Best Big Cabbage Radio Podcasts (2025)

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Valley Edition: Superintendent Dr. Randy Trani

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13h ago

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Emily Forstner chats with School District Superintendent Dr. Randy Trani on Valley Edition. Emily and Dr. Trani discussed Mat-Su Central School and hybrid learning. Then noted that home school high school students tend to take core curriculum classes, such as math, while elementary students tend to take enrichment classes, such as music and art. Dr…

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6. 1984 (Part II): Nude Photos, Tragedies, and Tabloids - Hollywood’s Wild Scandals 1:09:39

2h ago1:09:39

1:09:39

Oh, 1984… when Madonna scandalized the VMAs, Vanessa Williams lost her crown, Lionel Richie’s love life made as many headlines as his hits, and much more. Fame was messy, loud, wild, sometimes tragic, and definitely impossible to ignore. Let’s get into some of the biggest scandals of the year! Sources: https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/lifesty…

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Your Health with Dr. Jill: Bell’s Palsy

13h ago

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Lee Henrikson talks with Dr. Jill Valerius about Bell’s Palsy. Dr. Jill explained that Bell’s Palsy is a weakness of the muscles on one side of the face. It is caused by paralysis of the facial nerve on one side of the face. Bell’s Palsy usually begins improving in a couple of weeks. One in sixty people will have it in their lifetime. Dr. Jill says…

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Inside the City: Jude Bilafer, Director of Public Works

13h ago

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Jude Bilafer talks with Mike Chmielewski about numerous ongoing projects and future projects. Jude told Mike that the crews are out working, clearing the leaves to facilitate drainage. He also reports that Public Works is ready for snow. The salt and sand have been mixed, and all the vehicles have been inspected. Jude asks for the public’s help in …

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Dylan Blankenship from Blankenship Farm 25:26

1d ago25:26

25:26

Dylan Blankenship of Blankenship Farms visits with Ken Hoffman on Ag Matters. Dylan says, "I'm a plowboy, not a cowboy." He explains to Ken the different levels of hay and their grading system. This knowledge helps set prices and allows the consumer to know the quality of the hay. Dylan discusses the growing season and the role of fertilizers. If y…

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Home to Roost

1d ago

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On this week’s show, John and Rachel discuss the implications of a free speech case pending before the U.S. Supreme Court and the global strategic importance of Alaska. They also revisit the 10th Amendment in light of recent National Guard deployments.By Mike Chmielewski

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Borough Candidate interviews

3d ago

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Big Cabbage Radio invited candidates for contested races in Borough Districts 1 and 2. We aired the interviews on Oct. 19. Not all candidates responded to our request. Here are the interviews we recorded. Micheal Bowles District 1 Michelle Heun District 1 Dana Raffaniello District 2 Stephanie Nowers District 2 Gage Saxon School Board District 2…

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The Missing Pages by Alyson Richman 9:51

6d ago9:51

9:51

Mike Chiemlewski talks with Alyson Richman about her 10th novel, The Missing Pages. Alyson explains why she writes historical novels and the research that she puts into learning about the time period. In the novel, Violet Hutchins is working as a page at the Widener Library. When mysterious things begin happening at the library, Violet wonders if H…

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HTR # 25 Free speech case pending before the U.S. Supreme Court.They also revisit the 10th Amendment 30:22

6d ago30:22

30:22

On this week’s show, John and Rachel discuss the implications of a free speech case pending before the U.S. Supreme Court and the global strategic importance of Alaska. They also revisit the 10th Amendment in light of recent National Guard deployments.By Rachel Levitt and John Robertson

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HTR # 24 ICE enforcement and contracts in Alaska. 29:50

9d ago29:50

29:50

On Home to Roost, Rachel Levitt and John Robertson review ICE enforcement and contracts in Alaska, uncertainties regarding rural air subsidies, and the significance of having a separate judicial branch. John also tries to win at Rachel’s Public Policy Pursuit.By Rachel Levitt and John Robertson

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HTR #23 Federal cuts to technical education, the implications for an Alaska LNG line, and growing South Korean doubts about investing in the US 29:50

