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Friday
2/1/2013
3:00 PM
130201K

Goodbye Ben
As Ben Merens begins his last day of hosting, we look back on 21 years on memories together, and hear from some favorite guests, as well.
Guests: John St. Augustine is a WGN radio host in Chicago. He is the author of Every Moment Matters and Living an Uncommon Life: Essential Lessons from 21 Extraordinary People.
Mary Anne Radmacher (Rod-MOCK-er) is a writing coach and author of numerous books. Her latest is Honey in Your Heart: Ways to See and Savor the Simple Good Things.

Friday
2/1/2013
4:00 PM
130201L

Your Views on the News
Join Ben Merens and his guest to discuss what you think was the biggest news story of the week. Was it the new immigration reform proposals? Or Gabby Giffords testimony before Congress on guns? A look at the news that's been in the week that was today on Your Views on the News.
Guest: Joe Heim is a professor of political science at UW-La Crosse.

Thursday
1/31/2013
3:00 PM
130131K

To Sell is Human
In America, one in nine of us works in traditional sales. According to Ben Merens' guest, so do the other eight. Join the conversation about the art and science of selling. www.danpink.com
Guest: Daniel Pink is the author of "To Sell is Human: The Surprising Truth About Moving Others" and three other books.

Thursday
1/31/2013
4:00 PM
130131L

Sibling Rivalry
A good-natured sibling rivalry will be on display this weekend, as the Harbaugh brothers get set to coach against each other in Super Bowl XLVII. But sibling rivalry can be a real problem for many families...and these rivalries can last well into adulthood. Ben Merens and his guest examine the rifts between siblings, and how to overcome them.
Guest: Avidan Milevsky (AH-vee-dahn mill-EV-skee), associate professor of psychology at Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, author of "Sibling Relationships in Childhood and Adolescence: Predictors and Outcomes." His recent article, "The Super Bowl of Sibling Rivalry," is at http://wpr.org/r/?1010

Wednesday
1/30/2013
3:00 PM
130130K

The Future of Unions
Despite an increase in the labor force, the percentage of workers belonging to a union dropped to 11.3% last year...the lowest rate in nearly 80 years. Ben Merens and his guest discuss the reasons behind decline, the role of unions in the 21st century, and where organized labor goes from here.
Guest: Bob Bruno, Professor of Labor and Employment Relations and the Director of Labor Education Programs at the University of Illinois

Wednesday
1/30/2013
4:00 PM
130130L

Change in our Lives, Careers, Communities
The only constant in life is change...in our lives, careers or communities. But too many of us just like the way things are, and are reluctant to shake things up. Today after four on At Issue, Ben Merens and his guest discuss change.
Guest: Richard Thieme (THEME), insight specialist, public speaker, author of "Mind Games" and "Islands in the Quickstream." His op-ed on the lack of change in Milwaukee is at http://wpr.org/r/?1011

Tuesday
1/29/2013
3:00 PM
130129K

Mars
2013 is shaping up to be a good year for Mars. With last year's landing of a new rover on the planet, we're treated with new and exciting images every day. But just what exactly is going on up there these days? Ben Merens talks with the lead scientist for the Mars Curiosity mission about the research currently taking place on the Red Planet, and what role Mars will might play in humanity's future.
Guest: John Grotzinger, professor of geology at the California Institute of Technology, and lead scientist for the Mars Curiosity expedition.

Tuesday
1/29/2013
4:00 PM
130129L

Immigration Reform
President Obama delivered his vision of immigration reform in a speech this afternoon, a day after bi-partisan group of senators put forward their reform plan. Ben Merens and his guest discuss the framework of the proposals, which could provide a path to citizenship for the nation's eleven million undocumented immigrants.
Guest: Jamie Longazel, assistant professor of sociology at the University of Dayton, who studies immigration law and politics.

Monday
1/28/2013
3:00 PM
130128K

Understanding PTSD from the Veterans Perspective
Post traumatic stress disorder is common in veterans because the stresses of war can often cause a soldier to emotionally break. Today on At Issue, host Ben Merens introduces you to four veterans who have found their way back from PTSD.
www.michaelorban.com
Guests:
Mike Orban, 1st Cavalry Division U.S. Army Infantry and author of Souled Out: A Memoir of War and Inner Peace.
Mark Forman, Sculptor, U.S. Navy Air Corpsman (attached to Marines).
Jim Hackbarth, Poet, 1st Cavalry Division Viet Nam - Helicopter door gunner.
Mike Maurer, Golfer, combat medic 1st Infantry Army

Monday
1/28/2013
4:00 PM
130128L

Ben's Last Week on the Air
Ben Merens begins his last week on the air today, and this hour, he hears your comments, and takes the questions you've always wanted him to answer.

Friday
1/25/2013
3:00 PM
130125K

Imperfect Spirituality
What are the things you've been trying to hide, fix, change and deny about yourself? According to Ben Merens' guest today, these may be the very things that will expand and elevate your life.
Guest: Polly Campbell is a writer and speaker specializing in personal development and spiritual topics. She is the author of Imperfect Spirituality: Extraordinary Enlightenment for Ordinary People. She blogs at www.ImperfectSpirituality.com and www.PsychologyToday.com and is a teacher on www.DailyOM.com.

Friday
1/25/2013
4:00 PM
130125L

Your Views on the News
The news that's been in the week that was. It's Your Views on the News today on At Issue. Join host Ben Merens as he takes your calls about the week's top news story.
Guest: David Canon, professor of political science at UW-Madison

Thursday
1/24/2013
3:00 PM
130124K

The $100 Startup: Turning Ideas into Income
According to our guest, with just $100 in startup costs, you can build a successful business. Join Ben Merens as he talks with his guest and learns how to lead a life of adventure, meaning, and purpose - and earn a good living. www.chrisguillebeau.com
Guest: Chris Guillebeau is an entrepreneur, traveler and writer. He is the author of The $100 Startup: Reinvent The Way You Make A Living, Do What You Love, and Create A New Future.

Thursday
1/24/2013
4:00 PM
130124L

Women in Combat
The Pentagon announced today the lifting of the military's ban on women serving in combat roles. Supporters say women are already serving in combat and deserve the recognition, while critics point to the grueling physical demands of a battlefield. In this hour, Ben Merens gets two takes on the role of women in combat.
Guests:
- Katie Miller, special assistant for the LGBT Research and Communications Project at the Center for American Progress. Co-author of the report, "Women and Warfare: Denying Combat Recognition Creates 'Brass Ceiling.'" http://wpr.org/r/?1003
- Charlotte Hays, director of cultural programs at the Independent Women's Forum. Her piece, "The Naked Truth about Women in Combat" is at http://wpr.org/r/?1004

Wednesday
1/23/2013
3:00 PM
130123K

Second Chances and Forgiveness
How likely are you to give someone a second chance after they've wronged you? Do you feel any different when a celebrity, like Lance Armstrong, asks for your forgiveness versus a family member doing the same? Ben Merens and his guest discuss the role of forgiveness in society and why we do...or don't...grant second chances to the people in our lives.
Guest: Loren Toussaint (too-SAUNT), associate professor of psychology at Luther College, and associate director of the Sierra Leone Forgiveness Project.

Wednesday
1/23/2013
4:00 PM
130123L

Media Analysis
Mass shootings, hurricanes, politics, sports scandals...today's media is quick to jump from one story to the next, so how do we evaluate the coverage that is given to these subjects, and others? Ben Merens and his guest discuss the news coverage of today's biggest issues.
Guest: Chris Daly, associate professor of journalism at Boston University, and veteran journalist. He's the author of "Covering America: A Narrative History of a Nation's Journalism," and he blogs about media issues at http://journalismprofessor.com/

Tuesday
1/22/2013
3:00 PM
130122K

Around the Corner
All across Wisconsin, neighborhoods make up the heart and soul of our cities and towns. But just what makes a neighborhood great? And what makes your neighborhood even better? Ben and his guest take a trip "Around the Corner" to find out.
Guest: John McGivern, a member of Milwaukee's morning radio show on 96.5 WKLH. He's the host of "Around the Corner with John McGivern," which began its second season this month on Milwaukee Public Television. A schedule of airdates is at http://wpr.org/r/?994

Tuesday
1/22/2013
4:00 PM
130122L

President Obama's Second Term
His inauguration is over and now the work of a second term begins. In this hour, Ben Merens and his guest look at what issues await President Obama in the next four years and the unique challenges presidents face in their second terms.
Guest: David Cohen, Professor of Political Science, University of Akron, and Fellow at the Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics

Monday
1/21/2013
3:00 PM
130121K

ECON 101
We may have avoided the fiscal cliff, but analysts say the last minute Congressional agreement at the start of the year which raised taxes on wealthy Americans to avoid massive spending cuts was only a temporary fix. Another crisis is looming. Join Ben Merens and his guest for At Issue ECON 101 today to ask your questions about our changing economy.
Guest: Kevin Quinn is Associate Academic Dean and professor of Economics at St. Norbert College.

Monday
1/21/2013
4:00 PM
130121L

MLK's Message, Then and Now
Martin Luther King, Jr.'s message of equality, freedom and justice is a profound message that still resonates nearly 45 years after his death. But how have attitudes towards that message changed over time? Ben Merens and his guest discuss how Dr. King's message was received then...and how it's received now.
Guest: Tyrone Tillery, associate professor of history at the University of Houston, who specializes in African American and Civil Rights history.

Friday
1/18/2013
3:00 PM
130118K

Finding Your True Calling in Life
Starting a new year is always a good time to focus on where you want to go. Today on At Issue, Ben Merens and his guest discuss how to find your true calling in life...and answer the call. www.songsforyourspirit.com
Guest: Jeanne Loehnis is a life coach.

Friday
1/18/2013
4:00 PM
130118L

Your Views on the News
It's Your Views on the News this hour. From Governor Walker's State of the State address to the President's new gun-control proposals, Ben Merens and his guest recap the top news stories of the week. They'll also hear what story has your attention this week and why.
Guest: Ed Miller, professor of political science, UW-Stevens Point

Thursday
1/17/2013
3:00 PM
130117K

Best Sports Movies of All-Time
Some of the greatest American movies of all-time are sports movies. Who can forget Robert Redford's home run in "The Natural" or Sylvester Stallone triumphantly running up the steps in "Rocky"? Ben Merens and his guest look at the intersection of sport and film, why we love a good underdog story, and hear about your favorite sports movies as well.
Guest: Mike Mayo, film critic and a contributor to The Washington Post and The Roanoke Times. He's the author of "Jimmy the Stick" and his upcoming book on film is "The Horror Show Guide: The Ultimate Frightfest of Movies"

Thursday
1/17/2013
4:00 PM
130117L

Gun Control Recommendations
President Obama unveiled yesterday new gun-control initiatives, including a call to implement mandatory background checks for gun sales and reinstating a ban on assault weapons. He also signed 23 executive actions addressing gun policy, as well. Ben Merens and his guest discuss the proposed policies and how they might affect gun violence in the United States.
Guest: Mark Kleiman (KLY-mann), professor of public policy at the University of California, Los Angeles, who specializes in crime control, drug policy and politics. He blogs at www.SameFacts.com.

Wednesday
1/16/2013
3:00 PM
130116K

End of Life Care in Wisconsin
The Wisconsin Medical Society has launched an initiative called "Honoring Choices Wisconsin," aiming to make advance care planning a standard part of patient care. Join Ben Merens and his guests as they discuss the benefits of advance care planning and how to build those conversations.
Guests:
- John Maycroft is a policy analyst at the Wisconsin Medical Society and program lead for Honoring Choices Wisconsin.
- Dr. Bruce Agneberg is the Chief Medical Officer for Agrace HospiceCare in Madison. He is trained as a family physician and has been involved in the hospice movement since the late 1970s.

Wednesday
1/16/2013
4:00 PM
130116L

State of the State Recap
Governor Walker delivered his State of the State address last night. In this hour, Ben Merens and his guest discuss the Governor's remarks on where Wisconsin is at...and where the state is going.
Guest: Joe Foy, associate campus dean and associate professor of political science at UW-Waukesha

Tuesday
1/15/2013
3:00 PM
130115K

Milwaukee Named Top Art City
Last week, Milwaukee was named one of the top 12 cities for art in the nation. The city was chosen due to it's combination of art, independent businesses and a "walkable lifestyle" to create much sought-after "vibrant" neighborhoods. Join Ben Merens and his guests as they discuss art in Milwaukee.
Guests:
- Carol Coletta specializes in developing cities and creative communities. She is leading ArtPlace, a new national initiative to accelerate creative placemaking across the U.S.
- Neil Hoffman is President of the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design.
http://wpr.org/r/?993

Tuesday
1/15/2013
4:00 PM
130115L

Gun Policy Recommendations
After weeks of meeting with lawmakers, business executives and interest groups, Vice President Joe Biden released his recommendations for new gun-control measures in the U.S. Ben Merens and his guest discuss the proposals, and the chances of any of these measures becoming law.
Guest: Anthony Fleming, assistant professor of political science at the University of West Georgia. He's the author of "Gun Policy in the U.S. and Canada: The Impact of Mass Murders and Assassinations on Gun Policy."

Monday
1/14/2013
3:00 PM
130114K

Living our Lives 24/6
These days, the world doesn't seem to stop... and we're expected to be "on" 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. But according to Ben's guest, it's time to revert to a "24/6" lifestyle, and implement a "Stop Day" into our busy schedules to make us more physically and emotionally healthy.
Guest: Dr. Matthew Sleeth, a former emergency room physician. He's the executive director of Blessed Earth, and the author of "24/6: A Prescription for a Healthier, Happier Life."

Monday
1/14/2013
4:00 PM
130114L

Wisconsin Electoral Votes/SCOWIS Partisanship
Ben Merens and his guest tackle two issues facing the state. First, they'll discuss possible changes to the way Wisconsin's electoral votes are distributed. Then in the second half, Ben and his guest look at the role of partisanship in the upcoming state Supreme Court election. Should judicial candidates declare their political ideology prior to an election?
Guest: Mordecai Lee, Professor of Governmental Affairs, UW-Milwaukee

Friday
1/11/2013
3:00 PM
130111K

Wisconsin Capitals
Many cities around the state of Wisconsin are proud to be "capitals." Green Bay is the "Tissue Capital of the World," while Mount Horeb has become the "Troll Capital." Ben and his guest take a look at your favorite Wisconsin town, and why it's "World Famous."
Guest: Kim Beck, Director of Arts, Humanities and Science, UW-Milwaukee School of Continuing Education.

Friday
1/11/2013
4:00 PM
130111L

Your Views on the News
It's time for "Your Views on the News." Listeners are invited to call-in with their thoughts about the week's biggest news story.
Guest: Steven Schier (SHEAR), Professor of Political Science at Carleton College. Author, By Invitation Only: The Rise of Exclusive Politics in the United States, and You Call This an Election? America's Peculiar Democracy.

Thursday
1/10/2013
3:00 PM
130110K

Top Business Books of 2012
Ben Merens and his guests talk about some of the best business books that came out in 2012. Join the conversation with your questions and comments about helpful books on business topics you'd like to learn more about. www.800ceoread.com
Guests: Jack Covert is the president and founder of 800ceoread.com and the co-author of "The 100 Best Business Books of All Time: What They Say, Why They Matter, and How They Can Help You."
Jon Mueller is the General Manager of 800ceoread.com.

Thursday
1/10/2013
4:00 PM
130110L

Flu Outbreak
A severe strain of the flu is sweeping across the nation, hospitalizing thousands, including nearly 1,300 people in Wisconsin. Health officials are calling it the worst flu outbreak in years. In this hour, Ben Merens talks with an influenza expert about the outbreak, how it spreads, and the steps you can take to protect yourself.
Guest: Dr. Khalilah Babino (kah-LEE-lah BAB-in-o), immediate care physician at Loyola University Health System and an assistant professor of family medicine at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine

Wednesday
1/9/2013
3:00 PM
130109K

Technology Trends 2013
The Consumer Electronics Show is in full swing today in Las Vegas, showcasing the latest and greatest gizmos and gadgets. Ben Merens and his guest look at what's hot in the tech world, and the technology trends that we'll see in the upcoming year.
Guest: Rob Enderle (EN-der-lee), technology writer and principle analyst for the Enderle Group. His piece on technology trends in 2013 is at http://wpr.org/r/?984. His website is http://www.enderlegroup.com/

Wednesday
1/9/2013
4:00 PM
130109L

Binge Drinking and the Genders
Binge drinking is not a new problem, but is often overlooked as a women's health issue. But a new report from the CDC says that 1 in 8 women binge drink...and 1 in 5 high school girls as well. Ben Merens and his guest discuss binge drinking culture, the health risks, and the differences between men and women when it comes to binge drinking.
Guest: Aaron White, Program Director for Underage and College Drinking Prevention Research at the National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)

Tuesday
1/8/2013
3:00 PM
130108K

Converting Waste to Energy
Sweden's program of generating energy from garbage is wildly successful, so successful that the country has started importing waste due to its efficiency in converting garbage to renewable energy. Join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss this new technology and how it can be used in the United States. http://wpr.org/r/?985 www.wtert.com
GUEST: Nickolas Themelis is Director of the Earth and Environmental Engineering Department at Columbia University and Chairman of the Global Waste-to-Energy Research and Technology Council (WTERT).

Tuesday
1/8/2013
4:00 PM
130108L

Giffords takes on the NRA
Former congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and her husband Mark Kelly launched an effort today to "counter the influence of the gun lobby," in response to the mass shooting in Newtown. But will this effort lead to a significant change in gun laws? Ben Merens and his guest discuss the influence of interest groups in the gun control debate.
Guest: Don Haider-Markel, professor of political science at the University of Kansas, and co-author of the book "The Politics of Causes: Mass Shootings and the Cases of the Virginia Tech and Tucson Tragedies."

Monday
1/7/2013
3:00 PM
130107K

Older Parenthood
The average age of women when they have their first child is now 25.4 years, up from 21.5 in 1970. And although there has been a decline in the overall birthrate, the number of children born to women and men over forty has either increased or stayed steady. This hour, Ben Merens and his guest talk the social and economic implications of older parenthood.
Guest:
Judith Shulevitz - writer and cultural critic. Her piece The Grayest Generation appeared last month in The New Republic
READ: Check out Judith Shulevitz' piece here: http://on.tnr.com/TYjaBs

Monday
1/7/2013
4:00 PM
130107L

Chuck Hagel Nomination
Earlier today, President Obama nominated former republican senator Chuck Hagel to be the next secretary of defense...but many prominent republicans say his confirmation is not a sure thing. Ben and his guest discuss the battle brewing over the nomination, and what American foreign policy might look like with a Hagel-led Pentagon.
Guest:
- Jeremi Suri, Mack Brown Distinguished Chair for Leadership in Global Affairs, History, and Public Affairs at the University of Texas-Austin, the LBJ School of Public Affairs, and the Strauss Center for International Security and Law. His latest book is "Liberty's Surest Guardian."
- Aryeh Azriel, Rabbi at Temple Israel in Omaha, Nebraska

Friday
1/4/2013
3:00 PM
130104K

New Year's Resolutions Lasting Source of Happine...
New Year's resolutions don't make a lot of people happy. They can be a source of failure, year after year. Join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss how to make your resolution a lasting source of happiness, transforming yourself in small ways to become a newer, better self.
Guest: Christine Carter, a sociologist, is the Executive Director of the Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley. She is the author of "Raising Happiness: 10 Simple Steps for More Joyful Kids and Happier Parents."

Friday
1/4/2013
4:00 PM
130104L

Your Views on the News
Your views about the week's most significant story are welcome today after four on At Issue - It's Your Views on the News. What story has touched you the most and why?
Guest: Dennis Riley, Professor of Political Science, UW-Stevens Point. He is author of Bureaucracy and Policy Process: Keeping the Promises.

Thursday
1/3/2013
3:00 PM
130103K

The Health of the Great Lakes
Pollution, shoreline development, invasive species...these are just a few of the challenges facing the Great Lakes. This hour, Ben Merens talks with a researcher, who's developed interactive maps that visualize the stressors facing the Great Lakes, about the health of our lakes...and what we can do to start repairing them.
Guest: Peter McIntyre, Assistant Professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Center for Limnology. He's also a project leader at the Great Lakes Environmental Assessment and Mapping Project (GLEAM). You can see the new Great Lakes stressors map at http://www.greatlakesmapping.org

Thursday
1/3/2013
4:00 PM
130103L

Taxpayers and the Fiscal Cliff
Under the fiscal cliff deal, the payroll tax holiday is ending...but many business tax breaks, including breaks for NASCAR and the movie industry, were included, costing more than $63 billion next year. Ben Merens and his guest take an in-depth look at what's actually in the American Taxpayer Relief Act.
Guest: Joshua Gordon, policy director, Concord Coalition. http://www.concordcoalition.org/

Wednesday
1/2/2013
3:00 PM
130102K

January Job Line 2013
Whether you are looking for workers, or for work, join the discussion for the January Job Line. John Munson begins the hour with an update on job numbers. The show continues with calls from those looking for work or offering work. We'll end the hour talking with job search tips from a career counselor.
Guests:
- Ernie Goss, Chair and Professor of Economics, Creighton University.
- Mary Spencer, Director, Career Placement Office, Milwaukee School of Engineering.

Wednesday
1/2/2013
4:00 PM
130102L

Fiscal Cliff Aftermath
After weeks of exhausting negations, lawmakers finally struck a deal to avert the effects of the fiscal cliff...just hours after going off of it. But at what cost did the deal come? In this hour, John Munson and his guest discuss the political and economic aftermath of the fiscal cliff fight.
Guest: Seth Masket, associate professor and chair of political science at the University of Denver. He's the author of, "No Middle Ground: How Informal Party Organizations Control Nominations and Polarize Legislatures." His blog: http://enikrising.blogspot.com/

Tuesday
1/1/2013
3:00 PM
130101K

Exercise Better, Train Smarter, Live Longer
Knowing how exercise affects your body can help you achieve your fitness goals. Join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss using scientific discoveries to gain the most out of any workout. (Rebroadcast from November 29, 2012)
Guest: Gretchen Reynolds is the author of The First 20 Minutes: Surprising Science Reveals How We Can Exercise Better, Train Smarter and Live Longer. She also writes the "Phys Ed" column for the New York Times each week.

Monday
12/31/2012
3:00 PM
121231K

Nature Wars
According to Rob Ferrett's guest, it's quite likely that we now live in closer proximity to more wild animals than at any other time in history. Sounds pleasant, but is it necessarily a good thing? In this hour, Rob and his guest look at the 21st century relationship between Americans and nature, and the problems we've created for ourselves in trying to protect the animals around us.
Guest: Jim Sterba, longtime reporter for the Wall Street Journal and New York Times, author of "Nature Wars: The Incredible Story of how Wildlife Comebacks Turned Backyards into Battlegrounds"

Monday
12/31/2012
4:00 PM
121231L

Fiscal Cliff...Deal or No Deal?
Congress is just hours away from the deadline to reach a deal to avert the fiscal cliff. Has a deal been reached...or are we heading over the cliff? Rob Ferrett and his guest discuss the political and economic ramifications of the fiscal cliff as we head into the new year.
Guest: David Parker, associate professor of political science at Montana State University. His blog, "Montana Politics," is at http://bigskypolitics.blogspot.com/

Friday
12/28/2012
3:00 PM
121228K

Toys and Gender Roles
After a successful petition drive, toy-maker Hasbro has announced production of a "gender-neutral" Easy-Bake Oven...but many other toys are still marketed towards one gender or the other. Rob Ferrett and his guest discuss toys, gender roles, and the gender-neutral toy movement...and what it all says about our society.
Guest: Lisa Wade, Associate Professor and Chair of the sociology department at Occidental College. http://lisa-wade.com/

Friday
12/28/2012
4:00 PM
121228L

Your Views on the News
Today on At Issue, it's Your Views on the News. Join Rob Ferrett and news analyst Lilly Goren to discuss your thoughts about the week's most significant news story.
Guest: Lilly Goren, Professor of Politics at Carroll University.

