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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    • Dec 23, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 15m AVG DURATION
    • 1,404 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from San Diego News Matters

    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.

    A push to hire health workers at ICE facilities

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 11, 2025 11:23


    First, we share events happening across San Diego County for Veterans Day and how we might be one step closer to ending the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. Then, , an ICE detention center in Imperial County is looking to hire a doctor. This is part of a national trend. And, a family donated land for a new fire station in Borrego Springs. Next, the Sierra Club is suing the county over the recent approval of the Harmony Grove Village South development. Finally, a local nonprofit that pairs service dogs with active-duty military and veterans is set to lose its federal funding.

    Poway City Council looks to fill newly vacant seat

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 10, 2025 13:15


    The Poway City Council held a special meeting to determine its next steps in the wake of last week's recall and resignation of a council member. Then, a South Bay school will close at the end of this school year. And, researchers are trying to find out if GLP-1 weight loss drugs could be used to fight long COVID. Also, Scott Lewis from Voice of San Diego returns to update us on the city of San Diego's sewer water recycling project. Finally, we take you to Jamul, and a unique house built around a boulder.

    How San Diegans are dealing with food assistance delays

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 7, 2025 13:29


    First, as the longest government shutdown in U.S. history continues, we speak with one of the roughly 400,000 in the county who rely on those benefits. Then, we tell you the impacts and risks of elders missing meals. Next, San Diego's housing voucher program is losing money fast, we tell you why. Finally, some weekend event suggestions.

    Blain resigns one day after recall election

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 6, 2025 12:35


    First, Proposition 50 has passed and been approved in San Diego County. Then, Poway Councilman Tony Blain resigned just one day after the vote to recall him . Then, after months of discussion a biofuel depot project in National City was struck down. Next, we spoke with the granddaughter of the Mary's Donuts founder about her grandmother's legacy. Finally, a preview of the San Diego Asian Film Festival.

    RV owners say the city is violating the terms of a settlement

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2025 12:19


    First, a settlement was reached last year between the city of San Diego and a group of RV owners who live in their vehicles, but now the RV owners say the city is violating terms of the settlement. Then, the San Diego City Council votes to raise valet parking fees. And, an interview with journalist and author, Osita Nwanevu. Then, oyster castles in South County are protecting against erosion. Finally, a San Diego dog who will star in the next “Air Bud” film!

    San Diego County board takes up proposal in response to federal cuts

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 4, 2025 10:09


    First, the county is considering a proposal that would bolster access to healthcare benefits starting at the end of next year when stricter federal eligibility requirements take effect.. Then, the latest on the charges against Poway councilman Tony Blain. Finally, we bring you a story on challenges in the workplace for women in the age of telework and hybrid offices.

    Judge rules Trump administration must fund SNAP payments during shutdown

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2025 20:55


    First, the Trump administration has been ordered by a judge to continue funding food support amid the ongoing federal shutdown. Then, a new fight over short-term rentals is heating up. Next, KPBS starts looking at how families with kids are making ends meet across the county. We tell you the latest on plans to build cabins for those experiencing homelessness in East County. And that's all followed by new segments of Museum a Month & Pod Behind the Package.

    400,000 San Diego County residents could miss food assistance due to federal shutdown

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 31, 2025 14:39


    First, how San Diego City College is stepping up to help students prepare amid the ongoing government shutdown. We also bring you the latest details on local food banks doing their part as well amid the shutdown. Then, another major airline would like to fly out of McClellan-Palomar airport. Next, we tell you about two signature horse racing events happening in the county. Followed by three new recipients of the San Diego Art Prize. Finally, some weekend event ideas happening across the county

    County agrees to pay largest-ever wrongful death settlement

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 30, 2025 12:46


    First, San Diego County just agreed to pay its largest-ever wrongful death settlement. Next a safe-sleeping and parking site will be coming to the former Central Elementary in San Diego. Then, this week Oceanside is replenishing the sand on Tyson Street Beach, but we tell you why it's only a temporary solution. Followed by, the impact of the government shutdown on this year's Fleet Week. Finally, we tell you how streaming can affect your mental health.

    Water and sewage rates will increase in the city of San Diego

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2025 12:32


    First, the San Diego City Council approved two years of water and sewage rate hikes. Then, it's been three months since the city of San Diego began clearing encampments alongside roadways, we bring you the latest on that effort. Next, UC San Diego researchers found that some satellite communications were being beamed towards Earth unencrypted. Plus, the National City Public Library now offers a bit more than just books.

    Legislators again denied access to ICE detention facility

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 28, 2025 18:22


    First, a delegation of legislators representing San Diego County was again refused entry into an ICE detention facility. Then, the San Diego City Council voted to take over funds managed by parking districts. Next, the cheapest housing option in San Diego has been dorm-style rooms, we tell you why they are rapidly disappearing. Followed by a look at the Día de Muertos altar at Tijuana's Mercado Hidalgo. Finally, we get some bat facts from the experts at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

    Palomar and UC San Diego Health agree to create joint powers authority

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2025 13:22


    First, Palomar and UC San Diego Health plan to combine to form a joint powers authority. The move is an effort to improve Palomar's financial position after recent struggles. Then, charges have been filed against Poway Councilmember Tony Blain. Plus, we bring you an update on how women veterans are being helped by Wounded Warriors Homes. Next, we speak with some high school students in the county looking to hold people accountable for their part in pollution. Finally, another installment of ourPod Behind The Package segment.

