Lebanon Now Podcast

Welcome to Ladies Night where we talk about nothing and everything!

Ryan sat down with Lucian Toma, one of the owners of Sunny Bloom Farms, for the first episode of a new “Interesting People” style series.Lucian shared how he went from growing up in Romania, including time in mountain villages where his family lived close to the land, to eventually coming to America. He talked about his grandmother’s homestead skills, including growing food, making plum brandy, weaving, natural dyes, preserving food, and repairing homes with traditional materials like cob.He also discussed living through the fall of communism in Romania, the chaos that followed, and how those experiences shaped his views on community, resilience, survival skills, and local independence.Lucian later ran away from home as a teenager and ended up on the streets in Rome, Italy. A chance meeting with an American named Jeff changed his life. Jeff helped him return home, supported his education, and eventually helped him come to the United States. Lucian received his visa one day before 9/11 and later arrived in California.In America, Lucian studied international relations, global leadership, and sustainable development. His education and life experience led him into ecology, community work, beach management, nonprofit work, farm-to-table programs, regenerative agriculture, and public education.He eventually built a life around teaching people how to live more connected to the land, grow food, build resilience, and create stronger local communities.Lucian and his wife, Anna Maria, later moved to Lebanon, Missouri, after years of visiting the Lake of the Ozarks area and feeling drawn to the Ozarks. They now run Sunny Bloom Farms as more than a farm. Lucian describes it as a permaculture farm, school, and village centered on food, education, ecological living, and community.The conversation ended with Ryan inviting viewers to leave questions for Lucian and teasing a possible part two, since Lucian’s journey from Romania to Lebanon, Missouri, has many more layers to explore.

Episode4, with guest Mayor Jared Carr

Episode 3, with guest Angie Jackson

Episode 2, with guest Bob Garner

Kiarra Pearcy and Ryan Rogers break down what you need to know about colorectal cancer and why it’s becoming a bigger conversation right now.They talk about the rise in younger diagnoses, with patients in their 30s already being affected, and why waiting until traditional screening ages can be risky. Current guidelines recommend screenings starting at 45, but earlier testing may be needed if you have a family history or other risk factors.The discussion covers what doctors are actually looking for during screenings, how polyps can develop and progress at different speeds, and why colonoscopies remain the most effective way to catch issues early. While at-home tests like Cologuard are better than nothing, they don’t replace a full exam.They also dive into prevention, including the impact of diet, processed foods, red meat, and overall lifestyle. Factors like inactivity, smoking, alcohol use, and obesity all play a role in increasing risk.Most importantly, they highlight warning signs you shouldn’t ignore, including blood in stool, changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, and ongoing discomfort.The message is simple: early detection saves lives. Screenings may be inconvenient, but they can prevent something far more serious.

Sarah sits down with Aleah Bench for one of the most powerful Girl Power conversations yet, opening up about mental health, childhood trauma, and the lasting impact of growing up around addiction. Aleah shares her story with honesty, from living in fear as a child to navigating complicated emotions after losing her father to suicide.This episode is a reminder that you never truly know what someone has been through, and why these conversations matter. Both Sarah and Aleah stress the importance of reaching out, checking in on others, and breaking the stigma around mental health, especially for men.If you’re struggling, you are not alone. There are people who care, people who will listen, and people who would rather hear from you today than lose you tomorrow.Watch the full episode now on Lebanon Now

This week on Girl Power, Sarah flips the script and sits down with host Abbey Hoskins so the community can get to know the woman behind the interviews.Abbey opens up about growing up in Lebanon, being a wife, mom, realtor, and volunteer, and how her childhood shaped the strong, compassionate woman she is today. From learning hard work at a young age to breaking free from people-pleasing habits, Abbey shares a real and honest look at the lessons that still guide her life.The conversation dives into motherhood, body confidence, raising strong daughters, learning boundaries, and why Girl Power means so much to her. Abbey also talks about stepping outside her comfort zone to become the face of the show, finding confidence on camera, and the message she hopes every woman takes away: believe in yourself, be kind to yourself, and don’t wait for the “right time” to chase what’s on your heart.It’s a warm, funny, and inspiring conversation full of honesty, growth, and the kind of real talk that makes Girl Power so special. Catch the full episode this week on Lebanon Now.

Ryan & Sarah sit down with Kelly Rhoades, certified marriage counselor and discuss marriage and relationship topics found on Reddit or submitted by our community.