Thursday
12/27/2012
3:00 PM
121227K

Restoring America's Founding Ideals
According to Gene Purcell's guest, America is in trouble. And only a nationwide movement of volunteerism and civic action will reverse the nation's course. www.stephenpkiernan.com
Guest: Stephen P. Kiernan is the author of "Authentic Patriotism: Restoring America's Founding Ideals Through Selfless Action." He has written for the Boston Globe and other publications, and for fourteen years wrote for the Burlington Free Press.

Thursday
12/27/2012
4:00 PM
121227L

National Year in Review
From the Supreme Court's decision on the Affordable Care Act to the re-election of President Barack Obama, Gene Purcell and his guest discuss the big political stories that gripped our nation this year.
Guest: David Redlawsk, professor of political science at Rutgers University, and director of the Eagleton Center for Public Interest Polling.

Wednesday
12/26/2012
3:00 PM
121226K

Blessings of 2012
Join John Munson and his guest as they discuss the blessings 2012 brought us. Call in to share your good news from 2012.
Guest: Rabbi Brad Hirschfield, President, National Jewish Center for Learning and Leadership. Author, "You Don't Have To Be Wrong For Me To Be Right: Finding Faith Without Fanaticism"

Wednesday
12/26/2012
4:00 PM
121226L

Wisconsin Year in Review
A contentious recall battle. Voter ID is in...then out. And a mining bill fails to pass the legislature. It was another busy year in Wisconsin, to say the least. John Munson and his guest take a look back at the top state stories of the year.
Guest: Alec Kirby, Associate Professor of History and Government, UW-Stout

Tuesday
12/25/2012
3:00 PM
121225K

Great Song Covers
This hour, Ben Merens and his guest talk about great song covers: why they work when they work, why musicians continue to record them, and why we love to hear them. (Rebroadcast from November 9, 2012)
Guest: Kallao [kuh-LAY-oh] - DJ at 88Nine Radio Milwaukee. Every Friday at 5pm he plays the 5 O'Clock Shadow: an original and a cover back-to-back.

Tuesday
12/25/2012
4:00 PM
121225L

iDisorder
Many of us use various forms of technology every day, and while it seems to make our lives easier, just what is it doing to our brains? Ben's guest discusses why many of us are suffering from an "iDisorder" and what we can do to prevent digital burnout. (Rebroadcast from July 17, 2012)
Guest: Larry Rosen, professor and past chair of the psychology department at California State University, Dominguez Hills. His new book is "iDisorder: Understanding Our Obsession with Technology and Overcoming Its Hold on Us." www.drlarryrosen.com

Monday
12/24/2012
3:00 PM
120619K

The Science of Reruns
We all have our favorite movies, books and episodes of television shows...but just why do we go back to them over and over? In this hour of At Issue, Ben and his guest discuss the science of reruns , and why we love to re-consume our favorite forms of entertainment. (Rebroadcast from June 19, 2012)
Guest: Cristel (chris-TELL) Russell, assistant professor of marketing in the Kogod School of Business at American University

Monday
12/24/2012
4:00 PM
120914K

Remarkable Words and their Origins
Join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss the history of language, by delving into remarkable words and their origins. (Rebroadcast from September 14, 2012)
Guest: Phil Cousineau is a writer, filmmaker, teacher, editor, independent scholar, travel leader, storyteller, and TV host. He is the host of PBS's Global Spirit television series and the author of The Painted Word: A Treasure Chest of Remarkable Words and Their Origins. www.philcousineau.net

Friday
12/21/2012
3:00 PM
121221K

Beginnings and Endings and our Relationship to T...
Join Gene Purcell and his guest as they discuss the end of one year and the beginning of another. What changes do you plan to make next year?
GUEST: Mary Anne Radmacher (Rod-MOCK-er) is a writing coach and author of numerous books. Her latest is Honey in Your Heart: Ways to See and Savor the Simple Good Things.

Friday
12/21/2012
4:00 PM
121221L

Your Views on the News
A look at the news that's been in the week that was today on Your Views on the News with guest host Gene Purcell.
Guest: Joe Heim is a professor of political science at UW-La Crosse.

Thursday
12/20/2012
3:00 PM
121220K

Coping with Loss During the Holidays
Getting through the holidays after the loss of a loved one is never easy, but sometimes it helps to talk about it. Today on At Issue, Gene Purcell and his guest discuss healing after the loss of a loved one, with both practical and emotional guidance.
Guest: Carole Brody Fleet is the founder of Widows Wear Stilettos and is the author of Happily Even After: A Guide to Getting Through (And Beyond) the Grief of Widowhood.
www.widowswearstilettos.com

Thursday
12/20/2012
4:00 PM
121220L

Blizzard 2012 Update
A major winter storm is making its way through Wisconsin, causing heavy snow, strong winds, and very dangerous travel conditions. Gene Purcell talks with Wisconsin Public Radio reporters about current conditions and snowfall totals around the state.
Guests:
- Rich Kremer, WPR reporter, Eau Claire
- Gil Halsted, WPR reporter, Madison
- Maureen McCollum, WPR reporter, La Crosse
- Patty Murray, WPR reporter, Green Bay

Wednesday
12/19/2012
3:00 PM
121219K

The Words of 2012
Fiscal cliff, Gangnam Style, YOLO, Frankenstorm, malarkey...these are just a few of the words and phrases we've picked up during the last year. In this hour, Ben Merens and his guest "double down" and look at the top words of 2012.
Guest: Ben Zimmer, executive producer of VisualThesaurus.com and Vocabulary.com. He writes a biweekly language column for The Boston Globe and is the former "On Language" columnist for The New York Times Magazine.

Wednesday
12/19/2012
4:00 PM
121219L

Disaster Preparedness
If a disaster were to strike tomorrow, how prepared would our state be? According to a new study, Wisconsin would do quite well...but many other states wouldn't make the cut. Ben Merens and his guest discuss the latest research on disaster preparedness across the nation.
Guest: Rich Hamburg, deputy director at the Trust for America's Health. The 10th annual "Ready or Not? Protecting the Public from Diseases, Disasters, and Bioterrorism" report is at http://healthyamericans.org/report/101/

Tuesday
12/18/2012
3:00 PM
121218K

Holiday Pet Adoption
Pets can be a popular holiday gift...but does that mean it's always a good decision to surprise someone with a new cat or dog? Ben and his guest discuss the best procedures for those looking to bring home a new family member this holiday season.
Guest: Anne Reed, executive director, Wisconsin Humane Society. http://www.wihumane.org/

Tuesday
12/18/2012
4:00 PM
121218L

Time's Person of the Year 2012
Time Magazine's Person of the Year will be announced tomorrow. In this hour of At Issue, Ben Merens and his guest hear your picks for who you think the person of the year should be.

Guest: Steve Cohn, editor-in-chief, Media Industry Newsletter. www.minonline.com
Listeners: To enter Media Industry's prediction contest, send your Person of the Year prediction, your name and email address to scohn@accessintel.com

Monday
12/17/2012
3:00 PM
121217K

ECON 101
Home prices are rising, and construction activity is picking up. Job growth has stabilized at about 150,000 jobs per month and unemployment, though still elevated, dropped below 8% in September. It appears 2013 may be the start of more normal economic growth. Join Ben Merens and his guest for At Issue ECON 101 today - to ask your questions about our changing economy.
Guest: Kevin Quinn is Associate Academic Dean and professor of Economics at St. Norbert College.

Monday
12/17/2012
4:00 PM
121217L

Healing After Tragedy
The mass shooting at a Connecticut school has devastated not only the community of Newtown, but the entire nation. Ben Merens and his guest discuss how individuals and communities can begin to cope when tragic events happen, and how the healing process can begin.
Guest: Joshua Miller, professor of social work and chair of the School Policy Sequence, Smith College. Co-editor, "School Violence and Children in Crisis: Community and School Interventions for Social Workers and Counselors."

Friday
12/14/2012
3:00 PM
121214K

Coping with Trauma
In the wake of today's mass shooting at a Connecticut elementary school, Ben Merens talks with a psychologist and a family therapist about how children deal with tragic events...and the help available for those who've suffered trauma.
Guests:
- Katherine Rosenblum (ROSE-en-bloom), Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Michigan Medical School, and co-director of the University of Michigan Trauma and Grief Clinic for Youth
- Jan Kwiatkowski is a Psychotherapist and Family Therapist at Aurora Family Services in Milwaukee.

Friday
12/14/2012
4:00 PM
121214L

Your Views on the News
A look at the news that's been in the week that was. It's Your Views on the News on At Issue.
Guest: Mort Sipress is an Emeritus Professor of Political Science at UW-Eau Claire.

Thursday
12/13/2012
3:00 PM
121213K

Movie Music
Since the dawn of movie-making, music has been essential to the cinematic experience. From the pre-talkie days, to the epic symphonies of "The Lord of the Rings," we've connected to our films through music. In this hour, Ben and his guest discuss the role of music in the movies, how it's changed over time, and take your picks for the greatest movie music ever.
Guest: Timothy Scheurer (SHOY-err), Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Shawnee State University. He's written numerous books about the history of American music, including "Music and Mythmaking in Film"

Thursday
12/13/2012
4:00 PM
121213L

Health Care Exchanges
Tomorrow is the deadline for states to decide whether or not to run their own health care exchanges, a key part of the president's health care law. At least 15 states have opted to run their own, leaving the vast majority of states in the hands of the federal government. Ben Merens and his guess discuss what the different exchanges mean for health care consumers.
Guest: Robert Kraig, Executive Director of Citizen Action of Wisconsin.

Wednesday
12/12/2012
3:00 PM
121212K

Help the Worrywart in Your Life
Do you consider yourself a worrywart? Join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss solutions to worrying, offering practical ways to restructure your thoughts and take control of your life. www.whyworrybook.com
Guest: Kathryn Tristan is the author of Why Worry? Stop Copy and Start Living. She is a research scientist at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, MO.

Wednesday
12/12/2012
4:00 PM
121212L

Declining Milk Business
Consumers are increasingly turning to vitamin waters and energy drinks instead of buying milk, escalating the continued decline in U.S. milk consumption. Join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss what the dairy industry is doing to combat this trend. http://wpr.org/r/?961
Guest: Darin Von Ruden is a Westby dairy farmer and president of the Wisconsin Farmers Union.

Tuesday
12/11/2012
3:00 PM
121211K

Talkin' Baseball Hall of Fame
The Baseball Hall of Fame ballot is out, and for the first time, it features two of the greatest...and most controversial...players of all time. This hour, Ben and his guest discuss the possible inclusion of "steroid-era" players like Barry Bonds and Rogers Clemens into the Hall of Fame, and hear your picks for the players who've missed the cut in the past, but still deserve a spot in Cooperstown.
Guest: Drew Olson, Senior Editor at ESPNWisconsin.com and co-host of "The D-List," heard weekdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m on 540 AM ESPN Milwaukee. He was a longtime Brewers writer for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, and a former president of the Baseball Writers Association of America.

Tuesday
12/11/2012
4:00 PM
121211L

Michigan Right-to-Work
The Michigan Legislature gave its final approval today to two bills that would make joining private and public sector unions optional. Supporters say these measures boost economic growth, but critics say it's just an attempt to weaken unions. In this hour, Ben Merens gets two perspectives on "right-to-work" legislation.
Guests:
- Daniel DiSalvo, senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute's Center for State and Local Leadership, and Assistant Professor of Political Science, City College of New York
- Gordon Lafer (LAY-fer), political economist and Associate Professor at the University of Oregon's Labor Education and Research Center, research associate at the Economic Policy Institute

Monday
12/10/2012
3:00 PM
121210K

How to Write a Killer Resume
Are you sending out your resume but not getting calls for positions you're qualified for? Have you been putting off writing or revising your resume? Join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss how to write a killer resume. http://theessayexpert.com
Guest: Brenda Bernstein, founder and senior editor at The Essay Expert LLC. She has been coaching job seekers and college applicants on their written application documents for over fifteen years.

Monday
12/10/2012
4:00 PM
121210L

The Continued Rise of Social Media
Americans are spending more and more time on social media...37% more time than last year, to be specific. In this hour, Ben and his guest discuss the continued proliferation of social media, how our habits have changed, and how social media is changing the way we view the world around us.
Guest: Steve Noll, marketing instructor and social media expert, Madison Area Technical College

Friday
12/7/2012
3:00 PM
121207K

What do you Sacrifice?
We sacrifice for our families, our career, our employers and our friends. Join Ben Merens and his guest as they talk about sacrifice and where it fits in today in your life.
Guest: John St. Augustine is a WGN radio host in Chicago. He is the author of Every Moment Matters and Living an Uncommon Life: Essential Lessons from 21 Extraordinary People. www.johnstaugustine.com

Friday
12/7/2012
4:00 PM
121207L

Your Views on the News
A look at the news that's been in the week that was today on Your Views on the News on At Issue. From the deadly typhoon in the Philippines, to Iran's claim that they captured a U.S. surveillance drone, to positive housing marketing news, what story touched you the most?
Guest: Ken Mayer is a Professor of Political Science at UW-Madison and an Affiliate Faculty member of the LaFollette Institute of Public Affairs.

Thursday
12/6/2012
3:00 PM
121206K

Why Romney Lost
One month later, many in the GOP are still seeking answers to why Mitt Romney lost. This hour, we talk about where Romney lost his way and how the GOP must evolve to win back American voters.
Guests:
3:00 - 3:30pm: David Frum is the author of Why Romney Lost (And What the GOP Can Do About It). He is the editor of www.FrumForum.com and is a CNN contributor. He served as a special assistant to President George W. Bush from 2001-2002.
3:30pm - 4pm: Ed Miller, Professor of Political Science at UW-Stevens Point

Thursday
12/6/2012
4:00 PM
121206L

President Obama's Second Term Cabinet
In the coming weeks, President Obama is expected to make several important changes to his cabinet. John Munson and his guest discuss the positions up for grabs, the viability of the possible candidates, and how the changes will influence policy for the next four years.
Guest: Shirley Anne Warshaw, professor of political science at Gettysburg College, author of ten books on the presidency, including "Powersharing: White House-Cabinet Relations in the Modern Presidency." She also served on the 2000 and 2008 Pew Transition Projects for structuring White House staff.

Wednesday
12/5/2012
3:00 PM
121205K

December Job Line
Whether you are looking for workers or work, join the discussion today for the December Job Line. Ben will start the hour discussing an update on job numbers and during the hour we will take calls from listeners looking for work and offering work.
Guest: Marc Levine is Senior Fellow and Founding Director of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Center for Economic Development.

Wednesday
12/5/2012
4:00 PM
121205L

Departure of Bret Bielema
With less than a month to go until their appearance in the Rose Bowl, the Wisconsin Badgers find themselves in an unusual position, as head coach Bret Bielema has been announced as the new coach of the Arkansas Razorbacks. Ben Merens and his guest discuss the surprise announcement, and where the team goes from here.
Guest: Mike Wickett, morning show host on Sports Radio WSSP 1250 in Milwaukee. He co-hosts the show Chuck and Wickett weekdays from 6-10 a.m.

Tuesday
12/4/2012
3:00 PM
121204K

Media Literacy for Children
It's part-two of At Issue's series on media literacy. This hour, Rob Ferrett's guest has tips for raising media literate children among an ever-changing media landscape.
Guest: Rebecca Hains, professor of advertising and media studies at Salem State University. She's also the Modern Parenthood blogger at the Christian Science Monitor. http://rebeccahains.wordpress.com/

Tuesday
12/4/2012
4:00 PM
121204L

Fiscal Cliff and Governors
President Obama met today with a group of governors, including Wisconsin's Scott Walker, about the fiscal cliff's effect on state budgets. This meeting comes as both parties are wrestling with dueling budget proposals. Rob Ferrett and his guest discuss the latest negations over the fiscal cliff.
Guest: Susan Johnson, Associate Professor and Chair, Political Science Department, UW-Whitewater; Director, UWW's Center for Political Science and Public Policy Research

Monday
12/3/2012
3:00 PM
121203K

Media Literacy for Adults
In this hour, Ben Merens begins a two-part series on the subject of media literacy. Ben and his guest discuss the importance of being able to understand and evaluate the complex messages we're exposed to everyday...and how we can all become better consumers of media.
Guest: Renee Hobbs, Professor and Founding Director of the Harrington School of Communication and Media at the University of Rhode Island. http://mediaeducationlab.com/

Monday
12/3/2012
4:00 PM
121203L

Suicide Prevention and Awareness
Talking about suicide can be difficult and uncomfortable, but with it being the tenth leading cause of death in the United States, it's a conversation that needs to be had. In this hour, Ben and his guest discuss suicide prevention and awareness, and how we can have a more honest conversation about the subject.
Guest: Dan Reidenberg, Executive Director of SAVE (Suicide Awareness Voices of Education), Managing Director of the National Council for Suicide Prevention, and the U.S. Representative to the International Association for Suicide Prevention. www.save.org

Friday
11/30/2012
3:00 PM
121130K

Holiday Shopping Customer Service War Stories
Last Friday was "Black Friday" and millions of shoppers took to the stores and websites. What kind of customer service did you find? Today on At Issue, Ben Merens and his guest discuss customer service and hear your war stories.
Guest: Kristin Anderson Bottemiller, president Say What Consulting and author of "Delivering Knock Your Socks Off Service."

Friday
11/30/2012
4:00 PM
121130L

Your Views on the News
The news that's been in the week that was - It's Your Views on the News today on At Issue with Ben Merens. Call in with your thoughts about the week's top news story.
Guest: Dick Haven is an Emeritus Professor of Communication at UW-Whitewater.

Thursday
11/29/2012
3:00 PM
121129K

Exercise Better, Train Smarter, Live Longer
Knowing how exercise affects your body can help you achieve your fitness goals. Join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss using scientific discoveries to gain the most out of any workout to train smarter and live longer.
Guest: Gretchen Reynolds is the author of "The First 20 Minutes: Surprising Science Reveals How We Can Exercise Better, Train Smarter and Live Longer." She also writes the "Phys Ed" column for the New York Times each week.

Thursday
11/29/2012
4:00 PM
121129L

Wisconsin Prison Reform
According to a recent study, Wisconsin can become a safer state...and save money...by expanding alternatives to prison. Ben's guests say that increasing funding for "Treatment Alternative Diversion" programs, like drug and drunk-driving courts, will save the state millions annually.
Guests:
- David Liners, state director of WISDOM, a statewide organization seeking justice and common good in Wisconsin. http://www.wisdomwi.org/
- Reverend Jerry Hancock, director of the Prison Ministry Project at the First Congressional United Church of Christ in Madison. He's also a former assistant district attorney and former assistant attorney general. http://wpr.org/r/?947

Wednesday
11/28/2012
3:00 PM
121128K

The Art of Conflict Transformation
Conflict is a natural part of life which presents us with opportunities for creative solutions. Join Ben Merens and his guests as they discuss approaching conflict openly and with curiosity, which can actually motivate us to change and deepen our relationships with others. http://wpr.org/r/?943
Guests:
- Kathy Germann, (GURR-man) facilitator/consultant.
- Denise Jess, facilitator/consultant.

Wednesday
11/28/2012
4:00 PM
121128L

State Budget Priorities
Governor Walker has laid out his five priorities for the next state budget, including job creation, workforce development, education transformation, reforming government waste and transportation. Ben Merens talks with representatives from both political parties about these priorities, and what else they'd like to see in the upcoming budget.
Guests:
- John Nygren, Republican State Assembly Representative, Marinette, co-chair of the Joint Finance Committee
- Chris Larson, Senate Minority Leader, democratic state senator from Milwaukee

Tuesday
11/27/2012
3:00 PM
121127K

Tech Gifts!
Tablets, smartphones, gaming systems...there's plenty of high-tech gadgets on the market this holiday season, but selecting the right item can be a downright confusing and frustrating process. This hour, Gene Purcell's guest has tips for picking the perfect gift for the technophile in your life.
Guest: Omar Gallaga, technology culture and personal technology writer, Austin American Statesman. His "Digital Savant" blog is at http://wpr.org/r/?666

Tuesday
11/27/2012
4:00 PM
121127L

50 Years of the Rolling Stones
This week, the Rolling Stones kicked off their 50th anniversary tour. Gene Purcell and his guest discuss the lasting influence of the Stones, and how the band changed the music world forever.
Guest: Philip Norman is a novelist, journalist, playwright and biographer. He's written biographies of musical legends such as John Lennon and Buddy Holly, and his latest is entitled "Mick Jagger"

Monday
11/26/2012
3:00 PM
121126K

Balancing your Holiday Budget
Balancing a budget during the holiday season is no easy feat. There are gifts to buy, trips to be taken, and bills to be paid. Ben Merens' guest has tips to keep your personal finances in order this holiday season, and has some advice on kicking off 2013 in good financial shape.
Guest: Shannon Plate, budget counselor, author, "Degunking Your Personal Finances"

Monday
11/26/2012
4:00 PM
121126L

Law Enforcement vs. Digital Privacy
This week, a senate committee will consider changes to the Electronic Communications Privacy Act, a 26-year-old law that regulates how the government can monitor digital communications, including the contents of our cell phones, such as email conversations and social media postings. Ben and his guest discuss the ongoing battle between digital privacy and law enforcement.
Guest: Susan Freiwald (FREE-wald), professor of law at the University of San Francisco. She's authored and co-authored amicus briefs in major cases involving electronic surveillance laws

Friday
11/23/2012
3:00 PM
121123K

Walkable City
As Americans shift more and more towards urban living, how can we make our cities best work for us? The answer's simple: make them more walkable. That's according to John Munson's guest, who says that improving the walkability of our cities will not only encourage environmental sustainability, but will also spur the economy and job creation.
Guest: Jeff Speck, city planner and architectural designer, author of "Walkable City: How Downtown Can Save American One Step at a Time." www.jeffspeck.com

Friday
11/23/2012
4:00 PM
121123L

Your Views on the News
This hour, it's Your Views on the News. John Munson and his guest news analyst discuss the top stories of the week, and hear what story was on your mind.
Guest: Ben Marquez, professor of political science, UW-Madison

Wednesday
11/21/2012
3:00 PM
121121K

What are you Thankful For?
As Thanksgiving draws closer, many of us are reflecting on what we're grateful for in our lives. This hour, Ben Merens wants to know...what are you thankful for?

Wednesday
11/21/2012
4:00 PM
121121L

Holiday Gas Price Forecast
Ben Merens and his guest discuss the holiday outlook for the petroleum market. Just where will Wisconsin gas prices go in the next month, and what effect has Hurricane Sandy had on the market?
Guest: Erin Roth, Executive Director, Wisconsin Petroleum Council

Tuesday
11/20/2012
3:00 PM
121120K

The Signs of Dementia
Getting together over the holidays is an opportunity to check in with elder relatives...and see if their health is good or beginning to decline. Ben Merens talks with members of the Alzheimer's Association of Southeastern Wisconsin about the beginning signs of dementia.

