The Mo Show Podcast

How a 60-Foot Mural Was Created in Downtown Huntsville

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. We also dive into the meaning behind the imagery and the logistics of painting a 60-foot wall in the middle of Downtown. We cover: How Ann transitioned into large-scale public art and murals The story and symbolism behind the Together We Rise mural What it takes to design and paint a 60-foot-tall mural Using grids, VR technology, and scissor lifts to bring the mural to life Why public art feels different from private commissions Mentioned: Ann Moeller [https://www.annmoellerstudios.com] Together We Rise [https://www.instagram.com/p/DOjhDVKj7lF] The Mo Show Live [https://themoshow.live]

The Future of Sports in Huntsville with Mark Russell

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 a destination for cross country and beach volleyball, what it takes to host NCAA and Conference USA championships. Plus, how facilities like John Hunt Park and the Huntsville Aquatic Center are creating year-round opportunities for athletes and families. We cover: What the Huntsville Sports Commission does for our community How cross country and running events put Huntsville on the map The story behind the city's growing beach volleyball scene Why skateboarding and other niche sports matter for local tourism The importance of supporting Alabama A&M and UAH athletics How sports events boost Huntsville's economy and visibility What's ahead with the Rocket City Marathon

Choosing the Right Assisted Living Facility for Your Loved One

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 living communities, Leigh Ann has helped countless families navigate this transition, and she's sharing her insights with us. Listen now to get the information you need before you choose an assisted living facility. We cover: How to know which type of care your loved one qualifies for What to look for (and what to avoid) when touring communities Questions you should be asking on a community tour How pricing typically works for assisted living Tips for making the move smoother and less stressful for your loved one Red flags that could signal a community isn't the right fit

Breaking Barriers to Independent Living with Davina Patterson

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 skills and support they need to create lives they're proud of. Plus, we talk about why independence shouldn't be a privilege—and what each of us can do to help make it possible. We discussed: The first step to help someone transition out of their family home How to support youth through critical school transitions What parents need to know about IEPs and 504 plans How they're helping people protect themselves from scams Why many people with disabilities struggle to find a primary care doctor July is Disability Pride Month

How This Small Nonprofit Is Transforming Madison

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 recent projects include everthing from colorful murals and inclusive playgrounds, to a new senior center and plans for a Miracle League field. We also talk about their microgrant program, upcoming volunteer events like Serve Madison, and how small ideas can lead to big change in our community.