The Larry Meiller Show from Wisconsin Public Radio

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 […]

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.

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.

We learn how to protect our pets from polluted air. Then, we hear how the Door County Historical Society restored a lighthouse and preserved its past. Then, the case is made for adopting antisocial “working cats” for barns and warehouses.

First, Jesse La Grew, the chief information security officer at Madison College, joins us to discuss technology and cybersecurity issues. He’ll give his tips on improving your home Wi-Fi. Then, Weather Guy Steve Ackerman is back to talk about this month’s heat and smoke, among other things.

A new book traces the history of nonhuman-to-human organ transplantation. Then, we learn why home prices keep rising and what can be done about it.

First, our guests Melanie Tallmadge Sainz and Mike Mossman share the story of Mąą Wakącąk and the Badger Lands in Sauk County. Then, we talk about our State Natural Areas on the anniversary of their creation with Sarah Herrick of the DNR.

The state is trying to return $800 million in unclaimed money and property. Maybe some of it is yours. Then, we look back on the 40-year history of the Center for Dairy Research. And we talk about making birdwatching more accessible and joyful.

First, physical therapists Lori Thein Brody and Jill Thein-Nissenbaum talk about the severity of falls in older adults. Then, Dr. Timothy Young gives us his advice on how to sleep well and manage disorders like sleep apnea.

Everything about the Upper Mississippi River is discussed in Big River Magazine. We talk to founding editor Reggie McLeod about the stories included in the new bimonthly issue. Then, we talk with two Wisconsin genealogists about the new path to becoming a Canadian citizen.

First, Phil Pellitteri is back to share his knowledge about Wisconsin’s insects, including earwigs and ants. Then, Terrell Hyde and Jay Watson give us an update about native bumble bees and our state’s Bee Brigade.

Research is showing that our gut microbiomes affect our brain health, and may be the cause of autoimmune diseases. Then, we talk about the extreme heat and parasites currently causing widespread illness with Dr. Zorba Paster.

First, we talk with Katherine Dunn about her latest book “Little Blue Dot: How the Global Positioning System Shaped the Modern World.” Then, we hear from UW-Stout professors Jonathan Wheeler and Colin O’Neill about their university’s new course combining AI and video production. Finally, Lisa Acosta and Kent Gallaway of Fit-It Folks Viroqua join us.

We’ll hear about new trends in home remodeling from Chad Speight and Tony Trapp. Then, we’ll talk about updating electrical systems with Adam Gullickson, an electrician.

Jamie Nack and David Drake are back to answer your questions about Wisconsin’s wild animals. Then, Scott Hershberger and Tony Johnson tell us about resources available for private woodland owners on a new UW Extension website. Finally, we meet Kristi Heuser of the Root-Pike Watershed Initiative Network.

We talk to Wisconsin Tourism Secretary Anne Sayers about a record year for visitors and revenue. Then, we visit the year-round recreation hub that is Mt. Telemark Village. Then, we revel in American Players Theatre winning a Tony Award with two of its directors.

First, Ryan Feldman, a toxicologist at the Wisconsin Poison Center, joins to talk about his latest project “A Morel Dilemma.” Then, Chef Lauren Montelbano of The Vibrant Veg joins to talk about vegetarian and vegan cooking. Finally, comic artist Sarah Becan tells us about her book “Let’s Make Cocktails.”

Lee Rayburn invites you to join him starting Monday as he continues the legacy of Larry Meiller on WPR. Each weekday, Lee brings helpful conversations with interesting guests — covering health, money, pets, wildlife, weather, technology, home improvement, car repair, and more. The Lee Rayburn Show airs Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Now is the time of year to really enjoy your yard. We share some updates on the latest in patio design with the owner of Hawks Landscape in Wauwatosa. And then we talk with Woody Kerwin about how and where to use lighting.

Wisconsin registered home inspector John Freiburger is back to share how you can make your home more energy efficient by improving its exterior. Then, we cover what you need to know about caring for concrete with James Ruston of Wingra Redi-Mix.

First, we talk with Marquette professor Chelsea Cook about her research on honey bees, beekeeping and her work in the community. Then we hear the sharp-tailed grouse’s conservation story from Bob Hanson of the DNR. Finally, two truffle researchers explain how they found a new species of the fungi in Wisconsin.

We say a fond farewell to Larry Meiller in his 60th year of broadcasting for Wisconsin Public Radio. Join Lee Rayburn and Jill Nadeau as they talk with Larry about his fondest memories and hear some of the questions his regular quests have had for him.

We talk about the Wisconsin Idea — the University of Wisconsin’s goal to work with people, communities and the land around the state. Our guests are Catherine Reiland and Curt Meine. Then, The Weather Guys (Steve Ackerman and Jon Martin) are back to talk about thunderstorms, the 2026 hurricane season and more.

Gardening expert Patti Nagai is back and gets a bit philosophical about gardening. She also talks about keeping your garden looking good into summer. Then Susan Carpenter talks about what's happening in the UW Arboretum Native Gardens.

Before you hit the road this summer, here’s a vehicle maintenance checklist. Then, we talk about the rich history of brewing in and around Wisconsin’s capital city.