Central Time
2,157 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 2 months ago - ★★★★ - 18 ratingsHosted by Rob Ferrett, "Central Time" takes a unique approach to cover a variety of topics. Executive producer Dean Knetter and producers Tim Peterson, Colleen Leahy, Lorin Cox, Beatrice Lawrence, and Richelle Wilson explore the latest news, cultural trends, and explore ideas -- big and small -- finding the best guests to discuss these thought-provoking topics. Sarah Hopefl is the program's technical director.
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Episodes
Hobbies History, Understanding The Difference In Reporting Influenza Versus COVID-19 Cases
May 05, 2020 23:00We discuss the backstory on hobbies, where they came from, and what people are spending their free time doing today, with a historian. Then a public health expert joins us to explain the importance of knowing the difference between how cases of COVID-19 and the flu are reported.
A 'Normal' Diet, Coronavirus And Air Quality, Supreme Court Hears Safe-At-Home Arguments
May 05, 2020 22:00We break down the complexity of "healthy" eating with a dietitian. Then we hear about a new project to measure air quality changes due to COVID-19 and decreased travel. Plus, we discuss the arguments for and against Wisconsin's stay-at-home order as it goes before the Supreme Court.
New Documents In Michael Flynn's Case, Rapping Dr. Seuss, Third-Party Candidates In 2020
May 04, 2020 23:00We talk with a national security reporter about new information that's come to light regarding President Trump's former national security advisor. Then a Wisconsin artist is giving classic children's books a new hip hop spin. And we discuss the potential impact of third-party candidates in this year's presidential campaign.
Mondays With Mike, Baldwin For Vice President Opinion, Asian Giant Hornet
May 04, 2020 22:00WPR's director discusses some special programming coming up and takes listener questions about WPR's work during the coronavirus pandemic. Then a political reporter explains his reasoning for why Sen. Tammy Baldwin should be Joe Biden's running mate. Plus, news of a new invasive hornet in the U.S.
New Disinformation Tactics, The Case For Trust In Government To Beat The Pandemic, Distancing Etiquette
May 01, 2020 23:00A disinformation expert joins us to talk about a Chinese campaign to sew coronavirus fear in the U.S. via text messages. And we talk to a political scientist about the importance of people being able to trust government for getting through a pandemic. And an etiquette expert tackles questions of behavior around other people during social distancing guidelines.
Food For Feeling Togetherness, Skin Cancer Prevention, Competing Plans To Reopen Economy
May 01, 2020 22:00We talk with a renowned chef about making the most of our pantry stock, as well as the value of continuing to cook during safer-at-home orders. We also discuss skin protection with an oncology specialist. And we get an update alternative ideas being proposed to reopen the state's economy.
Spring Birding In Wisconsin, Biden And Sexual Assault Allegations
April 30, 2020 23:00We talk with a DNR bird expert about how to attract and spot some colorful springtime winged visitors. And a reporter joins us to discuss the history and current narrative playing out related to former Vice President Joe Biden and allegations of decades-old sexual assault against him.
Board Games During A Pandemic, Looking Behind The Mechanics Of A Virus, New Executive Order To Keep Meatpacking Plants Open
April 30, 2020 22:00Board games are one of the ways people are entertaining themselves while staying safer-at-home. We discuss their rise in popularity and hear from listeners about some of their favorites. We also talk with a virologist about his lab's research on the novel coronavirus -- and how it compares to previous outbreaks. And we discuss the impact of President Trump ordering meatpacking plants to stay open.
Children's Book Reading Goes Virtual, The State Of Sports, 'Safer At Home' Challenge
April 29, 2020 23:00A children's author goes online to share her book and quiet exercise practice. Then we talk with a sports columnist about what the future holds for sports and spectating after the coronavirus pandemic has subsided. And we get an update on the legal challenge to Gov. Evers' "Safer at Home" order, including Evers' request that the state Supreme Court dismiss the case.
National Preschools Report, Cell Phone Data And Wisconsinite Movement, Washington News
April 29, 2020 22:00We learn how Wisconsin stacks up against the rest of the country when it comes to pre-kindergarten, according to a report on 2019 offerings. Then cell phone data can reveal how much the "safer at home" order impacted travel in the state, and we talk to a reporter about how. Then our weekly check in on Washington news includes president Trump stepping away from his daily coronavirus briefings.
Caring For Someone With Dementia During The Coronavirus Outbreak, News
April 28, 2020 23:00For people living with dementia, confusion, fear and frustration are common reactions to unfamiliar situations. We look at caring for and supporting people with memory issues during the COVID-19 pandemic. And with calls for the US Postal Service to increase prices for online retailers, we look at the past and future of that institution.
