Coronavirus Weekly
64 episodes - English - Latest episode: almost 4 years ago - ★★★★ - 44 ratingsFrom KTLA 5 News in Los Angeles, Coronavirus Daily is your go-to source for the latest news regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. Producer Bobby Gonzalez and reporter Christina Pascucci break down the day's headlines, talk with doctors and medical experts, and give you the information you need to know to stay informed and healthy.
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Episodes
Local Adventure
August 21, 2020 12:05 - 8 minutes - 8.06 MBChristina Pascucci heads out to Death Valley for an adventure to break the monotony of life amid coronavirus. She shares the natural wonders that can be found at one of the hottest places in the world, and learns about what the Oasis at Death Valley is doing to help keep people safe during their visits.
The Million Dollar Question
August 14, 2020 11:35 - 4 minutes - 4.1 MBXPRIZE is a non-profit organization that hosts competitions intended to encourage technological development to benefit humanity. The foundation is giving away a $5,000,000 prize to the team who can develop a rapid, reliable, and affordable COVID-19 test. The goal is to accelerate radical solutions to solving COVID-19 and future pandemics. Christina speaks with XPRIZE CEO Anousheh Ansari about their latest competition.
A Promising Vaccine with Dr. Anthony Fauci
August 07, 2020 11:00 - 5 minutes - 4.79 MBThe race is on to develop a vaccine to fight off COVID-19. Biotech company Moderna says they're on track to finish enrollment for a Phase-3 study of its vaccine by the end of September. Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation's top infectious disease expert, says he remains "cautiously optimistic" in regards to the vaccine. He spoke with KTLA with more information about its development, when it can be expected, who will receive it, and more.
The COLCORONA Study
July 31, 2020 12:28 - 7 minutes - 6.81 MBSince the begining of the pandemic, doctors and scientists around the world have been hard at work trying to develop vaccines and treatments for COVID-19. Cardiologist Dr. Norman Lepor is involved in the COLCORONA study, a government-funded clinical trial to get the answer as to the effectiveness of the drug called colchicine, which doctors hope may help patients diagnosed with COVID-19 avoid complications like hospitalizations, the need for ventilator assisted breathing, or even de...
Beating the Odds
July 24, 2020 13:03 - 12 minutes - 11.9 MBOn March 5th, 2020 Gregg Garfield checked himself into St. Josephs Providence Hospital in Burbank after a ski trip in Northern Italy. He would come to be known as "Patient Zero," the hospital's first COVID-19 patient. While in the hospital, Gregg's health went into a rapid decline, and his chances of survival appeared to be slim to none. In the end, however, even after seemingly knocking on death’s door, Gregg would be a survivor. He shares his story with Christina Pascucci.
Are Kids Ready to Go Back to School?
July 17, 2020 12:19 - 11 minutes - 10.9 MBThis week, the spotlight during the worsening COVID-19 pandemic fell on the question of whether or not studenst and faculty should return to school campuses in the Fall. While Los Angeles Unified School District, the largest public school system in California, announced students would not return to classrooms in the Fall, The Orange County Board of Education approved its recommendation that districts reopen schools without requiring the use of masks or social distancing. The guideli...
The Coronavirus Credibility Gap
July 10, 2020 12:48 - 9 minutes - 9.07 MBDr. Joseph A. Ladapo is a physician, health policy researcher, and associate professor of medicine at UCLA. He recently wrote a piece for the Wall Street Journal arguing that political leaders and health experts have politicized the pandemic response by sending mixed messages, implementing hypocritical policies, and becoming distracted with areas of controversy rather than focusing efforts on more pragmatic goals. Christina Pascucci speaks with Dr. Ladapo about how leaders have sown...
Back to the Basics
July 03, 2020 12:41 - 7 minutes - 6.92 MBCOVID-19 cases across the country are on the rise heading into the July 4th weekend. In response, state leaders have begun slowing or rolling back reopening efforts. Christina Pascucci speaks with Dr. William A. Haseltine about the basic practices people should take to reduce the likelihood of catching the disease. He also reveals some of the lesser talked about ways people may be putting themselves at risk.
