48 episodes

Columbia is open for business! And now the mayor of Cola, Daniel Rickenmann is opening up the studio too! Join Mayor Rickenmann every week for interviews with some of Cola's finest from thriving small business owners to seasoned politicians and everything in between.

Around Town with @ColaMayor Daniel Rickenmann

    • Government
    • 4.9 • 37 Ratings

Columbia is open for business! And now the mayor of Cola, Daniel Rickenmann is opening up the studio too! Join Mayor Rickenmann every week for interviews with some of Cola's finest from thriving small business owners to seasoned politicians and everything in between.

    Preserving the Past: Dale Marshall on Historic Buildings and Urban Living Trends

    Preserving the Past: Dale Marshall on Historic Buildings and Urban Living Trends

    Today marks a special episode as we sit down with renowned local architect Dale Marshall, celebrating a milestone 35th anniversary of his firm, Architrave, which he started with his uncle Alan back in 1987.

    In this episode, we journey through the transformative world of historic preservation, recognizing the intricate craftsmanship necessary for projects that breathe new life into buildings dating from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. We'll discuss the successful renovations of icons such as the Dupree building and the Canal Dime Savings Bank, and how these efforts fuse with the growing demand for downtown living in Columbia.

    Our host Daniel Rickenmann, alongside Dale, will discuss the trends shaping our city's housing landscape: the move towards open, casual living spaces, the allure of walkability and urban amenities, and the changing preferences in home design that reflect a simpler, more functional lifestyle.

    With an eye on the future, Dale shares insights into the need for diversity in housing types that cater to millennials and downsizers alike, and the challenges faced by historic buildings in the adjacent towns of Chapin and Newberry.

    • 45 min
    Developing Columbia's Core: BullStreet's Journey with Developer Robert Hughes

    Developing Columbia's Core: BullStreet's Journey with Developer Robert Hughes

    In the latest episode of 'Around Town,' we had Robert Hughes discuss the BullStreet project, a significant development in Columbia's urban landscape. Robert and his team have transformed a large area into a lively hub, integrating dining, retail, and living spaces. The project is set to introduce a considerable number of new residential units by the end of the year, marking BullStreet as a leading example of urban revitalization. The conversation covered the mix of national, regional, and local retailers contributing to a vibrant community core that appeals to a broad spectrum of businesses and residents. As BullStreet continues to develop, with infrastructure being laid out for future expansion, there is a strong sense of excitement and a collective aim to drive Columbia forward. This extensive development is not just changing the city's layout but also fostering innovation and opportunity. Each advancement at BullStreet contributes to Columbia's vision as a top city in South Carolina, offering a high quality of life, ample opportunities, and a vibrant, forward-thinking community.

    • 39 min
    USC's Athletics: Cultivating Talent and Community Engagement with Ray Tanner and Christopher Miller

    USC's Athletics: Cultivating Talent and Community Engagement with Ray Tanner and Christopher Miller

    In this episode of 'Around Town,' host Daniel Rickenmann invites guests Ray Tanner, the Athletic Director at the University of South Carolina, and Christopher Miller to discuss the role of USC athletics. The episode, 'USC's Athletics: Cultivating Talent and Community Engagement,' looks at how the university's sports programs contribute to both athletic success and community engagement. Christopher Miller explains the process of organizing a major soccer event in Columbia, including interactions with the mayor, governor, and professional soccer clubs. The episode also highlights the achievements of coaches Dawn Staley and Coach Paris, the situation with the Carolina Panthers, and the idea of reviving sing-along traditions to improve game days. The conversation covers the teamwork among the university's coaching staff, the impact of athletic events on local development, and efforts to enhance Williams-Brice stadium. The episode concludes with a discussion on athlete development, community outreach, and upcoming events that contribute to Columbia's community spirit. This conversation with Daniel Rickenmann, Ray Tanner, and Christopher Miller underscores the significant role of USC athletics in supporting community growth.

