
Insight With Vicki Gonzalez
Capital Public Radio
Award-winning journalist Vicki Gonzalez hosts daily interviews with community leaders, advocates, experts, artists and more to provide background and understanding on breaking news, big events, politics and culture in the Sacramento region and beyond.
Location:
Sacramento, CA
Genres:
Talk Show Replays
Networks:
Capital Public Radio
Description:
Award-winning journalist Vicki Gonzalez hosts daily interviews with community leaders, advocates, experts, artists and more to provide background and understanding on breaking news, big events, politics and culture in the Sacramento region and beyond.
Twitter:
@CapRadioNews
Language:
English
Contact:
7055 Folsom Boulevard Sacramento, CA 95826-2625 9162788944
Email:
webmaster@capradio.org
Episodes
Era After Roe v. Wade | Parkinson’s ‘Moving Day’ | Children’s Book ‘Sloane Understands’ | Arts Events in May
5/1/2025
A new book looks at fetal personhood as the new battle over reproductive rights. Also, Parkinson’s “Moving Day” walk at Sutter’s Fort. Plus, the children’s book “Sloane Understands.” Finally, our monthly Arts Talk calendar of events for May.
Era After Roe v. Wade
<? What’s next for the battle over abortion? Mary Ziegler is a Martin Luther King Professor of Law at UC Davis and leading expert on U.S. abortion history. She joins Insight to discuss her new book Personhood: The New Civil War over Reproduction which looks at the decades-long movement to secure recognition of fetuses and embryos as persons under the U.S.
Parkinson’s ‘Moving Day’
<? Parkinson’s Disease is one of the most common neuro-degenerative disorders in the country. But many people may not be aware of what its symptoms look like - or how to care for a loved one who’s been diagnosed. Jeff Bell is a former radio host at KFBK and a Parkinson’s advocate who was diagnosed in 2023. He joins Insight to talk about his journey ahead of the Parkinson’s Foundation’s annual Moving Day walk on May 3 at Sutter’s Fort Historic State Park from 9 am to 12 pm.
Children’s Book ‘Sloane Understands’
<? In a world as busy as ours - with information coming at us from every direction - it can be hard to hear your own thoughts over all the noise. A new children’s book aims to help. Sloane Understands teaches children how to connect with their inner voice. Laini Golden is the author and Lena Fuentes is the illustrator. They join us to talk about the power of introspection in our lives. You can hear them read from “Sloane Understands” Saturday, May 3 at Fairytale Town in Sacramento.
Arts Events in May
<? May is truly the kickoff to summer time events and festivals in the Sacramento region. For this month’s Arts Talk, Veronica Rodriguez highlights some of the area’s hidden gems - colleges and universities.
Manetti Shrem Museum of Art at UC Davis offers arts program every Saturday and Sunday through June 22 from 1 to 4 p.m. in the Carol and Gerry Parker Art Studio
The Sierra College Natural History Museum hosts Dinosaur Day Sunday, May 4.
The Shingle Spring Band of Miwok Indians presents The Momti Market at the Sacramento History Museum in Old Sac from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 3.
9th annual Sacramento Asian Pacific Film Festival is scheduled Friday, May 2 and Saturday, May 3 at the Sophia in Sacramento.
Descrubra – (Discover) – a free family festival inspired by Collidoscope: de la Torre Brothers Retro-Perspective, starts at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 3.
The International Kids Festival is scheduled for May 24 at William A. Carroll Amphitheatre.
Sacramento State Public Art Map
State Worker Vacation Payouts | Vietnam War’s ‘Operation Babylift’ | Artist Jennifer Peart
4/30/2025
An investigation into state worker vacation payouts. Also, this week marks 50 years since the end of the Vietnam War and Operation Babylift. Finally, landscape artist Jennifer Peart’s upcoming show and workshops.
State Worker Vacation Payouts
<? Some California state workers have spent decades banking unused vacation time. And when they retire, those hours can turn into six-figure or even seven-figure payouts. A new Los Angeles Times investigation shows how these saved days off may cost the state billions. Investigative reporter Melody Gutierrez joins us to discuss those massive payouts, and why fixing the issue poses a significant challenge.
Vietnam War’s ‘Operation Babylift’
<? Half a century ago, the Vietnam War came to an end after North Vietnamese forces captured the South Vietnamese capital of Saigon. In the final stages of the war, thousands of Vietnamese children were evacuated as part of Operation Babylift and adopted by families abroad. Huyen Friedlander was one of the final evacuees, adopted by a family in Sacramento. She eventually reconnected with her birth parents - a Vietnamese woman and an American soldier - and is helping other adoptees help locate their birth families. Huyen joins Insight on the heels of her latest trip to Vietnam.
