JONESBORO – KASU, the public media service of Arkansas State University, is enhancing its lineup with an increase in local programming, including an expanded schedule for the flagship show Arkansas Roots.
Beginning Monday, Sept. 28, the popular Arkansas Roots program will move to an earlier start time of 11 a.m. and run for two hours each weekday. Previously limited to a single hour, the expanded format will include an additional focus on issues important to Arkansans, such as health care, agriculture, education, local government, and economic matters. The first hour will primarily center on these topics through in-depth conversations, while the second hour, beginning at noon, will highlight the music of artists with strong connections to Arkansas.
For more than a decade, Arkansas Roots has celebrated the state’s rich musical heritage. It showcases a variety of styles by performers who were born in, reside in, or were significantly influenced by Arkansas. Listeners will also be able to access many of these conversations and features on demand via KASU’s website and mobile app.
The adjustments to Arkansas Roots will also shift other programming on the station. The National Public Radio (NPR) show Fresh Air will move from its previous 11 a.m. timeslot to a new evening slot at 6 p.m., effective the same day. Hosted by Terry Gross and Tonya Mosley, Fresh Air features extensive interviews with figures from entertainment, literature, journalism, and beyond.
Additionally, the long-running program Latino USA will relocate to Saturday mornings at 9 a.m. Latino USA has documented the culture and history of Latino communities in the U.S. for over 30 years.
Another feature of the station’s evolving schedule is StarDate, a two-minute segment airing weekdays at 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. StarDate provides insights into astronomy, stargazing, and advances in space exploration.
Operating since 1957, KASU remains a vital outlet for northeast Arkansas and surrounding regions, offering programming unique to public radio. Broadcasting from the campus of Arkansas State University, the station transmits with 100,000 watts of power on 91.9 FM, reaching listeners across northeast Arkansas, southeast Missouri, and west Tennessee. KASU’s livestream remains available through its website and app, offering expanded access to its programming.
Funding for the nonprofit station comes from Arkansas State University, listener contributions, and underwriting support from local businesses and organizations.