Houston Matters

On Wednesday's show: Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo joins us to talk about issues facing the county, from budget issues to questions about whether she'll run for re-election.Also this hour: We discuss the latest developments in politics in our weekly roundup.And a historian explains why we could have ended up celebrating independence from England on July 2 instead of July 4.

On Tuesday's show: The U.S. Supreme Court has upheld an historic penalty against ExxonMobil for pollution at its Baytown oil refinery. We hear from the group behind the long-running lawsuit on behalf of those who lived near the plant.Also this hour: In April, Houston police called ICE agents on a woman who'd dialed 911 to report domestic abuse. We learn the details of that case and discuss the effect it might have on people's willingness to report crime.Then, the Chris Larkin ALS Act is now law and takes effect immediately. It allows some people under 65 to purchase Medicare supplement benefit plans. We talk with the Houstonian it's named for, Chris Larkin, about his journey with ALS and about the emotional moment in the legislature he credits with getting the bill passed.And we go on a walk through the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center in Memorial Park with writer Isobella Jade to learn how to connect with nature in the heart of the city -- and how doing just that helped her deal with a divorce after moving here to Houston, as she details in her book, Heart Trail.

On Monday's show: The U.S. Supreme Court's latest term ended Friday. We recap the session and discuss what the rulings might mean for Texas and Houston with the help of law professor Charles “Rocky” Rhodes.Also this hour: On this date in 1986, the U.S. Supreme Court issued its ruling in Bowers v. Hardwick, saying states could criminalize gay sex between consenting adults. In 2003, the decision in Lawrence v. Texas overturned that. We revisit a 2023 conversation with Mitchell Katine, the local attorney for the plaintiffs in the Lawrence case who spoke with us on the 20th anniversary of that ruling.Then, recent incidents, such as the murder of a Minnesota state lawmaker and her husband and the forcible removal of Sen. Alex Padilla from a press conference, might lead us to believe political vitriol and discord have reached unprecedented heights. But that's not necessarily true. Author Zaakir Tameez joins us to discuss his new biography of Charles Sumner, an abolitionist senator nearly beaten to death for opposing slavery and what it can tell us about our political climate today.And Jeff Balke joins us to assess the first half of the Astros' season.

On Friday's show: Thousands are expected to gather in downtown Saturday for the annual Houston Pride parade and festival. However, representatives of Pride Houston 365, the nonprofit organization that has held the event for nearly 50 years, says they've lost about 20 sponsors this year accounting for more than $180,000 in funding because diversity, equity, and inclusion policies have been banned at both the state and federal level, and the LGBTQ+ community has come under attack by political conservatives.Also this hour: Recent standardized testing shows efforts to emphasize STEM-related learning is paying off, but is it at the expense of other subjects for which those same students seem to lag? We discuss the push and pull between STEM and literacy.Then, from a spot on Pasadena's City Council being decided by a coin toss, to Texas is developing its own test to license psychologists, we hammer out The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of the week.And we meet the cast and crew of Ensemble Theatre's production of Tap Dance Kid, a musical about a 10-year-old child who dreams of becoming a tap dancer on Broadway.

On Thursday's show: Three Harris County Jail inmates died during a recent 48-hour span, marking a total of ten in-custody deaths reported in Harris County so far this year. We learn about their cases.Also this hour: We examine whether any progress has been made in addressing the doctor shortage across the nation and in Texas.Then, visual artist Andrew Thomas Huang talks about his craft, which includes sculpture and directing both short films and music videos. He's coming to Houston this weekend for a pair of events as a part of the series HTX Made from director and Houston native Li Lu.And he's drawn everything from superheroes to demons, and now his work is headed to Hollywood. Houston comic artist Rod Thornton talks about breaking barriers, building worlds, and why representation on the page still matters.

