Let's Talk New Mexico: Recent Episodes
Megan Kamerick, Nash Jones, Ty Bannerman, Kaveh Mowahed, Yasmin Khan
Weekly public affairs program featuring interviews with policy makers, advocates, elected officials, artists, musicians and other news makers along with live phone calls from listeners.
With New Mexico schools grappling with AI in the classroom, we want to know how YOU feel about the new technology and how it might affect the learning environment.
July is Disability Pride Month, and to mark the occasion we're talking about the state of disability rights and what still needs to be done.
Ranchers face a multitude of challenges, and this year, the New World screwworm is one of them.
Route 66 is a hugely important highway in New Mexico, so let's celebrate its first century!
On this week's show, we talk to several business incubators and entrepreneurs who are part of their programs to hear how they are helping build the small business ecosystem in New Mexico.
On this week's show, we talk to several business incubators and entrepreneurs who are part of their programs to hear how they are helping build the small business ecosystem in New Mexico.
Gut health plays an important role in overall health, but social stigma and taboos constrain conversations about anything at that end of digestion. This week we're breaking through the taboo and discussing all things gut health and emerging research on the gut-brain connection.
This Father's Day, we're talking about the qualities that make a good dad, and how a healthy approach to masculinity can make a difference in mental health for parent and child .
For New Mexico youth, having a trusted adult mentor, like a Big Brother or Big Sister, can lead to better outcomes, like staying away from drugs and alcohol and pursuing higher education. But as mentorship programs face volunteer shortages, some young people are being left without the support they need.
Early voting started this week for the primary elections on June 2nd and this year New Mexicans who are not affiliated with a political party will have the opportunity to participate.
We talk about April's most compelling news stories with the journalists who reported on them.
We're talking all about libraries this week, especially the things that they offer that aren't books. Internet access! Food pantries! Washer and dryer? Yes!
SNAP underwent some big changes last year, and as a result an upcoming deadline is set to lock-out thousands of New Mexicans from food assistance for the next three years.
This week on Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll be checking out the Job Corps program, as well as similar youth-oriented programs that serve different purposes, like the Rocky Mountain Youth Corps. We’ll speak to youth who are currently enrolled in the programs and those who have graduated to find out how their experience has affected their lives.
A jury in New Mexico has found that social media giant Meta misled consumers about the safety of its platforms and endangering children. The owner of Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp must pay out $375 million dollars in civil penalties.
This week on Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll be examining the housing crisis, looking at how we got to this point, and how our communities can pivot to help make sure New Mexicans can get the housing that they need.
On this episode we talk about the promises and threats from private equity ownership in health care. New Mexico has the highest proportion of private equity- owned hospitals in the country and we’ve been named most at risk of further private equity takeovers. That's why lawmakers recently passed an oversight bill on hospital acquisitions and mergers.
On this episode we talk about the promises and threats from private equity ownership in health care. New Mexico has the highest proportion of private equity- owned hospitals in the country and we’ve been named most at risk of further private equity takeovers. That's why lawmakers recently passed an oversight bill on hospital acquisitions and mergers.
Nationwide schools are facing chronic absenteeism, and it’s even worse in New Mexico which saw the largest increase - of 119% from 2019 to 2023.
In 2018 a New Mexico judge ruled the state was failing to provide a constitutionally sufficient and equitable education to at-risk students. Years laters, the state is still out of compliance with that ruling and the plaintiffs have taken the case back to court.
In previous weeks we’ve explored the effects on our state of federal workforce reductions and likely federal funding cuts to Medicaid. Now prominent organizations like the New Mexico Humanities Council are reeling from cancelled federal grants. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, how will our non-profits endure big losses of federal funding promised by congress?
About a third of New Mexicans depend on medicaid to pay for health care. While our state legislature has signalled support by passing a bill to create a new medicaid trust fund, the United States congress is debating deep cuts to spending, including on medicaid. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, how would federal cuts affect health care in our state?
On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll discuss the power of oil and gas in our statehouse and why legislators may not be willing to change rules for the industry that brings about a third of the state’s total revenue while being the top emitter of greenhouse gases.
We’ll reflect on the end of the 2025 legislative session by talking with journalists who followed all 60 days at the Roundhouse.
New Mexico’s Children, Youth, and Families Department has suffered decades of instability and the agency struggling to protect vulnerable youths. The governor and lawmakers are stressing urgency to address long standing issues, but the legislature has shown a break in trust by significantly cutting the agency’s requested budget. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll discuss legislative efforts for child welfare reform.
Psychedelics are gaining momentum as medicines to treat a variety of conditions such as addiction and PTSD, and New Mexico might become the third state to legalize medical psilocybin — the main ingredient in magic mushrooms.
About 22,000 New Mexicans worked for the federal government last year. Many people are nervous about the ongoing reduction in the federal workforce, but how severely could our state be impacted?
James Beard Foundation recognizes top achievements in the culinary world. This year five New Mexico chefs are semifinalists in the “Best of the Southwest” category and another three local establishments are semifinalists in national categories like “outstanding bakery,” “outstanding professional cocktail service” and “outstanding wine and other beverages program.”
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has called for easing medical malpractice insurance expenses by having the state step in to help cover gaps. Meanwhile a new Senate bill introduced by the only doctor in the legislature takes a different approach to lowering costs. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll discuss how problems with malpractice insurance affect providers in the state and their patients, along with possible policy solutions.
