TV Santa Barbara
TV Santa Barbara
TV Santa Barbara provides means for diverse communities to tell their stories, hear each other’s stories, and create new stories together. By providing virtual and physical spaces for individuals and organizations to come together, TVSB creates pathways to collaborate, build relationships, and strengthen our community. Our mission is to empower people to grow as a community by making media that matters.
Episodes
Executive Director | Erik Davis | The Creative Community with David Starkey
Erik Davis, Executive Director of TVSB, shares insights on the station's 50-year journey since its inception in 1975. He discusses the challenges faced, the importance of community access, and the transition to digital platforms. Davis emphasizes the station's commitment to diverse content and media literacy while reflecting on community partnerships. The conversation wraps up with a focus on future projects and the continued support from viewers.
One on One with Mark Z. Barabak, LA Times on the midterms | Newsmakers with JR
California’s top political columnist returns to Newsmakers TV for in-depth and detailed analysis of how Iran war and Trump’s unpopularity triggered a “red undertow” that may lead to “blue wave.”
Ask the Mayor: Randy Rowse | Newsmakers with JR
In a new appearance on Newsmakers TV, the outgoing mayor takes on recent conflicts over rent control and downtown, and blames Trump and local partisan politics for the decline of City Hall civility.
Poet | Sean Colletti | The Creative Community with David Starkey
Poet Sean shares his journey into poetry, starting from his struggles with reading and writing. He discovers his passion for poetry through education and mentors. Sean highlights the importance of community engagement, detailing his participation in local events and the Ventura County Poetry Festival. He emphasizes collaboration with other poets and offers advice for aspiring poets to explore different roles and embrace challenges for growth.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv
One on One with Assembly Member Gregg Hart | Newsmakers with JR
Assembly member and Santa Barbara Explainer-in-Chief breaks down the confounding complexities of dueling initiatives over a billionaire's tax and discusses his bills on cancer and county jail.
Singer & Musician | Kimberly Ford | The Creative Community with David Starkey
Kimberly Ford shares her musical journey, highlighting the influence of choir teachers and family support. She reflects on her early experiences with folk guitar and various genres. Kimberly discusses her work teaching children and her tribute project to Joni Mitchell. She offers advice for aspiring musicians, stressing the importance of passion and mentorship, before concluding with David Starkey's gratitude and anticipation for future interactions.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv
Boys Band Panel | Newsmakers with JR
Politics and policy collide, just over six weeks before the election, as Nick Welsh, Josh Molina and Ryan P. Cruz join the genial host to dissect the latest City Hall brawl over rent control and how it intersects with the campaigns for Santa Barbara mayor and city council. Plus: district-by-district rundowns on all the city races.
Editor-in-Chief | Marianne Partridge | The Creative Community with David Starkey
Exploring Community Journalism with Marianne PartridgeMarianne Partridge, editor of the Santa Barbara Independent, shares her journey from the horse racing industry to journalism. She discusses the history of the Independent, including the merger of two publications, and emphasizes community engagement through initiatives like Burger Week and Burrito League. The shift to online publication during the pandemic highlights the Independent's digital transformation. Marianne invites the audience to read the paper and contribute their stories.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv
District 4 Candidate Debate | Newsmakers with JR
The four candidates (Jason Dominguez, Genevieve Taft-Vazquez, Devon Wardlow, Monte Wilson) vying to replace Kristen Sneddon in District 4 answer questions about their positions on key city issues from hosts Jerry Roberts and Josh Molina.
Writer | Gerald DiPego | The Creative Community with David Starkey
The Journey of a Storyteller: Gerald DiPego's Writing CareerGerald DiPego shares his journey from childhood storytelling to a successful writing career. His first movie experience ignited his passion for storytelling, leading him to scriptwriting in Los Angeles. He reflects on collaborations with actors like Paul Newman and Anthony Hopkins, offering advice for aspiring writers about persistence and depth. Gerald also discusses his family's writing influence and the vibrant theater scene in San Ynez.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv
One on One with Monique Limon | Newsmakers with JR
Santa Barbara’s homegrown Senate President pro Tempore reflects on Sacramento’s political and legal response to the constant, unpredictable and vicious attacks by the mob boss president.
