Virginia Focus

What if the most successful urban residents aren't humans at all? Across the globe, animals are adapting to city life at remarkable speed, evolving new behaviors-and even new biology-to thrive in our concrete landscapes. On this episode, Dr. Dan Werb joins us to discuss his eye-opening book, Our Wild Familiars, and the hidden wildlife revolution unfolding right outside our doors.

College Brain Drain explores why some college graduates stay and build careers in their home state while others leave for opportunities hundreds of miles away? Dr. Peter Bahr, of the Strada Education Foundation joins us to explore new research on where graduates relocate after college, what drives those decisions, and what it all means for states hoping to attract and retain talent. On this episode, guest host Thomas Cage, with the Virginia News Network, is filling in for the vacationing Rebecca Hughes.

When it comes to literacy, Americais a nation at risk. The results of a study by the National Assessment of Educational Progress Reading shows in 47 states at least 60% of 8th grade students are below reading level. On this episode, we are talking to Pam Good, CEO and President of Beyond Basics, to find out just how bad is the problem and what is neccessary to fix

If it feels like everything is getting more expensive, you're not imagining it. From grocery stores and gas stations to airfare and family vacations, a new analysis finds Americans are paying significantly more for many of the staples that define daily life. Let's chat with Angela Hanks, Chief of Policy Programs at the Century Foundation, we'll break down what's driving those higher costs, why inflation continues to outpace wage growth for many workers, and what economists say it could mean for household budgets in the months ahead.

When temperatures soar, your pets may be facing dangers you can't see. From heat-related illnesses to disease-carrying insects, summer can pose serious risks for animals of all kinds. In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Michael Bailey, President of the American Veterinary Medical Association, to discuss the warning signs every pet owner should know, simple steps that could save an animal's life, and where to turn when you need help caring for your pets.

You might think you're burned out but what if the real problem is that you're simply not being challenged? A growing number of workers are experiencing what's known as "career rust out"; feeling stuck, disengaged, and disconnected from meaningful work. In this episode, we are talking with Keith Spencer, Career Expert with Resume Now, to explore the warning signs of rust out, why it happens, and what you can do to get your career moving again.

Major changes to federal student loans took effect July 1st, affecting the way millions of current and future borrowers pay for college. The reforms reshape borrowing limits, eliminate several repayment options, and could leave some students searching for new ways to cover the rising cost of higher education. On this episode we're talking to Financial Expert Brian Walsh with So-Fi Bank. He's going to drill down what's changing, who could end up paying more, and what financial experts say families and borrowers should be doing right now to prepare.

What if the earliest voices of American democracy weren’t speeches, but handwritten petitions from everyday Virginians? On this episode, we’re joined by Sarah Falls, Chief of Researcher Engagement at the Library of Virginia, to talk about a powerful new exhibit, “Ideas in Action: Virginians Petition their Government, 1776-1786.” It brings to life the real concerns of people during the Revolutionary era, from religious freedom to war compensation and emancipation, and shows how those voices helped shape a new nation.

When we think about something like the World Cup, we often picture the matches, the crowds, and the global spotlight, but behind all of it is a workforce that keeps everything running, and keeps communities moving long after the games are over. A new analysis from Zety is putting that into focus, breaking down the high-demand, high-paying jobs that make events like this possible, many of which don’t even require a four-year degree. From infrastructure and safety to logistics and power, Jasmine Escalara says these are careers that not only support a global moment, but offer long-term opportunity and stability in everyday life - and that’s exactly where this conversation begins.

This Father’s Day weekend, we’re stepping beyond the picture-perfect images of fatherhood we scroll past every day, and getting real about what it actually means to be a good dad, partner, and man right now. In a world where many men feel pressure to stay strong, stay silent, and somehow get everything right, today’s conversation is about breaking that mold—opening up about doubt, vulnerability, and the quiet struggles so many carry. Author Christopher Parent has been exploring those questions in an honest and deeply human way, offering insight on connection, emotion, and even humor as tools for navigating the hardest parts of life and parenting.