This set organizes many of the "Latin Pulse" programs on topics related to Mexico.

Mexico

This set organizes most of the "Latin Pulse" programs that deal Venezuela. The Venezuelan flag graphic is in the public domain.

Venezuela

This week, the second anniversary of Latin Pulse has the program looking at a variety of topics. Listen in and you can hear discussion of telenovelas, politics, diplomacy, economics, censorship, human rights, and corruption. The program also covers plenty of geographic territory, including discussion of Venezuela, Cuba, Mexico, Costa Rica, Honduras, and Chile. The program includes out-takes from previous programs and selections from the favorite interviews of the audience. The news segment of the program covers the postponement this week of the U.S.-Brazil summit, due to revelations of U.S. spying on Brazil's president and on the state oil monopoly Petrobras.


The program includes interviews with:
Carolina Acosta-Alzuru of the University of Georgia; 
Dan Hellinger of Webster University;
Bill LeoGrande of American University;
Mark Schneider of the International Crisis Group;
Francisco Robles Rivera of Universidad Nacional and Universidad de Costa Rica;
Manuel Suarez-Mier of American University;
Adriana Beltran of the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA); and 
Rev. Joe Eldridge of American University.


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell and
Associate Producer: Megan Ekhaml.

This program includes excerpts and out-takes from the following programs:

https://soundcloud.com/latinpulse/militarizing-police-honduras-remember-chile-coup-lp8292013

https://soundcloud.com/latinpulse/analyzing-obama-trip-mexico-costa-rica-lp5022013

https://soundcloud.com/latinpulse/hugo-chavez-his-legacy-lp3082013

https://soundcloud.com/latinpulse/cuban-visa-reforms-obama-latin-america-agenda-lp1182013

https://soundcloud.com/latinpulse/telenovela-special-lp11162012


“Latin Pulse” is produced at American University’s School of Communication. This program is sponsored by the university’s Center for Latin American & Latino Studies (CLALS), in association with Link TV.
www.american.edu/soc/
www.american.edu/clals/latin-pulse.cfm


Anniversary II: Awesome Answers & Outstanding Out-Takes (Lp9192013)

Peace and the growing power of women in Latin America provide the twin themes this week on Latin Pulse.  The presidential elections in Chile which have two women vying for the presidency provide the backdrop for a discussion of how women have moved into the key positions of power in the region.  The program also gives an update on progress in the peace talks meant to settle the civil war in Colombia, a war that has gone on for almost 50 years.  The news segment of the program covers the police strike and resulting violence in Argentina. 

The program includes interviews with:


Macarena Saez of American University; and 
Gimena Sanchez of the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA). 


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; and
Associate Producer: Megan Ekhaml.


The photo of former Chilean Labor Minister Evelyn Matthei and former President Michelle Bachelet is from their nationally televised debate in Chile in October and is from the Bachelet campaign.  The photo is in the public domain.


“Latin Pulse” is produced at American University’s School of Communication. This program is sponsored by the university’s Center for Latin American & Latino Studies (CLALS), in association with Link TV.

http://www.american.edu/soc/
http://www.american.edu/clals/latin-pulse.cfm


Colombia's Peace Talks & the Powerful Women of Chile and Latin America (Lp12122013)

Elections and politics in Central America provide the central themes this week on Latin Pulse.  The program looks at the politics and topics driving this weekend's elections in El Salvador.  The program also covers the political and electoral topography in Nicaragua and Costa Rica.  The program compares the economic climate in El Salvador and how they differ from neighboring Honduras, and why that makes El Salvador a different and more stable political system.  The news segment of the program covers the diplomatic spat between Venezuela, Panama and the United States, and the anti-government protests that have sparked the diplomatic disputes.

The program includes in-depth interviews with:


Geoff Thale of the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA); and 
John Booth of the University of North Texas.


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; and
Associate Producer: Megan Ekhaml.

The photo of Salvador Sanchez Ceren campaigning is from the Chinese government and is in the public domain.

“Latin Pulse” is produced at American University’s School of Communication. This program is sponsored by the university’s Center for Latin American & Latino Studies (CLALS), in association with Link TV.

http://www.american.edu/soc/
http://www.american.edu/clals/latin-pulse.cfm


Elections: Voting in El Salvador & Politics in Central America (Lp3072014)

Turmoil and violence in Mexico, both past and present provide the themes this week on "Latin Pulse."  The program discusses the impact of Mexico's drug cartels on the agricultural sector including the trade in limes and avocados. The program analyzes the impact of the Knights Templar cartel on the Mexican state of Michoacan and how the government is trying to fight the violence that cartel breeds. The program also includes a retrospective discussion of the Zapatista revolt, 20 years later.  The news segment of the program covers the changes in Brazil this week regarding regulation of the internet.

The program includes in-depth interviews with:


Steven Dudley of InSightCrime.org; and
Jorge Luis Sierra, Mexican journalist.  

Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; 
Associate Producer: Megan Ekhaml; and
Writer: Elyssa Pachico. 