Ryan Rogers and Kiarra Pearcy bring trusted, real-world healthcare conversations to the forefront in the revamped On Call on Lebanon Now. In this refreshed medical talk show, the two providers break down the health topics people are already hearing about, worrying about, and asking their doctors about—from GLP-1 medications, weight loss, insulin resistance, and metabolic health to colorectal cancer screenings, prevention, risk factors, and the symptoms you should never ignore.  What makes On Call stand out is its balance of clinical expertise and everyday language. Ryan and Kiarra take complex medical issues and make them understandable, practical, and useful for real people trying to make better health decisions. Each episode goes beyond headlines and social media misinformation, focusing instead on what these conditions, treatments, and screenings actually mean for your long-term health, lifestyle, and quality of life.  From women’s health and GI concerns to prevention, labs, lifestyle changes, and emerging treatments, On Call is designed to keep the Lebanon community informed, empowered, and proactive about their health. Whether it’s helping viewers understand how medications work, when to get screened, or what symptoms deserve a closer look, this show delivers clear answers from providers who live it every day.New episodes now streaming on Lebanon Now.

Some topics feel a little awkward to talk about… until they happen to you at 2 AM.This week on Girl Power, we sat down with Crystal Lloyd, Family Nurse Practitioner, to talk openly about UTIs, bacterial vaginosis, vaginal health, and the everyday habits that can make a bigger difference than most women realize.From the classic “why does it burn when I pee?” panic to how dehydration, harsh soaps, tight non-breathable underwear, and hormone changes can trigger symptoms, this episode is full of real, practical information every woman should know.We also cover overlapping symptoms between UTIs, BV, yeast infections, and other concerns, plus why being honest with your provider matters, what treatment can look like, and simple prevention tips that may help stop the cycle before it starts.Most importantly, this conversation is a reminder that vaginal health is normal health, and these topics should never feel embarrassing.If you’ve ever dealt with recurrent UTIs, irritation, BV symptoms, or just wondered what’s actually normal, this is an episode worth watching.Girl Power is proudly brought to you by Covell Flowers, Espresso Bakery and Gifts, Kim Breeden and the crew at Shelter Insurance, June and Beyond Women’s Boutique, and T’s Tees Custom Apparel.

On the very first episode of Millsap in the Morning, David Millsap kicks things off with Taylor Howe for a wide-ranging conversation on local politics, election coverage, and the history that proves today’s political climate isn’t as new as it feels.  The episode dives into Lebanon’s upcoming April 7 election, candidate interviews, what election night feels like behind the scenes, and why servant-hearted leadership still matters in local government. From county races and school board conversations to campaign strategy and the personal side of public service, the discussion keeps the focus local while tying it to bigger political themes.David and Taylor also take a fascinating turn through presidential history, covering everyone from Washington and Adams to Lincoln, term limits, founding rivalries, and some fun presidential trivia to wrap things up.It’s local insight, political history, and the launch of a new Lebanon Now conversation series—all in one first episode.

This episode of Girl Power is a deeply honest conversation about mental health, trauma, motherhood, and survival.Sarah sat down with Michaela to talk about her journey through childhood instability, abusive relationships, bipolar disorder, postpartum struggles, and the long road to healing. It is a raw and sincere conversation about what it looks like to keep going even when life gets heavy.If you have ever felt alone in your struggles, this episode may speak to you. Michaela’s story is not easy, but it is real, and her honesty is the kind that reminds people they are not the only ones carrying hard things.Thank you to our Girl Power sponsors for making conversations like this possible.

Girl Power is back with another episode of Erased with Under Grace, and this one is all about consistency. Haley shares an incredible client transformation and how sticking to a routine, both in treatments and at home, can completely change your skin over time.From Botox and facials to simple daily skincare, the message is clear… consistency is key. They also break down how to keep it simple, why SPF matters, and how even the basics can make a big difference.If you’ve been thinking about taking better care of your skin, this episode is a great place to start

Ashley Mahan sat down with Kim Breeden and her team at Shelter Insurance for this Girl Power feature, and it quickly turned into a conversation about growth, grit, and what it really means to build something.Kim shared her journey from growing up in a Shelter Insurance family to building her own agency and eventually bringing that vision to Lebanon. Along the way, she’s built more than a business, she’s built a team. What stands out most is the culture inside the office. It’s a group of women who genuinely support each other, push each other to grow, and enjoy showing up every day.From hiring the right people to getting involved in the community, Kim credits a lot of her success to relationships. Her team echoed that, talking about how this isn’t just a workplace, it feels like home.Now, with a new office on West Elm, the agency continues to grow, powered by a strong team and a clear focus on lifting each other up.This is what Girl Power looks like in Lebanon.

