Shows
K&L Gates Healthcare TriageGenesis Healthcare and the 340B Program Patient DefinitionIn this episode, Andrew Ruskin, Leah Richardson, and Victoria Hamscho analyze the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit’s recent decision in Genesis Healthcare v. Becerra. They discuss its potential impact on the Health Resources and Services Administration’s definition of a 340B eligible patient in light of recent developments in the 340B Program and this year’s upcoming election.2022-08-0909 min
Strict ScrutinyThis Maximalist Conservative SupermajorityThe pace of opinion releases has accelerated considerably as we speed toward the end of June and the justices' vacations. Even though last week brought us blockbuster cases about guns and abortions, there are still lots of consequential opinions getting overlooked. Leah, Kate, and Melissa break them down-- after a few more thoughts about Dobbs [5:32]. Plus, Melissa gets to finally flex her British Royals Brain in the court culture segment [1:05:28].Opinions discussed:Marietta Memorial Hospital v. Davita [20:23]A case about a Medicare statute and end-stage renal diseaseUS v. Taylor [25:24]A habeas...2022-06-271h 01
KZYX Public AffairsMendoLatino: variante omicron con Dra. Leah Collins, Keily Becerra y Maria Avalos24 de enero de 2022--Entrevistamos a trabajadores de salud sobre el brote de casos en el condado debido a la nueva variant. Dr. Leah Collins de Anderson Valley Health Clinic, Keily Becerra, de Promotores de Salud de Alianza de Willits y Maria Avalos de Ukiah Vecinos en Acción. Este lunes 24 de enero a las 9 de la mañana en una nueva edición de MendoLatino, su programa en español aquí en KZYX.
January 24, 2022--MendoLatino is local public affairs in Spanish for Mendocino County, hosted by Diana Coryat and Loreto Rojas. This week features local heath care workers talking about the c...2022-01-2555 min
Metal Tavern RadioHordes of Chaos- (feat DJ Anubis & DJ Neko) Episode #115In this episode Neko and I get to chat with fellow Bronco Maniacs Rick Smith and Steven A. Smith about all things Bronco football. Tune in as we talk about the past, present, and future of the Denver Broncos as well as hear about personal experiences following our beloved team.
We also give an update on vocalist Jeff Becerra of Possessed regarding his health and recovery. Tawny Kitaen passes away at 59, hear about her impact not only with which rock stars she dated but the videos and movies she was involved with in her legacy.
...2021-05-124h 33Strict ScrutinyTsunami of SlimeLeah and Kate are joined by Sen. Sheldon “Whiteboard” Whitehouse to discuss the courts subcommittee hearing on dark money and how the topic of the hearing relates to the Court’s upcoming case in Americans for Prosperity Foundation v. Becerra/Thomas More Law Foundation v. Becerra.
Get tickets for STRICT SCRUTINY LIVE – The Bad Decisions Tour 2025! 5/31 – Washington DC6/12 – NYC10/4 – ChicagoLearn more: http://crooked.com/eventsPre-order your copy of Leah's forthcoming book, Lawless: How the Supreme Court Runs on Conservative Grievance, Fringe Theories, and Bad Vibes (out May 13th)2021-04-1253 min
Deep BackgroundThe strange case of Carol Dille, and a huge development project passes in Overland ParkReporter Eric Adler joins Dave Helling and Leah Becerra to discuss the story of Carol Dille, an eccentric neighbor in midtown Kansas City. Then Sarah Ritter, a reporter, discusses public incentives for a huge project in Overland Park.
Read the stories we discussed:
Amid $500,000 homes, KC neighbors wage decades-long fight against woman’s ‘rat house’ - https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article236906633.html
Reverse Robin Hood syndrome’: Overland Park Council approves $200M tax break deal - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article237964979.html
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2019-12-0442 minDeep BackgroundKansas City will decide: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard or The Paseo?Kansas City residents will vote on whether to restore The Paseo, a historic boulevard that was renamed to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. The issue, put on the ballot by petition, will appear as Question 5. The Star's politics editor, Bill Turque, joins Deep Background to examine the decision put before voters and what implications it may have down the road. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
For further reading:
‘Now the stakes are even higher’: citywide vote on MLK Blvd. or Paseo approaches - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article236322773.html
Published Jan. 24, 2019: After months of d...2019-10-3028 minDeep BackgroundWho will replace Pat Roberts? An early look at Kansas' Senate raceLead political reporter Jason Hancock joins co-hosts Dave Helling and Leah Becerra to talk about Kansas' Senate race. We look at what's going on with Mike Pompeo, Kris Kobach, Susan Wagle, Roger Marshall, Barbara Bollier and much more.
