Spanning The State

Linda Hansen, Breast Cancer Advocate, and WBCC Wisconsin breast Cancer Coalition, joins Spanning the State for Giving Tuesday to share her experience receiving a breast cancer diagnosis after having years with clear mammograms. The diagnosis was found from having dense breast tissue, which usually undetected. Hansen shares how women can advocate for themselves to get the right screenings, and how the WBCC is trying to get Breast Cancer treatment to be covered by insurance in Wisconsin.

Zack Farrar, Certified Bourbon Steward with the Wisconsin Whiskey Fest joins the show to talk about the upcoming festival. He shares what we should expect at the 3rd annual event, how attendees can safely try all the whiskeys throughout the day, and more about this year’s charity partner, Bristlecone Charity. You can learn more about the fest by going to: www.wisconsinwhiskeyfest.com

Journal Sentinel Reporter Ricardo Torres, joins the show once again but this time to talk about how both Democratic and Republican parties are reaching out to Latino communities leading up to the election. He elaborates on how this demographic has largely gone under the radar, the number of voters who are still unregistered, and which party is catching their attention.

Today on Spanning the State Kristin and Brian speak to state climatologist Steve Vavrus about the nations natural disasters and how that may impact us. They then discuss the presence of politics at the Packer game. Later they speak to Matt DeFour about the partisan issue of voting based on the economy. Later they speak Chad Schultz of the WIAA about eight player football as children are choosing flag over tackle more often now.

Today on Spinning the State: Viroqua - Viroqua artist wins award. Port Washington - Ozaukee and Washington County host prescription take back day. Milwaukee - Love without violence conference.

As CTE and major injuries, similar to the one witnessed by Detroit Lions linebacker this weekend, spike the more younger football players switching from advancing to tackle football. This lack of interest and few players has led high school teams to get innovative and create teams like 8 player football. WIAA (Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association) Assistant Director, Chad Shultz joins Spanning the State to break down this new way of playing ball.

For most Americans the state of the economy is a big issue bringing them to the polls on November 5th. On paper the economy and employment rates are at a good spot, however many voters are still concerned. Matt DeFour from Wisconsin Watch helps Kristin and Brian break down Marquette University Law school polling Data to see if these economic concerns are based solely on a partisan viewpoint.

Wisconsin State Climatologist, Steve Vavrus joins Spanning the State to talk about the fate of Wisconsin when it comes to natural disasters. In the wake of both hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton, Kristin and Brian ponder what extreme weather events we could face, how these catastrophic events in other parts of the country still impact us economically and geographically, and how important our location is when it comes to climate change.

Kristin and Brian end the week with a bang and some giggles. They first chat about the amount of construction plaguing Milwaukee roads and how it is reducing reckless driving. They also unveil exaclty what is "Lapland". They later discuss Donald Trumps latest antics, and get Steve Scaffidi's thoughts on Brian's hot take on undecided voters as we are less than a month out from election day. Later they spin the state then speak to Law Forward's Jeff Mandel about why Wisconsinites should vote NO to changing the wording in the state's constitution in regard to voting rights. Then of course they close out the week with a monster edition of the Grandiloquent Game Show.

Today on Spinning the State: Thronapple - Judge orders town to resume use of accessible voting machines. Green Bay - Plan for site across from Lambeau draws concerns. Marinette - Small town program goes world-wide.

Political Power HALF Hour with Steve Scaffidi. Today Kristin Brian and Steve chat about undecided voters 24 days away from election day and after Brian’s hot take. They also discuss the lack of attention the actions of Donald Trump are getting in the media and if we are all just immune to it. Brian and Kristin also give Steve a mini surprise!

President & General Counsel at Law Forward, Jeff Mandel joins the show to breakdown why Wisconsinites should vote NO on the referendum to change verbiage in the state’s constitution.

Today on Kristin and Brian welcome back the fabulous farm babe Pam Jahnke to get the latest scoop on all things farming in WI and last week’s World Dairy Expo. They Speak to John Burke, author of “ Bold Plan: 14 Nonpartisan Solutions Based on the Facts” and how he thinks our politicians can solve our nations biggest problems. Later they spin the state and discuss Kamala Harris’ old school campaign strategy. Then they speak to Natalie Popple of Triple P and how their program is helping families be less stressed.

