Real Talk with Riggin

Have you ever wanted to play in a band but didn't know where to start? Join us as we learn more about a unique opportunity for aspiring musicians of all ages through a free modern band class offered by SEMO Soundforge. We'll visit with director and founder Kristin Englehart about how the program helps students develop musical skills, build confidence, and experience the excitement of performing contemporary music in a collaborative group setting. Whether you're a beginner or looking to sharpen your talents, this innovative program is opening doors for musicians throughout Southeast Missouri.

A growing debate in Washington centers on whether eliminating the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program would help reduce fraud and protect American workers. Mike O’Neill, Vice President of Legal Affairs at Landmark Legal Foundation, argues that the program allows foreign graduates to work in the United States for extended periods with limited oversight, potentially creating opportunities for abuse while placing additional competition on American job seekers. O’Neill contends that ending OPT would strengthen enforcement of immigration laws, encourage employers to prioritize U.S. workers, and help preserve employment opportunities for recent American graduates entering the workforce. Supporters of the program, however, maintain that it helps attract global talent and benefits the U.S. economy, making the issue a continuing point of discussion in the broader debate over immigration and labor policy.

For years, Missouri’s more than 35 unstaffed shooting ranges have provided free access for hunters and recreational shooters, but growing use has also brought increasing concerns about litter, vandalism, and damage to range infrastructure. Joining us to discuss a proposed Missouri Department of Conservation rule that would require users of unstaffed ranges to possess a valid small game permit is MDC Hunter Education and Shooting Range Coordinator Justin McGuire. He’ll explain how the proposal aims to improve safety, encourage responsible range use, and help protect these valuable public facilities while maintaining exemptions for certain users.

The need for blood donations never takes a holiday, and an upcoming blood drive offers community members a chance to make a lifesaving difference. Joining us to discuss the importance of donating blood is Tara Lincoln, Account Manager II with the American Red Cross, who will share details about the drive and the ongoing need for donors. We’ll also hear an inspiring personal story from Father Brandon Hill, whose son’s battle with leukemia was made survivable through the generosity of blood donors. Together, they’ll highlight how a simple donation can provide hope, healing, and a second chance at life for patients facing serious medical challenges.

Lace up your running shoes and get ready to celebrate Independence Day in a healthy and patriotic way as the Mercy Health Foundation Southeast hosts its Annual Independence Day 5K. Joining us is Scott Givens with Mercy Health Foundation Southeast to discuss this community tradition, how the race supports local healthcare initiatives, and what participants can expect on race day. Whether you're a competitive runner, a casual walker, or simply looking for a fun family activity to kick off the holiday, this event offers something for everyone while helping make a difference in our region.

Mississippi’s remarkable gains in student achievement are challenging long-held assumptions about education in America, with some measures showing the state outperforming California despite spending far less per pupil. Melanie Kurdys, President of the Michigan chapter of USPIE, says Mississippi’s success demonstrates that strong academic standards, accountability, and a focus on foundational skills such as reading and math can deliver real results for students. She joins us to discuss what Mississippi is doing differently, why other states should take notice, and what policymakers can learn from the state’s education turnaround.

Senior Research Analyst Bill D'Agostino of MRC NewsBusters joins us to discuss what he describes as some of the most glaring examples of veteran CBS journalist Scott Pelley's left-wing bias. From controversial interviews and political commentary to his reporting style on major national issues, D'Agostino will break down why critics argue Pelley has abandoned objective journalism in favor of ideological advocacy. He'll examine specific moments that have fueled accusations of media bias and discuss what they reveal about the broader state of mainstream news coverage in America.

Nominations are now being accepted for Missouri’s Highway Safety and Traffic Awards, which recognize individuals, organizations, and programs making a significant impact on roadway safety across the state. Joining us to discuss the nomination process, the importance of honoring those who work to reduce crashes and save lives, and the role these awards play in promoting safer roads for all Missourians is Joe Jones, Assistant State Highway Safety and Traffic Engineer with the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety. He’ll explain who is eligible, what judges look for in a nomination, and how communities can help spotlight outstanding contributions to traffic safety.

Medical watchdog organization Do No Harm is bringing renewed attention to the debate over gender transition procedures for minors as its Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Kurt Miceli, testifies before a Senate committee examining the potential risks and long-term consequences of gender transition surgeries. Dr. Miceli is expected to discuss emerging medical evidence, informed consent concerns, and the growing international scrutiny surrounding pediatric gender medicine. The hearing comes amid ongoing national discussions over patient safety, ethics, and the role of government in regulating medical treatments for children and adolescents experiencing gender dysphoria.

Trump-backed mayoral candidate Spencer Pratt has emerged as one of the biggest surprises in California politics, turning what many expected to be a routine Los Angeles mayoral race into a closely watched contest. The former reality television star has capitalized on voter frustration over homelessness, public safety, wildfire recovery, and the cost of living, helping propel him into contention against incumbent Mayor Karen Bass. Recent polling and election results suggest Pratt has significantly outperformed early expectations and is positioned as a major force in the race, despite criticism from political opponents and questions about his lack of government experience. His rise reflects a broader anti-establishment mood among some voters and has drawn national attention following President Donald Trump's endorsement. As Californians continue to weigh competing visions for the city's future, the race has become a referendum on leadership, public safety, and confidence in local government.