WKAR - Public Media from Michigan State University

09/05/2026

Political candidates are increasingly turning to social media to reach larger audiences and younger voters. Is this approach a better way to connect with constituents, or a savvy way to avoid answering tough questions from the media?

On Off the Record this week, correspondents Emily Lawler, Craig Mauger, Lauren Gibbons and Bill Ballenger join Tim Skubick to discuss the shift in candidates’ media strategies, unity and division within the Michigan Democratic Party, and the education tax credit proposed by Republican gubernatorial candidate John James.

Watch the full episode on WKAR News on YouTube at the link in the comments.

09/03/2026

Community Classical returns this week with new co-hosts from across mid-Michigan sharing the meaningful stories and memories behind the music they love.

In the first episode, Linda Kernohan is joined by L. Harrison Brown, a choral conductor, singer and public radio veteran, who shares his love of J.S. Bach, Ravel, Rachmaninoff and more.

Listen to Community Classical on Friday at 3 p.m. and Sunday at 4 p.m. on 90.5 FM or streaming at the link in the comments.

09/03/2026

A special exhibition at Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum at MSU marks the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. Pieces from Michigan State University collections are combined with newly commissioned works, filling all three levels of the museum.

Senior Curator Steven Bridges speaks with WKAR's Scott Pohl to discuss the inspiration behind the exhibit and several featured pieces on this week's Inside the Arts.

“We Are This Land: Meditations on the Great American Experiment” is on view at the Broad Art Museum through March 14, 2027.

"We Are This Land: Meditations on the Great American Experiment" runs to March 14, 2027 at Michigan State University's Broad Art Museum for America's 250th birthday.

09/02/2026

Missed out on Marlow Murder Club? Catch up now! Season 1 is now available to stream free on the PBS app.

During her regular evening swim in the River Thames, retired archaeologist Judith Potts hears a gunshot coming from her neighbor’s garden, and believes that a brutal murder has taken place.

When the local police are reluctant to believe her story, Judith starts her own investigation, enlisting the help of vicar’s wife Becks Starling and dog walker Suzie Harris. As the bodies begin to pile up, the unlikely group of sleuths must use all of their skills to piece together clues, grill suspects, and face down real dangers as they race against the clock to stop the killer in their tracks.

Season 3 premieres Sunday, September 12, at 8 p.m.

08/29/2026

On the weekend of the Democratic state nominating convention, Michigan Democratic Party Chair Curtis Hertel says voters are looking for “fighters,” regardless of where candidates fall on the liberal spectrum, and that staying focused on kitchen-table issues will win the 2026 election.

On Off the Record this week, correspondents Zachary Gorchow, Colin Jackson and Beth LeBlanc join Tim Skubick to discuss the Republican and Democratic state nominating conventions, the fate of the voter ID and citizenship proposal, and Hertel’s response to questions about Democratic Party strategy and unity.

Watch the full episode on WKAR News on YouTube at the link in the comments.

08/29/2026

We're proud to celebrate Ed and Wanda Eichler, recipients of the 2026 MAPB Public Media Impact Award, presented by the MAB - Michigan Association of Broadcasters.

As dedicated supporters of WKAR, the Spartan Marching Band and Michigan State University College of Music, the Eichlers have helped create opportunities for learning, creativity and community connection throughout Michigan.

Congratulations on this well-deserved honor, and thank you for your continued support.

08/28/2026

A songwriter. A storyteller. A philanthropist. A true American treasure.

We join fans around the world in remembering Dolly Parton and celebrating the music, laughter and generosity she shared throughout her extraordinary life.

This weekend, we honor her life and legacy with a special showing of Dolly Parton: Here I Am.

Watch live Sunday, Aug. 30, at 2:30 p.m. on WKAR-TV 23.1 or stream it in the free PBS app.

08/28/2026

Students are returning to schools across Michigan, where a new ban on cell phones has taken effect. But screens still fill much of the school day for many children.

Tonight on Impact: Michigan, one mid-Michigan family shares their story of questioning technology use in their school district and receiving few answers in return.

Host Sheri Jones and local education and technology experts discuss the family's experience, students' use of artificial intelligence, and whether technology is improving student learning.

Watch Impact: Michigan tonight at 6:30 p.m. on WKAR-TV 23.1 or stream it in the free PBS app.

08/27/2026

For mid-Michigan actor Ny’Kieria Blocker, works by Tyler Perry, especially his plays, have been an inspiration. And she points to Oscar winner Viola Davis as her favorite actress.

But Ny’Kieria is making a name for herself on stage, earning increasingly important roles and award recognition for her performances.

Meet Ny'Kieria Blocker and find out when she'll perform next in this week's actor profile for Inside the Arts.

Mostly known for parts in musicals, Lansing actor Ny'Kieria Blocker led a play last year at Riverwalk Theatre.

08/26/2026

A whodunit without the ending? That's what editor Susan Ryeland is faced with when she receives the long-awaited mystery manuscript featuring her prima donna author’s famous detective, Atticus Pünd.

When Susan attempts to find the missing final chapters, she’s plunged into a shocking mystery of her own, where stakes are high, suspects abound, and nothing is as it seems.

Catch up on all of Magpie Murders free on the PBS app before the premiere of the series' next installment, Marble Hall Murders, airing Sunday, September 12, at 9 p.m.