Education & Community Episodes

Storytelling in photography? Oh, you bet as we converse with Diana Linsley, a pro photographer who’s got a knack for capturing feelings and messages in her shots. From her adventures traipsing through Missouri’s hidden gems to the magic of light at sunrise, Diana reveals how to convey emotion through images. We get a peek at her collaboration with Don Corrigan on the must-have book, *Scenic Natural Wonders of Missouri*. So grab your camera or just your favorite snack, and let’s explore the world through Diana’s lens—because, you don’t want to miss out on this visual journey!

We are going to romp through the wonders of St. Louis, where we're exploring the 150th anniversary of Forest Park—a treasure trove of history and fun! With over 15 million visitors flocking to this green haven every year, it's no wonder it sits proudly as one of the nation's greatest urban parks. Join us as we chat with authors Amanda Doyle and Cameron Collins about their new book, “Forest Park, St. Louis: Gathering Places Since 1876,” and uncover some wild stories and little-known gems that make this park a cherished landmark.

Andre' Mack, rockstar sommelier and winemaker, joins us for a heart-to-heart that’s all about keeping your eyes on the prize and doing what it takes to chase your dreams. From humble beginnings and a wild leap from finance to the culinary world, Andre' shares that sometimes you’ve got to roll up your sleeves and dive into the stuff you don’t want to do to get where you want to be. We’re talking about everything from his time as a sommelier at the legendary French Laundry to crafting his own wines under Mouton Noir. Plus, we’ll get into how wine isn’t just a drink—it’s a condiment to life, enhancing every moment we share with good company and great food. So grab a glass, sit back, and get ready for a chat that’s as rich and delightful as a fine Cabernet!

The phenomenal pianist Brian Woods is here to chat about his new album, "Prokofiev’s Radical Miniatures," which will be released July 24th with a single arriving the first week of July. These piano pieces are short and sweet (perfect for those with attention spans shorter than a TikTok video) with no track longer than three minutes, including some around 30 seconds! Woods explains his approach to telling a story in his performances and his role as classical music director at the World Chess Hall of Fame.

Cheryl Eichar Jett shines a spotlight on the often-overlooked contributions of women along the legendary Route 66 in her latest book, "Aprons Away: Women’s Work on Route 66", released ahead of Route 66’s 100th anniversary. Drawing on 10 years of research, she describes her criteria and her goal of balancing “visible” roles (motel, restaurant, shops, gas stations) with behind-the-scenes careers, including architects and artists. These are women from all walks of life, race, nationality, and economic means. Highlights include the Green Book, Julia Morgan’s work, muralist Miriam McKinney, St. Louis designer Maisie Georgina Krebs (SS Admiral), and anecdotes about women leaders and entrepreneurs. Join us listening about this fascinating topic, and hear some delightful anecdotes that bring these women's stories to life. You’ll want to buckle up for this enlightening ride!

The world of storytelling with the incredible Dennis Brown, who’s not just any guest—he’s a maestro of narratives! Dennis shares some delightful anecdotes about icons like Gregory Peck and Henry Fonda, giving us a peek behind the curtain of theater and film. We chat about his new book, "Stage Page: Memories of Mostly Marvelous St. Louis Theater," where he captures the essence of the local scene with a sprinkle of nostalgia and a dash of wit. Join us as we explore what it means to be a critic ("informed subjectivity"), the art of storytelling, and the memories that stick with us long after the curtain falls. So, grab your favorite beverage, turn off your phone (unless you are listening to this by that device), settle in, and let’s get ready to be entertained and enlightened!

Nina Ferrigno, the artistic director of the Missouri Chamber Music Festival, is giving us the inside information on the festival's 16th season. This year, the theme "Hope is the Thing with Music" takes center stage, riffing off Emily Dickinson's timeless poetry. Nina's not just a behind-the-scenes artistic director; she’s also a talented pianist and a founding member of the Calyx Piano Trio, so you know she’s got some serious musical chops! We explore the exciting lineup of world-class performances, the new partnership with the Sheldon Concert Hall, and how the festival is all about weaving together the beauty of music and the power of hope. So grab your earbuds, because we're in for a delightful ride through the rhythms and stories that make this festival a must-see!

