KSL News Daily

Botched Tennessee Execution Renews Death Penalty Debate: Where Utah Stands

A botched lethal injection in Tennessee is renewing questions about the death penalty and the drugs used to carry it out. Maria Shilaos talks with KSL Legal Analyst Greg Skordas and Utah Senator Todd Weiler about what went wrong and where Utah stands on capital punishment.

Plus, the three things you need to know: Federal rule changes leave more than 1,000 Utahns without Medicaid coverage; Rocky Mountain Power proposes savings through increased reliance on coal and weekend construction brings disruptions to major Utah roads.

Alex Kirry also joins the show to discuss building faith in the age of artificial intelligence. And before you go, discover a free, family-friendly wildlife exhibit highlighting Utah’s creatures of the night.

00:22:15

Oct 2, 2026 5:3 AM

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Can Utah Families Afford to Work? Inside the Child Care Crisis

Utah parents are facing an increasingly difficult calculation: Does a second paycheck still make sense when child care costs keep climbing? KSL NewsRadio reporter Heather Peterson joins Maria Shilaos to explain what’s driving Utah’s child care crunch, why more than 900 families are set to lose assistance under new eligibility rules, and how providers and lawmakers are responding.

Plus, KSL Sports’ Cole Bagley previews the Utah Mammoth’s season opener against the Chicago Blackhawks at the Delta Center and the roster changes that could shape the year ahead.

00:18:04

Oct 1, 2026 5:1 AM

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AI in the Headlines: Rogue Agents, Safety Concerns and Government Chatbots

Reports of rogue AI agents hacking companies, CEOs raising safety concerns and President Trump announcing a government platform using AI chatbots are putting artificial intelligence in the spotlight. Host Maria Shilaos talks with Tim Kapp and Brandon Amacher about the developments and what they could mean for you.

Plus, A proposed data center is moving from near Spanish Fork Canyon to a location closer to Utah Lake, Intermountain Health is requesting zoning changes for a sky bridge over Main Street and a group advocating an America First AI policy brings its nationwide bus tour to Box Elder County.

And before you go, more than 600 students explore construction careers at Salt Lake Community College’s We Build Utah Career Exploration & Job Fair.

00:31:08

Sep 30, 2026 5:0 AM

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Douglas Carter Granted Bond After More Than 40 Years Behind Bars

A Utah County judge has granted Douglas Carter's release as he awaits a second trial in the 1985 death of Eva Oleson. We explore the latest developments in his case with Senior Podcast Producer Amy Donaldson. Kristy Columbia from the Rocky Mountain Innocence Center also joins Maria Shilaos to take a look at the challenges Carter will face reentering society after four decades behind bars.

Plus, Utah’s outlook for winter snowpack, the rising cost of owning a new vehicle and a documentary exploring the state’s dirty soda culture.

And....a mobile food preservation center is being unveiled that could help fight food insecurity in Africa.

00:29:14

Sep 29, 2026 5:3 AM

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What a New Report on the Charlie Kirk Shooting at UVU Tells Us About Campus Safety

Utah Valley University says no employee acted in bad faith on the day political influencer Charlie Kirk was shot and killed during a campus event. But a newly released report compiled by multiple legal and law enforcement experts shows there were shortcomings in security and communication. We go in depth on the findings with KSL NewsRadio’s Raegan Edelman.

Plus, this year’s wildfire season breaks records, a man who has spent more than 40 years on death row could be released from jail, and Governor Cox has recommended 11 neighborhoods in Salt Lake County for a new federal program aimed at generating revenue for low-income communities.

Before you go, the spooky season is underway at Utah's Hogle Zoo. The Zoo's Rachael Eames says guests young and old can expect some new hands-on experiences this year.

00:16:39

Sep 28, 2026 5:0 AM

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Inside Online Sports Betting with The Atlantic’s McKay Coppins

After spending an NFL season placing online bets, The Atlantic’s McKay Coppins shares what he learned about the sports betting industry, its addictive pull and why he’s bringing his warning to college campuses. Plus, Utah’s high gas prices, Provo’s decade of job growth, rising utility fees in Salt Lake City and the costumes and community of FanX.

00:21:04

Sep 25, 2026 5:3 AM

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Utahns Push Back on Data Centers; A Father’s Mission for Safer Guardrails

Do the benefits of new data centers outweigh the concerns of Utah residents? Maria Shilaos and Deseret News reporter Leah Bowers dig into a new Deseret News–Hinckley Institute poll showing skepticism about the case for expansion. Plus, meet a father working to prevent deadly crashes by inspecting highway guardrails after losing his daughter.

