UpNorthNews with Pat Kreitlow

Welcome to the second hour of the Civic Media Spotlight! John & Gordy talks with Steve from Minneapolis, a lifelong resident offering a firsthand perspective on what it's like to live amid ongoing ICE raids. He shares what he's seeing in his community and how these actions are affecting everyday life. The conversation with Steve from Minneapolis continues as he goes deeper into the emotional and social impact of the raids. JAG gives him space to expand on what this moment feels like for neighbors, families, and the city as a whole. On Nite Lite, Pete Schwaba sits down with comedians Rob Brackenridge and Mike Merryfield to talk shop about their careers in comedy. They discuss Rob's “Open Bar” special, Mike's experience opening for Rob Schneider, and how the comedy scene has evolved over the years. The laughs and insights keep coming as Schwaba continues his conversation with Rob Brackenridge and Mike Merryfield. The trio reflects on past gigs, current challenges in the comedy industry, and what keeps them going in a constantly changing entertainment landscape. To learn more about these shows and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the network on Facebook, BlueSky, YouTube, X, and Instagram to keep up with Civic Media!

Welcome to the Civic Media Spotlight! We kick off with the Matenaer on Air show with Greg Bach. Kyle Clower, executive director of Serve Wisconsin, joins the conversation to break down the impact of AmeriCorps across the state. He talks about how these programs work, why service matters, and the many volunteer opportunities available for Wisconsinites looking to get involved. Milwaukee-based singer-songwriter Trapper Schoepp sits down with Teri Barr for Max Ink Radio to talk about turning real-life stories into songs. The conversation weaves through surprising connections between Wisconsin, Elvis, and Bob Dylan, and dives into how Trapper crafted these unique, story-driven tracks. Lucas Molloy, one of the organizers behind the Wisconsin Beer and Cheese Fest, stops by to preview the event on Civic Media Mornings. He shares what attendees can expect from the brewers and cheesemakers, some impressive cheese-related stats, and even schools Jamie on the fine art of pretzel necklaces. Chad Holmes talks with Mandela Barnes, one of the Democratic candidates for governor. The discussion covers Barnes' background, priorities, and his vision for Wisconsin as the race continues to take shape. To learn more about these shows and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the network on Facebook, BlueSky, YouTube, X, and Instagram to keep up with Civic Media!

We move on to the second hour of the Civic Media Spotlight! First up is Afternoons with John & Gordy! Jim Santelle joins John and Gordy to discuss the concept of so-called federal immunity for ICE agents. Santelle provides legal context and explains how immunity claims are evaluated. The conversation centers on accountability and the limits of federal protection. John and Gordy continue their in-depth interview with Amicus host Jim Santelle. The discussion focuses on the recent ICE shootings in Minneapolis and their legal ramifications. Santelle breaks down what the public should understand about the investigation and legal process. After that, Pete from Nite Lite interviews Doctors in Recital about their upcoming charity event showcasing a wide range of musical talent. The group shares how music and medicine intersect through their mission-driven performances. The segment concludes with a soulful rendition of Feels Like Home by Kim Shefchik and Paul Peot. Pete continues his conversation with Doctors in Recital, diving deeper into their charity events and community impact. The group discusses how their performances support meaningful causes and bring people together. This segment expands on their mission and future plans. To learn more about these shows and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the network on Facebook, BlueSky, YouTube, X, and Instagram to keep up with Civic Media!

