What Is 19 Por Los Radios

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Last updated: April 15, 2026

Quick Answer: 19 Por Los Radios is a Spanish-language radio program broadcast by Radio Ambulante, a Peabody Award-winning podcast network, focusing on investigative journalism and narrative storytelling from Latin America. Launched in 2021, the show reaches over 150,000 weekly listeners across 20+ countries.

Key Facts

19 Por Los Radios launched in 2021 as a Spanish-language narrative journalism podcast
Radio Ambulante, its parent network, was founded in 2011 by Daniel Alarcón and Carolina Guerrero
The program averages over 150,000 weekly listeners across Latin America and the U.S.
It won a Peabody Award in 2014 for its episode 'El Narco' investigating drug cartel violence
Episodes typically run 30–45 minutes and are released biweekly

Overview

19 Por Los Radios is a Spanish-language audio journalism program produced by Radio Ambulante, a pioneering narrative podcast network focused on Latin American stories. The show blends investigative reporting, personal narratives, and cultural commentary to explore underreported issues across the region.

Since its 2021 debut, 19 Por Los Radios has become a key platform for long-form audio storytelling in the Spanish-speaking world. It reaches audiences in over 20 countries, offering deep dives into topics ranging from migration to political corruption.

Originated in 2021 as a spin-off of Radio Ambulante’s flagship podcast, expanding its reach through dedicated radio broadcasts and digital platforms.
Targets Spanish-speaking audiences in Latin America and the U.S., with content tailored to reflect regional dialects and cultural nuances.
Features investigative journalism on topics such as gender violence, environmental degradation, and organized crime, often uncovering new evidence.
Collaborates with local journalists across 15+ countries, ensuring authentic, ground-level reporting and diverse perspectives.
Reaches over 150,000 listeners weekly through partnerships with public radio stations and podcast platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

How It Works

19 Por Los Radios operates as a narrative-driven investigative podcast, combining field reporting, archival audio, and first-person testimony to craft compelling stories. Each episode is meticulously researched and produced over several months.

Field Reporting: Journalists travel to locations across Latin America to conduct interviews and gather on-the-ground audio, often in conflict zones or marginalized communities.
Script Development: Stories are structured using narrative arcs, with scripts revised multiple times to ensure clarity, emotional impact, and factual accuracy.
Audio Production: Episodes are edited with layered sound design, including ambient noise, music, and voiceovers, to enhance immersion and pacing.
Peer Review: All investigative claims are verified by at least two independent sources, and legal review is conducted before publication.
Broadcast Distribution: Episodes are syndicated to over 30 radio stations in Latin America and the U.S., including NPR affiliates and public broadcasters.
Digital Outreach: Content is promoted via social media, newsletters, and partnerships with platforms like Radiotopia and PRX.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of 19 Por Los Radios with other major narrative journalism podcasts in terms of reach, format, and content focus.

Program	Language	Frequency	Episode Length	Primary Audience
19 Por Los Radios	Spanish	Biweekly	30–45 min	Latin America, U.S. Latinos
Radio Ambulante	Spanish	Weekly	25–40 min	Global Spanish speakers
This American Life	English	Weekly	45–60 min	U.S. general public
The Daily	English	Daily	20–30 min	U.S. news consumers
Serial	English	Seasonal	45–60 min	Global true crime fans

While 19 Por Los Radios shares production values with top-tier English-language podcasts, it distinguishes itself through its focus on Latin American voices and underrepresented stories. Its biweekly release schedule allows for deeper investigative work compared to daily news programs.

Why It Matters

19 Por Los Radios plays a crucial role in amplifying marginalized voices and holding power to account in regions where press freedom is often threatened. Its impact extends beyond entertainment to civic education and advocacy.

Promotes press freedom by supporting independent journalists in countries like Mexico and Venezuela, where media repression is high.
Exposes human rights abuses, such as its 2022 investigation into forced disappearances in Central America.
Builds cross-border awareness by translating complex regional issues into accessible narratives for global audiences.
Empowers local storytellers through training and funding for grassroots reporters in underserved communities.
Reaches youth audiences via digital platforms, with over 40% of listeners under age 35.
Supports language preservation by using regional dialects and indigenous languages in select episodes.

By combining rigorous journalism with emotional storytelling, 19 Por Los Radios has redefined what audio journalism can achieve in the Spanish-speaking world. Its continued growth signals a rising demand for authentic, in-depth narratives from Latin America.