San Diego News Matters

Follow San Diego News Matters
Share on
Copy link to clipboard

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.

KPBS


    • Jan 29, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 15m AVG DURATION
    • 1,427 EPISODES


    Search for episodes from San Diego News Matters with a specific topic:

    Latest episodes from San Diego News Matters

    New scholarship program trains frontline healthcare workers

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 29, 2026 13:52


    First, a new scholarship program is helping to train new frontline healthcare workers. Then, a proposal to tax vacant second homes and vacation homes has fallen short. Also, the latest in a series of protests took place in Oceanside, we tell you why. Plus, how a local database could be helping federal immigration agencies avoid state sanctuary laws.

    San Diego's Democratic congressional delegates call on congress to rein in ICE

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 28, 2026 12:19


    First, some local delegates are calling on Congress to help rein in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Then, drier and warmer conditions are on the way, following some record-breaking rainfall. We tell you if there's a risk of wildfires. Also, there's a renewed effort to suspend paid parking at Balboa Park. We also bring you an update regarding an immigrant surfer who was detained by ICE after wandering onto Camp Pendleton. Last but not least, an interview with a director stepping down after nearly a decade of work.

    Kaiser Permanente health care workers go on strike

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2026 12:21


    First, thousands of Kaiser health workers across California and Hawaii walked off the job this week . Then, we bring you details around affordable housing for staff at the San Diego Unified School District. Also, we bring you to Camp Pendleton where Marines are learning to be drone pilots. Plus, a solar farm project currently under construction in Jacumba has brought some health concerns along with it.

    Rady Children's Hospital to end medical gender-affirming care

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 26, 2026 18:48


    First, advocates voice their disapproval following Rady Children's Hospital's decision to end medical gender-affirming care. Then, we bring you a story from Camp Pendleton where a small unit is coming through for animals in a very big way. Also, Oceanside is considering a new rule that would strengthen their e-bike laws after a surge of complaints from residents. Plus, we bring you the latest installments of our Museum A Month' and Pod Behind The Package series.

    County supervisor wants to inspect Otay Mesa Detention Center

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 23, 2026 14:19


    First, San Diego County Supervisor Terra Lawson-Remer is requesting inspections of the Otay Mesa Detention Center. Then, flood survivors mark the anniversary of the January 2024 floods. And, where the city is at with storm drain repair in Southcrest. Next, how county leaders and students are trying to address the Tijuana River sewage crisis. Plus, we wrap up our series on the proposed data center in Imperial County with a look at the growing movement against it.

    Museum leaders say ask city to reconsider paid parking at Balboa Park

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 22, 2026 13:17


    First, museum leaders are asking that paid parking at Balboa Park be reconsidered. Then, after the death of a child, Pacific Beach community members are calling for improved road safety. Also, we hear from Jessica Calix who was impacted and displaced in the January 2024 floods. Plus, part 2 of our series on the controversy around a massive data center project. Lastly a story about the world's oldest collegiate acapella group.

    Anniversary of Trump's second inauguration was met with protest

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 21, 2026 12:52


    First, some locals gathered to protest the anniversary of President Donald Trump's second inauguration. Then, we tell you how students at one school in San Diego are keeping Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy alive. Also, a $10-billion data center is looking to move forward without an environmental review process. Finally, a popular San Marcos building is getting some upgrades.

    Cost of food, shelter and medical care among highest in the nation

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 20, 2026 17:18


    First, we discuss the economic outlook for San Diego County in this new year. Then, new enrollments for Covered California are down. And, we bring you details from the All Peoples Celebration that recognized local leaders in the community. Also, we tell you about a new book that explores a late musician's visual art. Finally, we bring you a preview of the Jewish Film Festival.

    Family raises questions about ICE detention center conditions after father dies in custody

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 19, 2026 14:26


    First, a Honduran man held at a Calexico Detention Center died after a medical emergency. Then, the Grossmont Union High School District board has updated its guidelines on immigration enforcement. Also, our resident Cinema Junkie says you should check out a supernatural form of horror content this week. Plus, this week's installment of The Pod Behind the Package features another KPBS podcast.

    Mayor Todd Gloria discusses budget deficit in State of the City address

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 16, 2026 14:19


    First, we give you a peek into San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria's State of the City address. Then, Rady Children's Hospital is challenging a vote by its frontline workers to unionize. Next, the controversy surrounding the San Diego Rodeo happening this weekend. Also, we tell you what ban might come after the latest ban on plastic bags. As well as, an opera designed for kids and other weekend event ideas.

