The Lee Rayburn Show

First, entomologist PJ Liesch is back to talk about cockroaches and answer your insect questions. Scholar Renée Worringer traces the dramatic shifts in how humans have perceived wolves around the world. Finally, Steven Meurett of the Timber Wolf Information Network shares the ecology of wolves in Wisconsin.

We talk about how consumers are paying more for almost everything through high-tech price manipulation. Then, we talk to an advocate of smart, fuel-efficient driving. And then, we talk about a new film about the USS Cobia, WWII submarine, back in Manitowoc after its restoration.

Physical therapists Lori Thein Brody and Jill Thein-Nissenbaum return to explain how fall chores, like raking leaves, are linked to injuries. Then, how a group of quilters are using their craft to help slow cognitive decline. We meet Edith Lawrence-Hilliard. Finally, we cover air quality improvement with Langston Verdin of MKE FreshAir Collective.

A new historical novel focuses on the struggle of Depression-era Polish immigrant workers in the Midwest. Then, we talk about the enduring heritage of Poles in Wisconsin. Then, we revisit a conversation with Migrant Farm Workers leader Jesús Salas.

First, we talk with Chris Vagasky, the manager of the Wisconsin Environmental Mesonet, about Wisconsin’s wild weather, forecasting, lightning and more. Then, we talk about all things corn with Veronica Justen of UW-River Falls. Finally, we consider corn ethanol with Tyler Lark.

Ragweed and grass pollen irritate many Wisconsinites this time of year. We talk to a nurse practitioner specializing in allergies, asthma and treatment. Then, we learn how a nonprofit is providing dental care to thousands of children in the southeast corner of the state.

Beth D’Angelo is back to tell us about dealing with data breaches and storage drives. Then, Bassam Shakhashiri is back to tell us about the Wisconsin Science Festival. Finally, we talk with science writer Mary Roach about “Replaceable You” and the future of organ replacement.

We talk to a home inspector about the recent spate of bad-faith home remodelers he’s seen. Then, we talk to a fire inspector about residential hazards, such as lithium-ion batteries starting fires.

Wildlife specialists David Drake and Jamie Nack return to talk about Wisconsin’s wild animals and the fall season. We hear about this year’s hunting season, the results of the Great Wisconsin Bat Count and why we should look out for reptiles and amphibians on the roads.

Wisconsin trees and forests explode with color every fall. So too does the photography and nostalgia in the October/November issue of “Our Wisconsin” magazine. We talk to editor Mike Beno about the season in our state.

Fall is football season — which means it’s also tailgating season! Grill masters Mad Dog and Merrill have great ideas for taking your grilling to a whole new level. They share recipes perfect for the pre-game party.

Protecting our digital data from hackers and thieves is a never-ending and increasingly difficult challenge. We talk about cybersecurity with Michelle Reinen and Michael Domke in the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.

Just in time for fall migration, Bill Volkert, a retired wildlife educator and naturalist, returns to the program to answer your bird questions.

As fall color peaks, views overlooking the Mississippi River in the Driftless Area are especially spectacular. We’ll talk about the best overlooks and other regional news with Reggie McLeod, editor and publisher of “Big River Magazine.”

First, Jesse La Grew, the chief information security officer at Madison College, joins us to discuss technology and cybersecurity issues. He’ll talk about extending the life of your home electronics and the recent news about Artificial Intelligence. Then, the Weather Guys Jon Martin and Steve Ackerman return to tell us about the anatomy of clouds, among other climate-related topics.

We talk about the Milwaukee Brewers' bright prospects heading into the postseason. Then, we talk about how wildlife and people are harmed by light pollution. And then, we talk about the Kickapoo Valley Dark Sky Initiative.

First, we talk with Randy Johnson and Jennifer Price Tack of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources about bears in Wisconsin, including some research looking at their teeth. Then, Ben Michaels of the Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission joins to talk about sturgeon ecology. Finally, Tally Hamilton of Ducks Unlimited joins to talk about waterfowl conservation in the midst of hunting season.

We learn from an emergency veterinarian what can cause dire health issues for our pets, and what treatment they can receive. Then, we talk about the conservation efforts of the  Zoological Society of Milwaukee and the Milwaukee County Zoo.

First, physical therapists Lori Thein Brody and Jill Thein-Nissenbaum return to talk about the positive effects of low-intensity exercise. Then, author Ann Garvin tells us about her new book, “Tell Two Friends.”

The resources and advocacy Wisconsin cities and villages get from one statewide organization. Then, we talk about how we can better fund our schools. And then, we talk about the contributions and needs of Native American tribes.

Entomologist Phil Pellitteri joins us to talk about the latest insect news from Wisconsin, including a rare virus spread by mosquitos. Then, we hear about turtle conservation with Andrew Badje of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Finally, Amy Carrozzino-Lyon fills us in on wild rice restoration efforts in Lower Green Bay.

Stem cell therapy shows promise at improving sight. Then, one week into the NFL season, we consider the Green Bay Packers’ prospects. And then, we’r introduced to Gaelic football and camogie by two Wisconsin women’s team captains.

First, Theresa Evans joins to talk about her book “Choosing to Die.” Then, we hear how meditation could work in your life with contemplative scientist Cortland Dahl. Finally, we talk about fall prevention efforts with Suzanne Morley of the Wisconsin Institute for Healthy Aging.

