Kpbs Roundtable

The city of San Diego is reopening more than a dozen bathrooms in Mission Bay Park, after months of public backlash.We break down the potty politics and what the story says about the city's budget process.Plus, new reporting from NBC News explores the financial struggles of a group of former MLB stars who feel the game has left them behind.And, local Indigenous horror writer and anthologist Shane Hawk shares his love for dark fiction and discusses his latest work, "Never Whistle At Night Part II: Back for Blood."Guests:Claire Trageser, reporter, Axios San DiegoScott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief, Voice of San DiegoGretchen Morgenson, senior financial reporter, NBC NewsShane Hawk, horror writer and anthologistKeep reading: Mission Bay bathrooms reopen after outcrySan Diego’s Public Restroom Problem Goes Far Beyond Our BeachesFoul ball: These aging ex-MLB stars say the league is turning its back on themNever Whistle at Night: An Indigenous Dark Fiction AnthologyBack for Blood: Never Whistle at Night Part II

On KPBS Roundtable, we talk about the impact of state and federal Medicaid cuts that could double California's uninsured rate over the next four years. Plus, why San Diego caregivers are owed hundreds of thousands of dollars in stolen wages. And, why communities are rallying against data center development in Southern California.

San Diego lost a legend this week.Billy Ray Smith passed away at 64 after a long journey with dementia. His family said it was caused by Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE).On KPBS Roundtable, we remember the iconic San Diego Chargers linebacker and sportscaster with his long-time radio co-host, Scott Kaplan.Then, we unpack why voters rallied against a union-backed initiative to overhaul local government in Chula Vista.Plus, how pollution from the Salton Sea is impacting a nearby Little League in Calipatria. And, what high rates of childhood asthma in the region reveal about the problem.Guests:Scott Kaplan, sportscaster and former co-host of "Scott and B.R." on The Mighty 1990Jim Hinch, South county reporter, Voice of San DiegoZoe Meyers, freelance photo and video journalistRebecca Plevin, freelance journalistKeep reading:Former Chargers linebacker Billy Ray Smith Jr. dies at 64Scott Kaplan Remembers Billy Ray SmithHow a Union-Backed Bid to Overhaul Chula Vista’s Government Unraveled Near the Salton S

Friday marks the second official day of San Diego Comic-Con, with celebrities, cosplayers, creators and pop culture fans continuing to descend on downtown.Whether you have a badge or not, KPBS Roundtable is bringing you closer to the pop culture convention.We check in with local journalists about their experience covering the convention so far and what you need to know, from the latest news to off-site activations.Then, we look into the world of pop culture podcasting and how fans talk about the shows, books and movies they love.And finally, we continue our San Diego Storytellers series by highlighting two local comics creators whose friendship and journey in the arts is the subject of a new panel.Guests:Philip Molnar, senior business reporter, The San Diego Union-TribuneJulianna Domingo, producer, KPBSMallory Rubin, director of content for The Ringer, co-host of "House of R" podcastBobby Rubio, animator, comics creator, "Neighborhood Legend"Keithan Jones, comics creator, "Power Knights," founder of KID Comic

Community members in Southeastern San Diego have lost a decades-long fight over a hilltop in Emerald Hills.They had been pushing for a park there. But now, a housing development is coming.We sit down with KPBS reporter Katie Hyson to hear the story, from the beginning.Plus, California school districts are suing social media companies.And, a tribute for Kelly Davis, an important voice in San Diego journalism and frequent guest on KPBS.Guests:Katie Hyson, racial justice and social equity reporter, KPBSVani Sanganeria, student health and wellbeing reporter, EdSourceJeff McDonald, watchdog and accountability journalist, San Diego Union-Tribune

California lawmakers have introduced new legislation to stop detention centers from claiming charitable tax breaks.The state bill follows a KPBS investigation found that an Imperial County ICE detention center had been getting millions of dollars in tax breaks for years.Plus, San Diego's commercial fishing industry is a small fraction compared to what it once was. We take a deep dive into the reasons for its decline and the efforts made to bring it back.And, San Diego State University student journalists share their recent reporting exploring all things World Cup — from binational soccer fandom to San Diego's grassroots soccer scene.Guests:Kori Suzuki, South Bay and Imperial Valley reporter, KPBSDeborah Brennan, reporter, CalMattersAdriana Heldiz, assistant visuals editor, CalMattersNiko Padilla, student journalist, San Diego State UniversityDelaney Mussel, student journalist, San Diego State UniversityKeep reading:California lawmakers weigh ending charity tax break for Imperial County ICE detention centerMan

