If you follow the news, even from a healthy distance, you're probably aware of a recent

crisis in Cuba.

It's a long story, at least 67 years long, in fact.

But to put it simply, there's a general sense that Cuba's economic and political system

is at a breaking point.

In recent months, the United States has blocked the country's key

oil suppliers, namely Venezuela and Mexico, which has turned a long-standing energy problem

into a full-blown crisis. There are continuous nationwide blackouts. Hospitals have postponed

all but the most urgent procedures. Food, which has always been in short supply, is disappearing. The water is contaminated.

Mosquito-borne diseases like chikungunya and dengue are surging. There's not enough fuel for the

garbage trucks, so trash is piling up on the streets. Residents in bouts of anger and desperation

have started lighting the trash on fire. Cuba is closer to the edge than it's been in decades.

And everybody who cares about Cuba is watching with bated breath.

Our guest on today's episode is one of those people.

She has strong feelings about Cuba, and she's speaking from experience, close personal experience. She's not an academic, a politician, nor the leader of an activist organization,

but she has opposed Fidel Castro for virtually her entire life,

and her opposition has been building and brewing since she was a child,

when Fidel Castro would appear in her living room.

I'm Lloyd Lockridge, and this is Family Lore. when Fidel Castro would appear in her living room.

I'm Lloyd Lockridge and this is family lore.

Your name is pronounced Joy or Lloyd?

Lloyd.

...