2026 Santa Barbara Mayor Debate | Newsmakers with JR
The candidates to succeed Mayor Randy Rowse discussed and disputed finances, the future of downtown, rent control, and other key issues facing the city.
Poet | Phill Taggart | The Creative Community with David Starkey
Phil Taggart shares his journey as a poet and radio host, highlighting his connection to the Ventura community. He discusses his brother Rick's battle with mental illness and its influence on his poetry. Taggart addresses homelessness and the need for empathy, while also reflecting on his teaching role in media and the effects of technology on education. He reads poems that emphasize compassion and understanding.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv
Journalist Panel | Newsmakers with JR
On a new episode of Newsmakers TV, our All-Star Panel of Top Local Journalists dissects the big SB mayoral debate and City Council’s crucial vote to advance the State Street Master Plan, as Amanda Velasco, Ryan P. Cruz and Josh Molina join the genial host in breaking down Santa Barbara’s leading local news stories of the week.
Co-Owners | Jen Lemberger & Greg Feitt | The Creative Community with David Starkey
Jen Lemberger and Greg Feitt join David Starkey on The Creative Community to discuss their new ownership of Chaucer's Books and share their vision for the store's 50th anniversary. They highlight the importance of community engagement and supporting local authors while honoring the legacy of the original owner, Mari. The discussion covers daily operations, hiring challenges, and the significance of maintaining a diverse collection. They also emphasize the need for community support and resources for aspiring bookstore owners.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv
District 6 City Council Candidate Jason Carlton | Newsmakers with JR
Small business owner Jason Carlton reflects on what he learned from his last, unsuccessful, race for Santa Barbara's District 6 City Council seat, and discusses some of the issues that are animating his campaign this time, from improving city permit processing and construction procedures, to addressing the problems of State Street with a sweeping system of automatic traffic bollards.
Journalist Panel | Newsmakers with JR
Kaitlin Sweeney returns to Newsmakers TV this week to discuss her scoop raising serious questions about city permits at the Eastside doggie day care facility where a bulldog puppy named Bruce drowned last month, while Ryan P. Cruz breaks down the City Hall controversy over the SBPD’s automated license plate readers, Sofia Wallace reprises her reporting on the big sale of a landmark commercial property in Goleta and Josh Molina has the latest from the local campaign trail. Plus: the genial host’s head explodes over one city council candidate’s expressed plan to keep his political patronage job if he wins election.
District 6 Council candidate Anabella Lehnel | Newsmakers with JR
In the four-way race to represent downtown and nearby neighborhoods in the city council's District 6, notary and small business owner Anabella Lehne breaks down her opposition to rent control, explains why part of State Street should be reopened to cars, and jabs at the front-runner as she burnishes her credentials as a "born and raised" Santa Barbara.
Author | Julie Dillemuth | The Creative Community with David Starkey
Join author and poet Julie Dillemuth as she shares her insights into the challenges of writing picture books and the importance of spatial thinking skills. Discover the connection between poetry and children's books, and learn about Julie's experience with screenwriting and adaptations. Get advice for aspiring writers, including taking classes and utilizing available resources. Find out how to enjoy the writing process even when it's challenging, and be inspired to be tenacious and express yourself.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv
Journalists Panel | Newsmakers with JR
Julian Lozada joins the gang for a new episode of Newsmakers TV, reprising her reporting on back-to-school week for the Santa Barbara Unified School District, which faces big challenges in dealing with declining enrollment and the proliferation of brain-rot tech devices, as Nick Welsh reports some surprising new data about local success in expanding publicly-funded child care, and Josh Molina recounts the latest from the campaign trail on the races for city council and mayor. Plus: as County Executive Mona Miyasato departs after 11 years on the job, there’s a simultaneous significant brain drain in leadership throughout county government that could portend big changes.
Kristen Sneddon Mayoral Front-runner | Newsmakers with JR
In first campaign interview, mayoral front-runner talks politics and policy of rent control, State Street and budget, jabbing at chief rival Eric Friedman for consistently siding with incumbent mayor.
