we have advice from an infectious disease doctor on COVID vaccinations. Then, a gap between girls and boys in math test scores. Finally, we take you to the ribbon cutting of the Joan and Irwin Jacobs Performing Arts Center.

    Pentagon considers plan to lease parts of Camp Pendleton

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2025 13:02


    The Pentagon is considering a plan that would lease parts of Camp Pendleton, we tell you why. Then, we hear from Will Rodriguez-Kennedy who is back as the head of the San Diego Democratic Party. And, a psychiatric hospital set for North County just lost a chunk of funding. Plus, just weeks before the new Terminal 1 opens at San Diego International, one airline is opting out.

    Studying viruses passed down by our ancestors

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 4, 2025 15:41


    First, the La Jolla Institute for Immunology is studying ghost viruses, which are passed down by our ancestors. Then, clean energy projects are getting a boost in funding and new election mailers are headed to your mailbox. Next, how the Carlsbad Theater owners are trying to save its legacy. Finally, we take a look at La Ópera de Tijuana which celebrates their 25 year anniversary.

    New federal funding restrictions could increase overdose deaths

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2025 12:59


    A new executive order limits how federal funding can be spent by programs that assist people who use drugs. Outreach workers believe the change could increase preventable overdoses. Then, an update on a project to turn a vacant lot in Chula Vista into dozens of affordable homes. Plus, we check in on how the Escondido library is doing at its new location – the North County mall.

    A new congressional map is going before voters this fall

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 2, 2025 13:28


    A new congressional map is going before voters this fall, we discuss what change that could bring to San Diego County. Then, a new program is teaching college students about AI and robotics in the construction industry. Next, reports show that veterans struggle financially as they transition out of service, we speak with one veteran about her experience. Finally, a local museum that's commemorating the Chicano moratorium. Lastly, Digital Gym Cinema kicks off its September series of film restorations.

    Researchers confirm pollution in the Tijuana river is also in the air

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2025 12:40


    First, for the first time researchers say they've confirmed pollution in the Tijuana River is also in the air being breathed in. Then, a lawsuit filed by conservative activists targets federal support for colleges supporting Latino students. Then we profile a man pursuing asylum in the U.S. Next, a device that could make nuclear fusion possible. Finally, it's Labor Day weekend in San Diego, we have a few ways to celebrate!

    How San Diego County is responding to federal budget cuts

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2025 11:31


    First, Voice of San Diego breaks down how Democrats on the San Diego County Board of Supervisors are trying to fill the budget gap caused by federal cuts. Then, calls are being made to Congress to pass a new law that would re-start Afghan refugee relocation. Then, city crews are cleaning up homeless encampments and offering relocation, but are they being taken up on that offer? Then, we look at what needs to be done to increase the use of one of the least popular trolley stations in San Diego. Finally, San Diego International Airport's Terminal 1 is nearly complete.

    People living at San Diego's camping sites for the homeless are suing

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2025 9:20


    Some people living in the city of San Diego's designated camping sites for the homeless are suing, we break down why. Then, we hear from the Secretary of the Navy who is in San Diego this week. Plus, amid economic and political turmoil, do San Diegans still have hope?

    Complaint filed against SDPD Chief

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 26, 2025 11:39


    A complaint against SDPD Chief Scott Wahl has been filed with the State Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training, or POST. Then, a county supervisor is calling for major changes to be made regarding detention facilities in the county. Next, a draft update to the Clairemont Community Plan will now see the neighborhood rezoned, we will bring you those details. Finally, a tribute to the animals that recently died at the San Diego Zoo.

    Communities respond to ICE arrests near San Diego schools

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 25, 2025 15:59


    The Metropolitan Transit System is asking the public for help in prioritizing spending as it faces a looming budget deficit. Then, border and immigration reporter Gustavo Solis checks in to talk about the impact of ICE arrests near schools. And, part two of our story on the challenges faced by Afghans four years after the fall of Kabul. Plus, why some North County residents are disappointed that a new housing development was approved. Finally, a settlement between the city and the owners of the derelict California Theater — sell it or tear it down.