Guests:
- Diane Baughn, education and Training Services Manager
- Lynda Markut, workplace education coordinator, Alzheimer's Association of Southeastern Wisconsin. Co-author "Dementia Caregivers Share Their Stories: A Support Group in a Book"
LISTENERS: Diane and Lynda gave this number for any question you may have about Alzheimer's: 800-272-3900

Tuesday
11/20/2012
4:00 PM
121120L

Big Ten Shakeup
The last few days have seen a shake-up in college football's Big Ten conference with the additions of Maryland and Rutgers. But is the so-called "Big 14 Conference" actually good for fans...or just the NCAA and the television networks? Ben Merens and his guest discuss the rise of "super conferences" and the business of college football.
Guest: Chad McEvoy (MAC-uh-voy), Professor of Sport Management in the David B. Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics at Syracuse University, Editor of Case Studies in Sport Management

Monday
11/19/2012
3:00 PM
121119K

At Issue ECON 101
Last week, a Reuters poll showing uncertainty about the "fiscal cliff" of scheduled tax increases and spending cuts prompted analysts to cut early 2013 economic growth expectations. Join Ben Merens and his guest for At Issue ECON 101 - to ask your questions about our economy.
Guest: Kevin Quinn is Associate Academic Dean and professor of Economics at St. Norbert College.

Monday
11/19/2012
4:00 PM
121119L

Violence Between Israel and Hamas
Violence in Gaza continued for a sixth day today, with the death toll rising to above 100. Ben Merens talks with two guests about the ongoing violence between between Israel and Hamas, and the possibility of a cease-fire.
Guests:
- Ghada Talhami (tall-HOMM-ee), emeritus professor of politics at Lake Forest College. She is the past editor of "Arab Studies Quarterly" and has written numerous articles on the Palestinian issue and Arab nationalism.
- Maya Karmely (car-MELL-ee), Consul for Public Affairs at the Consulate General of Israel to the Midwest in Chicago

Friday
11/16/2012
3:00 PM
121116K

A Long Time Ago, in a Galaxy Far, Far Away...
A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away. These words, which first crawled up movie screens in 1977, embody a film series that is still resonating with fans today...and that excitement will extend to a future generation with the recent announcement of three new Star Wars films. This hour, Rob Ferrett and his guest dive into the Star Wars franchise, examine why it's remained so popular over the years, and discuss the level of devotion the fans have shown to it for over 35 years.
Guest: Jon Pollack, history instructor and pop culture expert at Madison Area Technical College

Friday
11/16/2012
4:00 PM
121116L

Thursday
11/15/2012
3:00 PM
121115K

Bond...James Bond
Fifty years ago, a fictional British secret agent by the name of James Bond made his big-screen debut...and millions of fans have been fascinated by him ever since. From Sean Connery in "Dr. No" . . . to Daniel Craig in "Skyfall," the franchise's latest entry, Ben Merens and his guest look at the cultural impact agent 007's films have had on the world.
Guest: James Chapman, professor of film studies at the University of Leicester (LESTER). He's also the author of "Licence to Thrill: A Cultural History of the James Bond Films."

Thursday
11/15/2012
4:00 PM
121115L

Atheism in Civic Life
The Atheists, Humanists, & Agnostics at the University of Wisconsin-Madison received approval from the university's Student Services Finance committee for almost seventy thousand dollars in student fee funding. Other groups and administrators still must sign off. Still, the numbers of religiously unaffiliated Americans is on the rise. This hour, Ben Merens talks to the Executive Director of AHA of UW Madison, and then with an expert on unaffiliated Americans in civic life.
GUESTS:
4:06 - 4:30pm: Chris Calvey - Executive Director of the Atheists, Humanists, & Agnostics at the University of Wisconsin-Madison

4:30 - 5pm: Daniel Cox - Research Director at the Public Religion Research Institute

Wednesday
11/14/2012
3:00 PM
121114K

The Bond Sisters Share
Researchers have discovered having a sister is likely to make you better emotionally balanced than those who grew up with a brother or as an only child. Join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss the bond shared between sisters.
Guest: Katherine Conger is an Associate Professor of Human Development and Family Studies at the University of California-Davis.

Wednesday
11/14/2012
4:00 PM
121114L

President Obama's Post-Election Press Conference
President Obama held his first post-election press conference today. Ben Merens and his guest discuss the president's remarks on his economic agenda, the fiscal cliff, the David Petraeus scandal, and more.
Guest: Sean Savage, professor of political science at St. Mary's College

Tuesday
11/13/2012
3:00 PM
121113K

Medicare Open Enrollment
Medicare's open enrollment period is currently in effect, but navigating the program is complex and picking the right plan can be downright confusing. In this hour, Ben Merens' guest has tips to better understand the options available, takes your questions, and discusses the changes to Medicare under the Affordable Care Act.
Guest: Chris Abbott, regional vice president, United Healthcare Medicare & Retirement, Milwaukee.

Tuesday
11/13/2012
4:00 PM
121113L

After Elections, The Fiscal Cliff...
Now that the elections are over, can the President and the lame-duck congress come together to pass a deal that would avert the "fiscal cliff" that faces the nation? Ben Merens and his guest discuss the possibility of a deal being struck, and what a deal might look like.
Guest: Donald Kettl, Dean of the School of Public Policy at the University of Maryland, nonresident senior fellow at the Brookings Institution

Monday
11/12/2012
3:00 PM
121112K

Veterans Day - Vets in Higher Education
Veterans returning from service are continuing to take advantage of the G.I. Bill to receive a college degree, but only nine percent of G.I. Bill Vets earn a degree. Join Ben Merens and his guests as they discuss the problems facing Veterans in higher education.
Guests:
-Ed Tick, a psychotherapist, is the founder and director of Soldier's Heart. He is the author of War and the Soul and has been a pioneer in the field of post traumatic stress disorder issues for veterans.
- Thomas Conroy , Professor of Communication at Castleton College in Vermont. He is a Vietnam Veteran.
- Jordan Gowland is a 2nd semester student at Castleton State College, majoring in Criminal Justice. He served in the US Marine Corps as an infantryman for two deployments of "Operation Enduring Freedom" in Afghanistan and other Asiatic countries.

Monday
11/12/2012
4:00 PM
121112L

The Fall of David Petraeus
Former four-star general David Petraeus stepped down from his position as CIA director last week, after an FBI investigation against him uncovered evidence of an extramarital affair. Ben Merens and his guest discuss the investigation, and the questions surrounding it.
Guest: Michael Cohen, writer and columnist who focuses on American politics and U.S. foreign policy. His columns have appeared in the New York Daily News, the Guardian, and Foreign Policy Magazine. He's also a fellow at the Century Foundation.

Friday
11/9/2012
3:00 PM
121109K

The Art of the Song Cover
This hour, Ben Merens and his guest talk about great song covers: why they work when they work, why musicians continue to record them, and why we love to hear them.
GUEST:
Stephen Kallao - DJ at 88.9 Radio Milwaukee. Every day at 5pm, he plays the 5 O'Clock Shadow: an original and a cover back-to-back.

Friday
11/9/2012
4:00 PM
121109L

Your Views on the News
From President Obama's re-election to congressional races to the Nor'easter storm, it was another busy news week. Join Ben Merens and his guest for a look at the news that's been in the week that was.
Guest: Barry Burden, professor of political science at UW-Madison and associate chair and director of graduate studies.

Thursday
11/8/2012
3:00 PM
121108K

Coping with a "Control Freak" Boss
Nothing can disrupt a workplace as much as a "control freak" boss. That's according to Ben's guest, and he'll discuss ways to cope as a beleaguered employee.
Guest: Philip Chard (SHARD) is a psychotherapist, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel columnist and author of Nature's Ways: Experiencing the Sacred in the Nature World.
www.philipchard.com

Thursday
11/8/2012
4:00 PM
121108L

The 113th Congress
In addition to Tuesday's presidential race, there were also many elections across the nation for the Senate and the House, including a very competitive senate race here in Wisconsin. In this hour of At Issue, Ben Merens and his guest discuss the results of those elections, and look ahead to what awaits the 113th Congress.
Guest: David Canon, Professor of Political Science, UW-Madison

Wednesday
11/7/2012
3:00 PM
121107K

November 2012 Job Line
Whether you are looking for workers or work, join "At Issue" host Ben Merens today for the November Job Line. Ben will take callers for most of the hour and welcome an expert to discuss how to write a great resume at the end the hour.
Guests: Ernie Goss, chair and professor of Economics Creighton University
Brenda Bernstein, founder and senior editor at The Essay Expert LLC. She has been coaching job seekers and college applicants on their written application documents for over fifteen years.

Wednesday
11/7/2012
4:00 PM
121107L

Barack Obama Winds a Second Term
After a long election season, President Obama was re-elected last night for a second term. In this hour of At Issue, Ben Merens and his guest discuss the results of this historic election.
Guest: Peverill Squire, Chair in American Political Institutions and Political Science, University of Missouri. Senior Editor, Legislative Studies Quarterly

Tuesday
11/6/2012
3:00 PM
121106K

Electoral College
Why not elect a president based on the popular vote vs. using the Electoral College system? Join Ben Merens and his guest as he makes the case for why this could be dangerous to the health of the American democracy. http://wpr.org/r/?913
Guest: Curtis Gans is director of the nonpartisan Center for the Study of the American Electorate.

Tuesday
11/6/2012
4:00 PM
121106L

Civility
While the nation picks our leader for the next four years, the fact remains: come tomorrow morning, we'll still be a divided country. Ben Merens and his guest discuss civility not just in politics, but our everyday lives, and how we can try and come together as one nation.
Guest: Rabbi Brad Hirschfield, President, National Jewish Center for Learning and Leadership. Author, "You Don't Have To Be Wrong For Me To Be Right: Finding Faith Without Fanaticism"

Monday
11/5/2012
3:00 PM
121105K

A Discussion about Diversity
Join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss diversity issues and why we have such a hard time talking about the differences in each other.
Guest: Mark McPhail is an artist, consultant, educator and scholar who has written widely about issues of race and communication.

Monday
11/5/2012
4:00 PM
121105L

Election Open Line - Make your Case!
With one day until the election, many of us have politics on the brain...but we're also tired of the mudslinging and negative ads. This hour, it's your chance to call in and sing the praises of a candidate you feel strongly about, and why you're voting for him/her.

Friday
11/2/2012
3:00 PM
121102K

Daylight Saving Time!
Get ready to "fall back" this weekend. As Daylight Saving Time comes to an end for yet another year, Ben Merens and his guest discuss the history of politics of our bi-annual switching of the clock.
Guest: Michael Downing, Professor of English, Tufts University. Author, "Spring Forward: The Annual Madness of Daylight Saving Time"

Friday
11/2/2012
4:00 PM
121102L

Your Views on the News
In this hour of At Issue, it's Your Views on the News. Ben Merens and his guest analyst recap the top news stories of the week, and hear your pick for what story got your attention, and why.
Guest: Ed Miller, professor of political science, UW-Stevens Point

Thursday
11/1/2012
3:00 PM
121101K

Health Care Industry from Patient's Perspective
The average person finds health care and insurance to be frustrating, complicated, intimidating and expensive. Join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss health care from the patients' perspective, including how to navigate the health care system and become a better consumer. www.patientcare4u.com
Guest: Jane Cooper is the founder, president and CEO of Patient Care.

Thursday
11/1/2012
4:00 PM
121101L

2012 Election Voting Issues
Join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss all things elections and voting, and what you can expect at the polls when you go vote on Tuesday. http://gab.wi.gov
Guest: Kevin Kennedy, Director and General Counsel of the Wisconsin Government Accountability Board.

Wednesday
10/31/2012
3:00 PM
121031K

Paranormal Activity in Wisconsin
Join Ben Merens and his guest on Halloween as they discuss paranormal activity around Wisconsin.
Guest: Scott Rorek is a psychic medium. He encountered spirits when he was a young child and while attending college, he saw a full-body apparition. Rorek has traveled throughout the Midwest and southern states, speaking at conventions and giving spiritual readings.

Wednesday
10/31/2012
4:00 PM
121031L

Sandy's Impact on the Election
With less than a week until the election, both presidential candidates are looking to stand out amid the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. Ben Merens and his guest look at the latest political developments leading up to Election Day, and Sandy's impact during this last week of campaigning.
Guest: Melissa Miller, Associate Professor of Political Science, Bowling Green State University

Tuesday
10/30/2012
3:00 PM
121030K

Candidate Forum with Nimrod Allen III
Ben Merens continues his series of candidate forums with the independent candidate running for U.S. senate.
Guest: Nimrod Allen III, former Marine serving in Iraq and Afghanistan; founder, Independent Democratic Enforcement Alliance (IDEA) Party; Independent candidate, Wisconsin's U.S. Senate race. www.yuallen.com

Tuesday
10/30/2012
3:30 PM
121030X

Candidate Forum with Tammy Baldwin
Ben wraps up his series of candidate forums with the democratic challenger in Wisconsin's senate race.
Guest: Tammy Baldwin, Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate in Wisconsin. http://www.tammybaldwin.com

Tuesday
10/30/2012
4:00 PM
121030L

Automobile Reliability List
Consumer Reports has unveiled its most reliable car survey. Japanese brands took the top seven spots in terms of reliability, while American vehicles performed below average. In this hour of At Issue, Ben Merens talks with auto industry analyst Paul Eisenstein about the list and takes your calls about how reliable your vehicle is.
Guest: Paul Eisenstein is the publisher and editor of "The Detroit Bureau." He has written about the global automotive industry for the past thirty years, and his articles appear in such publications as The Economist, Investor's Business Daily, and Automotive Industries. www.thedetroitbureau.com

Monday
10/29/2012
3:00 PM
121029K

Candidate Forum with Joseph Kexel
Ben Merens begins a series of candidate forums with the challengers for Wisconsin's open senate seat. He speaks first with the libertarian candidate in the race. (NOTE: Nimrod Allen and Tammy Baldwin will join the program tomorrow)
Guest: Joseph Kexel, founder and owner, Vikkex, an IT consulting company in Kenosha; he's the Libertarian candidate in Wisconsin's U.S. Senate race. www.Kexel2012.com.

Monday
10/29/2012
3:30 PM
121029X

The Wisconsin Senate Race
Ben Merens discusses the race for Herb Kohl's senate seat in Wisconsin, from the latest news from the campaign trail, to the newest poll numbers. (NOTE: Tommy Thompson declined to join us for a candidate forum during this timeslot)
Guest: JR Ross, editor, www.WisPolitics.com

Monday
10/29/2012
4:00 PM
121029L

Hurricane Sandy
A storm of historic proportions is bearing down on the east coast, causing dangerous conditions, mass evacuations, and a shutdown of the U.S. stock market. Ben Merens and his guest discuss the impact Hurricane Sandy, and the possible implications it could have on weather in the Midwest.
Guests:
- Jennifer Collins, associate professor of geography at the University of South Florida, who specializes in weather and climate. She was part of a team of "hurricane hunters" who collected data on Hurricane Sandy by flying through the storm in a plane.
- Hugh Willoughby, Distinguished Research Professor in the department of earth and environment at Florida International University. Former director of the Hurricane Research Division of NOAA's Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory. He's flown more than 400 missions into the eye of storms.

Friday
10/26/2012
3:00 PM
121026K

Merging Engineering with Art and Creativity
Can art and creativity effectively co-exist with science and engineering? According to Rob Ferrett's guest, the answer is yes...and bringing all of these fields together will better help us solve the problems of the 21st century.
Guest: Robert Bishop, Opus Dean, College of Engineering, Marquette University

Friday
10/26/2012
4:00 PM
121026L

Your Views on the News
Today it's "Your Views on the News." Listeners are invited to call-in to Rob Ferrett with their thoughts about the week's biggest news story.
Guest: Steven Schier (SHEAR), professor of political science at Carleton College. He is the author of several books, including "By Invitation Only: The Rise of Exclusive Politics in the United States" and "You Call This an Election? America's Peculiar Democracy."

Thursday
10/25/2012
3:00 PM
121025K

How Food Stopped Being Food
In this hour of At Issue, Rob Ferrett and his guest discuss the global challenges preventing all the world's citizens from having healthy, delicious...and affordable...food.
Guest: Frederick Kaufman, journalist, contributing editor at Harper's, professor, City University of New York Graduate School of Journalism, author of "Bet the Farm: How Food Stopped Being Food."

Thursday
10/25/2012
4:00 PM
121025L

Reforming Gun Policy
Gun policy reform is essential to reducing gun violence in the country. That's according to Rob Ferrett's guest, who says there are reforms that can be enacted without violating the Second Amendment...and that there's broad public support, even among gun owners, of remedying the weaknesses in the current laws.
Guest: Daniel Webster, Director of the Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Policy and Research at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. His report, "The Case for Gun Policy Reforms in America," is at http://wpr.org/r/?896

Wednesday
10/24/2012
3:00 PM
121024K

Candidate Forum with Robert Raymond
Yesterday, Ben Merens talked to the Republican and Democratic candidates running in Wisconsin's fourth congressional district. Today, Ben speaks with the Independent candidate in the race.
Guest: Robert Raymond, Independent candidate, 4th congressional district

Wednesday
10/24/2012
3:30 PM
121024X

Congressional Race Round-Up
During the last two weeks, you've heard from the congressional candidates. In this half, Ben and his guest take a closer look at the congressional races, the candidates, and the possible outcomes.
Guest: Steve Walters, senior producer, Wisconsin Eye. http://www.wiseye.org/

Wednesday
10/24/2012
4:00 PM
121024L

Peta Lindsay, Presidential Candidate
Ben Merens talks to Peta (PEE-tuh) Lindsay, the presidential candidate for the Party for Socialism and Liberation, about her campaign and the key issues for her party.
Guest: Peta Lindsay, Presidential Candidate for the Party for Socialism and Liberation www.pslweb.org

Wednesday
10/24/2012
4:30 PM
121024Y

Gun Control Legislation for Abuse Cases
Join Ben Merens and his guest as they discussed proposed gun legislation for abuse cases. The proposal comes after Sunday's shooting at a Brookfield Spa and aims to keep guns away from batterers in domestic abuse cases.
Guest: Jon Richards is Democratic State Representative from Milwaukee.

Tuesday
10/23/2012
3:00 PM
121023K

Candidate Forum with Dan Sebring
The congressional candidate forums continue in this hour of At Issue. Ben Merens starts by talking with the Republican candidate in Wisconsin's 4th congressional district. (NOTE: We'll talk to the third candidate in this race, Robert Raymond, tomorrow at this time)
Guest: Dan Sebring, small business owner, Republican candidate in the 4th congressional district. http://dansebringforcongress.com/

Tuesday
10/23/2012
3:30 PM
121023X

Candidate Forum with Gwen Moore
Ben Merens stays in the fourth congressional district and talks with the Democratic candidate and incumbent.
Guest: Gwen Moore, incumbent and Democratic candidate in the 4th congressional district. http://www.gwenmooreforcongress.com/

Tuesday
10/23/2012
4:00 PM
121023L

Third Presidential Debate Recap
Barack Obama and Mitt Romney squared off in the last of three presidential debates last night. This time, the questions focused on foreign policy. Ben Merens and his guest break down the debate.
Guest: Dick Haven, Emeritus Professor of Communication, UW-Whitewater

Monday
10/22/2012
3:00 PM
121022K

Candidate Forum with Tom Petri
The congressional campaign forums continue in this hour of At Issue. Ben Merens starts by talking with the Republican candidate and longtime incumbent in Wisconsin's sixth congressional district.
Guest: Tom Petri, incumbent and Republican candidate, 6th congressional district. http://www.petripeople.org/

Monday
10/22/2012
3:30 PM
121022X

Candidate Forum with Joe Kallas
Ben Merens stays in Wisconsin's sixth congressional district and talks with the Democratic challenger, who also ran against Congressman Petri in 2010.
Guest: Joe Kallas, former instructor at Fox Lake Correctional Institution, Democratic candidate, 6th congressional district. http://www.kallas4congress.com/

Monday
10/22/2012
4:00 PM
121022L

Shooting in Brookfield
Yesterday at a Brookfield salon, three were killed and more wounded in a mass shooting before the gunman took his own life. Early reports suggest a domestic dispute between the shooter and his wife, who was in the salon at the time of the shooting. In this hour of At Issue, Ben and his guest discuss yesterday's mass shooting.
Guest: Stan Stojkovic (STOY-kuh-vitch), Dean of the Helen Bader School of Social Welfare, and Professor in the Department of Criminal Justice, UW-Milwaukee

Friday
10/19/2012
3:00 PM
121019K

SNL and Elections
From Chevy Chase's Gerald Ford, to Jay Pharoah's Barack Obama, the comedians of Saturday Night Live have been parodying our leaders for nearly 40 years. John Munson and his guest discuss whether or not satire has had an impact on our elections.
Guest: William Horner, professor of political science at the University of Missouri.

Friday
10/19/2012
4:00 PM
121019L

Your Views on the News
Your views about the week's most significant story are welcome today after four on At Issue - It's Your Views on the News. What story has touched you the most and why? We'll also check in with WPR's Maureen McCollum and Lindsey Moon, who have spent the week interviewing voters across Wisconsin.
Guest: Dennis Riley, Professor of Political Science, UW-Stevens Point. He is author of Bureaucracy and Policy Process: Keeping the Promises.
4:35 - 4:45
Maureen McCollum - Wisconsin Public Radio reporter based in La Crosse

Lindsey Moon - Lee Ester News fellow at Wisconsin Public Radio

Thursday
10/18/2012
3:00 PM
121018K

National Security Doctrines
From Washington to Obama, how has foreign policy and national security defined the presidents? Rob Ferrett and his guest discuss the lasting impact that national security "doctrines" can have on the country...and the world. www.lamontcolucci.org
Guest: Lamont Colucci (cuh-LOO-chee), Associate Professor of Politics and Government at Ripon College, former U.S. diplomat, author of "The National Security Doctrines of the American Presidency: How they Shape our Present and Future"

Thursday
10/18/2012
4:00 PM
121018L

Politics and risk...and stress
Rob Ferrett and his guest look at two psychological issues in the news. What kind of person takes risks-like running for president? And then at 4:30, how we can we deal with election-related stress?
Guest: Frank Farley, Psychologist at Temple University and former President of the American Psychological Association

Wednesday
10/17/2012
3:00 PM
121017K

Candidate Forum with Rob Zerban
Ben Merens heads to Wisconsin's first congressional district for his ongoing series of congressional candidate forums. First up, Ben speaks with the Democratic candidate running in the race. (NOTE: Incumbent candidate Paul Ryan did not respond to our invitation to appear on the program)
Guest: Rob Zerban (zer-BAHN), former business owner and Kenosha County Board Supervisor, Democratic candidate, 1st congressional district. http://www.robzerban.com/

Wednesday
10/17/2012
3:30 PM
121017X

Candidate Forum with Keith Deschler
Ben Merens continues his series of congressional candidate forums with the Libertarian candidate in Wisconsin's first congressional district. (NOTE: Incumbent candidate Paul Ryan did not respond to our invitation to appear on the program)
Guest: Keith Deschler, factory worker, Libertarian candidate, 1st congressional district. His campaign Facebook page is at http://wpr.org/r/?864

Wednesday
10/17/2012
4:00 PM
121017L

Second Presidential Debate Recap
Last night's town hall style debate between President Obama and Mitt Romney dealt with issues of foreign and domestic politics. In this hour of At Issue, Ben Merens and his guest break down the debate.
Guest: Michael Kramer, Associate Professor of Communications Studies at Saint Mary's College

Tuesday
10/16/2012
3:00 PM
121016K

Candidate Forum with Dave Heaster
Ben Merens begins his series of congressional candidate forums with the democratic challenger in Wisconsin's fifth congressional district.
Guest: Dave Heaster, an e-business architect at Kohler Company, Democratic candidate, 5th congressional district. http://www.20dave12.com/

Tuesday
10/16/2012
3:30 PM
121016X

Candidate Forum - Gary Johnson, Libertarian
Ben Merens talk to Libertarian Party presidential candidate Gary Johnson about his campaign for the presidency and the issues he's focusing on. www.garyjohnson2012.com
Guest: Gary Johnson, Libertarian Party Presidential Candidate.

