KPBS Roundtable

KPBS Roundtable offers perspectives from those who tell San Diego’s stories. Join host Andrew Bracken for a weekly discussion with reporters, adding depth and context to the headlines driving the news in the San Diego region. KPBS Roundtable airs each Friday at 12 p.m. and again Sunday at 6 a.m. across San Diego on 89.5 FM and Imperial County on 97.7 FM. You can also catch the show on all podcast apps. New episodes drop every Friday afternoon.

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Episodes 299

ICE arrests surge; e-bikes and road safety; heat wave
yesterday · 46:00
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested a record number of people in July. In San Diego and Imperial counties, that was 2,000 people — the highest monthly total during President Trump's second term. We talk about the story behind the data, and what it reveals about immigration enforcement today. Plus, as concerns grow around e-bikes and safety, experts said San Diego County needs to address its street safety problem. New reporting from KPBS and inewsource explores the issue. Then, we talk about why this week's extreme heat feels different. What can it tell us about our changing clim
Waymo is coming; National City financial woes; Padres sale
8d ago · 45:50
Earlier this month, state regulators allowed Waymo to bring its driverless taxi service to San Diego — and throughout much of Southern California. We give you a taste of what it's like to ride in an autonomous vehicle. Then, we zoom out to discuss how robotaxis are operating in other U.S. cities and the debate around them. Plus, National City is facing a money problem. The current expenses in the budget are more than the city's expected revenue. Meanwhile, a major player in National City politics is stepping aside. Also, as the San Diego Padres kick off a six game home stand, we talk about the
Mission Bay bathrooms; ex-MLB players push for benefits; Indigenous horror anthologist
15d ago · 46:00
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
Medi-Cal cuts; San Diego caregivers owed stolen wages; Public backlash to data centers
22d ago · 46:10
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.
Remembering Billy Ray Smith Jr.; Chula Vista government overhaul; Salton Sea pollution
29d ago · 46:00
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
'Friendship, community, comics': Roundtable goes live at San Diego Comic-Con!
1mo ago · 46:10
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
Fight over Emerald Hills park; social media in schools; remembering Kelly Davis
1mo ago · 46:50
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 a
New bill to end ICE center tax breaks; San Diego's fishing industry; World Cup
1mo ago · 45:45
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 fa
SCOTUS rulings; screen time in schools; price of quinceañeras; KPBS' Deb Welsh retires
2mo ago · 46:00
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
Health concerns at Otay Mesa Detention Center; the science of fatherhood; Parker Edison
2mo ago · 46:00
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,
Who gets charged with 'resisting arrest'?; ALPR links wrong man to crime; LGBTQ+ journalists
2mo ago · 46:10
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 r
Primary election results roundtable; World Cup preview
2mo ago · 46:00
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 DiegoHéc
Measure A, City Council races; Eid al-Adha; Q&A with Helen Zia
3mo ago · 46:10
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:
Local climate solutions; Superior Court judges' races; Pokémon economy
3mo ago · 46:10
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 re
ICE facility's nonprofit landlord; 75th Assembly District race; Tijuana journalism
3mo ago · 46:28
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
ICE facility's nonprofit landlord; 75th Assembly District race; Tijuana journalism
3mo ago · 46:28
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.
Diving into the CA-48 race; immigration enforcement; e-bike crashes rise
3mo ago · 46:00
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
The latest on governor race; small business economic woes; South County immigration picture
4mo ago · 46:10
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 latest on the military beat; a San Diego poet; the book crawl
4mo ago · 46:10
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 w
Behind-the-scenes on Swalwell investigation; Velodrome controversy; historical architecture
4mo ago · 46:00
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 throug
County supes solicit over $100K in cash gifts; melting pot metaphor; Local News Day
4mo ago · 46:10
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. Gues
North County reporters' roundtable; Museum a Month
4mo ago · 46:00
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 Nort
Embezzlement case prompts audit; medical aid in dying; rising concert prices
5mo ago · 46:10
San Diego County has hired an independent auditor to review how it works with contractors. The audit was announced in light of recent charges against a former executive at the Harm Reduction Coalition of San Diego, who misappropriated large sums of money meant for behavioral health care. We talk about how San Diego County is re-examining its oversight of contractors. Plus, California is one of 13 states where certain terminally ill patients can request medication to end their life. New KPBS reporting shares the story of one woman's end of life journey. Then, why concert tickets are more expens
César Chávez news fallout; I-5 artillery explosion findings; Padres season preview
5mo ago · 46:00
The New York Times this week published an investigation revealing shocking sexual abuse allegations against labor leader and civil rights activist César Chávez. California lawmakers announced that they intend to change the name of César Chávez Day — just weeks away — to Farmworkers Day. As the gravity of the allegations settle in, many are asking what comes next. We sit down with two journalists to talk about their coverage of the ongoing fallout from the stunning revelations. Plus, a new Marine Corps report found that a rare fuse malfunction caused an artillery shell to explode over Interstat
Charity fraud scheme; Mexicali farmers demand payouts; Port of Entry podcast
5mo ago · 46:00
Two men behind a charity fraud scheme pleaded guilty to federal charges this week. The case involved a scheme to siphon money from concession stands at some of San Diego's most well-known stadiums, including Petco Park — the home of the San Diego Padres. The scheme was originally uncovered through reporting from Voice of San Diego. We sit down with the lead reporter for more details. Plus, farmers in Mexicali are protesting low payouts as part of an international agreement where they agreed to conserve Colorado River water. And, we sit down with the hosts of the KPBS podcast "Port of Entry" to