Artist Jennifer Peart
<? Artist Jennifer Peart is known for landscape paintings that draw inspiration from both the natural world and science fiction. Her upcoming show State of Change: Visions of California will be at the Jane Gallery in Sacramento from May 3 to 31. A Second Saturday reception will be held on May 10 from 5pm - 8pm and an Artist Talk on May 24 from 2pm - 4pm. Jennifer also has upcoming water coloring workshops at Casino Mine Ranch in Plymouth on May 25 and a free event at Fair Oaks Library on June 28.
100 Days, 2 Americas: Assessing the impact of President Trump’s policies on California and Texas
4/29/2025
In an hour-long special, the California Newsroom and the Texas Standard team up to examine how the Trump administration is changing life in two of the nation’s largest states.
To mark President Trump’s 100 days in office, the California Newsroom and the Texas Standard teamed up to examine how life is changing in two of the nation’s largest states - California and Texas - through the lens of politics, immigration, tariffs, agriculture, and education. The hour-long special is called 100 Days, 2 Americas and is hosted by CapRadio Insight Host Vicki Gonzalez alongside David Brown based in Austin. It includes reporting from Angela Korcherga of KTEP in El Paso, Michael Marks of the Texas Standard, Levi Sumagaysay and Carolyn Jones of CalMatters in Sacramento, Stella Chávez of the Texas Newsroom, Gustavo Solis of KPBS in San Diego, Tyche Hendricks of KQED in San Francisco, and Jessica Greenwell of KVCR in Riverside, Calif.
Sacramento Mayor Kevin McCarty | Yolo Food Bank ‘Cultivo’ Program for Farmworkers | Sacramento Choral Society
4/28/2025
A conversation with Sacramento Mayor Kevin McCarty. Also, a food assistance program for farmworkers in Yolo County. Finally, the Sacramento Choral Society’s closing show celebrating Broadway duo Lerner and Loewe.
Sacramento Mayor Kevin McCarty
<? The city of Sacramento is navigating challenges on both the local and federal level. Officials are working to close a significant budget deficit, address the ongoing homelessness and housing affordability crises, as well as respond to the Trump Administration’s threats over federal funding and immigration. Mayor Kevin McCarty joins Insight to talk about how his first months in office have been.
Yolo Food Bank ‘Cultivo’ Program for Farmworkers
<? Yolo County is prime for farming. Located along the Sacramento River Delta in the Central Valley, it’s probably no surprise that agriculture is its leading industry. But the Yolo Food Bank found that while farmworkers are responsible for providing food to the community, they too often struggle to feed their own families. In response, they launched a program specifically created to meet this unique need. Cultivo - meaning “crop” in Spanish - launched a year ago and delivered food to more than 1,000 agricultural households. This year, they are expanding to more than double that number. Karen Baker is the Executive Director of the Yolo Food Bank and Lucas Frerichs is the Yolo County District 2 Supervisor. They join us with a check-in on how the Cultivo program is growing.
Sacramento Choral Society
<? Broadway’s golden age will come to life this weekend as the Sacramento Choral Society and Orchestra presents its final show of the season which is a tribute to Lerner & Loewe’s legendary musicals. Songs from Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe - the songwriting duo behind Broadway classics such as My Fair Lady, Camelot, Brigadoon, and Paint Your Wagon - will be performed Saturday, May 3 at 3 p.m. at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center in Sacramento. Donald Kendrick is the founding Conductor of the Sacramento Choral Society and Orchestra and he’s joined by Soprano Ingebritt Ziegler and Tenor Patrick McGiff to preview this weekend’s show.
League of California Cities Conference | CA’s Commercial Salmon Season Cancelled | In a Nutshell: Double-Edged Sword
4/24/2025
California city leaders call for more state funding to address priority issues. California cancels its commercial salmon season for a third year in a row. Finally, previewing this month’s “In a Nutshell” storytelling show.
League of California Cities Conference
<? City officials from across California rallied at the State Capitol yesterday calling for increased state funding to address local priorities ranging from affordable housing and homelessness, to implementing Proposition 36. Elk Grove Mayor Bobbie Singh-Allen and Sacramento City Councilmember Caity Maple were among the speakers at yesterday’s event, which was organized by the League of California Cities. They join Insight to talk about what their communities need, and the action they hope to see from state officials.