Get ready to lace up those running shoes for the Race for Refugees happening on April 18th! This isn't just any run; it's a chance to support an amazing cause that brings awareness and aid to refugees in our community. Joining us is Samson Hillary from the International Institute of St. Louis and we chat about the race's roots, the fun atmosphere, and how it's not just for the speedsters—everyone from families with strollers to competitive runners can join the fun! So, whether you're a casual walker or a seasoned marathoner, join us for a community event that promises to be  fun and a family friendly environment.

Joey Zanaboni joins us today to chat about his book, "St. Louis Sports for Kids," a delightful tapestry of sports history in our beloved city. This isn’t just any sports book; it’s a treasure trove of stories that parents can share with their kids, bridging generations and stirring nostalgia. Joey’s passion for sports and storytelling shines through every page and he’s all about reviving the joy of reading and connecting families over shared sports memories. He’s got some wild anecdotes that'll have you grinning like a Cheshire cat. So get ready for a fun, lively conversation about sports, stories, and a sprinkle of Joey's signature humor!

Get the big screen ready for the St. Louis Jewish Film Festival, a vibrant celebration of stories that connect us all! This year, from March 15th to 26th, you can see powerful narratives that bridge generations and perspectives. John Wilson, the cultural arts director over at the Jewish Community Center, is here to get us behind the scenes on what makes this festival a must-visit and it’s not just about the films. So whether you’re a film buff or just looking for a fun night out, grab your popcorn and join us for a cinematic adventure that promises to remind us of our shared humanity.

What exactly is a greenway? Emma Klues, Vice President of Communications and Outreach for the Great Rivers Greenway, sheds light on this topic during a recent conversation. Great Rivers Greenway provides residents and visitors with interconnected greenways throughout the St. Louis region so grab your bike helmet and get ready for some fresh insights along with some laughs along the way!

Rebekah Coste is here to sprinkle some serious mom wisdom you won't want to miss! Whether you're a new mom feeling lost in a sea of diapers or a seasoned pro juggling a mini soccer team, she's got the lowdown on how to thrive in motherhood. Rebekah is the mastermind behind St. Louis Mom, a hub for local resources and community connections that every mom needs. From tips on surviving playdates to tackling that infamous mental load, we're checking in on what it means to be a mom in today's fast-paced world. So, kick back, grab your coffee (or maybe a glass of wine, no judgment here), and let’s chat about the joys and challenges of motherhood with a side of humor and heart!

John C. Guenther takes us on a fascinating journey through the 352-year history of the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis in this episode. You’ll discover why this stunning structure, with its 83,000 square feet of breathtaking mosaics (largest collection of glass mosaics in the Western Hemisphere) and rich architectural heritage, stands as a true icon in the heart of the city. With stories that weave together the past and present, John highlights the intricate details that make this basilica a masterpiece of art and architecture.

Christopher Alan Gordon joins us to discuss the treasure trove of letters from World War II in his latest book, "Letters Home from World War II: St. Louis." These heartfelt messages reveal the hopes and heartbreaks of servicemen and women from St. Louis on the front lines, shedding light on experiences that often get lost in the dusty archives of history. Did you know that Anheuser Busch was cranking out diesel engines during the war?

The Gateway Outdoor Expo + Summit, Missouri's leading event for outdoor enthusiasts, will take place at the St. Charles Convention Center on November 14-16. Brad Kovach, the founder of the event and publisher of Terrain Magazine discusses the various activities and attractions at the expo, such as a group run and bike ride on the Katy Trail, FREE public entry/parking, and numerous vendor booths featuring outdoor gear, clubs, and organizations. The event also includes educational presentations, a rock climbing wall, a scavenger hunt, and a photo gallery displaying the winners of a regional photo contest. So grab your gear, mark your calendars, and let’s get ready to celebrate all things outdoorsy together!

Award-winning journalist Jack Fairweather discusses his book, "The Prosecutor" which tells the story of Fritz Bauer, a gay Jewish judge from Stuttgart who emerged as a pivotal figure in post-war Germany, fighting tooth and nail to confront his country’s dark past. Bauer was relentlessly on a quest for justice and he challenged a society eager to forget the Holocaust. It’s a wild ride through history, highlighting how the Holocaust was almost brushed aside in the years following the war, and how Bauer’s courage sparked a reckoning that shaped a new Germany. Join us for this fascinating discussion that’s equal parts inspiring and eye-opening!

