Advertise on podcast: The Soda Citizen: Local Life in Columbia, SC by The ART of Real Estate Team at eXp Realty

What does it mean to invest in more than just your financial future? 💰 On this episode of Soda Citizen: Local Life in Columbia, SC, Brad Allen and Mary Lane Sloan sit down with Margaret Ellen Pender and Walker Williams of Anchor Investment Management to talk about building wealth, giving back, and the community they’ve called home for decades. From their personal connections to Columbia to the evolution of the city's business scene, Margaret Ellen and Walker share why they believe financial planning is about so much more than managing investments. They also introduce us to the Anchor Impact Fund, a charitable initiative supporting local nonprofits and making a difference throughout the Midlands. Plus, we're talking practical financial advice for young professionals, why it's never too early to start saving, the importance of having a long-term plan, and what makes Columbia such a special place to live, work, and grow. Whether you're looking to take control of your financial future or simply love hearing about the people investing in our community, this is a conversation you won't want to miss! 🎙️ Learn more about Anchor Investment Management: https://www.anchorinvestmentmanagement.com/ 📲 Download The ART of Real Estate App: https://bk.homestack.com/theartofrealestate?aik=testate 🏡 Thinking about making Columbia home? Connect with The ART of Real Estate Team at eXp Realty for local insights, neighborhood guides, and all things Midlands living!

Big things are happening at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, and we're getting the inside scoop! 🦁🐼 On this episode of The Soda Citizen Podcast, Brad Allen and Mary Lane Sloan sit down with Matt Perron, Public Relations Manager at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, to talk about the exciting changes coming to one of Columbia's most beloved attractions. From new lion and tiger habitats and the arrival of red pandas to an immersive primate forest and expanded Botanical Gardens experiences, there's a lot to look forward to! Matt also shares what makes Riverbanks so special, the conservation work happening behind the scenes, and some of the zoo's best-kept secrets, family activities, and upcoming events. Plus, hear about the all-new Brew Lights event and how you could win tickets! Whether you're a longtime Columbia local or planning your first visit, there's always something new to discover at Riverbanks Zoo! 🌿 Learn more about Riverbanks Zoo & Garden: https://www.riverbanks.org/ Brew Lights at Riverbanks Zoo: https://www.riverbanks.org/events/brew-lights 🎙️ The Soda Citizen Podcast is brought to you by The ART of Real Estate Team at eXp Realty, keeping you connected to the people, places, and stories that make Columbia, SC such a special place to call home. 📲 Download Our App

Palmetto Citizens has been part of the Midlands since 1936, but its story is still very much being written. In this episode of The Soda Citizen, Brad Allen and Mary Lane Sloan sit down with Robert Dozier, President and CEO of Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union, to talk about the organization’s nearly 90-year history, its growth throughout the Midlands, and why investing locally matters. Robert shares the story behind Palmetto Citizens’ beginnings with 10 Columbia teachers, the vision for its new downtown Columbia headquarters, and why the credit union continues to invest in communities across South Carolina and beyond. They also dive into Columbia’s growth, retaining local talent, supporting smaller towns, mortgage rates, home affordability, and what the next decade could look like for the Midlands. It’s a conversation about much more than banking. It’s about community, growth, and why Robert believes Columbia’s best days may still be ahead. About Palmetto Citizens Download Our App

The South Carolina State Fair is back October 15–25, and there’s a lot more to it than rides and fair food. 🎡 Brad and Mary Lane sit down with Nancy Smith, General Manager of the South Carolina State Fair, for a behind-the-scenes look at one of South Carolina’s biggest annual traditions. Nancy shares what’s new for 2026, the history behind the iconic Rocket, favorite fair foods, new entertainment, and what it takes to bring the fair to life each year. They also dive into the fair’s agricultural roots, the Ride of Your Life Scholarship program, Sensory Friendly Day, the best times to visit, and some of the traditions that have kept people coming back for generations. Plus, hear about new additions coming to the fairgrounds this year, including Palmetto Championship Wrestling, Sea Lion Splash, an expanded South Carolina Grown Marketplace, and more. Whether the State Fair is an annual tradition for you or you’re planning your first visit, this episode will get you ready for the 2026 South Carolina State Fair! SC State Fair Information Download Our App

