First, we talk about Christmas movies with Jamison Rabbitt, a Sun Prairie-based movie review show host. At noon, it’s a special visit from Santa and elf Jingle. They will be ready to hear what kids want for Christmas at the number 800-642-1234 or email talk@wpr.org.

County road crews maintain, plow and salt Wisconsin’s highways. We learn how they do it all. Then, a dog trainer has advice for reducing chaos at the front door.

First, we talk about the book “A Measured Thread” with author Mary Behan. It’s our final book club novel of the year. Then, Mary Mellem, a tax professional, helps you get your 2025 tax documents ready to file.

We talk with Woody Kerwin about how and where to use lighting. And then we hear about how the Savannah Institute is helping to shape the future of farming.

Winter in Wisconsin means making sure your vehicle can handle the harsh conditions. We  get some auto maintenance advice. Then, we talk to the author of a new book tracing the history of Madison’s Breese Stevens Field.

First, we unpack the evolving impact of climate change on Wisconsin tourism and recreation. Then we talk to a certified etiquette instructor about how to be civil when traveling by air. Finally, we look at the history of sleigh transportation in Wisconsin.

Mentors, whether they know it or not, change the way you think about yourself and your life goals. Michael Perry stops by to talk about his latest book about the unexpected mentors he’s had in life, and what he’s learned from all the paths he’s walked. 

Treatment for lower back pain often requires therapy and exercises tailored specifically to individual patients. We talk to physical therapists Lori Thein Brody and Jill Thein-Nissenbaum about providing the relief back pain sufferers need.

Keeping houseplants happy and healthy when you have lots going on in your house can be difficult. Nationally known plant expert Tova Martin is back to share some tips for making things easier. We also talk about how to care for traditional holiday plants.

It’s winter and your house may be colder than it should be. Condensation on your windows or ice dams in the roof and gutters are evidence of heat loss. For advice on avoiding these problems and more, we’ll talk to registered home inspector John Freiburger.

We talk about people, places and history of the upper Mississippi River with Reggie McLeod, the editor and publisher of Big River magazine. This issue covers a family with a goal to paddle down the entire Mississippi, slimy sculpin in Crawford County and plenty of other news from the Driftless Area.

Manitowoc’s aluminum Christmas trees, an ice-skating trail in Boulder Junction, and paying storytellers with pecan pie. That’s some of what you get in the new issue of “Our Wisconsin” magazine. Editor Mike Beno joins us.

Tech expert Beth D’Angelo returns to answer your cybersecurity questions and talk about best practices for shopping online. Then, Laneice Runnels from the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development joins to share how to make a career change.

We talk with gardening expert Lis Friemoth about what’s on her 2025 Gardening Gift Guide. Then Laura Jull is in to give advice on picking out a great Christmas tree.

We’re warned to avoid seasonal scams by two officials with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. Then we talk to the Wisconsin author of a new novella about the push and pull of faith and disbelief.

Scott Craven, emeritus professor and UW Extension wildlife ecologist, joins us for another Wildlife Wednesday. He'll answer your questions about the animals in your neck of the woods. Then, we talk about making delicious meals out of wild game with Madison-based Chef Joel Olson.

A new book argues that school boards are essential for a democracy, yet often under fire. We talk to the author. Then, we'll also hear how libraries are fairing in these uncertain times.

Tom Wilmeth, our resident music aficionado, returns with a list of songs to get you into a wintery mood. Then Larry Meiller has some big news.

Foraging expert Sam Thayer is with us to tell you about food that you don't have to grow -- what to look for and how to use it.

First, entomologist PJ Liesch returns to answer your questions about bugs. Then, we talk to Wisconsin author James Campbell about his latest, “Heart of the Jaguar.” Finally, we catch up with Elaine Becker and Karen Mayhew. They make wool pellets for gardeners in Argyle.