    Aggressive immigration enforcement is impacting youth mental health

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2025 16:02


    First, a new report from UC Riverside warns that aggressive immigration enforcement is taking a serious toll on children's mental health. Then, we hear from San Diego County Supervisor Paloma Aguirre about new signs in the Tijuana River Valley that warn the public to avoid areas where toxic gases have been detected. Plus, a preview of Filmout, San Diego's LGBTQ+ film festival, happening this weekend.

    Another immigration arrest near a San Diego County school

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 21, 2025 12:59


    First, we bring you details on the latest ICE arrest near a San Diego County school. Next, San Diego is building numerous new homes, but our reports found many are popping up near freeways. Then, we hear from the parents of an Encinitas teen who was killed while crossing the street and the change they'd like to see happen. Finally, we catch up with Ziggy Marley who will be headlining the KPBS San Diego Book Festival.

    Teachers trained on protecting students from immigration enforcement

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2025 14:18


    First, with multiple ICE arrests taking place near San Diego schools, Union del Barrio is training teachers on how to protect students from potential immigration enforcement. Then, we spoke with a California lawmaker looking to crack down on microplastics. Next, we discuss price increases with the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce president. Finally, a new mental health tactic originating in the UK is now being applied in San Diego.

    El Cajon police chief disagrees with attorney general over sanctuary law

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 19, 2025 7:49


    First, the El Cajon police chief and the state Attorney General disagree on the state's immigrant sanctuary law. Next, over 4,000 San Diego teens made calls to the teen mental health line. We hear more about the resource. Finally, a transitional housing facility for foster youths marks a first for North County.

    New housing development on horizon for South Bay

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 18, 2025 8:51


    First, another San Diego parent has been detained by ICE near a school. Then, a new housing development being built near a South Bay trolley station gets approval, while planning is underway for new homes near San Diego State University. Finally, adult sports leagues in San Diego get hit with a price spike

    Governor Newsom moves forward with redistricting effort

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 15, 2025 10:42


    First, California Governor Gavin Newsom announced plans for a Nov. 4 special election to ask voters to approve of redistricting in the state. Then, the Encinitas City Council moves forward with two homeless-related proposals. Plus, we get a sneak preview of the latest world premiere musical at the La Jolla Playhouse.

    How has immigration increased tension in El Cajon?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2025 13:56


    El Cajon is one of just two cities in California fighting state immigrant sanctuary laws. This year the city council passed resolutions supporting President Trump's deportation campaign. Then, the days of RV's parking in Mission Bay long term may be numbered. And, clean air vehicle stickers are set to soon expire, but a proposal could change that. Finally, we take a look into how the rise of AI has also brought with it numerous copyright lawsuits.

    Toni Atkins faces potential conflicts of interest in run for Governor

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2025 8:03


    Chula Vista's mayor is seeking an agreement with Caltrans to clear encampments along the freeways in his city. Then, Toni Atkins is now running for Governor, but faces potential conflicts of interest. Next, a new way for Southeastern San Diego residents to get to medical appointments, the grocery store and more. Finally, we discuss agape and its role in our society as we present another installment of our civic values series.

    San Diego Unified welcomes students

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2025 12:54


    Thousands of students in San Diego Unified are back in their classrooms this week. Then, we take a closer look at the Trump administration's plans for Afghan allies who've fled due to Taliban rule. Then, SDG&E reminds us to call 811 before digging and explains why. Finally, an all-female production of Shakespeare's work that's taking place in our county and where to watch.

    Sexual misconduct lawsuit against Nathan Fletcher thrown out

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 11, 2025 13:18


    On Friday, a San Diego County Superior Court judge threw out a sexual misconduct lawsuit filed against former county supervisor Nathan Fletcher. Plus, we profile a barber in Vista that provides haircuts and healing to his community. Then, in our next installment about civic values we take a look at ethics and its current place in our society.

