Much fanfare followed South Sudan's independence one year ago. But challenges were also exposed, like how to manage oil revenue and build roads, homes and schools. Guest host Maria Hinojosa learns how the world's youngest country has been doing this year. She speaks with NPR's Ofeibea Quist-Arcton and Juba-based radio host Mading Ngor.

All summer long, fellow NPR program Weekends on All Things Considered is asking directors, actors and producers what movie they could watch over and over again. To Kill A Mockingbird is an all-time favorite for Whoopi Goldberg, the actor, comedian and talk show host.

The Latin funk group began as a side band by some members of the Grammy-winning Latin ensemble Grupo Fantasma. They wanted to test new sounds but quickly learned they had something bigger to offer. Now, Brownout is getting lots of fans and glowing reviews. Their newest album is Oozy. Member Greg Gonzales talks with guest host Maria Hinojosa.

MC calls it "Promoting the creole cultural music AND the culture." JB calls it "Promoting and supporting the Zydeco Music" They both meant to say all you listeners out there can expect to hear Zydeco music, live musicians, tidbits, community event updates, humor and short serious thoughts. Listeners can also hear conversation about the old times and various cultural activities. 

I have a simple question for you: Do you have a good idea? Something that could change the world?

Enter your big idea in NPR's "What's Your Big Idea?" video contest from July 9 to Aug. 12, 2012, and you could win the chance to get advice on making your big idea a reality from a big name in science and technology. And even if you don't win that grand prize, we'll showcase your video on NPR's YouTube channel and on Facebook.

MC calls it "Promoting the creole cultural music AND the culture." JB calls it "Promoting and supporting the Zydeco Music" They both meant to say all you listeners out there can expect to hear Zydeco music, live musicians, tidbits, community event updates, humor and short serious thoughts. Listeners can also hear conversation about the old times and various cultural activities. 

Acclaimed Louisiana Chef John Folse shares Louisiana's culinary and cultural legacy in this fun and informative down-home visit.

It's possible to place countless movies and TV shows within a very specific time frame based on whether they feature certain songs: Baja Men's "Who Let the Dogs Out," Smash Mouth's "All Star" and Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros' "Home" all provide a form of pop-cultural carbon dating, as well as signifiers of a tone that's both specific and universal.

Sharon Van Etten's raspy, elegant vocals and deeply confessional folk-rock have made her a rising star. Ever since her official debut in 2009, the heart-breakingly intimate Because I Was In Love, Van Etten has been expanding her sound and adding grit to her delivery.