For a summer change of pace, this week Latin Pulse travels to New York City for the Latin Alternative Music Conference (LAMC).  The program explores both musical and cultural issues linked to the conference, and highlights music from various countries and regions including: Mexico, Argentina, Panama, and Puerto Rico.  The program traces the roots of alternative music from salsa through rock and rap.  The news segment covers the latest complaints from Latin American governments regarding the revelations of Edward Snowden regarding NSA spying on various governments in the region.&#13;
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The program includes in-depth interviews with:&#13;
&#13;
Felix Contreras &amp; Jasmine Garsd of NPR's Alt.Latino .&#13;
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&#13;
The program also includes shorter sound clips from artists: &#13;
&#13;
Ruben Blades  http://www.rubenblades.com/&#13;
&amp; &#13;
Carla Morrison  http://www.carlamorrisonmusica.com/&#13;
&#13;
&#13;
Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell&#13;
Associate Producer: Curt Devine.&#13;
&#13;
More on the LAMC can be found here: http://www.latinalternative.com/&#13;
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A complete list of song excerpts used in this program can be found here: https://app.box.com/shared/static/u2f80os3weo4zly0ecrn.pdf&#13;
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The photo from the Latin Alternative Music Conference (LAMC) is by Rick Rockwell and is used with permission.&#13;
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Celebrating the Latin Alternative Music Conference (Lp 7122013)

Violence, both in the present context and in memory is the key concern this week on Latin Pulse.  The program looks at measures to militarize the police in Honduras as that country grapples with the worst homicide rate in the world.  The discussion includes human rights concerns, conditions in the Honduran prisons, and the crisis of the lack of governmental control in the country.  The program also discusses the 40th anniversary of the coup in Chile that brought Gen. Augusto Pinochet to power in 1973.  The news segment of the program covers protests over agricultural policies and trade in Colombia.


The program includes in-depth interviews with:


Adriana Beltran of the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA); and
Rev. Joe Eldridge of American University.


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell
Associate Producer: Curt Devine.

The photo of police in Honduras in riot gear 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


Militarizing Police in Honduras & Remembering Chile's Coup (Lp8292013)

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)

This week, "Latin Pulse" shines a light on the situation for the media in Latin America and threats to free speech. The program looks at how indigenous groups in Guatemala are disenfranchised when it comes to running public media outlets. Also, the program includes a discussion about current state threats to free media and how media outlets are often now seen as replacing opposition parties in some parts of the region. The news segment of the program covers the speech of Brazil's President Dilma Rousseff at the United Nations and how she condemned the United States for its espionage programs.


The program includes interviews with:
John Dinges of Columbia University; and
Mark Camp of Cultural Survival.


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell and
Associate Producer: Megan Ekhaml.


The photo is from the International Center for Journalists and is used here with permission: http://www.flickr.com/photos/21531040@N07/3343687965/in/photolist-66tgWv-5XRrvQ-4SvEp-7aFc1a-bCGyph-9tZnkr-8Dva2d-6ixqj7-4EaREo-cDf9zG-cDfbfY-cDfa4u-cDfaQ7-cDf9Zo-cDf9CG-cDfbz9-cDfa7d-cDfapU-cDfaaj-cDfbe7-cDfbam-cDf9Sh-cDf9nG-cDf9Us-cDfay3-cDfanq-cDfaUJ-cDfbry-cDfb59-cDf9do-cDfaiu-cDfaBb-cDfbBj-cDf9rY-cDfafN-cDf9Jh-cDfbuY-cDfaK9-f6Ro1-cDfzVd-cDfAkS-cDfB4h-cDfAuJ-cDfARJ-cDfAPN-cDfzT3-cDfAgh-cDfB6Q-cDfBhU-cDfAHu-cDfA3A


“Latin Pulse” is produced at American University’s School of Communication. This program is affiliated with the university’s Center for Latin American & Latino Studies (CLALS), and Link TV.
www.american.edu/soc/
www.american.edu/clals/latin-pulse.cfm


Free Speech in Latin America & Guatemala's Indigenous Radio Issue (lp9262013)

Drugs and the Drug War are the central focus this week on "Latin Pulse." The program examines the proposed law in Uruguay that will legalize the use and sale of marijuana.  The program also notes how Uruguay is using the experience of Colorado and Washington states in the U.S. as examples for how to shape its system.  Also, the program includes an interview with the author of "Midnight in Mexico," about immigration and the Drug War.  The news segment of the program covers the new trial for the oil company Chevron to dispute damage findings by indigenous groups in Ecuador.

The program includes interviews with:


John Walsh of the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA); and
Alfredo Corchado of The Dallas Morning News & the author of Midnight in Mexico.


