Hello,

I’m sitting in a cozy overstuffed chair with a warm light casting just the right glow on the book I’ve been relishing. My pajamas are fuzzy, my favorite tea is next to me, and I’m wearing the silliest nightcap. Go ahead and rain, I say!

Okay, no. That’s Sleepytime Bear, whose identity I’m trying to inhabit. Speaking of inhabiting, my mom once caught 6-year-old me trying to dive into a book — with hands together in dive position and everything (one day I’ll tell you why... and the book was The Phantom Tollbooth). She didn’t even try to stop me. She knew reality would do a better job at it. Lessons, lessons everywhere! 

I think I’ve always been a dreamer and a wannabe wanderer. I’ve had and still have a wild imagination. I can almost bet you do, too. Of course I’m going to say it’s because you’re a KCRW listener. And as a listener, check out the last box of this newsletter. You still have about an hour to maybe wander the world with up to three more buddies.  

Now, how am I actually awaiting the deluge we’re all bracing for? I’m Beautiful Mind-ing the calculations for the right leaving-earlier to driving-slower ratio that will still give me a few more winks tomorrow morning. Isn’t that just life in LA, rain or shine?

Be safe, stay dry. 

Connie Alvarez

Your KCRW Insider since 2001

P.S. Raise your hand if you had an imaginary friend! (And what was their name?)

Why Allergies and Gut Health Are Getting Worse

Allergies are the worst! And despite advances in medicine, allergy sufferers are on the rise. Approximately 30% to 40% of the world's population now reports some kind of allergic reaction. In the recent episode of Life Examined, host Jonathan Bastian explores allergies and gut bacteria, why more of us are afflicted, how we view people with allergies, the change in agriculture and climate that could be contributing factors and much more! If you are affected by seasonal allergies and want to learn some of the science and research going on right now, this story is for you.

What’s the Downside of Going Electric?

Lithium vs. oil? That is the question. Electric cars are so hot right now, but is the impact of extracting lithium (for car batteries) from the earth better or worse than extracting oil? Is lithium the best option for long-term environmental goals? Well, right now...yes, lithium is better than oil in an overall sense, but it’s a complex topic with variables in the method of extraction and the ecosystems where it’s being extracted. Not all extraction types are made equal. These factors, and how they measure up to oil extraction, are discussed by Caleigh and Candice in this 14-minute listen.

The Fight for the Right to Repair

There’s a right-to-repair movement brewing in America. Repair costs can get pricey when the original manufacturer is the only game in town and several states have passed laws giving consumers the ability to repair their products themselves or via third-party businesses. These laws can increase competition, lower prices, and make it easier to get your devices and machines fixed. While it may seem like a simple idea that you should be able to repair the product you own as you see fit, there are implications for safety, intellectual property, and environmental controls to take into account. Lawyers are citing these reasons in the courts, highlighting the nuance needed in the law based on the industry or product in question.

How Are You Making It? 

Living in Lo$ Angele$ isn’t getting any cheaper, that’s for sure. So what are you all doing to make ends meet? This is an all too real question we’re asking you, and you can submit your answer and insight to KCRW. What do you do for a living? Are you an employee or your own boss? How do you feel when you get paid — rewarded, relieved, or queasy? What did it take to get a comfortable spot financially? Is that even possible? Share your thoughts and we might reach out for an upcoming KCRW story. 

Last Chance for Southwest Jetset Sweepstakes

It’s the wee hours of January 31st, marking your final moments to enter the Southwest Jetset Sweepstakes for a chance to win airfare for yourself and up to three guests to any destination Southwest Airlines flies. If you’re a monthly member, you’re already entered to win, but for those Insider readers out there who are not monthly sustainers, your donation (join, renewal, additional gift) enters you into the sweepstakes! Not only does your donation support KCRW but you could also be surprised with an unexpected travel opportunity. If any of Southwest’s international destinations (Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean) are on your bucket list, this could be your chance!

"KCRW is a sanctuary for me. There’s a program and host for every moment of the day and night. You are a constant source of fuel for my imagination, education, and good vibes. Thank you!"
– Elaine (Redondo Beach)

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