Podcasts about san diego county

The latest storm is bringing rain across San Diego County on Friday. San Diego International Airport says the holiday travel rush is starting today ahead of Thanksgiving week, with the busiest days being next Sunday and Monday. Today, the Hotel Del is opening 'Skating By the Sea' today!

Episode 287 features 2025 AVCA Fall Pairs Champions from Long Beach St., Malia Gementera and Taylor Hagenah. The San Diego County products have been the work-horses for the Beach and have been almost unstoppable their entire first three years at Long Beach St.! We discuss the start of their partnership-- proof that nobody can "ghost" Taylor-- even Malia, their natural success together, winning outside of collegiate beach ball and their road to the 2025 AVCA Pairs Championship! 

This episode explores the stages of foundation responses to the Trump Administration's War on Charities, through the lens of a place-based funder network. Rusty sits down with Megan Thomas, CEO of Catalyst of San Diego and Imperial Counties. This regional funder association has worked with its members and local nonprofit advisors to build several rounds of collaborative funding, including cash flow assistance loans. You'll hear:The stages of local funder reaction and response to the Trump Administration's shock-and-awe tactics in their 2025 attacks on nonprofits and philanthropy;Why and how local funders began organizing with one another to create collective funding;How persistent leadership and courage can spur collective, partnership-based responses;The consequences of the Trump Administration's actions on the local social sectorMegan is a longstanding leader in the philanthropic community, and her organization, Catalyst, is one of Fund the People's partners in the California Talent Justice Initiative.This episode is part of our biweekly Defend Nonprofits, Defend Democracy Series, as well as our ongoing efforts to feature our California Talent Justice Initiative partners across the Golden State. Transcript:Edited PDF of Episode Transcript with Time StampsRelated episodes from FTP Podcast:Defend Nonprofits, Defend the Social Safety Net - with Edward Hershey, CEO, Home of Guiding Hands (San Diego)Nonprofit Staff Resilience and Wellbeing in Turbulent Times - with Loretta Turner, Founder and Strategist, Do Good Leadership CollectiveMacArthur President Chooses Courage, Not Quiet - with John Palfrey, President, MacArthur FoundationResources mentioned in the episode:Catalyst of San Diego and Imperial CountiesUSD Nonprofit Institute Report (March 2025)Coordinated Regional Response CollaborativeResilient Response FundSustained Support FundSan Diego Solidarity NetworkCommunity-Centric FundraisingGuest bio:Megan serves as Catalyst's president & CEO, providing strategic leadership and partnership to the entire Catalyst staff, board, members, and community partners. Megan oversees Catalyst's facilitation of collaborative efforts among its funder members and other stakeholders; leads the production of philanthropy and impact investing skills-building and issue based learning; and spearheads Catalyst's work related to championing equity and opportunity. She strengthens Imperial and San Diego County communities through shared learning and pooled and aligned funding strategies, and initiatives fiscally sponsored by Catalyst.Megan brings 20 years of experience in the nonprofit and philanthropic fields to this role, having most recently served as Executive Director of San Diego Coastkeeper where she built partnerships among the nonprofit, business, and public sectors to advance environmental goals across San Diego County. Megan received her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Georgetown University and her Masters in Business Administration from Yale School of Management. She serves on the board of directors for the United Philanthropy Forum (national) and the Museum of Us (San Diego).

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.