For further reading:
‘The big enchilada’: Sebelius, backing Bollier, holds power with Kansas Democrats - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article236491863.html
Kobach’s campaign paid Kansan known to post racist comments on white nationalist site - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article236355618.html
Democrat Barry Grissom drops out of Kansas Senate race, endorses Bollier - https://www.kansascity.com/news/p...2019-10-2334 minDeep BackgroundOutrage over 13-year-old's felony charge for finger gun; and what's up with KCK's T-Bones?A 13-year-old Johnson County eighth-grader who was arrested for pointing a finger gun at classmates was handcuffed, arrested and charged with a felony. Education reporter Mará Rose Williams is here to discuss the latest. And after threatening to evict the Kansas City T-Bones from the taxpayer-owned stadium, the Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kansas followed through by padlocking the gates early Monday morning. Business reporter Kevin Hardy gives an update on what's next for the T-Bones. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
For further reading:
Pointing a finger gun lands 13-year-old Johnson County student in handcuffs
Overland Park 13...2019-10-1633 minDeep BackgroundLet's talk about vaping: What we know, what we don't know and moreTwo people have died in Kansas and one person has died in Missouri from a mysterious vaping-related illness. The same illness has resulted in hundreds of cases nationwide. But what do we really know about vaping or what's causing people to become ill? Healthcare reporter Lisa Gutierrez joins co-hosts Dave Helling and Leah Becerra to talk about what we know about vaping so far and how people are reacting to the latest headlines.
For further reading:
Pressure in Kansas builds for new regulation with vaping-related illness on rise
https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article235563052.html
Missouri records first vaping-related...2019-10-0933 minDeep BackgroundAfter Icelandair drops Kansas City service, should we worry about KCI's future?Icelandair’s seasonal service from Kansas City to Keflavik will end after only two years due to "commercial reasons," the airline announced earlier this week. Business reporter Kevin Hardy joins co-hosts Dave Helling and Leah Becerra to talk through some of the questions being raised after KCI lost its only nonstop transatlantic flight.
For further reading:
Icelandair drops Kansas City flight after boasting KCI’s only transatlantic service
https://www.kansascity.com/news/business/article235650117.html
KCI announces two new international routes — including a new destination in Mexico
https://www.kansascity.com/living/travel/article235715842.html
Looking to save funds, KCI of...2019-10-0329 minDeep BackgroundKC city manager Troy Schulte is leaving. What does that mean for Kansas City?Kansas City’s long-time city manager Troy Schulte announced he will retire when his contract expires early next year. By the time Schulte leaves at the end of February, he will have held the post — either on an interim or permanent basis — for more than a decade. City hall reporter Allison Kite and politics editor Bill Turque join co-hosts Dave Helling and Leah Becerra to talk about what this means for Kansas City.
For further reading:
Troy Schulte will retire early next year after a decade as KC city manager - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article235435002.html
Editorial: Why di...2019-09-2627 minDeep BackgroundKCP&L will soon become Evergy. Here's what that means for youEnergy companies KCP&L and Westar are set to merge and are expected to officially become Evergy in October. Reporter Steve Vockrodt joins hosts Dave Helling and Leah Becerra to talk what the merger means for you.
For further reading:
KCP&L's note: We will soon become Evergy - https://www.kcpl.com/about-kcpl/merger-information
(Published 2018) Goodbye Westar Energy and KCP&L, hello Evergy - https://www.kansascity.com/news/business/article211832124.html
(Published 2017) Regulators deny proposed $12.2 billion merger of KCP&L and Westar - https://www.kansascity.com/news/business/article145577559.html
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit...2019-09-1824 minDeep BackgroundMissouri A+ scholarships often don’t help neediest studentsMissouri’s A+ scholarship program gives millions of dollars to students to pay for two years of college. Yet most of the money goes to those in more affluent districts and not to those who need it the most. Education reporter Mará Rose Williams joins us to talk about this recent report. Hosts Dave Helling and Leah Becerra also chat about college rankings and whether or not they really matter.
