Austin Cross
What I cover
I help listeners understand how decisions about housing, homelessness, law, and local government shape everyday life in Southern California. I also unpack the bigger themes — from identity and culture to the way media narratives shape our perception of the world. And every Friday on AirTalk, I bring Angelenos together around one of our favorite topics: food.
My background
I’m a native Angeleno and Golden Mike Award-winning journalist who hosts Morning Edition and AirTalk Fridays on LAist 89.3, as well as The L.A. Report A.M. Edition. I started in LA radio at KNX in 2010 and joined LAist (then KPCC) in 2014. Along the way, I’ve also contributed to APM’s Marketplace and was a longtime producer and reporter for Take Two with A Martinez. As a second-generation Los Angeles radio host, I take pride in delivering crucial information while showcasing the many sides of Southern California.
My goals
My goal is to give Angelenos the clarity and context they need to navigate life in one of the most dynamic regions in the world. Whether it’s a challenging conversation with a policymaker, a deep dive into housing policy, or a lighter moment on Food Friday, I aim to make news accessible, engaging, and thought-provoking.
Best way to reach me
I’d love to hear from you if you have feedback, story ideas, or want to connect. You can reach me at across@laist.com. You can also follow me on Instagram and TikTok at @AustinCrossTalk.
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In honor of Spooky Season, we're digging up scary L.A. stories to tell in the dark. -
He's performed at the Met and Carnegie Hall, but deliberately chooses accessible venues like Cicada Restaurant. -
Grammy-winning keyboardist Cory Henry has traded the touring circuit for something deeper — a monthly residency called “The Church Experience” at Inglewood's Miracle Theater. -
The Latin jazz legend spoke with host Austin Cross about his upcoming performance and about how music is bridging communities. -
The documentary is set to broadcast as America this year prepares to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Revolution’s start. -
At The Park’s Finest, chef and co-founder Johneric Concordia’s rubs and banana leaf cornbread rewrite the rules of flavor. -
François Clemmons, the first Black man with a recurring role on children's TV, says what he learned from working for Fred Rogers on Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood still provides guidance today. -
Treats you might not have tried but will have everyone talking. -
Pacific Standard Time vocal jazz ensemble prepares for their cultural exchange trip to Cuba. -
The newly-elect councilmember stresses the need for better city services and is eyeing public land to build more housing.