Nonprofit advocacy takes center stage as May Harris welcomes John Van Cleef, CEO of Community Resource Center. In this episode, John shares how community-based organizations can amplify voices for vulnerable populations during unprecedented federal funding challenges. He introduces the concept of polycrisis and emphasizes creating psychological safety in nonprofits to support staff navigating trauma alongside clients. Learn how nonprofit leaders can advocate for federal funding through coalition building, policy engagement, and strategic communication. John's insights on revenue diversification, determined perseverance, and leading with compassion offer a roadmap for nonprofit leadership in uncertain times. What You'll Learn in This Episode:    How to build psychological safety in nonprofits during polycrisis by creating trauma-informed environments that support staff while they serve clients experiencing food insecurity, housing security challenges, and other critical needs. Effective nonprofit advocacy strategies, including writing to elected officials, joining nonprofit coalition-building efforts, and partnering with national alliances to protect vulnerable populations during federal funding challenges. The importance of revenue diversification for nonprofit sustainability, including balancing government funding, private donations, and social enterprise models to weather economic uncertainty. Leadership approaches for addressing elder food insecurity and emerging needs in middle-income populations through trauma-informed care and dignity-centered service delivery.   Subscribe to The Nonprofit Counsel Podcast and stay ahead on the legal and strategic insights that help nonprofits thrive. Join the conversation and empower your mission with expert guidance every episode.   TIMESTAMPS:   00:00 John Van Cleef's journey from military service to nonprofit leadership through the Salvation Army and into community-based organizations focused on dignity 03:58 CRC's mission serving 7,600+ individuals facing food insecurity, housing security challenges, and domestic violence services in coastal North County San Diego 10:29 Strategies for crisis management, including determined perseverance, understanding data, and creating psychological safety in nonprofits during polycrisis 16:15 Navigating federal funding challenges through SNAP, CalFresh, and the continuum of Care Funding while monitoring appropriations budget impacts on services 21:20 Nonprofit advocacy tactics: joining national coalitions, informing elected officials with policy advocacy, and using voice to protect vulnerable populations   KEY TAKEAWAYS:   Nonprofit leadership requires creating psychological safety in nonprofits by acknowledging polycrisis, caring for teams experiencing secondary trauma, and providing self-care opportunities like sound baths during work hours to support staff wellbeing. Effective nonprofit advocacy means writing in, speaking up, and leading. Nonprofit executives have a sacred trust to amplify voices for people who feel voiceless, and this advocacy is working at the federal, state, and local levels. Revenue diversification is essential for nonprofit sustainability: CRC maintains a balanced portfolio with 55% government funding (28% federal), 30% private funding, and 15% from resale stores to weather funding uncertainties.   ABOUT THE GUEST:  John Van Cleef envisions a world where everyone has what they need to thrive. With over 20 years in human services leadership at The Salvation Army, YMCA, Palomar Health, and Community Resource Center, he connects community compassion to community needs. John serves on the Alliance for Regional Solutions and is a Board Member and Partner for Amplified Impact Partners. A US Army Veteran who served in Panama (1989 to 1992), he's a father of four and grandfather of two. In his spare time, you'll find him hiking, jogging, or cycling around San Diego County, working on his golf swing—but definitely NOT posting on social media. Community Resource Center John Van Cleef - LinkedIn   RESOURCES MENTIONED:  For Profit Law Group - Website Nonprofit Counsel - Website Nonprofit Counsel - Instagram Nonprofit Counsel  - LinkedIn

In Oceanside in San Diego County, there's a small nonprofit that's become a steady place of support for Marines and veterans working through the hardest parts of coming home. The group trains dogs to work alongside service members, helping them rebuild routines, confidence, and a sense of stability. But now the program is facing a financial hit. A major source of federal funding is set to run out at the end of the year and it's unclear how many people the nonprofit will be able to keep serving without it. Reporter: Heidi de Marco, KPBS A federal judge in San Francisco says the Trump administration cannot immediately cut the University of California's funding or threaten fines over claims of discrimination. In Los Angeles, a federal judge granted a preliminary injunction in the ongoing case involving immigration raids across the region. The ruling says the federal government likely violated the Fifth Amendment by denying immigrants access to attorneys at a detention facility in downtown Los Angeles. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Days of rain ahead for San Diego from an atmospheric river storm. Plus, Santee is the latest city in San Diego County to make bans on e-bikes. And, Padres fans are wondering what's next as the team announces news of a possible sale. NBC 7's Marianne Kushi has these stories and more, including meteorologist Brooke Martell's forecast for this Friday, November 11, 2025.

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.

For public radio listeners, NPR voices often become part of our morning ritual. A Martínez, NPR Morning Edition and Up First co-host, is one of those personalities.He joins KPBS Roundtable to talk about his public media journey, from covering sports all the way to hosting public radio's morning flagship.Then, we dig into how immigration lawyers are filing habeas corpus petitions to protect their clients and challenge immigration holds.And finally, San Diego County is struggling to handle the costs of Proposition 36 and its tough-on-crime policies. Hear how the county is managing the extra dollars needed in a time when budgets are tight.Guests:A Martínez, co-host, NPR Morning Edition and Up FirstGustavo Solis, investigative border reporter, KPBSLisa Halverstadt, senior investigative reporter, Voice of San DiegoStories mentioned:Lawyers using Habeas Corpus in last-ditch efforts to free immigrants from detention — KPBSProposition 36 Hits County Budget Hard — Voice of San Diego

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.

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.

