Ozarks at Large

On today's show, we learn some of summer's hottest days may still be ahead of us. Plus, we hear from the West Fork Library about how you can now check your blood pressure while checking out books. We also consider Gen Z's high cat adoption rates.

On today's show, we learn that a cadre of city employees, grassroots organizations, and motivated individuals are working together to expand public transit services in Fayetteville. We also hear that next month, an ambitious original work of heaven, angels and morality is on stage in Springdale. Plus, we share live music happenings for your weekend.

On today's show, we learn that Northwest Arkansas Community College and MIT PATH are collaborating to develop a curriculum for AI skills training. Plus, a podcaster talks about manifestos. We also get a preview of the Newport Jazz Festival.

On today's show, we learn a new multi-billion-dollar data center is being built in the Arkansas River Valley, and there's still not much information about it. We also hear that last week, 30 teenagers thought about big challenges during a research day at I3R at the University of Arkansas. Plus, Ozark history with Jared Phillips.

On today's show, we learn that communities face consequences when it loses local journalism, and researchers have been working to put a dollar amount on what that actually costs taxpayers. We'll also spend time with the music of, and the music inspired by, Mozart's final completed symphony on Sound Perimeter. Plus, another trip to the Pryor Center archives.

On today's show, we learn there is more than one way to recover from addiction through programs like Recovery Demystified. We also hear the Arkansas Interscholastic League is back in action. Plus, April Wallace swoops in with pop culture recommendations for your weekend.

On today's show, we hear how the Queer Craft Corner is building community.  Plus, we visit The Momentary in Bentonville and examine the joy of everyday objects. You can also take joy in knowing there is a busy live music weekend approaching with today's Talking Tunes.

On today's show, we learn how Parents Left Behind provides help after the loss of a child. Plus, author Stephen Koch discusses his book, which spotlights Arkansas women musicians, singers and songwriters. We also hear about a local play coming to Springdale.

On today's show, we learn that, even though it isn't pleasant, preparing to respond to an active shooter is necessary. Plus, after national reporting about a violent incident at a private school in Arkansas, we think about what reform should take place. We also get a new series of recommended books, each originally written in a language other than English.

On today's show, we consider that the Arkansas Constitution is the same document from 190 years ago, just altered and amended. Plus, we hear about a new production of Hamlet that shortens the text, keeps the spirit and allows for some changes suggested by the audience. We also learn about a 2022 documentary exploring a weird 1990s occurrence.

On today's show, we investigate the possible fallibility of eyewitness accounts. We also conclude our week at the Arkansas Folklife Festival with a celebration of music. Plus, Fort Smith headlines from Michael Tilley from Talk Business and Politics, Mahjong and more.

On today's show, we learn that the Arkansas Department of Human Services is moving forward with work requirements for the state's Medicaid program. We also hear in a new documentary that in the 19th century, much of northwest Arkansas was built with Van Winkle Timber and Aaron “Rock” Van Winkle. Plus, a bladesmith explains his craft.

On today's show, we hear about a new study by UAMS that examines the pattern of purchasing medical cannabis throughout pregnancy. We also learn how the Arkansas Folk and Traditional Arts works to make sure important parts of the state thrive. Plus, we explore new plants and new spaces at the Jones Center.

On today's show, we learn how the American Library Association is supporting the Franklin County Library's efforts to improve literacy for kids and adults. Plus, the kora is an instrument native to West Africa, rarely played in the United States, and there are two opportunities to hear one played in northwest Arkansas soon. We also further "Balance" nutrition and exercise for our health.

On today's show, we learn about a new report that shows that caregiving is a major economic hurdle for Arkansas women. Plus, we return to North Little Rock for the Arkansas Folklife Festival. We also hear a forgotten interview that was rediscovered in the Pryor Center archives.

On today's show, we learn that CACHE's new Take Action grant program is designed to provide behind-the-scenes assistance to artists and creatives. We also get on a bike for the newest tour of Bentonville. Plus, Michael Tilley from Talk Business & Politics gives us a week-in-review.

On today's show, we have a conversation with the host of "We Keep Us Safe," a new NPR podcast series that revisits the 2020 protest movement in Seattle, including the livestreams, volunteer security and an unsolved murder. We also learn that Homer will hit the big screen and the stage this summer, as Arkansas Classical Theater is presenting works inspired by the poet. Plus, we hear about supporting musicians with Les Fest.