Also on the KSL News Daily: a Lehi crossing guard’s lifesaving actions, Crossroads Urban Center’s 60 years of service, an Olympic leader’s Utah visit and a professional football team coming to the Salt Lake Valley in 2028.

00:31:25

Sep 24, 2026 5:4 AM

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Was Ted Bundy Responsible? Cold Reexamines Nancy Baird’s Disappearance

Was Ted Bundy wrongly linked to a Utah woman’s disappearance? Cold podcast host Dave Cawley joins Maria Shilaos to discuss his latest investigation into the disappearance of Nancy Baird—and why he questions Bundy’s involvement.

Plus, a watchdog raises concerns about state oversight following three deaths, Spanish Fork’s mayor addresses data center concerns, and a Salt Lake City vigil honors flood victims along the Nepal-Tibet border. Before you go, the KSL newsroom shares its favorite things about fall.

00:20:54

Sep 23, 2026 6:0 AM

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Utah's One-of-a-Kind Tornado — How a Slight Shift Could've Set it On A More Damaging Course

A tornado tore through Utah's northern mountains on Friday — and meteorologists say it may be the first of its kind in the state's recorded history. But what's even more unsettling? A slight change in conditions could have pushed the storm into more populated areas with far more devastating results. Meteorologist Matt Johnson breaks down exactly what set the stage, and KSL's Heather Peterson takes us to the ground to see how school kids were impacted.

Also in today's episode: Cyberattack in Eagle Mountain — Hackers knock hundreds of residents offline. ICE in Moab — Grand County officials raise alarms over what they call an "unprecedented lack of communication" after at least one person is detained. Heat and drought have a big impact on the pumpkin harvest.

And a new fight against addiction — The Governor unveils a statewide plan backed by more than $40 million to tackle addiction, homelessness, and mental illness, with a goal of cutting drug deaths by 25%.

00:24:45

Sep 22, 2026 5:3 AM

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What’s Love Got to Do with It? Men’s Mental Health

It started with a sentence, “I love you, bro” and outstretched arms. Then tears and a hug after helping a stranger climb down from the edge of an overpass. Now one Utah man is using love to help men who struggle with loneliness, depression, and suicidal thoughts. On The KSL News Daily, guest host Brian Carlson talks with Joe Tuia'ana, founder of the "i love you, bro project."

Also on the show, an Iowa man accused of murdering three women in Wayne County is scheduled to be in court. Weber State and Utah State are challenging each other to a “Blood Battle”, the Utah State Fair is in full swing, and do you know the origins of that sweet pastry in your toaster? On this day in 1964, Kellogg's began selling something called a fruit scone that would later be called… the Pop Tart.

00:31:23

Sep 14, 2026 5:3 AM

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9/11: The Day America Changed | Reporting History from New York and Utah

Twenty-five years ago, the world watched in horror as coordinated terrorist attacks on the United States claimed nearly 3,000 lives and forever changed the nation. On this special September 11th edition of KSL News Daily, host Maria Shilaos looks back at the events of 9/11 through the eyes of the journalists who brought the story to listeners in real time.

Jeff Caplan was working in New York City at WCBS as the attacks unfolded. He joins the show to share what it was like covering one of the most significant days in American history from just miles away from Ground Zero. Then, Doug Wright reflects on how the KSL Radio team responded that morning in Salt Lake City, as Utahns turned to local news for updates, answers, and reassurance during a day of uncertainty.

Plus, the three things you need to know today: childcare advocates warn hundreds of Utah families could lose assistance, a Tremonton man is ordered to stand trial in the killing of two police officers, and the state redirects funding at technical colleges toward programs with stronger job prospects.

And....The Salt Lake Greek Festival celebrates its 50^th year.

00:26:50

Sep 11, 2026 5:3 AM

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Remembering a Day That Changed Utah

A year after the shooting death of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University, we revisit the events of that day through the eyes of the journalist who covered it. Deseret News reporter Eva Terry shares her personal and professional reflections on reporting during a crisis and the lasting impact it has had on her work.

Plus, Dave Cawley of the acclaimed "Cold" podcast discusses a new initiative focused on solving more than 400 unsolved cases across Utah and why renewed attention could help generate long-awaited answers.

And a new water technology proposal for Millard County, expanded B-21 bomber production in Utah and the opening of the Utah State Fair's 170th celebration.

00:27:25

Sep 10, 2026 5:3 AM

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Starter Homes Could Soon Make a Return in SLC

Salt Lake City is considering a zoning change that could bring starter homes back to more neighborhoods and, over time, expand affordable housing options. On today's episode, Host Maria Shilaos speaks with Turner Britton, Executive Director of Wasatch Advocates for Livable Communities, about what the proposal could mean for the city.