By law, New Mexico utilities must transition to renewable power with benchmarks starting this year. However, with two large solar projects seeking permits, neighboring communities have voiced concerns over safety. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico we’ll discuss proposed solar farms near Santa Fe and Albuquerque. Are you concerned about battery storage for solar energy or their proximity to communities?
Our state legislature is meeting in Santa Fe again - this time through mid-March - to consider the budget, but also lawmakers’ and the governor’s priorities on things like public safety, health care, and the environment. Which issues do you think should be priorities?
On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll explore a controversial proposed power line project through the Caja del Rio that sparked a large push to protect the area and talk to the people who recreate and use the landscape on a daily basis.
KUNM News brought you about 40 episodes of Let’s Talk New Mexico this year on topics ranging from the scarcity of doctors and pharmacies, to wildlife management and the arts economy – and many more that deserve another listen. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll revisit some of the standout discussions of 2024.
More than 12,000 dogs and cats were euthanized in New Mexico last year and shelter resources are strained as fewer people are adopting and more people are surrendering their furry friends. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll discuss animal shelters and rescues, how to support them, and how to better manage our pet population.
New Mexico has an aging population and is now home to more people over the age of 65 than the national average. So, what are seniors doing to stay fulfilled and engaged here, and what services and opportunities exist? On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll discuss what it’s like for seniors living out life's “third act.”
On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we'll discuss if work-life balance is possible in health care and how the well-being of physicians impacts patient care.
On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll explore climate issues as New Mexicans head to the polls in a year full of drought, wildfire, and sweltering heat. How is climate change affecting your vote?
There seems to be never-ending road construction around our state. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll discuss road construction, from funding to planning, and how we can best deal with the associated traffic.
The Indian Citizenship Act of 1924 should have given Native Americans the right to vote, but in New Mexico and other states it took decades more to materialize, and some of the same challenges to Natives voting are still present today. On the next Let's Talk New Mexico we'll discuss barriers to Natives voting and the political power their votes represent.
Statistics show domestic violence is the leading cause of non-fatal injury to women while New Mexico ranks slightly higher than the national average when it comes to intimate partner violence. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll recognize Domestic Violence Awareness Month by discussing efforts to make survivors safer and where help is still needed.
8 million Generation Z folks will be turning 18 in time for this year’s election. Data shows they are more involved in government and politics than baby boomers were in the 1960’s. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico we’ll talk with young voters about what is important to them.
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham is holding a series of town halls on crime around the state after lawmakers rebuffed her call to stiffen some gun penalties and expand who can be involuntarily committed, saying her agenda could do more harm than good. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico we’ll discuss ideas on public safety reform.
This week on Let’s Talk New Mexico we'll discuss what’s driving pharmacy deserts across the country, and the particular issues we face closer to home.
New Mexico has made strides when it comes to protecting patients from surprise medical bills and aggressive debt collectors. But hospitals may still overcharge uninsured patients and those with insurance are still hit with massive bills. On this week’s Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll discuss whether the new protections are working as intended and what steps could further reform medical billing.
New Mexico has a busy performing arts scene, including a renowned opera, a plethora of smaller theater companies, and a performance hall that attracts large touring companies with international hits. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico we’ll discuss the state of theater after the pandemic. Have you gone back to the theater to perform or be entertained? What’s the best way to support the performing arts?
Waiting months for health care appointments is a common experience for New Mexicans, in part because of a lacking health care workforce. On this week’s Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll discuss plans to recruit and retain workers to boost access to quality healthcare.
Last month, New Mexico experienced the hottest June it has ever had with more records expected to be broken going forward. On this episode we’ll discuss some of the extreme consequences heat has on public health in the Southwest.
What is the future of WIPP, which was supposed to be a pilot project, especially with more plutonium pit production planned at Los Alamos National Laboratory? How long will WIPP remain open and will it be expanded? Those are some of the questions advocates have for a town hall that will take place on July 22nd with top officials from the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration and its Office of Environmental Management.
What is the future of WIPP, which was supposed to be a pilot project, especially with more plutonium pit production planned at Los Alamos National Laboratory? How long will WIPP remain open and will it be expanded? Those are some of the questions advocates have for a town hall that will take place on July 22nd with top officials from the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration and its Office of Environmental Management.
It’s high season for the arts in New Mexico with the Folk Art, Spanish and Indian Markets coming to Santa Fe soon, and more statewide – like the Albuquerque area art festivals this fall. But on the next Let’s Talk New Mexico we’ll discuss how the creative industries are vibrant and an economic boon here year round. Are you an artist, performer or supporter of the creative industries?
Statistics show New Mexico is getting safer when it comes to road rage confrontations, however it might not feel like that to drivers. Forbes last year found the state was the third most dangerous for fatal crashes. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico we’ll discuss dangerous and distracted driving. Have you seen more reckless or aggressive drivers lately? Has your phone taken your attention from the road? What measures could curb dangers and distractions?
Thursday morning on Let’s Talk New Mexico, we get the latest on the South Fork and Salt fires forcing evacuations around Ruidoso in southeast New Mexico. Reports Wednesday show the fire growing to 21,000 acres with 1,400 structures burned. Are you trying to connect with friends and family there? Are you looking for ways to help?
