Ozarks at Large

On today's Ozarks at Large, wildfire risk is high across Arkansas this Spring - we hear from the Arkansas Forestry Division about the causes of and how to prevent forest fires. Plus, a day-camp for high school students explores medical careers and a festival in Springdale brings the Marshall Islands to the Ozarks.

In today's episode, reports of fentanyl overdoses drop dramatically across the United States, Arkansas included. A new report from Heartland Forward examines the economic boost to the state if there were more medical residencies available.

We hear voices from a rally in support of local VA employees who have lost their jobs under new federal staffing cuts. Plus we help celebrate an icon of Fayetteville nightlife - Maxine's Taproom - ahead of the bar's 75th birthday.

Today's show features more updates from the Arkansas Legislature. How the latest version of what we’re calling bird flu can have an effect on animals, people and the economy, as well as this year's SHE: Festival of Women in Music at the University of Arkansas. Today's show features more updates from the Arkansas Legislature. How the latest version of what we’re calling bird flu can have an effect on animals, people and the economy, as well as this year's SHE: Festival of Women in Music at the University of Arkansas.

On today's show, we discover more about the planet Mars with University of Arkansas researchers. We also consider legislative proposals designed to invest more in primary care physicians in Arkansas, and protect protocol designed to support citizen-led initiatives.

Arkansas is fully embracing mountain biking, but climbing is also becoming a big draw. On today's show, we consider the work to give climbers unique places to scale from Springdale to North Little Rock. Plus, a convergence of science, research, music and marimbason the University of Arkansas campus.

The General Assembly is several weeks into its regular session. On today's show, we hear a review of the past week with Josie Lenora, a politics and government reporter for Little Rock Public Radio. Also, Randy Dixon with the Pryor Center tells us how the New Madrid Seismic Zone has fascinated, scared and intrigued us for two centuries.

We use math every day, even if we don't know it. Many of us could probably benefit from increasing our math literacy. On today's show, we hear how the U of A Department of Mathematical Sciences and the Fayetteville Public Library are partners for screening the documentary "Counted Out". Plus, a retrospective of Eugene Sargent's art opens this weekend. Also, Michael Tilley takes us through this week's headlines.

As conversations continue in Washington, D.C., about the size of federal agencies’ workforces, sudden terminations are having an effect. On today's show, Ozarks at Large’s Jack Travis speaks with two former federal employees. Also, the U.S. Marshals Museum is teaming up with the NEA for the Big Read. Plus, the NPR programs It’s Been a Minute and Wild Card are new partners, and we’ll talk with the hosts.

A new podcast highlights a family member’s immersion into conspiracy rabbit holes. On today's show, we hear what lessons can be learned from watching such happen as Zach Mack discusses his podcast “Alternate Realities." Also, Dunia Elvir, a TV anchor in Los Angeles and president of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists, shares lessons from thirty years of journalism. Plus, Becca Martin Brown takes "The Other Way" to Cane Hill.

Tontitown residents are keeping their attention focused on a proposed permit regarding air quality. On today's show, we hear from Ozarks at Large’s Daniel Caruth, who was at last week’s public hearing. Plus, Ed Larson will be at the University of Arkansas this week to talk about his Pulitzer Prize-winning book about the Scope Monkey Trial.

On today's Ozarks at Large, we get a round up of the latest from the Arkansas legislature in Little Rock, hear archives from some of the biggest news stories from Arkansas in 1970 and gear up for the 2025 NWACC Spring Arts & Culture Festival.

On today's Ozarks at Large, we get a look at Northwest Arkansas Community College's new student-operated butcher shop, learn about a tool for cyclists to find more accessible campsites, hear from Michael Tilley with content partner Talk Business and Politics about an updated tax plan for Fort Smith and more.

Loneliness can affect any of us in multiple ways. On today's show, we hear from former Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, documentarian Nicholas Ma and musician Yo Yo Ma about loneliness and unity. We also celebrate Fayetteville's oldest operating elementary school. Plus, the varied world of orchids.

You can have a vital role in preparing the next generation of doctors. On today's show, we hear how the Alice L. Walton School of Medicine is seeking people to portray clinical patients to help future physicians learn. Also, a quick trip up the mountain gets you to Ozark Folkways. Plus, the Center for Art as Lived Experience in the University of Arkansas School of Art will host a gathering this week.

Recent shifts in immigration policy are creating some concern for parents of adopted children. On today's show, Ozarks at Large’s Daniel Caruth talks with parents and an adoption attorney. Also, we learn the growing importance of outdoor recreation for Arkansas’ economy. Plus, a rare bird is generating excitement in Carroll County.

Lawmakers at the State Capitol are gathering momentum. On today's show, Josie Lenora, the politics and government reporter for Little Rock Public Radio, helps us digest the latest from the General Assembly. We’ll also track the life of former Arkansas Governor Jim Guy Tucker, who died this month. Plus, Lia Uribe embraces France in her latest installment of Sound Perimeter.

