Best Rural Organizing Project Podcasts (2026)

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Residents Look Back At The Devastating Los Angeles County Wildfires 10:22

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8h ago10:22

10:22

One year ago today, two fires erupted in Los Angeles County. The Palisades and Eaton fires would eventually become two of the most destructive and deadly fires in state history. Thousands of homes were destroyed and 31 people were killed. The rebuilding process has been slow in both Altadena and Pacific Palisades, the communities most greatly impac…

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217 Today: Five candidates seeking to represent central Illinois in Congress, including incumbent Nikki Budzinski

5h ago

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In today’s deep dive, five candidates are seeking to represent central Illinois in Congress, including incumbent Nikki Budzinski.By The 217 Today Podcast

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Privacy Advocates Have Growing Concerns Over Use Of Automated License-Plate Readers 10:30

20h ago10:30

10:30

The debate over automated license plate readers in California has increasingly shifted from local crime fighting to concerns about data privacy…. when it comes to federal crackdowns on immigration and people seeking abortions or gender-related healthcare. ALPRs are now in use in hundreds of law enforcement agencies across the state, not to mention …

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217 Today: How a preservation project is saving wetlands in the Midwest

3h ago

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In today’s deep dive, a wetland preservation project continues, despite the shrinking number of wetlands in the Midwest.By The 217 Today Podcast

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New Laws Aim To Ease Housing Crunch In California 10:33

15h ago10:33

10:33

2025 was a blockbuster year for housing in California. State lawmakers took aim at the state's landmark environmental law, which they argued was one of the main culprits blocking development for years. In 2025, they approved major reforms. They also passed another law which promises to dramatically change how housing is built near train stations an…

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Teachers Re-Energized By New Transitional Kindergarten Classes 10:47

5d ago10:47

10:47

All 4-year olds in California can now go to school for free in a grade called transitional kindergarten, or TK. And to lead those classrooms, the state needs teachers with special training. A lot of teachers. So what does it take to do the job? Reporter: Julia Barajas, LAist A new project in San Diego is gathering stories of government persecution …

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Bird Flu Changes How County Fairs Live Chicken Shows 10:45

6d ago10:45

10:45

The fall bird migration in California typically peaks from September through November. And this past year, scientists discovered a new wave of avian influenza - or bird flu. Two farms in Sonoma County fought new outbreaks. State officials have been taking steps to mitigate the spread of infection, since major outbreaks were seen in dairy herds in A…

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Hispanic-Serving Institutions Face Challenges With Federal Funding Cuts 10:28

7d ago10:28

10:28

California is home to the largest number of Hispanic-serving institutions in the country. That’s a federal program that allows colleges and universities to apply for federal grants if at least a quarter of their students identify as Hispanic. Earlier this year, The Trump administration cut funding for the program, which has helped serve many Latino…

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CA Project Makes Thousands Of Rare Songs Available To The Public 10:33

8d ago10:33

10:33

Thousands of old and rare recordings - some that date back a full century, are now available for the public to enjoy online. That’s thanks to a collaboration between UC Santa Barbara and record company Dust-to-Digital. Reporter: Robert Garrova, LAist Mountain lions, foxes, hawks and dozens of other species are dying at an alarming rate from rat poi…

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Traditional Knowledge Meets Science in Northern California Tribe's Environmental Planning 10:40

9d ago10:40

10:40

The Karuk Tribe in Northern California is crafting an environmental policy that unites traditional knowledge with more contemporary environmental sciences--pushing back against years of bias dismissing tribal knowledge of the Karuk's ancestral lands. A federal judge in the Bay Area has halted ICE from making arrests at immigration courthouses in th…

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SF Self-Defense Class Helps Transgender Community Build Bonds 10:39

12d ago10:39

10:39

In San Francisco, advocates for transgender people are trying to beef up protections for their community, in the face of anti-trans policies from the Trump administration. This work isn’t just about legal threats, but also fears of physical violence. Reporter: Bianca Taylor, KQED A new analysis warns the Colorado River could fall to dangerously low…

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Cricket Makes Its Way To The Central Valley 10:38

13d ago10:38

10:38

When you drive or walk past a public park, one of the sounds you’ll likely hear is the thwack of a bat before seeing a ball flying through the air. But at some parks in Fresno, these aren’t due to that all-American sport you may be thinking of. Reporter: Israel Cardona Hernandez, KVPR Some mental health clinicians are worried AI is coming for their…

