Kansas City-area schools are learning along with the rest of the world how to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. Will coronavirus mean a lost year or more for schoolchildren? And what are we learning to take with us to the next pandemic? Start reporters Mara Rose Williams and Sarah Ritter join host Dave Helling to talk about real-world educational outcomes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kansas City-area schools are learning along with the rest of the world how to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. Will coronavirus mean a lost year or more for schoolchildren? And what are we learning to take with us to the next pandemic? Start reporters Mara Rose Williams and Sarah Ritter join host Dave Helling to talk about real-world educational outcomes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

As Christmas break approaches, what's working and what isn't with schools and COVID?

Star reporters Judy L. Thomas and Laura Bauer have published an ongoing investigation into allegations of abuse at Christian military-style boarding schools in Missouri. What role can the state play in making sure children are safe — and are rural sheriffs part of the problem? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Star reporters Judy L. Thomas and Laura Bauer have published an ongoing investigation into allegations of abuse at Christian military-style boarding schools in Missouri. What role can the state play in making sure children are safe — and are rural sheriffs part of the problem? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

Teenagers abused at Missouri religious reform schools?

The realignment that Democrats had high hopes for didn't materialize this election year. President Donald Trump lost some support, but Missouri still elected Mike Parson as governor by a strong margin, and Barbara Bollier's bid to become the first Democrat Kansas sends to the U.S. Senate in a century failed. Colleen McCain Nelson, The Star's opinion page editor, and political reporter Jonathan Shorman join Dave Helling and Derek Donovan to discuss the parties' future on today's Deep Background podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The realignment that Democrats had high hopes for didn't materialize this election year. President Donald Trump lost some support, but Missouri still elected Mike Parson as governor by a strong margin, and Barbara Bollier's bid to become the first Democrat Kansas sends to the U.S. Senate in a century failed. Colleen McCain Nelson, The Star's opinion page editor, and political reporter Jonathan Shorman join Dave Helling and Derek Donovan to discuss the parties' future on today's Deep Background podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

Republicans had a good election night in Kansas and Missouri

The world of disinformation — false allegations and made-up facts intended to confuse voters — hasn’t gotten any better since the social media wars of the 2016 election. On today’s podcast, we talk with Star Editorial Page Editor Colleen McCain Nelson and editorial board member Melinda Henneberger, who will host Fact or Fiction: How to Spot Election Disinformation, a free live event Oct. 29 at 12:30 p.m. Visit the link to RSVP. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The world of disinformation — false allegations and made-up facts intended to confuse voters — hasn’t gotten any better since the social media wars of the 2016 election. On today’s podcast, we talk with Star Editorial Page Editor Colleen McCain Nelson and editorial board member Melinda Henneberger, who will host <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/election/article246716841.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Fact or Fiction: How to Spot Election Disinformation</a>, a free live event Oct. 29 at 12:30 p.m. Visit the link to RSVP. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

How can voters fight their way out of the disinformation fog? 

Mike Parson

Barbara Bollier

On today’s Deep Background podcast, reporters Jonathan Shorman and Bryan Lowry join host Dave Helling to talk about the hotly-contested races voters will decide on Nov. 3. Will a blue wave carry Barbara Bollier to the U.S. Senate? And how strong is incumbent Missouri Gov. Mike Parson, who inherited his office? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s Deep Background podcast, reporters Jonathan Shorman and Bryan Lowry join host Dave Helling to talk about the hotly-contested races voters will decide on Nov. 3. Will a blue wave carry Barbara Bollier to the U.S. Senate? And how strong is incumbent Missouri Gov. Mike Parson, who inherited his office? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

How are Mike Parson, Barbara Bollier, others positioned? Listen to Deep Background

On today's Deep Background podcast, Kansas City Star reporter Kevin Hardy joins Dave Helling and Derek Donovan to talk about how Kansas City is faring as residents and businesses work through the coronavirus pandemic. Will the area's recovery be easier than many people had feared? They also discuss home sales in Johnson County, Kansas, which are showing no signs of slowing down. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today's Deep Background podcast, Kansas City Star reporter Kevin Hardy joins Dave Helling and Derek Donovan to talk about how Kansas City is faring as residents and businesses work through the coronavirus pandemic. Will the area's recovery be easier than many people had feared? They also discuss home sales in Johnson County, Kansas, which are showing no signs of slowing down. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

