The Soda Citizen: Local Life in Columbia, SC by The ART of Real Estate

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 CenterDownload 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 AppFollow Us

What’s next for Columbia, South Carolina?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 momentumWhether 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

What does it take to bring one of the biggest music festivals Columbia, SC has ever seen to Finlay Park?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

Starting with nothing but a pickup truck and a need for beer money, Parker Snell and Brandon Britt turned a college side hustle into one of Columbia’s most trusted moving companies, ProHelp Movers.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/Download our App Follow Us 

What’s really behind the buzz around Forest Acres?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/📲 Download our AppFollow Us

Columbia’s food scene is having a moment and if you haven’t noticed yet, you’re about to 👀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 FestivalGet Tickets

What does it take to shape the future of a city?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 TroncoCarolina PongColumbia SC Italian Festival

What makes Columbia, SC such a special place to live and why are so many people choosing to call it home?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 valuesHow the Bailey Bill can benefit homeownersThe evolution of Columbia’s neighborhoods (from streetcar suburbs to ranch homes)Growth on Main Street and along the Congaree RiverWhat makes Columbia such a livable, welcoming cityWhether 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.

What started as one family’s camp experience became one of Columbia’s most meaningful spaces for connection, hope, and belonging. In this episode, we sit down with Kelsey Sawyer Carter and Margaret Deans Grantz of Camp Cole to share the story behind the camp, why it was built here in Columbia, who it serves, and how it’s grown into a year-round, fully accessible facility.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.

Main Street wasn’t always the vibrant heart of Columbia, SC that it is today.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 decadesThe impact of Soda City MarketThe rise of student and market-rate housingNew projects like the Grand Bohemian HotelWhy “shopping bag retail” is the next focusFuture development opportunities and vertical growthThe role of Finlay Park and the riverfrontWhether Columbia could support professional sportsIf 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.

Five Points isn’t just a district in Columbia, it’s a feeling.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 communityThe Yellow Shirts ambassador program and safety initiativesMisconceptions about Five Points being “just for college kids”Events like JerryFest, Neon Joy, and Trick-or-Treat in Five PointsWhat people moving to Columbia should know about the city’s culture and districtsIf 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/

What do home inspectors really find once they get into a home—and how does that connect to living in Columbia, SC?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

In this episode of the Soda Citizen Podcast, hosts Brad Allen and Mary Lane Sloan sit down with Steve Cook, Columbia’s 2025 Restauranteur of the Year and owner of multiple beloved local eateries.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 riseNew and upcoming restaurant openingsChallenges and rewards of running multiple restaurantsWhat Columbia still needs for its culinary landscapeWhether 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/

On this episode of Soda Citizen, we’re joined by Joe and Mac from Classic Roofing, two local business owners who know Columbia, SC from the shingles up.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 rooferCommon roofing red flags (and how people get bamboozled)Why permits, insurance, and licensing really matterForest Acres, Shandon, and favorite Midlands neighborhoodsWhere to take friends visiting Columbia for the first timeWhy Columbia feels like a small town that’s finally coming aliveWhether 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/

What’s lurking under your home? In this next episode of Soda Citizen: Local Life in Columbia, SC, Brad Allen and Mary Lane Sloan sit down with Clark McCarthy and John Dando from Crawlspace Medic, local experts and longtime friends, to talk about crawl space health, home maintenance, and the quirks of Columbia living.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.

The Vista in Columbia, South Carolina has evolved into one of the city’s most recognizable and dynamic downtown districts. In this episode of the Soda Citizen Podcast by The ART of Real Estate, we sit down with Abby Anderson, Executive Director of the Vista Guild, to talk about how The Vista has grown over the past 30 years—and where it’s headed next.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.