When the Ramona Art and Wine Festival dropped "beer" from its name, hosts Jeff and Jeff took matters into their own hands, arriving with a cooler full of craft beer on a mission to correct this grave injustice. But their righteous quest gets wonderfully derailed by the town's hidden treasures, from a community mural project with secret hearts and a homegrown whiskey distillery to the stunning discovery that you can, in fact, milk a camel in Ramona. So pull up a bar stool and join two guys who prove that even the classiest festival is better with a cold one, as they celebrate the small town that's becoming the surprising heart of San Diego County.

Recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP in San Diego County received their benefits Friday, after a delay due to the government shutdown.Of the about 400,000 people in the region who use SNAP, nearly one-fourth are older adults.Monday on Midday Edition, we hear from two local organizations about the impacts the uncertainty is having on the county's senior community.Guests:Brent Wakefield, president and CEO, Meals on Wheels San Diego CountyDeborah Martin, executive director and CEO, ElderHelpResources mentioned:Meals on Wheels San Diego CountyElderHelpSan Diego Food BankFeeding San Diego211 San Diego

Cesar Silva, the new Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer of the YMCA of San Diego County, talks about the Y's "Two Countries, One Community" agreement; its re-branding approach to community well-being and belonging; and the Escondido YMCA.About Spotlight and Cloudcast Media  "Spotlight On The Community" is the longest running community podcast in the country, continuously hosted by Drew Schlosberg for 20 years.  "Spotlight" is part of Cloudcast Media's line-up of powerful local podcasts, telling the stories, highlighting the people, and celebrating the gravitational power of local.   For more information on Cloudcast and its shows and cities served, please visit www.cloudcastmedia.us. Cloudcast Media | the national leader in local podcasting.   About Mission Fed Credit Union  A community champion for over 60 years, Mission Fed Credit Union with over $6 billion in member assets, is the Sponsor of Spotlight On The Community, helping to curate connectivity, collaboration, and catalytic conversations.  For more information on the many services for San Diego residents, be sure to visit them at https://www.missionfed.com/

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.

John and Tammy's Food Fund kicks off this Thursday at Frazier Farms in Oceanside and it couldn't be more needed than right now. The San Diego Food Bank helps feed over 400,000 people in San Diego County that are food insecure. That includes today's guest Grandma Ann. She's so thankful for what they've given to her that she now volunteers her time for the Food Bank. We talked about her story this morning and the kind of impact the San Diego Food Bank has made on her community.

Customs and border protection is changing some traffic lanes at the San Ysidro port of entry. Today, more voting centers will open across San Diego County ahead of the November 4th special election. San Diego police are offering a $1,500 reward for anyone who shares a tip that leads to an arrest after a memorial to a fallen officer was vandalized.   What You Need To Know To Start Your Saturday. 

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

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.

During the devastating Cedar Fire in San Diego County in Oct of 2003, One of the largest WUI fires to date, with 6000 firefighters engaged, which resulted in 15 deaths and destroyed 2820 structures. One FF died and several others were injured performing structure protection activities. Please listen as we review the official NIOSH report and learn about this WUI LODD.

Northeast San Diego County is becoming a battleground in the nationwide fight over congressional districts and control of the House of Representatives. Ballots are out now for a special election that could change several districts in California to give Democrats the advantage. Democrats are working on the ground in an effort to flip the congressional seat. Reporter: Jake Gotta, KPBS California Attorney General Rob Bonta is leading a coalition of 25 states in a lawsuit against the USDA. That's after the federal agency announced that it will not issue SNAP benefits during the government shutdown. The McKinleyville Union School District in far Northern California has sued the U.S. Department of Education over a mental health grant. Reporter: Jane Vaughan, Jefferson Public Radio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

La Mesa police Officer Lauren Craven was laid to rest after an hour long procession of law enforcement made its way through San Diego. The City of San Diego will be raising water rates by about 30% over the next two years. San Diego County officials announced CalFresh benefits for November will be delayed.

Spooky stories aren't all about the fear factor. They often teach us something about our region's history, too.This Halloween season, Midday Edition revisits an archive episode exploring the history behind some of the places considered to be the most haunted in San Diego County, from The Whaley House to the Hotel del Coronado. We also learn about the ghosts rumored to live there.Then, a paranormal expert shares his fascination with the spirit world.Guests:Victor Santana, operations manager for The Whaley House MuseumGina Petrone, heritage manager for the Hotel Del CoronadoDavid Hanson, founder of the San Diego Ghost and Paranormal Group

