Hi,

To all of you who joined us in the recent Fight for the Next Chapter of KCRW fundraiser... 

Whether you donated for the first time, recommitted as a monthly member, upped your donation, or helped spread the word, you are essential to keeping your community informed and engaged. Here's one of my favorite comments we received: 

After listening for 17 years, I’m proud to finally be a contributor - Cierra (Simi Valley)

17 years? You were well worth the wait. Happy to have been here for you all this time! 

Here are a few more: 

Instead of stewing in my frustration with government cuts, I gotta say that I finally have the opportunity to add to my membership and put my money where my mouth is. Fighting hard for public radio. You speak my heart and mind, KCRW! #KCRWGrooves ! - James & Christophe (Cathedral City)

Donation in honor of my friend Emily! Though we both live in TN, we love your music! Thanks you for all the beautiful work. Especially morning becomes electric. My happy place. - Eileen (Joelton, Tennessee)

KCRW, you’re more than a station—you’re a lifeline. In a world where truth and creativity are too often under threat, your music, fact-based news, and inspiring voices give LA the clarity, joy, and community we need. We need you now more than ever. Thank you for standing strong and reminding us what freedom of expression really sounds like.  - Kate (Venice)

I KCRW!! We need public logical voices to continue reporting in an ethical manner. Keep fact checking and keep it down to earth! These hard times are demoralizing. Your stories of hope and resilience are always appreciated - Polly (Aliso Viejo)

We're better together, para seimpre! 

Your KCRW Insider
Connie Alvarez

P.S. It's never too late to show your support for free and independent media (plus grab some cool merch!). 

Can Satire Save Democracy? w/The Onion CEO Ben Collins

The Onion is the epitome of satire, yet it’s tapped into a special way that people want to consume their news. While it leans into absurdity and hyperbole, it still manages to provide commentary on topical news. Sam chats with CEO Ben Collins about how The Onion is defying expectations, renewing its print publication, and its new mockumentary, Jeffrey Epstein: Bad Pedophile.

Question Everything is a Signal Award Finalist in Three Categories — Vote Today!

Brian’s been busy launching the second season of Question Everything. So busy, he almost forgot to mention that a few episodes from his show are finalists in three categories of The Signal Awards. It’s the people’s choice, so your vote counts. He shares the steps on how to vote, so if you’re a fan, get in there and vote. And if you’re not a fan yet, his podcast should be next in your queue. 

The Consumption of Insects

Insects are eaten by billions of people all around the globe. Chapulínes (grasshoppers) are among hundreds of insects that are eaten in Mexico. They may not be everyone's go-to snack, but it’s a common food that drives economies among those who consume it. Evan Kleiman talks with Jeffrey H. Cohen about eating insects and the women who sell them.

Bob Ross Paintings Auctioned to Help Public TV

Did you ever want to hang a Bob Ross painting on your wall? They’re hard to come by because they were made for teaching — to make art accessible for all — and not so much for selling. Now, in the wake of the CPB federal funding cuts, the nonprofit syndicator American Public Television (APT) is auctioning off 30 of Ross' paintings to raise money for public broadcasters.

Mix Brains and Beaches at TEDx Manhattan Beach

Head to Manhattan Beach for a sun-kissed spin on inspiration. TEDx has a full day of eye-opening talks and a buzzing outdoor expo where you can converse with the curious and munch on imagination. The lineup is set to spark fresh thoughts and new perspectives, and KCRW has you covered with a sweet promo code for Early Bird Gold and Regular Gold Tickets. Use KCRW25 at checkout to get $15 off.