The graphic is by Silenthill02 via WikiMedia Commons using a Creative Commons license: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Movimiento_templario.png

“Latin Pulse” is produced at American University’s School of Communication. This program is sponsored by the university’s Center for Latin American & Latino Studies (CLALS), in association with Link TV.

http://www.american.edu/soc/
http://www.american.edu/clals/latin-pulse.cfm


Mexico: The Knights Templar Cartel & the Zapatista Revolt 20 Years Later (Lp4252014)

This week, "Latin Pulse" covers a variety of topics, including the crackdown on the protest movement in Venezuela and corruption tainting police in El Salvador.  The segment on Venezuela reviews the opinions of one of the leaders of the opposition protest movement who has also been influential with the country's student protestors too.  The Salvadoran segment traces the history of the national police and how criminal organizations infiltrated the police during the past generation.  The news segment of the program covers the visit of Uruguay's President Jose "Pepe" Mujica to Washington, D.C. and his discussion of health issues and human rights.  The program also includes a commentary on the failure of marriage equality in Colombia.


The program includes in-depth interviews with:


Rodrigo Diamanti of El Mundo Sin Mordaza; and
Hector Silva of American University's Center for Latin American & Latino Studies (CLALS). 


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; and 
Associate Producer: Megan Ekhaml.


The photo is by Marquinam via Flickr using a Creative Commons license: https://www.flickr.com/photos/marquinam/13155160395/


“Latin Pulse” is produced at American University’s School of Communication. This program is sponsored by the university’s Center for Latin American & Latino Studies (CLALS), in association with Link TV.

http://www.american.edu/soc/
http://www.american.edu/clals/latin-pulse.cfm



Cracking Down on Protests in Venezuela & Police Corruption in El Salvador (Lp5162014)

This week before heading out on an extended summer break, Latin Pulse provides a 90-minute summer special filled with emotion and information.  The in-depth segments include an update on the protest movement in Venezuela, an examination of Brazilian national identity and the World Cup, an update on immigration issues in Mexico, and an analysis of the Panama Canal as it celebrates 100 years of operation.  Also, included: a commentary on women and the World Cup.  The program also includes a special interview with the U.S. ambassador to Honduras.  The news segment deals with coca and the Drug War.


The program includes in-depth interviews with:


Ambassador Lisa Kubiske, U.S. Ambassador to Honduras; 
Sonja Wolf of Mexico's INSYDE; and 
Julie Greene of the University of Maryland.


Additional interviews include: 

Hermann Escarrá of Universidad Central de Venezuela; 
Javier Ciurlizza of the International Crisis Group; 
Mark Weisbrot of the Center for Economic & Policy Research (CEPR); 
Carlos Lauria of the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ); 
Rachel Glickhouse, writer; 
Julia Michaels, writer; and
Roberto DaMatta, University of Notre Dame;  


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; 
Associate Producer: Megan Ekhaml; and
Reporter: Elyssa Pachico.


The photo is by Carlos Diaz of Venezuela via Flickr using a Creative Commons license: https://www.flickr.com/photos/carlosdiazme/13977683128/


Special: Protesting in Venezuela; Celebrating in Brazil & the U.S. View from Tegucigalpa (Lp6272014)

(This is an episode of "Latin Pulse" from the program's archives that has not been previously available via SoundCloud and is available now during the program's summer hiatus. The historical and political insights included in this program prove to be useful, even after almost three years since they were broadcast online.)

Trade and economics take center stage on Latin Pulse this week, after the U.S. Congress passed free trade legislation with two Latin American countries and South Korea. This was the most significant trade legislation agreed to by Congress in 17 years. The program looks at the new competition for trade the U.S. faces in Latin America from China and considers if Latin America will become a front in the competition between these two global powers. Also, the program includes the second part of a longer interview reviewing free speech and media issues in the region in the run-up to elections in many parts of Latin America.


In-Depth Interviews:
Luis Botello of the International Center for Journalists; and
Lauren Paverman of the Council on Hemispheric Affairs.


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell
Associate Producer: Vanessa Haces-Gonzatti

The photo of Chinese currency is in the public domain.


From the Archives: Latin American Trade with China & Free Speech Issues (Lp10142011)

(This is an episode of "Latin Pulse" from the program's archives that has not been previously available via SoundCloud and is available now during the program's summer hiatus. The historical and political insights included in this program prove to be useful, even after almost three years since they were broadcast online.)


On this program, Latin Pulse focuses on Honduras. With the recent trip of Honduran President Porfirio "Pepe" Lobo to Washington, D.C., the question remains whether the country has rehabilitated its diplomatic image after the controversial coup of 2009. Several experts add their analysis of the situation between Washington and Honduras now and how the coup factors into Honduras' relationships throughout Latin America. Beyond the meeting between Lobo and U.S. President Barack Obama, the program also features news about presidential candidate Rick Perry, the governor of Texas, and his solution to Mexico's problems fighting the drug war.


In-Depth Interviews:
Vicki Gass of the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA); and
Bill LeoGrande, Dean of the School of Public Affairs at American University.


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell
Associate Producer: Vanessa Haces-Gonzatti


The graphic of the Honduran coat of arms is in the public domain.


From the Archives: Honduras, Diplomacy and the Coup (LP10072011)

This week, Latin Pulse focuses on the presidential elections and debate over indigenous rights in Bolivia. Evo Morales, Bolivia's popular president runs for a third term in office against Samuel Doria Medina. If Morales wins a third term, what will that mean for diplomacy with the United States? The latter half of the program reflects on the emergence of indigenous rights in Bolivia and how that runs against the trend of suppression of indigenous political power. The news segment covers the disappearance of students in Mexico and the controversy it has caused.