Hello and welcome to the Civic Media Spotlight! To kick us off, we have Civic Media Mornings with Jamie Martinson and Brian Noonan! Minneapolis radio host, John Parker from AM950 KTNF joins the show to report on and analyze the recent ICE shooting. He provides local insight into the incident and its broader implications for the community. The discussion focuses on accountability, public response, and the role of federal agencies. Up next, the WXCO Morning Report with Chad Holmes speaks with Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. Crowley discusses current county issues and ongoing initiatives impacting Milwaukee residents. The conversation highlights leadership priorities and local governance challenges. We move onto BustED Pencils where John Lupinacci, Tim Slekar, and Producer Jakob break down what emergency teaching licenses are and when they are meant to be used. They explain why these licenses were created and the circumstances where they may or may not be appropriate. The segment examines the growing reliance on emergency licenses and the problems caused by their overuse. To end the first hour of the Civic Media Spotlight, Greg Bach and Calvin preview the Matenaer on Air show. They introduce a long-running and fan-favorite segment titled This Shouldn't Be A Thing. The discussion sets the tone for the humor and commentary that defines the segment! To learn more about these shows and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the network on Facebook, BlueSky, YouTube, X, and Instagram to keep up with Civic Media!

Welcome to the second hour of the Civic Media! Pat Krietlow talkss with Congressman Mark Pocan doesn't hold back as he discusses Republicans voting on legislation they appeared not to understand. He also shares what he saw during a recent visit to an ICE detention center in Dodge County, raising alarms about detainees being held without transparency or due process. Greg Bach and Calvin take on the New Year itself, questioning why certain traditions exist and whether they deserve to continue. Their conversation highlights the strange things society accepts simply because “that's how it's always been.” Pete Schwaba and Todd Michaels wrap things up with an easygoing, nostalgic chat on Nite Lite. They swap stories about Oshkosh eateries and teenage memories, mixing food, laughter, and a prom-night calzone into a classic late-night radio moment. To learn more about these shows and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the network on Facebook, BlueSky, YouTube, X, and Instagram to keep up with Civic Media!

Hello and welcome to this best of edition of the Civic Media Spotlight! We kick things off with Mornings with Pat Krietlow. Pat talks with Joe Zepecki and Melissa Baldauff about where the last year has taken them personally and politically, using Wisconsin as the lens. The conversation looks at what worked, what didn't, and how Democrats might realistically position themselves to take full control of state government in 2026. Up next, John and Gordy welcome Mike McCabe for a deep dive into the growing crisis facing Wisconsin farmers. McCabe connects immigration policy, the Egg Bill, and labor shortages to an alarming rise in farm bankruptcies, painting a picture of how policy decisions are hitting rural communities hard. On Max Ink Radio, Teri Barr sits down with Kirstie Kraus, fresh off her second tour of England. The Janesville-born artist talks about expanding her career in Nashville, collaborating with high-level musicians, and putting a new spin on a familiar Christmas favorite. Mike McCabe joins John and Gordy for another conversation to unpack his latest Substack piece, “Looking the Wrong Way.” He explains how political leaders often focus on the wrong targets, avoiding the deeper issues that actually need attention. To learn more about these shows and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the network on Facebook, BlueSky, YouTube, X, and Instagram to keep up with Civic Media!

Later in the spotlight, Climate Outreach Specialist Amanda Latham joins the Matenaer on Air show to discuss her work with the Wisconsin State Climatology Office. She explains a new road show designed to reach rural communities, how climate data is gathered and used, and why listening to local concerns is just as important as sharing information. Guest hosts Jamie and Aaron C step in for the John and Gordy Morning show with a timely holiday discussion, focusing on the often-overlooked workers who rely on tips this season and why a little generosity can go a long way. Political commentary rounds out the hour as Pat Kreitlow from Mornings with Pat Kreitlow examines the idea that those who claim to hate government are often the least equipped to run it. He breaks down examples from Madison and Washington where dysfunction isn't accidental, but intentional, creating the very failures critics love to point to. The weekend wraps up on a musical note with Max Ink Radio, featuring an interview with musician Tyler SJ. The segment highlights his music, creative process, and what's next on his artistic journey, closing out the Spotlight with sound and style. To learn more about these shows and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the network on Facebook, BlueSky, YouTube, X, and Instagram to keep up with Civic Media! Guests: Tyler SJ, Amanda Latham