10d ago29:50

29:50

This week, we review federal cuts to technical education, the implications for an Alaska LNG line, and growing South Korean doubts about investing in the US, as well as the concerns that the Founding Fathers had about irresponsible monetary policies. John also tries to answer another of Rachel’s news quizzes.…

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Dr. Julie Meer from Farm 779 19:33

9d ago19:33

19:33

Dr. Julie Meer from Farm 779 Fermented Foods joins host Ken Hoffman. Ken asked Julie, "Where did you get the name Farm 779?" Julie explained that there had been many calls to the USDA about a grant for a high tunnel greenhouse. Julie had grown accustomed to hearing and using the name Farm 779, which was the number the government had assigned to the…

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5. 1984 (Part I): When Ghostbusters Ruled, Miami Vice Debuted, and Orwell Felt Too Real 50:03

14d ago50:03

50:03

Welcome to part one of 1984! Let’s go through everything from the politics of fear and the excitement of the movie theaters packed with Ghostbusters, The Terminator, Indiana Jones, and more. On TV, The Cosby Show marked its spot in sitcom history and Miami Vice made crime look cool. Flip open the diary, grab your popcorn, and relive the news, movie…

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More Cybersecurity Conversation Between Peter and Mike 26:02

16d ago26:02

26:02

By Big Cabbage Radio

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Pratt Family Farm in The Butte Alaska 18:56

16d ago18:56

18:56

By Ken Hoffman and Others

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HTR #22: Vanishing Appropriations, H1B Visas for AK Teachers and More 29:29

17d ago29:29

29:29

By Rachel Levitt and John Robertson

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4. 1983: Cabbage Patch Riots, MTV Rules, and Michael Jackson’s Moonwalk 1:05:17

21d ago1:05:17

1:05:17

Imagine a year where shoppers brawled over dolls, a pop icon moonwalked into history, and the very first mobile phone cost nearly $4,000. That was 1983. But beneath the shoulder pads that were still going strong, there were scandals that rocked Hollywood and technology that quietly started to change what our future would look like. Sources: https:/…

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The Siege by Ben Macintyre 10:30

22d ago10:30

10:30

Mike Chmielewski is joined by, writer for The Times (UK) and bestselling author, to discuss his thrilling recounting of one of the most harrowing hostage situations and daring rescue attempts of our time, of ordinary, everyday people.e A writer for The Times (UK) and bestselling author, to discuss his thrilling recounting of one of the most harrowi…

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Break Up On Purpose by John Kim 7:58

22d ago7:58

7:58

Mike Chmielewski is joined by therapist and author, John Kim, to talk about his newest book,"Break Up. On Purpose.", how to go from break up to break through. Learn the steps to heal and grow.John KimBy Big Cabbage Radio

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Things Under a Rock by David Scheel 9:13

22d ago9:13

9:13

Scheel has witnessed a sea change in what we know and are able to discover about octopus physiology and behavior—even an octopus's inner life. Here, he explores remarkable new scientific developments, weaving accounts of his own research and surprising encounters with stories and legends of Indigenous peoples that illuminate our relationship with t…

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Bulgarian Traing Manual by Ruth Bonapace 9:58

22d ago9:58

9:58

Author Ruth Bonapace discusses her debut novel, describing it as "Jersey Shore meets The Wizard of Oz." Elements of self-help fads with humor and fantasy. A good time is guaranteed when you open the pages and jump in.By Big Cabbage Radio

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The Garbage Bag Girl by Celeste L. Edmunds, Richard Paul Evans 11:48

22d ago11:48

11:48

Author Celeste Edmunds discusses her gripping first-person account, which delves into her life as a young woman who, against all odds, found strength and resilience in the face of adversity.By Big Cabbage Radio

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The Queen of Fairbanks by Tricia Brown 11:48

24d ago11:48

11:48

Born in an Alaska boomtown in 1911, Irene Sherman was the self-proclaimed Queen of Fairbanks. They cheered her in parades, toasted her birthdays, and quietly guaranteed her independent lifestyle. She is a living, breathing piece of history -- a study in survival and an inspiring tribute to Alaska's pioneer spirit…

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The Maps They Gave Us by Wayne Scott 10:15

24d ago10:15

10:15

The author's reflection on an unlikely love story serves as an antidote to society's growing apathy towards marriage.By Big Cabbage Radio

