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.

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 Market
• The inspiration behind the business and its name
• Her experience opening a small business in Forest Acres
• The shop’s unexpected drinks, specialty foods, wine, and gifts
• Creating a welcoming space for parents, children, and the community
• Columbia’s evolving restaurant scene and what it still needs
• What’s ahead for The Honey Market

It’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

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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

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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

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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.

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

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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

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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 beer

Craft & Draft

Craft & Draft on Instagram

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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

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

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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
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In this episode of The Soda Citizen Podcast, Brad Allen and Mary Lane Sloan sit down with Columbia City Councilman Will Brennan to talk about the growth, development, and big projects shaping the future of the Midlands.

From the highly anticipated Congaree riverfront project to BullStreet, Finlay Park, historic redevelopment, housing growth, and walkability, this conversation explores how Columbia is evolving and what that means for residents, business owners, and future growth.

Will also shares insight into:

• Columbia’s riverfront development plans
 • Historic tax credits & redevelopment projects
 • Downtown housing and apartment growth
 • BullStreet and North Main development
 • Infrastructure and transportation improvements
 • Short-term rental and Airbnb conversations
 • The future of parks and public spaces
 • Why Columbia and the Midlands are gaining momentum

Whether you’ve lived here your whole life or are just discovering Columbia, this episode offers an inside look at where the city is headed and why so many people are paying attention.

🎙️ The Soda Citizen Podcast highlights the people, stories, and local businesses that make Columbia, South Carolina an incredible place to live.

Riverfront Park Information

In this episode of the Soda Citizen Podcast, Brad Allen and Mary Lane Sloan sit down with Trae Judy and John Katz to talk all about Songbird Music Festival 2026 coming to downtown Columbia on May 30–31.

They discuss:

•  The vision behind Songbird 2026 
•  Why Finlay Park is the perfect venue 
•  Bringing artists like Old Crow Medicine Show, Futurebirds, Sam Bush, and more to Columbia 
•  How the city is investing in events, culture, and entertainment 
•  Festival logistics, vendors, family-friendly activities, parking, VIP experiences & more 
•  Why Columbia is becoming a destination city for live music 

This episode is a behind-the-scenes look at the people helping shape the future of Columbia’s entertainment scene and why Songbird 2026 could become a staple event for years to come.

📍 Finlay Park — Columbia, SC
 📅 May 30–31, 2026

🎟️ Tickets to Songbird 26

In this episode of The Soda Citizen, Brad Allen and Mary Lane Sloan sit down with the founders to talk about how they built their business from the ground up learning lessons along the way, navigating licensing hurdles, and figuring out what it really takes to run a successful moving company.

They also break down:

•  The biggest mistakes people make when moving 
•  What actually happens behind the scenes on moving day 
•  Why hiring the right mover matters more than you think 
•  The wildest things they’ve ever had to move 
•  And how Columbia has grown alongside their business 

Plus, the conversation dives into life in Columbia, South Carolina from favorite local spots to why it’s such a great place to live, work, and build something meaningful.

Whether you’re planning a move or just love hearing how local businesses get their start, this episode gives you a real look at the hustle behind the scenes.

For more on ProHelp Movers: https://www.prohelpmovers.com/

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In this episode of The Soda Citizen Podcast, Brad and Mary Lane sit down with Forest Acres council members Stephen Oliver and Haskell Kibler to break down why this Columbia, SC community continues to grow in popularity.

From its small-town feel with big-city amenities to its loyal local businesses, top grocery spots, parks, and family-friendly lifestyle, Forest Acres has become one of the Midlands’ most talked-about areas and for good reason.

They also share updates on major developments like the Richland Mall redevelopment, future park plans (including an amphitheater), and what’s next for growth in the area.

Plus, they get into topics like:

•  What makes Forest Acres different from the rest of Columbia 
•  Why businesses are choosing to open here 
•  Local favorites, hidden gems, and community events 
•  Short-term rentals, annexation, and city growth 
•  What the real estate market looks like right now 

Whether you're thinking about moving to Columbia or just want to stay in the know on what’s happening locally, this episode gives you a true inside look at Forest Acres.

📍For more on Forest Acres: https://www.forestacres.net/
https://www.instagram.com/cityofforestacres/

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In this episode of The Soda Citizen Podcast, we sit down with Ashley Elsey, co-director of the Columbia Food and Wine Festival, to talk about how the city’s culinary scene has evolved into one of the South’s best-kept (and quickly discovered) secrets.

