STM Vlog Returns: Phoenix to Global News Stories You Need to Know

October 30, 2025 00:14:36
STM Vlog Returns: Phoenix to Global News Stories You Need to Know
STM Daily News Podcast
STM Vlog Returns: Phoenix to Global News Stories You Need to Know

Oct 30 2025 | 00:14:36

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Hosted By

Rodney Washington Mike Sliwa

Show Notes

What We're Covering This Episode

This week's episode is packed with stories that span from our backyard to the cosmos. Here's what Rod breaks down:

Aviation & Safety

Long Beach Plane Crash - A small plane crash-lands in a Long Beach park. We cover the recovery of both the pilot and a pedestrian, and what this incident tells us about urban aviation safety.

Consumer Alert

Nationwide Shrimp Recall Expands to Arizona - A shrimp recall is making waves across the country, including right here in Arizona. Rod breaks down what you need to know to keep your family safe.

Infrastructure & Innovation

Arizona I-17 Flex Lanes - Phoenix is getting I-17 flex lanes. We explain how they work, what drivers can expect, and how this changes your commute.

LAX Transit Center Opening - Exciting news for Southern California travelers: the LAX Metro Transit Center is opening June 6. We dive into what this means for getting to and from one of the busiest airports in the world.

LA's Transit Future: 2028 and Beyond - What's next for LA Metro? Rod explores the final episode of "The Long Track Back" and what the future holds for transit in Los Angeles.

Automotive

2026 Honda Prelude Returns - The Honda Prelude is back with hybrid power, Type R hardware, and a fresh driving experience. Car enthusiasts, this one's for you.

Slate Automotive Truck Update - We've been following Slate Automotive's affordable electric truck promise. This week, Rod covers the latest progress and price shifts.

Science & Space

Interstellar Visitor 3I/Atlas - An interstellar visitor is surprising astronomers with its growing tail and strange chemistry. We zoom out to explore what 3I/Atlas tells us about our universe.

"The Knowledge" Features

Garrett Morgan's Traffic Signal - Who really invented the modern traffic light? Rod dives into Garrett Morgan's incredible contribution to road safety and why his story matters.

Valerie Thomas: NASA Engineer & STEM Trailblazer - Meet Valerie Thomas, the NASA engineer and inventor who blazed trails in STEM and changed how we see the world.

Culture & Lifestyle

The Great American Soda Divide - Do you call it soda, pop, or Coke? Rod explores how geography shapes what we call our fizzy drinks in this fun cultural deep dive.

Why This Episode Matters

This episode is a perfect example of what STM Vlog is all about—connecting local stories to national trends and global conversations. From infrastructure projects changing how we move around Phoenix and LA, to space discoveries expanding our understanding of the universe, to the inventors and engineers whose work shapes our daily lives, we're covering it all.

What's New?

This isn't just another news podcast. STM Vlog is designed to bridge the gap between our written articles, video content, and the conversations happening across our platforms. Each week, Rod introduces segments pulled directly from the stories you've been reading and watching—giving you context, behind-the-scenes insights, and a deeper understanding of what's really going on.

Here's what you can expect every episode:

Top Story of the Week

We kick things off with the biggest story making waves. Whether it's a local development or a global event, we break down what happened, why it matters, and how it connects to your daily life.

Regional Spotlight

Phoenix, Arizona, and Southern California are home base, and we're committed to shining a light on the stories that define our communities. From infrastructure projects to grassroots initiatives, these are the moments that don't always make national headlines but shape the fabric of where we live.

National & Global News

We zoom out to cover what's happening across the United States and around the world. Policy changes, cultural movements, international relations—if it affects us, we're talking about it.

Infrastructure, Development & Innovation

What's being built today shapes how we live tomorrow. We track the projects, technologies, and innovations transforming cities and communities—whether they're happening in Phoenix, across the Southwest, or in cities around the country.

Sports, Culture & Entertainment

From local sports moments to global cultural conversations, we hit you with quick takes on what's trending and what's worth your attention.

TNC Network Projects Teaser

We're not just covering stories—we're creating them. Each episode gives you a behind-the-scenes look at what we're working on, from documentaries to video series and everything in between.

Why Listen?

Because the news shouldn't feel like noise, STM Vlog is conversational, authentic, and rooted in the belief that storytelling matters. Rod brings the same energy and insight that drives STM Daily News and TNC Network's award-winning content, delivering it in a format that fits your life—whether you're commuting, working out, or just kicking back at home.

