Travis McMillen
Senior Media ProducerTRAVIS McMILLEN is the manager of broadcast operations at the Donald W. Reynolds Journalism Institute. In this role, McMillen directs and produces regular and occasional programming from RJI’s own production studio, including KBIA’s "The Daily Blend w/ AC." He is a Columbia native who started working at KOMU-TV, the University of Missouri’s NBC affiliate, at the age of 16. From 2001-2008, McMillen directed KOMU’s morning newscast. He is married to Jennifer, whom he met at KOMU. They have three boys.
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The Columbia Missourian and Children's Grove have joined forces, combining the Progress Awards and the Kindness in Business Awards into one powerful celebration of the people making a real difference in our community. Join AC as she sits down with Elizabeth Stephens and Sarah Greenlee to find out how you can nominate someone who is going above and beyond -- and why this partnership is brighter than ever in its 10th year! September 4, 2026 -
Colleen Finney, first runner-up at Miss Missouri and former D1 volleyball player, sits down with AC to talk about Elevate CoMo, Columbia's first recreational volleyball league for kids ages 8 to 12. Find out how this exciting new program is using volleyball to build confidence, teach life skills, and create a low-pressure environment for young players to fall in love with the game! September 3, 2026 -
Lauren Williams, adult services manager at Daniel Boone Regional Library and One Read co-chair, joins us to talk about this year's community read pick -- "Remarkably Bright Creatures" by Shelby Van Pelt -- a moving story about grief, found family, and an unlikely friendship between a widowed woman and an octopus. All events are free and happening throughout September, so grab your copy at the library and join the whole community in the conversation! September 2, 2026 -
Spam is one of the oldest internet annoyances, and ITCOMO owner Robert Ricketts is back to break down the scams hiding in your inbox -- from fake charity donations to romance scams that can take months to play out. Learn how to protect yourself and find out which simple email switch could dramatically cut down the spam you receive. September 1, 2026 -
Mizzou Arts After Hours is coming to Lowry Mall on Wednesday, September 16th from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, and it's free and open to the public. Join Cathleen A. Fleck, PhD, MU School of Visual Studies, as she walks us through an eclectic evening packed with cardboard chair displays, alumni art exhibitions, live music, slam poetry, telescope viewing, and more! August 31, 2026 -
Join AC as she sits down with Ruth O'Neill, director of Loaves and Fishes Soup Kitchen, and Linda Reed Brown, treasurer for the Columbia Crop Hunger Walk, to talk about this 31-year community tradition fighting local hunger. From a September 20th walk at Stephens Lake Park to food donations and online giving, there are plenty of ways to get involved and make a difference right here in Columbia! August 28, 2026 -
Crane's Country Store has been a beloved general store since 1889, and owner David Crane is celebrating a massive milestone -- 100 years in their Williamsburg location. From quality outdoor gear and famous sandwiches to a can't-miss centennial party on September 12th with live music, giveaways, and even a pop-up tattoo shop, this is one stop you do not want to miss! August 27, 2026 -
It's college tuition season, and LaBrunerie Financial president Alex LaBrunerie is breaking down exactly what qualifies as a 529 expense -- from tuition and computers to off-campus rent. Plus, with Missouri's Amendment 5 failing to pass, Alex explains why now may be the perfect time to consider a Roth conversion and lock in tax-free withdrawals for the future. August 26, 2026 -
Meet J.R. Ford, founder and CEO of Payken, Inc. J.R. is building blockchain-based FinTech platforms that make transactions transparent and trust-less through smart contracts. As a Black tech founder expanding from St. Louis into Columbia, J.R. is also investing in his community and inspiring the next generation to see themselves in the seats of power. August 25, 2026 -
Did you know there are 240 different varieties of tomatoes -- and you can taste them all for free? Join us as Tim Reinbott and Dusty Walter from MU's Research Extension and Education Center (REEC) take us through their 21st annual Tomato Festival, where you'll also find 88 varieties of peppers, cayenne pepper ice cream, tomato lemonade, and a whole lot more! August 24, 2026
