The Crossroads Suncast

The Game of Change: Part Two

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 21:45:18 +0000

After days of chaos involving a court injunction, a decoy team, and death threats, the "Game of Change" finally tips off. This week's episode is the second part in our series on the historic Civil Rights Movement-era college basketball game that involved players from Southern Illinois and West Kentucky. Listen to hear why some argue to this day that the game didn't really change that much.

Special thanks to the authors who took the time to share this story with us. Read more of their work on The Game of Change at the links below:

Kyle Veazey, "Champions for Change": https://tinyurl.com/52prjyvr

Jason Peterson, "Full Court Press": https://tinyurl.com/mw6pu8vn

Mike Lenehan, "Ramblers": https://tinyurl.com/54jby8sa

We Live Here: Bryce Patterson

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 21:45:17 +0000

In this week's episode, senior executive producer Morgan Reagle and voice of the Crossroads Suncast Bryce Patterson reflect on what the project has meant- and the future of the podcast as Bryce moves on from WPSD. One additional thank you that didn't make it into the episode: Todd Faulkner has been the show's biggest fan and a huge supporter from the very beginning. Special thanks from Bryce and Morgan.

The Game of Change: Part One

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 21:45:53 +0000

In 1963, a basketball game between a segregated southern team and an integrated northern one prompts death threats, a court injunction, and a decoy team loading onto a plane. This week's episode explores the roots of Mississippi State's team in Southern Illinois and West Kentucky, and the fight to get them to the NCAA tournament.

Special thanks to the authors who took the time to share this story with us. Read more of their work on The Game of Change at the links below:

Kyle Veazey, "Champions for Change": https://tinyurl.com/52prjyvr

Jason Peterson, "Full Court Press": https://tinyurl.com/mw6pu8vn

Mike Lenehan, "Ramblers": https://tinyurl.com/54jby8sa

Voter ID, Election Security, and the 2026 Midterms

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 21:45:55 +0000

From ongoing federal lawsuits to access to sensitive voter data to a push for citizenship checks at the polls, this week's episode explores the legislative and judicial battles being fought ahead of the midterms. Kentucky Secretary of State Michael Adams and representatives from the American Civil Liberties Union and Black Voters Matter each weigh in on the best ways to ensure fair elections.

How GLP-1 Drugs are Reshaping Weight Loss (and Changing Medicine)

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 22:45:38 +0000

GLP-1s may have started as medications for diabetes, but they've exploded in popularity for their role in weight loss. This week's episode explores why these drugs have such a range of impacts and how they're changing culture around food and body image.

The Roots, Impact, and Scars of Segregation

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 22:45:42 +0000

From healthcare to travel, school, shopping, and eating: this week's episode of the Crossroads Suncast explores the ways ways Jim Crow laws shaped the lives of people in our region.

We Live Here: Reporter Zoe Lewis

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 11:45:11 +0000

Zoe Lewis joined the team at WPSD Local 6 in January- and is already telling stories that matter for this region. In this week's episode, she reflects on her roots in Marshall County, and how they inform her journalism.

The Life and Impact of Reverend Jesse Jackson

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 22:45:11 +0000

This week's episode of the Crossroads Suncast explores Reverend Jesse Jackson's time organizing for civil rights in our region- and reflects on his impact nationally and across the globe.

The Cost and Promise of Artificial Intelligence

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 23:06:49 +0000

This episode of the Crossroads Suncast explores the potential impacts of an AI data center on the health and economy of the region- as well as the ways AI is reshaping education and healthcare.

We Live Here: WPSD anchor Jennifer Horbelt on stepping away from TV news

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 20:45:12 +0000

On her last day at WPSD Local 6, Jennifer reflects on what's to come- and the things that have meant the most to her during her time as a journalist.

We Live Here: Reporter Mackenzie Lionberger

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 17:56:42 +0000

Mackenzie Lionberger joined the Local 6 team at the beginning of this year. In this episode, she explores her roots in the Washington, D.C. area and how that has shaped her approach to journalism.

The Crossroads Suncast - Year One Retrospective

Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:30:49 +0000

This quick retrospective reflects on the first year of the Crossroads Suncast.

The Future of Your Local News with News Director, Executive Editor Jeff Bidwell

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 22:45:51 +0000

This week's episode of the Crossroads Suncast ends season three and kicks off 2026 with a look at the major changes coming to local news. Former WPSD sports director Jeff Bidwell reflects on the changes he's bringing as news director- and how journalism is shifting more broadly in the 21st century.

