St. Louis on the Air

How St. Louis will spend $250 million in Rams settlement money causes disagreements at City Hall Nov 22, 2024

The City of St. Louis has about $250 million from a settlement with the Rams over its relocation to Los Angeles. Unlike money from the American Rescue Plan Act, there’s no deadline to spend it. That hasn’t stopped competing proposals and disagreements at City Hall. STLPR reporter Rachel Lippmann breaks down the divisions on the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air.

Why did Missourians vote for liberal ballot items — but conservative candidates? Nov 22, 2024

Missourians have backed ballot items supported by Democrats in the past decade while also giving Republicans unfettered control over state government. On this episode of the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air, we hear from a voter who split his ticket voting for Gov.-elect Mike Kehoe and U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley, and for legalizing abortion and raising the minimum wage. Longtime Republican political consultant John Hancock also joins the show.

A missed deadline to spend federal funds means homeless students will lose out on services Nov 22, 2024

A recent report from the U.S. Department of Education shows that millions of dollars of American Rescue Plan Act funding for homeless students still remain unspent in the Midwest, including Missouri. Schools are scrambling to file extensions. Midwest Newsroom investigative reporter Kavahn Mansouri explains why school districts did not know the funds were available or struggled to find ways to use them. Mansouri's reporting continues his look into his investigation of the "hidden population" of homeless students in the Midwest, and what we know about why school districts continue to undercount thousands of students in need.

Musial Award brings Bob Costas back to his broadcasting roots in St. Louis Nov 21, 2024

Bob Costas has been a mainstay of sports broadcasting for decades. He’s done the Super Bowl, World Series, NBA Finals and the Olympics. But before he was on national and international stages, he got his start in St. Louis — at KMOX in 1974. Costas is back in St. Louis, the place he considers his hometown, to receive the Stan Musial Lifetime Achievement Award for Sportsmanship. He reflects on his start in broadcasting, lengthy career, retirement from baseball play-by-play and potential return to NBC Sports.

Once-troubled St. Louis County animal shelter ends volunteer program, worrying advocates Nov 20, 2024

St. Louis County Animal Care and Control Adoption Center volunteers have spent nearly 28,000 hours walking dogs, cleaning kennels and promoting adoptable pets so far this year. Despite their contributions, the county’s Department of Public Health has decided to end the shelter’s volunteer program. That decision has volunteers and advocates worried about what will happen to the animals at the facility — especially since the shelter has previously come under fire for improper care. STLPR journalists Danny Wicentowski and Ulaa Kuziez discuss their reporting on the decision, share background on the shelter’s history and talk about plans for the shelter’s future.

Discrepancy in jail death rates raises concerns about the City of St. Louis' transparency Nov 20, 2024

Eighteen inmates have died at the St. Louis City Justice Center since 2020, which is higher than what public safety officials previously shared. STLPR reporter Lacretia Wimbley investigated the discrepancy between those figures. She shares her findings and how city leaders have responded.

Missouri advocates say arts education boosts student outcomes — especially post-COVID Nov 20, 2024

St. Louis-based early childhood art educator Colleen Fitzsimmons-Wiviott (founder of Start With Art) and Missouri Alliance for Arts Education executive Phyllis Pasley speak to the student benefits of art, music, dance, theater, and media arts; and why there’s urgency in turning the tide on disinvestment in arts education locally and statewide, especially post-pandemic.

SLPS board president and VP discuss year of turmoil, superintendent firing and school closures Nov 19, 2024

St. Louis Public Schools has had a tumultuous year. It struggled to transport students to school, and in October, the SLPS school board voted to fire Superintendent Keisha Scarlett. SLPS Board of Education members speak with STLPR reporters Jason Rosenbaum and Hiba Ahmad about how the district is trying to move on under new leadership, while facing scrutiny over its projected budget deficit of $35 million, and with many community members worried about possible school closures. (You can listen to an extended version of this interview on the Politically Speaking podcast.)

Rolla typewriter enthusiasts open store for those enchanted by the ‘clickety clack’ Nov 19, 2024

A new shop in Rolla, Missouri, aims to make typewriters a more appreciated — and regularly used — mode of communication. Owners Amanda and Shane Byrne discuss what inspired them to open Clickety Clack Typewriters and why it’s a store, workshop, museum and community space all in one. They also share stories about the people and machines they’ve come to know through the shop.

How Food City is decreasing food insecurity in the St. Louis region Nov 18, 2024

Sara Bannoura, the research and storytelling program manager for Food City, breaks down what contributes to food insecurity in parts of the St. Louis region and how Food City is helping to decrease it.

‘Silence in Sikeston’ explores the effects of racism on justice and public health Nov 18, 2024

The documentary film “Silence in Sikeston” juxtaposes two instances of violence and interrupted justice. The first is the 1942 lynching of Cleo Wright, a Black man accused of stabbing a white woman. Then the 2020 police shooting death of Denzel Taylor who was killed outside his family’s home after a violent altercation with his father. Both killings left mental and emotional scars on their families and in Sikeston, Missouri, which is just a two hour drive south of St. Louis. Producer and KFF Health News Midwest correspondent Cara Anthony shares what she learned from the film’s production and how justice and public health go hand-in-hand.

Going back to the future of housing with a Lustron home in St. Louis Nov 15, 2024

In the late 1940s, the Lustron Corporation presented a solution to the post-war housing crisis: A prefabricated, all-steel home. Around 2,500 were made in the U.S., thanks to a government grant, but the company went bankrupt in 1950. Today, just thirteen Lustron homes remain in St. Louis, including a newly restored, 3-bedroom home. Kaleb Higgins, who has spent months restoring the home to its all-metal, 1950s-accurate condition, and Nathan Wilber, board president of the nonprofit ModernSTL, take us on a tour of the Lustron’s unique design and strange history.

Missouri won’t permit DACA recipients nursing licensure. Here’s what’s being done about it Nov 14, 2024

Alondra Orozco, a DACA recipient, has dreamed of becoming a nurse since she was introduced to the profession in high school. After she completed her studies at St. Charles Community College and passed the National Council Licensure Examination, she was blindsided by the fact that Missouri will not issue her a registered nurse license because of her citizenship status. Orozco and SLU Law professor Kelly Gillespie discuss the hurdles non-U.S. citizens face in obtaining professional licensure and how other states, including Illinois and Kansas, have made it possible for non-citizens to become registered nurses.

Trial over Missouri ban on trans medical care included clashing facts and Jerry Sandusky Nov 14, 2024

Missouri politics and government have emerged in recent years as a battleground for the rights of trans people. A landmark lawsuit brought by transgender children and their parents claims Missouri’s gender-affirming care ban is a form of discrimination and is unconstitutional. Missouri Independent reporter Annalise Hanshaw covered the case’s 13-day trial. With a decision expected by the end of 2024, Hanshaw shares her insight into the case, the arguments, and how the judge’s decision could affect the lives of Missouri’s trans population.

‘Mapping St. Louis’ tells the region’s story in 40 rare maps Nov 13, 2024

For seventh generation St. Louisan Andy Hahn, maps are a critical part of understanding urban growth and family history. In “Mapping St. Louis,” the author showcases 40 rare maps that span St. Louis history from the 1760s to the present day.

Missouri Botanical Garden’s first woman president, Lúcia Lohmann, brings focus on climate change Nov 13, 2024

Lúcia Lohmann will become Missouri Botanical Garden’s first woman president. The internationally recognized botanist highlights climate change and biodiversity as the greatest challenges of our time. She shares how we can battle them while keeping Missouri Botanical Garden as a world-class institution in botany.

Great Rivers Biennial art showcases home and heritage, in St. Louis and beyond Nov 12, 2024

The Great Rivers Biennial initiative, a collaborative initiative between the Gateway Foundation and the Contemporary Art Museum, has awarded artists Saj Issa, Basil Kincaid and Ronald Young sizable grants and a six-month exhibition featuring their work. Young and CAM’s chief curator Dean Daderko share the coincidental connections between the artists’ works; and the intersection of Young’s inspiration from West Africa and reclaimed materials from St. Louis’ built environment.

What it will take for St. Louis to make a competitive bid for a new WNBA team Nov 12, 2024

The WNBA is looking to expand to a 16th team in the coming years, and NBA player Jayson Tatum — alongside billionaire investors — hopes that team will land in St. Louis. Noah Cohan, assistant director of American Culture Studies at Washington University, talks about the effort and shares a brief history of women’s basketball in St. Louis.

Arch Rival Roller Derby puts St. Louis on the map with 2nd place win at world championships Nov 11, 2024

The Arch Rival All Stars took 2nd place at last week’s global roller derby championships. Skaters “Bolt Action” and “LuxFurious” discuss what it means for St. Louis’ roller derby team to be ranked number two in the world, share some roller derby 101, and talk about their passion for the sport.

How Chinese restaurants in St. Louis have served food and helped build community Nov 11, 2024

A history of St. Louis’ Chinese restaurants sheds light on the role these establishments have played in taste-making and community-building for more than 150 years. The Missouri Historical Society’s Magdalene Linck discusses who owned some of the best-known Chinese restaurants in St. Louis, what they served beyond the plate, and how changes in Chinese food options over time reflect changes in the local population as well as diners’ palates.

Missouri's Governor-elect Mike Kehoe shares his future plans for the state and St. Louis Nov 11, 2024

STLPR's political correspondent Jason Rosenbaum caught up with Missouri's Governor-elect Mike Kehoe in Jefferson City after his gubernatorial race win to discuss his future plans for Missouri's Child Services department, sporting arenas, St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and more.

NASA mission will determine if a moon of Jupiter can sustain life Nov 10, 2024

Jupiter’s icy moon Europa could have the ingredients to sustain life, and NASA’s massive Europa Clipper spacecraft is on a mission to find out. Washington University Professor William McKinnon discusses the potential for life within Europa’s oceans and what researchers might find in 2030, when the spacecraft arrives at Jupiter.

The St. Louis Chamber Chorus is performing hits by Nine Inch Nails and Ed Sheeran Nov 08, 2024

The St. Louis Chamber Chorus may be most well known for its repertoire that features classical and religious songs from centuries ago. But the chorus has also featured new compositions and for its 69th season, the nearly 50 singers will add 21st century pop to its choral selections. St. Louis Chamber Chorus artistic director Philip Barnes talks about this Sunday’s “Classic Pop” performance at the Sun Theatre in Grand Center.

‘Concrete Jungle Gym’ traces life of Bob Cassilly, from City Museum to Cementland Nov 07, 2024

The documentary "Concrete Jungle Gym" chronicles the brilliant life and legacy of Bob Cassilly and the creation of the City Museum. Premiering Nov. 10 at the St. Louis International Film Festival, the film draws on decades of footage to create an unusually intimate portrait of an artist driven to create new art from the demolished pieces of the city around him, and who often found himself at odds with St. Louis authorities. We talk with the film's creators, Mike Gualdoni and Zach White.

Key takeaways from Missouri and Illinois election results Nov 06, 2024

The GOP once again dominated an election in Missouri. Every Republican won statewide office but they did suffer a stinging policy defeat with the passage of Amendment 3, which legalizes abortion up to fetal viability. On the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air, we hear analysis from UMSL political science professor Anita Manion about the results and check-in with STLPR reporters. We also discuss key takeaways in Illinois’ election results.

Missouri voters want to end time changes in spring and fall Nov 04, 2024

While Americans are deeply divided on election-year politics, there’s one issue on which the vast majority agree: The practice of switching between daylight saving time and standard time needs to end. In this encore episode, we listen back to a March 2024 conversation about the effects of the current system on our health, the history of daylight saving time, and how the daylight saving time/standard time debate has the golf lobby and scientists at odds.

Lawyers and social workers are tackling the ‘justice gap’ in St. Louis Nov 04, 2024

In the civil legal system, the so-called "justice gap" means most low-income people who face cases involving evictions, health care, and even domestic violence, do so without an attorney. Dan Glazier, Executive Director of Legal Services of Eastern Missouri, and social worker Laura Halfmann-Morris talk about how they are working to close that gap, and how the lack of legal services is impacting survivors of domestic violence.

Discussing key Missouri races ahead of Tuesday’s election Nov 01, 2024

Voters go to the polls on Tuesday to decide on a slew of important statewide contests, including the combative race between GOP Sen. Josh Hawley and Democratic challenger Lucas Kunce. Passage of Amendment 3 would place abortion rights protections in the state Constitution, while approval of Amendment 2 would legalize sports wagering. STLPR statehouse and politics reporter Sarah Kellogg discusses the upcoming election on the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air.

Fact versus feeling: How voters decide what's real amid a flood of political messaging Nov 01, 2024

A swarm of messages over the airwaves and on social media feeds have increasingly relied on inflammatory language, embellished details and sometimes a blatant disregard for truth. On the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air, STLPR’s Abby Llorico spoke about this trend with professor Natasha Casey, a media literacy educator at Lincoln Land Community College in Springfield, Illinois, and with the Media Education Lab.

How ovarian cancer survivors are helping educate St. Louis’ medical students Oct 31, 2024

Ovarian cancer is a disease diagnosed in 54 patients every day in the United States, according to the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance. St. Louis Ovarian Cancer Awareness collaborates with area medical schools in a program called Survivors Teaching Students to help future medical professionals see symptoms earlier. Drs. Andrea and Ian Hagemann discuss how these first person accounts help them in the classroom and the examination room.

The true story behind St. Louis’ most famous exorcism Oct 31, 2024

Generations of St. Louisans and countless classes of St. Louis University graduates have heard tall tales about the exorcism performed by SLU Jesuit priests in 1949. The diary of the lead priest, Father Raymond Bishop, would go on to inspire the cult classic horror film “The Exorcist” and novels depicting people possessed by demons. St. Louis University archivist and assistant professor Caitlan Stamm separates fact from fiction and addresses the myths that continue to swirl around SLU’s involvement in the exorcism of “Robbie Mannheim” in 1949.

Witches, rituals and reconnecting with heritage on Halloween Oct 31, 2024

Halloween conjures images of ghouls, ghosts and other spooky creatures. But for Jade Moore, the owner of Sincerely, the Craft, mysticism is more than a trend — it’s a connection to heritage. In this encore episode, producers Miya Norfleet and Emily Woodbury speak with Moore about the beliefs, faiths and ritual practices that are generally categorized as “witchy.”

A spine-chilling rendition of “The Raven” Oct 31, 2024

Published nearly 180 years ago, Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Raven” endures. The poem tells the story of the narrator’s descent into madness as they deal with the grief of losing their beloved Lenore. In this encore episode, we listen to historical interpreter Anne Williams’ recording of “The Raven,” featuring original sound design by producer Avery Rogers.

Trump’s taxes changed one St. Louisan’s life: The contractor who stole them Oct 30, 2024

St. Louis native Chaz Littlejohn is serving five years in federal prison for the theft and leak of Donald Trump's tax returns. St. Louis Magazine senior editor Nick Phillips explored the mystery of Littlejohn's crimes, chronicling how the former government contractor decided to break the law for what he believed were the right reasons. Phillips takes us into Littlejohn’s world — and what happened when Chaz turned his attention from Trump's taxes to other billionaires.

How two St. Louisans chased their big dreams of a tiny home Oct 29, 2024

After more than two years of work, the Tiny House project in St. Louis’ Benton Park West neighborhood is complete. We hear from Dwayne Tiggs, the architect and craftsman behind the Tiny House, and his partner and project gardener Rikki Watts. They share their story of the home's completion and what it means to build a home while also building community.

Dances of India St. Louis draws inspiration from ancient epic in ‘Dreams of the Dark Prince’ Oct 29, 2024

At 100,000 verses, the ancient Indian epic ‘The Mahabharata’ is the longest epic poem ever written. Due to its focus on conflict amongst family — and its explorations of illusion, reality and truth — Nartana Premachandra felt it fitting inspiration for Dances of India St. Louis’ 2024 annual performance, which falls just after the Nov. 5 elections. She discusses her original play script “Dreams of the Dark Prince” and how it combines movement and storytelling to tell the story of Prince Duryodhana, one of the Mahabharata’s central characters.

In St. Louis County, backlash over Trump and abortion restrictions has moved GOP areas to the left Oct 29, 2024

While Missouri’s 2nd Congressional District is GOP-leaning thanks to Franklin and Warren Counties, the St. Louis County portion is shifting leftward. STLPR politics correspondent Jason Rosenbaum reports from Chesterfield on how Democrats have gained ground and are bullish that a backlash over Trump and restrictive abortion policies could help the state party gain strength for future elections. But others are skeptical that either Democratic nominee Kamala Harris or a measure to legalize abortion will provide a boost down ballot.

How to better support youths’ mental health and well being amid anxieties of school violence Oct 28, 2024

While odds of becoming a victim of a school shooting are statistically low, the looming threat of violence in what’s supposed to be a safe space for students and educators negatively affects young people’s mental health. Bart Andrews, Chief Clinical Officer at Behavioral Health Response, shares how adults can support the youth in their lives at a time when school shootings regularly make headlines.

Craft breweries are hurting, but that doesn’t mean the market is going bust Oct 28, 2024

Craft beer has experienced explosive growth in the last 15 years, but more recently those good times may have ended, with craft breweries across the country now hurting, or even closing. In recent months, Urban Chestnut Brewing Company filed for bankruptcy protection, O’Fallon Brewery closed, and Earthbound Beer announced it will shutter later this year after 10 years in business. We talk with Earthbound Beer co-owner Stuart Keating and with Fausto Gonzalez, an assistant professor of marketing at WashU.

Legal Roundtable: Why Missouri's AG argues the state is being harmed by decreasing teen births Oct 25, 2024

A lawsuit from Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey seeking to restrict the abortion pill is drawing attention to an unusual take on the decrease in teen pregnancy in Missouri. The Legal Roundtable discusses the significance of the lawsuit’s argument that access to the abortion pill “is depressing expected birth rates for teenaged mothers” — something the suit calls a “sovereign injury” to Missouri.

Short-term rental tax would fund St. Louis affordable housing Oct 24, 2024

A proposed 3% fee on short-term rental rates on the November ballot would help fund affordable housing in St. Louis. St. Louis Public Radio reporter Rachel Lippmann talks about Proposition S, as well as several other propositions city voters will see on the ballot on Election Day.

'It wasn't about just me': At 80, composer Leonard Slatkin reflects on a life of collaboration Oct 24, 2024

Conductor Leonard Slatkin took the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra to new heights during his 18 years at the helm. He talks about a weekend of concerts and events celebrating his 80th birthday, and his favorite moments conducting works by Gershwin and Tchaikovsky. Along with Slatkin, we get to know composer Cindy McTee, whose work “Timepiece” will be part of the program at the Touhill.

New book remembers Charlie Peete, a highly touted prospect for the St. Louis Cardinals Oct 22, 2024

Charlie Peete was a highly-touted prospect for the St. Louis Cardinals who played 23 games with the big league club in 1956. He was expected to compete heavily for the starting center field job the next season, but he didn’t get that chance because he, his wife and three young children died in a plane crash. Had Peete lived, he likely would have become the first Black position player in franchise history to earn a permanent starting job. Journalist and St. Louis native Danny Spewak details Peete’s life in the new book, “Cardinal Dreams: The Legacy of Charlie Peete and a Life Cut Short.”

She was shot in the back in St. Louis. Now she’s finding the help she needs to heal Oct 21, 2024

The traumatic experience of being shot is often just the beginning of the challenges facing those with bullet-related injuries. Keisha Blanchard was shot in the back by an unidentified person in January 2024. Keisha tells the story of what happened next, and the painful, confusing experience of being told by a physician that, “We are not in the business of removing bullets.” Along with Keisha, we talk with Bullet Related Injury Clinic founder and trauma surgeon Dr. LJ Punch, and Tammy Kuykendoll, Freedom Community Center's director of Community Referral Pathway programs.

Poll shows what Midwest voters say about abortion, climate change, and other key issues Oct 18, 2024

A survey from The Midwest Newsroom and Emerson College Polling Center asked registered voters in several Midwest states, including Missouri, about measures on the Nov. 5 ballot as well as a variety of political, social and economic subjects. Daniel Wheaton, data reporter for the Midwest Newsroom, discusses the poll’s findings on the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air.

Foes of Missouri sports betting say the plan won’t help education as advertised Oct 18, 2024

After years of legislative inaction, popular sports betting apps FanDuel and DraftKings are funding a ballot initiative that would allow for Missourians to place bets on their phones, in casinos and at sporting venues. But they are facing well-funded opposition: Missourians Against the Deceptive Online Gambling Amendment. Brooke Foster, a spokeswoman for the group, says the measure known as Amendment 2 won’t actually provide much money to help education as proponents contend. A previous edition of the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air featured supporters of Amendment 2.

Abortion rights foes say Missouri legalization amendment is too extreme Oct 18, 2024

Missouri was one the first states to ban most abortions after Roe v. Wade fell in 2022, but now abortion rights opponents are facing a serious challenge in November. Amendment 3 would enshrine abortion rights in the state constitution. Stephanie Bell of Missouri Stands With Women explains why her group is opposed to the amendment. A previous edition of this show featured supporters of Amendment 3.

WashU doctor notes African Americans’ unique menopause experience Oct 17, 2024

Black Americans are more likely to start menopause early and gain less treatment to manage symptoms — that’s according to a recent review of menopause literature. In this encore presentation, Dr. Makeba Williams, an associate professor and vice chair of professional development and wellness in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Washington University, encourages more doctors to recognize that the menopause experience is not universal and more care should be taken when treating patients of color, especially Black Americans.

Historic Black cemetery celebrates 150 years in St. Louis with significant restoration Oct 17, 2024

Greenwood Cemetery has been through a major transformation in recent years — due in large part to a married couple who grew up in the area and felt called to restore the cemetery after it fell into disrepair. Raphael and Shelley Morris of the Greenwood Cemetery Preservation Association join to talk about the 150-year-old cemetery’s history, its restoration over the last nine years, and how they’ve partnered with area businesses and nonprofits to make the burial grounds a welcoming space for visitors and native wildlife.

Club Viva celebrates 28 years as a hub for Latin dance in St. Louis Oct 15, 2024

Over the past three decades, Club Viva has become the go-to destination for Latin dance beginners and veterans alike. In this episode, owner Cesar Cardona shares his journey from Colombia to the U.S., how he came to own the nightclub, and its significance in the St. Louis community.

Touchy Topics Tuesday continues difficult conversation 10 years after Michael Brown’s death Oct 15, 2024

Tiffany Robertson started Touchy Topics Tuesday after the killings of Michael Brown, Jr. and VonDerrit Myers, Jr. in 2014. The diverse group meets weekly to have difficult conversations about race, politics, and culture. Ten years after those initial weekly meetups, Robertson’s current goals are to help people and organizations “intentionally integrate.” Robertson, along with Touchy Topics Tuesday participant Margaret Weck, reflect on the past 10 years of conversations and how they hope the meetups change hearts and minds.

Why Indian Americans aren’t a monolithic voting bloc in St. Louis Oct 14, 2024

Indian immigrants are the fastest-growing foreign-born population in the St. Louis region. That momentum is happening at a pivotal time as in American politics. Three Indian Americans with longtime Midwest roots – attorney Arindam Kar, journalist Meera Nagarajan, and higher ed professional Jacob Chacko – share perspectives on what compels Indian Americans to engage with U.S. politics, why there’s no single “Indian American vote,” and how the 2024 election’s candidates and prominent issues have opened broader discourse about the place of Indian Americans in electoral politics.

How a local rapper promotes literacy in St. Louis schools Oct 14, 2024

St. Louis rapper and educator Zeus Rebel Waters discusses the inspiration behind the creation of the Reading with Rappers program, and how he plans to promote literacy to children in the St. Louis area.

Wes Hoffman builds up St. Louis alternative scene with 314 Punk Oct 11, 2024

Wes Hoffman, lead singer of pop-punk band Wes Hoffman and Friends, talks about his music, St. Louis’ vibrant St. Louis punk scene and his efforts to promote it through his Instagram account 314 Punk.

7 hot new tracks from St. Louis musicians Oct 11, 2024

Producer Miya Norfleet and DJ and rapper Ryan “Big Esco” Brown shed light on St. Louis’ robust and diverse music scene and discuss some of their favorite new songs.

Study sheds light on Missouri’s most common venomous — and elusive — snake Oct 10, 2024

Many of Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center’s 80,000 annual visitors may be surprised to know they are walking amongst Missouri’s most common venomous reptile on the trails: the copperhead snake. The results of a six year study on copperheads in Powder Valley’s oak hickory forest lends new insight on their population size, how they survive the extreme heat and cold, and their movement throughout the year.

A 'hidden population' of homeless students in the Midwest isn't getting school services Oct 10, 2024

Federal law requires school districts to enroll homeless students -- but in some states in the Midwest, including Missouri, school districts report they don’t enroll any homeless students, even though other measures of poverty indicate that’s likely not true. The data, experts, say, suggests a "hidden population" of homeless students who are not getting the support they need. NPR Midwest Newsroom Investigative Reporter Kavahn Mansouri dives into this topic, including the way federal grants put pressure on overwhelmed rural school districts.

First season of girls flag football proves popular at Belleville high schools Oct 08, 2024

Belleville East and Belleville West high schools are in the postseason for the inaugural season of girls flag football in Illinois. STLPR Metro East reporter Will Bauer discusses how the sport arrived in Belleville and where it goes from here. Bauer also discusses his reporting from the regular season finale last Wednesday, when East squeezed out a nail-biting 13-12 overtime win against their crosstown rivals.

Monarch and firefly populations are in decline. Here’s what you can do to help Oct 08, 2024

Monarchs are migrating through the St. Louis region now, but residents are seeing fewer of them than ever before. Loss of natural habitat along their migration route and increased use of herbicides and pesticides, as well as unpredictable weather caused by climate change, have accounted for an estimated 90% decline in the migrating monarch’s population since the mid-1990s. In this episode, we learn what we can do now to help support monarchs, fireflies and other ecologically important insect species in the coming year.

Audit of unit investigating police shootings finds records ‘incomplete’ and flawed Oct 08, 2024

For years, the city of St. Louis has fought to keep an internal police audit out of public view. The audit has now been unsealed by a court order: its pages accuse the city's police department of making numerous errors while investigating 50 police shootings. St. Louis Post Dispatch columnist Tony Messenger joins the show to discuss a recent piece he’s written about the legal fight over this audit, and why St. Louis fought so hard to keep it secret.

How two Black men use their experience to help peers address mental health challenges Oct 07, 2024

Black men face unique challenges in their everyday lives, and they often struggle to find mental health professionals who understand those challenges on a personal level. Psychotherapist Fred Williams and licensed behavioral analyst Bryant Antoine discuss how they use therapy and group sessions to support the mental health of their peers.

A Missouri teacher founded LGBT History Month 30 years ago. It’s now in 20 countries Oct 07, 2024

In 1994, the first LGBT History Month – then called Gay History Month – was celebrated with backing from prominent LGBT advocacy groups. Rodney Wilson founded the commemorative month while finishing grad school at University of Missouri-St. Louis. He also made another mark on history that year as the first openly gay K-12 teacher in Missouri. On the 30th anniversary of LGBT History Month, Wilson sat down with Danny Wicentowski to reflect on his impact as a history teacher in Missouri and abroad.

Lucas Kunce talks about his contentious Missouri U.S. Senate campaign with Josh Hawley Oct 04, 2024

Democratic U.S. Senate hopeful Lucas Kunce is facing the challenging task of upending Republican Sen. Josh Hawley in a state that’s become GOP-dominated. Kunce is making a strong bid. He’s been raising money at a feverish clip since entering the U.S. Senate race in 2023, and Hawley is taking Kunce’s effort to oust him seriously, as seen with a flurry of negative television ads and confrontations.

The Missouri Ethics Commission emerges from a year of challenges Oct 04, 2024

Liz Ziegler, former Missouri Ethics Commission executive director, lays out Missouri’s campaign finance system rules. Ziegler also answers listener questions about campaign contribution limits as well as some of its limitations of the commission.

Missouri Republicans are reaching out to the state’s trade unions — some are wary Oct 04, 2024

U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley’s about-face on right to work is seen by some as a welcome shift toward pro-labor policy — and by others as election year pandering. In this episode, St. Louis and Missouri based union representatives share their thoughts on the U.S. Senate race in Missouri ahead of the Nov. 5 election..

After 34 years of injustice, Chris Dunn reflects on his new life Oct 03, 2024

Chris Dunn became a free man after spending 34 years in prison for a murder he did not commit. In a wide-ranging interview, Chris recounts his long, frustrating journey through the justice system and how that system fought to hold him in prison — even after gaining the support of multiple judges and prosecutors. Chris was released July 30. He is joined by his wife, Kira Dunn, who stood by his side over decades, and who first met him while writing a magazine article about his case in 1999.

SLPS acting Superintendent Borishade discusses transportation, deficit, enrollment Oct 03, 2024

STLPR reporter Lacretia Wimbley shares what she learned from her conversation with St. Louis Public Schools acting Superintendent Millicent Borishade including addressing criticism on the district's hiring practices, transportation woes, enrollment and budget.

NPR uplifts St. Louis emerging journalists who explore the meaning of ‘home’ Oct 02, 2024

NPR’s Next Gen Radio Project was in St. Louis last week. The five-day digital journalism and audio training project’s goal is to find, coach, and train public media's next generation. STLPR Visuals Editor Brian Munoz and Senior Environmental Reporter Kate Grumke discuss the experience of working with the emerging journalists, and we feature some of the non-narrated stories that are centered on the idea of “home.”

Ken Page, who starred on Broadway and Muny stages, dies at 70 Oct 02, 2024

Ken Page holds a special place among the pantheon of entertainers who have both hailed from St. Louis and who’ve chosen to call the city home. Page died Monday at the age of 70. We hear Page’s hit roles including in “Cats” and “The Wiz,” and as the voice of Oogie Boogie in “The Nightmare Before Christmas.” We also listen back to Page when he was a guest on this show in 2019, after receiving the Arts and Education Council’s Lifetime Achievement Award. The Muny’s Mike Isaacson also shares his memories. Page performed in more than 45 Muny productions.

She opened a Vietnamese restaurant 32 years ago. Today, Truc Lam is a St. Louis staple Oct 01, 2024

In 1992, Lâm Flamenco opened a Vietnamese restaurant, Truc Lam. The restaurant’s long operation, as well as the dramatic journey its owner took to get to St. Louis, have made it “a fixture of the Tower Grove South neighborhood,” according to food writer Ileana Martinez, who profiled Lâm Flamenco in the latest issue of Sauce Magazine. Martinez shares her impressions from the restaurant's menu, and owner, about what it takes to run a restaurant for more than three decades.

How Black women in St. Louis navigate complicated, often toxic work environments Oct 01, 2024

Producer Miya Norfleet shares stories Black women recently shared about their experiences as professionals in various workplaces.

A snail species went extinct. The St. Louis Zoo helped bring it back to the wild Oct 01, 2024

The St. Louis Zoo is part of a team of conservationists that have done what few scientists have ever accomplished: successfully reintroduce an extinct species back to the wild. Zoological manager Kayla Garcia shares how the Patula snail went extinct and was brought back to life in their native South Pacific Island of Moorea.

Mini artificial islands mimic wetlands and help filter Missouri's lakes and ponds Oct 01, 2024

Much of Missouri’s natural wetlands no longer exist. They were destroyed by agriculture and urban development which is a problem because wetlands filter contaminants and excess nutrients in water. Artificial floating wetlands are becoming a promising alternative that mimic the real thing on a smaller scale. Producer Ulaa Kuziez went to St. Charles County to check out how a new floating wetland installed by the Missouri Department of Conservation helps improve water quality.

An STL Welcome Party for people new – and returning – to St. Louis Sep 30, 2024

The STL Welcome Kit has tools to help you understand the history, culture and ins and outs of St. Louis. STLPR Engagement Editor Lara Hamdan curates articles that explain St. Louis and recommend events and places to explore. Lara discusses the project and previews the STL Welcome Party, a free event from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, that's a resource fair for residents new to the St. Louis metro area, and a great way to learn more about the community.

‘Missouri Comfort’ shares over 70 recipes that are beloved and unique to the Show-Me State Sep 30, 2024

Missouri has a diverse offering of delicious cuisines from indigenous peoples to German immigrants and descendants of enslaved Africans. Because of Missouri’s unique climate, cattle and crops, traditional dishes have a special twist that you can only find within the state — 70 of those recipes are shared in a new cookbook “Missouri Comfort: Recipes, Places, and Food Traditions in the Show-Me State.” Co-authors Mathew Unger and Porcshe Moran-Murphy share the process behind their collaborative cookbook and some of their favorite recipes.

Black women face unique challenges at work. A new event wants to help them overcome them Sep 27, 2024

In 2023 GoDaddy Venture Forward found that Black women make up the fastest growing demographic group to turn to entrepreneurship, but the motivation for many stems from seeking psychologically safe work environments. Jennifer Drake is the organizer behind Black Women at Work, an event meant to connect and support Black women and provide ways to survive and thrive in the workplace.

St. Louis County prosecutor wants to make it easier to vacate convictions Sep 27, 2024

St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell says that Marcellus Williams’ execution on Tuesday showcases two things: That prosecutors should rethink the utility of the death penalty and that a 2021 state law allowing them to try and vacate convictions may need to be changed. Bell discussed the legal twists and turns of Williams’ case.

How East St. Louis educator Briana Morales uses writing to foster healing and connection Sep 26, 2024

2023 Illinois Teacher of the Year Briana Morales was in seventh-grade when she had a teacher who changed her life: by instilling a love of writing, a sense of hope — and by inspiring her to become a teacher herself. We hear that story and learn how Briana has impacted her own students’ lives.

Inside the investigation of 'predatory’ contracts in Missouri's cannabis industry Sep 26, 2024

Missouri's cannabis industry is still contending with groups hoping to exploit the state's social-equity cannabis program. Missouri Independent cannabis reporter Rebecca Rivas has tracked this story across the country. She shares her findings about the way "predatory contracts" are being used -- and who is benefiting from them.

Nelly, ‘Chimp Crazy’ drama, and more on the Legal Roundtable docket Sep 25, 2024

Members of the St. Lunatics are suing Nelly because they say they weren’t credited or paid for work on the 2000 album “Country Grammar.” The HBO show “Chimp Crazy” showed a St. Louis nurse admitting she lied in federal court. Mission Taco Joint is changing its name to Session Taco after a lawsuit from the maker of Mission-branded tortillas. Those were some of the issues discussed on our monthly Legal Roundtable with attorneys Nicole Gorovsky, Javad Khazaeli and Bevis Schock. The attorneys also discussed this week’s execution of Marcellus Williams, the case of a Honduran national who killed a St. Louis police officer while driving drunk on Sunday, and more.

Jake Adelstein chased organized crime in Japan. A suspected killer nurse drew him back to Missouri Sep 24, 2024

Journalist Jake Adelstein is known for his reporting on Japanese organized crime and the Yakuza, which inspired a recent HBO series "Tokyo Vice." But this Missouri native's new project, as the host and producer of "Night Shift," tells a story close to his hometown of Columbia -- and to a story that Adelstein's father played a key role in. Jake discusses the podcast, his father's involvement, and why this case still sticks with him decades later.

Who owns the Riverfront Times? Signs point to Texas-based companies hawking OnlyFans camgirls Sep 24, 2024

The Riverfront Times was sold to an undisclosed buyer in May, but the secret may be out. STLPR’s Jessica Rogen reports that an LLC in Texas appears to be the new owner. The investigation involved digging into incorporation documents, lawsuit filings and more — all of which points to RSC Ventures, a company that’s leveraging the RFT’s online reputation to fund a link-farming business involving OnlyFans creators and camgirls.

Artists across St. Louis remember the lasting impact of the Way Out Club’s Bob Putnam Sep 23, 2024

Bob Putnam, co-owner of the iconic St. Louis artist’s haven the Way Out Club, passed away August 26, 2024. His wife and fellow Way Out Club owner Sherri “Danger” Lucas shares memories of Putnam, who was beloved as a friend, mentor and dedicated supporter of local arts.

SLU professor explores the complex realities of prescription monitoring programs in new book Sep 23, 2024

Prescription drug monitoring programs — a technology originally designed for law enforcement — have been used by health care systems to combat the opioid crisis since the early 2000s. In her new book “Policing Patients,” St. Louis University Associate Professor Liz Chiarello speaks to the technology’s effects on overdose rates and patient outcomes. She also sheds light on the tool’s effect on doctors, pharmacists, and law enforcement; and what this has meant for patient care.

We Live Here: How a 1972 Veiled Prophet protest is connected to the Ferguson uprising Sep 21, 2024

This past Thursday, producer Danny Wicentowski joined our show to discuss how VP St. Louis has ousted the central figure and namesake of the secret society that runs St. Louis’ Fourth of July Parade — the Veiled Prophet. This episode of STLPR’s podcast “We Live Here” takes a deep dive on the history of the Veiled Prophet and explores how it’s connected to the Ferguson uprising.

GOP candidate for secretary of state wants hand count of ballots. Local officials reject the idea Sep 20, 2024

Despite not having the most money or the flashiest social media strategy, state Sen. Denny Hoskins emerged as the winner of the crowded GOP primary for secretary of state. Hoskins has a proposal that is alarming elections officials — to hand count ballots. St. Louis County election directors Eric Fey and Rick Stream join the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air to discuss why they think that’s a bad idea.

Missouri and Illinois aren’t on the presidential radar. But their voters are involved Sep 20, 2024

Neither Missouri or Illinois are competitive in this year’s election cycle. But residents in both states are contributing time and money to campaigns. In this episode of the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air, we hear from voters and political consultants in both states about why they’re still involved in presidential politics.

He started a politics newsletter at 9. Now Gabe Fleisher has thousands of readers Sep 20, 2024

St. Louis County native Gabe Fleisher started a politics newsletter when he was nine years old. Now, the recent Georgetown University graduate has nearly 50,000 people subscribed to his “Wake Up to Politics” newsletter on Substack. Fleisher joins the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air to talk about the evolution of his journalism — and what he’s paying attention to in the home stretch of the presidential race.

Dads to Doulas educates Black fathers on prenatal and postpartum stages Sep 19, 2024

After Brad Edwards and his family experienced a massive tragedy — twins lost to stillbirth — he decided to create an opportunity to train dads to better support mothers and be advocates for their birth partners. Edwards’ loss was the catalyst to developing Dads to Doulas which will welcome its first cohort Oct. 2024, an initiative under the media platform Dear Fathers which focuses on Black fatherhood and mental health. Edwards shares what Dads to Doulas training will entail and why it’s important for more men to learn the ins and outs of prenatal and postpartum stages.

VP St. Louis ousts its own figurehead — the Veiled Prophet is no more Sep 19, 2024

The Veiled Prophet is gone. According to VP St. Louis, the central figure and namesake of the secret society that runs St. Louis' Fourth of July parade “is no longer part” of the group that once bore his name. In a rare public interview, VP St. Louis Chief Operating Officer Michael Ruwitch said the decision to remove the Veiled Prophet was made “for reasons.” He insisted that “VP is just letters.” St. Louis on the Air producer Danny Wicentowski unpacks the news, and what it means for the 146-year-old club.

How immigrant families preserve history, culture and familial bonds through language Sep 18, 2024

Children of immigrants often face heritage language loss. In this encore episode, we hear from St. Louis parents and community members who are taking practical steps to maintain linguistic and cultural connection across generations.

How St. Louis rapper Big Boss Vette turned hardship into certified gold Sep 17, 2024

Female rappers are dominating the charts, including St. Louis’ very own Diamond Smith — better known by her stage name Big Boss Vette. The writer and rapper behind hits like “Snatched” and “Pretty Girls Walk” reflects on her St. Louis roots, her fast-growing career and the lessons she’s learned along the way.

How Music at the Intersection delighted audiences but caused concern for some local artists Sep 17, 2024

Producer Miya Norfleet shares reflections for artists and attendees of this year’s Music at the Intersection Festival hosted in Grand Center.

‘How to Destroy Everything’ podcast returns to investigate a narcissist St. Louis lawyer Sep 16, 2024

The "How to Destroy Everything" podcast is back after a long break with new episodes, continuing the strange, twisting tale of the late St. Louis attorney Richard Jacobs. Listen back to our 2023 interview with creators Danny Jacbos and Darren Grodsky, who describe their growing investigation into the ways Jacobs, Danny’s father, controlled and terrorized the people in his life. We also hear an update about the next episode, and what the series creators have been doing since 2023.

At Crown Candy, speed humps bring sweet relief to Old North St. Louis Sep 16, 2024

Do speed humps help curb reckless driving? Crown Candy Kitchen owner Andy Karandzieff says he’s seen a marked improvement in driver behavior at the intersection near his restaurant in Old North St. Louis. He joins Elaine Cha and 14th Ward Alderman Rasheen Aldridge to talk about traffic violence, what it takes to get speed humps installed, and what else needs to happen to improve the safety of our region’s roadways.

‘We have the next few years in the bag’ Sam Altman touts U.S. AI supremacy, ChatGPT release and St. Louis Sep 13, 2024

Sam Altman wants to be careful about not overhyping Thursday’s release of the newest model of ChatGPT. But that’s not stopping the co-founder and CEO of OpenAI from celebrating OpenAI o1 as a new artificial intelligence model that can reason and solve complex problems. Altman grew up in St. Louis and was back in his hometown speaking at his alma mater, John Burroughs. Altman discusses his St. Louis upbringing, the origins, emergence and uses of AI, along with the newest version of ChatGPT.

Why this summer was hotter, drier and wetter than ‘normal’ Sep 12, 2024

St. Louis summers are infamously hot and humid. But this year saw a combination of much hotter, more humid and drier days. Matt Beitscher, lead meteorologist with the National Weather Service-St. Louis, and Trent Ford, Illinois’ State Climatologist speak to what’s causing extreme weather events in the Midwest region, and what is challenging about keeping vulnerable people safe.

How to celebrate the real Mexican Independence Day in St. Louis Sep 12, 2024

Leticia Seitz is the owner of Arte Rojo STL and broadcaster behind Conectando Raices Radio. She joined “St. Louis on the Air” to discuss the importance of providing a way for people of Mexican descent living abroad to stay connected to their heritage as well as sharing her culture with those who are interested in learning more about Mexico. She also shares what’s planned for Fiesta Mexicana, a local celebration that commemorates Mexican Independence Day.

Chingy made St. Louis hip hop a thing — and now he’s coming home Sep 11, 2024

St. Louis took over the airwaves and the hip-hop Billboard charts in the early 2000s, and helping lead the charge was Walnut Park native Howard Bailey, Jr. — better known as Chingy. He’s bringing those nostalgic hits and newer works to the Music at the Intersection stage Saturday, Sept. 14.

Dance the Vote uses music and dance to boost voter registration and civic engagement Sep 11, 2024

The St. Louis initiative Dance the Vote is using the arts to get people to register to vote ahead of the November general election. Ahead of this Saturday’s Dance the Vote event at the Missouri History Museum, cofounder Joan Lipkin and youth activist Precious Barry discuss the importance of fostering civic engagement among young people before they hit voting age, disability voting rights and efforts to increase voter turnout in the St. Louis area.

How Missouri’s Supreme Court put abortion back on the ballot Sep 11, 2024

A Missouri Supreme Court order this week ended days of legal drama surrounding an amendment to legalize abortion in Missouri. St. Louis Public Radio politics correspondent Jason Rosenbaum breaks down the legal developments and political ramifications, and what happens if voters approve Amendment 3 on November 5.

How a St. Louis family’s connections freed their son from Syrian captivity Sep 10, 2024

Sam Goodwin’s recreational trip to Syria took a terrifying turn when he was wrongfully accused of espionage and detained for nine weeks in 2019. While stuck on the inside of the country’s notoriously lethal prison system, his family in St. Louis worked relentlessly to secure his release. The story of his captivity, and the international network of people who helped him get out, is detailed in his new book, “Saving Sam: The True Story of an American’s Disappearance in Syria and His Family’s Extraordinary Fight to Bring Him Home.”

How the BBC is focusing on St. Louis news and culture Sep 10, 2024

The BBC is turning its lens toward St. Louis. The Arts Hour on Tour will showcase the city’s talent on Tuesday night at the Touhill Performing Arts Center; and the flagship daily news program, Newshour, broadcast from STLPR’s studios on Monday. Newshour anchor James Menendez discusses the BBC’s reporting in St. Louis which included stories on efforts to legalize abortion and a trip to a rodeo in Defiance, Missouri.

Illinois is redesigning its flag — submit your ideas by Oct. 18 Sep 10, 2024

Illinois has joined a slew of states and cities looking to redesign their flags. The Illinois Flag Commission — made up of political appointees and representatives from the state archives, state museum and state superintendent — will accept ideas online or by mail until Oct. 18.

Shannon Lee shares the 'martial arts as life' teachings of her father Bruce Lee Sep 10, 2024

Fifty years after his death, Bruce Lee’s status as one of the world’s most influential martial artists endures through his work as an actor and his philosophical teachings. In the 2020 book “Be Water, My Friend,” Lee’s daughter Shannon Lee speaks to principles that guided her father’s life as well as her own. In this encore episode, she talks with Elaine Cha about the book and her father's teachings.

How WashU became a mainstay of the presidential debate circuit Sep 06, 2024

Kamala Harris and Donald Trump will square off in their first presidential debate on Tuesday. St. Louis has a rich history of hosting such events. Washington University hosted presidential or vice presidential debates in 1992, 2000, 2004, 2008 and 2016. Longtime St. Louis journalist Jo Mannies discusses this history on the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air, and we hear from WashU Chancellor Emeritus Mark Wrighton as well as notable moments from those debates.

Nepotism is as American — and historic — as apple pie Sep 06, 2024

St. Louis County Councilman Dennis Hancock recently faced scrutiny after he sought to hire his stepdaughter as his assistant. The Missouri Constitution prohibits nepotism and it’s been frowned upon throughout American history. In this episode of the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air, political correspondent Jason Rosenbaum speaks with historian Cassandra Good about the tradition and controversy around nepotism in American politics.

In Ghana, Okunsola Amadou dreamed of a birth center. She built it in Ferguson Sep 05, 2024

Jamaa Birth Village founder Okunsola Amadou became Missouri's first Black certified professional midwife in 2019. She shares her unlikely life story, from a childhood in Texas and Ferguson, to becoming a water priestess in Ghana, to returning to Ferguson just in time to experience the uprising over Michael Brown’s killing in 2014. She spoke with producer Danny Wicentowski about her decision to return to Ferguson to build her dream birth center.

The Smithsonian wants to help St. Louis digitize its Black history Sep 05, 2024

The digitization and curation team from the National Museum of African American History and Culture are helping families and institutions preserve Black history in the St. Louis region. Doretha Williams, director of the Digitization and Curation Center at the Smithsonian Institute and April Brown, director of Internship Management & HR Solutions at Cardinal Ritter College Prep discuss the importance of maintaining personal and community histories and how folks can participate

PETA seeks to shut down 'Chimp Crazy' star's Missouri exotic zoo Sep 04, 2024

The HBO series "Chimp Crazy" has brought international attention to U.S. roadside zoos that offer exotic animal encounters. It also brought renewed attention to Missouri resident Tonia Haddix, who kidnapped a chimpanzee named Tonka in 2021 and lied about his death in court. PETA lawyer Brittany Peet shares insights on “Chimp Crazy” and the legal issues that Haddix now faces. Missouri Alliance for Animal Legislation executive director Bob Baker also joins the conversation to discuss how Missouri exotic animal laws have allowed facilities like Haddix’s to sell chimpanzees in the entertainment industry and the exotic pet trade.

How a St. Louis teacher uses Black history to make math less daunting Sep 04, 2024

Math can be a dry and daunting subject for many students. Educator and author Kendall Ware decided to change it up with his math textbook, “Solving for Freedom,” which teaches the principles of algebra and features portraits of Black history makers. Ware talks about why making math relatable helps students succeed.

A St. Louis program helps clergy navigate the contentious 2024 election season Sep 03, 2024

Eden Theological Seminary’s Praxis Cohorts program focuses on bringing people of faith together around locally-anchored community work and fostering relationships during the contentious 2024 election season. Steve Lawler, founding director of the Walker Institute of Leadership, shares anecdotes about Praxis Cohorts’ impact and details about its “Faithful Responses to the 2024 Election” breakfast panel on September 5.

It’s not just you — rudeness is on the rise. Here’s why, and what to do about it Sep 03, 2024

A social media trend about what it means to be “demure and mindful” is playing out against the background of Society of Human Resource Management March 2024 findings that two-thirds of workers have experienced or witnessed incivility at the workplace within the last month of that spring study. The Modern School of Manners founder Asha Hornaday and WashU professor of organizational behavior Hillary Anger Elfenbein discuss why folks are ruder and how to manage poor manners and low emotional intelligence.

U.S. Postal Service slowdowns are so bad, baby birds are dying in transit Sep 03, 2024

For many years, the U.S. Postal Service has worked with hatcheries to ship live birds across the country. Special handling and priority mail designed to meet specific timing standards are required — but delays are resulting in the delivery of dead birds. Investigative reporter Kavahn Mansouri of NPR’s Midwest Newsroom reports on the problems and their impacts.

Exploring Latin American cuisine in STL, from rotisserie chicken to seafood soup Aug 30, 2024

Whether you love exploring regional delicacies, or tearing into a long-marinated rotisserie chicken, the latest issue of Sauce Magazine has something for you. We talk to Sauce Magazine managing editor Iain Shaw about Brasas, a new Peruvian rotisserie chicken restaurant and the latest project from Jalea chef/owner Andrew Cisneros. Meanwhile, Sauce Magazine writer Ileana Martinez has continued her culinary journey through Central American cuisine, highlighting dishes from Honduras and Nicaragua served at Sbor K-Trancho, Merendero Las Catrachitas, and Fritanga Nicaraguan Cuisine.

Ted Drewes Jr. provided more than creamy custard — he uplifted St. Louis Aug 30, 2024

A visit to Ted Drewes Frozen Custard is a quintessential St. Louis experience on par with visiting the St. Louis Zoo or Muny – or going to a Cardinals game. The custard shop – with one on Chippewa and one on South Grand – has been in business for nearly 100 years and running the business for much of it was Ted Drewes Jr. He died earlier this week at the age of 96. St. Louis Magazine food writer Cheryl Baehr and listeners share their memories.

In St. Louis, trivia isn’t a trivial pastime — it’s a part of culture Aug 30, 2024

In St. Louis, trivia is no trivial thing. It’s ingrained in the region’s culture, from school gyms to neighborhood bars. Dan Dillon, long-time trivia emcee and author of “The Ultimate St. Louis Trivia Quiz” talks about the origins of trivia and its enduring popularity. Andi Barrett, a former bar trivia host and current player, shares how St. Louis’ bar trivia scene has grown, especially post-pandemic.

New forest supervisor wants you to fall in love with the Mark Twain National Forest Aug 29, 2024

The Mark Twain National Forest encompasses more than 1.5 million acres in central and southern Missouri. Managing that vast wilderness for both conservation and recreation is a large task that takes a team of U.S. Forest Service employees in seven district offices. Vince Keeler was recently appointed as the supervisor and discusses his background, goals for the forest, and how he intends to make Missouri home.

Sarah Adam makes history as first woman on Team USA wheelchair rugby Paralympics team Aug 28, 2024

St. Louis University assistant professor Sarah Adam is the first woman to make the USA's Paralympics wheelchair rugby team. Adams shares what it means to represent her country, and women, as an elite athlete at the 2024 Summer Games in Paris — and one of her biggest fans explains why Adam’s story embodies the spirit of the Olympics and her chosen profession: occupational therapy.

Missouri outlawed abortion. Now it’s funding an anti-abortion group that works in other states Aug 28, 2024

Missouri anti-abortion group Coalition Life calls itself “America’s largest professional sidewalk counseling organization" — and it's benefitting from millions in public funds while also taking its message outside the state. ProPublica's Jeremy Kohler shares his latest investigation into how Missouri is subsidizing anti-abortion groups and pregnancy centers through tax credits, and what that means for Missourians when abortion is almost completely banned under state law.

Marcellus Williams and Chris Dunn both claimed innocence. Only one man is free Aug 27, 2024

A panel of attorneys discuss local and regional legal issues, including the latest attempts by death row inmate Marcellus Williams to make his case for innocence, and an update on a $495 million verdict against the manufacturers of Similac baby formula.

How a St. Louis turtle named Peanut inspires generations to curb plastic pollution Aug 26, 2024

In 1993, a turtle whose shell grew around a discarded plastic 6-pack ring was found in the St. Louis region. She was named Peanut, and she’s become one of the best-known animal ambassadors for litter awareness ever since. We celebrate Peanut’s 40th birthday and talk about her story with her caretaker, Missouri Department of Conservation naturalist Matthew Cavanaugh. Tierra Curry of the Center for Biological Diversity and David Mizejewskiv of the National Wildlife Federation also join the conversation to discuss the power of individual animals’ stories, like Peanut’s, to promote social change.

Missouri AFL-CIO President Jake Hummel looks ahead to labor’s impact on state elections Aug 23, 2024

Missouri AFL-CIO President Jake Hummel, who heads the state's umbrella organization for most unions, said organized labor wants to see candidates who protect workers. On the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air, Hummel discusses the state of labor in Missouri and its relevance in local and state politics.

Missouri’s third-party candidates try to stand out in a GOP and Democratic-dominated state Aug 23, 2024

Third-party candidates often struggle to gain traction in a political system dominated by Republicans and Democrats. Jared Young, a businessman from Webb City, is seeking Missouri’s U.S. Senate seat as a member of the newly formed Better Party. On the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air we hear why, and talk with St. Louis University political science professor Christopher Duncan about the role and relevance of third parties.

How Reuters investigated cancers in residents around West Lake Landfill Aug 22, 2024

Reporters from Reuters investigating the impact of radioactive waste near West Lake Landfill tracked down dozens of former and current residents of Spanish Village in Bridgeton, finding more than 30 people diagnosed “with types of cancer that have been linked to radiation.” Two members of the team that produced it, reporters Michelle Conlin and Mike Pell, discuss their findings, and how a little-known federal agency is has become “a shield for polluters.”

Need to archive old photos or find ancestry info? This woman-led company can help Aug 22, 2024

Museums only show about 2% of their collections to the public. Archivist and entrepreneur Emma Prince deals with the other 98%. Prince talks about founding the St. Louis-based company Backlog, and describes its work building archives for libraries, schools and other organizations, and helping individuals learn about their family history.

This self-care series prioritizes creativity and community to promote wellness Aug 21, 2024

Self-care is often marketed as an individual, consumption-driven activity. Soul Spa Collective, a new wellness group in St. Louis, is challenging that. Collective co-founders Jessica Wernli and Steven Hunt talk about the group’s Self Care Sunday series, and its focus on promoting self-care practices that prioritize community connection.

Music at the Intersection organizers tout expanded events ahead of St. Louis festival Aug 21, 2024

Music at the Intersection is back for its third year — and they are bringing living legends and beloved local acts on stage together. Acts include Chaka Khan, Black Pumas, Chingy and Keyon Harrold. Kranzberg Arts Foundation’s Chris Hansen, executive director, and Larry Morris, director of programs and partnerships, shared what audiences can expect during the festival.

Teachers still spend their own money on school supplies, despite efforts to help stock classrooms Aug 20, 2024

Many educators say their districts aren’t supplying everything their students need. Non-profit groups, community organizations and even the courts are stepping in to help meet needs across the Midwest, but education advocates say it’s not a long-term solution.

Each St. Louis ward is getting 2 murals to highlight history and promote tourism Aug 20, 2024

The St. Louis Mural Project is bringing 28 new murals to St. Louis. Tracey Morgan of the Regional Arts Commission discusses how the federally funded project is meant to highlight the city’s history and encourage economic growth. Three artists also share about the murals they have painted in various parts of the city.

How St. Louis Public Schools faces transportation, financial and leadership issues to start the year Aug 20, 2024

Even before some 19,000 St. Louis Public Schools students started the 2024-25 school year yesterday, questions have swirled about the district’s leadership, its financial stability, and its capacity to get students to and from school. STLPR reporter Lacretia Wimbley discusses the challenges facing the district.

Better than chicken: Missouri frog hunters have filled empty bellies for generations Aug 19, 2024

Frog hunting has connected Missourians to one another and served as a food source for generations. STLPR reporter Lauren Brennecke describes its hows and whys, including what folks who dismiss or disparage the longtime practice miss about its cultural importance.

How 5-time champ SLAM built a women’s football dynasty in St. Louis Aug 16, 2024

St. Louis has another football team that can claim the title of "Greatest Show on Turf." Last month, after a thrilling comeback against the Boston Breakers, the St. Louis SLAM won its fifth Women's Football Alliance championship. The team's players aren't paid like NFL players— but they hit hard and play to win. Player-turned-coach Myrt Davis and second-year running back Jada Humphreys share their love of the game, and what it takes to keep football thriving in St. Louis.

There are gaps in Route 66 history. Researchers want your stories to fill them Aug 16, 2024

The iconic Route 66 is approaching its 100th birthday. To celebrate the historic ‘Mother Road’, the State Historical Society of Missouri is working to collect items and anecdotes from around the state to build an exhibit that opens to the public in 2026. Researchers Katie Seal and Sean Rost talk about the stories they want to collect and why the highway remains a source of nostalgia decades later.