Thinking about buying or renovating a historic home in Columbia? There may be more benefits and fewer restrictions than you think. Brad Allen and Mary Lane Sloan sit down with Betsy Kleinfelder from the City of Columbia’s historic preservation and planning team to discuss what it really means to own a historic property. They cover how to determine whether a home is in a historic district, which exterior renovations may require approval, and why replacing original windows isn’t always the smartest investment. You’ll also learn about the Bailey Bill, a tax-abatement program that can help qualifying property owners offset renovation costs, plus the differences between local historic districts and the National Register of Historic Places. Whether you own an older home, are considering buying one, or simply love Columbia’s history and architecture, this episode offers a fascinating look at the homes and neighborhoods that give our city its character. For more about City of Columbia Planning & Development 📲 Download Our App

There’s a lot more happening at Columbia Metropolitan Airport than most travelers realize. In this episode, Brad and Mary Lane sit down with Chris White, President and CEO of Columbia Metropolitan Airport, and Kim Crafton, Vice President of Marketing and Service Development, for an inside look at CAE’s recent growth and what could be coming next. Chris and Kim explain what officially makes CAE an international airport, how its newly completed Customs and Border Protection facility supports private aviation and international business, and why the airport plays such an important role in economic development throughout the Midlands. They also discuss the possibility of a future name change, ongoing efforts to attract additional airlines and nonstop routes, and the biggest factor travelers can influence: choosing to fly local. The conversation also explores the airport’s recent improvements, including an expanded TSA checkpoint, an indoor-outdoor passenger lounge, a new business center, family restrooms, a sensory room, and a meditation and interfaith space. Kim shares how CAE is making travel more accessible through programs like the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, while Chris explains the airport’s cargo operations, military presence, diversion flights, and plans for a solar-powered microgrid. Plus, the guests share some of their favorite features at CAE, why booking early can make flying from Columbia more affordable, and what they enjoy doing when they’re away from the airport and exploring the Midlands. Whether you fly through CAE regularly, automatically head to Charlotte for every trip, or simply want to know how Columbia is preparing for future growth, this episode offers a fascinating look at the airport connecting our community to the rest of the world. ✈️ Learn more about Columbia Metropolitan Airport 🏡 Living in Columbia or thinking about moving here? Download The ART of Real Estate app to search for homes, explore local resources, receive event updates, and connect with our team.

What happens when you leave a decade-long legal career to finally pursue the business you’ve been dreaming about for years? In this episode of The Soda Citizen Podcast, Brad and Mary Lane sit down with Grace Berger, owner of The Honey Market, a new coffee and wine bar, gourmet market, and housewares shop located on Forest Drive in Forest Acres. Grace shares the childhood fascination that inspired the business’s name, why Forest Acres was always the right location, and what it took to bring her longtime vision to life. We also get a taste of the creativity behind The Honey Market, from the Velvet King made with Coca-Cola and a coffee ice sphere to a brown butter latte topped with 24-karat gold. In this conversation, we discuss: Why Grace left her legal career to open The Honey MarketThe inspiration behind the business and its nameHer experience opening a small business in Forest AcresThe shop’s unexpected drinks, specialty foods, wine, and giftsCreating a welcoming space for parents, children, and the communityColumbia’s evolving restaurant scene and what it still needsWhat’s ahead for The Honey MarketIt’s a conversation about taking a chance on a longtime dream, creating something completely different, and bringing a fresh new experience to Columbia. ☕️🍯 More on The Honey Market 📲 Download Our App

What makes The Nickelodeon Theater one of Columbia's most beloved destinations? It's about much more than the movies.  In this episode of The Soda Citizen Podcast, Brad Allen and Mary Lane Sloan sit down with Sumner Bender, Executive Director of The Nick, to explore the story behind Columbia's only nonprofit art house cinema and the role it plays in shaping the city's culture. From choosing which films make it to the big screen to hosting film festivals, Oscar parties, documentaries, and community events, Sumner shares what goes on behind the scenes at one of Main Street's most iconic landmarks. The conversation also dives into the changing movie industry, how AI is impacting Hollywood, why some films are nearly impossible for independent theaters to show, and what keeps people coming back to The Nick year after year. Along the way, you'll also hear why Sumner believes Columbia continues to grow into one of the best places to live, how The Nick has helped energize Main Street, and why supporting local arts organizations matters more than ever. Whether you're a movie lover, a longtime Columbia resident, or simply looking for unique things to do in the Midlands, this episode will give you a whole new appreciation for The Nick. In this episode:  The history of The Nickelodeon Theater  How independent theaters choose their movies  Why some films can't be shown  The future of movie theaters and AI in Hollywood  The Nick's events, memberships, and community impact  Why Columbia's arts scene continues to thrive🍿 More About The Nick 📱 Download Our App