Poet | Shirley Lim | The Creative Community with David Starkey
Shirley Lim delves into the world of poetry, discussing its accessibility and impact on everyday life. The poet shares her journey, influences, and writing process, highlighting poetry's role in addressing societal issues like climate change and political themes. She also reflects on teaching poetry to children and reads several of her poems, showcasing the connection between poetry and both personal and collective experiences. Shirley reads poems from her In Praise of Limes collection, including 'Santa Barbara Rain' and 'April Heat Wave'. She also shares political and climate change poems. The conversation concludes with a discussion of American identity and the evolving genius of the country.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv
Journalist Panel | Newsmakers with JR
Our All-Star Panel of Top Local Journalists is back with a new episode of Newsmakers TV, breaking down Santa Barbara's most consequential and entertaining news stories.
Writer | Cynthia Carbone Ward | The Creative Community with David Starkey
Cynthia Carbone Ward shares her writing journey, focusing on personal storytelling and community engagement. She reflects on her experiences as a writer and teacher, discussing the emotional aspects of caregiving and the power of writing. Cynthia emphasizes the importance of oral history and shared narratives, encouraging aspiring writers to find their unique voices and write from personal experiences while offering practical writing advice.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv
Journalists Panel | Newsmakers with JR
It’s deadline day for candidates running for mayor and city council in Santa Barbara, and with a majority of seats at City Hall up for grabs, Josh Molina joins the genial host to handicap the races – and break down why they’re important in shaping crucial policies about the city’s future that hang in the balance.
Poet | Aldon Nielsen | The Creative Community with David Starkey
David Starkey hosts Alden Nielsen to discuss his poetry career and influences. They explore how music impacts poetry and the importance of diverse literature. Nielsen shares insights on political themes in his work and his teaching experiences in China. He emphasizes introducing students to lesser-known works and addresses challenges in contemporary education. The conversation wraps up with advice for aspiring poets, stressing the value of persistence in writing.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv
All Star Panel of Top Local Journalists | Newsmakers with JR
Trump's congressional allies this week passed legislation to hand complete control of Sable oil company's offshore operations in Santa Barbara to the U.S. Defense Department, a stunning development that Nick Welsh explains on this week's episode, joined by Callie Fausey who breaks down the Administration's aggressive effort to dismantle the Endangered Species Act, and by Josh Molina, who has the latest on the increasingly raucous conflict over rent control at City Hall. Plus: Josh's breakthrough moment as a social media star.
Author | David Starkey | The Creative Community with David Starkey
David Starkey discusses his novel, 'The Wonderful Poor Ghost,' which revolves around a plane crash involving a rock band. The story delves into themes of fame, loss, and creativity. Starkey shares his experiences in writing across genres, the art of suspense, and balancing humor with emotion. He also talks about his poetic background, character development, and upcoming projects, including a novel set in Japan and a post-apocalyptic tale.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv
All-Star Panel | Newsmakers with JR
Kaitlin Sweeney joins the gang to reprise her newspress.com reporting about Topics A, B and C on Santa Barbara’s local news front this week – the tragic death of Bruce the English Bulldog at doggie day care – and the wave of online and real-life outrage and anger that erupted at the owners of the facility. Ryan P. Cruz previews next week’s big City Hall vote on rent control and Josh Molina offers his take of how the contentious issue is shaping the campaigns for mayor and city council. Plus: Indivisible’s voting right rally, back-to-school supplies campaign, and old people forced out at Veronica Springs.
Santa Barbara City Council Candidate, District 5 Cevin Cathell | Newsmakers with JR
Host Jerry Roberts interviews Cevin Cathell, candidate for Santa Barbara City Council, District 5After decades working on the production side of the film industry, first-time candidate Cevin Cathell says she wants to bring the organizational and budget skills she learned professionally to the task of representing District 5 on the Santa Barbara City Council. In the wide-open three-way race, she opposes rent control and most new taxes, and favors experimenting with allowing cars back on several blocks of upper State Street.
The 805 Focus! | Lori Goodman | LEAP
This episode of "The 805 Focus" features Lori Goodman, CEO of LEAP, discussing their impactful work supporting children and families in Santa Barbara County. LEAP provides a safe haven and essential resources, including the county's only diaper bank, for those affected by immigration and other challenges. Learn about their multigenerational approach, vital partnerships, and how they empower caregivers.