Missouri to vote on abortion, sports betting and minimum wage in November Aug 15, 2024

On Tuesday, Missouri's Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft confirmed that the fate of abortion rights in the state will be decided on the ballot in November --- but how we got here tells us a lot about the state of Missouri's politics. St. Louis Public Radio statehouse reporter Sarah Kellogg discuses the fight to put abortion on the ballot, and how the initiative petition process survived opposition from the same official who certified its collection of voter signatures,

New collection by poet Carl Phillips reflects his thoughts on memory and loss Aug 15, 2024

Carl Phillips was day-drinking last year when he found out he won the Pulitzer Prize in poetry. The recently-retired Washington University professor is now out with a new book, “Scattered Snows, to the North.” STLPR arts & culture senior reporter Jeremy D. Goodwin talks with Phillips about the prestigious recognition and his new book, “Scattered Snows, to the North.”

Adjo Honsou represents St. Louis and Togo to win ‘The Great American Recipe’ Aug 14, 2024

PBS’ “The Great American Recipe” introduced viewers to St. Louis’ own Adjo Honsu, chef/owner of the food truck Fufu n’ Sauce. Her mission to share her Togolese cuisine and culture with others put her alongside seven other home-trained chefs from across the U.S. competing, sharpening their skills, and telling their familial and culinary stories — and she won!

A St. Louis doctor saw horror— and humanity— in Gaza Aug 14, 2024

Dr. Amjad Musleh, an emergency medicine and intensive care physician at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, volunteered at one of the last functioning hospitals in Gaza last month. He shares why he went to an active war zone to treat Palestinian war victims and how he saw extraordinary examples of human resilience.

The hilarious, historic, hot and horrible 1904 Olympic games in St. Louis Aug 13, 2024

Few editions of the Olympics can out-crazy the 1904 Games hosted in St. Louis. Adam Kloppe, public historian at the Missouri Historical Society, shares the many ways St. Louis left its mark on Olympic history — including its hot mess of a marathon and being the first modern Games to award a medal to an African American athlete.

St. Louis students share reflections on Gen Z and media literacy Aug 13, 2024

Standardized K-12 media literacy education is scarce in schools across the country. But with an ever-evolving media landscape, navigating today’s information overflow with skill is crucial. Three students – high school seniors Charlie Meyers and Diego Perez Palomino, and college freshman Aylah Hopper – share what they think is the best approach to teaching young people how to critically engage with the media they consume and create. We’ll also hear from Donnell Probst, deputy director of the National Association of Media Literacy Education, about the importance of media literacy education.

Nostalgia reigns supreme in new edition of ‘Lost Treasures of St. Louis’ Aug 12, 2024

There are about 415 St. Louis area restaurants, entertainment venues, stores and more highlighted in the second edition of “Lost Treasures of St. Louis.” Among other gone-but-not-forgotten entries, the coffee table book features the floating McDonalds, St. Louis Arena and Famous-Barr. In this encore segment from December 2023, co-author Cameron Collins — and listeners — share their memories about the Millennium Hotel, Casa Gallardo and the Admiral.

We Live Here: The Ferguson Uprising will be livestreamed Aug 11, 2024

Many people found their power and voices in the midst of the Ferguson Uprising. Some used streaming technology as they found themselves defining their own class of media, with no editors and no rules. They brought the story of the Ferguson Uprising live to our computers and smartphones. This episode of STLPR’s podcast “We Live Here,” explores their dispatches from the frontlines that kept viewers up to date while the national news played catch up. Their stories didn’t end in 2014, though, as many of them continued to demonstrate for causes in the St. Louis area to the present or until their deaths.

Ferguson and Beyond: A Community Conversation 10 Years Later Aug 09, 2024

On Wednesday, August 6, St. Louis Public Radio and NPR news co-hosted "Ferguson and Beyond: A Community Conversation 10 Years Later" at Greater St. Mark Family Church, just miles from the epicenter of protests sparked by the killing of Michael Brown, Jr. by a Ferguson police officer in August 2014. This episode presents highlights from that event, with a panel and audience Q&A moderated by NPR “Morning Edition” host Michel Martin and a special performance by St. Louis spoken word artist, poet, and community arts educator Pacia Elaine Anderson.

St. Louis librarians share their best 2024 summer reads Aug 08, 2024

In this encore presentation, St. Louis librarians Tammy Albohaire and Ted Reidy share their book recommendations for the summer.

7 takeaways from Missouri’s historic and sometimes surprising primary election Aug 07, 2024

Missouri Republicans and Democrats wrapped up a historic primary on Tuesday night. Perhaps the most consequential result was St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell toppling Congresswoman Cori Bush — a big loss for St. Louis’ progressive faction and a win for supporters of Israel. University of Missouri-St. Louis political science professor Anita Manion and STLPR’s Sarah Kellogg join the “Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air” to break down election results and what they mean for Missouri and St. Louis’ political future.

Exploring Mexican mole in St. Louis is a journey of taste and geography Aug 06, 2024

Mole is a staple of Mexican cuisine, but what’s special about this sauce isn’t just its flavors — chilis, nuts, fruits, chocolate — it's where those tastes come from. Sauce Magazine writer Ileana Martinez explored four local restaurants serving their own, region-specific takes on the staple. Angel Jimenez Gutierrez, co-owner of the Mexican restaurant Malinche in Ellisville, discusses why mole never leaves his menu — and how the dish reminds him of home.

In ‘Radical Atlas’ 100 maps show the what and why of Ferguson Aug 06, 2024

Urban design, tax incentives and landscaping can make racial and economic inequality worse in suburbs like Ferguson. Patty Heyda, a professor of architecture and urban design at Washington University, talks about her new book “Radical Atlas of Ferguson, USA”. She shares what mapping Ferguson — in more than 100 different ways — reveals about how cities are unjustly built.

Walt Disney dreamed of a St. Louis park. Then the deal went bust Aug 05, 2024

In the 1960s, St. Louis nearly became one of the most magical places on earth. A planned Disneyland, called the Riverfront Square, captured imaginations as local leaders sought to strike a deal with Walt Disney himself — until that deal went bibbidi, bobbidi, bust. In this encore episode from May 2024, writer Devin Thomas O'Shea reminds us of what the canceled Disney attraction might have been, the disputed reasons why the plan fell apart (no, it wasn't just over beer), and the problematic characters and mythologized storytelling that the park would have been designed around.

‘I will never stop fighting:’ Michael Brown Jr.’s family turns pain into purpose Aug 05, 2024

This Friday marks 10 years since Michael Brown Jr. was shot and killed by a white police officer in Ferguson. His death sparked a global movement calling for police accountability and an end to racial injustice. In this contributed episode, STLPR reporter Marissanne Lewis-Thompson talks with Michael Brown Sr. and Cal Brown about their son’s legacy and how they turned their pain into helping others.

We Live Here: The new 'talk' and the legacy of Mike Brown Aug 04, 2024

Michael Brown Jr. has become a symbol and a gateway for people to talk about racial injustice and policing. St. Louis Public Radio's podcast "We Live Here" returns for a special season 10 years after Brown's killing. In this episode, we explore how people view Brown’s legacy, what young adults today know about his story and how his memory has shaped new conversations about race and justice.

What to look for ahead of Missouri’s primary election on Tuesday Aug 02, 2024

Tuesday’s primaries could be one of the most important elections in Missouri’s modern history. Republicans will choose candidates for five statewide posts — including governor — who will be favored in November. Democratic voters will decide whether to send U.S. Rep. Cori Bush back to Washington and pick their candidates for U.S. Senate and governor. STLPR’s Sarah Kellogg and Jo Mannies join the “Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air” to discuss the key races.

Hamra says his business experience can transform Missouri state government Aug 02, 2024

Springfield businessman Mike Hamra has never run for office before, but the CEO of a company that franchises restaurants says his private sector experience makes him a compelling choice for Missouri governor. Hamra joins the “Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air” to discuss his bid for the Democratic nomination ahead of Tuesday’s primary election.

For Missouri’s student journalist of the year, writing is a form of civic engagement Aug 01, 2024

Before Parkway West graduate Elizabeth Franklin turned 18, she wrote for the school paper as a form of civic action and got named Missouri’s Student Journalist of 2024 along the way. Franklin shares how she uses journalism to challenge stereotypes about St. Louis and why she wants more young people to make their voices heard.

Meet Jeremy Boyer. He plays the organ at Cardinals and Blues games, and for millions of TikTok fans Aug 01, 2024

Jeremy Boyer is part of the fabric that makes going to a Cardinals or Blues games special. He’s delighted millions of fans over the years as an organist for both teams. Now, he’s racking up millions of views on TikTok for his in-game renditions of artists like Kendrick Lamar and Taylor Swift.

Introducing ‘We Live Here: 10 Years After the Ferguson Uprising’ Jul 31, 2024

It’s been 10 years since Michael Brown Jr. was killed and the Ferguson Uprising that followed. To honor that history and reflect on where St. Louis is today, St. Louis Public Radio is bringing back the podcast “We Live Here” for a special season that reflects on the truths that Ferguson exposed, why there still is an open wound a decade later and how community members continue to push for a better future. “We Live Here” host Chad Davis talks with Elaine Cha about upcoming episodes which drop weekly starting Aug. 1.

What's new at the Muny? The premieres of ‘Waitress’ and ‘In the Heights’ Jul 31, 2024

Mike Isaacson, executive producer and artistic director for the Muny, talks about the premieres of “Waitress” and “In the Heights” during its 106th season, and what each musical’s directors and lead performers bring to the stage.

A St. Louis artist honors her late brother and supports others mourning their sibling Jul 31, 2024

When Cheeraz Gormon’s younger brother, John, was murdered in a domestic violence altercation, she turned to writing and poetry to channel her grief. While she sought support and comfort from family and friends, she realized there was a lack of holistic approaches and resources for those mourning the loss of their siblings. Gormon has since founded the Sibling Support Network to foster community with others with similar experiences.

What VP Harris’ embrace of ‘brat’ and internet memes say about Gen Z and politics Jul 30, 2024

The 2024 election season is unprecedented, and that includes how slang and memes are shaping campaign messages. To break down why people are talking about Kamala Harris falling out of a coconut tree, and how the album “Brat” by pop musician Charli XCX is involved, we hear from Sophie Hurwitz of Mother Jones, SLU professor Keli Jackson, and STLPR’s Jason Rosenbaum discuss how memes matter in political discourse.

Missouri S&T professor delivers final volume in WWII trilogy Jul 30, 2024

Historian John C. McManus’ latest book opens with Gen. Douglas MacArthur aboard the USS Boise plunging through the deep blue waters of the South China Sea in January 1945. In this encore conversation, we hear from about the Missouri S&T professor’s book, “To the End of the Earth: The US Army and the Downfall of Japan, 1945.” The book completes his trilogy that focuses on the U.S. Army during the Pacific War.

You’ve got (too much) email. Is it time to let it go? Jul 29, 2024

Washington University Professor Ian Bogost says checking email is a source of daily torment. In this encore episode, he makes the case for why it’s time to give up on email entirely. He also digs into the history of email, its evolution, and how we can better use text communication tools in ways that benefit our lives.

The healing power of 'Grandma Peggy's Breakfast Club' Jul 29, 2024

Every Wednesday, Peggy Winckowski opens her home to cook and host breakfast for up to 35 teenagers before they head to school. What started as a casual breakfast with her grandsons has turned into a regular gathering — one that’s become particularly special after the loss of Peggy’s grandson, Sam Crowe, who was killed in a vehicle crash in 2022 at age 15. In this encore episode, we join the Wednesday crew for breakfast and learn about Peggy’s wish for a national breakfast day movement.

Former state Sen. Chappelle-Nadal on offering alternative choice to Bush and Bell Jul 26, 2024

After four years out of office, former Missouri state Sen. Maria Chappelle-Nadal is trying to make a comeback in the closely-watched 1st Congressional District contest that includes incumbent Cori Bush and St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell. Chappelle-Nadal joins "The Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air" host Jason Rosenbaum to discuss her campaign.

Lucas Kunce says he’s the best Democrat to take on Republican Josh Hawley Jul 26, 2024

Since he announced his second bid for the U.S. Senate in early 2023, Independence attorney Lucas Kunce has been the consistent frontrunner in the Democratic race to take on U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley. He joins "The Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air" host Jason Rosenbaum to share why he thinks he's the best candidate to take on the role.

‘She was such a light to us,’ St. Louisans remember media veteran Tammie Holland Jul 25, 2024

Radio personality and media veteran Tammie Holland passed away July 20, 2024 at the age of 53 after a three-year fight against cancer. Her long time friends and former colleagues Arika Parr and Tony Scott reflect on Holland’s legacy, career, and impact on St. Louis.

Christopher Dunn remains in prison after Missouri Supreme Court intervenes Jul 25, 2024

Christopher Dunn has spent 34 years in prison for what multiple judges have deemed a wrongful conviction. Earlier this week, a St. Louis Circuit judge ordered Dunn’s release — yet he remains behind bars. STLPR reporter Lacretia Wimbley discusses why Dunn is still not free and what comes next. We also listen back to a conversation with Dunn taped earlier this year, just days after St. Louis Circuit Attorney Gabe Gore announced that his investigation showed evidence Dunn was innocent.

How DadBod shows became a meeting place for St. Louis teachers and students Jul 24, 2024

When Parkway School District teachers Mike Steep and Matt Wall aren’t in the classroom, the long-time friends and musicians are playing wide-ranging tunes from the 1990s and early 2000s with their cover band, DadBod. Their shows have become a space to reminisce about the music of their adolescence along with their faithful fans – some of which are fellow teachers and former students. Mike and Matt discuss the origins of DadBod and why seeing former students at their shows isn’t as awkward as one might think.

Invest STL garners national attention by seeding $20k in low-income communities Jul 24, 2024

The Rooted initiative started by Invest STL gives Black and low-income residents of the West End and Visitation Park neighborhoods $20,000 to invest in their homes and community. The program aims to help residents stay in their neighborhoods amidst rising concerns about nearby developments. Invest STL CEO Dara Eskridge explains how the non-profit’s wealth-building program works and why it is getting national attention.

Lee Hendrix was taught to fear the Mississippi. He then spent 5 decades piloting boats on it Jul 23, 2024

Growing up in St. Louis in the 1950s and 60s, Lee Hendrix was taught to fear the Mississippi River. But the sense of adventure it offered ended up being the seed that became a five decade career of piloting boats on the Mississippi. Hendrix discusses his new book, “Peep Light,” where he shares stories about the dangerous work of starting as a deckhand and later ascending to the pilothouse. He also talks about what it was like to pilot passenger vessels, including the grand American Queen, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ largest towboat, the MV Mississippi.

Voters in St. Louis express uncertainty and hope in wake of Biden’s exit Jul 22, 2024

Yesterday, President Joe Biden announced that he’d no longer seek re-election this November. He also endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as nominee for the Democratic Party. People in the St. Louis region share a broad range of reactions to this historic political moment: relief, disappointment, uncertainty — and even, hopefulness.

Lawsuit targets St. Louis chess after grandmaster alleges sex abuse Jul 22, 2024

A panel of attorneys discuss local and regional legal issues, including the latest on the Bar: PM lawsuit, allegations by a chess star against the U.S. Chess Federation, and, why a Wendy’s restaurant in Bridgeton is paying $5 million to a former worker who was a victim of sexual assault on the job.

Steelville archeologist balances attachment to hometown with Trail of Tears history Jul 19, 2024

Of all U.S. states, Missouri has more miles of the Cherokee Trail of Tears. A new episode of the film series “My Ozarks” tells the story of Erin Whitson, an archaeologist who researches her hometown’s connections to the brutal history of Cherokee removal. Whitson talks about her intentional approach to uncovering that history in Steelville, Missouri. Sharon Benoit, a member of Cherokee Keetoowah Tribe of Oklahoma, also joins the conversation to explain why she worked with Whitson, and what makes preserving her ancestors' history so important.

Shawn ‘Rab’ Fentress finds success in being an unabashed ‘Blerd’ — and encourages others to do the same Jul 19, 2024

Social media has put art and entertainment from all corners of the world in the literal palm of your hand. Manga and anime – Japanese comic books and cartoons – really started hitting mainstream American bookshelves and screens starting in the 1990’s, and cross-cultural exchange has resulted in the development of distinct subcultures, including “blerds” or Black nerds. Shawn “Rab” Fentress, a St. Louis born and raised content creator, is part of the popularization of Blerd culture. He has accumulated hundreds of thousands of followers online for his distinct voice-overs of anime shows, which he calls “hood dubs,” and found success in creating online content with Nappy Boy Network, founded by rapper and singer T-Pain.

Honorary street name ‘On Leong Way’ brings awareness to St. Louis’ Chinese heritage Jul 18, 2024

St. Louis’ Asian American community celebrates recent work to bring light to the lives and contributions of early Chinese immigrants to St. Louis, including an honorary street-naming in the city and the 100th anniversary of a Chinese gravesite at Valhalla Cemetery.

How St. Louis prepared for major disasters this week with drills in streets, skies and waterways Jul 18, 2024

This week, more than 500 federal and local first responders converged in the St. Louis region to practice for an 8.4 magnitude earthquake. The drill accounted for collapsed bridges, crumbling buildings and more than 40,000 people trapped in Busch Stadium. First responders also dropped portable roads from helicopters near the Grafton ferry dock for a river crossing. Joining the discussion was Maj. Kelly Hudson, project officer for Michigan-based National Guard Task Force 46, and Samantha Lewis, executive director of the St. Louis Area Regional Response System.

Magic mushrooms ‘bend’ the mind. Could they also treat mental illness? Jul 17, 2024

The mind-bending effects of “magic mushrooms” could help treat mental illness. A new Washington University School of Medicine study offers an explanation for how psilocybin, the active drug in magic mushrooms, distorts the brain’s networks, and why that could alleviate post-traumatic stress disorders and other illnesses. Dr. Joshua Siegel and Dr. Ginger Nicol talk about what their research participants experienced while on a trip and how their findings could accelerate the development of psilocybin-based therapies.

Cinema St. Louis festival showcases regional talent behind the lens and on-screen Jul 17, 2024

The Cinema St. Louis’ Annual Filmmakers Showcase (July 19-28) is dedicated to screening films that address locally relevant topics or have writers, editors, or producers who are St. Louis area natives or people with strong local ties. Emmett Williams, director of festival curation and education at Cinema St. Louis, talks about the 2024 line-up of films in the showcase. St. Louis native and actor Zion Thomas also discusses his experience starring in “Vision,” one of the film shorts in this year’s festival.

How chefs are making caviar an accessible delicacy in St. Louis’ food scene Jul 16, 2024

Caviar is a delicacy, but, if you think it's only made for a rich palate, you may be missing out on a surprisingly accessible experience. Sauce Magazine writer Meera Nagarajan chronicled her dive into the world of caviar for the July issue of Sauce Magazine.Together with chef John Messbarger of Lobster & Crab Company, they discuss the finer details of getting the most out of your caviar experience. And we also learn about the local impact of caviar production with the owners of Show Me Caviar, Cliff and Cara Rost.

Meet Shangri-La Hou, the Midwest region’s National Student Poet Jul 16, 2024

Shangri-La Hou is one of five National Student Poets. The recent John Burroughs graduate and Lake St. Louis resident explores the natural world and how people interact in — and with — it. Hou also discusses what she’s experienced in her role as a young literary ambassador and how poetry is a powerful tool for self-expression.

13-year-old St. Louisan packs her bags — and bass — to study at Juilliard Jul 15, 2024

Lyric Green first picked up a double bass when she was 12 years old. Now, a little over a year later, the rising Parkway Central High freshman is one of 28 young musicians strengthening their skills at Sphinx Performance Academy at the Juilliard School in New York.

Lack of beds at Missouri group foster homes leaves at-risk girls without specialized care Jul 15, 2024

Children in the foster care system with severe behavioral health issues and trauma are often treated in group homes that specialize in individualized care. In Missouri, there is space at these centers for boys — but not for girls. In his latest reporting, Kris Husted of the NPR Midwest Newsroom explores why that disparity exists. STLPR reporter Lacretia Wimbley also joins the discussion with an update on the state of Missouri’s foster care system.

Karla May touts state political experience in bid for Democratic nomination to unseat Hawley Jul 12, 2024

State Sen. Karla May, D-St. Louis, has faced formidable political challenges before. During an episode of the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air, she contends that she’s the best candidate to take on GOP U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley. But before doing so she needs to counter a well-funded and well-organized campaign from Independence resident Lucas Kunce. STLPR statehouse and politics reporter Sarah Kellogg joins the show for analysis.

Rep. Cori Bush says her ceasefire push is popular in Missouri’s 1st District Jul 12, 2024

U.S. Rep. Cori Bush, D-St. Louis County, is seeking a third term to represent Missouri’s 1st Congressional District. During an episode of the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air, Bush discussed at length the expensive campaign to unseat her — and how her criticism of Israel may not mean much to the 1st District’s Black voters. Challenging Bush are St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell and former state Sen. Maria Chappelle-Nadal. STLPR statehouse and politics reporter Sarah Kellogg joins the show for analysis.

Institute for Black Liberation makes space to heal from racism — and celebrate Black joy Jul 11, 2024

Rudy Nickens, director of the Institute for Black Liberation at the Deaconess Foundation; and Patricia Bosman, participant in the Institute’s inaugural cohort, discuss the necessity for a space where Black people can work through and heal from the effects of internal and structural racism – all while finding joy in that work and in Blackness.

WerQfest returns for a fifth year of celebrating St. Louis’ Black queer community Jul 11, 2024

WerQfest launched in 2020 as a passion project for husbands Tre’von Griffith and Shelton Boyd-Griffith. Five years later, it’s a mainstay in St. Louis’ summer events lineup and a joyful celebration of the Black queer community in the region. Tre’von, also known as Tre G, talks about the 2024 festival, its importance to the Midwest, his return to the stage as a performer, and the Black LGBTQ+ community that’s grown over the last five years.

There's more to see than beer cans and doll heads along the Mississippi River Jul 10, 2024

The Mississippi River is a natural wonder. St. Louis-based traveler and author Dean Klinkenberg introduces readers to its splendors through his new book “The Wild Mississippi,” which offers a guide for connecting with and enjoying the river. He shares his favorite spots in Missouri and Illinois, and discusses what makes this river an asset and treasure to all living things that rely on it.

Bell backs Israel, abortion rights and radiation victims in challenge of incumbent Bush Jun 28, 2024

St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell’s challenge of Congresswoman Cori Bush was already garnering the attention of national political prognosticators. But during an episode of the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air, Bell noted that his race against Bush and former state Sen. Maria Chappelle-Nadal to represent Missouri’s 1st Congressional District isn’t the same as other challenges to a group of House Democrats known as “The Squad.” STLPR statehouse and politics reporter Sarah Kellogg also joins the show for analysis.

Republican gubernatorial hopeful Jay Ashcroft wants to phase out Missouri’s income tax Jun 28, 2024

Podcast Description: Jay Ashcroft has been on an electoral winning streak since he rolled to victory in a contentious primary for Missouri secretary of state in 2016 and now he’s hoping to extend it in the GOP primary for governor. The statewide official faces stiff competition from Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe and state Sen. Bill Eigel. On the latest episode of the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air, Ashcroft said neither of his opponents could bring about the type of policy change Republicans want. STLPR statehouse and politics reporter Sarah Kellogg also joins the show for analysis.

How St. Louis became known as 'Mound City' despite settlers razing those monuments Jun 27, 2024

Cahokia Mounds in Collinsville hosts about 350,000 visitors each year. Much less well-known are the sites where 27 monuments once stood in St. Louis. The mounds, carefully constructed and engineered by Indigenous people between 800-1350 CE, were destroyed by white settlers to make way for urban development during the 19th century. In her new book “Mound City,” historian Patricia Cleary details the history of those mounds, the strange paradox of local settlers claiming the moniker of “Mound City” while destroying them, and their contribution to the cultural identity of St. Louisans and Americans across the country today.

Legal Roundtable tackles universal basic income lawsuit, Bar:PM crash, more Jun 26, 2024

The City of St. Louis faces a lawsuit over its universal basic income program. The program gives $500 a month to lower-income families chosen by a lottery, but lawyers with the Holy Joe Society argue that violates the state constitution's requirement that public funds can’t go to private individuals. This month’s Legal Roundtable convenes to analyze the merits of the lawsuit. Attorneys Susan McGraugh, Arindam Kar and Dave Roland also discuss a lawsuit brought by the owners of Bar:PM after police crashed an SUV into their bar, why the Supreme Court rejected Missouri’s case alleging government officials pressured social media companies, and more.

Queer Writes centers writing and storytelling from St. Louis LGBTQ creatives Jun 25, 2024

Recognition and acceptance is hard to come by for many marginalized groups. Yet, when such groups reach a certain degree of visibility, they often face another challenge: being viewed as a monolith. Queer Writes aims to push against preconceptions by celebrating the diversity of LBGTQ+ writers in St. Louis. Program creator Joan Lipkin and actor Michael Kearns talk about the program and preview an upcoming Queer Writes event at the Missouri History Museum.

Meet the St. Louisan named first woman on U.S. Paralympic Wheelchair Rugby team Jun 25, 2024

Since wheelchair rugby’s debut in the 1996 Paralympics, Team USA has only had male players — until now. At this summer’s competition in Paris, the American team’s roster will include its very first female player: St. Louis University Assistant Professor Sarah Adam. Adam shares how she’s training for intense competition at the Paralympics this summer and what it means to represent her country, and women, as an elite athlete.

How the Ferguson Uprising changed the way we consume and create media Jun 24, 2024

In 2014, video of police violence in New York and of protests in Ferguson changed what we see in mainstream media. Eric Deggans, NPR TV critic and media analyst, discusses the effects footage of the Ferguson Uprising had on what makes the news, and people’s expectations — as consumers, contributors and creators — of various media forms.

The Office of Violence Prevention ups their game with more funds to community organizations Jun 24, 2024

When Wil Pinkney took the helm of the newly formed Office of Violence Prevention for the City of St. Louis, he recognized that addressing crime requires a holistic, community-based approach. By fostering relationships with neighborhoods and community organizations that are already connected to young people, Pinkney believes the city can better address the root causes of violence. He shares the summer programming his office has been able to support and lessons they’ve learned along the way.

NPR’s Sarah McCammon explores alliance between evangelicals and Trump in bestselling book Jun 21, 2024

NPR political correspondent Sarah McCammon grew up in a deeply evangelical family near Kansas City in the ‘80s and ‘90s. Later on, when she was assigned to cover Donald Trump during the 2016 presidential campaign, her life experiences helped inform her professional career. In conversation before a live audience in STLPR’s Community Room, Jason Rosenbaum talks with McCammon about her new book, "The Exvangelicals: Loving, Living, and Leaving the White Evangelical Church."

Shannon Lee shares the 'martial arts as life' teachings of her father Bruce Lee Jun 20, 2024

Fifty years after his death, Bruce Lee’s status as one of the world’s most influential martial artists endures through his work as an actor and his philosophical teachings. In her 2020 book “Be Water, My Friend,” Lee’s daughter Shannon Lee speaks to principles that guided her father’s life as well as her own. She joined host Elaine Cha for a conversation before a live audience, taped in March 2024 at the Duane Reed Gallery in St. Louis.

How St. Louis is part of the historic solidarity between Black and Palestinian American activism Jun 18, 2024

Black American activists have expressed solidarity with Palestinian activists in the months since the war in Gaza began in October of 2023. In St. Louis, the relationship between Black and Palestinian American activists strengthened notably in 2014, after Michael Brown, Jr. — a Black teenager — was fatally shot in Ferguson, Missouri by then-Ferguson police officer Darren Wilson. But the connection between the two marginalized groups started well before then — and has evolved over the decades. St. Louis University Professor Chris Tinson shares the long history of Black and Palestinian solidarity alongside St. Louis activists Ohun Ashe and Omar Badran.

Missouri S&T historian uplifts women who shaped the study of ancient Egypt in new book Jun 18, 2024

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, women ventured to Egypt’s deserts as writers, excavators and collectors. They were foundational to the study of ancient Egypt, but their contributions were intentionally marginalized. Missouri S&T historian Kathleen Sheppard uplifts the women who shaped the field in her forthcoming book “Women in the Valley of the Kings: The Untold Story of Women Egyptologists in the Gilded Age.”

Local librarians share their top summer reads for 2024 Jun 17, 2024

Dive into a good beach read this summer with recommendations from St. Louis librarians Tammy Albohaire and Ted Reidy.

Why Crystal Quade believes Missouri is ready again for a Democratic governor Jun 14, 2024

When House Minority Leader Crystal Quade first won election to her Springfield-based seat in 2016, her fellow Democrats suffered catastrophic losses for state legislative and statewide posts. After eight years of near total GOP control of Missouri state government, Quade believes the state’s voters are ready to move on and place Democrats like her in the governor’s mansion. She joins the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air to discuss her candidacy ahead of the Aug. 6 primary.

Kehoe touts experience - but not being tied to the establishment - in run for governor Jun 14, 2024

Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe has worn a lot of different hats over the years: That includes car dealer, highways and transportation commissioner, state senator, and lieutenant governor. As one of three main GOP candidates seeking his party’s gubernatorial nomination on Aug. 6, Kehoe brushed aside the idea that he’s part of the Jefferson City establishment and explained why he thinks he’s the best choice for Missouri.

How Missouri mushroom hunters can help scientists document fungi DNA Jun 13, 2024

Missouri is going through what some are calling a "shroom boom." We talk to Missouri Mycological Society’s Mike Snyder about why there's so much fungi interest, his journey to loving mushrooms, and how Missourians can help document -- and even discover -- species of fungi through DNA samples. We also meet Indiana mushroom researcher Steve Russell, founder of Mycota Lab. The lab is trying to document all macrofungi in participating states, including a recent expansion to Missouri.

Chef Adjo Honsou brings West African cuisine to St. Louis with Fufu n’ Sauce Jun 13, 2024

Food and fashion are common ways people begin acquainting with new cultures. In St. Louis, Adjo Honsou, chef and owner of the food truck Fufu n Sauce, makes both to introduce West African cuisine and her Togolese culture to locals. In just two years, Honsou has garnered a faithful following with traditional homemade meals and handmade clothing. On June 17th, her culinary reach will broaden with the Season 3 premiere of PBS’ reality cooking show “The Great American Recipe.” That same day, she’ll launch her line of spices and curries in collaboration with the St. Louis-based McCarthy Spice & Blends.

Centuries of engineering have altered the Mississippi River. A new book examines its effects Jun 12, 2024

Spanning more than 2,300 miles, the Mississippi is one of the longest rivers in the world. The waterway has the distinction of being both a significant ecosystem and a commercial navigation route, which often leads to tension and competing visions for its future. In his new book “The Great River: The Making & Unmaking of the Mississippi” journalist Boyce Upholt traces the history of the river and presents deep questions about the consequences of infrastructure and where the boundaries of nature lie.

A St. Louis content creator navigates grief in ‘Let’s Not Rot’ series Jun 11, 2024

While grieving can get easier over time, it is a lifelong process. St. Louis-based content creator Kait Granger aims to illuminate that truth in her TikTok series, “Let’s Not Rot.” The series was born out of her need for vulnerability and connection after experiencing the traumatic loss of her mother. Granger talks about her journey with loss, misconceptions about grief and how showing up for small, everyday tasks can lead to bigger breakthroughs.

Updated MLB records reflect stats and success of St. Louis’ Negro Leagues players Jun 11, 2024

For over a century, numbers for baseball in America were missing a huge piece of history because of racial segregation. That changed when Major League Baseball announced the incorporation of Negro Leagues Baseball statistics into the official MLB record book in May. Ed Wheatley, baseball historian and author, talks about the St. Louis Giants and St. Louis Stars players now included in the statistical database and why recognizing the accomplishments of Negro Leagues players is important on a local and national level.

How a St. Charles bakery owner uses his love for sourdough to connect with millions Jun 10, 2024

Timothy Nordmann, owner of Mr. Meowski's Bakery in St. Charles, knows a thing or two about a good loaf of sourdough. Behind each loaf, however, is a story of determination in moments of uncertainty. Nordmann shares his experiences as a bakery owner – and what it took to get there – on social media. One video in particular went viral back in May and has been viewed over one million times. The comment section of the video is filled with sentiments from thousands of viewers who resonate with Nordmann’s story, some of which were compelled to share their own difficult road to achieving their goals. Nordmann talks about how business has grown since and why he decided to share his stories in the first place

Why a drug treatment tool to protect Missouri kids is underutilized in the St. Louis area Jun 10, 2024

In our ongoing coverage of issues plaguing the Children’s Division of Missouri’s Department of Social Services, we discuss why a tool aimed at removing children from a home where drug use is evident isn’t being used to a great extent in the St. Louis area. STLPR politics correspondent talks about his reporting on the Temporary Alternative Placement Agreement — or TAPA.

Sarah Parker Pauley reflects on her career caring for Missouri’s great outdoors Jun 10, 2024

The longtime head of Missouri’s Department of Conservation has stepped aside after taking the helm of the agency in late 2016. For years, Sarah Parker Pauley managed the state’s incredibly vast expanse of pristine wilderness and outdoor spaces where people hunt, fish and hike. During an in-depth conversation with STLPR politics correspondent Jason Rosenbaum last week, Pauley spoke about the ongoing challenges of balancing the commitment to preserving Missouri’s natural beauty with the need for economic development in struggling parts of the state.

8 years after her daughter’s murder, Erica Jones is still seeking justice Jun 07, 2024

In 2015, Erica Jones’ daughter, Whitney Brown, was killed in a drive-by shooting. Who did it remains unknown. Brown’s case is among the 1,000-plus from 2014 to 2023 that still haven’t been solved, according to a joint investigation by St. Louis Public Radio, APM Reports and the Marshall Project. Jones talks about how grief has changed her family, and why she is still seeking answers — and justice. She also discusses Voice of the Voiceless STL, a nonprofit support group she founded to help fellow St. Louisans who have lost loved ones to gun violence.

How a new vintage thrift store centers the fashion needs of plus-size people Jun 07, 2024

From fashion-forward folks to those who couldn’t care less about what they wear, everybody – and every body – needs clothes. The fashion industry, however, is notorious for prioritizing certain figures and excluding others. Ethical Bodies x the Good-Ish, a new vintage thrift store in south St. Louis, is centering people whose fashion needs are often disregarded by offering plus-size pieces exclusively. Store co-founders Maura Hampton and Erica Hallman discuss the mission of the store, their plans for its future, and speculate why the fashion industry is hesitant to make clothes inclusive for all.

A St. Louis eighth grader ends her spelling bee career at the top of her game Jun 07, 2024

St. Louis spelling bee champ Sonia Kulkarni placed 17th in last week's Scripps National Spelling Bee. In this follow-up interview with the eighth grader at John Burroughs School, she talks about what it was like appearing in the spelling bee for the final time, and her reaction to being eliminated on a vocabulary word — “gainsay.”

The man behind Profield Reserve curates Inside/Outside to give promising artists a fair shot Jun 06, 2024

While Christopher Loss was winning the hearts of St. Louisans with his successful apparel line Profield Reserve, he was also building community with local musicians and visual artists. Now, he is shifting focus — Loss has moved Profield Reserve back to online only and is dedicating time to uplift artists by providing an entry into the arts scene by opening Field Club Media, a space for creatives to work and collaborate. He’s also curated Inside/Outside, an art exhibit that opens at Sophie’s Artist Lounge June 8.

Circus Flora's 'Marooned!' brings ‘weird and wacky’ people — and animals — to the Big Top Jun 06, 2024

St. Louis’ intimate one-ring circus, Circus Flora, is back at the Big Top in Grand Center. Artistic and executive director Jack Marsh and Cecil MacKinnon, the show’s narrator, discuss “Marooned!” The original production takes place on a magical island where two pirates encounter amazing, weird and wacky people — and animals — as they search for treasure.

Gateway to Pride exhibit shares the joys and struggles of queer people in St. Louis Jun 05, 2024

Before the Stonewall Riot in 1969, queer love, experiences and struggles for civil rights were woven into the fabric of American — and St. Louis’ — culture. The Missouri History Museum will unveil the Gateway to Pride exhibit, highlighting queer history for the first time since the Missouri Historical Society’s founding in 1866.

How two top St. Louis chefs are combining cannabis and fine dining Jun 05, 2024

Fine dining typically isn’t synonymous with cannabis cravings, but a pop-up dinner series is bridging those two worlds. Celebrated St. Louis chefs Nick Bognar (iNDO, Sado) and Alex Henry (El Molino del Sureste, Sureste Mexican) talk about creating elevated edibles and why participating in Swade Cannabis’ canna-culinary series was a no-brainer.

Where are all the St. Louis cicadas? Bug experts want your help Jun 04, 2024

Local scientists have theories about why parts of the St. Louis region are swarming with cicadas while others are eerily silent. STLPR morning newscaster Abby Llorico talks with University of Missouri-St. Louis biologists to learn more.

As AI voice cloning scams improve, researchers race for solutions Jun 04, 2024

Telling AI-made audio apart from authentic human voices is getting harder, and that has experts and average people worried. A Washington University professor’s new program works to prevent voice cloning and deepfake scams that often target vulnerable people. Ning Zhang, an assistant professor of computer science and engineering at WashU, talks about how his DeFake program works and why artificial intelligence can be beneficial.

Amid rising temps and energy costs, new federal rules aim to make HUD housing more affordable Jun 03, 2024

High electricity costs are hitting homeowners hard in the Midwest and across the nation, prompting the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture to adopt updated energy standards for new HUD-funded homes. The rules, announced in April, are estimated to save homeowners $950 a year. Midwest Newsroom managing editor Holly Edgell talks about how the new federal building codes will make homes more affordable, energy efficient and climate resilient.

Illinois lawmakers approve $53 billion budget. Here’s what’s on the horizon Jun 03, 2024

In the wee hours of the morning on May 29, Illinois lawmakers passed a $53.1 billion state budget — the largest in state history. Capitol News Illinois Editor-in-chief Jerry Nowicki details notable budget items, including a $50 million child tax credit, a $350 million increase in education funding, and a repeal of the state’s 1% grocery tax. He also talks about what to expect from a lawsuit against Illinois Speaker of the House Emanuel “Chris” Welch over legislative employees’ right to unionize.

Investigation: Why 1,000 homicides in St. Louis remain unsolved Jun 03, 2024

Over about the past decade, roughly 1,900 homicides were committed in St. Louis. Of that number, more than 1,000 cases remain unsolved. St. Louis Public Radio, APM Reports and the Marshall Project undertook a multi-year investigation that shows that while there’s been an improvement in the number of cleared cases in the last two years, St. Louis police have failed to clear many homicides. Shoddy detective work, lack of resources and eroding community trust are the main reasons. STLPR’s Rachel Lippmann and APM Reports’ Tom Scheck discuss this investigation.

Eigel says his anti-establishment stance is what Missouri needs in a governor May 31, 2024

State Sen. Bill Eigel spent his roughly two terms in the Missouri Senate going against the grain of GOP leaders. But the Weldon Spring Republican doesn’t believe his clashes with fellow GOP elected officials will be a detriment to his gubernatorial bid. On the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air, Eigel said his anti-establishment posture puts him in a good position in a competitive GOP primary that includes Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe and Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft.

St. Louis circuit attorney cites success at one-year mark but says his lawyers need raises May 31, 2024

St. Louis Circuit Attorney Gabe Gore knew he was coming into a challenging situation when Gov. Mike Parson appointed him to his job last year. But with one year of service under his belt, Gore said on the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air that the biggest surprise he encountered was just how much the circuit attorney’s administrative functions were in disarray. He also discusses what he hopes to achieve during a full four-year term.

Legal Roundtable covers hazing incident, earnings tax lawsuit, defamation, more May 30, 2024

An incident that’s been deemed the worst case of fraternity hazing in the U.S. left a University of Missouri freshman with serious brain damage. The victim had a blood alcohol level six times the legal limit for drivers in Missouri. Two frat members who were instrumental in the hazing were charged with misdemeanors. Attorneys Eric Banks, Nicole Gorovsky and Jeff Johnson dive into the high-profile case and consider whether potential bias may have led to light sentencing. The panel also discusses whether GOP senators should get taxpayer-funded lawyers to fight a defamation suit, a court ruling on St. Louis’s 1% earnings tax, and a judge who revoked a man's right to represent himself after spouting “sovereign citizen” conspiracy theories in court.

Survivors and advocates strive to break cycle of domestic abuse for future generations May 29, 2024

Rates of people seeking and receiving shelter due to domestic violence are increasing in Missouri and Illinois. That includes a lot of children who, whether or not they experience abuse directly, will live with long standing effects from their experience. Domestic violence survivors and advocates reflect on the ways domestic abuse affects children and how to support families who are dealing with, or escaping from, such abuse.

Inside the St. Louis gas stations hiding restaurant-quality food May 29, 2024

Sauce Magazine writer Alexa Beattie went looking for hidden food treasures. The search took her to several gas stations, where she found delicious delicacies that you won't find at any QuikTrip. Beattie shares her discovery and explores the trend of restaurant owners choosing to turn over their businesses to employees. We also meet Sydney Caldwell, who reflects on what it’s meant to go from server to boss at Retreat Gastropub.

Immigration is polarizing. What’s missing is empathy, experts say May 28, 2024

Immigration is a hotly debated and highly politicized topic that pundits on either side of the aisle can’t seem to agree on. With the election season quickly approaching, is there a different way that the country – political affiliation aside – can address it? According to two UMSL immigration experts, the first step is empathy. Uma Segal and Adriano Udani discuss the nuances missing from the election season debate over immigration, and why a deeper conversation is needed.

Native St. Louisan Sharee Silerio reflects on Oscar win for Best Documentary Short May 28, 2024

Less than two years since she moved to Los Angeles to pursue film, Sharee Silerio has made it big. The St. Louis native is part of the Academy Award winning team behind “The Last Repair Shop,” which took home the Oscar for “Best Documentary Short.” She reflects on the film, her goal of telling stories in ways that showcase vulnerability and foster inspiration, and her plans to come back to St. Louis to finish work on her film, “Black Girl, Bleu,” which explores mental health challenges and ways to cultivate healing and self-love.

10 years after ‘For the Sake of All’ health report, lead author sees little change May 24, 2024

10 years ago, the landmark health report “For the Sake of All” was jointly published by Washington University and St. Louis University to much acclaim for its eye-opening — and affirming — data on the health disparities of Black St. Louisans. Lead researcher Dr. Jason Purnell shares how he thinks St. Louis has changed in the last decade, where he sees possible improvement and how his current role as president of the James S. McDonnell Foundation will play a major role in addressing the racial inequities from an economic standpoint.

Former Missouri U.S. Sen. John Danforth wants the GOP to move away from Trump May 24, 2024

Former Missouri U.S. Senator John Danforth and two other prominent Republicans recently wrote an op-ed in the Washington Post announcing a new group that seeks to move the Republican Party away from Donald Trump: Our Republican Legacy. Danforth represented Missouri in the Senate from 1976-1995. STLPR politics correspondent Jason Rosenbaum spoke with Danforth.

Riverfront Times sale and layoff of news staff signals end of 46-year era for St. Louis alt-weekly May 23, 2024

The Riverfront Times has been sold to an undisclosed buyer and on Wednesday its entire news staff was laid off. St. Louis’ alt-weekly held a unique position in local journalism for 46 years. In its early years, it was known for its free (and at times) raunchy personal ads. Over the years, the paper became known for its stories on the city’s arts and culture, irreverent headlines and serious journalism. Former RFT Executive Editor Sarah Fenske and paper founder Ray Hartmann discuss the RFT’s sale and its legacy.

Original music and homegrown talent makes Shakespeare in the Park’s ‘As You Like It’ a must see May 23, 2024

St. Louis Shakespeare Festival will launch the 2024 season with their production of “As You Like It” for Shakespeare in the Park. Along with homegrown talent, this year’s production features original music from singer-songwriter Beth Bombara who added her sound and lyrics to Shakespeare’s sonnets. She previews the show alongside Tom Ridgely, producing artistic director of St. Louis Shakespeare Festival.

Wash U researchers find COVID-19 boosters add protection from future viruses May 23, 2024

Your immune system has a "memory," which can be both a good and bad thing. When it comes to COVID boosters, scientists like Washington University's Dr. Michael Diamond found that our body doesn't just "remember" its previous vaccines – it uses that memory to fight viruses it hasn't even met yet. How does the immune system "remember" a brand-new virus? What makes COVID vaccines different from the flu vaccine? And what does this mean for COVID vaccines in the future? Dr. Diamond, lead author of a new study in Nature, explains.

Cicadas are ‘tender and savory.’ Here’s how to capture and cook them May 22, 2024

Cicadas are a nutritional boon to birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians — and yes, even humans. With the St. Louis region estimated to have about 1 to 1.5 million periodical cicadas per acre for the next few weeks — and nymphs continuing to crawl out of the ground — there is still time to take advantage of this once-in-every-13-years culinary event. We get tips and tricks for catching, preparing and cooking cicadas. We also discuss the growing interest in cricket powder, an ingredient suitable for the most squeamish of interested eaters.

Solid Sound Collective creates original music to celebrate and inspire social change May 21, 2024

The Solid Sound Collective, a music project of the St. Louis nonprofit Action Art Collaborative, celebrates the long and living legacy of community activism. Three of its producers and musicians – Colin McLaughlin, Ryan Marquez, and Alicia Revé – talk about original songs commissioned for the project and the role of interviews in creating music that addresses social and economic inequities. The collective premieres its music at an event on June 2 at Work & Leisure in Midtown St. Louis.

A historical marker now commemorates Clayton’s displaced Black community May 21, 2024

Once strong and tight-knit, Clayton’s Black community was almost entirely wiped out by urban renewal policies that drove Black families away during the 1950s and 60s. A new historical marker commemorates those who were pushed out. Historian and retired Clayton High School teacher Donna Rogers-Beard discusses the history of the community, which dates back to the 1880s. Derek Novel recalls his memories of growing up in Clayton and how displacement changed the community.

With eye toward reelection, Mayor Jones calls St. Louis ‘safer, stronger and healthier’ May 20, 2024

Mayor Tishaura Jones says she has set the city of St. Louis on a course to be “safer, stronger and healthier” than it is today. Jones highlighted accomplishments at her State of the City speech last Tuesday. She also launched her re-election bid last week. STLPR reporter Rachel Lippmann joins the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air to discuss this news.

Missouri legislative session ends in flurry of GOP infighting and Democratic optimism May 20, 2024

In a rare instance of triumph for Missouri Democrats, an effort to raise the bar to amend the state constitution — a central GOP priority — was defeated. Infighting among Republicans was a highlight of this year’s Missouri legislative session that ended Friday. STLPR statehouse and politics reporter Sarah Kellogg joins the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air. We also open up our mailbag and answer listener and reader questions about the session and political process.

Saxophonist David Sanborn, 6-time Grammy winner raised in Kirkwood, dies at 78 May 17, 2024

Kirkwood-raised musician David Sanborn died earlier this week after an extended battle with prostate cancer. He won six Grammy awards and sold millions of albums across a more than 50-year career. Known for his warm sound on alto saxophone, Sanborn won acclaim as a solo artist and as a collaborator with a long list of stars in the worlds of jazz, rock and pop. Earlier this year, Jazz St. Louis honored Sanborn with its first lifetime achievement award. We listen back to his conversation with STLPR’s Jeremy D. Goodwin.

How St. Louis' juvenile justice system often harms the kids it intends to help May 17, 2024

St. Louis’ juvenile justice system is supposed to rehabilitate youth but it often makes things worse. That’s the topic of a recently published article written by Taylor Tiamoyo Harris and commissioned by the River City Journalism Fund. Taylor is a St. Louis-based journalist and recently began a job as investigative fellow for the New York Times. Harris discusses her recent reporting on juvenile justice.

Civil rights attorney says Michael Brown’s death wasn’t in vain despite lack of police reform May 17, 2024

Civil rights attorney and former South Carolina state lawmaker Bakari Sellers says national police reform is currently dead, but there is hope through voting to change the makeup of Congress. STLPR reporter Andrea Henderson recently spoke with Sellers when he was in St. Louis to talk about his new book, “The Moment: Thoughts on the Race Reckoning That Wasn't and How We All Can Move Forward Now.”

Hearing to vacate Chris Dunn’s 1991 murder conviction to begin Tuesday May 16, 2024

A St. Louis judge on Tuesday will hear arguments as to why the 1991 murder conviction of Chris Dunn should be vacated. Dunn has spent more than 30 years in prison. Two witnesses who identified him as the killer have recanted and two St. Louis prosecutors, Kim Gardner and Gabe Gore, believe that he is innocent. After Gore announced earlier this spring he would file a motion to vacate Dunn’s conviction, producer Danny Wicentowski spoke with Dunn from the South Central Correctional Center in Licking, Missouri, about his reaction.

A local farmer wants more north St. Louis residents to grow their own food May 16, 2024

Gardening season is well underway, but it’s not too late to start planting. Local farmer Tosha Phonix is encouraging fellow north St. Louis residents to grow their own food through a new, free zine, “A Guide to Black Farming in North St. Louis.”

How Asian St. Louisans are sharing their culture and experiences in a new art showcase May 15, 2024

Most conversations about race and identity in the St. Louis region focus on Black and white residents, a binary that excludes one of the fastest growing populations in the area: the Asian and Asian American community. The Japanese American Citizens League - St. Louis and the St. Louis Pan Asian Collective have curated, “InVISIBLE: A Reclamation of the Asian Gaze,” a visual and literary arts exhibition that’s focused on sharing the diverse stories and experiences of those community members.

Young University City entrepreneurs bake cookies for college and breast cancer awareness May 15, 2024

Nadia and Maya Turner grew up eating batches of their mom’s chocolate chip cookies and watching “Shark Tank.” The University City sisters founded Chocolate Girls’ Cookies in 2019, after perfecting the family’s cookie recipe. They share what makes a good chocolate chip cookie, their aspirations for their business, and how they feel about sour cream as a cookie dough ingredient.

Why St. Louis’ population is shrinking and how to fix it May 14, 2024

The St. Louis metropolitan area is showing troubling signs when it comes to population trends. There are fewer residents than in years past in St. Louis and St. Louis County, and the region isn’t keeping pace with other areas of the country where the population is growing. St. Louis University Professor Ness Sandoval and International Institute of St. Louis CEO and President Arrey Obenson discuss why this is happening and what needs to be done to turn the tide.

The parallels between student-led protests of the past and present in St. Louis May 13, 2024

As students across many college campuses express solidarity with Palestinians during the latest war in Gaza, the parallels to other student and youth-led protests are apparent — including in St. Louis. St. Louis University history professor and chair of African American Studies Chris Tinson discusses those parallels and how it’s natural students are attuned to social and global issues — and that they congregate and participate in civil-disobedience.

Why community health is an increasing priority for St. Louis hospitals May 13, 2024

Despite the exorbitant amount of money spent on health care in the U.S., its population is relatively unhealthy. Dr. Alexander Garza, the Chief Community Health Officer at SSM Health, believes that improving health outcomes in the St. Louis community starts well before patients walk through clinic or hospital doors. Alongside his colleague Karen Bradshaw, Garza discusses how SSM Health is partnering with other area hospital systems to complete a federally mandated assessment that identifies community health needs.

CAM ‘Breathers’ exhibit showcases kinetic art that centers the necessity of air May 10, 2024

Visitors to the Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis can experience New York artist Paul Chan’s exhibition “Breathers,” which relies upon air and wind to create kinetic movement and evoke an emotional response that reminds us to inhale and exhale with greater intention. Associate curator Misa Jeffereis and artist Simiya Sudduth reflect on what air and breath look like both in art and in healing —- and why taking a ‘breather’ is necessary.

Students and faculty arrested at Gaza protest say Wash U is still missing the point May 10, 2024

Last month at Washington University, police arrested over 100 people who attempted to set up a Gaza solidarity encampment on campus grounds. WashU junior Andrew de las Alas and senior lecturer Michael Allen were arrested and temporarily suspended for their involvement with the April 27 campus protest. They talk about the protest on Wash U’s campus and dealing with its aftermath. Shanti Parikh, Chair of the African and African American Studies department and professor of anthropology at WashU, discusses how faculty are trying to support those who were arrested.

Many young adults face economic insecurity and depression, finds new St. Louis Fed report May 09, 2024

More than one in three young adults, ages 18-24, report zero income. Depression rates in that age group are also comparatively high. And feelings about financial stability vary notably by race. Senior St. Louis Fed researcher Ana Hernandez Kent talks through those and other findings from the 2024 State of Economic Equity report, with notes about how research can inform better support for economically disconnected youth.

Immigrant Song concert series strikes a chord against hate May 09, 2024

Katie McGrath founded Immigrant Song as a response to the increase in race, culture and religion-based domestic hate crimes in the U.S. since 2016. Alongside the concert series’ music director Larry Pry, and performers Chuck Flowers and Anu French, she reflects on the power of music and storytelling as a way to combat hate and divisiveness. The nonprofit organization’s next concert is this Sunday, May 12.

A developer abandoned a U City neighborhood. Its homes are now a police training ground May 08, 2024

University City resident Nichole Angieri recently discovered that her neighborhood is being used as a police training ground. It's the latest update in the aftermath of a $190 million Costco development in University City that's left residents feeling unheard, stranded in their homes, and left to fend for themselves. In this episode, we hear from Angieri and from producer Danny Wicentowski.

Metro Transit weighs policy change that disabled riders say would make services worse May 08, 2024

Metro Transit, a service of Bi-State Development, may tighten its Call-A-Ride reservations window. Disability rights advocates say that would make existing service gaps even worse. Taulby Roach, President and CEO of Bi-State Development talks about the proposed policy change. Jeanette Mott Oxford, Paraquad Public Policy & Advocacy Manager, and Seyoon Choi, former Parquad Public Policy Intern, also join the conversation to discuss what a local advocacy group has recommended instead.

Walt Disney dreamed of a St. Louis park. Then the deal went bust May 07, 2024

In the 1960s, St. Louis nearly became one of the most magical places on earth. A planned Disneyland, called the Riverfront Square, captured imaginations as local leaders sought to strike a deal with Walt Disney himself — until that deal went bibbidi, bobbidi, bust. Writer Devin Thomas O'Shea reminds us of what the canceled Disney attraction might have been, the disputed reasons why the plan fell apart (no, it wasn't just over beer), and the problematic characters and mythologized storytelling that the park would have been designed around.

Love, loss and a 30-year family secret bring a St. Louis mom and daughter closer together May 07, 2024

When Juliet Simone turned 30 years old she decided to try for a baby and sought a sperm donor to start her family. She had no idea just how much the birth of her first child would open up her family’s world. Once she gave birth to her first son, doctors told her the baby tested positive for a genetic disorder and recommended family genetic screening. This led to the revelation that her mother, Rebecca Massie, also sought sperm donors to birth Simone and Simone’s brother Alex. Simone and Massie share their story of a family secret that grew their families beyond all expectation.

Cardinals great Adam Wainwright soars into a new career: playing country music May 06, 2024

Adam Wainwright enjoyed an 18-year big-league career with the St. Louis Cardinals that included closing out the World Series as a rookie and, in his final season last year, securing 200 career wins. The former pitcher has now embarked on a career as a baseball analyst for network television and musician. STLPR’s Jeremy D. Goodwin spoke with Wainwright about his songwriting and recently released country music album “Hey Y’all.” Wainwright’s musical adventures have also included a debut at the Grand Ole Opry and an opening slot for Zac Brown Band at Chaifetz Arena.

How St. Louis is represented throughout Drake and Kendrick Lamar’s rap beef May 06, 2024

St. Louis-born music producer Metro Boomin is one of the most prolific beat makers of today. His productions top Billboard charts, win Grammys, and make stars out of his collaborators. He also is interwoven in the biggest rap beef in the last decade between Kendrick Lamar and Drake. Producer Miya Norfleet, arts and culture reporter Chad Davis, and political correspondent Jason Rosembaum share their thoughts on the week-long back and forth between the hip-hop giants and how St. Louis’ significance in hip-hop is undeniable.

Missourians could vote to boost state’s minimum wage and establish paid sick leave May 03, 2024

In Missouri, much of the attention as to what issues will be on the ballot in November has been about efforts to legalize abortion and sports betting. Another initiative that could boost the minimum wage and establish paid sick leave also seems primed for a vote. Missourians for Healthy Families and Fair Wages turned in roughly 210,000 signatures to Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft’s office. The measure would raise the state’s minimum wage to $13.75 an hour next year – and eventually move it up to $15 an hour by 2026. Campaign manager Richard von Glahn talks about the effort.

Kids died after Missouri child abuse investigators missed signs of fentanyl abuse May 03, 2024

Missouri child abuse investigators missed warning signs of fentanyl use among parents before their young children died of accidental overdoses from the drug, according to a new state report. It found that Children's Division investigators, who are tasked with following up on claims of abuse and neglect, “lacked essential procedures, missed warning signs and left vulnerable children at risk.” Jessica Seitz, executive director of the Missouri Network Against Child Abuse, joins the show. She also helped put the report together.

Missouri Congressman Mark Alford says the U.S. must continue to support Taiwan May 03, 2024

It’s been over a week since Congress put the finishing touches on a foreign aid package to help Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan. And while much of the attention and focus is around opposition to providing military assistance to Ukraine and Israel, there’s been less debate about helping Taiwan blunt any potential invasion from China. U.S. Rep. Mark Alford, R-Cass County, recently traveled to Taiwan as part of a bipartisan delegation and discusses why he voted for Taiwan aid in order to stem China’s growing influence.