    Advocate reacts to White House announcing an end to temporary protected status for Somalis living in U.S.

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2026 7:49


    First, we spoke with some local advocates about the White House announcing the end of Temporary Protected Status for Somalis living in the United States. Next, the Carlsbad City Council approved an emergency proclamation over erosion on an ocean bluff. Then, Nathan Fletcher is registering to become a statehouse lobbyist. Plus, the latest controversy surrounding the construction of a roughly 600-acre solar farm in Jacumba.

    San Marcos announces partnership with Blue Zones Project

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2026 13:23


    First, an initiative focused on living long and healthy lives is partnering with the city of San Marcos. Next, San Diego is the latest city in California to oppose the current administration's offshore drilling plan. Also, rail advocates reaffirm their goal of an all-electric train service between Los Angeles and San Diego. Then, there is still time to sign up children for no-cost preschool if you are in the San Diego Unified School District. Plus, the first African country to be represented by Balboa Park's International Cottages.

    People living in their vehicles are taking the city to court

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 13, 2026 13:24


    First, we tell you why some locals living in their vehicles are taking the city to court. Then, we bring you news regarding a former sailor that's been convicted of spying for China. Also, a new study shows that pharmacists have a higher risk of suicide. Last, we discuss how changes in local TV station ownership rules could impact local news.

    Privacy advocates raise concerns over use of local government database

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 12, 2026 19:12


    First, privacy advocates have major concerns about a locally-run database. Then, the San Diego City Council returned for its first session of 2026 today. Next, we bring you details around the freezing of billions of dollars in childcare for five states. And why some county public health officials are fighting back against new federal childhood vaccine guidelines. Then, a 90-year-old theater in Oceanside is getting a multi-million dollar renovation. Last but not least, another installment of the SDNN original segment, The Pod Behind the Package.

    Latest protest at San Diego's downtown federal building takes tense turn

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 9, 2026 13:54


    First, federal agents detained a local protest organizer in front of the federal building downtown. Then, Somali childcare providers say strangers are surveilling their centers. Also on the podcast, the county has intentions to build cabins for people experiencing homelessness in Lemon Grove. Next, with the Golden Globes taking place this weekend, our resident Cinema Junkie gives out her own awards for her favorite films from last year. Last but not least, some weekend event ideas for you and yours happening across the county.

    Councilmember proposes rolling back special event parking fees

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 8, 2026 13:32


    First, a San Diego city councilmember is looking to scale back on Downtown's special event parking fees that were implemented last fall. Then, the gunman who killed two people and injured 13 others at a school in Santee could become one of the few school shooters to be released from prison. Also, this week Imperial Beach residents held a vigil for a local who lost his life near the IB Pier. Plus, two city council members are calling on the mayor to suspend paid parking for city residents in Balboa Park. Lastly, we check in on a local flower shop with a history of severe flooding.

    What tourists are saying about paid parking at Balboa Park

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 7, 2026 13:03


    First, paid parking at Balboa Park has gotten off to a rocky start - we ask tourists about it. Then, what's next for the redevelopment of the Midway District? Also, we tell you why the city of San Diego's auditor is saying his department should be excluded from budget cuts. Last but not least, the city of Del Mar wants to meet with California's Attorney General over a proposed housing project.

    Local lawmaker reacts to U.S. attack on Venezuela

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 6, 2026 13:08


    First, Democratic Congressman Scott Peters weighs in on the U.S. attack on Venezuela. Then, last month almost every member of the U.S. military received a one-time payment of $1,776 dollars, we clarify where the funds came from. And, federal authorities missed the deadline to release more information around the death of an immigrant in Imperial County. Also, some Medi-Cal patients may notice a change when picking up their next prescription at the pharmacy. Lastly, yet another setback with the Harmony Grove South development.

    Local politics, policies in 2026 could have major impact

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 5, 2026 14:28


    First, some local policies could make a big impact in this new year. Then, paid parking begins in Balboa Park for the first time. Next, we go over some new wildfire safety regulations. Also, a local church with a history of activism is opening a resource center for immigrants. Last but certainly not least, we say thank you and farewell to KPBS' Tom Fudge as he retires from a decades-long career in public broadcasting

    A bevy of new laws to bring in the New Year

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 2, 2026 13:01


    First, a new state law is looking to shift the focus over to the demand side of sex trafficking. Then, SDSU is building a new lab that aims to be an ideal place to study water issues. Also, another round of King Tides are anticipated on Friday and Saturday. Plus, you can test yourself and take a News Quiz on kpbs.org! Then, another review and recommendation from our resident Cinema Junkie! Last but not least, some weekend event ideas that are happening across the county.

