Thinking Out Loud

KBIA’s Rachael Norden speaks with Dr. Bryon Wiegand, Division Director of Animal Sciences at CAFNR-MU on the long-awaited opening of the new Michael L. Parson Meats Education & Training Lab – or Meat Lab – and the long and winding journey that took this vision from its previous iteration as the Mizzou Meat Market, to the state of the art learning facility and public market that formally opens in July.

KBIA’s Rachael Norden speaks with Dr. Kantha Channaiah, Assistant Professor of Food Science and State Extension Specialist of Food Processing and Safety at CAFNR on the food safety training programs offered through CAFNR and the importance of proper food handling - not only for manufacturers and businesses, but also individuals who work with popular methods of food handling such as canning.

In an episode dedicated to all things bugs, KBIA’s Rachael Norden is joined by KBIA Health Reporter Rebecca Smith to speak with Dr. Emily Althoff, Assistant Extension Professor and State Extension Specialist of Urban Entomology at CAFNR on the relationships between pollinators and pests – how they’re often one and the same – and how people can play a vital role in stewarding local environments to not only help our flying friends survive, but thrive.

KBIA's Rachael Norden speaks with Dr. Rick Relyea, inaugural director of the Johnny Morris Institute of Fisheries, Wetlands, and Aquatic Systems at CAFNR-MU on his vision in workforce development and regional collaboration as he sets the stage for this new institute at Mizzou.

In celebration of International Day of Play happening June 11, KBIA's Rachael Norden speaks with Dr. Rachel Thibodeau-Nielsen, Associate Professor at HDFS on the importance of play for children – namely, the evolving narratives around childhood play versus adulthood preparation, how play styles exist across a spectrum, and how adults can help facilitate true playtime for children, founded in a joy for play within themselves.

KBIA's Rachael Norden continues her conversation with Dr. Kale Monk, Associate Professor at HDFS, on all things relationships – the good, the bad, and the lonely. In this episode, we explore loneliness, breakups, and what it can look like to navigate the natural ebb and flow of our relationships. Plus, resources for rural community members through HDFS’ new ShowMe Connection project.

KBIA's Rachael Norden speaks with Drs. Shinyoung Jeon and Aileen Garcia on National Childcare Provider Appreciation Day, or Provider Appreciation Day, happening May 8th – a worldwide celebration meant to recognize the work of childcare providers, teachers, and other educators of young children.

KBIA's Rachael Norden speaks with returning guest, Dr. Melissa Herzog, Associate Teaching Professor at HDFS on National Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week (APAW), happening April 20-24, 2026 as a time to recognize, appreciate, and advocate for those who work with young people during out-of-school hours and make a profound difference in the lives of youth.

KBIA's Rachael Norden speaks with Dr. Francisco Palermo, Associate Professor at HDFS on National Kindergarten Day, the impacts of technology on early learning, and how early childhood education emphasizes developing the social skills children require before academia.

KBIA’s Rachael Norden speaks with Dr. Brandon Boyd, Associate Professor and Director of Choral Activities at the University of Missouri on the MU Choral Union’s upcoming spring performance, Franz Schubert’s Mass in E flat Major, presented by the University Concert Series and in collaboration with the Columbia Civic Orchestra. Plus, a look at what’s coming down the line as the Choral Union plans its celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.