On this episode of Girl Power, Abbey sat down with Courtney and Krystal, the women behind The Book Burrow, for a conversation that was equal parts funny, honest, and inspiring. What started as a friendship built through hair school, coffee, books, and a shared love of Harry Potter eventually turned into a business partnership that has become something special in downtown Lebanon. The two talked about their very different upbringings, the way their personalities balance each other out, and how that contrast has helped them build both a lasting friendship and successful businesses together.

The marriage podcast. Where we take your questions, your topics and we discuss them. Ryan & Sarah are the "husband & wife", here with pastor Kelly Rhoades. Kelly is a trained marriage counselor and gives us an educated answer to our conversations.

Here is part 1 of the pilot episode of Husband and Wife with Kelly Rhoades, We normally do a pilot or practice episde if you will to see if the concept works. Its a bit rough and we are winging in. Please drop your feed back! we are planning to do more!

Ryan Sherrer from Lebanon Now sat down with Carol Barsby of the Laclede County Literacy Council to talk about a growing need in our community: volunteers willing to help adults improve life skills through literacy.The Literacy Council is looking for people who can give just one hour a week to work one-on-one with an adult learner. Volunteers help with basic reading, math, GED or HiSET preparation, digital literacy, financial literacy, and even everyday skills like learning how to use a phone or calculator. No teaching experience is required—just patience, a kind heart, and a willingness to celebrate small wins with someone working to better their life.  Carol shared that in the past eight years, more than 350 adults in Lebanon have earned their HiSET through programs like the Literacy Council. Each one of those graduates represents someone improving their future and strengthening our community.  If you’ve ever thought about giving back but didn’t know where to start, this could be the opportunity. Just one hour a week can truly change someone’s life.Laclede County Literacy Council539 E Elm Street #A, Lebanon, [email protected] the full interview with Carol Barsby on Lebanon Now and learn how you can help.

From Poland to Lebanon, Magda Reagan’s journey is one of courage, hard work, and heart. In this Girl Power story, Magda shares how travel, family, and a willingness to try new things led her to build a life in Lebanon as a real estate agent and the founder of Magda’s Kitchen. What started with cooking meals for local athletes has grown into a business serving hundreds each week, all while staying rooted in community and connection.

In this episode of Girl Power, Abby Hoskins sits down with April True, and you can feel right away why so many people in our community know her name. April talks about growing up on a dairy farm, learning hard work early, and how she and her husband Danny have built a busy life together through family, faith, and a whole lot of commitment to Lebanon.April also opens up about a long, scary season of health struggles that changed everything, and how that road led her to create True Wellness. What started as her own search for answers has turned into a space where people of all ages come for support, encouragement, and real care from a team that truly wants to see you get better.It’s honest, emotional, and full of the kind of perspective that sticks with you.Girl Power is sponsored by Covell Flowers, Espresso Bakery & Gifts, Kim Breeden and the team at Shelter Insurance, June & Beyond, and T’s Tees Custom Apparel.

On this episode of Girl Power, Abbey sits down with Jamie Johansen for a real conversation about building businesses, raising kids, and balancing life on the farm.Jamie shares what it was like starting out as a freelancer, learning hard lessons about self-employment, taxes, and uncertainty, and why being your own boss isn’t as easy as it looks. She opens up about infertility struggles, building a life and career alongside Kevin, and what it means to bring kids into your world without losing your identity.From running cattle and breaking ice in the winter to working in community-focused banking, Jamie talks about faith, resilience, and choosing Lebanon as the place to raise her family. Her heart is in empowering her daughters to be strong, well-rounded women who can do whatever they set their minds to.Her advice to younger women: Don’t say no. Say how. Figure it out. Surround yourself with strong women. Cheer each other on.

Sarah Hampton’s story is one of growth, grit, and courage.In this episode of Girl Power, Abby Hoskins sits down with Sarah, the producer behind the show at Lebanon Now, to talk about her journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a confident wife, mom, entrepreneur, and storyteller in our community.Sarah shares openly about growing up between California and Missouri, navigating unhealthy environments, becoming a young wife and mom, and ultimately finding the bravery to change her life. From divorce and rediscovering herself during COVID to meeting Ryan and stepping into a full-time role at Lebanon Now, her story is proof that your past does not define your future.Now, as the producer of Girl Power, Sarah helps tell the stories of other inspiring women in our community—while continuing to write her own.Her message is simple: Count to three. Be brave. And just do it.