Juneteenth, the holiday recognizing the release of the last enslaved people more than a year after the end of the Civil War, is coming up soon. Our communities commemorate the day with parades, conferences, and even yoga in the park. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico we’ll discuss those celebrations and whether the holiday goes far enough to help heal the wounds of slavery. What will you do to recognize Juneteenth?
Juneteenth, the holiday recognizing the release of the last enslaved people more than a year after the end of the Civil War, is coming up soon. Our communities commemorate the day with parades, conferences, and even yoga in the park. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico we’ll discuss those celebrations and whether the holiday goes far enough to help heal the wounds of slavery. What will you do to recognize Juneteenth?
New Mexico is among the most dangerous states for bicycling. Albuquerque, in particular, accounts for about half of those killed while biking in the state– and has ranked among the most dangerous cities in the US to ride a bicycle. Do you bike to work or peddle for miles on the weekends?
The 2024 primary elections are underway with early and absentee voting, but primary election day is Tuesday, June 4 and we’d like to hear from you. Why is voting in primary elections important to you? Do you sit out until general elections or only vote in presidential elections? What kinds of issues or candidates would get you more engaged?
On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we will talk about a unique, one-of-a-kind system meant to offset damage caused by elk and incentivize private land conservation and attempts to reform and properly fund state agencies. We’ll also dive head-first into how the state manages our game and fish.
The state Public Education Department recently mandated public schools to operate for 180 days – that’s a 5 day school week. Districts across the state are pushing back with a lawsuit citing lacking funding and transportation, especially in rural areas. Is the mandate overreaching, or, does it fulfill the state’s obligation to students?
This week on Let’s Talk New Mexico, have you had trouble finding medical care for your pet lately? You’re not alone. There’s a nationwide shortage of veterinarians, especially in rural areas. Meanwhile two-thirds of families now own pets. How do you see the need for more vets playing out in your community? Do you work in a veterinary practice?
Last summer, the U.S. Supreme Court slashed protections of many waterways and wetlands. Their decision left water advocates and experts alarmed over the potential impact on New Mexico’s streams and rivers. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll discuss a new report labeling the state’s rivers as particularly vulnerable.
New Mexico has a diverse population with almost 46,000 students participating in Bilingual programs. The goal is to ensure all students learn English as well as their native language and meet academic standards. However, a legislative report says schools may not be hitting those marks.
James Beard Foundation recognizes greatness in the culinary world. This year six New Mexico chefs are semifinalists in the “Best of the Southwest” category and another four local establishments are semifinalists in national categories like “best new restaurant,” “outstanding bakery,” and “outstanding bar.” The winners will be announced April 3rd.
March marks the annual celebration of Women’s History Month. This year it’s centered on women who advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion. Many New Mexican women paved the way for women today to make their voices heard and make their own history.
Most Americans have little to no savings so even a small emergency can have catastrophic results. Pilot programs in Santa Fe, Albuquerque and Las Cruces are among those nationwide seeking to help some low income families by providing a modest monthly stipend. It’s called a Guaranteed Basic Income. What do you think about giving people money directly?
A recent series by KFF Health News and the New York Times found that roughly 10,000 baby boomers will turn 65 every day until 2030. Most expect to live into their 80s and 90s as the price tag for long-term care explodes, outpacing inflation and reaching a half-trillion dollars a year. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico we’ll speak with one of the reporters who published this series, and we’ll hear from state officials and others on resources available here.
This year’s legislative session has officially come to an end and when it comes to child welfare the session was uneventful. There were several pieces of legislation proposing many solutions, but little saw movement or were deemed not germane. On this week’s Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll discuss what’s next for child welfare in New Mexico.
Gun violence has more than doubled in New Mexico since 2014. Deaths of children in 2023 led to the Governor’s contentious public health order to keep guns out of many public places. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico we’ll discuss gun safety, access, and the proposed new legislation making its way through the legislature.
New Mexico ranks last in the nation in child literacy, with almost 80% of children not proficient in reading by fourth grade. Governor Michelle Lujhan Grisham is pushing lawmakers to make greater investments in literacy.
New Mexico is once again seeing record revenues as lawmakers meet in Santa Fe to create a budget. That’s in large part due to booming oil and gas production. The state is the second-largest oil producer in the country and among the top 10 in natural gas production. But a number of bills in the legislative session would make big changes if they pass.
It’s time for another short legislative session focused on the state budget as New Mexico is seeing historically high revenue, mostly from oil and gas development. Where do you think lawmakers and the governor should be focusing our financial resources?
It’s that time of year when we think of resetting, making plans, maybe even some New Year’s resolutions. But at least one poll found that the average resolution lasts just over three months. So how do we make changes and plans that work for us, that will last past those first heady weeks of a new calendar? This week we'll talk with coaches and trainers about tips for finding what works.
As we wrap up 2023, we will take a look back at the last 12 months with a group of journalists discussing issues like abortion access, education policies, housing affordability and homelessness, climate change, redistricting, and health care.
The outdoor economy is booming in the West, and though New Mexico is a little behind our neighboring states, we are on the same trail. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico we’ll discuss the impacts of a growing outdoor recreation sector, from economics to inclusion and equity.
Earlier this month, the state of New Mexico decided on next steps away from fossil fuels for transportation by approving regulations prioritizing more low-emissions vehicles on the road – including electric vehicles. But, concerns of infrastructure equity for EVs still remain for a state that remains largely rural.
