Season 9 Episodes

Loryn Nalic was awarded the Best Chef Midwest by the James Beard Foundation, and we’re going back to a conversation we had with her in 2019 revealing all the juicy details of her culinary journey! Just a month after opening her restaurant, Balkan Treatbox, we sat down with Loryn about the highs, lows, and all the deliciousness in between. So grab your fork and get ready to hear about mouthwatering Balkan street foods, the artistry behind her dishes, and why you should definitely stop by Balkan Treatbox for a tasty adventure!

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.

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!