Exposing the Cracks
June 26, 2020 13:22 - 7 minutes - 6.51 MBCOVID-19 cases are on the rise, stoking concerns across the state in the midst of reopening. The outbreak presents increased risks and dangers for communities of color. Christina Pascucci speaks with Nourbese Flint of the Black Women for Wellness. The organizations commitment is to the health and well-being of Black women and girls through health education, empowerment and advocacy. Nourbese explains what needs to be done for equality within our healthcare system.
Giving Way for an Uprising
June 19, 2020 12:49 - 7 minutes - 7.21 MBBesides causing a global health crisis and economic turmoil, one of the other major effects of the Covid-19 pandemic is the shift it has lead to in our world view and the social upheaval it has influenced. With people having a sharpened focus towards important issues, the Black Lives Matter movement and their fight against racial injustice is receiving long overdue attention. On this episode, Christina is speaking with Dr. Malina Abdula, one of the co-founders of Black Lives Matter ...
Fighting Two Pandemics with Senator Holly Mitchell
June 12, 2020 13:10 - 14 minutes - 13 MBAs unrest and protests against police brutality and systemic racism continue, and COVID-19 cases continue to rise in California, many are turning to state and local leaders to address the issues of racial injustice and public health. Holly Mitchell has been a California State Senator since 2010. She’s also a candidate in the 2020 election to represent District 2 on the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. Christina Pascucci recently spoke with Senator Mitchell on a number of top...
Protesters, Parishioners, and a Pandemic
June 05, 2020 12:35 - 8 minutes - 8.2 MBThe nation has taken to the streets to protest police brutality and institutional racism after the May 25th killing of George Floyd. How can citizens protect themselves and others from COVID-19 while raising their voices against racism? As the weary nation looks to heal, many have turned to religion, and houses of worship have been given the green light to open their doors once again. What steps are religious institutions taking to provide safety and comfort in these troubled times?...
Special Announcement: New Name + Release Schedule
June 03, 2020 01:12 - 55 seconds - 875 KBAs the situation around the world continues to change every day, we want to be sure that we keep bringing you thoughtful and useful information about the COVID-19 pandemic as it fits into the greater context. So that we may better research new topics and gather resources, we will now be releasing new episodes of the podcast once a week, every Friday. We are now the Coronavirus Weekly podcast!
Shaking Off the Dust
May 29, 2020 11:00 - 13 minutes - 12 MBThe state is beginning to reopen. Over the last few weeks, in-store retail shopping, places of worship, and even restaurant dining rooms are once again welcoming patrons in communities across the state of California. Some counties are even beginning to move into the early stages of phase 3 of the state's roadmap towards reopening. Many residence are thrilled to return to move towards a more normal way of life, but is it too soon?
A Walk in the Park
May 22, 2020 12:47 - 10 minutes - 9.77 MBAs we head closer towards the summer months, the itch to get outside and enjoy our beautiful state might be getting more noticeable. Much to the delight of those who may be experiencing some cabin fever, more and more state parks and beaches are now open for people to enjoy new safety requirements. Now, National Parks are getting closer to reopening as well. Christina speaks with Trey Matheu of the Oasis at Death Valley, a hospitality resort for visitors to Death Valley National Par...
World Meditation Day
May 21, 2020 12:58 - 25 minutes - 23.3 MBWe’re doing something pretty different on the podcast today. Now that we’re a few months into stay-at-home orders, you may find yourself not feeling 100% mentally and physically. Thursday, May 21st happens to be World Meditation Day. Christina is speaking with Shaman Durek, a 6th generation shaman and author. His teachings have impacted thousands of people, from diverse public figures like Nina Dobrev and Gwyneth Paltrow, to tech giants like Bulletproof Coffee founder Dave Asprey. S...
Relief for the Restaurant Industry?
