Rob Wells

Rob Wells returns from the 2026 Newport Jazz Festival with jazz adjacent sets from Flea, Herbie Hancock, Bernard Purdie, Nduduzo Makhathini, plus a first ocean view for two Michigan fans.

On today's show, we learn that a researcher at the University of Arkansas has found that AI chatbots are showing up in our lives in unseen and unexpected ways. Plus, we hear that Sawyer Ray of Fayetteville now holds an elected position never achieved by Bill Clinton, Tom Cotton or Mike Huckabee. We also visit the Newport Jazz Festival.

Rob Wells returns to Newport for the festival's 72nd edition, with Terri Lyne Carrington, Brandon Woody, Leon Thomas, Herbie Hancock and a sold-out three-day lineup.

On today's show, we learn that Northwest Arkansas Community College and MIT PATH are collaborating to develop a curriculum for AI skills training. Plus, a podcaster talks about manifestos. We also get a preview of the Newport Jazz Festival.

Fayetteville musician Jody Andrews revives Soul Merchant nearly 30 years after its formation. The expanded 11-piece funk band performs Friday, Feb. 13 at George’s Majestic Lounge.

On today's show, a new conservation project is bringing the Illinois River Watershed Partnership to Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park, and UAMS is working to make sure hospitals are better prepared for obstetric emergencies.