The Retail Landscape After The Coronavirus, COVID-19 Risks For Trash Collectors, Hospitals Resuming Elective Surgeries
April 28, 2020 22:00We look at what the retail sector may look like after the COVID-19 crisis passes. With many unknowns about coronavirus transmission, we learn about precautions for waste collection workers. And we look at why some hospitals are resuming elective procedures.
Federal Program To Support Farmers, Public Health Influencing Bathroom Designs, What Coronavirus Information To Believe
April 27, 2020 23:00We learn how past public health crises shaped modern bathroom design, and if the coronavirus may do the same. A medical doctor helps break down what is and is not true about coronavirus prevention and treatment. And we talk about the federal stimulus package to support farmers and ranchers affected by the coronavirus outbreak.
Anxiety In Children, A Plan To Reopen Wisconsin's Economy, And Pantry Staples To Boost Your Cooking
April 27, 2020 22:00Children are more likely than ever to be diagnosed with anxiety disorders. We find out what support is available for them and parents. With fewer trips to the store and limited dining options, we get tips for livening up our quarantine cooking. And we examine a plan to reopen Wisconsin's economy.
Why The Shutdown For Coronavirus Is Different Than Other Outbreaks, Women Going Through Social Distancing Alone, Options For Elections During COVID-19 Crisis
April 24, 2020 23:00We compare the responses to the coronavirus to global reactions to previous outbreaks like SARS and Ebola. Many women are sheltering in place alone. We hear some of their stories. And democratic and republican legislators offer ideas of conducting Wisconsin elections during the COVID-19 crisis.
Turning Kitchen Discards Into Meals, Quieting Of The World, Polls Show Strong Support For Stay-At-Home Measures As Opponents Protest Guidelines At State Capitol
April 24, 2020 22:00We look at how to use the discards from kitchen prep, instead of tossing them into the compost pile. With many people working from home and limiting social outings, scientists can actually hear more of the sounds of the Earth. We'll learn what they're hearing. And we talk about public support for safer-at-home measures amid COVID-19 outbreak as people protest at the state capitol.
How Couples Are Living Together While Working Together, Additional Help For Small Businesses
April 23, 2020 23:00A psychologist joins us to discuss what couples sharing a home office could possibly learn from the experiences of retirees. And we talk with a regional representative from the Small Business Administration about the latest round of federal assistance.
The Virtues Of Snail Mail, Visualizing The End Of Coronavirus, COVID-19 Spreading Through Meat Processing Plants
April 23, 2020 22:00We check in with a couple of snail mail enthusiasts to discuss the practice, while it's still National Letter and Card Writing Month. Then we talk with a physician about the prospect and timeline for a coronavirus vaccine, and what the end of the pandemic could look like. And we talk about why meat processing plants have seen a growing number of COVID-19 cases.
Republicans Challenge Safer-At-Home Extension In State Supreme Court, More Chapter A Day Content Available, Living Slower And Better During Coronavirus Distancing
April 22, 2020 23:00A reporter gives us the latest on Wisconsin Republicans' efforts to upend Governor Evers' extension of his Safer-At-Home order. Then we learn how to access some additional past Chapter A Day content that's available during this time. And we discuss the benefits of being forced to live slower with an MIT physicist.
Earth Day From A Native American Perspective, Economic Aid During Two Pandemics, This Week In Washington
April 22, 2020 22:00We talk to an Anishinaabe traditional ecological knowledge specialist about our troubled relationship with the Earth. Then we compare economic effects and relief measures between the current pandemic and during the 1918 flu. And we discuss top Washington news, including the latest federal coronavirus relief legislative package.
How Media Covers Pandemics, Federal Help For The Small Business Administration
April 21, 2020 23:00We talk with an advertising professor about the way media covers epidemics and pandemics, from the H1N1 virus to the novel coronavirus. Then a political scientist joins us to discuss economic assistance that may be coming as part of the Small Business Administration.
Chronicling Coronavirus Life In Wisconsin, Lesser Known Baseball Stories, Governor Evers' 'Badger Bounce Back' Plan
April 21, 2020 22:00We learn about some ways the lives of Wisconsinites are being documented during this strange time, to share with future generations. Then we talk with a children's book author about great stories from baseball's history we may have forgotten, or not known about in the first place. And we look at Governor Evers' new plan to re-open Wisconsin's economy.
Explaining The Federal Coronavirus-Related Stimulus Checks, The Brightest Supernova, Understanding Internet Capacity During Coronavirus-Induced Surge
April 20, 2020 23:00We talk to a national reporter about some common questions people have about the stimulus checks related to coronavirus recovery. And we find out how scientists witnessing the brightest supernova in history impacts what we know about space. We also talk to a tech reporter about problems people are experiencing with their internet while those stuck at home are spending more time online.