CA’s Commercial Salmon Season Cancelled
<? California’s salmon are an iconic species which historically thrived in watersheds across the state. But centuries of damage to rivers and spawning areas have led to significant declines in salmon populations. Last week, California officials announced the state’s commercial salmon fishing season would be cancelled for an unprecedented third year in a row as the numbers of fish remain low. CalMatters environmental reporter Alastair Bland talks about why this cancellation was enacted, what it says about the state of salmon populations in California, and the communities and industries that rely on them.
CalMatters is a nonprofit newsroom that partners with public media stations across the state.
In a Nutshell: Double-Edged Sword
<? What happens when a blessing becomes a curse? Think unlimited sweets. A litter of puppies. Fame. All might seem like a good idea if given the chance, but at what price? “Double-Edged Sword” is the theme of this month’s storytelling showcase, In a Nutshell at The Sofia in Sacramento on April 26. Two of this month’s featured storytellers, Regina Stoops and Marga Gomez, join host Keith Lowell Jensen to preview this month’s show.
Trump Cuts to AmeriCorps | Latino Center of Art & Culture | Fantastic Negrito
4/23/2025
The Trump Administration shuts down AmeriCorps volunteer agency. Also, the new executive director of the Latino Center of Art & Culture. Finally, Fantastic Negrito to perform in Sacramento.
Trump Cuts to AmeriCorps
<? Since 1993, AmeriCorps has offered thousands of young adults the opportunity to help their communities through public service and volunteerism. However, last week the Trump administration placed most of the agency’s staff on administrative leave as it looks to slash the federal workforce. Thousands of volunteers with AmeriCorps’ National Civilian Community Corps were also released from their projects and sent home. Griff Ryan-Roberts is a former AmeriCorps volunteer and staff member. He joins Insight to talk about the mission of AmeriCorps, and how the agency’s sudden shuttering could impact members and communities across the country.
Latino Center of Art & Culture
<? Many people are probably familiar with the Latino Center of Art and Culture through their annual events such as “El Panteón de Sacramento” and “El Dia del Nino,” happening this weekend. Dedicated to fostering the artistic, economic and cultural development of the region's Latino (and Latinx) community, the Center has a new executive director. Bridgett Rangel-Rexford joins us to talk about her vision for the future.
Fantastic Negrito
<? He is a three-time GRAMMY award winning artist. But before that was NPR’s first-ever Tiny Desk Contest winner. Xavier Dphrepaulezz - better known as Fantastic Negrito - is on tour with a new album. He joins us ahead of his show at Goldfield Trading Post in Sacramento on Fri. April 25 at 7pm.
Yuba-Sutter Mobile Crisis Response | ‘Best Of’ How to Play with Your Cat | Museum Callout for Volunteers
4/22/2025
The Yuba-Sutter Mobile Crisis team responds to nonviolent mental or behavioral health calls. Also, the book “How to Play with Your Cat.” Finally, Sacramento-based museums collectively put a callout for more volunteers.
Yuba-Sutter Mobile Crisis Response
<? Nearly three years ago, the 988 Lifeline launched nationwide, a three-digit hotline that connects people to suicide and crisis counselors across the country- including more than a dozen call centers in California. This alternative to 911 is part of a larger shift of moving away from a one size fits all approach in responding to an emergency - especially in instances where law enforcement or other first responders may not be the best fit. During this time, counties across the state have been launching mobile crisis teams to respond to nonviolent mental or behavioral health calls. Drew Sutherland is the Clinical Director for Yuba-Sutter Mobile Crisis Response which is one of the newest to launch.
‘Best Of’ How to Play with Your Cat
<? Roughly one in three U.S. households own a cat. But these popular pets are often misunderstood and that can create health and behavior problems. A cat behavior consultant in Sacramento has spent her career researching felines and poured what she learned into a fun, comprehensive guide.Today on Insight, we’re revisiting our conversation with Dr. Mikel Maria Delgado, an animal behavior scientist, about her book Play with your Cat! which is described as a fun, comprehensive guide to the key to feline happiness.
Museum Callout for Volunteers
<? We are lucky to have many museums within our reach. And they are joining forces to ask for your help. The coalition Sacramento Area Museums is putting a callout for the need for volunteers. Delta Pick Mello is the Executive Director of Sacramento History Museum. Christi Skibbins is the Director of Team Development for SMUD Museum of Science & Technology. And Jessica Cushenberry is the Public Programs Manager with the California Museum. They join Insight to discuss their individual needs, as well as the benefits that volunteering provides beyond community service.
Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis | Tariff Impacts on Central Valley Farmers | Recapping the Sacramento Kings’ Season
4/21/2025
Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis talks about trade, tariffs and running for governor. How international tariffs are raising concerns among farmers in the Central Valley. Finally, recapping the Sacramento Kings’ tumultuous 2024-25 season.
Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis
<? As consumers brace for potential price increases due to the Trump administration’s tariffs, Gov. Gavin Newsom’s team is trying to protect California-made products from retaliatory action by other countries. The governor and Attorney General Rob Bonta have filed a lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s tariffs, and also called on trading partners to exempt state goods. Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis joins Insight to talk about her role in negotiating these trade deals and what they could mean for California. Kounalakis also talks about her ongoing campaign for California governor in 2026.
Tariff Impacts on Central Valley Farmers
<? Farmers in the Central Valley could be hit hard by retaliatory tariffs imposed by China, Canada and other countries on goods including almonds, oranges and wine. Los Angeles Times Reporter Ian James explains why farmers in the Central Valley are concerned about the potential impacts of international retaliation.
Recapping the Sacramento Kings’ Season
<? The Sacramento Kings’ 2024-25 season came to a disappointing end last Wednesday with a home play-in loss to the Dallas Mavericks. The elimination caps off a tumultuous year which saw the Kings fire former coach Mike Brown less than halfway through the season, trade away star player De’Aaron Fox and part ways with General Manager Monte McNair a day after Wednesday’s elimination. ABC10 Sports Reporter Matt George, who hosts the Locked on Kings podcast, talks about how this season unfolded and how the Kings might retool under new GM Scott Perry.
Small Business Break-Ins | Return Migration to Mexico | Sacramento Public Library’s ‘Lucha Libro’
4/17/2025
A string of burglaries and vandalism at small businesses in Sacramento. Also, a new book looks at the return migration of Mexican migrants leaving the U.S. Finally, Sacramento Public Library’s events celebrating children and lucha libre.
Small Business Break-Ins
<? In recent weeks, there have been a string of break-ins targeting small businesses in Sacramento. Several eateries in neighborhoods spanning downtown, Land Park, Curtis Park and Tahoe Park have posted on social media, sharing video of their storefront windows being smashed. Craig Takehara is the Chef and Owner of Binchoyaki Izakaya Dining, which has been broken into and vandalized twice in the span of two weeks. He joins us for a conversation about the challenges facing small businesses.
Return Migration to Mexico
<? At a time when immigration and the threat of mass deportations have been dominating news headlines, a new book is looking into the number of Mexican migrants who have chosen to leave the United States and go back to Mexico, finding that this wave of return migration has hit a level not seen in at least 50 years. Erin Hamilton is a Professor of Sociology at UC Davis and one of the authors of The Returned: Former U.S. Migrants’ Lives in Mexico City which found that between 2010 and 2020, more people entered Mexico from the U.S. than entered the U.S. from Mexico.
Sacramento Public Library’s ‘Lucha Libro’
<? This month the Sacramento Public Library is celebrating Día de los Niños - Day of the Kids - with a focus on Mexican culture and lucha libre wrestling. The library’s “Lucha Libro In the Stacks” series combines bilingual storytelling, mask-making and live wrestling, and will culminate with a wrestling show on April 26 at Belle Cooledge Library. Early Learning Specialist Nate Halsan and Bilingual Services Specialist Víctor Jiménez Olvera talk about how “Lucha Libro” got started, and the benefits this programming provides to children and adults alike.
Bernie, AOC Rally in Folsom | CA Mural Bill | Old-Growth Forests and Wildfires
4/16/2025
Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez rally in Folsom. Also, a state bill to streamline murals in public spaces. Finally, a UC Davis study looks at protecting old-growth forests from wildfires.
Bernie, AOC Rally in Folsom
<? They are two of the most recognizable names in the Democratic Party. Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio Cortez launched a Fighting Oligarchy tour, with its latest stop in Sacramento County. The rally drew a crowd of thousands at Folsom Lake College, as well as counter protests. The goal of this tour is to push back against the Trump Administration, as Democrats recalibrate after decisive losses. CapRadio Politics Reporter Laura Fitzgerald joins us with how last night’s event from progressives fits within the larger strategy of the Democratic Party.
CA Mural Bill
<? From one city to the next, murals are celebrated for brightening up drab alleys or blighted buildings. Behind these beloved pieces are muralists who thoughtfully dedicate their skill to create community art. But this profession falls under a grey area when it comes to licensing, and that can bog down bringing these murals to life. A bill is making its way through the state Capitol with the goal to streamline the process. Jaya King is an artist and muralist based in Sacramento, Julie Baker is the CEO of California for the Arts and Donald Gensler is the Art in Public Places Manager for the City of Sacramento. They join Insight to explain how Senate Bill 456 would benefit murals in public places.