Kristin Brey, the founder of As Goes Wisconsin, and longtime WTMJ host Brian Noonan are skilled at taking the complex and making it digestible. They will take you behind the headlines of the day’s biggest stories from across Wisconsin. Fans will hear the stories being told by those who live and cover those communities firsthand for the most accurate and relevant information.

Natalie Popple, Program Manager for Children’s WI Triple Online Positive parenting program a free worldwide program that provides online learning tools to support families. She explains how the state funded program has made a big impact across the state and how its helping families reduce stress.

Trek Bicycle CEO and Author of “A Bold Plan for America: 14 Nonpartisan Solutions Based on the Facts”. John breaks down several facts that are listed in the book and how politicians throughout out government are failing Americans. He explains what solutions you will find within his book, how he found the information and how he fit it all in 200 pages.

the Fabulous Farm Babe and Host of the Midwest Farm Report, Pam Jahnke is back on Spanning the State. Today she gives Briand and Kristin and rundown on this year’s four day World Dairy Expo, and more about Wisconsin’s farming.

Today on Spanning the State, Kristin and Brian relaunch the Giving Tuesday segment. They speak to company and sponsor Seniors Helping Seniors of Waukesha. They discuss the amount of fraudulent election ballots that have occurred in the last year and what that means for this upcoming election. Later they speak to Jeff Pritzl from WI DNR about Deer management during hunting season. Then they speak to journal sentinel journalist Natalie Eilbert about mental health disabilities and the lack of insurance coverage and concern that surrounds it.

Today on Spinning the State: Wausau - Mayor’s request for security funds gets no support. Oshkosh - Oshkosh Herd to hold auditions for National Anthem. Madison - Wisconsin Unveils new license plate.

Wisconsin Watch Statehouse Reporter, Jack Kelly joins the show to break down the supreme court hearing to challenge Wisconsin’s Governor Tony Evers’ budget maneuver to increase funding for the state’s school districts for the next 400 years. Kelly explains the Vanna White caveat Tony took advantage of, the arguments presented at the hearing, and what will happen if they decide to rule against it.

Veterinarian Dr. John Dally joins Spanning the State to talk about the first co-op veterinary clinic in the nation. They explain why they decided to co-op how easy it is to do to invest in a veterinary clinic and how this is making a difference for pet parents.

Milwaukee City Attorney, Evan Goyke speaks about the intense amount of reckless driving endangering Milwaukee’s streets. Goyke addresses last week’s decision by Milwaukee leaders to stop dismissing or amending reckless driving charges and prosecute them more aggressively. He shares how they are changing, how Wisconsin Act 9 plays a role in prosecuting, and how to differentiate between juveniles and adults.

Patrick Noonan, our Brian Noonan’s little brother and Florida resident joins Spanning the State to share his experience navigating both hurricane Helene and now Milton. Patrick shares when he thought was the right time to evacuate, what was it like returning to his home just outside of Tampa after hurricane Helene, and what to take when you are forced to leave.

Today on Spanning the State, Kristin and Brian relaunch the Giving Tuesday segment. They speak to company and sponsor Seniors Helping Seniors of Waukesha. They discuss the amount of fraudulent election ballots that have occurred in the last year and what that means for this upcoming election. Later they speak to Jeff Pritzl from WI DNR about Deer management during hunting season. Then they speak to journal sentinel journalist Natalie Eilbert about mental health disabilities and the lack of insurance coverage and concern that surrounds it.

Today on Spinning the State: Florence - Graphic novel highlights Wisconsin Medal of Honor winner. Madison - $1.2 Million in alcohol sold at badgers football so far. Waukesha - Bridges Library System wins innovation award.

Natalie Eilbert a Mental Health Reporter for the Journal Sentinel joins the show to talk about the lack of insurance coverage for people with mental health disabilities. She shares why it is so difficult for individuals to call out of work when experiencing a mental health crisis, why are treated differently from physical disabilities, and why Insurance doesn’t accept this.

Deer Program Specialist, Jeff Pritzl joins Spanning the State to discuss Wisconsin’s Department of Natural Resources, new approach to management deer units for Wisconsin’s hunting season.