For further reading:
Missouri gives millions in college aid, but little goes to KC students needing it most - https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article234663192.html
U.S. News Bes...2019-09-1228 min
Deep BackgroundTalk over $400 million bike lanes plan in Kansas City raises concern, questionsParking and traffic concerns have some Kansas City neighborhoods fighting City Hall’s stalled plan to add bike lanes. Today we talk about the $400 million plan with city hall reporter Allison Kite and business reporter Kevin Hardy.
Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
For further reading:
‘Rightfully confused’: Over some objections, Kansas City rolls along with bike lanes - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article234487342.html
(Published 2018) For Prospect MAX bus line, it's full speed ahead, thanks to $30 million federal grant - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article208422129.html
(Published 2017) From 6 lanes to 3: How Grand Boulevard’s ‘road diet’ coul...2019-09-0427 min
Deep BackgroundFor sale? What a Kansas City Royals sale would mean to the city, fans, taxpayersThe Kansas City Royals may soon be sold. Will they move downtown? Will they get better players? What's next for the MLB team? Hosts Dave Helling and Leah Becerra chat with Royals beat reporter Lynn Worthy and investigative reporter Steve Vockrodt about the implications of a sale.
For further reading:
Royals owner David Glass is in talks to sell team to group led by Kansas Citian - https://www.kansascity.com/sports/mlb/kansas-city-royals/article234449312.html
Potential Royals owner John Sherman: ‘the kind of guy who would pour himself into it’ - https://www.kansascity.com/sports/mlb/kansas-city-royals/article234451357.html...2019-08-2841 min
Deep BackgroundFallout after U.S. attorney scandal in Kansas. And stem cell industry sells unproven treatmentsBarry Grissom faces questions about his tenure as Kansas’ top federal law enforcement official after a federal judge held his former office in contempt. Reporter Steve Vockrodt is here to talk about how the scandal is clouding the Democrat’s Senate campaign.
And reporter Andy Marso is here to discuss his reporting surrounding stem cell clinics charging thousands of dollars to treat everything from arthritis to Parkinson’s disease. There’s no scientific proof the treatments work. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
For further reading:
‘Head in the sand’: Grissom faces fallout from scandal on his watch as U.S. attorney...2019-08-2133 min
Deep BackgroundIs the economic border war between Kansas and Missouri really over?Missouri Governor Mike Parson and Kansas Governor Laura Kelly on Tuesday celebrated an end to the longstanding economic border war and pledged to usher in a new era of cooperation between the two states.
Reporter Kevin Hardy joins hosts Dave Helling and Leah Becerra to talk about what this truce means for Kansas, Missouri and the Kansas City area.
For further reading:
‘Sometimes common sense does prevail.’ Missouri, Kansas celebrate end of border war - https://www.kansascity.com/news/business/article233725152.html
Port KC plans to ‘get in line’ with Kansas-Missouri border war ceasefire - https://www.kansascity.com/news/bus...2019-08-1427 min
Deep BackgroundHow does Kansas City put a stop to gun violence and shootings?After a week of violence in Kansas City that left six dead, residents and city leaders are discussing ideas to curb gun violence. Reporters Kaitlyn Schwers and Luke Nozicka covered a recent high-profile shooting at Crossroads' First Fridays and here to talk about what the mayor and other city leaders may do to confront the issue. Leah Becerra and Dave Helling co-host.
For further reading:
Woman shot and killed at First Fridays identified as daughter of Leawood pastor - https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article233489192.html
‘Stop hiding’: KC mother begs witnesses for help finding her son’s killer...2019-08-0827 min
Deep BackgroundFormer Gov. Greitens' use of Confide shocked Missouri political worldGov. Eric Greitens' use of a secret message app called Confide was revealed in 2017, but the controversy surrounding it still swirls today. This week, politics reporter Jason Hancock joins host Leah Becerra to take a deep dive into Confide, its use in Missouri government, and the fear that a recent court ruling may undermine open records laws.