It's home improvement day. We talk about how to bolster our homes against worsening weather conditions. Then, we learn why and how septic system maintenance is so important, and required by state law.

First, we talk with Jessica Frantal and Tisha King Heiden about two Wisconsin Sea Grant projects. Then, we hear how Wisconsin’s elk herds are doing from Josh Spiegel, a wildlife biologist. Finally, Michael Holly joins to talk about his research on phosphorus removal.

The decision to put off crucial dental care is often tied to access and affordability. Then, we talk to Dr. Zorba Paster about measles, vaccines, and a gaming changing new […]

It is not uncommon for renters to complain about their landlords, a state consumer protection official tells us. And often its for good reasons. Then, we talk to an attorney about homeowners’ insurance.

UW-Extension Wildlife Specialist and Professor David Drake is back to answer your wildlife questions. He also talks about the weasel family and a few rare animal sightings in our state. Then, Darren Bush and Timothy Bauer return to talk about fall kayaking and canoeing.

We talk about how our cars’ tires, batteries and cooling systems all need attention this time of year. Then, we travel to Sweden with a couple offering heritage tours to Midwesterners, and a Madison man who “won” a Swedish island for a year.

Tech expert Beth D’Angelo returns to share her technology advice, including how to pick out a laptop. Then, The Weather Guys (Steve Ackerman and Jon Martin) are back to talk about flying through thunderstorms, the 2026 tornado season and more.

An astronomer tells us what we’ll see if we look up after dark. Then, we’ll talk about why we should eat more fiber and, probably, far less protein.

First, Bill Volkert, a retired wildlife educator and naturalist, returns to the program to answer your bird questions. Then, we talk with Marie Perkins, a UW-Stevens Point associate professor, about her research on mercury in our wildlife and environment. Finally, Karen Oberhauser shares more about monarch butterflies, just in time for their migration.

We spend the day with dogs. First, we learn why they're constant sniffing. Then, we learn how training with toys can calm the most anxiety-ridden canines. And lastly, how all this can result in pleasant hikes with our furry friends.

We talk with David Schultz, a professor of political science, law and legal studies. He walks us through our country’s election system. Then, we talk about two pivotal moments in Wisconsin’s labor history.

A woman survives a bleak childhood in Kenya to become a nurse, mother and memoirist in Wisconsin. Then, we talk about how the Sojourner Family Peace Center supports survivors of domestic violence in Milwaukee.

First, entomologist PJ Liesch returns to answer your questions about the bugs crawling around your home. Then, we talk with Greg Edge and Brad Hutnik about their podcast on forestry, SilviCast.

Homeowners have legal options when a contractor leaves a home improvement project unfinished. Then, we know the economic impact of maple syrup production in Wisconsin is big, but how big? And then, we talk about the many benefits of farmers markets.

First, physical therapists Lori Thein Brody and Jill Thein-Nissenbaum are back to talk about knee pain and osteoarthritis. Then, we talk about the different forms elder abuse can take, plus the people partnering to prevent it, with Donna Rosner and Debi Leis.

The reasons to replace siding and trim includes, but is not limited to, aesthetics. We talk about why updating the exterior extends the life of a home.

First, we talk with author James Crawford about his latest book “The Vanishing Earth." Then, historian Tracey Lee Roberts returns to tell the story of mining in the southwest corner of our state. Finally, we talk about trout stream restoration with Peter Jonas of Trout Unlimited.

Most ovarian cancer develops in the fallopian tubes, which can be removed. We talk to a gynecologic oncologist about the game-changing procedure. Then, we talk about living organ donation with two UW Health Transplant Center representatives.

Join us for a day at the Wisconsin State Fair! First, Shari Black talks about the event’s 175th anniversary. Then, we get the story behind the fair from historian Tom Zimmerman. Jill Albanese shares how the fair grounds are prepared each year. And then Kari Schoenike tells us about being the agricultural education manager.

We hear about the latest scams affecting consumers in Wisconsin. Then, we talk about internet access – first, through Starlink’s satellite broadband, and then, the fiber broadband network expanding across the state.

David Drake, a UW-Extension wildlife specialist and professor, is back. This time he talks about Wisconsin’s many raccoons. Then, we break down the latest news about the Endangered Species Act and what it means for vulnerable species in Wisconsin. Our guests are Stan Temple and Adena Rissman.

To put our money to good use, we ask a wealth management expert for investing advice. Then, we talk to the co-authors of “The Emergency Playbook,” an optimistic guide for planning for natural and societal disasters.

We talk about the travel guide “Best Beer Hikes Wisconsin” with author Chad Turner. Then, we ponder Wisconsin’s love of frozen pizza and learn a little history along the way with Chef Patrick O’Halloran and Nick Fallucca of Palermo’s Pizza.

Silent Sports is “the journal for human-powered recreation” in the Upper Midwest. Its editor joins us. Then, talk with dementia specialist Dr. Nathaniel Chin about his new book, “When Memory Fades.”

First, UW-Milwaukee professor Robert Cuzner joins us to talk about the electrical grid. We also talk about microgrids — one answer to America’s power problems. Then, we talk about beaver management in Wisconsin and how you can peacefully co-exist with the large rodent. Our guests are Bob Boucher and Clay Frazer.