Plus, Salt Lake County is adding ballot boxes and polling locations ahead of the election, Salt Lake City residents weigh in on the future of three closed school buildings and Kearns is handing out sensor-equipped light bulbs in an effort to deter crime.

And before you go: Utah’s young runners are getting faster. We’ll explore “trackflation” and talk with the coach of 13-year-old Provo runner Angelina Alder, who recently set a world-record mile.

00:18:13

Sep 9, 2026 5:4 AM

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Drones Coming to the Rescue of the Great Salt Lake

Cloud seeding is nothing new, but advanced technology has Utah water experts partnering with a company that's using drones to force precipitation. KSL 5's Andrew Adams joins Host Maria Shilaos to explore how one company is making a difference.

Plus, Residents in Mona are marching on city hall to protest a massive data center, satellites are helping scientists identify drought stress in our forests and Orem City leaders are voicing concern over a proposed amphitheater.

And...One Utah high school is taking steps to prevent suicides.

00:20:58

Sep 8, 2026 5:3 AM

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Labor Day 2026: What Utah Workers Need to Know

Labor Day is more than the unofficial end of summer—it’s a chance to reflect on the contributions and achievements of American workers. On today’s episode, Eric Olsen who is the Communications Director for the Utah Labor Commission joins Host Maria Shilaos. They explore the history and significance of Labor Day and take a closer look at worker rights in Utah.

Plus, Utah’s strengthened ability to prosecute hate crimes, the counties seeing the biggest rental housing boom and a new hiking and biking loop connecting historic silver mining sites near Park City.

And we look at a new opportunity at the University of Utah for students interested in learning more about Native American culture and community through the Native Ascent House.

00:15:40

Sep 7, 2026 5:3 AM

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Tooele Residents Push Back on Proposed Data Center + Helping UVU Students Put Food on the Table

A growing number of Utah communities are raising concerns about planned data centers, and now residents in Tooele are joining the conversation. KSL 5 Investigator Daniella Rivera joins Maria Shilaos to explain why a local group is opposing a proposed data center development and what questions they're asking about public financing and community impact.

Plus, as college costs continue to rise, some Utah Valley University students are struggling to make ends meet. UVU's food pantry provides access to fresh produce, but the university is going a step further by offering classes that teach students how to prepare healthy meals with the food they receive. Associate Vice President for Access and Outreach Barney Nye joins the podcast to discuss the need and the program's impact.

Also in today's Three Things You Need to Know: Labor Day travel traffic, lifted fire restrictions on national forest lands and world-class mountain biking competition returns to Soldier Hollow.

00:20:47

Sep 4, 2026 5:3 AM

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LDS Hospital Is Moving Downtown. What Happens to the Taco Carts?

Intermountain Health has unveiled plans to move LDS Hospital from the Avenues to a new campus on downtown Salt Lake City’s former Sears block. KSL NewsRadio reporter Cameron Elliott joins Maria Shilaos to break down plans for the 10-story hospital and attached seven-story medical office building, why leaders say the location will make care easier to reach, and whether the taco carts already serving the block will have a place in the new development.

Plus, Utah consumer sentiment rises for a third straight month, a new working paper estimates Great Salt Lake dust contributes up to $2.3 billion in health costs each year, and University of Utah football opens its season against Idaho. Before you go, DWR Big Game Coordinator Mike Wardle explains why drought conditions led the Utah Wildlife Board to approve 450 additional antlerless elk permits.

00:17:47

Sep 3, 2026 5:1 AM

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Salt Lake Temple Opens Its Doors

After years of renovation, the Salt Lake Temple is preparing to welcome visitors from around the world for a six-month public open house in 2027. KSL religion specialist Carole Mikita joins Maria Shilaos to explain what visitors will see inside the renovated temple, the historical significance of the project and why Church leaders expect as many as five million people to take part in the Salt Lake Temple Celebration. The theme, “Rejoice in Christ,” was unveiled as free reservations opened for tours running April 5 through October 1, 2027.

Plus, flash flooding and a rockfall cause trouble near Zion National Park, two specially trained K-9s join the Utah Department of Corrections to sniff out prohibited electronic devices, and gas prices remain high heading toward Labor Day. Before You Go, Utah’s road to the 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games is already reaching classrooms as Champion Schools 34 launches in 72 elementary schools across seven school districts.

00:19:08

Sep 2, 2026 5:4 AM

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