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Farmworkers Train As Doulas In Santa Cruz County 10:43

14d ago10:43

10:43

Some Mixtec farmworkers in Watsonville have trained as doulas to support other Indigenous women during pregnancy and childbirth. Reporter: Ngozi Cole, KAZU A tribal group in central California is celebrating the return of thousands of acres of land back from the state. Reporter: Cresencio Rodriguez Delgado, KVPR Learn more about your ad choices. Vi…

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217 Today: What’s Happening in Central Illinois Dec. 25 – Dec. 28

13d ago

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In today’s deep dive, we’ll learn about what is coming to the Central Illinois area in the world of arts, culture and entertainment.By The 217 Today Podcast

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A Day In The Life Of Santa 10:38

14d ago10:38

10:38

Christmas is two days away which means Santa Claus is pulling overtime. He’s at the mall taking photos and he’s project managing toy production. This story is all about the work of being Santa. So, if you’re listening with a child who’s expecting a visit from jolly old Saint Nick this year, you may want to turn down the volume. Reporter: Megan Jame…

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217 Today: From ‘Grinchmas’ to chestnut roasts, these rural towns make the holidays central to their economy

16d ago

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In today’s deep dive, some rural towns are known for their holiday festivities. Tourist dollars are a big part of their local economy but getting people to town each year means new events.By The 217 Today Podcast

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Fire Departments Struggle To Meet Demands Of Rural Communities 10:37

16d ago10:37

10:37

In Humboldt County, a rural volunteer fire station is struggling to meet its community’s needs. They’re hoping a state budget allocation to expand Calfire staffing might offer some support, but nothing has materialized yet. Reporter: Katherine Monahan, KQED The Trump administration continues to drastically shrink the immigration courts in Northern …

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217 Today: Ag sector alarm bells are going off

15d ago

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In today’s deep dive, will a new aid package for farmers go far enough? In a year when tariffs have affected sales of Illinois soybeans, there are major warning signs.By The 217 Today Podcast

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Bay Area Christmas Tree Farm Gives Customers A Chance To Cut Down Their Own Tree 10:23

19d ago10:23

10:23

The holiday season brings many traditions for families across California. One that is tried and true - decorating your home with a Christmas tree. While most families buy artificial trees these days, there are still some places in the state where you can not only get a living tree, but even cut it down yourself. Reporter: Keith Mizuguchi, The Calif…

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217 Today: More than a holiday tradition, reindeer are a way of life at the Hardy ranch in Rantoul

18d ago

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In today’s deep dive, what’s the best part of meeting reindeer in real life? According to 10-year-old Bear Taylor — the reindeer kisses.By The 217 Today Podcast

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Fresno Airport Expansion Exemplifies Growing Region 10:46

19d ago10:46

10:46

Fresno Yosemite International Airport may be considered small, but more than 2 million travelers passed through it last year. And the city of Fresno is moving to expand the airport and accommodate a growing customer base for a growing region. In 2023, the airport broke ground on a new terminal. And that terminal opened just in time for Christmas an…

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217 Today: What’s Happening in Central Illinois Dec. 18 – Dec. 21

19d ago

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In today’s deep dive, we’ll learn about what is coming to the Central Illinois area in the world of arts, culture and entertainment.By The 217 Today Podcast

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Sikh Truck Drivers Have A Second Chance In California 10:35

21d ago10:35

10:35

The Newsom administration confirmed it’s backtracking on a plan to indefinitely revoke thousands of commercial drivers licenses held by immigrants. That’s welcome news to the drivers and their families. Reporter: Farida Jhabvala Romero, KQED As Jewish communities around the globe struggle to comprehend the deadly mass shooting at Australia's Bondi …

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217 Today: New Illinois Farm Bureau president wants to restore communication and credibility for the venerable organization

20d ago

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In today’s deep dive, the Illinois Farm Bureau is ushering in a new leadership, we’ll hear more from Philip Nelson who won the election.By The 217 Today Podcast

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The Trump Admin Has All But Stopped Reuniting Detained Migrant Children With Their Families 10:28

