Nite Lite with Pete Schwaba and Greg Bach

Wonderfully Wisconsin’s Paul Vanden Plas joins Pete and Greg to break down his picks for the best hamburgers across the state. He shares what makes a great burger, some standout spots people need to try, and how he built a following highlighting hidden gems around Wisconsin. Sign up for Civic Media’s Newsletter Find Nite Lite on Instagram @nitelitecm AND Nite Lite’s Facebook Best Hamburgers in Wisconsin (Facebook) Best Hamburgers in Wisconsin (Instagram) Guest: Paul VandenPlas

Rebecca Petrowsky of Deathwalker Doula Services joins Pete and Greg to talk about the growing trend of Death Cafes and how they’re creating open, honest conversations around death and dying. She shares what these gatherings are really like, how her work supports people through end-of-life experiences, and why these conversations matter more than ever. Sign up for Civic Media’s Newsletter Find Nite Lite on Instagram @nitelitecm AND Nite Lite’s Facebook Death Cafe trend (axios) Rebecca’s business website. Death Over Drafts: A Social Gathering on Life, Death & Everything In Between | KPBS Public Media Guest: Rebecca Petrowsky

Jennifer Nowicki, owner of Cultivate Taste Tea and a certified tea specialist through the Specialty Tea Institute, joins Pete and Greg to talk all things tea. She shares her expertise on different types of tea, the benefits of incorporating it into your daily routine, and simple ways anyone can start exploring the world of tea. Sign up for Civic Media’s Newsletter Find Nite Lite on Instagram @nitelitecm AND Nite Lite’s Facebook Her website: CULTIVATE TASTE TEA​ Her Linkedin Guest: Jennifer Nowicki

In the first hour, Pete and Greg sort through the latest in TV and movies to decide what’s worth your time—and what you should probably skip. From buzzy new shows and early Oscar contenders to questionable reboots and internet-fueled controversies, they help you figure out your next watch… or your next pass. Sign up for Civic Media’s Newsletter Find Nite Lite on Instagram @nitelitecm AND Nite Lite’s Facebook Stuff Mentioned: Reports of an AI-generated version of Val Kilmer appearing in a new film project following his death in 2025, raising questions about AI and actors’ legacies. Bruce Springsteen speaks out on politics Sharks in the Bahamas test positive for cocaine

Sports reporter Mike Clemens joins Pete and Greg to preview the Brewers’ opening day and what fans can expect from the 2026 season. He breaks down the team’s strengths, potential challenges, and the storylines to watch as the season gets underway. Sign up for Civic Media’s Newsletter Find Nite Lite on Instagram @nitelitecm AND Nite Lite’s Facebook Guest: Mike Clemens

Cindy, professor at the University of Michigan Ross School of Business, joins Pete and Greg to break down the rapidly growing world of online betting and prediction markets. She explains why the industry feels like the “wild west,” what platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket are doing, and the risks and potential regulation shaping the future of online gambling. Sign up for Civic Media’s Newsletter Find Nite Lite on Instagram @nitelitecm AND Nite Lite’s Facebook Government Regulating Kalshi NYT Op-ed on online gambling Guest: Cindy Schipani

Martín Alvarado, Community Engagement Librarian at Madison’s Central Library, joins Pete and Greg in the second hour to talk about National Library Week and the value libraries bring to the community. He highlights free resources, programs, and services people might not even realize are available, along with his latest book picks—from inspiring nonfiction to immersive mystery novels. Sign up for Civic Media’s Newsletter Find Nite Lite on Instagram @nitelitecm AND Nite Lite’s Facebook https://action.everylibrary.org/it_s_called_a_public_library_here_s_how_it_works Guest: Martin Alvarado

Frank Hermans of Let Me Be Frank Productions joins Pete and Greg in the first hour to talk about bringing live comedy to Wisconsin audiences and his latest show, Shopko, Say Hello to a Good Buy. Frank shares what makes his productions so uniquely local, how he connects with crowds, and what fans can expect from the upcoming run. Sign up for Civic Media's Newsletter Find Nite Lite on Instagram @nitelitecm AND Nite Lite's Facebook Stuff mentioned: https://letmebefranks.com Guest: Frank Hermans