The program includes in-depth interviews with:

Forrest Hylton of Northwestern University; and
Rob Albro of American University. 

Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; 
Producer: Jim Singer; and
Associate Producer: Gabriela Canchola.

The photo is from the Facebook page of President Evo Morales’ re-election campaign and is in the public domain.

The program is produced at Webster University: www.webster.edu/


Indigenous Issues: Elections in Bolivia & Politics in the Post-Colonial Era (Lp10102014)

This week, Latin Pulse focuses on Argentina's debt crisis. A federal judge in the U.S. is holding Argentina in contempt for failing to come up with a plan that satisfies all of its creditors from a default in 2001.  The U.S. Supreme Court ruled it would not review the case, thus upholding the lower court decisions on the bond repayments.  That decision triggered a second default.  This case holds implications not only for Argentina's economic future, but for the position of financial outlets in New York. This week's news segment covers the victory claims of President Evo Morales in Bolivia.


The program includes in-depth interviews with:


Peter Schechter of the Adrienne Arsht Latin American Center of the Atlantic Council; and
Leslie Armijo of Portland State University. 


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; 
Producer: Jim Singer; and
Associate Producer: Gabriela Canchola.

The photo is from the Jubilee Debt Campaign via Flickr using a Creative Commons license: https://www.flickr.com/photos/dropthedebt/8510417429/in/photolist-dY37AZ-dY8PQ1-dY38MK-dY37UB-dY8Pz1-afJqvr-bzmhTp-aVEr1D-xJbZs-mjTXmK-dnW6Bf-ffKBKp-84ZPw-83SukG-bGhLtk-ksfMZn-74cmNP-gnFi7K-8SeoTZ-4PQkJS-ohKaYh-dSQMNf-dSR2Rs-oJU4o6-ow75r8-nQTpmd-nyy8ae-nR2TEz-nSPnEK-nQTpwU-fJ8aXS-4PQm2L-c7nZ7w-p7NiBu


The program is produced at Webster University: www.webster.edu/


Analyzing the Debt Crisis in Argentina (Lp10172014)

The historic changes between Cuba and the United States are rolling out but the Obama administration is also making aggressive diplomatic moves throughout Latin America.  That strategic shift provides the centerpiece for discussion on Latin Pulse this week. The program takes a wide-ranging view of the geopolitical situation in Latin America and provides a preview of the summit next week of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC).  The news segment of the program focuses on the negotiations between the U.S. and Cuba and President Barack Obama's policy pronouncements on Cuba.

Adam Isacson of the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA); and
Michael McCarthy of American University's Center for Latin American & Latino Studies (CLALS). 

Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; 
Producer: Jim Singer; 
Engineering Support: Zach Kromer; and
Production Assistant: Gabriela Canchola.

The photo is from the Brazilian government and is in the public domain.

The program is produced at Webster University: www.webster.edu/


Latin America: The Obama Administration's Policy Changes & the CELAC Summit (Lp1232015)

China and its economic and geopolitical strategy and cultural influence provide the central themes for this week's edition of Latin Pulse. The first half of the program examines the trade and economic issues connected to China's strategies in Latin America.  And the program debates the response of the U.S. to this economic expansion.  The second half of the program examines the history and cultural influence of Chinese emigration to Peru.  The news segment of the program covers the protests this week against the handling of the investigation into the death of special prosecutor Alberto Nisman in Argentina.


The program includes in-depth interviews with:


Mark Jones of Rice University; 
Kevin Gallagher of Boston University;
Larry Clayton of the University of Alabama; and 
Adam McKeown, author of Chinese Migrant Networks and Cultural Change. 


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; 
Producer: Jim Singer; and
Production Assistant: Gabriela Canchola.


The photo of President Ollanta Humala of Peru and President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China is from the Peruvian government and is in the public domain.

Produced for release on Feb. 20, 2015.

The program is produced at Webster University: www.webster.edu/



Special: The Chinese Strategy in Latin America & The Cultural Influence of China in Peru (Lp2202015)

Turmoil in Venezuela and the progress in the peace talks for the civil war in Colombia are the twin themes this week on Latin Pulse. The first half of the program analyzes the politics surrounding the arrest of Mayor Antonio Ledezma of Caracas and how that arrest has drawn international reaction.  The second half of the program tracks the ongoing talks attempting to end the 51-year-old war in Colombia.  The news segment of the program covers the latest in the case of Alberto Nisman in Argentina and how a judge has set aside an indictment against the country's president.


The program includes in-depth interviews with:

Michael McCarthy of American University's Center for Latin American & Latino Studies (CLALS); and
Adam Isacson of the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA).


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; 
Producer: Jim Singer; and
Production Assistant: Gabriela Canchola.


The photo of protests in Venezuela is from the Chinese government and is in the public domain.


Produced for release on Feb. 27, 2015.


The program is produced at Webster University: www.webster.edu/


Political Turmoil in Venezuela & Searching for an End to the Civil War in Colombia (Lp2272015)

Two years after the death of Hugo Chavez, this week "Latin Pulse" reviews the legacy of this polarizing political figure and what policies from the Chavez era still affect the current state of affairs in Venezuela. The program includes analysis on the handling of politics and economics by the government of President Nicolas Maduro and whether that government is now slipping into authoritarianism as it jails members of opposition groups.  The news segment of the program tracks the successful arrests this past week in Mexico and Bolivia of both drug cartel leaders and those in government working with illegal organizations.

