Real Talk with Riggin

Get ready for a weekend of family fun at the Scott County Balloon and Summerfest at Benton Speedway! Coordinator Paul Schock joins us to talk about this exciting event featuring colorful hot air balloons, live entertainment, great food, activities for all ages, and plenty of summer fun. From balloon glows to community festivities, Summerfest promises to be a memorable experience for residents and visitors alike. Tune in to learn mo...

A new survey is raising concerns about Illinois’ future, with more than half of voters saying they would leave the state if they had the opportunity. Joining us to discuss the findings and what they reveal about taxes, economic opportunity, public policy, and population trends is Policy Analyst Bryce Hill of the Illinois Policy Institute. He'll break down why so many residents are considering an exit and what state leaders ca...

Celebrate Independence Day at 4th at the Fort with Volunteer Events Coordinator Patti House from Friends of Fort D! Patti joins us to share all the details about this family-friendly community tradition, including patriotic activities, live entertainment, historical demonstrations, food, and festivities planned for the Fourth of July. Learn how Friends of Fort D continues to preserve local history while bringing the community toget...

Senior Legal Fellow Amy Swearer of Advancing American Freedom joins us to discuss the landmark Supreme Court case United States v. Hemani. In a unanimous ruling, the Court held that the federal government cannot automatically prosecute and permanently disarm an individual solely for being an unlawful user of a controlled substance, as applied to Ali Hemani, a Texas man who admitted to regular marijuana use while legally possessing ...

Seniors and Lawmen Together will honor the memory of the late Doug Austin with a special bench dedication recognizing his years of service, leadership, and commitment to the community. Friends, family, law enforcement officers, and community members are invited to gather as the organization pays tribute to Austin's lasting impact and the relationships he built through his dedication to helping others. The commemorative bench will s...

The King is coming back to Cape Girardeau! Join us as we visit with Visit Cape Director Brenda Newbern to remind listeners about the exciting Elvis Road Show, a celebration of the music, memories, and legacy of Elvis Presley. Brenda will share event details, what attendees can expect, and how this unique show continues to draw fans from across the region. Whether you're a lifelong Elvis enthusiast or simply looking for a fun night ...

Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway joins us for an update on the latest legal and policy issues affecting Missourians. We'll discuss consumer protection efforts, public safety initiatives, ongoing litigation involving the state, and how the Attorney General's Office is working to protect the rights and interests of Missouri residents. Hanaway will also share her perspective on key developments in Jefferson City and Washing...

As the nation approaches the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, many Americans are asking why so many of the same security, cultural, and ideological challenges remain today. Psychologist and author Scott Gibbs joins us to discuss the lasting psychological impact of 9/11, how the attacks changed American society, and why the nation continues to grapple with issues related to terrorism, national security, ...

The North Carolina House Committee has advanced a new election integrity bill aimed at strengthening voter confidence and enhancing safeguards in the electoral process. Jason Snead, Executive Director of Honest Elections Project Action, joins us to discuss the key provisions of the legislation, why supporters believe the measure is needed, and how it could impact future elections in North Carolina. We'll examine the ongoing nationa...

As summer break continues, many families face the challenge of keeping nutritious meals on the table for their children. Heather Collier, Communications Manager with the SEMO Food Bank, joins us to discuss the Summer Food Service Program and other resources available to help ensure kids have access to healthy meals when school is out of session. We'll talk about meal sites, eligibility, how families can find assistance in their com...

Author Adam Finnegan joins us to discuss a controversial ruling from a Dutch court that he argues has identified COVID-19 vaccines as weapons of biowarfare. Finnegan, author of Biowarfare and The Sleeper Agent, examines the legal decision, the evidence presented in the case, and the broader implications for governments, pharmaceutical companies, and public health policy. He shares his perspective on how the ruling could influence o...

The rapidly evolving conflict involving Iran continues to reshape the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East. Joining us to discuss the latest developments is Asaf Romirowsky, Executive Director of Scholars for Peace in the Middle East. Recent events have included ongoing tensions between Iran, Israel, and Iranian-backed groups across the region, while diplomatic efforts aimed at securing a broader ceasefire and addressing Iran'...

The Jackson Senior Center is putting knowledge to the test and inviting the community to join the fun at its upcoming Trivia Night. Administrator Nancy Glover joins us to discuss this entertaining fundraiser, which will bring friends, families, and local residents together for an evening of friendly competition, laughter, and support for the Senior Center's programs and services. Glover will share event details, how teams can parti...

Associate Editor for MRC NewsBusters Nick Fondacaro joins us to discuss the latest media moments making headlines, including reaction to a recent UFC fight that sparked intense debate among fans and commentators alike. Fondacaro will also break down Vice President J.D. Vance's appearance on ABC's The View, examining how the hosts and media outlets covered the interview, the key exchanges that drew attention, and what it reveals abo...

Is the Ukraine war finally approaching its endgame? Colby Barrett, Spokesman for the Ukraine Freedom Project, former Marine Captain, and Co-Executive Producer, joins us to discuss the latest developments in the conflict and what they could mean for the future of Ukraine, Russia, and global security. Barrett will examine recent military and diplomatic shifts, the challenges facing both sides after years of war, and whether ongoing i...

The U.S. Supreme Court is being asked to consider a case that could have significant implications for government accountability and the protection of First Amendment rights. Associate Counsel Erin Smith joins us to discuss the legal arguments behind the effort to hold government officials personally accountable when they violate citizens' constitutional freedoms, including free speech and religious expression. Smith explains why th...

For nearly a century, the Cape Municipal Band has been a summertime tradition in Cape Girardeau, and Conductor Neil Casey says the 2026 season continues that legacy with an exciting lineup of free concerts at the Dan Cotner Amphitheater in Capaha Park. The band's summer series features a variety of musical styles, special guest performers, and family-friendly entertainment designed to appeal to audiences of all ages. Casey will dis...

Sikeston is gearing up for another spectacular Independence Day celebration as the Sikeston Elks Lodge hosts its annual Fourth of July fireworks show at the Sikeston Recreation Complex. Coordinator Bonnie Hagler joins us to discuss plans for this long-standing community tradition, which brings families and friends together to celebrate America's birthday with an evening of patriotic fun and a dazzling fireworks display at dusk. Hag...

Cape Girardeau is preparing for a historic Riverfest 4th of July celebration as part of America's 250th anniversary festivities. The annual event will bring families, friends, and visitors together along the Mississippi River for a day filled with patriotic pride, live entertainment, food vendors, community activities, and a spectacular fireworks display. Organizers are looking forward to honoring both Independence Day and the nati...