Around Town with @ColaMayor

Latest Episodes:

Rooted in Wellness, Powered by Community: Stories from Rosewood with Bryan Tayara of Rosewood Market and Anne Miller of Rooted Yoga Mar 12, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Around Town podcast, Mayor @ColaMayor Daniel Rickenmann spotlights the dynamic Rosewood Drive corridor with Anne Miller of Rooted Yoga and Bryan Tayara of Rosewood Market. Anne shares how her yoga studio fosters inclusivity and connection, while Bryan discusses the market’s dedication to fresh, local foods and community engagement. Tune in to hear how these two businesses collaborate to make Rosewood a hub of health, sustainability, and small business success in Columbia.

From the Battlefield to Columbia’s Go-To Headshot Photographer with Michael Woodland of ESNTL Headshots Feb 26, 2025

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In this episode of the Around Town podcast, Mayor @ColaMayor Daniel Rickenmann sits down with Michael Woodland of ESNTL Headshots to discuss his journey from military service to becoming one of Columbia’s top headshot photographers. Michael shares how his experience shaped his approach to photography, his focus on helping clients look their best, and his dedication to supporting veterans through the Patriots for Portraits program. Tune in to hear how this local business is redefining professional headshots and making an impact in the community.

To book your headshot with ESNTL visit their website at: https://esntlheadshots.com/

Crafting Community and Innovation: The Peak Drift Story with Sara Middleton Styles & Chris Lutkowski Feb 12, 2025

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In this episode of the Around Town podcast, Mayor @ColaMayor Daniel Rickenmann chats with Sara Middleton Stiles and Chris Lutkowski from Peak Drift Brewery about their journey in the ever-evolving world of craft brewing. From creative offerings like their rotating sours and seasonal beers to the rising interest in THC/CBD-infused beverages, they share insights into what sets Peak Drift apart. The discussion also explores their merger with Columbia Craft, a commitment to sustainability, and an exciting expansion into international markets. Tune in to hear how this Columbia-based brewery is elevating craft beer while building meaningful community connections.

Digital Innovation with Columbia Roots: The Cyberwoven Story with Shayla Merritt & David May Jan 29, 2025

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In this episode of the Around Town podcast, Mayor @ColaMayor Daniel Rickenmann talks with

David May and Shayla Merritt of Cyberwoven, the Columbia-based digital agency helping

clients across industries transform their digital presence. Discover how Cyberwoven’s expertise

in web design, digital marketing, and branding empowers organizations from local nonprofits to

national institutions. Learn about the agency’s origins, recent acquisition, and how they’re using

innovative tech to create impactful digital experiences.

Greening Columbia: How Columbia Green is Transforming Our City’s Landscape with Austin Saggus Jan 15, 2025

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In this episode of the Around Town podcast, Mayor Daniel Rickenmann sits down with Austin Saggus, President of Columbia Green, to discuss the nonprofit's incredible efforts in enhancing Columbia's natural beauty and tackling environmental challenges. From planting thousands of trees to launching the "Beat the Heat" initiative aimed at cooling disadvantaged neighborhoods, Columbia Green is making a big impact. Austin also highlights how citizens can get involved in their signature projects like the Festival of Gardens and the Columbia Canopy Project. Tune in to hear how Columbia Green works to make our city greener, safer, and more vibrant.

Chaos to Clarity: Overcoming Life’s Storms and Rebuilding Hope with Noah Asher Jan 02, 2025

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In this inspiring episode of Around Town, Mayor Daniel Rickenmann sits down with Noah Asher, an author and motivational speaker who has turned his own tumultuous past into a powerful message of hope. Noah shares his journey from addiction and incarceration to writing his book Chaos: Overcoming the Overwhelming, which aims to help others navigate through life’s toughest challenges. He discusses the pivotal moments that led him to transform his life, the impact of faith, and the importance of focusing on the present to overcome adversity. Tune in to hear Noah's compelling story and learn how his experiences are bringing light to those in dark places—whether they're behind bars or facing battles of a different kind.

Columbia College: Preserving Tradition, Embracing Growth, and Shaping Future Leaders with President John Dozier Dec 18, 2024

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In this episode of the Around Town podcast, Mayor Daniel Rickenmann speaks with John Dozier, President of Columbia College, about the institution's exciting developments and challenges. From its deep-rooted history as a women’s college to its expansion into a coeducational environment, Columbia College is evolving while staying true to its mission. John shares insights on how the college prepares students for leadership roles in their communities and the workforce, the unique culture that sets Columbia College apart, and the steps to ensure its growth. Tune in to hear how Columbia College is shaping the future while honoring its storied past.

Path to Redemption: Breaking Barriers and Building Futures with Lester Young Dec 04, 2024

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In this powerful episode of the Around Town podcast, Mayor Daniel Rickenmann sits down with Lester Young, founder of Path2Redemption. After spending over two decades in prison, Lester Young emerged with a mission to help others break the cycle of incarceration and find new opportunities. He shares his journey from prison to becoming a community leader, focusing on the work he does to support formerly incarcerated individuals in finding employment, housing, and personal growth. Lester’s efforts to address the root causes of crime, such as trauma and lack of opportunity, are significantly impacting Columbia. Tune in to hear how Lester is transforming lives and offering second chances to those who need it most.

Supporting Families Through Camp Kemo: Hope and Healing in Columbia with Caitlin Sullivan & Dr. Stuart Cramer Nov 20, 2024

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In this episode of the Around Town podcast, Mayor @ColaMayor Daniel Rickenmann speaks with Caitlin Sullivan and Dr. Stuart Cramer about the critical work being done at Camp Kemo, part of Prisma Health Children’s Hospital in Columbia. They highlight the unique challenges families face when a child is diagnosed with cancer or sickle cell disease and explore how Camp Kemo provides year-round emotional, psychological, and financial support. Tune in to learn about the inspiring community initiatives, innovative programs, and ways you can contribute to making a difference for these families in need.

Communities in Schools and the Mission to Strengthen Columbia’s Future with Jamie Cooper & Latasha Taste Nov 06, 2024

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In this episode of the Around Town podcast, Mayor @ColaMayor Daniel Rickenmann speaks with Jamie Cooper and Latasha Taste from Communities in Schools of South Carolina. They discuss the organization’s crucial role in supporting students by providing mentorship, guidance, and resources to overcome challenges in and out of the classroom. Learn how Communities in Schools works with educators and parents to ensure every student has the tools they need to succeed—and how you can get involved in making a difference in the lives of Columbia’s youth.

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