On Wednesday's show: President Trump held a press conference this morning to reiterate his assessment that U.S. strikes on Iran heavily damaged that country's nuclear program. While coverage of his remarks pre-empted most of Houston Matters today, our political analysts responded to what they heard and weighed in on other developments in the news in an abbreviated edition of the show.

On Tuesday's show: After Gov. Greg Abbott vetoed the proposed ban on THC passed by the legislature, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick held a press conference Monday to discuss the move, which killed one of his top legislative priorities from the session. In issuing his eleventh-hour veto, the governor called the THC bill "well-intentioned" and said the hemp market needs to be regulated immediately. That's why he's calling lawmakers back to Austin for a special session. We learn more about this rare split between the governor, state lawmakers, and the lieutenant governor.Also this hour: Houston is a city of contrasts, where neighborhoods sometimes sit side by side yet remain worlds apart. That case can be made for East Houston and West Houston. How divided is our city, and who are the ones defining the east side?Then, we discuss the cause of and the fallout from long delays in recycling pickup around the city.And we learn about Lullabies and Chaos, an organization turning baby showers into lifelines for expectant mothers and fathers who are facing tough times.

On Monday's show: Houston Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher outlines why she thinks U.S. military strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities were unconstitutional. And a local energy watcher explains what it could mean for gas prices and Houston's oil and gas industry.Also this hour: Gov. Greg Abbott vetoed numerous bills yesterday, including a ban on THC products. And he called for a special session. Blaise Gainey from the Texas Newsroom provides details.Then, a Houston factory may soon use robots to create AI servers. What could go wrong? We discuss that story and the latest developments in consumer technology with columnist Dwight Silverman.And the Rockets are trading for star Kevin Durant. Does the move reflect a growing trend for teams making deep runs in the postseason? We discuss that and other developments in Houston sports.

On Friday's show: After last May's derecho and then Hurricane Beryl in July, it seemed reasonable to expect some disaster aid from the federal government. So, why has the way the city spends these particular funds been controversial?Also this hour: Saturday is Make Music Day here in Houston and in more 2,000 cities worldwide. In anticipation, we talk with some folks behind some performances around the city, including a free concert from Dacamera at the Menil Collection inspired by the works of artist Rene Magritte. Flutist Hunter O'Brien gives us a preview.Then, from Fort Bend County Judge KP George announcing he's running for a third term — but this time as a Republican -- to a mongoose that escaped from a wildlife park being safety captured after he turned up at a local pub, we break down The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of the week.And just when you thought it was safe to go back in the water, we explore the cultural impact of the movie Jaws 50 years after its release and offer a glimpse at what life was like along the coast in Galveston at the time.

On Thursday's show: We celebrate Juneteenth with a number of stories, including how the chair of Juneteenth Houston first learned about the holiday — and how that discovery sparked a deeper mission: a multi-year archival project to preserve the rich history of Juneteenth celebrations in the city.We also learn how the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum is honoring the role Buffalo Soldiers played in Juneteenth — and why this moment matters more than ever.Then, we revisit a conversation about a documentary detailing the journey of a newly-emancipated man who sought out his family.

On Wednesday's show: From tensions in the Middle East to the ramifications of widescale protests across the U.S., we discuss the latest developments in the news in our weekly political roundup.Also this hour: A glimpse into Houston's tattoo culture.Then, we discuss the legacy of Sally Ride, the first American woman in space.

On Tuesday's show: The Rice University Kinder Institute for Urban Research has released its State of Housing report for 2025, looking at how climate change and resilience impact local residents. We learn about the report and its implications.Also this hour: Actor Alan Tudyk talks about his love of fans as he prepares to meet some at this weekend's Comicpalooza.And we discuss the role megachurches play in a city like Houston.

On Monday's show: We learn about an influx of gas power plants that could arise in Texas to meet energy demands for AI.Also this hour: While Patton Oswalt is known for his comedy and acting, he has always been a fan of comic books and creates his own, including a series called Minor Threats. Ahead of his appearance at Comicpalooza this weekend, we learn why he wanted to focus on the lesser villains of the superhero world for that series.Then, veterinarian Dr. Lori Teller talks about how to travel with your pets this summer.And Jeff Balke joins us to discuss how athletes' conduct off the field can affect their reputation.