Old-Growth Forests and Wildfires
<? Old-growth forests were once prevalent across California’s landscape and play significant environmental roles - from storing carbon, to providing a variety of habitats, and filtering water. But centuries of human activity have caused many old-growth forests to disappear, and left the few remaining ones vulnerable to catastrophic wildfires. A new study from UC Davis looks at how to protect these old trees by combining prescribed fire with forest thinning. Hugh Safford is a vegetation and fire ecologist at UC Davis. He breaks down this new research, as well as how the idea of environmental conservation needs to change - and include human activity.
Rare Disease Federal Funding Cuts | ‘This is What it Feels Like’ Season 2 | WWI Musical ‘The Hello Girls’
4/15/2025
Federal funding impacts to research for rare diseases. Also, the podcast “This is What it Feels Like” launches season two. Finally, the Women’s Theatre Collective’s new musical “The Hello Girls.”
Rare Disease Federal Funding Cuts
<? Since taking office, President Donald Trump’s administration has worked to reshape health policy. These changes include cutting thousands of employees at federal health agencies, as well as efforts to freeze or slash funding for medical research and other health programs. These changes could impact millions of Americans, particularly those living with rare disease diagnoses. Melanie Flood is the founder and CEO of the nonprofit Mellie J Foundation, which works to support people living with rare diseases. She joins Insight to talk about what these federal cuts mean for both medical research and treatments, and the potential impact on the lives of patients.
‘This is What it Feels Like’ Season 2
<? Two years ago, CapRadio launched a podcast asking to put yourself in the shoes of everyday people at the center of issues often overlooked or politicized by society. This Is What It Feels Like shared stories about being catcalled, losing a parent to suicide, and thriving at the age of 106. Terra Lopez is a Sacramento-based artist and Host of This Is What It Feels Like - which began as an art exhibit. Season 2 officially released today, independently produced by Lopez. She joins us about the new episodes and an upcoming launch party on May 3 at Demo Art & Books in downtown Sacramento.
WWI Musical ‘The Hello Girls’
<? Jenny Connors is the Founder and Artistic Director of the Women’s Theatre Collective, as well as the director of the new musical The Hello Girls about the telephone girls in World War I, who were America's first women soldiers. She joins Insight ahead of opening night on Fri. April 18 at Ooley Theatre in Midtown Sacramento and cast members Alyssa Seeley and Ciara Spade perform a scene.
Last-Minute Tax Tips | Investigation into CA’s Most Dangerous Drivers | Artist Jack McTiernan
4/14/2025
Last-minute tax tips with the California Franchise Tax Board and IRS. Also, an investigation into why dangerous drivers in the state are allowed to keep their license. Finally, artist Jack McTiernan’s exhibit in Sacramento.
Last-Minute Tax Tips
<? Tax Day is tomorrow for the majority of people. Iris Solis from the California Franchise Tax Board and Raphael Tulino from the IRS join Insight with last-minute filing tips for state and federal income taxes. They will also explain what is needed to file for an extension, tax bill payment options, as well as scams to be on the lookout for.
Investigation into CA’s Most Dangerous Drivers
<? Of the roughly 40 million people in California, 28 million - or 70% - have a driver’s license. Getting behind the wheel is a privilege, not a right, that can be stripped away. But an investigation found that in California, the DMV routinely allows drivers with dangerous histories to keep their license. CalMatters Investigative Reporter Robert Lewis spent the past year looking into driving records statewide and found that nearly 40% of the drivers charged with vehicular manslaughter since 2019 currently have a valid license, and that the DMV has issued licenses to people less than a year after they allegedly killed someone on the road. In the most extreme cases, they have gone on to kill again. We reached out to the DMV for comment. They did not respond to this request before broadcast.
CalMatters is a nonprofit newsroom that partners with public media stations across the state.
Artist Jack McTiernan
<? Artist Jack McTiernan joins Insight to discuss his exhibit Crossroads & Intersections at the ARTHOUSE Gallery in downtown Sacramento through May 5, which highlights how daily responsibilities distract from the beauty in everyday surroundings via an exploration in color and materials. Jack will be available for a Q&A session Sun. April 27 from 1 to 2 p.m.
Student Visa Terminations | Sac State Football Spring Game | Sierra Poetry Festival
4/10/2025
Student visas are terminated for some international students at California colleges. Also, Sac State President Luke Wood talks about football's Spring Game. Finally, the Sierra Poetry Festival.