We’re still feeling winter, but Ozark-grown fresh produce is very much part of this time of year. On today's show, we take a trip to Spring Creek Hub in Springdale. We also look forward to warmer weather and the 2nd annual Darby Challenge in Fort Smith. Plus, Michael Tilley from Talk Business and Politics looks back at last week and more.

On today's show, we hear how local organizations are reckoning with the Trump Administration’s approach to LGBTQ+ civil rights. Plus, Fort Smith native and University of Arkansas graduate G. T. Karber explains how he combines murder and logic in his internationally best-selling "Murdle" books.

A new tool is designed to give health providers and insurers a deeper look at mental health in Arkansas. On today's show, we hear that the Arkansas Center for Health Improvement has a new Arkansas Acute Behavioral Events Dashboard. Also, a winter storm has area meteorologists working overtime, including Walmart’s in-house meteorologist. Plus, water resource groups are thinking about drinking water for a northwest Arkansas that has one million people.

A newly formed organization in northwest Arkansas wants to keep immigrants in the region informed. On today’s Ozarks at Large, Sophia Nourani talks with organizers of the Alliance for Immigrant Respect and Education. Also, the Black-Owned Northwest Arkansas Business Expo is back again and more extensive this time. Plus, a new book from the University of Arkansas Press explores Asian-American identity through recipes, essays and illustrations.

The Arkansas Legislature is hitting high gear. On today's show, Josie Lenora, politics and government reporter for Little Rock Public Radio, gives us the latest from the Capitol. We’ll also spend time with Pryor Center archives surveying the career of Arkansas-born Billy Bob Thornton.

Happy Valentine’s Day! It is National Heart Month, and on today's show, we hear there are efforts to make sure rural residents have more opportunities to take care of their coronary health. Plus, a big award for the Fort Smith Symphony, another Captain America movie and a pinball mecca on the outskirts of Rogers.

The City of Fayetteville is reaffirming its status as a welcoming city. On today's show, we hear why the city council took the move and what it means. Also, the intersection of magic and Black history. Plus, how the Beaver Water District is safeguarding northwest Arkansas’ drinking water.

There isn’t a PhD program in environmental health sciences in Arkansas right now, but there will be one soon. On today's show, we hear about UAMS' plans to start an environmental health sciences doctoral program this fall. Also, Bentonville Public Schools is developing guidelines about AI. Plus, we get the history of Rogers all in one place.

The Arkansas Crisis Center is now offering a text-to-chat helpline. On today's show, reporter Daniel Caruth provides more details about the new initiative. Also, we learn more about Mexico with the University of Arkansas Honors College. Plus, Ozarks at Large’s Sophia Nourani talks with songwriter, singer and musician Ashton Byrd.

The Arkansas Legislature moves into a fifth week of the 95th General Assembly today. On today's show, we review last week at the Capitol with Josie Lenora from Little Rock Public Radio. Also, Ozarks at Large host Kyle Kellams speaks with the director of public policy at the Alzheimer's Association in Arkansas about efforts to obtain more support for Arkansans living with dementia and their caregivers. Plus, the Pryor Center explains how US AID has historic connections to Arkansas.

Work shouldn’t be unhealthy, but how can we make sure our job doesn’t hurt us? On today's show, our series about health, nutrition and a balanced life examines workplace health. Plus, we spend a few minutes with Sonia De Los Santos and ask her about her musical career that has stretched across North America.

Legally present citizens of the Republic of the Marshall Islands in northwest Arkansas are paying close attention to the Trump Administration’s executive orders. On today's show, reporter Jacqueline Froelich provides more details. Plus, the long history and uncertain future of earthquakes in Arkansas. Also, do podcasts need videos? Dan Craft says yes.

One of Arkansas’ largest cities is considering the livelihood of unhoused residents. On today's show, Ozarks at Large's Jack Travis reports on an ordinance that sought to restrict camping on public property in Fort Smith. We’ll also hear about confusion for VA employees from reporter Daniel Caruth. Plus, we trace the history of science through solar and lunar eclipses.

Fluoride has been in Arkansas’ drinking water for decades, but there is legislation in Little Rock that could change that. On today's show, our reporter, Jack Travis, considers the past and possible future of fluoride in Arkansas. We’ll also talk food with the creative culinary minds behind the Rabbit Hole restaurant popups. Plus, we learn more about a one-night tribute to one of pop music’s enduring duos.

Legislators are returning to the Arkansas State Capitol for the fourth week. On today's show, we look back at the 95th Arkansas General Assembly the previous week and look ahead to the next. We also talk with Renee Montagne about her 40 years at NPR ahead of her retirement. Plus, the Pryor Center takes us back to Arkansan Julia Butterfly Hill’s high-profile protest.

A renewed effort to ignite civic discussion and engagement is underway. On today's show, we hear about Last night’s listening session on the University of Arkansas campus. Also, a new northwest Arkansas voice of guidance is listening to your questions, and we have some inquiries for her. Plus, the news with Michael Tilley, the happenings with April Wallace and the movies with Courtney Lanning.