Possible good news for KC's COVID recovery and strong JoCo homes for sale

Aaron Coleman

Aaron Coleman, a 20-year-old Wyandotte County candidate who won the primary for the Kansas House, is sticking in the race, despite calls for him to drop out after revenge porn and other abuses in his past have surfaced. Star reporter Steve Vockrodt joins Dave Helling and Derek Donovan on today’s Deep Background to talk about that race, and also to discuss the future of tax abatements and other incentives for developers in Kansas City. What does the future hold in the coronavirus pandemic and beyond? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aaron Coleman, a 20-year-old Wyandotte County candidate who won the primary for the Kansas House, is sticking in the race, despite calls for him to drop out after revenge porn and other abuses in his past have surfaced. Star reporter Steve Vockrodt joins Dave Helling and Derek Donovan on today’s Deep Background to talk about that race, and also to discuss the future of tax abatements and other incentives for developers in Kansas City. What does the future hold in the coronavirus pandemic and beyond? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

WyCo Democrats’ Aaron Coleman problem and TIFs in KC

There are many pressing political questions as Election Day draws near. In just six weeks, Kansans will send strongly conservative Republican Roger Marshall or moderate former Republican Barbara Bollier to fill retiring Pat Roberts’ seat. And how does the death of Ruth Bader Ginsburg play into the larger picture? McClatchy reporter Bryan Lowry joins Dave Helling and Derek Donovan of The Star Editorial Board on today’s Deep Background podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are many pressing political questions as Election Day draws near. In just six weeks, Kansans will send strongly conservative Republican Roger Marshall or moderate former Republican Barbara Bollier to fill retiring Pat Roberts’ seat. And how does the death of Ruth Bader Ginsburg play into the larger picture? McClatchy reporter Bryan Lowry joins Dave Helling and Derek Donovan of The Star Editorial Board on today’s Deep Background podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

Marshall versus Bollier, and RBG’s effect on the election: Listen to Deep Background

The schools are back in session, and distance learning is still with us. The Star's Mara Rose Williams and Kevin Hardy have been reporting on the difficulties many families are encountering as they try to help kids learn from home. We now know not everybody has good computers and high-speed internet access. It's not just a rural issue, and it's serious wherever students don't have the tools to get the education they need. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The schools are back in session, and distance learning is still with us. The Star's Mara Rose Williams and Kevin Hardy have been reporting on the difficulties many families are encountering as they try to help kids learn from home. We now know not everybody has good computers and high-speed internet access. It's not just a rural issue, and it's serious wherever students don't have the tools to get the education they need. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

Will Kansas City students be able to bridge the digital divide?

When the Kansas City Chiefs open Arrowhead Stadium to a seriously limited crowd Thursday, all eyes will be on the reigning Super Bowl champs. What will players do for the national anthem, and will the fans abide by new team rules regarding Native American imagery. And then, of course, there's the specter of COVID-19. Star sportswriter Blair Kerkhoff joins Dave Helling and Derek Donovan of the editorial board for a spirited discussion of Kansas City's big night. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When the Kansas City Chiefs open Arrowhead Stadium to a seriously limited crowd Thursday, all eyes will be on the reigning Super Bowl champs. What will players do for the national anthem, and will the fans abide by new team rules regarding Native American imagery. And then, of course, there's the specter of COVID-19. Star sportswriter Blair Kerkhoff joins Dave Helling and Derek Donovan of the editorial board for a spirited discussion of Kansas City's big night. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

Patrick Mahomes, politics and fans in seats at Arrowhead

A news and politics podcast by the Kansas City Star's reporters, including in-depth commentary and analysis. It's a deeper look at news and issues in Kansas and Missouri.

So appreciate the insights not only of the subjects but of the people interviewed &amp; involved.

Great insightful program

I’ve been listening to this podcast for a while. Initially, I was very elated there was a podcast about KC’s current events, but I’ve become increasingly frustrated by the host’s manner of, well, hosting. He brings people on to offer their expertise on certain issues or stories, but directs the conversation in a manner that isn’t journalistically smooth, and sometimes just isn’t professional. My sister gave up on this podcast months ago, and today I’m doing the same. “Bad dude”, “bad dude”, “bad dude”... while the guy they might be reporting on is a ‘bad dude’, I’m not listening to hear personal commentary. I’m listening for factual evidence about current happenings around the city. With this most recent podcast listing, I’ve hit a wall. I might give it a chance at a later date, but today, I am done.