Later in the spotlight, Climate Outreach Specialist Amanda Latham joins the Matenaer on Air show to discuss her work with the Wisconsin State Climatology Office. She explains a new road show designed to reach rural communities, how climate data is gathered and used, and why listening to local concerns is just as important as sharing information. Guest hosts Jamie and Aaron C step in for the John and Gordy Morning show with a timely holiday discussion, focusing on the often-overlooked workers who rely on tips this season and why a little generosity can go a long way. Political commentary rounds out the hour as Pat Kreitlow from Mornings with Pat Kreitlow examines the idea that those who claim to hate government are often the least equipped to run it. He breaks down examples from Madison and Washington where dysfunction isn't accidental, but intentional, creating the very failures critics love to point to. The weekend wraps up on a musical note with Max Ink Radio, featuring an interview with musician Tyler SJ. The segment highlights his music, creative process, and what's next on his artistic journey, closing out the Spotlight with sound and style. To learn more about these shows and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the network on Facebook, BlueSky, YouTube, X, and Instagram to keep up with Civic Media! Guests: Tyler SJ, Amanda Latham

This Civic Media Spotlight kicks off with a powerful and heartfelt conversation about Madison's Freezing Man Festival, a one-of-a-kind music event raising funds for epilepsy research through Joey's Song. Founder Mike Gomoll joins Nite Lite to share the story behind the festival, its all-star lineup of legendary musicians, and the deeply personal mission that drives the event in honor of his late son, Joey. Next, the focus turns to northern Wisconsin politics as Chad Holmes from the WXCO Morning Report sits down with 7th District congressional candidate Fred Clark. The conversation centers on Clark's background, priorities, and how he hopes to make an impact in the region. John and Gordy in the Afternoon brings a lively and relatable debate as Mike McCabe joins the show to tackle a question many parents wrestle with: are kids being “ruined” by technology, or is bad parenting getting the blame? The discussion takes a humorous and pointed turn when a caller from Madison drops a reality check about who's really handing out the iPads. John and Gordy continue their conversation with Mike McCabe continues with a lighter holiday twist, diving into Christmas chaos, family traditions, and what it really means to be labeled a “bad parent” this time of year. To learn more about these shows and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the network on Facebook, BlueSky, YouTube, X, and Instagram to keep up with Civic Media! Guests: Mike Gomoll, Mike McCabe, Fred Clark

This Civic Media Spotlight kicks off with a powerful and heartfelt conversation about Madison's Freezing Man Festival, a one-of-a-kind music event raising funds for epilepsy research through Joey's Song. Founder Mike Gomoll joins Nite Lite to share the story behind the festival, its all-star lineup of legendary musicians, and the deeply personal mission that drives the event in honor of his late son, Joey. Next, the focus turns to northern Wisconsin politics as Chad Holmes from the WXCO Morning Report sits down with 7th District congressional candidate Fred Clark. The conversation centers on Clark's background, priorities, and how he hopes to make an impact in the region. John and Gordy in the Afternoon brings a lively and relatable debate as Mike McCabe joins the show to tackle a question many parents wrestle with: are kids being “ruined” by technology, or is bad parenting getting the blame? The discussion takes a humorous and pointed turn when a caller from Madison drops a reality check about who's really handing out the iPads. John and Gordy continue their conversation with Mike McCabe continues with a lighter holiday twist, diving into Christmas chaos, family traditions, and what it really means to be labeled a “bad parent” this time of year. To learn more about these shows and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the network on Facebook, BlueSky, YouTube, X, and Instagram to keep up with Civic Media! Guests: Mike Gomoll, Mike McCabe, Fred Clark

The CEO of WisconsinEye talks to us about the network going dark — unable to continue its work of covering state government due to a lack of funding. We'll ask why such a vital service has to beg for financial support. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guest: Jon Henkes

