Thinking Out Loud

Gratitude to our caregivers: Celebrating National Provider Appreciation Day May 8th

KBIA's Rachael Norden speaks with Drs. Shinyoung Jeon and Aileen Garcia on National Childcare Provider Appreciation Day, or Provider Appreciation Day, happening May 8th – a worldwide celebration meant to recognize the work of childcare providers, teachers, and other educators of young children.

Recognize, appreciate, and advocate: Celebrating National Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week 2026

KBIA's Rachael Norden speaks with returning guest, Dr. Melissa Herzog, Associate Teaching Professor at HDFS on National Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week (APAW), happening April 20-24, 2026 as a time to recognize, appreciate, and advocate for those who work with young people during out-of-school hours and make a profound difference in the lives of youth.

Essentials to early learning: School readiness and National Kindergarten Day

KBIA's Rachael Norden speaks with Dr. Francisco Palermo, Associate Professor at HDFS on National Kindergarten Day, the impacts of technology on early learning, and how early childhood education emphasizes developing the social skills children require before academia.

MU Choral Union and to Perform Schubert Mass with Columbia Civic Orchestra

KBIA’s Rachael Norden speaks with Dr. Brandon Boyd, Associate Professor and Director of Choral Activities at the University of Missouri on the MU Choral Union’s upcoming spring performance, Franz Schubert’s Mass in E flat Major, presented by the University Concert Series and in collaboration with the Columbia Civic Orchestra. Plus, a look at what’s coming down the line as the Choral Union plans its celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.   MU CHORAL UNION w/ COLUMBIA CIVIC ORCHESTRA Presented by the University Concert Series Thursday, April 16 | 7:00 PM | Jesse Auditorium, MU Campus $23-29, inclusive of fees   EPISODE LINKS: MU Choral Union Page | [https://music.missouri.edu/ensemble/choirs]Facebook Event | [https://www.facebook.com/events/jesse-hall-columbia-mo-united-states/spring-choral-union-concert-and-civic-orchestra/2049615112457653/]Purchase Tickets [https://am.ticketmaster.com/muconcerts/buy/ism/NkNKMDQxNg==] Dr Boyd's Contact Information: BoydBA@missouri.edu   Outro Music Credit: Franz Schubert (1797-1828) Mass No. 6 in E flat Major, D 950: I. Kyrie [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EUa7Q68IDVs&list=RDEUa7Q68IDVs&start_radio=1&t=5s]

Mosaics of personal pursuit: 4-H and career readiness this Career Awareness Month

Growing up, what did you want to be? KBIA's Rachael Norden speaks with Dr. Kellie Seals, Assistant Extension Professor and 4-H State Specialist in College and Career Pathways on Career Awareness Month happening in March, and how programs like 4-H are equipping young people with the skills necessary to be life and work-ready.