Tuesday
10/16/2012
4:00 PM
121016L

Virgil Goode, Constitution Party Presidential Ca...
Ben Merens talks to Constitution Party presidential candidate Virgil Goode about his campaign for the presidency and the issues he's focusing on.
Guest: Virgil Goode, Constitution Party Presidential Candidate www.goodeforpresident2012.com

Tuesday
10/16/2012
4:30 PM
121016Y

Third Parties and the Presidency
Ben Merens and his guest discuss the role of third party candidates in presidential elections, the challenges they face, and how they are perceived by the American electorate.
Guest: Ronald Rapoport, professor of American politics at the College of William and Mary, co-author of the book, "Three's a Crowd: The Dynamic of Third Parties, Ross Perot and Republican Resurgence"

Monday
10/15/2012
3:00 PM
121015K

October ECON 101
There's been a lot of talk about the Federal Reserve this election season. But just what is the Federal Reserve, and what is its mission? In this hour of Econ 101, Ben Merens and his guest explore the Fed, and answer your questions about the economy.
Guest: Kevin Quinn is Associate Academic Dean and professor of Economics at St. Norbert College.

Monday
10/15/2012
4:00 PM
121015L

Jill Stein, Green Party Presidential Candidate
Ben Merens talks to Green Party presidential candidate Jill Stein about her campaign and the key issues for her party.
Jill Stein, Green Party Presidential Candidate http://www.jillstein.org/

Monday
10/15/2012
4:30 PM
121015Y

Jerry White, Socialist Equality Party presidenti...
Ben Merens continues a series of candidate forums, with Jerry White, presidential candidate for the Socialist Equality Party.
Guest: Jerry White, Socialist Equality Party presidential candidate http://www.socialequality.com

Friday
10/12/2012
3:00 PM
121012K

The People We've Met Who Really Mattered
They often begin as chance meetings and over time we recognize certain people that had major impacts on where we are today. Join Ben Merens as he welcomes back author John St. Augustine for a discussion about people who've mattered most in your life and when you knew it.
Guest: John St. Augustine is a WGN radio host in Chicago. He is the author of Every Moment Matters and Living an Uncommon Life: Essential Lessons from 21 Extraordinary People. www.johnstaugustine.com

Friday
10/12/2012
4:00 PM
121012L

Your Views on the News
A look at the news that's been in the week that was today on Your Views on the News with host Ben Merens.
Guest: Joe Heim is a professor of political science at UW-La Crosse.

Thursday
10/11/2012
3:00 PM
121011K

Affect of Friendship and Family on Happiness
Having a wide circle of friends helps middle-aged men and women have a greater sense of well-being, according to new research. Join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss the effect of friendships and family on your happiness levels.
Guest: Christine Carter, a sociologist, is the Executive Director of the Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley. She is the author of Raising Happiness: 10 Simple Steps for More Joyful Kids and Happier Parents.

Thursday
10/11/2012
4:00 PM
121011L

VP Debate Preview
Joe Biden and Paul Ryan take to the stage tonight for the vice presidential debate. Ben Merens and his guest preview the debate, and discuss what impact the running mates might have on the presidential race.
Guest: Dennis Goldford, professor of Politics at Drake University. His latest book is "The Constitution of Religious Freedom: God, Politics, and the First Amendment"

Wednesday
10/10/2012
3:00 PM
121010K

Gerald Celente on the Latest Trends
Ben Merens talks with economic forecaster Gerald Celente about the trends we can expect in this election season, and beyond.
Guest: Gerald Celente, founder and director of Trends Research Institute, publisher of the Trends Journal. http://www.trendsresearch.com/

Wednesday
10/10/2012
4:00 PM
121010L

How to Overcome Bullying
October is Anti-Bullying Awareness month. Join Ben Merens and his guests for two perspectives on bullying. Our first guest will discuss how to teach empathy and compassion to stop bullying. Then, our second guest shares her story about overcoming the childhood trauma she suffered at the hands of bullies.
Guests: Jessie Klein is an assistant professor of Sociology and Criminal Justice at Adelphi University. She is the author of "The Bully Society: School Shootings and the Crisis of Bullying in America's Schools." http://jessieklein.com
Nancy Tedeschi (ted-DESK-ey) is the inventor of the SnapIt Screw, a revolutionary way to repair broken eyeglasses. She was bullied throughout her childhood. www.nancytedeschi.com

Tuesday
10/9/2012
3:00 PM
121009K

History of American Presidents and Elections
Was political campaigning more civil in the age of powdered wigs? If so, why was John Adams accused of procuring prostitutes, Andrew Jackson called an adulterer and murderer, and numerous other candidates called drunkards? Join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss the history of elections and American presidents.
Guest: Ken Davis is a historian and author of "Don't Know Much About the American Presidents." www.dontknowmuch.com

Tuesday
10/9/2012
4:00 PM
121009L

No Religious Affiliation Becoming More Common?
About 20% of Americans have no religious affiliation. That's according to new research from the Pew Research Center, which also shows the continued decline of those who affiliate themselves as Protestant. Ben Merens and his guest discuss the rise of the "nones" and the shifting religious landscape in America.
Guest: Derek Hicks, professor of religion and culture at Wake Forest University's School of Divinity

Monday
10/8/2012
3:00 PM
121008K

The 17 Solutions with Ralph Nader
Ben Merens talks with former presidential candidate Ralph Nader about his seventeen proposed solutions for the nation's economic and social problems.
Guest: Ralph Nader, consumer advocate, lawyer, and former presidential candidate. He's written several books, and his newest is "The Seventeen Solutions: Bold Ideas for Our American Future"

Monday
10/8/2012
4:00 PM
121008L

Keeping Older Drivers Safe
With the aging baby boomer generation in this country, transportation officials are expecting a surge in senior drivers in the coming years. However, statistics have shown that accidents increase after the age of 65. What's the solution? Ben Merens and his guest discuss keeping elderly drivers safe, and explore the transportation alternatives to keep seniors mobile after they stop driving.
Guest: Dennis McCarthy, Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy at Florida International University. Director, South Florida Community Mobility Research Lab, Lehman Center for Transportation Research. http://lctr.eng.fiu.edu/

Friday
10/5/2012
3:00 PM
121005K

Why We Love to Read
Maybe it's the smell of well worn, yellowed pages. Or the satisfaction from a well written chapter. What about that feeling of suspense that keeps us turning page after page, keeping us up way too late? In this hour of At Issue, Ben Merens and his guest discuss the love of reading, and all of the elements that go into it.
Guest: Pam Allyn, executive director of LitLife and founding director of LitWorld, author of numerous books, including "Your Child's Writing Life: How to Inspire Confidence, Creativity, and Skill at Every Age." http://pamallyn.com/

Friday
10/5/2012
4:00 PM
121005L

Your Views on the News
A look at the news that's been in the week that was today after four on Your Views on the News on At Issue.
Guest: Mort Sipress is an Emeritus Professor of Political Science at UW-Eau Claire.

Thursday
10/4/2012
3:00 PM
121004K

Dogs vs. Cats and Benefits of Pet Ownership
Are you a dog person or a cat person? Which animal do you think makes a better pet? Join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss the benefits of owning a pet, cat or dog. www.wihumane.org
Guest: Anne Reed is the Executive Director of the Wisconsin Humane Society.

Thursday
10/4/2012
4:00 PM
121004L

First Debate Recap
Mitt Romney and Barack Obama took the stage last night for the first of three presidential debates. Ben Merens and his guest break down what the two candidates said on issues of domestic policy.
Guest: Thomas Hollihan, professor of communication at the University of Southern California Annenberg School for Communication & Journalism, author of "Uncivil Wars: Political Campaigns in a Media Age"

Wednesday
10/3/2012
3:00 PM
121003K

October Job Line
Whether you are looking for workers or work, join the discussion today for the October Job Line. Ben will start the hour discussing an update on job numbers and end with job hunting tips from a career counselor. During the hour we will take calls from listeners looking for work and offering work.
Guests: Marc Levine is Senior Fellow and Founding Director of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Center for Economic Development.
Mary Spencer is Director of the Career Placement Office at the Milwaukee School of Engineering.

Wednesday
10/3/2012
4:00 PM
121003L

Debate Preview
Just what question would you like answered in tonight's presidential debate? The new debate format will cover fewer topics, but allow much more time for the candidates to give responses...and Ben's guest says the difference is significant enough to actually sway undecided voters.
Guest: Jeffrey Jarman, associate director of the Elliott School of Communication at Wichita State University, director of the university's debate team

Tuesday
10/2/2012
3:00 PM
121002K

Favre's Long Exit
The Milwaukee Film Festival continues this week, and one local offering chronicles a painful chapter for many Wisconsin sports fans: Brett Favre's departure from the Green Bay Packers. This hour, Ben Merens talks to the director of the documentary Last Day at Lambeau about what the Favre episode says about professional sports stars, management, and the media.
GUEST:

Michael Neelsen - founder and director of StoryFirstMedia and director of the film Last Day at Lambeau.
LISTENERS: You can see Last Day at Lambeau tonight at 7pm at Fox Bay Cinema in Milwaukee. You can also see it at the Lake Pepin Art & Design Center in Pepin, Wisconsin on October 20th. More info at www.lastdayatlambeau.com

Tuesday
10/2/2012
4:00 PM
121002L

Doctor Visits Down
Americans just aren't going to the doctor as much as they used to, according to new census data. Is it because we're healthier--or are we just trying to cut costs? Ben Merens and his guest look at why doctor visits are down. Why do you go--or not go--to the doctor these days?
GUEST:
Pauline Rosenau - Professor of Management, Policy, and Community Health at the University of Texas School of Public Health in Houston

Monday
10/1/2012
3:00 PM
121001K

Explaining Economics Plain and Simple
As the election approaches the economy continues to be a crucial issue for all Americans. Join Ben Merens and his guest as they use humor and relatable explanations to break down and define complex economic principles.
www.marketplace.org
Guest : Paddy Hirsch is a senior producer at the business radio program Marketplace. He is the author of "Man vs. Markets: Economics Explained (Plain and Simple)."

Monday
10/1/2012
4:00 PM
121001L

Candidate Endorsement Letters - Pay Up?
Want to write an endorsement letter for a candidate in your local newspaper? Depending on the paper, you may be asked to pay for that letter. Is this becoming the new normal for papers? In the first half, Ben talks with a publisher who has enacted such a policy for his paper. Then in the second half, Ben and his guest look at the broader implications of these policies for papers and their readers.
Guests:
- Jake Benson, owner and publisher, Proctor Journal, a weekly newspaper in Proctor, Minnesota. www.proctorjournal.com
- Jane Kirtley, Silha (SILL-uh) Professor of Media Ethics and Law at the School of Journalism and Mass Communication, University of Minnesota. Former executive director, Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press

Friday
9/28/2012
3:00 PM
120928K

Crafting Your Life through Visual Guidance
How can you sculpt your career based on what you want to do, what you're able to do and how well you're able to assess what you've already done? Join Ben Merens and his guest, and learn how to craft your life through visual guidance techniques.
Guest: Sue Keely is a visual life coach. She helps people craft their lives through visual guidance techniques. www.suekeely.com

Friday
9/28/2012
4:00 PM
120928L

Your Views on the News
The news that's been in the week that was - It's Your Views on the News At Issue with Ben Merens. Call in with your thoughts about the week's top news story.
Guest: Ed Miller, Professor of Political Science at UW-Stevens Point

Thursday
9/27/2012
3:00 PM
120927K

Robert Reich: Beyond Outrage
Robert Reich worked in the Ford, Carter, and Clinton Administrations. In his new book BEYOND OUTRAGE, he writes about rising inequality, the state of our democracy, and what Americans can do about it. http://robertreich.org/
Guest: Robert Reich, former Secretary of Labor in the Clinton Administration and Chancellor's Professor of Public Policy at the University of California at Berkeley.

Thursday
9/27/2012
4:00 PM
120927L

Banks Under Cyberattack?
Major financial institutions across the country are reporting cyberattacks on their e-banking operations, leaving online customers with no access to their accounts and other services. While no personal data has been compromised, the attacks shine light on the broader issues of the country's cybersecurity, and overall vulnerability. Ben Merens and his guest discuss what can be done.
Guest: Rob D'Ovidio (de-VIDEO), assistant professor of criminal justice at Drexel University, where he directs the research program in computer crime and digital forensics

Wednesday
9/26/2012
3:00 PM
120926K

Pop Culture and Politics
From the daily satire of Jon Stewart and Steven Colbert, to the Internet memes and videos like "Obama Girl," the popularity of mixing politics with pop culture is undeniable. But is this a good or bad thing for the candidates? And does it have an impact on voter behavior? In this hour, Gene Purcell and his guest discuss the intersection of pop culture and politics.
Guest: Danna Young, assistant professor of communication at the University of Delaware. She researches political media effects, public opinion, political satire and the psychology of political humor.

Wednesday
9/26/2012
4:00 PM
120926L

Fixing Math Class
As students wrap up their first month of school, some will find themselves struggling with their math classes...while others will find themselves bored by the lack of challenge. That gap in achievement is the root of America's math problem, according to Gene Purcell's guest...and it's time to start tailoring math coursework to students' abilities, rather than adopting a "one-size-fits-all" strategy.
Guest: Jacob Vigdor, professor of public policy and economics at Duke University, and adjunct scholar at the American Enterprise Institute. His report, "Solving America's Mathematics Education Problem," is at http://wpr.org/r/?852

Tuesday
9/25/2012
3:00 PM
120925K

Alternatives to the Fiscal Cliff
As it stands, the U.S. economy is set to hit the "fiscal cliff" at the end of the year, meaning automatic spending cuts and tax increases. The Congressional Budget Office has warned that going over the cliff would put the country in "significant recession." Can this situation be avoided? In this hour, Gene Purcell and his guest discuss possible alternatives to the fiscal cliff.
Guest: Diane Lim Rogers, chief economist at the Concord Coalition. She also writes the Economist Mom blog. http://economistmom.com/

Tuesday
9/25/2012
4:00 PM
120925L

Childhood and Global Poverty
One in six newborns were born poor over the past 40 years...and many remained poor throughout childhood. In the first half of the program, Gene Purcell and his guest discuss the lasting consequences of child poverty in the United States. Then in the second half, Gene Purcell and his guest discuss global poverty, and five possible ways America can maintain...and strengthen...its position as a global development leader.
Guests:
- Caroline Ratcliffe, senior fellow at the Center on Labor, Human Services & Population at the Urban Institute. She's the co-author of the report, "Child Poverty and Its Lasting Consequence." http://wpr.org/r/?858
- Jamie Zimmerman, director of the Global Assets Project at the New America Foundation. Her article, "5 Ways to Put Global Poverty Back on (Whichever) President's Agenda," is at http://wpr.org/r/?857

Monday
9/24/2012
3:00 PM
120924K

How to Have Deep Conversations
Having a deep conversation means that you have to be willing to slow down and be very receptive. How to do this is the focus of today's program.
Guests:
- Kathy Germann, (GURR-man) facilitator/consultant, www.kathygermannconsulting.com.
- Denise Jess, facilitator/consultant, www.denisejessconsulting.com.

Monday
9/24/2012
4:00 PM
120924L

Wisconsin and the Fiscal Cliff
In this hour of At Issue, Ben Merens and his guests discuss the possible consequences for Wisconsin if the nation goes over the fiscal cliff at the start of next year.
Guests:
- Todd Berry, President, Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance. www.wistax.org
- Dale Knapp, Research Director, Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance.

Friday
9/21/2012
3:00 PM
120921K

Bringing Music into Local Community Venues
Making music isn't just for superstars or even professionals. Join Ben Merens and his guest as they talk about how you can bring your musical talents into your community. www.lilrev.com
Guest: Lil Rev is a folk musician and political protester.

Friday
9/21/2012
4:00 PM
120921L

Thursday
9/20/2012
3:00 PM
120920K

It's OK Not to Share
Let your kid swear. Stop saying "good job." Let them hog that toy all they want. These don't sound like typical rules of parenting, but according to Gene Purcell's guest, they should be...and it's time for adults to take off their "adult lenses" and start letting their kids be kids.
Guest: Heather Shumaker (SHOO-maker), journalist and author. Her new book is, "It's Okay Not to Share...and Other Renegade Rules for Raising Competent and Compassionate Kids"

Thursday
9/20/2012
4:00 PM
120920L

Reducing Poverty in Wisconsin
According to new census data, 13% of Wisconsin residents live in poverty, a number that's been relatively unchanged over the past two years. And Milwaukee remains one of the most impoverished big cities in America, with a poverty rate of nearly 30%. Gene Purcell and his guest discuss what can be done to reduce poverty in the state.
Guest: Conor Williams, Economic Policy Analyst for the Pathways to Ending Poverty Project with Community Advocates in Milwaukee. The Pathways to Ending Poverty report is at http://wpr.org/r/?851

Wednesday
9/19/2012
3:00 PM
120919K

Coal Burning in Wisconsin
In 2011, 63% of Wisconsin's electricity generation came from coal. But just what price is our personal health paying for such reliance? In this hour, Ben Merens talks with a physician about the health effects of burning coal in Wisconsin... and across the country.
Guest: Dr. Alan Lockwood, neurologist, board member with the Physicians for Social Responsibility, author of "The Silent Epidemic: Coal and the Hidden Threat to Health"

Wednesday
9/19/2012
4:00 PM
120919L

47% Comments
In a video leaked earlier this week, presidential candidate Mitt Romney claimed that "47 percent of the people" favor President Obama because they are "dependent upon government" and "pay no income taxes." In this hour of At Issue, Ben and his guest discuss the impact of Romney's comments, the President's response, and the politics of income inequality in this election cycle.
Guest: Nathan Kelly, associate professor of political science at the University of Tennessee. He's the author of "The Politics of Income Inequality in the United States."

Tuesday
9/18/2012
3:00 PM
120918K

WikiLeakers, Hacktivists Aim to Free Information
In the age of powerful, easily-accessible cryptography tools, the largest security threat isn't a gun or a bomb-it's inside your computer. Join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss the underworld of hackers and whistleblowers who aim to free the world's information. www.thismachinekillssecrets.com
Guest: Andy Greenberg is a staff writer for Forbes magazine, focusing on technology, information security and digital civil liberties. He is the author of "This Machine Kills Secrets: How WikiLeaks, Cypherpunks, and Hacktivists Aim to Free the World's Information."

Tuesday
9/18/2012
4:00 PM
120918L

Act 10 Overturned
Late last week, a Dane County judge ruled that Wisconsin's collective bargaining law violates the state and US constitutions. While the law is still in place for state workers, it no longer applies to city, county and school workers. In the first half of the program, Ben and his guest discuss the legal background of this case. Then in the second half, Ben and his guest discuss the political implications of Act 10's overruling.
Guests:
- Jolly Emrey (EM-ree), Associate Professor of Political Science, UW-Whitewater; one of her areas of expertise is law and courts
- Mordecai Lee, Professor of Governmental Affairs, UW-Milwaukee

Monday
9/17/2012
3:00 PM
120917K

September ECON 101
Join Gene Purcell and his guest economist for "At Issue Econ 101" - to ask your questions about our economy. The Federal Reserve unveiled a new plan last week to buy $40 billion a month in mortgage bonds. What's on your mind this week about our economy?
Guest: Kevin Quinn is Associate Academic Dean and professor of Economics at St. Norbert College.

Monday
9/17/2012
4:00 PM
120917L

Middle East Protests
Anti-American protests continue to grow this week in the Middle East after the release of a film mocking Islam and the prophet Mohammed. In this hour, Gene Purcell and his guest discuss the uprisings and the implications for American foreign policy.
Guest: Wayne White is a scholar at the Middle East Institute, and the former Deputy Director of the State Department's Bureau of Intelligence and Research's Office of Analysis for the Near East and South Asia.

Friday
9/14/2012
3:00 PM
120914K

Remarkable Words and their Origins
Join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss the history of language, by delving into remarkable words and their origins. www.philcousineau.net
Guest: Phil Cousineau is a writer, filmmaker, teacher, editor, independent scholar, travel leader, storyteller, and TV host. He is the host of PBS's "Global Spirit" television series and the author of "The Painted Word: A Treasure Chest of Remarkable Words and Their Origins."

Friday
9/14/2012
4:00 PM
120914L

Your Views on the News
Today on At Issue, a look at the news that's been in the week that was on Your Views on the News.
Guest: Barry Burden, Professor of Political Science at UW-Madison and Associate chair and director of Graduate Studies.

Thursday
9/13/2012
3:00 PM
120913K

Knockoff Economy
We all know that patent and copyright laws protect innovators and incentivize invention. Right? Well, not so fast. This hour, Ben Merens talks with a law professor who argues that copies and knockoffs do not destroy creativity, but promote it.
Guest:
Christopher Sprigman - Class of 1963 Research Professor at the University of Virginia School of Law. His new book, written with Kal Raustiala, is THE KNOCKOFF ECONOMY: HOW IMITATION SPURS INNOVATION

Thursday
9/13/2012
4:00 PM
120913L

Wisconsin Sports!
The Wisconsin sports landscape is beginning to heat up. The Bears and Packers renew their rivalry tonight at Lambeau. And after a relatively mediocre season, the Brewers are now just three games back of a wild card spot. Ben and his guest discuss the significance of the Green Bay-Chicago rivalry, the resurgence of the Brewers, and what you'll be watching for tonight and in the coming weeks.
Guest: Mike Wickett is a morning show host on Sports Radio WSSP 1250 in Milwaukee. He co-hosts the show Chuck and Wickett weekdays from 5-9 a.m.

Wednesday
9/12/2012
3:00 PM
120912K

Making Voting Mandatory
Throughout the world 31 countries have some form of mandatory voting. Is this something we should consider in America? Join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss the concept of making voting mandatory. http://wpr.org/r/?839
Guest: William Galston is a senior fellow in the Brookings Institution's Governance Studies Program.

Wednesday
9/12/2012
4:00 PM
120912L

Consulate Attack in Libya
Four Americans, including an ambassador, were killed last night in an attack on the American consulate in Libya. Officials say killings were prompted over an American-made video mocking Islam. In this hour of At Issue, Ben and his guest discuss the attacks and how the two countries proceed from here.
Guest: Omar Turbi, president and CEO of Orbit Systems, and an expert on U.S.-Libya relations. He's the founder of the Libyan Human Rights Commission, and he's an adviser to the National Transitional Council of Libya. www.omarturbi.com

Tuesday
9/11/2012
3:00 PM
120911K

How 9/11 Changed Washington
Today, we observe the 11th anniversary of 9/11. Join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss how the tragedy changed Washington, U.S. economics, politics, and government policy. www.washingtonmonthly.com
Guest: Paul Glastris is editor in chief of Washington Monthly. He was a special assistant and senior speechwriter for President Bill Clinton and spent ten years as a correspondent and editor at U.S. News & World Report.