The program includes in-depth interviews with:


Hugo Perez Hernaiz* of the Universidad Central de Venezuela & the "Venezuelan Politics & Human Rights" blog; and
Dan Hellinger of Webster University.


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; 
Producer: Jim Singer; and
Production Assistant: Gabriela Canchola.


  *Hugo Perez Hernaiz is also the author of the "Venezuela Conspiracy Theories Monitor" blog: http://venezuelaconspiracytheories.blogspot.com/
"Venezuelan Politics and Human Rights" can be found here: http://venezuelablog.tumblr.com/

The photo of Hugo Chavez is from the Venezuelan government and is in the public domain.

Produced for release on March 6, 2015.

The program is produced at Webster University: www.webster.edu/


Venezuela: Coup Conspiracies & Remembering Hugo Chavez (Lp3062015)

Judaism, anti-semitism, and Argentina provide the main themes this week on Latin Pulse.  The program revisits the mysterious case of the death of Alberto Nisman, a special prosecutor looking at terrorism cases that may have links to Iran.  The program discusses how the Nisman case continues to provide a crisis atmosphere in Argentina.  Also, the program reflects on the history of Judaism in Latin America and the various waves of prejudice that the Jewish population of the region has weathered. The news segment of the program covers the latest round of diplomacy between Cuba and the United States regarding human rights.


The program includes in-depth interviews with:

Shannon O'Neil of the Council on Foreign Relations; and
Marjorie Agosin of Wellesley College.


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; 
Producer: Jim Singer; and
Production Assistant: Gabriela Canchola.


The photo of the Central Synagogue of Buenos Aires in Argentina is by Emilio Erazo-Fischer of Madrid, Spain via Wikimedia Commons and Flickr using a Creative Commons license: http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/95/Buenos_Aires-Synagogue-1133263056.jpg

Produced for release on April 3, 2015.

The program is produced at Webster University: www.webster.edu/


Exploring the Nisman Case in Argentina & Judaism in Latin America (Lp4032015)

The United States and its participation in the Summit of the Americas this weekend provides the central theme this week on Latin Pulse. Although the summit has a specific agenda to deal with economic inequality in Latin America, experts expect that diplomacy between the U.S. and Cuba, and U.S. relations with Venezuela will dominate what happens at this meeting. The news segment of the program covers deportations and extraditions concerning former members of the Salvadoran military who sought asylum from prosecution on human rights charges stemming from their actions in the Salvadoran Civil War.


The program includes in-depth interviews with:


Eric Olson of the Woodrow Wilson Center; and
Peter Hakim of the Inter-American Dialogue.


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; 
Producer: Jim Singer; and
Production Assistant: Sierra Hancock.

The graphic is from the Summit of the Americas and is in the public domain.

Produced for release on April 10, 2015.

The program is produced at Webster University: www.webster.edu/


Analyzing the Summit of the Americas (Lp4102015)

Justice, human rights and immigration policy regarding Central America provide the triple themes this week on Latin Pulse. The program focuses on the extradition case of Inocente Montano, a former colonel and leader for the Salvadoran military during El Salvador's civil war.  Spanish authorities want Montano sent to Spain to face human rights charges connected to the massacre of Jesuit priests at a university in San Salvador.  The program also looks at Congressional concerns over U.S. immigration policy in Central America. The news segment of the program reviews the controversial trade mission to Cuba of New York Governor Andrew Cuomo.


The program includes in-depth interviews with:


Geoff Thale of the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA); and
Eric Olson of the Woodrow Wilson Center.


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; 
Producer: Jim Singer; and
Production Assistant: Sierra Hancock.



The photo of a temporary memorial to those killed in the massacre at the Universidad CentroAmericana (UCA) is from the Salvadoran non-profit organization FUNDAMER and is in the public domain: https://fundahmer.wordpress.com/


Produced for release on April 24, 2015.

The program is produced at Webster University: www.webster.edu/


Seeking Civil War Justice in El Salvador & Immigration Policy for Central America (Lp4242015)

Debating conditions in Venezuela provides a special topic this week on "Latin Pulse," as the program provides an extended time for a diplomatic representative of the Bolivarian government to respond to questions. Beyond an official representative of the Venezuelan government a left-wing critic of the government also discusses his view that Venezuela is slipping into autocracy. The news segment of the program covers the call this week for further investigations into illegal domestic spying in Colombia and the sentencing of former government officials to long prison sentences for ordering such illegal activities.

The program includes in-depth interviews with:

Jesus Rodriguez-Espinoza, Consul General for the Bolivarian Government of Venezuela; and
James Bloodworth, editor of Left Foot Forward.

Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; 
Producer: Jim Singer; and
Production Assistant: Sierra Hancock.


The photo of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro is from the Cuban government and is in the public domain.

Produced for release on May 1, 2015.

The program is produced at Webster University: www.webster.edu/


Special: Debating Venezuela and Authoritarianism (Lp5012015)

Violence and salvation are the themes this week on Latin Pulse. The alarming rise in homicide rates in El Salvador catches our attention and the program discusses the causes and how the government is reacting to the rise in gang-related violence.  The reaction seems to be extrajudicial killings and the return of death squads.  The program also includes an analysis about the shift of religious beliefs in Latin America, including the rise of evangelicals and religious pluralism. The news segment of the program covers the latest votes related to the Trans-Pacific Partnership and special trade authority for President Barack Obama.

