Season 9 Episodes

Brian Roy, CEO of Variety St. Louis (formerly Variety Club) joins us and details how Variety St. Louis helps fill gaps in healthcare and support that many families face of children with special needs. They provide life-changing medical equipment, therapy services, and inclusive opportunities that truly make a difference. For over 90 years Variety St. Louis has been making a difference and now serves 1600 kids in 30 counties in Missouri and Illinois.

Ever wondered what it’s like to be the mastermind behind a music star? Well, today’s chat with Pam Lewis, the president and founder of PLA Media, jumps right into that juicy world! Imagine managing Garth Brooks before he became a legend—yeah, she did that! We’re talking about an epic journey through the music industry, sprinkled with stories about trailblazing artists and the wild adventures of the ’80s and ’90s country scene. Pam shares her insights on navigating the ups and downs of the industry, how she helped shape media strategies, and the importance of storytelling in music. So, grab your favorite snack, hit play, and sit back for the behind-the-scenes magic of music promotion!

If you're passionate about the great outdoors and want to make a real impact in your community you need to be a part of the upcoming Gateway Outdoor Summit. The Summit is a pivotal event designed to connect outdoor professionals and enthusiasts alike, tackling everything from inclusivity in outdoor access to economic impacts. Brad Kovach shares the scoop on what attendees can expect, like engaging breakout sessions and a chance to connect with like-minded folks. So grab your gear, and let’s get ready to explore the outdoor side of St. Louis, Missouri, and southern Illinois.

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!

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!