From nationally recognized chefs to hidden gem restaurants and unforgettable events, Columbia is stepping into the spotlight and the Food & Wine Festival is at the center of it all.

We get into:

•  What makes the Columbia Food and Wine Festival so unique 
•  A breakdown of events—from the Grand Tasting to the Cheese Rave 
•  How the festival has grown over the years 
•  Why Columbia’s food scene is gaining national recognition 
•  The power of supporting local restaurants and businesses 

We also talk about what it’s like to live, work, and build community in Columbia, SC and why more people are choosing to stay (and move here).

Whether you’re a local foodie, new to the area, or just looking for your next great experience in Columbia, this episode gives you a behind-the-scenes look at what’s happening right now in the city.

🎟️ Thinking about going to the festival? Don’t wait—many events sell out quickly!

About Columbia Food and Wine Festival

Get Tickets

In this episode of Soda Citizen, Brad Allen and Mary Lane Sloan sit down with Tripp Roche, fifth-generation owner of Columbia staple Villa Tronco, to talk about legacy, big ideas, and what’s next for Columbia, SC.

From bringing back the Italian Festival to building a growing table tennis community and even reimagining the city skyline, Tripp shares how he’s thinking differently about Columbia’s future and why now is the time to dream bigger.

They also dive into:

•  The story behind Villa Tronco (South Carolina’s oldest restaurant) 
•  Why Columbia is perfectly positioned for growth 
•  How events and culture are shaping the city 
•  What young professionals need to stay and thrive here 
•  Big ideas that could transform Columbia 

Whether you’ve lived in Columbia your whole life or you’re just getting to know it, this episode will leave you seeing the city in a whole new way.

More information:

Villa Tronco

Carolina Pong

Columbia SC Italian Festival

In this episode of the Soda Citizen Podcast, Brad Allen and Mary Lane Sloan sit down with John Sherrer of Historic Columbia to break down the history, architecture, and evolution of the city in a way that actually makes sense.

From Columbia’s beginnings as America’s first planned capital city to the neighborhoods and home styles you see today, this conversation covers how the past has shaped the way we live here now and where the city is headed next.

They also dive into:

• Why historic preservation actually increases property values
• How the Bailey Bill can benefit homeowners
• The evolution of Columbia’s neighborhoods (from streetcar suburbs to ranch homes)
• Growth on Main Street and along the Congaree River
• What makes Columbia such a livable, welcoming city

Whether you’re a longtime local, new to the area, or just curious about Columbia, this episode gives you a deeper understanding of the city and why it continues to grow.

🎙️ The Soda Citizen Podcast highlights the people, places, and stories that make life in Columbia, SC so special.

We talk about the real behind-the-scenes of building a nonprofit from the ground up, what “inclusive and accessible” looks like in real life, and how Camp Cole stays funded through community support, events, and corporate retreats. Plus: a look at some of their biggest events and why so many people consider them Columbia traditions.

Whether you're a parent, business owner, community leader, or simply someone who believes in making Columbia stronger, this conversation will leave you inspired.

For more information about Camp Cole, upcoming events, or ways to support their mission, visit:
 👉 https://www.campcole.org/

And for more episodes featuring the people shaping Columbia, SC, the business owners, nonprofit leaders, and community builders making a difference, be sure to subscribe and follow the Soda Citizen Podcast so you never miss a conversation.

In this episode of The Soda Citizen Podcast, Brad Allen and Mary Lane Sloan sit down with Matt Kendall, Founding President and CEO of the Main Street District, to talk about the 25-year transformation of downtown Columbia and what’s coming next.

From nearly empty streets and closed storefronts to Soda City Market, student housing towers, luxury hotels, and major mixed-use developments, Matt shares how strategic investment, residential growth, and community events reshaped the city’s core.

We discuss:

• How downtown Columbia changed over the last two decades
• The impact of Soda City Market
• The rise of student and market-rate housing
• New projects like the Grand Bohemian Hotel
• Why “shopping bag retail” is the next focus
• Future development opportunities and vertical growth
• The role of Finlay Park and the riverfront
• Whether Columbia could support professional sports

If you care about where Columbia is headed whether you live here, invest here, or just love this city, this episode gives you an inside look at the people shaping its future.

🎧 Listen now and stay in the know about what’s happening in the heart of the Midlands.

