Journalists Julia Wallace and Kristin Gilger co-authored a new book, "There’s No Crying in Newsrooms" which tells the many stories and experiences of women in journalism. They joined us to talk about their analysis and advice for women leaders in any industry. Plus, our state and national parks are open to all. But not everyone feels included in outdoor activities. An online community called “Unlikely Hikers” is changing that by encouraging people from under-represented backgrounds to get outside.

Steve Inskeep has written a new book: Jacksonland: President Andrew Jackson, Cherokee Chief John Ross, and a Great American Land Grab. We talk with Inskeep about his new book, and the lessons within for today. 

The American Dream is in trouble, inequality is growing, and the biggest divide is in education. So says Robert Putnam and he believes he has the research to prove it. Illinois Public Media’s Scott Cameron spoke to him recently and they discussed what is causing this problem and how we can fix it. 

When Ryan Bartelmay published his debut novel, he based it in central Illinois. This hour on Focus, he talks with host Jim Meadows.