Shows
KUCI: Ask A Leader”Peter Pan” at Segerstrom Hall AND ”The Old Man and the Old Moon” at SCRToday the show’s all about performances in our neck of the woods. In advance of “Peter Pan” being performed @ Segerstrom Hall Aug 6-18 is our first guest, Larissa FastHorse. Speaking as an enrolled member of the Sicangu Lakota, a playwright, and MacArthur fellow, Larissa talks about her intentions around re-writing a standard bearer of a musical, as well as taking back some space for all Indigenous Peoples. In the second segment (approx. minute 31:12), O.C. native Armanda Gutierrez brings his many parts in South Coast Repertory’s production, a play with music, “The Old Man & The Old Moon.” This will be the...
2024-07-3052 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderFour Women on an Historic CampaignWith recent news cycles mimicking a hurricane season; one storm after the next, building peaking, and subsiding, we turned the mic over to four women to process how the latest, unprecedented news is landing for them, 105 days before the election Nov 5th. For the full hour we heard from Pauline Merry, Yolanda Robinson, Jane Wishon, and Olivia Fu for their reflections. this live with heavy-duty news constantly breaking. Pauline Merry, a retired higher education administrator appeared earlier about her memoir, Growing Up in the Ville in St. Louis Missouri; Yolanda Robinson is also a retired professional a friend and colleague...
2024-07-2351 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderProject 2025 in the Present TenseMy guest for the full hour is entrepreneur consultant, author, activist, and veteran, Dee Batiste. She breaks down what is Project 2025, a 933-page document of proposed policies, built by a coalition of 110 conservative groups in their words, “advocating for the next conservative president,” or generically put a future Republican administration. Instead of a test at the end, consider this an ongoing teach-in that is taking place in small and large circles across the country, to understand the complete overhaul of the federal government. Some of these measures are already institutionalized. Your KUCI hosts are covering and will continue to cover this...
2024-07-1654 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderMoms For Liberating UkraineMy guest for the full hour is Paige Barrows, a fully-immersed volunteer bringing humanitarian aide to Ukraine. Her commitment to Ukraine stems from her service as a Peace Corps worker in Ukraine 2010-2012. She talks about her activities both stateside as well as in Ukraine since the full invasion by Russia in 2022. Her latest trip was to Bucha, Irpin, and multiple locations along the from line in April 2024. She is the first non-Ukrainian to speak about this war on our show.
Here are her handle and the links promised in the broadcast: @paigeinkansas; https://www.swufoundation.org/;https://renegaderelief.org...
2024-07-0954 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderPFAS: Forever and Everywhere ChemicalsReturning to the show for the full hour is Scott Bartell, UCI Professor of Environmental and Occupational Health. He brings us all the way up to speed on the forever chemicals, those PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). Good news, more people are finally aware of them - bad news, industry is interfering in their regulation. Well, the bad news got worse last Friday with the SCOTUS rollback of the Chevron doctrine. It is time to rename Project 2025 to Project 2024, with PFAS at the intersection of this overhaul of the administrative state.
Links that advance the coverage include: https://www.propublica...
2024-07-0254 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderTales From Two Cities By Two Phenomenal Story TellersOur guests are two highly acclaimed story tellers offering new books for summer reading or anytime of the year reading, bringing big city life to their plots. In the first segment is Curtis Chin, co-founder of the Asian American Writers’ Workshop, filmmaker, and author. He talks about his highly intersectional memoir "Everything I Learned I Learned in a Chinese Restaurant," published by Little Brown and Company. In the second segment (minute 34:04) is George Pelecanos, author, screenwriter, essayist, television writer/producer, who bring a dog’s perspetive in his novella "BUSTER: A Dog," published by Akashic Books.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americ...
2024-06-2550 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderA Shakedown of Metropolitan Water District’s PrioritiesMy guests for the full hour are two water activists who’ve been monitoring consequential infrastructure decisions over the decades: Sierra Club Water Committee Chair Charming Evelyn; and Conner Everts, Executive Director of the Southern California Watershed Alliance and facilitator of the Environmental Water Caucus. They attend innumerable water board meetings so that you and I don’t have to! Today’s focus is on some Metropolitan Water District board of directors’ maneuvering to oust the forward thinking general manager Adel Hagekhalil. Charming ad Conner connect the dots between this power struggle and the Newsom administration’s top priority - the $20+ b...
2024-06-1851 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderExtended Interview with Susan Handy On TransitHere is the extension of our time together. We wrap up on topics opened in the broadcast: I-405 expansion, tollroads, comprehensive planning, and Caltrain.
2024-06-1110 minKUCI: Ask A Leader”Spirit Possession” Comes To OCCCA AND More Lanes Won’t Save UsToday our first guests will be Thomas Fynn and Tom Lamb, collaborating photographers bring “Spirit Possession a Celebration of Ghanaian Faces, African Culture and Heritage.” This exhibition continues through June 29th at OCCCA.
In the second segment (minute 30:17) we hear from Susan Handy U.C. Davis professor of environmental science who researches the relationships between transportation and land use to talk about how freeway expansions don’t work. An extended portion of her interview is available on this same day.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Hyskuul Band Gh Enoch Owuraku; Kamasi Washington, “Change of the Guard,” The
2024-06-1154 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderOur Neighbors and Families Forward AND A Special 2024 Commencement ExerciseReturning to the show are both guests. Madelynn Hirneise, CEO of Families Forward, speaks about her organization’s current efforts - before the holidays, well before chestnuts start roasting on the winter open fire. Housing is top of mind. She invites prospective volunteers to call 949-552-272 7 or check out: https://www.families-forward.org/volunteer-opportunities/.
In the second segment (minute 39:27), “AAL” resumes the annual tradition of having a graduating senior from the KUCI staff take stock of their UCI years; Kalisee Ajlouny takes the Class of 2024 out this year, the class that took a lot of public health and political lumps...
2024-06-0456 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderVisalia Mom Scholar Graduates at UCI 2024My guest for the full program is Michelle Story, a non-traditional student, mother of five soon to collect her diploma at UCI’s School of Social Sciences, before she pursues a graduate degree in clinical psychology. Listen to what breaking a mold sounds like as she talks about her institutional arrangements and studies at UCI after transferring from the community College of the Sequoias.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; José Antonio Rodríguez, “El Regalo,” Adiós Muchachos – album.
2024-05-2852 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderContinued Health Challenges Post ”Dobbs”Our featured guest is Sadaf Rahmani, the public affairs director of Planned Parenthood of Orange and San Bernardino Counties. She speaks about the challenges of delivering reproductive health services in today’s complex regulatory framework, post SCOTUS’ “Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization” decision on June 24, 2022. With all the headwinds in which Planned Parenthood is navigating, public health trends are concerning: availability of emergency birth control methods, young adults seeking sterilization, and Fontana’s City Council imposing a moratorium on permitting a downtown Planned Parenthood care center. It is an enormously changed world since the previous public affairs director at Planned P...
