Real Talk with Riggin

Red and Black Affair for the Jackson R2 Schools Foundation with Chief Marketing and Communications Director Merideth Pobst

The Jackson R-2 Schools Foundation will host its Red and Black Affair, an annual event celebrating education and community support for Jackson R-2 Schools. Chief Marketing and Communications Director Merideth Pobst joined the conversation to highlight how the evening brought together educators, families, local leaders, and supporters to raise funds that directly benefit students and teachers across the district. The event features a festive red-and-black theme, special recognitions, and opportunities to learn more about the Foundation’s mission of enhancing educational excellence through grants, scholarships, and innovative programs.

2026 Edition of America’s Bestselling Reference Book of All Time, The World Almanac with Editor Sarah Janssen

The 2026 edition of The World Almanac, America’s bestselling reference book of all time, is now available, offering readers a trusted and comprehensive snapshot of the world today. Editor Sarah Janssen joins us to highlight what’s new in this latest edition, including updated statistics, timelines, and rankings covering politics, business, education, sports, and culture. Janssen explains how the editorial team curates and verifies thousands of data points each year, ensuring the Almanac remains a reliable go-to resource for students, professionals, and curious readers alike, while also reflecting the most significant trends and events shaping 2025 and heading into 2026.

Update with MO NFIB Director Brad Jones

We’re pleased to share an update with Missouri NFIB Director Brad Jones on the latest developments affecting small businesses across the state. Brad provided valuable insights into current legislative priorities, recent regulatory changes, and the ongoing efforts by NFIB to advocate for a more favorable business climate. His update highlighted key wins for local entrepreneurs, upcoming challenges, and how NFIB is working collaboratively with policymakers to support small business growth and sustainability in Missouri. Members left the conversation informed and energized about what’s ahead.

Polar Plunge with Regional Director Special Olympics SEMO Penny Williams

The annual Polar Plunge is making a splash once again in Southeast Missouri, supporting Special Olympics athletes across the region. Regional Director for Special Olympics SEMO, Penny Williams, joined us to share how the chilly fundraiser brings the community together to raise critical funds for year-round sports training and competitions for local athletes with intellectual disabilities. Participants of all ages take the plunge into icy waters to show their support, while donations help ensure Special Olympics SEMO can continue providing inclusive athletic opportunities, health initiatives, and life-changing experiences for the athletes they serve.

Three Rivers Endowment Trust MUSIC Bingo with Director of Development Michelle Reynolds

Three Rivers Endowment Trust is turning up the fun with a lively Music Bingo event, and Director of Development Michelle Reynolds says it’s a great way for the community to come together while supporting a meaningful cause. The event blends the excitement of bingo with popular music hits, offering participants a relaxed, social atmosphere while raising funds to support the Trust’s mission of strengthening local nonprofits and community initiatives. Reynolds highlights Music Bingo as both an engaging fundraiser and an opportunity to build connections, inviting residents of all ages to enjoy a night of music, prizes, and community impact.

Teen Revives Intentional Mentorship Among Women With New Book, Bows and Ties with Author Kavya Thakrar

Teen author Kavya Thakrar is bringing a fresh perspective to intentional mentorship among women with her new book, Bows and Ties. Thakrar shares how the book grew out of her own experiences navigating adolescence and the need for strong, meaningful connections between women across generations. She explains that Bows and Ties encourages young women to seek guidance, build confidence, and create lasting bonds rooted in faith, purpose, and mutual support. Through practical insights and personal stories, Thakrar hopes her work will inspire a renewed culture of mentorship that empowers women to uplift one another and grow together.

Home ownership and reparations with CFACT policy analyst Donna Jackson

A national debate over home ownership and reparations continues to gain attention, raising questions about economic equity, personal responsibility, and long-term solutions to housing disparities. CFACT policy analyst Donna Jackson weighs in on the discussion, arguing that expanding access to home ownership through free markets, sound economic policy, and strong local communities offers a more sustainable path to building wealth than government-mandated reparations. Jackson emphasizes that policies encouraging economic growth, affordable housing, and individual opportunity can help families of all backgrounds achieve stability and prosperity while avoiding the unintended consequences of divisive or costly federal programs.

SEMO basketball home games and SIUE is “Kids Day” with Senior Associate Director of Athletics for External Operations Nate Saverino

SEMO Basketball is inviting families to pack the arena as the Redhawks host SIUE for a special “Kids Day” at an upcoming home game. Senior Associate Director of Athletics for External Operations Nate Saverino says the event is designed to create a fun, energetic atmosphere for young fans, with kid-friendly activities, interactive promotions, and an opportunity for children to experience SEMO Athletics up close. Saverino adds that “Kids Day” not only encourages community engagement but also helps inspire the next generation of Redhawk fans while supporting the men’s and women’s basketball teams during an exciting home matchup against SIUE. Also they are doing a black out hockey jersey giveaway Thursday for early arrivers and Kids will get jerseys on Saturday if they are the first 500 in attendance.

SEMO Food Bank Announces Organizational Updates with Donor Relations & Communications Manager at the Southeast Missouri Food Bank Heather Collier

The Southeast Missouri Food Bank is announcing several organizational updates aimed at strengthening its mission to fight hunger across the region. Donor Relations and Communications Manager Heather Collier says the changes are designed to improve efficiency, enhance community partnerships, and ensure the food bank can continue meeting the growing needs of families facing food insecurity. Collier emphasizes that these updates reflect the organization’s commitment to responsible stewardship, increased transparency, and long-term sustainability, all while keeping the focus on serving neighbors in need throughout Southeast Missouri.

Life House in Springfield with Molly (LifeHouse mom) and Karly (Educational Care Coordinator) Catholic Charities of Southern MO

Life House, an initiative of Catholic Charities of Southern Missouri, is providing a lifeline for vulnerable mothers and their babies by offering a safe, supportive environment during pregnancy and early motherhood. Through housing, counseling, life-skills education, and compassionate care rooted in Catholic values, Life House helps women choose life while building stability and hope for the future. By addressing both immediate needs and long-term independence, the program is making a lasting impact—saving lives, strengthening families, and transforming communities across southern Missouri. Meet Molly and Karly.