Let’s Talk New Mexico 11/16 8am: Even in New Mexico, we might be thinking about pumpkin flavored everything when fall weather hits, but we’re also lusting after anything with chile, pecan or squash – or maybe a combination of all of them? Have you found creative ways to incorporate local foods into traditional fall dishes?
Your city council likely has more impact on your life than any other government entity, however, survey data shows 3/4s of Americans do not attend public meetings and fewer than 1 in 5 have reached out to local governments in the last year. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico we’ll discuss city councils and we’ll check in on how the recent elections have impacted city councils ideologically, demographically, and functionally.
New Mexico schools have been hit hard by chronic absenteeism with about 39% of our students missing 10% or more of school days. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll discuss resources available to address chronic absenteeism and the gaps still needing to be filled.
It’s election time and several candidates will be vying for three seats on the Albuquerque Public Schools Board. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll be asking the candidates their thoughts on the current state of education and what their contributions to the board would be.
When we think of city growth we might think of a growing population, new housing developments, how sustainable it might be, or even things like increased traffic. On the next Let's Talk New Mexico we'll discuss how our cities are responding and what kind of change can we expect in the coming years.
For more than two centuries, museums and universities have kept collections of Native American human remains in the name of science. A recent ProPublica report found that despite the promise of the 1990 Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA), institutions have continued to hold and use indigenous remains in research projects aimed at things like dating cultivation of corn and showing when migration routes were active.
On this episode Associate Professor Myrriah Gomez talks about her book “Nuclear Nuevo México: Colonialism and the Effects of the Nuclear Industrial Complex on Nuevomexicanos.”
On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico we’ll check in on the return to the office and we’d like to hear from you. Are you still working from home, or are you back at the workplace fulltime? How has work-life changed?
Back to school season can be stressful for students and according to national statistics, kids in the U.S. are experiencing a mental health crisis. New Mexico ranks 47th in youth mental health, with about 1 in 5 kids experiencing depression. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll discuss how mental health is key to student success.
During the COVID pandemic, Congress required that Medicaid keep people continuously enrolled throughout the public health emergency order. But that order has ended and now nearly 60,000 New Mexicans have lost their health insurance. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll discuss how this unwinding process will impact health outcomes.
In New Mexico educational outcomes are low overall, and they’re even lower for special education. In May the Governor announced a new special education office to help improve those outcomes. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll discuss closing the achievement gap for special needs students.
Native American women in New Mexico have the highest rate of homicide among all racial and ethnic groups, and Albuquerque and Gallup are among the top ten cities in the United States for missing and murdered cases. The federal Not Invisible Act Commission recently visited Albuquerque to hear from stakeholders. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll discuss what still needs to be addressed.
Ten years ago then-Governor Susana Martinez froze the Medicaid funding of 15 behavioral health agencies in New Mexico after the state Human Services Department said an audit found “credible allegations of fraud.” While all the accused providers were later cleared by the attorney general, the incident severely disrupted the state’s behavioral health care system. On the next Let's Talk New Mexico we'll ask, "where are we now with our behavioral health care system?"
On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico we’ll talk about residential solar power. We’ll go over government incentives to make solar power more affordable, whether solar installations are now affordable enough to make sense economically, and we’ll discuss the environmental impact solar power and the equipment to produce it can have. We’ll also talk about those folks knocking on doors trying to get homeowners to sign up.
Since the overturning of Roe v. Wade last year, more people are coming to New Mexico for abortions and lawmakers passed a bill to ensure access. But counties and local governments have passed ordinances to restrict abortion and at least one is suing to overturn that state law. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico we get an update on all this.
Recently, Albuquerque’s City Council voted down an ordinance that would have established a basic, online landlord registry meant to track data on rental units across the city. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll explore the complex relationship between landlords and tenants plus ongoing efforts to regulate the industry.
Our warming atmosphere is giving us stronger storms, hotter summers and winters with an unpredictable snowpack that is shifting growing seasons and putting water supplies at risk. You may have noticed changes in your home garden, while farmers across the state are adapting to protect their livelihoods, generations-old lifeways, and our food supply.
On the last Let’s Talk New Mexico we discussed our state’s troubled foster care system. After many listener calls and emails and many new questions, we’ve decided to continue the conversation this week – focusing on solutions.
Three years ago, the state promised to stop housing foster youth in offices and youth shelters that don't have the necessary mental healthcare resources. However, a recent reporting series found that these practices are still going on amongst many other challenges. , we’ll take a look at the current standing of our child welfare system and what it will take to ensure foster youth are finding supportive placements, while working to comply with the Kevin S. lawsuit.
The 2023 legislative session is in the rearview mirror, but soon interim committee hearings will start up around the state in preparation for the 2024 session which begins next January. In this week’s show, we will talk about transparency, including several bills aimed at increasing transparency in government that recently succeeded or failed. We will also talk about the budget process and how it works, and how transparent it is – or is not. As the state continues to see record revenues, knowing how our money is spent is everybody’s business.
Going to school when you don’t feel good can make learning hard. New Mexico has struggled to climb out of our last place ranking in education but also with providing quality healthcare. School based health centers may be a solution.
It’s hard to get an appointment with a doctor right now and recent data helps explain why. From 2017 to 2021 the number of primary care physicians in the state dropped by 30%, and specialists are leaving too. Some providers are leaving for another profession or retiring, but others are leaving New Mexico for better pay or for more balanced lives in states with more robust healthcare systems.