On Friday's show: There are numerous protests against President Donald Trump's policies planned across the country this weekend, including here in Greater Houston. A local Congressman offered more federal help to deal with potential riots in Houston, but local leaders expressed doubt about whether that would be needed here. But could scenes like we saw in Los Angeles of protestors clashing with police in riot gear against the backdrop of burned cars happen here? We consider Houston's history of protesting for some insight.Also this hour: From law enforcement cracking down on people allegedly trying to sneak into the Astrodome, to delivery drones from Walmart headed Houston's way, we break down The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of the week.Then, restaurant owner Courtney Lindsay only learned the identity of his biological father a year ago. Now, a new documentary tells the story of finding his father and forming a relationship. Ahead of this Father's Day weekend, we talk to them both. A screening of the documentary, Finding Ben: A Father & Son's Discovery, takes place on Sunday, June 15, at 3 p.m. at the DeLuxe Theater.And, ahead of a zydeco show this weekend as a part of the series Eldorado Ballroom Houston curated by Solange Knowles, we reflect on Houston's role in the birth of that music genre.

On Thursday's show: We look at some the challenges facing immigrants and what rights they should be aware of amid increased scrutiny from the federal government.Also this hour: A bill to create a strategic bitcoin reserve for Texas passed during the legislative session and awaits the governor's signature. Should it become law, what purpose will it serve? How would it differ from one created by President Donald Trump? And what are the economic and energy-related pros and cons?Then, we discuss the rules that govern tow trucks on Houston roads and highways.RESOURCES: Complaints against tow truck companies can be filed with the Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation or with the Harris County Sheriff's Office at hcsotowing@sheriff.hctx.net or 713-274-7410.And we visit the KimoKawaii Anime Experience & Convention that took place June 7-8 in Conroe to meet some anime enthusiasts and learn about the viability and challenges of running smaller conventions.

 On Wednesday's show: From ongoing protests over immigration policy, to some area Congressional races taking shape, we discuss the latest developments in politics in our weekly roundup.Also this hour: We remember the Galveston Movement, when 10,000 Russian Jews set sail -- not for New York but bound for Texas. Rachel Cockerell talks about her great-grandfather's role in that movement and her book, Melting Point.And former Houston poet laureate Deborah D.E.E.P. Mouton and Houston Grand Opera composer-in-residence Joel Thompson have collaborated on a new song cycle being performed June 17. We preview the premiere performance of the work, A Voice Within.

On Tuesday's show: We look at the forecast for rain the rest of the week and discuss the probability of another early-season hurricane this year, like Hurricane Beryl last season, with Justin Ballard, meteorologist with the Houston Chronicle.Also this hour: There seems to be an awful lot of misunderstanding and perhaps even misuse of the First Amendment these days. We discuss how the rights to speech, religion, press, and assembly are viewed legally when that is at odds with what is happening around the country -- and what it all means for us here in Houston.Then, is advocating for equitable transportation in Houston getting harder to do? We ask Robin Holzer, the new head of LINK Houston.And we explore the concept of developing more events and venues in Houston that help Houstonians get in touch with their feminine side.

On Monday's show: In recent days, the U.S. Supreme Court has issued rulings on cases involving employment discrimination against straight people, guns, and tax exemption for a Catholic Charity. We recap those rulings and talk about some other cases the court is expected to rule on soon.Also this hour: We visit the headquarters for Memorial Hermann Life Flight to learn how the air ambulance service has evolved over nearly 50 years serving Greater HoustonThen, Meg Tapp from the Garden Club of Houston answers listeners' gardening questions.And the automatic ball strike system will indeed come to Major League Baseball next season. What might it mean for Houston Astros hitters, pitchers, and catchers? We discuss with Bleav in Astros podcast co-host Jeff Balke.