On today's show, we learn that nearly half of Arkansas counties qualify as maternal care deserts and consider how that impacts women seeking prenatal care. We also spoke with artist, writer and storyteller Zeke Pena about his 2026 Caldecott Honor Book Award-winning book, "Sundust." Plus, we dive into a new one-act play about Fort Smith.

On today's show, we hear that doula care was supposed to be covered by Medicaid in Arkansas starting in June, but administrative bottlenecks have prevented any doulas from being cleared to bill the state. Plus, as AI changes our world, we consider our long relationship with machines and our minds. Plus, Fayetteville Mayor Molly Rawn announces parental leave for city staff.

On today's show, we hear how a federal grant is funding new research on fetal alcohol spectrum disorder for UAMS. Plus, Our Art, Our Region, Our Time returns, and we learn more about this year's iteration. We also revisit some archives from the Pryor Center.

On today's show, we meet Robert Petkoff, who will be front and center when Moulin Rouge! The Musical is on stage at Walton Arts Center next week, but you may have already spent time with his voice on one of the audiobook bestsellers he's narrated. Plus, three of our summer interns, all graduates of Benton County high schools, get six questions they shouldn't be expected to know the correct answers to. We also get River Valley news from Talk Business & Politics.

On today's show, we learn how the principal chief of the Cherokee Nation is leading the way in recovering and preserving hundreds of documents related to tribal governance. Also, as AI becomes more integrated into our work, we recognize the importance of knowing what tools we're using in our digital workspaces. Plus, we hear about a 24-hour recording session with 24 regional artists to raise money and awareness for Everhope Children's Shelter.

On today's show,  we hear that Arkansas has one of the nation's highest rates of c-section births for low-risk pregnancies. Healthcare professionals are looking to lower that number. We also get a new way to experience Keith Haring, the artist and the person, at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. Plus, we learn more about the Salvation Army's summer return of its red kettles.

On today's show, we hear that the Northwest Arkansas Planning Commission is looking for residents to provide input on the future of the Razorback Greenway. Plus, Peter MacKeith is finishing his term as dean of the Fay Jones School of Architecture and Design, and we ask him, among other things, about the value of an education. We also learn about a LEGO robotics team.

On today's show, we hear about a new study that indicates the achievement gap between higher and lower-performing students has been widening significantly over the past two decades. We also hear the story of a recognizable Arkansas voice and face, John Philpot. Plus, we get a new edition of Sound Perimeter.

On today's show, we learn that Arkansas continues to face gaps in rural medical access, and the new statewide Graduate Medical Education Technical Assistance Center at the Heartland Whole Health Institute is expected to help narrow them. We're also following the men's World Cup, so we track how the global game has evolved. Plus, we explore a new space at XNA.

On today's show, we learn how solar energy compensation has changed in Arkansas over the past few years. Plus, we hear that a showcase of musical artists will benefit the Alliance for Immigration Respect and Education. We also get a local music roundup with Talkin Tunes.

On today's show, we learn how a new toolkit is helping to integrate doulas into hospitals across the region. We also hear from a team of  University of Arkansas food scientists about their national championship. Plus, we get a new edition of Balance with Erin Howie and Jamie Baum.

On today's show, we offer a closer examination of nondisclosure agreements, the Freedom of Information Act and city governments. Plus, we explore new data that shows child well-being in Arkansas remains an issue. We also speak with the "Rebel With a Clause."

On today's show a new park in Fayetteville recognizes a man once known as the "Mayor of Dickson Street." Plus, the staff at Pearl's Books in Fayetteville offers some Pride-themed reading recommendations.

On today's show, we visit a new exhibition in Fayetteville that honors the legacy of Arkansas' own Levon Helm. Plus, the World Cup is in full swing, so we get up to date on the future USL Championship team coming to the area. And Michael Tilley of Talk Business & Politics joins us with news from the River Valley.

On today's show, we hear from Fayetteville's first legally permitted urban sheep. We also get a preview of NWA Pride Weekend. Plus, our culture vulture pays us a visit to share some beach-related pop culture recommendations.

On today's show, we hear that healthcare providers say preventative care and knowing what symptoms to look for may help women feel more prepared for menopause. We also learn how lichen changed one man's life. Plus, more details about a movie raising awareness about maternal mortality and more. 

On today's show, we learn that healthcare providers say preventative care for women can lead to early treatment of breast cancer. Plus, we hear that this weekend's Juneteenth celebration in Fayetteville is the 30th consecutive year for the northwest Arkansas observation of the holiday. Plus, we offer a conversation about public libraries and public television in Arkansas.

