Interior Insights

Interior Insights 53: Our First Anniversary

Mon, 2 Nov 2026 19:00:00 +0000

Enjoy a celebratory montage of all our guests in the first year who answered the question “Why I Love Fairbanks,” and revel in some community pride for the Golden Heart City (plus some shenanigans, tomfoolery and poppycock).

Interior Insights 52: Holiday Help for the Salvation Army

Mon, 26 Oct 2026 18:00:00 +0000

Captain Jon Tollerud returns to share how the Salvation Army plans to meet as many needs as possible by the end of the year, and how the community can help - whether it’s volunteering time or treasure. Plus, J.R. may or may not lose his head.

Interior Insights 51: Companions Inc 40th Anniversary

Mon, 19 Oct 2026 18:00:00 +0000

As we learned back in May, Companions Inc dogs bring joy to all kinds of otherwise challenging situations, and this time J.R. visits with Sarah McConnell and Dave Stewart to learn how they’re celebrating their 40th year.

Interior Insights 50: Fairbanks International Friendship Day

Mon, 12 Oct 2026 18:00:00 +0000

J.R. visits with Rosalind Kan to learn all about Fairbanks International Friendship Day - a long-running annual multicultural gathering that brings together local ethnic song and dance performances, cultural displays, and food in the Alaskaland Civic Center.

Interior Insights 49: 2026 Election Preview 1 of 3

Mon, 5 Oct 2026 17:30:40 +0000

One more chance to see our local candidates answer questions side-by-side before the Interior heads to the polls on 10/6 to vote for borough assembly, school board, Fairbanks city council, and North Pole city council. Special thanks to Alex Bengel for coordinating!

Interior Insights 49: 2026 Election Preview 2 of 3

Mon, 5 Oct 2026 17:30:20 +0000

Interior Insights 49: 2026 Election Preview 3 of 3

Mon, 5 Oct 2026 17:30:00 +0000

Interior Insights 48: “Fall Prevention Month” with Rachel Spillman

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 17:30:00 +0000

Rachel is a physical therapist with Foundation Health Partners who visited with J.R. about fall risks not only for seniors and elders, but anyone of any age. She covered a variety of ways to prevent falls, as well as how drastically your life can change after a fall.

Interior Insights 47: “Almost a Century” Part 2 with Jo Scott

Mon, 21 Sep 2026 17:30:00 +0000

In part 2, Fairbanks icon Jo Ryman Scott shares with J.R. the story of how her elementary school dream of creating a music festival became The Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival, and also tells us more about the book.

Interior Insights 46: “Almost a Century” with Jo Scott

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 17:30:00 +0000

Fairbanks icon Jo Ryman Scott shares with J.R. the story of how her early life shaped her into an educator who could overcome adversity, build a life in Fairbanks, and create one of the crown jewels of the summer in the Interior - The Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival.

Interior Insights 45: Great Alaskan 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb

Mon, 7 Sep 2026 17:30:00 +0000

Sergio Lattanzi, president of the Tanana Valley Firefighters Association, visits with J.R. about the 2026 Great Alaskan 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb fundraiser which features firefighters climbing 110 flights of stairs in the Carlson Center to simulate the climb up one of the Twin Towers.

Interior Insights 44: The Joy of Fairbanks Pt. 2

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 17:30:00 +0000

Alaska Broadcasters Hall of Fame member Jay Lewis continues visiting with his son J.R. about a great life and career as a broadcaster and riverboat narrator in Fairbanks, and the importance of getting out and being a part of the community.

Interior Insights 43: The Joy of Fairbanks Pt. 1

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 17:30:00 +0000

Alaska Broadcasters Hall of Fame member Jay Lewis talks with his son J.R. about serving at Fort Wainwright, getting into broadcasting, his front row seat to the birth of popular Fairbanks events and traditions, and the importance of getting out and being a part of the community.