Giving Tuesday is back! If you need a refresher Giving Tuesday is where we introduce you to Wisconsin people and organizations that are advocating for causes across the state, now sponsored by Seniors Helping Seniors of Waukesha. Today we welcome Van Evans the Owner of Seniors Helping Seniors to talk about his company and they work they do with our elderly. Tune in to Giving Tuesday every Tuesday at 1:30 p.m. CST.

Today on Spanning the State, Kristin and Brian discuss the varying amount of state funding that the universities of Wisconsin schools are getting and how uneven they are. They later speak to Chuck Andreas and Tina Hinchley to talk about the delay in the nation’s $900 billion farm bill and how that is impacting Wisconsin farming. They then spin the state to new cities before chatting about a new state-wide low-interest $50 million home repair loan. Then they speak to Roxanne Flitz of the Wisconsin Rapids Public School District and how they are managing after the end of ESSER funding.

Today on Spinning the State: Whitefish Bay - Whitefish Bay to pay $5.5 million to fix sink hole. Stella - Hunters asked to submit deer samples for PFAS. Brodhead - Guerilla Cookie making a comeback for conservation.

Director of Curriculum and Instruction from the Wisconsin Rapids Public School District, Roxanne Filtz joins the show to give more insight on the positive impacts of the federal Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief, or ESSER, funding and what most Wisconsin districts are facing now that this pandemic funding is ending and with-it beneficial programs.

Every five years congress writes up a farm bill. This year the bill, worth $900 billion, which can fund food stamps to conservation efforts expired at the beginning of the month. Michael Fields Agricultural Institute’s, Associate Policy Director Chuck Andreas and Wisconsin Farmers Union board member, Tina Hinchley join Kristin and Brian to further explain what is happening, why the bill is held up, and how these decisions are impacting the state.

Today Brian is solo for Friday. He kicks off the show to discuss the sad end of the Brewers Postseason run. He breaks down what we should know about a new strike in Milwaukee. Molson Coors Machinists who asking for better wages, benefits and work life balance. We then have the Political Power HALF Hour with Steve Scaffidi. They recap this week’s debate, Kamala’s visit to the state and more. Later we speak to Camy Matthay of Wisconsin Books to Prisoners to talk about issues with smuggling contraband. Then we play the Brewer Baseball edition on the Grandiloquent game show.

Today on Spinning the State: Peshtigo - Sea Lamprey treatment aims to increase Great lakes fish health. Pulaski - New Packers Polka. Milwaukee - Lakefront Brewery celebrates cheese curd day.

Steve Scaffidi joins Brian Noonan for the Political Power HALF Hour on Spanning the State. They discuss this week in news including the Vice-Presidential Debate between Senator JD Vance and Tim Walz, Kamala’s visit to major republican city Ripon and more.

Camy Matthay of Wisconsin Books for Prisoners joins Spanning the State to talk about the troubles the non-profit has experienced due to outside organizations. She shares how other impersonators have sent contraband to prisons, how they are now wanting to charge inmates and how this may also be an issue on Wisconsin’s Constitution.

Today Brian and Kristin celebrate the Brewers holding in their playoff series. They also share a heartwarming story from out Julia Fello and how Pat Murphy has a heart of gold. They then speak to Wisconsin Republican Party official, Will Martin and how the WI GOP is working to get black voters to the polls. They then Spin the State before Common Cause Wisconsin Executive Director talking to Jay Heck, about election conspiracies and what to look out for. They speak with Maria Comiskey of Old World Wisconsin to talk about their Spooky Legends & Lore event happening this month. Then they wrap the show with news of the return of Culvers Curderburger and Wendy's launch of the SpongeBob themed Krabby Patty.

Today on Spinning the State: Ripon - Harris to campaign in birthplace of Republican Party. Green Bay - Registration open for Tundra tales. Milwaukee - MKE Oktoberfest this weekend.

General Manager of Experiences and Events at Old World Wisconsin, Maria Comiskey joins Spanning the State tells Brian and Kristin all about the Spooky Legends & Lore happening through the month of October.