More social commentary than legitimate reporting

Deep Background

Join The Star's editorial board members Dave Helling, Mary Sanchez, and Toriano Porter for a discussion of the style and substance of President Donald Trump's State of the Union speech. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join The Star's editorial board members Dave Helling, Mary Sanchez, and Toriano Porter for a discussion of the style and substance of President Donald Trump's State of the Union speech. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

The State of the Union: An editorial point of view

The Star's Steve Vockrodt and host Dave Helling discuss the issues surrounding criminal charges filed over the death of 10-year-old Caleb Schwab at a Kansas City area waterpark. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Star's Steve Vockrodt and host Dave Helling discuss the issues surrounding criminal charges filed over the death of 10-year-old Caleb Schwab at a Kansas City area waterpark. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

From tragedy at Schlitterbahn in KC to murder charges

Kansas 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/adchoices

Kansas 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 <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

A look at the Kansas governor race after Kobach's victory

Should Kansas City subsidize a $63 million luxury hotel downtown? Reporter Steve Vockrodt and host Dave Helling discuss the specifics of the plan, and why the debate will change the discussion in the race for Kansas City mayor.For further reading:‘It will not be built without the TIF’: Luxury hotel project due for vote next month - https://www.kansascity.com/news/business/development/article230161239.html$63 million luxury hotel planned to complement Kauffman, attract high-end travel - https://www.kansascity.com/news/business/development/article218260005.htmlEditorial: Public incentives for a new downtown luxury hotel? Kansas City should just say no - https://www.kansascity.com/opinion/editorials/article230116409.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Should Kansas City subsidize a $63 million luxury hotel downtown? Reporter Steve Vockrodt and host Dave Helling discuss the specifics of the plan, and why the debate will change the discussion in the race for Kansas City mayor. For further reading: ‘It will not be built without the TIF’: Luxury hotel project due for vote next month - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/business/development/article230161239.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/news/business/development/article230161239.html</a> $63 million luxury hotel planned to complement Kauffman, attract high-end travel - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/business/development/article218260005.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/news/business/development/article218260005.html</a> Editorial: Public incentives for a new downtown luxury hotel? Kansas City should just say no - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/opinion/editorials/article230116409.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/opinion/editorials/article230116409.html</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

'Luxury' hotel dispute raises the stakes in KC mayor's race

Mike Hendricks and Steve Vockrodt of the Star join host Dave Helling to talk about recent scandals in Jackson County, and what changes are under discussion to end the problems in the county's government. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mike Hendricks and Steve Vockrodt of the Star join host Dave Helling to talk about recent scandals in Jackson County, and what changes are under discussion to end the problems in the county's government. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

The Jackson County mess: A people problem, or something more?

The Star's Lynn Horsely and Dave Helling of the editorial board discuss skyrocketing home prices in parts of Johnson County — what it means for homebuyers, city councils, schools, and all taxpayers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Star's Lynn Horsely and Dave Helling of the editorial board discuss skyrocketing home prices in parts of Johnson County — what it means for homebuyers, city councils, schools, and all taxpayers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

Is it getting harder to buy a home in Johnson County?

Could 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/adchoices

Could 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 <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

A 'blue wave' in Kansas? Plus, the state takes over 21 struggling nursing homes

Josh Hawley

Missouri 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/adchoices

Missouri 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 <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

The investigation into Sen.-elect Josh Hawley — and the latest on KC mayor’s pre-K tax

Carol Dille

Reporter 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.htmlReverse 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/adchoices

Reporter 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’ - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article236906633.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article236906633.html</a> Reverse Robin Hood syndrome’: Overland Park Council approves $200M tax break deal - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article237964979.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article237964979.html</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

The strange case of Carol Dille, and a huge development project passes in Overland Park

Quinton Lucas

The Star's Allison Kite and Bill Turque join host Dave Helling to discuss Kansas City's election results. How did Quinton Lucas win? And what's next? Plus a look at Question 1's defeat. For further reading:Quinton Lucas scores decisive win over Jolie Justus in Kansas City mayor’s race - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/election/article231659313.htmlKansas City voters say no to Question One to cap developers’ incentives - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/election/article231658443.htmlIn a night of blowout wins, two KC City Council races stay nail-biters to the end - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/election/article231658408.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Star's Allison Kite and Bill Turque join host Dave Helling to discuss Kansas City's election results. How did Quinton Lucas win? And what's next? Plus a look at Question 1's defeat. For further reading: Quinton Lucas scores decisive win over Jolie Justus in Kansas City mayor’s race - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/election/article231659313.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/election/article231659313.html</a> Kansas City voters say no to Question One to cap developers’ incentives - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/election/article231658443.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/election/article231658443.html</a> In a night of blowout wins, two KC City Council races stay nail-biters to the end - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/election/article231658408.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/election/article231658408.html</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

Quinton Lucas will be Kansas City's next mayor. Now what?