Tuesday
9/11/2012
4:00 PM
120911L

Electoral Battleground
The presidential election is less than two months away, and many states are already emerging as battleground states. In the first half of the program, Ben and his guest discuss Wisconsin's swing state status. Then in the second half, Ben and his guest look at the electoral map nationwide, and discuss what states are in play this election season.
Guests:
4:06 - 4:30: Craig Gilbert, Washington Bureau Chief, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Author, The Wisconsin Voter blog. www.jsonline.com/blogs/news/wisconsinvoter.html
4:30 - 5: Josh Putnam, Visiting Assistant Professor of Political Science, Davidson College. Writer, Frontloading HQ Blog. http://frontloading.blogspot.com/

Monday
9/10/2012
3:00 PM
120910K

#tweetsinspace
What would you say to an alien that lived on a planet 22 light years away? Could you say it in 140 characters or less? An upcoming performance at the International Symposium on Electronic Art will collect your tweets and then send them to a specific planet far, far away. This hour, we get the details of the project and hear what YOU would tweet into outer space.
Guests:
- Nathaniel Stern, Assistant Professor of Art & Design at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
- Scott Kildall, Independent artist based in San Francisco

Monday
9/10/2012
4:00 PM
120910L

Chicago Teachers Strike
More than 25,000 thousand teachers are on strike today in Chicago, once again bringing the politics of education back into the national spotlight. Ben hears your reactions to what's happening in Chicago. Then in the second half, Ben speaks to a critic of the strike, who says teachers are being allowed to put students' education in jeopardy.
Guest: Mallory Factor, John C. West Professor of International Politics and American Government at The Citadel. He is a Forbes columnist, the Senior Editor of Money and Politics for The Street.com, and a political commentator. His new book is "Shadowbosses."

Friday
9/7/2012
3:00 PM
120907K

NFL 2012 and Why We Love Football
The 2012 NFL season kicked off Wednesday night, and the Green Bay Packers play their first game on Sunday. Join Ben Merens and his guest as they preview the season and discuss why Americans love football.
Guest: Mike Pesca, sports reporter and correspondent at NPR. He's also a panelist on Slate's "Hang Up and Listen" podcast.

Friday
9/7/2012
4:00 PM
120907L

Your Views on the News
A look at the news that's been in the week that was today on Your Views on the News with At Issue host Ben Merens.
Guest: Joe Heim is a professor of political science at UW-La Crosse.

Thursday
9/6/2012
3:00 PM
120906K

Tips for Empty Nesters, and New College Students
The start of college can be a stressful time for parents and students alike. In this hour of At Issue, Ben Merens and his guest discuss how parents can better deal with their newfound "empty nests." They'll also discuss how new college students can better deal with issues such as homesickness, anxiety and relationship issues.
Guest: Kelly Miller, psychologist at the University of Indianapolis.

Thursday
9/6/2012
4:00 PM
120906L

Autumn Open Line
Ben Merens hosts an open line in this hour of At Issue. Call in with your program suggestions and ideas.

Wednesday
9/5/2012
3:00 PM
120905K

September Job Line
Whether you are looking for workers or work, join the discussion today for the September Job Line. Ben will start the hour discussing an update on job numbers and end with job hunting tips from a career counselor. During the hour we will take calls from listeners looking for work and offering work.
Guests: Ernie Goss, chair and professor of Economics Creighton University
Tom Kipp is the Director of Career Services at Cardinal Stritch University.

Wednesday
9/5/2012
4:00 PM
120905L

$16 Trillion and Growing...
This week, the national debt tops $16 trillion. That amounts to about $50,000 per American citizen. In this hour, Ben Merens and his guest discuss the impact of the rising debt on our economy, who holds our debt, and what possible debt reduction solutions are being pursued.
Guest: Greg Krohn, associate professor of economics at Bucknell University

Tuesday
9/4/2012
3:00 PM
120904K

Reducing Food Waste
Each year, Americans throw away 40% of their food supply, which amounts to about $165 billion annually. That's according to Ben's guest, who says it's time for businesses, governments and consumers to take steps that would maximize the efficiency of our food system.
Guest: Dana Gunders, project scientist with the food and agriculture program at the Natural Resources Defense Council. You can read the report at http://www.nrdc.org/food/wasted-food.asp

Tuesday
9/4/2012
4:00 PM
120904L

What's Happening at the DNC
After last week's Republican National Convention, the Democrats take their turn this week. Ben Merens and his guest discuss what's to come at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Guest: Sean Savage, professor of political science at St. Mary's College

Monday
9/3/2012
3:00 PM
120530K

What Color is Your Parachute?
Join Ben Merens and his guest for practical advice about job hunting and switching careers. www.jobhuntersbible.com (Rebroadcast from May 30, 2012)
Guest: Richard Bolles is the author of "What Color is Your Parachute?" He releases updated versions of his manual each year, and released the 40th version of his book this year.

Monday
9/3/2012
4:00 PM
120523K

Exxon Mobile
Exxon Mobil far exceeds its fellow oil companies in both profits and political contributions. Join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss how this influential company operates in the U.S. and around the world. (Rebroadcast from May 23, 2012)
Guest: Steve Coll, staff writer for the New Yorker magazine, president of the New America Foundation, and author of "Private Empire: Exxon Mobile and American Power."

Friday
8/31/2012
3:00 PM
120831K

Wisconsin History
Wisconsin has many significant historical events since its inception into the Union in 1848. From the first Earth Day, to the Great Peshtigo Fire, and so much more...Ben and his guest delve into the state's rich history.
Guest: Kim Beck, Director of Arts, Humanities and Science, UW-Milwaukee School of Continuing Education.

Friday
8/31/2012
4:00 PM
120831L

Your Views on the News
The news that's been in the week that was - It's Your Views on the News today on At Issue with Ben Merens. Call in with your thoughts about the week's top news story.
Guest: Ed Miller, Professor of Political Science at UW-Stevens Point

Thursday
8/30/2012
3:00 PM
120830K

Our Changing Attitudes Towards Death
Though we don't often directly talk about it, death is something that ultimately affects us all. And historically...we're more isolated from death than ever before. In this hour, John Munson and his guest discuss our changing attitudes toward death, including the creation of bucket lists, the way we design our cemeteries, and the role of religion.
Guest: Albert Hamscher, Kenneth S. Davis professor of history at Kansas State University, where he teaches the course "Death and Dying in History," which he developed.

Thursday
8/30/2012
4:00 PM
120830L

54.5 by 2025
54.5 miles per gallon by 2025. That's the new standard set by the Obama administration, which nearly doubles the current average gas mileage of today's cars and trucks. John Munson and his guest discuss the "Corporate Average Fuel Economy," or CAFE standards, and how automakers are preparing for the new regulations.
Guest: John O'Dell, senior editor and environmental vehicle specialist at Edmunds.com. He writes about environmental trends and technologies in the automotive world. http://www.edmunds.com/

Wednesday
8/29/2012
3:00 PM
120829K

United States of Aging
A new survey out shows that older Americans are increasingly optimistic about their quality of life as they age. But some uncertainties do exist about the long-term outlook for their health and finances. In this hour, Rob Ferrett and his guest discuss why life's good for most older Americans, while looking at the unique challenges facing this generation of Americans.
Guest: Chris Abbott, regional vice president of UnitedHealthcare Medicare & Retirement in Milwaukee. http://wpr.org/r/?825

Wednesday
8/29/2012
4:00 PM
120829L

Hurricane Isaac, and Recovering from Disasters
On the seventh anniversary of Katrina, Hurricane Isaac is making landfall in New Orleans. In the first part of the program, Rob Ferrett gets an update on the current situation facing the Gulf Coast. Then Rob and his second guest spend the rest of the hour discussing how communities respond to natural disasters.
Guests:
- David Rogers, Hasselman Chair of Geological Engineering at Missouri University of Science and Technology. He was part of the National Science Foundation's Independent Levee Investigation Team, and also was a member of the Coastal Louisiana Recovery Panel.
- Daniel Aldrich, associate professor of public policy at Purdue University, author of "Building Resilience: Social Capital in Post-Disaster Recovery." His op-ed, "How to Weather a Hurricane" appeared in yesterday's New York Times. http://wpr.org/r/?829

Tuesday
8/28/2012
3:00 PM
120828K

Homeschooling
Homeschooling is becoming an increasingly popular way to educate children. In this country, around two million students are homeschooled...and those numbers are growing every year. In this hour, Ben and his guest discuss the benefits and drawbacks of teaching kids at home, and why the division between homeschooling and institutional schooling is dissolving.
Guest: Quinn Cummings, actress, blogger, and author of "The Year of Learning Dangerously: Adventures in Homeschooling." Her blog is at http://qcreport.blogspot.com/

Tuesday
8/28/2012
4:00 PM
120828L

Wolf Hunting Lawsuit in Wisconsin
A lawsuit was filed earlier this month to stop the wolf hunting and trapping season scheduled to begin this fall in Wisconsin. The goal of the lawsuit is to stop the state's rules authorizing the use of dogs to hunt wolves. Join Ben Merens and his guests for two viewpoints on this issue.
Guests: Rad Watkins is the Education and Communications Specialist at Timber Wolf Alliance (TWA). www.TimberWolfAlliance.org www.animalleadership.com
Scott Meyer is a spokesperson for United Sportsmen. www.unitedsportsmenwi.com

Monday
8/27/2012
3:00 PM
120827K

Working the Night Shift
As many of us make our way into work every morning, another group of individuals are making their way home. Third shift workers, while often times invisible to the rest of us, are vital in keeping the economy going. But what exactly does an irregular schedule do to one's body? In this hour, Ben and his guest discuss the health risks of working the night shift.
Guest: Steve Collins is a polysomnographer (or a sleep study expert) with the St. Clare Sleep Center at St. Clare Hospital in Baraboo

Monday
8/27/2012
4:00 PM
120827L

What's Happening at RNC?
It's Day One of the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Florida. In this hour, Ben Merens and his guest discuss what's already happened, what's still to come, and how this convention fits into historical context.
Guest: Tom Whalen, associate professor of social science and political historian at Boston University. He's the author of, "A Higher Purpose: Profiles in Presidential Courage"

Friday
8/24/2012
3:00 PM
120824K

Getting Kids Interested in STEM
John Munson's guest says the need to increase student interest and performance in the STEM fields - science, technology, engineering and mathematics - is essential if the United States wants to compete on a global scale...and we can inspire the next generation to explore these fields by showcasing the success of the Curiosity mission to Mars.
Guest: Robert Bishop, Opus Dean, College of Engineering, Marquette University. His op-ed on Curiosity inspiring future students, http://wpr.org/r/?815

Friday
8/24/2012
4:00 PM
120824L

Your Views on the News
In this hour of At Issue, it's Your Views on the News. John Munson and guest analyst Dennis Riley recap the top stories of the week, and hear what news story touched you the most this week, and why.
Guest: Dennis Riley, Professor of Political Science, UW-Stevens Point. Author of "Bureaucracy and the Policy Process: Keeping the Promises"

Thursday
8/23/2012
3:00 PM
120823K

Words of the Year, So Far
What do an "f-bomb", a "man cave" and an "aha moment" have in common? They're all new additions to the dictionary this year. John Munson talks to the co-host of "A Way with Words" about these new additions, other words of the year so far, and why we love language.
Guest: Martha Barnette, co-host of "A Way with Words," heard Sundays at 9 a.m. on the Ideas Network. She's also a speaker and an author, and her books include "A Garden of Words" and "Ladyfingers & Nun's Tummies: A Lighthearted Look at How Foods Got Their Names"

Thursday
8/23/2012
4:00 PM
120823L

Warlords: Strong-Arm Brokers in Weak States
Warlords are individuals who control small territories within weak states, using a combination of force and patronage. Join John Munson and his guest as they discuss how and why warlords undermine state sovereignty.
Guest: Kimberly Marten the author of Warlords: Strong-Arm Brokers in Weak States. She is a professor in the political science department at Barnard College, Columbia University.

Wednesday
8/22/2012
3:00 PM
120822K

The Arts in Wisconsin
John Munson and his guest discuss the state of the arts in Wisconsin, and the possible economic impact of a strong arts community.
Guest: Anne Katz, Executive Director, Arts Wisconsin. http://www.artswisconsin.org/

Wednesday
8/22/2012
4:00 PM
120822L

Do Conventions Still Matter?
Democrats and Republicans are ramping up for their upcoming national conventions...but in the modern era, do these conventions still matter? John Munson's guest says they do, and debunks the five myths many people have about the conventions.
Guest: Martin Cohen, Assistant Professor of Political Science at James Madison University. His piece in the Washington Post is at http://wpr.org/r/?823

Wednesday
8/22/2012
4:30 PM
120822X

Why People Don't Vote
Nearly 40% of adult U.S. citizens are not expected to vote in November's presidential election...about 90 million people...but if they did, a new survey shows that President Obama would easily cruise into a second term. John Munson and his guest discuss unregistered and unlikely voters, and why they don't vote.
Guest: David Paleologos (pal-ee-oh-LOH-gohss), director of the Suffolk University Political Research Center, and a lecturer in the university's Government Department, where he teaches political survey research. http://wpr.org/r/?824

Tuesday
8/21/2012
3:00 PM
120821K

The Health of our Oceans
Just how healthy are our oceans? According to the recently released Ocean Health Index, the globe's oceans received a score of 60 out of a possible 100. In this hour, John Munson and his guest discuss the challenges facing our oceans, and what can be done to make them healthier.
Guests:
- Ben Halpern, lead scientist and author of the Ocean Health Index project. He's the director of the Center for Marine Assessment and Planning and a Research Biologist at the Marine Science Institute. http://wpr.org/r/?820
- Andy Rosenberg, Director, Center for Science and Democracy at the Union of Concerned Scientists

Tuesday
8/21/2012
4:00 PM
120821L

Middle East Roundup
Israel and Iran have ramped up the rhetoric this week, leading many to believe that the two countries are inevitably going to end up at war. Meanwhile, President Obama has suggested military intervention in Syria if chemical weapons are moved or prepared for use. In this hour, John Munson and his guest discuss the latest developments in the Middle East.
Guest: Jeremi Suri, Mack Brown Distinguished Chair for Leadership in Global Affairs, History, and Public Affairs at the University of Texas-Austin, the LBJ School of Public Affairs, and the Strauss Center for International Security and Law. His latest book is "Liberty's Surest Guardian."

Monday
8/20/2012
3:00 PM
120820K

August ECON 101
Do corporations have an economic obligation to maintain our society and culture? Just what is the human cost of economic efficiency? Join John Munson and his guest economist for Econ 101, to ask these and other questions about the economy.
Guest: Kevin Quinn is Associate Academic Dean and professor of Economics at St. Norbert College.

Monday
8/20/2012
4:00 PM
120820L

Pussy Riot Backlash
The Russian band "Pussy Riot" was convicted last week for hooliganism after staging an anti-government protest, sparking outrage across much of the Western world. John Munson and his guest discuss what the case says about the current state of Russia, Russian politics, and global free speech issues.
Guest: Nicolai Petro, professor of politics at the University of Rhode Island. He's a former fellow for international affairs at the Council on Foreign Relations, where he served as special assistant for policy in the Office of Soviet Union Affairs in the U.S. Department of State.

Friday
8/17/2012
3:00 PM
120817K

Post Secret Project
Sharing your secrets can be good for you but also very hard to do. The Post Secret project is designed to let people share their most private thoughts and secrets...and millions have. Today Ben Merens talks with the project's founder and hears some of your secrets.
Guest: Frank Warren is the author of PostSecret, My Secret, The Secret Lives of Men and Women, A Lifetime of Secrets, and Post Secret: Confessions on Life, Death, and God. He started Post Secret as a community art project in 2004.

Friday
8/17/2012
4:00 PM
120817L

Your Views on the News
Today it's "Your Views on the News." Listeners are invited to call-in to Ben Merens with their thoughts about the week's biggest news story.
Guest: Steven Schier, professor of political science at Carleton College. He is the author of several books, including "By Invitation Only: The Rise of Exclusive Politics in the United States," and "You Call This an Election? America's Peculiar Democracy."

Thursday
8/16/2012
3:00 PM
120816K

Possible Airport Closures?
With automatic spending cuts set to take effect at the start of 2013, around 100 airports could lose air traffic control service, and as a result, be in jeopardy of closing. That's according to Ben's guest this hour, who's compiled a list of airports that could be affected, including Madison's Dane County Regional-Truax Field and Green Bay's Austin Straubel International.
Guest: Scott Lilly, senior fellow at the Center for American Progress. His piece on possible airport closures is at http://wpr.org/r/?799

Thursday
8/16/2012
4:00 PM
120816L

Drunk Driving
On average, one alcohol-impaired-driving fatality occurred every 51 minutes in 2010. And among the majority of these fatalities, at least one driver involved in the crash had a BAC of .15 or higher...almost twice the legal limit in Wisconsin. Ben and his guest discuss the national problem that is drunk driving...and what states are doing to combat it.
Guest: Nina Emerson, Director, Resource Center on Impaired Driving, UW Law School. Her "Wisconsin Alcohol and Law Policy Blog" is at http://hosted.law.wisc.edu/wordpress/walp/

Wednesday
8/15/2012
3:00 PM
120815K

Fall Book 2012 Preview
Fall is just around the corner, and that means lots of new book releases. Join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss the latest titles to hit the shelves. What book are you most looking forward to reading? www.boswellbooks.com
Guest: Daniel Goldin is the owner of Boswell Book Company on Downer Avenue in Milwaukee.

Wednesday
8/15/2012
4:00 PM
120815L

Primary Election Results
After a tough GOP primary, it'll be a Tommy vs. Tammy general election this fall. In this hour of At Issue, Ben Merens and his guest discuss the results of yesterday's primary election for U.S. senate, as well as some of the other races.
Guest: Lilly Goren, Associate Professor of Politics, Carroll University

Tuesday
8/14/2012
3:00 PM
120814K

Where Have All the Good Jobs Gone?
The U.S. economy has lost about one-third of its capacity to generate "good jobs." That's according to Ben's guest, who says that while the workforce has gotten substantially older and more educated, the number of good jobs has steadily declined since 1979.
Guest: John Schmitt, senior economist with the Center for Economic and Policy Research. His report, "Where Have All the Good Jobs Gone?" is at http://wpr.org/r/?793

Tuesday
8/14/2012
4:00 PM
120814L

Ryan Budget Proposal
Much of the recent media coverage of congressman Paul Ryan has focused on his budget proposal, "A Pathway to Prosperity." But what exactly is in the plan? And what are the myths surrounding the proposal? In this hour, Ben and his guest break down the Ryan plan, and discuss what influence it might have on Mitt Romney's budget plan.
Guest: Marc Goldwein (GOLD-wine), Senior Policy Director, Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget. http://crfb.org/

Monday
8/13/2012
3:00 PM
120813K

Olympics Recap
Last night, the games of the XXX Olympiad in London came to an end. Ben and his guest look back at the last two weeks of international competition, and discuss the top moments from the games.

Guest: Howard Berkes, rural affairs correspondent for NPR. He's covered eight Olympic games, and he joins us today from London.

Monday
8/13/2012
4:00 PM
120813L

Romney Picks Paul Ryan
Over the weekend, Wisconsin congressman Paul Ryan was tapped to be Mitt Romney's running mate. In this hour of At Issue, Ben Merens and his guess discuss the choice, as well as the benefits and risks of a Romney/Ryan campaign.
Guest: Thomas Holbrook, Wilder Crane professor of government and chairman of the department of political science at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. His CNN piece on the Romney pick is at http://wpr.org/r/?807

Friday
8/10/2012
3:00 PM
120810K

Nature and Spirituality: Taking Control of Life
Our destiny in life comes from our choices as much as the steps we can't control. Today on At Issue, Ben Merens and his guest talk about the decisions that guide our life and why we make them.
GUEST: Joe Lieungh (LING) is a healer, radiation therapist, self-mastery coach and blogger. You can read his blog at www.steppingintothecanvas.com.

Friday
8/10/2012
4:00 PM
120810L

Your Views on the News
A mass shooting at a Sikh temple in Oak Creek. NASA lands a rover on Mars. New poll results show a tightening race for U.S. Senate. What news story touched you the most this week, and why? It's Your Views on the News this hour.
Guest: Dick Haven is an Emeritus Professor of Communication at UW-Whitewater.

Thursday
8/9/2012
3:00 PM
120809K

Legalized marijuana
Law enforcement and other spending at the federal level on the Drug War was 15.5 billion in 2010, an increase of 3.3 percent from the previous year. But is all that effort and money necessary? This hour, Ben Merens talks to investigative journalist Doug Fine about marijuana. Fine believes that legalizing cannabis would aid American agriculture, grow the economy, and improve our health.
Guest
Doug Fine - investigative journalist and author of Too High to Fail: Cannabis and the New Green Revolution

Thursday
8/9/2012
4:00 PM
120809L

Pet Ownership Down - Sign of the Times?
Pet ownership is on the decline. Compared to 2006, Americans own 2 million fewer dogs and 7.6 million fewer cats. Ben and his guest discuss the economic and demographic changes that are leading to less pet adoptions.
Guest: Dr. Patricia Olson, Chief Veterinary Advisor for the American Humane Association. The AHA's study on pet ownership and retention is at http://wpr.org/r/?801

Wednesday
8/8/2012
3:00 PM
120808K

U.S. Senate Candidates
On Monday and Tuesday, you heard from the candidates themselves. Today after three, Ben and his guest review the candidates for U.S. Senate, discuss the issues and policies they're running on, and look at the latest poll numbers in the race.
Guest: Charles Franklin, Visiting Professor of Law and Public Policy at Marquette University, and Co-Developer and Contributor for www.PollsAndVotes.com. The latest Marquette poll can be found at: https://law.marquette.edu/poll/

Wednesday
8/8/2012
4:00 PM
120808L

Gun Control in Wisconsin
A Quinnipiac/Times/CBS Poll of Wisconsin voters released today says 48% want Wisconsin's gun laws to stay the same and 43% want tougher laws. Some voters were polled as news spread about the shooting in Oak Creek on Sunday. Join Ben Merens and his guests for two viewpoints about this new poll.
GUESTS: Jim Fendry is Director of the Wisconsin Pro-Gun Movement.
Jeri Bonavia is the Executive Director of the Wisconsin Anti-Violence Effort (WAVE).