Instead of complaints, Missouri’s trans tip line flooded with pro-trans support, records show May 03, 2024

St. Louis Public Radio has obtained thousands of pages of responses from a tip line created launched last year by Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey. Although intended to collect complaints about gender affirming care, the records show that its first respondents used the tip line to criticize Bailey and the tip line itself. St. Louis on the Air producer Danny Wicentowski describes the records he obtained, and the tip line’s impact on Missouri’s trans population.

How Betty’s Books celebrates inclusivity during Free Comic Book Day May 02, 2024

Betty Bayer opened Betty’s Books in 2021 to sell illustrated literature. For the last three years she’s curated and produced a community zine for Free Comic Book Day to celebrate comic books and the community she’s fostered at her store in Webster Groves. Along with stocking titles for graphic novel fans, Betty’s Books makes space for people who are typically not embraced by the mainstream comic book industry — people of color, members of the LGBTQ community, women and children. She’s joined by illustrator Alain McAlister to discuss the broad range illustrated storytelling encompasses.

Gaza solidarity protest at St. Louis University campus ends with no arrests May 02, 2024

Hundreds of demonstrators decrying Israel’s military attacks in Gaza marched through St. Louis University and briefly occupied a portion of Grand Blvd. on Wednesday. STLPR correspondent Jason Rosenbaum discusses what he saw and heard at the protest, and why SLU responded differently than Washington University, where police arrested more than 100 people at a protest last weekend. Two students also share why they are calling on SLU and Wash U to cut ties with weapons manufacturers like Boeing.

Old Capital Square Dance Club makes lemonade out of lemons after copyright infringement May 02, 2024

St. Louis band Old Capital Square Dance Club recently discovered that their 2019 album was altered — someone took their songs, changed their tempo and pitch-shifted the vocals. The doctored tracks were on Spotify under the name Marico Charlotte. It’s estimated that playlists made of copyrighted songs may generate tens of thousands of dollars for whoever is behind them. We talk with Old Capital bandmates Jesse McClary, Drew Lance, and Zach Anderson about this experience and what the band has in store for the coming year.

Corn and its indigenous roots take center stage in new MoBot exhibit May 01, 2024

No matter how you prefer to enjoy it – popped, grilled, or in tortilla form – corn is beloved by cultures across the globe. The Missouri Botanical Gardens is putting a spotlight on the humble crop in a new exhibition, "Kernels of Culture: Maize Around the World," showcasing just how versatile corn is.

Legal Roundtable: What to know about the First Amendment at Wash U and other college campus protests Apr 30, 2024

Washington University arrested about 100 pro-Palestinian protesters over the weekend. Is there any question as to whether the private university had that right? Does it matter if the people protesting were students or staff? Attorneys Sarah Swatosh, Javad Khazaeli and Liz Lenivy discussed that issue on the Legal Roundtable. Also discussed was a motion to vacate the conviction of Marcellus Williams, whether a juvenile who beat up a fellow minor near Hazelwood East High School should be tried as an adult, and a lawsuit against 3M and Scott Technologies filed by the family of a St. Louis firefighter who died because of what they say was faulty equipment.

How protests and arrests unfolded at Wash U on Saturday Apr 29, 2024

Police arrested about 100 protesters Saturday night after a pro-Palestinan march at Washington University. Protesters have a list of demands that include wanting the university to cut ties with Boeing. Wash U officials say they respect freedom of expression — but that protesters violated campus policy by setting up an encampment. STLPR photojournalist Eric Lee discusses the protests and arrests that unfolded on Saturday.

The healing power of 'Grandma Peggy's Breakfast Club' Apr 29, 2024

Every Wednesday, Peggy Winckowski opens her home to cook and host breakfast for up to 35 teenagers before they head to school. What started as a casual breakfast with her grandsons has turned into a regular gathering — one that’s become particularly special after the loss of Peggy’s grandson, Sam Crowe, who was killed in a vehicle crash in 2022 at age 15. We join the Wednesday crew for breakfast and learn about Peggy’s wish for a national breakfast day movement.

The 1904 World's Fair was grand — and ugly. A new museum exhibit shows its complexities Apr 29, 2024

First opened in 2004, the Missouri History Museum closed their long-running running exhibit on the 1904 World’s Fair last April to reimagine the experience. The newly renovated exhibit has been unveiled and it confronts the many hard truths that hid behind the grandeur of the World’s Fair hosted in St. Louis. Sam Moore, managing director of public history and Sharon Smith, curator of civic and personal identity at the Missouri History Museum share the additions and new perspectives in the exhibit.

Cannabis industry faces 4/20 glitch and ‘predatory practices’ in Missouri Apr 29, 2024

Cannabis' biggest holiday of the year, 4/20, brought Missourians out in droves. Missouri Independent cannabis reporter Rebecca Rivas explains how a glitch “jacked up” the sales systems in some dispensaries. She explores the story around a new warning from Missouri regulators about “predatory practices” in the state’s cannabis industry, and what’s next in the legal fight over Delta-8 THC.

Pulitzer Prize winning author Jane Smiley draws on St. Louis roots for latest novel Apr 26, 2024

Pulitzer Prize-winning author Jane Smiley’s new novel “Lucky” is set in St. Louis and reflects some of the author’s upbringing. The story follows Jodie Rattler, a folk musician who rises to fame through changing times. Smiley talks about why she set the book in her hometown and how the novel reflects her journey as a writer.

Writer Jamaica Kincaid to receive 2024 St. Louis Literary Award Apr 25, 2024

When writer Jamaica Kincaid was informed last year that she’d receive the 2024 St. Louis Literary Award, she thought it was a prank. The author of such works as “Annie John” and “A Small Place” says she’s honored to join a distinguished list of writers to have received the award including Neil Gaiman, Margaret Atwood and Zadie Smith. In this episode, Kincaid discusses her upbringing and career as a prominent writer.

Longtime TV news reporter Abby Llorico joins STLPR as morning newscaster, podcast host Apr 25, 2024

St. Louis Public Radio audiences have noticed a new voice on our airways — specifically in the morning. Abby Llorico has joined the STLPR team as our morning newscaster and host of “The Gateway.” The former TV news reporter joined the show to talk about what she’s most excited for in her new radio career.

'Eads Bridge at 150' exhibit opens at Missouri History Museum Apr 24, 2024

The Eads Bridge is a structure of distinction, not only for its design and materials, but also for its place in regional history and culture. A new exhibit at the Missouri History Museum commemorates the bridge’s 150th year. Amanda Clark, public historian at the Missouri Historical Society and content lead for the “Eads Bridge at 150” exhibit, discusses the legacy of the bridge a century and a half after its completion.

Cinema St. Louis focuses on queer love and community at QFest Apr 24, 2024

For 17 years Cinema St. Louis has hosted QFest, a film festival highlighting queer storytelling and filmmaking. This year the theme is, simply, “love” — including the romantic, the familial and fictive kinship. Cinema St. Louis’ director of festival curation and education Emmett Williams and artist Jess T. Dugan share their motivations and hopes for QFest and queer storytelling in St. Louis.

A ‘reimagined’ Go! St. Louis marathon will visit more parts of the city Apr 23, 2024

The Greater St. Louis Marathon will bring thousands of runners to Downtown and take them on a grand tour of St. Louis’ neighborhoods from Lafayette Square to Old North. Go! St. Louis president Mona Vespa shares what it takes to plot 26.2 miles of marathon route and what’s new this year including an after-party and running through Gateway Arch National Park.

Up to 60 billion cicadas are about to emerge in St. Louis. Here’s what you need to know Apr 23, 2024

Up to 60 billion cicadas are about to emerge from the ground in St. Louis for the first time in 13 years. Nicole Pruess, invertebrate keeper at the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House, talks about this extraordinary occurrence and how periodical cicadas are a nutritional boon to the region’s wildlife — and even its human residents.

Love Bank Park is more than a park. It’s a hub conceived from community care Apr 23, 2024

Nearly a decade after community members installed a single basketball hoop on a corner lot along Cherokee St., Love Bank Park has been developed in a big way. “To see it actually happening was just pure magic,” said Eric "Prospect" White, a core leader of Love Bank Park’s redevelopment. The park, founded by neighborhood residents and business owners, “is more than just a space to play basketball,” said Pacia Elaine Anderson, a fellow leader of the park’s redevelopment. “It's something that could be a lifeline for people that need it.”

Restaurant workers often face addiction alone. An STL support group is changing that Apr 22, 2024

A new sober support group is aiming to help food and service professionals. Chef Max Bredenkoetter explores the challenges of addiction in the food industry, and discusses his pop-up event series "Temperance Kitchen.” Also, Sauce Magazine’s Meera Nagarajan delivers another order of new spots to eat and drink, including a new salad-centric restaurant that grows its own lettuce.

Strong sibling relationships in adulthood make life brighter and less lonely Apr 22, 2024

Research around adult sibling relationships shows the health of those bonds has a significant bearing on long-term psychological and emotional well-being. Megan Gilligan, professor at the University of Missouri-Columbia, directs the Families in Later Life Lab at Mizzou. In this episode, she discusses what makes sibling relationships unique, how various stages and phases of adulthood affect sibling dynamics, and how future research can help us understand the roles adult siblings play in one another’s lives — especially as they care for aging parents and family members.

Missouri Senate minority leader expects legislative session work to move quickly Apr 21, 2024

Although Missouri Democrats are in the minority in both the House and Senate, senators have more power to affect the flow of legislation thanks to the chamber’s tradition of a strong filibuster and divides between Senate Republicans. With the session winding down, Senate Minority Leader John Rizzo, D-Independence, discusses what’s left to accomplish including passing a state budget and renewing a critical tax that pays for the state’s Medicaid program.

Missourians could vote soon on legalizing sports betting Apr 19, 2024

A campaign gathering signatures to legalize sports betting in Missouri is optimistic that voters will have the chance to approve it this November. Jack Cardetti, a spokesman for the campaign, discusses the initiative petition process and what legal sports gambling would look like in Missouri. We also hear why Sen. Denny Hoskins, R-Warrensburg, is opposed to the measure.

How the ethics investigation into Speaker Plocher became the top story in Jefferson City this week Apr 19, 2024

A group of bipartisan legislators earlier this week voted down a report that would have recommended a formal letter of disapproval for Missouri House Speaker Dean Plocher. Among other issues, the ethics committee was investigating how Plocher was reimbursed for travel expenses. The scuttled report also accused him of “absolute obstruction.” Missouri Independent Editor-in-Chief Jason Hancock discusses his reporting on this story.

One year in, Ferguson Chief Troy Doyle reflects on the 2014 uprising and his city’s future Apr 18, 2024

One year after being sworn in as chief of the Ferguson Police Department, Troy Doyle reflects on what it takes to promote a cultural shift among officers and discusses his efforts to recast a department thrust into national and global spotlight after Michael Brown Jr.'s killing by a Ferguson police officer nearly 10 years ago.

Cardinals owners plan to ask taxpayers to fund Busch Stadium renovations Apr 18, 2024

The owners of the St. Louis Cardinals are preparing to make a big ask of its fans – a proposition that will likely amount to asking taxpayers to help fund renovations to Busch Stadium. Economists are skeptical that such investments benefit their communities. In this episode, we talk with freelance journalist Eric Berger about his story on the topic which was commissioned by the River City Journalism Fund.

Madison County voters will take up symbolic secession vote in November Apr 17, 2024

The Madison County Board approved a measure on Wednesday evening that will put a symbolic referendum to voters in November — asking if the Metro East county should secede from Illinois and create a new state. In advance of that vote, STLPR Metro East reporter Will Bauer discussed his reporting on this story.

How Chef Rob Connoley pairs ‘reparative restauranting’ and Ozark cuisine Apr 17, 2024

Chef Rob Connoley and Normandy High School senior Alex Belton are a dynamic culinary duo, aspiring toward major wins this June. The Bulrush chef-owner was named a Best Chef finalist for the 2024 James Beard Foundation Awards earlier this month, while Belton earned her spot in a national culinary competition after securing regional and state wins this year.

Trailnet report finds traffic violence on the rise in St. Louis — and offers solutions Apr 16, 2024

Nearly 650 people were injured or killed while walking or biking in St. Louis and St. Louis County in 2023. That statistic signifies a lot of trauma that stems from traffic violence, according to Trailnet CEO Cindy Mense. She shares information and stories from Trailnet’s 2023 Crash Report and suggests measures that regional leaders can take to protect all roadway users.

How STL Cannamoms is fighting back against the stigma of legal cannabis use Apr 16, 2024

Missouri legalized recreational cannabis in December 2022, but stigma surrounding its use is especially isolating for mothers who use marijuana. Jessica Carroll and Kimberlee Kesterson, founders of STL Cannamoms, share the inspiration behind their online community, which has over 3,600 members, and how they support one another in ways that go beyond cannabis consumption.

A paralyzed man was left on a jail floor for days. St Louis officials are trading blame Apr 15, 2024

A disturbing photo of a paralyzed detainee in the St. Louis City Justice Center has triggered calls for accountability and improvement in the city’s main jail. Now the attorney who took that photo says she’s facing retaliation. Sue McGraugh, director of the Criminal Defense Clinic at Saint Louis University, discusses becoming a whistleblower, facing the blowback from Sheriff Vernon Betts, and the impact of new jail policy banning phones.

How a Big Brothers Big Sisters mentorship turned into a 20-year friendship Apr 15, 2024

Kristen Slaughter and Kiara Brown have an unconventional friendship. They’re 22 years apart in age and their relationship was only slated to last one year. Matched through a Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri mentorship program, the two have now been friends for more than 20 years. In this encore episode, we listen back to Slaughter and Brown talk about their enduring friendship. Last year, Slaughter was named CEO of the nonprofit organization, and Brown now has her own career and is the mother of two children.

R&R Marketplace in Dellwood started as a prayer. Now it’s ‘a miracle’ Apr 12, 2024

What was once an empty strip mall in Dellwood reopened in September as a $20 million economic hub serving north St. Louis County. The R&R Marketplace came after more than a decade of work by married pastors Beverly and Ken Jenkins. Beverly and Ken tell the story of its creation, from praying at an empty parking lot, to the Ferguson protests, to seeing the grand opening.

Rent in St. Louis has gotten out of control. Here’s why and what's being done about it Apr 12, 2024

It’s a familiar rule: people should not spend more than 30% of their income on housing. But for many who rent in St. Louis, that percentage has long been higher. And it’s moving very quickly in the wrong direction. In 2022, the local nonprofit Action St. Louis put out a survey to capture data on city renter experiences and created a report called “The Rental Landscape of St. Louis 2023,” and the picture it paints has much more shadow than light.

Almost-famous St. Louis band the Aerovons finally sees 1969 recordings released on vinyl Apr 11, 2024

Pop rock band the Aerovons was formed in St. Louis in 1966 by 16-year-old Tom Hartman and his bandmates. Their work never made it to vinyl — until now. A remastered version of their album "Resurrection," recorded 55 years ago at EMI Recording Studios in London, will be released by Euclid Records on April 20. Band leader Tom Hartman recalls meeting Paul McCartney and George Harrison in 1969, the Aerovons’ decades-long road to this achievement and what it means to have their work recognized now.

Musician Michael B. Whit welcomes the attention ‘Cowboy Carter’ brings to Black country musicians Apr 11, 2024

Country music is in public discourse after international superstar Beyoncé released “Cowboy Carter.” The album also has listeners discovering unsung Black country artists, and the attention has brought attention to unsung Black country artists. Singer-songwriter Michael B. Whit shares his perspective as a Black man with rural roots and as a country musician, and reflects on the impact of Black musicians in the genre.

Facing angry tenants, VineBrook is ditching St. Louis rental properties Apr 10, 2024

VineBrook homes spent the last few years buying thousands of homes in St. Louis and other cities. Instead of maintaining the homes, tenants say the company is turning to evictions and allowing the homes to fall into disrepair. There’s more: Facing debt, VineBrook is starting to sell its vast stock of properties. Midwest Newsroom investigative reporter Kavaugn Mansuri breaks down the evidence and explores what might happen if the company folds.

Meet the architect behind Brentwood’s enormous new playground Apr 10, 2024

Brentwood Destination Park has finally opened after months of reimaging and building, turning what was once a quarry into a child’s — and parents’ — dreamland. Park architect Ted Spaid shares how nature, community engagement, and trends around accessibility made the project a success.

Why this year’s Ramadan felt different for some St. Louis-area Muslims Apr 10, 2024

While the holy month of Ramadan is typically marked by fasting, celebratory feasts and charity, some Muslims in the St. Louis area said this year felt more somber. Producer Ulaa Kuziez takes us to a prayer service at Daar Ul-Islam Masjid in St. Louis County and a pre-dawn breakfast meal at Golden Chicken in St. Peters.

The sound of an eclipse — How STLPR’s journalists covered the celestial spectacle Apr 09, 2024

Millions of people yesterday were treated to a total solar eclipse. STLPR had a team of reporters in southeast Missouri and southern Illinois. In this episode, we listen to their coverage and talk about what it was like to be in the path of totality.

A leading conservationist says the Midwest plays a key role in ocean health Apr 09, 2024

Ocean conservationist Julie Packard has led the Monterey Bay Aquarium in California for 40 years. During that time she’s played a leading role educating people about the benefits and harms they bring to the unique ecosystem. Packard has also helped shape state, national, and global policies around ocean conservation. In this episode, she discusses the key role the Midwest plays in ocean health in advance of her receiving an award given by the Whitney R. Harris World Ecology Center at the University of Missouri-St. Louis.

To be 'for' St. Louis, a new Wash U. initiative is now housed in the Delmar DivINe Apr 08, 2024

To demonstrate its commitment to St. Louis, Washington University has a new office in the Delmar Divine to engage local partners. Lisa Weingarth, inaugural senior advisor for St. Louis initiatives at Washington University, shares how the institution will engage with the St. Louis community. Wash U chancellor Andrew Martin also shares his vision for ensuring the university isn’t just “in” St. Louis, but “for” it.

Understanding how solar eclipses have shaped civilizations — and how STLPR journalists are covering the one on April 8 Apr 08, 2024

For millennia, humans have looked to the sky to check out a total solar eclipse. In this episode, we listen back to our conversation with Manel Errando, an assistant professor of physics at Washington University, about how humans have kept track of and tried to understand what solar eclipses mean. Then, we checked in with STLPR journalists in Illinois, Missouri — and on a Southwest Airlines flight — about how they’re taking in the April 8 eclipse.

Fashion icon Karlie Kloss emphasizes Missouri's role in national abortion rights fight Apr 05, 2024

Webster Groves native Karlie Kloss took the modeling world by storm in the 2010s before launching a highly successful effort to connect young women with computer coding and, more recently, helping relaunch Life magazine. On this episode of the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air, she discusses another passion: her advocacy for abortion rights in Missouri and around the Midwest.

Missouri Rep. Tony Lovasco pushes to commute Brian Dorsey’s death sentence Apr 05, 2024

Missouri is slated to execute Brian Dorsey on April 9 for the murder of his cousin and her husband. While there’s no question about his guilt, a number of Republican lawmakers are calling on Gov. Mike Parson to reduce his sentence to life without parole — pointing to his sterling record in prison and questions about his legal representation. On the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air, STLPR’s Jason Rosenbaum talks with state Rep. Tony Lovasco about why Parson should spare Dorsey’s life.

Eligible voters are done with politics. Why voter apathy threatens democracy Apr 05, 2024

While the 2020 election brought out a record number of voters to the polls across the country, the United States lags behind other countries when it comes to voter turnout. Whether from news fatigue or dissatisfaction with bipartisan politics, low voter turnout threatens democracy. That’s according to Ken Warren, professor of political science at St. Louis University, who joined the most recent edition of the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air.

How St. Louis neighborhoods are transforming – one grant at a time Apr 04, 2024

The City of St. Louis has awarded $20 million in grants from the American Rescue Plan Act to individuals and nonprofit organizations. The goal is to help with things like home repairs and construction and even developing gardens or parks on vacant land. One such grant awardee seeks to rehab a home on North Kingshighway Blvd. into a four-family home. In this episode, we discuss what Neighborhood Transformation Grants seek to do and talk with people who are working to improve the quality of life in their communities.

Kids and adults are putting the buzz in St. Louis spelling bees Apr 03, 2024

A local 8th grader is bound for the Scripps National Spelling Bee for her second year in a row. Meet orthographic whiz Sonia Kulkarni, as well as adults prepping for a local fundraising spelling bee — and how some of them are hoping to avenge their own childhood spelling bee trauma.

A brewer defends beer’s unsung first impression: Its foam Apr 03, 2024

Sauce Magazine’s Meera Nagarajan presents a sampler of new restaurants and spots for great bites and sips around town. Jonathan Moxey, head brewer at Rockwell Beer Company, joins the discussion to offer a spirited defense of beer foam, and we explore how more drinkers are learning to appreciate beer foam’s heady flavors and aromas.

Beloved St. Louis music festival Lo-Fi Cherokee to play its grand finale Apr 02, 2024

For 12 years, Lo-Fi Cherokee has delighted music lovers with its one-day music festival format and one-take music video production before live audiences at multiple businesses along Cherokee Street. Filmmaker and Lo-Fi St. Louis founder Bill Streeter shares why 2024’s Lo-Fi Cherokee will be the last, and how his love for the local music scene and video production will continue. Singer/songwriter Beth Bombara, who performed at the very first Lo-Fi Cherokee in 2012 and is on this year’s bill as the event’s closing act Saturday, April 6, describes how Lo-Fi has added to her own music and the local music community.

Paris Woods wants to help Black women take control of their labor and their funds Apr 02, 2024

Paris Woods grew up watching her mother navigate her own finances while caring for seven children on a secretary's salary. Drawing from a lifetime of observations, her own financial challenges, and professional experience in the “college access” industry, Woods authored her book, “The Black Girl’s Guide to Financial Freedom,” to encourage fellow Black women as they take control of their finances and build confidence when dealing with money.

How Tiger-Lily the 2-headed snake is an ambassador for her species Apr 01, 2024

Two-headed snakes don’t live long in the wild, but in captivity, they can live for decades. Tiger-Lily the western rat snake is lucky to be in the latter category. Found in southwest Missouri in 2017, Tiger-Lily is now a species ambassador with the Missouri Department of Conservation. Naturalist Lauren Baker talks about best practices for feeding two hungry snake heads at once (Tiger and Lily share a stomach) and what she’s witnessed providing care to a snake with one body and two independent brains — and temperaments.

Brian Dorsey is set to be Missouri’s first 2024 execution. A former judge wants to stop it Apr 01, 2024

In 2008, Brian Dorsey was sentenced to death for two counts of murder. On April 9, he’ll become the first person executed by the state of Missouri in 2024 — unless Governor Mike Parson grants him clemency. Retired Missouri Supreme Court Judge Michael A. Wolff, who upheld Dorsey’s sentence in 2010, shares why he now supports Dorsey’s case for clemency and reflects on the factors that affect outcomes in death penalty cases. And Michelle Smith, founder of the Missouri Justice Coalition, talks about the movement to abolish the death penalty in Missouri.

The 1904 World's Fair was grand — and ugly. A museum will soon exhibit that side, too Mar 29, 2024

First opened in 2004, the Missouri History Museum closed their long-running running exhibit on the 1904 World’s Fair last April to reimagine the experience. Next month the museum will unveil its work over the last year of confronting the many hard truths that hid behind the grandeur of the World’s Fair hosted in St. Louis. Sam Moore, managing director of public history and Sharon Smith, curator of civic and personal identity at the Missouri History Museum share the additions and new perspectives in the exhibit and upcoming events when the exhibit reopens on April 27.

Local artists, activists reflect on Michael Brown Jr’s killing in new exhibition Mar 29, 2024

On August 9, 2014, the killing of Michael Brown, Jr. by Ferguson police officer Darren Wilson saw the birth of a social movement. A new Webster University exhibition titled, “Ferguson and Beyond: Artistic Responses to a Decade of Social Upheaval 2014-2024,” features art created as a means to process Brown’s death and bring about healing.

Missouri Senate President Pro Tem Caleb Rowden on why he left the secretary of state race Mar 28, 2024

How bad does party infighting have to get for a frontrunner to leave a political race? Republican Senator Caleb Rowden knows first-hand. In this “Politically Speaking” interview, he shares his reasons for dropping out of the contest for Missouri Secretary of State — a decision prompted by discord within his party and other issues.

A St. Louis seaplane pilot aims to be the first woman to circumnavigate Australia Mar 28, 2024

St. Louis resident and pilot Cathy Babis has been flying for more than 50 years. Starting this Saturday, she’ll attempt to do something that no woman has done before — circumnavigate mainland Australia in a seaplane. The journey marks the 100th anniversary of the Royal Australian Air Force’s circumnavigation of the continent. Babis talks with producer Alex Heuer about the trip and its goals of encouraging people from diverse backgrounds in STEM fields and raising awareness around suicide prevention.

Police used an AirPod tracking app to find carjackers. It led them to an innocent family Mar 27, 2024

A St. Louis County SWAT team used a battering ram to burst into a home in Ferguson. Officers had used the Find My app to trace a pair of stolen AirPods linked to a carjacking to that address. The only problem? The AirPods had been tossed into the street. The family inside had nothing to do with the carjacking and never had the AirPods. This month’s Legal Roundtable convenes to discuss the raid. Attorneys Eric Banks, Dave Roland and Nicole Gorovsky also discuss a white professor suing St. Louis’ historically Black university for racial discrimination, whether the Republican Party has a legal basis to stop an “honorary” Ku Klux Klan member from running as a GOP candidate for governor, and more.

New cartoon-style book highlights what makes Missouri weird and wonderful Mar 25, 2024

“Missouri Weird & Wonderful” presents readers of all ages with a kid-friendly tour through the Show Me State. Author Amanda E. Doyle and illustrator Dan Zettwoch, two longtime St. Louisans, discuss highlights from the book, which closes with a scavenger hunt for famous Missouri people and things.

Like watching storms roll in? Consider volunteer storm spotting with the NWS Mar 25, 2024

Are you the sort of Midwesterner who goes outside when tornado sirens go off to watch Mother Nature get crazy? Then you might be exactly who the National Weather Service - St. Louis wants to train to be a storm spotter. Meteorologist Matt Beitcher shares details on upcoming classes and how storm spotters can help save lives by collecting and sharing real-time weather data.

Breaking down IL primary results: Bost holds off Bailey, Slusser emerges in Madison County Mar 22, 2024

U.S. Rep. Mike Bost, R-Murphysboro, won the GOP nomination in Illinois' 12th Congressional District for a sixth time earlier this week, warding off a challenge by former Illinois legislator Darren Bailey, R-Xenia. In the Madison County Republican primary for board chairman, treasurer Chris Slusser defeated the embattled incumbent, Kurt Prenzler. STLPR journalists Will Bauer and Brian Munoz discuss the results on the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air.

SLU/YouGov poll shows room to grow for abortion legalization in Missouri Mar 22, 2024

Missouri isn’t the competitive swing state that it was during the 20th century — or even in the 2000s and 2010s. But even though the state’s voters may continue to back GOP candidates for governor and other statewide posts, they may be amenable to backing a ballot initiative that legalizes abortion. On the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air, SLU associate political science professor Steve Rogers and STLPR senior political reporter Jo Mannies discuss what the SLU/YouGov poll results mean for the 2024 election.

A modern history of meth starts in Missouri Mar 21, 2024

A new podcast is taking up the past and present of meth. "Home Cooked: A 50-Year History of Meth in America” begins with a Missouri-heavy exploration of meth use and manufacture as it grew in the 2000s. We talk with its host Olivia Weeks, and Prevent Ed executive director Nichole Dawsey, about how Missouri became known as the "meth capital of America,” and how use of the drug has changed today.

You’ve got (too much) email. Is it time to let it go? Mar 20, 2024

Washington University Professor Ian Bogost says checking email is a source of daily torment. In this episode, he makes the case for why it’s time to give up on email entirely. He also digs into the history of email, its evolution, and how we can better use text communication tools in ways that benefit our lives.

Ethics are difficult on Earth. In outer space, the questions are even harder Mar 19, 2024

Humans have gotten a lot wrong when it comes to living on Earth. And while it wouldn’t be possible to entirely leave earthly problems behind, when humans settle outer space there will be a host of ethical questions with which to grapple. At an event presented by Missouri Humanities and recorded at the James S. McDonnell Planetarium, Elaine Cha spoke with astrophysicist and author Erika Nesvold. Nesvold is the author of “Off-Earth. Ethical Questions and Quandaries for Living in Outer Space.”

The complicated, charitable life of Bryan Mullanphy, St. Louis’ 10th mayor Mar 18, 2024

St. Louis streets transformed this weekend into a sea of green as thousands of revelers celebrated St. Patrick’s Day. The city’s Irish community has a long history, which includes St. Louis’ 10th mayor, Bryan Mullanphy: Mullanphy’s contributions to the city go far beyond the street named for him. “Unseen St. Louis” writer and history buff Jackie Dana shares her findings from researching Mullaphy’s life, including his then-scandalous decision to leave one-third of his estate to the City of St. Louis, specifically to help poor immigrants and travelers.

Prosecutors wield vast power in St. Louis. A coalition is putting them under scrutiny Mar 18, 2024

A coalition of racial justice groups has released the first of a slew of reports aimed at holding prosecutors in St. Louis and St. Louis County accountable. The group is tackling big questions: What should a prosecutor’s office be doing? What would it mean for those policies to be progressive — not just in name, but in reality? Mike Milton, founder and executive director of the Freedom Community Center in St. Louis, digs into the report and talks about the leadership of former St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner, the promises of St. Louis’ new top prosecutor Gabe Gore, and the work of St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell.

Celebrating 26 years of Tionól and St. Louis’ Irish music scene Mar 15, 2024

For 26 years, musicians of all levels have gathered for the annual St. Louis Tionól — not just to perform traditional Irish music, but to bask in the companionship of fellow performers and attendees. As festival co-founder Mike Mullins puts it, “The heart of Irish music is a social event.”

Painted streets and the ‘killing’ of rubber snakes — Rolla goes big for St. Patrick’s Day Mar 15, 2024

Rolla, Missouri, boasts one of the biggest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the Midwest. In this 2023 conversation, STLPR correspondent Jonathan Ahl and Missouri S&T historian Larry Gragg dig into Rolla St. Patrick’s Day history and the unique traditions that still continue today.

Eimear Arkins on connecting with your Irish heritage Mar 15, 2024

While St. Louis doesn’t have as many first-generation Irish immigrants as it used to, there are still strong cultural ties in the city. Eimear Arkins, a St. Louis transplant from County Clare, Ireland, is working to strengthen those ties. In this encore episode, she shares her thoughts on local holiday customs and how Americans can engage with Irish culture in meaningful ways.

Showing love for the Lou means holding each other accountable for a better region Mar 14, 2024

St. Louis on the Air celebrated 314 Day with recording artist and arts ambassador Muhammad “Mvstermind” Austin, For the Culture STL’s founder Ohun Ashe, and co-owner of Strange Donuts and Up Late Jason Bockman. The trio discussed all things 3-1-4 — from St. Louis’ claim to have the best Chinese food in America to the steps towards progress since the Ferguson uprising nearly 10 years ago.

Fontbonne University closure indicative of threats facing colleges nationwide Mar 13, 2024

Fontbonne University leaders announced earlier this week that the school would close in 2025. Fontbonne President Nancy Blattner talks about why, and we talk with other guests who discuss the state of colleges and universities throughout St. Louis — and across the country.

German paintings found an unlikely home in St. Louis. Science is revealing their secrets Mar 13, 2024

A new St. Louis Art Museum exhibit (opening March 15) is highlighting the museum’s world-class collection of German Expressionism paintings. It's not just the paintings in focus, but the process of conservation, and the scientific analyses that have uncovered hidden layers, doodles, and even full paintings unknown until now. The exhibit’s two curators Courtney Books, associate paintings conservator, and Melissa Venator, the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation Assistant Curator of Modern Art, discuss the exhibit, and how German Expressionism found a home in St. Louis after World War II.

The Gold Giraffe brings island vibes to 314 Day celebrations Mar 12, 2024

St. Louis’ vast musical range includes reggae and native son Tevin Rice, aka the Gold Giraffe, is putting the genre’s sun-splashed vibes front and center just in time for 314 Day celebrations by hosting “If St. Louis Had A Beach” on March 15.

‘Wait Wait…Don’t Tell Me’ host Peter Sagal returns to St. Louis for solo show Mar 12, 2024

Peter Sagal is no stranger to St. Louis. The host of NPR’s “Wait Wait…Don’t Tell Me” has hosted the show here — and he’s also run through the streets of downtown St. Louis in his underwear and feathered wings while holding a bow and arrow. Sagal returns to St. Louis this Friday for a solo show at the Sheldon. In this episode, he discusses his experiences as the longtime host of “Wait Wait,” what his solo show entails and how he’s come to love St. Louis.

Missouri lawmakers try again to repeal ‘luxury tax’ on diapers and period products Mar 11, 2024

It's not a sign of a lavish lifestyle to have diapers and period products, but Missouri taxes those necessities at the same rate as jewelry and sports cars. The impact of that tax falls on the poorest families. St. Louis Diaper Bank executive director Muriel Smith discusses legislative efforts to lower the tax rate and how the Diaper Bank works with a coalition of partners across the state to help families and parents in need. We also get an update on efforts to combat period poverty.

Most Missouri voters are tired of changing clocks every spring and fall Mar 11, 2024

Results from recent polling suggest that there’s enough political will to end the practice of switching between daylight saving time and standard time every spring and fall. But Americans remain divided on which schedule to stick with. Washington University biologist Erik Herzog believes that permanent standard time is more beneficial to human health. Alongside St. Louis University political scientist Steven Rogers, Herzog discusses the effects of the current system, the history of daylight saving time, and how the daylight saving time/standard time debate has the golf lobby and scientists at odds.

Missouri Senate Majority Leader O’Laughlin navigates a session filled with rancor Mar 08, 2024

As Missouri Senate Majority Leader, Cindy O’Laughlin has a front row seat to the factionalism of the General Assembly’s upper chamber. During a wide-ranging interview on The Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air, O’Laughlin discusses the brunt of criticism from the Missouri Freedom Caucus, the need to reauthorize the Federal Reimbursement Allowance, initiative petition reform and more. St. Louis Public Radio’s statehouse reporter Sarah Kellogg also discusses what’s ahead in the second half of this year’s legislative session.

Alderwoman Alisha Sonnier wants to make it easier to open homeless shelters in St. Louis Mar 08, 2024

Last year, St. Louis Alderwoman Alisha Sonnier unveiled legislation known as an Unhoused Bill of Rights. The bill included a lot of different ideas — including the creation of intentional encampments and restrictions on when city officials can break up encampments. But the legislation faced a rash of criticism, including from St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones. Sonnier shelved that legislation, and on The Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air discusses how she’s going back to the drawing board to overhaul how shelters are approved.

Wash U’s co-founder has a complicated past. A new board could take up his legacy Mar 07, 2024

For many years, Washington University has portrayed one of its founders, William Greenleaf Eliot, as an abolitionist. But, in 2021, a group of students and faculty released findings that disproved that notion and even showed Eliot was vehemently opposed to abolitionism. Three years later, the university has now established a Naming Review Board that gives people the opportunity to challenge the names of buildings, professorships, and scholarships that are named after people with problematic legacies.

Remembering Bob Heil, Metro East innovator who changed how music is made, and sounds Mar 07, 2024

Metro East sound engineer Bob Heil built sound systems and equipment that influenced the development of live concert sound in the 1970s and ‘80s, and show up in music produced across genres through today. Heil died on February 28, 2024. We talk with Peter Palermo, executive director of the Sheldon Arts Foundation, about Heil’s legacy.

Most domestic violence victims face court alone. A retired judge wants to change that Mar 06, 2024

Only 10% of domestic violence victims report their abuser, and of those who do file for orders of protection, only 20-25% are granted the order. Mike Burton knows the real-life implications of these statistics well. As a St. Louis County Circuit Judge, he oversaw countless domestic violence cases — and in doing so, became aware of the many flaws in the system that lead to abusers not being held accountable. Alongside domestic abuse survivor Monique Green, Burton launched St. Louis Survivors Legal Support after retiring to help victims of domestic violence secure adequate legal representation.

Two STL prosecutors say Christopher Dunn is innocent. He’s still in prison. Mar 06, 2024

On Feb. 7, St. Louis Circuit Attorney Gabe Gore filed a motion to vacate Chris Dunn’s murder conviction. “The eyewitness recantations alone are enough to show clear and convincing evidence of actual innocence in this case,” Gore said. In an interview from prison, Dunn reflects on what this development means in his decades-long effort to prove his innocence. Also joining the conversation are Dunn's wife, Kira, and Rachel Weston, managing attorney at the Midwest Innocence Project.

How drug monitoring programs route patients out of health care and into the legal system Mar 05, 2024

Since the early 2000s, healthcare systems have used technology originally made for law enforcement to combat misuse of prescription meds — yet the opioid epidemic continues to worsen. SLU Associate Professor Liz Chiarello discusses how prescription drug monitoring programs lead to an increase in overdose rates and how such surveillance systems threaten patient privacy.

Remembering Colin Murphy, journalist, mentor and LGBTQ activist Mar 05, 2024

Colin Murphy, co-founder of Boom Magazine — a queer publication focusing on the bi-state region — has died after a two-year battle with cancer. He was 53 years old. He is remembered for his positivity and mentorship despite the adversity he faced as a gay man with HIV as well as his passion for providing a news platform by and for queer people in the bi-state region.

Abuse at Kanakuk goes back decades. A new bill would help only some of the victims Mar 04, 2024

In 2009, revelations of sexual abuse at one of the largest Christian camps in the country rocked the Branson-based Kanakuk camp. Now, a community of survivors and their supporters are building a path to change — including backing a proposed bill to expand the state’s statute of limitations. To discuss the ongoing legacy, and reckoning, around Kanakuk and Missouri law, we talk with journalist Nancy French, who investigated the camp, and attorney Bobby Thrasher, who represents a former camper who was abused there.

How an expat and a transplant found community through the St. Louis Mosaic Project Mar 01, 2024

Moving to a new place comes with a great deal more than an address change. For those who pack up their lives to move to an entirely new country, adjusting to language, systems, and culture that’s very different from what they’ve known can be difficult and lonely. The St. Louis Mosaic Project’s International Mentoring Program pairs immigrants with St. Louisans in order to promote networking opportunities, build friendships and help people new to the U.S. navigate life in the region.

Hundreds compete for $75k Arch Grants. Mentors can make the difference Mar 01, 2024

Hundreds of entrepreneurs from St. Louis and beyond apply for the Arch Grants Startup Competition each year, in the hopes of securing a $75,000 grant. The stakes are high, but a free mentorship program at the Olin Business School at Washington University is giving founders valuable feedback to help take their application to the next level.

Legal Roundtable covers Alito criticism, hazing at Eureka HS, Webster University problems, more Feb 29, 2024

A case that began with a Missouri prison guard suing the state for workplace discrimination has “concerned” U.S. Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito. The problem: The possibility that religious people who view homosexuality as a sin will be “labeled as bigots and treated as such.” Attorneys Erin Lueker, Connie McFarland-Butler and Bill Freivogel dive into Alito’s concerns, as well as the art of jury selection. The panel also discusses a case of donors suing Webster University, hazing at Eureka High School, and a Missouri lawyer using AI to write legal briefs.

How a SLU professor honors his family’s civil rights legacy Feb 28, 2024

Dr. Travis Threats is a professor and chair of St. Louis University’s Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences. He’s also the grandson of Mae Bertha and Matthew Carter, parents who dared to force Mississippi to recognize the injustice of the state’s “freedom of choice” in 1965 — one year after the passage of the Civil Rights Act. He shares how his grandparents’ fight inspires his work today including his efforts to diversify the field of speech pathology.

My co-worker wrote a memoir about dogs that helped me grieve Feb 28, 2024

STLPR politics editor Fred Ehrlich, in 2022, wrote a memoir about his life with dogs. A few weeks ago, he gifted that book to producer Aaron Doerr, who was grieving the loss of his dog, Tallis. In this episode of “St Louis on the Air,” we talk about the close bonds we have with our pets and the healing that comes with saying goodbye.

Disbanded Girl Scout troop vows to continue support for child war victims in Gaza Feb 27, 2024

A Girl Scout troop in St. Louis County made bracelets to raise funds for child war victims in Gaza. Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri told them to stop — or face legal action. The troop’s co-leaders, and one of the scouts, discuss what happened next, why they’ve decided to disband from the organization to create their own group, and their continued efforts to fundraise for the Palestine Children's Relief Fund. (Correction: Mariyah Abdelbaset is in fifth grade, not sixth grade, as mentioned in this episode.)

‘My dream came true’: How KSHE-95’s John Ulett became a mainstay at the classic rock station Feb 27, 2024

John Ulett started as a DJ at KSHE-95 in 1976 when he was just 19 years old. He’s never left, and he’s about to begin his 40th full season as the Cardinals’ PA announcer at Busch Stadium. Ulett reflects on his long career in his hometown in advance of Thursday evening's event at the Sheldon, “Life, Death & Other Scary Things: An Evening with KSHE-95's John Ulett.”

The police chief in St. Louis is paid $100k a year by local foundation, raising concerns about loyalties Feb 26, 2024

With a high violent crime rate and claims of inequitable policing in St. Louis, local leaders are questioning the $100,000 per year Chief Robert Tracy receives from local business owners. “Can the criminals get together and pay the chief?” asked one alderwoman. ProPublica reporter Jeremy Kohler talks about his story on the topic.

How Missouri became a national trendsetter for anti-trans bans and laws Feb 26, 2024

In the Missouri legislature, 2023 was the year of bills targeting trans people. But there is a bigger picture here: For observers of the national picture, Missouri is a bellwether and a trendsetter. We sit down with two trans journalists to talk about what they’re seeing in Missouri in this movement, and this moment. Joining the discussion is Erin Reed, the author of the newsletter Erin in the Morning; and Evan Urquhart, founder of Assigned Media.

How Illinois Gov. Pritzker plans to balance policy dreams with fiscal reality Feb 23, 2024

Earlier this week, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker delivered his annual budget address that outlined his priorities. Among the priorities in the $52.7 billion state spending plan are more money to address the migrant crisis and education, and tax hikes for businesses and for sports bettors. STLPR Metro East reporter Will Bauer discusses Pritzker’s speech, and we include Pritzker’s address in this episode of the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air.

St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones wants to bank some of the Rams settlement Feb 23, 2024

St. Louis is in an unusual position of having a lot of extra money — primarily from a settlement from the departure of the St. Louis Rams. City leaders also got more positive news last year with a drop in violent crime. Even with the good news, policymakers still have a lot of work to do to fully address some long-standing problems. In a wide-ranging interview on the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air, St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones discusses those issues and addresses homelessness, the cause of bad police driving and more.

GOP state Sen. Jil Tracy of Quincy is unimpressed with Pritzker's budget proposal Feb 22, 2024

Like most Illinois Republicans in Springfield, Sen. Jil Tracy, R-Quincy, said she’s largely skeptical of Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s $52.7 billion proposed budget. And, Republicans in the Illinois General Assembly are limited in what they can do because they are in the super minority in both chambers. STLPR’s Jason Rosenbaum and Will Bauer talk with Sen. Tracy on the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air.

David Sanborn, jazz great from Kirkwood, says the St. Louis scene shaped his style Feb 22, 2024

Jazz great David Sanborn, a Kirkwood native, got his start playing teen hangouts and clubs around St. Louis. Known for his warm sound on alto saxophone, Sanborn has won acclaim as a solo artist and as a collaborator with a long list of stars in the worlds of jazz, rock and pop. He joins STLPR senior reporter Jeremy D. Goodwin to discuss the lively, mid-century St. Louis jazz scene, the magic of genre-bending in music, and ways the music industry has evolved throughout his storied career.

Is romance dead? How dating apps, societal norms and pandemic isolation changed relationships Feb 22, 2024

Relationships look differently than they did 50, even 25 years ago. Millennials aren’t getting married at the same ages and rates compared to older generations. And while most people desire companionship, relationships today often vary from the traditional romantic relationships seen in classic films. Dr. Dixie Meyer, professor at St. Louis University and director of SLU’s relationships and brain sciences research laboratory, shares why romance is taking a back seat and how it impacts individuals, families and society.

WerQfest to honor the intersection of Blackness and queerness during Black History Month Feb 20, 2024

What do Josephine Baker, Langston Hughes, and Bayard Rustin have in common? They are all Black American trailblazers that have had their queerness understated or erased from their identities or in the retelling of their influence in pivotal historic moments — and they are far from the only ones. Tre’von Griffith co-founded werQfest with his husband, Shelton Boyd-Griffith, to uplift Black, queer artists in St. Louis. For this year’s Black History Month, their mission has expanded with the introduction of the digital campaign, “Black, But Make It Queer.”

Missouri Children’s Division head sees progress on St. Louis abuse and neglect case backlog Feb 20, 2024

Missouri Children's Division Director Darrell Missey talks about where the massive backlog of child abuse and neglect case investigations stands, and other issues affecting children in the state. Last year, St. Louis Public Radio reported that the division's office serving St. Louis and St. Louis County had a backlog of 6,124 cases that remained open after 45 days. Missey describes the division's improvements since then, and where things stand now.

Missouri program teaching prosocial skills expands to more classrooms and states Feb 16, 2024

A Missouri researcher’s study of “prosocial” behavior in classrooms is getting a big boost of federal money — but it’s already made a difference in hundreds of classrooms. Now in its fifth year, the program emphasizes kindness, compassion, empathy and respect. University of Missouri researcher Christi Bergin and program director Jen Foster discuss how prosocial behavior can help teachers and students support each other through empathy.

King of ‘Swagtime’ Royce Martin keeps Scott Joplin’s legacy alive Feb 16, 2024

Ragtime evokes images of old-timey saloons and the beginning of the 20th century. The “King of Ragtime” Scott Joplin lived in St. Louis from 1900 to 1902 — during which he published his most popular rags, including “Maple Leaf Rag” and “The Entertainer.” Fast forward to the 21st century: Musician and composer Royce Martin has picked up where Joplin left off with the album, “Memories on Morgan Street.” Royce joins the show to talk about Joplin’s influence on his music and how he ties ragtime and hip-hop together to make a new genre he calls “swagtime.”

With 'HBCU Made,' NPR’s Ayesha Rascoe celebrates the Black college experience Feb 15, 2024

Historically Black Colleges and Universities have long cemented their legacy in higher education across the country. A new book edited by NPR Weekend Edition Sunday host Ayesha Rascoe now celebrates that legacy. "HBCU Made” is a collection of personal essays of Black figures including authors, journalists and political figures. Rascoe spoke with STLPR's Marissanne Lewis-Thompson at the Ethical Society of St. Louis on Feb. 8 — an event sponsored by Harris-Stowe State University, St. Louis County Library and STLPR.

Hopeless romantics can still find love in St. Louis. All it takes is leaving the house Feb 14, 2024

Dating is messy, nerve wrecking and oftentimes discouraging. Single St. Louisans have taken to social media to inquire — and vent — about how dating is difficult because of St. Louis being a “small big city.” Brittany Forrest and Simonne Kimble started a community and online platform called Relationship.ish to have open conversations about relationships and create opportunities to network. The duo shared their strategies to finding “the one,” even in a small dating pool.

A St. Louis company designs destinations at home — and worldwide Feb 14, 2024

Though not a household name, a company headquartered in downtown St. Louis is behind some of the most popular local and international destinations. PGAV architects Mike Konzen and Emily Howard discuss what it takes to design buildings including the St. Louis Aquarium, the St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame & Museum and the world’s largest aquarium that opened last year — SeaWorld Abu Dhabi.

How solar eclipses shaped civilizations throughout history Feb 13, 2024

Throughout most of human history, lunar and solar eclipses were considered to be bad omens, and the fates of many have been determined by the celestial phenomenon. Washington University physicist Manel Errando shares details about the most notable solar eclipses in history, including one that ended a six-year war in Anatolia (present-day Turkey) and another that is credited for propelling Albert Einstein to fame.

MoBot scientist is the world’s top female botanist naming plants today Feb 13, 2024

Missouri Botanical Garden scientist Charlotte Taylor has named 500 new species of plants. That makes her the most prolific living female botanist — an accomplishment only revealed last year by researchers from Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and the University of Cambridge. The researchers found Taylor is the third most prolific female botanist in the field — ever. Taylor discusses her contributions to the field of botany and takes us inside the world of a world-class taxonomist.

How a commissary kitchen puts compassion and love first to make a healthier St. Louis Feb 12, 2024

Propel Kitchens in Pagedale gives people a second chance by combining career training with care that goes beyond a traditional food industry job. Executive director Kisha Lee and trainee Chavi Jackson share how the program has been able to uplift St. Louisans in vulnerable situations and put them on a path toward success.

Roz and Ralph grew up in St. Louis — and found love decades later, living 1,500 miles apart Feb 12, 2024

"I had this thought that if anything comes of this, it's the perfect script for a Hallmark Hall of Fame geriatric romance." In this encore episode, Roz Lewy and Ralph Insinger discuss their book, "Beyond Beyond: A Chance Encounter, an Online Courtship and the Language of Love," which details how the couple fell in love late in life via the exchange of hundreds of emails.

How Missouri's abortion ballot initiative plans to gather 170,000 signatures by May Feb 09, 2024

The leaders of a ballot item to legalize abortion in Missouri have a tight time frame to gather more than 171,000 signatures by May. STLPR politics correspondent Jason Rosenbaum sits down with Mallory Schwarz of Missourians for Constitutional Freedom, as well as Lisa Williams, one of thousands of Missourians who signed up to gather signatures.

Where did you learn civics? Missourians share stories from classrooms and beyond Feb 09, 2024

Three K-12 educators who’ve taught in different U.S. states discuss Missouri social studies standards and challenges around teaching civics, and the practical benefits of focusing on civic participation amid today’s polarized political climate. Then, STLPR’s Jason Rosenbaum talks with Elaine Cha about why we’re tackling this issue and what we’re hearing from listeners.

Missouri political parties grudgingly organize contests to select presidential delegates Feb 09, 2024

Missouri’s political parties are in charge of organizing and executing the contests that will choose 2024 presidential delegates. And both Republicans and Democrats have expressed profound irritation that election officials aren’t running the show. The Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air host Jason Rosenbaum talks with Republican Chris Grahn-Howard and Democrat Matthew Patterson about how we got here — and how the selection processes will work.

How Transform 314 empowers Black St. Louisans to engage with local government Feb 08, 2024

After decades of disinvestment and a lack of engagement by city leadership, many Black St. Louisans report feelings of hopelessness, unsure of what to do or who to turn to. When problems like crumbling infrastructure and food deserts remain unresolved, people become less interested in local government, and in turn, the work of elected officials goes unchecked. Kelly McGowan believes that civics education is the answer to solving many problems the city faces, and that’s what she aims to provide via her nonprofit Transform 314.

Inspired by his grandfather, Michael Vines details a Jewish immigrant’s story in St. Louis Feb 07, 2024

Michael Vines’ grandfather, Harry Beckerman, arrived in St. Louis in 1919. The Jewish immigrant from Poland was escaping violence and oppression and, in north St. Louis, he set up a shoe repair shop. That true story serves as the inspiration for, “Harry Gets Wise,” a new novel deeply rooted in St. Louis history and culture.

NAACP groups launch effort to raise St. Louis-area literacy rates by 2030 Feb 07, 2024

Seven out of 10 Missouri students are not reading at fourth grade proficiency, and only one in 10 Black students reads at proficiency expected by that grade. With the “Right to Read” campaign, St. Louis and St. Louis County NAACP chapters aim to boost literacy in the region and raise Black student performance to meet state academic standards. St. Louis NAACP education chair Ian Buchanan and former teacher and literacy advocate Kareem Weaver discuss the importance of implementing educational techniques rooted in the science of reading and promoting collaboration between communities, parents and teachers.

A familiar STLPR voice lifts others during Black History Month Feb 06, 2024

During Black History Month, St. Louis Public Radio is participating in the “Lift Every Voice” initiative, which highlights the lives and accomplishments of more than 50 Black Americans throughout history. The project was created by a familiar voice in St. Louis: Geri Mitchell, who hosted Morning Edition on STLPR from 2013 to 2017. Now the midday host at WAMU in Washington D.C., Mitchell joined St. Louis on the Air to discuss the project, and its goal to call attention to “the countless contributions of African Americans, many of whom were and are still obscured in history.”

To step up St. Louis’ film industry, diversify its set and production crews Feb 06, 2024

Film and TV award season means increased attention to diversity of talent in front of and behind the lens. Critiques about lack of diversity in media production apply to St. Louis, where Black people are the largest non-white population – yet less than 2% of staff in local commercial video production houses. Kyle Montgomery and Quinsonta Boyd of Continuity, a nonprofit that helps more St. Louis creatives from marginalized communities prepare for and start careers in media, share ways they make getting a foot in the door possible.

These Missouri landlords made bank on COVID relief funds. Their tenants were forgotten Feb 05, 2024

A majority of the top ten recipients of federal COVID-19 relief funds via Missouri’s State Assistance For Housing Relief program are privately owned property managers or landlords located in St. Louis. Despite receiving up to six and seven figures in aid, many of these companies failed to provide basic maintenance or upkeep of their apartment complexes. Journalist Mike Fitzgerald discusses his latest report on the SAFHR program and the problems that stemmed from the funds being awarded with little accountability.

Violence hits the heart of St. Louis residents — some say police aren’t doing enough Feb 05, 2024

While elected leaders are celebrating a decline in crime in the region, community members — especially those who've lost loved ones to violent crime — think the celebration is premature and unwarranted. STLPR reporter Lacretia Wimbley discusses her reporting on the topic, including a conversation with Precious Jones, a mother whose son was killed in the summer of 2022.

Vietnamese St. Louisans celebrate Lunar New Year their own way. Here's how, and where Feb 05, 2024

Celebrating Lunar New Year is a longstanding tradition for Vietnamese St. Louisans. Kris Le and Tila Nguyen speak to the history of the nonprofit St. Louis Vietnamese Community, its place among other AANHPI organizations in the region, and what’s planned for two Vietnamese Lunar New Year events happening this February.

After House passage of tax bill, U.S. Rep. Jason Smith looks to the Senate for action Feb 03, 2024

U.S. Rep. Jason Smith, a Republican from Salem, withstood bipartisan scorn of legislation that boosts the Child Tax Credit and provides business tax incentives. STLPR political correspondent Jason Rosenbaum talked with Smith about the legislation and the road ahead it now faces in the U.S. Senate.

Missouri destroyed 87% of its wetlands. What remains is still in danger Feb 02, 2024

Each year, an estimated 60,000 acres of wetlands are lost in the United States. They are the most threatened ecosystem in the country. Shaw Nature Reserve's restoration and land stewardship manager Mike Saxton talks about current threats to wetlands and makes the case for why we should preserve and build upon the few, but critically important, wetlands that remain.

Nominations for 2023’s best local theater unveiled by St. Louis Theater Circle Feb 02, 2024

St. Louis’ best theater performances and productions of the year are being honored once again. On Friday, the St. Louis Theater Circle announced its award nominations, covering approximately 100 shows from 2023. Theater critics Michelle Kenyon and James Lindhorst join the show.

The search for a secret audit of SLMPD’s Force Investigative Unit Feb 01, 2024

A special SLMPD police unit, created to investigate police shootings, was the subject of a damning audit in 2018. Six years later, only portions of that audit have found their way to the public eye. St. Louis Post-Dispatch metro columnist Tony Messenger obtained portions of the audit, which found problems in all 50 of the unit’s investigations between 2014 and 2018. Messenger shares his findings and insights into the ongoing efforts to obtain the full audit.

For ‘Hairspray’ lead Caroline Eiseman, STL show is a homecoming Feb 01, 2024

Caroline Eiseman has donned the big hair of teen dance phenom Tracy Turnblat in more than 100 performances of “Hairspray.” The St. Louis native shares her insights into the role, what it took to land the part and what it will mean when she performs in her hometown later this month.

St. Louis Starbucks workers stopped a robbery. Then Starbucks fired them — is that legal? Jan 31, 2024

Was it legal for Starbucks to fire two baristas who fought back against a robbery? This month’s Legal Roundtable convenes to discuss the legal merits behind a wrongful termination suit by a St. Louis Starbucks employee. Attorneys Sarah Swatosh, Eric Banks and Bevis Schock also discuss what’s next for Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt’s lawsuit against the People’s Republic of China and a purported class action lawsuit over the city's aborted curbside recycling program.

Why America’s ‘unhealthy population’ is at greater risk for the next pandemic Jan 30, 2024

According to Dr. Alex Garza, the best way to prepare for a future pandemic is to improve social resources, such as food access, education and transportation. Garza, who serves as Chief Community Health Officer at SSM Health, shares major takeaways from the acute phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, how pandemics and wars have a “tremendous amount in common,” and the extent to which institutions — and the general public — are ready for future disease outbreaks.

Southwest Airlines to carry naloxone after push from St. Louis-area advocate Jan 30, 2024

Southwest Airlines will now carry naloxone on flights — that’s in part due to the efforts of Ballwin resident John Gaal who has lobbied the airline to include the opioid overdose-reversal drug in its emergency kits. Gaal witnessed the medication’s ability to save lives first-hand when he stepped in to administer naloxone to a fellow passenger on a Southwest Airlines flight in October 2022. He reflects on that moment, the importance of greater access to the drug and what needs to happen next for flight crews to better respond to overdoses while in the air.

