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Idaho Matters is the place on-air and online where folks with different views can talk with each other, exchange ideas, debate with respect and come away richer out of the experience. We hope you'll engage with us! You can drop us a line here , email us , tag the station in a tweet or send us a mess…

Boise State Public Radio

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    • Jan 29, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • daily NEW EPISODES
    • 15m AVG DURATION
    • 5,178 EPISODES

    4.5 from 69 ratings Listeners of Idaho Matters that love the show mention: local, state, show, love, great, idaho matters.



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    Latest episodes from Idaho Matters

    Inside the plastic problem: Erica Cirino on pollution, health and hopeful solutions

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 29, 2026 22:27


    Plastic's invisible trail runs through our air, food and oceans — reshaping ecosystems and human health in ways we're only beginning to understand.

    Idaho Matters Doctor Roundtable: January 28, 2026

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 28, 2026 30:37


    A new CDC vaccine adviser's call to rethink long-standing immunization guidance is igniting a fierce debate over personal choice versus public health science. 

    Think you've got civic smarts? National Civics Bee opens to Idaho students

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2026 12:29


    Idaho students are getting a shot to show off their civic know-how, face off against their peers and compete for prizes in this years National Civics Bee. 

    Idaho 44: Capturing the Voices and History of Stanley

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2026 12:58


    For decades, the Sawtooth Interpretive and Historical Association has been preserving the voices of Stanley's past — and those stories are still being shared today.

    When headaches take over: Living and working through migraines

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 26, 2026 10:55


    When migraines strike, even the simplest task can become difficult, which is why one women is working to raise awareness and help others live well despite the pain. 

    In the wake of raids, support rises for Idaho families

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 26, 2026 10:38


    In response to recent immigration raids, four nonprofits have joined forces to support struggling families through the Idaho Familias Assistance Fund.

    Helping everyone play: Tree Town Tennis aims to build first public indoor facility

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 26, 2026 6:56


    Tree Town Tennis is serving up fun, adaptive challenges and community spirit at its 'Swing Into Spring 2026' fundraiser to build the city's first public indoor tennis facility.

    Idaho Matters Reporter Roundtable: January 23, 2026

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 23, 2026 33:45


    It's Friday, which means it's time for our Reporter Roundtable when Idaho Matters gets you up to date on all the news that made headlines this past week.

    reporter roundtable idaho matters
    Whiskey, poetry and tradition: Robert Burns Night returns to Idaho

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 23, 2026 9:45


    Idaho tips a glass to Scotland's beloved poet Robert Burns with a night of verse, tradition and celebration marking more than a century of local Scottish heritage.

    Boise Police release findings on New Year's Eve explosion

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 22, 2026 22:40


    What began as a New Year's Eve celebration ended in shattered glass and serious injuries — and now Boise Police say their investigation is complete.

    Treasure Valley Children's Theatre brings Idaho history to life in interactive show

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 22, 2026 6:40


    Part mystery, part civics lesson, this children's theatre production turns Idaho history into an interactive adventure.

    Idaho Matters Doctor Roundtable: January 21, 2026

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 21, 2026 31:47


    A year after a West Texas outbreak, declining vaccinations and limited protections have turned a once-eliminated virus into a growing threat — especially in low-immunization states like Idaho.

    Findings in Boise Youth Roadmap highlight gaps in mental health and access

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 20, 2026 17:42


    A new youth roadmap reveals that beneath Boise's reputation for quality of life, many young people are struggling with mental health and access to different resources.

    St. Luke's joins new study to address teen suicide crisis in Idaho

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 20, 2026 21:49


    Facing one of the nations highest teen suicide rates, Idaho is testing a new school-based program designed to build resilience and save young lives. 

    Idaho Matters Reporter Roundtable: January 16, 2026

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 16, 2026 42:52


    It's Friday, which means it's time for our Reporter Roundtable when Idaho Matters gets you up to date on all the news that made headlines this past week.

    reporter roundtable idaho matters
    As doctors leave Idaho, new report highlights economic and rural impact

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2026 17:40


    A new economic impact study shows Idaho is losing more than $125 million a year as doctors, especially OB/GYNs, leave the state, raising concerns about healthcare access, the economy and rural communities.

    What to Watch: Awards season buzz, a new comedy and a hidden gem

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2026 26:07


    Awards season is in full swing — bringing a mix of top contenders, a fresh new comedy, a classic tv return and an under-the-radar gem perfect for your weekend watchlist. 

    Idaho Matters Doctor Roundtable: January 14, 2026

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2026 22:54


    Flu season is well underway, and in some parts of the country it may already be nearing its peak.

    Home insurance rates soar in Idaho as lawmakers weigh growing wildfire risk

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2026 21:05


    Idaho homeowners are seeing insurance premiums rise and policies canceled as fears of catastrophic urban wildfires grow, prompting bipartisan concern at the state capitol. 

    How public lands ranching is taking toll on western landscapes

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 13, 2026 13:12


    A new investigation in taking a look at how ranching on public lands is outpacing federal oversight, leaving fragile landscapes and waterways at risk. 

    'Journal of the Plague Years:' One Idaho author reflects on life during and after COVID

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 13, 2026 14:02


    From the solitude of Idaho's Sawtooth Valley, writer John Rember turned the uncertainty of the COVID-19 shutdown into a deeply personal chronicle of life during a world-altering moment. 