On Friday's show: Saharan dust is headed to Houston, as it typically does this time of year. And much of the country could see the Northern Lights this weekend because of a powerful geomagnetic storm. We learn about both from Eric Berger of Space City Weather.Also this hour: From the head of FEMA saying he didn't know there was a hurricane season here, to the National Weather Service receiving permission to hire 125 meteorologists and specialists after losing more than 560 employees earlier this year due to Trump administration cuts and retirements, we break down The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of the week.Then: Wolverine, Spider-Man, Batman, Black Panther -- a lot of popular superheroes are based on animals. But why? Maybe it's because a lot of animals kind of have superpowers. A new exhibit at the Houston Museum of Natural Science called Extreme Animals Alive explores that.And what makes certain Houston eateries and music venues unforgettable, even after they disappear? We reflect on some of the city's lost iconic spots.

On Thursday's show: After an 8-hour meeting and extended disruption by protesters on Wednesday, Houston City Council approved a $7 billion budget for the next fiscal year, which starts in July. We learn details from reporter Dominic Anthony Walsh.Also this hour: Today is World Environment Day. As we contemplate the impact climate change continues to have on the Gulf Coast and coastal communities around the world, should we just stop rebuilding in flood-prone communities? We listen back to a discussion about that with Pulitzer Prize-winner Gilbert Gaul, author of The Geography of Risk.Then, we learn more about the Fade to Black Arts Festival, which celebrates Black creativity in poetry, theater, film and more and runs June 8-14.An we preview the annual Texas Music Festival, which highlights rising stars of the classical music world and runs June 5-28.

On Wednesday's show: From the end of the Texas Legislature, to ongoing budget discussions at the City of Houston, we discuss the latest developments in politics in our weekly roundup.Also this hour: With Texas Monthly releasing its list of the state's top barbecue spots, local food writers hone in on Houston and name some of their favorite places here in this month's installment of The Full Menu.And we learn how history, gender, and faith intersect in Islamic art from the new executive director of Houston's Islamic Arts Society and a local calligraphy artist.

On Tuesday's show: The 89th regular session of the Texas Legislature came to a close on Monday. We recap what passed, what didn't, the status of legislation on the governor's desk, and how it all might affect Texans.Also this hour: We visit a recent conference and expo for the robotics and autonomy industries held at the George R. Brown Convention Center.Then, author Bryan Burrough talks about his new book, The Gunfighters, which details the history of legendary gunfighters from the Wild West and the role Texas played in their stories.And we learn about an exhibit at Rice University's Moody Center for the Arts called Figurative Histories, in which several artists -- including three based in Houston -- explore the use of the human form in art, Black bodies in particular.

On Monday's show: Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has openly speculated about eliminating FEMA. Whether that happens or not, how would Greater Houston handle another hurricane -- or any other disaster -- if FEMA no longer existed or its role were changed?Also this hour: We offer Houstonians a chance to vent about their pet peeves about life in our city.And Jeff Balke updates us on the latest developments in sports.

On Friday's show: Houston Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher joins us to talk about issues in Congress affecting our region and to take listener questions.Also this hour: From a recent study suggesting AI isn't saving workers a ton of time on the job, to eight Houston-area barbecue restaurants making Texas Monthly's Top 50 list (after Yelp snubbed the city), we discuss The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of the week.And Joshua Zinn chats with Bob Simpson, the retiring founder and artistic director of the Houston Chamber Choir.