STLPR's Wayne Pratt reflects on anchoring morning newscasts for nearly a decade. Jan 30, 2024

Wayne Pratt joined St. Louis Public Radio in June 2014. For nearly a decade he anchored morning newscasts at the station and later, became host of the station's weekday morning podcast "The Gateway." After a national search, Wayne was selected and promoted to the position of Broadcast Operations Manager. He joins us to talk about his experiences of being on the air in St. Louis for about 10 years.

Why a bounty hunter got 10 years in prison for capturing a woman in Missouri Jan 29, 2024

On January 24, Louisiana bounty hunter Wayne Lozier was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison. St. Louis on the Air featured his case in October, exploring the dramatic story of bounty hunters, bail, and body cameras. In this rebroadcast, Katie Kull, courts reporter for the St. Louis Post Dispatch, describes her experience covering Lozier’s trial from the courtroom. She discusses the bounty hunter industry, Lozier’s defense, and the trial’s dramatic verdict. We also provide an update on Lozier’s sentencing last week.

The Global Foods Market Cookbook shares dishes from St. Louisans’ kitchens Jan 29, 2024

After months of crowdsourcing recipes that reflect the cultural and culinary diversity of St. Louis, the Global Foods Market Cookbook is published and available for purchase at the grocer’s storefront in Kirkwood. Shayn Prapaisilp, chief operating officer of Global Foods Market, Inc. shares a sample of the recipes featured in the Global Foods Market Cookbook, as well as personal stories from the chefs themselves.

As Gov. Parson reflects on legacy, MO Dems navigate a troubled legislature Jan 26, 2024

Earlier this week, Missouri Gov. Mike Parson delivered his final State of the State speech. In this episode of the “Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air” from the Missouri State Capitol, Parson talks with STLPR reporters Jason Rosenbaum and Sarah Kellogg about his priorities and legacy. We also hear analysis of his speech, and hear the Democratic reaction from Rep. Ashley Aune.

Lawsuit shines light on massive illegal rooming house operation in south St. Louis Jan 25, 2024

The city of St. Louis has brought a lawsuit against six Missouri residents who the city says are running a massive illegal rooming house operation in nearly every neighborhood in south city. Riverfront Times staff writer Ryan Krull shares how the operation may have been heavily subsidized by taxpayers through pandemic relief funding, why it took so long for the city to take action, and the effect the lawsuit may have on other problem landlords operating in St. Louis. Tower Grove East resident Joe Goodman, who lives near two of the defendant’s properties, also joins the conversation.

Stopping workplace bullying can save lives — especially for marginalized people Jan 25, 2024

The untimely death of Antoinette “Bonnie” Candia-Bailey and allegations of mistreatment while serving as Lincoln University’s vice president of student affairs has sparked conversation about hostile work environments and bullying across industries — particularly with employees that are part of marginalized communities. Wash U sociology professor Adia Harvey-Wingfield discusses research on who’s most likely to face such situations and how to avoid further tragedy.

Special Coverage: Gov. Parson touts reshaping transportation policy and crisis response in last State of the State Jan 24, 2024

In his final State of the State Address, Missouri Gov. Mike Parson outlined his priorities for the year and reflected upon his legacy. In edition to the Governor's speech, this episode includes pre- and post-analysis from STLPR journalists Sarah Kellogg and Jason Rosenbaum.

How a St. Louis neighborhood sued Paul McKee, and won Jan 24, 2024

The historic, four-story building at 3509 Page Boulevard is an example of abandonment. Built in 1927, the former ABC Auto Sales and Investment Company building’s roof is crumbling onto the sidewalk, and it’s been broken into, boarded up, and broken into again. St. Louis developer Paul McKee has been ordered to repair the building in a first-time ruling on one of hundreds of properties he owns under his NorthSide Regeneration project. Attorney Peter Hoffman discusses the ruling and what it may mean for other neighborhoods where McKee owns property.

Mullets are so back. Take these St. Louisans' word for it Jan 24, 2024

There are few hairstyles more divisive than the mullet. The hairdo has historically been scoffed at by the mainstream yet has thrived in its fringes. The mullet — known by some as "the Missouri Compromise" — has been associated with professional or aspiring hockey stars, 80s pro wrestlers and hair metal rockers. Barber Sir Carrawell and hairstylist Onawa Brown share their thoughts on the retro hairdo and why they think it’s made it from the fringe back into pop culture.

‘It is hurting us’: Trans kids and parents in Missouri speak out Jan 24, 2024

Trans kids and their families are being targeted by dozens of proposed bills in the Missouri legislature. But deciding how, when, and why to transition is actually a conversation parents and kids have been having for years — without lawmakers. In this rebroadcast from March 2023, three sets of parents, as well as their children, each trans boys between the ages of 9 and 11, discuss what it’s like to grow up trans in Missouri, from how they chose their own names, to their thoughts on why so many adults in the state legislature don’t accept them the way they are.

Catching up with St Louis’ newly extended Reparations Commission Jan 19, 2024

The St. Louis Reparations Commission has been extended until September 9. In this encore broadcast, we listen back to a July conversation with commission members Gwen Moore and Kayla Reed.

Big Brothers Big Sisters wants more Black men to become mentors to Black boys Jan 18, 2024

While Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri is happy to accept volunteer mentors from all walks of life, they are seeking more Black men to “step up” to mentor the Black boys enrolled in their program. Ericka Sanders, Vice President of Volunteer Recruitment and mentor Andre Walker share their experiences along with data behind the importance of mentoring and representation.

SLU rebrands speech-language pathology program to help meet growing demand Jan 18, 2024

This fall, St. Louis University will launch a program that will allow students to graduate with a B.S. and M.S. in speech-language pathology in five years, one year sooner than a traditional six-year track. The effort comes after projections from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics that the profession is expected to grow 19% by 2032. Dr. Travis Threats, professor and chair of St. Louis University’s Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences, and graduate student Lucy Heller join the show.

Why road rage is so common in St. Louis and how you can try to avoid it Jan 17, 2024

Road rage is very commonplace, and it can also be very scary. St. Louis clinical psychologist Dr. Helen Friedman breaks down the reasons why road rage is so prevalent, how we can curb it, and ways to stay safe and avoid confrontation with others on the road.

Sessions of St. Louis gives a Tiny Desk vibe with an authentic STL sound Jan 17, 2024

Tiny Desk-inspired “Sessions of St. Louis” features local musicians performing one-take, no-audience concerts in intimate settings. St. Louis Gram creative director Natalia Parr describes the origin and goals of the series, and singer/songwriter Alexia Simone talks about her experience with “Sessions” as an artist.

Eimear Arkins celebrates Ireland and St. Louis in new album Jan 16, 2024

Irish musician Eimear Arkins travels all over the world, but calls two places home: St. Louis, Missouri, and County Clare, Ireland. She shares how her new album “Here & There” celebrates her connections to both places, how to practice the Irish tradition of lilting, and the significance of singing in the Irish language.

‘Word in Black’ becomes a corporation. It could bring more resources to Black newspapers Jan 16, 2024

Word In Black — a digital news collaborative that includes 10 Black newspapers across the U.S., including the St. Louis American — has moved from pilot to public benefit corporation. STLPR race, identity, and culture reporter Andrea Henderson speaks to what the change means for local Black publishers, and for Black journalists serving African American communities across the country.

Diving into STL winter soups, and sweets, with Sauce Magazine Jan 16, 2024

The latest Sauce Magazine issue is a treat for fans of soups and sweets. Sauce writer Ileana Martinez runs down her favorite winter soups, including Doenjang Jjigae at Joo Joo Restaurant & Karaoke, and the Sopa de Pollo (chicken soup) at Merendero Las Catrachitas. Then, we meet chocolate maker Flynn Edgerton, featured on Sauce’s list of “Ones to Watch,” who has found a home for his passion at Sump Coffee.

Councilwoman Dunaway says COVID-19 turmoil played a role in not running again Jan 12, 2024

St. Louis County Councilwoman Kelli Dunaway has announced that she will not seek another term in office. The Chesterfield Democrat represents the council’s 2nd District and says that political turmoil during the COVID-19 pandemic played a significant role in her decision not to run again. On the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air, she also discusses rifts that developed between Democrats on the council.

U.S. Rep. Luetkemeyer is retiring. He wants his successor to rise above D.C. melodrama Jan 12, 2024

U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer is opting to retire in 2024, bringing an end to a congressional career in which he became a major figure on financial services issues. The St. Elizabeth Republican’s decision will likely prompt a sizable GOP primary to represent the state’s 3rd District, which takes in portions of the St. Louis area. On this episode of the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air, Luetkemeyer reflects on his career and the future of the district.

Sen. Schmitt says Congress needs to change spending mentality as another budget fight looms Jan 12, 2024

U.S. Sen. Eric Schmitt has more experience as a Missouri state senator than a U.S. senator, but after his first year in Washington he says he’s seen a big difference with how Congress handles funding for the federal government. In this wide-ranging interview on the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air, Schmitt discusses the latest budget standoff, funding for Ukraine, support for Israel and more.

Like watching storms roll in? Consider volunteer storm spotting with the NWS Jan 11, 2024

Are you the sort of Midwesterner who goes outside when tornado sirens go off to watch Mother Nature get crazy? Then you might be exactly who the National Weather Service - St. Louis wants to train to be a storm spotter. Meteorologist Matt Beitcher shares details on upcoming classes and how storm spotters can help save lives by collecting and sharing real-time weather data.

A Missouri man vanished in 2013. A YouTuber tracked him to the bottom of a pond Jan 11, 2024

On December 29, 2013, Donnie Erwin drove off from his home in Camden County, Missouri. It was the last time the 59-year-old Army veteran was seen alive. His fate became a mystery that persisted for the next decade — and ended last month, when police announced they had recovered Erwin’s vehicle and remains from the bottom of a pond within miles of his home. James Hinkle, a freelance videographer and operator of the Echo Divers YouTube channel, located Erwin’s car. Hinkle takes us behind the scenes of his search; and Erwin’s sister, Yvonne Erwin-Bowen, shares her reflections about her brother’s life.

Aid groups say immigrants need more resources and language assistance Jan 10, 2024

The show explores the groups and people working to meet the needs of the foreign-born people who building new lives here in St. Louis. We examine first the stories of two asylum seekers, Karla Mera and Juan Carlos Lopez, who fled their home country of Belize. Next, we get to know three local groups working with these populations, and who share their hopes/concerns about a plan to bring migrants from Chicago to St. Louis. The panel includes Carlos Ruiz Martinez, Director of Client Support Services at the MICA Project, Sarah Caldera Wimmer, Director of Emotional and Physical Wellness at LifeWise STL, and Kris Walentik, an immigration attorney with St. Francis Community Services, a ministry of Catholic Charities.

Missouri Emancipation Day recalls efforts to free enslaved people during the Civil War Jan 09, 2024

While the U.S. was on the brink of Civil War, a secret organization of Black men convened in St. Louis to plot an insurrection. We take a look at that clandestine plan and how an insubordinate war hero ticked off President Lincoln with his antics to free enslaved Missourians with Cicely Hunter of the Missouri Historical Society and Cathy Hart from the Friends of Father Dickson Cemetery.

How the Song Society empowers kids with life-altering medical conditions Jan 09, 2024

Music therapy can reduce stress and anxiety, improve memory, elevate mood, and contribute to pain management and physical rehabilitation. For kids who live with life-altering medical conditions, and find themselves in and out of the hospital for procedures and treatments, music therapy might be one of the only places they can truly let loose to speak, or sing, their truth. The St. Louis nonprofit the Song Society facilitates songwriting sessions, as well as recording and performance opportunities, to offer outlet to such kids, teens and their families.

Sun, moon and planets, oh my! The history and culture of astrology Jan 08, 2024

It seems that, nowadays, you can’t open a social media app without seeing zodiac content about specific sun signs or having folks worried about Mercury going into retrograde. But for millennia, the practice of astrology was more than pop culture fodder to consume. Astrologer Jade Moore tracks the cosmos personally and professionally at her store Sincerely, the Craft in Midtown. She joins the show to give a crash course on astrology’s history, culture and practice.

Ancient Roman imperial cult temple unearthed by SLU-led international team Jan 08, 2024

A newly unearthed ancient temple in Italy complicates the history of paganism and Christianity in the Roman Empire. Douglas Boin, a history professor at Saint Louis University, talks about his team’s discovery of an imperial cult temple that dates back to the fourth century.

Missouri lawmakers open 2024 session hoping to avoid low election year expectations Jan 05, 2024

Missouri lawmakers opened the 2024 session this week with GOP majority leaders of the House and Senate expressing optimism that they can accomplish major policy initiatives. That's despite election year pressures and a softening budgetary picture that may make it challenging to have a productive session. STLPR statehouse reporter Sarah Kellogg discusses what's ahead for this year's term in Jefferson City.

SLPS board paused its College Kids Savings Account partnership. What’s next for the program? Jan 05, 2024

A recent vote by St. Louis Public Schools board members means fewer kids will have a St. Louis College Kids Savings account through the City of St. Louis’ College Kids program. Our guests dive into the origin of the program, and why it's drawn scrutiny from journalists and critics. They also explore how children’s savings accounts can help kids see higher education as an option, not just a possibility.

How politics and lawsuits could shape Missouri’s cannabis industry in 2024 Jan 04, 2024

Since legal sales of medical marijuana started in Missouri in 2020 and adult recreational cannabis in 2023, business around all things marijuana has become a billion-dollar business. Missouri Independent journalist Rebecca Rivas talks about her recent coverage of Missouri’s cannabis industry, including a 60,000-product recall – and how lawsuits and politics could shape the industry in 2024.

Book ban efforts threaten ‘the heart of our democracy,’ says Wentzville lead librarian Jan 04, 2024

In the fall of 2022, a Missouri law went into effect that opened school officials to possible criminal charges if they provide “explicit sexual content” to students. That has had a chilling effect on librarians, and it resulted in Missouri removing the third highest number of books from library shelves, following Florida and Texas. STLPR reporter Kate Grumke talks with Mernie Maestas, the lead librarian for the Wentzville School District in St. Charles County.

CVPA grad reflects on St. Louis Teen Talent Competition win and future endeavors Jan 03, 2024

When Central Visual and Performing Arts High School student Ray Strickland performed his original song “Time for Change” at the St. Louis Teen Talent Competition in 2023, he sang in recognition of his cousin who he lost to gun violence, of George Floyd, who was murdered shortly after Strickland wrote the song, and in reflection of the mass shooting at his school months earlier. He shares what he is up to now and his belief in the power of the “universal language” of music.

How DB Cooper inspired a St Louis hijacker Jan 03, 2024

D.B. Cooper’s 1971 airplane hijacking did more than just create an American crime legend: He inspired copycats, including in St. Louis in 1972. The St. Louis caper forms the core of University of Missouri history professor John Wigger's new book, “The Hijacking of American Flight 119: How D.B. Cooper Inspired a Skyjacking Craze and the FBI’s Battle to Stop It." Wigger interviewed McNally, who was released from federal prison in 2010, and more than a dozen retired FBI agents. Wigger spoke with St. Louis on the Air producer Danny Wicentowski.

Sam Goodwin’s forthcoming book shares the ways coincidence and connections led to his release from Syrian prisons Jan 02, 2024

Sam Goodwin was just thirteen countries away from reaching his goal of visiting every country when he traveled to Syria. His visit took a wrong turn when he was wrongfully accused of espionage and held in the country’s notorious prison system. Goodwin’s forthcoming book about his captivity shares the ways coincidence and connection led to his release.

The Endangered Species Act is 50. Here's how MoBot is helping plants survive Jan 02, 2024

50 years after the Endangered Species Act was passed, the Missouri Botanical Garden continues their plant conservation efforts within the garden grounds and in the wild. Matthew Albrecht, director of Missouri Botanical Garden’s Center for Conservation and Sustainable Development, and Becky Sucher, senior manager of the garden’s Living Collections share the successes in plant conservation and how the noticeably changing weather patterns affects their work at the garden and in the field.

The top stories that shaped St. Louis, Missouri and Illinois politics in 2023 Dec 22, 2023

2023 was a year of change in St. Louis politics as Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner resigned from an office in turmoil and the Board of Aldermen was cut in half. STLPR journalists Jason Rosenbaum, Brian Munoz, Will Bauer, Rachel Lippmann and Sarah Kellogg break down the top political stories of the year.

STL Aldermanic President says workers’ rights and traffic safety are 2024 priorities Dec 22, 2023

The St. Louis Board of Aldermen went through a major political and structural transformation in 2023. St. Louis Board of Aldermen President Megan Green discusses some of the highlights of the past year and what to expect from her aldermanic colleagues in 2024.

Legal questions remain after St. Louis cop drives into bar, arrests owner Dec 21, 2023

On Monday morning, a St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department officer drove his SUV through the front wall of a local gay bar. The incident ended with Bar:PM co-owner Chad Morris in handcuffs, under arrest and charged with felony assault. Attorneys Mark Smith, Kalila Jackson and Dave Roland discuss this case, and others, in this Legal Roundtable episode.

Meet the STLPR photojournalists who tell stories one frame at a time Dec 20, 2023

Yes, radio stations have photojournalists — and they’re vital to the stories St. Louis Public Radio produces. Interim Digital Editor Brian Munoz and photojournalist Tristen Rouse have wrapped up collecting STLPR’s “Year in Photos.” They join the show to discuss what happens behind the lens, and how it’s led to some of their favorite images among the thousands they’ve captured in 2023.

From Christopher Columbus to Ferguson, Michael Harriot delivers history that is ‘Black AF’ Dec 20, 2023

In this encore, listen back to our September interview with columnist and commentator Michael Harriot. Harriot's debut book, “Black AF History: The Un-Whitewashed Story of America,” offers a compelling retelling of American history. Harriot discusses why he tackled a sweeping retelling of American history, and also shares his experiences from covering protests in Ferguson in 2014 and St. Louis in 2017.

Food writers dish on St. Louis dining trends, highlights in 2023 and 2024 Dec 19, 2023

St. Louis-based dining critics & food writers dish on STL’s 2023 trends and highlights, and talk about what’s to come in 2024. Guests include Meera Nagarajan (Sauce Magazine), Ian Froeb (St. Louis Post-Dispatch), and Holly Fann (Eater, St. Louis Magazine).

‘They’re buried in a mass grave’: How a St. Louis writer is grappling with loss and resilience in Gaza Dec 19, 2023

On Oct. 25, more than a dozen of Fatima Elkabti’s family members were killed in Gaza City in a single Israeli airstrike. The war is taking a toll on the Palestinian American, wife and mother. And, it comes at a time when the Washington University creative writing grad is writing a book that’s preserving her family’s history of displacement — and drawing parallels to today.

A tribute to St. Louisans who passed away in 2023 Dec 18, 2023

In 2023, we said goodbye to a number of remarkable people who lived and worked in the St. Louis region. In this episode, we honor those we lost this year by listening back to conversations with them or by hearing from those who knew them well.

Linda Badran brought a child from Gaza to St. Louis for healing. Now she doesn’t know if she’s alive Dec 15, 2023

When war erupted in the Gaza Strip, Linda Badran decided it was time to co-found a local chapter of the non-profit aid group Palestine Children’s Relief Fund. She wants to rally fellow St. Louisans who want to see an end to the war and contribute to the healing, and recovery, of the thousands of children being harmed by violence.

The St. Louis Chamber Chorus will premiere a new centerpiece to its holiday program Dec 15, 2023

In its 68th season, the St. Louis Chamber Chorus is taking a musical tour around the globe. This Sunday’s concert at the Second Presbyterian Church in the Central West End adds to that theme and will feature the premiere of “Seeking You,” a new Christmas song composed by Kerensa Briggs that uses text from a poem of the same name by Charles Anthony Silvestri. Briggs and St. Louis Chamber Chorus Artistic Director Philip Barnes join the show.

New book highlights 250 years of Black St. Louis’ rich history Dec 15, 2023

The new book “Black St. Louis” explores the life of Black people, from the founding of the city to the start of the 21st century. Through colorful imagery and detailed documentation, co-authors Calvin Riley and NiNi Harris tell the stories of enslaved people, night-club owners, soldiers and everyday Black St. Louisans.

How a Wash U research team is using spider silk to combat plastic waste Dec 13, 2023

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis are using nature as inspiration to combat the growing problem of plastic pollution. In this encore episode, we learn how they’re using a $3.6 million grant to develop sustainably sourced plastics by mimicking natural materials like spider silk fibers.

Missouri’s glades are trapped under trees. Botanists are freeing them by logging Dec 13, 2023

In 2018, writer Robert Langellier and botanist Neal Humke cut down every tree across 19 acres in Pioneer Forest. Their aim was to restore one of the Ozarks' rarest ecosystems: a glade. While it may seem counterintuitive to cut down trees in a time of climate change, restoring glades helps ensure biodiversity. In this encore episode, Langellier talks about the conservation effort. Humke, land stewardship coordinator for the L-A-D Foundation (which privately owns the land in the Pioneer Forest) discusses the non-profits’ work there and the importance of glades.

Radiation exposure funding isn’t in the final defense bill. Here’s why U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley voted ‘no’ Dec 12, 2023

Congress is poised to give final approval to the National Defense Authorization Act, a customarily popular and bipartisan bill. But, U.S. Senator Josh Hawley voted “no” and he’s accusing congressional leadership of abandoning St. Louis-area victims poisoned by nuclear contamination from the Manhattan Project. Hawley talks with STLPR senior environmental reporter Kate Grumke about his opposition to the bill.

The Southern Illinoisan was sold. The new owner eliminated its entire news staff Dec 12, 2023

December 8 was the last day for the staff of The Southern Illinoisan. Its new owner, Paxton Media Group, eliminated the entire staff of unionized workers. The decision blindsided its longtime workers, and marks the end of an era. Former editor-in-chief Jackson Brandhorst discusses what happened at The Southern, what's been lost, and where the paper's former journalists and staff go from here.

Hollywood filmmaker Reginald Hudlin credits East St. Louis upbringing for his unapologetic storytelling Dec 12, 2023

Hollywood film producer and director Reginald Hudlin is the mind and energy behind cult classics “House Party” and “Boomerang” as well as “Marshall,” starring the late Chadwick Boseman. He also has producing credits on the Quentin Taratino film “Django Unchained.” Hudlin credits his interests in the arts to his upbringing in East St. Louis, Illinois. STLPR arts and culture senior reporter Jeremy D. Goodwin sat down with Hudlin to talk about his childhood heroes, his take on how Hollywood’s reception of Black stories have evolved overtime, and his new movie “Candy Cane Lane,” starring Eddie Murphy.

How immigrant families preserve history, culture and familial bonds through language Dec 12, 2023

Children of immigrants often face heritage language loss. St. Louis parents and community members are taking practical steps to maintain linguistic and cultural connection across generations.

John Goodman loves live theater and St. Louis. He's coming home to support both Dec 08, 2023

John Goodman has worked in Hollywood for nearly 50 years, but he’s always kept St. Louis close to his heart. The Affton native will be in town on Dec.17 for the Repertory Theater of St. Louis' “Rally for The Rep.” The benefit show’s proceeds will help the theater raise $2.5M to make up for its current budget shortfall. In this episode, Goodman reflects on the power of theater performance, his career highlights, and how growing up in St. Louis has informed many of his movie and television roles over the years.

How a St. Louis double Dutch club jumps for joy, friendship and community Dec 08, 2023

Ki Chapman was searching for a way to get active and found her way back to a favorite childhood pastime — jumping double Dutch. Since discovering the 40+ Double Dutch Club, she’s become the captain of the St. Louis chapter double Dutch is more than just a game. For Chapman, it’s shown her new ways to give back to her community and connected her with jumpers across the country.

A report found St. Louis is one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly cities. But another found it’s one of the worst Dec 07, 2023

In October, the City of St. Louis made two national rankings for LBGTQ+ friendliness, but each list told a different story. One list named it among the most friendly to the queer community. The other list named St. Louis as one of the most unfriendly. We explore what’s behind that discrepancy with panelists Avi Ivaturi, peer support organizer at St. Louis Queer Support Helpline; Midwest Rainbow Research Institute Executive Director Inoru Morris; and Nick Dunne, LGBTQIA+ and Arts Liaison for the City of St. Louis.

Isaiah Maxi found nature in Missouri parks — and made more than 100 new friends Dec 06, 2023

Isaiah Maxi has been hiking all over Missouri’s state parks — and he's not doing it alone. He documents his journeys on his Facebook group, “The Journey to 100 Hiking Friends,” charting his connections across the state. We talked with him in March when he was about one-third of the way to his goal. This past weekend, he accomplished (and surpassed) his mission by meeting 113 new friends — and a total of six dogs.

Israel-Hamas war hits close to home for St. Louis’ Jewish Community Dec 06, 2023

Hamas' October 7 attack and the ongoing war in Israel is impacting St. Louis' Jewish community in different ways. Galit Lev-Harir was in Israel on October 7. She experienced the aftermath of Hamas’ campaign of massacres and kidnapping, and says supporting Israel has never been more important. Hineni founder Tasha Kaminsky and others have joined their voices with Palestinians in demanding a ceasefire, and an end to Israel's military response.

Missouri auditor stands firm on his abortion ballot cost fight with the attorney general Dec 05, 2023

Missouri Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick recently got into a high-profile dispute with fellow Republican statewide — Attorney General Andrew Bailey. It was over a fiscal note the auditor’s office wrote about several initiative petitions that would legalize abortion. The Missouri Supreme Court sided with Fitzpatrick. In this excerpt of the Politically Speaking podcast with STLPR’s Sarah Kellogg and Jason Rosenbaum, Fitzpatrick defends his actions, reflects on one year in office and more.

Research on women’s health has stalled for decades. A WashU bioengineer wants that to change Dec 05, 2023

Research on women’s health has been underfunded for decades. As central as it is to human life, the reproductive process is especially poorly understood by scientists. Washington University bioengineer Michelle Oyen argues that it’s critical for scientists to study women’s health, and she hopes her research will contribute to improved maternal and fetal health outcomes.

Nostalgia reigns supreme in new edition of ‘Lost Treasures of St. Louis’ Dec 04, 2023

There are about 415 St. Louis area restaurants, entertainment venues, stores and more highlighted in the second edition of “Lost Treasures of St. Louis.” Among other gone-but-not-forgotten entries, the coffee table book features the Floating McDonalds, St. Louis Arena and Famous-Barr. Stories about the Millennium Hotel, Casa Gallardo, and the Admiral are also shared. Co-author Cameron Collins — and listeners — share their memories.

Father-son duo combines love, life lessons and soul in ‘Duets With Dad’ stage show Dec 01, 2023

Brian Owens and his father, Thomas, became internet darlings 10 years ago with a YouTube video of them performing a rendition of “A Change is Gonna Come.” That video has gained more than 107 million views and landed them on the Today Show in June. Now, the Owenses are hitting the stage as a supporting act for jazz sensation Samara Joy. Brian and Thomas Owens preview their “Duets With Dad” show and upcoming album set to release on Father’s Day 2024.

Madison County program helps students with disabilities build skills for work — and life Dec 01, 2023

In Madison County, Illinois, an apprenticeship program helps students with disabilities build skills for work – and life – after they graduate. The program has shown success, and now leaders hope their model gets implemented elsewhere. The coordinator of the program at Collinsville High School, a parent whose son went through the program, and STLPR reporter Will Bauer join the show.

How conflicting state and federal laws on gender-affirming care puts ‘hospitals in a bind’ Nov 30, 2023

A new lawsuit against the University of Missouri claims the university’s healthcare system violated disability law by refusing to provide certain gender-affirming care to two transgender boys. Attorneys Nicole Gorovsky, Patti Williams and Arindam Kar discuss this case in this November 2023 edition of the Legal Roundtable. They also tackle other legal questions, including whether the city of St. Louis owes compensation to a man it accidentally held in jail for eight months after the charges against him were dropped.

Innocent St. Louis man flagged as ‘wanted’ sues Chesterfield police Nov 29, 2023

The “wanted” policy in the St. Louis region allows police to make an arrest without a warrant or knowledge about the person they're arresting. Tim Reinhardt experienced that first-hand, and is now suing the Chesterfield Police Department. Reinhardt’s attorney, Jack Waldron, calls the wanted system a “substitute for doing police work.” Maureen Hanlon of ArchCity Defenders provides an update on what changed a year after a federal appeals court found the wanted policy legal but “fraught with the risk of violating the Constitution.”

Arch Grants’ investment in startups makes way for new tech to debut in St. Louis Nov 29, 2023

This year alone Arch Grants has awarded over $1.8 million to local startups and small businesses. Since 2012, the organization has backed and mentored hundreds of companies to attract and retain promising businesses — and to breathe new life into St. Louis’ economy. Arch Grants Executive Director Gabe Angieri and 2023 Arch Grants recipient Pierre Paul, the CEO and founder of We Hear You, share how these investments can benefit the entire region.

Best books of 2023, chosen by St. Louis librarians Nov 28, 2023

With the end of 2023 approaching and cold weather keeping us indoors, what better time to dig into some of the best books of the year? Jennifer Alexander of St. Louis County Library and Ted Reidy of St. Louis Public Library share their top picks.

With legal victory, Missouri abortion rights supporters gear up for legalization effort Nov 27, 2023

Abortion rights supporters scored a legal victory last week when the Missouri Supreme Court declined to take up cases regarding ballot summaries and costs for initiative petitions that would put making abortion legal in front of Missouri voters. STLPR Politics Correspondent Jason Rosenbaum discusses recent developments and a timeline for when voters may be able to cast a ballot on this issue.

New cartoon-style book highlights what makes Missouri weird and wonderful Nov 27, 2023

“Missouri Weird & Wonderful” presents readers of all ages with a kid-friendly tour through the Show Me State. Author Amanda E. Doyle and illustrator Dan Zettwoch, two longtime St. Louisans, discuss highlights from the book, which closes with a scavenger hunt for famous Missouri people and things.

Listen to highlights from StoryCorps’ St. Louis visit — and learn how to record your own stories Nov 22, 2023

StoryCorps’ Great Thanksgiving Listen encourages people to talk and listen to one another over the holiday break. These conversations can be between any two people and they help build an oral history of what life is like today. St. Louis Public Radio’s Jonathan Ahl and Miya Norfleet shared some of the conversations recorded in the StoryCorps’ Airstream trailer this fall in St. Louis.

Fear over brown recluse spiders is overblown and unnecessary. Here’s why Nov 22, 2023

Brown recluse spiders are infamous for their necrotic venom. But how dangerous are they, really? Missouri Botanical Garden senior entomologist Tad Yankoski says the arachnids get an unnecessarily bad wrap. He shares why you should stop worrying about brown recluses and learn to appreciate the spider.

Shop local at Delmar Main Street’s Small Business Saturday expo Nov 21, 2023

Holiday shopping is here, and trying to figure out what to get, and where, can be overwhelming. Black Friday deals traditionally draw shoppers to big box stores and massive e-commerce sites, but small business owners want consumers to consider shopping local for their gift giving needs. Lisa Potts, vice-president of Delmar Main Street, and serial entrepreneur Dallas Holland join the show to share the benefits of shopping local and keeping dollars close to community.

Michelle Smith experienced life in a Missouri prison. Now she’s arguing for change Nov 21, 2023

At least 105 people have died behind Missouri prison bars this year, and that's just one sign that things are not right in the state's prisons. The Missouri Justice Coalition is holding a series of statewide town halls, with its most recent stop in St. Louis. The nonprofit’s founder and director Michelle Smith discusses what she's learned at the town halls, and shares her thoughts on the group's goals for legislation and what has to change in the state’s 21 prison

After 28 years at KMOX, Carol Daniel is still St. Louis’ voice Nov 20, 2023

When Carol Daniel announced her retirement from KMOX in April, it signaled the end of a 40-year, award-filled career in media. But Daniel is back behind the mic as senior producer and host at Nine PBS. Carol Daniel’s new podcast, "Listen, St. Louis" premiered this month, with a focus on the region's complex challenges and the people working to address them. Carol reflects on her new role and what audiences can expect from her post-KMOX.

Missouri landlords took millions in federal pandemic aid. Now they're kicking tenants out Nov 20, 2023

In the St. Louis region, eviction filings are happening at a faster rate than before the coronavirus pandemic. An in-depth report by journalist Mike Fitzgerald explores the reasons why. Fitzgerald discusses the current eviction crisis alongside Kennard Williams, organizing manager with the group Action St. Louis.

Lisa Clancy says St. Louis County is facing tough budget decisions with a $40 million deficit Nov 17, 2023

St. Louis County is going through a period of relative government tranquility, especially compared to past years. But county officials are still dealing with steep challenges, including a budgetary gap and lingering questions about collaborating with the City of St. Louis. On the latest episode of the “Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air,” St. Louis County Councilwoman Lisa Clancy talks about the county’s big challenges.

Mailbag: Will St. Louis and St. Louis County ever merge? Nov 17, 2023

It’s been about five years since a serious proposal to combine St. Louis and St. Louis County was on the table. But interest in ending the so-called “Great Divorce” remains high, even though there are a lot of details to work out. We open our mailbag with St. Louis Public Radio reporter Chad Davis to discuss some of the opportunities and challenges for a city-county reunion.

Crystal City taught Bill Bradley key lessons for his journey through sports and politics Nov 17, 2023

Former U.S. Sen. Bill Bradley of New Jersey will return to the St. Louis area this weekend to receive the Stan Musial Lifetime Achievement Award for Sportsmanship. On the “Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air,” the Crystal City, Missouri, native and two-time NBA champion discusses his Jefferson County upbringing, his long-standing push for racial equity and whether he thinks the NBA will ever return to St. Louis.

Sauce editor dishes on savory cocktails and Gramophone sandwiches Nov 16, 2023

New restaurants in the St. Louis region are enticing customers with a bevy of savory cocktails and fresh flavor combinations. Sauce Magazine Executive Editor Meera Nagarajan runs down her favorite new spots to eat and drink and shares how she and her team tackled the daunting task of tasting and ranking all 40 sandwiches at the Gramophone.

How to prepare for complex family dynamics and divisive issues at holiday gatherings Nov 16, 2023

Clinical psychologist Dr. Marva Robinson discusses how to navigate complex family dynamics and divisive topics that may come up during gatherings this holiday season.

Strikers shut down St. Louis in 1877. A new play tells their story Nov 15, 2023

The St. Louis General Strike of 1877 was a pivotal moment in labor history. It involved hundreds of railroad, factory and transit workers who were able to grind commerce to a halt. A new play, “1877,” shares that story and premieres this week at the Missouri History Museum. Playwright Colin McLaughlin and actors Josh Mayfield and Courtnei Morris join the show.

International Institute works to welcome Latino immigrants, despite criticism from St. Charles County Nov 15, 2023

The International Institute of St. Louis recently launched an effort to attract Latin American immigrants to the region. Their plans have garnered criticism from St. Charles County officials this week. Karlos Ramirez, vice president of the institute's Latino Outreach Program, talks about how immigrants can boost the city’s population and contribute to its workforce. International Institute President and CEO Arrey Obenson discusses how the St. Charles proposal hurts their efforts at creating a welcoming region.

New film follows Black St. Louisans who’ve run a marathon in every U.S. state and all 7 continents Nov 14, 2023

The marathon hat trick is a goal that some committed distance runners aim for but few have achieved. To accomplish this feat runners must complete 100 marathons, a marathon in all 50 U.S. states, and a marathon on all seven continents. Fewer than 60 runners have completed the marathon hat trick and only three of them are Black. Two of those three are from St. Louis: Tony Reed and Lisa Davis. A documentary, “We Are Distance Runners: The Marathon Hat Trick,” is about their story and it screens Wednesday evening as part of the St. Louis International Film Festival.

Missouri has a mixed record on fighting lung cancer, report finds Nov 14, 2023

Missouri shows little progress in cutting rates of new cancer cases, according to the latest American Lung Association report. The ALA also found the state ranked fourth in the nation for lung cancer patients receiving no treatment after diagnosis. Kavahn Mansouri, investigative reporter with the NPR Midwest Newsroom, and Laura Turner, advocacy director for the American Lung Association in Missouri, dig into these statistics and other takeaways from the report.

Cinema St. Louis' International Film Festival to offer more Black American stories Nov 14, 2023

In marathon running, the hat trick entails three accomplishments: doing at least 100 races… running in each of the U.S.’s 50 states… and completing a marathon on all 7 continents — which means marathoning in Antarctica. Among the fewer-than-60 runners worldwide who’ve achieved that feat, only 3 are Black. And two of those three are St. Louis natives. They’re also alumni of the same grade school – a decade apart, but the very same building! Lisa Davis and Tony Reed are the focus of the documentary, “We Are Distance Runners: The Marathon Hat Trick,” which screens at the Alamo Drafthouse as part of the St. Louis International Film Festival

Efforts to restore Belleville’s most historically significant house pick up steam Nov 13, 2023

In 1833, Gustave Koerner fled his homeland of Germany and came to the United States. He settled in Belleville, Illinois and became an attorney, served on the Illinois Supreme Court and was lieutenant governor. He was also a confidant of Abraham Lincoln. The 170 year old home where Koerner lived still stands and there are renewed efforts to restore and preserve it. In an interview recorded on location, producer Alex Heuer talks with two people behind the effort.

In 1973, a fire in St. Louis changed American history — by destroying it Nov 10, 2023

On July 12, 1973, a fire in the National Personnel Records Center in St. Louis destroyed 80% of U.S. Army records between 1912 and 1960. It was one of the largest destructions of federal records in the history of the county. To explore the legacy of the fire, producer Danny Wicentowski goes searching for his grandfather’s records, which were burned in the fire. He also talks to firefighter Captain David Dubowski, archives specialist Eric Kilgore, and Jessie Kratz, historian of the National Archives.

How a St. Louis sound healer fosters community and healing within the LGBTQ+ community Nov 09, 2023

St. Louis sound healer Aria Thome knows how devastating it is to experience rejection from a traditional faith community. She was raised Roman Catholic and worked as a choir director in the Catholic Church for many years. When she came out as transgender, she lost her job, her community and some family members. By offering a series of free, monthly sound healing and breathwork sessions for those who have experienced religious trauma, Thome hopes to help people heal and build a supportive, welcoming community for people of all backgrounds.

U.S. Rep. Cori Bush’s Israel criticism draws attention and a primary challenge Nov 08, 2023

St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell last week dropped his bid for U.S. Senate to challenge U.S. Rep. Cori Bush in the upcoming Democratic primary for Missouri’s 1st Congressional District. He said he’s entering the race, in part, because of Bush’s comments that are critical of Israel. STLPR Political Correspondent Jason Rosenbaum talks with Bell, and later we get analysis from Jason and hear from Rep. Bush.

Nikki Giovanni wants St. Louis to know she loves you, and that you’re great Nov 08, 2023

Nikki Giovanni has challenged and inspired people of all ages as an acclaimed poet, writer, and activist. Her life, lived with insistent fidelity to who she is as a Black American woman, reflects insights and wit that reach across the miles she’s traveled and the experiences she’s been through. She’s coming back to St. Louis on November 9 to deliver the keynote address for the 2023 St. Louis Racial Equity Summit.

Urban flower farms bloom in St. Louis Nov 07, 2023

More than 400 flower farmers converge in St. Louis this week for the first-ever Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers conference, which is focused on urban flower farming. Miranda Duschack and Mimo Davis of Urban Buds, a flower farm located in Dutchtown, discuss the booming (and blooming) world of urban flower farming.

STL Food Challenge puts restaurants to the test on reducing food waste Nov 07, 2023

Are you guilty of bringing home leftovers only to pitch them in the trash days later? If so, you're not alone. The amount of food waste overall in our region equals the weight on nearly 1,000 adult blue whales. — 667,000 tons each year. The Green Dining Alliance and Missouri Botanical Garden partnered to see how much food could avoid landfills with specific techniques and strategies in local restaurants. We talk with people involved with the effort and with the chef/owner of a local restaurant.

Descendants of people enslaved by SLU’s Jesuits want their ancestors honored Nov 06, 2023

Jesuits relied on enslaved labor for their missions in Missouri, including for the founding and sustaining of Saint Louis University. A three year research project uncovered this history. Now, Robin Proudie, a direct descendant, is working to preserve her ancestors' heritage and advocate for their commemoration. Christopher Tinson, chair of SLU’s African American Studies Department, talks about what it’s like to teach this history to his students.

How Bobby Bostic used his story to teach writing to incarcerated kids Nov 06, 2023

It's been almost a full year since Bobby Bostic walked out of prison on November 9, 2022, overcoming a 241-year sentence for a robbery he committed at 16 in 1995. Bostic has spent his first year free teaching writing classes in three juvenile offender facilities in St. Louis, a mission he wrote about in a Marshall Project essay titled, "Here’s How I Use My Story to Teach Incarcerated Kids That Writing Matters." Bostic was also recently named as one the Kranzberg Arts Foundation 2024 Artists in Residence.

Exploring Black history, its sources and who gets to tell it Nov 03, 2023

For centuries history has primarily been told from the perspective of white men. What was traditionally considered a “reliable source” has not included the voices of Black people and other people of color. Over the last decade tables have started to turn, and more historians are recognizing there is a lot of work to be done in addressing the interpretation of Black history. Cicely Hunter of the African American History Initiative at the Missouri Historical Society, Pam Sanfilippio of Gateway Arch National Park’s museum services, and Vivian Gibson, author of “The Last Children of Mill Creek” discuss the difficulties faced when attempting to provide inclusive interpretation of American history that spotlights the unique experiences of Black Americans.

How early German immigrants helped shape Missouri and St. Louis Nov 03, 2023

German immigrants helped shape Missouri’s culture in myriad ways, as detailed in the book “Explore Missouri's German Heritage” and the documentary it inspired. Author W. Arthur Mehrhoff details the people, places and ideas that influenced the Show-Me State’s cultural heritage.

This St. Louis-area district aggressively audits student housing, citing ‘educational larceny’ Nov 02, 2023

Since the 2018-2019 school year Hazelwood School District’s investigations into student residency have jumped 8-fold over the last five years. These investigations disrupt students – especially those who face unstable housing – and affect their access to a range of educational and other services mandated by federal law. A joint investigation by the Midwest Newsroom and St. Louis Public Radio published today examines that trend, and its consequences.

Post-Dispatch columnist finds self-dealing drained Taum Sauk fund Nov 02, 2023

Missouri gave Iron County more than $3 million to recover after the devastating December 14, 2005 flood triggered by the bursting of the Taum Sauk reservoir. Today, the money is nearly gone. Its funded projects included a coffee shop and bike park, but they made little impact to repair the damage. Tony Messenger, a columnist for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, investigated the fund and found that most of the money has gone to insiders. Whistleblower Erich Jett, who worked for the board overseeing the fund, reveals what he saw as early as 2015 that led him to raise an alarm.

North St. Louis native Sexyy Red heats up her hometown with 'Hood Hottest Princess Tour' Nov 01, 2023

The fastest rising hip hop star from St. Louis is arguably Sexyy Red. The northside native is currently on the road performing the “Hood Hottest Princess Tour.” Arts reporter Chad Davis and “St. Louis on the Air” producer Miya Norfleet share their reflections on the rapper’s hometown stop at Chaifetz Arena on October 30.

Lincoln’s political savvy highlighted in ‘Differ We Must,’ by NPR’s Steve Inskeep Nov 01, 2023

Abraham Lincoln had political ambitions from a very early age. NPR Morning Edition co-host Steve Inskeep’s new book, “Differ We Must: How Lincoln Succeeded in a Divided America,” details sixteen interactions with people who differed from him — and who helped him become a savvy politician. The book contains several St. Louis-area connections, including Lincoln’s interactions with Owen Lovejoy of Alton, Joseph Gillespie of Edwardsville, and Jessie Benton Frémont who was in St. Louis at the start of the Civil War.

How engineering and roadway design can create safer St. Louis streets Oct 31, 2023

St. Louis drivers routinely blast through intersections. Is the problem the drivers or is it the infrastructure? We talk about speed humps and other measures being proposed to calm traffic with panelists: St. Louis Community Mobility Committee Co-Chair Liz Kramer; CBB Principal and Transportation Engineer Shawn Leight; and St. Louis Complete Streets Program Manager Scott Ogilvie.

The case for watching horror this Halloween and year-round Oct 30, 2023

An increased interest in all things spooky means Halloween is right around the corner. Horror films are a perfect way to get into scary mode, but there is room for the genre all times of the year. Alex Rafi, associate professor of media production at St. Louis University, shares what makes horror an important storytelling genre.

SLU student hangs onto words from mother in Gaza: 'I don't know if we are going to stay alive' Oct 30, 2023

Palestinian graduate student Intimaa Abuhelou came to St. Louis University last year to pursue her master's degree. When she last heard from her family in Gaza, they were sheltering at a United Nations Relief and Works Agency school. Intimaa shares what she’s heard from her family in Gaza and what it’s like to be in St. Louis during the most recent Israel-Hamas war. (Editor’s note: No one story can capture all perspectives, experiences, or emotions connected to this conflict. If you have a personal connection to what's happening in Israel, the Gaza Strip, or the West Bank — and you want to share your experience — send an email to: talk@stlpr.org.)

Missouri House Speaker-to-be Jon Patterson took unusual pathway to power Oct 27, 2023

Missouri House Majority Leader Jon Patterson is slated to become speaker in 2025 — and he’s receiving more attention this week after current House Speaker Dean Plocher became embroiled in a controversy over his expense reimbursements. In the debut episode of the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air, STLPR Political Correspondent Jason Rosenbaum talks with Plocher. STLPR statehouse and politics reporter Sarah Kellogg for analysis, and we open up the mailbag to answer listener questions about local government and politics.

The city of St. Ann spent years jailing people who couldn’t pay bond. Now it’s paying them $3.1 million Oct 26, 2023

More than 35,000 people will be eligible to receive a portion of a $3.1 settlement in St. Ann, a result of litigation filed by civil rights law firm Arch City Defenders. Quentin Thomas describes what it was like to be trapped in a cycle of fines and jail in St. Ann. Maureen Hanlon, a civil litigation staff attorney with Arch City, discusses how St. Ann jailed people solely because they didn't have money to pay for their freedom, and what this settlement means for Arch City's years-long legal campaign against cities with similar practices.

With regular season success, St. Louis City SC looks to score again with a deep MLS playoff run Oct 26, 2023

Executives with St. Louis’s Major League Soccer expansion team are hoping the success of a record-setting regular season carries over into the playoffs. St. Louis City SC plays its inaugural postseason match Sunday night at home. STLPR’s Wayne Pratt talks with team President and General Manager Diego Gigliani and Chief Experience Officer Matt Sebek.

Missouri law restricts sex offenders on Halloween. Now a Hazelwood man is suing Oct 25, 2023

Every year, by law, sex offenders in Missouri must post a sign on Halloween that says “no candy or treats at this residence.” But can a law compel someone to erect a sign against their wishes? That question and others are taken up in this month’s edition of St. Louis on the Air’s Legal Roundtable, featuring attorneys Bevis Schock, Connie McFarland-Butler, and Sarah Swatosh. The attorneys also discuss a lawsuit filed against St. Louis-based Mission Taco Joint by the Mission brand of tortillas, a controversial $50,000 campaign donation to Attorney General Andrew Bailey, and the latest news coming from the St. Louis Circuit Attorney’s Office.

Collegiate families deal with 'mixed bag of feelings' on school shooting anniversary Oct 24, 2023

The deadly shooting one year ago at Central Visual Performing Arts High School left many students and teachers to deal with immeasurable grief. STLPR’s Kate Grumke shares how Collegiate School of Medicine and Bioscience students are processing difficult emotions as they reflect on the upcoming anniversary of the deadly shooting in the school building they share with CVPA. Also, STLPR’s Chad Davis highlights how CVPA artists and alumni have spent the year using art to work through trauma.

Life after a school shooting: CVPA and Collegiate graduates reflect on healing and trauma Oct 24, 2023

In the year since the school shooting on the Central Visual Performing Arts High School and Collegiate School of Medicine and Bioscience campus, students are finding ways to process their grief, anger and guilt. CVPA alum Raniyah Taylor and Collegiate alumni Axel Cortes and Mikayla Sanders talk about their experience of that tragedy, how they worked to process their trauma as seniors finishing high school, and what they wish people would better understand about their experience.

'Do it because she can't': Relatives of victims killed at CVPA reflect and mourn Oct 23, 2023

Keisha Acres’ daughter Alexzandria Bell was killed in the Oct. 24 shooting at Central Visual and Performing Arts High School. Abbey Kuczka’s mother, CVPA teacher Jean Kuczka, was also killed in the shooting. Keisha and Abbey share their reflections on grief, trauma and hopes for the future, including their wish for people to take the country’s growing mental health crisis more seriously.

An Ameren worker’s competitive pole climbing raises $107K for St. Jude’s Oct 23, 2023

Electrical lineman Jason Novak was one of 8 teams sent by Ameren Illinois to compete in the International Lineman's Rodeo earlier this month. Novak and his team didn’t just crush much of the competition, they also raised more than $107,000 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

STL Welcome Kit is a one-stop shop for newcomers to the St. Louis region Oct 19, 2023

St. Louis Public Radio’s new STL Welcome Kit is a digital guide to help you understand the history, culture and ins and outs of the St. Louis region. It answers questions like: What are those stone towers throughout the city? What’s the deal with paying property taxes on vehicles? How can you take advantage of the city’s vibrant music scene? STLPR engagement editor Lara Hamdan and interim news director Brian Heffernan share the details.

Workplaces are failing at racial equity. A Wash U sociologist offers solutions Oct 19, 2023

Washington University sociologist Adia Harvey Wingfield’s new book, "Gray Areas: How the Way We Work Perpetuates Racism & What We Can Do to Fix it," examines racial biases that impact the hiring, pay, advancement, and sociocultural experience of Black workers in the U.S. Wingfield shares what she learned from seven Black interviewees, who all work in different sectors, and offers practical suggestions for movement toward equitable practices and workplaces.

Missouri ballot initiatives to legalize abortion don’t go far enough, says Planned Parenthood’s Dr. McNicholas Oct 18, 2023

There are 17 proposed ballot items in Missouri that would legalize abortion. They’re a response to the fall of Roe v. Wade, which led to the ban of most abortions. Dr. Colleen McNicholas of Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri contends that only one of the 17 initiatives would push abortion access “beyond Roe.” McNicholas discusses how she believes abortion-rights activists should approach the initiative petition process.

How a bee sting inspired a new Bosnian-owned tattoo shop in St. Louis Oct 18, 2023

Azra Selimovic, owner of the new luxury tattoo parlor Azra Tattoos, describes how Bosnian culture is connected to tattoo art and her journey to opening one of Missouri's first Bosnian-owned tattoo parlors. She also shares the story of how a bee helped her family escape from war-torn Bosnia in 1993 — and inspired her new business.

Why a St. Louis alderwoman wants to create an Unhoused Bill of Rights Oct 18, 2023

Earlier this month, St. Louis city workers cleared a homeless encampment outside City Hall. The forced removal of the people who lived there highlighted a yearslong struggle to craft policies that assist homeless people. St. Louis Alderwoman Alisha Sonnier has proposed an “Unhoused Bill of Rights.” Sonnier discusses the legislation that would, among other things, change the process for approving shelters, require 30 days notice to break up encampments, and provide space for what’s known as intentional encampments

Missouri sommelier traces her path from horse expert to wine pro Oct 18, 2023

Alisha Blackwell-Calvert didn’t plan on becoming an expert in wine. Now she’s a sommelier at Cinder House in St. Louis. She discusses her picks for favorite Missouri wines, and explains how the state’s climate gives many local wines a distinctive “musky” flavor. She also pours from her deep knowledge of wine varietals, and reveals what makes a good non-alcoholic wine work.

‘Wild Kingdom,’ the beloved nature show with St. Louis ties, is back on NBC Oct 17, 2023

“Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom” is back on NBC this month. The TV program has deep St. Louis ties. Longtime former co-host Marlin Perkins was director of the St. Louis Zoo for eight years, and he co-founded the Endangered Wolf Center in Eureka, Mo. Perkins’ daughter Marguerite Garrick talks about her father’s legacy. Peter Gros, who co-hosts today’s “Wild Kingdom,” talks about the show’s focus on conservation success stories.

Classical musician Tona Brown shares her story with St. Louis’ Chris King in ‘Tonacity’ Oct 17, 2023

Violinist and mezzo-soprano Tona Brown lives life on her own terms. That determination is the subject of a new memoir narrated by St. Louis-based writer Chris King, “Tonacity: The Tona Brown Story.” Brown has toured the country, taught and released music, and later became the first openly transgender person to perform in front of a sitting U.S. president, President Barack Obama, in 2011.

Inequality at the bathroom door: How public restrooms ‘make mapmakers of all of us’ Oct 16, 2023

Not only have public restrooms never been truly public, they’ve disappeared from America’s major metro areas, says historian Bryant Simon. In this encore episode first shared in April, we explore the rise and fall of America’s public restroom campaign and meet the woman behind the “Bathrooms In St. Louis” Instagram page.

Celebrating DJing with St. Louis' DJ Whiz during hip-hop's 50th anniversary Oct 16, 2023

In 50 years, hip-hop has become one of the most popular music genres in the world. In its early days, the recipe for a hip-hop duo or group was simple: two turntables for the disc jockey and a microphone for the emcee. In this encore episode first shared in April, Darian Wigfall, who DJs under the moniker DJ Whiz, shares the fundamentals of DJing — and why he feels vinyl is the best way to get into the craft.

How one St. Louisan shares her Nigerian culture in ‘Jollof Rice with Grandma’ Oct 13, 2023

Vanessa Okwuraiwe was born in the United Kingdom, went to school in Nigeria, and moved to St. Louis several years ago for work in the financial services industry. She’s now the author of the new children’s book “Jollof Rice with Grandma,” which focuses on 6-year-old Ada, who learns to make a classic West African dish when her grandparents visit from Nigeria. Okwuraiwe talks about the book, its characters and the diversity among Nigerians in St. Louis.

Disability rights advocates decry Metro Transit’s Call-A-Ride as unreliable Oct 13, 2023

People with disabilities in the St. Louis area say recent disruptions to Call-A-Ride service reflect ongoing issues with the transportation service. Etefia Umana, a member of the St. Louis Metropolitan Alliance for Reliable Transit, talks about the challenges he faces using Call-A-Ride. Jeanette Mott Oxford of Paraquad, a local nonprofit dedicated to disability advocacy, discusses the changes advocates want to see put in place.

The Women’s Safe House aims to help abuse victims stay safe by welcoming their pets Oct 12, 2023

Seventy-one percent of women in domestic violence shelters report that their abuser threatened, injured or killed a pet. The fear of violence against a beloved animal can make survivors feel trapped. The Women’s Safe House in St. Louis is working to remove that deterrent. The domestic violence shelter is about to become one of only a few in Missouri — and the only emergency shelter in the greater St. Louis area — to welcome pets.

This weekend brings a partial solar eclipse, but the 2024 total eclipse is the real banger Oct 12, 2023

Missouri and Illinois residents will be able to witness a partial solar eclipse Saturday morning, October 14 at 10:26 a.m. While this is a must-see celestial event, astronomers, space fanatics and umbraphiles alike say that this is just a warm up to the big show: A total solar eclipse that will cross over parts of Missouri and Illinois on April 8, 2024. Author and eclipse chaser David Baron shares just how special total solar eclipses are.

Introducing ‘A CRISPR Bite’: How gene-editing technology is changing our food Oct 11, 2023

The new podcast “A CRISPR Bite” explores how and why biotech companies are looking to use CRISPR technology to change our food. The five-part series was produced by journalist — and former St. Louis Public Radio reporter — Corinne Ruff. It’s hosted by food anthropologist Lauren Crossland-Marr. In its third episode, the St. Louis company Benson Hill takes center stage.

A detective sabotaged his own cases because he didn’t like Kim Gardner. No one stopped him Oct 11, 2023

Across the U.S., reform-minded prosecutors have faced pushback from police departments. In St. Louis, issues around police accountability and racial bias were thrown in sharp relief after Michael Brown, Jr. was shot and killed by a Ferguson police officer in 2014. ProPublica reporter Jeremy Kohler is co-writer of the new piece, “A Detective Sabotaged His Own Cases Because He Didn’t Like the Prosecutor. The Police Department Did Nothing to Stop Him.” Kohler talks about that story, which focuses on local figures whose conflict reflects what’s happening in other parts of the country.

Musical comedy about breast cancer — ‘All Wigged Out’ — comes to a St. Louis theater Oct 10, 2023

About 300,000 Americans will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2023. Despite its commonality, the process of fighting the disease is difficult for patients and their loved ones. Musicians and life partners Marcy Marxer and Cathy Fink can attest to this. Both of them experienced receiving breast cancer diagnoses and becoming each other's primary caregiver. Marxer, Fink and Dr. Jovita Oruwari of SSM Health Medical Group discuss the musical “All Wigged Out” in advance of its St. Louis showing.

How competing origin stories of St. Louis’ pork steak tangled Schnucks, Google and Wikipedia Oct 10, 2023

It’s undeniable that pork steak was popularized in St. Louis, but the identity of its inventor is sizzling with debate. The local supermarket chain Schnucks claims it deserves the title. Robert Moss, contributing barbecue editor for Southern Living, and restaurant critic for the Post & Courier, says that claim needs to be sent back to the kitchen. Moss investigated the controversy over the origin of the humble pork steak, and he shares why the pork steak is special, where it came from, and why Schnuck's, Google, and Wikipedia struggle to get the history right.