2024-05-2148 minKUCI: Ask A Leader”China’s Age of Abundance”My guest for the full hour is UCI social scientist and one important demographer, Professor Wang Feng. We focus on his latest publication, especially as it helps us appreciate what China’s got to work with under current conditions. "China’s Age of Abundance; Origins, Ascendance, and Aftermath,” published by the Cambridge University Press, explores China’s rise to material wealth, current predicaments and future challenges. Demographers . . . the ones with lots of receipts.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; and Jodi Proznick Trio, “The Moon Represents My Heart,” Jasmine Jazz collaboration at Vancouver International Jazz Festival 2022.
2024-05-1450 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderBringing All Young Voters To The Electoral Finish LineFor the full hour is Joey Forsyte, an LA based, award-winning filmmaker and visual artist. She focuses on works that build community, political awareness and activism. She is the owner of Velocity Filmworks as well as the founder and executive director of A Band of Voters. Civics is on her front burner as she works with institutions that reach out to the youngest of eligible voters: CA Student Civic and Voter Empowerment Act of 2019, the National Study of Learning, Voting, and Engagement (NSLVE), and the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement (CIRCLE), to name a few...
2024-05-0753 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderNew, Improved Citizenship Process ANDWe begin with Rosaisela López Cienfuegos, a lead coordinator at Orange County Communities for Responsible Development, talking about the naturalization process that they’re overseeing, always looking for takers. Recent changes to the application and associated fees lower some of the earlier barriers; the processing time have been reduced get newly naturalized citizens into the voting booth sooner than was possible a few years ago. She sets you up with citizenship clinic training, in upcoming events. The next training at the OCCORD office is 5/3 and 5/4, 6-8 p.m. The next clinic is 5/18, with shifts starting at: 9 a.m., 11 a.m...
2024-04-3056 minKUCI: Ask A Leader“In Search of the Third Feather of Simurgh: Contagious Dictatorship and Fragile Democracy”My guest for the full the hour is mixed media artist Soheila Siadate, with an extraordinary solo exhibition at the Orange County Center for Contemporary Art in Santa Ana, “In Search of the Third Feather of Simurgh: Contagious Dictatorship and Fragile Democracy” on view now through 4/26th. Details are available at: https://www.occca.org/EXHIBITIONS.html. This is her most expansive exhibit yet.
On the radio: she leads us through layers of culture, history, and the special media with which she works.
On your visit: the hours are Mon-Thursday by appointment only; open Friday-Saturday noon to 5 p.m., 117 North Syca...
2024-04-2351 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderMedical Aid In Dying - The State of The UnionReturning to the show, for the full hour, is Samantha Trad, the National Director of Advocacy for Compassion and Choices. Up the escalator are more states enacting laws granting end of life options or “medical aid in dying,” (MAID). Amidst this trend, boarding the downward escalator, are federal and state challenges to end these choices. In the background are Compassion and Choices’ findings that a majority across the political spectrum support MAID. More earnest questions about this last act we all have. Hop onto their website for all the resources to which she refers in this interview: https://www.compassionandchoices.org/.
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2024-04-1651 minKUCI: Ask A Leader“AI’s Hippocratic Oath” AND “War Up Close” VR Immersion of War in UkraineFor the full hour is Chinmayi Sharma, assistant professor at Fordham University Law School. Think Cassandra for this time we are in, as she brings her not-so-modest proposal, "AI’s Hippocratic Oath.” Amidst the tech sector’s arms race to build these voracious artificial intelligence systems, she raises the specter of harm overtaking the common good. Professionalizing the AI engineers at the front end would do for the public, what licensing other professions has done for clients, patients, and communities. In the closing segment (approx. minute 46:15) is Mykola Omelchenko, Ukrainian filmmaker/photographer who’s presenting “War Up Close” showing Russia’s Invasion of...
2024-04-0950 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderDavies Extended Portion: Maidan in Ukraine versus US ProtestsIn this extended portion of Jordie Davies' interview we draw comparisons with Ukrainians coalescing in the Maidan Revolution in 2013-14 and American protest movements.
This clip is under 3 minutes.
2024-04-0202 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderSolidarity and Coalitions AND Paula Tomei Takes a Bow After 44 years at SCRToday we first hear from Dr. Jordie Davies, Assistant Professor of Political Science at UCI, and an affiliate faculty member of the UCI Culture & Theory Ph.D. Program. Of particular interest is her work on “Solidarity Processes in Multi-Racial Coalitions.” An additional portion of this interview is available in Part 2 of this pod.
In the segment (minute 35:50) is Paula Tomei, managing director of South Coast Repertory. She’s stepping down this August after a 44-year career, building a lot of things of local, regional, and national significance. It’s SCR’s 26th Pacific Playwright Festival May 3-5. Wrapping their season are the pr...
2024-04-0254 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderVoter Participation Gap AND ”Grace Kelly With Strings: At The Movies”We begin with Davin Phoenix, who talks about the voter participation gap opening up between Black and white voters, since the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling on Shelby Co. v Holder. His very well received book, "The Anger Gap; How Race Shapes Emotion in Politics" anticipated this trend. He breaks it all down for us; his work along with the findings of the Brennan Center for Justice.
In the segment (approx minute 35:11), is Grace Kelly: alto saxophonist, singer, composer, arranger, and more, releasing her 15th album and latest project, "Grace Kelly with Strings: At The Movies." This tribute to he...
2024-03-2652 minKUCI: Ask A Leader”A Foot Is Not A Fish” AND Backhausdance Returns to the BarclayLogic for kiddos and dance are on today’s roster. We begin with former therapist now children’s book and memoir author Cornelia Maude Spelman. Her brand-new children’s non-fiction book, entitled A "Foot is Not a Fish," published by Frederator Books, pairs rhymes with vivid illustrations, to help parents show their children that it is not hard to see what is true and what is not, a fitting starting point for talks about the elections.
In the second segment (approx. minute 26:15) is Jennifer Backhaus, founder, and artistic director of Backhausdance, a critically-acclaimed contemporary dance company, in advance of their March...
2024-03-1948 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderThe Voice of an Iranian-American WomanOur guest for the full hour is Sudi Farokhnia, a local Risk and Audit professional and Co-founder of Iranian American Democrats of California. Speaking in her capacity as an activist, she has a full roster to cover today including: Iranian American political organizing in general; The Middle Eastern Northern African Inclusion Act, California AB 2763; the Temporary Family Visitation Act, HR 5155; and The Allyship Act, HR 6865; all this going into Ramadan and Nowruz. As spring has sprung, civics keeps up on this show.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Kiosk, “Vada Bebar,” Triple Distilled – album.
2024-03-1249 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderPaa Kwesi Heto - extended portionPaa-Kwesi Heto had more to say, on the heels of the news about the U. S. Supreme Court rendering its decision about Donald Trump's eligibility to appear on the Colorado primary ballot.