    Parking meter rates in La Mesa will increase for first time in two decades

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025 13:48


    First, for the first time in two decades parking meter rates will increase in La Mesa. Then, we bring you the latest details around the expansion of Medi-Medi plans. Also, the annual Holiday Bowl for the 1st time ever will happen in January. Lastly, we caught up with a few, top-ranked local birders.

    The New Year brings a new plastic bag law with it

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 11:14


    First, a new law that goes into effect on Jan. 1 requires grocery stores to swap out the thicker plastic bags for recycled paper bags. Then, hundreds of Camp Pendleton Marines deployed this month to the US-Mexico border. Also, the county is offering a free and safe way to get around on NYE. Lastly, we bring you details around the 46th Annual Holiday Bowl parade.

    Projections for San Diego's cannabis tax revenue fall short of expectations

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2025 12:54


    First, San Diego's cannabis business tax isn't projected to bring the expected revenue. Then, we explain what's holding up the San Diego Unified School District's recent land transfer proposal. Also, with one week of free parking in Balboa Park left, we give you an idea of what to check out. Plus, we have an update on KSDS, San Diego's other public radio station. Lastly, Escondido is looking to crack down on the use of illegal or illicit fireworks.

    More than 68K nationwide are spending the holiday in immigration detention

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 23, 2025 12:13


    First, we bring you details around an undocumented surfer who has been detained for months in Otay Mesa. Then, an event celebrating the unity and resilience of the Jewish community. Also, the South Bay Union District announces two additional school closures. And finally, some tips on how to manage stress around the holiday season.

    The City of San Diego is entering the new year with a budget deficit

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 22, 2025 14:10


    First, we tell you the factors that led to the city entering into 2026 with a budget deficit. Then, a KPBS analysis found a big change and shift between Imperial County's last two elections. Also, San Diego is one of three cities bidding to host the 2029 Invictus Games. Lastly, we speak to KPBS reporter & anchor John Carroll for this week's Pod Behind the Package.

    New report finds that workforce reductions are hurting efforts to prevent ship fires

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 19, 2025 13:28


    First, federal workforce reductions by the current administration are putting the prevention of ship fires in jeopardy. Next, they are looking for volunteers for January's Point-In-Time count. Then, a training for first-responders around driverless vehicles. Also, for three months in a row the San Diego Humane Society has set records for the number of adult dogs in their care. Lastly, some weekend events, happening this holiday weekend.

    San Diego County District Attorney asks lawmakers to create national database to track retail theft

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 18, 2025 13:19


    First, the San Diego County District Attorney is asking for help fighting back against retail theft. Next, new state legislation is looking to put stricter limits on exposure to a toxic gas created by sewage. Also, a mishap at the San Diego Air & Space Museum. Followed by, one San Diego Unified school got a visit from a very special seasonal guest. Finally, we take you to the hidden local gem of Graffiti Gardens in Encanto.

    Plans for College Area and Clairemont call for more housing near public transit

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 17, 2025 14:42


    First, the San Diego City Council approves new community plans for the College Area and Clairemont. Then, we will see an increase in SDG&E rates in the New Year. And, how the domes at the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station are being demolished. Also, local leaders are speaking out after an eight hour freeway closure. Next, a special archive project chronicles stories of those who have experienced persecution for being LGBTQ+. Lastly, how heightened immigration enforcement has changed the way some families are celebrating the holidays.

    Mass shooting in Australia leaves San Diego Rabbi in mourning

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 16, 2025 13:28


    First, a mass shooting in Australia has left a local Rabbi and many others in mourning. Then, an inside look at a training exercise Camp Pendleton Marines took part in. After that, a committee at SDSU is recommending an increase in student fees. Finally, local scientists have a possible solution when it comes to seagrasses that are under threat.

    With financial challenges ahead, San Diego County gives out bonuses

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 15, 2025 17:16


    First, county employees get $1,000 bonuses despite financial challenges to come –we explain why. Last week the Trump administration designated most of the US-Mexico border in California as a militarized zone. Then, the fight over a data center in the Imperial Valley is now heading to the courts. Followed by, the San Dieguito Union High School District passed new rules following a pair of controversies. Lastly, we interview Jake Gotta for our weekly segment ‘The Pod Behind The Package.'

