Ozarks at Large

On today's show, we learn that a redistricting fight in Missouri has led to a lot of ping-ponging in the judicial system and fear from Republicans in office. Plus, the first production for the University of Arkansas Theater this year has three directors, and we hear what that's like. We also get a roundup of local music on Talkin' Tunes.

On today's show, we hear that a national nonprofit is providing free dental care to underserved kids. Plus, we hear from an actor: TheatreSquared's 21st season is starting with a stage masterpiece. We also learn more about a new podcast from University of Arkansas students.

On today's show, we hear that a new bookshop is open in Springdale with a pay-what-you-can model. We also consider the future of higher education with AI, rising costs and uncertain legislative waters. Plus, we look forward to this year's Veterans Day Parade.

On today's show, we gain a better understanding of what it means to be employed yet still struggle to get by. Plus, Perceval Everret tells us that fiction can serve an important function. We also get a new edition of Sound Perimeter.

On today's show, we hear about the new novel "Death in the Tallgrass," which explores a decades-old murder mystery in eastern Oklahoma. We'll also learn more about the University of Arkansas's Terrorism Research Center. Plus, Lia Uribe reflects on "Sound Perimeter," 13 years in Fayetteville and more.

On today's show, we hear that a national nonprofit advocating for mothers has launched two new chapters in Arkansas. Plus, we hear from bluegrass players Henhouse Prowlers. We also talk about local tunes.

On today's show, we hear that a new local zine is prioritizing the physical media experience. Plus, the midterm elections are 54 days away, so we answer voting questions. We also learn about a Day of Service at Springdale's Jones Center.

On today's show, we hear that Democrats and Libertarians in Arkansas are hopeful as we inch our way toward the midterms. We also learn that work to preserve, share and help are part of Fayetteville's history. Plus, NPR's Allison Aubrey gives advice on a productive midlife.

On today's show, we hear about National Preparedness Month and the work of American Red Cross in Northwest Arkansas. Plus, the University of Arkansas Marching Band gets ready for its season opener tomorrow. And we also discuss awards show season with a new U of A faculty member.

On today's show, we hear that the pay gap between teachers and comparable college-graduate professionals continues to widen. Plus, we visit with the United States representative to the Culinary World Skills competition, who is prepping in Bentonville. Plus, we get a survey of local music with Talkin' Tunes.

On today's show, we explore how momentum and advocacy are growing to call a special session to eliminate the waitlist for critical healthcare services for disabled Arkansans. Plus, we learn that Elizabeth Lilly McLaughlin's life after the University of Arkansas hasn't followed a straight path, but it has followed a satisfying one. We also mark 25 years of the Skokos Performing Arts Center in Alma and more.

On today's show, we get you up to speed on the four issues Arkansas voters will see on the ballot this November. Plus, we learn Northwest Arkansas is approaching a restaurant workforce challenge. We also hear about the University of Arkansas's Department of World Languages, Literatures and Culture's annual Connections Fair.

On today's show, we remember Dolly Parton through books. We also learn that nasty political campaigns are not a 21st-century invention. Plus, we hear sounds from a live mariachi performance.

On today's show, we consider that while it may not feel like it just yet, autumn is closing in, and that season has some deep connections to the Ozarks. Plus, Cory Cross' music has deep roots in country music, and we talk with him about playing a honky-tonk dance in Fayetteville this weekend. Plus, our Culture Vulture has more recommendations for your weekend.

On today's show, we hear that demonstrators gathered in Bentonville to protest a military contractor and defense summit. Plus, the University of Arkansas' season of music performances gets rolling next week with Zen Brass, so we expand our thoughts about what a brass ensemble can perform. We also get a roundup of live music with Talkin' Tunes.

On today's show, we learn why weather radar coverage in Northwest Arkansas could be getting better soon. We also hear about Jr. Soapbox's new album and hear some new songs. Plus, we examine tourism, land sales and more.