Acequias were created and maintained by Native Americans before the Spanish settlers arrived. Centuries later, acequias remain a common conveyance for water all around our state in the face of an unpredictable climate and constant water rights battles. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll highlight a new film showing how climate change is impacting the health of our acequias and agriculture, and, we'll check in with acequia users and legal experts. Should we be doing more to protect acequias?
In 2018, a judge ruled in the Yazzie/Martinez lawsuit that New Mexico was failing to provide an equitable education to students who are low-income, Native American, have disabilities or are English language learners. This means that the state is in direct violation of the education clause in the New Mexico State Constitution.
Medical aid in dying has been legal in New Mexico since 2021. Since then, experts estimate more than 200 terminally ill New Mexicans have ended their lives. First, they waited the mandatory 48 hours before filling a prescription, then they drank a prescribed medication, and soon after drifted off to sleep before their bodies shut down. The law hasn’t been without controversy and certainly wasn’t adopted without debate that is still ongoing in the Roundhouse and the court house. Some doctors’ groups and politicians are arguing for offering ethical exemptions for practitioners with moral objections.
People have called the Rio Grande a main artery, delivering life-giving water to and through our arid state. But year-after-year we see the river continuing to dry – and the ecosystems, communities, and industries that depend upon it are drying up too. On the next “Let’s Talk New Mexico” we’ll discuss the poor health of the Rio Grande and what’s at stake as it shrinks.
On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’re going to dive head-first into why wolves almost disappeared from our ecosystems, and explore the lingering conflicts between the agriculture industries and environmentalists that pose the question: should wolves be brought back to our wilderness?
About 71% of New Mexican students qualify for free or reduced-price meals yet some of our children are still going hungry. The Healthy Universal School Meals Act introduced by Democratic Senators Michael Padilla and Leo Jaramillo would give all public and charter school students free access to breakfast and lunch regardless of family income. Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham is a supporter of this bill and made it one of her priorities in her State of the State address.
Let’s Talk New Mexico 2/9 8am: Albuquerque has continued to set new homicide records, while legislative reports also show other violent and property crimes around the state are well above the national average. On the next episode of “Let’s Talk New Mexico” we’ll discuss public safety and what law enforcement and city and state government can do right now to curtail crime.
Let’s Talk New Mexico 2/9 8am: Albuquerque has continued to set new homicide records, while legislative reports also show other violent and property crimes around the state are well above the national average. On the next episode of “Let’s Talk New Mexico” we’ll discuss public safety and what law enforcement and city and state government can do right now to curtail crime.
As some states push to roll back voting rights and election deniers work to overturn election results, democracy itself is at stake in statehouses around the country. On the next Let's Talk New Mexico, we'll discuss how legislators could reshape democracy in our state.
New Mexico has struggled with education rankings, and critics say charter schools have contributed to the problem. On this week's Let's Talk New Mexico we’ll look at current standards for charter schools and we'll hear firsthand from advocates, public officials, and school staff about the strengths and weaknesses of the charter school system.
Let’s Talk New Mexico 1/19 8am: Beyond the limits of the tight legislative calendar, lawmakers are faced with the challenge of understanding dozens of bills each session without having full-time staffers to help them. They often rely on industry insiders, lobbyists or activists for information on how proposed legislation will work. Furthermore, legislators do their work without a salary, earning only what they get for a per diem which is much too low to cover their stay in Santa Fe.
Medications like Methadone and Suboxone could help save lives and increase the chances of recovery when given to people behind bars, but it's rare to see that actually happen. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we talk with a doctor who wants to make them available by law, and a lawyer who says they are a right, and we want to hear what you think. Send us an email, tweet to us or call in live during the show, Thursday, January 12, at 8am on KUNM.
For many of us, the holiday season is a time to reflect on doing good, on helping our fellow humans, and investing in our communities. On this week’s Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll be examining what that means from several different perspectives.
On this week’s Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll be taking a closer look at the Indian Child Welfare Act. If ICWA is deemed unconstitutional, how will this ruling impact tribal sovereignty and tribal-owned energy companies, gaming establishments and lands? How will this potential overturn of ICWA affect New Mexico Native children in foster care? We want to hear from you. What do you want to know about ICWA? Email us at LetsTalk@kunm.org or call in live, Thursday morning at 8, on 89.9 KUNM.
Two years ago, the city of Albuquerque created a new department to send mental health providers to 911 calls that don’t require traditional police. Santa Fe has a similar program as well. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico we’ll look at how well this approach is working. And we want to hear from you.
On this week’s Let's Talk New Mexico, we look at what happens next now that voters approved a constitutional amendment to funnel more money from the Land Grant Permanent Fund into early childhood education and public schools.
Voting for the 2022 midterms is over and most of the races are decided. What were you watching in this election? Were you surprised by the outcomes? This week on Let’s Talk New Mexico, we gather a group of journalists to discuss how it all went down and what it means for the next two years in New Mexico as we look ahead to the 2024 election.
On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll discuss voters and voting. We’ll talk over the latest numbers for early and absentee voting and discuss what we can glean about voting trends through early voting, demographic changes in our region and what kinds of voting policies and voter education could help foster a stronger democracy.
It’s the season of chilling stories, midnight monsters and ghostly emanations, and we are here for it. On this episode of Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll be looking into why ghost stories are so popular no matter the time of year, and how they can encourage us to learn more about our city, our culture and our own family.