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell;
Associate Producer: Megan Ekhaml.

The graphic is from the Uruguayan branch of the non-profit activist group Cultiva Tus Derechos and is used here following fair use guidelines for promotional materials: www.facebook.com/ctduruguay

“Latin Pulse” is produced at American University’s School of Communication. This program is affiliated with the university’s Center for Latin American & Latino Studies (CLALS), and with Link TV.
www.american.edu/soc/
www.american.edu/clals/latin-pulse.cfm


Drugs: Uruguay's Marijuana Bill & Cartel Violence in Mexico (Lp10172013)

A controversial election and a controversial prisoner hold the primary focus on Latin Pulse this week.  The election was held in Honduras, where opposition parties claim the National Party used fraud to stay in power.  The way the election was carried out has some questioning whether reforms to bolster the rule of law are possible.  The program also looks at the case of Alan Gross during the week he marked his fourth year incarcerated in Cuba.  The program looks at how the Gross case is tied to the case of the Cuban Five and U.S. support for Cuban exile groups. 

The program includes interviews with:


Adriana Beltran of the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA); and
Bill LeoGrande of American University. 


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; and
Associate Producer: Megan Ekhaml.


The photo is from the election campaign of Juan Orlando Hernandez in Honduras 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



The Disputed Elections in Honduras & the Cuban Imprisonment of Alan Gross (Lp12052013)

The popularity of telenovelas throughout the hemisphere returns to the attention of “Latin Pulse” this week.  This is the third in a series of special reports on telenovelas: going beneath the surface to analyze the gender identity issues and racism involved in the productions.  The program also looks at the important cultural aspects of these popular programs.  The news segment of the program covers the return of Michelle Bachelet to the presidency in Chile; as her historic win is the first time a woman has been returned to the presidency in that country's history. 

The program includes interviews with:


Carolina Acosta-Alzuru of the University of Georgia; and 
Guillermo Avila-Saavedra of Salem State University. 


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; and
Associate Producer: Megan Ekhaml.

The photo is of Alicia Machado from a promotion for Univision’s “La Madame” and is used here following fair use guidelines: http://corporate.univision.com/advertise/portfolio/la-madame-the-madame/#.UrMqGIVdrY0
A full listing of sound excerpts used in this program can be found here: https://app.box.com/shared/static/gfz64oinrqh2skfk74er.pdf

“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.



Analyzing New & Notable Telenovelas (Lp12192013)

Controversy in Honduras and the impact of Japanese emigrants on Latin America provide the twin themes this week on Latin Pulse.  Next week, Honduras is set to inaugurate Juan Orlando Hernandez as the country's new president.  But questions about the fall election that brought Hernandez to office linger, along with concerns about violence and further militarization of the country.  The program also looks at how generations of Japanese emigrants have left their mark on Brazil, Peru and other parts of the region.  The news segment of the program provides an update on drug violence in the Mexican state of Michoacan. 

The program includes interviews with:

Alex Main of the Center for Economic and Policy Research (CEPR); and 
Dan Masterson of the U.S. Naval Academy. 

Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; and
Associate Producer: Megan Ekhaml.

The photo is of a Japanese postage stamp commemorating Japanese emigration to Brazil 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


The Japanese in Latin America & a New President for Honduras (Lp1232014)

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, Latin Pulse originates at the Latin American Studies Association (LASA) Congress in Chicago, with a look at both elections and economics in the region.  The program looks forward to the presidential elections in Colombia this weekend and provides a preview of the race.  The program also includes a critique of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Would Mexico have been better off without it? The news segment of the program covers the first visit of John Kerry as secretary of state for the United States to Mexico and discussion of his educational exchange initiative.


The program includes in-depth interviews with:


Joseph S. Tulchin of the Woodrow Wilson Center; and
Mark Weisbrot of the Center for Economic & Policy Research (CEPR). 



Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell;  
Associate Producer: Megan Ekhaml; and
Writer: Elyssa Pachico


The photo is from the campaign of Colombia’s President Juan Manuel Santos 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


Presidential Elections in Colombia & Critiquing NAFTA (Lp5232014)

(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.)

This week, "Latin Pulse" focuses on elections in Latin America: looking forward to presidential races next week in Guatemala and Nicaragua. Also, the program includes some perspective on the recent Argentine presidential race. This week's in-depth interviews feature an analysis of President Daniel Ortega's chances for re-election and the success of the Sandinistas in Nicaragua, along with a conversation with a leader from the Venezuelan youth movement, about the case of opposition candidate Leopoldo Lopez.

In-Depth Interviews:
Manuel Orozco of the Inter-American Dialogue; and
David Smolansky of Venezuela's Voluntad Popular.

Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell
Associate Producer: Vanessa Haces-Gonzatti

The photo of Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega is via Wikimedia Commons using a Creative Commons license:  http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Comandante_Daniel_Ortega_celebrando_su_triunfo_Presidencial.jpg


From the Archives: Politics in Nicaragua & Venezuela (Lp10272011)

(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 is the first episode of the "Latin Pulse" series in its revived form as an internet radio program.  This program is from the program's archives and has not been previously available via SoundCloud. This program is being made 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.)

This first program in the “Latin Pulse” series features in-depth interviews about the effects of the Drug War in Mexico on that country’s fragile democracy and about Cuba’s attempts at economic reform. Although this program includes topics fairly close to the U.S., future programs will range throughout Latin America.

(Due to the discussion of extreme violence in Mexico, parental guidance is suggested for listening to this program.)

In-Depth Interviews:
Eric Hershberg, Director of the Center for Latin American &amp; Latino Studies at American University; and
Luis Botello of the International Center for Journalists.

Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell
Associate Producer: Vanessa Haces-Gonzatti

(The photo is by Jesus Villaseca Perez of Latitudes Press  via Flickr, using a Creative Commons license: https://www.flickr.com/photos/frecuenciaspopulares/5186544758/
Latitude Press can be found at: http://www.latitudespress.com/store/index.php )

From the Archives: Mexico's Violent Drug War & Cuban Economic Reforms (Lp9222011)

This week, "Latin Pulse" takes a deeper look at the disappearance of students from Ayotzinapa and Cuban migration to the United States. Global activists are protesting due to the disappearance of the 43 university students in Mexico. The situation is emblematic of decades of corruption and collusion in the Mexican government. This time, however, it appears the Mexican government will be held to account. Later in the program, Cuban immigrants are coming to the U.S. in higher numbers now than any time in the past 20 years. The program looks at the reason behind this increased immigrant flow.


The program includes in-depth interviews with:


Maureen Meyer of the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA);
William LeoGrande of American University.


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

The protest graphic was created by activists in Mexico and distributed to publicize their protests; the graphic is in the public domain.

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


Rage Over Missing Students in Mexico & Rising Cuban Immigration (Lp11072014)

This week, "Latin Pulse" dives into the Drug War.  The program explores two of the most important fronts in that war: Mexico and Venezuela.  The segment of the program on Mexico gives an overview of the condition of various cartels and why the strategy to focus on drug kingpins has mostly failed. The segment on Venezuela focuses on the ties between Venezuela's military and the drug trade. The news segment of the program gives the latest information about the controversy surrounding 43 missing university students in Mexico and whether they were massacred by police and drug cartels colluding together.

The program includes in-depth interviews with:

Jo Tuckman of The Guardian;
Jeremy McDermott of InSight Crime.

Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; 
Producer: Jim Singer; and
Associate Producer: Gabriela Canchola.

The photo of Mexican marines on patrol is from Wikimedia Commons and is in the public domain:  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mexican_Drug_War

The program is produced at Webster University: www.webster.edu/


The Drug War: Analysis of the Front Lines in Mexico & Venezuela (Lp11142014)

In this special edition of "Latin Pulse," we dip into the holiday spirit, literally, by exploring the spirit of tequila.  The program includes an in-depth discussion of the business and economics surrounding the trade of tequila and how the taste for tequila has changed, propelled by the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).  The program also includes a tasting and discussion of top shelf tequilas. The news segment of the program looks at the historic proposal this week worked out between the Cuban and U.S. governments regarding discussions of normalizing diplomatic relations after more than 53 years of conflict.


The program includes an in-depth interview with:

Ramses Armendariz of Webster University.

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

The photo is by Eric Driggers of Lake Zurich, IL and is made available through Flickr using a Creative Commons licensing agreement: https://www.flickr.com/photos/imnohero/2345543856/in/photolist-4zgwtj-5eT3WE-5VBpLC-bys2in-76HQN6-5ks865-6RXqBR-akZmyC-bdhAA-65xQqt-6pMMVK-oGTLmL-4F4rU3-bomY7s-8VLUfz-ehWxiU-8VXrsH-6XXGU-cRuP7W-aqoA6W-8WUjv3-3bptsy-65C7hQ-2bwQV-yTWbg-qfAXH-8WUjks-6m55aJ-2bLT3Q-fRVyoG-9E2hUR-29HHY-my87j1-akWtgp-4ByJ52-q2Sf9-6MkThJ-8Hog2Y-8Hog1Y-2Uhyo4-7j4YQd-aoHi1B-5wyB3K-a8zr4E-5mdqGi-61kQMW-CyaMK-HxxnB-xePfY-KTLNB

To see a set list of songs used in the production of this program, please go here: https://app.box.com/shared/static/ldc79rpiv6k4cwcmn62c.pdf

To hear an extended interview with Ramses Armendariz on the topic of tequila you can listen here: https://soundcloud.com/latinpulse/tequila-extended-interview

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


The Tequila Special (Lp12192014)

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)

What happens when you mix drug cartels with religion? This week, Latin Pulse explores the rise of narco-religion in Mexico.  The discussion includes a heady mix of discussion regarding the veneration of Catholic saints by violent criminals but also the rise of the devotion of folk saints such as Santa Muerte.  The program also discusses curanderos and the use of witchcraft by the cartels.  The news segment of the program covers the outbreak of violence in student protests in Chile; the protestors are calling for more equity in higher education in the country.


