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

The ART of Real Estate Team at eXp Realty
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The Soda Citizen is your inside look at life in Columbia, SC told through the voices of the people who live it. Brought to you by The ART of Real Estate Team at eXp Realty, this podcast spotlights the stories, local businesses, and community moments that make the Soda City such a vibrant place to call home.

  1. 3d ago

    Why The Nickelodeon Is One of Columbia's Greatest Treasures | Sumner Bender

    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

  2. Aug 4

    Columbia Classical Ballet Is Entering a New Era with Joseph Phillips

    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.

  3. Jul 28

    Columbia SC Rivers: Hidden Gems, Riverfront Plans & the Future of Our Waterways

    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

  4. Jul 14

    How Richland One Is Shaping the Future of Public Education in Columbia, SC | Dr. Todd Walker

    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

  5. Jul 7

    Why Craft & Draft Became Columbia's Favorite Gathering Place

    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

  6. Jun 24

    How One Columbia Nonprofit Is Changing Lives for Children and Families

    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

  7. Jun 16

    The Ultimate Guide to Columbia SC Arts, Concerts & Broadway Shows with Nate Terracio

    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

  8. Jun 3

    Forest Acres, Fitness & Finding Community in Columbia, SC with Jason Brunson

    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

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The Soda Citizen is your inside look at life in Columbia, SC told through the voices of the people who live it. Brought to you by The ART of Real Estate Team at eXp Realty, this podcast spotlights the stories, local businesses, and community moments that make the Soda City such a vibrant place to call home.

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