On this Newsbuzz episode, forecasts of budgeting in the 2026 legislative session, a recap of an inaugural summit at the University of Iowa's state legislature-imposed Center for Intellectual Freedom and the upcoming retirement of Iowa State University President Wendy Wintersteen. Also, Team USA women's wrestling coach Terry Steiner and Ukrainian wrestler Andrey Vorontsov discuss the two-week training camp they're having this month on the UI campus. This will culminate in a dual meet at the Xtream Arena on Dec. 18.

Former Ambassador George Kent spent 33 years in the foreign service, serving twice in diplomatic roles in Ukraine, and most recently as the ambassador to Estonia. He notably gave testimony in the 2019 House impeachment inquiry of President Donald Trump. Host Ben Kieffer spoke with the diplomat while he visited Des Moines this week, speaking to the Greater Des Moines Committee on Foreign Relations. They spoke on several topics, including his cross-country bicycle ride, his termination from the federal government and what he calls the "decimation" of the United States' professional foreign service being carried out by President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Political scientists Wayne Moyer and Rachel Caufield react to President Donald Trump's announcement of a $12 billion relief package for farmers. They also discuss the results of a special election in northwest Iowa, polling on the presidential nominating calendar, and more.

Former Iowa Gov. Robert Ray made a decision 50 years ago that echoed beyond Iowa's borders — a bold choice to welcome Tai Dam refugees from Southeast Asia in their hour of need. Matt Walsh, author of The Good Governor: Robert Ray and the Indochinese Refugees of Iowa, joins the show to discuss Ray's history-making decisions post-Vietnam. Then, Vinh Nguyen and Hieu Pham discuss their experiences as refugees who made Iowa home.This show was originally produced in May 2025.

Veteran journalist Tom Chorneau discusses his book Mrs. Cook & The Klan, which examines an unsolved Iowa murder case from 1925. Chorneau’s true crime investigation also explains the complex social, political and cultural forces at work in 1920s America, where prohibition, the KKK's resurgence and the temperance movement created a volatile mix.This show was originally produced June 17, 2025.

Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Bret Stephens is known for his willingness to challenge both the left and the right.

Having prediabetes means your body is struggling to manage blood sugar. Without changes, it can develop into full-blown diabetes and put you at risk for other chronic conditions. Host Ben Kieffer is joined by Dr. Cara Drew, a family medicine physician in Sioux City, and Corey Dion Lewis, a health coach based in Des Moines. They discuss the populations most at risk, how to get tested and how to prevent full-blown diabetes.

Analysts discuss the top political headlines of the week, including immigration crackdowns and election security.

A team of researchers at the University of Northern Iowa is exploring the deepest caves in the U.S. with NASA funding. This could inform the search for life on other planets. UNI associate professor Josh Sebree discusses the research he’s been leading with an interdisciplinary team of UNI students. We also hear from one of those researchers, Jacqueline Heggen, and Cheryl Johnson, president of the state’s chapter of the National Speleological Society.

Health policy analyst Emma Wager explains how the health care tax credits that are set to expire later this month work. Iowa Insurance Commissioner Doug Ommen shares what Iowans should know during this ACA open enrollment season and Iowa Farmers Union President Aaron Lehman shares the impact these tax credits have on farmers. Later in the hour, sports columnist and reporter Mike Hlas reflects on his career at The Gazette, after he was informed that he would not be retained on staff effective this month,

Political scientists preview two statehouse special elections happening this December. Experts Jim McCormick and Rachel Caufield also discuss the latest candidate forums, health care tax credits and former Gov. Terry Branstad's upcoming award on this Politics Day edition of River to River.

Historian and bestselling author Colin Woodard argues America's divide isn’t red vs. blue at all — it’s a clash of distinct cultural nations.

A retired therapist and professor shares what Alzheimer's has felt like for him. Volker Thomas and Edie Pierce Thomas, his wife and primary caregiver, open up about diagnosis, caregiving and the moments that still bring relief.

Reaction to a newspaper acquisition and a tribute to two philanthropic giants from Iowa in this Newsbuzz episode.

For better or for worse, the COVID-19 pandemic forced Iowans to adapt.

Political analysts Megan Goldberg and Kelly Shaw break down why Iowa’s delegation waited for Trump’s approval before voting to release the Epstein files — plus insight on support for ACA subsidies, Texas redistricting, the farm bill and more.

A discussion on how federal cuts to Medicaid will impact Iowans and rural healthcare.

This year's Iowa Climate Statement warns that extreme weather is already pushing insurance costs higher for homeowners and farmers. We break down what the data means for the state’s future.

What’s behind Iowa’s rapid move toward the GOP? Hear the latest analysis, meet ISU’s new leader, learn how auroras lit up Iowa skies and get ready for Cranksgiving.

How the COVID-19 pandemic affected the personal and professional lives of Iowans.