Branson4U's "The Barber Shop" to Close Up This Week

One of the original shows on Branson4U 98.1 will wrap up its run this week.

The release below is from Ozarks Dynacom and Jim Barber:

After five memorable years on the air, “The Barber Shop with Jim Barber” will broadcast its final episode on Friday, May 15, 2026, on Branson4U (98.1 FM and online at Branson4U.com).

Hosted by internationally touring entertainer and ventriloquist Jim Barber, the weekday program (9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Central) has been a trusted source for arts, entertainment, and classic hits music in the Branson area.

Originally launched as a platform to promote arts and entertainment in Branson, the show grew into a beloved community voice—highlighting local performers, organizations, and events while building lasting relationships with the staff, management, and ownership of the Ozarks Dynacom family of radio stations.

In November 2025, the program entered an exciting new chapter when Jim and his wife, Melonie Barber, took the show mobile. Producing from their 44-foot Newell motorcoach—“The Barber Bus”—the couple began traveling the country, performing at RV resorts and theaters while continuing to share Branson’s story nationwide.

“We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to take ‘The Barber Shop’ on the road,” said Jim Barber. “It has meant so much to us to promote both the station and the community of Branson at each and every one of our comedy ventriloquism performances. The support we’ve received along the way has been truly unforgettable.”

Ozarks Dynacom Executive Team Leader Steve Willoughby added, “A true Professional. We can’t thank Jim enough for his amazing work and contribution to Branson4u. We are honored to have him on the team – he will always be a part of our story.”

After five full years of daily broadcasts, Jim and Melonie are entering a new season in their lives and careers. Their focus will now shift toward expanded touring and documenting their adventures through their YouTube channel, “The Barber Bus,” as well as their official website at BarberBus.org.

Throughout its run, “The Barber Shop” has served as a meaningful platform for community connection—supporting area non-profits such as Branson Regional Arts Council, Junior Auxiliary of Taney County, Salvation Army, Neighbors & Friends of Table Rock Lake and Ozark Mountain Legacy, while featuring interviews with both national and local entertainers who contribute to Branson’s vibrant entertainment scene.

The show will continue airing weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Central through its final broadcast, this Friday, May 15, which takes place live in the Branson4U studio and will include special surprise guest appearances throughout the four-hour program.

Although the radio show is concluding, Jim Barber remains active in the Branson entertainment community. He will continue performing in the Comedy Bash Dinner Show at Shepherd of the Hills, serve as host of “Living Legacies of the Ozarks” on The Vacation Channel, and co-host “The Barber Bus” YouTube channel alongside Melonie.

For additional information, performance schedules, and updates, please visit:

JimBarber.com
Branson4U.com
BransonArts.org
BarberBus.org
OzarkMountainLegacy.org