For further reading:
‘Dream for fans of corruption’: Greitens Confide ruling vexes transparency advocates - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article232439834.html
Former Missouri Gov. Greitens’ use of Confide didn’t violate Sunshine Law, judge says - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics...2019-07-2440 min
Deep BackgroundNew assessments are in: Jackson County property values spike, taxes soarJackson County’s sudden and steep boost in assessed values has home owners in Kansas City alarmed. Reporter Mike Hendricks joins the podcast to discuss the dramatic increases and talk about how people are reacting. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
For further reading:
In assessment shock? Don’t panic just yet. Take action to avoid that big tax hit - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article231407243.html
Property values spiked when Jackson County suddenly sought ‘equity’ in tax system - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article231770483.html
KC’s West Side feels sticker shock as home values finally me...2019-07-0329 min
Deep BackgroundMissouri may become first state without at least one abortion providerPlanned Parenthood’s St. Louis location is the last place in Missouri offering legal abortions, after a series of restrictive laws were passed. Now the organization says that facility will soon have to stop. Reporter Andy Marso joins this week's podcast to discuss this news and what could happen next. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
For further reading:
Missouri’s last abortion provider is about to shut down, Planned Parenthood says - https://www.kansascity.com/news/business/health-care/article230896539.html
Gov. Parson says Planned Parenthood must comply with Missouri probe of St. Louis clinic - https://www.kansascity.com...2019-05-3027 min
Deep BackgroundKansas City's mayor race enters the final month before the electionMayor candidates Jolie Justus and Quinton Lucas debated on Kansas City’s east side Tuesday night, promising more resources for affordable housing and better use of tax incentives. The two face off in mayoral election next month. City hall reporter Allison Kite is here to talk about the debate, the race and more. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
For further reading:
May 14 debate: Lucas and Justus, debating on East Side, promise more resources for neighborhoods - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/election/article230397659.html
May 11 debate: KC mayoral candidates talk $63M luxury hotel, crime, trash and neighborhoods - ht...2019-05-1633 min
Deep BackgroundBrain fungus death a sign of bigger problems in Kansas prisonsHealthcare reporter Andy Marso's review of oversight records for Kansas prison health care provider Corizon Health found a pattern of the contractor not meeting its obligation to provide medical attention in a timely manner. He joins host Leah Becerra to talk about his investigation for The Kansas City Star.
Read the stories:
Locked out of care: Brain fungus death points to extensive problems in Kansas prisons - https://www.kansascity.com/news/business/health-care/article229423849.html
Kansas prison health contractor fails to provide enough psychiatrists, medications - https://www.kansascity.com/news/business/health-care/article229424464.html
Fungus destroyed inmate’s br...2019-05-0126 min
Deep BackgroundLet's talk about Missouri politicsThe Kansas City Star's lead political reporter Jason Hancock joins the podcast this week to talk about politics in Missouri — and little bit about Kansas politics too. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
For further reading:
Missouri GOP, fighting redistricting changes, courts unlikely ally: Black Democrats - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article228882609.html
The Equal Rights Amendment is one state short of ratification. Will it be Missouri? - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article229485094.html
Auditor: Missouri revenue agency broke the law by changing tax withholding tables - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article228736164.html
Why wou...2019-04-2429 min
Deep BackgroundWas first part of Kansas' session a win for Gov. Laura Kelly?Reporter Jonathan Shorman joins us to talk about the first part of the Kansas legislature's session and discuss how effective Gov. Laura Kelly has been. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
For further reading:
Kansas conservatives fail again in quest for big changes to school funding, oversight - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article228883624.html
Could first pay raise in almost 20 years get more Kansas dentists to take Medicaid? - https://www.kansascity.com/news/business/health-care/article228795669.html
$90M more for Kansas schools? Plan in Gov. Kelly’s hands after lawmakers approve deal - https://www.kansas.com/ne...2019-04-1031 min
Deep BackgroundKansas City picks finalists in mayor race; Sly James’s pre-K plan is rejectedKansas City Councilwoman Jolie Justus and Councilman Quinton Lucas emerged victorious Tuesday night from a pack of 11 candidates for mayor and will face each other in June for a general election. And current Mayor Sly James fought hard for a 3/8-cent sales tax to pay for pre-K expansion, but voters rejected the plan that would have capped his eight years in office. City Hall reporter Allison Kite and politics editor Bill Turque join the discussion this week to talk about Kansas City's primary results and the what we might see before the general election. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
...2019-04-0343 min
Deep BackgroundWith Kansas City's primary election less than a week away, what does the future hold?Kansas City voters will take steps to choose a new mayor and council members in the city’s primary election on April 2. City Hall reporter Allison Kite and editorial board member Melinda Henneberger are here to talk about the candidates you'll see on the ballot. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
For further reading:
The Star's election guide: Where to go, what to bring and what’s on the ballot - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/election/article228379529.html