Urban composting is a growing business — but cities like St. Louis are unprepared Oct 10, 2023

More than a third of food grown in the U.S. goes uneaten. Food waste takes up space in landfills and produces methane, a powerful greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. Harvest Public Media Reporter Eva Tesfaye digs into current zoning laws in places like St. Louis, where urban composting sites are beginning to pop up. The owners of New Earth Farm, John and Stacey Cline, share why they started their composting business in 2020.

Valley Park doubles down on rejecting lynching monument Oct 09, 2023

A mob lynched a 24-year-old Black man named John Buckner in 1894. That's not disputed. But it's the location of Buckner's lynching that's creating controversy in Valley Park. Geoff Ward, a professor of African and African American Studies at Washington University and a member of the Reparative Justice Coalition, discusses the killing of John Buckner and how the record shows he was killed in Valley Park. Elizabeth Simons, community program manager for Great Rivers Greenway, describes the group’s plan to install a plaque on the Meramec Greenway.

Why Missouri’s 8-month backlog for mental health services in jails is ‘good news’ for officials trying to fix it Oct 06, 2023

More than 250 people are languishing in Missouri jails as they await mental health treatment. That's an improvement from this summer, when the wait was 11 months. Missouri Independent reporter Clara Bates discusses the state's long struggle to treat people who have entered the criminal justice system. She also provides an update on Missouri’s Medicaid program, and why 40,000 kids have been removed from the program this summer.

Souls of Liberty’s ‘20,000 Hours’ marks a milestone in brotherhood, music and career Oct 06, 2023

Life-long friendships are truly special. Growing up with someone who’s not blood-related but family just the same — someone who holds you accountable and supports you through good and bad — is a rare gift. And even rarer? Creating art together and navigating multiple career paths while becoming closer than ever. That’s the story of hip-hop duo Souls of Liberty. Tenelle Winmore and Ryan “Big Esco” Brown share their story and what inspired their latest album, “20,000 Hours Vol. 1: Return of the Gods.”

Animal shelters in St. Louis are in crisis. Here’s how to help Oct 05, 2023

In addition to shelters being overcrowded, the number of stray dogs and cats on the streets continues to grow. Shelter leaders Weng Horak of CARE STL and Alisha Vianello of Gateway Pet Guardians share what animal shelters are going through and what you can do to help.

Essay: 'I made peace with my dad's record — by changing my name' Oct 05, 2023

Washington University sophomore Julian Trejo was 15 years old when his mother helped him change his surname. He was ashamed to be the son of a felon, but now feels free. In this personal and sound-rich essay, Julian reflects on his upbringing and his quest to "not become a statistic — not just another brown kid with an absent dad who went down the wrong path.” Julian is a fellow with the River City Journalism Fund and a soccer journalist in St. Louis.

Hispanic Heritage Month finally has a flag — and it was designed in St. Louis Oct 04, 2023

Hispanic Heritage Month has been celebrated in the U.S. since 1988, but unlike Black History Month, the culturally commemorative month has never had a flag to fly. That is, until St. Louis-based artist Jose Garza was approached by the Regional Arts Commission to come up with a flag design.

How two misdemeanors in Louisiana sent bounty hunters after a woman in Missouri Oct 04, 2023

A dramatic case of bounty hunters, bail, and body cameras concluded last week in a federal courtroom in St. Louis. After deliberating for less than two hours, a jury found Wayne Lozier, owner of Bayou Boyz Fugitive Recovery, guilty of kidnapping and conspiracy. Katie Kull, courts reporter for the St. Louis Post Dispatch, covered the trial from the courtroom. She discusses the bounty hunter industry, Lozier’s defense, and the trial’s dramatic verdict.

Attempt to clear homeless encampment at St. Louis City Hall fails Oct 03, 2023

St. Louis officials attempted to clear a homeless encampment just outside St. Louis City Hall on Monday night. The city called off those plans after being met with resistance from residents, advocates and some city aldermen, but a spokesperson for Mayor Tishaura Jones said they would try again today. STLPR interim digital editor Brian Munoz explains what happened, why the city wants to remove the encampment, and what he heard from residents.

The Grand Motel, once a hotbed of crime, will become a center for abuse survivors Oct 03, 2023

2534 North Grand has a reputation, and it’s not a good one. That’s the address of what was once the Grand Motel, a place notorious as a hotspot for crime, illicit drugs, and prostitution. And for decades, residents of surrounding neighborhoods have voiced their desire to see the nuisance property taken care of. Realtor Monique Buchanan shares her plans to transform the location into a center for survivors of domestic violence.

Want a healthy gut? Exposures in first year of life have long-lasting effects Oct 02, 2023

The gut microbiome you develop early in life can have a lasting effect on your health. Poor gut health leaves people at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, severe asthma or other lung illnesses. Washington University researcher Liz Mallott digs into what we know about gut health and what we can do to shape its development.

A St. Louis mediation program is a promising solution for landlord and tenant disputes Oct 02, 2023

Eviction hearings are often tipped in favor of the landlord. A mediation program aims to balance the power dynamic by offering a free, non-legal route for problem solving. Cat Straubinger and Sheila Webster of the Conflict Resolution Center- St. Louis discuss how mediation works, and Isaiah Di Lorenzo, a landlord who has used the mediation service, talks about why it’s a compelling option for landlords.

Tony Award-winner, St. Louis native Norbert Leo Butz celebrates new album at the Sheldon Sep 29, 2023

St. Louis native Norbert Leo Butz’s latest album is a conversation with his eldest daughter. He celebrates the release of “King of Hearts” with a homecoming concert Friday night at the Sheldon. Butz has won two Tony Awards for Best Actor in a Musical for his roles in “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” and “Catch Me If You Can.” He’s also appeared in TV shows and films.

A trip to the prairie connects young Black artists to nature Sep 29, 2023

Every year, Saint Louis Story Stitchers Artists Collective goes on an immersive trip to a Missouri’s prairie land. For many of the teens, this is their first chance to engage with the outdoors. Young participants and mentors share why the trip is meaningful and how it inspires their artistry.

Dred Scott's great-great-granddaughter erects new monument fitting of his legacy Sep 29, 2023

In the mid-1800s, an enslaved man named Dred Scott sued for his freedom in St. Louis. Scott’s yearslong legal battle culminated in an infamous U.S. Supreme Court ruling that helped push the country closer to civil war. Today, Dred Scott and his wife, Harriett Scott, are celebrated, and there’s a new monument that befits that legacy in Calvary Cemetery in north St. Louis. STLPR’s Marissanne Lewis-Thompson talked with the Scotts’ great-great-granddaughter Lynne Jackson about that legacy in front of the newly erected monument.

Legal Roundtable: Missouri Supreme Court struck down red light cameras. Can St. Louis bring them back? Sep 28, 2023

Concern over a rise in traffic violence has led St. Louis officials to consider an option the city first tried in 2007: Installing automated cameras to catch traffic violators and deter others. Missouri's Supreme Court ruled the ordinance unconstitutional in 2015, but the city is looking to try again. The Legal Roundtable’s Brenda Talent, Bill Freivogel and Eric Banks tackle that issue, as well as a $745 million verdict against the company that manufactures Whip-Its and a squabble between KMOV and KSDK on who owns the right to say “First Alert Weather.”

'Heartbroken' at KDHX: DJs, listeners react after station fires 10 volunteers Sep 27, 2023

The unfolding controversy at KDHX on September 22 when the station fired 10 volunteer DJs. To understand what led to mass firings, how the beloved station got to this point, and the response from its fans and supporters, STLPR reporter Jeremy Goodwin shares insights from his recent coverage of the issue. Former KDHX DJ Ital K, who resigned from his show in solidarity on September 23, reveals what it’s like for longtime volunteers and supporters now watching the controversy unfold.

Ethics concerns a ‘thorn in their sides’ at U.S. Supreme Court, says NPR’s Nina Totenberg Sep 27, 2023

NPR Legal Affairs Correspondent Nina Totenberg has covered the U.S. Supreme Court for about 50 years. As she gears up for a new court session that begins Monday, Totenberg discusses the cases she’s watching. She also talks about the headline-grabbing ethics concerns swirling around the high court, breaking the Anita Hill story in 1991, and her recent memoir, “Dinners with Ruth.”

Through the cemetery gates of Jefferson County goes Dennis Bentley, gravefinder Sep 26, 2023

Dennis Bentley, St. Louis Public Radio systems specialist, has a notable hobby: He finds graves. As a volunteer for FindAGrave.com, he has submitted more than 5,000 pictures of gravestones: the small bejeweled ones, the wealthy towering ones and the just plain ol' regular ones. In this encore episode initially aired this January, Bentley discusses finding meaning as he visits cemeteries in Jefferson County.

Jon-Paul Wheatley’s handmade soccer balls were a TikTok sensation. Then FIFA called Sep 26, 2023

UK-born, St. Louis resident Jon-Paul Wheatley turned his fascination with crafting soccer balls into more than a half million followers on TikTok. In this encore presentation that initially aired in July, Wheatley discusses how he turned a pandemic hobby into trips to Qatar, the World Cup, and crafting soccer balls for the likes of superstar Lionel Messi and FIFA.

Pulitzer exhibition celebrates the lost artifacts of St. Louis' rich architectural history Sep 26, 2023

A new exhibition at the Pulitzer Arts Foundation showcases the city’s architectural salvage that was left in the wake of urban renewal. Pulitzer Arts Foundation curator Stephanie Weissberg and Michael Allen, director of the National Building Arts Center, discuss their collaboration on “Urban Archaeology: Lost Buildings of St. Louis.”

Missouri places top 3 in book bans, while lawmakers brandish flamethrowers Sep 25, 2023

A video of two Missouri elected officials blasting flamethrowers got a lot of attention online last week. While the display was symbolic, Missouri’s record on book bans is very real: A new report from PEN America shows Missouri had the 3rd highest number of book ban cases in the country last year. Lisa Gilbert, an instructor at Washington University (and who teaches future teachers) discusses the ongoing impact of book bans, and reflects on the importance of giving students access to knowledge, even when the content is difficult.

New coalition aims to curb opioid deaths among St. Louis immigrants and refugees Sep 22, 2023

Refugee and immigrant communities in the U.S. are losing loved ones to opioids — and often, people in these communities have a hard time talking about it openly. St. Louis-based coalition ECORN is working to build in-language, culturally appropriate resources and data to help.

‘Tens Across the Board’ puts St. Louis’ ballroom scene and culture on the big screen Sep 22, 2023

Ballroom culture, now a mainstay in popular culture. Not to be confused with waltzing, swinging or doing the two-step — ballroom scene has become a global phenomena. It’s championed by Black and brown LGBTQ artists in dance, music and fashion. Filmmaker Bobby Best captured St. Louis’ ballroom scene in his latest documentary film, “Tens Across the Board,” which was produced by the founder of Tens Ballroom, Maven Lee.

How early childhood educators are preparing for financial loss as ARPA funding dries up Sep 21, 2023

Early childhood educators are bracing for September 30. That’s when the Child Care Stabilization Program — funding allocated as part of the American Rescue Plan Act — will end, leaving hundreds of St. Louis and Metro East facilities in a lurch. Providers Aimee Washington-Hart, Paula-Breonne Vickers and Shona Lamond share what it will take to get early childhood education and the support and funding necessary to keep facilities open.

Why one Missouri Republican is leading the push to scale back the state's abortion law Sep 21, 2023

Jamie Corley founded the Missouri Women and Family Research Fund in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court Dobbs decision, which led to Missouri’s ban on most abortions. Corley, a Republican who has worked for several high-profile GOP lawmakers, has put forth six ballot initiative petitions that would chip away at the state’s ban. She shares the details of her proposals and makes the case that the current abortion law is too extreme for most Missouri conservatives.

Danny Jacobs left St. Louis and escaped his father. He’s come back for the truth Sep 20, 2023

Danny Jacobs thought he knew his father Richard Jacobs. But after his father’s death, Danny began to discover that the man he knew as a manipulator, liar and fabricator had even more layers. Danny and his childhood best friend Darren Grodsky returned to St. Louis to search for the truth behind Richard Jacobs’ life, which is the subject of the new podcast “How to Destroy Everything.”

STL Assessor welcomes regulations on short-term rentals, Airbnb Sep 19, 2023

St. Louis is among the few cities that don't regulate short-term rentals. That’s left the city’s Assessor Michael Dauphin to investigate units to see if they’re being operated as a business, or if they’re being controlled by absentee landlords or LLCs. City legislators are working on a bill that could change how people use platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo. Ward 4 Alderman Bret Narayan adds his insight on the challenge of regulating short-term rentals, and shares updates on the bill’s status.

Menya Rui’s Steve Pursley named ‘Best New Chef’ by Food & Wine Sep 19, 2023

Since it opened in April 2022, St. Louis ramen shop Menya Rui has received plenty of local acclaim, and the long lines of diners waiting to experience the delicious house-made noodles are about to get longer. Food & Wine has named chef-owner Steven Pursley one of this year's 11 “Best New Chefs.” In this encore episode, Pursley discusses his experience connecting with his roots in Japan and what he learned about the different types of ramen during his time there.

The future of the Midwest includes hazardous heat and most of our homes aren't ready Sep 19, 2023

It’s no question that St. Louis is heating up. The region is part of a “heat belt” that is forming across the Midwest and parts of the South, which will face heat indexes of 125 degrees or higher in about 30 years. As we unpack our sweaters in anticipation of cooler, autumnal temps, you may want to consider whether your home can take the heat. Holly Edgell, managing editor of the Midwest Newsroom at NPR shares her recent reporting on the personal and environmental dangers of “hot houses.”

United Auto Workers experiences ‘overwhelming’ public support on Day 4 of its strike Sep 18, 2023

GM workers in Wentzville were among the first United Auto Workers in the nation to strike for higher pay. Sonya Wagner, who has worked at General Motors Co.'s Wentzville Assembly plant for 10 years, shares why she is on the picket line and what she and her colleagues demand. Also, Washington University sociologist Jason Rosenfeld provides insight on how this strike fits into the larger labor movement in the U.S.

Powell Hall renovation has St. Louis Symphony Orchestra on the road this season Sep 18, 2023

The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra begins its 144th season this week with one big change — the orchestra is not performing in Powell Hall. SLSO Music Director Stéphane Denève and President and CEO Marie-Hélène Bernard discuss the ongoing renovation and expansion of Powell Hall and the highlights of the upcoming 2023-24 season.

From Christopher Columbus to Ferguson, Michael Harriot delivers history that is ‘Black AF’ Sep 15, 2023

Columnist and commentator Michael Harriot’s debut book, “Black AF History: The Un-Whitewashed Story of America,” offers a compelling retelling of American history. Harriot discusses how his upbringing in the “middle room” of his grandfather’s home in South Carolina informed his self-education. He also talks about his experience covering protests in Ferguson in 2014 and St. Louis in 2017.

Sorry, ladies. Forest Park’s famous great horned owl, Charles, has found a new mate Sep 14, 2023

Charles the great horned owl lost both his mate and their eggs in December. It was tough news for Mark H. X. Glenshaw, the naturalist who has documented Charles’ life for 17 years. However, things are now looking up for Charles. Glenshaw shares the details in this encore “owl prowl” edition of the show.

Kids from St. Louis turned an abandoned building into art at riverfront graffiti fest Sep 14, 2023

Each September, hundreds of professional artists participate in Paint Louis. The annual music and graffiti festival brings people to the riverfront to pick and paint a two-mile section of the downtown St. Louis floodwall — also known as the Mural Mile. Part of the Paint Louis festival is “Paint Littles,” an area expressly for kids where they get to spray their masterpieces on the walls of an abandoned weigh station building. STLPR audio engineer Aaron Doerr brings us the scene.

Food insecurity leaves some college students to rely on campus food pantries in St. Louis Sep 13, 2023

Food pantries at local St. Louis Colleges are reporting an increase in student visits. Shannon Quinn, case manager at UMSL's Advocacy and Care Center, and Jo Britt-Rankin discuss changes to federal food assistance programs and how University Missouri campuses are helping students secure their basic needs.

Vivian Gibson opposes SLU's plan to demolish Mill Creek buildings Sep 13, 2023

The fate of two buildings along the Mill Creek Valley footprint — the historic, predominantly Black neighborhood that was raised in 1959 to make way for “urban renewal” in downtown St. Louis — has sparked calls for protest this week after t St. Louis University submitted a proposal for demolition to the city of St. Louis. Vivian Gibson, author of “The Last Children of Mill Creek, shares her thoughts and experiences with attempts to preserve and honor her childhood neighborhood.

‘Journalism is not in decline’: U of Illinois professor cites surge in nonprofit newsrooms Sep 12, 2023

In his new book, "Changing Models for Journalism: Reinventing the Newsroom," Global Investigative Journalism Network co-founder Brant Houston explores the deep transformation that journalism has undergone in the last decade, including the decimation of traditional newsrooms, changing revenue streams, corporate ownership and investors, and the surge in nonprofit newsrooms and collaborations.

Researchers see new salmonella sensors shaking up the entire chicken supply chain Sep 12, 2023

Visit any grocery store and you can expect that the produce, meat and other products that line the shelves are not contaminated. But sometimes that’s not the case. STLPR economic development reporter Eric Schmid discusses how locally-based researchers are part of a team developing ways to more quickly identify salmonella in the chicken supply chain. Salmonella is one of the top pathogens that cause foodborne illness.

Washington University replaces undergraduate federal loans with scholarships and grants Sep 11, 2023

Washington University has unveiled a new policy that removes federal student loans from their undergraduate financial aid packages. The policy takes effect fall 2024, but it has already garnered attention across the nation as a way to make a path to higher education less burdensome. Ronné Turner, Wash U’s vice provost for admissions and financial aid, shares the benefits for students and how the no-loan policy can impact generational wealth.

2023 Music at the Intersection festival brings the sounds of soul to St. Louis Sep 11, 2023

12,000 people gathered in Grand Center this past weekend for the 3rd annual Music at the Intersection festival. The lineup included big names like Herbie Hancock, Smino, Taj Mahal, and Thundercat, as well as local talents like Sir Eddie C, Renee Smith, and the Marquise Knox Band featuring the Funky Butt Horns. Producers Miya Norfleet and Emily Woodbury spoke with festival-goers about why they came out — and what they think of St. Louis’ music scene.

A sports columnist finds shared goals in Shakespeare and soccer Sep 11, 2023

A world-premiere is hitting St. Louis theater for the the 10th anniversary of the St. Louis Shakespeare Festival’s “Shakespeare in the Streets.” Rather than Shakespeare, the bard of this particular play, “The Game’s Afoot,” is St. Louis Post-Dispatch sports columnist Benjamin Hochman. Hochman spent months interviewing dozens of people in St. Louis’ soccer community, and he discusses what it means to combine St. Louis, soccer and Shakespeare.

How the Webster-Kirkwood Times maintains its print edition amid a changing media landscape Sep 08, 2023

Where do you get your news, and how does it get to you? We dive into the current state, value and future of print media in the St. Louis area, including how the Webster-Kirkwood Times survived near-closure the year the coronavirus pandemic hit — because its journalists got together to purchase the paper themselves.

Advocates raise alarm as Missouri prisons restrict access to books Sep 07, 2023

A new Missouri law prohibits friends and families from buying books for loved ones serving time in prison. Michelle Smith, the founder of the Missouri Justice Coalition, discusses what the ban means for people in prison, and how access to books is just the latest battleground in Missouri prisons that pits security concerns against the wellbeing and rehabilitation of offenders.

A Kirkwood native is relishing the opportunity to drive the iconic Wienermobile Sep 07, 2023

Oscar Mayer’s iconic Weinermobile has a new name and Kirkwood native Mary Clare Kammer is spreading word like mustard on a bun. Before Kammer drives the Frankmobile to a few stops in St. Louis and Warren County she shares her Oscar Mayer origin story from childhood to college student at Mizzou, and special moments on her travels so far.

STL, Tennessee Williams’ ‘Static City' celebrates his legacy for 8th year Sep 06, 2023

Tennessee Williams wrote about St. Louis with unconcealed disdain, but it’s undeniable the city played a major role in his life. For the 8th year running, the Tennessee Williams Festival is staging performances and events honoring the legacy of the legendary playwright. Williams scholar Tom Mitchell discusses the festival’s focus this year, his own discovery of seven Williams short stories, and how mental health factored into Williams’ most famous plays like “Suddenly, Last Summer.” (Editor's Note: The on-air version of this conversation incorrectly identified the dates of the Tennessee Williams Festival St. Louis. The festival runs September 7-17.)

Over 6,000 St. Louis-area child abuse and neglect cases remain open due to staff shortages Sep 06, 2023

Podcast Description: The Children’s Division of Missouri’s Department of Social Services is severely understaffed. In St. Louis and St. Louis County, there should be 60 investigators total. Instead, there are 16. That shortage has led to a backlog of over 6,000 cases involving child abuse or neglect. And, those backlogged cases have remained open beyond 45 days --- far longer than in other regions in Missouri. STLPR Politics correspondent Jason Rosenbaum has been following this story, and shared his reporting done in partnership with NPR’s Midwest Newsroom.

Northside Trap Run returns to the Ville with more DJs to get the body moving Sep 05, 2023

The Ville neighborhood in St. Louis’ northside has birthed heroes from librarian Julia Davis to queen of rock ‘n’ roll Tina Turner. But even the Ville couldn’t avoid higher vacancy, empty land and crime — due in large part to disinvestment in the once bustling community. The Northside Trap Run seeks to bring the neighborhood back to its heyday and remind the community how much it has to be proud of. In this episode, race ambassador and St. Louis Run Crew founder Ricky Hughes talks about this Saturday’s race.

Hidden bee rocks turn St. Louis greenways into an outdoor scavenger hunt Sep 05, 2023

Greenway Quest is an outdoor scavenger hunt created to get folks of all ages to seek hand-painted bee rocks hidden along the greenways of St. Louis, St. Louis County and St. Charles County. Dallas Adams, communications manager at Great Rivers Greenway, shares fun facts about the event and how their recent projects center community engagement.

How Missouri made the Lake of the Ozarks: Crimes, sunken homes and dreams of a Midwest oasis Sep 04, 2023

Labor Day weekend marks the end of the summer vacation season. On this holiday, we bring you a special from KCUR Studios that highlights the Lake of the Ozarks, a popular tourist destination in Missouri that’s just a three-hour drive west of St. Louis. Senior producer Suzanne Hogan looks at the story of how this man-made body of water came to be – a story that includes corruption, jail time, communities torn apart and displaced families.

Alonzo Townsend takes lessons from his legendary parents to spotlight St. Louis music Sep 01, 2023

Alonzo Townsend is not just a champion for St. Louis music — he was born into it. The St. Louis native founded the Townsendx3 Agency to support local artists by managing them and putting power behind their brands — something he learned to do as a child from his parents, blues legend Henry ‘Mule’ Townsend and gospel and blues singer Vernell Townsend.

StoryCorps returns to St. Louis this month. Learn how to get involved and listen to memorable stories Sep 01, 2023

StoryCorps is visiting St. Louis for the first time in nearly a decade. From Sept. 14 - Oct. 20, the nonprofit’s signature Airstream will be in the Public Media Commons just outside STLPR’s studios. In this episode, we talk with Lea Zikmund, director of StoryCorps’ Mobile Tour, and we listen to past, memorable stories with St. Louis ties.

Civic boards and commissions in Missouri lack diversity, new report shows Aug 31, 2023

The membership of boards and commissions in Missouri does not reflect the racial, ethnic and gender composition of the state. These boards are important not only for the immediate impact they have on communities; they often serve as a launching pad for individuals seeking public office. UMSL political scientist Anita Manion shares the details of her latest report.

Aaron Fowler makes his own big shoes to fill by creating art that embodies hip-hop Aug 30, 2023

For St. Louis-born artist Aaron Fowler, hip-hop is woven into his art. The influence is evident in his nine-foot long, five-foot tall sculpture “Live Culture Force 1’s” which is now displayed at the St. Louis Art Museum’s “The Culture: Hip-Hop and Contemporary Art the 21st Century” through the end of the year.

Legislative sports betting stalemate could lead to an appearance on 2024 ballot Aug 30, 2023

Next week, the NFL kicks off its season in Kansas City. Meanwhile, college football started this week. It's a big deal for sports -- and sports gambling. People in Missouri really really want to gamble, but if they want to bet on their favorite teams, they'll have to cross state lines. Missouri lawmakers are getting ready to try, for the third consecutive year, to legalize sports betting. St. Louis Public Radio's Statehouse and Politics Reporter Sarah Kellogg, breaks down the supporters and opponents, where gambling revenue goes, and what might change with the involvement of the state's biggest sports teams, including the St. Louis Cardinals.

Michael Sack becomes the latest example of white officers suing St. Louis for racism Aug 29, 2023

The Legal Roundtable dives into local and regional lawsuits and litigation. This month that includes a lawsuit filed by Lt. Col. Michael Sack, a white officer with the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department. Sack alleges that St. Louis discriminated against him when it hired another white candidate as the new chief of police. This edition of the Legal Roundtable features attorneys Javad Khazaeli, a former prosecutor and founding member with the St. Louis firm Khazaeli Wyrsch; Dave Roland, the director of litigation at the Freedom Center of Missouri; and Susan McGraugh, director of the criminal defense legal clinic at St. Louis University School of Law.

At Ritenour High, the teacher pipeline starts in the classroom Aug 28, 2023

The number of U.S. college students pursuing education degrees has dropped dramatically in the past few decades. The Teach & Lead program at Ritenour High School aims to reverse that trend by providing education training and mentorship to high schoolers. In return, participants are expected to return to their local school district as teachers after college graduation. That’s what happened to Christina Andrade Melly, 2023’s Missouri Teacher of the Year. Andrade Melly grew up in the Ritenour School District, and she shares why she returned to teach English and Language Arts.

Transitioning to college can be hard. A new WashU course aims to make it easier Aug 28, 2023

The transition to college is filled with complex personal and academic changes. A new Washington University course “Bearprints for Success” aims to guide students through their first few months of college. Tim Bono, a lecturer in psychology studies and assistant dean at the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, talks about how the course prepares students for the inevitable challenges of college life.

‘Ink Tributes’ pay homage to victims of police brutality, civil rights heroes Aug 25, 2023

University City native and Disney special effects supervisor Marlon West watched protests across the country after the deaths of George Floyd and Brianna Taylor in 2020. West was compelled to “pay tribute” to slain Black Americans and civil rights icons. What started as a four illustration project ended in over forty images and a project titled “Ink Tributes,” many of which are on display at St. Louis University Museum of Art.

How ‘giving Black’ can close funding gaps for Black nonprofits Aug 25, 2023

St. Louis is known for its philanthropic generosity. But for many Black-led and Black-serving nonprofits in the region, donors generally don’t fund them at the same level as they fund white-led organizations. Why is that? What can be done to close that gap? Tackling those questions are Gladiator Consulting’s Rachel D’Souza, Shelly Williams of Access Academies, and UrbArts founder MK Stallings discuss how funding gaps stymie growth, and how efforts like Giving Black Day can help.

Dangerous heat pushes St. Louis-area schools to close buildings and dismiss early Aug 24, 2023

For the fifth day in a row, the St. Louis region is experiencing dangerous heat that is near record-breaking levels. It’s also the first week of school for many students in the region. STLPR senior education reporter Kate Grumke discusses issues with bus transportation and athletics as well as what schools are doing to cope with the heat including early dismissals and virtual learning.

No longer just a rural problem, ticks have become a serious problem in urban communities too Aug 24, 2023

The combination of warmth and humidity in Missouri make it a fantastic place … for ticks. We learn what makes the state even more hospitable to these bloodsucking insects and how we can protect ourselves from tick-borne maladies like alpha-gal syndrome, which makes people allergic to red meat. We also get an update on the nearly 100 illegally transported Antilles pinktoe tarantulas that’ve been living at the Missouri Botanical Gardens Butterfly House since they were seized by federal agents in February.

Why 30% of Missouri school districts have transitioned to a 4-day school week Aug 23, 2023

The four-day school week first became an option for Missouri schools 14 years ago. Now, more than 30% of the state’s districts have implemented shorter school weeks. Missouri State University Associate Professor Jon Turner and Warren County School District Superintendent Gregg Klinginsmith discuss how the practice helps recruit and retain teachers, and its effect on student learning.

Illinois passes updated law to repatriate Native American remains after years of neglect Aug 23, 2023

Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed a bill this month intended to improve the process of returning native remains and cultural artifacts to their nations of origin. It’s part of a yearslong, statewide effort to improve the state’s poor track record with repatriation. Producer Danny Wicentowski talked with ProPublica reporter Logan Jaffe about her reporting on “The Repatriation Project.”

The world is built for people with perfect hearing — but 83% of people don't have it Aug 22, 2023

Despite the fact that nearly 83% of the population does not have perfect hearing, most of our spaces are designed to cater, auditorily, to a select few. That’s a problem, according to researchers in the growing field of aural diversity. In this encore edition of the show, former STLPR producer Avery Rogers takes us through the various ways we perceive sound and how understanding these differences can help us better approach hearing accessibility.

Early treatment of Alzheimer’s is key — but diagnosis is too often delayed Aug 21, 2023

An estimated 6.7 million people in the U.S. have Alzheimer's disease, and more than 11 million provide them with unpaid care. On this encore episode, we explore what it means to live with Alzheimer's, to care for those who have it, and the need for early diagnosis.

Illinois could get a new flag for the first time in over a century Aug 18, 2023

There's a wave of state and city flag redesigns sweeping the country — and Illinois may be next. Ted Kaye, author of “‘Good’ Flag, ‘Bad’ Flag,” says that trend reflects a deeper understanding of the opportunity a great state or city flag presents. He shares the basic principles of flag design and the role flags play in cultivating civic pride.

Missouri has yet to pass the CROWN Act. What’s at stake? Aug 18, 2023

Hair discrimination disproportionately targets Black women, and lawmakers have sought to ban the practice with the CROWN Act. CROWN stands for “Create a Respectful and Open Workplace for Natural Hair,” and the first act of its kind was passed in California in 2019. Since then, other states and municipalities have adopted their own measures, including the City of St. Louis in 2021. A statewide measure took effect in Illinois this past January. Missouri has yet to pass a similar law. PBS NewsHour correspondent and vice president of the St. Louis chapter of NABJ Gabrielle Hays and founder and CEO of Frizzy by Nature Leslie Hughes talk about local and statewide efforts to pass the CROWN Act and ways Black women are relearning how to embrace their curls.

Metro Transit seeks 200 mechanics and operators to help restore bus services Aug 17, 2023

MetroBus continues to operate at reduced capacity, hampering the needs of St. Louis bus riders eager to get to work, school and appointments. Bi-State Development CEO Taulby Roach says recent hiring events and a new worker contract give him hope that bus and MetroLink services can be restored.

STL Fringe Fest sees uptick in sales for hyper local, inclusive stage performances Aug 17, 2023

Regional live theater venues are struggling to attract audiences back to the theater since COVID-19 restrictions shut down productions for nearly two years. STL Fringe Fest have weathered the storm and this year’s festival features 42 acts and organizers are seeing an uptick in sales. In this episode, Matthew Kerns, president and artistic director of St. Lou Fringe, joins Lindy Drew of Humans of St. Louis and burlesque performer Sara Howard aka Dizzy Tunt to talk about what audiences can expect in this years STL Fringe Fest.

Beyoncé’s ‘Renaissance’ tour lands in St. Louis on Monday and the ‘BeyHive’ is buzzing Aug 16, 2023

International superstar Beyoncé will be in St. Louis on August 21 for the Renaissance tour at the Dome in Downtown. Local members of the “BeyHive” are buzzing about Queen Bey’s arrival as viral videos of her past performances are shared across the web. DJ Nico Marie will host a Beyoncé-themed party with fellow DJ Makeda Kravitz at Sophie’s Artist Lounge prior to Renaissance’s arrival.

Missouri AG Bailey details why a wall should exist between ‘tech and state’ Aug 16, 2023

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey is at the center of a landmark dispute over how the federal government can interact with social media platforms. In Missouri v. Biden, the state contends an appeals court should keep in place a lower court’s injunction that restricts federal employees from trying to get social media companies to take down content. STLPR political correspondent Jason Rosenbaum talks with Bailey.

Fashion and hip-hop on display at St. Louis Art Museum’s ‘The Culture’ exhibition Aug 16, 2023

The St. Louis Art Museum's new exhibition, “The Culture,” honors the 50th anniversary of hip-hop and how it influenced art, including how it shaped fashion styles. Exhibit curator Hannah Klemm and former curatorial research fellow Rikki Byrd discuss the exhibit with a focus on aesthetics and how fashion is central in hip-hop culture.

How chef Juwan Rice aims to push the boundaries of St. Louis' culinary scene Aug 15, 2023

With his first brick-and-mortar restaurant, St. Louis chef Juwan Rice wants to invite diners into an intimate space — one that has the feel of a private dinner party. Rated Test Kitchen’s seven-course menu will change on a monthly basis, it will be experimental (crystal-clear bread, anyone?) and guests are invited to share their feedback on each course. Rice hopes to provide a space where both locals and tourists will flock to in downtown St. Louis.

Vincentians to dedicate new St. Louis mission house to help recruit more Catholic clergy Aug 15, 2023

The Vincentians will dedicate a new mission house on Lafayette near the intersection of I-44 and Grand Blvd. in St. Louis this Saturday. The Catholic community arrived in St. Louis in 1818 and is refocusing its efforts on the city. Named after St. Vincent de Paul, Vincentians are known for their work serving poor people and marginalized communities. The Rev. Patrick McDevitt discusses the new mission house and how he hopes its presence will help the community and recruit more Catholic clergy.

Black Business Expo bridges gap between Black and white with green along Delmar Divide Aug 14, 2023

Delmar Main Street aims to counter the effects of the “Delmar Divide.” The organization focuses on the business corridor between Skinker Blvd. and Taylor Ave., and they are the host of the Black Business Expo being held August 26 at Delmar Blvd. and Hamilton Ave. West End resident and Delmar Main Street Vice President Lisa Potts shares what folks can expect at the expo and how “buying Black” helps communities across the region. Marcus Howard, founder and CEO of GreaterHealth Pharmacy and Wellness, also joins the discussion.

Amazon workers ask OSHA to investigate STL8 warehouse Aug 14, 2023

At the STL8 Amazon warehouse in St. Peters, workers say their bodies are being broken by a management system that monitors their actions down to the second. Amazon warehouse employee Wendy Taylor is one of 14 workers who submitted a federal complaint to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) earlier this month. She describes what it’s like to be injured on the job, and the pressure to package thousands of items while being monitored by Amazon.

Nursing home staffing shortage in St. Louis mirrors statewide problem Aug 11, 2023

Residents of Missouri nursing homes average just three hours, each day, of care. Nursing homes across the state are also facing serious shortages in staffing. Three guests, including a local CNA working to improve worker pay and professional advancement, discuss what needs to be done to change the situation.

First Black incorporated town in U.S. placed on Illinois ‘endangered’ list Aug 11, 2023

Brooklyn, Illinois was the first Black town to be incorporated, but its rich history is at risk of being lost. Roberta Rogers, former president of the Historical Society of Brooklyn, and Quinn Adamowski of Landmarks Illinois talk about the town’s history and efforts to support its continued existence.

An elk secretly survived Army hunters in the 1950s. It inspired St. Louis and created a park Aug 10, 2023

In 1959, the U.S. Army eradicated the entire elk population in a park in St. Louis County — or at least, they thought they did. A single elk’s remarkable survival changed the course of that park’s history, and gave it its name, Lone Elk Park. “Unseel St. Louis” writer Jackie Dana discusses the fascinating history of the park, and St. Louis County Park Ranger Sgt. Cheryl Fechter shares her insight into how the park’s people and animals have learned to co-exist.

Pickleball, America's fastest-growing sport, brings hundreds to Forest Park Aug 10, 2023

More than 400 pickleball players are competing in a national tournament hosted in Forest Park this week. The tournament highlights the growth of the sport in the area that includes permanent courts in seven south St. Louis parks. A former Bed Bath & Beyond in Lake St. Louis is among the area’s newest pickleball venues and two more are expected to open this year. Mike Chapin, who runs St.LouisPickleball.com, discusses the St. Louis area’s pickleball explosion.

The heat is on, but the grass is greener at Busch Stadium and CityPark Aug 10, 2023

Keeping St. Louis' outdoor professional sports fields in tiptop shape is a big job when the weather is nice, and a more challenging task during sweltering St. Louis summers. STLPR senior correspondent and morning newscaster Wayne Pratt gets to the root of how these two fields stay fresh, even when the temperatures are soaring.

With new album ‘Aqua Phonic,’ Marko Polo dives deep into an oceanic wonderland Aug 09, 2023

Mark Pagano is on a mission to keep the St. Louis kindie music scene on the map. The kids indie musician known as Marko Polo will release his second solo album, “Aqua Phonic,” this Sunday. This episode features Pagano talking about his passion for creating fun and informative music, and we feature songs from the new album.

How Midwestern shrimp farms raise seafood far from an ocean Aug 09, 2023

A group of Midwestern shrimp farmers is on a mission to provide Americans with better-tasting, sustainable shrimp. The industry struggled during the COVID-19 pandemic, but reporter Lilley Halloran found that farmers are hopeful the industry will come back stronger than ever.

Missouri librarians express confusion over ‘vague’ language in new state rule Aug 08, 2023

A new statewide rule has Missouri librarians concerned for their ability to curate their collections in a way that serves the entire community. Missouri Library Association President-Elect Kimberly Moeller talks about how the rule comes at a time of increased attention and scrutiny toward Missouri’s public libraries — and what concerned community members can do to support the public library system.

The ‘Mvstermind’ behind City SC’s music to offer a performance boot camp for artists Aug 08, 2023

Many people dream of becoming a star, but most can barely perform without losing their breath after one song, let alone get through a proper soundcheck. For those folks, Muhammad Mvstermind Austin created Mvstercamp — a six-day bootcamp to teach up and coming artists the lessons he learned the hard way.

Buckminster Fuller’s dome at SIUE faces a (mini) global climate crisis Aug 07, 2023

The Fuller Dome on the campus of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville represents the legacy of R. Buckminster Fuller. Designed as a miniature globe, the structure is experiencing its own kind of climate crisis, as its heating and air conditioning system are failing. Benjamin Lowder, director of the Fuller Dome Center for Spirituality and Sustainability, discusses the effort to raise funds to preserve the dome and the impact of Fuller's legacy on the St. Louis region.

WashU professor digs into the fizzy history of 7UP, a St. Louis invention Aug 07, 2023

In his recent piece for the Atlantic, Washington University Professor Ian Bogost argues that “all soda is lemon-lime soda.” He shares why he came to that conclusion and the little-known-facts that he learned about 7UP, including its St. Louis origins and one of its original ingredients (a prescription drug by today’s standards).

Former Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon helps No Labels group eyeing a third-party presidential ticket Aug 04, 2023

Former Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon dove back into the political fray last week when he announced his involvement with No Labels, a group of centrist politicians pushing back against what they see as the extremes of both the Republican and Democratic Parties. The group is rankling some Democrats who think its actions could create an avenue for Donald Trump to return to the White House. STLPR political correspondent Jason Rosenbaum talks with Jay Nixon on this episode that first aired on the station’s Politically Speaking podcast.

Salt of the Earth celebrates 20 years of making music in St. Louis Aug 04, 2023

The St. Louis roots quartet Salt of the Earth prizes simplicity. The group has released six albums and on Saturday celebrates its 20th anniversary with a concert at the Focal Point in Maplewood. Band members Lynne Reif and Mike Schrand talk about the band and this episode samples Salt of the Earth’s music.

How accessible playgrounds foster independence for kids with disabilities Aug 04, 2023

Local non-profit Unlimited Play designed and built dozens of accessible playgrounds in the St. Louis area and many more across the country. Founder Natalie Mackay talks about what makes playgrounds truly inclusive and fun for all kids.

How a local video game studio gave Atari its first new cartridge release since 1990 Aug 03, 2023

Video games were once synonymous with cartridges. A St. Louis game developer, Graphite Lab, is turning back the clock with its release of “Mr. Run and Jump.” Out on modern consoles from Playstation, Xbox and Nintendo, a version of the game is also being released for the Atari 2600 — and, for the first time since 1990, Atari is releasing the new game on a cartridge. Graphite Lab developer John Mikula reveals how he created “Mr. Run and Jump” as a passion project and what happened after Atari took notice.

Traveling art exhibit recognizes St. Louis founder of Black People Who Hike Aug 03, 2023

Debbie Njai, the St. Louis-based founder of Black People Who Hike, is being honored with a portrait that’s part of a national art exhibition focused on Americans who are improving their communities. In this episode, Njai and her portraitist discuss the healing aspects of nature and the ways art can be used as a vehicle for inspiration and education.

Sitcom-inspired Shakespeare brings its laugh track to 24 parks Aug 03, 2023

The St. Louis Shakespeare Festival is hitting the road, with its production of “The Merry Wives of Windsor.” Performers Christina Yancy and Joel Moses discuss performing in a different park every night, and how they put on a production (complete with laugh track) while playing multiple characters in a 90-minute, sitcom-inspired version of Shakespeare’s legendary comedy.

How a St. Louis queer support helpline is building community Aug 02, 2023

The St. Louis Queer Support Helpline — or SQSH — has experienced an increase in calls for help finding resources and community. Executive Director Luka Cai shares how SQSH’s goals are shaped by the needs of the local queer community — and how infrastructural changes as well as cultural shifts would make for a more welcoming and healthy St. Louis.

A deep collection of modern Indigenous American art now open at St. Louis Art Museum Aug 01, 2023

For the first time in its history, the St. Louis Art Museum (SLAM) has curated an exhibition of work by modern Indigenous American artists. “Action-Abstraction Redefined” showcases 20th-century pieces paired with an audio guide featuring their creators. Alex Marr, the museum’s associate curator of Native American Art, talks with STLPR senior reporter Jeremy D. Goodwin about SLAM’s history of collecting, and not showing, Native American art — and how this exhibition aims to bring visibility to Native histories.

A dormant Illinois volcano has rare Earth metals. Scientists want to know why Aug 01, 2023

The Hicks Dome volcano sits dormant in southern Illinois. While there’s no chance it will erupt anytime soon, geologist Daniel Hummer says researchers are interested in the site because it’s concentrated with rare Earth minerals and radioactive materials.

New restaurants bring cocktails, juices and Chinese hamburgers to St. Louis Jul 31, 2023

Several new restaurants and bars have opened their doors this summer, with offerings ranging from high-minded cocktail combinations to Chinese street food. Sauce Magazine Executive Editor Meera Nagarajan breaks down her picks for what to try at three newly opened eateries and bars: Maryland House by Brennan’s, Dumplings & Tea, and B Juiced.

Legal Roundtable tackles St. Louis’ 911 woes: ‘They’re not running it’ Jul 28, 2023

St. Louis on the Air’s Legal Roundtable convenes to address a lawsuit targeting St. Louis’ ailing 911 system, a $6.1 million settlement issued to a former guidance counselor, a major ruling in the ongoing defamation lawsuit against The Gateway Pundit’s Jim Hoft, and more. Joining the discussion is attorney Mark Smith, a former associate vice chancellor and dean at Washington University; Attorney Eric Banks, a former city counselor for the city of St. Louis; and attorney Sarah Swatosh, who specializes in labor and employment law.

Transracial adoptees take “Joy Ride” as avenue to talk identity, family and belonging Jul 27, 2023

Against the backdrop of the new feature film “Joy Ride,” three St. Louis residents who grew up in Metro St. Louis and near Kansas City, Missouri, talk about their personal experiences as Asian American transracial adoptees navigating identity, family and belonging.

How Missouri's abortion law has affected OB-GYN care Jul 27, 2023

Health care facilities in states with abortion bans, like Missouri, find that fewer doctors consider coming to these states to complete their OB-GYN residencies. Washington University physicians Dr. David Eisenberg and Dr. Jeannie Kelly have witnessed this firsthand. In this episode, they also discuss the effects of Missouri’s abortion ban on maternal health outcomes.

Homes in St. Louis' floodplains need to be bought out to avoid future damage, advocates say Jul 26, 2023

The St. Louis region experienced historic flooding one year ago, with effects that continue today. We discuss what’s been learned and done since then to prevent a repeat of such damage.

'Eliza' imagines life of woman enslaved, and freed, by prominent St. Louis family Jul 26, 2023

“Eliza” is a new historical short film about Eliza Rone, a woman enslaved – and eventually freed – by a prominent 19th century family in St. Louis. Co-writers and co-directors Delisa Richardson and Dan Steadman discuss their use of historical documents and imagination to craft the story and characters in the film.

Mosaic Pothole Project makes art out of the city's pothole problem Jul 25, 2023

Artist Lu Ray Waldemer has first hand experience dealing with and witnessing blown tires due to raggedy St. Louis streets. Waldemer would complain to friends and family until she decided to do something about it by starting the “Mosaic Pothole Project.”

Black residents were denied wealth in STL. A reparations commission is tackling that history Jul 25, 2023

St. Louis’ commission on reparations began meeting monthly this summer to confront the vast and layered damage of slavery, segregation and discrimination. Commission members Gwen Moore and Kayla Reed discuss the need for reparations, the challenges presented by historic injustice, and their thoughts on what form reparations may ultimately take in St. Louis.

This local running club invites all to run through the 314 Jul 25, 2023

In this encore conversation, Ricky Hughes talks about how he founded St. Louis Run Crew with inclusion in mind — specifically to introduce Black and brown people to running and to create a space where they can be comfortable. While most running clubs are inherently inclusive, Hughes would often find himself the only person of color in local running groups. He says the crew — which meets in Kiener Plaza Park — is “open to all faces, paces and laces.”

Rolla residents pack city council meeting over proposed obscenity ordinance Jul 24, 2023

After a Rolla Pride event in June that included a drag performance, people packed a city council meeting wanting to weigh in on a proposed ordinance that would limit public performance content. STLPR Rolla correspondent Jonathan Ahl shares notes about that meeting and the obscenities ordinance under consideration.

Two corpse flowers are expected to bring the funk at Missouri Botanical Garden Jul 24, 2023

The Missouri Botanical Garden has drawn crowds wanting to revel in the smell of the aptly named corpse flower, the amorphophallus titanum, since it first bloomed there in 2012. Its offensive odor has been likened to rotting garbage, dirty diapers and, yes… a dead body. Horticulturist Emily Colletti has cared for the garden's collection of corpse flowers for 21 years. She shared what makes the odoriferous plants happy, and how she can predict when this year’s blooming flower Octavia will dazzle and stink.

Missouri’s glades are trapped under trees. Botanists are freeing them by logging Jul 21, 2023

Podcast Description: In 2018, writer Robert Langellier and botanist Neal Humke cut down every tree across 19 acres in the Ozarks in Pioneer Forest. Their aim was to restore one of the Ozarks' rarest ecosystems: a glade. While it may seem counterintuitive to cut down trees in a time of climate change, restoring glades helps ensure biodiversity. Langellier discusses his opinion piece in the New York Times about the conservation effort. Humke, Land Stewardship Coordinator for the L-A-D Foundation — which privately owns the land in the Pioneer Forest — discusses the non-profits’ work there and the importance of glades.

Film festival in St. Louis has a supernatural Western and a story of aliens in Forest Park Jul 21, 2023

Cinema St. Louis has curated films with a local connection since 2000. Now in its twenty-third iteration, the showcase has grown to include documentary and narrative shorts as well as feature-length films, experimental film and animations, and master classes for anyone interested in filmmaking in the region. Chris Clark, Cinema St. Louis' artistic director, breaks down the upcoming showcase, and discusses what he’s most looking forward to.

Illinois has two months to end cash bail. A judge compares it to ‘turning the Titanic’ Jul 20, 2023

A ruling by the Illinois Supreme Court this week opened a path for courts to eliminate the use of cash bail as a condition for release before trial. The decision gives courts two months to prepare for the shift to end cash bail in mid-September. Chief Circuit Court Judge Andrew Gleeson says the time frame is akin to “turning the Titanic,” but he’s also hopeful the change may lead to greater equity in the courts. Community organizer Marie Franklin feels the justice system is “finally moving in a direction that we should be moving in.” Alexa Van Brunt, director of the MacArthur Justice Center’s Illinois office, also joins the discussion to share the challenges this new law may bring, as well as the potential positive effects for public safety and community well being.

Six weeks in, Gabe Gore says St. Louis circuit attorney’s office has stabilized Jul 20, 2023

Appointed by Gov. Mike Parson, St. Louis Circuit Attorney Gabe Gore has been on the job as the city’s top prosecutor since May 30. He took over after Kim Gardner resigned earlier than expected. In his first six weeks on the job, Gore has increased staffing levels and begun to deal with a backlog of cases. In this extended interview, he discusses that and much more, including how he’s appointed outside counsel to handle the Christopher Dunn innocence case.

Breaking down silos to curb violence and create safe spaces for young St. Louisans Jul 19, 2023

St. Louis’ Office of Violence Prevention partners with several non-profits that tackle the systemic causes behind violence. Among other resources, organizations provide quality mental health services, supportive re-entry for former offenders and harm reduction. Director Wil Pinkney shares how St. Louisans can get involved.

How St. Louis maintains ‘sister city’ relationships across the world Jul 19, 2023

St. Louis has 16 sister city relationships. The oldest was formed more than six decades ago with Stuttgart, Germany; the most recent, with Rosario, Argentina. We talk with the people who maintain St. Louis’ connection with Rosario and a city called St. Louis in Senegal, and discuss the umbrella organization that houses all 16 sister city relationships.

Dolly Parton’s ‘9 to 5’ lifts a St. Charles barbershop chorus to its 5th championship Jul 18, 2023

On July 8, 113 costumed singers belted out the melody to Dolly Parton’s “9 to 5” in a choreographed, frenetic performance that ultimately won gold at the International Barbershop Harmony Society Convention — the fifth championship for the St. Charles-based Ambassadors of Harmony barbershop chorus. The chorus’ co-directors, Jim Henry and Jonny Moroni, recount how they planned and pulled together for the competition, and the enduring popularity of barbershop chorus.

Government downplayed risks of radioactive contamination in St. Louis for 75 years Jul 18, 2023

Thousands of previously unreleased documents reveal the federal government knew about the dangers of radioactive waste in the St. Louis area but consistently downplayed them. Reporter Allison Kite talks about government negligence and advocate Dawn Chapman shares how the revelations could put needed pressure on federal agencies to finally clean up.

In ‘Wannabe,’ NPR’s Aisha Harris reckons with the pop culture that shapes us Jul 17, 2023

In her new book, “Pop Culture Happy Hour” co-host Aisha Harris shares her experiences as a Black, suburban 90s-kid turned-30-something, city-dwelling journalist while digging into the shifting ways we interact with pop culture — and how it touches us in ways we may not even realize.

Evans Howard Place gets a memorial — in the Brentwood shopping center that replaced it Jul 14, 2023

Before it was a shopping center, the area occupied by the Promenade at Brentwood was known as Evans Howard Place. On July 8, a new memorial was unveiled in the shopping center. Former resident Allison Reed shares her experience growing up there, and writer and researcher Beth Miller discusses the history of Evans Howard Place, and why a previous memorial was seen as an insufficient way to honor the neighborhood that had existed there for 90 years.

Sk8 Liborius leaders plan next steps after a devastating fire at the St. Louis skate park Jul 14, 2023

In late June, a four-alarm fire destroyed the converted church that housed Sk8 Liborious, a beloved indoor skate park and gathering place in north St. Louis. The picture of long term recovery for Sk8 Liborius is still unclear. Its leaders had put together a nonprofit organization hoping to become a community center and provide opportunities for teens to gain technical career skills and discover artistic talent. Now Sk8 Liborious has to answer the question: What’s next?

The Cardinals are on track for their worst season in nearly a century. Can they turn it around? Jul 13, 2023

At the All-Star break the St. Louis Cardinals are in last place in the NL Central and are on track for their worst finish in nearly a century. MLB.com columnist Will Leitch discusses the Cardinals’ woes and how the second half may unfold. Leitch is also a contributing editor for New York Magazine and the founding editor of Deadspin.

Lowering the voting age in Missouri will strengthen civic education, students say Jul 13, 2023

Young students with Vote16MO are working to lower the voting age to 16 years in Missouri for local elections. They want a say in school board decisions that impact their lives.

Quality child care is hard to find — and it impacts families, the child, and economy Jul 12, 2023

The need for child care is putting pressure on families, the economy, and care centers themselves. According to recent research by the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, families are forced to make tough decisions between paying hundreds of dollars a month for a child care center — which often means a substantial portion of a family’s monthly income — or leaving the workforce all together to be with their children full-time. Senior economist at the St. Louis Fed Chuck Gascon and Shona Lamond, executive director of Downtown Children’s Center discuss the worrying trend with data, anecdotes, and ideas on fixing it.

Cori Bush fights to maintain access to key abortion drug mifepristone Jul 12, 2023

U.S. Rep. Cori Bush isn’t waiting for the courts to determine whether the commonly used and safe abortion drug mifepristone should remain legal in the U.S. She and the Rev. Love Holt, an abortion doula and community engagement manager with Pro-Choice Missouri, say that protecting medication abortion access is a public health and racial justice issue.

911 in St. Louis performs below national standards. Here’s why Jul 11, 2023

Two recent storm-related deaths call attention to delayed 911 response times in St. Louis and St. Louis County. Researcher Karishma Furtado shares what data reveals about the region’s overwhelmed emergency response network.

Teens say they need more than expanded rec center hours to feel safe in St. Louis Jul 11, 2023

On June 18th, a shooting at an unsanctioned party at an empty office building in downtown St. Louis left 11 teens injured and one 17-year-old dead, sparking outrage and calls for action to address youth violence. Two St. Louis teens, Justin Boyle and Jeremiah Miller, say they need more than extended hours at recreation centers to feel safe, and they share their lived experiences as young Black men as they offer ideas on ways local leaders can better engage young people about preventing violence.

Free speech cases with Missouri connections make waves in federal courts Jul 10, 2023

Two recent, major legal rulings in federal court involving the First Amendment have Missouri connections. Greg Magarian, a law professor and First Amendment scholar at Washington University, breaks down the implications of cases involving whether a business owner can discriminate against gay customers, and whether the government is allowed to ask social media companies to remove content spreading misinformation.

Steve Ehlmann has led St. Charles County's growth since 2006. He says its future is tied to St. Louis Jul 10, 2023

St. Charles County’s population has jumped about 35% since 2000, to 410,000 people, and overseeing that growth has been St. Charles County Executive Steve Ehlmann. He recently announced he would not seek a sixth term. In this excerpt from STLPR’s Politically Speaking podcast, Ehlmann discusses his career and his concerns about how the county’s growth is tied to the perception among some that St. Louis is a dangerous place.

The air quality you experience in St. Louis depends on your zip code Jul 07, 2023

Why are certain areas in St. Louis more susceptible to poor air quality? A researcher and an environmental advocate discuss the history of environmental injustice in St. Louis when it comes to the air we breathe and highlight solutions that can be achieved both on an individual and systemic level. We also hear from a meteorologist about how St. Louis’ air quality has changed over time.

Meet the man who designed St. Louis’ best greenspaces Jul 07, 2023

Landscape architect Ted Spaid, founding partner of SWT Design, has designed over 1,000 parks in the St. Louis region. Two of his most talked-about projects are the new basketball courts coming to Tower Grove Park and Forest Park. Spaid shares how he creates green spaces that are welcoming and satisfies the needs of people that compliments the flow of nature.

Jon-Paul Wheatley’s handmade soccer balls were a TikTok sensation. Then FIFA called Jul 06, 2023

UK-born, St. Louis resident Jon-Paul Wheatley turned his fascination with crafting soccer balls into more than a half million followers on TikTok. Wheatley discusses how he turned a pandemic hobby into trips to Qatar, the World Cup, and crafting soccer balls for the likes of superstar Lionel Messi and FIFA.

St. Louis City SC is defying expectations. Aggressive play and response to injuries are key Jul 06, 2023

Before the Major League Soccer season even started, 13 experts for MLS.com predicted that St. Louis City SC would either finish last or second-to-last in the Western Conference. Sports journalist Julian Trejo explains the keys to the team's success just past the midway point of the season.

How T-Rav Man became a celebrity that only St. Louis could love Jul 06, 2023

Nick Lammering achieved St. Louis celebrity status after he was spotted on the Apple broadcast of a St. Louis City SC game in mid-March wearing toasted ravioli headgear. The fame has turned into a side-hustle of selling t-rav merch and dreaming up even more ways to share his passion for St. Louis, soccer and toasted ravioli.

How St. Louis artists balance the creative and financial sides of making art Jul 05, 2023

Forbes arts and travel contributor Chadd Scott discusses how large arts institutions support the arts and artists in St. Louis — and how those support systems compare with other cities in the Midwest. Two recent recipients of regional artist grants, musician Kasimu Taylor and video and performance artist Carlos Salazar-Lermont, discuss realities around funding specific projects and sustaining themselves as artists.

Artist Brock Seals serves up local talent and good eats at ‘Art, Mimosas and Pancakes’ Jul 05, 2023

While St. Louis’ artist communities and art districts are nationally recognized— and homegrown foundations have uplifted the arts for decades — there are still artists that fall through the cracks and struggle to connect with the greater St. Louis art scene. Instead of waiting for a seat at the table, multidisciplinary artist and St. Louis native Brock Seals decided to build his own with his event, “Art, Mimosas and Pancakes.”

Legal Roundtable: A Missouri judge put two kids in jail. Now, the law is after him Jun 30, 2023

In a ruling issued last week, the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that a southwest Missouri judge improperly jailed two kids as part of a bitter child custody dispute. The case involves two children who were semi-finalists on the reality show “America's Got Talent.” That case and more were discussed on the Legal Roundtable edition of the show with attorneys Bevis Schock, Connie McFarland-Butler and Jim Wyrsch.