The program includes in-depth interviews with:

Hector Silva of the Center for Latin American & Latino Studies (CLALS) at American University; and
Andrew Chesnut of Virginia Commonwealth University.

Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; 
Producer: Jim Singer; and
Production Assistant: Sierra Hancock.

The photo of Salvadoran gang members is from InSight Crime using a Creative Commons licensing agreement: http://www.insightcrime.org/news-briefs/el-salvador-gang-truce-technically-finished-police

Produced for release on June 19, 2015.

The program is produced through the support of Webster University: www.webster.edu/


Violence & Salvation: Homicides in El Salvador & Religion in Latin America (Lp6192015)

Pope Francis and his upcoming trip to the Andes provide the central theme this week on "Latin Pulse." The program includes analysis from Rome and how the issues of marriage equality and LGBT acceptance by the Catholic Church may arise during the pope's trip.  The program also includes discussion of the pope's role in bringing Cuba and the United States together diplomatically during the past year.  The program includes analysis of the pope's shift to favor liberation theology. The news segment of the program covers the plans between Cuba and the United States to resume normal diplomatic relations.


The program includes in-depth interviews with:

Joshua McElwee of the National Catholic Reporter; and
Andrew Chesnut of Virginia Commonwealth University.


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; 
Producer: Jim Singer; and
Production Assistant: Sierra Hancock.

The graphic is from the government of Paraguay and is in the public domain.

Produced for release on July 2, 2015.

The program is produced through the support of Webster University: www.webster.edu/


Preview: Pope Francis and his Trip to the Andes (Lp7022015)

Pope Francis and his trip to the Andes region of Latin America provides the central theme on "Latin Pulse." The program includes a deep theological discussion of how Pope Francis is redirecting the philosophy of the Church to take the concerns of poverty more seriously.  The program also discusses the Church's views on LGBT rights, indigenous issues, and euthanasia.  The program also reviews the political issues in Ecuador, Bolivia, and Paraguay that intersect with the pope's trip. The news segment of the program covers the criticisms of ecological policies in Ecuador leveled by the pope during his trip.


The program includes in-depth interviews with:


Rev. Joe Eldridge of American University; and
Alex Wilde of the Center for Latin American & Latino Studies (CLALS) at American University.


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; 
Producer: Jim Singer; and
Announcer: Guillermo Rodriguez.

The graphic is from the government of Ecuador and is in the public domain.

Produced for release on July 10, 2015.

The program is produced through the support of Webster University: www.webster.edu/


Analyzing the Andes Trip of Pope Francis (Lp7102015)

Religion in Latin America provides the theme this week on "Latin Pulse," as Cuba prepares for an official visit from Pope Francis. The program analyzes the importance of the pope's upcoming trip to Cuba and reflects on how the Cuba trip will provide a preface for the pope's visit to the United States. The program also reviews a new book that deals with how religion is fighting violence throughout Latin America, especially Central America.  The news segment of the program reviews the results in the first round of the Guatemalan presidential voting and the upset of comedian Jimmy Morales.


The program includes in-depth interviews with:

Andrew Chesnut of Virginia Commonwealth University; and
Alex Wilde of American University's Center for Latin American & Latino Studies (CLALS).


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; 
Technical Director: Jim Singer; and
Associate Producer: Natalie Ottinger.

The logo for Pope Francis’ trip to Cuba is from the Archdiocese of Havana and is in the public domain.

Produced for release on Sept. 11, 2015.


Religion: Preparing for the Pope in Cuba & Reflections on Violence (LP9112015)

It's the fourth anniversary of "Latin Pulse," and the program celebrates in its own way:  a medley of out-takes and pithy comments from the most popular programs of the past year. The topics on the program range from a review of the crisis of unaccompanied minors on the U.S.-Mexico border to covering various fronts in the Drug War.  The program also includes segments on the economic impact of China on Latin America.  The news segment of the program covers the aftereffects of the earthquake in Chile that saw a million people evacuate their homes.


The program includes interview segments with:

Eric Olson of the Woodrow Wilson Center; 
Jo Tuckman of The Guardian;
Jeremy McDermott of InSight Crime;
Mark Jones of Rice University;
Kevin Gallagher of Boston University; and
Ignacio Siles of the Universidad de Costa Rica.


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; 
Technical Director: Jim Singer; and
Associate Producer: Natalie Ottinger.


Produced for release on Sept. 18, 2015.


Anniversary IV: Outstanding Out-Takes & Memorable Excerpts (Lp9182015)

Looking ahead at what appear to be the key issues for 2016 in Latin America is the mission for Latin Pulse this week.  The program includes an in-depth and extended discussion with a director of one of the top research centers reviewing Latin American affairs and includes in-depth discussion of Brazil, Venezuela, Cuba, Mexico, and United States policy towards the region.  The news segment of the program discusses the move this week to extradite Mexican cartel leader Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman to the United States after he was recaptured in Mexico.

The program includes an in-depth interview with:

Eric Hershberg, the director of American University's Center for Latin American & Latino Studies (CLALS).

Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; 
Technical Director: Jim Singer; and
Associate Producer: Natalie Ottinger.