The program includes in-depth interviews with:


Andrew Chesnut of Virginia Commonwealth University; and
Tim Knab of the Universidad de las Americas in Puebla, Mexico.


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


The graphic of Santa Muerte is in the public domain and is via Wikimedia Commons: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Muerte#/media/File:Muerte-Blanca_6.jpg


Produced for release on May 15, 2015.


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


Mexico: The Rise of Narco-Religion (Lp5152015)

Originating in Puerto Rico this week, "Latin Pulse" takes a look at the status of the island and whether there is movement forward on a change to statehood or independence.  The program also covers the issues of identity, culture and economics facing the island commonwealth.  The program also delves into the special relationship the U.S. has developed with Mexico and how trade pacts and economic reforms have brought the countries closer.  The news segment of the program deals with the latest charges and counter-charges related to allegations that powerful leaders in Venezuela are connected to the drug trade.

The program includes in-depth interviews with:


Maria Acosta Cruz of Clark University; and
Shannon O'Neil of the Council on Foreign Relations.


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


The photo is by Nicholas Laughlin of Trinidad and Tobago via Flickr, through a Creative Commons license: https://www.flickr.com/photos/nicholaslaughlin/2306679094/sizes/z/in/photolist-4vQkkd-4ZvmG9-gLmys-5wM5bq-fvh4W-5P2tQV-xdiVQ-6LMEXt-5h7XHk-dGyFE-wFrYK-7iUm1d-e2iwUQ-dZuLLr-5jQ1p2-78HqM9-5XMHx2-9y6GiV-az1qzY-az1qwf-9vpwHi-cfroGS-Q1dZH-dYGfRo-5aRECf-5aMr8c-aezKZ5-dtbkUG-4Fobe8-CWdRM-dnPoQ1-dnPfHK-dnPmHf-dnPjrN-dnPnnb-dnPn4S-dnPjV9-dnPg7B-dnPiZd-dnPhBR-dnPopf-dnPkv1-4ZCwWV-7ywjwQ-9sDHiQ-dSvnvK-PZKZw-bWX7f2-9WA5Vb-bWX7s8-bWX7KR/

Produced in Puerto Rico for release on May 22, 2015.


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


Exploring Puerto Rico & the Special Ties between Mexico and the U.S. (Lp5262015)

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)

Violence, crime and national security provide the themes this week on Latin Pulse. First, the program reviews security in Mexico, and discusses the rise of various cartels, especially the Sinaloa Cartel.  Another in-depth part of the program deals with the crisis in El Salvador due to the involvement of street gangs in a transportation strike. Both segments discuss how the central governments in these countries do not have the power to stop the criminal groups. The news segment of the program covers the border crisis between Venezuela and Colombia due to unauthorized immigration, violence and the influence of criminal groups.


The program includes in-depth interviews with:

Jo Tuckman of The Guardian;
and
Hector Silva 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 is of cocaine bricks stamped with a scorpion, a sign associated with the Sinaloa Cartel according to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). The photo is from the DEA and is in the public domain.

Produced for release on Aug. 28, 2015.


Crime & Violence in Mexico & El Salvador (Lp8282015)

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)

A controversial presidential race in Peru and seeking justice in El Salvador provide the themes this week on Latin Pulse. The program analyzes how protest marches and concerns raised by the Organization of American States (OAS) may impact the voting in Peru after several candidates were removed from the ballot.  The program also traces moves toward justice in the massacre of Jesuit priests and religious workers in El Salvador; a case that began in 1989.  The news segment of the program outlines the report known as the Panama Papers and how those revelations may affect politicians in Argentina and Mexico.


The program includes in-depth interviews with:

Cynthia McClintock of George Washington University; and
Geoff Thale of the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA).


Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; 
Technical Director: Jim Singer; and
Production Assistant: Brittney Madison.


The photo of protestors in Peru is from the Venezuelan government and is in the public domain.


Presidential Election Controversy in Peru & Seeking Justice for El Salvador (Lp4082016)

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)

“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.  

Popular tracks by LatinPulse