    Local woman's story sheds light on conditions for detainees

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 12, 2025 14:36


    First, the community reacts to the experience of a woman detained by ICE. Then, a proposed class action lawsuit accuses Sharp Healthcare of recording patient visits without permission. Also, a top official at the San Diego County's Department of Animal Services issues an apology. Followed by, in December's ‘Museum A Month' series we tell you why the San Diego Botanic Gardens are special. Lastly, some weekend events happening across the county as you plan out your weekend.

    Ukrainian woman arrested after green card interview has now been released

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 11, 2025 16:28


    First, we bring you the latest details around the Ukrainian woman who was arrested after her green card interview. Then, we bring you an update from the San Diego City Council vote on surveillance technologies. Next, a San Diego County supervisor is looking into how to reprocess nuclear fuel. And, we speak with the founder of a center looking to combat digital hate. Also, supervisors approved a lease for United Airlines to operate out of Palomar Airport. Lastly, the semifinals for the first ever esports tournament in South Bay Union School District are beginning today.

    San Diego Unified leaders announce plan to fix “systemic issues” in special education

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2025 12:48


    First, yesterday the San Diego City Council approved a settlement of $30 million dollars for the family of a teen who was fatally shot by a police officer. Then, San Diego Unified leaders have announced plans to address “systemic issues” in special education. Next, how they're trying to save an endangered bird at the Batiquitos Lagoon. Finally, a preview of an upcoming dance performance.

    AG's office weighs in on dispute between Del Mar and affordable housing complex

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 9, 2025 15:33


    First, California Attorney General Rob Bonta sent a warning letter to the city of Del Mar. Then, we bring you the details of the recent arrest of a Ukrainian woman at her green card appointment. Next, a political storm is brewing that could have major consequences for the city. Followed by, recent findings from the Air Pollution Control district survey. Finally, a conversation on political division amongst Americans.

    Encinitas safe parking program expected to close due to funding issues

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 8, 2025 18:38


    First, an overnight safe parking program is expected to close, we tell you why. Then, we bring you the latest on recall efforts at Grossmont Union High School. We also take a deeper look into exactly what's delaying the Midway Rising development. Next, viral fame leads to Marigold Bagels' opening a brick and mortar store. Finally, another installment of an SDNN original segment, ‘Pod Behind the Package.'

    Community groups call on city to stop using Automated License Plate Reader cameras

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 5, 2025 14:16


    First, we bring you the latest from the Shut Down Flock press conference at City Hall yesterday. Then, the latest report on Rep. Darrell Issa's intentions to stay or go. Also, state Senator Steve Padilla calls for a public hearing on plans for a data center in Imperial County. Next, Support the Enlisted Project or STEP is opening a new national headquarters. A local Superintendent speaks out against the underfunding of special education. Also, we bring you a preview of 89 Carson Junction Road. Finally, an organization that's creating community by bringing artists and entrepreneurs together in one place.

    CalFresh funds threatened to be withheld

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 4, 2025 11:17


    First, on Tuesday night Carlsbad's city council voted to ban the riding of e-bikes for any child 12 years or younger. Then, the Trump administration says they will withhold SNAP funds until states release certain data. Next, a hearing on oil drilling off the coast of California. And, we speak with U.S. Representative Sara Jacobs about the Pentagon's air strikes against alleged South American drug traffickers . Finally, the Women's Museum is now an official part of the San Diego History Center.

    San Diego County's lone Republican representative could be leaving the state

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 3, 2025 11:31


    First, Punchbowl News is reporting Rep. Darrell Issa is eyeing Texas' 32nd District. Then, we speak with a local expert on the legality of a September boat strike. Followed by, the risk that comes from flu and COVID vaccination rates being down across the county. Finally, we bring you the story of a local toy drive that's looking to provide support for local families.

    A unique type of adoption comes to North County

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 2, 2025 13:38


    First, the current administration has now paused all asylum decisions. Next, how one North County farm is offering a unique form of adoption. Then,the San Diego County Department of Animal Services is being audited following a KPBS investigation. Followed by, a growing number of UCSD freshmen are lacking high school math proficiency . Finally, a beloved Tijuana bookstore owner has died.

    Groundwork is being laid for public university in Chula Vista

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 1, 2025 13:40


    First, the groundwork is being laid for a public university in Chula Vista. Then, we bring you details of an initiative to provide low-income residents with energy efficient appliances. And, Encinitas is working to make sure their digital road signs are more secure. Finally, what would you do with your pet if you got deported?