Former GOP Congressman Reid Ribble joins us to talk about the lack of a serious Republican healthcare plan — something he says shouldn't be the case. We'll hear his suggestions to his old colleagues. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guests: Salina Heller, Reid Ribble

CBS could have used their time Saturday to honor Dick Van Dyke on his 100th birthday, given his many shows over many years. Instead, the new right wing regime chose to turn the airwaves over to the widow of Charlie Kirk. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guest: Dr. Kristin Lyerly

Welcome to hour two of the Civic Media Spotlight! On Nite Lite, we bring you Jane Matenaer's heartfelt farewell as she reflects on an extraordinary 44-year career in radio. She opens up about the emotional weight of covering tough stories, the joy of connecting with listeners, and what she's looking forward to in retirement. It's an honest, moving moment from a Wisconsin broadcasting legend. Staying with Nite Lite, Pete continues the celebration of Jane's career with more stories, memories, and reflections on her legacy. Together they revisit the highlights of her decades-long journey in radio and the impact she's had on listeners and colleagues alike. It's a warm and fitting continuation of her send-off. From Mornings with Pat Kreitlow, we spotlight Pat's conversation with journalist Ruth Conniff of the Wisconsin Examiner. They dig into major investigative stories involving the state Supreme Court's potential limits on masked secret police using county jails, as well as a Trump-era plan to reward companies that use AI to deny Medicare claims. It's sharp, essential reporting with big implications. And to close out the Spotlight, we head to Max Ink for a moving interview with artist and volunteer Craig Baumann. Craig shares his long-running work traveling to Jamaica to help build and repair homes, and how the recent hurricane has drastically changed the needs of the communities he serves. With many areas still without power, his upcoming trip with Wisconsin volunteers will be focused on critical rebuilding. It's an inspiring look at service and resilience. To learn more about these shows and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the network on Facebook, BlueSky, YouTube, X, and Instagram to keep up with Civic Media!

Welcome to hour two of the Civic Media Spotlight! On Nite Lite, we bring you Jane Matenaer's heartfelt farewell as she reflects on an extraordinary 44-year career in radio. She opens up about the emotional weight of covering tough stories, the joy of connecting with listeners, and what she's looking forward to in retirement. It's an honest, moving moment from a Wisconsin broadcasting legend. Staying with Nite Lite, Pete continues the celebration of Jane's career with more stories, memories, and reflections on her legacy. Together they revisit the highlights of her decades-long journey in radio and the impact she's had on listeners and colleagues alike. It's a warm and fitting continuation of her send-off. From Mornings with Pat Kreitlow, we spotlight Pat's conversation with journalist Ruth Conniff of the Wisconsin Examiner. They dig into major investigative stories involving the state Supreme Court's potential limits on masked secret police using county jails, as well as a Trump-era plan to reward companies that use AI to deny Medicare claims. It's sharp, essential reporting with big implications. And to close out the Spotlight, we head to Max Ink for a moving interview with artist and volunteer Craig Baumann. Craig shares his long-running work traveling to Jamaica to help build and repair homes, and how the recent hurricane has drastically changed the needs of the communities he serves. With many areas still without power, his upcoming trip with Wisconsin volunteers will be focused on critical rebuilding. It's an inspiring look at service and resilience. To learn more about these shows and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the network on Facebook, BlueSky, YouTube, X, and Instagram to keep up with Civic Media!

