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.

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Episodes

Wednesday Oct 08, 2025

Honest Elections Project has formally submitted two Freedom of Access Act (FOAA) requests in the wake of a startling ballot‐delivery mishap in Maine, in which a local resident discovered 250 unmarked state election ballots inside an Amazon package intended for another destination. Honest Elections+1 Under the direction of Executive Director Jason Snead, the group is demanding transparency from both the Town of Newburgh’s election office and the Maine Secretary of State’s office by requesting communications, shipping records, and correspondence related to the handling, delivery, and misplacement of the ballots. The Maine Wire+1 Snead emphasized that “there should be a zero-tolerance policy for ‘misplacing’ ballots in any way” and argued that the public “deserves elections they can trust,” while urging Secretary of State Shenna Bellows to explain how the incident occurred and outline what steps will be taken to ensure all ballots are accurately accounted for before the November elections.

Wednesday Oct 08, 2025

The annual Side by Side Benefit Ride and Funfest is revving up to support the Kenny Rogers Children’s Center, with Executive Director Michelle Fayette highlighting the event’s mission of bringing the community together for a great cause. Riders and families can enjoy a full day of activities, from the scenic benefit ride to live entertainment, food, games, and more—all helping to provide essential therapies and services for children with special needs. Fayette says the event not only raises vital funds but also celebrates the incredible families and supporters who make the center’s work possible.

Wednesday Oct 08, 2025

District 8 Congressman Jason Smith provided an update on several pressing issues, including the ongoing crisis in Gaza, the looming threat of a government shutdown, and the tragic death of a local police officer. Smith emphasized his continued support for Israel’s right to defend itself amid escalating violence in Gaza, calling for accountability and a clear U.S. strategy to maintain regional stability. On the domestic front, he addressed efforts in Congress to avoid a government shutdown, stressing the importance of fiscal responsibility and protecting essential services. Smith also expressed heartfelt condolences to the family and colleagues of the slain local officer, praising the bravery and sacrifice of law enforcement officers who risk their lives daily to keep communities safe.

Tuesday Oct 07, 2025

Mideast Scholar and Executive Director at both the Association for the Study of the Middle East and Africa (ASMEA) and Scholars for Peace in the Middle East (SPME), Asaf Romirowsky, discussed the recent agreement between Hamas and Israel, emphasizing the complex geopolitical and moral implications of negotiating with a designated terrorist organization. Romirowsky noted that while temporary truces or humanitarian arrangements may ease immediate tensions, they often embolden Hamas by granting legitimacy without addressing its core objective—the destruction of Israel. He argued that any lasting peace must be rooted in accountability, regional cooperation, and the dismantling of extremist ideologies that perpetuate cycles of violence.

Tuesday Oct 07, 2025

Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins joins to provide an update on the latest developments from his office, including ongoing efforts to ensure election integrity, protect investors, and support small businesses across the state. Hoskins also discusses recent initiatives to make it easier for Missourians to access important state services and highlights priorities looking ahead as Missouri continues to strengthen transparency and trust in government operations.

Tuesday Oct 07, 2025

Uber is triggering controversy again, this time for policies that critics say undermine able Americans and free enterprise. Stefan Padfield, Executive Director at the Free Enterprise Project (FEP), argues that Uber’s actions reflect a dismissal of the needs of those who are disabled by not offering fairness and opportunity. Padfield contends that Uber’s decisions could hurt both workers and consumers. Through FEP’s advocacy, he continues to call for corporate accountability and a return to values that support free markets and equal opportunity for all Americans.

Monday Oct 06, 2025

Helping orphaned teens in the former Soviet Union is at the heart of the mission for the Slavic Gospel Association, led by President Michael Johnson. Through their Orphans Reborn program, the organization works alongside local churches to bring hope, love, and the message of Christ to young people who have been abandoned or left without family support. Johnson says the ministry focuses not only on meeting physical needs like food, clothing, and shelter, but also on building lasting relationships that help these teens find purpose and belonging. By empowering local believers to care for orphans in their own communities, the Slavic Gospel Association is transforming lives and shaping a new generation with faith and compassion.

Monday Oct 06, 2025

Get ready for some spooky family fun at the Monster Mash Trunk or Treat at Discovery Playhouse with Director Courtney Corbett! This festive event invites kids and families to dress up in their favorite costumes and enjoy a safe, fun-filled evening of trick-or-treating among creatively decorated trunks. In addition to candy galore, guests can explore hands-on exhibits inside the Playhouse, take part in games, and join in on Halloween-themed activities that bring smiles to all ages. It’s a playful celebration of community, imagination, and a little bit of monster magic!

Monday Oct 06, 2025

Fields of Faith is returning to Southeast Missouri, bringing together students, families, and community members for an evening of worship, testimony, and inspiration. SEMO FCA Director Darrin Scott says the event offers a powerful opportunity for young people to come together on the field to share their faith and hear stories of hope and transformation. Hosted by the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Fields of Faith encourages students to stand boldly for their beliefs and support one another in living out their faith both on and off the field.

Friday Oct 03, 2025

The Transportation Department is taking more wind out of the sails of offshore wind projects, raising new hurdles and concerns for an industry already struggling under mounting costs and logistical challenges. Craig Rucker, President and Founder of CFACT, argues that these federal actions highlight the impracticality and inefficiency of offshore wind, which continues to drain taxpayer dollars while failing to deliver promised energy solutions. He notes that instead of pouring resources into unreliable and environmentally damaging wind schemes, policymakers should focus on more dependable and cost-effective energy alternatives that truly serve America’s long-term needs.

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