Interior Insights 42: Age-Friendly Fairbanks

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 17:30:00 +0000

Carol Anthony - the Foundation Health Partners’ Community Partnership Manager - talks with J.R. about creating an age-friendly Fairbanks. In other words, how do we maximize the quality of life for our elders and seniors, and why is that a benefit to everyone that lives here?

Interior Insights 41: Fairbanks Public Health

Mon, 10 Aug 2026 17:30:00 +0000

Nurse Leif Vick takes J.R.’s questions on the role of a public health center in Fairbanks, the many services offered at their Fairbanks clinic on Barnette, and how their mission extends beyond the Golden Heart city. Plus, how NOT to help prevent a cold Fairbanks winter.

Interior Insights 40: Bright Futures Fairbanks

Mon, 3 Aug 2026 17:30:00 +0000

With Bright Futures being the recipient of the school supplies we are gathering thru “Fill the Bus,” J.R. wanted to visit with one of their leaders, Brianna Gray, to learn how this organization meets the needs of vulnerable students so ALL children can succeed academically. And the gassy horse has nothing to do with it.

Interior Insights 39: 2026 Arctic Lightning Airshow

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 17:30:00 +0000

Lt. Col. Lloyd Wright joins J.R. to talk about this free, family‑friendly airshow and open house featuring thrilling aerial demonstrations, static aircraft displays, STEM activities, and food vendors. Also, learn why you sometimes need to give Scotch to a Scot.

Interior Insights 38: Fairbanks Fire Department Part 2

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 17:30:00 +0000

Chief Andrew Coccaro is back, sharing with J.R. how the FFD keeps up morale, ongoing training, plans for the future, and how the community can connect with their local firefighters. Plus, J.R. busts some funky lyrics. As in actually ruins them.

Interior Insights 37: Fairbanks Fire Department Part 1

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 17:35:00 +0000

The Fairbanks Fire Department is getting some big recognition—becoming the first EMS agency in Alaska to earn Gold Level Pediatric Recognition from the state. FFD Chief Andrew Coccaro joins J.R. to talk about it. Plus, can J.R. cut it as a town crier?

Interior Insights: Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival

Mon, 6 Jul 2026 17:30:00 +0000

FSAF Executive Director Susan Rice joins J.R. to talk about all the festival encompasses, how the community can participate, and how there’s something for everyone. We also reveal the winner of the Great Alaskan Summer Giveaway.

Interior Insights: Fairbanks Children’s Museum

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 17:30:00 +0000

Angel Peger joins J.R. to share details on a place built entirely for curiosity, creativity, and a whole lot of fun—the Fairbanks Children’s Museum. It’s more than just a play space; it’s where kids get to explore, imagine, and learn by doing.

Interior Insights: The New Planetarium at UAF

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 17:41:05 +0000

Pat Druckenmiller & Omega Smith join J.R. to explore the Walt Marita Babula Planetarium at the University of Alaska Museum of the North — Alaska’s largest planetarium and the Interior’s first. They explain how it was built, its many capabilities, and plans for its present and future.

Interior Insights: UAF Summer Sessions & Lifelong Learning

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 17:30:00 +0000

Michelle Bartlett, director of UAF Summer Sessions & Lifelong Learning shares with J.R. how these programs benefit kids and adults, while helping Fairbanks connect with our local campus. Also, a wig and some cars may be harmed.

Interior Insights: Tanana Valley Kennel Club - Part 2

Mon, 8 Jun 2026 17:30:00 +0000

In the 2nd part of their talk, TVKC President Leslie Lewis explains to her husband J.R. why the club exists, why the FastCAT sport is awesome for any dog, and how dog sports can turn things around for kids who don’t care for “people” sports.

Interior Insights: Relay for Life

Mon, 1 Jun 2026 17:30:00 +0000

Joyce Carpenter shares with J.R. the details of her frightening brush with cancer, and how the annual Fairbanks Relay for Life with the American Cancer Society helps sufferers, survivors and grieving families, all while raising critical funds to end cancer for all.