Justus leads Kansas City mayoral field, but poll shows race is still ‘wide open’ - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics...2019-03-2735 min
Deep BackgroundHalfway through the sessions, what are Missouri and Kansas legislatures up to?Lead politics reporter Jason Hancock joins the podcast this week to get us caught up on what's happening in Missouri and Kansas legislatures now that the sessions are about half over. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
For further reading:
Honeymoon is over for Gov. Parson and GOP lawmakers at odds on taxes and spending - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article227854079.html
Missouri Gov. Parson’s embattled department of revenue director resigning - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article227793339.html
‘The Lord will get me to the right place’: Pompeo opens door to future Kansas run - https...2019-03-2041 min
Deep BackgroundThe scandal and changing culture surrounding college basketball and NCAA sportsRecently the former Adidas executive James Gatto, convicted of conspiracy to commit wire fraud in October for funneling illegal payments to families of Kansas basketball recruits, was sentenced to nine months in prison. We look at that scandal with reporter Jesse Newell and at the shifting culture surrounding NCAA sports. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
For further reading:
Former Adidas executive sentenced to 9 months for payments to families of KU recruits - https://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/big-12/university-of-kansas/article227130299.html
KU requests more than $1 million in restitution from convicted Adidas exec Jim Gatto - https://www.kansascity...2019-03-1337 min
Deep BackgroundHawley insider had seat at table in Ashcroft investigation; and an update on KCK's SchlitterbahnSome legal experts say Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft relied on unsound investigative techniques when he cleared U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley of election law violations last week. Reporter Steve Vockrodt joins Deep Background to discuss details of those techniques and give an update on the Schlitterbahn water park in western Wyandotte County. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
For further reading:
Hawley insider had seat at table in Secretary of State inquiry that cleared senator - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article227121274.html
Ashcroft ends investigation of Josh Hawley, says he didn’t violate election law - ht...2019-03-0636 min
Deep BackgroundSheriff Darryl Forté resists legislators' questions about Jackson County's troubled jailRelations between Jackson County legislators and Sheriff Darryl Forté have grown tense with Forté refusing to discuss with them his outlook on the future of the county's troubled jail that is now his responsibility. Reporter Mike Hendricks drops by to discuss his latest story on the jail, Forté and why Jackson County residents should be paying attention. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
For further reading:
Tensions growing as Sheriff Darryl Forté resists questions about troubled jail - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article226258035.html
New Jackson County jail could cost $270 million and nearly double current capacity - https://www...2019-02-2018 min
Deep BackgroundInside the investigation of a UMKC softball coach accused of sexually harassing playersPlayers on the University of Missouri-Kansas City's softball team and their parents accused an assistant coach of sexual harassment: entering the locker room as they dressed, kissing players, telling an offensive joke. The university responded by talking to the coach and buying him a new microwave. Reporter Mará Rose Williams joins podcast hosts Dave Helling and Leah Becerra to give some updates to this quickly evolving story.
For further reading:
UMKC softball players say coach sexually harassed them. School bought him a microwave - https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article224102915.html
UMKC softball coach accused of sexual harassment agrees t...2019-02-1328 min
Deep BackgroundA rare look inside the business of pro football; and an update on Clay County's auditThe Star obtained three years of the Kansas City Chiefs’ state and federal tax returns documents from a public database. Reporters Mike Hendricks and Steve Vockrodt are here to talk about what those returns showed us about pro football teams' finances. And Clay County Commissioners released a statement claiming Missouri State Auditor Nicole Galloway’s subpoena for records had been withdrawn. That's not entirely true. Editorial Board member Toriano Porter drops by to discuss what's going on. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
For further reading:
Kansas City Chiefs’ tax returns provide rare look inside the business of pro football - http...2019-02-0629 min
Deep BackgroundAn update on Kansas City's mayor raceKC City Hall reporter Allison Kite joins Deep Background this week to give an update on the mayoral race ahead of the April 2 primary. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
For further reading:
List of Kansas City candidates for council, mayor preview a very different City Hall - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article224515035.html
Buzz notes: Mayoral candidates want more accessible KC but disagree on how to get there - https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/news-columns-blogs/the-buzz/article225218155.html
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2019-01-3031 min
Deep BackgroundWhat's a First Amendment auditor? And problems at KC's VA hospitalReporter Judy Thomas joins co-hosts Dave Helling and Leah Becerra to talk about "First Amendment auditors." These are citizens — often armed with cellphones, cameras and sometimes handguns — who scrutinize police stations and other public buildings by performing audits. Is it legal? Is it dangerous? Then, Star reporter Andy Marso discusses the lack of information about a death at the VA Hospital in Kansas City.