Tuesday
8/7/2012
3:00 PM
120807K

Candiate Forum: GOP Senate 2012
Wisconsin's GOP primary election for the U.S. Senate is on August 14th. Today, AT ISSUE concludes its candidate forum with interviews with Assembly Speaker Jeff Fitzgerald and Eric Hovde.
GUESTS
3 - 3:30: Assembly Speaker Jeff Fitzgerald
3:30 - 4: Eric Hovde

Tuesday
8/7/2012
4:00 PM
120807L

Mars, and the Future of the Space Program
NASA has once again piqued the nation's interest in space exploration with the landing of the "Curiosity" rover on Mars. But can the agency stay relevant in a time of budget cuts and private spacecraft? In this hour, Ben and his guest discuss the Mars mission and the future of the space program.
Guest: Andrew Lawler, contributing writer for Science Magazine. He's covered the space program for over 25 years. http://www.andrewlawler.com/

Monday
8/6/2012
3:00 PM
120806K

GOP Senate Candidate Forums
Wisconsin's GOP primary election for the U.S. Senate is on August 14th. Today, AT ISSUE begins its Candidate Forum with an interview with former Congressman Mark Neumann, then former Governor Tommy Thompson. Tune in tomorrow to hear State Assembly Speaker Jeff Fitzgerald and Eric Hovde.
3 - 3:30: Mark Neumann - Former U.S. Congressman from Wisconsin's 1st Congressional District and current candidate for U.S. Senate
3:30 - 4: Tommy Thompson - former Governor of Wisconsin and current candidate for U.S. Senate

Monday
8/6/2012
4:00 PM
120806L

Sikh Temple Shooting
Yesterday's mass shooting that took place at a Sikh temple in Oak Creek has touched the lives of people across the nation. In this hour, Ben and his guest discuss Sikhism, the difficulties the Sikh face...and how the healing process begins. Also, in the second half, a discussion on what can be done to promote religious tolerance in the U.S. and beyond.
Guests:
- Satpal Singh, chairperson at the World Sikh Council. http://www.worldsikhcouncil.org/
- Daniel Gold, professor of South Asian religions at Cornell University. He studies modern Indian religious movements
- Simran Kaur (CORE), Advocacy Manager, The Sikh Coalition. http://www.sikhcoalition.org/

Friday
8/3/2012
3:00 PM
120803K

Speaking Your Truth
Speaking your truth is a challenge for many of us because it causes us to see both the good and the bad in our lives. Join Ben Merens and his guest for a discussion about how to embrace what is real in your life.
Guest: Stacy Whetlow, certified radical forgiveness coach, life coach, and public speaker. Author, "Go Fetch: A Women's Guide for Learning to Walk Without A Leash" and "Silent Robber of the Night: A Journey of Forgiveness from Sexual Abuse." www.stacywhetlow.com

Friday
8/3/2012
4:00 PM
120803L

Your Views on the News
A look at the news that's been in the week that was today on Your Views on the News with At Issue host Ben Merens.
GUEST: Joe Heim is a professor of political science at UW-La Crosse.

Thursday
8/2/2012
3:00 PM
120802K

Rescuing the End of Life From the Medical System
Ben Merens talks with the author of "Last Rights: Rescuing the End of Life from the Medical System" about what needs to change so everyone can die with dignity. www.stephenpkiernan.com
Guest: Stephen P. Kiernan is the author of "Last Rights: Rescuing the End of Life From the Medical System." He has written for the Boston Globe and other publications, and for fourteen years wrote for the Burlington Free Press.

Thursday
8/2/2012
4:00 PM
120802L

Spike in Gas Prices
Gas prices are spiking across the country. The increase in prices over the last month was the biggest since the year 2000. In this hour, Ben and his guest discuss the reasons for the spike and the state of the crude oil market.
Guest: Robert Bryce, senior fellow with the Center for Energy Policy and the Environment at the Manhattan Institute. He's written extensively about the energy industry, and his most recent book is "Power Hungry: The Myths of 'Green' Energy and the Real Fuels of the Future." http://www.robertbryce.com/

Wednesday
8/1/2012
3:00 PM
120801K

August Job Line
Whether you are looking for workers or work, join the discussion today for the August Job Line. Ben will start the hour discussing an update on job numbers and end the hour with a career counselor discussing how to network to get a new job. During the hour we will take calls from listeners looking for work and offering work.
Guests: Lonnie Golden is professor of economics and labor studies at Penn State University.
Mary Spencer is Director of Career Services at the Milwaukee School of Engineering.

Wednesday
8/1/2012
4:00 PM
120801L

Postal Service Default
The U.S. Postal Service is set to default today on a $5.5 billion payment to fund retiree health care benefits. While service is expected to continue as normal, what does this mean for the future stability of the agency? In this hour, Ben and his guest discuss the latest challenges facing the Postal Service.
Guest: Don Soifer, Executive Director, Consumer Postal Council, Washington, DC. http://www.postalconsumers.org/

Tuesday
7/31/2012
3:00 PM
120731K

Consumer Financial Protection
The new Consumer Financial Protection Bureau announced its first penalty against a financial company this month. The CFPB fined Capital One Bank about $210 million because vendors working for the bank had sold deceptive credit card add-on products to customers. This hour, a representative of the agency talks about the settlement and answers questions about how consumers might use the CFPB. Then, Travis Plunkett of the Consumer Federation of America answers your questions about credit cards, credit scores, and bankruptcy.
GUESTS
3 - 3:20: Gail Hillebrand - Associate Director for Consumer Education and Engagement at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
3:20 - 4: Travis Plunkett - Legislative Director at the Consumer Federation of America

Tuesday
7/31/2012
4:00 PM
120731L

Partisan Divide Over Gay Marriage
A new Pew Research Center study shows that while support for gay marriage is on the rise among democrats...the partisan divide on the issue is wider than ever. In the first half of the program, Ben and his guest discuss the report. Then in the second half, Ben and his guest discuss the intersection of gay marriage and the 2012 campaigns.
Guests:
- Carroll Doherty (male), Associate Director of Pew Research Center for the People & the Press. The report is at: http://wpr.org/r/?787
- James Melcher, Associate Professor of Political Science, University of Maine-Farmington

Monday
7/30/2012
3:00 PM
120730K

Rise of Creative Class
The "creative class" is found in a variety of fields, from engineering to theater, biotech to education, architecture to small business. Join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss how this class is doing in today's economy.
Guest: Richard Florida is the author of "The Rise of the Creative Class" and Director of the Martin Prosperity Institute at the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management.

Monday
7/30/2012
4:00 PM
120730L

Criminal Punishment and Sentencing
Today in court, the alleged Aurora shooter was charged with 24 counts of murder and 116 counts of attempted murder. Both carry a maximum death penalty upon conviction. But just how do we measure punishment in these cases? In this hour, Ben and his guests discuss the role of punishment and sentencing in criminal cases...and what healing follows for the victims and their families.
Guests:
- Stan Stojkovic (STOY-kuh-vitch), Dean of the Helen Bader School of Social Welfare, and Professor in the Department of Criminal Justice, UW-Milwaukee
- Rabbi Joe Black, senior Rabbi at Temple Emanuel in Denver, Colorado

Friday
7/27/2012
3:00 PM
120727K

The Summer of the Superhero
The Avengers, Spiderman, and Batman are all superheroes who have gotten the big screen treatment this summer. But why are these movies so prevalent...and so popular? In this hour, Rob Ferrett and his guest discuss the "Summer of the Superhero."
Guest: Amanda Berry, assistant professor of literature at American University

Friday
7/27/2012
4:00 PM
120727L

Your Views on the News
The news that's been in the week that was - It's Your Views on the News today on At Issue. Join Rob Ferrett as he fills in for Ben Merens and takes your calls on the top news stories of the week with a guest analyst.
Guest: Bryan Brophy-Baermann is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Lesley University.

Thursday
7/26/2012
3:00 PM
120726K

Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Albums: Part 1
Everybody loves a good list--and a good fight about music. Earlier this summer, Rolling Stone named the greatest 500 albums of all time, an update to their 2003 list. This hour, Part One of Wisconsin Public Radio's conversation with Christian Hoard of Rolling Stone. Ben takes on the pre-1980 albums on the list, and tomorrow, Veronica Rueckert talks about the records released after 1980.
GUEST
Christian Hoard - Senior Editor at Rolling Stone
Listen to Part Two - Christian Hoard on The Veronica Rueckert Show: http://bit.ly/PyLD0d

Thursday
7/26/2012
4:00 PM
120726L

Tim Cullen and Wisconsin Politics
Ben Merens talks with state senator Tim Cullen about his decision to leave the democratic caucus in Wisconsin. Then in the second half of the show, Ben and his guest discuss what this move means for the future of politics in Wisconsin.
Guests:
- Tim Cullen, state senator from Janesville, 15th district
- Steve Walters, senior producer, Wisconsin Eye

Wednesday
7/25/2012
3:00 PM
120725K

How to Watch the Olympics
In just days, many of us will be glued to our televisions to watch the Olympic Games...and while we might be clear on the rules of the more popular events, we might not be up to speed on the intricacies of events like handball, the triple jump or taekwando. Ben's guest has researched each event taking place in London...and has tips on maximizing your enjoyment of the Summer Games.
Guest: Johnny Acton, co-author of the book, "How to Watch the Olympics: The Essential Guide to the Rules, Statistics, Heroes, and Zeroes of Every Sport."

Wednesday
7/25/2012
4:00 PM
120725L

Drought and the Economy
Just what effect is this drought having on the economy? Ben and his guest look at the drought's impact on consumer confidence, hiring, home sales, food prices, and more.
Guest: Ernie Goss is MacAllister Chair and Professor of Economics at Creighton University

Tuesday
7/24/2012
3:00 PM
120724K

The State of American Wealth
As America slowly pulls itself out of a long recession, much of the talk has been about jobs. But what about the rebuilding of American wealth and prosperity? Ben and his guest discuss the state of American wealth...and what ideas can be put in place to help Americans save more and build their assets.
Guest: Reid Cramer, director of the Asset Building Program at the New America Foundation. His piece, "The Asset Agenda," is in this month's "Washington Monthly." http://wpr.org/r/?770

Tuesday
7/24/2012
4:00 PM
120724L

Schools, and the Separation of Church and State
A federal appeals court has ruled that two Wisconsin high schools that held graduation ceremonies in a church violated the U.S. Constitution. Ben and his guest discuss the case, and the broader questions raised about the separation between church and state when it comes to schools.
Guest: Marc DeGirolami (dee-jer-AW-luh-mee), Associate Professor of Law and Associate Director for the Center for Law and Religion at St. John's University

Monday
7/23/2012
3:00 PM
120723K

Fixing the Civics Gap
Only one-third of Americans can name all three branches of government. In this hour, Rob Ferrett and his guest discuss the civics gap in our country, and what can be done to turn students into engaged citizens.
Guest: Scott Warren, executive director, Generation Citizen. http://www.generationcitizen.org/

Monday
7/23/2012
4:00 PM
120723L

Colorado Shooting
Can tragedies like last Friday's shooting in Colorado be prevented? Rob Ferrett's guest says preventing these events can be difficult, if not impossible...but it shouldn't stop us from trying. He says we should set aside our own difficulties to help individuals who are suffering not because we are scared, but simply because it is the right thing to do.
Guest: Jack Levin, Brudnick Professor of Sociology and Criminology at Northeastern University in Boston. He's the author of many books, including "Serial Killers and Sadistic Murderers: Up Close and Personal." www.jacklevinonviolence.com

Friday
7/20/2012
3:00 PM
120720K

Summer Six Word Memoirs
How does one express summer thoughts in only six words? Join Ben Merens and his guest as they take calls about your six word summer memoir.
Guest: Larry Smith is the co-editor of More Six Word Memoirs and the founding editor of Smith Magazine. He is the author of The Moment: Wild Poignant Life-Changing Stories and Only Six? Why Not More? - Six World Memoirs on Jewish Life.

Friday
7/20/2012
4:00 PM
120720L

Your Views on the News
Tragedy in Colorado...job losses in Wisconsin...and the persistence of extreme drought in parts of the state. Just what are Your Views on the News this week? In this hour, a round-up of the week's top stories, and your thoughts on the story that touched you the most.
Guest: Ken Mayer, professor of political science at UW-Madison, Affiliate Faculty LaFollette Institute of Public Affairs

Thursday
7/19/2012
3:00 PM
120719K

The Influence of Stephen Covey
Author, businessman and motivational speaker Stephen Covey died earlier this week at the age of 79. His book, "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People," is often cited as one of the most influential books ever written. Ben and his guest discuss the worldwide influence of Dr. Covey, and what each habit has meant to you.
Guest: Debra Lund, director of public relations at FranklinCovey. She was also Dr. Stephen Covey's publicist for 20 years.

Thursday
7/19/2012
4:00 PM
120719L

An AIDS-free Generation?
An estimated 34 million people worldwide are living with AIDS. That's according to a new U.N. report, which was released just days before Washington hosts the International AIDS conference. Ben and his guest discuss the epidemic, and the progress being made towards an AIDS-free generation.

Guest:
John Donnelly is a journalist based in Washington, D.C., specializing in global health and environmental subjects. His reporting on HIV and AIDS for GlobalPost is at http://wpr.org/r/?769

Wednesday
7/18/2012
3:00 PM
120718K

The Rise of Online College
Online college programs are gaining popularity across the nation...and in Wisconsin, the UW System recently announced a new online flexible degree program. In this hour, Ben and his guest discuss the rise of online colleges, how they differ from traditional universities, and the advantages and disadvantages of earning your degree online.
Guest: Scott Jaschik, editor at Inside Higher Ed. http://www.insidehighered.com

Wednesday
7/18/2012
4:00 PM
120718L

Challenges Still Facing Women at Work
The hiring of Marissa Mayer (MY-err) as Yahoo's new CEO, and the following talk about her pregnancy, has sparked a discussion about the challenges that women still face in the workplace. Ben Merens and his guest discuss the work/family balance, pay issues, and the rarity of female CEOs at Fortune 500 companies.
Guest: Anne Ladky, executive director and founding member of Women Employed. http://www.womenemployed.org/

Tuesday
7/17/2012
3:00 PM
120717K

iDisorder
Many of us use various forms of technology every day, and while it seems to make our lives easier, just what is it doing to our brains? Ben's guest discusses why many of us are suffering from an "iDisorder" and what we can do to prevent digital burnout.
Guest: Larry Rosen, professor and past chair of the psychology department at California State University, Dominguez Hills. His new book is "iDisorder: Understanding Our Obsession with Technology and Overcoming Its Hold on Us." http://DrLarryRosen.com

Tuesday
7/17/2012
4:00 PM
120717L

Campaign to Fix the Debt Launched
Civic leaders, top CEOs and leading budget experts met today to discuss America's debt and unsustainable fiscal trajectory, and to announce the launch of The Campaign to Fix the Debt, a nonpartisan coalition to put America on a better fiscal path. Join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss this new campaign.
Guest: Marc Goldwein is the senior policy director of the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget.

Monday
7/16/2012
3:00 PM
120716K

July ECON 101
Join Ben Merens and his guest economist for At Issue Econ 101 - to ask your questions about our economy. A report released today says Americans spent less at retail businesses for a third straight month in June. What's on your mind this week?
Guest: Kevin Quinn is Associate Academic Dean and professor of Economics at St. Norbert College.

Monday
7/16/2012
4:00 PM
120716L

Wisconsin High Schools
Are Wisconsin high schools adequately preparing their students for their future careers? That's the question up for debate today at the Capitol, where business leaders, lawmakers and educators are meeting. In this hour, Ben and his guests discuss the state of Wisconsin high schools.
Guests:
- Luther Olsen, Republican State Senator from Ripon, who represents Wisconsin's 14th Senate District. He's chair of the Special Committee on Improving Educational Opportunities in High School
- Mark Schug (SHUG), Professor Emeritus of Education and Former Director, Center for Economic Education, UW-Milwaukee.

Friday
7/13/2012
3:00 PM
120713K

Family Road Trips
As vacation season kicks into high gear, many families will be piling into cars for road trips across the state...and the country. Join Ben Merens and his guest for suggestions on making the most out of your family road trip, and call-in and share your favorite road trip memories.

Guest:
Julie Henning, Midwest editor at the online family travel magazine "Road Trips For Families." She also contributes to the Travel Mom Julie column at MadisonMamas.com and is the author of two smart phone apps for family fun in Madison and Milwaukee. www.roadtripsforfamilies.com and www.madisonloveskids.com.

Friday
7/13/2012
4:00 PM
120713L

Your Views on the News 7/13/12
Our Friday staple, Your View on the News. Call, write, or post with what you think is the biggest news story of the week.
GUEST
Mort Sipress - Emeritus Professor of Political Science at UW-Eau Claire

Thursday
7/12/2012
3:00 PM
120712K

Teaching Teens Emergency Driving Skills
Car crashes are the leading cause of death for 16-25 year old's, and two out of every three teens who die in a car crash dies in their very first crash. Join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss teaching teens emergency driving skills.
Guest: Robbie Cutcliffe is the head coach and chief instructor at Wheels Milwaukee, a driving school. www.wheelsmilwaukee.com

Thursday
7/12/2012
4:00 PM
120712L

Alzeimer's research--a major breakthrough?
A genetic breakthrough may have big implications for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Ben Merens and his guest look at the state of the art in Alzheimer's treatment and prevention...and what resources are out there for people coping with the illness.
Guest: Tom Hlavacek (LAV-uh-check), Executive Director, Alzheimer's Association of Southeastern Wisconsin http://www.alz.org/sewi/

Wednesday
7/11/2012
3:00 PM
120711K

July Jobline
Whether you are looking for workers or work, join the discussion today for the July Job Line. Gene Purcell will start the hour discussing an update on job numbers and end with job hunting tips from a career counselor. Jobs posted at: http://wpr.org/merens/jobline.cfm
Guests: Marc Levine is Senior Fellow and Founding Director of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Center for Economic Development.
Matthew Myers is a career counselor at the career services center at Marquette University.

Wednesday
7/11/2012
4:00 PM
120711L

Wisconsin's Senate race and more
New poll numbers are out today in Wisconsin's U.S. Senate race. Gene Purcell talks to pollster Charles Franklin about the latest numbers...and the issues shaping the election.
Charles Franklin, Visiting Professor of Law and Public Policy at Marquette University, and Co-Developer and Contributor for www.PollsAndVotes.com. Marquette survey link (new number due out early this afternoon): https://law.marquette.edu/poll/

Tuesday
7/10/2012
3:00 PM
120710K

Surviving the Loss of a Spouse
No one plans to lose their spouse to an untimely death, but when it happens, you must go on. Today on At Issue, join Ben Merens and his guest for a discussion about healing after the loss of a loved one, with both practical and emotional guidance.
GUEST: Carole Brady Fleet is the founder of Widows Wear Stilettos and is the author of Happily Even After: A Guide to Getting Through (And Beyond) the Grief of Widowhood.
www.widowswearstilettos.com

Tuesday
7/10/2012
4:00 PM
120710L

Droughts, floods, and Wisconsin
From a drought emergency in over half of Wisconsin to flood recovery in the north, Ben Merens and WPR reporters round up the impact of weird weather on the state.
Guests:
WPR reporters Steve Roisum, Chuck Quirmbach, Mike Simonson, and Maureen McCollum

Monday
7/9/2012
3:00 PM
120709K

Helping Parent the Victim of a Bully
Being a victim of a bully can leave lifelong scars. Join the discussion today with Ben Merens and his guest as they talk about how parents can help their children survive being bullied.
Guest: Myrna Shure is a professor of Psychology at Drexel University in Philadelphia. She is the author of "Thinking Parent, Thinking Child: How To Turn Your Most Challenging Everyday Problems Into Solutions." www.thinkingchild.com

Monday
7/9/2012
4:00 PM
120709L

Welfare restrictions--no booze, tobacco, etc?
A federal law requires states to restrict the use of welfare money to make it harder to use for alcohol, tobacco, and other items. Ben Merens' guest says the requirement creates a stigma for people receiving those benefits...and it's a distraction from more important issues in welfare spending.
Guest: Elizabeth Lower-Basch (LOWW-er BASH), Policy Coordinator for the Center for Law and Social Policy

Friday
7/6/2012
3:00 PM
120706K

Value of Appreciating What is Working in the Wor...
As a society, we often focus on what is broken and needs changing. Today on At Issue, Ben Merens and his guest discuss what works well in our state, nation and world...and in your life.
GUEST: Mary Clare is the author of 100 Voices: Americans Talk About Change. She is a professor of Counseling Psychology at Lewis and Clark College in Portland, OR. She is also the founder of the Exchange Project. www.exchange09.com

Friday
7/6/2012
4:00 PM
120706L

Your Views on the News
Reverberations from the Supreme Court's decision on health care continue. The "God Particle" is discovered by scientists. And a lingering heat wave causes 100+ degree temperatures in Wisconsin. What news story is on your mind this week? This hour, it's Your Views on the News.
Guest: Dennis Riley, Professor of Political Science, UW-Stevens Point. Author of "Bureaucracy and the Policy Process: Keeping the Promises"

Thursday
7/5/2012
3:00 PM
120705K

What Does Summer Inspire You To Do?
Summer warmth and longer days can lead one to great bouts of creativity...so says Ben Merens' guest today on At Issue. Ben talks to an author about what summer inspires you to do.
Guest: Maryanne Radmacher (Rod-MOCK-er) is the author of Simply an Inspired Life: Consciously Choosing Unbound Happiness in Good Times & Bad, Live Boldly: Cultivate the Qualities That Can Change Your Life, and Courage Doesn't Always Roar. www.maryanneradmacher.net

Thursday
7/5/2012
4:00 PM
120705L

Wisconsin Heat Wave 2012
Hot enough for you? As temperatures across the state creep into the triple digits, Ben Merens and his guest discuss the reasons for this lingering heat wave, how long it will last, and what it might tell us about the rest of the summer, and the impending winter.
Guest: Michael Morgan, Professor of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences at UW-Madison

Wednesday
7/4/2012
3:00 PM
120315M

The End of Money?
We put our faith in our system of money, trusting our currency to retain value forever. Is this trust misplaced? Join Ben Merens and his guest as he takes a critical look at cash, considering its liabilities and what our world would be like without numbered bits of paper and tiny metal disks.
(Rebroadcast from March 15, 2012)
Guest: David Wolman is the author of "The End of Money: Counterfeiters, Preachers, Techies, Dreamers-and the Coming Cashless Society." He is a contributing editor at Wired.
www.david-wolman.com

Tuesday
7/3/2012
3:00 PM
120703K

Our Favorite Car Stories
Americans have a love affair with their cars, and you've probably had a favorite car. Today on At Issue, join Ben Merens and his guest as they talk about their favorite cars; yours; and why we've loved them.
Guest: John St. Augustine is a WGN radio host in Chicago. He is the author of Every Moment Matters and Living an Uncommon Life: Essential Lessons from 21 Extraordinary People. www.johnstaugustine.com

Tuesday
7/3/2012
4:00 PM
120703L

Challenges Facing the Grid
Severe storms have caused massive power outages across the nation, and high temperatures are causing increased energy demand in areas that do have power. Ben and his guest discuss the present and future challenges facing the nation's energy grid.
Then in the last ten minutes of the program, Ben's guest talks about how Wisconsin is handling the increased demand for energy.
Guests:
- Matt Wakefield, senior program manager for smart grid research at the Electric Power Research Institute
- (4:50-5:00) Brian Manthey, spokesperson for We Energies

Monday
7/2/2012
3:00 PM
120702K

Meaning of Independance Day in 2012
Today on At Issue, Ben Merens talks with historian Ken Davis about the meaning of Independence Day in 2012.
Guest: Ken Davis, historian, author of "Don't Know Much About History," "America's Hidden History," and "Don't Know Much About Literature."

