Real Talk with Riggin
Real Talk with Riggin is where honest conversations meet unfiltered perspectives. Hosted by longtime broadcaster and straight-shooter Faune Riggin, the podcast dives deep into the issues that matter most—politics, community, culture, and the stories shaping everyday life in Southeast Missouri and beyond. Each episode brings in guests ranging from policy analysts to everyday people with extraordinary stories, offering insights you won’t hear anywhere else.
With her trademark candor and curiosity, Riggin asks the tough questions, challenges assumptions, and gives her audience the context they need to think critically. Whether it’s national policy, local events, or personal experiences, nothing is off the table.
If you’re ready for a podcast that cuts through the noise and gets to the heart of the matter, this is Real Talk with Riggin.
Episodes

Friday Feb 13, 2026
Friday Feb 13, 2026
Don’t fall for the call this Valentine’s Day with Michael A. O'Donnell — Valentine’s Day is a popular time for scammers to try to exploit people’s emotions, and the Missouri Securities Division, led by Commissioner O’Donnell, reminds Missourians to stay alert to unsolicited calls asking for money or personal information. Scammers often pose as trusted officials or romantic interests to trick you into sharing sensitive data or sending funds, so never provide financial details to someone who contacts you out of the blue and always verify the legitimacy of any offer through official channels before taking action.

Friday Feb 13, 2026
Friday Feb 13, 2026
St. Lawrence Catholic Church is hosting its annual Brown Bag Fundraiser, bringing the community together for great food and an even greater cause. Co-Coordinator Kara King joins us to share how this simple but meaningful event supports important parish programs and outreach efforts. From delicious packed lunches to the spirit of fellowship that defines the church family, the Brown Bag Fundraiser is a chance for neighbors to give back while enjoying time together. Kara will talk about how the fundraiser makes a difference, how you can get involved, and why this tradition continues to be such a blessing for St. Lawrence and the wider community.

Friday Feb 13, 2026
Friday Feb 13, 2026
The Sikeston business community is coming together to celebrate the backbone of the region at the Farmers Recognition Banquet, hosted by the Sikeston Regional Chamber. Chamber Director Taylor Deere highlights this special evening as a time to honor the hard work, innovation, and dedication of local farmers who keep southeast Missouri thriving. From multi-generational family operations to new producers embracing modern ag technology, the banquet recognizes the vital role agriculture plays in the area’s economy and heritage. Guests can expect a night of appreciation, community pride, and heartfelt recognition for the men and women who rise before dawn to feed and fuel the region.

Friday Feb 13, 2026
Friday Feb 13, 2026
Get ready to put your knowledge to the test at Trivia Night for Junior Achievement of SE Missouri, where fun meets a powerful mission. District Manager Becki Arends joins us to share how this high-energy evening will bring the community together in support of students learning real-world skills in financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and career readiness. Hosted by Junior Achievement of SE Missouri, the event promises friendly competition, great prizes, and plenty of laughs—all while helping equip local students with the tools they need to succeed. Grab your team, brush up on those random facts, and come out for a night that makes a difference.

Thursday Feb 12, 2026
Thursday Feb 12, 2026
Author and professor of government, philosophy, and civic leadership at the University of Texas at Austin, J. Budziszewski joins us to discuss what he calls “A Pandemic of Lunacy,” examining the moral and cultural confusion he believes has gripped modern society. Drawing from his background in natural law and classical philosophy, Budziszewski explores how reason, conscience, and common sense have been sidelined in today’s public discourse. He argues that many of the social and political upheavals we’re witnessing stem not just from policy disagreements, but from deeper philosophical errors about truth, human nature, and moral responsibility. In this conversation, he challenges listeners to think critically about the cultural moment and consider how enduring principles can offer clarity in chaotic times.

Thursday Feb 12, 2026
Thursday Feb 12, 2026
Russia’s icebreaking fleet dwarfs that of the United States: Moscow currently operates dozens of vessels — often cited at around 54 icebreakers, some nuclear-powered — while Washington has only two primary icebreaking ships, one of which intermittently struggles with maintenance and operational issues, underscoring a stark imbalance in Arctic capability and influence, especially around strategic areas like Greenland. In a debate over American presence there was a common ground. Keep America great.

Thursday Feb 12, 2026
Thursday Feb 12, 2026
Polls are now open on the education tax credit advisory question, and voters are weighing in on a measure that could shape the future of school choice and funding in our state. Joining us to break down what the advisory question means, how it could impact families, and what supporters and critics are saying is Dylan Sharkey. He’ll walk us through what’s on the ballot, why it matters, and what voters should know before they cast their vote.

Thursday Feb 12, 2026
Thursday Feb 12, 2026
The DSA Runway is set to shine as a celebration of confidence, inclusion, and community, featuring the incredible individuals served by the Gateway Down Syndrome Association’s Southeast Missouri Chapter. Director Maria Marzuco joins us to share how this inspiring event gives participants the opportunity to walk the runway, showcase their personalities, and be celebrated for exactly who they are. More than just a fashion show, DSA Runway highlights the importance of advocacy, support, and empowerment for individuals with Down syndrome and their families throughout the region.

Wednesday Feb 11, 2026
Wednesday Feb 11, 2026
Preparing to Survive in the Age of Collapse is more than a dramatic headline—it’s a sober, strategic conversation about resilience in uncertain times. Retired Air Force Colonel Dr. Drew Miller, who served as an Intelligence Officer and is now an author, brings a clear-eyed perspective shaped by years of analyzing global threats and emerging risks. Drawing on his military experience and research, Dr. Miller outlines practical steps families and communities can take to prepare for economic instability, cyber disruptions, supply chain breakdowns, and geopolitical conflict. Rather than fear-driven panic, he emphasizes disciplined planning, situational awareness, and the mindset shift needed to navigate a rapidly changing world with confidence and purpose.

Wednesday Feb 11, 2026
Wednesday Feb 11, 2026
Missouri’s small business community is feeling a renewed sense of momentum, and Brad Jones, State Director of NFIB Missouri, joins us with an Optimism Update and more on what’s driving that outlook. From easing inflation pressures to pro-growth policies at the state level, Jones says many job creators are seeing fresh opportunities to expand, hire, and invest in their communities. But challenges remain, including workforce shortages and regulatory uncertainty that continue to weigh on Main Street. He’ll break down the latest small business optimism trends, what they mean for Missouri’s economy, and what lawmakers can do to keep the positive energy moving forward.