The photo of U.S. Vice President Joe Biden and Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto is from the U.S. government and is in the public domain.



The Political & Economic Forecast for Latin America in 2016 (Lp1152016)

Pope Francis and his trip to Mexico provide the central themes this week on Latin Pulse. The program discusses the pope's fourth trip to Latin America, which will primarily focus on key stops throughout Mexico. The program reflects on the pope's efforts to put the global refugee crisis and the need to ease migration restrictions in front of policymakers in the hemisphere.  The news segment of the program covers testimony from the Centers for Disease Control in the United States officially linking the zika virus outbreak to microcephaly, a condition that causes brain damage in infants.
The program includes in-depth interviews with:
Andrew Chesnut of Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU); and
Maureen Meyer of the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA).

Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; 
Technical Director: Jim Singer; and
Associate Producer: Natalie Ottinger.

The photo of Mexico’s President Enrique Pena Nieto and Pope Francis is from the Mexican government and is in the public domain.


Mexico: The Visit of Pope Francis, Migration and Scandal (Lp2122016)

Corruption and its corrosive effects on politics in Brazil and international fùtbol/soccer tournaments is the central theme this week on "Latin Pulse." The program analyzes the rocky beginnings of the administration of Interim President Michelle Temer in Brazil.  The program also provides an analysis of the Copa America in its centennial year, which includes a preview of this weekend's finale between Argentina and Chile.  The news segment of the program covers the historic agreement between the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (the FARC) and the Colombian government, agreeing to a ceasefire before a permanent peace treaty.

The program includes in-depth interviews with:

Alex Cuadros, author of Brazillionaires; and
Joshua Nadel of North Carolina Central University. 

Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; 
Technical Director: Jim Singer; and 
Production Assistant: Chorsie Martin. 

The photo of Interim President Michel Temer of Brazil is from the Cuban government and is in the public domain.

“Latin Pulse” is produced at Webster University’s School of Communications: www.webster.edu/communications/


Corruption Bankrupts Politics in Brazil & the Importance of the Copa America (Lp6242016)

The Rio Olympics set for this summer in Brazil and their various problems provide the central themes this week on "Latin Pulse." The program analyzes a variety of challenges for these games including security, crime, transportation, infrastructure, and environmental and economic impacts of the games.  The program also discusses the various health issues confronting these games including the zika virus and super bacteria that are present in some of the venues for water events in the Olympics. The news segment of the program covers the resignation of Eduardo Cunha, president of the Brazilian Chamber of Deputies due to corruption charges.


The program includes in-depth interviews with:

Andrew Zimbalist of Smith College; and
Alex Cuadros, author of Brazillionaires. 


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; 
Technical Director: Jim Singer; and 
Production Assistant: Chorsie Martin.


The graphic is the official logo of the 2016 Olympics and is used here following fair use guidelines.


“Latin Pulse” is produced at Webster University’s School of Communications: www.webster.edu/communications/


Brazil: Debating the Olympics in Rio (Lp7082016)

An hour-long special covers various issues regarding human rights and democratization on Latin Pulse this week. The program includes a wide-ranging discussion of the various crises affecting Venezuela, including the political and economic situations.  The analysis also includes discussions on the peace process in Colombia and accusations of human rights abuses by the military in Honduras.  The program also includes a review of a book on corruption in Brazil. The news segment of the program covers how El Salvador's Supreme Court struck down the country's amnesty law opening the door to human rights prosecutions linked to the country's civil war.
The program includes in-depth interviews with:

Dan Hellinger of Webster University; 
Orlando Perez of Millersville University;
Gimena Sanchez of the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA); and 
Alex Cuadros, author of Brazillionaires. 


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; 
Technical Director: Jim Singer; and 
Production Assistant: Chorsie Martin.

The photo of anti-government protesters marching due to the lack of food supplies in Venezuela is from the Venezuelan government and is in the public domain.

“Latin Pulse” is produced at Webster University’s School of Communications: www.webster.edu/communications/


Special: Crisis in Venezuela; the Peace Process in Colombia; and Brazillionaires (LP7152016)

Venezuela, Colombia, and their simmering problems provide the central themes on Latin Pulse this week. The program includes an in-depth analysis reviewing the state of democracy in Venezuela and how that affects the current crisis situation.  The program also discusses how minority groups (Afro-Colombians and indigenous tribes) have been marginalized as part of the negotiations to end the country's long-running civil war. The news segment of the program covers the inauguration of Pedro Pablo Kuczynski as both Peru's newest and oldest president, along with noting his support for the Trans-Pacific Partnership (the TPP).


The program includes in-depth interviews with:

Dan Hellinger of Webster University; and
Gimena Sanchez of the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA). 


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; 
Technical Director: Jim Singer; and 
Production Assistant: Chorsie Martin.


The photo of an anti-government protester in Venezuela is from the Venezuelan government and is in the public domain.

“Latin Pulse” is produced at Webster University’s School of Communications: www.webster.edu/communications/


Venezuela in Crisis & Indigenous and Afro-Colombian Views of Colombia's Peace Talks (LP7292016)

Fútbol (or soccer) at the Olympics and concerns about the military and police in Honduras    provide the varied themes on Latin Pulse this week. The program provides an in-depth analysis of both the women's and men's fútbol competitions at the Olympic Summer Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.  The program also concludes its two-part critique of the Honduran military. The program also discusses the role the military is playing in both the Drug War and in the political sphere in Honduras. The news segment of the program discusses U.S. President Barack Obama's support for the Trans-Pacific Partnership (the TPP).