Casey Castillo, CEO of the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank, is joined by Julie Moore, Director of Corporate Partnerships & Sponsorships, to talk about the Food Bank's 45th Annual Food Drive; the huge number of San Diego County residents that experience daily food insecurity; and strategies to deal with food shortages due to the government shutdown and federal funding cuts.About Spotlight and Cloudcast Media  "Spotlight On The Community" is the longest running community podcast in the country, continuously hosted by Drew Schlosberg for 19 years.  "Spotlight" is part of Cloudcast Media's line-up of powerful local podcasts, telling the stories, highlighting the people, and celebrating the gravitational power of local.   For more information on Cloudcast and its shows and cities served, please visit www.cloudcastmedia.us. Cloudcast Media | the national leader in local podcasting.   About Mission Fed Credit Union  A community champion for over 60 years, Mission Fed Credit Union with over $6 billion in member assets, is the Sponsor of Spotlight On The Community, helping to curate connectivity, collaboration, and catalytic conversations.  For more information on the many services for San Diego residents, be sure to visit them at https://www.missionfed.com/

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.

There is an updated app to keep you informed about emergencies in San Diego County. Plus, nearly three dozen early voting centers will open for the November special election. And, a new fire station in Santee hopes to cut area response times by half. NBC's Dana Williams has these stories and more including meteorologist Brooke Martell's forecast for this Saturday October 25, 2025.

The newest fight at City Hall is a doozy. It’s about that new tax announced at Politifest. It could be up to $5,000 per bedroom for a second home or vacation rental and it’s going to be a fascinating political battle. We’ll explain The big development at Sports Arena is once again falling apart because of the city’s inability to not trip over itself. We’ll explain why the project leaders and city officials think they can still build it. Plus, the city of San Diego is trying to protect people from ICE raids and stop the police from helping. We’ll examine what exactly they’re trying to do. SHOW NOTES BANTER UT - Property Tax Bills - What’s That??? Thousands of city of San Diego residents have flooded county offices over concern about increased property taxes but, in some cases, there is a simple explanation: trash. After decades of offering trash collection for free, city of San Diego will now charge many residents for trash collection. Residents got their first-ever annual trash charge of $523.20 in property tax bills that went out in early October. San Diego County Assessor Jordan Marks said his office, and the tax collector’s, have been inundated with in-person visits and phone calls about higher bills. He said there have been more than 2,000 inquiries over the charge, but it was hard to pinpoint an exact number because it’s been a steady stream for weeks. Residents who call the office, at 619-236-3771, get sent to an automated phone tree with the first option to ask about the trash fee. “The city of San Diego levied and controls this trash fee on your property tax bills,” says a voice recording. “They are the only party that can answer your important questions and address your issues.” SEGMENT 1 - Court Ruling Morning Report: Mayor: ‘Failure I s Not an Option’ for Midway Project Three days after the 4th District Court of Appeal once again threw out a voter-approved measure that lifted the building height limit for the Midway neighborhood, it was still not clear what it meant for the nearly $4 billion development project at the city’s Sports Arena land. The mayor said… Twice, in five years, the city of San Diego has put on the ballot a measure to lift the height limit in the Midway neighborhood. Twice, voters approved it. And, now twice, a Court has thrown it all out because the city didn’t fully study the measures’ impact to the environment. SEGMENT 2 - Vacation Property Tax Vacation Home Tax Moves Forward San Diego Councilmember Sean Elo-Rivera’s proposal to tax vacation homes and empty second homes is moving forward. Battle Lines Drawn on Vacation Rental Tax Wednesday, the Rules Committee for the San Diego City Council will consider Councilmember Sean Elo-Rivera’s push for a tax on empty second homes and vacation rentals. Basics: 10K homes Half second homes. Half vacation rentals They can tell based on tax rollsWon’t affect anyone renting out bedroom or normal landlords Won’t affect ADUs on “accessories” to main property SEGMENT 3 ICE (baby) Local Ordinance - Bella’s vid KPBS - San Diego City Council passes ordinance restricting SDPD from ICE collaboration Citing a spike in Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids and arrests, the San Diego City Council unanimously gave tentative approval to an ordinance Monday intended to prevent local law enforcement from joining certain federal task forces. The Due Process and Safety Ordinance will set "clear legal boundaries that protect residents, workers, and visitors regardless of immigration status, gender identity, disability, or healthcare decisions," according to a staff document from Councilman Sean Elo-Rivera's office. City staff will meet with recognized employee organizations such as the San Diego Police Officers Association to ensure the SDPD will be able to effectively do its job without joining certain task forces led by the federal government. Elo-Rivera, who sponsored the ordinance, thanked the dozens of people who spoke at the meeting and acknowledged that many in the community may not have felt safe to speak out. "We can't promise that the federal government won't make your nightmares a reality," he said to young residents in the council chamber waiting for the vote. "I so badly wish I could make that promise to you. Every day the Trump regime makes good on its promise of cruelty, hatred and vindictiveness." CREDITS Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego. Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor Bella Ross, social media producer Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer. Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County. Become a Member: Voice Member BenefitsJoin today and receive insider access.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A small plane landed safely on shore in Mission Beach Tuesday afternoon after experiencing an engine failure. San Diego County is purchasing a firehawk helicopter to help fight wildfires. The San Diego River Park Foundation bought Midlred Falls, making it open to the public.