Welcome to the Civic Media Spotlight! We start with a standout conversation from Afternoons with John and Gordy, where John and Gordy talk with media historian Barry Orton. He breaks down the long pattern of media company takeovers and explains why the big new Netflix deal isn't actually anything new. It's a sharp, accessible look at how this industry has been repeating the same playbook for decades. Next up, we revisit a truly emotional moment for the Matenaer on Air Show as the entire team gathers for Jane's final goodbye. Friends, coworkers, and listeners celebrate her incredible impact on the station, sharing stories, laughs, and heartfelt thanks. It's a warm tribute that captures just how much Jane has meant to so many people! From the John and Gordy Morning Show, we highlight a timely discussion with guest Savanna Tomei-Olson about the Monona Terrace workers' strike. She walks through what's behind the labor action, how workers are organizing, and what the community should know as negotiations move forward. It's grounded reporting on a major local workplace story. We then feature a segment from the WXCO Morning Report, where Chad Holmes talks with Marathon County Democratic Party chair Nancy Stencil. They dig into the political issues shaping the region, what organizers are hearing on the ground, and how local conversations are influencing the broader political landscape. To learn more about these shows and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the network on Facebook, BlueSky, YouTube, X, and Instagram to keep up with Civic Media!

Welcome to the Civic Media Spotlight! We start with a standout conversation from Afternoons with John and Gordy, where John and Gordy talk with media historian Barry Orton. He breaks down the long pattern of media company takeovers and explains why the big new Netflix deal isn't actually anything new. It's a sharp, accessible look at how this industry has been repeating the same playbook for decades. Next up, we revisit a truly emotional moment for the Matenaer on Air Show as the entire team gathers for Jane's final goodbye. Friends, coworkers, and listeners celebrate her incredible impact on the station, sharing stories, laughs, and heartfelt thanks. It's a warm tribute that captures just how much Jane has meant to so many people! From the John and Gordy Morning Show, we highlight a timely discussion with guest Savanna Tomei-Olson about the Monona Terrace workers' strike. She walks through what's behind the labor action, how workers are organizing, and what the community should know as negotiations move forward. It's grounded reporting on a major local workplace story. We then feature a segment from the WXCO Morning Report, where Chad Holmes talks with Marathon County Democratic Party chair Nancy Stencil. They dig into the political issues shaping the region, what organizers are hearing on the ground, and how local conversations are influencing the broader political landscape. To learn more about these shows and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the network on Facebook, BlueSky, YouTube, X, and Instagram to keep up with Civic Media!

A lot of Wisconsin political insiders sure like asking questions about Mandela Barnes: Can he win a general election? Can he raise $50 million to run for governor? Is the attention he's getting from Republicans a sign of weakness or strength? How about if we ask him directly — because he joins us live this morning. Also: Mike Clemens previews the Packers in Denver on Sunday… and then playing again six days later in Chicago. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guests: Mandela Barnes, Mike Clemens

We'll ask our Week In Review panel about some of the headlines of the past few days. Republicans had to back off their desire to force grieving women to scoop up the remains of a miscarriage and put it in a medical waste bag. President Trump lost two more court cases involving persecution without due process. And is the White House ever going to live up to its promise to tackle inflation — or will they stick with the laughable argument that affordability worries are just a hoax? Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guests: Dr. Kristin Lyerly, Jim Santelle, Joan Esposito

Some of us are old enough to remember when the United States Senate had a vaunted reputation as the world's greatest deliberative body. Weighty issues would be debated by senators with the security of six-year terms, resistant to the political winds of the moment, and grand compromises could be achieved. Those days, of course, are gone — put on display most tellingly Thursday when a majority of 51 votes still wasn't enough to stop Republicans' plans to make Americans pay exhaustingly higher health insurance premiums, just to make a political point. Courier Newsroom's Keya Vakil gives us a summary. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guest: Keya Vakil

With Joel Brennan joining the race for governor, we'll ask political strategist Joe Zepecki if there's anyone else in the pipeline or are we seeing the likely field of candidates between now and the primary next August. He'll also react to another “interesting” week in Washington, DC. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guests: Joe Zepecki, Chad Holmes

Joel Brennan, a former top official in Gov. Tony Evers' administration, joins us live — after making it official that he's joining a crowded field of Democrats hoping to succeed Evers. Brennan said he can differentiate himself from his rivals with his 25 years of experience in the private sector that includes time as president of the Greater Milwaukee Committee. And Sean O'Malley gives us an update on your money and the markets — and a market bubble powered by hype more than any genuine government data. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guests: Joel Brennan, Sean O'Malley