May 20, 2020 12:06 - 14 minutes - 13 MBToday on the podcast, christina pascucci is hitting the streets of Long Beach to find out more about a possible new solutions to helping out restaurants that have been battered by restrictions put in place because of COVID-19. The “Open Streets Initiative” would allow restaurants, bars, and cafes to take over parts of streets and parking lots to use for outdoor dining. Christina trekked over to Long Beach Coffee & Tea to chat with Tom West. Tom shares his thoughts on the Open Street...
Focusing on Mental Health
May 19, 2020 12:46 - 13 minutes - 12.5 MBMay is Mental Health Awareness Month. There’s perhaps no better time to be check in on your mental health than in the midst of a global pandemic. Many of us are feeling some sort of stress in these unprecedented times, whether it be physical, financial, or psychological. Today, Christina is talking with Diana Linn. Diana is an experienced marriage and family therapist and is skilled in trauma recovery work. She spoke with Christina about the importance of paying attention to your me...
International Travel
May 18, 2020 12:43 - 16 minutes - 14.7 MBDrew Binsky is a world traveler and daily video maker who has been to 191 countries and has over 5 million social media followers. He tells compelling stories about people and culture, with a goal to spread positivity and shatter stereotypes. Due to COVID-19, Drew’s adventures around the world have come to a halt as he was looking to visit his final 6 countries while shooting a documentary. Still, because of his high profile in the travel world, many are looking to Drew to gain pers...
A Dangerous New Cluster
May 15, 2020 12:48 - 10 minutes - 9.72 MBLos Angeles County health officials are concerned about a new cluster of COVID-19 cases in the San Fernando Valley. They report that the Silverado Calabasas Memory Care Community has had six deaths linked to the disease, and more than 40 cases among hospital and associates. Families members of residents of the facility have major concerns about how the outbreak is being addressed and communicated, noting that it has been difficult getting clear answers from management and staff. Mea...
The Next Three Months
May 14, 2020 12:59 - 17 minutes - 16.4 MBRecent comments made by Los Angeles County Public Health Director Barbara Ferrer sent Los Anegles into a panic after it seemed she suggested safer-at-home orders would be extended for the next three months. Later that day, L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti appeared on CNN to walk back and clear up some of the confusion regarding her statement. Christina Pascucci spoke with Dr. Marc Eckstein about his perspective on the economic shutdown and how leaders should move us forward through the pand...
Pillow Talk: Tips for Better Sleep
May 13, 2020 12:06 - 20 minutes - 18.6 MBStress and anxiety surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic are changing sleep patterns and negatively affecting the quality of sleep for people around the country. Today we hear from Dr. Michael Breus, the Sleep Doctor, who shares useful tips to help get a better night's rest. Dr. Breus breaks down the bad habits many have fallen into during stay-at-home orders that could be impacting your sleep. He also explains why many people are experiencing strange or frightening dreams, now being ca...
Reopening the Office: What to Expect
May 12, 2020 10:38 - 17 minutes - 16 MBAs the state moves closer towards phase 3 of reopening amid the COVID-19 pandemic, many workers are beginning to think about their inevitable return to the office. How can building owners and employers ensure employee safety in a time where there is still no vaccine? Experts say employees should be expect a myriad of changes in the workplace. Christina speaks with Jennifer Frisk & Ryan Harding of Newmark Knight Frank, a global commercial real estate firm that is now helping advise t...
Youth Mentoring During COVID-19
May 11, 2020 12:13 - 9 minutes - 8.95 MBCatholic Big Brothers Big Sisters is mentoring program that makes life changing matches between an adult volunteer and a young person. The one-to-one mentoring model has been affected drastically by the coronavirus and the restrictions that have been placed on our daily interactions. Christina speaks with Stefanie, a "Big Sister" in the program, about how she is continuing to make a meaningful impact in this time of physical distancing.
Wedding Planning in a Pandemic
May 08, 2020 11:14 - 22 minutes - 21 MBAs the state slowly begins to reopen, many who have upcoming or rescheduled weddings may be wondering how to proceed with planning their big day. In a world where social distancing is now the norm, how will intimate gatherings and events like weddings be affected in the future? Christina, who is getting married in September, speaks with wedding and events planner Amy Grace Collins about how things may unfold in the months ahead. Amy offers valuable tips and advice including how to w...
