Travis McMillen
Senior Media ProducerTRAVIS McMILLEN is the senior media producer 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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Solarize Columbia came about through local non-profit sponsors and the City of Columbia Office of Sustainability. Carolyn Amparan, steering committee member, says the program aims to make solar and battery storage more accessible by providing discounted pricing and financing options, and by using a vetted installer. Find out more about an upcoming launch event on today's show! July 3, 2025 -
"Sparklers are still not totally safe. They burn at about 1,200 degrees and they account for, I want to say 28% of most firework injuries," Fire Marshal Michael Bauer, Columbia Fire Department. "Leave the fireworks up to the professionals and everybody will have a safe 4th of July." July 2, 2025 -
Twain: Missouri BBQ and Taproom is getting a jump on Christmas by offering its popular drink, snack and movie series, 'Holiday Hideaway', throughout the month of July! On today's show, bartender Leyla Kiknadze, and Corté Allen, executive chef, prepare two unique items found on the menu. July 1, 2025 -
If you're anything like Scott Mansker, you too think of the Missouri River as an underutilized "adventure playground." 20 years ago, Scott founded MR340 - a 340-mile, non-stop paddling race - to take advantage of the nation's longest river while also raising money for Missouri River Relief. On today's show, meet past participant, Scott Swafford, and race director, Steve Schnarr. June 30, 2025 -
We're on location at the new Sophia's restaurant in south Columbia today with co-owner Matt Jenne and famed local artist David Spear. David created all the iconic artwork inside not only Sophia's, but Addison's and Addison's South. On today's show, hear how this perfect partnership got its start more than 25 years ago! June 27, 2025 -
Next up on Mizzou Theatre's summer repertory lineup is Disney's "The Little Mermaid," and we've got the actresses playing Ariel (Israeli Jones) and Flounder (Emma Webel) on today's show! June 26, 2025 -
Get to know the 2025 ATHENA International Award winners - Jen Hedrick and Arminta Phelps - on today's show! These awards are given to exceptional women in business (or their profession) who have made significant contributions to their community and helped develop and support other women. June 25, 2025 -
Columbia Black Professional Society wants to build community for black professionals in the Columbia area. Today's guest, Brittany Hilderbrand, says in its first two years the organization has had a positive impact, connecting black professionals with each other and with opportunities, and providing exposure for black-owned businesses. June 24, 2025 -
Voluntary Action Center has been keeping Boone County cool since 1996 thanks to its popular 'fan club' program. Chief development officer Stacie Pottinger says they're looking for donations - whether monetary or an actual box fan - to keep this year going as supplies have dropped to only about a dozen fans left. Find out more on today's show. June 23, 2025 -
ITCOMO owner Robert Ricketts tells us how to safely use a mobile phone while traveling internationally. From using airplane mode to connecting to hotel WiFi, if your summer travel plans include a trip overseas, you'll want to pay attention to today's show! June 20, 2025