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KPBS Roundtable

Episodes 299

ICE arrests surge; e-bikes and road safety; heat wave

Waymo is coming; National City financial woes; Padres sale

Mission Bay bathrooms; ex-MLB players push for benefits; Indigenous horror anthologist

Medi-Cal cuts; San Diego caregivers owed stolen wages; Public backlash to data centers

Remembering Billy Ray Smith Jr.; Chula Vista government overhaul; Salton Sea pollution

'Friendship, community, comics': Roundtable goes live at San Diego Comic-Con!

Fight over Emerald Hills park; social media in schools; remembering Kelly Davis

New bill to end ICE center tax breaks; San Diego's fishing industry; World Cup

SCOTUS rulings; screen time in schools; price of quinceañeras; KPBS' Deb Welsh retires

Health concerns at Otay Mesa Detention Center; the science of fatherhood; Parker Edison

Who gets charged with 'resisting arrest'?; ALPR links wrong man to crime; LGBTQ+ journalists

Primary election results roundtable; World Cup preview

Measure A, City Council races; Eid al-Adha; Q&A with Helen Zia

Local climate solutions; Superior Court judges' races; Pokémon economy

ICE facility's nonprofit landlord; 75th Assembly District race; Tijuana journalism

ICE facility's nonprofit landlord; 75th Assembly District race; Tijuana journalism

Diving into the CA-48 race; immigration enforcement; e-bike crashes rise

The latest on governor race; small business economic woes; South County immigration picture

The latest on the military beat; a San Diego poet; the book crawl

Behind-the-scenes on Swalwell investigation; Velodrome controversy; historical architecture

County supes solicit over $100K in cash gifts; melting pot metaphor; Local News Day

North County reporters' roundtable; Museum a Month

Embezzlement case prompts audit; medical aid in dying; rising concert prices

César Chávez news fallout; I-5 artillery explosion findings; Padres season preview

Charity fraud scheme; Mexicali farmers demand payouts; Port of Entry podcast

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Episodes 299

ICE arrests surge; e-bikes and road safety; heat wave

Waymo is coming; National City financial woes; Padres sale

Mission Bay bathrooms; ex-MLB players push for benefits; Indigenous horror anthologist

Medi-Cal cuts; San Diego caregivers owed stolen wages; Public backlash to data centers

Remembering Billy Ray Smith Jr.; Chula Vista government overhaul; Salton Sea pollution

'Friendship, community, comics': Roundtable goes live at San Diego Comic-Con!

Fight over Emerald Hills park; social media in schools; remembering Kelly Davis

New bill to end ICE center tax breaks; San Diego's fishing industry; World Cup

SCOTUS rulings; screen time in schools; price of quinceañeras; KPBS' Deb Welsh retires

Health concerns at Otay Mesa Detention Center; the science of fatherhood; Parker Edison

Who gets charged with 'resisting arrest'?; ALPR links wrong man to crime; LGBTQ+ journalists

Primary election results roundtable; World Cup preview

Measure A, City Council races; Eid al-Adha; Q&A with Helen Zia

Local climate solutions; Superior Court judges' races; Pokémon economy

ICE facility's nonprofit landlord; 75th Assembly District race; Tijuana journalism

ICE facility's nonprofit landlord; 75th Assembly District race; Tijuana journalism

Diving into the CA-48 race; immigration enforcement; e-bike crashes rise

The latest on governor race; small business economic woes; South County immigration picture

The latest on the military beat; a San Diego poet; the book crawl

Behind-the-scenes on Swalwell investigation; Velodrome controversy; historical architecture

County supes solicit over $100K in cash gifts; melting pot metaphor; Local News Day

North County reporters' roundtable; Museum a Month

Embezzlement case prompts audit; medical aid in dying; rising concert prices

César Chávez news fallout; I-5 artillery explosion findings; Padres season preview

Charity fraud scheme; Mexicali farmers demand payouts; Port of Entry podcast