    • 44 min
    Five Points St. Pat's Fest: Behind the Scenes with Trae Judy and Heather McDonald

    Five Points St. Pat's Fest: Behind the Scenes with Trae Judy and Heather McDonald

    Join host Daniel Rickenmann in this special 'Around Town' episode as we dance through the vibrant streets of Five Points during the St. Patrick's Day festivities! Get the inside scoop from event guru Trae Judy and the multifaceted Heather McDonald, who unveil the intricate tapestry of planning Columbia's most spirited celebration. From music venues to Irish culture, family fun, and charitable impacts, we deep dive into the festival's $12.6 million economic swing and its 42-year tradition of community joy. Tap your feet to stories of southern charm, green beer, diverse music lineups, and band camaraderie that make more than just leprechauns want to leap! Sláinte to sustainability, safety, and citywide engagement – 'Five Points St. Pat's Fest: Behind the Scenes with Trae Judy and Heather McDonald' sings of more than just a day of festivities; it's about laying the cobblestones for future revelries!

    • 53 min
    Violence Prevention and Community Connection with Trevon Fordham

    Violence Prevention and Community Connection with Trevon Fordham

    In this episode of Around Town, host Daniel Rickenmann talks with Trevon Fordham, the director of violence prevention for Columbia, South Carolina. Fordham brings his experience from parks and recreation, law enforcement, and grant administration to discuss the city's strategies against crime and violence. He emphasizes the importance of mentoring youth and shares his approach to intervention and support. The conversation covers the shift in how conflicts are resolved within communities and highlights the importance of education and community engagement in reducing gun violence. Rickenmann and Fordham also discuss the need to build relationships in the city and with community leaders to support organizations and maintain consistent interaction with residents. This episode offers a detailed look at Columbia's community efforts, the significance of grassroots initiatives, and the commitment needed to guide at-risk youth toward a safer and more positive future.

    • 35 min
    Mayors in Collaboration: Uniting the Midlands with Mayors Thomas Andrews and Tem Miles

    Mayors in Collaboration: Uniting the Midlands with Mayors Thomas Andrews and Tem Miles

    Welcome to 'Around Town' with host Daniel Rickenmann on this episode, we delve into the latest developments surrounding the Midlands' communities. We step into crucial conversations with Mayors Thomas Andrews and Tem Miles from the neighboring Forest Acres and West Columbia cities. Explore the unique efforts in community revitalization, infrastructural projects, and creative strategies to meet urban challenges. Hear insights about the balancing act of undergrounding utility wires, innovative recruitment in law enforcement, and inspiring collaboration for regional growth. Whether it's plans for a new city park or aligning retail development, find out how these changes are poised to shape the Midlands. Listen now for an in-depth look at these leaders' dedication and vision for their cities, only on 'Around Town'.

    • 43 min

Customer Reviews

4.9 out of 5
37 Ratings

37 Ratings

TPII Fan ,

Love it!

A great podcast about our exciting and growing city!

Damiel Schmelin ,

The Future is Bright

Everything Mayor Rickenmann says is music to my urbanist ears. As a resident of Downtown Columbia that wants to see an even more vibrant city, I am very excited by this mayor’s philosophy. YIMBY!

frankiemac1002 ,

Love seeing an engaged and passionate Mayor!

I love seeing an engaged and passionate Mayor of Columbia come through on this show. It doesn’t matter what your “politics” are — seeing the personality and passion of Daniel Rickenmann through what he talks about on this show is all you need to see/hear to know that this guy is the real deal. He truly cares about Columbia and about the people who call this emerging Great City home, and he’s got big plans — plus the energy, know-how, and connections — to get those plans done. It may take a few terms (echoes of Mayor Riley in Charleston, anyone?), but Mayor Rickenmann is the absolute best, and right, man for the job. SC is growing faster than any state west of the Mississippi other than FL based on the last ten-year federal census released in 2021 — and with Rickenmann at the helm, we can claim greatness in our region (and our country!) by finally properly positioning Columbia to take advantage of the growth and investment that’s leaving the Northeast and the West Coast and fleeing South and East. It’s our time, Cola!

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