On Thursday's show: Another one bites the dust in the decimated Astros pitching rotation. This time it's Ronel Blanco who's out for the season and in need of elbow surgery. Is it past time to ask what the Astros are doing to their pitchers' arms? Jeff Balke of the Bleav in Astros podcast talks it over.Also this hour: The National Endowment for the Arts recently terminated grants to nonprofits nationwide, many of which had already been awarded. Houston arts organizations are among those who have had to pivot after losing money they were counting on. We hear from a pair of them.Then, we hear the story of a Houston woman trying to negotiate red tape to gain access to an apartment she can afford. It doesn't work. We discuss why and what can be done about it.And, from Pint of Science to Nerd Nite to Brains in a Bar and Philosophically Drinking, there are many longstanding Houston-area events and programs based at local bars designed to engage Houstonians' minds (and not just douse them in alcohol). We learn more about some of them.

On Wednesday's show: We discuss the latest news from the waning days of the Texas Legislature and other developments in politics in our weekly roundup.Also this hour: Real estate in much of Greater Houston has been a seller's market for a very long time. Not so in Galveston lately. We talk over some recent trends in Galveston real estate with Marissa Luck of the Houston Chronicle and Kimberly Gaido, real estate agent with Sand ‘N Sea Properties in Galveston.And we talk with comedian and Wait Wait...Don't Tell Me! panelist Hari Kondabolu ahead of his standup gigs Friday and Saturday at Houston's Punch Line Comedy Club.

On Tuesday's show: The Texas Legislature was busy this weekend, passing bills in what is now the final week of the regular legislative session. Reporter Andrew Schneider walks us through developments in Austin over the last 72 hours.Also this hour: The current session of the Texas Legislature is nearly finished. State lawmakers only meet for 140 days every two years. Is that really enough time to administer state law, and could that ever change?Then, we revisit a question we asked you last year: does Houston need a new "big honkin' thing" to help seal our identity? You know, a major landmark like so many other major cities have, and Houston had for so long with the Astrodome?And we revisit a 2023 conversation with filmmaker and Houston native Nell Teare about her movie Bolivar, which will be screened and discussed May 30 at River Oaks Theatre. The film is based on memories of family trips to the beach on Bolivar Peninsula.

On Friday's show: This coming Sunday will mark five years since the murder of George Floyd sparked demonstrations, calls for a racial reckoning in the United States, and continued demands for police reform. We reflect on the life of the Houston native and what his death brought about -- and what activists believe still needs to be done.Also this hour: The International Space Station is already facing a $1 billion budget shortfall, and the Trump administration plans to cut even more. We learn how NASA is handling the situation and how it could affect both astronauts and those working on the ground here in Houston with Andrea Leinfelder, who covers space for the Houston Chronicle.Then, from a building in the Third Ward and the George Floyd/Black Lives Matter mural on it being demolished the week of the fifth anniversary of Floyd's murder, to a Houston man suing Whataburger because a store allegedly left onions on his hamburger, we break down The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of the week.And we preview a concert tonight celebrating the 10th anniversary of the local the string orchestra Kinetic. The program includes a premiere work by a Sugar Land native.

On Thursday's show: Budget season continues here in Houston. The City Council is contemplating spending $7 billion next fiscal year -- $3 billion of it from coming from the city's general fund. Council has about a month left to approve a budget, but a key part of it was just locked in, as council members approved a new contract agreement with the union representing Houston police officers. News 88.7's Dominic Anthony Walsh joins us with details.Also this hour: Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo joins us to discuss how the county is handling its own budget concerns and other developments affecting the county.Then, in this month's installment of The Bigger Picture, we talk about our collective obsession with death and the macabre with the release of Final Destination: Bloodlines, the latest in that series of horror movies.And Lyle Lovett is performing a free concert in Tomball later this month. We revisit our 2023 conversation with the Houston native, who follows that performance with a long summer tour across the country.

On Wednesday's show: It's crunch time for lawmakers at the State Capitol, and Presidential politics reigns, as always, in Washington. And that's just some of what we'll walk through -- and seek context and clarity about -- in our weekly political roundup.Also this hour: A mental health professional discusses how to help teens and children dealing with anxiety, depression, and other challenges.And prices are high these day -- and so is the temperature. We get some suggestions on some low-cost or free indoor summer entertainment options around town.

