The Daily Blend w/ AC

Discover how health informatics and AI are transforming decades of untapped health care data into earlier disease detection, better treatments, and lower costs for patients and systems alike. Dr. Fares Alahdab, MD, tells us how MU’s graduate programs give you hands-on experience with real patient data and the skills to build, evaluate, and safely deploy AI models in modern health care. August 21, 2026

Meet Ilana Bonaparte, a rising young author who started writing "Coyote Catchers, Book One: Asla and the Dirtway Trail" in third grade and is now a published writer heading into fifth grade. Asla’s adventure is recommended for readers 8 and up and available anywhere books are sold. August 20, 2026

Taco King Taco Fest, where 15 taco spots from across Missouri and the midwest battle it out, is coming to Columbia this weekend! Get ready for taco eating contests, a fiery 10-level hot sauce showdown, and judges crowning the ultimate best taco spot. Kyle Garcia, founder and co-owner, is here and he brought with him the championship belt, heavyweight necklace, and a blinged-out hot sauce ring. August 18, 2026

Step inside a chaotic Chicago donut shop where an aging hippie owner collides with a young Black street poet in Tracy Letts’ hilarious, high-energy comedy "Superior Donuts." From immigrant neighbors and tough Chicago cops to real pastries from Love Coffee at intermission, director David Crespy says this Talking Horse Productions show promises laughs, heart, and a treat for all the senses. August 17, 2026

Discover how a community is turning grief into a powerful legacy with the inaugural Aiyanna Williams Invitational Volleyball Tournament September 12 at Hickman High School in Columbia. Derek Kent and Erica Dickson tell us how local leaders, Columbia Public Schools, Smoothie King, and Day Dreams Foundation are coming together to support young female athletes across Missouri. August 7, 2026

Discover the story behind Missourians for Justice in Palestine and their first-ever Palestinian Cultural Night, featuring traditional dance, fashion, art, and heritage. From specialty drinks (by Chicago’s Kuffiyeh Coffee) to iconic dishes like maqluba and classic Palestinian desserts, this episode invites you to taste, see, and celebrate a culture whose existence is resistance. August 6, 2026

Columbia Mall is once again 'home' for this year's annual Home Builders Association of Columbia Home Show, and once again it'll be packed with trusted local builders, remodelers, painters, landscapers, and more, all ready to help with projects from full home builds to simple bathroom updates. HBAC board member Mary Garrity says get ready to walk away with ideas, contacts, and even future-ready plans for your next renovation or DIY project! August 5, 2026

The Columbia African American Business Alliance (CAABA) is hosting its 3-on-3 CoMo Night Hoops event for a fifth year on August 15th and 16th. CAABA president/co-founder Reuutasha Belcher-Harris tells us how local businesses, city sponsors, and community leaders are teaming up to support minority youth, create opportunity, and grow this annual tournament into a citywide movement. August 4, 2026

Poolside margaritas, muumuus, and five lifelong girlfriends get real about what friendship looks like at this “big age” when time is limited, drama is gone, and accountability and support matter more than ever. In recognition of National Friendship Day, on today's show, AC and her besties share how intentional scheduling, vulnerability, and “collaborative accountability” keep their friendship strong and judgment-free. August 3, 2026

Discover how recovering addict and CEO Steve Long turned his greatest weakness into a powerful force for community change through RecoveryWorks, tackling mental health, addiction, homelessness, crime prevention, and workforce development. Then get a sneak peek at their family-friendly August 15th fundraiser at Head Harley Motors, featuring Nashville artist Isaac Schneider, food trucks, auctions, and more—all to help bring RecoveryWorks to the next level. July 31, 2026