In recognition of National Nurses Month, this special episode of Voices del Valle highlights the life and legacy of Lupe Rodriguez, a pioneering Hispanic nurse whose story reflects both the history of healthcare and the strength of the Imperial Valley community. Hosted by students Keira and Delarine, the episode explores Lupe’s childhood growing up in Brawley during segregation, where Hispanic neighborhoods lacked resources and opportunities for young women were often limited. Lupe shares how strict family expectations nearly prevented her from attending college, and how Mercy College in San Diego—a Catholic residential nursing school—became the opportunity that changed her life.

Throughout the episode, Lupe reflects on her decades-long nursing career, including caring for patients during the polio era, working in psychiatric hospitals, and becoming a respected leader at Pioneer Memorial Hospital. She also discusses the discrimination she faced, the determination that pushed her to succeed, and the importance of education for future generations. More than a story about nursing, this episode is a tribute to perseverance, compassion, and the trailblazing women who opened doors for others to follow.

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CREDITS

BONUS - Follow Your Dreams: The Story of Lupe Rodriguez

Hosted by: Keira Adame and Delarine Lopez

Edited and produced by: Dr.Thomas Tacke

Episode Music by: SpartanSound Productions

Credits Music by: Emmanuel Twilley

Technical and operational support provided by KPBS Technical Producer / Sound Designer, Adrian Villalobos, KPBS Audio Operations Assistant Rebecca Chacon, and KPBS Director of Audio Programming and Operations Lisa Jane Morrisette.

This programming is partially made possible in part by the KPBS Explore Content Fund.

What drives someone to enlist in the military? In this intense episode of Voices del Valle, five voices from the Imperial Valley open up about the real reasons behind their decisions—stories shaped by poverty, family responsibility, personal struggle, faith, and the desire for something more. From overcoming addiction and homelessness to finding structure, purpose, and identity, each story reveals that enlisting isn’t just about service—it’s about transformation. Centered on one question—why—this episode explores the deeper motivations that push young people to leave home, challenge themselves, and build a future beyond what they’ve known.

The Military: What’s Your Why?

Hosted by: Grace Navarro

Edited and produced by: Grace Navarro, Juan Carreon Limon, and Dr.Thomas Tacke

Episode Music by: SpartanSound Productions

Credits Music by: Emmanuel Twilley

Technical and operational support provided by KPBS Technical Producer / Sound Designer, Adrian Villalobos, KPBS Audio Operations Assistant Rebecca Chacon, and KPBS Director of Audio Programming and Operations Lisa Jane Morrisette.

This programming is partially made possible in part by the KPBS Explore Content Fund.