The Impact of Sports Betting

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 22:45:57 +0000

This fall, Missouri became the latest state to legalize sports betting. It follows a 2018 Supreme Court ruling that radically reshaped the role of gambling in American life. This episode explores the ways that betting on apps can drive addiction and change the ways that fans engage with their favorite sports.

The Past, Present, and Future of Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 22:45:16 +0000

This week's episode of the Crossroads Suncast explores the dynamics of a red state with a two-term democrat as governor. From faith to luck to cultural heritage- analysts explore the rise of Steve and Andy Beshear.

This episode features CNN commentator Scott Jennings, Kentucky Secretary of State Michael Adams, Murray State University professor Brian Clardy, and long-time Kentucky journalists Linda Blackford and Al Cross.

Police Interrogations and the Jessica Currin Case

Sat, 06 Dec 2025 00:02:09 +0000

This week's episode of the Crossroads Suncast focuses on a recent hearing exploring new evidence in the murder of Jessica Currin. The episode explores the changing testimony of key witnesses, and the potential impact of police interrogation techniques on the case.

Celebrating 75 Years of "Peanuts"

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 05:59:58 +0000

From creator Charles Schulz's early years as a shy kid to the impact of his service in World War Two- this week's episode explores the roots of the iconic comic strip and its impact and future.

The MAGA Split: Understanding Friction Between Kentucky Republicans and the President

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 22:45:20 +0000

This week on the Crossroads Suncast, political commentator Scott Jennings, Secretary of State Michael Adams, former Attorney General Daniel Cameron, and a range of experts reflect on the unique nature of the GOP in Kentucky. The episode explores why Kentucky republicans consistently break from the national MAGA movement, and how the retirement of Senator Mitch McConnell could shape the future of the party.

University Leaders Explore Accessibility in Higher Education

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 22:45:46 +0000

This week on the Crossroads Suncast, Murray State University President Ron Patterson and University of Tennessee at Martin Chancellor Yancy Freeman discuss their journeys in higher education and the future for students in our region. They dig into the role of artificial intelligence, the importance of affordability, and how their experiences as first-generation students have shaped their leadership.

Understanding the SNAP crisis

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 22:45:49 +0000

From the Great Depression to the Great Society and today's crisis- this week's episode of the Crossroads Suncast explores the past, present, and future of federal food aid. It's everything you need to know about the government shutdown and the ongoing fight over SNAP benefits.

Myths and Legends of America's Crossroads

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 21:45:19 +0000

From Kentucky ghost stories to southern Illinois' legendary cryptid and an alleged UFO crash- this week's episode of the Crossroads Suncast is all about the myths and legends of our region. Listen to learn how a pastor ended up performing last rites on something truly inhuman- and why these stories stick with us over the years.

Jessica Currin: Reopening a Murder Case 25 Years Later

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 21:51:38 +0000

More than 25 years after Jessica Currin went missing, questions still surround her case. The man once convicted of her murder could soon get a new trial. This episode looks back at the past, examines the present, and considers what may come next - while exploring the ethics of true crime and the justice system itself.

Featuring interviews with defendants, attorneys, and journalists who’ve followed Jessica’s story for decades.

A Great Realignment: How America's Political Parties Flipped

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 21:50:29 +0000

In the wake of the Civil War, democrats controlled the South, while republicans were largely based in the North. This episode explores the titanic shifts that reshaped American politics and built our current electoral map.

The Impact (and Future) of Alzheimer's and Dementia Treatment

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 21:45:39 +0000

This week, the Food and Drug Administration approved a new test for ruling out Alzheimer's as a cause of cognitive decline. It's just one of a series of major jumps forward in treatment. This episode digs into the history of the condition, its impact on families and communities, and why there's a lot of good news moving forward.

Coming up on season three of the Crossroads Suncast

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 16:44:01 +0000

The Crossroads Suncast returns for a third season on Thursday. Tune in as we dive into historical shifts in Kentucky politics, new developments in the death of Jessica Currin, and how local universities are looking to the future.

We Live Here: Assignment Manager Charity Blanton

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 21:45:18 +0000

For this bonus miniseries in the leadup to season three of the Crossroads Suncast, we're taking a look behind the scenes at the people who bring you your news- and the ways that they connect to your community.

