Ozarks at Large

On today's show, we learn that the Arkansas Department of Human Services is moving forward with work requirements for the state’s Medicaid program. We also hear in a new documentary that in the 19th century, much of northwest Arkansas was built with Van Winkle Timber and Aaron “Rock” Van Winkle. Plus, a bladesmith explains his craft.

On today's show, we hear about a new study by UAMS that examines the pattern of purchasing medical cannabis throughout pregnancy. We also learn how the Arkansas Folk and Traditional Arts works to make sure important parts of the state thrive. Plus, we explore new plants and new spaces at the Jones Center.

On today's show, we learn how the American Library Association is supporting the Franklin County Library’s efforts to improve literacy for kids and adults. Plus, the kora is an instrument native to West Africa, rarely played in the United States, and there are two opportunities to hear one played in northwest Arkansas soon. We also further "Balance" nutrition and exercise for our health.

On today's show, we learn about a new report that shows that caregiving is a major economic hurdle for Arkansas women. Plus, we return to North Little Rock for the Arkansas Folklife Festival. We also hear a forgotten interview that was rediscovered in the Pryor Center archives.

On today's show, we learn that CACHE's new Take Action grant program is designed to provide behind-the-scenes assistance to artists and creatives. We also get on a bike for the newest tour of Bentonville. Plus, Michael Tilley from Talk Business & Politics gives us a week-in-review.

On today's show, we have a conversation with the host of "We Keep Us Safe," a new NPR podcast series that revisits the 2020 protest movement in Seattle, including the livestreams, volunteer security and an unsolved murder. We also learn that Homer will hit the big screen and the stage this summer, as Arkansas Classical Theater is presenting works inspired by the poet. Plus, we hear about supporting musicians with Les Fest.

On today's show, we learn that nearly half of Arkansas counties qualify as maternal care deserts and consider how that impacts women seeking prenatal care. We also spoke with artist, writer and storyteller Zeke Pena about his 2026 Caldecott Honor Book Award-winning book, "Sundust." Plus, we dive into a new one-act play about Fort Smith.

On today's show, we hear that doula care was supposed to be covered by Medicaid in Arkansas starting in June, but administrative bottlenecks have prevented any doulas from being cleared to bill the state. Plus, as AI changes our world, we consider our long relationship with machines and our minds. Plus, Fayetteville Mayor Molly Rawn announces parental leave for city staff.

On today's show, we hear how a federal grant is funding new research on fetal alcohol spectrum disorder for UAMS. Plus, Our Art, Our Region, Our Time returns, and we learn more about this year's iteration. We also revisit some archives from the Pryor Center.

On today's show, we meet Robert Petkoff, who will be front and center when Moulin Rouge! The Musical is on stage at Walton Arts Center next week, but you may have already spent time with his voice on one of the audiobook bestsellers he’s narrated. Plus, three of our summer interns, all graduates of Benton County high schools, get six questions they shouldn’t be expected to know the correct answers to. We also get River Valley news from Talk Business & Politics.