While statues have been the targets of groups who have suffered hundreds of years of oppression, they are just objects that represent people and ideas that those with more power desire to memorialize. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico we’ll discuss clashes over historical misunderstandings, the harm and hurt felt today from historical trauma, and efforts to make good in an age of awareness and equity.
For years advocates have sought a constitutional amendment that would allot more money to early childhood programs from a state permanent fund. This year the issue finally goes before voters in the November general election. Constitutional Amendment Number 1 would increase the distribution of money from the Land Grant Permanent Fund to pay for more early childhood education and to our public school systems.
Let's Talk NM 9/29 8a: People with substance use disorders often face stigma and discrimination when seeking medical care. Some healthcare providers will blame the patient's SUD for unrelated health problems, even after years of sobriety. That can allow conditions that would be routine procedures under normal circumstances turn into larger, sometimes life-threatening, problems. Moreover, the negative experience from the patient's perspective can make them less likely to seek care in the future.
Let's Talk NM 9/29 8a: People with substance use disorders often face stigma and discrimination when seeking medical care. Some healthcare providers will blame the patient's SUD for unrelated health problems, even after years of sobriety. That can allow conditions that would be routine procedures under normal circumstances turn into larger, sometimes life-threatening, problems. Moreover, the negative experience from the patient's perspective can make them less likely to seek care in the future.
A recent study ranked New Mexico as the most deadly state in the nation to be a pedestrian. Albuquerque came in second for the number of walkers killed per capita on the metro area's roadways. On this week's Let’s Talk New Mexico, on Thursday, Sept. 1, we’ll take a look at why it’s so dangerous to commute by foot and by bike in our state.
New Mexico is in the middle of one of its most devastating fire seasons to date –– with the largest wildfire in the state’s history scorching hundreds of thousands of acres of land. This week on Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll discuss year-round forest management practices designed to stop fires like these from happening, a controversial planned burn that became the Hermits Peak Fire, and the evolving role of firefighting in the U.S.
On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico we’re looking at what’s next after Roe v. Wade was overturned and we want to hear from you. What concerns or questions do you have about the role of New Mexico in a post-Roe world?
Controlled encampments or safe spaces for people who are unhoused are becoming more common around the country as housing costs keep rising. In Albuquerque, the city council approved the idea then reversed course and passed a moratorium on them. In Santa Fe, plans for a safe space at the Midtown campus also hit opposition. On this week’s Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll talk about managed encampments.
Let's Talk NM 8/18 8a: Social stigma and taboos around addiction and alcoholism have fostered an abundance of misinformation For those with loved ones suffering from these diseases, that makes it even tougher to navigate the situation.
On this week’s Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll be taking a look at what is the future for our healthcare system taking care of an influx of people now experiencing debilitating symptoms of long COVID that make everyday tasks a challenge? What rights do individuals have once their infection qualifies as a disability? Email us at LetsTalk@kunm.org or call in live during the show at 505-277-5866.
We hear a lot about drugs like opioids, fentanyl and meth in New Mexico. But another substance is involved in more deaths than all of those drugs combined: Alcohol. It kills New Mexicans at a higher rate than anywhere else in the country, but laws taxing or limiting alcohol have been tough to pass. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll discuss a new multipart series by New Mexico in Depth that explores the toll alcohol is taking on our citizens.
Let’s Talk New Mexico 7/28 8am: Inflation has been the top economic news story recently with monthly reports showing prices up more than 9% year-over-year. Wages were going up last year too, but now the economy’s future is feeling less stable. Company profits are expected to drop and some corporations have announced layoffs. As the Federal Reserve tries to curb inflation by raising interest rates to prepandemic levels, people feel a pinch when trying to get a loan for a home or a car. The flip-side, though, is that banks are beginning to pay a little more interest on savings accounts than they have been in recent years.
As the January 6th hearings come to a close, the fallout from the Capitol riot and lies about the 2020 presidential election are continuing to influence New Mexico politics. From the actions of state politicians who joined in the effort to overturn the 2020 election, to calls for greater voter restrictions, to the Otero County Commission’s refusal to certify the results of June’s primary elections, it’s clear that our state’s political landscape has changed.
On this week’s Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll take a look at the state’s current gun laws, the psychological effects of gun violence on students, teachers, and staff, and potential solutions to prevent school shootings.
Let’s Talk New Mexico 6/16 8am: Last November President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law passed both houses of Congress and was signed into law after almost six months of debate. The final negotiations among legislators left the price tag for the bill at $1.2 trillion, about half of which will make its way to states over the next several years to improve drinking water distribution systems, rebuild roads and bridges, and modernize travel with updated airports and a system of electric vehicle charging stations.
This week on Let’s Talk New Mexico we’re talking Long COVID with several people who are survivors, as well as health care officials about what kinds of treatments are available and how doctors can learn to spot the symptoms in their patients.
As schools across the state start their summer vacations, there are concerns about what classrooms will look like when educators and students return for the fall semester. The state is experiencing a teacher shortage crisis, with more than 1,000 licensed educator positions unfilled and 40% of districts reporting severe overall staffing shortages, ranging from educational assistants to bus drivers.
Let’s Talk New Mexico 5/5 8am: Being a teen in foster care can be complex. Imagine being taken from home, yearning to belong, or even lacking support when it comes to mental health. For most young adults, turning 18 means new opportunities and experiences. But for kids aging out of the foster care system, coming of age comes with stress and uncertainty of what comes next.
