In this episode of the Around Town podcast, Mayor Daniel Rickenmann sits down with Merritt McNeely, CEO of Flock and Rally, a Columbia-based marketing and communications agency helping clients across the country connect with their communities in meaningful ways.

What began as a local mission to support causes and campaigns in the Midlands has grown into a national agency known for creative storytelling, strategic messaging, and purpose-driven results. Merritt shares how her team builds trust, activates audiences, and stays grounded in the values that started it all.

Learn more at flockandrally.com

Mayor Daniel Rickenmann sits down with Tamara King, newly appointed Executive Director of Richland Library, to explore how this 13-branch system is redefining what a public library can be. From free classes and social work services to kitchen equipment, fabrication studios, and even fresh produce, Richland Library is delivering more than just books — it’s providing real-world support to the Columbia community.

Whether you want to launch a small business, learn how to sew, or just grab a sweet potato pie recipe, your library card unlocks far more than you might expect.

To discover everything the library has to offer, visit richlandlibrary.com

In this special episode of Around Town, the tables turn as Mayor Daniel Rickenmann takes the guest seat for a candid conversation with his Policy and Programs Advisor, Payton Lang. From housing and public safety to art, business, and the revitalization of Columbia’s downtown, Mayor Rickenmann reflects on his first term and the bold moves that have shaped the city’s momentum. Hear about the city’s growing energy, long-awaited development projects coming to life, and why storytelling is essential to building Columbia’s future.

Whether you’re a resident, business owner, or just curious about Columbia’s transformation, this episode is packed with insight into where we’ve been—and where we’re headed.

Tune in to hear how collaboration, risk-taking, and a passion for people are putting Columbia on the map.

On this episode of the Around Town podcast, Mayor Daniel Rickenmann sits down with Nailah Carrie-Inez Darby, the inspiring founder of Carrie Vine Treats. What started with a batch of lemon brownies and a love for Charleston Chewies has grown into a beloved local business and a staple at Columbia’s own Soda City Market. Nailah shares her journey from new mom to entrepreneur, the power of persistence, and how free local resources helped shape her path. Get a taste of her story, her mission to honor her great-grandmother’s legacy, and how she’s using her business to uplift the Columbia community.

Order and learn more at carrievinetreats.com

Follow on social: @carrievinetreats

In this episode of the Around Town podcast, Mayor @ColaMayor Daniel Rickenmann is joined by Terri Towle and Storm Burcham from the Indian Waters Council of Scouting America to explore how local Scouts are developing leadership skills while giving back to their communities.

From Eagle Scout projects like storm drain marking to inclusive programming that reaches every corner of Columbia, this conversation highlights how Scouting continues to shape character and inspire service in the next generation.

To learn more or get involved, visit indianwaters.org or beascout.org.

In this episode of the Around Town podcast, Mayor @ColaMayor Daniel Rickenmann speaks with Ashley Bookhart about the 5210 South Carolina initiative (@5210sc). The campaign is built on four simple daily habits: consuming five or more servings of fruits and vegetables, limiting screen time to less than two hours, engaging in one hour of physical activity, and avoiding sugary drinks. It’s a statewide effort to improve the health of children and families in South Carolina through small, consistent actions.

Tune in to learn how the program is taking root in schools, clinics, and communities across South Carolina.

For resources, partner tools, and more about bringing 5210 SC to your home or organization, visit 5210sc.org or email [email protected].

In this episode of the Around Town podcast, Mayor @ColaMayor Daniel Rickenmann sits down with filmmaker and creative director Jason Kendall, founder of kendallprojects. From his early days documenting Ridge View High School to producing powerful films and community-centered art, Jason shares how storytelling became his mission.

They discuss the emotional turning points that shaped his career, his work with young creatives, and how he uses media to elevate unheard voices. This is a conversation about purpose, passion, and the power of telling the stories that matter most.

Learn more at kendallprojects.com.

In this episode of the Around Town podcast, Mayor @ColaMayor Daniel Rickenmann sits down with Columbia native Cameron Sabin, the creative force behind the YouTube series National Park Diaries. What started as a simple GoPro experiment has become a cinematic journey through some of the country's most awe-inspiring landscapes.

Cameron shares how his love of storytelling and nature intersect to spotlight the parks, people, and unexpected moments that make these places unforgettable. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a creative spirit, this conversation is a breath of fresh air.

Watch the series at https://www.youtube.com/@NationalParkDiaries

In this episode of the Around Town podcast, Mayor @ColaMayor Daniel Rickenmann talks with Zelda Waymer, President and CEO of the South Carolina Afterschool Alliance, about how afterschool programs are shaping the future for students across the state. From STEM expos to workforce readiness and leadership development, the Alliance ensures students can access safe, enriching experiences outside of school hours.

Tune in to hear how this statewide network is opening doors, building partnerships, and helping young people across South Carolina thrive.

To learn more or get involved, visit scafterschool.com or contact the Alliance at [email protected].

In this episode of the Around Town podcast, Mayor @ColaMayor Daniel Rickenmann sits down with Sarah Lyles, Executive Director of PalmettoPride, to talk about how this statewide nonprofit is tackling litter, promoting beautification, and building a culture of civic pride across South Carolina. From supporting volunteers and educating students to empowering communities through grants and cleanups, PalmettoPride is proving that small actions lead to big change.

Tune in to learn how you can take part in keeping Columbia clean and beautiful—and why litter is about more than just trash.