    The controversy around choosing Imperial Beach's new mayor

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 8, 2025 11:48


    First, a look into why there's some controversy surrounding the quick appointment of Imperial Beach's new mayor. Plus, another look into seniors' vulnerability to scams and how to best avoid them. Then, our latest civic values installment discusses authenticity and its role in politics.

    Immigration agents arrest parent near Chula Vista school

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 7, 2025 12:13


    Chula Vista Councilmember Michael Inzunza said police told him immigration agents arrested the parent a block away from Camarena Elementary School, and that two children were in the car at the time of the arrest. Then, a San Diego-based ministry is accompanying migrants and asylum seekers to their court hearings. Plus, new research shows the impact of immigration arrests on the California's workforce.

    San Diego County again on federal list of sanctuary jurisdictions

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2025 11:05


    San Diego County and the state of California are on a new justice department list of “sanctuary jurisdictions.” The DOJ says these jurisdictions have policies, laws or regulations that interfere with federal immigration enforcement. Then, we debut a new series on civic values. Plus, we discuss the latest in on-demand military 3D-print manufacturing. Finally, how some mail-order medications may be a risk during this week's warm weather.

    Parking meter prices increase near Petco Park

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 5, 2025 11:55


    First, parking meter prices are going up around Petco Park during special events, including Padres games. There will soon be parking meters surrounding Balboa Park, we tell you what those funds will fix. Last, why Oceanside received top-ranks for seniors and retirees.

    A new affordable housing community coming to San Diego

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 4, 2025 10:48


    First, 200 Affordable Housing units land in Mission Valley. Plus, why the Marine Corps has now changed its relationship with an Oceanside credit-union. Then, in conversation with Voice Of San Diego we take a deeper dive into the major factors impacting the housing crisis in San Diego.

    How Two brothers delivering groceries evolved into a community center

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2025 8:27


    First, we take a deeper look into UC San Diego's plan for growth after a record-setting number of admissions were offered. Then, two brothers from North County with a mutual goal blossomed into an entire community center. Plus, Imperial Beach gets its first community-owned grocery store.

    A San Diego park soccer program supporting refugees and immigrant youth?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2025 15:15


    First, why El Cajon Police will no longer respond to all mental-health crisis calls. Plus, Imperial Valley's oldest LGTQ+ center is in turmoil. Then, some changes are being made to San Diego grocery store's coupon system, making it more user-friendly and inclusive to seniors.

    What happens when immigration detention in San Diego reaches max capacity?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2025 14:51


    First, the Otay Mesa Immigration Detention Center is at full capacity. What happens now? Then, we bring you part three of our housing series showing where new buildings are going up in San Diego and why. Plus, California Attorney General Rob Bonta Sues Trump Administration.

    Where new homes are being built

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2025 9:46


    A new analysis finds housing construction is on the rise, but the construction of new homes is not being distributed equally across San Diego's cities. Plus, the latest on paid parking in Balboa Park. Then, financial scams targeting seniors in San Diego County.

    Housing reforms are starting to pay off

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2025 10:14


    San Diego has adopted a host of reforms over the past decade meant to increase the housing supply and they're starting to show results. Then, a new report is out that tracks the number of whales getting entangled in fishing lines. Plus, cleaning up after Comic-Con takes true teamwork.

    Another comic and arts convention the same weekend as Comic-Con?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2025 11:18


    San Diego Comic-Con brings huge crowds and exclusive content releases with it, we discuss some of our favorite announcements from Day 1! Plus, how teachers and librarians are using comics to teach. Then, a look into some federal funds that were just released benefiting San Diego County schools. Also, we introduce you to an alternative type of comic and arts convention also happening this weekend.

    Could a donation at Comic-Con make you a real-life superhero?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2025 13:15


    Nascar is coming to San Diego for Father's Day weekend in 2026. Plus, the days of free parking in Balboa are numbered. We have the proposed cost breakdown. Then, part 2 of our KPBS investigation that looks into an uptick in euthanasias at San Diego County shelters. Finally, a look at ComicCon Preview Day & Blood Drive.

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