    Insurance premiums in lower-income areas could nearly double

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 24, 2025 10:45


    First, health care premiums are set to rise for nearly 150,000 San Diegans who are insured through the Affordable Care Act. Then, lawmakers are asking why the Marines fired live ammunition over Interstate 5 last weekend. And, five tribes are launching a commission to safeguard a new national monument. We also tell you about dozens of emergency vehicles being used in an emergency-response exercise. Next, both top flight men's and women's soccer teams are playoff bound! Finally, a collection of events to check out this weekend.

    Federal government shutdown could delay CalFresh benefits

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 23, 2025 11:50


    First, as we begin the 23rd day of the government shutdown, CalFresh benefits for next month are at risk. Then, a new report explains how National City has added hundreds of affordable housing over the past 5 years. Next, we take a look at how AI is being utilized in schools, work and videogames. Finally, an update on the Tijuana River Community Garden.

    Why the city says a ruling on building height limits won't stop Midway Rising

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2025 12:16


    A judge again rules San Diego can't remove building height limits in the Midway District. Then, we check in on the airport TSA amid the ongoing government shutdown. Also, students and teachers say they're frustrated with the Grossmont Union School Board decisions disrupting school library operations. And the latest on the Camp Pendleton Marine pilot killed last week in a helicopter crash. Finally, an Escondido pool closed since COVID is again open.

    Reports of detainees in federal building basement allegedly exceeding building's capacity

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 21, 2025 12:55


    First, two San Diego congressmen were denied entry into a federal building downtown. We tell you why. Then, if approved, a new ordinance would restrict Immigration and Customs Enforcement from accessing city facilities. That's followed by part two of our interview with the chief economist at the San Diego Regional Policy & Innovation Center. Finally, we discover a nonprofit organization that supports people experiencing homelessness through music.

    San Diegans show up by the thousands as part of national ‘No Kings' protests

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2025 18:32


    San Diegans showed up in the thousands as part of nationwide ‘No Kings'' protests. Then, after initial reports confirmed no closures, a busy stretch of Interstate 5 was closed for roughly 90 minutes on Saturday. Followed by, an economic forecast for the county. Then, we explain why you will see fewer plastic bags at the checkout aisle. Finally, we speak with KPBS' environment reporter for this week's Pod Behind the Package.

    Clearing up reports of planned freeway closures

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2025 13:58


    First, we clear up any confusion around freeway closures near Camp Pendleton this weekend. Then, we bring the latest news from the military this week, including members of the Pentagon Press Corps turning in their credentials. Then, a bill has been signed paving the way for carbon capture pipelines. Next, details around the North Park Book Fair and why it almost didn't happen. Finally, we bring you details on more weekend events happening across the county.

    El Cajon has no plans to stop sharing license plate surveillance data out-of-state

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2025 15:53


    First, the El Cajon City Council made it clear on Tuesday that it has no intention of stopping the sharing of license plate surveillance data with out of state agencies. Then, Governor Newsom is not supporting a ban on glitter, we tell you why. Next, California is taking a closer look at exactly what it would take to bring a university to Chula Vista. Plus, a big change is coming to the registrar of voters office, we tell you its possible impact. Finally, a conversation with author and social commentator Roxane Gay.

    Health care workers strike for safe staffing, fair pay and benefits

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2025 9:34


    First, it's estimated that nearly 2,000 Kaiser Permanente health care workers walked off the job Tuesday. Then, with Northeast San Diego County becoming a battleground for the upcoming Proposition 50 ballot vote, we talk to people in the county about potential redistricting. Plus, a new state law means more housing near transit stops is coming to San Diego County.

    New trash bins are heading your way

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 14, 2025 11:16


    First, new trash bins started rolling out Monday to residents in the city of San Diego. Then, what's next now that Governor Gavin Newsom signed into law a bill creating a state Bureau for Descendants of American Slavery. And, Poway residents in District 2 will vote in November on recalling councilmember Tony Blain. Plus, a small group of veterans and local boosters are working to get the 2029 Invictus Games to San Diego.

    Governor Newsom signs historic reparations bill

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 13, 2025 20:25


    First, Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a historic reparations bill, as well as a major housing bill, we bring you the details on both. Then, the Grossmont Union High School District board approves a proposal to limit where protesters can stand during board meetings. Next, new trash bins and accompanying fees start going out this week. We also look into the Books Unbanned Initiative. Finally, another installment of our The Pod behind the Package.

    Newsom faces deadline to veto or sign California reparations package

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 10, 2025 12:45


    First, Governor Gavin Newsom has a historic package of reparations on his desk to either veto or sign. Then, as the government shutdown continues, 100,000 service members across San Diego County are less than a week away from a missing check. Next, the College Area has a plan in place for development. Finally, another installment of our weekend events segment.

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