The program includes in-depth interviews with:


Joshua Nadel of North Carolina Central University; and
Orlando Perez of Millersville University. 


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; 
Technical Director: Jim Singer; and 
Production Assistant: Chorsie Martin.


The photo Brazil’s fútbol team in action against South Africa in the Olympics is by Marcelo Camargo of Agência Brasil.  Agência Brasil offers its images for use via a Creative Commons license:
http://agenciabrasil.ebc.com.br/rio-2016/foto/2016-08/brasil-estreia-contra-africa-do-sul-no-mane-garrincha

“Latin Pulse” is produced at Webster University’s School of Communications: www.webster.edu/communications/


Rick Rockwell's Album

Olympic Fútbol, Analyzing Soccer in Rio & Concerns About the Military in Honduras (Lp8052016)

LGBT (lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, or trans-gender) issues at the Summer Olympics in Rio, along with economics and politics provide the varied themes on Latin Pulse this week. First, the program delves into homophobia in Brazil and how Brazilian crowds have reacted to LGBT athletes.  The program also includes an in-depth analysis into the current economic and political issues facing Cuba. The news segment of the program discusses the uptick in Zika cases in Honduras and how newborns are being affected there, while civil society groups call for more access to birth control.

The program includes in-depth interviews with:

Jim Buzinski of Outsports; and
Dan Hellinger of Webster University. 

Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; and
Technical Director: Jim Singer. 
 
*This program includes frank discussion of adult themes related to sexuality and sexual identity. 

The photo of female soccer competitors, including Megan Rapinoe (left) is a public domain photo.

“Latin Pulse” is produced at Webster University’s School of Communications: www.webster.edu/communications/


LGBT Issues at the Rio Olympics & Economic Challenges in Cuba (Lp8192016)

The proposed peace treaty dealing with the FARC in Colombia and the deterioration of democracy in Nicaragua are the twin themes on Latin Pulse this week. First, the program dissects the proposed peace pact between the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC by its Spanish acronym) and the Colombian government. Also, the program explores how President Daniel Ortega has manipulated the electoral system in Nicaragua. The news segment of the program covers the end of Dilma Rousseff's presidency as the Brazilian Senate found her guilty of shifting funds without Congressional approval and with misleading the Brazilian Congress.
The program includes in-depth interviews with:

Adam Isacson of the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA); and
Manuel Orozco of the Inter-American Dialogue. 

Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; and
Technical Director: Jim Singer. 

The photo of celebrations about the proposed peace treaty in Colombia is from the Venezuelan government and is in the public domain.

“Latin Pulse” is produced at Webster University’s School of Communications: www.webster.edu/communications/


The FARC Peace Treaty in Colombia & Politics in Nicaragua (Lp9022016)

Brazil and its various concerns are again on the radar of "Latin Pulse" this week. First, the program looks at what is in store for Brazil politically and economically after the ouster of President Dilma Rousseff by the country's Congress. And how will the Temer administration deal with anti-government protests? Also, the program discusses ways to fight the Zika virus, after the disease started in Brazil but has now spread to Central America and beyond. The news segment of the program covers how funds to fight Zika and support research for Zika vaccines are stalled in the U.S. Congress.


The program includes in-depth interviews with:

Prof. Matthew Taylor of American University; and
Dr. Reina Turcios-Ruiz of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). 

Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; and
Technical Director: Jim Singer. 

The photo of protests in Brazil is from the Venezuelan government and is in the public domain.

“Latin Pulse” is produced at Webster University’s School of Communications: www.webster.edu/communications/

Brazil: Unrest After the Rousseff Exit & Fighting Zika (Lp9092016)

On Mexico's independence day Latin Pulse focuses this week on key themes for the country: the Drug War, national security, immigration, corruption, justice, and of course, politics. The program includes an in-depth interview tracking the effects of the visit of U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump to Mexico.  The program also looks at a new violent uptick in the Drug War, with clashes between the Sinaloa Cartel and the Nueva Generacion Jalisco Cartel. The news segment of the program covers new indictments against Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, the popular former president of Brazil often just called Lula.


The program includes an in-depth interview with:


Maureen Myer of the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA). 


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; and
Associate Producer: Jim Singer. 


The photo of Mexico’s President Enrique Pena Nieto is from the Cuban government and is in the public domain.


“Latin Pulse” is produced at Webster University’s School of Communications: www.webster.edu/communications/


Mexico: The Drug War, Corruption & Politics (Lp9162016)

We celebrate the "Latin Pulse" five-year anniversary fiesta, with out-takes and excerpts from the past year, a tradition for the program.  The audience's favorite themes are on display.  Those themes include: the clash between the National Assembly and the president in Venezuela; the shift to the right in Argentina; the impeachment trial and corruption scandals in Brazil; and the Feast of San Lazaro and Santeria. The news segment of the program covers the defense by Brazil's President Michel Temer before the United Nations' General Assembly, justifying the impeachment and removal of Dilma Rousseff, an act that brought Temer to power.