Every episode connects you to:

View Full Transcript

Episode Transcript

[00:00:00] Speaker A: Foreign. [00:00:04] Speaker B: What'S happening, everyone? You're tuned in to STM Vlog, where we break down the stories shaping our world from Phoenix to the globe, one conversation at a time. I'm Rod Washington, and this week we've got some incredible stories to share, from the videos and articles we've been covering on STM Daily News to the projects we're building right here and the stories making waves everywhere else. Let's dive in. All right, let's kick things off with our top story this week. Small experimental aircraft crash landed in Hartwell Park, Long Beach, California. [00:00:43] Speaker C: A small experimental aircraft made an emergency landing in Hartwell Park, Long beach, on Tuesday afternoon after reportedly losing power mid flight. The plane struck a woman, identified as Tiffany Harrison, who was walking her dog through the park at the time. Harrison, who is deaf, sustained serious injuries but is recovering in stable condition. The pilot was also hospitalized with moderate injuries. Fortunately, the dog was unharmed. Federal investigators with the FAA and NTSB are examining the cause of the crash, which occurred near Carson street and Clark Avenue. For more updates and related coverage, visit. STM Daily News. [00:01:23] Speaker B: Here are a few of the recent stories we've featured on STM Daily News, bringing you the latest updates, insights and events that matter most. [00:01:32] Speaker A: A major shrimp recall is underway, and Arizona is on the list. Aquastar has recalled frozen shrimp raw cooked in skewers sold under Kroger and Aquastar brands. The problem? Possible contamination with Cesium 137, a radioactive substance. No illnesses reported yet, but the FDA warns long term exposure could be risky. If you bought shrimp between June and September 20check your freezer. Don't eat it, return it or toss it. Full details on STM Daily News. [00:02:11] Speaker B: Arizona drivers can soon expect smoother trips along Interstate 17 as the state prepares to open its first flex lanes between Black Canyon City and Sunset Point. The reversible lanes will allow traffic to flow northbound or southbound, depending on travel demand, helping ease weekend and holiday congestion on the busy route. The system, part of a i17 improvement project, is expected to be fully operational by the end of 2025. Read the full story at stmdailynews.com A. [00:02:44] Speaker A: Mysterious object from beyond our solar system is headed our way. It's called 3i Atlas, the third confirmed interstellar visitor discovered in July 2025. It's traveling at over 130,000 miles per hour and is possibly the largest of its kind. Scientists say it's an ancient interstellar comet, vapor and dust as it nears the sun. But not everyone agrees. Harvard's Avi Loeb and others speculate it could be an alien spacecraft, part of a cosmic reconnaissance mission. Mainstream astronomers dismiss the idea, but the mystery has sparked global fascination. Is it just a comet or something more? Whatever it is, Three Eye Atlas is giving us a rare glimpse into the deep unknown. Stay curious. The Honda Prelude is back for 2026 and it's unlike anything before. Now a hybrid electric sports coupe, it pairs Honda's award winning two motor system with Civic Type R performance hardware. Featuring the all new Honda S shift mode, precise handling and bold styling, this Prelude delivers pure driving excitement. The 2026 Honda Prelude coming. [00:04:10] Speaker D: Slate Automotive's affordable EV truck faces new price reality Slate Automotive's much anticipated electric pickup, once promoted as the first sub $20,000 EV truck, will now start closer to $27,000 following recent policy changes that reduced key federal tax incentives. Backed by $700 million in funding and over 100,000 refundable reservations, the company plans to begin production in late 2026 at its new Indiana facility. The minimalist blank slate design remains central to its appeal, offering a bare bones but customizable alternative in a market dominated by high priced EVs. Read more on STM Daily News. [00:05:04] Speaker E: Los Angeles reached a transportation milestone this week with the official opening of the LAX Met Transit center on June 6, delivering the city's first direct rail connection to its busiest airport. The new facility links Metro C Line and K Line to LAX terminals via a free shuttle service, offering travelers a car free alternative that bypasses notorious Los Angeles traffic. Located at 9225 Aviation Boulevard, the transit hub features modern amenities and Glencano's striking the Distance of the sun sculpture, transforming utilitarian infrastructure into an inspiring gateway. The project represents a significant investment in sustainable transportation, reducing emissions while creating new employment access for communities along both rail lines. Metro celebrated the historic opening with free System Wide Rise during the launch weekend on June 6, 2025, allowing residents across LA county to experience this game changing connection firsthand. [00:06:08] Speaker B: After the break, we'll return with some knowledge. We will be right back. [00:06:15] Speaker D: Hungry for something new at STM Daily News Food and Drink we bring you the tastiest stories on the web. From hidden local gems and chef spotlights to the latest food trends and drink recipes. It's all here. So whether you're a foodie, a home cook or just love exploring new flavors, feed your [email protected] food and drink because every story is made to savor. Join us for an exciting pickleball cruise to Ensenada where enthusiasts of all skill levels can Connect, compete and relax