106 years later, historical societies dedicate new marker for East St. Louis race massacre Jun 29, 2023

On July 2, the East St. Louis Historical Society and the Illinois State Historical Society will dedicate a new historical marker commemorating the 1917 East St. Louis Race Massacre. The new marker is significant, and Will Shannon, executive director of the St. Clair County Historical Society, and Jaye Willis, of the East St. Louis Historical Society, discuss the continuing efforts to educate people on the terrible events that took place there 106 years ago.

How a local research team is using spider silk to combat plastic waste Jun 29, 2023

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis are using nature as inspiration to combat the growing problem of plastic pollution. With a new $3.6 million grant, the team is working to develop sustainably sourced plastics by mimicking natural materials like spider silk fibers.

Chris Dunn was on a path to freedom in St. Louis. Then he wasn't Jun 28, 2023

Chris Dunn has spent more than 30 years in prison for a crime that witnesses now say he did not commit. Shortly before resigning from office, St. Louis’ top prosecutor, Kim Gardner, filed a motion to vacate Dunn’s conviction. But new Circuit Attorney Gabriel Gore withdrew the motion explaining that he needed to review the details himself. We listen back a conversation about Dunn’s case and get a new update from Dunn’s wife, Kira Dunn.

How art in St. Louis hopes to inspire the return of Sugarloaf Mound to the Osage Nation Jun 28, 2023

This year, Counterpublic’s art exhibition deals with the tragic histories of St. Louis and the country. The displacement of Indigenous people and loss of their land is showcased through billboards, films and other art installations. Beyond sparking reflection and conversation through art, Counterpublic is working with the Osage Nation to help return the entirety of the sacred Sugarloaf Mound to tribal control.

A game about hot dogs became a Jeopardy! clue, and then a hit, for its St. Louis creators Jun 27, 2023

On May 16th, Jeopardy! contestants faced a clue for "A recipe completion card game in which you try to build the perfect hot dog is called 'turn for' this." None of the competitors got it — but in St. Louis, the brother-and-brother team of Phill and Jake Wamser, creators of the rummy-style card game “Turn for the Wurst,” knew their fortunes had taken a turn for the better. Phil Wamser discusses what it felt like to have his game featured on the show, his love of game-making, and the new Kickstarter-backed game, “Shiner,” which is generating its own interest.

Art installation near CityPark featured in New York Times’ ‘Walks Around the World’ series Jun 27, 2023

The New York Times recently featured St. Louis in its “Walks Around the World” series. That St. Louis walk starts at “Pillars of the Valley,” the art installation that memorializes the lost neighborhood of Mill Creek Valley, just outside CityPark. We listen back to a February conversation with artist Damon Davis and former Mill Creek Valley resident Vivian Gibson about “Pillars of the Valley.”

Why employees at a St. Louis region Starbucks participated in 7 strikes in the last year Jun 27, 2023

Starbucks workers at four unionized stores in the St. Louis region walked off the job Monday, joining a nationwide strike over reports that some Starbucks stores have not allowed LGBTQ+ Pride displays this year. St. Louis region barista Alex Barge shares why she joined the strike and what’s changed since her store joined Starbucks Workers United last year.

Tiny House of Benton Park West gets a growth spurt Jun 26, 2023

Dwayne Tiggs and Rikki Watts have shared the progress of their 420 square foot house since last year. Despite a few setbacks and a citywide plumber shortage, the house is taking shape with walls, a deck, and a roof in place. While building their own home, they are teaching others how to do the same all with reclaimed and recycled materials and a lot of help from neighbors and friends.

Kranzberg Arts Foundation is on the hunt for a new round of resident artists in St. Louis Jun 26, 2023

Supporting local artists sounds good in theory, but what does it look like in practice? Kranzberg Arts Foundation has put out a call for artist residencies for years, but this year they are expanding the reach in the ways to get involved. Director of artist residencies Larry Morris shares how supporting artists and creating sustainable communities around the arts benefit the region as a whole.

Black Rodeo celebrates decade of uplifting cowboy way of life Jun 26, 2023

For 10 years, the the Southeastern Rodeo Association has proudly celebrated the contributions of Black cowboys, including St. Louis cowboy Reggie “Sauce Boss” Smith. St. Louis Public Radio photojournalist Brian Munoz interviewed Smith, and other participants, while experiencing the St. Louis Open Black Rodeo on June 25.

Eisner-nominated horror story ‘The Atonement Bell’ draws inspiration from St. Louis Jun 23, 2023

Graphic novel “The Atonement Bell” has a number of direct references to St. Louis. Co-creators Jim Ousley and Tyler B. Ruff took inspiration for both the plot and art of the horror story from their personal experiences in the region. The story has been nominated for an Eisner Award for Best New Series.

Teachers changing jobs in Missouri face possible suspensions and $10,000 penalties Jun 22, 2023

On June 6, Missouri’s State Board of Education suspended the teaching license of a Hazelwood preschool teacher. It’s an action that school districts are increasingly seeking: Under a 2016 law, districts are empowered to file for financial penalties as high as $10,000, and to suspend a teacher’s license, if a teacher decides to break their contract. Mark Jones, the communications director of the Missouri National Education Association, says this policy is bad for both teachers and school districts.

Local librarians share their top summer reads for 2023 Jun 22, 2023

Dive into a good beach read this summer with recommendations from two St. Louis librarians, Tammy Albohaire and Maryann Brickey.

SLU nurses demand help with abusive patients, better overall working conditions Jun 21, 2023

Registered nurses Marchelle Vernell and Hadas Becker are sounding the alarm on what they say is a lack of safe staffing levels at SSM Health St. Louis University Hospital. They say patients are waiting too long for care — and that patient frustration can pose a security risk to staff and other patients.

Extreme heat is coming. What is St. Louis doing about 'the silent killer' of climate change? Jun 21, 2023

You’ve likely heard a St. Louisan say, “It’s not the heat, it’s the humidity,” when jokingly — or apologetically — talking about the high temps in the region during summertime. However, climate change experts take both the heat and moisture very seriously. Freelance environmental reporter Kelly Smits shared her reporting on the constant rising temperatures and why St. Louis’ history of red-lining neighborhoods, inequity in greenspaces and urban design, and how ‘urban heat islands’ impact predominantly Black neighborhoods most.

A St. Louis food writer wants us to rethink what makes ethnic food ‘authentic’ Jun 20, 2023

St. Louis food writer and trained chef Holly Fann talks about what inspired her TEDxStLouis talk about the illusion of “authentic” ethnic food, and how candid conversation about it can make us better, more informed diners.

Missouri courts expunged thousands of cannabis crimes, but more remain Jun 20, 2023

More than 44,000 marijuana cases, including over 10,000 felony convictions, were expunged in Missouri before a June 8 deadline. However, many remain unresolved. Attorney Dan Viets, Missouri coordinator for the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, and public defender Matt Schmidt discuss where that effort has fallen short.

How West End residents took control of their community's future development Jun 16, 2023

With St. Louis’ population in decline and property being affordable, neglected land parcels are desirable to developers. Some might see the attention as a positive — addressing blight which would ideally lead to decreased crime and higher property values. West End residents April Walker and Lisa Potts along with their neighbors and support from Invest STL led by executive director Dara Eskridge created a neighborhood plan that was approved by the city of St. Louis.

With his dog and dobro, Mikey Wehling's new album captures the sounds of summer Jun 16, 2023

For lovers of dogs, nature and music, St. Louis musician Mikey Wehling’s forthcoming album, Camp Scout Vol. 2, captures the sounds of summer. Wehling discusses how the album traces his adventures with his dog, Scout, to the Cumberland River in Tennessee and the Mark Twain National Forest in Missouri, both of which inspired the instrumental album.

How LEAN-STL helps St. Louis laborers fight addiction Jun 15, 2023

Construction workers have nearly twice the rate of substance abuse as the national average, and the rate of suicide for men working in construction is about four times higher than the general population. A newly formed St. Louis-based peer support system aims to improve outcomes for St. Louis construction workers who struggle with addiction and/or mental health issues.

Telling St. Louis’ LGBTQ history as it unfolds in ‘real time’ Jun 14, 2023

The status of being publicly queer or trans has become increasingly fraught in Missouri in 2023. Historian Steven Louis Brawely and artist Steve Willits reflect on commemorating Pride month, and LGBTQ history, at a time when events are playing out, as Brawley says, in “real time.”

Aldermen in St. Louis consider 40% water rate hike, warned of crisis if the vote fails Jun 13, 2023

The St. Louis Board of Aldermen could vote as soon as this week to raise water rates by 40% over the next 2 ½ years. Future increases would be tied to the cost of inflation. Curt Skouby, Director of the City of St. Louis’ Department of Public Utilities and Water Commissioner, explains ongoing issues with rising prices and aging infrastructure, as well as why he supports the rate increase.

The Missouri man who drove 4,300+ miles to see 115 courthouses Jun 13, 2023

It wasn’t a single destination that spurred Jack Snelling to spend 10 days driving more than 4,300 miles around Missouri. His route, inspired by Missouri’s original highway system, led to 115 historic courthouses. Along the way, he learned to appreciate the state’s many communities, as well as the legacy of a now little-known highway system.

Tyler Small takes photos for a living. Being a dad gives him life Jun 13, 2023

Tyler Small, a 27-year-old self-taught photographer and queer Black dad in St. Louis, is commemorating Father’s Day in a special way. He’s taking pictures of fellow Black fathers for a local nonprofit’s event that raises funds for free mental health services and he’s sharing his own story of becoming a father.

Exploring St. Louis ‘Bagel boom’ with Bagel Union’s Ted Wilson and Jackie Polcyn Jun 12, 2023

In St. Louis’ food scene, the current star of the show is the humble bagel. New shops, and long lines, have led Sauce Magazine’s Meera Nagarajan to declare it a veritable “bagel boom.” Ted Wilson, co-owner of Bagel Union in Webster Groves, describes the years of work to turn his boiled-and-baked dreams into reality, and Jackie Polcyn, the shop’s head baker and production manager, tells us what it takes to make the perfect bagel.

Scientists agree with Army Corps that Jana Elementary is safe, but community still skeptical Jun 12, 2023

Last October, the Hazelwood School District closed Jana Elementary School in Florissant, Missouri, after a company called Boston Chemical Data Corporation issued a report that said there was radioactive contamination in the school and that it was dangerous. But, the scientific consensus shows that radioactive contamination isn’t present. We listen to STLPR education reporter Kate Grumke’s extended conversation with Roger Lewis, a professor emeritus at St. Louis University, who is critical of the report. In a follow-up conversation, Kate also shares how Boston Chemical is responding to the criticism and what parents are saying.

Circus Flora’s spy-themed show dazzles with motorcycle stunts, hair aerialist Jun 02, 2023

St. Louis’ intimate one-ring circus, Circus Flora, is back at the Big Top in Grand Center. Artistic and executive director (and lifelong circus performer) Jack Marsh says acts such as aerialist Laura Lippert, the Globe of Speed, and world class juggler Roberto Carlos will thrill audiences in the circus’ 37th season that runs until June 25.

Lizzie Weber’s ‘Fidalgo’ traces her music’s ‘full-circle moment’ back to St. Louis Jun 02, 2023

Seven years ago, singer-songwriter Lizzie Weber was living on an island off the coast of Washington state when she was inspired to write her forthcoming album, “Fidalgo.” The pandemic brought her home to St. Louis, and she is now set to release it June 9. Weber calls the journey a “full-circle moment.”

Wash U biologist explains how cats evolved from the savannah to your sofa Jun 01, 2023

There are some 600 million cats in the world. Not all of them are pets — between 50 and 100 million in the U.S. — but cats share a fascinating history with humans. Washington University evolutionary biologist Jonathan Losos dives into that history in the new book, “The Cat's Meow: How Cats Evolved from the Savanna to Your Sofa.” Losos joins guest host Alex Heuer to talk about all things cats.

Freedom Community Center gives ex-felons a second chance via restorative justice May 31, 2023

Restorative justice programs like Freedom Community Centers are gaining attention as the criminal justice system continues to get criticized for racial and economic biases. Kayla Thompson and her colleagues in the Free Us Group Track Program within FCC facilitate an intensive 12-week program which involves community service and therapy.

How one Native Hawaiian family makes aloha in the Midwest May 31, 2023

Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (NHPI) became part of the official designation of May as Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in 2022. U.S. Census Bureau numbers from 2022 show less than 1% of folks who live in the Metro St. Louis area home identify as Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander. Edwardsville educator, social worker, and writer Stephanie Malia Krauss, her mother Laurie Nalani Kilstein, and her two boys are among those "onlys." Krauss and Kilstein share what that's like, and talk about ways they maintain and build strong cultural ties to a vital part of their personal, family, and community identity.

Missouri defends law that puts parents behind bars when their kids miss too much school May 30, 2023

You’ve heard “attendance is mandatory,” but, in Missouri schools, attendance is actually a matter of state law. During the 2021-22 school year, two single mothers in Missouri discovered just how powerful that law can be: They found themselves sentenced to jail when their children missed more than two weeks of school. The case is among several burning legal topics taken up by St. Louis on the Air’s Legal Roundtable of attorneys Nicole Gorovksy, Dave Roland and Kalila Jackson

Remembering Tina Turner's deep ties to the St. Louis area May 25, 2023

International superstar Tina Turner died Wednesday at the age of 83. Turner moved to St. Louis when she was 16 years old and her ties to the area ran deep. Author Maureen Mahon discusses Turner's time in St. Louis and we hear listener reactions to her death.

Missouri drumline Modulation Z wins a world championship — in convincing fashion May 25, 2023

The O’Fallon, Missouri, based winter drumline Modulation Z won their division in the Winter Guard International World Championships last month. The group achieved a score of 96.05. That score was two points ahead of the second-place finisher and the second highest score ever achieved in the division. Modulation Z director Ryan Treasure and senior Lukas McGill discuss what it took to become a champion.

As St. Louis’ Soldiers Memorial adds 254 names, Gold Star families grieve, and remember May 25, 2023

Members of Gold Star Families, or families that have lost an immediate family member in active duty, hold Memorial Day in high regards as they honor their loved ones, even those whose true fate remains a mystery. Until recently, the Court of Honor at Soldiers Memorial only listed 214 names of St. Louisans who gave the ultimate sacrifice during the Vietnam War. That changes this weekend with a special observation of 254 newly-identified fallen soldiers.

AG report details how Belleville Diocese underreported sexual abuse and enabled a predator priest May 24, 2023

The Catholic Diocese of Belleville underreported the number of clergy who sexually abused children. That’s one of the findings of a 700-page report released by Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul. The report also details how the diocese enabled a pattern of abuse. STLPR Metro East reporter Will Bauer explains.

How queer ballroom legends in St. Louis cultivate joy amid political and cultural animosity May 24, 2023

The countdown to Pride Month ends in just eight days. Soon there will be parades and parties to celebrate LGBTQ+ communities and commemorate the long, continuous fight for basic human rights for queer individuals. For Black queer people, creating space for joy in a time of persistent political and societal oppression is an everyday necessity. One example of that is ballroom culture, which was created and championed by Black members of the LGBTQ community across the nation — and right here in St. Louis.

90 years ago, Black women led a multiracial strike at a St. Louis factory May 24, 2023

Ninety years ago, on May 24, 1933, a strike led by Black women workers at a St. Louis nut factory made labor history. Devin Thomas O’Shea, who wrote about the strike in a lengthy feature story in Jacobin, discusses the dramatic events leading up to the strike, including how an 18-year-old ringleader led her co-workers to the streets “with a Bible in one hand and a brick in the other.”

A summer of Shakespeare in St. Louis opens with a Latino-inspired ‘Twelfth Night’ May 23, 2023

For lovers of theater, a St. Louis summer doesn’t truly start until Shakespeare is being performed. That moment comes next week, on May 31, as the St. Louis Shakespeare Festival opens its annual free performances in Forest Park. Tom Ridgley, the festival’s producing artistic director, breaks down this season’s unique take on “Twelfth Night,” set in Miami, and previews the other performances to come, including “The Merry Wives of Windsor” and an original production that combines Shakespeare and soccer.

Everyone should be carrying the overdose reversal medication naloxone, advocates say May 23, 2023

John Gaal witnessed naloxone’s ability to save lives when he stepped in to administer the overdose reversal medication to a fellow passenger on a Southwest Airlines flight in 2022. He shares why he’s pushing for greater access to the drug, including its inclusion in medical kits on all airline providers.

How a St. Louis jewelry company is making it big on social media — and at City Foundry May 23, 2023

VibeSzn began as an online business in 2017 and now has a retail location at City Foundry in Midtown St. Louis and has amassed nearly 200,000 followers on Instagram. Co-owner Omar Badran discusses his homegrown business and his family’s journey to St. Louis.

A reporter ID’d 100 St. Louis homes with dead owners. There are likely thousands more May 22, 2023

St. Louis is littered with ‘tangled titles.’ The term describes what happens when a person dies without leaving a will or estate plan to define the ownership of their home. St. Louis Magazine senior editor Nick Phillips investigated how tangled titles became common, how they affect Black neighborhoods, block the transfer of intergenerational wealth, and lead to vacancy.

‘The Voice’ shines a spotlight on St. Louis singer Neil Salsich May 22, 2023

St. Louis singer Neil Salsich gained national fame over the past several months as a participant on "The Voice." Salsich talks about his time on the NBC reality singing show and as a founding member of the St. Louis-based band, the Mighty Pines.

A total solar eclipse is coming to Missouri and Illinois in 2024. It’s time to get ready May 19, 2023

On average a total solar eclipse occurs once every 400 years in the same location on earth. In 2017 the St. Louis region was within the path of totality for the first time since 1869. This coming April millions of residents in eastern Missouri and southern Illinois will find themselves within a two-hour drive of another total solar eclipse. Author and eclipse chaser David Baron joins the show.

Black Tulip Chorale celebrates 5 years of lifting LGBTQ voices May 19, 2023

For five years, St. Louis’ Black Tulip Chorale has fused queer history, music and inclusivity. The group celebrates the milestone May 21 with a special show “Shining Through,” that pairs each song with a moment from LGBTQ history. Founding member Dr. Ken Haller explains the group’s origin story, and how its approach to a mixed voice “all-expression, all-gender, all-identity” chorus has attracted more than 40 singers to its ranks.

How St. Louis inspired ‘Witnessing Whiteness’ author and her new book on anti-racism May 17, 2023

For more than a decade, groups of white St. Louis residents have used Shelly Tochluk's book, “Witnessing Whiteness,” to explore white racial identity and racism's role in individual and community life. We’ll hear from Witnessing Whiteness facilitator and St. Louisan Mary Ferguson; and talk with Tochluk about the place and purpose of her newest book, “Being White Today: A Roadmap to a Positive Antiracist Life.”

Kim Gardner resigns as St. Louis circuit attorney, 2 weeks earlier than expected May 17, 2023

In a sudden announcement on Tuesday, Kim Gardner resigned from her elected position as St. Louis circuit attorney — effective immediately. Her resignation came two weeks before she’d initially planned to step down. STLPR reporter Rachel Lippmann explains what happened and what comes next.

Lessons from the sudden, fatal dust storm that caused a 72-vehicle pileup on 1-55 May 16, 2023

A sudden dust storm caused low visibility conditions that led to 72 vehicles colliding on Interstate 55 in Illinois on May 1. Seven people died and 37 others were injured. We look into what happened, how common these types of storms are in the Midwest and what drivers can do to better their chances of survival in similar situations.

How Nico Marie uses yoga and music to promote healthy living to Black communities May 16, 2023

St. Louis native and yoga instructor Nico Marie McNeese knows all too well about the burden that can weigh down on one’s mental well-being. Social distancing measures meant she could no longer teach in person, so McNeese went to social media to reach her students. She later started a YouTube channel — Black Yogi Nico Marie — to make her yoga videos more accessible. In three years McNeese’s YouTube audience has grown to over 100,000 subscribers from around the world.

CVPA students make triumphant return to stage for first time since school shooting May 16, 2023

On Monday night, students at Central Visual and Performing Arts High School in south St. Louis made their first public performance since a deadly school shooting last October. Many of the students said they worked through the trauma of the shooting with their art. STLPR’s senior education reporter Kate Grumke covered the event and discussed the highlights.

Parents react to Missouri laws restricting trans healthcare and sports May 15, 2023

Missouri’s 2023 legislative session ended as infighting and contention derailed many of the priorities set by the Republican-controlled Senate and House. Two laws that did pass, targeting transgender people. STLPR statehouse and politics reporter Sarah Kellogg breaks down the biggest takeaways from the session. AJ Hackworth, a trans man and dad living in Springfield, MO, discusses the new laws’ effect on his healthcare, while a father in St. Louis County worries about what the laws mean for his 9-year-old trans son.

What America’s ‘lost crops’ tell us about food in the age of climate change May 15, 2023

By studying an extinct, domesticated subspecies of the buckwheat family, Washington University researcher Natalie Mueller hopes to uncover wisdom from indigenous cultures about growing new crops that are resilient to extreme drought and flooding.

Webster U alum Matt Vogel, the man behind Big Bird and Kermit the Frog, to deliver commencement speech May 12, 2023

Earlier this month, Matt Vogel was in London for the coronation of King Charles III. In the royal box, Vogel also had a very special frog with him: Kermit the Frog. Vogel is the puppeteer behind Kermit, Big Bird, Count von Count and more. The Webster University alum is in town to deliver the 2023 commencement address and he talks about his remarkable career.

Wash U professor Carl Phillips wins Pulitzer Prize for Poetry for 'Then the War' May 12, 2023

Washington University professor Carl Phillips won the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry this week for his most recent book, “Then the War: And Selected Poems, 2007-2020.” The collection chronicles an era of American culture roiled by crises of politics, identity and the pandemic. We listen back to our 2022 conversation with him.

CityPark is redefining stadium food with 25 St. Louis restaurants May 11, 2023

Soccer fans at St. Louis’s City SC CityPark have been treated to a remarkable concentration of local food excellence. The stadium features more than 20 local restaurants, and Sauce Magazine’s Meera Nagarajan says the result is no accident: Fans are enjoying a diverse selection of food that goes way beyond soggy nachos and peanuts — including farm-made ice cream from Bold Spoon Creamery.

Missouri lawmakers seek to overturn St. Louis ordinances that ban cat declawing May 11, 2023

While the practice of declawing cats is currently outlawed in the City of St. Louis and St. Louis County, the Missouri legislature is considering a proposal to nullify these ordinances to make the practice available statewide. Dr. Amanda Gruber of the St. Louis Cat Clinic discusses how declawing affects the health and wellbeing of cats — and why she has never performed the procedure.

As child care centers face staffing woes, families are left in the lurch May 10, 2023

Nearly half of all children in Missouri ages 5 and under live in child care deserts. And in places with child care centers, providers struggle to adequately staff their facilities. Families and providers report that the current system is not working — and that it often forces them into tough, life-altering decisions.

VineBrook Homes owns thousands of Midwest properties and tenants are crying foul May 10, 2023

VineBrook Homes owns thousands of single-family rental properties, located in mostly Black and brown neighborhoods, throughout the Midwest. Over 2,400 of those houses are in the St. Louis region. Reporter Kavahn Mansouri discusses a Midwest Newsroom investigation of VineBrook that includes complaints of unresolved maintenance issues, unfounded evictions, aggressive rent collection tactics, poor customer service and more.

Why do kids get shot in St. Louis? A new study shows just how little we know May 09, 2023

A new study that analyzed 156 cases of children in St. Louis injured by guns found that more than 70% of cases involved victims “shot outdoors by an unknown shooter, the motivation of which was unknown.” The study’s lead author Dr. Mary Beth Bernardin discusses why scientists need to better understand why and how children are shot. Dr. Lindsay Clukies, an emergency medicine physician at St. Louis Children’s Hospital, connects the study to what she sees while treating patients.

As Missouri legislators consider a state takeover of St. Louis police, Kansas City’s mayor sounds the alarm May 09, 2023

In the final week of the Missouri legislative session, lawmakers could pass a bill that would return control of the St. Louis Police Department to the state. The state controlled the police department for 152 years until, in 2013, the city regained control. Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas knows state control well. His city is the only in Missouri that’s under state control, and he shares what a state takeover would mean for St. Louis.

Why Kim Gardner’s resignation isn’t stopping efforts to remove her from office May 08, 2023

It was just last Thursday that St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner announced she will resign June 1. But that’s not good enough for Attorney General Andrew Bailey, who is seeking her immediate removal. STLPR politics correspondent Jason Rosenbaum discusses Bailey’s actions as well as the person who Gov. Mike Parson might choose to replace Gardner.

Damion Baker was murdered. Now his mother is keeping his memory alive — and helping St. Louis May 08, 2023

A star high school football player in St. Louis, Damion Baker’s life was cut short in an unsolved shooting in August 2022. Before his death, Damion had made plans to launch a nonprofit that would teach young people job skills. That dream is now a reality in the form of the D-Bake Foundation. The foundation’s founder, An'namarie Baker, discusses her son’s life, his mission, and how pre-apprenticeship classes can help people get on the path to a career.

5 major issues Missouri lawmakers might tackle in the last week of session May 08, 2023

Friction between the House and Senate has delayed some major policy priorities until the final days of the Missouri legislative session, including two anti-trans rights bills and a bill that would make it harder to amend the state constitution through the initiative petition process. STLPR reporter Sarah Kellogg shares how the last week of the session may shake out.

Missouri denied Mylissa Farmer an emergency abortion. ‘This can happen to anyone’ May 05, 2023

A federal investigation found that Missouri hospitals violated federal law by denying a woman an emergency abortion when her water broke at 17 weeks. Mylissa Farmer shares what happened when doctors refused to provide an abortion, even though she was told her life was in danger and that the fetus was no longer viable — when Missouri law superseded her need for emergency healthcare. Also, National Women’s Law Center attorney Michelle Banker discusses what comes next for Missouri hospitals in the wake of the investigation.

David Freese became a hometown hero in 2011. Now he’s headed to the Cardinals Hall of Fame May 05, 2023

The St. Louis Cardinals are not having a good season: they reign supreme at the bottom of the NL standings. But the team made an announcement earlier this week that was a reminder of better times. Third baseman and St. Louis native David Freese will be inducted into the team’s Hall of Fame this summer. In this encore, St. Louis Post-Dispatch columnist Benjamin Hochman talks about the remarkable 2011 season when Freese was World Series MVP.

Tens of millions of birds are getting ready to migrate through St. Louis and Quincy May 05, 2023

Sixty percent of North American songbirds, 40% of the continent’s waterfowl and many species of shorebirds will migrate through St. Louis in the next few weeks. Regional Audubon Conservation Science Manager Tara Hohman shares tips for bird-watching this spring, the threats facing many bird species traveling through the area and what people can do to help revitalize bird habitat in the region.

Kim Gardner to resign as St. Louis circuit attorney, leaving a legacy of turmoil May 04, 2023

Facing a move by the Missouri attorney general to oust her, a contempt of court charge and increasing public and legislative pressure, Gardner announced Thursday that she will resign effective June 1. STLPR correspondent Jason Rosenbaum breaks down the story and what happens next.

LGBTQ film festival, QFest, gets underway at the Hi-Pointe Theatre May 04, 2023

Cinema St. Louis Artistic Director Chris Clark gives a preview of this year's QFest and reflects on the role of an LGBTQ film festival in Missouri at a time when trans rights are under attack in the state.

Missouri teachers are leaving the profession at an alarming rate, advocates report May 03, 2023

Missouri’s teacher shortage has been a problem for many years. Now, education advocates report that teachers are leaving the field at an unprecedented rate, while the rate of college graduates obtaining teachers’ certificates also plummets. Advocates discuss the state of Missouri’s teacher shortage and what needs to happen in order for more people, especially those of more diverse backgrounds, to consider the profession.

Why multiple trans teachers in Kirkwood resigned: 'They have sexualized my identity' May 03, 2023

Three educators report facing anti-trans discrimination at Kirkwood School District. They say they are considering leaving Missouri in order to continue teaching. STLPR education reporter Kate Grumke joins with the details on this story.

Inside Maplewood’s $3.25 million debtors’ prison settlement May 02, 2023

Maplewood has agreed to pay a $3.25 million settlement to potentially thousands of people jailed and fined by its system of predatory court fees and police. We'll talk to ArchCity Defender attorney Nathaniel Carroll about the impact of the city's practices, why he calls it a “debtors’ prison,” and what this settlement means for the similar lawsuits the firm is leading against other municipalities in St. Louis County.

Missouri S&T professor delivers final volume in WWII trilogy May 02, 2023

Historian John C. McManus’ latest book opens with Gen. Douglas MacArthur aboard the USS Boise plunging through the deep blue waters of the South China Sea in January 1945. The Missouri S&T professor’s book, “To the End of the Earth: The US Army and the Downfall of Japan, 1945,” completes his trilogy that focuses on the U.S. Army during the Pacific War.

Fresh Produce takes music producers out of the background and into the spotlight May 01, 2023

Typically, bands and music groups make stars of the lead singer: the “front man” and spokesperson who gets all the eyes and attention. Most fans don't consider the team of people working behind the scenes to make the music radio-ready — especially those who produce, mix, and master the audio. Music producers are integral to the music-making process. In this encore episode, producer Miya Norfleet explores the Fresh Produce Champions Battle and sits down with emcees, judges, and participants of the competition.

Jazz St. Louis Board ‘stands completely behind’ CEO mired in controversy May 01, 2023

The Jazz St. Louis Board of Directors is coming to the defense of its president and CEO, Victor Goines. A story in the Riverfront Times last week detailed issues that some Jazz St. Louis staff and supporters have had with the organization’s new leader including alleged bullying. Public scrutiny of Goines’ leadership started after St. Louis artist Cbabi Bayoc posted on Instagram an account of how Goines’ passed on his T-shirt design that was to be used as part of a Young Friends board fundraiser.

Legal Roundtable dives into Kim Gardner’s ‘rudderless ship of chaos’ Apr 28, 2023

A judge has begun the process to hold St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner and her deputy, Chris Desilets, in "indirect criminal contempt” because he missed a trial and a hearing this week related to an armed robbery case. Attorneys Sarah Swatosh, Bill Freivogel and Arindam Kar discuss that case and other legal issues.

Missouri History Museum seeks to tell the full story of the 1904 World’s Fair Apr 27, 2023

Living in St. Louis means having some knowledge of the city’s remarkable claims to fame. Gateway Arch National Park, St. Louis’ signature accent, the infamous, vertically sliced St. Louis bagel and being the site of the 1904 World’s Fair. The Missouri History Museum looks to tell the complete history of the fair by revamping their exhibit on the fair to prominently feature perspectives and interpretations of people of color at the turn of the century.

How STL Youth Jobs connects young people with employers in growing industries Apr 27, 2023

Founded in 2012, STL Youth Jobs seeks to prepare a new generation of workers with soft-skills, like how to perform well in a job interview, and hard skills, like knowing safety regulations of specific industries. Since the first group of “job seekers,” the organization has gone from finding employment for 200 area youth in 2013 — to 800 in 2019.

Mayor Tishaura Jones details priorities after annual State of the City address Apr 26, 2023

St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones delivered her second annual State of the City address on Tuesday night. In this one-on-one conversation with Mayor Jones, she outlines her priorities that include addressing public safety and spending American Rescue Plan Act funds. She’s also not backing down on her criticism of Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner.

‘I’m terrified’: Trans Missourians prepare for nation's widest bans on gender-affirming care Apr 26, 2023

Missouri is on the brink of becoming the first state to implement sweeping restrictions on gender-affirming care for adults. Trans people and providers are raising alarm over new rules issued by Attorney General Andrew Bailey. The rules require trans people prove their gender identity is not being influenced by other people or by a “social contagion" — which trans people say is an impossible standard. We talk with two trans people who say they are terrified by the new rules, as well as Planned Parenthood's Dr. Colleen McNicholas.

Inequality at the bathroom door Apr 25, 2023

Not only have public restrooms never been truly public, they’ve disappeared from America’s major metro areas, says historian Bryant Simon. We explore the rise and fall of America’s public restroom campaign and meet the woman behind the “Bathrooms In St. Louis” Instagram page.

DJ Whiz teaches DJ fundamentals at Sophie’s Artist Lounge Apr 25, 2023

In 50 years, hip-hop has become one of the most popular music genres in the world. In its early days, the recipe for a hip-hop duo or group was simple: two turntables for the disc jockey and a microphone for the emcee. Darian Wigfall, who DJs under the moniker DJ Whiz, shares the fundamentals of DJing — and why he feels vinyl is the best way to get into the craft.

Asylum seekers in St. Louis demand end to abuse and monitoring by ICE contractor Apr 24, 2023

A protest on Monday in front of a nondescript office building just across the street from CityPark in St. Louis highlighted what a group of local asylum seekers says is mistreatment by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement contractor. Two asylum seekers share their experiences and we hear from the co-founder of Migrantes Unidos, a mutual support group for immigrants who have been forced to wear ankle monitors.

A St. Louis native pays tribute to immigrants and her great-grandmother in ‘Out of Ireland’ Apr 24, 2023

Marian O'Shea Wernicke’s new novel "Out of Ireland" tells the story of a brother-sister pair who emigrate from Ireland to America in the late 1860s. The St. Louis native discusses the book’s real world inspirations, including the work of St. Louis’ notorious Irish gangs and her great-grandmother’s experiences.

Missouri librarian calls on libraries ‘to make a stand’ against censorship Apr 21, 2023

This week, a Missouri Senate committee restored all $4.5 million in funding for the state’s 160 local public libraries. But the battle over Missouri’s libraries is about more than money. It’s about books, censorship, parents and students. Joe Kohlburn, of the Missouri Library Association, discusses the state of Missouri’s public libraries, and why many librarians are fearful for the future of their institutions.

With 3 weeks left in Missouri’s legislative session — here’s what’s happened, and hasn’t Apr 21, 2023

Missouri legislators are considering a number of issues: expanding I-70, foreign ownership of farmland, anti-trans legislation, sports better, state control of St. Louis’ police department and more. STLPR statehouse reporter Sarah Kellogg discusses what’s happening in Jefferson City three weeks before the legislature’s May 12 adjournment.

The high hopes of St. Louisans’ on Missouri’s first legal 420 Day Apr 20, 2023

The origins of 420 Day are hazy. The number has been linked to rumored police radio codes that supposedly indicate whether there is marijuana on a suspect and it’s also a reference to a popular after school meeting time to smoke, popularized by a group of Californian teens in the 1970s. Either way, 420 Day is becoming a larger holiday as more U.S. states legalize the substance for recreational use. Several St. Louisans told St. Louis on the Air it is high time for Missouri to celebrate legalized recreational cannabis — and that there is still work to be done.

Why Missouri’s ‘Stand Your Ground’ law probably won’t help Andrew Lester in Ralph Yarl case Apr 20, 2023

Last Thursday, Ralph Yarl, a 16-year-old Black teen in Kansas City, went to the wrong house to pick up his younger twin brothers. Andrew Lester, the 84-year-old white man who resides at that wrong address, shot Yarl – twice. STLPR political correspondent Jason Rosenbaum discusses the racial dynamics at play and we hear his conversation with SLU Law Professor Anders Walker.

Sorry, ladies. Forest Park’s famous great horned owl, Charles, has found a new mate Apr 19, 2023

Charles the great horned owl lost both his mate and their eggs in December. It was tough news for Mark H. X. Glenshaw, the naturalist who has documented Charles’ life for 17 years. However, things are now looking up for Charles. Glenshaw shares the details in a special “owl prowl” edition of the show.

A St. Louis mosque is going for a zero-waste Ramadan Apr 18, 2023

As Ramadan nears its end and Eid draws closer, a co-founder of the sustainability committee at the Daar Ul-Islam mosque talks about how sustainability practices in Islam are especially important during Ramadan.

Missouri Botanical Gardens helps growers adjust to weather and climate change Apr 18, 2023

Spring is here and gardeners are ready to get back to their yards, porches and balconies to bring life back to their dwellings. Many are hesitant to get started because of the unpredictable weather and a steadily changing climate. But the Kemper Center of Home Gardening at Missouri Botanical Garden is here to help.

Celebrating 25 years of Tionól and St. Louis’ Irish music scene Apr 17, 2023

For 25 years, musicians of all levels have gathered for the annual St. Louis Tionól — not just to perform traditional Irish music, but to bask in the companionship of fellow performers and attendees. As festival co-founder Mike Mullins puts it, “The heart of Irish music is a social event.”

How Murphy the bald eagle incubated a rock, and then became a dad Apr 17, 2023

There’s a new parent at the World Bird Sanctuary. His name is Murphy. He’s a bald eagle. In March, he began to attract attention when he was spotted incubating a rock in his enclosure. Murphy’s fixation on fatherhood went viral, but his story didn’t end there. Last week, the sanctuary introduced Murphy to an orphaned baby eaglet. World Bird Sanctuary executive director Roger Holloway discusses the incredible story of Murphy, the bird’s unusual journey into parenthood, and what comes next for the now internet-famous pair.

COVID-19 policies that emptied jails not linked to violent crime spike Apr 14, 2023

Did pandemic policies that reduced jail populations lead to an increase in violent crime? Two new reports say “no.” Criminologist and professor Beth Huebner and the Freedom Community Center’s Mike Milton discuss the data, and provide an update on how local courts are returning to their pre-pandemic policies — and throwing more people in jail before trial.

Comedian Tru Wag wants St. Louis to be proud of its unique accent Apr 14, 2023

First impressions can tell you a lot about a person. The first few words out of a person’s mouth can give you an idea of where somewhere has come from and where they’ve been. Comedian Tru Wag, born Brandon Wagner, is so proud to be from St. Louis that he began making skits and “accent challenges” celebrating his accent on Tik Tok and Instagram, where he has amassed a combined 208,000 followers.

The best new comic book releases, handpicked by the Wizard’s Wagon Apr 13, 2023

Looking for a new comic book to read? The Wizard’s Wagon has you covered. Owner and comic manager Jon “Fleet” Norfleet knows every book on the shelves cover-to-cover. He thumbs through up to 70 releases every week, with titles ranging from popular comic book properties to new series from Eisner Award-winning comic book writers and artists.

Neil Gaiman, author of ‘Sandman,’ ‘American Gods,’ to receive 2023 St. Louis Literary Award Apr 13, 2023

English writer Neil Gaiman has a lot of credits and awards to his name. They include the Newbery and Carnegie Medals for the young adult novel “The Graveyard Book.” He’s also written “Coraline,” “Neverwhere,” “The Ocean at the End of the Lane,” “American Gods,” “Stardust,” and “The Sandman." Gaiman adds to his list of accolades the 2023 St. Louis Literary Award and joins the show ahead of the ceremony.

Before WWE, St. Louis wrestling was distinct. Then Vince McMahon entered the ring Apr 12, 2023

Abraham Josephine Riesman, the author of “Ringmaster: Vince McMahon and the Unmaking of America,” recounts how the WWE went through an aggressive expansion in the 1980s, including in St. Louis.

Wildlife Rescue Center warns against accidental ‘abduction’ of baby animals Apr 12, 2023

Wildlife “baby season” is underway! Though they may look small and helpless, most baby animals should be left alone — even if they look lost. Wildlife Rescue Center executive director Kim Rutledge discusses how to avoid causing an “accidental abduction” of a baby animal.

Smino, Herbie Hancock and Taj Mahal headline this year's Music at the Intersection Apr 11, 2023

This year's festival will feature more than 50 local, regional and national acts. Chris Hansen, executive director of the Kranzberg Arts Foundation, discusses the lineup and the festival's special tribute to the 50th anniversary of hip-hop.

Rupam Ghosh brings devotion, compassion and Hindustani music to St. Louis Apr 11, 2023

North Indian Hindustani violinist Rupam Ghosh connects with local musicians on a spiritual level as much as a musical one. He discusses his tour through the U.S. sharing North Indian classical music with schools, universities, and nightclubs.

Benton Park Tiny House is gearing up for big changes this spring Apr 11, 2023

Construction at the Benton Park Tiny House slowed down at the end of 2022. Other than hosting a couple workshops and having their trailer stolen, things have been quiet on the 7,000 square foot lot. Now that St. Louis has shaken off the last of its winter frost, Rikki Watts and Dwayne Tiggs are ready to roll up their sleeves and get to work.

How one St. Louis nonprofit is recruiting Black adults to foster Black children Apr 10, 2023

In the St. Louis area 70% of children in foster care identify as Black but only 13% of foster parents identify the same. While interracial foster and adoptive homes can be healthy and safe, providing a racially competent household increases positive outcomes for children. Foster and Adoptive Care Coalition is bringing back a program that hopes to recruit more Black families.

U.S. Soccer’s Becky Sauerbrunn talks equal pay, trans rights ahead of St. Louis homecoming Apr 10, 2023

Olivette native and soccer standout Becky Sauerbrunn has been a fixture on the U.S. Women’s National Team for more than a dozen years. She’s been part of two World Cup-winning teams and has earned two Olympic medals. STLPR’s Jeremy D. Goodwin talked with Sauerbrunn about equal pay, trans rights and an MLS team coming to St. Louis. The USWNT plays the Republic of Ireland in an international friendly at CityPark Tuesday night.

How Miguel Perez became a hometown soccer hero and made history at St. Louis City SC Apr 07, 2023

At 17, midfielder Miguel Perez is St. Louis City SC’s youngest player. He made his Major League Soccer debut earlier this year and for the Under-19 United States Men’s National team, he scored a goal for his country — all while still enrolled at Pattonville High School. Washington University freshman Julian Trejo discusses his reporting on Perez and details his own experience of playing soccer at a championship level, growing up in Arkansas and coming to St. Louis.

You don’t need to be fluent in Spanish to chant with STL Santos. They’ll teach you Apr 07, 2023

STL Santos offers more to local soccer fans than mere soccer game camaraderie. They operate predominantly in Spanish, raise money for local Hispanic and Latino focused non-profits and unite different cultures across St. Louis. Find a Spanish language version of this article at stlpr.org/espanol

SLU researchers want your mosquito photos this summer Apr 06, 2023

St. Louis University researchers urge citizen scientists to track mosquito populations this summer via the Mosquito Alert app to help them better understand where mosquito hotbeds are in St. Louis.

Answering your questions about population changes in St. Louis Apr 06, 2023

SLU Professor Ness Sandoval breaks down census data on "St. Louis on the Air."

Voters across the St. Louis region approve adding a 3% tax on marijuana sales Apr 05, 2023

St. Louis Public Radio correspondents Jason Rosenbaum and Rachel Lippmann discuss the results of yesterday's municipal elections, where most St. Louis-area voters backed proposals to apply a local sales tax to recreational marijuana. St. Louis voters also elected a new 14-member Board of Aldermen.

Teen musicians in the Drum Warriors Ensemble take St. Louis’ biggest stage Apr 05, 2023

This year’s Teen Talent Competition features the Drum Warriors Ensemble, a group of four young Black men from different St. Louis high schools who perform traditional African rhythms. They share how traditional African drumming and dance connects them with their heritage.

How a new cookbook project plans to weave together the cultures of St. Louis Apr 05, 2023

Roll up your sleeves and tie your apron — it’s time to get to cooking. The International Institute of St. Louis and Global Foods Group have put out a region-wide call-to-action for residents and restaurants to submit their favorite dishes that use internationally-sourced ingredients. Professional chefs, hobbyists and amateurs are all welcome to share their top picks.

Missouri History Museum crowns St. Louis as soccer capital of the U.S. Apr 04, 2023

You would be hard pressed to talk about sports history without mentioning St. Louis — and that goes for soccer, too. St. Louis’ first Major League Soccer team is off to a record breaking first season, but City SC is far from the first notch in the region’s soccer timeline. Sam Moore, managing director of public history for the Missouri Historical Society, says St. Louis is justified to claim the title of first soccer capital in the U.S.

‘There is nothing that I would change about being trans’: One family’s story of gender affirming care Apr 04, 2023

What is gender affirming care? As officials and lawmakers seek to restrict it in Missouri, often lost is an explanation of what it entails. STLPR health reporter Sarah Fentem discusses her latest reporting on the facts behind gender affirming care. Susan Halla and her 22-year-old son Joey Borrelli share their experience obtaining gender affirming care at Washington University’s gender clinic — and react to accusations against the clinic by former case manager Jaime Reed.

4 new restaurants to try this April Apr 03, 2023

Sauce Magazine staff writer Iain Shaw dishes on the top new St. Louis restaurants to check out this month, including Bagel Union, the Vandy, Fleur STL and Lola Jean’s Pizza.

This local running club invites all to run through the 314 Apr 03, 2023

Ricky Hughes founded St. Louis Run Crew with inclusion in mind — specifically to introduce Black and brown people to running and to create a space where they can be comfortable. While most running clubs are inherently inclusive, Hughes would often find himself the only person of color in local running groups. He says the crew — which meets in Kiener Plaza Park — is “open to all faces, paces and laces.”

A reporter found his story in an escape room. Then he became a main character in it Apr 03, 2023

In 2014, Danny Wicentowski became obsessed with writing about an escape room — and became trapped in a way he never predicted. Wicentowski performed his story at St. Louis Public Radio as part of the Story Collider show “Variables” on February 13, 2023.

Legal Roundtable: Facing down Missouri’s AG, Kim Gardner tells supporters she will run again Mar 31, 2023

What’s next for St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner? Has attorney Al Watkins played himself into a lawsuit? What happens to Missouri’s gun laws now that a federal judge has ruled the state’s Second Amendment Preservation Act is unconstitutional? The Legal Roundtable tackles those cases, and more, with attorneys Eric Banks, Nicole Gorovsky and Mary Anne Sedey.

SLSO international tour puts ‘St. Louis on the map’ Mar 30, 2023

The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra is on its first international tour since 2017 — and the first under Music Director Stéphane Denève’s direction. Denève shares highlights from the tour, what it’s like to perform in different venues (“every hall is like a different instrument”) and what it means to represent the Gateway City abroad.

How Black roller skaters put St. Louis skate style on the map Mar 30, 2023

St. Louis' skate style is known across the country: it’s smooth. There are even several moves that are uniquely St. Louis. Skating is also particularly popular for many Black St. Louisans where skating happens at places such as Coachlite Skate Center in Bridgeton and Skate King in Pine Lawn. Longtime skater Xavier Alexander explains what makes St. Louis skate style special.

New season. New rules. New lineup. The Cardinals are set for Opening Day Mar 30, 2023

The Cardinals open the 2023 baseball season Thursday afternoon at Busch Stadium against the Toronto Blue Jays. St. Louis is hoping to bounce back after a disappointing first-round exit from the playoffs last season. STLPR's Wayne Pratt talks with Cardinals beat writer Rob Rains of STLSportsPage.com.

The reality of living with Alzheimer’s: ‘We're trying to preserve the person’ Mar 29, 2023

An estimated 6.7 million people in the U.S. have Alzheimer's disease, and over 11 million provide them with unpaid care. We explore what it means to live with Alzheimer's, to care for those who have it, and the need for early diagnosis.

U City native Marlon West brings magic to Walt Disney animated movies Mar 28, 2023

Disney animations have been a part of the peoples’ childhoods for generations. Fairy tales, adventure and fictional princesses are brought to life by a team of artists and animators — and that also includes University City native Marlon West. West discusses his work on “Moana,” “Encanto,” and “The Princess and the Frog," and shares details on his latest project.

Were you ready to be home alone at 13? That’d be illegal in Illinois Mar 28, 2023

In Illinois, it’s considered neglect for parents to leave kids under the age of 14 alone. Its law is the strictest in the nation. A child psychology professor and a sociologist share how such laws are typically implemented, who they affect the most, and whether 14 years old is a fair age limit for being left alone.

As some banks face crisis, a small St. Louis credit union focuses on community Mar 27, 2023

Earlier this month, the failure of Silicon Valley Bank marked the second-largest bank failure in United States history. But amid worry over the risk of a larger banking crisis, smaller financial institutions, like the St. Louis Community Credit Union, are setting their sights on solving longstanding challenges in the industry. CEO Kirk Mills and VP Alex Fennoy explain.

How St. Louis plans to use $20 million in APRA funds for development projects Mar 27, 2023

More than $20 million in American Rescue Plan funds are being offered to St. Louis nonprofits through the city’s Community Development Administration. Executive Director Nahuel Fefer shares who is eligible for the money, the types of community-led projects they are looking to fund, and how they are aiming for a bottom-up approach to city development with the grants.

Marijuana taxes are on the April 4 ballot for many Missouri voters — there’s controversy Mar 27, 2023

St. Louis County voters get a chance to decide on April 4 whether to impose a 3% sales tax on recreational marijuana purchases. Similar proposals are popping up across Missouri and not everyone agrees with the so-called “stacking” of taxes. STLPR politics correspondent Jason Rosenbaum explains.

How a Big Brothers Big Sisters mentorship turned into a 20-year friendship Mar 24, 2023

Kristen Slaughter and Kiara Brown have an unconventional friendship. They’re 22 years apart in age and their relationship was only supposed to last one year. Matched through a Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri mentorship program, the two have now been friends for 20 years. Slaughter was recently named CEO of the nonprofit organization, and Brown now has her own career and is the mother of two children.

Should St. Louis' 109-year-old charter be updated? Voters will decide April 4 Mar 24, 2023

On June 30, 1914, St. Louis residents voted to adopt a city charter. It’s a sprawling document, a blueprint for the city's civic machinery. Now, 109 years later, city voters will decide on April 4 whether to approve Proposition C, which would create a new system for updating the charter every ten years. Discussing the issue are St. Louis Alderwoman Annie Rice and civic engagement advocate Wally Siewert.

‘It is hurting us’: Trans kids and parents in Missouri speak out, and brace for bans Mar 23, 2023

Trans kids and their families are being targeted by dozens of proposed bills in the Missouri legislature. But deciding how, when, and why to transition is actually a conversation parents and kids have been having for years — without lawmakers. Three sets of parents, as well as their children, each trans boys between the ages of 9 and 11, discuss what it’s like to grow up trans in Missouri, from how they chose their own names, to their thoughts on why so many adults in the state legislature don’t accept them the way they are.

Forest ReLeaf and Scott Joplin House partner to bring quality tree cover to north St. Louis Mar 22, 2023

Healthy trees not only beautify neighborhoods, they promote better health outcomes for residents. Leaders from Forest ReLeaf and Scott Joplin House discuss a partnership to support new tree growth in the city — particularly in its underserved communities.

Drag queens to lead protest in St. Louis against proposed bans Mar 22, 2023

As Missouri and other state legislatures pursue bans on drag shows, a new group in St. Louis, It’s All Drag, is pushing back. Jordan Elizabeth Braxton and Prism co-owner Michael Klataske, both fixtures of St. Louis’ drag scene, discuss the meaning behind drag, its impact and why it’s now come under attack.

A centuries-old church from London was destroyed twice. It’s now being restored in Missouri Mar 21, 2023

Seventy-seven years ago, former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill visited Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri, and delivered his famous “Iron Curtain” speech. In the 1960’s, college leaders sought to commemorate Churchill’s visit so they devised a plan to rebuild a church in Fulton that had been destroyed twice in London: once by a fire in the 1600s and then again during World War II. Dedicated in Fulton in 1969, St. Mary the Virgin, Aldermanbury is now undergoing a $6 million renovation. Tim Riley, director and chief curator at America’s National Churchill Museum, talks about Churchill’s connection to Missouri, the restoration of the church and about the parallels to Russia’s illegal war against Ukraine.

Remembering Mary Oscko, an advocate for Coldwater Creek contamination victims Mar 21, 2023

Mary Oscko and her family were blindsided by her stage 4 cancer diagnosis in December 2013. She had just finished her nursing degree and was set to walk the stage that same month. Instead of taking up nursing, she began advocating for victims of radioactive waste exposure that resulted from the Manhattan Project. Mary passed away February 20, 2023.

Painted streets and the ‘killing’ of rubber snakes — Rolla goes big for St. Patrick’s Day Mar 17, 2023

Rolla, Missouri, boasts one of the biggest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the Midwest. STLPR correspondent Jonathan Ahl and Missouri S&T historian Larry Gragg dig into Rolla St. Patrick’s Day history and the unique traditions that still continue today.

Many students can’t afford period products. Now Missouri districts can supply them Mar 17, 2023

A majority of school nurses in Missouri know students who have trouble affording period products — and who sometimes miss school because of their period. That’s according to a new survey published around the time Missouri school districts began offering free menstrual care through the new “Feminine Hygiene Products Grant.” Survey author Anne Sebert Kuhlmann and Jennings Senior High School Principal Cryslynn Billingsley discuss how they hope the grant will help students in St. Louis.

She came from Ireland to St. Louis — and found community in the city’s Irish music scene Mar 17, 2023

While St. Louis doesn’t have as many first-generation Irish immigrants as it used to, there are still strong cultural ties in the city. Eimear Arkins, a St. Louis transplant from County Clare, Ireland, is working to strengthen those ties. On this St. Patrick’s Day, she shares her thoughts on local holiday customs and how Americans can engage with Irish culture in meaningful ways.

Artists of color expand opera’s view with 3 new works at Opera Theatre of St. Louis Mar 16, 2023

Opera Theatre of St. Louis will present three short operas, all by artists of color who’ve worked largely outside the opera world. The works address the roots of Black, queer ballroom culture, three important inventors who were Black women, and the Supreme Court battle over a rock band’s attempt to reappropriate a racial slur. Mezzo soprano Olivia Johnson and tenor Matthew Pearce talk with us, as does the director of all three plays, Ramoon Rajendra Maharaj.

GOP lawmakers target trans rights, risking Democratic filibuster Mar 16, 2023

On Monday, Missouri lawmakers return from their Spring Break. For Missouri’s Republicans, the agenda they’re returning to is squarely focused on restricting the rights of transgender people. Among the bills being debated are those that would prohibit trans girls from playing girls sports and ban gender-affirming health care for minors. Jason Rosenbaum, St. Louis Public Radio political correspondent analyzes the GOP focus on trans issues, and previews what could happen when lawmakers convene next week.

Rolla’s Phelps Health is joining a collaboration led by BJC HealthCare Mar 16, 2023

Hospitals that serve predominantly rural areas have long struggled to find ways to have the resources of big-city health care systems without going as far as merging and losing local control. Phelps Health in Rolla is joining a collaborative run by St. Louis-based BJC HealthCare to thread that needle. STLPR’s Jonathan Ahl explains how the partnership will work.

The ‘Malt Whisperer’ behind St. Louis brewery Civil Life’s American Brown Ale Mar 16, 2023

When it comes to St. Louis-made beers, there’s a special place in Iain Shaw’s heart for Civil Life’s American Brown Ale. A staff writer for Sauce Magazine, his new essay “An Ode to Civil Life’s American Brown Ale” sings the praises of the popular local ale. Shaw discusses his long-standing fascination with the ale and its status as Civil Life’s flagship drink, and Dylan Mosely, head brewer at Civil Life, reflects on the ale’s creation and his reputation as a “malt whisperer.”

‘We absolutely have the power to change things’ says CVPA school shooting survivor Mar 15, 2023

Students Bryanna Love and April Shepard reflect on healing in the wake of a deadly shooting at their high school. They now advocate for gun control measures that they believe will prevent future tragedies.

Civic pride sweeps over the region for ‘314 Day’ Mar 14, 2023

March 14 is popularly known as ‘Pi Day.’ But in true St. Louis fashion, we do things a little differently. Here we call it 314 Day. It’s a day of civic pride that is shared throughout multiple communities in the region. Ohun Ashe, who founded For the Culture STL to celebrate Black-owned businesses in St. Louis, and Staci Static, a radio veteran, community engagement consultant and host of ‘The Static Podcast,’ sit down with Elaine Cha to talk all things 314.

Up Late satisfies St. Louis’ craving for an all-night eatery Mar 10, 2023

St. Louis has an array of award-winning restaurants and a niche foodie scene, but lacks a selection of late-night dining. Nathan Wright and Jason Bockman of Up Late are here to fill that void — and the stomachs of St. Louisans.

Weird weather patterns and record-setting temps makes St. Louis a meteorologist’s dream Mar 10, 2023

St. Louis saw its sixth warmest February on record this year and dangerous weather patterns happening more frequently. The region is no stranger to strange weather, but doesn’t it feel particularly stranger than usual? Meteorologist Matt Beitscher with the National Weather Service - St. Louis breaks down the data and shares how we can all become weather-aware.

Clearing of St. Louis homeless encampment forces residents to move on Mar 10, 2023

In May 2022 the City of St. Louis halted its plan to clear a homeless encampment near Lacledge's Landing. But, last week, eviction notices appeared once again at the encampment. On Friday, March 10, city workers and bulldozers cleared the site. St. Louis Public Radio’s Britny Cordera reports from the scene of the encampment, and discusses what comes next for its former residents.

Missouri school boards are caught in culture wars. Advocates yearn for something more Mar 09, 2023

Highly politicized issues have dominated local school board races the last few years. Education advocates encourage parents and community members to engage with school boards in an effort to keep the focus on what’s best for students, rather than on the priorities of a select few.

How a St. Louis cartoonist replaced 'Dilbert' in the Washington Post Mar 09, 2023

St. Louis based cartoonist Steenz Stewart took over drawing Mark Tatulli’s “Heart of the City” in 2020. Now, the comic has replaced “Dilbert” in the Washington Post after its creator Scott Adams made racist remarks on his YouTube channel.