Let’s Talk New Mexico 4/28 8am: On March 1,1973, UNM student and member of the Navajo Nation Larry Casuse kidnapped the Gallup Mayor Emmett Garcia and held him for several hours before the standoff ended in the death of the young activist. But what was the context for this tragic event? And how does the history of colonization and exploitation of Native Americans in the US factor into the conditions he was protesting against?
On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico we’ll dig into the junior appropriations bill, how to fix it for the sake of transparency, and the ethical considerations when it comes to spending the peoples’ money. We’ll also talk over culture in the legislature and the multiple allegations of untoward behavior by lawmakers like thwarting opponents' in elections (within the rules) and sexual harassment allegations.
New Mexico’s Chicano and Chicana culture has long been associated with Mexican roots and activists fighting for workers unions and land rights. But Chicanx culture is deeply influenced by African descendants, as are all the countries in the Americas. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico we’ll hear about the rise of mixed identity, and how some New Mexicans honor their diverse mixed roots.
A newly signed law will make it legal to possess tests to show if a drug contains fentanyl, the number one killer of adults 18-45. But last year, a bill to authorize safe drug consumption sites failed to pass the legislature. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico we’ll dive into harm reduction strategies, whether they work and why they make people so uncomfortable.
On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’re talking about teacher burnout. And we want to hear from you! Are you a teacher experiencing burnout and looking to leave your job? Are you a parent who’s worried about the future of your child’s education?
On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’re looking past the day shelters and soup kitchens to ask how chronic homelessness can be solved in the long term. We’ll be tackling the issue with representatives for city governments, non-profit organizations, and folks who offer trauma-informed care to those who have experienced homelessness first-hand.
On the next Let's Talk New Mexico we'll talk about the challenges facing non-English language speakers in getting access to essential information and services.
The New Mexico legislature gets together en masse once a year, for 30 days in even-numbered years. With such a limited time to meet, their primary duty is to create a budget for next fiscal year. However, the governor has added to the legislative agenda, and among her priorities are making the state a future hub for hydrogen energy, creating a “Media Academy” in our higher education landscape, investments in public education and rural healthcare, and a push to become carbon neutral by 2050.Which priorities would you suggest lawmakers put the most energy behind?
This week on Let's Talk New Mexico we're talking hospital staffing shortages as the omicron variant pushes COVID-19 case numbers to record levels.
Let’s Talk New Mexico 12/9 8am: New Mexico relies heavily on government for employment, but like other sectors the state and cities are having trouble with staffing. We’ll ask state and local policy makers and researchers what we can do to compete while other Southwestern cities and states seem to be doing better. Is government work on your radar or have you run into difficulties because you couldn't get the help you needed because of an understaffed government?
It’s local election time with big decisions for voters like mayoral races, city council contests, and bonds, including that controversial stadium bond in Albuquerque. This week on Let’s Talk New Mexico we’ll look at how it all went down with journalists covering local issues around the state.
Let’s Talk New Mexico 10/28 8am: Fall is upon us, evidenced by the trees preparing for their seasonal sleep and the sun disappearing from the sky earlier each day. It’s said that the veil between the worlds is thin this time of year as the spirits and the living come into closer contact. Halloween and Dia de los Muertos are two ways we honor death and remember those who have passed on ahead of us. While grief is a part of losing loved ones, we can also celebrate their lives and memories while coming to terms with our own finite existence in this world.
Let’s Talk New Mexico 10/21 8am: It’s still unclear exactly how many cases there are in New Mexico of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women & Relatives. People from Arizona and Utah are also wondering about what happened to their family members since tribal jurisdictions hit heads with federal, state, tribal and city investigators. Even though public officials express concern, the families of people gone missing or found dead have experienced ineptitude by the criminal legal system and police, who have said that jurisdiction issues can impede their efforts.
Let’s Talk New Mexico 9/30 8am: The once-in-a-decade redistricting process is underway in New Mexico. Lines are being redrawn for the U.S. House, state legislature, and Public Education Commission. For the first time, an independent commission, the Citizen Redistricting Committee, is advising the Democrat-led legislature. The body released its concept maps for public comment and on this week’s Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll take a look at them and what’s at stake.
Let’s Talk New Mexico 9/16 8am: Property crime has dropped in New Mexico during the pandemic but violence has taken hold, dominating the news headlines recently: Albuquerque setting a new record for homicides, Santa Fe road rage killings, attacks on police officers, and perhaps most tragic – a child killed at school over bullying. While violent crime has not increased as much across the nation it feels like a lot in New Mexico, and how we choose to react to violence is a local decision.
Let’s Talk New Mexico 9/9 8 am:It's chile season, and many of us are celebrating the return of New Mexico’s favorite crop. Green chile lies at the heart of so much of our state’s culture and identity that it’s hard to imagine what life would be like without it. And yet, chile is by no means assured of a prosperous future. COVID and changing immigration policies have created a labor shortage of chile harvesters, and human-caused climate change has resulted in drought conditions that threaten the very existence of chile verde. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll be digging into the issues facing this iconic New Mexican food.