Columbia Classical Ballet is entering a new era, and Artistic Director Joseph Phillips is leading the way. After performing with some of the world's most prestigious ballet companies including the Mariinsky Theatre, American Ballet Theatre, San Francisco Ballet, and Miami City Ballet, Joseph has returned home to Columbia with a bold vision for the future of ballet in the Midlands. In this episode of The Soda Citizen Podcast, Brad Allen and Mary Lane Sloan sit down with Joseph to discuss his journey from growing up in Columbia to dancing on international stages, why he chose to come back, and what the future holds for Columbia Classical Ballet and the School of Columbia Classical Ballet. They also discuss the opening of the new School of Columbia Ballet in Five Points, the renowned Vaganova training method, upcoming performances and Nutcracker auditions, and how the organization hopes to inspire the next generation of dancers while strengthening Columbia's growing arts community.  Whether you're passionate about the performing arts, interested in what's happening around Columbia, or simply enjoy hearing the stories of the people making a difference in our city, this is an episode you won't want to miss. 🩰 For more on School of Columbia Classical Ballet 🗓️ Open Classes Begin August 10th | 610 Harden Street Columbia, SC ❄️ The Nutcracker Open Auditions: August 22nd & September 19th 📲 Download our App Follow Us About The Soda Citizen Podcast Hosted by Brad Allen and Mary Lane Sloan, The Soda Citizen Podcast highlights the people, places, businesses, and organizations that make Columbia, South Carolina such a special place to live, work, and play. From local leaders and entrepreneurs to hidden gems and community initiatives, each episode offers a deeper look at the stories shaping the Midlands.

Most people know Columbia as the Capital City, but few realize that one of its greatest assets is flowing right through the heart of it. In this episode of the Soda Citizen Podcast, we're joined by Congaree Riverkeeper Bill Stangler for a fascinating conversation about the Saluda, Broad, and Congaree Rivers and why they play such an important role in Columbia's past, present, and future.  We discuss what makes each river unique, the incredible recreation opportunities available right here in the Midlands, the future of Columbia's new riverfront park, and how conservation efforts are helping protect these waterways for generations to come. Along the way, Bill shares some unforgettable stories, from unusual discoveries during river cleanups to rare wildlife, hidden spots along the river, and the work that goes into keeping our rivers healthy.  Whether you're a lifelong Columbia resident, new to the area, or simply love exploring the outdoors, this episode will give you a whole new appreciation for the rivers that make our city unique. In this episode, we cover:  The differences between the Saluda, Broad, and Congaree Rivers  Columbia's exciting new riverfront park project  The best places to kayak, tube, fish, and explore  Wildlife you can spot along the rivers  How the Congaree Riverkeeper protects our waterways  Water quality, conservation, and local environmental challenges  Hidden gems and fun stories from life on the river If you enjoy discovering the people, places, and stories that make Columbia, South Carolina such a special place to live, be sure to subscribe to the Soda Citizen Podcast so you never miss an episode. More on Congaree Riverkeeper Download our App

What does the future of public education look like in Columbia, South Carolina? In this episode of the Soda Citizen Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Todd Walker, Superintendent of Richland School District One, to discuss his Vision 2030 plan and how one of Columbia's largest school districts is preparing students for the future. From career and technical education to artificial intelligence in the classroom, Dr. Walker shares how Richland One is creating new opportunities for students while strengthening the community as a whole. In this episode, we discuss:  Richland One's Vision 2030  How schools are preparing students for high-skill, high-wage careers  Why career pathways are just as important as college pathways  The role of AI in education  Why strong schools help build strong communities  The future of public education in Columbia Whether you're a parent, educator, community leader, or considering a move to Columbia, this conversation offers an inside look at where education is headed and why it matters. Richland One Vision 2030 & Beyond Download our App