Leah Lee has a mission: To reconnect Black women to farming Mar 08, 2023

Many urban farms are started to address food insecurity or provide organic options to communities with few options for obtaining fresh produce. For St. Louisan Leah Lee, urban gardening and farming is an act of service. She founded Growing Food Growing People with a goal to teach people, Black women specifically, how to tend to crops to feed themselves and their family.

Illness forced Teri Clemens out of coaching. Pickleball brought her back Mar 08, 2023

Teri Clemens won seven national championships as Washington University’s volleyball coach. She is now making a name for herself, as both a player and coach, on the pickleball court. Clemens discusses her heartbreaking decision to leave volleyball coaching in 1998, her years spent recovering from multiple serious health conditions, and how pickleball has become not just her competitive obsession, but a platform for her return to coaching.

How a Chesterfield nonprofit is training crisis counselors in Ukraine Mar 07, 2023

Suzanne Galvin spends most of her time working as an attorney at Thompson Corbin LLP in St. Louis where she’s a partner along with her husband, John Galvin. The Galvins make a habit of traveling to sites of destruction caused by natural or manmade disasters to provide crisis counseling to victims of trauma. Most recently Suzanne and her husband traveled to Poland and Ukraine to serve as crisis counselors and trainers at the Ukrainian Baptist Theological Seminary.

To honor Judy Heumann’s legacy, we’re going back to ‘Crip Camp’ Mar 07, 2023

Judy Heumann was a quadriplegic who, throughout her life, was instrumental in the progress of disability rights issues. She died at age 75 this past weekend. We honor her legacy by re-visiting her conversation with Sarah Fenske in 2020. They discuss the documentary film “Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution” in which Judy was featured. Colleen Starkloff, co-founder of the Starkloff Disability Institute, also joined the conversation.

Sex, sobriety and rock ‘n’ roll — St. Louis artists find success in recovery Mar 06, 2023

Lately, it seems, sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll has been suffering an identity crisis. St Louis musicians Daemon Murray and John Covelli discuss their success in the music industry after their personal triumphs over substance abuse.

‘The fans brought it’ as St. Louis City SC wins first MLS game at CityPark Mar 06, 2023

It was a dream-come-true weekend for St. Louis soccer fans. St. Louis City SC opened CityPark with a 3-1 victory over Charlotte FC on Saturday. This segment features an audio postcard that delivers the sounds and excitement of the weekend, and a conversation with STLPR’s Jeremy D. Goodwin and Wayne Pratt.

Celebrating Black-owned St. Louis businesses, 28 days in a row — and beyond Mar 03, 2023

Celebrating Black businesses does not have to be reserved just for Black History Month. Ohun Ashe is behind the online directory For The Culture STL and her video series ‘28 Days of Black-owned St. Louis’ shows the diversity of location and industry of local Black-owned businesses.

A new Missouri law led schools to ban books. Librarians are fighting back Mar 03, 2023

Under threat of possible prosecution, Missouri school districts have pulled hundreds of books from their shelves since last summer. Now the American Civil Liberties Union of Missouri is challenging a new state law that bans what some deem “explicit sexual material” in school libraries and classrooms. Clayton school librarian Tom Bober discusses the legal danger facing librarians and teachers and why his district removed books like “The Handmaid’s Tale.” Gillian Wilcox, deputy director for Litigation at the ACLU of Missouri, talks about the group’s lawsuit and why they argue this law is unconstitutional.

What will it take to curb traffic violence in St. Louis? Mar 02, 2023

Traffic violence has grabbed headlines the last few weeks. The violence has claimed four young lives, taken a teen’s legs, and injured four people. Scott Ogilvie, the City of St. Louis’ Complete Streets program manager, discusses a new law that allocates millions of COVID relief dollars toward street and pedestrian safety improvements. And NextSTL Editor Richard Bose talks about what has led to such a high rate of pedestrian deaths and what needs to be done to make the region’s streets safer.

We Stories was created in response to Mike Brown’s death. Now it's closing Mar 02, 2023

Local nonprofit We Stories focused on anti-bias education aimed toward young white children and families for the past seven years. They are closing their doors and shutting down their website, which includes all of their educational resources, in June 2023. We Stories executive director Maggie Klonsky and board member Pam Washington agree that while anti-racist work is still necessary, now is the time for We Stories to come to an end.

How Isaiah Maxi found nature, and new friends, in Missouri parks Mar 01, 2023

Isaiah Maxi has been hiking all over Missouri’s state parks — and he's not doing it alone. He documents his journeys on his Facebook group, “The Journey to 100 Hiking Friends,” charting his connections across the state. Maxi discusses his experience hiking across the state while forging connections along the way — and shares his picks for favorite hiking parks in the St. Louis region.

The St. Louis author who predicted the end of abortion in 1997 Mar 01, 2023

In the 1997 alternative history novel "The Misconceiver,” the year is 2026, and the United States has almost wholly prohibited abortion rights. Yet the book’s St. Louis-born author, Lucy Ferriss, never got to see the novel make its mark. Now, 25 years, Ferriss is watching “The Misconceiver” get new life in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court overturning of abortion rights. Ferriss discusses the book’s chillingly accurate predictions and what might come next.

Legal Roundtable: Analyzing the legal pressure on Kim Gardner, St. Louis’ embattled top prosecutor Feb 28, 2023

The Legal Roundtable discusses the latest controversy surrounding St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner, who is facing calls to resign after a car crash left a 17-year-old seriously injured. The driver who caused the crash, Daniel Riley, was out on bond for a felony charge of stealing a gun, but had violated the terms release more than 50 times. Attorneys Javad Khazaeli, Brenda Talent, Connie McFarland-Butler discuss the case and Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey’s aim to remove Gardner from office.

Missouri spent years rejecting distracted driving laws. That could change in 2023 Feb 24, 2023

Missouri is one of just two states without a law banning distracted driving for all motorists. Although dozens of states have expanded their bans, Missouri’s law only applies to drivers under 21. Reporter Eric Berger, shares his insights into the different ways these laws have been implemented across the country. He’s joined by former Missouri Republican state representative Jeff Porter, who unsuccessfully sponsored legislation three times to limit hand-held cellphone use.

Kim Gardner was asked to resign. She says she’s not going anywhere Feb 24, 2023

Amid the torrent of news this week, the biggest story was the ongoing controversy embroiling St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner that stems from a St. Louis man causing a crash that seriously injured a 17-year-old girl who was visiting from out of town. Missouri’s Attorney General is attempting to use a legal procedure to remove her from office and St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones says Gardner has lost the trust of the people. Gardner says she’s not fully to blame and that calls for her to step down are political stunts that undermine the will of the people. STLPR reporter Rachel Lippmann discusses this story.

Retelling the story of St. Louis' Chinatown through the experiences of those who lived there Feb 23, 2023

The newly formed Chinese American Collecting Initiative highlights the long lost stories of Chinese American immigrants living in St. Louis from the mid 19th century onward. St. Louis architect and community leader Peter Tao, who serves as chair of the initiative, and Janet Leong, of the well-known Leong family that owned Asia Cafe, talk about why these stories are relevant.

The world is built for people with perfect hearing — but 83% of people don't have it Feb 23, 2023

Despite the fact that nearly 83% of the population does not have perfect hearing, most of our spaces are designed to cater, auditorily, to a select few. That’s a problem, according to researchers in the growing field of aural diversity. Producer Avery Rogers takes us through the various ways we perceive sound and how understanding these differences can help us better approach hearing accessibility. Correction: Professor Andrew Hugill works at the University of Leicester.

More than one-third of St. Louis K-12 students change schools midyear, new report shows Feb 22, 2023

St. Louis K-12 students change schools midyear at an alarming rate — 38%. The cause of so-called “student mobility” is often unanticipated and, in many instances, it results in low attendance and poor test scores. Those are the findings of a new report from the St. Louis School Research-Practice Collaborative. A researcher and a fifth grade teacher discuss.

Teen entrepreneur Sidney Keys III adds ‘author’ to his impressive resume Feb 22, 2023

At 10 years old, Sidney Keys III founded Books N Bros, a book club and subscription service for young Black boys. Since then he has been honored and recognized by CNN and Marvel. Now 17 years old, Keys can add “published author” to his list of many accomplishments.

Endangered tarantulas seized by federal agents find new home at MoBot Feb 21, 2023

Hundreds of illegally transported Antilles pinktoe tarantulas were intercepted by the federal government before they could enter the pet trade, and now, 98 of them reside at the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House in Chesterfield. Missouri Botanical Garden entomologists share what it’s like to care for these endangered spiders, how they are a vital part of the ecosystem in their home country and why it’s important to avoid support of the black market for exotic insects.

Beyond Housing welcomes Fields Foods in after grocer left a gap in Pagedale Feb 21, 2023

The City of Pagedale struggled with underdevelopment and underinvestment for decades which led to higher crime rates and poor health outcomes. In 2010 the North County municipality welcomed its first grocery store in over forty years, Save-A-Lot, after years of working with city and community leaders as well as Beyond Housing. In the 11 years after Save-A-Lot opened, Pagedale saw a dip in crime and an uptick in property values. So when the discount grocery chain closed, it was a cause of worry that the progress made would be lost. Soon locally owned Fields Foods will move in and Beyond Housing’s CEO Chris Krehmeyer hopes to make the transition smooth for business and the people of Pagedale.

How Missouri Botanical Garden hopes to bring extinct plants back from the dead Feb 20, 2023

Missouri Botanical Garden’s Conservation Scientist Matthew Albrecht and Herbarium Director Jordan Teisher are hoping to bring extinct plants back from the dead. The two scientists are part of a global “de-extinction” project with sixty other herbaria that will result in attempting to germinate seeds of extinct plant species, some of which have not been seen alive in the wild for over a century. Producer Miya Norfleet talked with Albrecht and Teisher about the project and what it means for conservation efforts in the future.

Police implicit bias training may impact belief, but not behavior, WashU study finds Feb 20, 2023

Washington University researcher Calvin Lai discusses his latest study showing that the daylong implicit bias-oriented training programs commonly used by most police departments are unlikely to reduce racial inequity in policing.

The hearts and scars of St. Louis author Adina Talve-Goodman Feb 17, 2023

Adina Talve-Goodman lived a life on the edge of death. Born with a congenital heart condition, St. Louis-born author underwent a heart transplant at 19. Yet, tragically, more than a decade later, she was diagnosed with cancer. She died in 2018, at the age of 31. She left behind a trove of published and unpublished essays, drafts and other writings. That material now comprises the new collection, “Your Heart, Your Scars,” which was published last month by Bellevue Literary Press. Sarika Talve-Goodman and Hannah Tinti remember the life and work of Adina Talve-Goodman, and share how they compiled the new essay collection.

La Pâtisserie Chouquette takes the crown with their Mardi Gras king cakes Feb 17, 2023

Simone Faure, owner/chef of La Pâtisserie Chouquette, talks about baking the traditional New Orleans Mardi Gras king cake. The bakery opened in St. Louis in 2013 and was recently named a semifinalist in the annual James Beard Awards for outstanding bakery.

New Music Circle’s concert will have you questioning what you know about music Feb 16, 2023

New Music Circle has evolved in tandem with boundary-pushing musical movements since 1959. Board members Alex Cunningham and Josh Levi discuss the upcoming New Music Circle concert and how the artists demonstrate the technological potential of experimental music.

Meet Lamar Johnson’s attorney. She never gave up hope for his release Feb 16, 2023

Lamar Johnson gained freedom this week after spending 28 years in prison for a crime he did not commit. Among the attorneys who worked to secure Johnson’s release was Lindsay Runnels, who represented Johnson since 2015. Johnson called Runnels a sister, a friend and “God’s best angel.” Runnels reflects on the journey that led to Johnson’s release and describes what it was like to experience it in the courtroom.

‘Pillars of the Valley’ cements the nearly forgotten history of Mill Creek Valley Feb 16, 2023

Damon Davis’ latest — and largest — work of art, “Pillars of the Valley,” took five years to go from concept to installation. For author Vivian Gibson, the formal recognition of her beloved childhood neighborhood Mill Creek Valley is worthy of celebration. Gibson brought new attention to the neighborhood's history with her 2020 book, “The Last Children of Mill Creek." The two reflect on the years of work that brought them to this moment — and the work left to do.

New Afghan Community Center promises to support Afghan refugees in St. Louis Feb 14, 2023

Afghans in St. Louis are welcoming newly arrived Afghan refugees with more support thanks to the new Afghan Community Center. The center also houses a new Afghan Chamber of Commerce, which will provide a number of educational services and mental health programs. Moji Sidiqi, Afghan Community Development Program Manager at the International Institute of St. Louis, and business owner Gul Totakhil discuss what community support means in action — and how they will continue to embrace fellow refugees who have escaped from Afghanistan.

Roz and Ralph grew up in St. Louis — and found love decades later, living 1,500 miles apart Feb 14, 2023

Roz Lewy and Ralph Insinger discuss their book, "Beyond Beyond: A Chance Encounter, an Online Courtship and the Language of Love," which details how the couple fell in love late in life via the exchange of hundreds of emails.

This director decided to film in St. Louis before he wrote the script Feb 13, 2023

Filmmaker Daniel Lawrence Wilson thinks that St. Louis can — and should — be the industry’s next premier filming location. Wilson, now living and working in Los Angeles, returned to St. Louis to film his directorial debut, “A Brush of Violence.” The film is the first to be sponsored by the nonprofit St. Louis Filmworks, and features many recognizable locations in St. Louis including Webster University, the Pulitzer Arts Foundation, Laumeier Sculpture Park, and the Magnolia Hotel. Wilson joined St. Louis on the Air to discuss how the city would benefit should it become a popular filming location.

Weatherbird cartoonist Dan Martin retires after 37 years at the Post-Dispatch Feb 13, 2023

We listen back to this conversation from April 2021 with Dan Martin about his daily doodling of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch's Weatherbird. Martin will retire from the position after 37 years at the paper.

Critically endangered elephants play major role in rainforest conservation Feb 10, 2023

Critically endangered elephants in the Congo Basin play a key role in creating forests, which in turn, store carbon and maintain the biodiversity of African rainforests. If the species becomes extinct, the second largest rainforest on earth would lose between six and nine percent of their ability to capture atmospheric carbon — that’s according to researcher Stephen Blake, an associate professor of biology at St. Louis University.

How a gorilla swap between St. Louis and Chicago may ensure the species’ survival Feb 10, 2023

St. Louis Zoo and Brookfield Zoo in Chicago recently swapped two western lowland gorillas in an effort to help the survival of the critically endangered species. St. Louis zoological manager Helen Boostrom talks about how the recent gorilla swap plays into the goal of creating genetically healthy populations of the critically endangered species.

David Dwight IV hopes St. Louis learns to listen to young leadership Feb 10, 2023

The Ferguson Uprising ushered in a new wave of young leaders looking to create systemic change in policing, education, and race relations. In the nine years since the killing of Michael Brown by now-ex-Ferguson officer Darren Wilson, several organizations have taken shape to address those very issues. David Dwight IV invested time and energy in one such organization — Forward Through Ferguson. Dwight plans to step down at the end of March, and he reflects on his years of activism, and shares his critiques of St. Louis’ tendency to shut out, and shut down, young leaders.

Exploring Black history, its sources and who gets to tell it Feb 09, 2023

For centuries history has primarily been told from the perspective of white men. What was traditionally considered a “reliable source” has not included the voices of Black people and other people of color. Over the last decade tables have started to turn, and more historians are recognizing there is a lot of work to be done in addressing the interpretation of Black history. Cicely Hunter of the African American History Initiative at the Missouri Historical Society, Pam Sanfilippio of Gateway Arch National Park’s museum services, and Vivian Gibson, author of “The Last Children of Mill Creek” discuss the difficulties faced when attempting to provide inclusive interpretation of American history that spotlights the unique experiences of Black Americans.

How early German immigrants helped shape Missouri and St. Louis Feb 09, 2023

German immigrants helped shape Missouri’s culture in myriad ways, as detailed in the book “Explore Missouri's German Heritage” and the documentary it inspired. Author W. Arthur Mehrhoff details the people, places and ideas that influenced the Show-Me State’s cultural heritage.

Why St. Louis County removed a racist memorial to ‘white colonists’ Feb 07, 2023

In 1955, a sign was erected in Clayton, Missouri. It recounted the history of the founding of St. Louis County. According to the sign, that history began when the county was “first visited by white colonists” in the early 1700s. Then, in November 2022, the sign was quietly removed — but Geoff Ward, a professor of African and African-American studies at Washington University, says the removal was a missed opportunity to publicly confront white supremacy.

Science, history and sound art coalesce in ‘Botanical Resonance’ exhibition Feb 07, 2023

A Missouri Botanical Garden exhibition that examines the relationship between sound and plants will close at the end of March. Nezka Pfeifer, the curator of “Botanical Resonance: Plants and Sounds in the Garden,” discusses how the exhibition reveals important things about how we interact with our environment.

Illinois spent decades refusing to repatriate Native American burial remains Feb 07, 2023

Illinois’ state museum system holds more than 7,000 burial remains taken from Native American mounds and other sites. Yet, despite a 1990 federal law that required museums start returning remains, Illinois did “close to nothing” for more than 20 years. That finding is among the takeaways from ProPublica reporter Logan Jaffe’s latest investigation. She discusses her findings on the Illinois State Museum system, its decades-long refusal to return thousands of burial remains to tribal groups, and also signs that this pattern may be changing for the better.

‘This Is Not My Home’ explores immigration through a child’s eyes Feb 06, 2023

Immigration stories told in the United States often center around people and families planting roots in the U.S. “This Is Not My Home” tells a different immigration story — that of someone emigrating from the U.S. — from a point of view that is often ignored, a child’s perspective. Author and illustrator duo Eugenia Yoh and Vivienne Chang share the inspiration behind the main character, Lily, and how their friends’ experiences moving from the U.S. to Taiwan inspired them to write a children’s book.

Nominations for 2022’s best local theater unveiled by St. Louis Theater Circle Feb 06, 2023

St. Louis’ best theater performances and productions of the year are being honored once again. St. Louis Theater Circle announced its award nominations Monday, covering approximately 90 shows from 2022. Calvin Wilson, theater critic for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, and Lynn Venhaus, writer and reviewer for PopLifeStL.com, discuss the nominations, and their observations on the state of St. Louis theater amidst its recovery from pandemic interruptions. Among the biggest nomination-getters of 2022 were the productions of “In the Heights,” from STAGES St. Louis, St. Louis Shakespeare Festival’s “Much Ado About Nothing” and “Brontë Sister House Party” from SATE.

Recreational cannabis sales have begun in Missouri. Here's how we got to this point and how it might affect Illinois' economy Feb 06, 2023

Missouri greenlit several dispensaries to sell recreational cannabis last Friday. St. Louis Public Radio’s Metro East reporter Will Bauer shares what he heard from customers on that first day of recreational sales, the tax breakdown on both sides of the Mississippi River, and how Missouri and Illinois may be competing for consumers.

Remembering master puppeteer Bob Kramer, who delighted St. Louis audiences for decades Feb 03, 2023

On January 20, Bob Kramer’s Marrionnettes went up in flames. The fire claimed the 125-seat theater, a workshop, gift shop and residence and, most significantly, Bob Kramer’s life. Firefighters rescued his longtime partner, Dug Feltch, who spent four days in the hospital unconscious. Dug Feltch joins the show to remember his partner and to listen back to an excerpt of a 2015 conversation with Kramer.

Seattle administrator will be new superintendent of St. Louis Public Schools Feb 03, 2023

Kate Grumke updates St. Louis on the Air about the newly appointed superintendent for St. Louis Public Schools: Keisha Scarlett from Seattle.

Unraveling the intricate symbolism in new exhibition ‘Torn Mixology’ Feb 03, 2023

Felia Davenport’s new exhibition “Torn Mixology” addresses how motherhood changed her perspective on racism and generational trauma as a person of mixed-race. The exhibition tells her personal story through detailed hand-stitched clothing on life-sized mannequins.

‘Spells of the Sea’ promises pirates, monsters — and the smell of the ocean Feb 02, 2023

Metro Theater Company’s latest production, “Spells of the Sea,” tells the story of a 15-year-old fisherwoman and a grumpy lighthouse keeper who encounter mermaids, monsters and pirates in their quest to find the elixir of life. Metro Theater Company Artistic Director Julia Flood and cast member and choreographer Tyler White preview the musical and its use of scent design.

‘Clusterluck’ film chronicles Black academics’ cluster hiring experiences at SIUE Feb 02, 2023

Workplaces across many industries struggle to attract employees of color.. One solution is the practice of “cluster hiring,” in which companies hire groups of individuals with similar identities. In the documentary film “Clusterluck,” Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville professor and first time film producer Candace Hall chronicles her personal experience in a cluster hire in the university’s School of Education.

Inside the Illinois workshop building 10,000-pound monster trucks Feb 02, 2023

Monster trucks roared and tumbled in St. Louis last month at Monster Jam, but, it turns out that the St. Louis region has a distinct connection to the culture of massive motocross vehicles. That connection includes Rich Inman and Concussion Motorsports, in Ellis Grove, Illinois, which manufactures monster trucks. Its work is stamped on some of the most famous monster trucks in the world, including the local legend, Bigfoot. Rich Inman discusses how to build a monster truck that can jump, flip and smash, while also ensuring the driver can walk away after the show is done.

Black doulas in St. Louis want Black mothers to have a voice — and healthy babies Feb 02, 2023

Black maternal mortality rates in Missouri are among some of the highest in the United States. And with the near-total ban on abortions in Missouri, the demand for full spectrum doulas and midwives is increasing. STLPR reporter Andrea Henderson discusses how Black women are seeking out Black doulas to improve their birth outcomes.

Fresh Produce takes music producers out of the background and into the spotlight Feb 01, 2023

Typically, bands and music groups make stars of the lead singer: the “front man” and spokesperson who gets all the eyes and attention. So most fans do not consider the team of people working behind the scenes to make the music radio-ready — especially those who produce, mix, and master the audio. Music producers are integral to the music-making process. Producer Miya Norfleet explores the Fresh Produce Champions Battle and sits down with emcees, judges, and participants of the competition.

Millions of dollars will go to St. Louis protesters who were ‘kettled’ in 2017. Will it make a difference? Jan 31, 2023

The events of September 17, 2017 were expensive for the city of St. Louis. In the years since police used a “kettle” to mass-arrest dozens of people downtown, the city has settled with protesters and bystanders caught in the cordon. Now, with the $4.9 million settlement reached this week in a class-action lawsuit, the bill has hit a total of roughly $10 million. Attorneys Bill Freivogel, Eric Banks and Jennifer Joyce analyze the settlement and provide an update on the viral story about how GEICO paid a Missouri woman $5.2 million after she had sex in a car and contracted HPV.

Homeless people in St. Louis waited two years for a 24-hour shelter. What took so long? Jan 30, 2023

Volunteers and advocates for people in St. Louis who are homeless say the city's failure to create a 24-hour shelter is "unacceptable" and endangering lives during frigid winter nights. Although a new 24-hour shelter has just opened, questions remain: Why did it take so long? And what of the millions of APRA dollars earmarked for homeless services that remain unspent? NPR Midwest Newsroom investigative reporter Kavahn Mansouri discusses his findings and shares his latest reporting.

We asked, you delivered: How 'St. Louis on the Air' is putting community ideas to practice Jan 30, 2023

This past summer and fall, our team hosted a series of listening sessions to get a better sense of how we can best serve the communities in St. Louis Public Radio’s listening area. What kinds of stories should we focus on? What are we missing? Who should we have on the show? Producers Emily Woodbury and Miya Norfleet discuss how it all went down and how we will continue to engage moving forward.

Why is work/life balance so tough? Because it’s made up Jan 27, 2023

Work: What does it mean, and how has the place, shape, and meaning of work changed over time? Carrie Lane, Professor and Acting Chair of American Studies at California State University Fullerton, provides an overview of the history work in the U.S.; and St. Louisan Amber Murphy adds personal, in-real-life perspective on navigating – and challenging – the binary that separates work and life.

Exploring St. Louis house shows, and their appeal beyond the stage Jan 27, 2023

A wide assortment of St. Louis bands, trios and DJs continue to depend on the living room stage. But even when those musicians move on to real clubs, networks of musicians continue to find themselves on unconventional stages to fill the gaps between club shows and traditional venues. This scene is alive and well in St. Louis. To talk about why these kinds of shows continue to thrive, we get to know Joe Mancuso and Stanley Jones of the Judson House; Larry Fuchs of the Kinda Blue Club; and Darian Wigfall, co-founder of the former artist collective FarFetched.

Questions around Missouri murder spread from book to Netflix’s ‘I Am a Killer’ Jan 26, 2023

Featured on the Netflix show "I Am a Killer,” the 2013 murder of Chris Smith led the arrest and life sentence for his wife, Vicky Isaac. But Vicky’s sister, Betty Frizzell, a former Missouri police chief, is convinced that Vicky is covering for the true killer, Vicky’s adult son Kenny. Frizzell previously joined St. Louis on the Air in January last year to discuss her memoir, “If you can’t quit cryin’, you can’t come here no more,” which chronicled both the murder, and her family’s history of abuse, addiction and mental illness.

Syphilis cases in Missouri have jumped 259% in the last few years. Here's what to know Jan 26, 2023

Reported cases of syphilis in St. Louis and St. Louis County are on the rise. STLPR health reporter Sarah Fentem and Washington University Associate Professor Dr. Hilary Reno discuss what the rates of transmission tell us about how these diseases are spreading and what it will take to get more people tested for STIs.

The discovery of an ancient mammal tusk at a local college will fuel learning Jan 25, 2023

A facilities worker at Principia College in Elsah, Illinois, was moving soil when he discovered a white object about 12 feet below the surface. Researchers confirmed that it’s an ancient tusk that belongs to either a mammoth or a mastodon. Professor Andrew Martin talks about the remarkable find and how he plans to use the excavation in his class this fall.

Hazelwood School District’s use of virtual teachers leaves students in the lurch Jan 24, 2023

Nearly one-third of Hazelwood School District students have been assigned to in-person classes where the teacher is virtual, instructing from hundreds or thousands of miles away. A new Riverfront Times story highlights how the arrangement is failing students. Reporter Mike Fitzgerald and Tamar Brown, education advocacy director for A Red Circle, discuss how the national teacher shortage has led to this point and what happens next for students and families in the district.

Parson believes his budget plan addresses fundamental Missouri needs Jan 24, 2023

During his State of the State address last week, Gov. Mike Parson announced his budgetary vision for Missouri. His plan includes money to widen Interstate 70 in three places and fully fund the state’s K-12 education formula and school transportation, as well as another round of raises for state employees. This episode contains much of STLPR's Sarah Kellogg interview with Parson along with analysis from Kellogg and Jason Rosenbaum.

“All Gone Wrong” spotlights local talent, interest in filmmaking in St. Louis Jan 23, 2023

Local filmmaker Josh Guffey directed his debut feature-length film in St. Louis and surrounding areas. Starring Tony Todd as drug kingpin Lamont Hughes, “All Gone Wrong” follows a detective trying to clean up a small town in Illinois. The film took Guffey 15 years to create and will start streaming January 27.

The faith leaders challenging Missouri's abortion ban, in court Jan 23, 2023

In June 2022, minutes after the overturning of Roe v. Wade, Missouri led the nation as the first state in the U.S. to enact an abortion ban. A new lawsuit, filed by faith leaders in Missouri, is challenging that ban, arguing that it not only violates the separation of church and state, but also the beliefs of other religions. Discussing the lawsuit, and their religious objections to Missouri's abortion ban, are Moharat Rori Picker Neiss, executive director of the Jewish Community Relations Council of St. Louis; Democratic state Representative Barbara Phifer, and Bishop Deon Johnson of the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri.

Through the cemetery gates of Jefferson County graveyards goes Dennis Bentley, gravefinder. Jan 20, 2023

Dennis Bentley, St. Louis Public Radio systems specialist, has a notable hobby: He finds graves. As a volunteer for FindAGrave, he has submitted over 3,000 pictures of gravestones: the small bejeweled ones, the wealthy towering ones and the just plain ‘ol regular ones. Bentley discusses finding meaning in his many journeys through cemeteries in Jefferson County, and why it’s the broken, mossy and unmarked ones that get him contemplating life — and what it means to contribute.

‘Recovery Friendly Workplaces’ are breaking the stigma of drug rehabilitation Jan 20, 2023

Recovery friendly workplaces hire and support employees in recovery from drug addiction as they would an employee with any other health condition. Ann McCauley, the director of Recovery Friendly Workplace Missouri, and John Gaal of the Missouri Works Initiative, say these workplaces uplift workers and employers alike.

Federal student loan programs are antiquated, insufficient and in dire need of change Jan 19, 2023

The first federal student aid program in the United States, the National Defense Education Act, was signed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1958 — six years before the Civil Rights Act federally ended “Jim Crow'' laws across the nation. The Higher Education Act of 1965, signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson, followed the Civil Rights Act, and while codified into law, American citizens and lawmakers still struggled with equality. Nick Hillman, professor in the School of Education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, shares his theories on the slow progress to update federal student aid and provide relief to student loan debt.

Marian Middle School’s ‘Tigerbots’ show that girls can dominate in STEM Jan 19, 2023

Katie Rodas-Santizo, a local eighth grader at Marian Middle School, will defend her school’s championship title in this year’s Clavicus Project Jamboree — a yearly robotics competition that challenges the STEM skills of middle school students in St. Louis. Robotics Coach Mark Viox and Marian Middle School Interim Principal Sierhah Price share how they encourage a love of STEM in young girls like Rodas-Santizo.

Christopher Dunn proved his innocence. Missouri law demands he die in prison Jan 18, 2023

Christopher Dunn has spent more than 30 years in prison for a 1990 murder he did not commit in St. Louis. The two witnesses whose testimony led to his conviction have recanted, leading to a dramatic moment in 2020, when a Missouri judge ruled: “This court does not believe that any jury would now convict Christopher Dunn under these facts.” Yet Dunn remains in prison on a life sentence, doomed to die behind bars. Christopher Dunn, his wife Kira, and attorney Kent Gipson discuss the case and why Missouri law is uniquely blind to Dunn’s case for innocence.

A new Missouri law targets homelessness. Attorneys say it criminalizes survival Jan 17, 2023

A controversial Missouri bill to ban "unauthorized" sleeping and camping on state-owned land is now now. Advocates for the homeless say it turns peoples’ survival into a crime. But, what does “unauthorized” sleeping mean, and how are homeless people supposed to avoid state-owned land? We talk with St. Louis attorney Stephanie Lummus, who is representing seven homeless clients in a new federal lawsuit seeking to strike down the law, and Phil Telfeyan, the executive director of nonprofit Equal Justice Under Law, who is co-counsel on the lawsuit.

How taking out student loans impacts — and creates — generational debt Jan 17, 2023

A college education is often touted as the means to a successful and comfortable life. For students who take out loans, the burden of debt puts brakes on wealth building for them and their families. Faith Sandler, executive director of Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis has helped students and their families navigate student aid for 34 years. As conversations about debt continue and debt forgiveness plans remain on hold in the court system, Sandler talks about the rising cost of higher education and what it tells us about economic and racial inequalities.

Students return to Central Visual and Performing Arts High School months after deadly shooting Jan 17, 2023

Alumni and staff cheered outside as students returned to class at Central Visual and Performing Arts High School on Tuesday for the first time since a deadly shooting in October closed the school. STLPR education reporter Kate Grumke talks about the return of students.

New coal ash report alleges risk to St. Louis drinking water Jan 14, 2023

A new report claims that most utility companies in the U.S. contaminate groundwater and evade federal regulations, including four energy plants in the St. Louis area. Patricia Schuba, president of the board of Labadie Environmental Organization, talks about why she’s concerned, what St. Louisans can do to protect their home’s water supply and what people can do to change things and hold companies accountable.

211 hotline in St. Louis continues to fail homeless people, volunteers say Jan 13, 2023

In March 2022, community advocates said St. Louis' 211 hotline fails homeless people and leaves volunteers to pick up the slack. Nearly a year later, they report that things are even worse. STL Winter Outreach volunteers sit down with St. Louis Department of Human Services Director Dr. Yusef Scoggin to discuss how the system is working and the city’s role in making sure that vulnerable residents have access to shelter.

Reckoning with the racist past (and present) of St. Louis real estate Jan 12, 2023

Will Jordan, executive director of the Metropolitan St. Louis Equal Housing and Opportunity Council, and Nate Johnson, the president of the organization’s board of directors, discuss the role realtors play in increasing Black homeownership in St. Louis.

With ‘All Things New’ plan looming, St. Louis Catholics keep the faith Jan 12, 2023

The Catholic community in the St. Louis region is at a crossroads. A sweeping plan from the Archdiocese, known as the All Things New initiative, is considering how to close schools and consolidate parishes. Among those preparing for the change is Fr. Andrew Auer, an associate pastor at St. Clare of Assisi in Ellisville. Fr. Auer discusses the reaction to All Things New, why St. Louis’ Catholic community may be “over-planted,” and the impending announcement May 28, on Pentecost, of the final model for parish consolidation.

Protest burnout is real. Sasha Zemmel wants St. Louisans to stay engaged Jan 12, 2023

St. Louis animal rights activist Sasha Zemmel made headlines when a recent disruptive protest at a Moolah Shriners meeting ended in her arrest — and her alleging that members of the group physically assaulted her as she tried to exit. Two weeks later, the Moolah Shriners announced they would retire their elephants from their circus. Zemmel discusses the confrontation with the Moolah Shriners and how she considers their decision to retire the elephants a victory for animal rights groups.

WashU doctor notes African Americans’ unique menopause experience Jan 11, 2023

Black Americans are more likely to start menopause early and gain less treatment to manage symptoms — that’s according to a recent review of menopause literature. Dr. Makeba Williams, an associate professor and vice chair of professional development and wellness in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Washington University, encourages more doctors to recognize that the menopause experience is not universal and more care should be taken when treating patients of color, especially Black Americans.

Artifacts come to life in new 3D collection at Abraham Lincoln museum in Springfield Jan 10, 2023

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield, Illinois, has some 13 million items in its collection. Now, 100 of them are featured in an online gallery of 3D images that can be enlarged, turned upside down or spun around. Museum director Christina Shutt explains the 3D imaging project and talks about the history of some of the artifacts.

Missouri History Museum's ‘St. Louis Sound’ Exhibit Explores How The Region Became A Musical Powerhouse Jan 10, 2023

The Missouri History Museum's "St. Louis Sound" exhibit was designed like an album, with both the greatest hits of St. Louis music and some deep cuts from more obscure favorites. The museum's Andrew Wanko discusses the region's impact on popular music. The last day to view the exhibit is Sunday, January 22.

When should you talk to kids about cannabis? 5th grade, one expert suggests Jan 09, 2023

Would you talk to a fifth grader about cannabis? Nichole Dawsey is the executive director of Prevent Ed, and she says that, if done appropriately, around age 10 is a great time to start having conversations with children about cannabis use. Now that Missouri has legalized recreational marijuana and advertisements are going up for where to buy cannabis goods, parents and educators are preparing to have tough conversations with young people about cannabis — but is the conversation tough, or are adults just afraid of being awkward? (Spoiler alert: It’s the latter.)

The St. Louis chefs turning big ideas into bite-sized pop-ups Jan 09, 2023

St. Louis chefs like MJ Stewart and Brandon Panosh have embraced the “pop-up” concept, creating smaller-scale offerings focused around a particular dish, cuisine or atmosphere. Stewart discusses her unique take on a dessert-only menu with “DNFT,” while Panosh dishes about his custom dinner series “Table with Dinner at the Loft.” We also check in about the growth of the pop-up trend with Meera Nagarajan, executive editor of Sauce Magazine.

How one local woman became an ironworker — and is encouraging others to start construction careers Jan 06, 2023

Aurora Bihler is a union ironworker in St. Louis. She’s working to bring more women and minorities into the skilled labor force as director of the “Building Union Diversity” program, which has graduated some 300 students since its founding in 2014. Bihler discusses her path to the skilled trades, and AFL-CIO Missouri president Jake Hummel provides insight into the ongoing labor shortage.

Missouri legislators look to legalize sports betting and change ballot petitions in 2023 Jan 06, 2023

Statehouse reporter Sarah Kellogg discusses the first week of the 2023 Missouri legislative session and what lawmakers are hoping to focus on in the months ahead.

Illinois’ highest court halted the law to abolish cash bail in the state. What’s next? Jan 06, 2023

Just before the start of the new year, the Supreme Court of Illinois halted the implementation of a law that would eliminate the practice of cash bail statewide — hours before the bill was set to take effect. Sarah Staudt of the Chicago Appleseed Center for Fair Courts and Alexa Van Brunt of the MacArthur Justice Center discuss the future of the law and how the justice-impacted and their families will be affected in the meantime.

NPR’s Brian Mann was injured covering the war in Ukraine. He wants to go back Jan 05, 2023

NPR correspondent Brian Mann was involved in a violent car crash while covering the war in Ukraine last year. The driver of his military vehicle lost control while trying to evade Russian surveillance. Mann broke his leg but expects to make a full recovery. He also wants to go back to cover the conflict and to talk more with the Ukrainian people. Last month, STLPR’s Rod Milam talked with Mann about his experiences covering the war. The conversation was part of STLPR’s participation in the American Homefront Project. This episode includes much of that conversation.

To better serve the community, Metro Trans Umbrella Group forges needs assessment Jan 04, 2023

As the Metro Trans Umbrella Group approaches their tenth anniversary, they embark on a multi-year plan to develop and implement a community needs assessment for the greater St. Louis region. Interim executive director Michaela Joy Kraemer explains how a community needs assessment will improve their work, and talks about the other social issues the organization plans to address in the coming year.

Kevin Johnson sought faith before his execution. He found Rev. Darryl Gray Jan 04, 2023

Missouri gave Rev. Darryl Gray unprecedented access to death row inmate Kevin Johnson. Gray served as his spiritual advisor, even holding Johnson’s shoulder as the lethal injection was administered on November 29. Gray discusses his observations from this unusual connection, what he learned from Johnson’s faith, and what it means to find yourself within a system that you believe should be abolished.

School is in session with teacher and advice columnist Kem Smith Jan 03, 2023

Educators today face a myriad of challenges that have affected teacher recruitment and retention. Ferguson-Florissant School District language arts teacher Kem Smith has responded by sharing advice to fellow educators — from how to accurately and appropriately teach U.S. history to how the pandemic has affected the ways students learn and teachers teach with her column, ‘After the Bell.’

Menya Rui's ramen comes from scratch — and years of love Jan 03, 2023

Steven Pursley discusses his experience reconnecting with his roots in Japan, what he learned about the different types of ramen during his time there, and what it’s been like to launch Menya Rui in St. Louis over the past year.

A tribute to St. Louisans who passed away in 2022 Dec 23, 2022

In 2022, we said goodbye to a number of remarkable people who lived and worked in the St. Louis region. In this episode, we honor those we lost this year by listening back to conversations with them or by hearing from those who knew them well.

'Neuro Blooms' shines a light on neurodiversity Dec 22, 2022

“Neuro Blooms,” a community art exhibition on Cherokee St. in St. Louis brings visibility and awareness to neurodiversity. Artists Con Christeson and Bonita “Bo” Owen share how the project helps break stigma and invites people to talk more openly about mental health.

She fell in love with a woman in 1998. It meant nearly losing her kids Dec 22, 2022

“In 1998, I nearly lost custody of my three young children. It wasn’t because I was a bad mother. It was because I’m gay.” So begins a recent essay by in the Huffington Post from former St. Louis Public Radio arts and culture reporter Nancy Fowler. Fowler discusses the wrenching decisions she made during the divorce, how Missouri law equated being gay with being an unfit parent, and why she’s speaking out publicly about her experiences now. Nancy’s daughter, Jamie Larson, also shares her perspective on her mother’s perseverance.

R&B singer Mai Lee defines her sound and honors her inspirations in debut album ‘FRIENDZ’ Dec 21, 2022

St. Louis singer/songwriter Mai Lee has been in the performing arts since she was in grade school. She and her family of restaurateurs joke that the debut album, ‘FRIENDZ’ is 20 years in the making. In this conversation Mai Lee shares how her friends, family, and St. Louis shaped her music and who she is as an artist.

Missouri voters legalized weed. What comes next? Dec 21, 2022

On December 8, recreational cannabis became legal in Missouri. But the stakes are far higher than adults buying legal weed. The law enacted a provision for "automatic expungement" of nonviolent marijuana convictions from criminal records, but there are concerns about the process and its stated deadlines. To discuss what comes next for legal weed in Missouri, we hear from Legal Missouri campaign director John Payne, as well as public defender Matt Schmidt, who has been helping his clients clear their records. We also hear from Brian Pezza, an attorney at Lewis Rice law firm, about the impact on cannabis legalization in the workplace.

Testing Lamar Johnson’s claim of innocence in a St. Louis courtroom Dec 20, 2022

What’s next for Lamar Johnson’s attempt to overturn his 1995 murder conviction? And who really owns the Fabulous Fox Theater? What’s the latest on Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt’s deposition of Dr. Anthony Fauci? Those cases, and more, are tackled by our Legal Roundtable, with attorneys Booker T. Shaw, Sarah Swatosh and Dave Roland.

For 14 years, Kelvin Adams led St. Louis Public Schools. He’s retiring with mixed feelings. Dec 18, 2022

St. Louis Public Schools Superintendent Kelvin Adams has led the district through some major changes during his 14 years in the position. The district became fully accredited, returned to a locally-elected school board and passed two major bond measures, including a $160 million measure approved in August that funds school repairs and improvements. Adams reflects on his career, and where SLPS is headed, before his retirement at the end of the month.

With expansion, St. Louis nonprofit continues to open doors for HIV/AIDS clients Dec 16, 2022

The St. Louis nonprofit Doorways has spent decades connecting people living with HIV/AIDS with housing. The organization recently moved into a headquarters on its $40 million campus on Jefferson Avenue. Doorways President and CEO Opal Jones discusses the group’s strategy that prioritizes connecting people with housing while also stabilizing their health. Cory McCormick, a Doorways program participant who moved into a new apartment on the group’s campus last week, discusses what the program means to someone who has experienced homelessness.

Amber McLaughlin transitioned on death row. Now she faces execution Dec 15, 2022

Missouri has killed 93 men since 1976. Amber McLaughlin, a convicted murderer, could be its first woman. But Amber's story goes deeper than her crime. Jessica Hicklin met Amber while both were incarcerated. In 2018, Jessica won a landmark transgender-rights case in a lawsuit against the Missouri Department of Corrections, allowing her and other trans inmates, like Amber, access to hormone therapy. Jessica Hicklin discuses her friendship with Amber, and why she's asking Gov. Mike Parson to grant her clemency. Riverfront Times staff writer Ryan Krull discuses Amber McLaughlin's crimes, and how her case fits into the larger pattern of Missouri executions.

‘Little Bosnia’ residents tell their stories in documentary now on Amazon Prime Dec 15, 2022

A documentary about Bosnians who took refuge in St. Louis during the Bosnian War, “A New Home,” can now be streamed on Amazon Prime Video. We spoke with the film’s director Joseph Puleo as well as two Bosnians featured in the film, Nejla Mustafic and Nedim Ramic, about their experiences.

The 2 largest parks in St. Louis are getting basketball courts. But, why is it taking so long? Dec 14, 2022

New basketball courts are scheduled to make their debut next year in St. Louis’ two largest parks: Forest Park and Tower Grove Park. In Forest Park, development progress has been slow because of efforts to get as much community input as possible. Their next advisory board meeting is set for December 15. In this encore episode, producer Miya Norfleet talks with St. Louisans and park leadership about how access to basketball courts tells the story of St. Louis’ past and hopes for the future.

Prosecutors in St. Louis sentenced Lamar Johnson to life. Now they're trying to free him Dec 14, 2022

This week, the St. Louis Circuit Attorney’s Office has been making its case to overturn the conviction of Lamar Johnson. Johnson has spent the last 28 years serving a life sentence for murder – and was sent there by the same prosecutor’s office that’s now working to exonerate him. St. Louis Public Radio justice reporter Rachel Lippmann breaks down the case, and the story behind what one attorney has called a "historic moment in this court."

This year’s 8 best new restaurants, according to Sauce Magazine Dec 14, 2022

Sauce Magazine Executive Editor Meera Nagarajan shares her team’s picks for best new restaurants of 2022, as well as recommendations for holiday-themed pop-up bars in the St. Louis region.

‘A New Holiday’ takes storytelling magic from film to page Dec 14, 2022

St. Louis natives Brian Owens and Sophia Stephens joined forces in 2020 to release “A New Holiday,” a Christmas movie that features a little girl celebrating her first Christmas without her beloved grandmother. The movie is inspired by the life of local philanthropist, Thelma Steward, wife of David Steward, founder of World Wide Technology, and his mother, Dorothy Steward, who passed away in July 2020. Owens also lost his mother in March 2020 to cancer. The main character, “Thelma,” is learning how to find joy and hope again as she processes her loss.

How MoBot used plant DNA to convict a Missouri killer Dec 13, 2022

Conservation geneticist Christy Edwards never expected to use her knowledge of plant phenotyping to help solve a murder. The experience seemed more akin to a script of “Law and Order” or “CSI”: A young wife and new mother disappears, the investigators suspect her husband of foul play, and they just need the evidence to prove it. Instead of blood, mud and juniper needles become the focus — and Edwards and her colleagues at the Missouri Botanical Garden rush to collect samples and analyze over 100 trees around Mengqi Ji’s burial site, evidence that ultimately ties her husband to the crime.

In his new book, Ed Wheatley calls St. Louis ‘America’s best sports town’ Dec 13, 2022

Sports historian Ed Wheatley shares stories from his latest book, “St. Louis Sports Memories: Forgotten Teams and Moments from America’s Best Sports Town.”

Making ‘mocktails’ that keep proof low and spirits high Dec 12, 2022

Mixologists share tips for making low- and zero-proof drinks that are balanced and complex.

Amazon warehouse where 6 died is nearly rebuilt but won’t have storm shelter Dec 12, 2022

Podcast Description: The Amazon warehouse where six employees died in a tornado a year ago Saturday is nearly rebuilt. The plans don’t include installing a tornado shelter. Instead, Amazon says they're taking other steps to keep employees safe such as training them on how to respond to extreme weather, and it hired a meteorologist. STLPR’s Metro East reporter Will Bauer discusses this story.

Meet the new owner of Kohn’s, St. Louis’ oldest (and only) kosher deli Dec 12, 2022

Kohn’s Kosher Meat and Deli is an institution in St. Louis’ food scene. Yet, earlier this year news of the store going up for sale triggered many to worry that the beloved deli could be in danger of closing for good. As it turns out, Kohn’s isn’t going anywhere — and it’s keeping its original name. St. Louis chef A.J. Moll discusses his love for Kohn’s, how he became its new operator and part-owner, and his hopes for the deli’s future.

How U.S. Transportation Command at Scott AFB moves people and goods throughout the world Dec 09, 2022

Scott Air Force Base in the Metro East plays a critical role internationally, housing U.S. Transportation Command, which is one of 11 unified combatant commands. TRANSCOM is responsible for the logistical movement of troops and supplies for the country’s military. The command’s role has been on display recently, coordinating and delivering supplies for the war in Ukraine. STLPR reporter Eric Schmid talks with Gen. Jacqueline Van Ovost about the TRANSCOM’s work and future challenges.

Meet 2 St. Louis entrepreneurs who just received $50k from UMSL’s DEI Accelerator Dec 09, 2022

Starting a small business and finding financial support and mentorship to get dreams up and running is … difficult. The University of Missouri-St. Louis’ DEI Accelerator aims to make “making it” less difficult. Their third cohort of startup founders are each receiving $50,000 grants, including Cami Thomas of My Friends and I and Kay Wells of Posie Pots. They share their stories along with UMSL Acclerate’s Director of Operations, Michael Butler.

Tishaura Jones stays mum on police chief favorite, optimistic on new aldermanic reality Dec 08, 2022

St. Louis Mayor TIshaura Jones says there is a lot to like about the four finalists to be the city’s next police chief. In a wide-ranging interview, Jones discussed this week's candidate forum, and also shared her support for the movement for universal basic income. Jones also talked about how the city moves on after the indictment of three aldermen.

Censored in 1983, Cathy Kuhlmeier is still fighting for student free speech Dec 08, 2022

Nearly 35 years have passed since the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling, on January 13, 1988, that Hazelwood East High School had the right to censor its student newspaper. The landmark decision set a precedent that’s allowed administrators at other high schools and colleges to restrict students’ free speech — and, decades later, the decision still rankles Cathy Kuhlmeier. In 1983, she was an editor at the Hazelwood East newspaper. She would become the named plaintiff in Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier. Cathy Kuhlmeier reflects on the legacy of the court case, and why she’s still fighting it.

The workers behind Starbucks and Amazon strikes in St. Louis Dec 07, 2022

On November 17, workers in three St. Louis-area Starbucks stores left their stores to join the picket line. It wasn’t the only St. Louis-area protest staged with notable timing. Less than a week after the “Red cup rebellion” at Starbucks, dozens of Amazon warehouse workers joined a protest against their employer, calling for an end to grueling conditions and higher pay. Amazon warehouse worker Jennifer Crane, fired Starbucks supervisor Bradley Rohlf, and Starbucks barista Spencer Blackmon discuss this moment in organizing for St. Louis workers.

Two St. Louisans have big plans for a tiny house and an urban farm Dec 07, 2022

Dwayne Tiggs and Rikki Watts are building their home together literally and figuratively with the help from their community. The couple and their two children are in the process of constructing “the smallest house on the biggest greenspace” in the Benton Park West neighborhood using mostly reclaimed materials. Their home will be 420 square cubic feet (the original plan was just 300 square cubic feet) and will also house their two cats, Nutmeg and Joan. The rest of the 7,000 square feet of land is transforming into a permaculture space where native plants and produce will grow and the community around them to share. Tiggs and Watts want to share the fruits of their labor and teach others how they can, too, can build a home with their own two hands.

Ibram X. Kendi's book, Cbabi Bayoc's illustrations, encourage kids to be antiracist Dec 06, 2022

Ibram X. Kendi and Cbabi Bayoc joined St. Louis on the Air to discuss their recent collaboration on Kendi’s book, “Goodnight Racism.” Kendi and Bayoc discuss the importance of talking about racism with children, and how the prose and illustrations in “Goodnight Racism” make these concepts easier for kids to understand.

In St. Louis, people can be banished from entire neighborhoods. Police can arrest them if they come back Dec 06, 2022

Jeremy Kohler, St. Louis-based reporter for Pro-Publica, discusses his new investigation into St. Louis’ unusual use of “neighborhood orders of protection.” Over the last two decades, the city’s government, police and municipal court have used the the practice to effectively banish people — often those with mental health issues or who may be homeless — from entire neighborhoods or large swaths of the city. According to experts in law enforcement, it’s an extreme use of the law, Kohler found.

Meet the married duo behind the Fattened Caf Dec 05, 2022

When Darren Young and Charlene Lopez Young moved to St. Louis, they saw an opportunity to add Filipino cuisine to the city’s barbecue scene. In this episode, the married duo discuss what’s special about Filipino barbecue, how they launched their business and where they hope to go in the future.

Animated show ‘Drawn In’ spotlights St. Louis voice actors and representation Dec 05, 2022

Produced in St. Louis, the new animated kids show “Drawn In” combines comic books, representation and literacy. Alex Stallings, senior director of early learning at Nine PBS, discusses the origin of the new show, and why engaging the imaginations of young viewers is key. We’re also joined by Ricco Martin, Jr., Riley Adams, and Leia Yogi. The cadre of talented local voice actors are giving life to the show’s characters.

Homeless service providers say St. Louis is not prepared for winter Dec 04, 2022

On Dec. 1, the City of St. Louis launched winter operations to help support people without housing during the coldest months of the year. Community volunteers and organizers who work to support those who are homeless, however, have serious concerns St. Louis is not ready for this winter. They discuss their most immediate concerns and possible solutions.

Exhibition at the Luminary explores how white women uphold white supremacy Dec 02, 2022

Artist Kelly Kristin Jones joined St. Louis on the Air to discuss her exhibition at The Luminary called ‘nwl’ or ‘nice white ladies’. We talk about how the exhibition addresses white women’s role in upholding white supremacy, and the importance of community conversation in rejecting it.

Fabulously Vegan founder aims to demystify Black veganism Dec 01, 2022

Artinces Smith founded Fabulously Vegan to help those considering a vegan lifestyle. Her own journey to veganism included mentors and peers who looked like her. Smith’s veganism honors and respects cultural influences, and includes advocacy for distinct and important conversations that need to happen in Black communities.

Best books of 2022, chosen by St. Louis librarians Dec 01, 2022

It’s December: What better time to cozy up and open a great new book? Or, perhaps you’re looking for the perfect book to give as a gift this holiday season. Librarians Tammy Jones of St. Louis County Library and Megan Temple of St. Louis Public Library share their favorite books released in 2022.

Missouri executes Kevin Johnson, 37, for 2005 slaying of Kirkwood officer Nov 30, 2022

A Missouri inmate who fought his death sentence up until the final hour of his life was executed on Tuesday by the state of Missouri. Kevin Johnson, 37, died by lethal injection. He had been sentenced to death in 2005 for murdering Kirkwood Police Sergeant William McEntee as a teenager. A special prosecutor claimed that racial bias infected Johnson’s conviction and judgment. We talk with Riverfront Times staff writer Monica Obradovic about this story.

Behind the scenes with Elaine Cha, the new host of ‘St. Louis on the Air’ Nov 30, 2022

Elaine Cha begins as host of "St. Louis on the Air" on Thursday. We’re excited! She has a wealth of community engagement and journalism experience. Most recently she came from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri where she was the senior manager of external communications and before that, for nearly five years, the nonprofit’s founding storyteller and journalist. Her media experience includes work for Nine PBS in St. Louis and KPCC in Southern California. Listen to hear about how she’s approaching the role as host of STLPR’s flagship show.

Normandy third graders wrote an opera — and they’re putting ‘the wolf’ on trial Nov 29, 2022

Opera Theatre of St. Louis is on a mission to introduce opera to younger audiences. This year they connected with third grade students from Jefferson Elementary in the Normandy Schools Collaborative to write an original libretto that they’ll perform Tuesday night. Opera Theatre of St. Louis teaching artist Valerie Smith and Normandy Schools Collaborative’s fine arts director Suzanne Palmer discuss their collaboration along with St. Louis Symphony Orchestra.

Bobby Bostic embraces freedom — and the judge who sentenced him to 241 years Nov 28, 2022

On November 9, Bobby Bostic walked out of the Algoa Correctional Center in Jefferson City. Outside the gates, he embraced retired judge Evelyn Baker, who in 1997 sentenced Bostic to an astonishing prison term: 241 years. Without a chance for parole, the sentence effectively doomed Bostic to death behind bars. But that’s not what happened. After his release on November 9, Bostic discusses the path of his unlikely freedom, which included a reunion, and forgiveness, for the judge who sentenced him to more than two centuries’ imprisonment.

Legal Roundtable: The legal battle for the life of Kevin Johnson Nov 23, 2022

Seventeen years after killing a Kirkwood Police officer, Kevin Johnson has been given a date with the executioner. He’s scheduled to die by lethal injection Nov. 29. Now he’s making what’s likely his final plea to avoid execution. The special prosecutor on his case now wants the Missouri Supreme Court to put a halt to his death sentence. Analyzing the case is our Legal Roundtable of expert attorneys: Mark Smith, a former associate vice chancellor and Dean at Washington University; Erin Lueker, previously a public defender for St. Louis County and a prosecuting attorney for the state of Missouri; and Erin Banks, former St. Louis City Counselor.

‘Jack Taylor: The Enterprise’ tells story of WWII pilot and bold entrepreneur Nov 23, 2022

Andy Taylor, son of Enterprise Holdings founder Jack Taylor, talks about ‘Jack Taylor: The Enterprise’ documentary and his father’s life and legacy.

How to navigate family dynamics and political disagreements this Thanksgiving Nov 22, 2022

Clinical psychologist Dr. Marva Robinson discusses how to navigate complex family dynamics and hot button topics that may come up during gatherings this holiday season.

In 2014, Twitter helped tell the #Ferguson story. St. Louisans are concerned about its future Nov 21, 2022

Elon Musk’s recent acquisition of Twitter has users of the social media platform bracing for the app’s downfall. In St. Louis, activists and journalists that have been heavy users of Twitter since the police shooting death of Michael Brown, Jr. are concerned about the future of the app and the potential loss of how everyday people could lose power in social movements. Action St. Louis co-founder and executive director Kayla Reed and New York Times bestselling author Sarah Kendzior discuss how Twitter has shaped the narrative about St. Louis, the Ferguson uprising, and the ways social media impacts policy.

Megan Green's priorities as president of the St. Louis Board of Aldermen Nov 21, 2022

Megan Green was sworn in as St. Louis Board of Aldermen President on Friday. She joins us today to discuss her priorities and agenda for the next five months she will serve in the position.

Using Rams settlement for regional projects gains plaudits and criticism Nov 21, 2022

Roughly a year after a landmark settlement over the St. Louis Rams’ departure to Los Angeles, the parties involved in the lawsuit still haven’t agreed how to split up more than $500 million. STLPR Political Correspondent Jason Rosenbaum discusses what's next including an idea to place the funds into something resembling an endowment — an idea that’s gotten a mixed reaction from policymakers.