For further reading:
They roam public buildings, making videos. Terrorism experts say they may be dangerous - https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article224221620.html
Veteran died after a confrontation at Kansas City VA hospital. Sena...2019-01-2436 min
Deep BackgroundWhat does the economy look like in 2019? And a Missouri legislature previewHappy New Year!
This week we sit down with reporter Mark Davis to talk about the economic outlook for 2019 in light of the trade war with China, the Fed’s plan with interest rates and Wall Street’s uneven December. Is a recession around the corner? Hear what economists are predicting for the new year. Also, political reporter Hunter Woodall stops by to give us a Missouri legislature preview. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2019-01-0340 min
Deep BackgroundThe investigation into Sen.-elect Josh Hawley — and the latest on KC mayor’s pre-K taxMissouri GOP is demanding that the attorney leading the Secretary of State’s probe into Attorney General Josh Hawley recuse herself because of donations to Democratic candidates. Reporter Steve Vockrodt shares the latest. And Kansas City Public Schools will not support Mayor Sly James’ proposed 3/8-cent sales tax to support pre-kindergarten programs. Reporter Mará Rose Williams tells us what she's learned. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2018-12-1327 min
Deep BackgroundScandal surrounds former Chief Kareem Hunt — and is right-to-work being resurrected in Missouri?Reporter Steve Vockrodt provides an update on the scandal surrounding former Kansas City Chiefs player Kareem Hunt. And Hunter Woodall visits to talk about a bill that was filed by an incoming Republican Missouri senator to revive right-to-work after voters said "no" to it. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2018-12-0529 min
Deep BackgroundThe politics of snow removal — and a look at Missouri's money challengesMany of Kansas City's streets are still icy three days after the fall blizzard that hit the area. Reporter Robert Cronkleton explains why this snow storm is still an issue for the city and what you can do to get your street cleared. Also, reporter Hunter Woodall is headed to Jefferson City to cover Missouri politics. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2018-11-2831 min
Deep BackgroundUMKC reacts after The Star found a professor used his students as servantsUniversity of Missouri-Kansas City professor Ashim Mitra has been suspended with pay, pending an investigation, in response to The Star's report that found he exploited foreign graduate students at the School of Pharmacy. Reporters Mará Rose Williams and Mike Hendricks join Deep Background to discuss their investigation. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2018-11-2039 min
Deep BackgroundMissouri made medical marijuana legal — now what?In Missouri, voters approved medical marijuana last week when they passed Amendment 2. But Missourians can't start smoking just yet. This week, Reporters Tony Rizzo and Andy Marso discuss the state's next steps and whether or not Kansans will be able to partake. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2018-11-1433 min
Deep BackgroundBonus episode: A look at Missouri and Kansas midterm election issues, candidatesWith one week before the November election, we talk to Jason Hancock and Hunter Woodall about the issues and races that voters will be deciding in Missouri and Kansas. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host this bonus episode of Deep Background.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2018-10-3150 min
DownloadLi'l Buddy PhoneThis week there's strange news from the phone world as Essential circles the drain while Palm climbs back out of the drain with a strange new accessory smartphone; Adobe embraces the iPad at last with a new version of Photoshop; Amazon refreshes the Kindle Paperwhite e-reader; and Google has to follow some intriguing new rules for Android in the EU.
