St. Louis 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.

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.

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!

The Legends Games is shaking things up as the next-gen Senior Olympics, bringing a vibrant, competitive spirit to adults aged 50 and up! Scott Schwartz and Roger Scherck are here to spill the beans on this fantastic event that takes place every May, showcasing over 90 individual and team sports, from the classics like swimming and softball to the quirky fun of pinball and poker. It's not just about the games; it's about fostering a community of athletes who are redefining what it means to stay active as we age. With over 1,200 competitors and hundreds of volunteers, the Legends Games is a celebration of health, fitness, and the joy of competition.

Scott Holt, the lead vocalist and guitarist of the legendary band Foghat, joins us ahead of the band’s May 2, 7:00 PM show at the Family Arena in St. Charles on the “Twang and Bang 2026” tour. With a rich backstory that includes a decade touring with blues icon Buddy Guy, Scott shares insights on what it means to live "loud" and how music can cleanse the soul from everyday grime. We chat about the delicate balance of honoring a band's legacy while injecting personal flair into performances, all while keeping audiences entertained and engaged. Plus, Scott's got some candid advice for aspiring musicians! So, grab your headphones and get ready for some good tunes and even better stories as we tune into Scott's journey in the music biz.

Rebekah Scallet, the artistic director of the New Jewish Theater, is making an impact in the St. Louis theater scene. With a whopping 31 nominations and 14 wins from the St. Louis Theatre Circle, including a biggie for her direction of "Cabaret," she’s got the insider scoop on what makes live theater tick. We chat about the upcoming production of "Prayer for the French Republic," tackling weighty themes like anti-Semitism and identity, all while keeping things fresh and engaging. If you're even a smidge curious about the magic behind the curtain, stick around—it's going to be a fun show!

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!

What do a rock opera and Nikola Tesla have in common? Well, get ready to find out because we’re charging into the electrifying world of Tesla like you’ve never seen before—through a brand new rock opera titled "Light It Up!" Join us as we chat with the creative masterminds Mark Rodgers and Jason Nelson, who are not just bringing Tesla’s genius to the stage, but also lighting it up with their killer music. We’ll explore how Tesla’s life and inventions are woven into this show, plus the dynamic energy of the band that’s going to make this premiere at Delmar Hall on June 20th a night to remember.

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.

Sandy Weltman is in the house, and he's got a harmonica tune or two up his sleeve that would even make Stan Musial nod in approval! Sandy shares his musical journey from banjo to harmonica, revealing how a simple desire to impress a girl led him down the rabbit hole of music that now includes everything from klezmer to blues. We’ll hear about his adventures, some killer harmonica techniques, and even a near “pinch hit” recording call for Musial. So grab your harmonica (or at least your imaginary one), and let’s get ready to jam with Sandy on this episode of Saint Louis In Tune!

Get ready to unravel a delightful mystery with us as we dive into the whimsical world of Circus Harmony! Someone's done the unthinkable and lifted the cookie from the cookie jar, sparking a wild whodunit that’s set to unfold in their latest show, "Mysterioso." We’re chatting with the incredible Jessica Hentoff, who not only leads this amazing circus but has also just been named the World Circus Federation Ambassador for 2026. How cool is that? We’ll explore everything from the artistry of circus performance to the heartwarming mission behind Circus Harmony, which connects kids through the power of circus arts. So grab your trench coats and maybe a cookie or two, because you won’t want to miss this fun-filled episode!

What do you get when you mix an electrical engineer with an entrepreneur? You end up with Carlos Bedoya, a guy who's not only designed amps for big names like Ampeg and Crate but also strums a mean guitar and croons his way through the St. Louis music scene. In this conversation, Carlos discusses his musical journey, including his work with the tribute band Grand Illusion that pays homage to Styx, and the magic behind those iconic sounds. Alongside him is Scott Marlin, who brings his vocal talents to the table, giving us a peek into the world of tribute bands and the camaraderie that comes with making music. Grab your headphones and get ready for some laid-back banter packed with stories and insights from two passionate musicians who are all about keeping the music alive and kicking!

Gordon Meyer takes center stage in this episode, sharing some seriously cool stories from his wild ride in the entertainment industry, starting from when he was just a kid at 12! We follow his journey, from his first celebrity interview with the legendary Hal Holbrook to producing the epic "Hollywood Master Storytellers" series, where he rubbed elbows with everyone from writers to Oscar-winning visual effects artists. It’s like a backstage pass to Hollywood magic, folks! Gordon also spills the beans on his recent adventures with the Criterion Collection, which includes his interview with the late Paul Reubens making the cut in the 40th-anniversary edition of "Pee-wee’s Big Adventure." So grab your popcorn, kick back, and join us as we explore the glitz, the glam, and the real stories behind the scenes of Tinseltown!

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!

Tim Waurick is not just your average singer; he’s practically a vocal wizard with a range that could give any superhero a run for their money! Kicking off his musical journey at the tender age of four and stepping into a barbershop quartet by twelve, he’s transformed a childhood passion into a full-blown career. Tim’s accolades are impressive, including an induction into the Barbershop Harmony Society's Hall of Fame and a treasure trove of albums under his belt. But it’s not just about the accolades—he’s also dedicated to educating the next generation of singers through his music production company, Tim Tracks. Get ready to dive into a playful and enlightening conversation as we unpack Tim’s journey, his vocal techniques, and the magic of barbershop harmony!

We welcome Chef Rick Lewis, a culinary expert recognized as a James Beard Rising Star semi-finalist. Rick shares his journey from working at small, family-owned restaurants to becoming a celebrated chef with multiple accolades in renowned magazines and shows. He recounts his progression through various notable kitchens, the inception of his own restaurant endeavors, including the famed Grace Meat + Three, the establishment of his food truck, and new venture Grace Chicken + Fish. Rick reflects on the transitions within his career and the importance of stewardship and character development in the culinary industry. The conversation also highlights the unique offerings and culinary philosophy behind Rick's restaurants, emphasizing Southern comfort food, particularly his renowned fried chicken and catfish. Grab a snack (and a napkin), kick back, and join us as we explore Rick's flavorful adventures!