Episodes

Hosts Arnold Stricker and Mark Langston delve into the history and evolution of Ox Fest, a music festival in Washington, Missouri. Their guest, Ken Boland, the festival's MC, shares how the festival started as a barbecue in memory of his cousins Doug and Dwayne Haddocks, who passed away due to diabetes. Now in its ninth year, Ox Fest features nine bands spanning genres from classic rock to blues, all performing on a million-dollar stage. The discussion highlights the festival's role in supporting multiple charities, including those focused on children, special-needs education, and victims of sex trafficking. Won't you come to the festival and enjoy music, food, and community while supporting meaningful causes.

Nick Gusman is back in the studio, and trust me, you don't want to miss this one! He’s gearing up for a performance at Joe's Cafe on August 28, and we’re delving into the creation of his new double album, “Plenty of Room.” In our conversation, Nick shares the scoop on his solo endeavors, reveals how his recent adventures in England inspired his songwriting, and even dishes on his unique approach to booking shows across the pond. We also get a taste of his new sound, blending heartfelt Americana and folk vibes that'll have you tapping your toes in no time. So get ready for a sneak peek at new tunes, and a whole lot of fun!

How do you create a work of lasting, positive consequence? Well, Trivers Architecture has been mastering that art for a solid 50 years, and they have some stories to tell! In this episode, Trivers principals Joe Brinkmann, Joel Fuoss, and Amy Gilbertson, let us into their journey of transforming historic buildings into vibrant spaces that serve today's community needs. We’ll explore the magic of adaptive reuse and the challenges of breathing new life into old structures, all while keeping that rich architectural history alive. By the way, what is your favorite building where you live?

Carrie Houk, founder and executive artistic director is back in the spotlight as we dive into the dazzling world of the Tennessee Williams Festival St. Louis, which is celebrating a decade of theatrical magic! This festival has blossomed into one of the top Tennessee Williams festivals in the U.S., and it's all happening right here in St. Louis. With events drawing thousands, from panel discussions to concerts and even a Stella shouting contest, there's something for everyone. Carrie’s passion and a simple grant back in 2014 sparked this incredible journey. Stay in your seats as the curtain is about to rise, because we’re about to uncover the vibrant happenings of this year’s festival, including a fresh take on "A Streetcar Named Desire" that you won’t want to miss!

Get ready to rock into the electrifying world of Mr. Blue Sky, A Tribute to Electric Light Orchestra, with none other than Jeff Faulkner himself. This episode is all about the upcoming concert on August 1st at the Chesterfield Amphitheater, where Jeff promises a night brimming with nostalgia and a few surprise twists to keep us on our toes. We chat about the magic of recreating ELO’s iconic sound, the thrill of performing with a stellar light show, and what makes this concert a must-see for music lovers of all ages. Plus, we’ll get some juicy tidbits SPOILER ALERT .... Well, just listen and join us for music, laughter, and all the good vibes!

Meet Dea Hoover, the queen of travel and storytelling, who’s here to sprinkle some magic on our podcast! We put her latest gem under the loupe, *Herman, Missouri: A Walk Through History*, where we uncover the delightful quirks of this charming town, including the claim to fame of having the oldest continually operated concert hall and tavern west of the Mississippi. Seriously, how cool is that? We’ll chat about Dea’s journey from the hustle of retail to running her own tour company, and all the fun stops along the way, like uncovering hidden gems in Herman and the juicy details of its rich German heritage. So, grab your snacks, kick back, and let’s take a playful jaunt through history with Dea on Saint Louis In Tune!

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!

In this episode of St. Louis In Tune, hosts Arnold Stricker and Mark Langston chat with Miriam Moynihan and Ryan Buckley about their new book 'South Broadway Athletic Club: St. Louis' Home for Boxing, Wrestling, and Cheap Beer Since 1899.' The discussion spans the history of the club, its evolution from an athletic training center to a community hub for social events, and the research that went into documenting its 125-year legacy. The episode also covers the club's significant cultural impact on the South City area and shares upcoming events and ways for new members to get involved.

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!

Championships, anyone? Today, we hit a home run into the world of the St. Louis Cardinals, and you won't want to miss the juicy tales behind their 12 rings—yes, I said 12! Joining us are the baseball brainiac Bob Tiemann, who’s got the stats and stories that’ll knock your socks off, and the legendary Ron Jacober, who’s not just a hall of fame broadcaster and former voice of the Cardinals, but also a saxophonist extraordinaire. We’re chatting about everything from the glory days of baseball to some wild behind-the-scenes anecdotes that’ll have you laughing and reminiscing. So, whether you’re a die-hard fan or just here for the banter, we’ve got a home run of a conversation waiting for you! Grab your popcorn; it’s game time!

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.