Student Visa Terminations
<? In recent days, dozens of international students at colleges and universities across the state have seen their student visas terminated by federal authorities, including at multiple UC and CSU campuses. These actions have raised concerns among student bodies, as well as university systems already grappling with threats of funding cuts on the state and federal level. Amy DiPierro and Michael Burke are higher education reporters with the nonprofit journalism organization EdSource, and join Insight to talk about why these cancellations are happening, and what the larger implications are for students and schools.
Sac State Football Spring Game
<? Sacramento State Football is coming off a tough season that broke a successful streak for the Hornets. 2025 comes with new head coach Brennan Marion, and this weekend is the first time to see the team in action. Sac State President Luke Wood joins us to talk about the Spring Game on Sun. April 13 at 4 p.m. and how this fits into his goal to boost student engagement. We’ll also discuss challenges facing the university - including budget cuts and some international student visas being terminated under the Trump Administration.
Note: CapRadio's broadcast licenses are owned by Sac State. The university also oversees our finances and approves our expenses. It does not oversee our news production or programming.
Sierra Poetry Festival
<? The 9th Annual Sierra Poetry Festival takes place this weekend in Grass Valley. Eliza Tudor is the executive director of the Nevada County Arts Council and the festival’s director. She’s joined by Karen “Kat” Terrey, Nevada County Poet Laureate, to talk about the overarching mission of the festival, how you can engage in the event and why poetry seems to be on the rise across the United States.
Health Coverage in San Joaquin Valley Threatened | Yurok Condor Rehabilitation Program | Crocker Art Museum’s New CEO
4/9/2025
How looming federal cuts will impact health coverage in the San Joaquin Valley. Also, an update on the Yurok Tribe’s condor restoration program. Finally, the Crocker Art Museum has a new CEO.
Health Coverage in San Joaquin Valley Threatened
<? There is uncertainty right now in the healthcare field. Particularly for organizations that are considered safety nets, offering care to low-income and uninsured residents, as providers try to make sense of the impact of looming federal cuts. The Intersection is a health equity reporting lab from the Central Valley Journalism Collaborative and took a look at how this is playing out in the San Joaquin Valley. Marijke Rowland is a Senior Health Reporter and Tim Sheehan is a health reporting fellow. They join us to break down what might happen as House Republicans decide how to slash some $880 billion from Medicaid.
Yurok Condor Rehabilitation Program
<? The California Condor is one of the largest and rarest birds in the world, but this endangered scavenger has long been at risk of extinction. The tide began to turn almost three years ago in Humboldt County, thanks to the Yurok Tribe rehabilitating and releasing condors across their ancestral homeland for the first time in more than a century. Tiana Williams-Claussen is the Director of the Yurok Tribe Wildlife Department and provides an update on the condor restoration program, as well as the dangers that have cut some lives short.
Crocker Art Museum’s New CEO
<? The Crocker Art Museum is the oldest public art museum west of the Mississippi, and its history dates back to the founding of Sacramento. This year brings a new era, after its longtime museum director Lial Jones stepped down after 25 years. This week, the Crocker announced that Agustín Arteaga will become the new Mort and Marcy Friedman Director & CEO. Arteaga joins us with his history in the art world and the contributions he hopes to add to Sacramento’s creative scene.
California’s Crowded Governor’s Race | Inaugural Elk Grove Science Cafe | Broadway at Music Circus Expands Year-Round
4/8/2025
An update on California’s crowded race for governor. Also, the inaugural Elk Grove Science Cafe. Finally, Broadway at Music Circus kicks off year-round musicals.
California’s Crowded Governor’s Race
<? Gov. Gavin Newsom terms out in 2027 and the race to replace him is getting more crowded. Former state Attorney General Xavier Becerra announced his campaign last week, joining a crowded field of Democrats that include Katie Porter, Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, former state Senate leader Toni Atkins, former Controller Betty Yee and Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond. Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco is the highest-profile Republican to enter the race so far. CalMatters Capitol Reporter Alexei Koseff gets us up to speed on the governor’s race, including his reporting on Thurmond working side jobs while holding statewide office.
CalMatters is a nonprofit newsroom that partners with public media stations across the state.
Inaugural Elk Grove Science Cafe
<? For over a decade, the Davis Science Café has welcomed audiences to learn about scientific research in the casual setting of a restaurant. Hosted the second Wednesday of the month, topics have spanned milk, wine, sea level rise, hyperdimensional geometry, and coral reef ecology. Today, the café is expanding to a new location. The Elk Grove Science Café will be held the second Tuesday of the month. Jared Shaw is a UC Davis professor and Founder of Davis Science Cafe. Nick Gray is an organizer with Capital Science Communicators (Cap Sci Comm). They join us about the inaugural Elk Grove Science Café tonight at 7 p.m. at A Seat at the Table Books.