This episode of Download is sponsored by:
Linode: High performance SSD Linux servers for all of your infrastructure needs. Get a $20 credit with promo code ‘downloadfm2018’
TextExpander, from Smile: Communicate smarter. Use this link for 20% off your...2018-10-1851 min
Deep BackgroundHow the editorial board decides who to endorse. And a look at politics in JoCoIt's election season, so this week The Star's editorial page editor Colleen McCain Nelson joins the podcast to explain how the editorial board chooses which candidates it will endorse. Also, reporter Lynn Horsley talks about what races Johnson County will be voting on during the November election. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2018-10-1739 min
Deep BackgroundA 'blue wave' in Kansas? Plus, the state takes over 21 struggling nursing homesCould a ‘blue wave’ be coming to red Kansas? Reporter Eric Adler drops by to discuss his recent story ahead of the midterm election. And, normally, Kansas might have to take legal control of one or two nursing homes. This year, the state has taken more than 21. Reporter Andy Marso explains the implications of this. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2018-10-1046 min
Deep BackgroundShielding LGBTQ people from discrimination; Kansas child welfare system is still troubledReporter Rick Montgomery stops by to discuss his installment in The Star's Influencers series on LGBTQ people and discrimination protection. And Laura Bauer discusses her recent stories on the Kansas Department for Children and Families. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra c-host.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2018-09-2734 min
Deep BackgroundThis technology could prevent semi truck crashes, but our government won’t require itSafety technology could be the key to preventing hundreds of deaths and thousands of injuries annually from rear-end truck crashes. But federal regulators haven’t acted to require these safety systems. Reporter Mike Hendricks discusses his recent investigation into this issue with Deep Background host Leah Becerra.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2018-09-1229 min
Deep BackgroundAnalyzing Kansas governor candidates' first debateKansas gubernatorial candidates Democrat Laura Kelly, Republican Kris Kobach and independent Greg Orman faced-off for a debate Wednesday, Sept. 5, at the DoubleTree Hotel in Overland Park. Reporter Hunter Woodall joins co-hosts Dave Helling and Leah Becerra to discuss the debate.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2018-09-0637 min
Deep BackgroundWhy Mayor Sly James is taking a 'step back’ from his pre-K tax planLast Friday, Aug. 17, Mayor Sly James said he was pulling his plan to put a sales tax for early childhood education in Kansas City on the November ballot. Reporter Bill Turque joins co-hosts Dave Helling and Leah Becerra to look at what happened.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2018-08-2228 minDownloadAnything With a 'C'This week we learn that our apps may be watching us far more than we might have expected, imagine a wacky buddy comedy featuring two voice assistants who have to live together in a single device, observe Twitch and YouTube fighting over streaming stars, and count how many app subscriptions we've got.
This episode of Download is sponsored by:
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Molekule: The only air purifier that...2018-08-1654 min
Deep BackgroundA look at the Kansas governor race after Kobach's victoryKansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach will advance to face Democrat Laura Kelly and independent candidate Greg Orman in the general election for Kansas governor in November. Reporters Bryan Lowry and Hunter Woodall drop by to discuss what this means for the November election. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2018-08-1546 min
Deep BackgroundRecapping Kansas and Missouri's primary election resultsWe're breaking down Kansas and Missouri's primaries with Lindsay Wise, of McClatchy's DC Bureau, and Missouri statehouse reporter Jason Hancock. Also, reporter Steve Vockrodt discusses Johnson County's voting machine issues. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2018-08-0951 min
Deep BackgroundGearing up for Aug. 7 primary electionsThis is the final week before Kansas and Missouri's primary elections on Aug. 7. Reporters Bryan Lowry and Hunter Woodall join co-hosts Dave Helling and Leah Becerra to talk about the candidates and the issues.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2018-08-0155 min
Deep BackgroundWhat we know about Missouri's duck boat tragedy. Also, Donald Trump visits KCSeventeen people were killed in a Table Rock Lake duck boat accident Thursday, July 19. Today, Reporters Laura Bauer and Judy Thomas update us on what we know so far and what they're working to find out. Also, reporter Allison Kite gives us an inside look at Trump's Tuesday visit to Kansas City. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2018-07-2537 min
Deep BackgroundBreaking down KC's 9 mayoral candidates' challengesReporter Steve Vockrodt joins co-hosts Dave Helling and Leah Becerra to take an early look at the candidates running for mayor in Kansas City.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2018-07-1942 min
Deep BackgroundWorlds of Fun’s pollution limits are loosened; VP Mike Pence visits KCReporter Kelsey Ryan talks about her story looking at how Worlds of Fun’s regulated pollution limits have been loosened by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. And reporter Bryan Lowry describes the scene at Vice President Mike Pence's raucous event Wednesday in Kansas City that highlighted the stark political division in the country. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2018-07-1235 min