Let’s Talk New Mexico 8/26 8 am: Thousands of people are fleeing Afghanistan since the Taliban’s takeover and Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has announced that New Mexico is ready to welcome them with open arms. How can our state best ready itself to receive these refugees? What type of services are already available? How will all of this work while we are still struggling with a global pandemic? On this week’s episode, we’ll be talking to folks who work with New Mexico’s refugee population, as well as the refugees themselves, about their experiences and how they think our state should respond to this sudden need.
Let’s Talk New Mexico 8/19 8am: This summer marks the 50th anniversary of the 1971 Chicano-led rebellion against police brutality and racism that began in Albuquerque’s Roosevelt Park. The rebellion is a key, but often overlooked, moment in New Mexico’s Chicano history. Fifty years later, it serves as a reminder of the long record of police violence, resistance, and collaboration by people of color in our state, and remains especially relevant in the wake of the 2020 Black Lives Matter uprising.
Let’s Talk New Mexico 8/12 8am: If you’ve seen black and gold T-shirts, jerseys, and flags around Albuquerque, you’ve seen fans of New Mexico United. The professional soccer team has been generating excitement in our state since the team was first announced in 2018, and their home games at Isotopes Park are almost always sold out. Recently New Mexico United and the City of Albuquerque released a proposal for a new 10,000 - 12,000 seat stadium to serve as the home of the team. The cost? An estimated $65-$75 million dollars. The location? That is to be determined. So far, the city’s preferred sites are in downtown Albuquerque: 2nd Street and Iron Avenue, or Coal Avenue and Broadway Boulevard. While fans of the team are excited about the new plans, many people who live in these areas are not very happy with the suggestions.
Let’s Talk New Mexico 8/7 8am: This summer has marked big changes in the landscape of college athletics. From the NCAA allowing student-athletes to earn income based off of their name, image, and likeness, to major programs like the University of Texas and the University of Oklahoma moving conferences, college sports is now in a new era. How will this new terrain affect schools like the University of New Mexico and New Mexico State University? And what do the rising number COVID-19 cases mean for practices and games? On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll be discussing what plans our state-run universities are making and how they are preparing to compete now and in the future.
Let’s Talk New Mexico 7/29 8am: Have you had trouble finding affordable child care? You’re not alone. Child care can cost over $20,000 a year in New Mexico and hundreds of child care centers closed during the pandemic, tightening the squeeze on an already precious resource. On July 1, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham announced an expanded eligibility for government assistance for child care. Starting next month New Mexican families making up to 400% of the poverty level -about $92,000 a year- are eligible for help. Further, the state will also increase the amount of aid sent directly to child care centers to help employ more high quality caregivers. But a big chunk of the bill will be covered with federal pandemic relief money, meaning that it’s only guaranteed for a couple years.
Let’s Talk New Mexico 7/22 8am: Earlier this month, a plaque that marked the burial place of Indigenous children who died at the Albuquerque Indian School went missing. At the same time, Native American boarding schools have been in the national news after forensic technology revealed thousands of previously unknown graves of Native American children throughout the US and Canada. On the next Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll be discussing the legacy of these so-called Indian schools by looking into their racist history, as well as showing how New Mexico’s Indigenoustribes have repurposed some of the sites to fulfill positive roles in their communities’ future.
Let’s Talk New Mexico 7/8 8am: Have you noticed “help wanted” signs in the windows of your favorite restaurants and businesses? The COVID-19 pandemic has caused chaos in the economy for more than a year, and now there’s a labor shortage. Last week Axios reported 10 million Americans out of work, yet there are 9 million vacant positions waiting to be filled. Employers are frustrated, sometimes offering higher wages and hiring bonuses to get the help they need. Others are opting to close businesses earlier or stay closed on less busy days because they don’t have the staff for normal hours. Some business owners are angry, blaming the government for the pandemic related unemployment insurance bonuses they see as motivation for workers to stay home.
Let’s Talk New Mexico 7/1 8am:Most of our state’s COVID-related restrictions are set to lift on Thursday, July 1st, and many New Mexicans will be celebrating. However, the pandemic is not over yet. 31% of New Mexico's population still hasn't been fully vaccinated, and the WHO recently released a statement urging continued use of masks, even for fully vaccinated folks, in order to protect from the Delta variant.
Let’s Talk New Mexico 6/24 8am: Both Father’s Day and Mother’s Day are now behind us, but what if you didn’t have a great relationship with your parents? What if you don’t have children? Our society continues to assume the idea of a nuclear family with a father, a mother and children is the norm. But New Mexico families take many forms, from grandparents raising grandchildren, to single parents, same-sex parents, and folks whose parents, or children, are no longer a part of their lives. On this week’s Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’re talking about why it’s important to recognize and honor different family structures in our state, both socially and legally. We’ll talk to advocates who are working to change legal definitions in our legislature, folks who support people whose families have rejected them due to factors beyond their control, and therapists who work with children who have suffered one of the hardest losses of all- the death of a parent.
Let’s Talk New Mexico 6/17 8am: Last September, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention instituted a moratorium on residential evictions to keep people without secure incomes from losing their homes during the COVID-19 pandemic. New Mexico followed suit with a similar state-wide protection order. For ten months the moratoriums have protected thousands of New Mexico renters, but at the same time back rents have continued to accrue and landlords have gone without the income they count on. With the national order protecting tenants scheduled to expire on June 30th and no clear endpoint for the state’s moratorium, there is potential for a massive number of evictions if nothing is done. Join us this week as we discuss the national and state residential eviction moratoriums, as well as programs set up to help tenants get caught up on payments.