Huntsville Alabama

What happens when a NASA engineer trades rocket hardware for the dark, raw reality of 1990s grunge? On this episode of Quick-Fire Quips, author Zach Taylor talks about his gritty debut novel, Rockstar: Echoes (the sequel Rockstar: Mirrors is officially in production!) Hear why he wanted to strip away the showbiz glamour to expose the financial tolls and gender disparities faced by rock icons. Plus, the strict bass fishing superstition he swears by on the water and the change he thinks Alabama needs to make for its future.

Go behind the scenes of the "coolest government job in the world" with Huntsville Music Officer Matt Mandrella! We’re diving into the Rocket City’s booming music scene just in time for international Make Music Day. From coordinating porch jams to Matt’s secret fear of heights and his mom’s candy rules still spooking him to this day—join APR host Baillee Majors for a fun, fast-paced look at the music heartbeat of Alabama.

In the eighth episode of Alabama Out Loud, we take a look at what April brings across Alabama, from spring events and outdoor activities to sports and community life throughout the month.

NASA's plans to launch the Artemis II into lunar orbit may get delayed again. The first moon mission involving humans since 1972 was set to go March 6th, after a dress rehearsal found no hydrogen leaks. But NASA boss Jared Isaacman said on X Saturday, an interruption in helium flow was discovered overnight. He says that will likely send the Artemis off the launch pad at Kennedy Space Center and back to the Vehicle Assembly Building for repairs. The super rocket that will carry the astronauts has its roots at the Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville.

Ever tried to explain a rotary phone to a 10-year-old? Archiving the history of how we talk to each other is more than just collecting old gadgets—it’s about preserving our connection to the past. Volunteer archivist Brad Clasgens with Signals Museum of Information Explosion in Huntsville knows a thing or two about that. He's the latest guest on Quick-Fire Quips and has the full download from scrolling to streaming to syncing up. Plus, the history of fun and unusual devices!

In this episode of Quick-Fire Quips, host Baillee Majors talks with Neil Lamb, President of the HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, to explore the cutting-edge world of genomics in the heart of Huntsville. From the "potluck" of Alabama’s diverse culture to the long road of bringing life-changing drugs to market, Neil offers a unique look at how science and community intersect. Hear about his unexpected childhood hero, Julia Child, his favorite quiet retreat in Cullman and why he believes optimism is the key to Alabama’s future.

You might know Fran Fluher as the heart behind Huntsville's Manna House, but her life is a lesson in service, faith and Southern hospitality. She talks with Quick-Fire Quips host Baillee Majors about being inspired by her parents, who dedicated nearly 70 years to a life of purpose and helping hands. Plus, finding what fits your own passion to support your local community, and how even the smallest acts of outreach provide the gift of hope.

Love a good ghost story? Alabama is full of them! In the final episode of APR’s “Yellowhammer Haunted Histories,” Digital Reporter Aydan Conchin explores the chilling legend of Huntsville’s infamous Dead Children’s Playground. Join her for a look at this lurid legend — if you dare!

Maigen Sullivan is an Alabama native and the co-founder and co-executive director of the nonprofit Invisible Histories. She talks with Quick-Fire Quips host Baillee Majors about her childhood obsession with Rouge from X-Men (spoiler alert: it's still going strong!) and embracing the mysteries of the universe. Plus, her love for the Yellowhammer State's mountains and the resilience of Alabamians.

Jessie Andrews is a native of Huntsville, a muralist and the founder of Honey Blood Mural Company. She talks with Quick-Fire Quips host Baillee Majors about making art, local eateries and keeping Alabama alive. Plus, the irony of scuba diving being on her bucket list despite her irrational fear related to swimming in a pool.