Education & Community Episodes

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!

Nina Ferrigno is back in the studio, and she’s bringing the scoop on the upcoming Missouri Chamber Music Festival, happening June 9th to 20th in St. Louis! This festival is a musical feast featuring high-quality concerts, nationally recognized artists, and a whole lot of chamber music magic. We browse the lineup and reveal a seriously compelling world premiere, “Hey, Mr. Drum Machine Man,” a piece that’s as lively as it sounds. Nina spills the tea on the inspiration behind the festival's theme of “spirit,” plus we chat about the unique pieces being performed and the amazing musicians involved. So, if you’re ready to jazz up (or chamber music up) your calendar with some fantastic live chamber music, you won't want to miss this episode!

We discuss the upcoming Race for Reconciliation 5K event in St. Louis, scheduled for June 14, 2025. The race is part of the Juneteenth celebration and aims to promote racial unity and community engagement. Special guest Brandon Wilkes, Executive Director of the St. Louis Reconciliation Network, shares his insights on the importance of the race and how it seeks to change the narrative of Delmar Boulevard from a symbol of division to one of unity. The discussion also touches on the collaborative efforts between businesses, churches, and community organizations to foster a sense of togetherness in St. Louis. Listeners are encouraged to participate in the race, volunteer, or support virtually. Additional focus is placed on the importance of civility and community support in the aftermath of recent tornadoes in the area.

In this episode of St. Louis in Tune, hosts Arnold Stricker and Mark Langston engage in a comprehensive discussion about immigration and the law with immigration attorneys Kaitlyn M. O'Connor and David J. Harris. Topics covered include employment authorization, temporary and permanent residency, naturalization, and various immigration categories such as H-1B and asylum seekers. The show delves into the complexities and challenges of the immigration system, the impact of political decisions, and the humanitarian aspects of immigration. The conversation also highlights personal stories of immigrants, the legal process, and the role of Congress in shaping and funding immigration laws. The episode aims to clarify misconceptions, provide fresh perspectives, and underscore the urgent need for humane and effective immigration reform.

An engaging conversation about the Field House Museum in St. Louis, highlighting its reopening after a significant water damage incident caused by a burst pipe on Christmas Eve of 2022. Hosts Arnold Stricker and Mark Langston, along with guest Stephanie Bliss, the museum's executive director, discuss the museum's history, its recent renovations, and various exhibits. They delve into the legacies of Roswell Field, an attorney significant to the Dred Scott case, and his son Eugene Field, a famous poet. The conversation also covers community activities, including an upcoming croquet tournament, and the reciprocal museum programs offered by the museum.

Dating scams are the sneaky little ninjas of the online world, and today we're getting into the emotional and financial chaos they can cause. Our guest, Patsy Roach, is here to share her insights as the “Pink Lady Against Scammers.” With a mix of personal stories and expert tips, she helps us navigate the murky waters of romance gone wrong. We'll explore how these scams prey on loneliness and vulnerability, and why it’s crucial to stay sharp and skeptical when chatting online. So grab your favorite snack, sit back, and let’s unravel the wild world of dating scams with Patsy!

The White House has recently pulled the plug on funding for AmeriCorps, and that’s sending shockwaves through community organizations like the Healing Action Network. Katie Rhoades and Courtney Hudzik join us to explain what this means for them and the critical services they provide to survivors of human trafficking. AmeriCorps has been a lifeline for these organizations, helping them expand their reach and support systems, and now, with funding cut off, they’re bracing for a significant impact on their operations. We’ll explore the fallout of these decisions, the challenges ahead, and how we can rally together to support those in need. This isn’t just a funding issue; it’s about real lives and the fight against exploitation.

Jan Jacobi joins us to unravel the fascinating connections between the fable of the tortoise and the hare and the historical figures of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. Lincoln, the determined tortoise, and Douglass, the speedy hare, had their own race of sorts during a tumultuous time in American history. With Jan's expertise as a long-time educator and author, we explore Lincoln's evolution from a hesitant politician to a steadfast leader, all while having a few laughs along the way. Expect some witty anecdotes about their youthful escapades and insights into how their personal journeys shaped their roles in the fight for freedom. Plus, we’ll sprinkle in some playful banter to keep things lively! So, buckle up for a delightful mix of history, humor, and heartfelt reflections!

Ed Wheatley takes us on a nostalgic journey through the rich baseball history of St. Louis, where legends were born and made, and a surprising number of Hall of Famers call home. We delve into the stories of not just the well-known greats like Stan Musial and Bob Gibson, but also the hidden gems that often get lost in the shuffle, like the St. Louis Browns and players from the Negro Leagues who made their mark. It’s a celebration of the players, the fans, and the unique culture that makes St. Louis a top contender for the best baseball town in America. As we chat, we uncover some jaw-dropping facts that might just change how you think about baseball history.

Thaddeus Stevens was a titan of American history, and as one of the fiercest opponents of slavery, he played a pivotal role in shaping key amendments and policies during the Civil War and Reconstruction. You might be surprised to learn he’s often dubbed the "father of the 14th Amendment" and was a hardcore advocate for racial justice—talk about a legacy! But hold onto your hats, because this guy was also known for his radical ideas, like land redistribution for freed slaves, which, spoiler alert, didn’t exactly win him any popularity contests. Join us as we have a conversation with Bruce Levine, author of a gripping biography on Stevens, and explore why this revolutionary figure deserves a spot in the limelight of American history!

Tariffs might sound like a snooze-fest, but they’re the kind of spicy topic that gets the economic gears grinding! John Horn, an economics professor from Washington University, breaks down how tariffs can be both a blessing and a curse for our wallets. It’s all about figuring out if we should be shaking in our boots or throwing a party when it comes to these trade policies. We'll chat about how tariffs can impact everything from your favorite imported T-shirt to the bigger picture of our global economy. So, buckle up for a rollercoaster ride through the world of trade, where every twist and turn could affect your bank account!

314 Day serves as a reminder of the impact a city and its people can have when they come together. So, if you find yourself in St. Louis mid-March, prepare to experience the energy, excitement, and overwhelming sense of community that this celebration brings. One of the founders of 314 Day, Tatum Polk gives us the scoop.

Film director, Wendy Sachs and festival director John Wilson chat about the 30th Annual St. Louis Jewish Film Festival, and let me tell you, it's a big deal! This year, the festival is showcasing a powerhouse lineup of films, with Wendy's documentary, "October 8th," taking center stage. It stands out for its unapologetic dive into the surge of antisemitism and extremism in today's society. John emphasizes the thematic layering of the festival, offering everything from comedy to films centered on historically significant events. The curated selection serves as a vehicle for fostering empathy, understanding, and a sense of community, encouraging moviegoers to engage in meaningful conversations long after the credits roll.

The remarkable story of John Andrew Jackson, a fugitive slave whose life inspired Harriet Beecher Stowe's iconic novel, 'Uncle Tom's Cabin'. Our conversation with Dr. Susanna Ashton, Professor of English at Clemson University and author of 'A Plausible Man: The True Story of the Escaped Slave Who Inspired Uncle Tom's Cabin', explores Jackson's harrowing escape from slavery, his interactions with Stowe, and his lifelong efforts to advocate for freedom and justice. The discussion also touches on Ashton's extensive research methods, the enduring importance of uncovering historical narratives, and the relevance of these stories in contemporary society.