River to River is a conversation about the news — from an Iowa perspective. Together, we dig into the story behind the headlines, talking with newsmakers and experts to find out how the news affects you.
Ben Kieffer hosts this national award-winning program, which takes on challenging topics, explores issues from all sides, frames community problems, and fosters conversation and understanding. On Mondays during the legislative session, hear conversations with lawmakers and those impacted by actions at the statehouse. Wednesdays bring in political analysts from around the state to help you dissect the week in politics. And Fridays, we buzz through the week’s biggest news stories.
River to River is produced by Caitlin Troutman, Danielle Gehr and Samantha McIntosh , and our digital producer is Natalie Dunlap. Our executive producer is Katherine Perkins. Our theme music is by The River Monks.
Call into the live show weekdays from noon to 1 p.m. at 866-780-9100 or email the show's hosts and producers at rivertoriver@iowapublicradio.org. If you miss the show, download the podcast to listen at any time.
-
What’s behind Iowa’s rapid move toward the GOP? Hear the latest analysis, meet ISU’s new leader, learn how auroras lit up Iowa skies and get ready for Cranksgiving. -
How the COVID-19 pandemic affected the personal and professional lives of Iowans.
-
The longest government shutdown is nearing an end, but is it a fix or just a time-out?
-
A study from Iowa State University highlights areas deemed legal deserts, where the number of attorneys do not match the population's needs. Also, a new app warns users if their indoor temperatures reach unsafe levels.
-
In this extended edition of River to River, Marketplace’s Kai Ryssdal joins Ben Kieffer for a wide-ranging conversation on the U.S. economy and Ryssdal's career.
-
On this Newsbuzz episode we recap the results of two of Iowa's largest school bond referendums and we dissect this week's legal battles over SNAP funding.
-
A look back at interviews with nurse innovators and an ISU researcher who wants to quell aging anxiety.
-
What do this week’s election results tell us about the mood of voters — and what’s ahead for 2026? Plus, where blame lands in the ongoing shutdown.
-
Iowans who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, are awaiting relief. Later, we hear about a new podcast from ISU Extension.
-
University of Iowa scholars are developing an AI system that monitors behavior to detect physical violence as it happens.