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Return of the Devil by Michael Harbron 9:37

24d ago9:37

9:37

The new Morningstar Tribe must reunite with Joseph, the God who abandoned them, and uncover the truth he tried to bury. The only hope for restoring balance lies in the unthinkable—the return of the Devil.By Big Cabbage Radio

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Leaders Look Within By Brent Pohlman 9:07

24d ago9:07

9:07

Mike Chmielewski talks with author Brent Pohlman, owner and CEO of Midwest Laboratories, to discuss leadership. Leadership is unique for everyone; learn how to discover it within yourself and unleash your leadership potential.By Big Cabbage Radio

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Freedom Framework by Jack Cohen 10:34

24d ago10:34

10:34

Mike Chmielewski talks with Jack Cohen, a speaker, author, and CEO with over 40 years of leadership experience, discussing how to transform your career and go beyond traditional advice with techniques and strategies to thrive.By Big Cabbage Radio

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Counting Backwards by Binnie Kirshenbaum 10:51

24d ago10:51

10:51

A profoundly moving new novel about a middle-aged couple's struggle with the husband’s descent into early-onset Lewy Body dementia. Counting Backwards captures the pair’s final years, months, and days in short scenes that burn with despair, rage, and dark humor, tracking the brutal destruction of the disease as well as the moments of love and beaut…

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A Workingman's Guide by Mark Teague 11:04

24d ago11:04

11:04

A Working Man’s Guide is a value-driven roadmap for working men seeking to thrive in their careers, relationships, and personal lives. Mark Teague draws on his remarkable path from farmhand to executive and business owner to give a framework for problem-solving rooted firmly in time-honored ethics and practical advice.…

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The Complete Bone and Joint Health Plan by Jocelyn Wittstein MD and Sydney Nitzkorski MS,RD 9:13

24d ago9:13

9:13

This comprehensive, easy-to-follow guide is the first resource to consider bone and joint health together. Learn which nutrients the body needs in what amounts, which anti-inflammatory ingredients to keep in your kitchen, and what exercises can help improve bone health. The great-tasting recipes are for everyone, from omnivores to vegans.…

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A Place For Us by Fatima Farheen Mirza 12:01

24d ago12:01

12:01

A Place for Us unfolds the lives of an Indian-American Muslim family, gathered together in their Californian hometown to celebrate the eldest daughter, Hadia's, wedding - a match of love rather than tradition. A narrative that spans decades and sees family life through the eyes of each member, A Place For Us charts the crucial moments in the family…

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Should I Go Back by Janeen Golightly 11:45

24d ago11:45

11:45

Join Mike Chmielewski as he is joined by author, reporter, anchor, and BYU graduate Janeen Golightly, as they talk about why giving your marriage one last try could actually help you move on.By Big Cabbage Radio

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The Investor's Golden Playbook by Frank J. Bucholz 11:56

24d ago11:56

11:56

Retired financial advisor Frank Buchholz distills 40 years of real-world experience into a practical, jargon-free guide to securing financial freedom. This is not a get-rich-quick scheme—it’s a proven blueprint for sustainable wealth building through smart, consistent investingBy Big Cabbage Radio

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The Communist's Secret by Suzanne Parry 13:51

24d ago13:51

13:51

The Communist’s Secret is the second book in The Leningrad Trilogy, a gripping World War II tale with a complicated heroine. Katya is courageous, impulsive, and desperate, as she battles the Nazis and her demons in this story of second chances.By Big Cabbage Radio

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In Nuclear War: A Scenario by: Annie Jacobsen 11:36

24d ago11:36

11:36

Lee Henrikson talks with Pulitzer Prize finalist and New York Times bestselling author Annie Jacobsen about her newest book: a scenario and vivid picture of what could happen.By Big Cabbage Radio

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Hill of Dead Horses by Sarah Birdsall 12:38

24d ago12:38

12:38

Sarah talked to Mike Chmielewski about the Curry area and how she blends true history with her imagination to create this story. In 1974, young Californians Thomas Findlay and Emily Wells dug post holes for a cabin on that very hill and unearthed a human bone. The discovery shatters their struggle for stability and their attempt to start their live…

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Bloom Again by Marybeth Holleman 9:21