2024-03-0505 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderAsk A Voter Listens to Citizens on This Supah TuesdayWelcome all to the CA Primary 2024 edition of "Ask A Voter," continuing the tradition of asking guests to tell their voting story. Think Story Corps walking around the polling place. Today, on Super Tuesday our roster of voters include: Alex Denysov, Ukrainian-American actor, filmmaker, musician and songwriter based on Los Angeles (minute 1:48); Shawn Khalifa, UCI sociology major soon to complete his BA in UCI’s Underground Scholars program (minute 17:00); Paa-Kwesi Heto, international political economist, security analyst affiliated with both UCI and Soka University of America (25:12); Elizabeth Martin, retired Orange County attorney and contributor to Orange County Communities Organized for Responsible De...
2024-03-0547 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderMeet CA State Senate 37th Dist Candidate Crystal Miles AND League of Women Voters’ Civics ToolkitsWe are 1 week away from CA Primary Election Day, March 5th. On today’s roster is our last candidate: Crystal Miles, Villa Park City Council member, running as a Republican in the CA State Senate 37th District. Other candidates either did not reply, were unavailable for interview, have appeared in past election cycles, or are not actively campaigning. In today’s second segment (approx. minute 27:15), we do one better with a heady discussion of civics. Taking that up is Linda Bytof, retired judge and currently the Chair of Youth Outreach Committee with the League of Women Voters, Alameda CA; and a me...
2024-02-2753 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderMeet OC Board of Ed Area 3 Candidate Nancy Watkins AND CA 47th Congressional Dist. Candidate Max UkropinaAs our primary coverage continues, our first guest is Dr. Nancy Watkins, education professional and OC Board of Education candidate running for trustee in Area 3. This area includes: Fullerton, Brea, Placentia, Yorba Linda, Orange, Foothill Ranch, Villa Park, central and North Irvine, Portola Hills, Anaheim Hills, portions of Lake Forest and Tustin. This is 3 of 5 trustee races that are on the CA Primary ballot.
In the second segment (approx. minute 32:59) is financial technology entrepreneur Max Ukropina, who is running as a Republican in CA 47th Congressional District. This district includes: Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Newport, and Seal Beach, and...
2024-02-2055 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderMeet CA Senate Dist. 37 Candidates: Alex Mohajer and Guy SelleckWe are 3 weeks out from CA Primary Election Day, March 5th. Our vote-by-mail ballots are delivered; on Feb. 24th select vote centers will open, 25 with a drive through ballot drop off. The Registrar of Voters office will be open for the entire voting period. Information is available at: https://www.ocvote.gov/VIG . AAL continues coverage of the primary; on today’s roster are 2 State Senator candidates running in the 37th District: First is Alex Mohajer, Democrat and LA County Civil Service Advocate/Employee Relations Representative. In the second segment (minute 28:40) is Guy Selleck, Republican and founder/CEO/principal of Bu...
2024-02-1350 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderMeet State Sen. Josh Newman AND Meet CA 47th Cong. Dist. Candidate Joanna WeissYesterday vote-by-mail ballot mailing began, California! Feb. 20th last day to register to vote, Feb. 24th select vote centers (183) open, inc 37 open for 11 days, 146 open for 4 days & 25 with a drive through ballot drop off, Registrar of Voters office will be open for the entire voting period. Information available at: https://www.ocvote.gov/VIG . In the service of that effort is AAL’s coverage of the primary. We start with State Senator Josh Newman (D-29), who is running for reelection in the newly mapped 37th State Senate District, which includes: Aliso Viejo, Anaheim, Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Laguna Beach, La...
2024-02-0657 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderExtended Portion of Shawn Khalifa’s InterviewShawn Khalifa had a whole lot more to say about his transition to academia and the world beyond. Have a listen.
2024-01-3029 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderMeet David Min, Candidate for CA 47th Cong. Dist. AND Rethinking Carceral InstitutionsToday we begin coverage of the CA primary, a mere 5 weeks away. Community radio has an additional responsibility in this coverage as we all note the dwindling coverage of the OC politics in the area newspaper the L.A. Times. We first hear from CA State Senator Dave Min, one of the several candidates I’ll be interviewing, who are running in the CA 47th Congressional District, in the seat vacated by incumbent Congresswoman Katie Porter. In the second segment, (approx. minute 31:30) is Shawn Khalifa who’ll be graduating from the UCI's “Underground Scholars” program for felons from the carceral system a...
2024-01-3055 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderThe State of Nursing Home Care in the USDr. Dana Mukamel, economist and UCI professor of medicine, will talk about her findings in the Health Services Research journal published Dec 2023, in collaboration with Heather Ladd, Debra Saliba, and Tamara Konextzka; all of who whom have found that not just adding staff, but specialized training and a more stable labor will improve outcomes in American nursing home care, including dementia care. One of the resources that she particularly found useful for listeners to reference is the Quality Care Compare resource: https://www.cms.gov/medicare/health-safety-standards/certification-compliance/five-star-quality-rating-system.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; #17 Wilhelm Pete...
2024-01-2358 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderApplying to Schools in the Post-Dobbs Era; Girls Just Wanna Have HealthToday our guests for the full hour are three young women applying to colleges and universities in what we’re referring to as the post "Dobbs" era, where abortion and reproductive healthcare are highly restricted if not effectively banned in seventeen states. Offering their personal reflections, choices, and experiences as higher education applicants in this moment are: University High School senior Camryn Cummings, applying to undergraduate programs; and UCI alumna Kimberly Martinez and UCI undergraduate Kalisse Ajlouny, both of whom are applying for advanced degrees.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Miki Yamanaka, “March,” 29 seconds in, Human Dust...
2024-01-1655 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderWorld Affairs Council of OC AND Alonzo King’s LINES BalletToday our guests cover the world in two different ways, two different constructs. We start with Richard Downie, President and CEO of the World Affairs Council of Orange County, talking about the forums and mentoring that his local chapter offers the community. He surveys some highlights and moves into what they’ve got planned for 2024.
In the second segment (approx. minute 30:00) Alonzo King Co-Founder, Artistic Director & Choreographer of LINES Ballet, raises the fundamentals of life and creativity, in advance of his San Francisco company performing Jan 20th, 7:30 p..m., at Segerstrom Hall. Details about the performance are available at: https://ww...
2024-01-0940 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderClimate Action Campaign Considers Irvine City Council BizFor the larger share of the hour is Climate Action policy director, Ayn Craciun. She talks about local public works, public advocacy, and will later cover her public office aspirations this fall. Of interest are: the redirection of Orange County Power Authority; warehouses in the land-use mix; the single use plastics non-ban; and the CA March 5th Primary ballot down ticket item-the Irvine City Charter amendment.
NOTE: The California State Auditor's 2-28-23 report pertaining to the OCPA is available here: https://www.auditor.ca.gov/pdfs/reports/2022-120.pdf. The CA Energy Commission is an entity under the CA...