Common Cause Wisconsin, Executive Director Jay Heck joins the show to talk about election conspiracies. Heck shares what Wisconsin voters should be aware of to make sure their vote is counted correctly without manipulation. He explains what challenges voters my face that will affecting how people vote between now and November 5th, what we’ve learned from the 2020 presidential election, and more.

Wisconsin Republican Party official and Wisconsin state director for Americans for Citizen Voting (ACV), Will Power joins in-studio to shed light on the GOP’s strategy to encourage communities of color to come and vote. They discuss what messaging has been resonating with this demographic, the diverse presence at this summer’s RNC and within the Republican Party, and how a similar transition of parties witnessed in the past is happening now with black voters due to our economic state.

Today on Spanning the State Kristin and Brian begin by analyzing last night's vice-Presidential Debate. They go over the key moments they witnessed, revisit their over/under outcomes, and appreciate the civility in the event. They then speak to comedian, actor, Emmy and Peabody award winner Paul Mecurio about his upcoming "Permission to Speak Tour." They Spin the State and learn about an interesting Sasquatch in South Milwaukee before reviewing a report by Forward Analytics about the impending elder care crisis that will impact multiple industries. Later they discuss youth crime in Milwaukee as a report claims it has decrease and the why Gen Z is not drinking as much as they used to, (but that doesn't involve Tequila).

Today on Spinning the State: South Milwaukee - Lions, tigers, and Carved Sasquatch? Madison - Madison Pedestrian Mall to close. Elkhorn - The best haunts can be found on Elkhorn road.

Kevin Dospoy, Deputy Director for Forward Analytics joins Spanning the State to talk about their new report “On the Brink Probing the coming Senior Care Challenges.” As seen in the report, 25% of our state’s population will be over 75 during 2030 to 2040. That statistic will put a strain on the already fragile and burnout nursing homes, dwindling hospital staff and questionable economy. Dospoy breaks this down and what else we should expect.

Emmy and Peabody Award-winning comedian & actor Paul Mecurio, joins Spanning the State to talk about his current tour “Permission to Speak”. Mercurio shares some jokes, explains his interactive comedic crowd work that he specializes, and his connection to Wisconsin.

Today on Spanning the State Kristin and Brian gear up for the Brewers and their first playoff game of the season/postseason run. They speak to both Wisconsin’s Morning New Host Vince Vitrano and Dom. They get a brief overview of one of the best places to witness Wisconsin’s fall foliage with Andy Larsen, before sharing their over/under bets for tonight’s Vice-Presidential debate. Later they spin the state then speak to Wauwatosa Mayor Dennis McBride and his work with the Tosa Common Council to address the national issue of Affordable housing. Later they speak to Jason Stein to gain a better understanding of the expansion of Medicaid in Wisconsin, how it will help WI residents and why it hasn’t happened yet.

Today on Spinning the State: Oshkosh - Vietnam traveling wall coming to Oshkosh. Hayward - Hayward man sets record for paddling Wisconsin River. Nekoosa - Giant Pumpkin Fest in Nekoosa.

Rewind to 2010 and the passing of The Affordable Care Act part of that bill allowed states to expand Medicaid to cover people up to 138% of the federal poverty line or about $35,632 for a family of three. The costs of insuring more people would be paid for primarily with federal funds and a smaller state match. Wisconsin is one of 10 states that has not expanded Medicaid under the ACA and is considered the bluest state to avoid expansion. New President of the Wisconsin Policy Forum, Jason Stein joins the show to explain a new report by the WPF listing all the ways the expansion of Medicaid in Wisconsin could help residents and why it hasn’t happened yet.

Mayor of Wauwatosa Dennis McBride joins Spanning the State in studio to discuss how his city is addressing the affordable care crisis. Currently affordable housing is a national issue as well as a major talking point for both the presidential and local political races. McBride shares what type of impact this issue has had in Wauwatosa, how they plan to fix it, and the work the Tosa Common Council has done.

Most people associate the Wisconsin Dells as a summer only destination. However, people don’t know that the Dells during the fall has some of the best sites to witness the transition into fall. To tell Kristin and Brian more about the experience, Andy Larsen, Executive Vice President BOELTER + LINCOLN Marketing Communications joins the show.