We Live Here: Reporter and Weekend Anchor Arriyonna Allen

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 21:45:53 +0000

We Live Here: Meteorologist Mark Daniels

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 21:45:23 +0000

The cost of motherhood (with Jennifer Horbelt)

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 21:45:45 +0000

From rising rents to the increased cost of childcare and the Covid-19 pandemic, a range of factors have increased pressure on families in recent years. This week's episode explores the ways that changing economic and social tides particularly impact moms and grandmothers- and the potential impact of state and federal policy proposals.

LifeWise Academy and religious instruction during the school day

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 21:45:52 +0000

LifeWise Academy offers bible classes off campus during the school day that impact tens of thousands of students across the United States. This week's episode of the Crossroads Suncast explores the legal underpinnings of the program and the backlash it has received in some communities.

Night Riders and the Black Patch Tobacco Wars

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 21:40:04 +0000

This week's episode of the Crossroads Suncast focuses on a period of civil unrest and violence at the turn of the 20th century. Tobacco farmers in west Kentucky and Tennessee fought back against corporate control of the industry, with raids on farms and towns across the region.

WPSD anchor Jasmine Youngblood on the importance of community journalism

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 21:42:23 +0000

Jasmine Youngblood has covered hundreds of stories since joining the WPSD Local 6 team. This week on the Crossroads Suncast, she reflects on the importance of storytelling in journalism- and her trial by fire entering TV news in the immediate wake of the December 10th, 2021 tornadoes.

The impact of St Jude Children's Research Hospital (with Mike Mallory)

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 21:45:12 +0000

Less than a month away from the 2025 St Jude Dream Home Giveaway, WPSD Local 6 anchor Mike Mallory joins the Crossroads Suncast to reflect on twenty years worth of stories. This episode explores St Jude's lifechanging impact on families in west Kentucky and the importance of community support for kids battling illness.

Desegregating Paducah Tilghman High School.

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 21:30:23 +0000

In 1956, Paducah Tilghman admitted its first six African American students- one year before the Little Rock Nine broke the color barrier in Arkansas. This week on the Crossroads Suncast, one of those students shares her story growing up in segregated Paducah, and her experience as a trailblazer at the University of Kentucky after graduation.

Fancy Farm retains a legacy of politics, barbecue despite division (with Todd Faulkner)

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 21:45:12 +0000

This week’s episode of the Crossroads Suncast explores the history and legacy of the St. Jerome Fancy Farm Picnic—and how the historic fundraiser and political event has been shaped by partisan division.

The episode is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and at WPSDLocal6.com and PaducahSun.com.

New for season two, episodes are available on YouTube: @WPSD-TV.

Happy's Chili Parlor reflects on nearly a century in business

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 21:45:34 +0000

Happy's Chili has been a Paducah staple since the Great Depression. Third-generation owner Eugene Thomas reflects on the triumphs and tragedies it's taken to get to this point- and the ongoing legacy of the restaurant.

The rise and fall of basketball legend Jumpin' Joe Fulks

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 21:45:14 +0000

Born into poverty in Marshall County, Kentucky, Joe Fulks became one of the first superstars in the sport of basketball- then vanished into obscurity before his murder in 1976.

This week's episode explores Fulks' roots and his role in evolving and defining the modern basketball landscape.

News director Perry Boxx reflects on 50 years of journalism.

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 21:45:00 +0000

WPSD news director Perry Boxx says his work as a journalist is a product of the Watergate Era, Vietnam, and the Civil Rights movement. The intensity of that era is fundamental to his search for truth today. In this week's episode, he reflects on the decades worth of changes he's observed in his career- and the future of journalism.

The legacy of Hank Ward: the man who made Kentucky modern

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 22:27:41 +0000

In this week's episode, writer Sharon Roggenkamp explores the legacy of a crusading journalist-turned-civil servant who radically changed the face of Kentucky. This episode moves from his roots as a reporter in west Kentucky through his work revitalizing the state's park system and his run for governor.

The state of abortion care three years post-Dobbs.

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 21:45:48 +0000

This week's episode of the Crossroads Suncast explores the abortion landscape three years after the overturning of Roe V Wade- and how that Supreme Court decision brought a small college town in Illinois to the center of debates over abortion care.

The broader impact of public media cuts.

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 21:45:21 +0000

This week on the Crossroads Suncast, leaders with Kentucky Educational Television discuss the role of public media- and the range of programs facing cuts.

Experts warn of policy shifts after overdose deaths plummet.

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 21:45:00 +0000

After a massive drop in overdose deaths nationwide in 2024, experts say changes in federal policy risk losing those gains.

