The Mo Show Podcast

If you've spent time in Downtown Huntsville, you've probably seen the Together We Rise mural on the Clinton Avenue parking deck. Today, I'm joined by the artist behind the mural, Ann Moeller, to talk about the story it tells and what it took to bring a project of that scale to life. Ann shares how organizations like Arts Huntsville and the Junior League of Huntsville helped make the mural possible...

In this episode of Mo Show Live, I'm talking with Mark Russell, the Executive Director of the Huntsville Sports Commission. Mark and I dive into how sports are shaping Huntsville's growth. The Sports Commission plays a big role in bringing events, visitors, and energy to the Rocket City, and it's helping Huntsville make a name for itself on the national stage. We'll talk about how the city became...

When it comes time to explore assisted living options for a loved one, most of us don't know where to start. We're unsure what questions to ask, what red flags to look for, and how to make a choice that truly meets our family member's needs. Today, I'm joined by Leigh Ann Hamby, Executive Director of Kauhale Byrd Springs here in Huntsville. With more than 20 years of experience running assisted li...

Everyone deserves the chance to live independently. But for many people with disabilities, that dream feels out of reach.   Today, I'm joined by Davina Patterson, Executive Director of the Disability Resource Network. Davina and her team are on a mission to break down the hidden barriers that keep people from living life on their own terms.   The organization helps folks with disabilities gain the...

When I first moved to North Alabama, Madison was just a spot in the road. Now it's one of the fastest-growing cities in the state, and I've been lucky to see that growth firsthand through sports, school, and service. In this episode, I sit down with Christina Hearne, Executive Director of Madison Visionary Partners, to talk about how MVP is helping shape that growth in all the right ways. Some rec...

If you haven't been to downtown Athens lately, you might be surprised by what you find. Today, I sit down with Tere Richardson, Executive Director of Athens Main Street. We talk about how the heart of this North Alabama town has changed over the years, while still holding on to the charm that makes it feel like classic small-town America. Tere shares how Athens has grown as the city embraced outdo...

Today, I'm joined by Tracy Bennett Smith, who leads Make-A-Wish Alabama. We talk about how the organization brings hope to kids across our state who are facing critical illnesses. Tracy walks us through how wishes are granted, how children are nominated, and the real impact a wish can have on an entire family. We also discuss how people can get involved, whether it's through events, volunteering,...

What really happens when you call a crisis line in North Alabama? In this episode, I sit down with Janet Gable, the heart behind Crisis Services of North Alabama (CSNA). Janet shares the powerful work CSNA is doing, from their 24-hour crisis line to helping victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.  We also talk about how you can get involved and the upcoming events for Sexual Assault Aware...

What if a single community center could change the future for hundreds of kids? That's exactly what the Huntsville Learning Center is doing. I'm sitting down with Ray Allister, the executive director, to talk about the great work they're doing for kids in Huntsville, Alabama. The center runs after-school and summer programs to help kids succeed both in and out of the classroom. We also dive into r...

I'm speaking with Daniel Kasambira, President and CEO of United Way of Madison County. We're diving into what United Way is all about, from their big mission to new programs like the Dolly Parton Imagination Library and Young Men United.  We're also breaking down how United Way tackles local needs, builds powerful partnerships, and gets strategic with their resources.  Here's what's coming up: Mee...

This one's a first: we have a dog guest on the Mo Show. Join us for a special episode featuring Stephanie Cook, a school counselor at Madison Elementary, and Barnie Fife, the school's facility dog.   Barnie isn't just a furry friend. He provides emotional support to students, helps them navigate tough days, and plays an essential role in the school's daily life.   Stephanie shares the story of how...

Today, we're celebrating those who served by highlighting a powerful mission: helping veterans successfully transition to civilian life.   In this episode of Mo Show Live, I'm joined by Rich Landolt, retired Rear Admiral and President & CEO of Still Serving Veterans. With 32 years of U.S. Navy service under his belt, Rich is passionate about supporting veterans as they navigate life beyond the mil...