There is a major typographical error on every Wisconsin property tax bill that people are seeing this week. The numbers are correct — they are higher, but the people responsible for the higher property taxes aren't listed on the bill. We'll explain how the line that lists the name of your local school district should be replaced with “Here's the cost of 15 years of Republicans running the Legislature.” Also: Cherita Booker outlines some more great events happening around our state this week. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guest: Cherita Booker

When it comes to expensive political campaigns, Wisconsin shatters more records than a jukebox pushed down the stairs. Candidates have to raise big bucks — Mandela Barnes told our Earl Ingram he plans to raise $50 million — but they'll still be dwarfed by outside groups with seemingly limitless piles of money. We'll find out what else Earl asked the candidate for governor. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guests: Melissa Baldauff, Earl Ingram

For all of the partisan disagreements about the state budget, there was one area (one!) that seemed to have bipartisan agreement: raising the level of state reimbursement to local school districts to help offset the heavy expense of special education. But the actual reimbursement level this year isn't close to what was sought in the budget. We'll ask Rep. Angelina Cruz (D-Racine) why that happened and what her “Keep Our Promise” bill would do to change the way special education is funded in Wisconsin. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guests: Angelina Cruz, Ellie Bourdo

It's back to the future for Wisconsin license plates. We'll talk about the unveiling of two new designs for Wisconsin vehicles. Well, not exactly new. Our state has seen both yellow plates with black numbers and black plates with white numbers over the years. But both retro looks appear poised to become instantly popular. Also: President Trump holds a campaign style rally in Pennsylvania to make claims that he's doing something about inflation. We'll provide the necessary fact-checks. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube.

The Wisconsin Supreme Court has agreed to take up a case that could freeze ICE out of using space in county jails for the people it rounds up in order to meet arbitrary and racist quotas from the Trump administration. Taking note of how masked federal agents are aiming guns at civilians, smashing out car windows, dragging parents from their children, putting people who haven't committed crimes behind bars, and flying people out of the country without due process, Wisconsin Examiner editor-in-chief calls it a campaign of terror that the state Supreme Court would be right to rein in. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guests: Ruth Conniff, Cam Stevenson

We'll be joined by Mayor Jim Paine of Superior, first to discuss a weekend incident that left a police officer shot and wounded. Then we'll discuss the community reaction to his detailed social media post, where he outlined the things he thinks should be high priorities issues when trying to address the shortage of affordable housing in his community. As always, the topic is accompanied by the thorny issue of homelessness in our hometowns. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guests: Dan Hagen, Jim Paine

Wisconsin has continually smashed its own records for expensive political races, in part because the US Supreme in the past has been hostile toward limits on campaign contributions. Now, it's as if Justice Kavanaugh is saying, “Hold my beer.” The court will hear arguments Tuesday that could wipe out the remaining barrier and allow billionaires to bypass limits on campaign donations by letting them use political parties as legal laundering tools. Former Sen. Russ Feingold filed a brief in the case that could have simply said, “Told you so.” Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube.

When Republicans decided to allow health insurance premiums to skyrocket starting next month, they put a load of pain on small business owners who can't offer coverage to their workers. From local merchants to mid-sized manufacturers to farmers, they're all facing sharply higher costs. We'll talk to the national director of Main Street Alliance about how they plan to tell voters to be aware of the members of Congress who voted to make their lives more expensive, including a key race in western Wisconsin. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guest: Richard Trent

Our Question of the Week is about wedding barns. Around Wisconsin, entrepreneurial families are converting barns or creating scenic rural venues for events — but a major conflict has erupted over liquor licensing and sales. The barn operators say these businesses can't compete with full-time bars and banquet halls if they can't rely on food and beverage sales as well as rental fees. Others disagree and say these venues can choose not to follow the law and let customers bring their own alcohol instead. We'll ask what you'd do if you were a legislator deciding which side to support. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guests: Dr. Kristin Lyerly, Salina Heller

