Nite Lite with Pete Schwaba and Greg Bach

Filmmaker Dan Davies joins Pete and Greg to talk about his remake of the Wisconsin cult favorite The Giant Spider Invasion. Dan discusses taking on a beloved B-movie classic, the challenges of updating it for a new audience, and what fans of the original can expect from the remake. They also dive into independent filmmaking, practical effects, and why giant spiders continue to terrify moviegoers nearly 50 years after the original film crawled onto the screen. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Guest: Dan Davies

Pete Schwaba and Greg Bach cover a wide range of topics in this episode, from technology and local activism to movies and aging. They kick things off with another text-to-win contest before diving into a conversation about the growing number of data centers being proposed around the country. Activist Blaine Halverson joins the show to discuss concerns about their impact on local communities, energy use, and the environment. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant links from this hour: https://www.facebook.com/share/1CvdU4xZ9t/  https://unitingwestwisconsin.glnu.org/ Guest: Blaine Halverson

Filmmaker, artist, and comedian Daniel Wheeler joins Pete and Greg to talk about his upcoming film My Brother & Bigfoot, his award-winning short film Daniel Needs to Leave, and his run in Oshkosh's Funniest Comedian contest. They discuss filmmaking in Wisconsin, finding comedy in everyday life, and how Daniel balances his creative work as both an artist and performer. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant links from this hour: His IMDb Page 2nd Annual Oshkosh’s Funniest Comedian Guest: Daniel Wheeler

Pete Schwaba and Greg Bach kick things off by asking listeners a simple question: when money gets tight, what's the first thing you cut from the budget? The answers range from dining out and streaming subscriptions to a few more creative responses from callers and texters. Along the way, the conversation bounces between personal spending habits, everyday expenses, and a few laughs about life's little luxuries. Later, Producer Dom serves up "Hole Truth: The Donut Quiz", a game packed with donut trivia, true-or-false questions, and surprising facts about America's favorite fried pastry. Greg manages to pull off a win, despite a few questionable guesses along the way. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook

Culture critic Brint Davy joins Pete and Greg to discuss his effort to reinstate a no-phone policy at the famous Alamo Drafthouse theaters. While the policy has long been praised by moviegoers who want a distraction-free experience, the lift of the ban for phones to order food, has created outrage among loyal fans, including Brint. Brint has started a Change.org petition that asks patrons to put -- and keep -- their phones in their pocket. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant links from this hour: Brint’s petition on Change.org: Petition · Reinstate Alamo Drafthouse's No Phone Use Policy - United States · Change.org  General context about the Alamo situation: Alamo Drafthouse Instituted Mobile Ordering. Super Fans Are Not Pleased. - The New York Times Guest: Brint Davy

It’s Movie Club night, and Pete and Greg are taking on Casino Royale. They discuss Daniel Craig’s first outing as James Bond, their favorite scenes, memorable villains, and whether Casino Royale deserves its reputation as one of the best Bond films ever made. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook

Logan Wroge, Senior Communications Specialist with Travel Wisconsin, joins Pete and Greg to talk about some of the best things to do around the state this June. From festivals and outdoor activities to hidden gems and summer road trip ideas, Logan shares a few great ways to make the most of Wisconsin as summer gets underway. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant links from this hour: Travel Wisconsin Website His LinkedIn Capital Times article he featured in Guest: Logan Wroge

Writer and humorist Felipe Torres Medina joins Pete and Greg to talk about his work as a writer for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, the art of comedy writing, and his book about navigating immigration in the United States. Felipe shares stories from behind the scenes in late-night television, how humor can help explain complicated issues, and what he's learned from writing about the immigrant experience. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant links from this hour: His website IMD Guest: Felipe Torres Medina

Pete Schwaba and Greg Bach cover a little bit of everything in this one. They talk about why more people seem to be discovering the Midwest as a travel destination, including some of Wisconsin’s more unique attractions—yes, the Mustard Museum makes an appearance. The conversation then shifts to media and politics, with Pete and Greg weighing in on the latest changes at 60 Minutes and the ongoing political battles playing out in Wisconsin. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook

Jason Mansmith, Marketing Director of the Thrasher Opera House, joins Pete and Greg to highlight some of the exciting events coming to one of Wisconsin’s most unique entertainment venues. From live music and performances to community gatherings, Jason shares what’s on the calendar and why the historic opera house continues to be a destination for arts and culture in the region. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant link from this hour: Home - Thrasher Opera House Guest: Jason Mansmith