24d ago9:21

9:21

Award-winning writer Marybeth Holleman talks with Mike Chmielewski about her new book. Raised by North Carolina’s Smokies, she now lives in the embrace of Alaska's Chugach Mountains. Her essays, poetry, and articles have appeared in numerous journals, magazines, and anthologies. Bloom Again, her first fiction book, weaves together a narrative, char…

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A Creek, A Hill, & A Forty by Ray Bonell 11:05

24d ago11:05

11:05

Ray Bonell, Artist and Historian, joins Mike Chmielewski to talk about his book on the early days of the Mat-Su Valley. Ray will be at Fireside Books on Saturday, September 14th, from 1:00-3:00 PMBy Big Cabbage Radio

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Art For Your Sanity by Susan Hensley 12:44

24d ago12:44

12:44

Mike Chmielewski is joined by Susan Hensley, a transformational coach, speaker, journalist, and author, to discuss how to reclaim the wisdom, wonder, and free spirit you once possessed.By Big Cabbage Radio

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Pacific Kelp Company 20:59

25d ago20:59

20:59

Nick Stern and John Smet, founders of the Pacific Kelp Co., join host Ken Hoffman. Nick and John are currently building their aqua farm just south of Ketchikan with Alaskan Giant Kelp. It grows year-round in nutrient-rich Alaskan water and provides an essential habitat for marine life; helps sequester carbon dioxide and excess nutrients; and even h…

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HTR #21: Federal cuts to technical education 29:28

25d ago29:28

29:28

This week, we review federal cuts to technical education, the implications for an Alaska LNG line of growing South Korean doubts about investing in the US, and the concerns that the Founding Fathers had about irresponsible monetary policies. John also tries to answer another of Rachel’s news quizzes.…

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3. 1982: E.T. Phones Home, Jackson Breaks Records, and Gossip Never Sleeps 24:36

28d ago24:36

24:36

1982 was a year dripping with drama. From Princess Diana giving birth under the world’s watchful eye to Hollywood couples burning hot in the tabloids, gossip was everywhere…and we were eating it up. Music, movies, fashion, and scandals collided in a year that defined the glossy side of the ‘80s. Sources: https://www.history.com/a-year-in-history/19…

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2. 1981: Reagan Shot, Diana Crowned, and MTV Killed the Radio Star 44:23

28d ago44:23

44:23

In 1981, the world was restless. Style was bold, music was fierce, and scandal followed the stars like a shadow. Behind every hit song and fashion trend was drama, obsession, and the hunger for more. From the charts to the tabloids and the runway to the living room TV, this year left its mark… Loud, messy, and impossible to forget. Sources: https:/…

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1. 1980: Wars, Walkmans, and Who Killed J.R.? 23:44

28d ago23:44

23:44

Welcome to the very first entry of The Pop Culture Diary! 1980 was a year that simply refused to be boring. A President was elected, volcanoes erupted, and one of the world’s most beloved musicians was taken too soon. Meanwhile, fashion decided bigger was better, shoulder pads were mandatory, and neon was basically a personality trait. Rubik’s Cube…

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The Hockey Experiment by Ava Miles 8:33

29d ago8:33

8:33

"The Hockey Experiment" by Ava Miles Dr. Valentina Hargrove is on a mission to prove once and for all that hockey players are modern-day cavemen. Her problem? Brock “The Rock” Thomson, captain of the Alexandria Eagles, is as infuriatingly charming as he is undeniably intelligent. Join Valentina and Brock as professional goals clash with personal on…

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Impertinent Question by Dan O'Neill 20:28

1M ago20:28

20:28

Impertinent Question is Dan O'Neill's new book. He shares stories with Mike about being a liberal columnist at a conservative newspaper in the red state of Alaska. Dan says that his fidelity is to accuracy, truth, and putting history together.By Big Cabbage Radio

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The Harvey Girls by Juliette Fay 8:53

1M ago8:53

8:53

Mike Chmeilewski talks to award-winning novelist Juliette Fay about her new book, The Harvey Girls. This novel is based on the real Harvey Girls, who were waitresses who served in America’s first hospitality chain on the Santa Fe railroad. The story centers on Charlotte Crowninshield and Billie MacTavish, who share three things: a room, a heartfelt…