2024-01-0240 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderMatt Haimovitz ContinuedMatt generously spoke at greater length in this session. This portion completes the whole.
2023-12-2614 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderMaking Sense and Making Music Amidst CatastrophesShahir Masri, an environmental scientist, who identifies as a Lebanese American, uses his science and grass roots sensibilities to address the human public health catastrophe in Gaza. In the second segment (approx. minute 41:05), cellist extraordinaire Matt Haimovitz speaks about the possibilities and power of his musical instrument, especially in times like these. An extension of Matt's interview is available in a separate sound file on this same day.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; De Hartmann Cello Concerto Op 57 I Andante con brio, performed by Matt Haimovitz with Leipzig Symphony Orchestra; Cello Concerto Op 57 III Allegro ma n...
2023-12-2659 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderAs You Sow Raises Shareholder Agency Amidst Challenges From Far Right AND Local NotesToday for the larger share of the hour is As You Sow's CEO, Andrew Behar. Depending on time remaining, a summary on last Saturday’s World Affairs Council Orange County event showcasing Retired Lt. General HR McMasters - or other special segments, still up the host’s sleeve. Andrew is the headline act, given the long range and deep portfolio that his smart and nimble non-profit accomplishes year in and year out over these last three decades. How climate inflation influences household budgets, Congressional undermining of AYS's mission, and actual roles shareholders can assume to challenge corporate practices - are cove...
2023-12-1947 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderJasso Extended InterviewThis is an extension of the interview with Adriana Jasso. The host sought extra context for what it feels like to be providing aide amidst such a wide range of needs.
2023-12-1209 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderAt The Border AND In The Theater - La Posada and The NutcrackerSometimes we just need to cover a lot of ground, starting with Adriana Jasso, Human Rights Advocate based in San Diego, California. She speaks in her capacity as the Program Coordinator for the U.S./Mexico Border Program of the American Friends Service Committee, at various open-air detention sites in San Diego County. During the annual tradition of La Posada, Adriana takes stock of what the inn actually looks like. https://afsc.org/action/take-action-stop-border-militarization?ms=WEB23TA. The extended portion of this interview can be heard in a separate sound file. Please refer to that post on this same...
2023-12-1257 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderIrvine City BusinessOver the full hour we cover an ambitious City of Irvine update with Branda Lin, Irvine Planning Commissioner; and Adam Cavecche, the supervising Principal Council Executive to Irvine City Council member Kathleen Treseder. On the municipal menu are: the failed single use plastics ordinance, warehouse creep, Irvine’s lobbying rules, the civil servant exodus, and the level of city commissioners’ training. For future coverage will be how Irvine Watchdog’s sights are set on city business on both the primary and general election ballots. A long table is set for this expansive buffet of topics.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of...
2023-12-0554 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderCollective Trauma Perpetrated on UkraineNatasha Frolova, associate professor and crisis psychologist in the Dept. of Psychology and Social Work at Dnipro National University in Ukraine, speaks as a Fulbright scholar in residence at UC Irvine, working with trauma social scientist Roxanne Cohen Silver. She has the full hour to chart the dimensions of trauma experienced in Ukraine as she continues to build onto approaches toward addressing trauma on both the individual and the societal levels.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Andriy Khlyvnyuk x The Kiffness, “Chervona Kalyna.”
2023-11-2857 minKUCI: Ask A Leader”Almond, Quartz, and Finch”For the full hour is Lisa Bunker; writer, transgender activist, former New Hampshire state legislator, and fellow community radio aficionado. Based now in Sacramento, they are currently on the book tour circuit with their latest book, “Almond, Quartz, and Finch,” published by New Wind. Available at: https://www.lisabunker.net/ or your favorite independent book dealer. Someday, it would make a wonderful a film in a theater near us. Meanwhile, this conversation is one more serving at this week's feast.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Sandunes, “Follow Me,” The Ground Beneath Her Feet – album.
2023-11-2150 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderIrvine City Council Changes on March 2024 Ballot AND ”Rotterdam”In his capacity as a member of the Irvine City Council, Larry Agran returns to talk about the special measure before Irvine voters on the March 2024 primary ballot. This special municipal election measure would amend the city’s charter to expand the number of council members to serve on the City Council and create of districts in which they would run. https://www.cityofirvine.org/government/city-clerk/election-information. Top of mind is how the City plans to engage voters down ballot, amidst the much anticipated drama of open legislative races at the top of the ballot.
In the second segment (ap...
2023-11-1451 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderThe Sound of Art Inside a PrisonGabe Rosales, UCI Criminology, Law and Society Ph.D. candidate, professional musician, and advocate - has a whole lot to tell us about bringing music to the carceral setting, particularly at Donovan State Prison. We hear about the remarkable yields, when a system chooses rehabilitation over punitive measures, a fertile continuation of the reforms discussed with UCI professor Keramet Reiter on AAL 10/3/23.
Meet Gabe in his own words "I have toured on a private plane over Europe. I have done drugs in a room by myself for days. I have cleaned toilets and been pepper sprayed in jail during the...
2023-11-0747 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderDeep-breathing Our Way Around the CybersphereFor the full hour we get more tricks than treats from Bryan Cunningham - UCI Law professor, Executive Director of UCI’s Cybersecurity Policy and Research Institute, practicing attorney, and vigorous Twitter Space contributor. Admittedly only an introduction to the pernicious workings of disinformation, misinformation, and even mal-information, the host hopes to resume this discussion, covering the concerning trends post 10/7. Bryan offers listeners a few topics to investigate, including the Mitrokhin archives and Operation Infektion.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Thomas Koppel, “Overture: Train Ride into the Belly of the Beast,” Messe For Et Tilfælde – album
2023-10-3157 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderWitnessing The Armenian Genocide, NowReturning to the show, this time together, are: Dr. Ara Apkarian, UCI Distinguished Professor of Chemistry, and Dr. Kev Abazajian Professor of Physics & Astronomy and the Director of the Center for Cosmology at UCI. Ara and Kev have a lot on their minds with the geopolitics taking place, from the campus to the Caucasus. They speak truth to power - a tale of two University of California chancellors weighing in on international catastrophes. Then on to the remarkable gesture of the recent visit of former member of the Turkish Parliament, Garo Paylan, whose laps around Southern California this month, included...
2023-10-2453 minKUCI: Ask A Leader”Death In a Nutshell” in the Armchair Anthropology SeriesFor the full hour we hear from UCI anthropology professor, and award winning author, filmmaker, and playwright, Roxanne Varzi. She is rolling out a whole new creative enterprise: the Armchair Anthropology Whodunit Series, “Death in a Nutshell,” a murder mystery, is the first book in a series. This genre offers another way for her to examine and interpret anthropologists’ assumptions and roles in the study of humans. Of course there’s more under her microscope.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Demanda E Despejo (Bartosz Weber Remix, feat. Rogério Martins).