Nikolas DeGroot, founder of Ground Floor Democracy, joins Pete and Greg to talk about creating spaces for real political conversations. From his “Politics in the Park” events to the development of a civic engagement game, Nikolas shares what happens when people from different backgrounds sit down together and discuss issues in person. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant links from this hour: Their Linktree See their webpage Their  Facebook and Instagram   An AMA style Reddit: What Would Better Local Politics Look Like Here? : r/wisconsin  News Story: Oshkosh Politics in the Park events aim to combat polarization, build community  Guest: Nikolas DeGroot

Milwaukee-based film critic Matt Mueller joins Pete and Greg to break down the newest releases hitting theaters and streaming services. From blockbuster movies to hidden gems, Matt shares what’s worth watching, what to skip, and what’s generating buzz in the film world. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant links from this hour: His Substack Matt's Twitter Guest: Matt Mueller

In this hour of Nite Lite, iuscely Flores, Organizing Director for the Wisconsin Fair Maps Coalition, joins Pete and Greg to talk about an upcoming rally focused on Wisconsin’s congressional maps. She discusses why fair maps remain a major issue in the state, what organizers are hoping to accomplish, and how redistricting could impact voters in future elections. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant links from this hour: Upcoming state-wide rally on congressional maps, advocating for Independent Redistricting Commission. LINK iuscely was recently on Recombobulation area with Dan Shafer Wisconsin Supreme Court agrees to hear congressional maps lawsuit • Wisconsin Examiner Guest: Iuscely Flores

Pete, Greg, and Producer Dom have some Friday fun with a game all about classic restaurant menus, discontinued foods, and forgotten favorites. The question is simple: was it actually on the original menu… or completely made up? Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook

Civic Media Sports Director and pop culture fan Jimmie Kaska joins Pete and Greg to talk about the latest streaming shows everyone seems to be watching—or skipping. From surprise hits to overhyped series, Jimmie shares what’s worth your time and what you can probably leave off the watchlist. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant links from this hour: Civic Media Bio Jimmie's Twitter Guest: Jimmie Kaska

Pete and Greg revisit The Outsiders for this week’s Movie Club. From favorite characters and unforgettable lines to the film’s lasting impact, they dive into the coming-of-age classic based on S.E. Hinton’s novel and ask the important question: are you a Greaser or a Soc? Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant links from this hour: The Outsiders review – Coppola’s Brat Pack melodrama carries you away | Movies | The Guardian  'The Outsiders' Review: 1983 Movie

Sports reporter Mike Clemens joins Pete and Greg to talk all things Wisconsin sports. From the latest with the Packers and Brewers to any Bucks updates and offseason storylines, Mike breaks down what fans should be watching and what’s making headlines around the state. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Guest: Mike Clemens

Martín Alvarado joins Pete and Greg to share some fresh reading recommendations, cultural picks, and what’s happening at the library. Whether you're looking for your next great read or just something interesting to check out, Martín always brings a few great picks to the table. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant links from this hour: Madison Public Library Website Martin's LinkedIn Guest: Martin Alvarado

Norm Kopesky, co-owner of Appleton Cigar, joins Pete and Greg to talk cigars, the culture around them, and what it’s like running a specialty business. From favorite smokes to how the cigar world has changed over the years, Norm shares stories from behind the counter and what keeps people coming back. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant links from this hour: Appleton Cigar Website Appleton Cigar Facebook Page Guest: Norm Kopesky

Door County native and film producer Kurt Krauss joins Pete and Greg to talk about his new play, Moonlight and Magnolia, a behind-the-scenes comedy centered around the chaotic making of Gone with the Wind. Kurt shares what drew him to the story, the connection to independent filmmaking, and how the production is partnering with Third Avenue PlayWorks to help support local film efforts. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant links from this hour:  Third Avenue PlayWorks MOONLIGHT AND MAGNOLIA is a behind-the-scenes comedy about the filming of GONE WITH THE WIND. The pay-what-you-will preview of the show will take place on Wednesday, June 3, at 7:30 pm at TAP’s Steve and Jackie Kane Theatre, 239 N. 3rd Ave. in Sturgeon Bay. More info Guest: Kurt Krauss