A conference in Fayetteville today will focus on better understanding schizophrenia. On today's show, we host a conversation about expanding our collective understanding of psychosis and schizophrenia. Reporter Sophia Nourani also visits the newly revamped Multicultural Center at the University of Arkansas. Plus, we note the Year of the Snake as the Lunar New Year arrives.

A new presidential administration means changes for Canopy NWA, a non-profit refugee settlement organization. On today's show, we hear how they're reassessing resettlement. Also, our host, Kyle Kellams, discusses a new report about dynamic metro areas with Heartland Forward. Plus, merging the natural world with music, a beloved bird-watching spot will rise from the ashes and more.

A new survey of what people here now think about getting from Point A to Point B can help guide planning for the region’s future. On today's show, we hear about the present and future of transportation. Also, Ozarks at Large's Jack Travis reports a new program aims to help entrepreneurs in the cycling industry. Plus, we consider how money is changing collegiate sports.

Security and happiness can be related, but are the two traits synonymous? On today's show, we hear how the Pulitzer Prize-winning “Primary Trust” from TheatreSquared examines our comfort zones. Also, reporter Daniel Caruth spoke with a global studies professor about the film "Always Remember Your Name" ahead of International Holocaust Day of Remembrance. Plus, Michael Tilley will help us look back at the week and more.

Fayetteville is outlining priorities for arts and culture in the city. On today's show, we hear more about an arts and culture plan Fayetteville is adopting. Also today, the state of the state’s economy. Plus, Nancy Hartney discusses her new novel “The Blue Bottle Tree.”

A new report indicates Medicaid is an important part of life for some Arkansans. On today's show, we hear more about a Georgetown University study that finds Medicaid playing a role in the lives of about half of the children residing in rural Arkansas communities. Also, KASU in Jonesboro reports on bird flu in the Natural State. Plus, advice on how to start a podcast.

A new report indicates Medicaid is an important part of life for some Arkansans. On today's show, we hear more about a Georgetown University study that finds Medicaid playing a role in the lives of about half of the children residing in rural Arkansas communities. Also, KASU in Jonesboro reports on bird flu in the Natural State. Plus, advice on how to start a podcast.

Observations for the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday included song, prayer and reflection. On today's show, we listen back to this past weekend's celebration of Dr. King in northwest Arkansas. We’ll also hear Shannon Wurst and Ed Carr preview their concert in Rogers. Plus, Ozarks at Large’s Sophia Nourani takes the temperature of the regional music scene with music promoter and artist Joe Swink.

The Arkansas Legislature is in recess today for the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday but will return to work tomorrow. On today's show, we hear a preview of the second week of the 95th General Assembly. Also, a multi-decade trip through Arkansas with archives from the Pryor Center. Plus, an effort to give up-and-coming bands a place to play.

On today's show, we hear about the thousands of pieces that make up The Heart Project at the Fayetteville Public Library. Also, Michael Tilley from Talk Business and Politics tells us about Fort Smith getting nearly $25 million for trails. Plus, April Wallace shares a paranormal weekend in Eureka Springs and the music of the Temptations on stage.

There are fewer than 50 trained doulas in Arkansas, and UAMS wants to double that number. On today's show, we hear about a new program covering the full cost of training for 80 doulas. Also, the Arkansas General Assembly continues at the State Capitol, and lawmakers are establishing their preferences for legislation. Plus, Ozark at Large’s Sophia Nourani speaks with the Ozark Mountain Music Festival's “Artist at Large” John Mailander.

Northwest Arkansas continues to grow, and cities are trying to ensure the water supply keeps pace. On today's show, we talk about water leaks and growth. Also, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders lines out her priorities for the 95th General Assembly in her State of the State address. Plus, the Northwest Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Council will host the 29th annual Recommitment Celebration.

Some scientific research and a hunch led to nearly $3 million from the National Institute of Health. On today's show, we’ll hear more about the work of examining a virus that will hopefully lead to a vaccine. Also, studying pathogens that can make the jump from animals to humans. Plus, the Wonders of Winter Wildlife at Hobbs State Park.

Artificial Intelligence is part of the present and our future, but how can it help provide better medical care? On today's show, we hear about a conference hosted by the Alice Walton School of Medicine and Stanford Medicine at Crystal Bridges to investigate just that. Also, we hear about the decades-long relationship between Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton. Plus, the Mount Sequoyah cross is getting a tune-up.

The first snowfall of 2025 is here, and on today's show, Ozarks at Large’s Jack Travis reports there is help available for getting through winter. Plus, Chloe Kimes is returning to Fort Smith. Also, Michael Tilley from Talk Business and Politics says the tourism industry remains strong in Arkansas.

On today's show, we learn how to improve our civic education and why it's important, even though it's not an election year. Plus, six years of opening up a microphone to any performer. Also, we find out what a music census of northwest Arkansas can tell us.

On today's show, we’ll learn more about drama at the state’s highest court. Also, a researcher investigates whether there is water on Mars. Plus, Roy Reed discusses the adrenaline rush of writing on a deadline.