Neil O'Connell, Executive Director of the Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial, and Trevor Wessman-Lavelle, Marketing Director, chat about the Memorial's Saturday, November 8 Veterans Day Ceremony that salutes the 250-Year history of the Navy and Marine Corps in San Diego County.About Spotlight and Cloudcast Media  "Spotlight On The Community" is the longest running community podcast in the country, continuously hosted by Drew Schlosberg for 19 years.  "Spotlight" is part of Cloudcast Media's line-up of powerful local podcasts, telling the stories, highlighting the people, and celebrating the gravitational power of local.   For more information on Cloudcast and its shows and cities served, please visit www.cloudcastmedia.us. Cloudcast Media | the national leader in local podcasting.   About Mission Fed Credit Union  A community champion for over 60 years, Mission Fed Credit Union with over $6 billion in member assets, is the Sponsor of Spotlight On The Community, helping to curate connectivity, collaboration, and catalytic conversations.  For more information on the many services for San Diego residents, be sure to visit them at https://www.missionfed.com/

Solitary confinement is the focus of a new court filing in a class-action lawsuit against San Diego County and the Sheriff's Office.A request for a preliminary injunction was filed in federal court last week asking a federal judge to limit how long people can be held in solitary confinement.More than a dozen people have described inhumane conditions inside separation cells in San Diego jails.We sit down with two reporters to discuss the details of the latest lawsuit and how we got here.Guests:Kelly Davis, investigative reporter, The San Diego Union-TribuneJeff McDonald, investigative reporter, The San Diego Union-Tribune

Tens of thousand's show for "No King's" protests around San Diego County. Plus, Vice President J.D. Vance celebrates the Marine's Corps 250th anniversary at Camp Pendleton. And, Twitch-Con is full swing at the San Diego Convention Center. NBC 7's Nichelle Medina has these stories and more, plus meteorologist Brooke Martell's forecast for Sunday, October 19, 2025.

Today, millions of people across the world are expected to take part in No Kings Protest, including here in San Diego County. Vide President J.D. Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth will be at Camp Pendleton today for the celebrations marking 250 years of the Marine Corps. The City of San Diego's roll out of garbage bins this week has left some San Diegans without a container to put their trash in.   What You Need To Know To Start Your Saturday. 

The Registrar of Voters has made a dramatic change to how it evaluates signatures on petitions. A bunch of high-profile signature gathering campaigns have fallen apart in San Diego and it may not have been just because they were incompetent. This is a big change. One of those campaigns was to raise a tax to fund an expansion of the Convention Center. It failed spectacularly. But then another initiative made the ballot in 2020 and courts have finally decided that voters actually approved it. But the Convention Center expansion is not happening. And finally it continues to deal with enrollment declines, the San Diego Unified School District does not know or won’t say exactly how many students each school can fit. SHOW NOTES SEGMENT 1 - POLITIFEST ROUNDUP Scott and Co. banter about the October 4, 2025 edition of Politifest, aka the festival of politics at the University of San Diego. SEGMENT 2 - SDUSD’S UNKNOWN SCHOOL CAPACITY VOSD - San Diego Unified Doesn’t Know How Many Students Each School Can Fit As districts across the county grapple with enrollment decline that will likely get worse in coming decades, San Diego Unified officials say they don’t actually know what the capacity is for each of the district’s schools. SEGMENT 3 - REGISTRAR OF VOTERS MAY HAVE BEEN TOO STRICT Registrar of Voters Suddenly Made It Easier to Qualify Ballot Measures with Signatures After decades of imposing a strict, unforgiving interpretation of compliance with petitions, the Registrar of Voters has quietly updated its guidance. SEGMENT 4 - CONVENTION CENTER San Diego Finally Secures Hundreds of Millions for a Convention Center Expansion; But It Isn’t Expanding the Convention Center After 20 years of failed signature gathering efforts, court battles and legally questionable efforts to raise hotel-room taxes, the city of San Diego has finally secured hundreds of millions of dollars for a long-planned expansion of the San Diego Convention Center. But city officials are not going to do it. CREDITS Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego. Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor Bella Ross, social media producer Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer. Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County. Become a Member: Voice Member BenefitsJoin today and receive insider access.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