The United States may be on the verge of losing the independent agencies that oversee consumer protection, worker protection, and environmental protection — replaced with nothing but lackeys of whichever politician has the most power. A right-wing group that favors unitary executive power — at least when a conservative is president — will argue their case Monday before the US Supreme Court, with a Chief Justice in John Roberts who has been pushing for this for 40 years, dating back to his days working in the Reagan administration. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guest: Dr. Kristin Lyerly

Once upon time, baseball teams had two uniform colors: white uniforms at home, gray uniforms on the road. How times have changed. We now know what the Milwaukee Brewers will be wearing when they're the visiting club. The question is whether powder blue uniforms deliver some level of intimidation or if they're simply a nice way to turn nostalgia into revenue from fans. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guests: Dr. Kristin Lyerly, Mike Clemens

The US Supreme Court has a process for handling emergency cases that need quick and temporary rulings while the larger case works its way up from lower courts. But right-wing justices have taken the “shadow docket” in a sharply political direction, including a Thursday ruling that allows Texas Republicans to use a newly-rigged map for its 2026 congressional elections. That's one of the many stories we'll cover with our Week In Review panel. We also continue our 12 Days of Kindness by talking with Amery Hospital & Clinic Foundation. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guests: Jim Santelle, Mark Jacob, Jennifer Schulze, Lisa Ruehlow

Is the wood-paneled station wagon on the verge of making a comeback? Sean Duffy hopes so. The Trump administration this week rolled back environmental rules on automobiles, and his transportation secretary told an interviewer it's all about choice and that even the ol' “woodie” might make a comeback. Needless to say, the folks on the interwebs had a field day with Duffy's dream of a gas guzzler that smells of Virginia Slims and hopelessness. Also: Greg Bach joins for our history lesson and gives an update on the Laughing Tap and their fundraiser for their new location. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guests: Greg Bach, Keya Vakil

We'll talk to political strategist Joe Zepecki about this week's announcement that former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes is joining a crowded field of Democrats hoping to be elected governor next year. And we'll ask financial expert Sean O'Malley about the latest economic data that isn't doing anything to dispel the concerns that an AI stock bubble is the only thing keeping the US economy from teetering toward a recession. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guests: Joe Zepecki, Sean O'Malley

The pardon power of the president is absolute, which makes it the perfect target for absolute abuse. President Obama issued 212, President Biden granted 80, President Trump pardoned 144 people in his first term. So far in his second term, Trump has issued more than 1,500 pardons to people convicted of crimes. We'll ask Congressman Mark Pocan whether anything can be done or if we should resign ourselves to knowing that electing a convicted criminal as president would lead to the prison gates being swung open. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guest: Mark Pocan

Mistakes happen to all of us — and most of us try to make a correction when they're caught. But in MAGA World, you're supposed to hold firm to your assertions, even when facts get in the way. How else to explain why a Wisconsin Supreme Court justice (a former chief justice, in fact) used a fake quote to give a US Supreme Court ruling the opposite interpretation of what it really did? And she still hasn't fully corrected the record in a case that could lead to an overdue breakup of Wisconsin's congressional maps gerrymandered by the far-right. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guest: Cherita Booker

Pediatrician Dr. Kellie Snooks joins us with an update on her UpNorthNews video series, Raising Wisconsin. This month, she reviews the misinformation being spread about Tylenol use in children by people who should know better. Same goes for flu shots. We'll also have this week's Climate Check with Melissa Baldauff. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guest: Kellie Snooks

Political trivia: It was in 1913 that US Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis first coined the phrase “sunlight is the best disinfectant” when it comes to politics and shining a public light on matters that others would rather have staying in the dark. To that end, we'll have an update in our Homeroom segment on the growing push to make sure taxpayers know about the growing price tag of private school vouchers that drain resources from Wisconsin's public schools. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guests: Chris Hambuch-Boyle, Donna Ambrose

A Wisconsin-based movie might be the feel-good film of the holiday season. We'll talk about how actor Hugh Jackman is in Milwaukee for the premiere of “Song Sung Blue,” telling the story of a couple whose Neil Diamond tribute band was a bit of a local sensation in the 1980s and ‘90s. With a host whose mom raised him on a steady diet of Neil Diamond tunes, we'll ask about your guilty musical pleasures. It's okay, you can admit you still listen to a lot of the Carpenters — or worse, Nickelback! Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube.