Monday
7/2/2012
4:00 PM
120702L

What The Affordable Care Act Does
In the debate over the federal health care law, the individual mandate seemed to get the most attention. But what reforms has the law already put in place, and what reforms are still to come? In this hour, Ben and his guest dive into the nuts and bolts of the Affordable Care Act.
Guest: Cameron Macdonald, assistant professor of sociology at UW-Madison, and affiliate at the UW Carbone (car-BONE) Cancer Center

Friday
6/29/2012
3:00 PM
120629K

Your Favorite Places in Wisconsin
The state flag, Friday night fish fries, Bob LaFollette. What are the things you like best about Wisconsin? Join Ben Merens and his guest to discuss the charm of The Dairy State.
Guest: Kim Beck, Director of Arts, Humanities and Science, UW-Milwaukee School of Continuing Education.

Friday
6/29/2012
4:00 PM
120629L

Your Views on the News
Immigration...health care...the extreme heat here in Wisconsin. What news story is on your mind this week? In this hour of At Issue, it's Your Views on the News, and your thoughts are welcomed.
Guest: Steven Schier (SHEAR), Professor of Political Science, Carleton College.

Thursday
6/28/2012
3:00 PM
120628K

Health Care Ruling Open Line
In a 5-4 vote, the Affordable Care Act has been upheld by the United States Supreme Court. This hour, your reactions to the case are welcome.

Thursday
6/28/2012
4:00 PM
120628L

Health Care Ruling Implications
Today's Supreme Court ruling upholding the federal health care law has numerous legal and political implications. In this hour of At Issue, Ben and his guest discuss the case, and where the debate on health care goes from here.
Guest: Gregory Magarian, professor of law at Washington University in St. Louis

Wednesday
6/27/2012
3:00 PM
120627K

International arms trade
The conflict in Syria continues to escalate, as do shipments of arms to both the Assad regime and the Free Syrian Army. Much of the attention has focused on helicopters and air defense systems, but what about the small arms trade, both legal and illegal? How do weapons move around the world, and how are they regulated? This hour, guest host John Munson and his guest talk about the global arms industry, as well as the UN Conference on the Arms Trade Treaty, which begins Monday.
GUEST
Natalie Goldring - Senior Fellow with the Security Studies Program at Georgetown's School of Foreign Service. She is also the UN consultant for the Acronym Institute for Disarmament Diplomacy.

Wednesday
6/27/2012
4:00 PM
120627L

Three Reforms For Wisconsin
Recall, disclosure, and redistricting. According to John Munson's guest, these are the three areas the Wisconsin legislature should focus on reforming...and should do it this summer in a bipartisan effort.
Guest: Jay Heck, executive director, Common Cause in Wisconsin.

Tuesday
6/26/2012
3:00 PM
120626K

Investigate Journalism 40 years after Watergate
In September, the New Orleans Times-Picayune will reduce its production of a printed newspaper to just three editions a week. But the decline of regional newspapers has inspired journalists to look for other ways to do their work. So is this a good time or a bad time for investigative journalism? A conversation about the media's watchdog role, forty years after Watergate.
GUESTS
Meg Kissinger - Investigative Health Reporter for the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel

Stephen Engelberg - Managing Editor at ProPublica

Tuesday
6/26/2012
4:00 PM
120626L

Education and Learning in Summer
School's out for summer...but does the learning have to stop? And how should parents oversee their children's education until school resumes in the fall? In this hour, Ben talks with a guest about the role of education and learning during summer break.
Guest: Alfie Kohn, specialist in human behavior, education, and parenting. Author, "The Homework Myth: Why Our Kids Get Too Much of a Bad Thing," "What Does It Mean To Be Well Educated?" and most recently "Feel-Bad Education and Other Essays on Children and Schooling." http://www.alfiekohn.org

Monday
6/25/2012
3:00 PM
120625K

Watergate at 40
June marks the 40th anniversary of the Watergate Hotel break-in. This hour, Ben talks to two experts about the break-in, the cover-up, and its effect on Presidential power and the press.
GUESTS
Michael A. Genovese - Director of the Institute for Leadership Studies at Loyola Marymount University and editor of WATERGATE REMEMBERED: THE LEGACY FOR AMERICAN POLITICS
Jonathan Marshall - Assistant Professor of Journalism at the Medill School at Northwestern University and author of WATERGATE'S LEGACY AND THE PRESS

Monday
6/25/2012
4:00 PM
120625L

Supreme Court Ruling on Immigration
Earlier today, the Supreme Court struck down most of Arizona's controversial immigration law, but upheld the provision that allows law enforcement to check immigration status during traffic stops. Ben Merens and his guests discuss the ruling and its implications on national immigration policy.
Guests:
- Stephen Yale-Loehr (yale-LORE), adjunct professor of law at Cornell University
- Carissa Hessick, professor of law at Arizona State University

Friday
6/22/2012
3:00 PM
120622K

Patience: The Art of Peaceful Living
Just when we need it most, we often seem to run out of patience. Join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss the nature of patience and talk about a practical approach for developing a depth of this essential state of mind.
Guest:
Allan Lokos is the founder and guiding teacher of The Community Meditation Center in New York City. He is the author of "Patience: The Art of Peaceful Living" and "Pocket Peace: Effective Practices for Enlightened Living."
www.cmcnewyork.org

Friday
6/22/2012
4:00 PM
120622L

Your Views on the News
The news that's been in the week that was - it's Your Views on the News today on At Issue with Ben Merens. Call in with your thoughts about the week's top news story.
Guest: Dick Haven is an Emeritus Professor of Communication at UW-Whitewater.

Thursday
6/21/2012
3:00 PM
120621K

What Makes Marriages Last?
The joys of marriage come with a lot of hard work and sacrifice. Join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss what makes marriage work and ask for your stories about long-term marital success.
Guest: Rabbi Irwin Kula, president of the National Jewish Center for Learning and Leadership, author of "Yearnings: Embraching the Sacred Messiness of Life"

Thursday
6/21/2012
4:00 PM
120621L

Reforming Higher Education
Without higher education reforms, the United States will fall significantly short of meeting labor demand in the coming years. That's according to a recent national report, which graded each state on several factors...and the UW system received a 'C' in student access, success, and meeting labor market demand. In this hour, Ben and his guest what reforms are needed to keep higher education strong and the U.S. competitive globally.
Guest: Sara Goldrick-Rab, associate professor of educational policy studies and sociology, UW-Madison

Wednesday
6/20/2012
3:00 PM
120620K

Toxic Free Home
Cleaning chemicals in our homes can have debilitating effects on our health. Today on At Issue with Ben Merens, how to protect your health and home from the chemicals that are making you sick. (Rebroadcast from November 30, 2011)
Guest: Debra Lynn Dadd, consumer advocate. Author, "Toxic Free: How To Protect Your Health and Home From the Chemicals That Are Making You Sick" www.debralynndadd.com

Wednesday
6/20/2012
4:00 PM
120620L

The Myth of Choice
With freedom comes choice . . . or so we think. However, Ben Merens' guest makes the case that we all have far fewer choices than we ever would have imagined. (Rebroadcast from October 4, 2011)
Guest: Kent Greenfield, Professor, Boston College Law School. Author, "The
Myth of Choice: Personal Responsibility in a World of Limits." www.kentgreenfield.com

Tuesday
6/19/2012
3:00 PM
120619K

The Science of Reruns
We all have our favorite movies, books and episodes of television shows...but just why do we go back to them over and over? In this hour of At Issue, Ben and his guest discuss the science of reruns, and why we love to re-consume our favorite forms of entertainment.
Guest: Cristel (chris-TELL) Russell, assistant professor of marketing in the Kogod School of Business at American University

Tuesday
6/19/2012
4:00 PM
120619L

Painkiller Regulation
An effort in Congress to enact stricter controls on painkillers has failed. Proponents said the regulations would combat drug abuse, while opponents worried about the increased costs to pharmacies, drug stores...and patients. In this hour, Ben and his guest the failed proposal, and what needs to happen now to combat prescription drug abuse.
Guest: Dr. Andrew Kolodny (koh-LAHD-nee), Chair of the Department of Psychiatry at Maimonides (my-MAH-nih-dees) Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York, and president of Physicians for Responsible Opioid Prescribing. www.supportprop.org

Monday
6/18/2012
3:00 PM
120618K

June ECON 101
Join Ben Merens and his guest economist for another edition of At Issue Econ 101 - to ask your questions about our economy. The discussion will touch on the Euro financial crisis and the Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for tomorrow.
Guest: Ernie Goss is MacAllister Chair and Professor of Economics at Creighton University.

Monday
6/18/2012
4:00 PM
120618L

Looking Ahead to the Health Care Law Ruling
The Supreme Court is expected to rule on the federal health care law before the end of the month. Ben Merens and his guest discuss what's at stake for the president, the court, and those covered by the law.
Guest: Daniel Conkle, Robert H. McKinney Professor of Law at the Maurer School of Law at Indiana University.

Friday
6/15/2012
3:00 PM
120615K

America's Addiction to Coal
America's addiction to coal must be stopped and we have far less time to stop it than many believe. Today on At Issue, Ben Merens broadcasts live from the Renewable Energy Fair in Custer and talks with coal expert Leslie Glustrom.
Guest: Leslie Glustrom (GLUSS-trom) is the Director of Research and Policy at Clean Energy Action.

Friday
6/15/2012
4:00 PM
120615L

Your Views on the News
The news that's been in the week that was - It's Your Views on the News today on At Issue with Ben Merens live from the Energy Fair in Custer. Call in with your thoughts about the week's top news story.
Guest: Ed Miller, Professor of Political Science at UW-Stevens Point

Thursday
6/14/2012
3:00 PM
120614K

Healing Wisconsin's Political Culture
Wisconsin is done with recalls for now, but what about the civic renewal that follows contentious elections? Join the discussion this hour as Ben Merens talks with the author of "Healing the Heart of Democracy."
Guest: Parker Palmer is a writer, teacher and activist. He is the author of "Healing the Heart of Democracy: The Courage to Create A Politics Worthy of the Human Spirit" and is the founder of the Center for Courage and Renewal. www.couragerenewal.org

Thursday
6/14/2012
4:00 PM
120614L

Bats, and WNS in Wisconsin?
A case of white nose syndrome, a deadly bat disease, was recently confirmed just outside of Wisconsin, and serious concerns are being raised that the disease could spread to the state. Ben Merens and his guest discuss what white nose syndrome is and why we should be concerned.
Guest: Rob Mies (MY-ess), Executive Director, Organization for Bat Conservation. www.batconservation.org

Wednesday
6/13/2012
3:00 PM
120613K

Urban Climate Change
Urban climate change threatens millions, but can be reversed by the acts of individuals. That's according to Ben Merens' guest in this hour of At Issue. www.urbanclimate.gatech.edu
Guest: Brian Stone is an Associate Professor School of City & Regional Planning at the Georgia Institute of Technology. He is the author of The City and the Coming Climate: Climate Change in the Places We Live.

Wednesday
6/13/2012
4:00 PM
120613L

The Use of Drones Abroad
According to a new Pew poll, 62% of Americans support the use of drones to combat militants abroad...but other countries surveyed showed signification disapproval towards drone strikes. In this hour of At Issue, Ben and his guest discuss the military's use of drones and how the rest of the world views it.
Guest: Jason Campbell, project associate at the RAND Corporation. His research focuses on military special operations.

Tuesday
6/12/2012
3:00 PM
120612K

How Our Dad's Raised Us and Impact on Our Kids
With Father's Day around the corner, today on At Issue, Ben Merens and his guest discuss the lessons our dads taught us and how those lessons impact how we raise our own kids.
Guest: John Trayser is the author of "The Greatful Dad" and father of three boys. http://thegreatfuldad.com/

Tuesday
6/12/2012
4:00 PM
120612L

Eliminate Property Tax?
North Dakota voters head to the polls today to decide whether or not to abolish the state's property tax. In the first half of the program, Ben and his guest discuss the referendum, and the politics behind trying to eliminate the tax. Then in the second half, Ben and his guest discuss property taxes in Wisconsin...and what the state might look like without them.
Guests:
- Mark Jendrysik (jen-DRY-sick), professor and chair of political science and public administration, University of North Dakota
- Dale Knapp, Research Director, Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance

Monday
6/11/2012
3:00 PM
120611K

Great Achievements in Sports
Horse racing's Triple Crown. Golf's Grand Slam. Baseball's 56 game hitting streak. Just what is sports' most difficult and exciting achievement? And what records will never be broken again? In this hour of At Issue, Ben and his guest discuss the moments and achievements that define sports.
Guest: Mike Pesca, sports reporter and correspondent at NPR. He's also a panelist on Slate's "Hang Up and Listen" podcast.

Monday
6/11/2012
4:00 PM
120611L

Spotlight on Nuclear Issues
The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee meets Wednesday to consider President Obama's choice of Allison M. Macfarlane as the new head of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Join Ben Merens and his guest for a discussion about nuclear waste and disposal, along with an update on the Yucca Mountain situation.
Guest: Paul Carroll is the Program Director at the Ploughshares Fund in San Francisco. He has worked on nuclear weapons production and waste management issues for nearly 20 years in the U.S. Congress, Department of Energy, and most recently at the Ploughshares Fund.

Friday
6/8/2012
3:00 PM
120608K

Summer Movies!
Spiderman...Batman...even Abe Lincoln: Vampire Hunter? The summer movie season must be upon us. Today after three on At Issue, Ben Merens and his guest movie critic discuss the upcoming batch of summer blockbusters.
Guest: Mike Mayo, film critic and a contributor to The Washington Post and The Roanoke Times. He has written a number of books on film, including "American Murder: Criminals, Crime and the Media"

Friday
6/8/2012
4:00 PM
120608L

Your Views on the News
Today on At Issue, it's Your Views on the News. You're invited to call in with your thoughts about the week's most significant news story.
Guest: Ken Mayer, professor of political science UW Madison Affiliate Faculty LaFollette Institute of Public Affairs

Thursday
6/7/2012
3:00 PM
120607K

Digital Vertigo
Social media is damaging our relationships, self-identities, and the way we interact with one another. That's according to Ben's guest, today after three.
Guest: Andrew Keen was the founder of AudioCafe.com. He's the host of the TechCrunchTV program "Keen On" as well as being a columnist and author. His new book is "Digital Vertigo: How Today's Online Social Revolution is Dividing, Diminishing, and Disorienting Us." http://ajkeen.com/

Thursday
6/7/2012
4:00 PM
120607L

Post-Recall Politics
While the recall elections are over...questions about the political future of Wisconsin still exist. In this hour of At Issue, Ben Merens and his guest examine Wisconsin's post-recall political landscape.
Guest: Tim Dale, Assistant Professor of Political Science, UW-Green Bay

Wednesday
6/6/2012
3:00 PM
120606K

June 2012 Job Line
Whether you are looking for workers or work, join the discussion today for the June Job Line. Ben will start the hour discussing an update on job numbers and end the hour with a career counselor with job hunting tips. During the hour we will take calls from listeners looking for work and offering work.
Guests: Marc Levine is Senior Fellow and Founding Director of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Center for Economic Development.
Tom Kipp is the Director of Career Services at Cardinal Stritch University.

Wednesday
6/6/2012
4:00 PM
120606L

Recall Election Results
Last night, Governor Walker became the first U.S. governor in history to survive a recall election. Lieutenant Governor Rebecca Kleefisch won her race. And three Republican state senators won as well, while democrat John Lehman declares victory in his district. Today on At Issue, Ben Merens and his guest analyst discuss the results from last night's recall races.
Guest: Mordecai Lee, Professor of Governmental Affairs, UW-Milwaukee

Tuesday
6/5/2012
3:00 PM
120605K

Americans and Vacation
Many Americans are working more...and taking less vacation, often leaving numerous vacation days on the table. And many who do take time off find it difficult to resist checking e-mails and voicemails. After three, guest host Rob Ferrett and his guest discuss the American "workaholic" culture, and how the idea of vacation fits into it.
Guest: Lonnie Golden, professor of economics and labor studies at Penn State University

Tuesday
6/5/2012
4:00 PM
120605L

Healthier Ads, and Childhood Obesity
Disney announced new standards today for food advertising on its television channels and website, effectively banning ads for junk food. In the first half of the show, Rob Ferrett and his guest discuss the company's decision. Then in the second half, Rob and his guest talk about childhood obesity, and small steps parents can take to help their kids to live healthy.
Guests:
- Margo Wootan (WOO-tahn), Director of Nutrition Policy, Center for Science in the Public Interest
- James Hill, Director of the Center for Human Nutrition at the University of Colorado

Monday
6/4/2012
3:00 PM
120604K

The Not-So-Special Interests
There are over 1,600 advocacy organizations in Washington...but just who is represented by these groups, and how much influence do they have? After three, Rob Ferrett and his guest discuss the role and influence of interest groups in national politics.
Guest: Matt Grossman, assistant professor of political science at Michigan State University, director of the Michigan Policy Network, author of "The No-So-Special Interests: Interest Groups, Public Representation, and American Governance"

Monday
6/4/2012
4:00 PM
120604L

Recall Election Preview
One of the more unusual campaign seasons in recent memory comes to an end tomorrow in Wisconsin. After four, Rob Ferrett and his guest look back on how we got here, and preview tomorrow's recall election.
Guest: Barry Burden, Professor of Political Science at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Associate Chair and Director of Graduate Studies.

Friday
6/1/2012
3:00 PM
120601K

The Endings That Set Us Free
As we transition through life, we focus more on the idea of new beginnings, rather than acknowledging the endings when they happen. That's according to Gene Purcell's guest, after three, who says our exits can be powerful moments, and that preparing for small departures in our lives can prepare us for the larger ones.
Guest: Sara Lawrence-Lightfoot, sociologist, and the Emily Hargroves Fisher professor of education at Harvard University. She's the author of ten books, and her latest is "Exit: The Endings That Set Us Free."

Friday
6/1/2012
4:00 PM
120601L

Your Views on the News
A look at the news that's been in the week that was today after four on Your Views on the News on At Issue. Gene Purcell sits in and takes your calls.
Guest: Mort Sipress, Emeritus Professor of Political Science UW Eau Claire

Thursday
5/31/2012
3:00 PM
120531K

Political Ads
Very few voters actually like negative political ads, but campaigns use them because they work. After three, Ben and his guest talk about how campaigns and SuperPACS use political ads, and how they influence public opinion.
Guest: Ken Goldstein, President of Kantar Media CMAG and longtime Professor of Political Science at the University of Wisconsin-Madison

Thursday
5/31/2012
4:00 PM
120531L

Ban Big Sodas?
In New York City, sodas and sugary drinks larger than 16 ounces should be banned in restaurants, food carts, sports venues and movie theaters. That's according to a recent proposal by Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who says it will help combat obesity. After four, Ben Merens gets two perspectives on this possible first-in-the-nation ban.
Guests:
- Michael Jacobson, Executive Director, Center for Science in the Public Interest
- Jeff Stier (STY-err), Senior Fellow at the National Center for Public Policy Research. He was the Associate Director of the American Council on Science and Health from 1997-2010.

Wednesday
5/30/2012
3:00 PM
120530K

What Color is Your Parachute?
After three, join Ben Merens and his guest for practical advice about job hunting and switching careers. www.jobhuntersbible.com
Guest: Richard Bolles is the author of What Color is Your Parachute? He releases updated versions of his manual each year, and released the 40th version of his book this year.

Wednesday
5/30/2012
4:00 PM
120530L

Recall Update and Polls
New polling data in the recall election is out this afternoon. The Marquette Law poll shows Walker ahead of Barrett 52-45%. After four, Ben gets two perspectives on the poll and the latest recall news.
Guests:
- Jon Erpenbach, Democratic State Senator from Middleton
- James Wigderson, writer, political blogger, and columnist for the Waukesha Freeman. His website is http://Wigderson.com

Tuesday
5/29/2012
3:00 PM
120529K

Obama's Low Profile Leading Up to WI Recall
The gubernatorial election is now only eight days away, and President Obama has kept a low profile in this recall fight. After three, join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss how involved the President should be in a polarizing fight with huge national overtones?
Guest: Craig Gilbert, Washington, D.C. Bureau Chief and national political reporter, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Author, The Wisconsin Voter blog. http://wpr.org/r/?733

Tuesday
5/29/2012
4:00 PM
120529L

Civility and Politics
Next week's recall election will determine who will be our state's governor but it won't guarantee any civility among the citizens. That is the job of each one of us...that's according to Ben's guest, today after four.
Guest: Sheldon Lubar, chairman, Lubar & Co. His op-ed on civility in politics is at http://wpr.org/r/?734

Monday
5/28/2012
3:00 PM
120528K

Dare to be Average
Are you depressed . . . unhappy . . . unfulfilled? Ever wanted to be more than you are? After three, join Ben Merens and his guest in a conversation about how to "throw it all out the window," and dare to be average.
Guest: David Martin, writer of short humor and political satire. Bi-weekly humor column, The Ottawa Citizen. Author, "Dare to Be Average". (Rebroadcast from 9/16/2011)

Monday
5/28/2012
4:00 PM
120528L

One Patient Global Health
Health care shouldn't be about whether or not you can pay for it but rather whether or not you have a need for it...so says Ben Merens' guest today after four on At Issue. Ben's guest is with the One Patient Global Health Initiative. (Rebroadcast from 10/24/2011)
Guest: Dr. Dan Ivankovich, (Eye-VONK-eh-vitch) is an orthopedic surgeon, traumatologist and spine specialist. He is a consultant at One Patient Global Health Intiative. www.onepatient.org

Friday
5/25/2012
3:00 PM
120525K

The Appeal of Science Fiction
Fans of the late author Douglas Adams celebrate Towel Day today. "Men in Black 3" hits the big screen this weekend. And "The Hunger Games" continue to entrance readers and movie goers. It's a good spring for science fiction, so today after three, Ben and his guest talk about the appeal of sci-fi.
Guest: Michael Levy (LEE-vee), Professor and Chair of the English Department at UW-Stout

Friday
5/25/2012
4:00 PM
120525L

Your Views on the News
After four, it's Your Views on the News on At Issue. Listeners are invited to call-in with their thoughts about the week's biggest news story. That's Your Views on the News today after four.
Guest: Steven Schier (SHEAR) is Dorothy H. and Edward C. Congdon Professor of Political Science at Carleton College. He is the author of several books, including "By Invitation Only: The Rise of Exclusive Politics in the United States," and "You Call This an Election? America's Peculiar Democracy." He is an occasional political analyst for KSTP Television in Minneapolis.

Thursday
5/24/2012
3:00 PM
120524K

Memorial Day History
Memorial Day is just about here, which means the unofficial start of summer. After three, Ben and his guest discuss the history behind the holiday.
Guest: Ken Davis, historian and the author of numerous books, including "A Nation Rising," "America's Hidden History," and the "Don't Know Much About" series

Thursday
5/24/2012
4:00 PM
120524L

Recall Process with Kevin Kennedy
Absentee voting has begun in the recall elections, and so far, turnout has been high. After four, Ben speaks with the director of Wisconsin's Government Accountability Board about early voting, the recall election process, and what changes you can expect at the polls.
Guest: Kevin Kennedy, Director and General Counsel of the Wisconsin Government Accountability Board

Wednesday
5/23/2012
3:00 PM
120523K

ExxonMobil
ExxonMobil far exceeds its fellow oil companies in both profits and political contributions. After three, Ben talks with New Yorker writer Steve Coll about how this influential company operates in the U.S. and around the world.
Guest: Steve Coll, staff writer for the New Yorker magazine, president of the New America Foundation, and author of PRIVATE EMPIRE: EXXONMOBIL AND AMERICAN POWER.