The Supreme Court handed down two major immigration rulings this week.On KPBS Roundtable, we discuss the significance of the cases, which strip temporary protected status for hundreds of thousands and give border officials the green light to turn away asylum seekers.Plus, new rules limiting technology and screens are coming for San Diego schools after a resolution passed this week. And, why a 6'2" robot is entering some school classrooms.We also look into the rising cost of quinceañeras and how families are adapting to keep the important cultural milestone alive.Then, KPBS Morning Edition anchor Deb Welsh is calling it a career after more than 25 years in the market. We hear her reflections and advice for younger journalists.Guests:Elliot Spagat, U.S. Immigration news editor, Associated PressJakob McWhinney, education reporter, Voice of San DiegoMarielena Castellanos, South Bay engagement producer, KPBSDeb Welsh, Morning Edition anchor, KPBS

A new series of investigations from inewsource outlines a pattern of concerns around medical care inside the Otay Mesa Detention Center, from isolation to medical delays.Then, what makes a good father? We look at the science of fatherhood and how dads are changed by the experience.And finally, we continue our San Diego Storytellers series with musician Parker Edison and talk about his journey as a rap artist and producer, elevating local hip hop history.Guests:Sofía Mejías Pascoe, investigative border and immigration reporter, inewsourceJake Kincaid, investigative federal impact reporter, inewsourceDarby Saxbe, psychologist and neuroscientist, University of Southern California; author of “Dad Brain: The New Science of Fatherhood and How It Shapes Men's Lives”Parker Edison, musician, host of "The Parker Edison Project," producer of "Rap Diego"Keep reading:Isolation, delays, deterioration: Court records raise health concerns at Otay Mesa Detention Center — inewsource‘I don’t wanna live anymore.’ A Type 1 diabet

About twice a day, San Diego law enforcement charge someone with "resisting an officer" — and nothing else.Data show that Black San Diegans are nine times more likely to face the charge. We break down new reporting from KPBS.Plus, San Diego's controversial license plate reader system linked the wrong man to a violent crime — even though he was miles away from the crime scene.And, we invite a panel of LGBTQ+ journalists to talk about their approach to storytelling. And, what it means to uplift LGBTQ+ perspectives in today's environment.Guests:Katie Hyson, racial justice and social equity reporter, KPBSJesse Marx, freelance journalist and student media manager at San Diego State UniversityDrew Sitton, community reporter, Times of San DiegoSam Barney-Gibbs, journalist, Daylight San DiegoOrion Rummler, LGBTQ+ reporter, the 19thKeep reading:'Resisting arrest' chargeBlack San Diegans 9 times likelier to be charged with 'resisting an officer' — and nothing elseALPR ArrestA Flock license plate reader linked a San Die

A few days out from primary election night, we have a clear picture of many of the races — though not a complete one. Hundreds of thousands of votes have yet to be counted.Still, there's a lot to gather from the results on city council races, local measures, congressional seats and more.We sit down with a roundtable of political reporters to help us make sense of local voting trends.Plus, a preview of the 2026 FIFA World Cup ahead of next week's kickoff.Guests: Shelby Bremer, reporter, NBC7Claire Trageser, reporter, Axios San DiegoScott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief, Voice of San DiegoHéctor Trujillo, sports journalist, Times of San Diego and El Latino

Election Day is right around the corner.On KPBS Roundtable, we continue our series breaking down primary races with a look at a new tax targeting empty homes in the city, as well as some San Diego City Council races.Plus, we explore the meaning of Eid al-Adha — also known as the Festival of Sacrifice. The holiday is celebrated by Muslims worldwide.We also explore how the community is coping one week after the shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego.And, we sit down with groundbreaking journalist and activist Helen Zia to reflect on her career and the state of journalism today.Guests:Andrew Bowen, metro reporter, KPBSElaine Alfaro, East County reporter, KPBSHelen Zia, award-winning journalist, author and activist

Reading about climate change can leave us feeling helpless, anxious and disengaged.But focusing on solutions can have the opposite effect.For NPR's Climate Solutions Week, we're highlighting how San Diego communities are doing their part for the climate.Plus, we continue our election series in the run-up to the June 2 primary. This week, we break down the races for Superior Court judge seats.Then, a conversation all about the the world of Pokémon, with some of the crew behind The Finest podcast, who recently produced an episode about the Pokémon economy.Guests:Tammy Murga, environment reporter, KPBSKatie Hyson, racial justice and social equity reporter, KPBSAudy McAfee, arts and culture reporter, KPBSAnthony Wallace, producer, "The Finest" podcast, KPBS

Right now, more than 5,000 people are being held in California's eight Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facilities.That includes the Imperial Regional Detention Facility in Calexico.A KPBS investigation found that the facility's nonprofit owner has received millions in tax breaks for more than a decade.Plus, we take a look into the race for California's 75th Assembly District seat, with incumbent Carl DeMaio and challenger Gerald Boursiquot.And, we highlight journalists telling stories in Tijuana and what it means to be a reporter in the region.Guests:Kori Suzuki, South Bay and Imperial Valley reporter, KPBSScott Rodd, investigative reporter, KPBSMatthew Bowler videojournalist, KPBS

A new KPBS investigation found the nonprofit that owns the Imperial Regional Detention Facility has received millions in tax breaks over the years. Plus, we take a look into the race for California's 75th State Assembly seat. And, the challenges faced by journalists in Tijuana.