On February 15, 2010, Joseph McStay, his wife Summer, and their two young sons were reported missing from their new home in San Diego County. They left eggs and fruit rotting on the counter. Their Dodge truck sat in the driveway. Their dogs were abandoned outside without food. But investigators found no blood, signs of a struggle, or clues to their whereabouts. Did the family take an unannounced vacation? Were they running away from personal problems? Or were they victims of foul play?In her book, DOWN TO THE BONE, Caitlin Rother presents the riveting story of a botched investigation, multiple suspects and a web of lies. Was justice ever served?  The question will remain with you long after you finish reading. 

Indigenous Peoples' Day is a celebration of Indigenous resilience, culture, history, art, protest and storytelling.In San Diego County, there are 18 federally recognized tribal reservations — more than any other county in the United States.On Midday Edition, we sit down with Indigenous leaders to discuss the value of tradition, oral history and imaginative storytelling in preserving culture.Guests:Ethan Banegas, professor at San Diego State University and member of the Barona Band of Mission IndiansJoely Proudfit, department chair of American Indian Studies and director of California Indian Culture & Sovereignty Center at California State University, San MarcosDestinee Morales, former Miss Kumeyaay 2013-14; member of San Pasqual Band of Mission Indians

In this powerful episode of The Mike Litton Experience, we sit down with San Diego County Sheriff Kelly Martinez, a trailblazer in law enforcement with over 40 years of service. Sheriff Martinez opens up about her journey from working in county jails to becoming the first woman elected Sheriff in San Diego County history. We […]

This week we revisit the Politifest 2025 Showdown awards at the Kroc Institute for Peace and Justice Theater on the beautifual campus of the University of San Diego. We have games, and plenty of solutions for our beleagured and beloved city on this week's podcast. SHOW NOTES Here are all the videos from last weekend's Politifest 2025 Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego. Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor Bella Ross, social media producer Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer. Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County. Become a Member: Voice Member BenefitsJoin today and receive insider access.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

In January 2025, a series of destructive wildfires in the Los Angeles metropolitan area and San Diego County killed as many as 440 people, forced more than 200,000 to evacuate their homes, destroyed more than 18,000 homes and structures, and burned over 57,000 acres of land.  A study by the nonpartisan California Policy Lab found […]

A San Diego based facility had to step in to help guide flights in and out of Burbank Airport after the facilities were left without air traffic controllers for 6 hours. Less than a month remains until the Prop 50 special election, and today ballot boxes are now open across San Diego County. A Mira Mesa family is trying to find the strangers that helped save their mom's life after she had a heart attack in a Target parking lot.   What You Need To Know To Start Your Tuesday. 

First, immigrant rights groups say the man's death fits into a pattern of dwindling oversight and increasingly harsh conditions – at the Imperial County detention center and others across the country.. Then, a San Diego City Council member is proposing a tax on those with second homes and vacation rentals. Next, ballots have gone out to vote on Proposition 50 – we tell you how it could impact San Diego County. Plus, the operators of the Del Mar Fairgrounds are looking for the public's input on what's next for the site. Finally, we take a look into a natural wonder in the Loma Portal neighborhood.