 On Tuesday's show: We learn about the progress of some bills regarding bail reform being considered in the waning days of the Texas Legislature.Also this hour: We discuss the complicated, cloudy future of the Texas Lottery, which has been under fire over a scheme that essentially allowed gamblers to purchase every single lottery combination possible and guarantee a jackpot win. Then, ahead of an event at Brazos Bookstore on May 27, author and poet Ocean Vuong shares lessons from working in fast food and considers what drives acts of kindness between strangers. Those themes are explored in his new novel, The Emperor of Gladness.And some Houstonians might visit Galveston during the upcoming holiday weekend, and there are a number of intriguing historic sites to check out on the island, if you're so inclined. We learn more about some of them from Tristan Smith, the author of A History Lover's Guide to Galveston.

On Monday's show: What do Houstonians think about life here -- the economy, their life experiences, beliefs, and attitudes? We discuss the findings of the annual Houston Area Survey with Rice University sociologists. Also this hour: Veterinarian Dr. Lori Teller talks about issues affecting pet health.And Jeff Balke updates us on the latest developments in sports

On Friday's show: A year ago today, the Houston derecho moved through southeast Texas, spawning four tornadoes and creating intense winds that caused widespread damage in Houston, especially downtown where windows were blown out of many high-rise buildings. Ultimately, seven people in Greater Houston lost their lives. We reflect on what happened, why it affected downtown so greatly, and what scientists have learned from studying the event.Also this hour: The nonprofit news organization Houston Landing has shut down. One of its journalists, Maggie Gordon, joins us to reflect on what the site achieved in its short run and to discuss the lessons learned from its demise.Then, from record-breaking temperatures this week, to letting moms and soon-to-be-moms have unlimited access to HOV lanes in Texas, to a streaming service that just can't stopping changing its name, we break down The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of the week.And The Ensemble Theatre serves up a slice of life after retirement in the regional premiere of the play, Coconut Cake.

On Thursday's show: We learn about a $150 million donation that will create the Kinder Children's Cancer Center, a new initiative to fight childhood cancer at MD Anderson Cancer Center and Texas Children's Hospital. The gift is one of the largest such donations in the history of the Texas Medical Center and one of the largest ever given to a pediatric hospital in the country.Also this hour: Comedian Ramy Youssef performs Friday night at House of Blues, and he has a new animated series on Amazon Prime called #1 Happy Family USA! We revisit a 2019 conversation with him about how he got into comedy and about how much of his standup material and work on television has revolved around the experience of growing up Muslim in America.Then, a Houston mother lost her parental rights to her children for life because of allegations her ex-husband made in court. We learn why the Texas Supreme Court unanimously overturned that ruling and what it means for how protective orders are issued here.And Laura Walker visits a farm run by the Socialites Riding Network, a Black-owned nonprofit that teaches sustainable agriculture and an appreciation for animals.

On Wednesday's show: Houston City Council members have begun budget hearings this week as the city faces economic uncertainty amid a budget shortfall. But some of that shortfall could be remedied if some proceeds from toll roads are shifted from Harris County to the city, as a bill in the legislature would do. But the county has its own budget concerns.We get some insight on crafting a budget for both the city and the county in uncertain financial times -- all while navigating the intertwining relationship of those two government entities -- from two people who've been there: former Houston Mayor Annise Parker and former Harris County Judge Ed Emmett.Also this hour: We break down the latest developments in politics in our weekly roundup.And we get some advice for paying back student loans (or maybe being forced to) in a changing landscape for student borrowers. MORE: Resources mentioned today about federal student loans For more information on student loan repayment, visit studentaid.gov To contact the Default Resolution Group, call 800-621-3115

On Tuesday's show: We learn about a pair of bills some say might kill the renewable energy boom in the state and about this week's heat, which may be the year's first real test of the Texas electric grid.Also this hour: We learn about the fate of the Texas Renaissance Festival after a judge ordered the event's owners to sell their property and assets after siding with a prospective buyer who sued after a $60 million deal fell through in 2023.Then, on the anniversary of the famed Battle of the Sexes tennis match at the Astrodome, we revisit a 2023 conversation with Houston tennis star Zina Garrison about the legacy of that historic match, how women's tennis has changed in the five decades since, and her longtime friendship with the match's victor, Billie Jean King.And we learn about a play addressing the mental health of Black men, called The Black Man, with actor Andre Pitre and actress and writer Charnele Brown.