Interior Insights: National Hearing Month

Mon, 25 May 2026 17:30:00 +0000

Dr. Alexandria Jackson returns to visit with J.R. about all the ways hearing issues can impact health - including balance, cognitive decline, and mental health. Plus, our annual “Tribute to the Fallen” as shared for years on the Fairbanks Morning News.

Interior Insights: Tanana Valley Kennel Club Part 1

Mon, 18 May 2026 17:30:00 +0000

TVKC President Leslie Lewis tells her devoted husband J.R. about the upcoming "All Breed Dog Show" over 3 days in May (23-25), as well as introducing the club and the many dog sports offered. Oh, and did someone say “squirrel?”

Interior Insights: Aviation Day 2026

Mon, 11 May 2026 17:30:00 +0000

Hailey Standish & Melissa Osborn tell J.R. all about this upcoming event and how the whole family can enjoy it. Plus there may or may not be some uninvited editorializing about social media.

Interior Insights: Companions Inc.

Mon, 4 May 2026 17:30:00 +0000

Kate Lamal & Sarah McConnell explain the Companions Inc program, including a special event coming up 5/9/26. You’ll also meet their dogs Richter and Bedbug who joined us in-studio!

Interior Insights: Scott McCrea of Explore Fairbanks

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 17:30:00 +0000

The President and CEO of Explore Fairbanks visits with J.R. about the work they do, the state of the Interior’s visitor industry, how tourism impacts quality of life for residents, and what may be on the horizon.

Interior Insights: Dr. Luke Meinert Part 2

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 17:30:00 +0000

Luke shares more with J.R. about the joys and challenges of leading the Fairbanks North Star Borough School District. Also, we cannot confirm or deny any alien abductions that may or may not occur.

Interior Insights: The Chena River Run with Denali Lovely

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 17:30:00 +0000

Dr. Denali gives J.R. the background on the Interior's first running event of the season, details on the 2026 event, how the run helps Rotary help Fairbanks, and how runners can sign up.

Interior Insights: Fairbanks Schools Part 1 with Superintendent Luke Meinert

Mon, 6 Apr 2026 17:30:00 +0000

In part 1, J.R. asks Dr. Meinert to share his background, an overview of the school district, and some of the joys and challenges faced by the folks that make Fairbanks schools run. (Also, prepare for horrendous poetry. From J.R. not the guest)

Interior Insights: Life in Fairbanks & Mary B's 100th with Wade Binkley

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 18:00:00 +0000

J.R. and Wade talk about growing up in Fairbanks, what makes the Golden Heart city a great place to live, and the coming 100th birthday of Wade's grandmother Mary Binkley.

Interior Insights: 75 years of riverboating with Wade Binkley

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 16:38:19 +0000

Wade Binkley shares with J.R. Lewis how a Fairbanks legacy shaped his path in his desire to continue the family tradition.

Interior Insights: An Italian exchange student discovering life in Interior Alaska

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 16:59:03 +0000

J.R. visits with Ilaria Giovanetti, an exchange student from Italy, who shares her story what it's like to be in Interior Alaska.

Interior Insights: Jeff Cook shares how personal tragedy became a mission to help others.

Mon, 9 Mar 2026 16:57:47 +0000

From lost to legacy, J.R. visits with Jeff Cook as he shares how personal tragedy became a mission to help others in this week's episode of Interior Insights.

Interior Insights: Avalanche Awareness and how to stay safe in the Alaskan back country

Mon, 2 Mar 2026 18:29:27 +0000

J.R. visits with avalanche experts Hank Statscewich & Andy Doughty and learns how to manage risk at home and in the back country with the significant snowfall this winter in Interior Alaska.

Interior Insights: Jerry Evans reflects on moments that shaped Fairbanks

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 18:12:26 +0000

Jerry Evans reflects on moments that shaped Fairbanks in this week's Interior Insights episode of Voices of Alaskan Radio part 2 with JR Lewis.