After primary ballots have been sent to voters, KPBS is breaking down all the races. Among the most competitive is the race for the newly redrawn 48th Congressional District.On KPBS Roundtable, we hear more about political makeup of the district, the candidates, and the issues at the center of the race.Then, is San Diego prepared for a large-scale federal immigration crackdown? We look at the city's plans and some of the most recent immigration news locally, from new data on removals to the arrests of cruise workers.And finally, e-bike collisions across San Diego are rising. We dig into the latest data, and the push for new rules and regulations around their use.Guests:Jake Gotta, social media host and Public Matters reporter, KPBSGustavo Solis, investigative border reporter, KPBSKate Murphy, reporter, AxiosStories mentioned:Meet the candidates for US House of Representatives — KPBSIs San Diego prepared for large-scale federal immigration enforcement? — KPBSActivists say immigration agents arrested several cr

Primary ballots for California's governor race are on their way to voters next week.If you haven't settled on a candidate yet — you're not alone. A recent poll from CBS News found 26% of registered voters remain undecided.We talk about where the race stands after this week's debate.Plus, California's small businesses are struggling from tariff confusion and higher costs, amid the U.S.-Israel war in Iran. We sit down with a reporter who spoke to business owners.And, a conversation with South County reporters about how immigration enforcement is affecting the economy — and everyday life — in the border region.Guests:Anita Chabria, columnist, Los Angeles TimesLevi Sumagaysay, economy reporter, CalMattersKori Suzuki, South Bay and Imperial Valley reporter, KPBSJim Hinch, South County reporter, Voice of San Diego

It’s been quite a busy week in military coverage amid ongoing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, a reported plan to send Afghan refugees and their families to the Democratic Republic of Congo, and a local congressional candidate found in violation of Pentagon rules.Friday on Roundtable, we check in on the latest military reporting coming out of the KPBS newsroom.Then, Roundtable has always been a place for journalists to come share more about the stories they are telling — but the San Diego-Tijuana region is home to many other kinds of storytellers, too.This National Poetry Month, we speak with the region's first ever poet laureate for our San Diego Storytellers series.And finally, book lovers are in for a treat this weekend — the San Diego Book Crawl is back for its ninth year in celebration of Independent Bookstore Day. We hear about some of the bookstores participating.Guests:Andrew Dyer, military and veteran affairs reporter, KPBSRon Salisbury, former San Diego poet laureateAudy McAfee, arts and culture re

It’s been one week since the story broke that now former Rep. Eric Swalwell allegedly sexually assaulted a former staffer.On KPBS Roundtable, we sit down with one of the journalists who broke the story and talk more about the rigorous investigative process and reporting behind it.Then, for many bike riders, San Diego’s Velodrome has become a place to come together and connect through sports.But recent changes have led to trans women riders being excluded from some upcoming races.And finally, many of San Diego's most iconic landmarks have a vibrant history — one that's been preserved through the actual architecture itself. We look at what it means to preserve a building, and the financial and policy challenges that are faced in that process.Guests:Alexei Koseff, Washington D.C. correspondent, San Francisco ChronicleAndrew Bowen, metro reporter, KPBSAmelia Rodriguez, freelance journalist, former senior editor at San Diego MagazineLinks:Ex-staffer says Eric Swalwell, candidate for California governor, sexually a

A new months-long investigation by KPBS follows the money going to some county supervisors' offices.It finds some tapped influential companies, associations and individuals for monetary gifts. Some of the entities had business before the county at the time. We discuss the details.Plus, we explore whether the melting pot metaphor is accurate in the U.S. today ahead of its 250th anniversary.Plus, "Local News Day," a national effort to highlight the work of local newsrooms, was this week.We sit down with three local storytellers to discuss their community-oriented approach to journalism.Guests:Scott Rodd, investigative reporter, KPBSGustavo Solis, investigative border reporter, KPBSKate Morrissey, co-founder and reporter, Daylight San DiegoDrew Sitton, community reporter, Times of San DiegoYamir Aguilar, reporter, Calexico Chronicle, Imperial Valley WeeklyLinks:New SNAP rules push more San Diegans to find no-cost groceries - Daylight San Diego‘No Data Center’ Chants Ring Out at Imperial County Board Meeting - Ca

San Diego's North County isn't exactly known for housing affordability.But one North County city — San Marcos — is exceeding its state-mandated housing goals.From new housing projects to school board meetings, we sit down with three North County reporters to talk about their reporting and what it's like to cover the beat.Plus, a new KPBS series introduces us to some of San Diego's most interesting and underrated museums.Guests:Alexander Nguyen, multimedia producer for North County, KPBSTigist Layne, North County reporter, Voice of San DiegoKatie Futterman, community reporter covering North County, inewsourceJohn Carroll, reporter and anchor, KPBS