The Question Of Hazard Pay For Essential Workers, Harry Houdini As An American
April 20, 2020 22:00Our guest makes the case for paying workers classified as "essential" a hazard wage, and explains how that could work. Then we take a deep dive on the life of escape artist Harry Houdini and the years he lived in Wisconsin.
Aquaponics In Wisconsin, Basic Phone Calls Boom, Coronavirus Research Literacy
April 17, 2020 23:00We learn about opportunities aquaponics may offer farmers in Wisconsin to transition from less viable work. Then we talk to a reporter about people returning to the plain-old phone call during social distancing restrictions. And an infectious disease expert helps us develop some coronavirus literacy for understanding new research as results are released.
Baking Under Stay-At-Home Orders, What You Should Care About In Food Chemistry, Balancing Public Health And The Economy
April 17, 2020 22:00An award-winning cookbook author joins us for a Food Friday focused on the rise in at-home baking during the coronavirus outbreak. Then we learn more about how we can look at and think about our food choices. And we talk about the growing concern facing policymakers as the COVID-19 outbreak impacts the economy.
Undergrads Tutoring Online, New York Times Reporter On 'Red Dawn' Emails, Breaking Down The Federal Stimulus
April 16, 2020 23:00We talk to a professor and student involved in a project with Wisconsin undergrads helping tutor K-12 students online. Then a reporter joins us to talk about a story that tracked the Trump administration's slow-moving response to the coronavirus. And we discuss details of the federal stimulus measure, including its impact on the national debt.
Strength In Weirdness, Wisconsin's Legislative Response To Coronavirus
April 16, 2020 22:00We discuss the benefits of being weird with an author of a new book about navigating that outsider struggle, and finding power through it. Then we learn more about how Wisconsin's legislature is managing a response effort to COVID-19.
Laughter Yoga, Gathering Within A Video Game, A Plan To Reopen Wisconsin Businesses
April 15, 2020 23:00We look at how incorporating laughter into yoga really can be one of the best medicines. A real-life space for young people to gather goes virtual through a video game. And the leader of a Wisconsin commercial association calls for a plan to reopen businesses in a responsible manner.
COVID-19 Modeling, Changing Advice On Masks, Week In Washington
April 15, 2020 22:00Dates of when the coronavirus will peak, and the numbers of predicted illnesses and deaths change frequently. We look at data modeling in a pandemic. We examine how advice on wearing masks has developed. And we hear about some top national news stories, including high-profile endorsements of Joe Biden.
The Allure Of Gardening In The Age Of Coronoavirus, COVID-19 Public Health Update
April 14, 2020 23:00A horticulturalist shares why some people are feeling more drawn to gardening now than usual. And a public health physician shares information and answers questions about the next phases of the coronavirus pandemic.
Why We Enjoy Swimming, Should We Be Shopping, Wisconsin Election Results
April 14, 2020 20:00A political scientist parses Wisconsin's April election results and resulting lawsuits. We look at whether this is a time to indulge in shopping or not. And a look at why so many people enjoy swimming.
Absentee Ballot Problems, Happy Heart Club, Schooling At Home
April 13, 2020 23:00A Milton elementary teacher started a group for her neighborhood to decorate their windows with colorful paper hearts, and it's since gone nationwide. We talk to her about the response. We also hear an argument for not trying to recreate the classroom setting at home. Plus, we'll look at a number of problems being reported with absentee ballots in last Tuesday's statewide spring election.
Reading Recommendations, Ants As Farmers, Domestic Abuse Concerns
April 13, 2020 22:00Wisconsin's Safer at Home order can put victims of domestic abuse in a dangerous situation. We find out what resources are available. We also learn about how some species of ants actually farm fungus. Plus, recommendations for good books if we're spending more time at home.
State Coronavirus Response, Puzzle Popularity, Voting In A Pandemic
April 10, 2020 23:00Wisconsin's election this week sparked concerns about how a pandemic could disrupt a national election. We talk about the debate over how to make sure people will be able to vote safely. We also chat about what makes for a great jigsaw puzzle. Plus, an update on the state's response to COVID-19.
Breakfast Sandwiches, Stimulus Bill Oversight, Hacking The Planet
April 10, 2020 22:00President Trump recently removed the official overseeing $2 trillion of emergency spending. A reporter shares what we know about the decision. We also get ideas for making the perfect breakfast sandwich. Plus, a discussion on strategies for combating climate change.
Expressing Gratitude, Coronavirus And Online Schooling
April 09, 2020 23:00Showing gratitude can benefit our mood, especially when we do it for the right reasons. We talk with a researcher about what he's found out about saying thank you. We also talk about the barriers to holding online classes for all students during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Movie Industry During Pandemic, Coronavirus And Religious Holidays, Plasma Treatment
April 09, 2020 22:00Movie premieres are on hold during the COVID-19 pandemic. We'll talk with a critic about the industry's response. We also hear about research in Wisconsin being done on a plasma treatment for the novel coronavirus. Plus, a look at the pandemic's impact on religious holidays.