Broadway at Music Circus Expands Year-Round
<? For many theater lovers in Sacramento, nothing says summer quite like enjoying a Merlino’s Orange Freeze while watching a show at Broadway at Music Circus. For nearly 75 years, audiences have been treated to professional Broadway productions for a few weeks during the summer. Change has come though. Broadway Sacramento is now producing musicals for the Broadway At Music Circus series year-round. Scott Klier is the President and CEO of Broadway Sacramento and joins us with more behind this expansion.
International Tariffs and California’s Economy | CPB Audit of CapRadio | Sacramento Orchid Society
4/7/2025
How international tariffs could impact California manufacturers. A new audit from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting looks at CapRadio’s finances. Finally, the Sacramento Orchid Society’s annual show.
International Tariffs and California’s Economy
<? Last week, President Donald Trump announced a sweeping new set of tariffs targeting imports from nearly every country in the world, including some of the U.S.’s biggest trading partners. These developments have created significant uncertainty for California, home of the world’s fifth-largest economy. Governor Gavin Newsom has announced measures to protect the state’s international partnerships, and to try and exempt California products from retaliation. Lance Hastings, President and CEO of the California Manufacturers and Technology Association (CMTA) joins Insight to talk about how an international trade war could impact manufacturers here at home.
CPB Audit of CapRadio
<? Last week, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting released audits into the finances of CapRadio and its affiliate stations, which found the public media stations overstated funding, reported questionable costs, and were noncompliant with financial guidelines and policies over three fiscal years. These latest audits look at the same time frame as previous audits and forensic examinations ordered by the California State University Chancellor’s Office and Sacramento State, which holds CapRadio’s license. Insight Producer Sarit Laschinsky and Claire Morgan, Digital Editor/Trainer for The California Newsroom break down the CPB’s findings, and what steps have been taken to rectify these problems.
Following NPR’s protocol for reporting on itself, no CapRadio corporate official or news executive reviewed this story before it was posted or broadcast.
You can read our independent ongoing coverage of financial issues at Capital Public Radio here.
Sacramento Orchid Society
<? There’s growing evidence that taking care of plants can be good for your health. During the pandemic, plant sales rose as people sought out ways to relieve stress and anxiety. Perhaps you found yourself the proud parent of a new succulent - or 20 - and now you’re looking to branch out. If you’ve ever wanted to know anything about orchids and other rare plants, the Sacramento Orchid Society’s annual show is the place to be this weekend at Carmichael Elks Lodge #2103. Dave Veach, President of the Sacramento Orchid Society, joins us to preview the event.
California’s Fertility Preservation Law for Cancer Patients
4/3/2025
There is a California law requiring most health insurers to cover fertility preservation before medical treatments that can cause infertility. Unfortunately learning about coverage is not a guarantee.
SB 600
<? Five years ago, California passed a law largely geared to help cancer patients preserve their fertility before going through treatments that can cause infertility - like chemotherapy. Senate Bill 600 requires the majority of health insurers to cover procedures - like egg and sperm banking - which can normally cost thousands of dollars out of pocket. But Insight Host Vicki Gonzalez faced a hard lesson while going through breast cancer treatment last year. Learning about the law is not a guarantee and she found out when it was too late. Today we’re going to spend time learning about SB 600. Anthony Portantino is a former state lawmaker and author behind the law. He joins us about what inspired this legislation, and why Medi-Cal recipients are not included in coverage.
Raising Awareness and Evaluating SB 600's Effectiveness
<? We’ll also meet fertility advocates who are working to close the information gap of SB 600, so that cancer patients know about options that can be the deciding factor in having a biological child. Joyce Reinecke is the Executive Director of the nonprofit Alliance for Fertility Preservation. Dr. Irene Su is the Director of the Oncofertility Program at UC San Diego and has been researching the effectiveness of this law.
Opening Doors Cuts Staff | Nature Day at The Hive in Woodland | Jazz Appreciation Month
4/2/2025
A Sacramento refugee resettlement agency cuts staff in the wake of the Trump Administration. Also, Nature Day in Woodland celebrates bees this weekend. Finally, CapRadio Music hosts Jazz Appreciation Month.
Opening Doors Cuts Staff
<? Since taking office, President Donald Trump has continued to carry out promises of cracking down on immigration, including refugees. Resettlement has been suspended and federal funding has been slashed. California is among the top two states for refugee resettlement. And Sacramento is home to large diaspora communities. Jessie Mabry is the CEO of Opening Doors, a nonprofit that supports immigrants, refugees, and survivors of trafficking. She joins us to talk about how federal policy changes are affecting refugee resettlement efforts in Sacramento, including forcing her organization to lay off staff.