on the open seas. Set sail for a unique vacation experience that combines the thrill of pickleball with breathtaking ocean views. Participants will enjoy daily matches, clinics with expert coaches, and plenty of time to unwind and explore. Whether you're looking to sharpen your skills or simply enjoy a fun filled getaway with fellow pickleball lovers, this cruise offers something for everyone. Don't miss your chance to make unforgettable memories while playing the game you love on a beautiful coastal adventure. For more details, visit the Pickleball International website. The link is on the screen and in the description. Let's pickle Foreign. [00:07:42] Speaker A: Tired of the noise? Want news that cuts through the clutter? At STM Daily News, we bring you sharp stories, bold takes and the context behind the headlines. Stay smart, stay sharp. Stay with STM Daily News. [00:08:04] Speaker B: Next up on the STM Daily News podcast, we're revisiting original short video series the Knowledge. Launched back in May, the Knowledge was created to cut through the noise and bring truth, clarity and curiosity back into the conversation, one fact checked story at a time. Here are a few highlights from the Knowledge series. [00:08:37] Speaker F: The stoplight changed the world, but do you know who actually invented it? Traffic was chaos in early 1900. Cities, accidents, horse carts and pedestrians all tangled together. In 1923, Garrett Morgan, an African American inventor, patented a T shaped traffic signal with a warning position between stop and go. That pause saved lives. He later sold his patent to General Electric for $40,000, which is worth over $700,000 today. Today's three color system evolved from his invention. Every red light you hit, thank Morgan. Now you know, give credit where it's overdue. Can LA finally become a real transit city in time for the 2028 Olympics? Right now, LA Metro is racing to complete its biggest projects yet. The D line is tunneling under Wilshire, a new line to LAX is here, and the Sepulveda Corridor could be a heavy rail or even a monorail. Billions are being spent. New riders are being courted. But LA's biggest obstacle isn't just infrastructure. It's changing how a city thinks about public transit. The red cars may be gone, but their legacy lives on in every station being built, every line extended, and every rider who says, why drive when I can take the train? This is the final episode of the LA chapter of the Long Track Back video series, but the conversation's just getting started. We'll be back with another transit chapter soon. Read the full series and subscribe to the podcast at stm daily news.com. [00:10:48] Speaker G: Valerie L. Thomas is an American scientist and inventor. Thomas was interested in science as a child. After observing her father tinkering with the television and seeing the mechanical parts inside, Thomas did not have a lot of support as a young child. Her parents did not fight for her right to study a STEM curriculum, but she did have a few teachers who fought for her at a young age. She attended Morgan's College State University, where she was one of two women majoring in physics. Thomas excelled in her mathematics and science courses at Morgan State. She graduated with Highest honors in 1964 with a degree in physics and went on to work for NASA later in her career. Thomas invented the illusion transmitter for which she received a patent in 1980. She was responsible for developing the digital media formats image processing systems used in the early years of the Landsat program. Among her notable achievements, Thomas has received numerous awards including the Goddard Space Flight Center Award of Merit and NASA's Equal Opportunity Medal. At the end of August 1995, Thomas retired from NASA and continued to serve as a mentor for youth through the Science, Mathematics, Aerospace Research and Technology and National Technical Association. Thomas invention was depicted in a children's fictional book on television and in video games. For further information on Valerie L. Thomas and other inventors and innovators, check out the knowledge on STM Daily News. [00:12:35] Speaker C: Pop, soda or Coke? Your answer reveals more about you than you think Cross America, we're divided by invisible linguistic borders. The Northeast says soda, the Midwest swears by pop, and the South? Everything's a Coke, even when it's Sprite. This isn't random, it's history in action. German immigrants brought pop to the heartland, urban soda fountains cemented soda on the coasts, and Coca Cola's Atlanta dominance made Coke the the South's catch all term. Today, college campuses and social media are blending these boundaries, but regional pride keeps the divide alive. So next time you order a fizzy drink, remember you're not just choosing words, you're carrying forward centuries of American culture one sip at a time. [00:13:40] Speaker B: Thank you for tuning in and being part of this community. No matter where you're listening from, whether you're in Phoenix, Arizona, Southern California, somewhere else in the states, or tuning in from around the world, I appreciate you spending this time with me. If you enjoyed this episode, do me a favor, share it with someone who needs to hear these stories. Leave us a comment, drop a review and make sure you're subscribed so you never miss an episode. Head over to stmdailynews.com for the full articles, videos and photos from everything we talk talked about today and follow us on all the socials, TM, Daily News, on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube. I'm Rod Washington. Stay informed, stay inspired and I'll catch you next week.

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