Pomp and Circumstance
May 07, 2020 15:20 - 13 minutes - 12.2 MBAs the graduating class of 2020 approaches the end of their high school career, the COVID-19 pandemic has put an end to any promise of a traditional graduation ceremony. Now, districts and schools are trying to devise ways to recognize students' academic achievements, while still obeying social distancing guidelines. Christina Pascucci speaks with Knight High School graduating senior Damian Jeffries about a fun idea he presented to his district to celebrate the class of 2020.
Back on the Beach
May 06, 2020 12:32 - 12 minutes - 11.4 MBCalifornia Governor Gavin Newsom recently came under fire for closing beaches in Orange County due to overcrowding, inciting protests and lawsuits. Yet, just a few days later, San Clemente and Laguna Beach were allowed to reopen after reaching agreements with state officials on new protocols and procedures. Christina spoke with Laguna Beach Mayor Bob Whalen about the beach closure, and details about how the beach was eventually allowed to reopen. They also discuss the modifications...
Part of the Solution
May 05, 2020 12:51 - 23 minutes - 21.1 MBToday, Christina talks to a man who is used to thriving in unusual environments. Dr. Scott Parazynski is a physician, author, tech CEO, and astronaut. He has also lived and adventured all over the world, and summited Mt. Everest. Recently, the COVID-19 outbreak hit very close to home for Scott, as both his parents were diagnosed with the disease. Scott shares some of the details of that experience. He also talks about the importance of finding solutions the problems caused by COVID-...
Locked Down in Spain
May 04, 2020 12:34 - 14 minutes - 13 MBTravel blogger Alyssa Ramos recently ditched her apartment in Los Angeles to fulfill a dream of moving to Barcelona, Spain. Just ten days after arriving, the city was placed under strict home confinement orders due to COVID-19, and Alyssa was unable to leave her home for nearly 50 days. Alyssa shares her experience with the lock down in Spain, and her perspective on the situation in the United States.
School's in for Summer?
May 01, 2020 12:15 - 15 minutes - 14.5 MBAs part of his 4-phase plan to begin reopening the state, Governer Gavin Newsom suggested the possibility that schools could begin allowing students and faculty back on campus to begin classes as early as July. Christina spoke with Los Angeles County Superintendent of Schools Debra Duardo about the announcement, and what preparations and resources are needed to continue classroom education effectively and safely. She also addresses some of the concerns around the idea of starting an...
The Case for Remdesivir
April 30, 2020 12:54 - 19 minutes - 18.1 MBThis week, it was announced that the drug remdesivir, an antiviral medication developed by Gilead Sciences, had proven effective against COVID-19 in a major study. The drug was found to cut the time of patient recovery by an average of 4 days. Dr. Anthony Fauci has said that remdesivir will set a new "standard of care" for treatment of COVID-19. To learn more about the drug and the results of the study, Christina speaks with Dr. Terese Hammond, pulmonary critical care specialist and...
Those Who Don't Learn from History...
April 29, 2020 12:39 - 16 minutes - 15.5 MBThe COVID-19 pandemic is often drawing comparison to the 1918 influenza pandemic (The Spanish Flu). While the 1918 flu pandemic had a far more devastating global impact than it appears COVID-19 will have, looking back at history reveals just how similarly the world of the past and the world of the the present have responded to our respective outbreaks. Ventura resident and historian Cynthia Thompson has been digging into the past to learn about how the community responded to the 191...
Free Testing for All
April 28, 2020 12:51 - 7 minutes - 6.58 MBWhile more COVID-19 testing sites continue to emerge around Los Angeles County and neighboring areas, most are only offering tests to those who are exhibiting symptoms, frontline health care workers, or those who are considered high risk. In Carson, California, however, a new drive-up testing site will administer free testing for all residents, city employees, and anyone else who books an appointment regardless of whether they are symptomatic or not. Christina speaks with Carson May...
