S5E31: Desert Dispatch, Data Centers, and the People Pushing Back

Desert Dispatch Media is bringing together artists and communities to document how the AI buildout is affecting desert lands and the people who live there. Chris talks with organizer Melinda Matson Spina, filmmaker Jodi Darby, and musician Sage Bond about their planned community-led documentary, a short film for public assemblies, and the stories they hope to gather across the Southwest. Sage describes composing with sounds and materials from the land, while Jodi explains how footage contributed by community members can shape the larger film. Chris also surveys actions communities and tribal governments are taking in response to proposed data centers. Links and further reading Desert Dispatch Media Listen to Sage Bond on YouTube The Border Chronicle and its fifth-anniversary celebration Virginia’s Data Center Accountability Framework Gallup: Americans Oppose AI Data Centers in Their Area — In a March 2026 national survey, 71% of U.S. adults opposed construction of an AI data center in their local area. Support 90 Miles from Needles Episode image is from a satirical website dated 2013 Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.