Lanter, a Northwest Missouri State graduate who oversees a 31-county region, highlighted opportunities such as viewing fall foliage, wildlife watching, hiking, and visiting conservation areas like Bluff Woods, Bilby Ranch Lake, and the remnant tallgrass prairie at Pawnee Prairie. He encouraged visitors to research locations in advance, pack essentials, and practice safety—especially during hunting season by wearing blaze orange. Lanter also discussed fishing, birding, winter activities like ice fishing and camping, and urged students and newcomers to let curiosity guide their outdoor exploration.

Michael Shapiro, an American composer and conductor known for writing the first complete orchestral score for the 1931 film Frankenstein.

Jamie Grayson, a graduate of Missouri Western, had a career in the financial industry before founding the non-profit People of all Communities Succeeding Together. Based in Kansas City, POAC Succeed aims to address social issues by working with students and pushing for a wholistic approach to education.

Amanda Griffin joined us to discuss the 16th annual Missouri's Great Northwest Winefest October 11. The winefest with wine tasting, food vendors, live music and games also serves as the primary fund raising event for Northwest Missouri Enterprise Facilitation.