Quiet Emergency Rooms & Worried Doctors
April 27, 2020 13:10 - 7 minutes - 7.17 MBDuring the COVID-19 crisis, 911 health emergency calls have dropped dramatically. Doctors are growing concerned that people with serious medical issues, like heart attacks and strokes, are avoiding hospitals due to fear of catching COVID-19. Dr. Richard Shemin of the American Heart Association explains why people should not ignore medical emergencies, plus a young woman shares why she wishes she paid attention to the warning signs when her own health was in jeopardy.
Clinical Trials & Promising Drugs
April 24, 2020 12:18 - 29 minutes - 26.9 MBDr. Steven O’Day is the Executive Director of the John Wayne Cancer Institute and Cancer Clinic, and Director of Providence Los Angeles Regional Research. Today, Christina talks with Dr. O'Day to learn about some of the clinical trials that are taking place to combat COVID-19. He also reveals some of the more promising drugs researchers are looking at that could get us closer to solving this crisis, and he also addresses recent headlines regarding drugs like hydroxychloriquine and G...
CARES Act Clarified with Congressman Takano
April 23, 2020 11:45 - 26 minutes - 24.3 MBIn the episode, Mark Takano, Congressman for the 41st District of California, answers your questions regarding the CARES Act and Paycheck Protection Program. Congressman Takano clarifies rumors that stimulus check payments are taxed or will need to be paid back. He also explains why larger companies like Shake Shack and Ruth's Chris were able to borrow millions of dollars from a loan program meant for smaller businesses, and what's being to done to replenish that fund and close loop...
A Space Explorer's Unique Perspective
April 22, 2020 12:57 - 10 minutes - 9.21 MBOn this 50th anniversary of Earth Day, we're hearing from Anousheh Ansari, who observed the Earth from space as the first female private space explorer. Anousheh's experience in space, as well as the disciplined and rigourous training it took to get there, have given her a unique perspective on the COVID-19 pandemic. Anousheh is also helping lead a collaborative effort to solve the crisis as the CEO of XPRIZE, a powerful platform for combining data, AI tools, and ideas to help solv...
More Widespread Than We Thought
April 21, 2020 13:04 - 7 minutes - 7.19 MBResults from serology blood tests in L.A. County have revealed that up to 5.6% of adults have antibodies to COVID-19, indicating that up to 442,000 adults have contracted and recovered from the disease. Researchers now believe the novel coronavirus has been more widely spread than previously thought. Christina Pascucci speaks with Dr. Marc Eckstein about the latest developments, plus what's next in regards to testing.
Keeping Veterans Connected Amid Self-Isolation
April 20, 2020 12:58 - 9 minutes - 8.75 MBDonny O'Malley is a Marine Corps. veteran who has dedicated his post-service life to building a community amongst veterans using comedy and the power of laughter. He is the founder of Vet Tv and Irreverent Warriors. Donny shares with Christina how a positive outlook and community support is critical, especially for veterans, during self-isolation.
COVID-19 and the Immunocompromised
April 17, 2020 13:27 - 10 minutes - 9.8 MBHeather Crookston Neal is a resident of Reno,Nevada. Heather has Crohn's Disease and must take medication that leaves her with a weakened immune system. Because of this, if Heather were to contract COVID-19, the consequences could be dire. Heather has begun speaking out and advocating for the immunocompromised in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, and striving to put a face to invisible diseases.
Love in the Time of COVID
April 16, 2020 13:09 - 14 minutes - 13.6 MBHelix Wolfson is looking for love. He is self-isolating as a single man during the COVID-19 pandemic and, like many single people, is desiring to make a strong romantic connections. Dating during this time has a whole new set of challenges. In this episode, Helix gives advice for other singles looking for meaningful relationships despite not being able to leave their homes. He also describes how he is getting creative with digital dating, and how exactly he's searching for love in t...