2023-10-1754 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderOn The Presidents’ Watch ANDUCI political science professor Matthew Beckmann returns to talk about the impossible job of the American presidency amidst legislative currents, some of which flow right up to a bluff. Watch next summer for his latest book: "The President's Day; Every Day Work in an Impossible Job."
In the second segment (approx. minute 37:00) is playwright and director Octavio Solis, with his play now being performed at the South Coast Repertory, "Quixote Nuevo." The show runs now til Oct 28th at Segerstrom Theater at Segerstrom Center for the Performing Arts in Costa Mesa. The Rep is in a celebratory mood; this richly...
2023-10-1055 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderCrashing Carceral Walls in CaliforniaReturning to the show is UCI Professor Keramet Reiter, Professor with appointments at UCI’s Dept. of Criminology, Law, and Society and UCI’s Law School; and founding director of “Lifted,” a prison education program in the UC system. Her acclaimed writings include her book:
"23/7; Pelican Bay Prison and the Rise of Long-Term Solitary Confinement." She brings insight into solitary confinement reform in CA, and the intersection of that with her other projects in the carceral system: the BA degree program in the UC system, & other education programs. Details about this program are available at: https://lifted.uci.edu/. On future p...
2023-10-0355 min2023-09-2723 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderMore From Briana Walker from her MinivanThis is the extended portion of Briana Walker's interview. Thank you for having this listen.
2023-09-2617 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderYour PhD Coach Is Here AND The Kidz Are Not AlrightIn advance of her 10/20 workshop at UCI for PhD students, is Kimberly Duong, UCI School of Engineering graduate, now employed as a water agency civil engineer. She will return to the show to talk about her new calling as a PhD coach, assisting PhD students in: productivity, project management, procrastination, and anything else related. She can be followed in various ways at: https://itscoachkimberly.com/wp/. Her 10-20-23, noon- 1 p.m. PT, on line webinar registration: https://gps-stem.grad.uci.edu/project/2023-10-20/.
In the second segment (approx. minute 23:42), Briana Walker (@InMinivanHell) returns in her capacity as a...
2023-09-2651 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderIrvine City Council Expansion and District MapsIrvine, the largest city in California to have at-large city council members, is undertaking the process of amending the city charter to create distinct city council elections districts from which the candidates would run. The charter amendment would also add 2 seats to the City Council. Returning to the show for the larger share of the hour is demographer Justin Levitt, retained by Irvine’s City Council, to update us on that process, wherein the City of Irvine is drawing these 6 council districts for the voters’ approval on the Spring 2024 Primary election ballot. The November 2024 general election vote would include voters in 3...
2023-09-1951 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderDear Me * Women.Life.Freedom * Tribute to Mary Ann GaidoFor the larger share of the show are two childhood friends, building something special together. Saara Dang of Sage Hill High School, and Rohan Soni of Orange County School of the Arts - are partners in creating the app dearme.mentalhealth a project that assists youth in managing the challenges of chronic illness and mental health. The app is a platform for anonymous journaling. In the second segment (approx minute 47:30), we check in with local Iranian American activist Guita Sharifi about the Women.Life.Freedom rally this Sat in DTLA; 9-16th, 2-4 pm, at 200 N Spring Street. Other events...
2023-09-121h 05KUCI: Ask A LeaderRaising Not Erasing the Lachine Corridor Toward ArtsakhReturning to the show is Vic Gerami, editor and publisher of the Blunt Post, host and producer of the “Blunt Post with Vic” on Radio KPFK, and documentary filmmaker of the feature film “Motherland.” Given that the Republic of Artsakh is in greater tatters than when he last was on "Ask A Leader," given that the media is watching a little bit more closely the mud show at Burning Man, or Barbie - that media appears to be missing some salient points about the disputed territories in the Armenian and Azerbaijani area. It is useful to return to sources who attend t...
2023-09-0556 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderEye of the Storm: Facing Climate and Social Chaos with Calm and CourageDr. Terry LePage, research chemist, transitional minister, and hospice chaplain, brings her brand new book: "Eye of the Storm: Facing climate and social chaos with calm and courage." It is a profound manual, which covers novel as well as recognizable domains. Copies can be ordered at: https://opendoorcommunication.org/eye. NOTE: the correct email to reach Terry LePage directly is terry@opendoorcommunication.org.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Angélique Kidjo, “Sweet Lullaby,” Every Mother Counts – album.
2023-08-291h 00KUCI: Ask A LeaderRefugees’ Thermostat and Chocolatier’s ThermometerOur guest for the full hour is Olya Yaloza, chocolatier originally from Lviv, Ukraine, now setting up life and her enterprise here in OC. The host first met her at the World Refugee Day earlier this summer. As she explained what it was like to produce some of the finest chocolates one could find anywhere in the world, and to have to uproot from providing that choicest of treats, giving up her personal investments in that business - it became apparent that her story ought to be heard. That refugees are over-achievers is an adage that listeners will hear again...
2023-08-221h 01KUCI: Ask A LeaderIrvine’s Ranking in First Year of Homeownership Costs AND UCI MIND’s 34th Annual Alzheimer’s ConferenceToday's guests are in financial spaces then brain places. In the first segment, Doug Ressler manager and analyst at Yardi Matrix, explains how Irvine is such an expensive home ownership proposition, the first year costs considered.
Then we’re off to the annual tradition of the UCI MIND leading edge science about Alzheimer’s Disease (approx. minute 31:00); UCI MIND'S director of education Megan Witbracht brings their 34th annual conference in Irvine themed, “Sex and Gender in Dementia Research and Care,” and will be held Friday August 25th, 8am-3:15 p.m. Irvine Hilton OC Airport 18800 MacArthur Blvd., or virtually on your screen...
2023-08-1556 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderCitric Acid Pens Some More GemsWe’re not done with labor issues or Jan 6, oh no. That and more are under examination in the latest Citric Acid; An online Orange County Literary Arts Quarterly of Imagination and Reimagination, out this very month. Talking about that today for the full hour are our two guests: founding editor Andrew Tonkevich, and contributor Anthony Pignataro. All the latest delectable submissions are available for your reading pleasure at: https://www.citricacid.ink/.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; YouTube Lari The G, “Santa Ana in the Summer Time,” Ft Scrizzy Santana.
2023-08-0852 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderStriking While The Unions Are Hot AND Irvine CyclingIn the thick of strike-mode is our first guest Ada Briceno, Co-President of UNITE-HERE Local 11, representing over 30,000 hotel workers, 60 hotels in Los Angeles County, Orange County and Arizona. In the second segment (approx. minute 29:00), Youssef Kaddeche, transportation commissioner for Irvine City Council member Kathleen Treseder, talks e-bikes in around town; the software and the hardware of it all.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Gershwin Piano Quartet, “An American in Paris;” and Jimmy Scott performing, “Nothing Compares 2 U.”