The 805 Focus! | Ted Morton | Channelkeeper
Explore the vital work of Channelkeeper with Executive Director Ted Morton. This episode delves into their 25-year commitment to protecting the coastal ecosystems of Santa Barbara and Ventura through impactful education and advocacy. Discover their extensive student programs, volunteer initiatives, and crucial efforts in monitoring and conservation.
Typewriting Poet | Simon Kiefer | The Creative Community with David Starkey
Simon Kiefer transitions from urban planning to typewriter poetry, sharing his insights on affordable housing and the challenges he faced. He conducts creative workshops that highlight the tactile experience of typewriting and the emotional connections formed. Kiefer celebrates the joy of poetry in community events and emphasizes its accessibility, showcasing how his passion for typewriters and poetry impacts others.www.typewritersunlimited.comThe Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv
The 805 Focus! | Margo Byrne | Channel Islands YMCA
Explore the impactful work of the Channel Islands YMCA with CEO Margo Byrne on "The 805 Focus." Discover their crucial initiatives in water safety, chronic disease management, and community building. Learn how the YMCA provides essential programs, from swimming lessons for children to support for cancer survivors and afterschool care, fostering a sense of belonging across three counties.
The 805 Focus! | Lori Willis | Cancer Foundation of Santa Barbara
Explore the vital work of the Cancer Foundation of Santa Barbara with Executive Director Lori Willis. Learn about their commitment to providing state-of-the-art cancer care locally, funding essential programs at the Ridley-Tree Cancer Center, and supporting advancements like new PET/CT scanners. Discover how this 501(c)(3) nonprofit ensures patients receive comprehensive treatment without needing to travel.
Scholar | Monica Mody | The Creative Community with David Starkey
Monica Mody shares her journey from India to becoming a poet and scholar at Pacifica Graduate Institute. She focuses on mythological studies, spirituality, and humanity's interconnectedness. Her poetry explores identity, migration, and ritual. Mody highlights the importance of listening to stories and how poetry can bridge divides. She discusses her creative process, the significance of revision, and her latest works centered on belonging and gratitude, encouraging others to embrace change and their own power.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv
The 805 Focus! | Michelle Erikson | Mothers' Helpers
Join Dr. Cynder Sinclair as she interviews Michelle Erickson, Executive Director of Mothers Helpers. Discover how this vital Santa Barbara nonprofit provides essential baby items to families facing financial hardship. Learn about their donation process, volunteer opportunities, and impactful programs designed to support mothers and reduce parental burdens. Mothers Helpers is making a significant difference in our community.
Author | Edward Humes | The Creative Community with David Starkey
David Starkey hosts Edward Humes, who shares his journey in journalism and discusses his books on crime and environmental issues. Humes highlights the challenges of recycling and the importance of social justice in storytelling. He presents innovative solutions for waste management, such as urban farming and renewable energy, while urging individuals to take action by growing their own food and reducing plastic use.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv
Writer | Brian Tanguay | The Creative Community with David Starkey
David Starkey hosts Brian Tanguay to discuss their work with the California Review of Books and Tanguay's journey as a writer. Tanguay shares his experiences in the Air Force and how current political events shape literature. They delve into the challenges of writing about politics, the importance of reading, and the nature of book reviews, highlighting the role of writers in society amidst a complex political climate.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv
One on One with Mayoral Candidate Eric Friedman | Newsmakers with JR
In a one-on-one interview about his campaign for Santa Barbara mayor, City Council member Eric Friedman stresses fiscal restraint and his anti-rent control stance:"I'm in the center," Friedman says.
Journalist Panel | Newsmakers with JR
Sheriff Bill Brown’s shameful attack on a local immigration reporter and ICE’s loathsome Father’s Day raids on Santa Barbara neighborhoods take center stage on this week’s edition, as Sofia Wallace, Ryan Cruz and Josh Molina join the panel in also breaking down the latest on the eight-story monstrosity proposed to be built behind the Mission and the buzz over a new electric car charging station that just opened downtown. Plus: the genial host reveals how he once selflessly fired himself in order to put the Daily Nexus into the financial black.