How VR Technology is Helping the Physically Disabled During Self-Isolation
April 15, 2020 12:59 - 13 minutes - 12.7 MBOn today's episode, Christina Pascucci speaks with Paul Amadeus Lane. Paul is a TV & radio personality, brand ambassador, keynote speaker and accessibility consultant. He is also a C6 quadriplegic confined to a wheelchair as the result of an automobile accident. Paul shares with Christina how virtual reality neurotherapy from the company Mieron is helping those who are not able-bodied during self-isolation amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Curious Case of Jeri and Carl Goldman
April 14, 2020 12:56 - 12 minutes - 11.8 MBScientists around the world are racing to develop a vaccine for the novel coronavirus. According to The WHO, there are currently 70 coronavirus vaccines in development globally. In today's episode, we look at where we're at in terms of getting a vaccine to market, and how blood tests from one couple may help scientists find answers to bring an end to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Could Blood Antibody Testing Help Reopen the U.S.?
April 13, 2020 13:07 - 9 minutes - 9.04 MBIt's the question on everyone's mind: When will things return to some semblance of normalcy? On this episode of the podcast, Christina speaks with the man leading the charge in L.A.'s COVID-19 testing efforts, Dr. Marc Eckstein, who explains how serology blood testing works, and how it may help provide some much needed answers. He also reveals why there were early challenges to roll out coronavirus testing.
The Risk for Nursing Homes & Senior Care Facilities
April 10, 2020 12:15 - 13 minutes - 12.3 MBChristina Pascucci speaks with Dr. Michael Wasserman, an expert in geriatric medicine and the president of the California Association of Long Term Care Medicine, about what is needed to protect our most at-risk citizens. Dr. Wasserman explains the vulnerabilities for nursing homes and senior care facilities during the COVID-19 crisis. He also shares recommendations on what leaders should be doing to prevent outbreaks in among residents and caregivers.
We're In This Together: Resources for Mental Health
April 09, 2020 13:26 - 10 minutes - 9.51 MBIt has been a stressful time for many people as there are mounting fears and worries surrounding our health and the health of loved ones, lost jobs and financial losses, and struggles with loneliness that come with self-isolating. Mental health services are expecting an increase in call volume in the weeks ahead, and there has already been a measurable uptick in calls that include “suicidal desires” spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic. Christina Pascucci speaks with Jessica Van Der Sta...
This Too Shall Pass
April 08, 2020 13:21 - 11 minutes - 10.5 MBToday is Wednesday, April 8th, and Jews around the world will be celebrating the first Seder of Passover. While Passover is a time that often brings families together, this year, the COVID-19 crisis will be keeping many Jews apart. However, the worldwide community will celebrate nonetheless in these unprecedented times. Christina Pascucci hears from a local rabbi to learn the ways how.
Pregnant In A Pandemic
April 07, 2020 13:07 - 12 minutes - 11 MBAs the fight against COVID-19 continues, many expectant mothers are beginning to seek alternative birthing options to avoid hospitals. As a result, there is a renewed interest across the country in the services of midwives, trained health professionals who assist healthy women during labor, delivery, and after the birth of their babies. Christina speaks with Tiffany Gallo, a licensed midwife and owner of Pure Births Birth Center, who has seen a surge in business amid the coronavirus...
"They're Hanging Us Out to Dry"
April 06, 2020 12:47 - 10 minutes - 9.62 MBA nurse who was exposed to COVID-19 and is now experiencing symptoms expresses concerns about how the hospital she works at is handling the coronavirus outbreak. She also reveals that hospitals are still struggling securing personal protective equipment. Christina Pascucci shares how a local restaurant is helping medical workers. Plus, what two nurses are doing to help their colleagues who are short on supplies.
The Hard Days That Lie Ahead
April 03, 2020 13:02 - 14 minutes - 13.2 MBEarlier this week, President Trump gave a grim warning about the coming two weeks. The White House projected that the coronavirus pandemic could claim 100,000 to 240,000 U.S. lives. While this week's news has been bleak, the worst may still lie ahead. While many grapple with anxiety and mental anguish, Christina spoke with Laurie Williamson, a mental health professional, to learn about some tips and strategies people can practice for the benefit of their mental well-being.