22d ago10:28

10:28

For the last six weeks, children who crossed the US-Mexico border alone have been inexplicably stuck in federal custody at shelters across the country. The Trump administration has stopped releasing these kids to their families and loved ones. It’s not saying why. But sources in the government agency that’s in charge of unaccompanied kids — and law…

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217 Today: With a federal tax credit ending early, installing home solar is about to get more expensive

21d ago

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In today’s deep dive, a federal incentive for homeowner solar is rapidly expiring. Congress voted this summer to eliminate the tax credit at the end of this year. But people in the solar industry remain optimistic.By The 217 Today Podcast

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Community Seafood Program Helps Feed The Hungry In Monterey 10:48

23d ago10:48

10:48

Santa Cruz and Monterey counties largest food banks report a third of residents can’t consistently afford healthy food. And in this rich fishing region, some of the freshest catch is helping fill those empty bellies. Reporter: Katie Brown, KAZU Doctors are petitioning California to prohibit the use of a popular countertop material linked to the dea…

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217 Today: Declining attendance & rising maintenance costs bring an end to a historic church building in Champaign

22d ago

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In today’s deep dive, as church attendance declines in the U.S., some congregations are finding it difficult to maintain their historic buildings.By The 217 Today Podcast

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Ukrainian Woman Freed From ICE Detention 10:38

26d ago10:38

10:38

ICE has released an immigrant from Ukraine who was arrested after her green card interview last week. She says she was held for days inside a federal building in downtown San Diego. Reporter: Kori Suzuki, KPBS We're getting into the cold, wet part of the year, and for many people that means it's time to nestle indoors and stay cozy. But for some, t…

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217 Today: Advocates for Aging Care pushes for solutions as Champaign County faces skilled nursing bed shortage

25d ago

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In today’s deep dive, Champaign County has one of the worst skilled nursing care shortages in the state. It means sometimes, people have to drive hours to see their loved ones.By The 217 Today Podcast

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Catholic Bishops Hold Mass For ICE Detainees In Adelanto 10:16

27d ago10:16

10:16

Catholic bishops from across California held mass at the Adelanto ICE Detention Center near the Mojave Desert on Wednesday. This is part on of an outreach effort to immigrants who have been caught up in the Trump administration's ongoing immigration crackdown here in California. Reporter: Anthony Victoria, KVCR Farmworkers across the country are su…

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217 Today: What’s Happening in Central Illinois Dec. 11 – Dec. 14

27d ago

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In today’s deep dive, we’ll hear what’s coming to the central Illinois area in the world of arts, culture, and entertainment.By The 217 Today Podcast

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Why Aren't There More Condos For Sale In California? 10:48

28d ago10:48

10:48

The condominium used to be a relatively affordable home ownership option in California. But it has almost disappeared from our cities. Why? A new generation of housing activists says California laws have killed the condo, and they want that to change. Reporter: Frances Anderton, KCRW Hundreds of millions of dollars to address homelessness in Califo…

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217 Today: Improved natural gas storage fields will save customers money, Ameren Illinois says

27d ago

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In today’s deep dive, Cold temperatures have already hit the St. Louis region. With that will come increased use of natural gas to heat homes. Ameren Illinois says changes to their local gas storage fields will help save customers money.By The 217 Today Podcast

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National Parks Changing Fee-Free Calendar 10:36

28d ago10:36

10:36

Californians hoping to take advantage of free entry days at national parks will see big changes next year. The Trump administration is removing civil rights holidays and adding President Trump's birthday instead. The move is already prompting backlash from civil rights groups and conservation advocates. International visitors will also face new rul…

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217 Today: Cottonseeds are loaded with protein. Could these seeds become a new food source?

29d ago

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In today's deep dive, cottonseeds could help reduce hunger and add new revenue for farmers. One researcher has been working for decades to make edible seeds a reality.By The 217 Today Podcast

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San Diego Law Enforcement Accessing Private License Plate Readers 10:48

29d ago10:48

10:48

Dozens of cities and law enforcement agencies from around the state are using automated license plate readers. And in some cases, those communities are fighting back, suing to stop their use. In San Diego County, law enforcement agencies are also searching license plate cameras owned by private businesses -- with little oversight.Reporter: Scott Ro…

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217 Today: Champaign’s only low-barrier shelter is at risk of closing. Some guests are worried

29d ago

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In today’s deep dive, the only low-barrier shelter in Champaign-Urbana is at risk of closing. Some guests worry they’ll end up on the streets.By The 217 Today Podcast

