Curious Nebraska

For generations of Nebraskans, a trip to Memorial Stadium is a rite of passage. But what does it feel like for a first-timer... especially one rooting for the visiting team? Producer Andy Hermann, an Ohio University alum, experienced his first Husker game and has the story for Curious Nebraska. Guests, in order of appearance: Michael Edler, Ohio grad, sports enthusiast, good friend of the host; Jay Moore, former Husker and new Husker Radio Network color commentator; Tony Falcone, Cornhusker Marching Band director; Brody Farver, Ohio Athletics social media; Ryan O’Connor, Ohio Athletics; Matthew Mills, UNLimited Sports. Music and additional audio: recorded live at the game (09/05/26) and Cornhusker Marching Band Memorial Stadium rehearsal (09/11/26).

Some people become part of a city's identity without ever becoming famous beyond it. Rev. Livingston Wills was known across Omaha as the Broom Man... and his legacy lives on in bronze. Producer Andy Hermann has his story for Curious Omaha. Guests, in order of appearance: John Ewing, Mayor, Omaha; Kent Sievers, photojournalist; Tyron Criswell, great-grandson, Livingston Wills. Additional audio: "Reverend Livingston Wills: The Broom Man (2004)" video, courtesy Kent Sievers.

Nearly 40 years ago, the Village of Prague celebrated its centennial by baking the World's Largest Kolach. Curious Nebraska producer Andy Hermann serves up a story of Czech ingenuity and a 14-foot, 2600-pound pastry. Guests, in order of appearance: Ken Kuncl, former mayor, Prague; Ray Paseka, village utilities, Prague; Theresa Konecky Klein, executive director, Wahoo Chamber of Commerce. Music: "7 Step Polka" by the Prague Czech Brass Band.

Hidden underneath some brush in South Omaha sits a stone grotto that few people even know exists. St. Joseph's Grotto was once a place for prayer, healing, and quiet reflection, but now it's been locked up for more than a decade. Curious Omaha producer Andy Hermann explores the history, and uncertain future, of one of the city's forgotten landmarks. Guests, in order of appearance: Blake Ursch, former Omaha World-Herald features reporter; Beth Cody, garden historian, Lourdes Grottos of North America; Mike Miller, photography hobbyist and self-described seeker.

Just outside the small town of Scotia is one of Nebraska's most curious attractions. It's home to sweeping valley views as well as an underground wonder. Curious Nebraska producer Andy Hermann explores the history above and below the surface. Guests, in order of appearance: Katie Davis, interim manager, Happy Jack Peak & Chalk Mine; Matt Joeckel, State Geologist of Nebraska at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Music: "The Ballad of 'Happy Jack' Swearingen" by Lawrence Molczyk.