What does it really mean to support our neighbors in need? Today, I'm chatting with Fran Fluhler from Manna House. They're a great local organization in North Alabama that's all about feeding and uplifting our community.   You might be surprised to hear that a lot of folks who use Manna House for meals have full-time jobs. But with prices going up everywhere, more and more people are coming throug...

Alabama is an outdoor lover's paradise—whether you're into hiking, fishing, or just getting out in nature, this state has it all. But here in North Alabama, we've got some incredible cultural spots too. Today we're going to look at one that I've been hearing a ton of buzz about lately.   I'm excited to welcome Joy Harris, the Marketing Manager and Graphic Designer from the Cook Museum of Natural S...

Poverty affects nearly 1 in 5 students in Madison County. Today, we'll explore how one organization is ensuring these students don't fall behind in the classroom.    I'm excited to discuss how Free 2 Teach is making an impact in Madison County. Joining me is Alison Kling, the executive director of Free 2 Teach. As a former elementary school teacher, Alison understands firsthand what educators need...

Imagine being a young child and facing a life-altering injury. Our guest today, Leanne, faced such a challenge when she was just four years old. In June 1986, an event occurred that would change her life forever.   Leanne lost her arm, but her parents didn't treat her any differently. They encouraged her to adapt and keep going, which built a relentless determination in her.   In her book, "Red St...

Today, I'm thrilled to welcome a familiar face, especially for our listeners in North Alabama. For over 14 years, he's been your trusted source for weather updates on WHNT News 19. That's right, it's meteorologist Ben Smith.   Ben was an early guest on the Mo Show, and I couldn't be more excited to have him back. But today, we're steering away from weather talk. Instead, we're diving into a differ...

Today, we're joined by Nick Nanton, a powerhouse in the entertainment world. With 22 Emmy Awards to his name, Nick's talents range from directing and producing to writing, songwriting, and even law.   With over 60 films under his belt, including a hit Broadway show, Nick has rubbed shoulders with industry giants in business and sports.    So, what inspires Nick's storytelling in his documentaries?...

  Join us as the Mo Show Live returns for a new season! In this episode, we sit down with Jeremy Foulks, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of the River Valley. With 20+ years of experience, Jeremy shares how his organization is helping tackle the critical need for safe, affordable housing.   Over the years, the Huntsville chapter of Habitat for Humanity has served over 300 families in our...

Welcome to the 100th episode of the Mo Show Live! This week, I have a special guest joining me on the show. My son, Wyatt, agreed to sit down and chat with me about middle school classes and his life as a busy student-athlete.   In this episode, we talk all about entering the fast-paced world of 7th grade and playing for his school's football, basketball, and baseball team. Keep listening until th...

Children play sports because it's fun. But there are tons of benefits to youth sports besides just enjoyment—making new friendships, learning how to communicate, building a sense of community, and becoming a team player are all important reasons why playing sports can help prepare kids for the real world.   However, approximately 70% of kids stop playing sports by age 13, says a poll from the Nati...

You can change someone's world instantly with a simple gesture of warmth, support, or kindness. And nobody understands the power of small gestures more than today's guest.   Today I'm joined by Officer Lane Harper of the Birmingham Police Department. He's worked in law enforcement for more than 20 years, as both an officer and an instructor in the police academy.    In this episode, Lane Harper sh...

It's often said that if you don't like our Alabama weather, just wait a few hours and we'll have it changed. Our winter weather is notoriously unpredictable. One day, you're inside hiding from the rain and the next day is filled with sunshine.   In this episode, I'm speaking with Danielle Dozier, Chief Meteorologist at the WHNT News 19 station. After covering the weather in four states across the...

If you've ever had a vision screening, you're probably already familiar with the question, "Which is better: one or two?"    But that's just the beginning of an eye exam, according to today's guest. What many of us don't realize is that a lot of health issues in the body can be detected in the eyes, from diabetes to cataracts and cardiovascular disease.     In fact, one in every four children have...

For sports fans, it's the most wonderful time of the year — and it's not just because of the holidays. That's why I'm pumped to have today's guest join me on the show today. You might already know Rocco DiSangro as the Sports Director for WHNT News 19.     In this episode, we're talking all things sports. Rocco shares how he translated his passion for athletics into a successful broadcasting caree...