On today's show, we learn why local governments around Arkansas continue to put data centers on hold. We also acknowledge that tailgating season is almost here, so we have a refresher on how to avoid foodborne illness. Plus, singer-songwriter James McMurtry helps us prepare for the Original Ozark Folk Fest.

On today's show, we hear that new polling in Arkansas shows tight races between incumbent Republicans and Democratic challengers. We also learn why a member of one of America's richest families moved to Arkansas and became governor. Plus, we get into the music with Arkansongs.

On today's show, we hear about a six-year refurbishment as the Yvonne Richardson Center prepares for its next chapter as a community center. Plus, we'll learn about the returning Waterwitch film series, which brings out-of-the-mainstream films to the Northwest Arkansas community. We also get River Valley headlines from Talk Business & Politics.

On today's show, we consider whether the growth of artificial intelligence is impacting how we get the news. We also learn that the extreme sport of competitive hot pepper eating isn't for everyone. Plus, a roundup of musical happenings on this week's Talking Tunes.

On today's show, we explore misconceptions around contraception that can lead to risks for women and girls of all ages in Arkansas. We also learn the Urban Land Institute is offering faith-based organizations information on supporting affordable housing projects. Plus, we hear new sounds in Stella Boyle Smith Concert Hall.

On today's show, we hear that while the federal government calls for changes to childhood vaccines, a local pediatrician stands firm on the science. We also get a peek behind the scenes on an animated film rooted in northwest Arkansas. Plus, we preview the upcoming season of concerts and live performances at the University of Arkansas.

On today's show, we learn the University of Arkansas is launching a new minor in Ozarks Studies. Plus, we continue our series on Arkansas governors. We also hear that a regional volunteer center is getting a new name.

On today's show, we explore the University of Arkansas Museum's collection that features 7.5 million items. Plus, we take a look at the next installment in The Medium's Creative Exchange Fund, "Banned Bodies." We also welcome back Michael Tilley from Talk Business and Politics and more.

On today's show, we learn uninsured rates are high in Arkansas, especially for the state's Hispanic population, but work is happening to shrink those statistics. We also visit the Chaffee Barbershop and Military Museum to learn about the Battle of Sicily. Plus, a word about copper theft.

On today's show, we learn that a researcher at the University of Arkansas has found that AI chatbots are showing up in our lives in unseen and unexpected ways. Plus, we hear that Sawyer Ray of Fayetteville now holds an elected position never achieved by Bill Clinton, Tom Cotton or Mike Huckabee. We also visit the Newport Jazz Festival.

On today's show, we learn that the status of health insurance for more than 200,000 Arkansans remains up in the air. Plus, we examine centuries of the feminine in Christianity. We also hear about a new film screening at Arkansas Cinema Society's FILMLAND.

On today's show, the city of Fayetteville declared racism a public health crisis six years ago. Now, a local organization is planning to take action. Plus, the Pryor Center explores Francis Cherry,  an unusual Arkansas governor who served just one term.

On today's show, the new book Out There: New Architecture Across America has deep Arkansas connections. Plus,  Filmland starts next week in Little Rock and includes the documentary Iron Pearls.

On today's show, teaching associate professor of political science at the University of Arkansas John C. Davis discusses this year's midterm primary elections. Also, new developments in Fayetteville's South Yard. 

On today's show, we hear about how maternal healthcare in Arkansas is lacking in many areas, including postpartum mental health services. Plus, GIlbert Gonzalez wants to make sure young people have guidance.

On today's show, we hear about an Arkansas law restricting access to library materials and about how library officials are unsure how it will be enforced. Plus, a conversation with the author of The Holy Ghost and a Shine of Coal. We also visit downtown Springdale for a picnic.

On today's show, we learn that doulas provide guidance and support to new mothers and their families, but few in our region can do so in Spanish. We also dive into some Pryor Center archives that are among the earliest filmed records of Arkansas politics. Plus, a new Sound Perimeter.

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.