SHOW NOTES SEGMENT 1 - POLITIFEST Buy Your Tickets for Politifest 2025 Politifest is back on Oct. 4, and this won’t be our usual public affairs summit. This year, we’re bringing together community leaders to go head-to-head in our first ever Solutions Showdown. Hear their ideas and cast your vote on which proposals you think could solve the biggest issues facing San Diego. Save on tickets with early bird pricing at vosd.org/politifest Politics Report: Politifest Brain My politics mind has been focused on Politifest this week. When we started Politifest in 2011, I envisioned an idyllic outdoor party – beer garden, tug of wars (tugs of war?), dunk tank, exhibits — where politics could be the central feature. Over time, it evolved into a day-long collection of debates and panel discussions. The tugs of war didn’t draw the crowd but the debates did. This year, we have taken another step in its evolution. You’ll have to help us decide if this mutation survives. Solutions Showdown: We made each session a problem and asked participants to present their solution. They will present their solutions and then the moderator will manage a good discussion between them and then the audience will vote on a winner. SEGMENT 2 - EDDIE VEDDERGATE Vedder Cup Eddie Vedder leads "Wrigley Field in Take Me Out To The Ballgame" SEGMENT 3 - COUNTY PHARMACY CHIEF’S MOONLIGHTING POSES QUESTIONS VOSD - County’s Pharmacy Chief Also Works at a Law Firm The county of San Diego’s chief pharmacy officer, who collects a $232,419 yearly salary, moonlights as a partner at a New York-based law firm that advises pharmaceutical companies. SEGMENT 4 - KENT LEE San Diego’s Water Department Is Not Alright If the San Diego City Council doesn’t pass water rate increases, the city will probably have to lay off Public Utilities Staff, analysts say. SEGMENT 5 - UNCHARTED WATERS Mayor’s Water Rate Increase ‘Dead on Arrival’ San Diego city councilmembers join forces to stall a proposed rate increase even though city staff warn too much delay could risk staff layoffs or falling behind on debt repayments. Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego. Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor Bella Ross, social media producer Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer. Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County. Become a Member: Voice Member BenefitsJoin today and receive insider access.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Despite residents opposition to the lack of evacuation routesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Bros talk with Adrian Barrett of Barrett Custom Marine in Lake Havasu City, AZ, who has built his business into one of the premier boat shops on the West Coast and beyond.  Starting fresh out of high school, Adrian quickly took to the marine industry, completing Tech School and Mercury Marine school and landed his first job at Boatland in San Diego County in California. Then joined the team at DCB Performance Boats in El Cajon, where he earned the nickname "AJ", which are not initials for his name and not a flattering moniker. Listen how he climbed through the ranks with his skill and knowledge, while also aspiring to enter the offshore racing world and joined the CRC Race Team as part of their crew, leading to his current gig of Crew Chief of the MTI Offshore Racing Teams.  Not one to mince words, "AJ" recalls many of his stories over the years and ultimately how he's ended up where he is, endlessly talented and widely respected in the industry.  This is Adrian Barrett.  Myrick Coil is the driver for the National Champion Monster Energy / M CON Class 1 team, Speedboat Magazine Test Team Driver, lead shop foreman at Performance Boat Center and a dedicated family man.  Ray Lee is the publisher of the national/international publication Speedboat Magazine, where nine high quality issues are printed each year with global distribution, and popular social media platforms on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.  With all of the "Bros" experience, knowledge, and friends and colleagues in the industry and sport, this podcast is sure to entertain, enthuse and educate the powerboating community. 

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!

Next week the San Diego City council will vote on a series of new water rate increases. But city hall is abuzz that they may not have the votes to pass them. If they don’t, we’re entering uncharted waters. We have an update on San Diego Unified School District’s decision to close the middle school portions of some K through 8 schools. They’ve already backtracked on one. And finally South Bay reporter Jim Hinch has a fascinating story out of National City. How a falling out between friends came to dominate small town politics. SHOW NOTES SEGMENT 1 - POLITIFEST Buy Your Tickets for Politifest 2025 Politifest is back on Oct. 4, and this won’t be our usual public affairs summit. This year, we’re bringing together community leaders to go head-to-head in our first ever Solutions Showdown. Hear their ideas and cast your vote on which proposals you think could solve the biggest issues facing San Diego. Save on tickets with early bird pricing at vosd.org/politifest SEGMENT 2 - LEONARDO DI CAPRIO WAS IN TOWN AND DIDN’T SAY HI County News Center - New Blockbuster Already a Big Hit in San Diego County It doesn’t arrive in theaters until Friday, but a new blockbuster movie generating Oscar buzz has already been a big financial hit for San Diego County. “One Battle After Another,” a new Warner Bros. movie starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Benicio del Toro, Sean Penn and others, spent about six weeks filming on location in San Diego County in 2024. And it pumped nearly $7 million into the local economy, according to Warner Bros. accounting. The movie was written and directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, best known for his 2007 film, “There Will Be Blood,” 2012’s “The Master,” and 2014’s “Inherent Vice.” His new movie stars DiCaprio as an aging, in-hiding, former revolutionary who is pushed into trying to save his teenage daughter by the return of an old enemy, Sean Penn’s “Col. Lockjaw.” SEGMENT 3 - MATT VESPI Port of San Diego - Matt Vespi Will Join the Port of San Diego as Chief Administrative Officer Port of San Diego President and CEO Scott Chadwick has appointed Matthew Vespi as the Port’s new chief administrative officer. Vespi has over 20 years of public sector experience including oversight of human resources, information technology, employee safety, labor standards and enforcement, performance and analytics, strategic planning, and more. SEGMENT 4 - MIDDLE SCHOOL San Diego Unified Superintendent Walks Back One of Four K-8 Middle School Closures After we reported San Diego Unified’s plan to cut middle school grades at four of its K-8 schools, district leaders have decided to keep one open. Still, three others are slated for closure. SEGMENT 5 - UNCHARTED WATERS City Staff Deflect Blame Away from Pure Water Before San Diego’s Big Water Rate Vote City staff dropped updated costs of a huge wastewater-to-drinking water recycling project showing that its water would be cheaper than buying from the Water Authority. Segment 6 - NATIONAL CITY TELENOVELAA Broken Friendship Is Breaking National City Hall A development dispute has spiraled into a months-long saga of corruption accusations, lawsuits, allegations of mishandled human remains, shouting matches at City Council meetings, a sexual harassment investigation and a claim against the city filed by the mayor’s executive assistant. Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego. Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor Bella Ross, social media producer Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer. Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County. Become a Member: Voice Member BenefitsJoin today and receive insider access.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plans to transform the area around the Sports Arena are moving forward.  Plus, San Diego County's longest serving judge has died. And, SDG&E is answering for one of it's truck drivers who hit multiple cars and took off. NBC's Nichelle Medina has these stories and more, including meteorologist Sheena Parveen's forecast for this Friday, September 26, 2025.

