Ozarks at Large

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.

On today's show, the Fayetteville Public Library initiates conversations that otherwise might not happen. Our film critic, Courtney Lanning, delivers her ten favorite movies of 2024. Plus, the Walton Arts Center brings hip-hop and more to Fayetteville schools.

On today’s show, we continue our journey through the 2024 archives and bring you a few of our favorite stories: building affordable homes at the University of Arkansas, Olympic medalists who trained in Northwest Arkansas, the moons of Saturn and live music from Abby Pierce.

On today’s show, we begin a new year with a reminder of what makes our region great: the outdoors. We’ll spend some time with the creatures outside, remnant prairies and even Civil War-era cannons.

On today’s show, we remember one of the biggest stories to occur in our region in 2024: the outbreak of tornadoes across northwest Arkansas. Our coverage of the immediate aftermath as well as a conversation with two artists who are uniquely commemorating it.

On today’s show, we remember some friends of the show we’ve lost this year. Randy Dixon of the Pryor Center discusses the death of David Pryor, plus the life and music of Zakir Hussain.

On today’s show, we are considering design in northwest Arkansas, including along the Razorback Greenway. Also, we discuss ways to stay healthy during a time of travel, pie and parties. Plus, Michael Tilley and April Wallace bring us news and local events, respectively.

On today's show, the surprising impact of social media on young people. Also, Lorie Tudor reflects on a four-decade career with the Arkansas Department of Transportation in this week's Northwest Arkansas Business Journal edition. Plus, we hear from actors in the Walton Arts Center's last production in 2024.

On today's show, we discuss a city ordinance in Fayetteville to cap rental fees. Also, the podcast People of Northwest Arkansas shares the stories of everyday people in our region. Plus, we hear about a unique commemoration of the spring tornado that struck Rogers.

On today's show, we host a conversation with leaders from Experience Fayetteville and USA Cycling about next year's Cyclocross National Championships in Fayetteville. Also, after more than 100 years, Nelson Orr is honored in Downtown Fayetteville. Plus, a celebration of the Little Red River and trout fishing.

On today's show, we hear about a new Consul General for the Republic of the Marshall Islands who is based in northwest Arkansas. Also, Pryor Center archives this week give us an insight into a longtime Arkansas Parliamentarian. Plus, a new Sound Perimeter from Lia Uribe.

On today's show, we hear about grant funding that has been awarded to the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences to provide therapeutic care to incarcerated people diagnosed with PTSD. Also, the Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation celebrates 50 years of work by honoring its past work by launching a new initiative to help Arkansas nonprofits work in the next half-century. Plus, an athlete takes a cold swim.

On today's show, we hear how the University of Arkansas School of Social Work and the Fayetteville Police Department have paired up to handle mental health crises more effectively. Also, learning from a scholar at risk who works to promote the literature of women writers from Afghanistan. Plus, we have more about a report that states workers in Arkansas were owed more than $1.5 million in back wages from employers.

On today's show, a years-long restoration process in the Ouachita National Forest produces unexpected results, like finding a remnant population of rare woodpeckers. Also, Steve Schlanger explains the multitasking required to broadcast sports. Plus, Two Friends Books in Bentonville begins a nonprofit venture.

In today's show, we discuss a new public-private partnership in Fayetteville aimed at collecting food waste for composting. We also explore Steve Clark's career in Little Rock and Fayetteville. Additionally, the Bentonville Bulletin provides updates on a current issue facing the Bentonville School District.

On today’s show, a conversation with Pastor Steve Sheely from Rolling Hills Baptist Church about the annual candlelight service for parents who have lost a child. Plus, sharing a love for the Little Missouri River. Also, Michael Tilley from Talk Business and Politics explains what change on the Fort Smith Board of Directors could mean.

On today's show, more engineers in Arkansas may contribute to a more robust economy. Plus, reporter Daniel Caruth speaks with an economic policy expert about an increase in child labor violations in Arkansas. We also get ready for a polar plunge, holiday markets and more.

On today's show, we discuss President-Elect Donald Trump's proposed tariffs on three of America’s largest trading partners and how that will impact Arkansans. Also, an examination of one the most successful political campaigns of the past 50 years, the anti-abortion movement. Plus, a conversation with Becca Martin Brown about the University of Arkansas Fort Smith Opera.