    The community rallies behind a North County market owner

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2025 14:18


    First, there was a show of support ahead of an immigration hearing for a North County market owner. Then, every single refugee admitted into the U.S. under the last administration will be re-screened under the current administration. Next, Rep. Mike Levin haa proposed a bill that would ban offshore drilling along the Central and Southern California coast. And, low vaccination rates across the county brings cause for concern. Finally, our KPBS Holiday Gift Guide and how one artist is challenging traditional ideas around/Black Friday consumerism.

    People are being detained at green card interviews

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 25, 2025 17:07


    First, after two previously unsuccessful attempts, local members of Congress were able to gain access into a federal detention center. Then, ICE agents in San Diego are arresting people at their green card interviews. And, a new APA poll found Americans are heading into the holidays more stressed than last year . Plus, warmer weather is expected across San Diego County.

    Reaction to private businesses sharing information from automated license plate readers

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 24, 2025 15:25


    First, we get reaction from shoppers about data from l automated license plate readers at the Fashion Valley Mall being shared with law enforcement. Then, we tell you how plans for housing in Clairemont and the College Area are heating up. Next, while new trash bins roll in, we tell you exactly what happens with the old ones. Finally, another installment of our weekly segment, The Pod Behind The Package. Lastly, we tell you about a 15-year old goal that's fallen short.

    How immigration lawyer networks are succeeding

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 21, 2025 12:59


    First, lawyers across the country are building informal mentoring networks to coordinate a legal resistance to mass deportations. Then, should SDG&E customers pay for the company's firefighting program? And, the USA Pickleball National Championships are in San Diego this year. Plus, a few events to check out this weekend.

    Chula Vista will disclose how their officers interact with federal agents

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 20, 2025 13:45


    First, the Chula Vista City Council voted to develop a new disclosure process to share more information regarding how their officers interact with federal immigration agents. Then, an inside look at Flock cameras and how they are more common than people may think. Plus, we take a look at a recent report on the economic impact of the California State University system.

    San Diego County supports effort to bring back Medi-Cal for Planned Parenthood

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 19, 2025 17:08


    San Diego Board Chair Lawson-Remer says recent federal cuts will cause tens of thousands of individuals in the county to lose access to affordable healthcare. What can be done to restore it? Then, we bring you the details of a new partnership that was approved by county supervisors this week. Plus, the need for renewable energy clashes with the choice to preserve a community's history in far east San Diego County. Finally, the La Jolla Playhouse has announced its next artistic director.

    Trump administration policy change would further limit green cards for travel ban country migrants

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 18, 2025 11:25


    First, hundreds of unionized UC medical workers are on strike in San Diego. Then, a potential policy change affecting green-card applicants and asylum-seekers from certain countries .Then, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors will discuss a public-philanthropic partnership to protect food, housing and health care amid federal cuts. Finally, we bring you a preview of some panels happening at the Comic-Con Museum this weekend.

    Immigration lawyers turn to law initially meant to protect against a king

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 17, 2025 16:14


    First, as the current administration's mass deportation campaign continues, immigration lawyers are turning to a law first established to protect against a king. Then, November is Native American Heritage month. Plus, we speak to reporter Jacob Aere for this week's The Pod Behind the Package.

    Rainstorm expected through this weekend in San Diego County

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 14, 2025 13:34


    First, San Diego County Public Works is preparing for a significant amount of rain. Then, artificial intelligence's impact on diagnosing cancer in patients. And, the South Bay Union School Board approved a new map, which changes where some students will be going to school. Plus, Waymo is headed to San Diego.

    A decrease in defense jobs in San Diego

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 13, 2025 11:43


    First, this year's Military Economic Impact Report found there were 16,000 fewer defense-related jobs since the 2024 report. . Then, California public media leaders spoke at an informational hearing for the California Assembly Committee on Arts, Entertainment, Sports and Tourism. N Finally, an interview on the American Revolution and its relevance to today's struggles to preserve American Democracy.

    Veterans Day celebrations take place across county

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2025 12:51


    First, the San Diego Veterans Parade went on as scheduled Tuesday morning. Then, an atmospheric river is scheduled to land in San Diego County later this week and bring heavy rain with it. Next, we look into the agreement between Tri-City Healthcare and Sharp Healthcare. Plus, a unique new program at UC San Diego Health that could provide a career-boost.

    Claim San Diego News Matters

    In order to claim this podcast we'll send an email to with a verification link. Simply click the link and you will be able to edit tags, request a refresh, and other features to take control of your podcast page!

    Claim Cancel