Green Book: A History of the Hotel Metropolitan

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 21:45:00 +0000

From Louis Armstrong to Ella Fitzgerald; Satchel Paige to Billie Holiday and Thurgood Marshall, the Hotel Metropolitan has housed a huge number of iconic figures in American culture. This week's episode explores the Hotel's role as a bastion of equality during the Jim Crow era.

A video version of this episode is available on YouTube: @WPSD-TV

Preserving the historical legacy of Cairo, Illinois.

Fri, 02 May 2025 10:45:00 +0000

This week's episode explores the effort to save historic buildings in Cairo, Illinois- with a look at Cairo's role in the Civil Rights Movement, the Civil War, and as a key location on the Underground Railroad.

How cuts to humanities programs impact communities.

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 10:45:00 +0000

This week's episode explores the ways that cuts at the National Endowment for the Humanities filter down to community-level programming at schools, libraries, and community centers.

How quilts serve as art and historical record.

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 10:45:00 +0000

Acclaimed quilt artist Caryl Bryer Fallert-Gentry and historian Stacey Watson discuss the ways that quilting records history and shapes culture.

How first responders and news teams cut through the noise of severe weather.

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 10:45:00 +0000

When severe weather strikes, first responders need to communicate across multiple agencies- and news teams need to track danger and keep the public informed. In this episode, those teams reflect on their roles in the wake of the April 2 tornadoes.

How Holocaust education helps students understand American history.

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 10:45:00 +0000

A local social studies teacher who trains other educators to better teach about the Holocaust explains why that training is important- and how it builds better citizens.

BONUS: Bob Kendrick on baseball's role in civil rights history.

Sat, 29 Mar 2025 10:45:00 +0000

President of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, Bob Kendrick, explores the history of baseball and the significance of black players to the sport- and civil rights history.

Nashville pursues MLB expansion with tribute to American history.

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 10:45:00 +0000

As Major League Baseball begins another season this weekend, Nashville is hoping it will be home to a team in the years to come. It's an opportunity to build something new, and honor the players that drove cultural change during the era of segregation.

Local legal experts Bryant, Kaltenbach reflect on constitutional crisis.

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 10:45:00 +0000

As the Trump White House faces off with a district judge, Mark Bryant of the Bryant Law Center, and Tim Kaltenbach, former McCracken County circuit court judge, weigh in on the future of the judicial branch.

BONUS EPISODE: A Century of Storms

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 10:45:00 +0000

This audio adaptation of the television documentary "A Century of Storms" reflects on the last hundred years of severe weather- and the learning we're bringing into the next century.

Meteorologists reflect on role of the National Weather Service amid cuts.

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 10:45:00 +0000

WPSD Chief Meteorologist Trent Okerson and retired National Weather Service scientist Pat Spoden explore the role of the agency in severe weather preparedness and day-to-day life.

Journalist Todd Faulkner reflects on the legacy of Senator Mitch McConnell.

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 11:45:00 +0000

In the wake of Senator McConnell's announcement that he will not run for another term, journalist Todd Faulkner explores his roots in politics and his outside role in the party he helped build.

Reflecting on "A Century of Storms" with meteorologist Jennifer Rukavina.

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 11:45:00 +0000

As we approach the hundred year anniversary of the deadliest tornado in American history, meteorologist Jennifer Rukavina reflects on what we've learned- and how we can prepare for extreme weather in the future.

Oscar Micheaux and the local roots of African American cinema.

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 11:45:00 +0000

The remarkable journey of the oldest surviving film by an African American filmmaker- from his roots in southern Illinois to a new interpretation by contemporary artists.

Addressing inequality in infant mortality rates.

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 11:45:00 +0000

How state and community organizations are working to address a lack of resources for parents and babies.

Plane crash investigator reflects on transparency, west Kentucky roots.

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 11:45:00 +0000

Todd Inman entered the national spotlight as one of the key figures investigating last week's plane crash near Reagan National Airport. He reflects on the importance of independence and transparency in governance, and his experiences growing up in Calvert City, Kentucky.

The impact of Trump’s executive orders on DEI.

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 12:00:00 +0000

President Donald Trump ordered Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs removed from the federal government. What those orders mean for government, education, and business.

Senator Rand Paul reflects on legislative priorities.

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Kentucky Senator Rand Paul discusses changes to border security, nuclear policy, and more as the new presidential administration takes major steps.

Pharmaceutical industry middlemen and the cost of prescription drugs.

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 12:00:00 +0000

How pharmacy benefit managers impact the price of medications- and your local pharmacy.