Talk of Alaska

Dozens of different minerals are required to make everyday items like cell phones and batteries. Now new federal climate legislation includes a provision that could spur efforts to develop more of these critical minerals right here in Alaska. But what are those minerals? And what does the growing global demand for them mean for mining in the state? We'll discuss the future of critical minerals on the next Talk of Alaska. 

The legacy of boarding schools affected generations of Native people, from the children who were ripped away to their grandparents, parents, siblings and communities. While the pain and loss of that oppressive era should not be forgotten, moving into a healthier educational future is critical for the wellbeing of all. What does it mean to decolonize education? And who is doing the work? We’ll discuss new paths forward for Native education on the next Talk of Alaska.

Alaskans in communities along hundreds of miles of coastline from the YK Delta to Point Hope are grappling with the aftermath of a historic storm that flooded towns, floated homes off foundations and sank boats. The good news is there have been no reports of injury or death, but the recovery will be difficult and winter is approaching. How are communities coping and what are state and federal leaders doing to help? We’ll discuss it on the next Talk of Alaska.

For generations, Alaska Native people along the Yukon river have depended on a steady supply of salmon for a healthy source of protein to sustain them through the long winter. But king and chum salmon subsistence fishing has been closed to Yukon river families for the past two years, affecting both diets and cultural tradition. What are the factors behind the low runs? We’ll discuss it on the next Talk of Alaska.

The results of Alaska’s first ranked choice election may have surprised some Alaskans. Democrat Mary Peltola prevailed in the special election for the current U.S. House term, beating two Republicans. Now the real race is on for November where candidates are also competing for Governor, U.S. Senate and state legislative races. What have we learned from this first ranked choice experience and what might it reveal for November? Alaska reporters join us for a campaign discussion on the next Talk of Alaska

High rates of substance abuse and addiction have long plagued Alaska, but in recent years, fentanyl has greatly increased the number of overdose deaths.

After two years of pandemic interruptions, many districts are hopeful for consistent in-person instruction. But a shortage of teachers, bus drivers and other staff is creating a stressful start to the school year for administrators and parents alike.

Thousands of people move in and out of Alaska every year. But people who moved to Alaska in recent years are not staying as long as they used to.

Whether you’re excited or dismayed with the change, Alaskans will have their first experience with the state's new ranked choice voting method on August 16 for the special U.S. House race.

For Indigenous chefs, reviving traditional harvest and preparation techniques is a mission to both create healthier bodies and healthier, more vibrant connections to family and community.

Every year, people from all over the world arrive in Alaska to escape conflict at home. Many of them have language barriers, and need assistance to find housing and jobs to build a new life.

High prices at the gas pump and the grocery store are putting pressure on Alaskans just as federal COVID relief programs are coming to an end.

A new Department of Defense regional center for security studies based at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage will track the region’s shifting priorities and changing climate.

The disturbing trend of gun violence in schools continues to force school districts to look for ways to protect students and staff, and to prepare for the worst case scenario.

Celebration planners and culture bearers share the significance of coming together once again on a special Juneau edition of Talk of Alaska.

Improved efficiencies, less pollution and independence from relying on expensive fuel shipments are making renewable systems attractive to urban and rural Alaskans. What’s been done so far and what’s on the horizon for the summer building season? 

What would a transition to a post-oil future look like? A group of community organizations from around the state are convening to explore sustainable concepts, and how we can build a more equitable economy.

How is climate change fueling early season fire conditions and prolonging them through the summer?

In many places, traditional subsistence has seen repeated interruptions in recent years, causing food insecurity and cultural disruption for Indigenous communities that rely on these foods.

Many people who are involved with the criminal justice system have mental health issues, substance use disorders, or both. Instead of going to prison, some people choose to participate in the Alaska Therapeutic Court System where a team of people helps them heal.