On Monday's show: Three Houston-area members of Congress are asking why the National Weather Service's office in the region has nearly a dozen vacancies ahead of hurricane season.Also this hour: On this date in 1941, the Z3, the world's first programmable and fully automatic computer, was first presented. With that anniversary in mind, we revisit the ethics of artificial intelligence at the same time Texas lawmakers are considering a bill to address AI-altered audio and video in political ads.Then, Meg Tapp from the Garden Club of Houston answers listeners' gardening questions.And Jeff Balke updates us on the latest developments in sports, including death threats again pitcher Lance McCullers, Jr. and his family after a rough outing.

On Friday's show: Pope Leo XIV celebrated the first mass of his papacy this morning. And while his election is being celebrated by Catholics worldwide, he also faces some criticism from earlier in his ministry. We learn what survivors of clergy sexual abuse here in Houston want to see and hear from the new pope.Also this hour: So far, space tourism appears to be only for celebrities and the uber-rich. While its purported long-term goal is to make spaceflight more accessible, is it also making such travel seem less meaningful to the public? In the process, are we losing respect for what real space exploration can be and do?Then, from the mayor unveiling his proposed budget, to Yelp snubbing Houston barbecue, we break down The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of the week.And we preview the final concert of the season from the Apollo Chamber Players, which features world premieres by Houston composers.

On Thursday's show: We talk about Houston's growing problems with trash, including how the city is quickly running out of landfill space, with Elena Bruess of Houston Landing.Also this hour: We learn about a new law creating a Texas version of DOGE.Then, we welcome your questions about our varied and fascinating insect world for entomologist Erin Mills of the Houston Botanic Garden.And issues of loneliness, hidden trauma, and breaking free of comfort zones all come to bear in Primary Trust, a Pulitzer Prize-winning play at The Alley Theatre through May 25.

On Wednesday's show: We discuss Houston Mayor John Whitmire's proposed city budget, the latest developments from the Texas Legislature, and President Donald Trump's meeting with Canada's new Prime Minister Mark Carney, along with other developments in our  political roundup.Also this hour: In this month's installment of The Full Menu, food writers discuss some of their favorite restaurants to get vegetarian and vegan food around the city.And we learn about Bajo Terapia (In Therapy), a new play about three couples in therapy, which is on stage May 8-11 at the MATCH.

On Tuesday's show: Wet weather continues across Greater Houston the next couple of days. We find out what may be in store from Eric Berger of Space Center Weather walks us through the forecast.And is the tide turning in local school board battles over library books and gender identity policies? We get an update on some changes to the makeup of the school boards at Katy ISD and Fort Bend ISD and what that might mean for those districts.Also this hour: The Trump administration wants to incentivize Americans to have more children due to falling birth rates. So, how do rates in our region compare nationally, and what are the factors causing them to drop?Then, we examine how tariffs are affecting local businesses and communities with ties to China.And, with hurricane season about to start, we go shopping for an emergency kit.

On Monday's show: Houston Mayor John Whitmire says he'll unveil his proposed budget, and even as it includes a new deal with the police union giving officers more money, it'll be a balanced budget. We get reaction to that police officers union agreement.Also this hour: We offer Houstonians a chance to vent about their pet peeves about life in our city.And Jeff Balke recaps the Rockets' Game 7 loss to Golden State in the NBA Playoffs and reflects on the accomplishments of the season.