This 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/adchoices

This 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 <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

Gearing up for Aug. 7 primary elections

The 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.htmlThe Equal Rights Amendment is one state short of ratification. Will it be Missouri? - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article229485094.htmlAuditor: Missouri revenue agency broke the law by changing tax withholding tables - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article228736164.htmlWhy would Missouri voters decide whether St. Louis City and County should merge? - https://www.kansascity.com/opinion/opn-columns-blogs/dave-helling/article224078030.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 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 - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article228882609.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article228882609.html</a> The Equal Rights Amendment is one state short of ratification. Will it be Missouri? - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article229485094.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article229485094.html</a> Auditor: Missouri revenue agency broke the law by changing tax withholding tables - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article228736164.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article228736164.html</a> Why would Missouri voters decide whether St. Louis City and County should merge? - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/opinion/opn-columns-blogs/dave-helling/article224078030.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/opinion/opn-columns-blogs/dave-helling/article224078030.html</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

Let's talk about Missouri politics

Insider

Some 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.htmlAshcroft ends investigation of Josh Hawley, says he didn’t violate election law - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article226917029.htmlLender says Schlitterbahn has cash flow troubles, needed money to cover legal expenses - https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article226941214.htmlSchlitterbahn charges tossed. Judge says Kansas AG ‘irreparably tainted’ grand jury - https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article226632094.htmlWill Schlitterbahn water park open for 2019 season? Company won’t say - https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article224228640.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Some 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 - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article227121274.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article227121274.html</a> Ashcroft ends investigation of Josh Hawley, says he didn’t violate election law - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article226917029.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article226917029.html</a> Lender says Schlitterbahn has cash flow troubles, needed money to cover legal expenses - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article226941214.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article226941214.html</a> Schlitterbahn charges tossed. Judge says Kansas AG ‘irreparably tainted’ grand jury - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article226632094.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article226632094.html</a> Will Schlitterbahn water park open for 2019 season? Company won’t say - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article224228640.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article224228640.html</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

Hawley insider had seat at table in Ashcroft investigation; and an update on KCK's Schlitterbahn

Reporter 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/adchoices

Reporter 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 <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

Shielding LGBTQ people from discrimination; Kansas child welfare system is still troubled

Justice Horn, the student government president at University of Missouri-Kansas City, and Alex Dwyer, a July graduate from the University of Kansas, sit down with The Star education writer Mara Rose Williams and Deep Background host Dave Helling to discuss the growth of conservatism on college campuses.For further reading:College conservatives say their numbers are growing. Or are they just getting louder? - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article237165489.htmlMU claims recovery from racial protests, boasting another record fundraising year - https://www.kansascity.com/news/state/missouri/article232492142.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Justice Horn, the student government president at University of Missouri-Kansas City, and Alex Dwyer, a July graduate from the University of Kansas, sit down with The Star education writer Mara Rose Williams and Deep Background host Dave Helling to discuss the growth of conservatism on college campuses.For further reading:College conservatives say their numbers are growing. Or are they just getting louder? - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article237165489.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article237165489.html</a>MU claims recovery from racial protests, boasting another record fundraising year - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/state/missouri/article232492142.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/news/state/missouri/article232492142.html</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

Conservative student voices getting louder on college campuses

An anti-transgender speech delivered at the University of Missouri-Kansas City was orchestrated by an outside conservative group trying to cause disruption, student leaders said last week. Reporter Mará Rose Williams helps us unpack what's happened since the controversial event. Also, reporter Steve Vockrodt is here to discuss the latest in the Sprint and T-Mobile merger as well as his recent story on new data that shows a lack of demand for hotels in Kansas City.For further reading: Protester at right-wing UMKC event arrested, but was speaker hoping for a disruption? - https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article229180734.htmlUMKC chancellor response to conservative speaker attack faces backlash in Missouri Legislature - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article229345909.htmlReport says Sprint and T-Mobile merger is in trouble, but company leaders disagree - https://www.kansascity.com/news/business/article229364509.htmlAfter a glut of new hotels in KC, a realization: There’s now more supply than demand - https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article229135804.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

