|
|
 In the second part of their wide-ranging interview, Mike and Brian talk with former college basketball coach, author, and NMSU color analyst Rus Bradburd. Rus reflects on his transition from coaching to writing, the emotional toll of telling painful but necessary stories, and shares candid insights on two legendary coaches close to home: Lou Henson at NMSU and Don Haskins at UTEP.
Mike Lilly of the Las Cruces Running Club previewed this year’s record-setting Turkey Trot, which reached 1,200 registered runners and had to close sign-ups early. He described how the Thanksgiving-morning tradition has grown into the region’s largest race, helped by a flat, fast course at the Field of Dreams and new family-friendly touches - including pumpkin pie at the finish line. Lilly also highlighted the club’s youth running programs and how race proceeds support local cross-country teams.
Casa de Peregrinos Executive Director Lorenzo Alba Jr. joined Walt and Nancy for an in-depth look at food insecurity in Doña Ana County and how his organization is responding to unprecedented need. He described close partnerships with Roadrunner Food Bank and dozens of local agencies, as well as major expansions underway in Sunland Park and Chaparral to reach some of the region’s poorest communities. Alba also detailed record Thanksgiving distribution numbers, the success of their zero-waste food rescue program, and the crucial role volunteers play—especially on Fridays.
Dr. Clif Perry, Professor Emeritus at Auburn University and upcoming ALR presenter, explored how the Navajo Code Talkers created the most secure battlefield communication system of World War II. He traced the origins of the idea to Philip Johnston, a missionary’s son who grew up bilingual in Navajo, and explained why the language’s tonal structure, complex verbs, and lack of written form made it impossible for Japanese forces to decipher. Perry also discussed the long delay in publicly acknowledging the code talkers’ service, the cultural contradictions that make their loyalty so remarkable, and the ingenious ways Diné speakers adapted their language to describe modern military terms. Throughout the conversation, he highlighted how their contributions saved countless lives and remained classified for decades.
Walt Rubel opened the hour with updates on upcoming station events before he and Nancy Baker shared what they’re thankful for and discussed the week’s news.
Greg Smith talks with Dr. Will Tuttle about his work as an author, musician, and teacher, and about the events he and his wife, flutist Madeleine Tuttle, will be offering in Las Cruces. He reflects on the role of intuition in creative and spiritual life, his background in meditation and music, and the philosophy behind his influential book The World Peace Diet. He shares stories from his travels and performances and explores how music, mindfulness, and compassionate choices can contribute to personal and societal well-being.
I still like money. Most people don’t.
According to WalletHub, only 14 percent of purchases in the United States now involve cash. Credit card usage is up 94 percent since 2016. It’s not hard to understand why. It’s easier to keep track of one card than a fist full of bills. If you lose a credit card, you can simply make a phone call and keep all of your money. And, the transactions are much faster and easier. I fear it won’t be long before cashiers are experts on card readers but won’t be able to make change. Today's guest Cindy Smith helps us explore the relevance of gratitude in our lives and our culture. The conversation touches on some of the many ways gratitude can be acknowldged, recognized, and expressed as a fundamental attitude towards life. Without encouraging denial of the troubles we face, it serves as a counter balance to some of today's worries, fears and concerns. It serves us mentally, emotionally and physically. It reminds us of the good fortune, the wonder, the beauty, and the awe in our lives. Reflecting on and expressing gratitude can infill us and those we encounter in our daily lives, with optimism and hope. It's simple. It's effective. It's free. Anyone can do it. Seems like a worthwhile practice.
 Mike and Brian welcome author, former coach, and NMSU color analyst Rus Bradburd for the first of two conversations. Rus shares stories from his early years growing up in Chicago, his time learning under Don Haskins at UTEP, and the discovery of future NBA star Tim Hardaway. He reflects on NCAA rule changes, recruiting strategies, and how his deep Chicago connections shaped his coaching path. The hosts also discuss Aggie athletics, honor the legacy of Al “Speedy” Gonzalez, and celebrate the accomplishments of local youth athlete Tripp Everett.
Ellen Saige and Ute Thomas of the Dyslexia Institute of Southern New Mexico discussed how dyslexia affects children and adults, and the specialized instructional methods that help learners thrive. They explained the visual and auditory challenges dyslexic readers face, common misconceptions about intelligence and motivation, and the importance of early screening - now mandated for all New Mexico first graders. Saige and Thomas described their multi-modal, research-based program and emphasized how timely intervention can restore confidence, improve academic performance, and transform a child’s relationship with school.
|
Shows
All
Music ShowsYou can find a two-week archive of all of our music shows and nearly every other one of our shows by going to our Schedule page.
Archives
February 2026
|
RSS Feed