Deep BackgroundUpdates from KC city hall: Streetcar expansion, KCI and moreThe Star's city hall reporter Bill Turque joins co-hosts Dave Helling and Leah Becerra to talk about the recent KC streetcar vote to expand the line to UMKC, the city's mayoral race, the plan to build a new terminal at KCI airport and more.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2018-06-2027 min
Deep BackgroundSales tax, pre-K education — and what's up with Clay County's government?Education reporter Mará Rose Williams joins the discussion this week to talk about the plan for a new sales tax hike to expand early childhood (pre-K) education. And data reporter Kelsey Ryan tells us why Clay County citizens are gathering signatures for a petition to the Missouri State Auditor. Dave Helling and Leah Becerra co-host Deep Background.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2018-06-1326 min
Deep BackgroundMissouri Gov. Mike Parson enters the honeymoon stageMissouri statehouse reporter Jason Hancock talks about Missouri's new Gov. Mike Parson with co-hosts Dave Helling and Leah Becerra. They also talk about what happens next with former Gov. Eric Greitens and his scandals.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2018-06-0630 min
Deep BackgroundMissouri says goodbye to Gov. Eric Greitens, hello to Mike ParsonMissouri Gov. Eric Greitens resigned Tuesday — effective at 5 p.m. Friday — his career buried under an avalanche of scandal and felony charges. The Star's lead political reporter Bryan Lowry is here to talk with co-hosts Dave Helling and Leah Becerra about the resignation, the scandals and Mike Parson, the man who will become Missouri's next governor.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2018-05-3037 min
Deep BackgroundGreitens scandals, Missouri's Senate race — and problems at KC's Schlitterbahn water parkThe Star's Leah Becerra and Dave Helling talk with Bryan Lowry about the scandals surrounding Missouri Gov. Eric Greitens, and their impact on the state's Senate race. Steve Vockrodt also joins the discussion to talk about an audit of safety issues at Kansas City's Schlitterbahn water park.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2018-05-2333 min
Deep BackgroundThe Greitens scandals take a dramatic turnThe Star's lead political reporter Bryan Lowry — just back from St. Louis — is here to discuss the latest twists in the Eric Greitens case with co-hosts Leah Becerra and Dave Helling.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2018-05-1632 min
Deep BackgroundWhy (still) so secret, Kansas?Despite some progress, Kansas legislators are still using methods that many consider deceptive. The Star's mid-November series, "Why so secret, Kansas?" found the state has one of the nation's darkest governments. Reporters Hunter Woodall, Laura Bauer and Judy Thomas discuss the legislative session that recently ended and what comes next. Leah Becerra fills in for Dave Helling as host.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2018-05-0937 minDownloadRobot, Hold My BeerIt's CES week, so there's a lot to talk about in the world of voice assistants, robots that may not be robots, cars, impractical televisions, smart bathrooms, and more.
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Guest Starring: Mikah Sargent and Leah Becerra
Links and Show Notes Toyota and Lexus vehicles will add Amazon Alexa this year - The Verge 2018-01-111h 00DownloadKnowing YourselfWearable tech that can make us healthier or save our lives, a potential renewal of the debate of government access to encrypted data, and how Facebook knows everything about you even if you're not on Facebook. Plus, Jason pours one out for CompuServe.
This episode of Download is sponsored by:
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Guest Starring: Leah...2017-11-1654 min
ClockwiseWe Hate Boredom but Don't Like ChangeSocial media routines, what print-focused media companies are doing wrong and right in their transition to the digital age, apps we want on iPad, and iPhone rumors and the stress they cause.
This episode of Clockwise is sponsored by:
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Guest Starring: Rene Ritchie, Brian Hamilton, and Leah Becerra
2017-08-0929 min
Deep BackgroundWhen is tech not worth the botherA baby boomer, a Generation X-er and a Millennial walk into a podcast — and kick around whether everything in their lives really demands a new app or dongle. This week’s edition of “Deep Background” tackles the notion when digital age innovations are worth the trouble. A smartphone, sure. A smart refrigerator, not so much. A learning thermostat? Maybe. Star digital editors Leah Becerra and Jay Pilgreen sat in to share their thoughts on this week’s episode. Give it a download and a listen, free and free of ads, and think about subscribing.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megap...2017-07-0545 min
Deep BackgroundTalking Kansas City techThe Consumer Electronics Show, Kansas City's own tech scene and the balance between gadgetry convenience and privacy mark the latest Deep Background podcast conversation with Leah Becerra, Jay Pilgreen and Scott Canon of The Kansas City Star.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2017-01-1132 min
Integrate51: You Just Need to Plug in the InternetThis week A.J., Mikah, and new host Leah Becerra get excited about 360º audio for virtual reality, talk pros and cons of the MacBook, and dissect Amazon’s decision to take on Netflix.
Integrate Topics
Leah: LinkedIn StudentsA.J.: QNAPMikah: Doxie Go Plus
Produced by A.J. FeatherThis episode of Integrate is not sponsored by BirdPress.Music provided by Eino Toivanen, kongano.com.Follow Integrate on Twitter, and subscribe/rate/review the show on iTunes.
Links and Show Notes
Leah on Twitter
Lea...2016-04-2300 min