The New Year traditionally brings a sense of renewal and hope, inspiring some of us who were happy to say goodbye to the previous year that the new one will be one of inner peace and fulfillment. But in California, the level of destruction and loss we’ve collectively experienced in just the first weeks of 2023 is extraordinary. The wave of powerful storms earlier this month damaged homes and businesses and took the life of at least 22 people throughout the state. And just as the storms eased, all too familiar tragedies descended upon us.  So far this month, at least 25 people have been killed in mass shootings in California from the Bay Area, to the Central Valley, and Los Angeles.  The weight of these heavy events and the media coverage that follows can be a lot to bear, even for those who aren’t directly connected to them.  Dr. Anjuli Amin, a clinical psychologist and President of the Asian American Psychological Association, joined Insight to tell us about these indirect traumas and what coping mechanisms and resources are out there for those who may be suffering from secondary or collective trauma. 

Bees pollinate many of our favorite foods like almonds apples and even 90%of all berries. But according to the  Department of Agriculture, there have been significant yearly declines in honeybee colonies since 2006. Researchers have listed many possible causes of the decline which include pests, diseases, and pesticides. Dalan Animal Health recently received conditional approval from the USDA  for a bee vaccine that targets a bacterium that is deadly to colonies and destroys hives.  Amy Floyd with Dalan Animal Health joined Insight to talk about the vaccine. Dr. Ramesh Sagili, an Associate Professor of Agriculture at Oregon State University who collaborates with beekeepers on the West Coast, also joined to share some of the other challenges that exist and solutions to save these critical insects.

If you’ve been listening to Insight on Thursdays, you may have noticed a reoccurring discussion focused on issues within the classical music industry.  The discussions have varied in themes that focus on representation, diversity in programming, and what lies ahead to give a larger stake at the table to all. CapRadio’s new podcast, A Music of their Own hosted by Majel Connery shares the stories of women who’ve carved out success in classical music despite odds and opportunities being stacked against them. Connery stopped by to showcase the music and talent of these extraordinary women featured on the podcast.