Andrew Leland joins us to converse about the world of blindness and the profound journey he's been on while navigating his own retinal degeneration. His book, "The Country of the Blind: A Memoir at the End of Sight," isn't just an exploration of what it means to lose one’s vision; it's a candid look at the societal perceptions surrounding disability and the misconceptions that often accompany it. Don’t miss his upcoming talk at the Carl and Helene Mirowitz Performing Arts Center on November 2nd—this is one conversation you won't want to miss!

If you're ready to warm your soul and fill your belly, we're ladling into a delicious conversation about soup with the incredible Ann Carpenter. With over 30 years of experience teaching folks how to whip up the best soups on the planet, Ann's here to share her wisdom and tantalizing recipes from her new book, "Soup for You." Forget the notion that soup is just a winter dish; she’s about to change your mind about summer soups, too! We’ll be chatting about everything from bisques and chowders to the magic of using unexpected ingredients like turnips and fortified wines. So grab a spoon and get ready to stir up some culinary inspiration!

Terry Howell, the Chief Operating Officer of the Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum in McMinnville, Oregon, joins us to share the incredible story of one of America's top aviation museums. With over 20 years of dedication to preserving aerospace history, this gem not only showcases iconic aircraft, including the legendary Spruce Goose, SR-71 Blackbird, Titan II rocket, and F-117 Nighthawk (under restoration), but also serves as a vibrant educational hub for all ages. Hear and learn about the museum’s rich history, unique aircraft collections, and the exciting hands-on learning opportunities it offers, like summer camps and robotics programs. Whether you're an aviation buff or just looking for a fun family day out, there’s something for everyone! So, buckle up as we explore the fascinating world of aviation and space right in the heart of Oregon!

Stuttering is more common than you might think. It affects about 3 million adults in the U.S. alone! We are joined by some incredible guests: Christine Rose, a speech-language pathologist; Jamie Saunders-Anglin, a licensed social worker and advocate; and Molly Porzel, a parent navigating the world of stuttering with her kids. They share insights into the prevalence of stuttering, its genetic basis, and the challenges faced by those who stutter. Highlights include: The National Stuttering Association's efforts in supporting individuals who stutter and reducing stigma, personal stories, the importance of self-advocacy, support for families, and innovative initiatives like a driver's license alert for stutterers.

We’ve got the ever-knowledgeable NiNi Harris joining us to chat about the second edition of *St. Louis Parks*, which is packed with juicy history, including tales of Union soldiers and Olympic tryouts. Plus, we’ll unravel how our parks connect to the city’s rich past and the ongoing efforts to preserve these green treasures. So grab your picnic basket (or just a comfy chair) and get ready for some fun facts and friendly banter about our favorite outdoor hangouts!

Caitlin Yager joins us about the colorful world of small towns in Missouri, and trust me, it’s not just about cornfields and cows! We kick things off by exploring her book, "Small Town Missouri," where she uncovers the hidden gems, unique stories, and vibrant communities that often fly under the radar. From quirky festivals to unexpected historical tidbits, Caitlin paints a picture that’s both charming and enlightening. It turns out, small towns are bursting with personality and intrigue, and they're not just pit stops on the way to bigger destinations. So, grab your road map (or just your podcast app), because we’re about to take a delightful journey through the Show Me State that you won’t want to miss!

Jack Marsh, the Artistic and Executive Director of Circus Flora shares his unique journey from growing up in the circus to earning a law degree from Harvard, and ultimately returning to the Circus Flora. The discussion delves into Circus Flora's history, its impactful community outreach programs like Clowns on Call and Share the Circus, and an overview of their 39th season show 'Urban Legend.' The episode highlights the blend of world-class performances, storytelling, and local St. Louis culture that Circus Flora epitomizes.

Harry Weber, a master sculptor and storyteller, has been bringing life to bronze for decades, and in this conversation, we wave the wand of magic to see what is behind his creations. He’s not just about the art; he’s about the stories each piece tells, from his early days sketching in New York to his impressive portfolio of over 150 sculptures across the globe. We explore how his background and experiences have shaped his artistic vision, including the challenges of capturing movement and emotion in his work. Plus, we get a glimpse of his process, from the initial sketches to the final bronze castings, and how he manages to keep the spark of creativity alive after all these years. Join us as we share witty banter and insightful nuggets about the art world, creativity, and, of course, the occasional misadventure in the studio!