Lori Lizarraga named co-host of NPR's 'Code Switch'

Listeners will hear a new voice on NPR's "Code Switch" starting later this year: Award-winning journalist Lori Lizarraga will be "Code Switch's" newest co-host, joining Gene Demby, B.A. Parker and Senior Correspondent Karen Grigsby Bates. Previously, Lizarraga reported at television stations including KUSA 9News in Denver and KGET/Telemundo in Bakersfield, California. She has a passion and energy for covering stories about under-reported communities, civil rights and issues involving immigration and Latinx culture — and for covering breaking news.

"As a first-generation daughter of immigrants, I can't say enough what an honor and privilege it is to be joining the dedicated 'Code Switch' team at NPR," said Lizarraga. "For years, I have introduced myself as a 'race and culture reporter' when the truth is where there are people there is race and culture. This beat is in everything and the folks at 'Code Switch' have pioneered an entire award-winning show proving, year after year, diverse stories told by diverse people are essential for everyone. That's meant a lot to me as a 'Code Switch' listener and it means a lot to me now as I step into this incredible role as the newest host of 'Code Switch' alongside Gene Demby and B.A. Parker. For me and for my family, I am so excited to bring my Latinidad and my passion for storytelling to 'Code Switch' and its loyal listeners."

"Lori brings an energy and passion to her reporting, and a broad interest in all kinds of stories that will really add to the range and depth in our coverage," said Steve Drummond, executive producer of "Code Switch" and NPR Education. "We're thrilled to have her on the team."

"Lori will add a fresh and exciting perspective to 'Code Switch'," said Vice President of Programming and New Content Development Yolanda Sangweni. "We're looking forward to her collaboration with Gene, Parker and everyone who works on this important show."

Lizarraga is the daughter of Ecuadorian and Mexican immigrants and a graduate of Southern Methodist University. She grew up in Texas and now lives in Philadelphia, but she's also spent time living in her mother's native Ecuador, where she won an Emmy award for a documentary on the long-term impacts of the 2016 earthquake.

Outside of work, Lizarraga is a foodie, a doting aunt and lover of hot Cheetos. She is based in Philadelphia.

About Code Switch:

What's "Code Switch"? It's the fearless conversations about race that you've been waiting for. Hosted by journalists of color, our podcast tackles the subject of race with empathy and humor. We explore how race affects every part of society — from politics and pop culture to history, food and everything in between. This podcast makes all of us part of the conversation — because we're all part of the story. "Code Switch" was named Apple Podcasts' first-ever Show of the Year in 2020.

About NPR:

NPR's rigorous reporting and unsurpassed storytelling connect with millions of Americans every day — on the air, online and in person. NPR strives to create a more informed public — one challenged and invigorated by a deeper understanding and appreciation of events, ideas and cultures. With a nationwide network of award-winning journalists and 17 international bureaus, NPR and its Member Stations are never far from where a story is unfolding. Listeners can find NPR by tuning in to their local Member stations (npr.org/stations), and now it's easy to listen to our stories on smart speaker devices. Ask your smart speaker to, "Play NPR," and you'll be tuned into your local Member station's live stream. Your speaker can also access NPR podcasts, NPR One, NPR News Now and the Visual Newscast is available for screened speakers. Get more information at npr.org/about and by following NPR Extra on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.