In this episode of The Soda Citizen Podcast, we sit down with Heather McDonald, Executive Director of the Five Points Association, to talk about what makes Columbia’s original neighborhood so special and why it continues to evolve.

From brunch crawls and record shops to family-friendly events and beautification efforts, Heather shares what’s changed in the last few years, what’s coming next, and how Five Points is experiencing its own renaissance.

We also dive into:

• The real story behind St. Pat’s in Five Points (and how big it actually is)
• Where festival proceeds go and how they support the community
• The Yellow Shirts ambassador program and safety initiatives
• Misconceptions about Five Points being “just for college kids”
• Events like JerryFest, Neon Joy, and Trick-or-Treat in Five Points
• What people moving to Columbia should know about the city’s culture and districts

If you’ve lived here your whole life, you’ll love the nostalgia.
 If you’re new to Columbia (or considering a move), this episode gives you a behind-the-scenes look at one of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods.

Because at the end of the day, people don’t just want a house — they want a place people love to live.

Learn more about Five Points and upcoming events:
https://fivepointscolumbia.com/

In this episode, we’re joined by Jacob Stevenson, owner of Magnolia Inspection Company, to talk about what commonly shows up during home inspections and why those details matter before you buy or sell. Drawing from years of inspecting homes across the Midlands, Jacob shares insight into issues buyers often overlook and how inspection results can influence negotiations.

Beyond inspections, Jacob also talks about local life in Columbia, SC, from what makes homes here unique to why he left the area and ultimately chose to come back. We discuss how the city has grown, what keeps people here, and why understanding the local market is just as important as understanding the inspection report.

Whether you’re considering moving to Columbia, SC, already live here, or simply want a better understanding of what happens during a home inspection, this episode offers practical insight and local perspective from a trusted expert.

More About Magnolia Inspection Company

Steve shares his journey from opening Saluda’s to building a larger restaurant group, acquiring Cafe Strudel, and rebranding Il Bucato as State Pizza. He also gives an insider look at Slip 53, a historic oyster bar coming to Five Points, and discusses what makes Columbia South Carolina’s food scene unique and full of opportunities.

Tune in as they cover:

• Why Columbia’s foodie scene is on the rise
• New and upcoming restaurant openings
• Challenges and rewards of running multiple restaurants
• What Columbia still needs for its culinary landscape

Whether you’re a local foodie, a restaurant entrepreneur, or just curious about the Columbia SC dining scene, this episode is packed with insights and stories you won’t want to miss.

Check out Steve Cook's restaurants: 
https://www.saludas.com/
https://thestatepizza.com/
https://www.emberlexington.com/
https://www.arroyofivepoints.com/
https://cafestrudel.com/

What starts as a conversation about roofs quickly turns into a deep dive on entrepreneurship, honesty in contracting, and what makes Columbia such a special place to live and work. Joe and Mac share how they went from the service industry and sales into launching their own roofing company, why “repair first, replace second” guides their business, and how word-of-mouth can make or break you in a city like Columbia.

We also cover:

• What homeowners should actually ask when hiring a roofer
• Common roofing red flags (and how people get bamboozled)
• Why permits, insurance, and licensing really matter
• Forest Acres, Shandon, and favorite Midlands neighborhoods
• Where to take friends visiting Columbia for the first time
• Why Columbia feels like a small town that’s finally coming alive

Whether you’re a homeowner, thinking about starting a business, or considering a move to the Midlands, this episode is packed with practical advice and real local insight.

📍 Need a roof inspection or just want to know how much life your roof has left?
Classic Roofing offers no-pressure evaluations and honest recommendations. Check them out here: https://classicroofingsc.com/

From half-eaten geese to mama possums, you’ll hear the craziest things they’ve seen under homes, learn why crawl spaces are key to your family’s health, and get tips for keeping your home safe and dry.

Plus, get insider insights on Columbia SC: neighborhoods, restaurants, hidden gems, and what makes our city a great place to live and run a business.

We discuss downtown development, new apartments and hotels, local restaurants and retail, and signature events like Vista Lights and Artista Vista. Abby also shares insight into the role of the Vista Guild, how it supports local businesses, and what makes The Vista such a unique place to live, work, and gather.

Whether you’re interested in downtown Columbia living, local development, or simply want to better understand one of Columbia’s most iconic neighborhoods, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at The Vista Columbia SC and its future.