Interior Insights: JR and Heather Brice talk about the upcoming Ice Alaska World Ice Art.

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 18:43:26 +0000

From first spark to frozen masterpieces see why Ice Alaska World Ice Art in Fairbanks continues to inspire.

Interior Insights: Voices of Alaskan Radio

Mon, 9 Feb 2026 17:39:59 +0000

From late nights on the air to shaping Fairbanks radio and comedy, Jerry Evans shares his story of a lifelong passion in this week's Interior Insights podcast, Voices of Alaskan Radio.

Interior Insights: Community in Action with Tracy Vanairsdale

Mon, 2 Feb 2026 18:47:59 +0000

J.R. visits with the Fairbanks Rotary Club President, Tracy Vanairsdale, about the mission of Rotary and the joy of service.

Interior Insights: Navigating the road to journalism with Alex Bengel Part 2

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 18:06:58 +0000

JR sits down with local news reporter Alex Bengel as he talks about navigating the tough parts of journalism and describes the challenges.

Interior Insights: Road to Journalism Part 1

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 16:10:03 +0000

JR sits down with local news reporter Alex Bengel to discuss the road to journalism.

Interior Insights: Power of Experience with Jim Warren of MAAST - Pt 2

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 18:18:02 +0000

JR wraps up his visit with Jim Warren of Mature Alaskans Seeking Skills Training program.

Interior Insights: The power of experience with Jim Warren. Part 1.

Mon, 5 Jan 2026 18:04:52 +0000

Part 1 of a 2-part episode. J.R. speaks with Jim Warren of Mature Alaskans Seeking Skills Training, otherwise known as MAAST, to learn how this organization can provide life-changing opportunities for seniors of Interior Alaska.

Interior Insights: Julie Swisher, Executive Director of the American Red Cross of Alaska - When the Unexpected Happens

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 18:18:25 +0000

JR visits with Julie Swisher of the American Red Cross of Alaska as she gives an overview of their critical work performed across the interior and around the state.

Interior Insights: J.R. visits with the Executive Director of the United Way of the Tanana Valley

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 18:04:22 +0000

J.R. Visits with Sarah Hollister, the Executive Director of the United Way of the Tanana Valley, to learn about all they do for the Interior community.

Interior Insights: Leave It Better with Jeff Cook

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 18:25:10 +0000

JR and Jeff Cook discuss the massive effort to obtain a life-saving PET scanner in Fairbanks so interior residents can have this critical service without having to leave home.

Interior Insights with Jon Tollerud Part 2

Mon, 8 Dec 2025 17:20:45 +0000

J.R. and Jon continue exploring how the Salvation Army Thrift Store is much more than before, and a multi-million dollar project that could be a big benefit to Fairbanks.

Interior Insights-JR Heads to the Giving Machine at the Santa Claus House in North Pole

Mon, 1 Dec 2025 19:35:09 +0000

JR Heads to North Pole to talk with Jeff Jacobson and Nichole Shreeve about the Giving Machine at the Santa Claus House.

Interior Insights with Jon Tollerud - Salvation Army of Fairbanks - Part 1

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 19:39:38 +0000

Learn about the many services the Salvation Army of Fairbanks provides and why it is so much more than a thrift store!

Interior Insights - From Bus to Breathtaking

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 20:32:07 +0000

Erica shares how she turned an inspired idea into a beautiful local business, how she overcame challenges, and her tips for anyone out there with a good idea that would like to make a business out of it.

Interior Insights with the Fairbanks Community Food Bank

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 20:42:56 +0000

Sam Kerstein, the Community Development Director at the Fairbanks Community Food Bank, sat down with J.R. to talk about its history and present needs, as well as sharing some inspiring stories of moments she's witnessed over the years.

Interior Insights - Alaska Lizzie

Sun, 2 Nov 2025 18:11:23 +0000

JR Lewis kicks off Interior Insights Podcasts with Alaska Lizzie