The Daily Blend w/ AC

Today's guest, Lisa Brescia, spent 30 years living in New York City and performing on Broadway; now she's interim dean for the Conservatory for the Performing Arts at Stephens College in Columbia and looking ahead to an ambitious upcoming season of shows that include Legally Blonde, Elf the Musical, 12th Night and more! August 8, 2025

"The average amount of time that somebody looks at an artwork in a museum is six seconds before they move on to the next thing," Kelsey Hammond, executive director of Columbia Art League. "'Interpretations' is going to ask people to look a little harder, look longer, and read a little bit more." Up to the challenge? This collaborative show opens next month! August 7, 2025

Today we're in Williamsburg, MO (population: 700-ish) to visit with David Crane, owner of Crane's Country Store. Crane's is a 130-year-old mainstay of Callaway County famously home to boots, bullets, britches and bologna - and, as you'll see, a whole lot more! August 6, 2025

On today's show, ITCOMO owner Robert Ricketts talks about "the internet of things," or everyday devices and appliances that are now equipped with internet connectivity, such as dishwashers, ovens, refrigerators, and even toys. While some - like smart doorbells - provide convenience, Robert advises against connecting many household appliances to the internet unless it is done in a secure manner. August 5, 2025

City of Refuge is hosting a back to school event for refugee children in preschool or elementary school next Monday in Columbia! Garrett Rucinski, director of engagement, tells us this event will provide school supplies, backpacks, as well as information about school bus routes, parent-teacher conferences, and other important processes that can be overwhelming for refugee families new to the American education system. August 4, 2025

Today's guest is Jennifer DeLaporte, transition coordinator for Columbia Public Schools. Jennifer oversees each school's WEC, or workplace experience coordinator, as they guide students 13 and older through post-graduation exploration opportunities. "Students just aren't aware." August 1, 2025

If you've not heard of the MU Child Development Lab (CDL), you're not alone. Director Miranda Clines agrees, telling us it may just be Mizzou's best kept secret! On today's show, find out more about CDL and how you can get involved because good news: they've recently expanded their preschool program! July 31, 2025

All families, regardless of their financial status, are invited to the annual Back to School Bash on August 15th in Columbia. Eryca Neville, co-organizer and today's guest, tells us this popular event will feature 50 vendors providing information and services like health and dental screenings, free haircuts, the distribution of 1,500 backpacks (with school supplies), as well as hundreds of pairs of shoes. July 30, 2025

The Voluntary Action Center's back-to-school supply program (grades K-12) provides free backpacks and supplies to families in Boone County who meet the 200% federal poverty guideline. Chief development officer Stacie Pottinger says, "this is a really great way for people to save money so they can use it on utility bills or whatever." July 29, 2025

The COMO Companies and our very own The COMO 411 are teaming up to produce a local holiday shopping guide this year, and your business is invited to get involved! Today's guests, David Nivens and Allie Teagarden, say they're excited about the opportunity to showcase local talent and support small mom-and-pops throughout the area. July 28, 2025