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Deported Pomona Man Finally Able To Reunite With His Dog 10:38

1M ago10:38

10:38

A man and his best friend are being reunited in Mexico on Friday, three months after being separated by immigration agents outside a day labor center about an hour east of Los Angeles. Reporter: Anthony Victoria, KVCR The Inspector General for California’s massive prison system says a backlog of investigations into staff misconduct has ballooned to…

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First Of Its Kind Campus In The Works In San Diego County 10:47

1M ago10:47

10:47

After decades of planning and setbacks, officials are laying the groundwork for something that would be the first of its kind in California — a hybrid campus that houses degree programs from multiple universities across San Diego County. Reporter: Kori Suzuki, KPBS California cities cannot choose to disobey the state's immigration sanctuary law. Re…

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217 Today: Transgender people are looking for safer places to live. Some have found a home in central Illinois

1M ago

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In today’s deep dive, the political climate in some states has encouraged hostility towards trans people. It's causing some to leave in search of more affirming communities.By The 217 Today Podcast

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Research Confirms Heavy Metals In Elkhorn Slough After Battery Plant Fire 10:38

1M ago10:38

10:38

Nearly a year after a lithium-ion battery fire in Moss Landing, we're learning the extent of the damage to nearby Elkhorn Slough, a protected marine estuary. Reporter: Elena Neale-Sacks, KAZU California Attorney General Rob Bonta is joining six other state attorneys in calling out buy-now-pay-later lenders, amid concerns that they're putting consum…

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217 Today: Crisis Nursery offers holiday shopping for kids

1M ago

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In today’s deep dive, the Crisis Nursery in Urbana is hosting its annual holiday shop this weekend. We’ll hear about how the children can shop for their loved ones.By The 217 Today Podcast

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Rise In Robot Workers Leads To Debate Over Future Of Workforce 10:47

1M ago10:47

10:47

Robots have come a long way in the last ten years. They can move parts around a warehouse, clean hotel floors, and deliver food. But they’re still rare in everyday life. This could change as businesses look to cut rising costs by hiring fewer people. Reporter: Megan Jamerson, KCRW The search continues for the suspect or suspects who opened fire at …

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217 Today: A native prairie bird lost federal protection. People are still trying to save it on private land

1M ago

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In today’s deep dive, lesser prairie chickens used to roam across the Great Plains by the millions. Now there’s only a few thousand. And they recently lost federal protection.By The 217 Today Podcast

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Immigration Crackdown Changes Everyday Life In California's Farm Towns 10:43

1M ago10:43

10:43

Fear, isolation, uneasiness. Ever since the Trump administration ramped up immigration enforcement efforts, immigrant communities in California have a growing sense of anxiety. One community worried about enforcement is farm workers, where many people's lives have been upended. Guest: Nigel Duara, CalMatters A shooting at a banquet hall in the Cent…

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217 Today: Ebertfest and beyond, how the C-U film sphere moves forward after the loss of a giant

1M ago

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In today’s deep dive, EbertFest organizers announced this fall they won’t be coming back but there’s some discussion of a possible encore.By The 217 Today Podcast

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Watch Duty App Changes Approach To Wildfire Response 10:46

1M ago10:46

10:46

The nonprofit app Watch Duty is revolutionizing how people get information about wildfires and evacuations. And it’s not just residents in vulnerable areas downloading the app — firefighters are using it too.Reporter: Scott Rodd, KPBS People who often eat fish caught in the San Francisco Bay could be consuming unhealthy levels of persistent, danger…

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Modesto Loses Single-A Minor League Team 10:22

1M ago10:22

10:22

Minor league baseball has a rich history in California, going back more than a century. But minor league baseball is changing. Like other professional sports, it has become a big-money game, attracting owners looking to cash in on rising team values. One Central Valley city has witnessed what that big-money game looks like firsthand, losing its lon…

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For Surfers, Santa Cruz Waves Are Priceless 10:16

1M ago10:16

10:16

Santa Cruz County’s surf breaks are free to enjoy, but worth millions. That’s one of the findings in the first report to put a price on the world-renowned surf playground. Reporter: Katie Brown, KAZU Humboldt County recently approved its first green cemetery. The model allows bodies to decompose in a more environmentally friendly way. Reporter: Jan…