    What's next for Idaho's economy? Zions bank economist weighs in

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 13, 2026 11:52


    Idaho's economy is thriving with strong job growth and GDP gains, but rising interest rates and Federal Reserve decisions could impact the state's next chapter. 

    From the lungs to the brain: A neurologist explains the hidden dangers of wildfire smoke

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 12, 2026 16:58


    As Idahoans endure weeks of wildfire smoke each summer, a neurologist is warning that what we breathe doesn't just irritate our lungs — it may be harming our brains as well. 

    Idaho Matters Reporter Roundtable: January 9, 2026

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 9, 2026 43:21


    It's Friday, which means it's time for our Reporter Roundtable when Idaho Matters gets you up to date on all the news that made headlines this past week.

    reporter roundtable idaho matters
    Running towards the flames: Inside the Community Brigade of the Palisades Fire

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 8, 2026 24:05


    A new podcast is telling the story of a group of surfers who trained alongside firefighters and were put to the test when one of California's most destructive wildfires tore through Los Angeles County. 

    Idaho 44: Fremont County - How the Idaho Art Lab is supporting visual artists

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 8, 2026 12:15


    In rural Fremont County, the Idaho Art Lab is inspiring creativity with hands-on classes, maker spaces and exhibits that showcase artists of all levels. 

    Idaho Matters Doctor Roundtable: January 7, 2026

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 7, 2026 31:01


    It's Wednesday and time for our Doctor Roundtable with Dr. David Pate.

    doctors roundtable idaho matters
    Rural Idaho counties seeing changes crucial to the future of the state

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 6, 2026 27:59


    Over a 20 year period ending in 2023, Idaho's population grew abut three times faster than the U.S. average. With that growth came a lot of changes to the Gem State, especially in rural areas. 

    Idaho 44: Elmore - Community Canvas beautifies public spaces in Mountain Home

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 6, 2026 9:08


    The Community Canvas project in Elmore County is bringing beauty to the walls of businesses, parks and sheds for free. 

    Why mentorship matters: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Idaho marks National Mentoring Month

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 6, 2026 6:56


    January is National Mentoring Month, a time to focus on the role that consistent, supportive adults can play in the lives of young people. 

    Teenagers relying on AI chatbots for mental health care, emotional support

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 5, 2026 8:52


    Roughly two-thirds of teenagers are using AI chatbots, like ChatGPT, when they need someone to talk to. People are drawn to AI for mental health because it's free and accessible, but experts stress it does not replace the empathy found from real people. 

    Boise is celebrating America's 250th Anniversary

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 5, 2026 12:19


    You can get a grant to fund your own 250th anniversary project from the City of Boise.

    How to make your dream of a small farm come true

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 5, 2026 12:02


    Thinking about buying your own small farm? Maybe raising some goats and artichokes? This dream can be hard to put into reality, but we'll tell you how!

    A beloved heroine is reimagined for today in "Anne of a Different Island"

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 5, 2026 10:45


    A beloved literary spirit gets a modern reimaging, confronting her past, while carving out a future that is all her own. 

    Idaho Matters Reporter Roundtable: A year-in-review 2025

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 26, 2025 43:18


    Each week we bring you the news that made headlines, but this Friday we're taking a look back at the year's biggest stories.Our journalist panel today: Clark Corbin with the Idaho Capital Sun James Dawson with Boise State Public Radio News Kevin Richert, Senior Reporter and Blogger with Idaho Education News

    New book breaks down the science of raising confident young readers

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 23, 2025 13:50


    Literacy expert Colleen Driggs breaks down the science behind strong reading skills in her new book, offering practical strategies for helping children become confident, capable readers.

    The woman behind the hits: How Carole King shaped American music

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 22, 2025 9:53


    A new biography takes an intimate look at how Carol King reshaped American music, overcame personal struggles and left an undeniable mark on generations of fans and artists. 

    Idaho Matters Reporter Roundtable: December 19, 2025

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 19, 2025 20:36


    It's Friday, which means it's time for our Reporter Roundtable when Idaho Matters gets you up to date on all the news that made headlines this past week.

    reporter roundtable idaho matters
    Turning food waste into hope: Rolling Tomato's mission to feed those in need

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 18, 2025 12:10


    What if the food left behind when restaurants close could fight hunger instead of filling landfills — meet "Rolling Tomato," the nonprofit rescuing thousands of pounds of surplus food to feed Idahoans in need.

    My Fair Señor: Old flames, second chances and plenty of tacos

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 18, 2025 12:54


    When former college sweethearts collide again, love and ambition mix for an unforgettable story. 

    What to Watch: Our best film pick, a new musical and holiday fun

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 18, 2025 19:02


    As 2025 winds down, we're crowing our Best Movie of the Year, previewing a Christmas Day musical and celebrating 50 years of SNL holiday laughs. 

    Idaho Matters Doctors Roundtable: 2025 Year in Review

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 17, 2025 43:42


    As we bring 2025 to a close, Idaho Matters takes a look back at the year through the lens of public health.

    doctors roundtable idaho matters
    Idaho braces for potential shortfall, raising questions about health and safety funding

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 16, 2025 27:33


    As Idaho faces a looming budget shortfall, lawmakers, law enforcement and legislators are grappling with how to balance the books without putting communities and public safety at risk. 

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