Former U.S. Attorney Jim Santelle joins Pete and Greg to talk about the latest legal and political developments making waves across the country. They discuss recent court rulings on voting maps in states like Alabama and South Carolina, a federal judge in Wisconsin rejecting a Justice Department request for state voter information, and what these decisions could mean moving forward. Plus, Jim helps unpack how the courts continue to shape major political issues in real time. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant link from this hour:  https://civicmedia.us/shows/amicus Guest: Jim Santelle

Producer Dom Lee brings back Binge or Cringe, where Pete and Greg give their takes on pop culture, trends, food, and random everyday things. What deserves the hype—and what absolutely does not? Things may get heated. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook

Comedian Ka$h Money Karl joins Pete and Greg to talk stand-up, his podcast, and the unexpected world of competitive mini golf. From comedy stories and life behind the mic to balancing laughs with a surprisingly serious mini-golf career, Karl shares what’s been keeping him busy lately. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant links from this hour:  Ka$h’s website.  His Instagram  His podcast Guest: Ka$h Money Karl

Pete and Greg hit the road with National Lampoon's Vacation for this week’s Movie Club. They revisit the classic comedy, favorite scenes, unforgettable quotes, and why the Griswold family disaster trip still somehow feels relatable decades later. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook

Film critic Rob Thomas joins Pete and Greg to talk summer blockbuster season and what movies people should actually be excited about. From big-budget action flicks to surprise hits, Rob breaks down the trends, what’s overhyped, and what might end up being this summer’s must-see movie. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant links from this hour:  https://madison.citycast.fm/  https://notthatrobthomas.substack.com/

WBAY morning anchor Emerson Lehmann joins Pete and Greg to chat about his Small Towns series and the stories that stand out from traveling across Wisconsin. He previews the upcoming special, talks about what makes small-town Wisconsin unique, and shares a little about his recent trip to South Korea. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant link from this hour:  hosts a show on WBAY called Small Towns from Emerson Guest: Emerson Lehmann

Dan Shafer from The Recombobulation Area joins Pete and Greg to talk Wisconsin politics, weird headlines, and what’s actually worth paying attention to right now. They get into what key retirements and polling could mean for Democrats, the politics around data centers, and some of the more bizarre stories making waves across the state. Plus, a quick shoutout after The Recombobulation Area picked up Gold at the Milwaukee Press Club awards for the fifth straight year. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant links from this hour:  The Recombobulation Area wins Gold at Milwaukee Press Club awards for fifth consecutive year Key retirements and poor polling for Republicans suggest Assembly majority is in play for Democrats Alas, the left isn’t immune from loud, obnoxious grifters Data center politics and Kirk Bangstad's attention-seeking run for governor (Video)Brewery owner says he will donate $65K+ to Watertown music boosters (after some initial confusion)

Music reporter Piet Levy joins Pete and Greg to break down this year’s Summerfest lineup and what music fans should be excited about. From big headliners to local acts, Piet shares his take on Milwaukee’s music scene and what makes Summerfest such a unique Wisconsin tradition. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant link from this hour:  Summerfest Website Guest: Piet Levy

Bill Bertram, board member of The Wausau and Marathon County Parks Foundation, joins Pete and Greg to talk about the Granite Belt system currently being developed in north central Wisconsin. He explains how the cycling initiative aims to connect small towns, expand trail access, and create new opportunities for outdoor recreation across the region. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant link from this hour:  Granite Belt links small towns, rural roads in new Wisconsin cycling initiative Guest: Bill Bertram

Jay Henley, owner and curator of The Bounty, joins Pete and Greg to talk about the organization’s upcoming fundraising boat race and fish boil. He shares what The Bounty is all about, what attendees can expect from the event, and how the fundraiser helps support their mission. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant links from this hour:  The Bounty Website Instagram handle Cap Times Article Isthmus Article Guest: Jay Henley

Sports reporter Mike Clemens joins Pete and Greg to talk all things Wisconsin sports. From the latest with the Bucks and Packers to the Brewers’ recent winning streak, Mike breaks down what’s clicking, what fans should be watching, and where things stand moving forward. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook

Producer Dom serves up a pizza-themed quiz packed with true-or-false and multiple-choice questions. Pete, Greg, callers, and texters all play along to test their pizza knowledge—from regional styles to weird toppings and cheesy trivia. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook

Sports reporter JR Radcliffe joins Pete and Greg to talk about why the Brewers continue to confuse baseball experts and outperform expectations. From analytics and roster construction to what makes this team so unpredictable, JR breaks down why Milwaukee keeps finding ways to win—even when the “baseball wonks” don’t see it coming. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Guest: Jr Radcliffe

James Beard Award-winning food journalist Adam Reiner joins Pete and Greg to talk about his new book, The New Rules of Dining Out. From restaurant etiquette to changing dining trends, tipping culture, and how people eat out differently today, Adam shares insights from years of covering food and what diners should know before their next meal out. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant links from this hour:  HERE’s Adam on WPR. Guest: Adam Reiner

Stephen Petrie and Julia Colby from the Milwaukee Public Museum join Pete and Greg to talk about some of the museum’s biggest upcoming events. Stephen previews MPM’s “Greatest Hits” lineup, including Creepy Crawly Day and the celebration of the museum’s beloved Rainforest & Butterflies exhibit, while Julia breaks down the annual BioBlitz event at Wehr Nature Center and why documenting local biodiversity can be both fun and important. Plus, a look at what makes the museum’s collections so unique as MPM prepares for its future move. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant links from this hour:  Julia Colby is the Zoology Collections Manager.  Stephen Petrie is the Informal Education Coordinator.  The BioBlitz event in June. See their full events.  See their full collections. Marsha P. Johnson Information Guests: Julia Colby, Stephen Petrie

Midwest travel bloggers Tom and Kristi Manus join Pete and Greg to talk about uncovering Wisconsin’s weird, wonderful, and overlooked destinations. Authors of Secret Wisconsin: A Guide To The Weird, Wonderful, And Obscure, they share favorite hidden gems, affordable weekend getaways, and the most “only in Wisconsin” experiences they’ve come across while traveling the Midwest. Plus, tips for exploring more without spending a fortune. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant links from this hour:  https://smalltownplussize.com/about/ Their background  https://www.instagram.com/tomandkristimanus/ Instagram  https://www.travelawaits.com/author/tom-kristi-manus/ Some articles they have written Affordable Hidden Gems Article about them  WPR Article about them Guest: Tom and Kristi Manus

Pete and Greg discuss Dr. Kristin Lyerly's documentary pick, Perilous Passage: Birth in America, now streaming on HBO Max. The documentary takes a closer look at maternal healthcare in America, the realities families face during childbirth, and the broader conversations surrounding access, outcomes, and care. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant links from this hour:  Kristin’s Doc – Perilous Passage: Birth in America Guest: Kristin Lyerly

Pete and Greg check in with a conversation featuring the Mayor of Green Bay, Eric Genrich. They talk about the city, what’s happening in the community, and some of the biggest opportunities and challenges facing Green Bay right now. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant links from this hour:  Website page Mayor Eric Genrich on property tax bills and school vouchers | Here & Now Guest: Eric Genrich

Comedian Johnny Beehner joins Pete and Greg to talk stand-up, life on the road, and what keeps comedy fresh. He shares stories from performing across the country, how he got started, and what audiences can expect from his style of humor. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Guest: Johnny Beehner

Producer Dom Lee brings the chaos with a Coca-Cola-themed quiz game. From weird soda facts to pop culture and brand history, Pete and Greg put their knowledge to the test in a sugary showdown. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook

Writer and producer Rich Talarico joins Pete and Greg to talk about his career working on comedy staples like Key & Peele, MADtv, Saturday Night Live, and The Tonight Show. He shares stories from the writers’ room, how iconic sketches come together, and what he’s learned from decades in comedy. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant links from this hour:  RICH TALARICO - RICH TALARICO  https://richtalarico.com https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rich_Talarico Guest: Rich Talarico

Pete and Greg revisit Ghostbusters, breaking down some of the movie’s most iconic scenes and quotes. From “If somebody asks if you’re a god, you say yes!” to Venkman’s chaos and the film’s endlessly quotable moments, they dive into why the comedy classic still holds up decades later. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook

Michael Nguyen, Executive Director of Teach for America Milwaukee, joins Pete and Greg to talk about Teacher Appreciation Week and the realities educators are facing today. From burnout and technology in classrooms to teacher pay and the future of education in the AI era, he breaks down the challenges of the profession and why supporting teachers matters more than ever. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant links from this hour:  Official proclamation John Scott’s coverage of Teacher Appreciation Week Dr. Underly celebrates Teacher Appreciation Week. Teach for America Milwaukee (Michael’s leadership page is on here)  Time to overhaul high school? What happened when teachers ditched screens? Stop meeting students where they are.   Why some schools are cutting back on tech they spent billions of dollars on.  Wisconsin Teacher Salary Reports Guest: Michael Nguyen

Dan Gardner, creator of the RunPee app, joins Pete and Greg to talk about the surprisingly relatable problem that inspired his business: knowing the best time to leave for a bathroom break during a movie. He shares how the app works, what it’s like running a family-built tech company, and how moviegoing—and apps like his—have changed in the streaming era. Plus, the guys ask the important questions about terrible theater timing and whether a “RunPoop” expansion is inevitable. RunPee – The app that tells you the best time to run & pee during a movie so you don't miss the best scenes.  ‘Avengers: Endgame’ could be perfect storm for bathroom-break app | CNN  'RunPee' The Ideal App For Lovers Of Movies And Large Drinks : NPR FROM 2013 KLG, Hoda test out the ‘RunPee’ app for movie watching Guest: Dan Gardner

Petroleum analyst Patrick De Haan joins Pete and Greg to break down the latest jump in gas prices. He explains what’s causing prices to rise, how long the spike could last, and what drivers should expect heading into the summer travel season. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Guest: Patrick De Haan

Sam Buschman, known as the “Cheese Queen of Wisconsin,” joins Pete and Greg to talk all things cheese. From her social media presence to Wisconsin’s deep-rooted cheese culture, she shares how she built her brand and why the state’s dairy identity continues to stand out. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant links from this hour:  Her Instagram Her LinkTree Guest: Sam Buschman

Jim Santelle joins Pete and Greg to break down major legal developments, including the latest around the Voting Rights Act and how recent decisions could impact voting standards. He also discusses new high-profile indictments and what they signal about the broader legal landscape. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant links from this hour:  VRA decision,  Changing voting standards profoundly.  The new Comey and SPLC indictments as further illustrations of authoritarianism in America.   Guest: Jim Santelle

Filmmaker David Zucker joins the show to talk about building a comedy legacy from Madison to Hollywood, plus his new projects Star of Malta and Octoberfest. He also gets into his spoof-comedy course MasterCrash, the stories behind classics like Airplane! and The Naked Gun, and why great comedy still comes down to sharp writing and hard work. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant links from this hour:  David's book, Surely You Can’t Be Serious: The True Story of Airplane!, is a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the cult classic that redefined comedy and launched a new era of spoof filmmaking. David's own spoof comedy course - MasterCrash: A Crash Course in Spoof Comedy, that breaks down the 15 essential rules he uses to write, direct, and edit effective comedy. His other award nominated book is also available on Amazon: Before the Invention of Smiling: The Incredible Journey of the Zucker Family from Horse & Buggy to Indoor Plumbing. Guest: David Zucker

Ben Giles, founder of Laughable Productions, joins Pete and Greg to talk about growing a comedy scene from the ground up. He shares how he got started, what goes into producing shows, and how he’s helping bring more live comedy to local audiences. Sign up for the Civic Media Newsletter.  Check us out on Instagram: @nitelitecm and our Facebook Relevant links from this hour:  Laughable Productions website.  See this recent post that gives a lot of info about Ben.  Guest: Ben Giles

It’s the Weekly Best of Nite Lite with Pete Schwaba and Greg Bach. Pete and Greg start with a conversation that’s pretty close to home, bringing on Chris Knopf from Friends of the Boundary Waters to talk about the fight over mining near the Boundary Waters Wilderness. He lays out what’s at stake—the potential for sulfuric acid pollution in one of the most pristine areas in the country—and why so many people are pushing back. It’s not just environmental groups either; there’s bipartisan support and a growing Midwest coalition focused on protecting clean water. From there, the show shifts halfway across the world. Dartmouth scholar Golnar Nikpour joins to give some real context on modern Iran—going beyond the usual headlines. She talks about the country’s cultural depth, its political structure, and how its prison system has developed over time with global influences. They also get into the harder realities, including the impact of war and the tragic bombing of a girls’ school. Guests: Golnar Nikpour, Chris Knopf