State Street Cars | Newsmakers with JR
Small business owner Colleen Macey and architect Cass Ensberg join the genial host to discuss the latest push to re-open downtown State Street to vehicular traffic, as the ad hoc State Street Business Alliance has launched a letter and petition campaign urging City Council to repeal legislation that formalized the street closure, which was originally enacted and intended only as a Covid-era emergency measure.
One on One with Monte Wilson, City Council Candidate | Newsmakers with JR
Leading off a new series of interviews with Nov. 3 election candidates for City Council and Mayor, former tech executive Monte Wilson discusses his opposition to rent control and the total closure to cars of downtown State Street, along with his economic development ideas for generating more revenue for City Hall.
Writer | Gillian Osborne | The Creative Community with David Starkey
Gillian Osborne shares her journey in writing and poetry, discussing her book 'Green, Green, Green'. She explores themes of motherhood and the creative process, highlighting the balance between observation and imagination. Osborne reflects on the challenges of writing while parenting and the role of ritual in creativity. She reads poetry excerpts, emphasizing color and nature, and encourages writers to continue their craft despite audience reception.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv
Crenshaw, City Hall, and the Future of Paseo Nuevo | Newsmakersn
On this week’s episode, Montecito Journal Editor Gwyn Lurie returns to recap her extraordinary public conversation with pioneering legal scholar Kimberle Crenshaw, highlighting the new series of public forums sponsored by her enterprise, as News-Press Editor Josh Molina reprises his reporting on the remarkable political developments swirling around the Santa Barbara City Council’s stumbling efforts to adopt a budget. Plus: all the latest on that big new project at the Paseo Nuevo mall.
Executive Editor | Nick Welsh | The Creative Community with David Starkey
David Starkey interviews Nick Welsh, exploring his writing journey, including Pulitzer nominations and local government coverage. Welsh shares his opinion piece writing approach, the significance of storytelling, and his editor's role. He discusses housing challenges at UCSB, mental health care shortages, and the Israel-Palestine conflict. Welsh emphasizes the need for improved communication from local leaders and the public's engagement with community issues.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv
Santa Barbara’s Budget Bombshell | Newsmakers with JR
The shocking news this week that the city of Santa Barbara has spent through all its budget reserves not only re-shapes debate on major policy decisions, but also instantly transforms the race for mayor and three soon-to-be vacant city council seats, as Josh Molina and Sophia Wallace join the genial host in breaking down a big week of City Hall headlines, including a new plan to regulate vacation rentals, and preliminary approval of a major downtown project by the Music Academy that includes suspension of the once-sacrosanct 45-feet building height limit.
Author | Anita Perez Ferguson | The Creative Community with David Starkey
Anita Perez Ferguson shares her inspiring journey from a difficult childhood to becoming an author and political figure. She highlights her trilogy, Mission Bells, which reveals the untold stories of California's workers. Ferguson discusses resilience, the importance of education, and representation in literature, reflecting on her government experiences and the significance of community support. The themes of injustice, perseverance, and storytelling encourage others to share their narratives.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv
Journalist Panel June 5, 2026 | Newsmakers with JR
On this week’s edition, our all-star panel of local journalists updates the Trump Administration’s real-life impacts on real people in Santa Barbara County, as Christina McDermott details how thousands of poor and elderly folks suddenly face food scarcity, and Ryan P. Cruz reprises his reporting on new data about federal immigration arrests locally - while Josh Molina has the latest as vote-counting slowly continues after Tuesday’s primary election. Plus: some rare good news about downtown Santa Barbara.
Harpist | Laurie Rasmussen | The Creative Community with David Starkey
Laurie shares her journey with the instrument, discussing its beauty, costs, and the learning process. She recounts personal stories of performances, the challenges of playing, and the significance of proper technique. Rasmussen highlights her teaching methods, the versatility of her students, and the emotional connection music creates with audiences. She reflects on her travels and memorable experiences, including a lost harp, and offers insights into her teaching philosophy.The Mission of TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is to empower people to make media that matters. TVSB provides open access to media technology for companies and individuals who want to tell stories, share ideas, and create television shows, independent films, web videos, and documentaries. http://www.tvsb.tv