The program includes interviews with:


Eric Hershberg of American University's Center for Latin American & Latino Studies (CLALS);
David Smilde of Tulane University;
Matthew Taylor of American University;
Chris Sabatini of Columbia University; and 
Michael Atwood Mason of the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage. 


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; and
Associate Producer: Jim Singer. 

Excerpts and out-takes from this program came from these popular programs:

https://soundcloud.com/latinpulse/cuba-venezuela-santeria-feast-san-lazaro-election-results-lp12112015

https://soundcloud.com/latinpulse/political-crisis-brazil-aftereffects-obama-trip-argentina-lp4012016 

https://soundcloud.com/latinpulse/political-economic-forecast-latin-america-2016-lp1152016




“Latin Pulse” is produced at Webster University’s School of Communications: www.webster.edu/communications/

Anniversary V: Outstanding Out-Takes & Excerpts (Lp9232016)

This special edition of Latin Pulse includes a different perspective on the presidential elections in the U.S.: a view from Cuba.  A Cuban professor discusses how the elections could have an impact on the warming relations between the two countries.  The program also discusses the rise of English as a mandated second language in South America and how that could reflect cultural imperialism. The news segment of the program covers the negotiations between opposition parties in Venezuela and the president to avert further protests and a move by the National Assembly to hold an impeachment trial.


The program includes interviews with:

Santiago Perez Benitez of the University of Havana & the Center for International Political Research (CIPI); and
DJ Kaiser of Webster University.

Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; and
Associate Producer: Jim Singer. 

The photo of Cuban President Raul Castro and U.S. President Barack Obama is from the Cuban government and is in the public domain.

“Latin Pulse” is produced at Webster University’s School of Communications: www.webster.edu/communications/

Special: The U.S. Elections, the Cuban View & Education in South America (Lp11052016)

This special edition of Latin Pulse includes an opportunity to hear a Cuban perspective on politics and diplomacy, along with an analysis of what derailed the peace process in Colombia.  A Cuban professor discusses the importance of continued exchanges between the United States and Cuba, while analyzing reactions to U.S. programs designed at political change and Cuban succession.  The program also discusses the rejection of the peace treaty with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). The news segment covers doubts about the sincerity of Venezuela's president during the papal negotiations to end the country's political crisis and avert violence.


The program includes interviews with:


Santiago Perez Benitez of the University of Havana & the Cuban Center for International Political Research (CIPI); and
Adam Isacson of the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA).


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; and
Associate Producer: Jim Singer. 

The photo of Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos, Cuban President Raul Castro and FARC leader Rodrigo (Timochenko) Londoño Echeverri at the signing of a preliminary peace agreement is from the Cuban government and is in the public domain.

“Latin Pulse” is produced at Webster University’s School of Communications: www.webster.edu/communications/

Special: The Cuban Perspective & Derailing Peace in Colombia (Lp11122016)

This week marks a year online for "Latin Pulse," and so the program is celebrating by featuring a review of some of the biggest stories of the year and includes some important interviewers that listeners may have missed the first time they went online.  The topics covered this week include the Drug War, immigration, the pope's trip to Latin America, Cuba's economic reforms and politics in Central America.  Unlike the rest of the program, the news segment is new this week, with coverage of the new abortion law in Uruguay.

Interviews include:
Luis Botello, International Center for Journalists (ICFJ);
Sonja Wolf, INSYDE;
Vicki Gass, Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA); 
Manuel Orozco, Inter-American Dialogue;
Jimena Aguilar of El Faro;
Eric Hershberg, Center for Latin American & Latino Studies (CLALS) of American University; 
Daniel Calingaert, Freedom House; and 
Tom Quigley, formerly of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell
Associate Producer: Curt Devine 
Writers: Jordan D'eri and Colin Campbell.

(Note: This podcast includes graphic descriptions of violence that may disturb some listeners.)

Longer versions of some of these interviews can be found at: http://soundcloud.com/latinpulse/dangers-immigration-mexico-brazil-economic-success-lp8102012 ;
http://soundcloud.com/latinpulse/lp5112012 ; and http://soundcloud.com/latinpulse/lp3232012

The remainder can be found in the complete "Latin Pulse" archives which can be found here: http://aladinrc.wrlc.org/handle/1961/10065

Anniversary Special Review (Lp9282012)

This week Latin Pulse comes remotely from the annual Latin American Studies Association (LASA) Congress in Washington, D.C.  One of the key topics from the conference:  reaction to the truce between the MS-13 street gang, one of the most violent gangs in the world, and its primary gang competitor, Barrio 18.  The program delves into the role of the Catholic Church in brokering the truce and how Catholicism and evangelical Christianity have played a role in countering.  The program also looks at how politics and diplomacy regarding Honduras and the 2009 coup continue to resonate throughout the hemisphere. 

The program includes in-depth interviews with:


Bob Brenneman of St. Michael's College of Vermont; and
Jorge Heine of Wilfrid Laurier University of Canada.


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell
Associate Producer: Curt Devine
Writer: Zach Cohen. 


The photo of a member of the MS-13 street gang is from the FBI and as it is from the U.S. government, it is in the public domain.


Honduras: Gangs, Drugs & Diplomacy (Lp5312013)

“Latin Pulse” is a weekly program that reviews news from Latin America and analyzes politics, culture, religion, and important issues throughout the region. This weekly podcast is distributed by Link TV, iTunes, and, of course, SoundCloud.  

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