Steve Kraske
Executive Producer and Host, Up to DateWhen I host Up To Date each morning at 9, my aim is to engage the community in conversations about the Kansas City area’s challenges, hopes and opportunities. I try to ask the questions that listeners want answered about the day’s most pressing issues and provide a place for residents to engage directly with newsmakers. Reach me at steve@kcur.org or on Twitter @stevekraske.
I got a call out of the blue one day from then-news director Frank Morris who asked if he would be interested in hosting a show. I didn't think I had the time, but thought it over and decided to give it a shot. Now, more than 20 years later, I'm glad I did.
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The Kansas City region’s economy is lagging behind the nation overall. Experts say that’s driven by flat employment numbers and slower-than-average growth from many of the region’s most prominent industries. -
The Stowers Institute in Kansas City, which focuses on disease and treatment methods, added its first artificial intelligence fellow as a part of its AI initiative. This group of researchers is training AI to analyze research data and find the patterns and regulations that make cells function. -
Republican former New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu will be in Kansas City next Monday for an American Public Square event. He joined Up To Date ahead of his visit to discuss his time in office, working across the aisle and the first year of the second Trump administration. -
Kansas City’s mayor and chief of police are calling for a review of the juvenile justice system. But court officials in Jackson County say youth referrals are down so far this year, proving that the diversion programs are working. -
As an 11-year-old, Sarah Rector became the richest Black child in America, but danger in Oklahoma led to her family moving to Kansas City. Rector’s story, long forgotten from the history books, is now the subject of the 2025 film “Sarah’s Oil.” -
Many young adults experience social connection and disconnection simultaneously, according to new research led by University of Kansas professor Jeffrey Hall. He says higher instability in young adulthood is causing the ambivalence. -
Looking for a powerful memoir, a cozy bedtime story, a creepy collection — or all of the above for a potential holiday gift? KCUR's Up To Date invited a librarian, professor and bookstore owner to offer the favorites titles they read in the last year. -
One person's drive to make a difference can create a positive ripple effect throughout the community. This year, The Pinnacle Prize recognized the progress and dedication of two Kansas Citians with a passion for helping people find safety and healing. -
“Death by Lightning,” starring Michael Shannon and Matthew Macfadyen as President James Garfield and his assassin Charles Guiteau, is based on Kansas City author Candice Millard’s New York Times bestselling book “Destiny of the Republic.” -
People flying out of Kansas City International Airport don’t need to worry about any lingering effects of the government shutdown. An airport spokesperson said flights are back on track and they’re expecting fewer travelers this year.