Wednesday
5/23/2012
4:00 PM
120523L

Candidate Forum with Tom Barrett
After four, Ben Merens continues his series of candidate forums with the candidates running for governor and lieutenant governor. In the first half of the hour, he'll speak to Milwaukee's mayor, and democratic candidate for governor, Tom Barrett.
Guest: Tom Barrett, Milwaukee Mayor, democratic candidate for governor. www.barrettforwisconsin.com/

Wednesday
5/23/2012
4:30 PM
120523X

Candidate Forum with Hari Trivedi
After four-thirty, Ben Merens talks with the independent candidate who's running for governor in Wisconsin.
Guest: Dr. Hari Trivedi (hah-REE trah-VEH-dee), physician from Brookfield, independent candidate for governor. http://www.trivgov.com/

Tuesday
5/22/2012
3:00 PM
120522K

Engaging in Civil Discourse
As Wisconsin's recall season progresses, a discussion about civil discourse is on tap today after three on At Issue. Ben Merens talks with Nate Garvis, author of "Naked Civics: Creating a Post Political World Beyond Left Versus Right."
Guest: Nate Garvis, Founder/President Naked Civics
"Naked Civics: Creating a Post Political World Beyond Left Versus Right" Pub date September
http://wpr.org/r/?731

Tuesday
5/22/2012
4:00 PM
120522L

Candidate Forum with Mahlon Mitchell
Ben Merens begins his series of forums with the candidates running for governor and lieutenant governor. After four, Ben speaks with Mahlon Mitchell, the democratic candidate for lieutenant governor.
Guest: Mahlon (MAY-lin) Mitchell, President of the Professional Fire Fighters of Wisconsin, Democratic candidate for lieutenant governor of Wisconsin. http://www.mahlonmitchell.com

Tuesday
5/22/2012
4:30 PM
120522X

Recall Update with Jeff Mayers
Then after four-thirty, Ben and his guest discuss the latest from the recall race, including the newest poll numbers showing Governor Walker increasing his lead, and a look at the latest political ads.
Guest: Jeff Mayers, president of WisPolitics.com. www.wispolitics.com

Monday
5/21/2012
3:00 PM
120521K

Econ 101 - May 2012
After three, join Rob Ferrett and guest economist Kevin Quinn for At Issue's monthly check-in on the economy. It's Econ 101, and your questions about the economy are welcomed.
Guest: Kevin Quinn, Associate Academic Dean and Professor of Economics, St. Norbert College

Monday
5/21/2012
4:00 PM
120521L

The Sickening of Society?
The American Psychological Association has been drafting a new edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders...and some of the proposed changes have sparked controversy. After four, Rob Ferrett talks with a past president of the APA, who says the proposed changes will lead to the over-diagnosis of mental disorders and lead to a "sickening of society."
Guest: Frank Farley, Psychologist at Temple University and Former President, American Psychological Association

Friday
5/18/2012
3:00 PM
120518K

Ted Williams, "The Golden Voice"
In early 2011, Ted Williams was a homeless panhandler in Columbus, Ohio. But when a local journalist posted a video of him speaking with his now-famous "radio voice," the You Tube video went viral. After three, Williams talks about his new-found celebrity, and his quest to get clean, with guest host Gene Purcell.
GUEST
Ted Williams - voice-over artist and author, with Bret Witter, of A Golden Voice: how Faith, Hard Work, and Humility Brought Me from the Streets to Salvation

Friday
5/18/2012
4:00 PM
120518L

Your Views on the News
The news that's been in the week that was - it's Your Views on the News, today after four, on At Issue with guest host Gene Purcell. Call in with your thoughts about the week's top news story.
Guest: Dick Haven, Emeritus Professor of Communication, UW-Whitewater

Thursday
5/17/2012
3:00 PM
120517K

The Future of the Bucks
The Milwaukee Bucks finished this season with a record of 31-35, and the Bradley Center had its lowest attendance since the team moved there in 1988. There's been talk of building a new stadium...and even some rumors of the team leaving Milwaukee for good. After three, Ben and his guest discuss the future of the Milwaukee Bucks franchise.
Guest: Don Walker, sports business reporter and blogger at the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. His blog, "The Business of Sports" is at: http://wpr.org/r/?628

Thursday
5/17/2012
4:00 PM
120517L

G8 and NATO
Two major international summits will convene over the next few days. The leaders of the G-8 nations meet in Camp David tomorrow and Saturday, followed by the NATO summit in Chicago on Sunday and Monday. After four, Ben talks to two experts on what world government and military leaders hope to accomplish.
GUESTS
4-4:30pm Matthew Goodman - William E. Simon Chair in Political Economy at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. Goodman was previously the White House coordinator for Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation in the Obama Administration
4:30-5pm David Bosco - Assistant Professor at American University's School of International Service and a Contributing Editor at Foreign Policy Magazine

Wednesday
5/16/2012
3:00 PM
120516K

Peacebuilding in a War-Torn World
War is often seen as the path to peace but it rarely works...so says Ben Merens' guest today after three on At Issue. Join in as Ben talks with Rob Ricigliano (Rih-SIG-Lee-ah-know) the author of "Making Peace Last: A Toolbox for Sustainable Peacebuilding."
Guest: Rob Ricigliano, Director, Institute of World Affairs, UW-Milwaukee, author,
"Making Peace Last: A Toolbox for Sustainable Peacebuilding" www.makingpeacelast.com

Wednesday
5/16/2012
4:00 PM
120516L

No Room for Third Parties?
Heated political rhetoric and seemingly endless gridlock have many voters wanting choices this fall that aren't democrats or republicans. But earlier this week, Americans Elect, an effort to get a third party candidate on the presidential ballot, failed to select a candidate. After four, Ben and his guest discuss third parties, and just where they go from here.
Guest: David Magleby (MAG-ehl-bee), Distinguished Professor of Political Science, and Dean of the College of Family, Home, and Social Sciences at Brigham Young University

Tuesday
5/15/2012
3:00 PM
120515K

What's in a Name?
Assigning a name to someone is a social act in our culture. So, what's in a name? After three, join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss how our names influence who we are.
GUEST: Ben Zimmer is executive producer of VisualThesaurus.com and Vocabulary.com. He writes a biweekly language column for The Boston Globe and is the former "On Language" columnist for The New York Times Magazine.

Tuesday
5/15/2012
4:00 PM
120515L

Housing Market and Refinancing Loans
President Obama is launching a new push for Americans to refinance their home loans at today's record low rates. After four, join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss refinancing and why this is also critical for businesses.
Guest: David Abromowitz (A-BROM-o-witz) is a Senior Fellow at the Center for American progress, focusing on housing policy.

Monday
5/14/2012
3:00 PM
120514K

What Teachers Make
The poem "What Teachers Make" has been viewed over five million times on YouTube. After three, join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss his heartfelt defense of teachers and the vital role they play. www.taylormali.com
GUEST: Taylor Mali is the author of What Teachers Make: In Praise of the Greatest Job in the World. He was a classroom teacher for nine years, teaching subjects ranging from English and history to math and SAT preparation.

Monday
5/14/2012
4:00 PM
120514L

Banking Regulations
Last week's announcement that JPMorgan Chase had lost $2 billion in a trade gone wrong has reignited the debate over regulations in the banking industry. After four, Ben and his guest discuss the role of regulations, what they are, what's already in place, and what changes we might see as a result of this loss.
Guests:
- James Barth, Lowder Eminent Scholar in Finance at Auburn University and a Senior Fellow at the Milken Institute. He's the co-author of "Guardians of Finance: Making Regulators Work for Us"
- Bob DeYoung, Capitol Federal Professor in Financial Markets and Institutions at Kansas University, president of the President of the Southern Finance Association, and co-editor of the Journal of Money, Credit and Banking.

Friday
5/11/2012
3:00 PM
120511K

Mother's Day Open Line
After three, in celebration of moms everywhere, At Issue brings you the annual Mother's Day open-line to share your favorite memories of mom.

Friday
5/11/2012
4:00 PM
120511L

Your Views on the News
A look at the news that's been in the week that was today after four on Your Views on the News with At Issue host Ben Merens.
Guest: Joe Heim, professor of political science, UW-La Crosse

Thursday
5/10/2012
3:00 PM
120510K

End of Life Conversations
After three, join Ben Merens and his guests as they discuss the American struggle with communication and preparation at the end-of-life. www.considertheconversation.org
Guests:
- Mike Bernhagen is the Director of Community Engagement at Rainbow Hospice Care in Jefferson, Wisconsin - one of the state's few independent and non-profit hospice programs. He is Co-Producer of Consider the Conversation: A Documentary on a Taboo Subject.
- Terry Kaldhusdal is a 4th grade teacher at Magee Elementary School in Genesee Depot and a documentary filmmaker. In 2007, Terry was honored at the White House as Wisconsin's State Teacher of the Year. Consider the Conversation is his 5th documentary film.

Thursday
5/10/2012
4:00 PM
120510L

Saving for Retirement...or not
A new survey from the Life Insurance Marketing and Research Association states that 49 percent of Americans are not paying into any sort of retirement plan. Today at four, Chris Farrell of Marketplace Money talks about the relative merits of different retirement plans, and why so many Americans are not saving for their golden years.

GUEST:

Chris Farrell, economics editor of Marketplace Money, produced by American Public Media

Wednesday
5/9/2012
3:00 PM
120509K

May 2012 Jobline
Whether you are looking for workers or work, join the discussion today after three for the May Job Line. Ben will start the hour discussing an update on job numbers and end with job hunting tips for recent college grads. During the hour we will take calls from listeners looking for work and offering work.
Guests: Keith Bender is an Associate Professor of Economics at UW-Milwaukee.
Mary Spencer is Director of the Career Placement Office at the Milwaukee School of Engineering.

Wednesday
5/9/2012
4:00 PM
120509L

Recall Primary Results
After yesterday's vote, the rematch between Scott Walker and Tom Barrett is set for June 5th. After four, Ben and his guest discuss the results from yesterday's primary elections for governor, lieutenant governor and state senate.
Guest: Mordecai Lee, Professor of Governmental Affairs, UW-Milwaukee

Tuesday
5/8/2012
3:00 PM
120508K

Turn Your Neighborhood into a Place for Play
After three, join Ben Merens and his guests as they discuss how to turn your neighborhood into a vibrant and safe place for kids to come together and engage in meaningful and fun outdoor play.
Guests: Mike Lanza is the author of Playborhood: Turn Your Neighborhood into a Place for Play. He has been blogging at www.playborhood.com on the subject of kids' play in neighborhoods since 2007.
Melissa Atkins Wardy is the creator and owner of "Pigtail Pals - Redefine Girly," a company that offers empowering apparel and gifts for girls. You can read her blog at http://blog.pigtailpals.com.

Tuesday
5/8/2012
4:00 PM
120508L

Gay Marriage in 2012
While voters head to the polls today in North Carolina to vote on same-sex marriage, recent comments from Education Secretary Arne Duncan and Vice President Joe Biden have some wondering if the Obama administration will shift their stance on the issue. After four, Ben and his guest discuss same-sex marriage in 2012.
Guest: Brian Powell, Professor of Sociology, Indiana University. He's the author of "Counted Out: Same-Sex Relations and Americans' Definition of Family"

Monday
5/7/2012
3:00 PM
120507K

Green light for tuition differential in Minnesot...
The University of Minnesota Board of Regents' recently decided to allow colleges to charge different tuition rates for different majors. The University of Wisconsin already charges higher rates for engineering and business students. After three, guest host Gene Purcell talks about the increasing use of tuition differential and its potential impact on future students.
Guest: Jenna Ross, Higher Education reporter for the Star Tribune in the Twin Cities, Minnesota

Monday
5/7/2012
4:00 PM
120507L

Recall Primary Preview
After four, Gene Purcell and his guest look ahead to tomorrow's primary elections, and discuss the latest news in all six of the recall races.
Guest: Tim Dale, Assistant Professor of Political Science, UW-Green Bay

Friday
5/4/2012
3:00 PM
120504K

Dolphin Deaths in Peru
Peruvian authorities are still trying to unravel the mystery of why hundreds of dolphins have been found dead on beaches in the country over the past two and a half months. After three, join Gene Purcell and his guest as they discuss dolphin strandings around the world and why they happen. www.ifaw.org/us/
Guest: Katie Moore is Manager of Marine Mammal Rescue and Research at the International Fund for Animal Welfare in Yarmouth Port, Massachusetts.

Friday
5/4/2012
4:00 PM
120504L

Thursday
5/3/2012
3:00 PM
120503K

Fracking and Water Pollution
After three, join Gene Purcell and his guest as they discuss the issue of fracking and water pollution, including toilet to tap, pharmaceuticals in our water, and environmental pollution.
Guest: David Zetland is a Senior Water Economist in the Department of Environmental Economics and Natural Resources at Wageningen University in the Netherlands and he blogs on water, economics and politics at www.aguanomics.com.

Thursday
5/3/2012
4:00 PM
120503L

US-Afghanistan Security Agreement
On Tuesday, during a surprise trip to Afghanistan, President Obama and Afghan President Hamid Karzai signed a 10-year security agreement, ushering in a new era between the two countries. But after a long war, where do the two countries go from here? After four, Gene Purcell and his guest discuss the future of US-Afghan relations
Guest: Omar Samad, Afghanistan Senior Expert in Residence with the Center for Conflict Management at the U.S. Institute of Peace. He is the former Afghan Ambassador to France and also served as Afghanistan's Ambassador to Canada. He's also a former advisor to Afghanistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Wednesday
5/2/2012
3:00 PM
120502K

WPR Reporter Round-up
After three, join Ben Merens and four Wisconsin Public Radio reporters as they discuss news from around the state. The hour will begin with an update on campaign finance reports, and then turn to a discussion about downtown Green Bay redevelopment. The hour wraps up with an update on the latest Marquette Law School recall poll and the Department of Defense "mystery" barrels that Red Cliff and Department of Defense officials are planning to remove this summer in Superior.
Guests: Shawn Johnson is the State Government Reporter for Wisconsin Public Radio. Patty Murray is the Green Bay Reporter for Wisconsin Public Radio. Chuck Quirmbach is the Milwaukee Reporter for Wisconsin Public Radio. Mike Simonson is the Superior Reporter for Wisconsin Public Radio.

Wednesday
5/2/2012
4:00 PM
120502L

National News Round-Up
After four, on this One Day Wednesday, Ben Merens discusses the top national stories of the week with guest analyst Barbara Perry.
Guest: Barbara Perry, Senior Fellow and Associate Professor, Miller Center's Presidential Oral History Program, University of Virginia

Tuesday
5/1/2012
3:00 PM
120501K

The Crisis of American Walking
America is a country that has forgotten how to walk. That's according to Ben's guest after three, who says it's time to take a fresh look at our oldest mode of transportation.
Guest: Tom Vanderbilt is the author of Traffic: Why We Drive The Way We Do (and What It Says About Us). He writes about design, technology, science, and culture for Wired, Slate, The New York Times, and many other publications. His four-part series, "The Crisis in American Walking," can be found at http://wpr.org/r/?722

Tuesday
5/1/2012
4:00 PM
120501L

Record Gubernatorial Recall Campaign Spending
A record amount of money will be spent in next month's Gubernatorial recall election...but will it be spent wisely? Today after four on At Issue, Ben Merens and Jay Heck of Common Cause discuss how you would like to see the money spent.
Guest: Jay Heck, Executive Director, Common Cause of Wisconsin

Monday
4/30/2012
3:00 PM
120430K

Teen Distracted Driving Study
After three, join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss a new study out on teen driving. The study found teen girls are more likely to use electronic devices behind the wheel than boys...and it's not just talking and texting behind the wheel that causes distractions. http://wisconsin.aaa.com/
Guest: Pam Moen (MOE-en) is the Assistant Vice President of Public Affairs at The Auto Club Group.

Monday
4/30/2012
4:00 PM
120430L

One Year After the Death of Bin Laden
It's been almost a year since the death of Osama bin Laden. After four, Ben and his guest discuss how our national security has been affected in the past year, and talk about what international threats are still out there.
Guest: Ed Turzanski, professor of Political Science at LaSalle University and Senior Fellow at the Foreign Policy Research Institute

Friday
4/27/2012
3:00 PM
120427K

The Relationship Between Fear and Courage
For many of us, the toughest challenge we face in life is facing our fears. Today after three on At Issue, Ben Merens and his guest discuss the relationship between fear and courage.
Guest: Dr. Gordon Livingston, Psychiatrist and Writer
"The Thing You Think You Cannot Do: Thirty Truths About Fear and Courage"
www.gordonlivingston.com

Friday
4/27/2012
4:00 PM
120427L

Your Views on the News
Today after four on At Issue, it's Your Views on the News. You're invited to call in with your thoughts about the week's most significant news story.
Guest: Ken Mayer, professor of political science UW Madison, Affiliate Faculty LaFollette Institute of Public Affairs

Thursday
4/26/2012
3:00 PM
120426K

Candidate Forum with Lori Compas
It's the last day of candidate forums. Ben begins the hour with Lori Compas, a democratic candidate for state senate in the 13th district. Her primary challenger is Gary Ellerman. The winner of this primary will face republican Scott Fitzgerald and libertarian candidate Terry Virgil in the general election.
NOTE: Gary Ellerman declined our invitation to appear on the program.
Guest: Lori Compas, photographer and recall organizer, democratic candidate for state senate in the 13th district. http://www.loricompas.org/

Thursday
4/26/2012
3:30 PM
120426X

Senate Recall Races
After 3:30, join Ben Merens and his guest as they discuss the four Senate recall elections.
Guest: Steve Walters, Senior Producer, Wisconsin Eye. He was formerly with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel as a political reporter.

Thursday
4/26/2012
4:00 PM
120426L

Postal Reform
On Wednesday, the Senate passed legislation which, among other changes, delays the U.S. Postal Service from having to close hundreds of post offices. Proponents of the bill say it'll save thousands of jobs, while critics point to the cost of keeping floundering branches open. After four, Ben talks with a guest who says the bill is misguided, and that the Postal Service needs more flexibility to reform itself.
Guest: James Gattuso, Senior Research Fellow in Regulatory Policy at The Heritage Foundation. His piece on the Postal Service is at http://wpr.org/r/?723

Wednesday
4/25/2012
3:00 PM
120425K

Candidate Forum with Kristen Dexter
After three, Ben Merens continues his series of candidate forums with former state representative Kristen Dexter, who's running for state senate in the 23rd district. Her primary challenger is James Engel. The winner of this primary will face republican Terry Moulton in the general election.
Guest: Kristen Dexter, former state representative, 68th assembly district, democratic candidate for state senate in the 23rd district. http://www.dexterforsenate.com/

Wednesday
4/25/2012
3:30 PM
120425X

Candidate Forum with James Engel
After three-thirty, Ben Merens speaks with "protest candidate" James Engel, who's running for state senate in the 23rd district. His primary challenger is Kristen Dexter. The winner of this primary will face republican Terry Moulton in the general election.
Guest: James Engel, democratic candidate for state senate in the 23rd district

Wednesday
4/25/2012
4:00 PM
120425L

Wisconsin Jobs Situation
In the past year, Wisconsin has lost more jobs than any other state...that's according to new U.S. Bureau of Labor statistics. At the same time, the unemployment rate has dropped from 7.6% to 6.8% during that same 12-month period. After four, Ben and his guest discuss the overall jobs situation in Wisconsin.
Guest: Brian Jacobsen, associate professor of business administration and economics, Wisconsin Lutheran College. Chief Portfolio Strategist, Wells Fargo Advantage Funds

Tuesday
4/24/2012
3:00 PM
120424K

Candidate Forum with John Lehman
After three, Ben Merens continues his series of candidate forums with former state lawmaker John Lehman, who's running for state senate in the 21st district. His primary challenger is Tamra Varebrook. The winner of this primary will face republican Van Wangaard in the general election.
NOTE: Tamra Varebrook did not respond to our invitation to appear on the program.
Guest: John Lehman, former democratic state representative and senator, democratic candidate for state senate in the 21st district. http://www.lehman4senate.com/

Tuesday
4/24/2012
3:30 PM
120424X

Protest Candidates
After three-thirty, Ben talks with a GOP spokesmen about the decision to run "protest" candidates in all six recall elections.
Guest: Ben Sparks, Communications Director and Spokesman for the Republican Party of Wisconsin

Tuesday
4/24/2012
4:00 PM
120424L

Reforming Social Security
Without reform, Social Security's trust fund will be exhausted by 2033...that's according to the 2012 Social Security trustees report, which was released this week. After four, Ben and his guest what needs to happen to make the program sustainable.
Guest: Jason Peuquet (puh-KAY), Research Director, Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget

Monday
4/23/2012
3:00 PM
120423K

Candidate Forum with Donna Seidel
Ben Merens starts his series of candidate forums with democratic representative Donna Seidel, who's running for state senate in the 29th district. Her primary challenger is Jim Buckley. The winner of this primary will face republican Jerry Petrowski in the general election.
Guest: Donna Seidel (SIDE-uhl), democratic state representative from Wausau, democratic candidate for state senate in the 29th district. http://www.seidelforsenate.com/

Monday
4/23/2012
3:30 PM
120423X

Candidate Forum with Jim Buckley
Then after three-thirty, Ben speaks with democratic challenger Jim Buckley, who's running as a "protest candidate." His primary opponent is Donna Seidel. The winner of this primary will face republican Jerry Petrowski in the general election.
Guest: Jim Buckley, democratic candidate for state senate in the 29th district

Monday
4/23/2012
4:00 PM
120423L

Understanding Bi-Polar
It is not a crime to be bi-polar but it is a shame if you suffer from it and are ashamed. Today after four on At Issue, Ben Merens and his guest discuss what it means to be bi-polar and what can be done about it.
Guest: Robin Nusslock, Assistant Professor of Psychology at Northwestern University, Director, Mood Disorders Laboratory http://mdl.psych.northwestern.edu

Friday
4/20/2012
3:00 PM
120420K

The Importance of Volunteering
Volunteering can have many benefits, including helping you zero in on the things that matter to you, getting and staying connected with others, and helping you process grief and forgiveness faster. That's according to Gene Purcell's guest, after three. As National Volunteer week winds down, they'll discuss the importance and benefits of donating your time to something you believe in.
Guest: Kristina Paider, screenwriter and global media consultant, author of "Unbreakable Spirit: Rising Above the Impossible." She now lives in Los Angeles, but is a graduate of UW-Eau Claire, and began her career at WLUK-TV in Green Bay and WEAU-TV in Eau Claire.

Friday
4/20/2012
4:00 PM
120420L

Your Views on the News
After four, Gene Purcell brings you Your Views on the News. You're invited to call-in and share what news story mattered the most to you this week, and why.
Guest: Mort Sipress, Emeritus Professor of Political Science, UW Eau Claire

Thursday
4/19/2012
3:00 PM
120419K

Lessons We Learn From Our Dogs
Our dogs teach us how to be patient, kind and friendly. And, the lessons last long after the dog is gone. Today after three on At Issue, Ben Merens and his guest talk with you about life lessons we gain from our dogs.
Guest: John Lichty, "Raising Charlie: The Lesson of a Perfect Dog"
http://whisperingjesse.blogspot.com

Thursday
4/19/2012
4:00 PM
120419L