2023-08-0156 minKUCI: Ask A Leader”Avenue Q” AND. ”La Havana Madrid”Today's guests are theater people with The Wayward Artist and the South Coast Rep, with plays we can all see in the next couple of weeks right here in the OC. We’ll begin with Craig Tyrl, Artistic Director of The Wayward Artist to talk about "Avenue Q," which runs until this Sunday, July 30th at the Grand Central Art Center in Santa Ana. Details are available at: https://www.thewaywardartist.org/avenue-q.
In the second segment (approx min 20:20) playwright, actor, and singer Sandra Delgado talks about how she built her own immersive experience of a play "La Havana Madrid" wh...
2023-07-2553 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderFriendship Park Along the Mexican and US BorderAlong the US Mexican Border is one particular segment; reflecting on the software and the hardware on that *space* is Ricardo Arana Camarena, the director of the food justice project “Cultiva ya!” and co-creator of the community garden project around the binational garden of native plants on the Mexican side of Friendship Park. It’s hot alright on planet earth; and conditions along that slice of the border no less so. It’s a special part of the border, unlike no other; a mere 105 miles from this station.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; El Santo Golpe, “La C...
2023-07-1851 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderGoonesinghe ContinuationDr. Goonesinghe had just a bit more to say about the daily gratitude journal practice.
2023-07-1102 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderBe My Best Movement: Connecting Mind and BodyDr. Iresha Goonesinghe, specializing in Cardiology and Internal Medicine, with a former private practice in Ridgecrest, CA, speaks as CEO at Compassionate Doctors. With her remarkable blend of life-long individual practice of meditation and clinical grounding, Dr. Goonesinghe’s work has always been focused on root causes in medical situations. She previously launched a couple of blogs: PeoplePower77.Blogspot.com and UnitingTheUSA.blogspot.com, most recently she’s here for us with Compassionate Doctors in CA, focusing on Helping Hand not for profit work and Vipassana Meditation. We’ll revisit together some of what she brought in May 2017, and see what t...
2023-07-1156 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderOrdeal: extended portionThis is an extension to Jackie's interview; two observations about the impact of civic engagement on policy and word choices for refugees.
2023-07-0402 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderThe Ordeal of Resettling in the US and the OCJackie Menter, founder and executive director of the Orange County Jewish Coalition for Refugees, picks up where we left on her last appearance on 6/13. She starts with what we were treated to on the June 20 World Refugee Day Open House held at the nearby Merage Jewish Community Center in their Holocaust Memorial Garden; then plot the complicated immigration infrastructure that is being restored in the Biden administration; then she'll conclude with some assignments for how listeners to get involved.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Charlie Haden-Liberation Music Orchestra, “America The Beautiful,” Not in Our Name - album.
2023-07-0458 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderHomophobia Broadly Speaking - Starting with UgandaFor the full hour are human rights activist and veteran journalist Colin Stewart - and writer, actor journalist Rob Salerno who cover the scope and background of the Anti-Homosexuality Law of 2023 adopted in Uganda May 30th this year after many years of proposals, and then draw actual connections from Orange County. An essential guide toward following trends and specific cases, offering useful tools is: https://76crimes.com/
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Dobet Gnahoré, "Dala,” Na Afriki – album.
2023-06-2748 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderUnited Ukrainian Ballet Co Brings ”Giselle” to Segerstrom HallToday my guests are: Alexis Tutunnique and Elizaveta Gogidze, both principal dancers with the United Ukrainian Ballet Company, an assemblage of refugee dancers from all over Ukraine, who will perform at our Segerstrom Hall, 6/29-7/2nd, in Alexei Ratmansky’s version of the ghost story “Giselle, with surprising nuances and a hopeful ending in place of the usual bleak one. They’ve performed in the Netherlands, the UK, Singapore, Australia and the US; we are fortunate to have them in our neighborhood. We’ll hear what these artists are doing, what’s on their minds. Details for tickets and times are availa...
2023-06-2048 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderDiverse Voices in Happily Ever Aftersville AND June 20 World Refugee Day Open HouseWe open with Melissa Saavedra Gill, founder and CEO of Steamy Lit, prior to the book convention (August 18-19) in Anaheim celebrating diversity in romance and the romance genre. Representation, relevance, and agency all are on the menu.
In the second segment (minute approx. minute 35:23), Jackie Mentor with OC Jewish Coalition for Refugees will return in advance of her organization’s June 20 World Refugee Day Open House, to which the public is most welcome. Please rsvp to: https://tinyurl.com/WRDRSVP.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Buena Vista Social Club, Lorena, "Chan Chan,” Buena Vista Social C...
2023-06-1352 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderBandwidth: Guard it Like Your Life Depends On ItGloria Mark, UCI Professor of Informatics, gets the full hour to talk about her latest book "Attention Span: A Groundbreaking Way to Restore Balance, Happiness and Productivity." It’s published by Hanover Square Press. Luckily there’s a few people left with long enough attention spans to write about it, so we can have a little agency to regain, shore up the decline of this capacity, and achieve some balance. Copies are available at her website gloriamark.com, or your favorite independent book dealer - eventually and hopefully at the campus’ The Hill.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - a...
2023-06-0655 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderVeterans Reprised - Their Stories Stay With UsFor this 2023 Memorial Day edition, my guests return in these reprised interviews, with emphasis on prize. The first is a segment of my longer interview with Air Force veteran Don Fisher who served during WWII. In his later years, Don understood the value he had as a relic of that war period, considering his experience in training, serving, and surviving those years, so he began offering his stories to the National Archive, and later shared on “Ask A Leader.” The full program is available on the 10/09/2010 episode at: https://askaleader.com/?p=826. Don Fisher died in October 2015 at the age of 9...
2023-05-3049 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderIrvine City Council Transitioning to Districts - Your Definitive GuideFinally, Irvine, the largest city in California to have at-large city council members, is transitioning toward creating distinct city council districts from which the candidates would run. The City will also add 2 seats to the City Council. Our guide to this process for the full hour is demographer Justin Levitt, retained by Irvine’s City Council. He lays out the process under way, wherein the City of Irvine is drawing these 6 council districts for the voters’ approval on the Spring 2024 Primary election ballot. The November 2024 general election vote would include voters in 4 of those districts. Residents of Irvine are welcome to p...
2023-05-2349 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderAn Engineer and a Chemist Close This Round at the BuffetThis is a continuation of Mark and A.J.'s discussion of nuclear power, including an industrial application of a closed loop system.
2023-05-1615 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderAn Engineer and a Chemist Walk Up to the Energy BuffetTaking the heat down a few notches are today’s guests: Mark Nelson, engineer and founder and managing director of Radiant Energy Group; and A. J. Shaka, UCI chemistry professor and director of the UCI Nuclear Reactor Facility. We go local and zoom out to international cases with their consideration of the viability of nuclear power in the energy mix, with the goal of reducing greenhouse gases overall. An extension of this interview is posted on this same day.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Terry Riley, “A Rainbow in Curved Air.”