Kris welcomes “The Jens”, aka Jennifer House (CEO) and Jenni Grawvunder (COO) of Children's Choice Preschool, to share the remarkable story behind their 12-center child care empire in San Diego County. What started as a nonprofit program with 25 children has grown into a thriving operation serving nearly 1,300 kids across 11 centers (with a 12th on the way) and supported by a team of over 300 staff.   From pet chickens to RV-based school openings, the Jens talk about blending practical business strategy with fun, managing both nonprofit and for-profit centers, building culture through grace and accountability, and how a vivid vision exercise helped reawaken their passion (and their animal sanctuary dreams). They also share some great advice on marketing, building a community, and not staying stuck as a leader.   Key Takeaways: [8:24] The Jens join Kris from sunny San Diego. [9:37] Jen House reflects on starting Children's Choice in 1998 as a nonprofit with 25 children. [10:11] They now operate 11 schools, with the 12th in escrow. [11:27] Jenni G shares how she started as an aide in 2008 and worked her way up. [12:28] The hilarious Yellow Pages story of how Jenni found her job and showed up with a posse. [13:35] They now care for nearly 1,300 children and manage over 300 employees. [14:25] The pet mascots of Children's Choice. [17:29] How a vivid vision exercise during a mastermind reignited Jen's goals. [18:08] Why events, parent engagement, and low ratios keep them nearly full. [19:56] How they separate their nonprofit and for-profit businesses. [22:55] Culture tips: give grace, hold accountability, and never stop training. [23:51] Why adaptability has been key to their continued growth. [24:05] Their dynamic: Jen is the visionary; Jenni is the implementer and numbers brain. [26:34] Jenni recalls stepping up as a leader during COVID after Jen's family loss. [28:18] Jen reflects on shedding the nonprofit scarcity mindset and embracing self-worth. [30:15] Their marketing strategy includes events, banners, mailers, and constant hustle. [33:38] Why they gave up enrollment specialists and returned to director-led tours. [36:02] Jenni's personal journey of staying in California and building a life she never imagined. [37:33] Their next move? An RV to launch school #12 on the road. [39:12] The Jens share their fun facts, including chasing cows and running a puppet business.   Quotes: “I told her, when I interviewed with her the first day, I said, ‘I'm gonna run one of your schools one day.' And here I am.” — Jenni Grawvunder [11:43]   “You say give grace, but we also have to hold accountability.” — Jennifer House [23:13]   “Everything that we do, we learn from, we grow from, and who I am today is because of the things that I went through.” — Jennifer House [35:17]   “You're always marketing. Even when you're full, you keep marketing.” — Jennifer House [32:52]   Sponsored By: ChildCare Education Institute (CCEI) Use code CCSC5 to claim a free course!   Mentioned in This Episode: Kris Murray @iamkrismurray The Child Care Success Company The Child Care Success Academy The Child Care Success Summit Grow Your Center Childcare Education Institute: Use code CDARenewal22 to get $100 off your renewal LocaliQ Trainual Children's Choice Preschool Children's Choice Academy