What does it take to build one of Columbia's most beloved local businesses? This week on the Soda Citizen Podcast, Brad Allen and Mary Lane Sloan sit down with Kellen Monroe and Katelyn Shire, the owners of Craft & Draft, to talk about how a neighborhood bottle shop grew into a true community hub. From choosing the perfect craft beer to hosting trivia nights, live music, and family-friendly events, they share what has made Craft & Draft a place where people gather, connect, and keep coming back. The conversation also explores Columbia's growing food and brewery scene, favorite local spots, what makes the city special, and why supporting local businesses matters now more than ever. Whether you're a craft beer enthusiast, a Columbia local, or someone considering a move to the Midlands, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of the city's favorite gathering places.  In this episode:  🍻 The story behind Craft & Draft  🍺 How they choose hundreds of craft beers  📍 Columbia's best local food and drink recommendations  🏡 Why Columbia is such a great place to live  🎉 Community events, trivia, music, and more  ❤️ Building a business centered around people, not just beerCraft & Draft Craft & Draft on Instagram Download Our App Follow Us

What happens when a personal challenge becomes a mission to help hundreds of families? In this episode of the Soda Citizen Podcast, Brad Allen and Mary Lane Sloan sit down with Dawn Darby, CEO and co-founder of The Therapy Place, to discuss the inspiring story behind one of Columbia's most impactful nonprofits. After her son was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, Dawn saw firsthand the challenges families face when trying to access therapy, education, and support services. That experience led her to help create The Therapy Place, a nonprofit organization that now serves children across the Midlands through pediatric therapy, special education, family programs, and more. During the conversation, Dawn shares:  The story behind The Therapy Place  How pediatric therapy changes lives  The Bridges School and its unique approach  Challenges facing families with special needs children  The future vision for a new campus and expanded services  Ways the Columbia community can get involved and support the mission Whether you're a parent, educator, healthcare professional, or simply someone who loves hearing stories about people making a difference in our community, this episode is a powerful reminder of the impact one idea can have. Learn more about The Therapy Place and upcoming events at the links below. The Therapy Place How to Donate & Support

What makes Columbia, SC more than just a college town? In this episode of The Soda Citizen Podcast, Brad Allen and Mary Lane Sloan sit down with Nate Terracio, Director of the Koger Center for the Arts, to discuss the growing arts, music, and entertainment scene in Columbia and why it plays such an important role in the city's quality of life.  From Broadway productions like Wicked and Beetlejuice to free outdoor concerts, local arts initiatives, and the future of cultural experiences in the Midlands, Nate shares an inside look at what goes into bringing world-class entertainment to Columbia.  The conversation also explores:  The new free outdoor concert series at the Koger Center  How Broadway tours make their way to Columbia  Why arts and culture matter when choosing where to live  Columbia's parks, museums, trails, and outdoor attractions  The city's evolving entertainment and food scene  What makes Columbia a unique place to call home Whether you're a longtime local, considering a move to Columbia, or simply looking for new ways to experience the city, this episode highlights some of the people and organizations helping shape Columbia's future.  🎙️ The Soda Citizen Podcast explores the people, places, businesses, and stories that make Columbia, South Carolina a great place to live, work, and play. The Koger Center Download Our App

What’s it really like to live in Columbia, South Carolina and why do so many people end up staying? In this episode of The Soda Citizen Podcast: Local Life in Columbia, SC, Brad Allen and Mary Lane Sloan sit down with Jason Brunson, owner and head coach of Arena Athletic Club, to talk about life in Forest Acres, building community, family life, fitness, and the everyday lifestyle that makes Columbia feel more like a big town than a big city.  Jason shares his journey from small-town South Carolina to opening a successful fitness business in Columbia, what makes Arena Athletic Club different, and how the city has evolved over the years. The conversation also dives into: • Living in Forest Acres and Columbia neighborhoods  • Family-friendly parks and local favorites  • Columbia’s fitness and wellness culture  • Why Columbia is easy to navigate and easy to love  • Restaurants, green spaces, and community life  • What Columbia may still be missing — and what makes it special today  • Why so many people leave Columbia… and eventually come back  Whether you're considering moving to Columbia, SC, already call the Midlands home, or simply love learning about the people shaping our community, this episode offers an honest local perspective on life in the Capital City. 💪 Arena Athletic Club 📲 Download our App Follow Us