Politics And Activism Episodes

Dive into a nuanced revisitation of the High Desert Art Fair with Chris Clarke, Cindy Bernard, and Bernard Leibov. This episode explores the intersection of art, commerce, and desert communities, addressing local perspectives and the broader implications for the art world. Discover insights on cult…

Chris Clarke and guest Ruth Nolan discuss a controversial LA Times piece about an art fair aiming to turn the desert region into an upscale haven akin to the Hamptons, and the cultural and environmental impacts of such developments

Chris discusses into the challenges facing desert journalism amid dwindling traditional media and the rise of digital consumption. He explores the shift from shallow to deep journalism, emphasizing the need for thorough reporting that considers desert systems rather than isolated events. The episod…

Chris Clarke and Laiken Jordahl of the Center for Biological Diversity, discuss the campaign against proposed border wall expansions in the Big Bend region of West Texas. The episode explores the wall's potential impact on communities, ecosystems, and wildlife. Discover grassroots efforts uniting d…

In this episode of the "90 Miles from Needles" podcast, host Chris shares a personal perspective on the legacy of Cesar Chavez and discusses the impact of recent revelations on the progressive movement. Chris is a seasoned journalist and advocate for desert protection with a robust history of addre…

Joined by guest Gilberto Manzanarez from Valle Imperial Resiste, Chris explores the community's opposition to an AI data center due to potential environmental impacts, including noise pollution and increased water usage. Despite promises of economic growth, residents face uncertainty regarding prop…

Chris explores truth in an AI-driven age, and questions the reliability of what we perceive as real, using AI-generated media as an example. He discusses the importance of deserts in maintaining truth, reflecting on how they convey authentic facts resistant to societal distortions. The importance o…

Join host Chris Clarke for an insightful discussion on wildlife protection and democratic governance with Mandy Culbertson from Wildlife for All. Explore the varying effectiveness of state wildlife policies across the Southwest, the threat of border militarization to biodiversity, and current polit…

With reduced staffing, National Parks in the American Deserts face risks of vandalism and inadequate visitor safety.

Chris Clarke embarks on a journey to the Chihuahuan Desert Fiesta in El Paso, sharing insights from his travels and engaging encounters. He highlights the importance of desert protection, discussing his experiences with passionate advocates across diverse desert communities. Chris explores the sign…

Chris discusses the fallout from media control and recent political events, emphasizing the need for grassroots support and engagement. The episode touches on the struggles small media outlets face against corporate control and authoritarian tendencies, urging listeners to spread the word.

Chris Clarke and Brendan Cummings discuss the recent approval of the Western Joshua Tree Conservation Plan by California's Fish and Game Commission. Brendan outlines the journey from the 2019 petition for protection to the 2023 Conservation Act, highlighting its aim to combat climate threats and ma…

Rubén Martinéz, an instructor, writer, and performer from Loyola Marymount University, shares a captivating reading exploring the duality of deserts—both physical and metaphorical. This reflection ties into broader themes of human migration, spiritual discovery, and personal healing. With insights …

Discover how grassroots activism and environmental awareness halted a resource-intensive project threatening water and energy supplies in the Arizona desert. Learn about the vital role of unified community voices and progressive city leaders in this victory.

We discuss crucial topics affecting public media, including funding cuts to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and their impact on stations serving rural and tribal communities.

Explore the evolving debate over a budget rider proposed by Senator Mike Lee that threatens to privatize millions of acres of public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management.

Chris Clarke hosts a compelling discussion with Diné activist Davina Smith on the significance of the Bears Ears National Monument.

Investigative journalist David Helvarg talks to us about threats to democracy, public lands, and global environmental activism amid escalating misinformation and violence.

Chris Clarke explores Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson's book "Abundance," scrutinizing its stance on environmental regulations.

Chris interviews Laurie Cantillo, Chair of Humane Borders. They discuss the organization's critical work in saving lives by providing water in the Sonoran Desert, the challenges faced by migrants, and the alarming militarization of the US-Mexico border.

We explore the intersection of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) with desert protection, highlighting how Trump's attacks on DEI harm not just people but also the ecosystems and communities inhabiting deserts.

Chris Clarke hosts an engaging discussion with Caroline Tracey, a journalist with The Border Chronicle, on the environmental and political challenges surrounding Plan Sonora, Mexico's ambitious renewable energy project. They examine the complex issues of lithium mining, solar and natural gas develo…

Episode Summary: In this episode of "90 Miles from Needles," host Chris Clarke delves into two pivotal events illuminating the current challenges and triumphs in desert conservation efforts. The episode captures the essence o...

Episode Summary In this episode, we discuss the recent layoffs affecting the National Park Service and other land management agencies. Featuring Kristen Brengel of the National Parks Conservation Association, the episode look...