Writer and comedian Greg Schwem joins Pete and Greg in the second hour to share stories from his syndicated column Hotel Humor. He dives into the funny side of travel, business life, and the everyday moments that somehow turn ridiculous. Sign up for Civic Media's Newsletter Find Nite Lite on Instagram @nitelitecm AND Nite Lite's Facebook Stuff mentioned: https://forward-analytics.net/ https://www.gregschwem.com/ Guest: Greg Schwem

Kevin Dospoy, Director of Forward Analytics, joins Pete and Greg in the first hour to break down a new report on Wisconsin’s economic performance since 2017. He explains where the state is falling behind nationally, what’s driving those trends, and what it could mean moving forward. Sign up for Civic Media's Newsletter Find Nite Lite on Instagram @nitelitecm AND Nite Lite's Facebook. Stuff mentioned  Forward Analytic's recent report Wisconsin’s economy lags behind the rest of the country, new report shows - WPR Guest: Kevin Dospoy

Steve Burrows joins Pete and Greg in the second hour to talk about his documentary Bleed Out and the unexpected journey from comedy writing to telling a deeply personal story. He dives into the film’s origins, its impact, and what it’s been like bringing it to audiences at festivals like Beloit. Sign up for Civic Media’s Newsletter Find Nite Lite on Instagram @nitelitecm AND Nite Lite’s Facebook Stuff mentioned: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bleed_Out_(film) https://www.burrowsofhollywood.com/bleed-out/ His website. Guest: Steve Burrows

Madison musician Robert J joins Pete and Greg to talk about his journey in the local music scene and the personal story that led him to give back in a big way. Robert shares how his son’s health battle inspired the creation of MAMA Cares, how the program supports fellow musicians in times of need, and what to expect from the upcoming fundraising show at High Noon Saloon in Madison. Sign up for Civic Media’s Newsletter Find Nite Lite on Instagram @nitelitecm AND Nite Lite’s Facebook Stuff mentioned: Robert J’s website https://www.themamas.org/mama-cares/ Madison Music Mainstay Robert J. Celebrated for a Lifetime of Songs—and Giving Back - The MAMAs Guest: Robert J

In this hour of the Civic Media Spotlight, we feature a special “Best of” edition of Nite Lite with Pete and Greg. The hosts are joined by Mary Mack, who shares insights into her comedy routine, what makes for a fun night, her personal favorite kind of evening, and her unique take on the Oscars. Also in this hour, Pete and Greg speak with Keith Poulsen, who discusses the latest developments surrounding bird flu in Wisconsin. He breaks down the facts, addresses common misconceptions, and explains the ongoing challenges and risks involved in managing the spread of the virus. 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 Civic Media on Facebook, X, Instagram, and Blue Sky to keep up with all of our shows! Guests: Mary Mack, Keith Poulsen

On the second hour of Nite Lite, Heather Hopfensperger, Director of Business Development at the Children’s Museum of Green Bay, joins Nite Lite with Pete and Greg to talk about an exciting new benefit event for the museum featuring animatronic dinosaurs. She shares what attendees can expect, how the event supports the museum’s mission, and why it’s shaping up to be a can’t-miss experience for families and the community. Sign up for Civic Media's Newsletter Find Nite Lite on Instagram @nitelitecm AND Nite Lite's Facebook. Stuff mentioned:  See this announcement Children's Museum website. Official event on April 10th, see HERE. This event is to benefit the Children’s Museum of Green Bay. https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/40190601/dinosaur-dimensions-green-bay-epic-event-center Guest: Heather Hopfensperger

On the first hour of Nite Lite, higher education reporter Becky Jacobs joins Nite Lite with Pete and Greg to break down the latest developments in NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) legislation in Wisconsin. Drawing from her reporting, including coverage of Chris McIntosh urging lawmakers to pass an NIL bill, Becky explains what’s at stake for student-athletes, universities, and the future of college sports. Sign up for Civic Media's Newsletter Find Nite Lite on Instagram @nitelitecm AND Nite Lite's Facebook. Stuff mentioned:  Her website Written by Becky: Pass NIL bill, Chris McIntosh urges Wisconsin lawmakers | Education | captimes.com Wisconsin Senate passes bills to legalize online sports betting, establish college athlete NIL rules • Wisconsin Examiner Guest: Becky Jacobs