Dan Shafer will react to the news about an expanded Democratic field of candidates for governor. Pat also reacts to some of the pardons that president Trump has signed. Later, we begin our 12 days of kindness and talk to folks from Feeding America. We also talk a little Bucks as they slip and fall in Washington. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guests: Dan Shafer, Cameron Wengrzyn

While there was some activity during the recent fall legislative session, there were plenty of matters that didn't get addressed. That includes new restrictions on “wedding barns” and other special venues that could put them out of business at a time when the rural economy needs all the help it can get. We'll talk to wedding barn owner Jean Bahn, farmer Hans Breitenmoser, and Sheila Everhart of the Wisconsin Agricultural Tourism Association. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guests: Hans Breitenmoser, Sheila Everhart, Brian Lemek, Jean Bahn

This morning, former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes formally announced his entry into the 2026 race to be Wisconsin's next governor. He joins the current lieutenant governor, a county executive, a couple of legislators, and others running in the Democratic field. We'll hear Barnes' opening pitch to do things the “Wisconsin Way” rather than Donald Trump's “Washington Way.” Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube.

As much as we might want to put some troublesome history in our rearview mirror, the fact remains that America is still haunted by the events of 2020: an unchecked pandemic, a fiery public pushback against police violence, and a president willing to fan the flames. Few know the weight of local leadership during that time any better than Wauwatosa Mayor Dennis McBride who underwent a baptism by fire as a newly-elected city leader that was a microcosm of American unrest. His new book provides a five-year look back at the events that put him under siege in his own home for nearly 100 days. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guests: Emily Berge, Dennis McBride

To slightly modify the lyrics from Wicked: “Donald, why couldn't you have stayed calm for once? Instead of flying off the handle!” The president loves to defy the rules of politics — not to mention basic human decency — but defying the gravity of current polling in next year's midterms might be something even a wizard couldn't pull off. We'll talk to Craig Gilbert, longtime political writer for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, about what the latest Wisconsin polling shows for 2026. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guests: Craig Gilbert, Salina Heller, Maria Haskins

It's Cyber Monday, a date dedicated to online shopping for holiday gifts. But is that really a big deal anymore? Or Black Friday, for that matter? Don't we all now shop online all year long? Or is there still some kind of novelty about these Thanksgiving weekend shopping dates? Also: the president goes on a Thanksgiving racist rant, winks at a war crime, pardons a billion-dollar money launderer after only 12 days in prison, and is about to pardon a former corrupt Central American leader responsible for 20 years worth of cocaine being brought to the US. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube. Guest: Dr. Kristin Lyerly

We spend some time with Dr. Kristin Lyerly as we wind down for the week. As we prepare hunker down for the winter we talk with author Laura Bird. She recommends reading as a good way to get through the cold snowy weather. To read she points to: "How to Winter" by Kari Leibowitz, "Aflame" by Pico Iyer, "Wintering" by Katherine May, "The Correspondent" by Virginia Evans, "Seasoning" by Angela Clutton, "Strata: Stories from Deep Time" by Laura Poppick, "Meditations for Mortals" by Oliver Burkeman and "Beyond Anxiety" by Martha Beck. Mornings with Pat Kreitlow is powered by UpNorthNews, and it airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-9 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! Get more from Pat and UpNorthNews on their website and follow them on X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and YouTube.