On this episode of Lebanon Vet Talk, host Adam Fries sits down with Becky Jewsbury, President of the Branson Veterans Task Force, to talk specifically about the mission and events of the organization.Becky shares how the Branson Veterans Task Force, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 1997, works year-round to promote patriotism and create meaningful opportunities for veterans to connect. The conversation focuses on the organization’s signature Purple Heart Retreat, how it began, and the life-changing impact it has had on recipients who attend. Becky also explains how the retreat is structured, what costs are covered, and the goal of making the experience even more accessible in the future.They discuss Veterans Week in Branson, including the Veterans Village, free meals for veterans, service officers available to assist with claims, live music, vendor spaces, and the Veterans Celebration Show. Becky also highlights special events such as the Medic, Nurses, and Combat Vet Reunion, the Rose Petal Ceremony honoring female veterans, and the Veterans Wreath Project in December.If you want to learn more about the Branson Veterans Task Force, attend an event, or get involved, visithttps://www.bransonveterans.com/You can also find them on Facebook at Branson Veterans Task Force.Stay tuned to Lebanon Vet Talk for more conversations focused on veterans affairs and military matters.

This week we flipped “In the Box” and put David Millsap in the other chair.What came out of it wasn’t just a career recap. It was the story of a man who has quietly been woven into this community for decades.David talked about growing up here after his family moved to Lebanon in 1965, the influence of his parents, and how fairness and service were instilled in him early. He shared how he double majored in broadcasting and criminal justice because he loved both the adrenaline and the art of telling a story. That combination ended up defining his life.We walked through his start as a juvenile officer in Laclede County in 1983, the tough love approach he took with kids, and the moments years later when grown men stopped him to say that shutting that cell door might have changed their life. He talked about moving to Springfield PD in 1994, working nonstop calls, leading investigations, and the weight that comes with cases you can’t forget. Not in a dramatic way. Just honest.We covered his first run for sheriff at 31 and how losing was actually one of the biggest blessings of his career. Those 22 years in Springfield made him a better leader when he came back and was elected sheriff. He says his proudest accomplishment wasn’t a headline, but changing the culture inside the sheriff’s office.And then we got into the other side of David. Nearly 40 years behind a microphone calling games. Driving hours after work just to broadcast. The love he has for painting a picture with words. His faith. His wife Tammy. His kids and grandkids. The steady foundation behind the public roles.If you’ve known David as Sheriff Millsap, or as the voice of Jacket sports, this episode lets you see the whole picture.It’s thoughtful. It’s grounded. And it’s very David.

Podcast DescriptionIn this episode of On Call with Ryan Rogers, we dive deep into Alpha-Gal Syndrome, the unusual and often misunderstood allergy triggered by a tick bite. After polling the audience, Alpha-Gal won by a landslide, so we sat down for a long-form conversation to break it down clearly and factually  Ryan Rogers, Physician Assistant and Medical Officer in the Army National Guard, walks us through what Alpha-Gal actually is, how it’s classified, and why it behaves differently from other allergies. Unlike typical allergic reactions that happen immediately, Alpha-Gal is an IgE-mediated allergic response that can be delayed by two to three hours after consuming mammalian meat  We cover:• What triggers Alpha-Gal and the role of the Lone Star tick• Why red meat causes reactions but chicken and fish usually do not• The wide range of sensitivity levels, from mild hives to life-threatening anaphylaxis• Hidden sources of mammalian products like gelatin and medications• How Alpha-Gal is diagnosed through specific blood testing and symptom correlation• Whether the condition is lifelong and what current research says about recovery timelines• Treatment options, symptom management, and the role of EpiPens• Why alcohol can worsen reactions• The difference between Alpha-Gal and other tick-borne illnessesWe also discuss common misconceptions, conspiracy theories, elimination diets, and what the medical literature actually supports versus anecdotal treatments.As always, this episode is for educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice  If you believe you may have Alpha-Gal Syndrome, consult your primary care provider.If you or someone you know is navigating Alpha-Gal, this episode provides a grounded, research-based conversation designed to answer real questions from real people.

No kid sleeps on the floor in our town.I sat down with Sara Johnson from Sleep in Heavenly Peace - MO, Lebanon, and this one matters.Since launching the Lebanon chapter in 2025, they have already delivered 99 beds to local kids. That’s 99 children who now have a bed of their own. Not a couch. Not the floor. A real bed, built and delivered by volunteers right here in our community.Sleep affects everything. School. Mood. Confidence. Stability. This is about more than wood and mattresses. It’s about giving kids a foundation to grow.If you’re looking for a way to help, here’s one:Bowling for BunksFebruary 21, 20262 PM – 4 PMBowlmor Lanes RT 66, Lebanon5-person teams – $150 (includes 2 games and shoes)Register or sponsor a lane: https://bit.ly/SHPLebanonbowlingThey also have an Amazon Wish List and ongoing needs for new bedding and pillows. https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/3HOS1G25CBKK9...Lebanon shows up. We always have.Watch the full episode and find out how you can get involved.