Kristian Kriner was born and raised in Springfield. She is pursuing a degree in broadcast journalism and a minor in religious studies at Missouri State University. She started at KSMU in January, 2008, as an intern, and now works as a student reporter. While at KSMU, she covered the political debate between Republican gubernatorial candidates Kenny Hulshof and Sarah Steelman. She has interviewed several important political figures, including Governor Matt Blunt, Representative Sara Lampe, and Missouri's Attorney General Jay Nixon. Kriner has also interviewed former The Price is Right host Bob Barker.