An anti-transgender speech delivered at the University of Missouri-Kansas City was orchestrated by an outside conservative group trying to cause disruption, student leaders said last week. Reporter Mará Rose Williams helps us unpack what's happened since the controversial event. Also, reporter Steve Vockrodt is here to discuss the latest in the Sprint and T-Mobile merger as well as his recent story on new data that shows a lack of demand for hotels in Kansas City. For further reading: Protester at right-wing UMKC event arrested, but was speaker hoping for a disruption? - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article229180734.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article229180734.html</a> UMKC chancellor response to conservative speaker attack faces backlash in Missouri Legislature - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article229345909.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article229345909.html</a> Report says Sprint and T-Mobile merger is in trouble, but company leaders disagree - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/business/article229364509.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/news/business/article229364509.html</a> After a glut of new hotels in KC, a realization: There’s now more supply than demand - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article229135804.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article229135804.html</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

We look at a free speech case at UMKC, Sprint's merger plans and KC's downtown hotels

One of Mayor Quinton Lucas' highest priorities is finding meaningful solutions to the violent crime epidemic that makes Kansas City far more dangerous than most other cities its size. Star reporter Allison Kite joins Dave Helling and Derek Donovan of the editorial board to discuss the mayor's plans. Also, reporter Kevin Hardy talks about the big layoff Hallmark announced this week. What lies ahead for one of Kansas City's flagship businesses as it navigates the drastically changing world of retail? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One of Mayor Quinton Lucas' highest priorities is finding meaningful solutions to the violent crime epidemic that makes Kansas City far more dangerous than most other cities its size. Star reporter Allison Kite joins Dave Helling and Derek Donovan of the editorial board to discuss the mayor's plans. Also, reporter Kevin Hardy talks about the big layoff Hallmark announced this week. What lies ahead for one of Kansas City's flagship businesses as it navigates the drastically changing world of retail? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

Quinton Lucas gears up to fight violent crime, and Hallmark takes on transformation

The 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.htmlPotential 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 Editorial: Will the new Royals owner want a downtown stadium? Taxpayers shouldn’t foot the bill - https://www.kansascity.com/opinion/editorials/article234467697.html Mellinger: The Royals are for sale, and here’s why that’s a good thing for Kansas City - https://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/sam-mellinger/article234453167.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 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 - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/sports/mlb/kansas-city-royals/article234449312.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/sports/mlb/kansas-city-royals/article234449312.html</a>Potential Royals owner John Sherman: ‘the kind of guy who would pour himself into it’ - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/sports/mlb/kansas-city-royals/article234451357.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/sports/mlb/kansas-city-royals/article234451357.html</a> Editorial: Will the new Royals owner want a downtown stadium? Taxpayers shouldn’t foot the bill - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/opinion/editorials/article234467697.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/opinion/editorials/article234467697.html </a>Mellinger: The Royals are for sale, and here’s why that’s a good thing for Kansas City - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/sam-mellinger/article234453167.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/sam-mellinger/article234453167.html</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

For sale? What a Kansas City Royals sale would mean to the city, fans, taxpayers

The City Council has approved a deal for a new single terminal at Kansas City International Airport. The process to reach a deal on the KCI project has been tumultuous, but it appears now construction is imminent. Reporter Allison Kite joins host Dave Helling to talk about the latest at KCI.For further reading:KCI single terminal construction could begin within weeks following Council approval - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article226941204.htmlAirport committee votes to approve agreements with KCI single terminal developer - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article226569249.htmlLong-awaited KCI airlines agreement comes with new price tag for terminal project - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article225915675.htmlAirport group may tweak KCI plan to keep promise not to use taxpayer funds - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article222369160.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The City Council has approved a deal for a new single terminal at Kansas City International Airport. The process to reach a deal on the KCI project has been tumultuous, but it appears now construction is imminent. Reporter Allison Kite joins host Dave Helling to talk about the latest at KCI. For further reading: KCI single terminal construction could begin within weeks following Council approval - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article226941204.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article226941204.html</a> Airport committee votes to approve agreements with KCI single terminal developer - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article226569249.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article226569249.html</a> Long-awaited KCI airlines agreement comes with new price tag for terminal project - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article225915675.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article225915675.html</a> Airport group may tweak KCI plan to keep promise not to use taxpayer funds - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article222369160.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article222369160.html</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

KCI single terminal construction could begin within weeks

Players 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.htmlUMKC softball coach accused of sexual harassment agrees to take leave of absence - https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article226144280.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Players 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 - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article224102915.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article224102915.html</a> UMKC softball coach accused of sexual harassment agrees to take leave of absence - <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article226144280.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article226144280.html</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

Inside the investigation of a UMKC softball coach accused of sexually harassing players

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