Jesse March from Festival Theatre joins Pete and Greg to talk about the theater’s work bringing live performance to local communities. Jesse shares what makes Festival Theatre unique, how it connects with audiences, and what’s coming up this season. Sign up for Civic Media's Newsletter Find Nite Lite on Instagram @nitelitecm AND Nite Lite's Facebook. Stuff mentioned:  https://www.festivaltheatre.org/ Guest: Jesse March

On the first hour of Nite Lite, Maria Haskins, a Regional Tribal Organizer with Wisconsin Native Vote and Wisconsin Conservation Voters, joins Pete and Greg to talk about a recent Native community meeting in Menominee. The discussion focused on the upcoming Wisconsin Supreme Court election and how the court’s decisions could impact Native communities across the state. Sign up for Civic Media's Newsletter Find Nite Lite on Instagram @nitelitecm AND Nite Lite's Facebook. Stuff mentioned:  Maria’s quoted in Native News Online. Maria’s Linkedin Podcast appearance in 2025 Guest: Maria Haskins

On the second hour of Nite Lite, Pete and Greg dive into a rich conversation with Winter Williams and Matthew A. Brown, founders of In the Pines Studio in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. The duo shares their bold move from L.A. to Wisconsin to establish a creative hub for filmmaking and learning, emphasizing storytelling and community engagement. Sign up for Civic Media's Newsletter Find Nite Lite on Instagram @nitelitecm AND Nite Lite's Facebook. Stuff mentioned  In The Pines Studio, a midwest film studio. Guests: Winter Williams, Matthew A. Brown

Pete and Greg talk to Iranian-American journalist and author Hooman Majd provides a unique perspective on the American-Israeli conflict with Iran, highlighting the deep emotional turmoil faced by Iranian-Americans. Sign up for Civic Media's Newsletter Find Nite Lite on Instagram @nitelitecm AND Nite Lite's Facebook. Stuff mentioned  His website “This is my war” in LA Review of Books. His Wikipedia Analysis of the US-Israel War on Iran with Hooman Majd - WORT-FM 89.9 The Iran Nobody in Washington …–Talk Cocktail – Apple Podcasts Iran and the Fog of Regime Change (w/Hooman Majd)- The Fifth Column #547 From Dec 2025: Iranian-American journalist offers an inside look at the protests sweeping Iran : NPR From 2017: Opinion | What Happens in Tehran Doesn’t Stay in Tehran - The New York Times Guest: Hooman Madj

On the second hour of Nite Lite, Greg and Pete discuss the Oscars, with film critic Rob Thomas weighing in on awards surprises, like Michael B. Jordan's win over Timothy Chalamet. The hosts dive into the Wisconsin Film Festival highlights and chat about the new comedy-horror film 'Cold Storage.' Sign up for Civic Media's Newsletter Find Nite Lite on Instagram @nitelitecm AND Nite Lite's Facebook. Stuff mentioned:  St. Patricks Day Rob's Substack Here are Rob's movie reviews Guest: Rob Thomas

On the first hour of Nite Lite, Meteorologist Mace Michaels breaks down the intense snowstorm gripping northern Wisconsin, while the Greg and Pete debate St. Patrick's Day favorites and the merits of Taco Tuesday. Sign up for Civic Media's Newsletter Find Nite Lite on Instagram @nitelitecm AND Nite Lite's Facebook. Stuff mentioned:  St. Patricks Day Baywatch actress Alexandra Paul arrested in Wisconsin beagle farm break-in Is America’s ‘Strongest Town’ Madison, Wisconsin? Mace Michaels Guest: Mace Michaels