On today's show, we learn there's new ownership for a collection of hospitals and medical centers in Northwest Arkansas. We also continue our survey of a documentary on Arkansas' history created to mark the country's Bicentennial. Plus, we hear a new edition of Sound Perimeter.

On today's show: 2030 is approaching, fast. The Walton Family Foundation is identifying strategies for its latest five-year grantmaking cycle. Plus, this summer UAFS student Danu Regalado is cycling across the country to raise awareness for differently abled people, and Smokehouse Players are bringing "On Golden Pond" to the summer stage.

On today's show, we hear about a local dentist who is working on a new way to provide dental care to children who are underinsured. Plus, we learn that opera is anything but boring as Karen Day discusses her film ARIA-Opera on the Edge, part of the 2026 Bentonville Film Festival. We also talk about local music for the week.

On today's show, we hear the first story in a three-part series on preventative care for women. We also learn about Electionsaurus. Plus, we get more about an event that brings together an all-star roster of area chefs for one night to cook over an open fire.

On today's show, we learn that the answer as to whether data centers can be built in Pulaski County is still up in the air.  Plus, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is ready to open its expansion, and we take a look at what's new.  Drew Hutson Rogers also talks being on tour.

On today's show, we hear about a new nonprofit based in central Arkansas that is launching to address food insecurity and student meal access. Plus, as the American 250th anniversary approaches, we listen to more archives from the Pryor Center, looking back at how Arkansas observed America's history on the Bicentennial. We also offer an exploration of musical peace.

On today's show, we hear that grassroots organizers are entering crunch time to collect signatures for potential ballot measures in Arkansas. Plus, we explore a festival that brings all of Arkansas together in one weekend. We also get River Valley headlines from Talk Business & Politics.

On today's show, we examine one of the many elements of city public works that go overlooked: the street sweepers. Plus, we're moving into musical festival season, and we preview live music opportunities as May dissolves into June, including a benefit show Saturday with Melissa Carper. We also feature the return of April Wallace, who shares some recommendations.

On today's show, we learn that a discrimination lawsuit has been filed against a whites-only community in Arkansas. We also hear that more Arkansas teachers are staying in their same jobs next year. Plus, "& Juliet" hits the stage. 

On today's show, we hear about a recent report that highlights ways Arkansas can work towards a healthier democracy. Plus, we explore ways to make sure your summer routine includes staying healthy. We also take a moment to appreciate the sounds of the season.

On today's show, we learn about a nonprofit newsroom that is setting up shop in Arkansas. We also remember how Arkansas observed America's 200th anniversary. Plus, we hear about a new initiative from Everhope that uses a children's business endeavor to create real impact.

On today's show, we hear that more than three dozen young performers are being honored at the second Diamond Awards this weekend at the Walton Arts Center. Plus, writer CJ Leede tells us there is a reason for books that frighten us. Plus. Michael Tilley from Talk Business and Politics delivers a River Valley news roundup.

On today's show, we hear how smart food lockers are improving access to healthy food in Fayetteville. We also learned that this weekend, you can navigate the gravel roads of the Ozarks with guidance during the Ride Your Damn Bike Festival. Plus, we survey the live music scene heading into Memorial Day Weekend.

On today's show, we learn that food insecurity is widespread in Arkansas, including on the flagship university's campus. We also dive into the world of rare and valuable books in northwest Arkansas.  Plus, we hear about a packed city council meeting in Fayetteville and more.

On today's show, we learn that volunteers across the state are gathering at festivals and farmers' markets to collect signatures for their ballot measures. Plus, we hear that navigating a reduction in hospital services in Fort Smith will be the topic of a town hall tomorrow night. Plus, former Fayetteville resident Uchenna Awoke discusses his new novel, out now. 

On today's show, we hear residents in Fayetteville are moving from small green recycling bins to big blue recycling bins. Plus, we visit the Victory Theatre in Rogers, which is hosting its first on-stage performance this week after years of renovation from severe tornado damage. And we explain how you - yes, you - can play a role in Fayetteville Public Library's new strategic plan.

On today's show, we're taking a look back at some of our favorite stories this year, like one detailing a group that's spent 50 years building queer community at the University of Arkansas. Another focuses on how Crystal Bridges recognizes the nuanced history of America's semiquincentennial. We also hear about the Ozark origins of USDA organic farming.