COVID-19's Impact On People With Autism, Solar Home Contest, Midwestern Identity
April 08, 2020 23:00An author joins us to discuss his search for the Midwestern identity. We also look at how the pandemic is affecting those with autism and developmental disabilities and their families. And we visit with two Wisconsin students competing in a design contest for solar-powered homes.
Voter Behavior, 1918 Flu In Wisconsin, Week In Washington
April 08, 2020 22:00President Trump has removed the inspector general overseeing $2 trillion in emergency relief funding. We get the details on his decision. We also discuss how the COVID-19 pandemic affected voter behavior in this week's election. Plus, a look back at the 1918 flu's impact on Wisconsin.
Overcoming Partisanship Over Coronavirus, Rural Economic Outlook Amid Pandemic
April 07, 2020 23:00We talk with a journalist about the partisan divide that's emerged over how people view what's happening with the coronavirus outbreak -- and what we can do to bring folks back together. Then a professor joins us to talk about what impact the pandemic could have on economies in the more rural parts of Wisconsin.
What Rituals Mean To Us During Coronavirus Outbreak, Election Status Update
April 07, 2020 22:00We have a conversation with an anthropologist about the way people turn to ritual when their lives feel more turbulent. And we check in with a political scientist for an update on what's been happening with Wisconsin's election.
Irreverent Poetry For Parents, Working In A COVID-19 Emergency Room, How To Still Enjoy The Outdoors During The Coronavirus Restrictions
April 06, 2020 23:00An author shares poetry that addresses both the challenges and joys of parenthood. A Wisconsin nurse practitioner shares her experiences working in a COVID-19 ER in New York City. And we talk with a naturalist about some ways to still take advantage of our natural spaces while observing social distancing.
Calming Music Suggestions, The Problem With Being Optimistic During A Pandemic, Why COVID-19 May Hit Rural Areas Hard
April 06, 2020 22:00A WPR music host talks about some of her department's suggestions for music to listen to during uncertain times. Then a psychologist explains one connection between people's optimism and their disobeying social distancing restrictions. And we look at why rural areas could be hit hard by COVID-19.
The Latest On Wisconsin's April 7 Election, What It's Like Working In A COVID-19 ER, How To Still Enjoy The Outdoors During The Coronavirus Restrictions
April 06, 2020 21:00We discuss the latest on the Wisconsin's election. A Wisconsin nurse practitioner shares her experiences working in a COVID-19 ER in New York City. And we talk with a naturalist about some ways to still take advantage of our natural spaces while observing social distancing.
Cabin Owners Urged To Put Off Seasonal Visits, Musicians And Coronavirus Relief, Federalism During Pandemic
April 03, 2020 23:00A WPR reporter tells us about vacationers being asked to not go to their cabins in more rural parts of Wisconsin due to the coronavirus. Then we talk to a communication arts professor about various financial and creative impacts the pandemic is having on musicians. And we discuss how America's version of federalism is holding up during this turbulence.
Food And Tribal Sovereignty, The History Of Our Commute, Police Enforcement Of 'Safer At Home'
April 03, 2020 22:00We discuss Ho-Chunk ingredients and cooking, and the food sovereignty movement with chef and a Ho-Chunk tribal member. Then we talk to an urban planning scholar about how our transportation development matches how far we're willing to travel for work historically. And a police chief explains how officers are making sure people stay 'safer at home.'
Food And Tribal Sovereignty, Wisconsin Election Won't Be Postponed, Police Enforcement Of 'Safer At Home'
April 03, 2020 20:00We discuss Ho-Chunk ingredients and cooking, and the food sovereignty movement with chef and a Ho-Chunk tribal member. Then we learn about a judge's decision to not delay Wisconsin's April election. And a police chief explains how officers are making sure people stay 'safer at home.'
The Value Of Experiencing Boredom, How We Fund Public Health
April 02, 2020 23:00Could experiencing boredom actually be good for us? Our guests are fascinated by people who think there's nothing to do. Then we talk to a professor of population health sciences about whether we should be investing more in public health.
2020 DNC Postponed, Protections For Renters During Coronavirus Economic Slump, Mayo Clinic's Own Coronavirus Test, Republican Perspective On Stimulus Package
April 02, 2020 22:00The 2020 Democratic National Convention has been postponed due to concerns surrounding the novel coronavirus outbreak. A public housing expert from UW-Madison talks about how renters who may be struggling due to the coronavirus restrictions are being protected in Wisconsin. Then a physician from Mayo Clinic shares how the medical center developed a test for the coronavirus. And U.S. Rep. Bryan Steil (R-1) shares a Republican perspective on the federal stimulus package.