Comedian Mary Mack talks with Pete and Greg about her comedy routine, what she thinks makes a fun night, her favorite night, and her interesting take on the Oscars. Sign up for Civic Media's Newsletter Find Nite Lite on Instagram @nitelitecm AND Nite Lite's Facebook. Stuff mentioned:  Mary Mack’s website. Guest: Mary Mack

Dr. Keith Poulsen talks with Pete and Greg about the latest with the bird flu in Wisconsin. Dr. Poulsen breaks down the facts, misconceptions, threats, and challenges around managing bird flu. Sign up for Civic Media's Newsletter Find Nite Lite on Instagram @nitelitecm AND Nite Lite's Facebook. Stuff mentioned: Dr. Poulsen’s professional page at University of Wisconsin, Madison. H5n1 Bird Flu Updates - STAT Coverage of the Avian Flu Outbreak GOP lawmakers want to allow sale of public lands near egg farm amid bird flu outbreaks - WPR 'We've seen this before': Bird flu again hits Wisconsin poultry farms - WPR Avian flu found in three southern Wisconsin counties • Wisconsin Examiner

UCLA African American Literature Professor Adam Bradley joins Pete and Greg to chat about the importance of pop music. Bradley is the author of several books including The Poetry of Pop. Sign up for Civic Media's Newsletter Find Nite Lite on Instagram @nitelitecm AND Nite Lite's Facebook. Stuff mentioned in this hour: Adam's website The Poetry of Pop

Filmmaker Nathan Deming and former Miramax executive Jeffery Kurz join Pete and Greg to talk about their experiences and latest films. Later, they give their Popcorn Picks of the night! Sign up for Civic Media's Newsletter Find Nite Lite on Instagram @nitelitecm AND Nite Lite's Facebook. Stuff mentioned in this hour: Nathan Deming | Filmmaker Jeffrey Kurz Winter Hymns | Official movie website Wisconsin Film Festival – UW–Madison Secrets & Lies (1996) - IMDb Watch Train Dreams | Netflix Official Site

Dr. Kristin Lyerly joins Pete and Greg to talk about how -- and why -- fewer teens got vaccinated in Wisconsin this past year. Sign up for Civic Media's Newsletter Check Nite Lite out on Instagram @nitelitecm AND Facebook. Stuff mentioned in this hour Tony Evers vows to resist any effort to seize 2020 Milwaukee ballots Late winter storm could drop up to a foot of snow in Milwaukee this weekend Iran appears to have conducted a significant cyberattack against a U.S. company, a first since the war started Security to Be Increased at 2026 Oscars Amid FBI Alert About Iran’s “Surprise Attack” Plan on California From Wisconsin Examiner: "Rates for most vaccines in children and teens are declining, Wisconsin health officials say"

The multi-talented Tom Kastle chats with Pete and Greg about his upcoming one-person show Dan Seavey: Confessions of A Great Lakes Pirate. Sign up for Civic Media’s Newsletter Check us on our Instagram: @nitelitecm AND our Facebook: Nite Lite with Pete Schwaba and Greg Bach | Facebook Stuff mentioned in this hour: Dan Seavey: Confessions of a Great Lakes Pirate at Four Seasons Theater in Madison on March 28th, 2026. Guest: Tom Kastle

Andrew Trexler, Assistant Professor in the Department of Political Science at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, joins Pete and Greg to talk about how the public can engage with news and media. Hear Trexler’s tips for how we should approach the news and how to improve our media diets. Sign up for Civic Media’s Newsletter Check us on our Instagram: @nitelitecm AND our Facebook: Nite Lite with Pete Schwaba and Greg Bach | Facebook Stuff mentioned in this hour: Andrew’s paper about the challenge for learning about the under-informative news. Andrew Trexler, Assistant Professor in the Department of Political Science at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Trump’s war in Iran fractures MAGA media. Guest: Andrew Trexler

In the second hour, Pete and Greg keep things fun with a “Get to Know You” quiz, putting each other to the test with games like Two Truths and a Lie. Dom also brings a Goodwill quiz to see how well Pete and Greg know what items Goodwill will and won’t accept. Sign up for Civic Media’s Newsletter Check us on our Instagram: @nitelitecm AND our Facebook: Nite Lite with Pete Schwaba and Greg Bach | Facebook Stuff mentioned on the show: Goodwill items they won’t accept Mario Day celebrations Reindeer Racing