Nature Day at The Hive in Woodland
<? Spring in the Sacramento Valley is a vibrant time. Plants are blooming, orchards are coming back to life, and tiny pollinators are hard at work. If you’ve ever been curious about the business of bees, Nature Day at The HIVE in Woodland is the place to bee this weekend. They’re hosting a free event this Saturday to connect you with local beekeepers, entomologists, farmers, conservationists and horticulturalists. Amina Harris is the Owner of The HIVE and Z Specialty Food. Her daughter Shoshana Zeldner is the Director of Brand Strategy. They join us to discuss Nature Day on Sat. April 5 from 11am to 5pm.
Jazz Appreciation Month
<? April is Jazz Appreciation Month and we have something special in store. Every Saturday evening, CapRadio Music will transport you back in time, and across the city, playing original jazz shows recorded by CapRadio over the past 45 years - from the Old Sacramento Waterfront, Sac State Music Recital Hall and the once On Broadway Bar and Cafe, featuring many legends of the jazz scene from the last five decades. CapRadio Music Program Director Gary Vercelli and Excellence in Jazz Host Avery Jeffry join us to highlight the special programming they have planned beginning this weekend at 8 p.m. on KXPR 88.9 FM as well as streaming at capradio.org.
Athletics Home Opener | Prop 35 and Medi-Cal Funding | Arts Talk
4/1/2025
The Athletics home opener at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento. Also, an update on voter approved Prop 35 Medi-Cal funding. Finally, “Arts Talk” highlights events this month.
Athletics Home Opener
<? One year ago it became official. The Athletics would say goodbye to Oakland and make West Sacramento its new temporary home, as Las Vegas builds an MLB stadium. Last night, the A’s welcomed a sold out crowd for its home opener at Sutter Health Park, the home of the Sacramento RiverCats. CapRadio Communities Reporter Keyshawn Davis and Sacramento Bee Senior Reporter Chris Biderman join us with the highlights and significance of this moment in Sacramento sports.
Prop 35 and Medi-Cal Funding
<? Voters overwhelmingly approved Prop 35, which promised to give a long-awaited pay bump to doctors and hospitals who serve the state’s lowest-income residents via an already existing tax on health care plans. But state regulators have yet to direct a dollar for the Medi-Cal initiative’s intended purposes or even develop a framework for doing so. Rachel Bluth is the California Health Care Reporter for POLITICO and joins us with her reporting on the delay.
Arts Talk
<? Arts advocate Veronica Rodriguez is back for this month’s Arts Talk hooking us up with events for all ages, including the opening of Sacramento’s newest music venue Channel 24.
April 11-13, Torch Club is celebrating 25 years.
April is Photography Month with events across Sacramento, Yolo, Placer, Nevada and El Dorado counties.
Elk Grove Fine Arts Center will have their First Saturday Art Walk and feature the exhibit Short Centers which is a program for artists with disabilities running April 5-23.
Tenth anniversary of the First Friday Art Walk in Sacramento.
Gov. Newsom’s Priorities | Eid Celebration at Cal Expo | Trader Joe’s Parking Lot Saga
3/27/2025
Gov. Gavin Newsom’s MAGA-curious podcast pivot. Also, an Eid celebration marking the end of Ramadan at Cal Expo. Finally, an update on the parking lot saga at Trader Joe’s in East Sacramento.
Gov. Newsom’s Priorities
<? This month Gov. Gavin Newsom launched a new podcast that set off political shockwaves over his exchanges with high-profile conservative guests. It left some allies, and even critics, doing a double take on the Democratic leader’s priorities. CapRadio Politics Reporter Laura Fitzgerald and CalMatters Capitol Reporter Alexei Koseff join us for a conversation about how this latest media venture is shaping policy at the state Capitol.
CalMatters is a nonprofit newsroom that partners with public media stations across the state.
Eid Celebration at Cal Expo
<? Fauziya Faruk is the public information officer for the Council of Sacramento Valley Islamic Organizations (COSVIO) and joins us ahead of one of the state’s largest cultural and religious gatherings. The Sacramento Unity Eid Celebration marks the end of Ramadan and is expecting 40,000 attendees at Cal Expo on Sunday, March 30.
Trader Joe’s Parking Lot Saga
<? Over the past several months, shoppers at the East Sacramento Trader Joe’s have experienced a rollercoaster of parking emotions as an auxiliary lot meant to relieve the chaos of this notoriously crowded location has opened, closed and now reopened. CapRadio Communities Reporter Gerardo Zavala gets us up to speed on the latest developments in the parking saga.