2023-05-1651 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderRefinery Workers Amidst Fossil Fuel Conversions AND ”avaaz” World Premier at SCRVirginia Parks, UCI professor of Urban Planning and Public Policy and director of UCI's Labor Center presents her recent findings on how the closure of a Marathon refinery affected its displaced workers; a story of the challenge in transitioning to renewable. The full report is available at the U.C. Berkeley Labor Center.
In the second segment (approx minute 36), we continue coverage of South Coast Rep after their completion of last week's Pacific Playwrights Festival, with playwright and performer Michael Shayan. He brings phenomenal story-telling in his world premiere of avaaz, running now through May 27 at the Segerstrom Stage in...
2023-05-0952 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderOCCORD’s Grassroots Menu And South Coast Rep Celebrates Their 25th Annual Pacific Playwrights FestivalBack in full swing, in their new Santa Ana location, is Orange County Communities Organized for Responsible Development with a whole roster of community activation building leaders, supporting labor, and guiding prospective citizens - all this under the helm of their executive director Ely Flores. Find out what's the next event on their roster at: https://www.occord.org/. or call 714-621-0919 et 6. The National Day of Action will be celebrated this week 5-4-23.
In the second segment (approx. minute 34:26) is Andy Knight, co-director of the South Coast Repertory’s 25th Annual Pacific Playwrights Festival, underway through May 7. SC...
2023-05-0248 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderFamilies Forward Transitions Past the Pandemic AND Great American Write-In RebootsWomen For: Orange County Board member Felicity Figueroa muses with us about the much treasured, the annual Great American Write-In returning to the community after a three-year hiatus. The public is welcome to attend on May 6th 9:30 a.m. -1:30 p.m. at the Delhi Community Center at 505 East Central Ave. in Santa Ana. Reservations on evite are recommended: http://www.womenfororangecounty.org/.
In the second segment (approximately minute 26), Families Forward CEO Madelynn Hirneise returns with the challenges, changes, and expansions of their operations to serve families around Orange County. They are a part of “Help Them Home,” a giving day...
2023-04-2550 minKUCI: Ask A Leader”In the Green” Extended TakesAnna had more to say about how "In the Green" performances are going so far. She lifts up the curtain a bit about the crew and the audience reception.
2023-04-1803 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderCompassion and Choices for Non-residentsStephanie and Susan had a tab more to say; in this extension they talk about the residential requirements for people to travel to other states for more end of life options than are available in the states where they reside.
2023-04-1801 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderMore Compassion More Choices AND ”in the Green” at WaywardStephanie Campbell and Susan Johnston, of Compassion and Choices, track CA and federal legislation and judicial rulings that affect bodily autonomy around needed end of life options. Details for following up with the rich trove of resources that their organization produces are available at: https://www.compassionandchoices.org/.
Also, we hear from Anna Miles, director of a Wayward Artist production entitled, “In the Green,” by playwright Grace McLean who hails from Santa Ana. The show opened last Friday and continues through April 30th. Stephanie Campbell and Susan Johnston active in Compassion and Choices and moving legislation in a and tracking ruli...
2023-04-1856 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderPublic Goods and Liabilities on Irvine City Council Roster AND Are The Kids Alright?Irvine Planning Commission Chairwoman Branda Lin, covers City Council items currently under consideration: the city’s proposed acquisition of the All American Asphalt plant, Live Nation’s amphitheater prospects, USA Water Polo, municipal districts, and more. In the second segment (minute 36:30), Melyssa Zive offers insight about adolescent mental health in her capacity as Program Director for ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Center recently opened in Tustin, California.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; The Black Market Trust, “Minor Swing,” Folk Songs – album; and Odetta, “This Little Light of Mine.”
2023-04-1154 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderEnergy Choices Driving Climate in Irvine and Orange CountyAyn Craciun, Orange County Policy Advocate with the Climate Action Campaign brings you energy in three parts: the City of Irvine’s newly adopted electrification ordinance, the Climate Action plans, and the Orange County Power Authority.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Ann Callaway, “Thoughts and Prayers.”
2023-04-0445 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderABT brings ”Like Water for Chocolate” to Segerstrom Hall AND Sisters Ann and Liz Callaway Bring Song to the Samueli TheaterToday’s program is fine art all the way, offered locally. The first focus was on Susan Jaffe, who due to a string of technical calamities, was unable to speak on the program. Of interest was her career as premier dancer, choreographer, now the new artistic director of American Ballet Theater on the eve of the upcoming North American premiere of Like Water for Chocolate staged at Segerstrom Hall March 29 - April 2, the production of which is based on the novel by Laura Esquivel.
In the second segment (minute 10:54) we’re treated to Liz Callaway, who spoke about her shared care...
2023-03-2825 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderMeet Our New Board Member of Municipal Water District of Orange CountyRandall Crane talks in his capacity as the recently elected Director of Div. 5 at Municipal Water District of Orange County, about all the water issues that we can hit him up with, since folks the drought is NOT over. The next monthly So Cal Water Dialogues, presented by the Metropolitan Water District is tomorrow, 3-22, noon - 1:30, details are available at: https://www.socalwaterdialogue.org/
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Bill Beach, “Agua de Beber,” Letting Go – album.
2023-03-2150 minKUCI: Ask A Leader”Voicing My Choices” Giving Agency to Adolescents and Young AdultsDr. Lori Wiener from the National Institute of Health; and oncologist Dr. Jamie Ferdiani and clinical coordinator Kirsten Kapser, both from the Children’s Hospital of Orange County, are our guests for the full hour. They are building an important document, “Voicing My Choices,” a guide for seriously or terminally ill adolescents and young adults toward expressing how they want to be comforted, supported, treated and remembered.
Music credits: Chimora, "Africano Americano," Sounds of Africa - album; Keith Jarrett, "Blossom," La Fenice - album.
2023-03-1451 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderQuality Aging In Our WorldFor the full hour is Kate Abate; Gerontologist, Olympian Athlete, Healthspan Implementation Research & Development. As a gerontologist she offers insight about elder abuse under our very noses; along the continuum, from intentional to not so intentional. Together we slogged through an unwieldy and useful conversation about our elders as we collectively strive for better aging outcomes, or just plain better aging scenarios. A short reading list of Kate's recommendations includes: Louise Aaronson, "Elderhood: Redefining Aging, Transforming Medicine, Reimagining Life," "Atul Gawande, "On Being MOrtal," and Chip Conley, "Wisdom at Work," and the eldercarelocater: https://eldercare.acl.gov/Public/Index.aspx.
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2023-03-0748 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderBonus DialogueThis is a bonus segment wherein Pauli and Adam share their craft of writing; it's 9 minutes.