In the first hour, Pete and Greg ask the Question of the Night: According to Rolling Stone, “Yummy Yummy Yummy” by the Ohio Express is the worst song from the 60s. What do you think is the worst song EVER? A UW research scientist and creator of the Healthy Minds Program joins the show to discuss meditation, mindfulness, and how people can build healthier habits for their well-being. Sign up for Civic Media’s Newsletter Check us on our Instagram: @nitelitecm AND our Facebook: Nite Lite with Pete Schwaba and Greg Bach | Facebook Stuff mentioned on the show: Prescribing improve to improve patient-doctor relationships Amtrak rail service potentially returning to Madison by 2030 New polling on how Americans feel about a potential war with Iran Guest: Courtland Dahl

In the second hour, Tim Sauers, Co-CEO & Chief Artistic Experiences Officer of Madison’s Overture Center joins Pete and Greg. Hear what’s coming up in the spring at the Overture and hear everyone’s top live performances. Sign up for Civic Media’s Newsletter Check us on our Instagram: @nitelitecm AND our Facebook: Nite Lite with Pete Schwaba and Greg Bach | Facebook Stuff mentioned on the show:  The Overture Center’s homepage National Napping Day today Two dozen couples who put their relationships to the test on a grassy hill in southern England. Guest: Tim Sauers

Here in the first hour, Greg and Pete talk to algorithmic auditor and writer Cathy O’ Neil about how algorithms can make life difficult and cause harm. Listen to Cathy break down the invisible force behind much of our modern tools from Amazon purchases, modern advertising, and social media. Beyond her writing, Cathy fights to make AI and algorithmic-based technology with her nonprofit ORCAA. When she’s not fighting harmful technology, Cathy likes to take time offscreen and play fiddle in her bluegrass band Five Year Plan. Sign up for Civic Media’s Newsletter Check us on our Instagram: @nitelitecm AND our Facebook: Nite Lite with Pete Schwaba and Greg Bach | Facebook Stuff mentioned on the show:  Cathy O’ Neil’s website Cathy’s 2017 book Weapons of Math Destruction. Cathy’s podcast “AI Skeptics.” Cathy’s nonprofit ORCAA trying to “help define accountability for algorithms.” The Flaming Lips | Live at Sydney Opera House U2 - The Joshua Tree Tour, 1987-11-18 Los Angeles, CA (Full Show) Cage The Elephant - Ain’t No Rest for the Wicked (The Sylvee, Madison WI) 10/17/2025 Guest: Cathy O'Neil

Here’s your weekly best of Nite Lite roundup: Civic Media's own Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, discusses the complexities of gas prices and how they are influenced more by global supply and demand rather than direct presidential actions. Mike Clemens, sports reporter, reflects on the legacy of Bob Harlan, the former president and CEO of the Green Bay Packers, who recently passed away, detailing his significant contributions to the team and the community. Victoria Davis, a local columnist and animation expert, joins the show to share insights on the recent Annie Awards, where "K-Pop Demon Hunters" won multiple accolades, showcasing the growing influence of animation in the entertainment industry. Lastly, Jason Scheff, longtime bassist and vocalist for the legendary rock band Chicago, for a conversation about his years with the band, the music that defined a generation, and what he's been working on since his time with the group. 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 line up. Follow Civic Media on Facebook, X, Instagram and Blue Sky to keep up with all of our shows!

On the second hour of Nite Lite, Greg and Pete talk with Director of the Manfred Olson Planetarium, Jean M Creighton. She talks about the Matinee Series on the Solar System at the UWM Planetarium having its celebrates 60th aniniversary! We’ll also hear how Space Night went this week and look ahead to the upcoming Arabian Nights event. Sign up for Civic Media’s Newsletter Check us on our Instagram: @nitelitecm AND our Facebook: Nite Lite with Pete Schwaba and Greg Bach | Facebook Stuff mentioned in the hour: Link to the Manfred Olsen Planetarium Space Night Guest: Jean M. Creighton