Hi there –

It’s Arnie Seipel here, the content chief at KCRW. A big part of my job is paying close attention to the news. It’s something I’ve done day in and day out as a journalist for 20 years. It gets just as overwhelming for me as it does for you.

The thing that I find most helpful to process all of this istalking to friends and colleagues who I trust, people who are paying attention, too, and processing what’s happening along with me.

In other words, it’s community.

I’m expanding that community of people with whom I process what’s happening in the world. I’ve started a weekly newsletter, KCRW’s Steady State, where I draw on my experience covering politics at NPR prior to joining KCRW, as well as the weekly conversations I have about the news with my friends in the know.

I’ll share my analysis of political stories, focusing on the moments that are most worth your attention, with thoughts and context to keep you grounded. Sometimes it may boil down to confirming for you that, “No, it’s not just you. This thing that’s happening actually makes no sense.” (How often do we yell this to ourselves in our cars? 😂) Yes, the stakes are high and politics are heavy, but this newsletter won’t be a slog — I plan to approach each week with whatever levity I can muster.

So, join me on this journey as we wade through the chaos that is modern politics TOGETHER. Subscribe to KCRW’s Steady State, read it, and connect with me.

- Arnie

P.S. Check out the latest issue of KCRW’s Steady State where I review the Supreme Court’s tariff ruling that scorches just about everyone around the supreme lunch table.

Ms. Pat: Can Laughter Save Democracy?

Comedian and actor Ms. Pat doesn’t shy away from confronting the realities of the world we live in. She’s the creator of the acclaimed sitcom The Ms. Pat Show, a series known for blending laugh-track comedy with storylines about racism, sexual assault, and immigration. In a recent episode, Ms. Pat’s family helps a young boy hide from ICE agents — a storyline that highlights her sharp ability to use humor as a vehicle to explore painful truths. In her conversation with Sam Sanders, Ms. Pat opens up about the pushback she received over the episode and explains why she refuses to be silenced.

Pedantic and Defensive: Zuckerberg Takes the Stand

Do you think social media can be clinically addictive? Mark Zuckerberg is doing everything he can to avoid confronting the complexity of that question. For years, Section 230 has protected Zuckerberg and other tech companies from liability for content posted on their platforms. But what if those platforms were designed to addict minors? That may not be protected. Read on to learn more about Zuckerberg’s testimony and the arguments Meta is using in its defense.

Celebrate Lunar New Year with Rice Cakes 

With the arrival of Lunar New Year, Good Food host Evan Kleiman is spotlighting a delicious staple: rice cakes. Found in both Korean and Chinese cuisines, rice cakes vary in shape, texture, and preparation — but they’re always 100% delicious. From their satisfying chew to their rich, savory flavors, they’re a celebration on a plate. Read on for a collection of lovely rice cake recipes. And if you’re not in the mood to cook, Evan also shares a list of LA restaurants serving their own delectable versions.

Art Fairs Invade LA: An Insider’s Guide to Getting Around

KCRW’s resident art expert, Carolina A. Miranda, has done some heavy lifting for all things Frieze Week, highlighting all the art fairs, exhibitions, and shows in and around LA, explaining how each of them will appeal to casual fans and connoisseurs. Plus, she’s assembled a “handy Google map, which includes more gallery listings, as well as places to eat, drink, AND get your fortune told.” If you want more insider tips on art in LA, be sure to subscribe to Carolina’s weekly Art Insider newsletter.

Prince Andrew Arrested. Will The Epstein Files Take Down Others?

The fallout from the millions of pages released in the Epstein files has now reached the British royal family with the arrest of former Prince Andrew. In business and academia, several major figures have stepped down. However, American politicians named in the files have faced few consequences. Why is that, and what are the larger political implications of the Epstein files? Listen to this Left, Right, and Center episode for the full breakdown.