Central Standard

Last weekend, people across the country binge-watched season three of Queer Eye. But locals had an exceptionally compelling reason to watch: this particular season was filmed entirely in the Kansas City area. In this conversation, we revisit favorite moments and hear from fans to find out what they thought. David Wayne Reed, Kansas City actor and writer Stephonne Singleton, KCK musician and drag performer Peggy Lowe , KCUR's investigations editor

Segment 1: What happens to a community without access to a four-year college? The majority of college freshmen enroll at schools within 50 miles from home. But what if there isn't a four-year university nearby? In this conversation, we take a look at the effects education deserts have on communities and how Dodge City, Kansas, is looking to address theirs. Melissa McCoy , assistant city manager, Dodge City Celia Llopis-Jepsen , reporter, Kansas News Service Nick Hillman , professor, School of

With racial tensions on the rise in recent years, what's it like to be a reporter of color tasked with witnessing events, mediating tricky conversations, and making those stories understandable? In this discussion, we visit with three journalists covering race and culture both locally and nationwide. Aaron Randle , enterprise reporter, The Kansas City Star John Eligon , reporter for The New York Times Michelle Tyrene Johnson , KCUR's race, identity, & culture reporter

Segment 1: Why a Midwesterner is leading the charge to save manatees. To a native Kansas Citian, a sea animal like the manatee might as well be something mythical like a unicorn or a chupacabra. In this conversation, we learn how a nature lover from Independence wound up leading an organization that helped take the beloved sea cow off the endangered list. Patrick Rose , executive director, Save the Manatee Club Segment 2, beginning at 16:21: The 'tl;dr' of theatre. If you don't have the

Segment 1: How your 20s are fertile ground for mental illness. The American College Health Association reports that more than 60 percent of college students had experienced 'overwhelming anxiety' in 2018 . But more of them are also seeking help. So what's changing-- the circumstances causing the anxiety, or the culture around asking for help? Aneva Jefferson , college student, member of the National Alliance for Mental Illness Johanna Jarcho , assistant professor psychology, Temple University

Segment 1: The culinary connection between New Orleans and Kansas City. Andrea Broomfield offers us a look at Cajun cuisine and its historical ties to Kansas City. Then, chef Israel England tells us the secret to rich and delicious gumbo. Andrea Broomfield, Food Historian and Professor Israel England, Owner and Executive Chef of Kansas City Cajun Segment 2, (beginning at 18:24): McLain’s and the best cinnamon rolls in Kansas City Charles Ferruzza and producer Sylvia Maria Gross enjoy cinnamon

Segment 1: Kansas women share stories of life on the range. More women are running ranches in America, according to a recent New York Times article . So what does that phenomenon look like in Kansas? In this conversation, we hear stories out on the range from female ranchers in the heart of America. Gwen Hoy , owner, Flying W Ranch Jacqueline Smith , owner, Central Grazing Co . Barb Downey , president, Kansas Livestock Association Segment 2, beginning at 33:20: Is Kansas City overflowing with

Segment 1: Are you using your phone to read this? Us too. A cell phone today is basically just as important as our wallet and keys; we do not want to leave the house without it. But is this reliance actually an addiction? We talk with parents and smartphone users about why phones are so addictive and how they are affecting our moods, motivations, and parenting. Ian Sherr , author, " Your kids hate your smartphone addiction " Tracy Foster , co-founder, Stand Together and Rethink Technology (

Segment 1: The United Methodist Church is experiencing a rift among its members over LGBTQ issues. Last week, the United Methodist Church voted to keep bans on same-sex marriage and LGBTQ clergy, a controversial decision that exposes a divide between traditionalists and progressives. In this conversation, we talk to local members of the Methodist community about the vote's implications, their reactions, and what this means for the future of the Methodist Church. Mark Holland , executive director

Segment 1: If laughter is the best medicine, can a doctor write a prescription for a joke? In this conversation, we break down what makes a successful joke, and invite listeners to share a few wisecracks. Dan Margolies , pun enthusiast, KCUR's health and legal affairs editor Ameerah Sanders , stand-up comedian Segment 2, beginning at 18:49: Books that tickle the funny bone. The Ancient Greeks say comedy is one of the two pillars of storytelling; humor is still a big part of literature today. The