2023-02-2809 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderPower, Truth, and Joy in Dialogue - Pauline Merry and Adam SmyerLocal activist, artist, and retired higher education administrator Pauline Merry, and Oakland attorney and writer Adam Smyer return to the show - this time on the same program, for a dialogue on the arc of progress in the lives of Black Americans.
Music credits: Chimora, "Africano Americano," Sounds of Africa - album; Corcoran Holt, "14th Street Bounce," The Mecca - album
2023-02-2850 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderGreat Park Amphitheater Stakes AND Law School Enviro Clinic Clothing SwapAll hands on deck with today’s time-sensitive coverage. Doug Elliott with Irvine Watchdog, examines how Live Nation isn’t just wielding their anti-trust might around the country, but performing their own power dynamic inside the Great Park. Tonight, February 21st, 6:30 p.m. Irvine City Council’s special meeting to consider the new terms Live Nation has proposed for the amphitheater.
In the second segment (minute 31:21)UCI Law student Bonggeul (Edward) Joo covers the Environmental Law Clinic's mobilizing to reduce the harmful impact of fast fashion on the planet, including the collecting used clothing and hosting the ELC Thrift Swap event...
2023-02-2143 minKUCI: Ask A Leader“Fish Dreams; A Mother’s Journey From Curing Her Son’s Autism to Loving Him as He Is”For the full hour is social entrepreneur, artist, and advocate Irma Velasquez, bringing her recently released a book about raising her son Aaro. The title is “Fish Dreams; A Mother’s Journey From Curing Her Son’s Autism to Loving Him as He Is,” and it's published by Deep Living Lab.
Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Omar Sosa, “Escucho,” A New Life – album.
2023-02-1443 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderThe Science of R e a d i n gWe devote the full hour to Young-Suk Kim, professor and Senior Associate Dean at UCI’s School of Education. She’s been involved at the forefront of literacy legislation in California, bringing her decades of experience and research on the science of reading. She considers the multi-dimensional cognitive and social processes involved between the reader, the household, the educator, and the environment.
Music credits: Lambarena (Hughes de Courson and Pierre Akendengué), “Agnus Dei,”Bach to Africa - album; Sesame Street Workshop, “Let’s Read A Book.”
2023-02-0753 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderExtended Beall Center Talk; Focus on ArtistsThis 20 minute segment of the interview with Tina Rivers Ryan and Paul Vanouse features three of the seventeen artists whose work is on display at the Beall Center for Art and Technology: Keith Piper, The Mongrel Project, and Hasan Elahi.
2023-01-3120 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderCutting Edge Climate Science AND Edgy Digital ArtLots happening around the UCI campus - from forging ahead researching climate change to exhibiting provocative contemporary art. In the first segment earth system scientists: professor Keith Moore and researcher Yi Liu, will talk about their deeply concerning findings on climate changes’ impacts on ocean currents, recently published in Nature Climate Change.
In the second segment (minute 31:29), co-curators Tina Rivers Ryan and Paul Vanouse, present their brand new installation at UCI’s Beall Center for Art + Technology, “Difference Machines: Technology & Identity in Contemporary Art.” The exhibit will remain through April 29th. Details at: https://beallcenter.uci.edu/. An additional, separate segment...
2023-01-3150 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderFreeing Up CA Water Brain Trust AND ”Growing Up in the Ville in St. Louis, MO”Today our guests run the gamut of water policy to Black community. We start with Max Gomberg, formerly staff to the CA State Water Quality Resources Control Board, now independent consultant on water affordability and resilience. With his decades of experience in water management, his seasoned takes we fly at roughly 50,000 feet, considering the consequential water policy decisions being made on all levels of government.
In the second segment (minute 30:00) local activist and retired higher education administrator Pauline Merry brings her new autobiography, Growing Up in the Ville, in St Louis Missouri, recently released by Great Tales Told Well Publishing...
2023-01-2444 minKUCI: Ask A Leader”Motherland” Speaking Truth$ to PetroVic Gerami, editor and publisher of the Blunt Post, as well as host/producer of the “Blunt Post with Vic” on Radio KPFK,” speaks about his recently released documentary, "Motherland" an award-winning documentary feature film about Azerbaijan’s, Turkey’s attack on Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) in 2020 and the massacre of 5,000+ people. In his film he details his travels to Armenia several times last year, where he interviews elected officials, eyewitnesses, veterans, refugees, and journalists for the film. That act of aggression, is part of campaign that has associations with our Irvine Mayor, which listeners have heard raised before on this show. The film w...
2023-01-1744 minKUCI: Ask A Leader”Pandemic Politics: The Deadly Toll of Partisanship in the Age of Covid”No, we’re not done with the Covid pandemic - Covid is not done with us. It’s quite instructive to do examine a comprehensive list of parts in the politics of the pandemic, like before the next pandemic or crisis ensues. Sara Wallace Goodman, UCI political science professor talks about her new book out entitled, "Pandemic Politics: The Deadly Toll of Partisanship in the Age of Covid; How the politicization of the pandemic endangers our lives-and our democracy," co-written with Shana Kushner Gadarian and Thomas Pepinsky, published by Princeton University Press. Sara Goodman’s team was the first to collec...
2023-01-1050 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderLive To Pay Another Electricity BillFor the whole hour are: Esperanza Veilma, executive director of Environmental Justice Coalition for Water, Dave Rosenfeld, of the Solar Rights Alliance, each bringing useful insights about trends and policies pertaining to electricity distribution. The recent CA Public Utility Commission's recent ruling has set deadlines for grandfathering solar rooftop panels by 4/14/23. As we continue covering this utility sector, OCPA included, listeners can follow the developments with: https://ceeetruth.org/ and https://solarrights.org/.
Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; and Hunrosa, “Ransome” Ransome -EP.
2023-01-0346 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderArtistic Treasures At Year’s EndAs we close out this year together, a treat from two performing arts artistic directors. First, the retiring artistic director of America Ballet Theater, Kevin McKenzie offers the long view of his 30 years leading that internationally acclaimed dance company.
In the second segment (minute 29:08), South Coast Repertory artistic director David Ivers reflects on coming back full throttle in this season, and offers early next year’s “Voices of America;” two plays in conversation with each other - Little Foxes and Appropriate.
Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Carlos Simon “Amen;" The Scott Oakley Trio, "Greensleeves,” Jazz for the Holidays -
2022-12-2745 minKUCI: Ask A LeaderCleaning Rooms in Irvine’s InnsThis close to the lore of Mary and Joseph looking for room at any inn, today we look at how workers are faring as they keep clean our nearby inns. For the whole program the guests are: Austin Lynch, director and negotiator at Unite Here Local 11; and Maria Balderas, union member and rank and file leader, working at the Irvine Hilton give us a look at working conditions for hotel staff as well as Irvine’s recently adopted workers protection ordinance, the first of its kind in Orange County. For those Irvine voters, who have signed the petition circulating to re...
2022-12-2050 min