Court-watchers in St. Louis raise alarm at no-bail trend Nov 18, 2022

A new report from the Freedom Community Center compiles data from a year of bail hearings, which it describes as “the front door to the criminal punishment system.” In April, Freedom Community Center released its first six-month report, finding that judges in the 22nd Circuit Court opted to deny release for 57% of. The full report, released today, evaluated more than 1,000 bail hearings over the course of a full year: It found judges reject bond in 62% of cases. Freedom Community Center Operations Manager Patrick Sullivan discusses the new report, and shares his insight on the impact “no bail” rulings have on the people forced to wait for trial behind bars.

Her doctors told her she needed an abortion. Missouri law told her to go away. Nov 18, 2022

A Missouri woman who was denied an abortion prompted an unprecedented federal investigation into whether a hospital violated the law by failing to provide her medical care. Farmer’s story was first told by reporter Susan Szuch of Springfield News-Leader, who discusses the case alongside attorney Michelle Banker, the director of reproductive rights and health litigation at the National Women’s Law Center, and who represents Farmer.

‘Free Chol Soo Lee’ screening offers connection to little-known history Nov 18, 2022

In the early 1970s, Chol Soo Lee, a Korean American immigrant, was falsely convicted for a San Francisco Chinatown murder and later sentenced to death. Activists led by a Korean American journalist and college students initiated a pan-Asian American movement to exonerate Lee. This largely unknown piece of history is the focus of the 2022 documentary film “Free Chol Soo Lee.” Liz Lenivy, attorney and Gateway Korea Foundation board member, joins the show to talk about the one-night screening in St. Louis.

Soccer fans celebrate chilly CityPark debut with match between St. Louis City 2 and Leverkusen Nov 17, 2022

Wednesday marked a milestone for St. Louis’ soccer fans, as thousands packed CityPark, the newest stadium in St. Louis and home to the latest MLS expansion team, which begins play in February. STLPR's Jeremy D. Goodwin and Wayne Pratt discuss CityPark's debut that featured an international exhibition.

Remembering gay country icon Patrick Haggerty and his St. Louis comeback Nov 17, 2022

In 1973, just a few years after coming out as gay, Patrick Haggerty and his band Lavender Country recorded their self-titled album. It would take more than 40 years for music lovers, and a record label, to rediscover “Lavender Country,” and for it to be recognized as the first openly gay country album. But it was a second country musician, St. Louis songwriter Jack Grelle, who helped propel him back into the spotlight he deserved. Grelle joins the show to remember Patrick Haggerty, who passed away in October after a stroke.

How Eric Schmitt might make his mark in a divided Congress Nov 17, 2022

STLPR correspondent Jason Rosenbaum discusses Senator-elect Eric Schmitt's official foray into the world of federal policymaking.

Long COVID is in your head… and it’s very real Nov 16, 2022

Researchers are still learning and discovering what happens after someone has COVID-19 and what recovery looks like. Lasting effects of the viral infection are dubbed ‘long COVID’ by those experiencing mysterious conditions that linger well after harsh coughs subdue and fevers lower. Dr. Ziyad Al-Aly, clinical epidemiologist at the VA St. Louis Health Care System and Washington University’s School of Medicine, discusses his latest long COVID research.

Exploring Afrofuturism in St. Louis with David Kirkman’s sci-fi epic ‘Underneath’ Nov 16, 2022

St. Louis filmmaker David Kirkman, co-founder of the Black Speculative Arts Movement Reynaldo Anderson, and multi-disciplinary creative Dacia Polk discuss the rising interest in Afrofuturism and why St. Louis is uniquely positioned to be a hub of Afrofuturist creativity.

Smidley, AKA Conor Murphy of Foxing, travels through hell in new album Nov 15, 2022

Smidley’s new album, "Here Comes The Devil" is Foxing vocalist Conor Murphy’s first solo album since his 2017 self-titled debut. It was released on Friday. He discusses the album, its influences and what Smidley allows him to explore outside of his work with Foxing.

Missouri allows some disabled workers to earn less than $1 an hour. The state says it's fine if that never changes Nov 15, 2022

ProPublica Local Reporting Network and the Kansas City Beacon released a new investigation into Missouri employment centers for disabled adults. Employees of these centers, or ‘sheltered workshops,’ are paid $4 an hour on average. The author of the report Madison Hopkins discusses why Missouri workshops have such low success rates and why state officials refuse to change the program.

Federal ruling takes on STL County police use ‘wanteds’ instead of warrants Nov 15, 2022

Seven years ago, the Department of Justice called out St. Louis County police for detaining people without a warrant. Now, a federal appeals court says that system is “fraught” with constitutional risk. So, why do local police keep doing it? Maureen Hanlon, the Lead Attorney for Civil Rights Litigation at ArchCity Defenders, discusses the case, and the various ways the federal appeals court attacked the “wanteds” system — even while upholding its legality.

How a survivor-run nonprofit tackles sexual harassment in St. Louis’ service industry Nov 15, 2022

In the summer of 2020, several St. Louis women took to social media to share serious allegations about safety at restaurants, bars and a tattoo parlor in the city’s Grove neighborhood. Sam Hunerlach later founded St. Louis Against Sexual Assault to help train local bars and restaurants on how to prevent sexual harrassment and assault and make their establishments safe for patrons and staff.

Neighborhood groups in St. Louis try to acquire vacant properties or get owners to fix them up Nov 14, 2022

There are almost 25,000 vacant houses, commercial buildings and land plots in St. Louis, and about 60% are privately owned. Some nuisance properties can be a blight on communities.. STLPR reporter Chad Davis talks about how neighborhood associations have been trying to acquire them or compel owners to fix them.

Smaller-brained birds shrink in response to climate change, Wash U study finds Nov 14, 2022

In the past four decades, smaller-brained birds have been shrinking, but a Wash U study finds that’s less true of their bigger-brained counterparts. We revisit Sarah Fenske's February 2022 conversation with study co-author Justin Baldwin about what’s driving the changes, as well as his passion for birds both as a researcher and bird watcher.

Young athletes in St. Louis carry the legacy of Martin L. Mathews Nov 11, 2022

Martin L. Mathews, the co-founder of the Mathews-Dickey Boys and Girls Club in St. Louis, died this week at 97. Matthews spoke with former host Sarah Fenske in 2020. We re-visit this conversation to honor his memory.

In searing poetry, Jacqui Germain revisits Ferguson protests in ‘Bittering the Wound’ Nov 10, 2022

St. Louis poet and journalist Jacqui Germain’s debut full-length poetry collection, “Bittering the Wound,” takes readers back to the tear gas-choked nights of the Ferguson protests. Germain was there in 2014 — marching with others down West Florissant in the aftermath of the death of Michael Brown. She discusses her new collection, and, what it means to write “to” Ferguson, instead of “about” it.

‘Where Black Stars Rise’ turns Eldritch horror on its head Nov 10, 2022

Eldritch horror is a genre of fiction inspired by the writings of H.P. Lovecraft, among other authors, in the early 20th century. Unlike the genre’s forefathers, however, today’s Eldritch authors — like St. Louis creator Marie Enger — shed underlying themes of xenophobia and racism for modern stories that are inclusive.

Bob McCulloch’s most lasting legacy may be his insistence on the death penalty Nov 10, 2022

Bob McCullough stood out among prosecutors nationally for his success getting the death penalty for defendants he prosecuted. He’s been out of office since 2019 but three of the 23 people he sent to death row are scheduled for execution in coming months. Ryan Krull has a deep dive into Bob McCullough’s legacy published this week in the Riverfront Times. It is part of a series exploring the death penalty in St. Louis County called “Shadow of Death” sponsored by River City Journalism Fund.

Takeaways from Missouri’s biggest election winners, including Megan Green Nov 09, 2022

Dive into the results of the November 8 election with St. Louis Public Radio political correspondent Jason Rosenbaum and UMSML political science professor Anita Manion. They recap all the dramatic campaign developments, from Eric Schmitt to legal cannabis to Sam Page. We also hear from newly elected Board of Aldermen President Megan Green, who discussed her win on Tuesday and the challenges facing the city's government.

Mississippi Nights’ 30-year history celebrated in new book Nov 09, 2022

From 1976 to 2007, thousands of bands performed at Mississippi Nights on Laclede’s Landing. AC/DC played their ninth American concert there in 1977. Nirvana performed its only St. Louis concert at the music club in 1991. Local bands such as the Urge, Pale Divine and Uncle Tupelo were there too. We talk with Stacy and Garrett Enloe who have written the new book, “Mississippi Nights: A History of The Music Club in St. Louis.”

Literary Death Match will feature four St. Louis writers in a rowdy competition Nov 09, 2022

At Literary Death Match, writers compete in a competitive, humor-centric reading series. After more than 500 such events across the country (and the world), the event finally makes its way to St. Louis November 10. Creator Adrian Todd Zuniga and author Deborah Jackson-Taffa discuss Literary Death Match’s origins and mission.

In 1972, activists unveiled St. Louis’ Veiled Prophet. A new play tells their story Nov 08, 2022

One of the most audacious protests in St. Louis history is the inspiration behind a new play chronicling the efforts of the activist group ACTION — which in 1972 sent members to infiltrate the Veiled Prophet ball. That operation, which dramatically unveiled that year’s Veiled Prophet, is among the subjects of the play “Action,” opening November 11. Director Kathryn Bentley and actor Miles Brenton discuss bringing the dramatic true stories of “Action” to life.

Expanded St. Louis Holocaust museum explores history of hate, and how to combat it today Nov 07, 2022

Antisemitic rhetoric and violence is on the rise. The Anti-Defamation League tracks antisemitic incidents in the U.S. ranging from graffiti to assault and it have reported that incidents have been on the rise and climbing since 2016. Now they’re at the highest level since the ADL started tracking in the 1970s. Arts and culture senior reporter Jeremy D. Goodwin talks with Helen Turner, director of education at the St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum, to talk about the museum's redesign and reopening to the public as well as the importance of sharing the stories and history of the Holocaust and its connection to St. Louis and its citizens.

Dances of India celebrates 45 years of teaching traditional Indian dance in St. Louis Nov 07, 2022

Nartana Premachandra’s parents founded Dances of India in St. Louis in 1977. Forty-five years later, the dance company is one of the oldest classical Indian dance groups in the country. Premachandra and Dances of India Co-Director Theckla Mehta discuss this year’s annual performance and the Hindu mythology that inspires their dances.

How St. Louisans are digging in to alternatives to conventional burials Nov 04, 2022

Death is scary, uncomfortable, and expensive. More families are looking for alternatives to the conventional method of being buried in a casket and looking toward more cost effective and eco-friendly options. Tim Johnson of Foundation Cremation and Gracie Griffin of Bellefontaine Cemetery discuss these alternatives and the conversations they’re having with families as they lay their loved ones to rest.

B-movie lovers find home at St. Louis cinema where Nic Cage is king Nov 04, 2022

Arkadin Cinema opened in St. Louis’ Bevo Mill neighborhood in June 2020. Other local theaters were closing during the pandemic — but not Arkadin. The microcinema has grown a cult following with its monthly Drinkolas Cage events. Co-owners Keith Watson and Sarah Baraba talk about their big plans for the future, and we bring you the sounds of last month’s Drinkolas Cage event.

How Amendment 5 would change Missouri’s National Guard Nov 04, 2022

On November 8, voters in Missouri will face Amendment 5, which asks them: “Shall the Missouri National Guard currently under the Missouri Department of Public Safety be its own department, known as the Missouri Department of the National Guard, which shall be required to protect the constitutional rights and civil liberties of Missourians?” Its supporters include former Missouri National Guard Adjutant General Steve Danner. One opponent is St. Louis Democratic Representative Peter Merideth, who worries that the amendment is creating a new mission statement for the organization.

33 years later, a reunion of queer musical ‘Some of my best friends are’ still shines Nov 03, 2022

In 1989, the groundbreaking musical “Some of my best friends are” hit the St Louis theater scene, becoming the first example of queer culture being openly depicted on a St. Louis stage. More than 30 years later, on October 20, much of the original cast reunited for a one-night reunion performance. The play’s writer and co-creator, Joan Lipkin, reflects on the legacy of the production, and what connections she draws between the play’s world of 1989 and today. We also listen to clips of the musical’s songs “Hoosier Boy” and “There’s a judge in my bedroom,” and we hear from Rodney Wilson, who attended the play as an audience member in 1989 and 2022.

‘Education, Interrupted’ brings light to a St. Louis mom’s pandemic story Nov 03, 2022

With her new documentary, “Education, Interrupted,” Aisha Sultan encourages audiences to reflect on the ways the coronavirus pandemic radically disrupted learning and children’s development. The film is featured in this year’s St. Louis International Film Festival.

Midterm elections: Listen to the STLPR politics team discuss the big races and issues Nov 02, 2022

Voters in Missouri and Illinois go to the polls on Tuesday to cast their ballots. We spoke with STLPR journalists Jason Rosenbaum and Sarah Kellogg about the major races and issues.

Kevin Johnson's first death row interview, with RFT's Monica Obradovic and Sarah Fenske Nov 02, 2022

No county in Missouri has sent more people to the executioner than St. Louis County. Eighteen men sentenced through the county circuit since 1976 have been given the ultimate punishment. Another six people currently sit on death row. Kevin Johnson is among them, and, on November 29, he is scheduled for execution. In his first-ever interview with a reporter, he spoke with the RFT's Monica Obradovic, who shares what she learned from Johnson in what may be his final months alive. - Executive Editor at Euclid Media Group Sarah Fenske also returns to the show to discuss "Shadow of Death," a series of investigative stories exploring Missouri's death penalty, and to introduce the River City Journalism Fund.

Love Bank Park on Cherokee Street will get some TLC next spring Nov 02, 2022

What was once an empty lot, Love Bank Park on Cherokee Street has been an active gathering place for the community for years. Now, the park is undergoing a community led redevelopment. Cherokee community members join St. Louis on the Air to discuss the reasons for the redevelopment, as well as Cherokee Community Improvement District vice chair Kaveh Razani. We also address the question of whether this redevelopment contributes to gentrification in St. Louis.

Scott Joplin House stages comeback after break-in hits St. Louis museum Nov 01, 2022

Scott Joplin — popularly known as the “King of Ragtime”— lived at 2658 A Morgan Street 120 years ago. Plenty has changed since then: Morgan Street was renamed Delmar and the modest apartment and adjacent buildings were transformed into the Scott Joplin House State Historic Site. Since 1991, the museum exhibits have kept Joplin’s music and legacy alive. Cookie Jordan, site administrator at Scott Joplin House State Historic Site, dives into Joplin’s time in St. Louis, his experience being a musician in America at the turn of the century, and the many discoveries still left to unearth about this legend of music.

Witches, rituals and reconnecting with heritage on Halloween Oct 31, 2022

Halloween conjures images of ghouls, goblins, ghosts and other spooky creatures. Every year it’s inevitable that you’ll see a child, or adult, dressed up as a witch complete with a broom and pointy hat. But for Jade Moore, the owner of Sincerely, the Craft, mysticism is more than a trend — it’s a connection to heritage.

‘The Raven’ gets new life with this chilling rendition Oct 31, 2022

As a Halloween treat, historical interpreter and Kirkwood resident Anne Williams gives a powerful performance of “The Raven” by Edgar Allan Poe. Producer Avery Rogers accompanies Williams’ performance with chilling sound design that is sure to send shivers down your spine.

Planned Parenthood to expand reproductive care in rural Missouri with Rolla clinic Oct 30, 2022

Beginning Tuesday, Planned Parenthood will take over the former Tri-Rivers Family Planning center in Rolla. The Title X health center will offer contraceptives, pregnancy tests and other reproductive health services to residents throughout Missouri. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Colleen McNicholas and nurse practitioner Hailey Kramer discuss their hopes for the new center.

FBI background check blocked CVPA shooter from buying a gun. Then he found a private seller Oct 28, 2022

Two schools remain closed in St. Louis in the aftermath of Monday’s deadly shooting. Some attention has turned to the shooter, and the weapon he used in carrying out this attack, which left two dead, a health teacher and a 15-year-old student. STLPR reporter Rachel Lippmann talks about the latest information.

It’s a church. It’s a community development corporation. It aims to rebuild JeffVanderLou Oct 28, 2022

The Tabernacle Church is more than a church. In 2014, leaders there created the Tabernacle Community Development Corporation, which went on to purchase dozens of vacant properties around the JeffVanderLou neighborhood in north St. Louis. Andre Alexander, the church’s lead pastor and president of the non-profit, discusses combining faith and community development, and, what a $1.5 million rehab of a former elementary school will bring to the neighborhood.

At ‘UnMasc,’ St. Louis men challenge toxic masculinity one story at a time Oct 27, 2022

Toxic masculinity can be described easily: Destructive emotions, misogynistic comments and views, avoiding vulnerability. But what could healthy masculinity look like? ‘UnMasc: A Storytelling Event’ will feature experiences and reflections by 10 men as they take a step back to evaluate moments in their lives in front of an audience. Bryant Antione of The Village PATH and James Meinert of Undo Bias Consulting preview the event and discuss how they are learning to detoxify what it means to “be a man.”

How AG Schmitt's lawsuit is using the First Amendment to get to Dr. Fauci Oct 26, 2022

In one of several high-profile lawsuits targeting the Biden administration, Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt contends that Dr. Anthony Fauci and other government officials worked with social media companies to suppress misinformation about COVID-19 — and in a ruling last week a federal judge approved depositions of the physician and others, including former White House press secretary Jen Psaki. Attorneys Nicole Gorovsky, Connie McFarland-Butler and Bevis Schock tackle the case, and several more, during our Legal Roundtable.

The latest on the school shooting in south St. Louis. Here’s what we know Oct 25, 2022

St. Louis remains in mourning as details of yesterday’s school shooting further reveal the trauma experienced by students, staff and their families. In this episode, we talk with STLPR reporter Rachel Lippmann about the latest news involving this tragedy, and we open the segment with the sounds and voices of a vigil held for the victims on Monday night.

'There is help available' says St. Louis psychologist Oct 25, 2022

Clinical psychologist Marva Robinson shares tools and resources for people dealing with trauma from the Central Visual and Performing Arts High School shooting.

BioSTL got startups to bet on St. Louis. Now it wants the world to join in Oct 25, 2022

Founded as a response to St. Louis’ “stagnation” in 2001, BioSTL has spent more than two decades fostering high-tech startups in medicine and agriculture. Donn Rubin, founding president and CEO BioSTL, discusses the origin of BioSTL, its success stories, and the upcoming Trilateral AgriFood Symposium with Israel and the United Arab Emirates.

As Jana Elementary students begin virtual learning, environmentalists call for better cleanup of radioactive waste Oct 24, 2022

Environmentalists and parents of Jana Elementary students are concerned about a study that shows radioactive contamination from World War II-era nuclear waste in nearby Coldwater Creek. STLPR education reporter Kate Grumke, Missouri Coalition for the Environment Executive Director Jared Opsal and Community Outreach Specialist Christen Commusso discuss what’s next — and steps the Army Corps of Engineers should take to reverse the damage.

UnLocked Labs co-founders say STEM education is key to curbing recidivism Oct 24, 2022

Jessica Hicklin served 26 years in a maximum security facility for a murder she committed at 16-years-old. While incarcerated, Hicklin taught herself to code and worked on building skills she could utilize once out of prison. Now, nine months after her release, she's excited to bring that same opportunity to others with UnLocked Labs, which she cofounded with Haley Shoaf.

Teacher, student killed in shooting at Central Visual and Performing Arts. Gunman dead. Oct 24, 2022

A student and a teacher were killed Monday morning at Central Visual & Performing Arts High School in south St. Louis. Police also shot and killed the 19-year-old suspect. We talk with STLPR Education Reporter Kate Grumke and Midwest Newsroom Managing Editor Holly Edgell about this breaking news story.

How a St. Louis physicist paved the way for quantum mechanics 100 years ago Oct 21, 2022

One hundred years ago, physicist Arthur Holly Compton made his Nobel prize-winning discovery related to X-rays at Washington University in St. Louis. Erik Henriksen, an associate professor of physics at Washington University, shares how Compton’s discovery paved the way for quantum mechanics and modern day astrophysics.

TCE pollution kept secret from Missouri residents for decades Oct 21, 2022

People living near a company that did work for the Navy had no idea that a toxic solvent, disposed of improperly, had made its way into their drinking water – until a public apology from the state in 2019. Reporters Eric Schmid and Steve Vockrodt discuss their investigation into how and why this happened.

Tower Grove Park’s 150th anniversary commemorated in new book Oct 21, 2022

In 1872, the Missouri Republican newspaper heralded the arrival of St. Louis' newest park beneath the headline: "A New Lung to the City." Now, Tower Grove Park is celebrating its 150th anniversary. Local author Amanda Doyle joins the show. Her new book is “Tower Grove Park: Common Ground & Grateful Shade Since 1872.”

In life, everything is Zen. Daigaku Rumme hopes more St. Louisans embrace it Oct 14, 2022

Can you gain mindfulness from an app? Enlightenment from a smartphone? That may work for some people, but, for Daigaku Rumme, a Zen master and teacher at the Confluence Zen Center in St. Louis, the journey was one measured in decades of study and devotion. After living as a Zen monk in Japan, Rumme says the wisdom of Zen is as relevant today as it ever was. Rumme joins St. Louis on the Air to discuss mindfulness, apps, and tips for staying in the present.

Fed up with more studies, cyclists urge St. Louis leaders to to stop traffic violence Oct 14, 2022

A group of cyclists hopes a recent satirical installation on South Grand brings attention to the issue of pedestrian safety in St. Louis. Cyclist Sean Milford describes the actions he wants to see local leaders take to reduce traffic violence in the region.

Death positive meet-ups provide safe spaces for taboo topics Oct 14, 2022

Societal norms condition us to fear death and avoid grief, but local groups like the STL Death Cafe and St. Louis’ first End of Life Festival encourage people to lean into such topics. The host of STL Death Cafe, Tracy Gomillion, and grief educator Eileen Wolfington talk about destigmatizing the taboo of talking about death, dying and grief.

Critics call Granite City's evictions 'collective punishment.' A judge calls them legal Oct 07, 2022

For years, the Metro East town of Granite City mandated evictions against entire households in response to any arrest, even against a guest or family member. Critics of Granite City’s crime-free housing ordinance say they will continue to oppose it, despite a recent ruling by a federal judge upholding the controversial law. Sam Gedge, an attorney with the Institute for Justice, discusses the group’s civil rights lawsuit over the ordinance. Also joining is Debi Brumit, who faced an eviction order after her daughter was arrested in Granite City, and Kevin Link, a former Granite City landlord who opposes the ordinance.

With ‘The Forerunner,’ Cori Bush shows trauma ‘does not define who you will be’ Oct 07, 2022

In her new memoir, Congresswoman Cori Bush recalls early life lessons about segregation and discrimination in St. Louis and her experience as a survivor of domestic and sexual assault. The book details Bush’s life from her childhood in north St. Louis County to the night of her primary victory in 2020 that made her Missouri’s first Black congresswoman-elect. She reflects on the book’s content, and the process of writing it, in this episode.

Episode 3: 'Doin' It Our Way' Oct 01, 2022

Shalon Gates has been homeschooling her four kids off and on for more than a decade in Ferguson. Academically, all of her kids are thriving in her classroom. But some of her kids are ready to close this chapter for good. -- We're proud to bring you this guest podcast: the third and final episode of "Doin' It Our Way" with STLPR's Marissanne Lewis-Thompson. To listen to all "Doin' It Our Way" episodes right now, search for the podcast on this podcast platform.

Shock and sadness follow the announcement that 2 Catholic high schools will close Sep 30, 2022

Rosati-Kain High School and St. Mary's High School in St. Louis are slated for closure at the end of the school year. The announcement from St. Louis Archbishop Mitchell Rozanski stunned many in the community. In this episode, we talk with STLPR reporter Kate Grumke about this news and efforts by some to keep the schools open.

Cultivating a village to support young Black men and boys in St. Louis Sep 30, 2022

Black men and boys are often blamed for rising crime in St. Louis, including the current “Kia Boyz” trend linked to hundreds of car thefts in the region. But lack of resources is a key factor, says Sean Joe, founder and Principal Director of HomeGrown StL. Joe joins the show to discuss the need for greater support for young Black men and boys. We also hear from Kaelan Mayfield, a former worker at a juvenile detention facility, who shares his experience trying to help young people at risk for recidivism.

‘Cautionary Tales’ flips the script on classic Disney villains Sep 30, 2022

Author Ridley Pearson has his name stamped in St. Louis’ Walk of Fame, but his imagination soars when it comes to Disney villains. Ridley discusses his latest book, “Cautionary Tales,” a collection of scary stories featuring the baddest, most evil personalities from the Disney canon — and in ways even the biggest Disney fans won’t expect.

Episode 2: 'Doin' It Our Way' Sep 24, 2022

Miquilaue Young always intended to home-school her seven kids. More than a decade into her home-schooling journey, the kids are fully immersed in their tailor-made school experience. It’s something Miquilaue wishes she had. -- We're proud to bring you this guest podcast: the second episode of "Doin' It Our Way" with STLPR's Marissanne Lewis-Thompson. To listen to all "Doin' It Our Way" episodes right now, search for the podcast on this podcast platform.

How Gary Muehlberg was revealed as St. Louis’ ‘Package Killer’ Sep 23, 2022

In the early 1990s, a series of grotesque murders terrorized St. Louis. The serial killer became known as the “Package Killer'' for the manner in which the victims’ bodies were abandoned. Then the killer seemingly disappeared, until this week, when prosecutors charged Gary Muehlberg with multiple counts of murder. In this episode, we hear from the detective who stayed on the case and the reporter who brought new attention to its details.

Introducing: 'Doin’ It Our Way' Sep 17, 2022

At the start of the pandemic, Black families chose to homeschool five times more than any other racial group in the U.S. In the first of three episodes of "Doin’ It Our Way," STLPR's Marissanne Lewis-Thompson explores why more Black parents in St. Louis are ditching traditional schools and taking a chance on themselves. -- We're proud to bring you this guest podcast. To listen to all "Doin' It Our Way" episodes right now, search for the podcast on this podcast platform.

Why some Black parents are choosing to home-school Sep 16, 2022

For years, Black parents frustrated by traditional schools have been pulling their children out of classrooms to educate them at home — and that decision is becoming more common. St. Louis Public Radio's new podcast Doin' It Our Way explores why Black families in the St. Louis region are choosing to home-school. Host and STLPR newscaster Marissanne Lewis-Thompson joins SLOTA to talk about the process of reporting the new podcast, and what she's learned about how these families are managing to do education — their way.

'Beautiful symmetry': Lifted by hometown heroes, Cardinals soar toward playoffs Sep 16, 2022

With a commanding lead in National League Central, the Cardinals are marching toward the playoffs. Benjamin Hochman, sports columnist for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, discusses the 2022 season so far and where the team might be headed in coming weeks.

A St. Louis company monetizes the online misinformation market Sep 16, 2022

A growing St. Louis startup, Decide Technologies, is extensively tied to disinformation websites, including the likes of the Gateway Pundit, which is also based in St. Louis. Reporter Paul Wagman discusses his investigation into Decide, and how the startup's business model is funding and profiting from websites across the "alt right" spectrum.

How private police forces in St. Louis make security a luxury of the rich Sep 09, 2022

St. Louis has a police problem. In some of its wealthiest neighborhoods, uniformed police officers, riding in SUVs marked “police,” are being offered bonuses for investigating crimes and arresting criminals. But the offers aren’t coming from their department, but from a private security company called The City’s Finest. That’s just one of the details uncovered in an investigation published in ProPublica this week by St. Louis-based reporter Jeremy Kohler. Kohler joins St. Louis on the Air to discuss his findings, and what the spread of these private security forces says about the state of policing in St. Louis.

With baby animals in need, Wildlife Rescue Center opens its doors to the public Sep 09, 2022

After three challenging years, Wildlife Rescue Center in Ballwin, Missouri invites the public to their first open house since 2019. Executive director Kim Rutledge explains how extreme storms, COVID-19, and avian flu impacted the rescue center, and why it is especially important to see the center in action right now.

Basketball courts are coming to St. Louis’ largest parks. Why is it taking so long? Sep 09, 2022

After years of outcry, new basketball courts are scheduled to make their debut next year in St. Louis’ two largest parks: Forest Park and Tower Grove Park. It’s not easy to find basketball hoops in St. Louis’ parks, and many people think that’s by design — to keep Black youth out of seemingly wealthier neighborhoods. And, in Forest Park, plans to build courts seem stuck in a nine-step process. In this special episode, producer Miya Norfleet talks with St. Louisans and park leadership about how access to basketball courts tells the story of St. Louis’ past and hopes for the future.

Kia Boyz are fast. St. Louisans are furious. Sep 02, 2022

“Kia Boyz” are trending on social media, and that trend has hit St. Louis’ streets. Sgt. Tracy Panus of St. Louis County Police Department joins St. Louis on the Air to provide an update on the official response to the rash of thefts targeting Kia and Hyundai cars. She also shares advice on what motorists can do to protect their property.

To defend its animal shelter, St. Louis County tried to silence its critics Sep 02, 2022

This summer, St. Louis County tried to obtain a “gag order” against a lawyer suing its animal shelter. That attorney, Mark Pedroli, discusses his lawsuits against the shelter — and why the county sought to silence him. We also hear from Mandy Zatorski, who was fired from her manager position at the shelter in 2020. Zatorski argues that the shelter hasn’t improved since then, and cautions that privatizing the shelter could only cover up the problems instead of solving them.

Belleville native Miles Brenton stars in world premiere of ‘The Bee Play’ Sep 02, 2022

Next week, St. Louis’ New Jewish Theatre will open the world premiere of “The Bee Play”. The play addresses climate change through the eyes of Carver Washington, a young beekeeper in the Bronx. St. Louis musician and actor Miles Brenton joins St. Louis On The Air to discuss his experience as the first actor to bring Carver Washington to the stage.

‘Dangerous Women’ exhibit highlights St. Louis’ role in the labor movement’s early days Aug 26, 2022

“Dangerous Women” is a new exhibit that features two leaders of the labor movement, Fannie Sellins and Mary Harris Jones a.k.a. Mother Jones. The exhibit debuts 103 years after Sellins was killed at a labor strike in Pennsylvania. Mother Jones Heritage Project director Rosemary Feurer joins the show to share the impact St. Louis had on both women.

There's a new basketball court in St. Louis. Its funders were raided by the FBI Aug 26, 2022

Shortly before the newest basketball court in St. Louis was finished, the group who built it was raided by the FBI. The African People’s Socialist Party is accused of being linked to a Russian conspiracy to spread disinformation and promote Russian propaganda. The leaders of the party, Chairman Omali Yeshitela and Deputy Chair Ona Zené Yeshitela, respond to the allegations of conspiracy and explain what brought their group to St. Louis in the first place.

For most students in the St. Louis region, masks are optional this school year Aug 19, 2022

As teachers, kids, and parents head back to school, area districts are dealing with teacher and staff shortages. But it’s not all bad news — This is the first school year in which kids of all ages are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. Also, thanks to St. Louis voters, the city’s public schools will now have 160 million dollars to spend on building upgrades. Education reporter Kate Grumke talks about what back-to-school looks like this year.

Exploring the best Indian cuisine in St. Louis Aug 19, 2022

Finding quality Indian food in St. Louis is made easy with the help of Sauce Magazine Executive Editor Meera Nagarajan. Nagarajan gave us the rundown of her favorite Indian spots to find staples like naan and samosas.

Serving a 241-year sentence, Bobby Bostic found power in poetry Aug 19, 2022

Podcast Description: Bobby Bostic’s talents recently drew a crowd to a poetry reading of several works. The prolific writer and poet is serving a 241-year sentence in prison — a shocking punishment that has drawn attention from local and national criminal justice advocates. In November, Bostic will finally leave prison on parole. This episode features reflections from Bostic, and Ronnie Amiyn of the Freedom Community Center shares his own experience understanding the redeeming qualities of art in prison.

After decades of raw sewage floods, Illinois pledges $21 million to fix the problem Aug 12, 2022

In the Metro East city of Cahokia Heights, sewer and stormwater systems are often so full that raw sewage seeps into residents’ yards. The city has experienced chronic flooding for two decades, but on August 3, Illinois announced it would spend $21 million to finally fix the problem. Reacting to the news, we hear from resident Sheila Gladney and researcher José Constantine, an assistant professor of geosciences at Williams College.

FEMA arrives in a flooded St. Louis Aug 12, 2022

The floodwaters may be gone, but residents in the St. Louis region are still picking up the pieces after historic flooding in late July. In the weeks since, hundreds of flood victims were forced to wait hours at overcrowded aid centers. Now, more help is on the way: This week, teams from FEMA canvassed areas that were hit hard by extreme weather. STLPR reporter Jeremy Goodwin shares his observations from the first day of canvassing, and we hear from two flood victims about their needs as they wait for more resources.

STL Fringe Fest returns for their 11th year spotlighting local artists Aug 12, 2022

STL Fringe Fest spotlights stage acts that are far from the mainstream. In its 11th year, the festival boasts their largest playbill yet with over 40 acts scheduled in venues across St. Louis. St. Lou Fringe president and artistic director Matthew Kerns and comedian Mollie Ambrugey joins St. Louis on the Air to discuss the importance of uplifting local indie artists as audiences and performers return to theaters.

One year after escape, Afghan refugee Zamzama Safi builds new life in Missouri Aug 12, 2022

August 15 marks the one year anniversary of Zamzama Safi’s escape from Afghanistan. The former translator for U.S. forces discusses her new life in St. Peters, Missouri, and her continued worry for her family still living in Afghanistan.

How St. Louisans are struggling to regain normalcy in wake of flash floods Aug 05, 2022

People in the St. Louis region are still reeling from the effects of flash flooding last week. In this episode, we hear from those affected. Also, Kayla Reed of Action St. Louis speaks to the lessons learned from the disaster and how best to provide support to those still recovering from flood damage.

As Costco nears completion, eminent domain looms over University City residents Aug 05, 2022

For years, residents in University City believed a $190 million development wouldn’t force them to sell their homes through eminent domain. But in June, that’s exactly what developer Larry Chapman requested from the city council. Now, residents like Nichole Angieri are wondering if their homes are next. Bob’s Seafood founder Bob Mepham also joins the show to discuss how the same developer used eminent domain to close his business.

How early Egyptologists formed 'small, ephemeral communities' Aug 03, 2022

The study of ancient Egypt flourished in the late 1880s as archaeologists and historians sought to study the artifacts and tombs left behind. These early Egyptologists gathered in hotels to discuss what they found, creating “small, ephemeral communities,” writes Missouri University of Science and Technology history professor Kate Sheppard, who discusses her research and new book, “Tea on the Terrace.”

Analysis: Breaking down the results of the Missouri primary elections Aug 03, 2022

STLPR correspondents Jason Rosenbaum and Rachel Lippmann, and UMSL political scientist Anita Manion, dig into the results from Missouri’s primary elections and share insight on what’s likely in store for the general election in November.

Record breaking rainfall, flash flood leaves St. Louisans scrambling for aid Jul 27, 2022

St. Louis broke the record for the most rainfall ever recorded in a single day in the city on July 26. One person died. Hundreds of people, including Hazelwood resident Camila Cage, were rescued by first responders Tuesday morning. Cage joined St. Louis on the Air to discuss what she experienced as the waters rose. Also, St. Louis Public Radio reporter Sarah Fentem provided an update on the effects of the storm.

Anti-abortion organizers prepare for post-Roe realities in Missouri and Illinois Jul 23, 2022

Two local anti-abortion advocates heralded the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. But they say their work isn’t done even though abortions are illegal in almost all instances in Missouri. This conversation follows one earlier in the week with two abortion rights supporters. Editor’s Note: The guests claimed that “contraceptives can cause what’s called abortifacients,” a drug that causes an abortion. That’s not true. Contraceptives, including Plan B, do not cause an abortion. They prevent fertilization. Pregnancy only occurs when a fertilized egg has been implanted in the wall of the uterus. A guest also claimed that “for a woman to take contraception of any form, it is not healthy for her.” The medical community agrees that while there are some risks associated with birth control, “all methods of contraception are considered okay for healthy women.”

Women Missouri State Senators work across the aisle to improve childhood literacy Jul 22, 2022

The ability to read is fundamental to learning in all school subjects and every aspect of life. However, Missouri’s kids are ranked below 19 other states in fourth grade reading level. State Sen. Jill Schupp joined St. Louis on the Air to discuss what she and her fellow women State Senators are doing to support students that are struggling in reading, as well as a new children’s book she co-authored with every woman State Senator in Missouri’s history.

Terminal 5’s Muslim stand-up comics take to the stage in St. Louis Jul 22, 2022

Adil Qaisar is ready for take-off. On July 30, the local comedian and the Terminal 5 comedy tour lands in St. Louis, bringing a diverse set of comics and backgrounds to the stage. Qaisar discusses his approach to comedy, the difference between being “a comedian who is Muslim” and “a Muslim comedian,” and more.

Breaking down the candidates and issues of Missouri's August 2 election Jul 21, 2022

St. Louis Public Radio political correspondent and Politically Speaking podcast host Jason Rosenbaum breaks down the issues and challenges facing candidates in the upcoming Senate primary, as well as the race for the next St. Louis County Executive.

A St. Louis cop's 'reckless' detective work put innocent men in jail. He can’t be sued. Jul 20, 2022

On this month’s Legal Roundtable, attorneys Eric Banks, Brenda Talent and Sarah Swatosh tackle three fresh rulings from 8th Circuit Court of Appeals that all concern the ways “qualified immunity” can protect government officials from being sued. The attorneys also dig into the impact of Missouri’s abortion laws, the new (and fiercely disputed) Homer G. Phillips hospital, and more. Sarah Fenske returns as guest host.

DJ Alexis Tucci is in-demand. She’s also staying in St. Louis Jul 19, 2022

St. Louis-based DJ Alexis Tucci is in high demand throughout the country, her house music DJing has drawn a strong fanbase in the LGBTQ community. Tucci, a mother of two, Tucci talks about her career of nearly three decades — and what keeps her in St. Louis.

Reproductive freedom, abolition and trans rights are all entwined, organizers say Jul 19, 2022

In the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, abortion rights organizers in St. Louis are working hard to disrupt the momentum of the anti-abortion movement. In this episode, Kennedy Moore from Pro-Choice Missouri and Brianna Chandler from WashU discuss how the reproductive freedom movement, abolition, climate justice, and trans rights are all enmeshed and how their work aims to empower people to take action.

Fluffy GRL returns to St. Louis with pool party and empowerment Jul 18, 2022

Ten years after the first “Fluffy GRL summit,” Ebbi Nichole’s Fluffy GRL Movement continues to uplift body positivity... and having fun while doing it. Nichol discusses her founding of the movement, the rampant “miseducation” around body sizes, and next month’s “GRL Weekend” and pool party in St. Louis.

Tacos La Jefa takes center stage in 'We Live Here Auténtico!' Jul 18, 2022

Tacos La Jefa is in St. Louis' Dutchtown neighborhood. The family restaurant was the subject of a recent episode of St. Louis Public Radio's podcast, "We Live Here Auténtico!" The podcast focuses on Latino culture and identity in St. Louis and beyond. This story begins with the matriarch of the Amezcua family, Heriberta Amezcua, also known as La Jefa, “the boss."

Remembering the St. Louis Browns and their role in integrating Major League Baseball Jul 18, 2022

St. Louis was once home to two Major League Baseball teams. The St. Louis Browns signed Hank Thompson and Willard Brown in July 1947 making them the third and fourth Black American baseball players to cross the color barrier. This also made the St. Louis Browns the first MLB team to field two Black athletes. Historian and author Ed Wheatley joins St. Louis on the Air to share what this moment means to baseball history and the efforts to keep the history alive.

Phase 1 of Delmar Divine nears completion in St. Louis' West End neighborhood Jul 15, 2022

Delmar Divine is the brainchild of Build-A-Bear Workshop founder and philanthropist Maxine Clark. Occupying the site of the old St. Luke’s Hospital just north of Delmar Blvd. in St. Louis’ West End neighborhood, the project is Clark’s way to bridge the “Delmar Divide.” Delmar Divine Executive Director Jorge Riopedre and CEO/Founder of SoulFisher Ministries Shawntelle Fisher discuss how the effort is meeting the needs of local nonprofits and neighboring communities.

Thousands flock to Missouri Botanical Garden to smell Luna the corpse flower Jul 15, 2022

Like pollinators attracted to a flower, St. Louisans swarmed the Missouri Botanical Garden this week to smell "Luna," a 31-pound, six-foot corpse flower with a rare, rancid bloom. STLPR reporter Kate Grumpke was on the scene of the smells, and she reports what she experienced there.

SLU Hospital nurses blame management for hiring and retention woes Jul 14, 2022

SSM Health St. Louis University Hospital nurses say their departments are regularly understaffed and that hospital management has not done enough to address their concerns. National Nurses United union steward and SSM Health RN Sarah DeWilde and her recently retired colleague, RN Rita Reed, share how management can better support their work.

RFT report reveals firing of serial sexual harasser in St. Louis County jail Jul 14, 2022

A serial sexual harasser spent five years preying on coworkers in the St. Louis County Jail before his firing earlier this year. That’s just one component of an ongoing investigation by Riverfront Times staff writer Ryan Krull, who discusses the overlapping scandals at the embattled jail.

Night after night, a pastor brings hope to St. Louis’ streets Jul 13, 2022

From the dead of night to the early morning, Reverend Kenneth McKoy leads teams of pastors through dark St. Louis’ streets, seeking out people struggling with addiction, mental illness and homelessness. A new documentary, “Night Life,” tells his story. McKoy and the film's director, Seth Ferranti, discuss his ministry and the film before its July 17 premiere at the St. Louis International Film Festival.

New research bolsters broadband access in rural areas Jul 13, 2022

Even in 2022, many people in rural areas have little to no access to high speed broadband. Missouri S&T Assistant Professor Casey Canfield shares details from her research into the needs, risks and costs of connecting rural areas with internet speeds that city residents take for granted.

STL Planned Parenthood's Colleen McNicholas faces Congress Jul 13, 2022

On Tuesday, Dr. Colleen McNicholas, chief medical officer of Planned Parenthood in the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri, faced the Senate Judiciary Committee for a hearing on the impact of"Post-Roe America." McNicholas discusses the hearing and shares her eyewitness view of the end of abortion rights in Missouri.

Crumbling infrastructure leaks lead into Midwest water supply Jul 13, 2022

High levels of lead in the Midwest puts all residents, especially children, at risk. Missouri Independent reporter Allison Kite shares details from an ongoing investigation into the causes and risks of high lead levels in the Midwest.

The Space Force will track troops' fitness with wearable devices. Will it keep them healthier? Jul 12, 2022

Annual physical fitness tests have become a cornerstone of military life. Each service has its own take on the once-a-year assessment but the country’s newest military branch is ditching that model. STLPR reporter Eric Schmid talks about how the Space Force plans to use wearable fitness devices to track physical activity throughout the year.

Corruption-riddled St. Louis should move to professional management, says city manager Jul 11, 2022

Glendale City Administrator Benjamin DeClue says that the St. Louis region has “become a poster child for political corruption.” To solve that problem, he argues, St. Louis and St. Louis County should adopt a council-manager form of government.

High-speed police chases are deadly in St. Louis. NAACP leaders are calling for change Jul 08, 2022

In the wake of several recent fatalities caused by high speed vehicle pursuits in the St. Louis region, St. Louis City NAACP President Adolphus Pruitt calls for policy reform within the St. Louis and St. Louis County police departments.

Jason Kander's new book explores journey to 'post-traumatic growth' Jul 08, 2022

Roughly two years after he came close to unseating U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt, Jason Kander found himself checking into a Veterans Administration facility to get help for post-traumatic stress disorder and depression. A day later, he would go public about leaving electoral politics to tend to his mental health — a journey Kander recounts in vivid and often startling detail in his new book, “Invisible Storm: A Soldier’s Memoir of Politics and PTSD.”

NAACP leaders call for reform to reduce fatalities caused by high-speed police chases Jul 08, 2022

In the wake of several recent fatalities caused by high speed vehicle pursuits in the St. Louis region, St. Louis City NAACP President Adolphus Pruitt calls for policy reform within the St. Louis and St. Louis County police departments

The highest ranking Black woman with the St. Louis Police Department reflects on her career Jul 08, 2022

When Lt. Col. Rochelle Jones retired from the St. Louis police department last month, she was the highest-ranking Black woman in the department’s history. STLPR's Rachel Lippmann talks with Jones about her 39-year-career: how she rose through the ranks and about some of the opportunities and challenges she faced along the way.

‘For the Culture STL’ celebrates Black-owned businesses in St. Louis Jul 07, 2022

For the Culture STL began as the passion project of activist and protester Ohun Ashe. Four years later, the group is staging multiple summer events and boosting Black businesses in St. Louis. Ashe previews those events and reflects on her years-long efforts to support Black businesses in St. Louis.

Increased resignations fuel staffing challenges at St. Louis-area schools Jul 07, 2022

Many schools across the St. Louis area have more open positions than normal for this time of year. STLPR education reporter Kate Grumke joins the show to talk about why schools are faced with a shortage of teachers and support staff.

For Cuban chess player, coming to St. Louis was the right move Jul 06, 2022

Since the age of 11, Thalia Cervantes Landeiro has been winning national competitions in her home country Cuba and abroad. Now based in St. Louis, she shares how chess is part of her culture’s identity and the influence St. Louis has on the professional chess world.

A former Marine and police officer is teaching Black St. Louisans responsible gun ownership Jul 06, 2022

Chris Randall believes that anyone who wants to own a gun should receive proper training. In 2020, Randall founded Raider Defense Group. He’s trained about 75 people — particularly Black St. Louisans — how to be a responsible gun owner. Randall, a former police officer and U.S. Marine, joined the show in addition to one of his clients, Erica Alexander.

Remembering Minerva Lopez Montaigne, a pillar of the Cherokee Street community Jul 06, 2022

St. Louis lost a pillar of the Cherokee Street community in late June, when Minerva Lopez Montaigne passed away at the age of 60. Gabriela Ramirez Arellano, the co-host of “We Live Here Auténtico!” and others help celebrate Lopez Montaigne’s legacy.

After prison, a St. Louis actor returns to the stage in ‘Dontrell, Who Kissed the Sea” Jul 05, 2022

Olajuwon Davis had big dreams for the theater stage and movie screen, but his arrest during the Ferguson protests of 2014 led to headlines about the Black Panthers, the FBI and a foiled bomb plot. After six years in federal prison, Davis is a free man and back on stage in St. Louis with the Black Rep. Joined by Black Rep founder Ron Himes, Davis discusses his downfall, his time in prison, and his new roles in “Dontrell, Who Kissed the Sea.”

Report shines light on St. Louis County’s ‘fragmented’ and ‘inefficient’ 911 system Jul 05, 2022

An analysis of 911 calls in St. Louis County shows that few are about violent crime. That raises questions about who is really best-suited to respond. Karishma Furtado, senior director of data and research at Forward Through Ferguson, joins the show to talk about reimagining public safety.

Analysis: Parson calls for special session to cut Missouri income tax Jul 05, 2022

Jeremy D. Goodwin and Sarah Kellogg discuss proposed income tax cut.

With Fusia Fest, Larry Morris of iLLPHONiCS elevates St. Louis hip-hop Jul 01, 2022

Larry Morris, MC of the St. Louis hip-hop band iLLPHONiCS, established a new music festival to elevate rising hip-hop bands while introducing local audiences to the wide range of live hip-hop subgenres.

John Wood launches a bid for the U.S. Senate in Missouri as an independent Jul 01, 2022

Former U.S. Attorney John Wood has launched an independent bid for the U.S. Senate. Most recently, he served as the senior investigative counsel for the House Select Committee on the January 6th Attack. Steve Vockrodt, investigative editor for the Midwest Newsroom, breaks down what effects this could have on the race.

Cori Bush pushes Congress to pass abortion rights and end the filibuster Jul 01, 2022

Rep. Cori Bush sees several avenues to expand abortion rights at the federal level. After the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade and Missouri’s subsequent ban on most abortions, Bush wants Congress to codify abortion rights, expand the U.S. Supreme Court and repeal the Hyde Amendment.

After abortion ban, Missouri doctors grapple with the meaning of a ‘medical emergency’ Jun 30, 2022

In the wake of last week’s U.S. Supreme Court ruling that overturned Roe v. Wade and Missouri’s trigger law — which effectively bans most abortions in the state — OB-GYN Dr. Jeannie Kelly has concerns about how the new state law will affect gynecological and obstetrics care.

Science, history, and sound art coalesce in ‘Botanical Resonance’ exhibition Jun 30, 2022

A new Missouri Botanical Garden exhibition examines the relationship between sound and plants. Nezka Pfeifer, the curator of “Botanical Resonance: Plants and Sounds in the Garden,” will discuss how the new Stephen and Peter Sachs Museum exhibition reveals important things about how we interact with our environment.

From ‘Asian carp’ to ‘copi,’ an ugly fish gets an appetizing marketing makeover Jun 30, 2022

Asian carp has a new name — copi. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources poured hundreds of thousands of dollars into a rebranding effort and landed on the name “copi,” to reflect the copious amount of the fish that live in Midwestern rivers and streams. Harvest Public Media reporter Dana Cronin joins us to talk about this fish story.

Decades of abuse at Kanakuk evangelical camp leads reporter to St. Louis ministry Jun 29, 2022

A series of hard-hitting investigative stories exposed a decades-long history of abuse at an evangelical summer sports camp that hosts thousands of children every year. Journalist Nancy French describes what she found as she connected with victims, former campers, staffers and parents — as well as her efforts to trace a counselor fired for abuse to a St. Louis ministry.

Cardinals Hall of Famer Ted Simmons is a catch for St. Louis Art Museum Jun 29, 2022

Hall Of Famer Ted Simmons is an avid art collector along with his wife Maryanne Ellison Simmons. A new exhibition at the St. Louis Art Museum, “Catching The Moment,” is curated from the Simmons collection.

Analysis: Breaking down Illinois’ primary election results Jun 29, 2022

Trump-backed candidates prevailed in two key Illinois primary contests. Rep. Mary Miller bested Rep. Rodney Davis in Illinois’ 15th Congressional District. That race pitted two incumbents against one another. GOP gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey also emerged victorious by a large margin. NPR Illinois’ Hannah Meisel breaks down the results.

Missouri athletes set sights on Paralympics and powerlifting gold Jun 27, 2022

Para athletes from across North, South and Central America convene in St. Louis next week for the World Para Powerlifting Parapan American Open Championships. Missouri natives David Horvath and Brett Forbes discuss their love of powerlifting, what it takes to compete on Team USA, and their Paralympic dreams.

Post-Roe, ‘both parties are hoping to mobilize their voters’ says UMSL professor Jun 27, 2022

UMSL political scientist Anita Manion discusses the political ramifications of the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade.

Metro Transit sees results with health specialists along for the ride Jun 27, 2022

A pilot program putting teams of healthcare workers on Metro Transit is making a difference in Illinois. The program is also growing in St. Louis City and County. Chestnut Health’s Emily Schwaegel and Jim Wallis discuss new data and the challenge of reaching riders experiencing mental health crises or homelessness.

Post-Roe reality hits Missouri and Illinois Jun 24, 2022

In the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade, and the end of most abortions in Missouri, Jason Rosenbaum talks with STLPR health reporter Sarah Fentem, Republican Missouri Rep. Mary Elizabeth Coleman and Bonyen Lee-Gilmore of Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri.

Why Ste. Genevieve County residents are battling to stop a silica mine Jun 22, 2022

NexGen Silica hopes to locate a 249-acre mine next to residential homes and popular conservation areas, including Hawn State Park. Residents explain how they’re fighting to protect their health and water from the mine — and the precedent they hope to set for other places with silica deposits.

How Steve’s Hot Dogs began serving St. Louis’ official hot dog Jun 22, 2022

The St. Louis Board of Aldermen presented Steve's Hot Dogs with a resolution declaring its St. Louis hot dog as the “Official Hot Dog of St. Louis.” Owner Steve Ewing explains the impetus — and the inspiration.

Mayor Jones sees guidance from ARPA survey — and opportunity for change Jun 22, 2022

In her first one-on-one interview since the indictment of three city officials, St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones discusses results from the city’s ARPA survey, which sought input on spending the remaining $249 million allotment in COVID-19 relief funds. Jones also shares thoughts on the opportunity for incentive reform.

Why a Missouri couple’s car sex may have Geico on the hook for $5.2 million Jun 21, 2022

The Legal Roundtable discusses a high-profile case that could see Geico paying millions after a Missouri woman had sex in a car, as well as a lawsuit filed by a graduate student alleging Southern Illinois University Edwardsville wrongly ordered her to stay away from her classmates, and more.

Story Stitchers continue to ‘Pick the City Up’ for Juneteenth Jun 17, 2022

For nine years, the St. Louis Story Stitchers have told stories from their lives using rap, rhythm, spoken word, singing, and dance. Youth Programming Coordinator Branden Lewis and singer She'kinah Taylor preview of the arts collective’s Juneteenth performances.

BJC surgery resident learned from the best: Her dad Jun 17, 2022

Dr. Sophia Roberts is a resident training to become a cardiothoracic surgeon — a rarity for females in the U.S. As if that wasn’t unique enough, she’s following in her dad’s footsteps. Dr. Harold Roberts is himself a cardiothoracic surgeon for more than 30 years. In honor of Father’s Day, the duo discussed their relationship and what it’s like to work at Barnes-Jewish Hospital together.

How scammers pretending to be St. Louis police robbed Clementine’s Creamery Jun 17, 2022

Homegrown ice cream company Clementine’s Creamery fell prey to an elaborate scam last week — one that owner Tamara Keefe explained had actually been attempted in the past at a different location. She explains how the scam artists tricked her employee — and why other businesses should be on the lookout.

Religious colleges in Missouri have ‘a license to discriminate.’ A lawsuit aims to revoke it Jun 15, 2022

Andrew Hartzler discusses his politically prominent aunt, U.S. Rep. Vicky Hartzler, and why he’s joined a class-action lawsuit filed by LGBTQ students seeking to end an exemption in civil rights that allows anti-gay discrimination in religious colleges.

New play highlights Club Riviera — one of the biggest Black nightclubs in the 40s Jun 15, 2022

Club Riviera rivaled the Cotton Club in Harlem and attracted the biggest jazz acts of the day, including Nat King Cole and Duke Ellington. A new play “Live at the Riviera” aims to retell its origin story before it’s lost in history. Director Thomasina Clarke and Playwright Freeman Cole share how they collected oral histories to piece together events.

How KSDK anchor Michelle Li turned the #VeryAsian hashtag into a movement Jun 14, 2022

After St. Louis news anchor Michelle Li mentioned eating dumplings on a New Year’s broadcast, a viewer chastised her for being “very Asian.” She’s now turned that viral moment into a movement with the Very Asian Foundation. She discusses the organization’s push for schools and libraries to build and maintain robust Asian American youth literature collections.

For Erin Litteken, Ukraine's history is family lore — and fodder for fiction Jun 14, 2022

The debut novelist and resident of Troy, Illinois, explains how family stories and the long-suppressed truth about Stalin terrorizing Ukraine led to her book “The Memory Keeper of Kyiv” — and the long process of researching and writing it.

Officials ban scooters in downtown St. Louis in an attempt to curb mayhem Jun 13, 2022

Three teens were shot in downtown St. Louis at the beginning of June. 5th Ward St. Louis Alderman James Page shares what city officials are doing to bring order to the neighborhood, which includes banning scooters.

How Cbabi Bayoc gave a 124-year-old St. Louis company a new take on stained glass Jun 13, 2022

Emil Frei and Associates teamed up with muralist Cbabi Bayoc for a stained glass collaboration that changes how Jesus and Mary Magdalene are portrayed in liturgical art. Bayoc and fifth-generation owner Aaron Frei discuss the art of stained glass and their unique commission.

How Cbabi Bayoc gave a 124-year-old St. Louis company a new take on stained glass Jun 13, 2022

Emil Frei and Associates teamed up with muralist Cbabi Bayoc for a stained glass collaboration that changes how Jesus and Mary Magdalene are portrayed in liturgical art. Bayoc and fifth-generation owner Aaron Frei discuss the art of stained glass and their unique commission.

For 2 vegan businesses, St. Louis proved the perfect launch pad Jun 10, 2022

Marc Connor of Rootberry and Rita Childers of Core + Rind both started exploring vegan food after they found it left them more energized and healthier. In this encore episode, they share their mission to bring plant-based foods to even the most stubborn carnivores.

A St. Louis woman discovered her mom’s secret past — as a Vietnamese rock star Jun 10, 2022

Dr. Hannah Ha recently uncovered a surprising secret about her mother: Before fleeing Vietnam, Phương Tâm had been a rock star in her native Saigon. In this encore episode, Ha and music producer Mark Gergis discuss how they compiled Tâm’s decades-old recordings in a new album.

Why ‘Severance’ star Britt Lower is joining the circus in St. Louis Jun 09, 2022

Actress Britt Lower is fresh off her starring role in the Apple TV+ series “Severance.” Before filming for the second season gets underway this fall, Lower will live in a small trailer on a St. Louis parking lot for a few weeks — playing a central role in Circus Flora’s “The Quest for the Innkeeper’s Cask.” In this episode, Lower explains why she chose St. Louis for her circus debut.

How a stay-at-home Ellisville mom became a lifeline for Afghan refugees Jun 09, 2022

Even as St. Louisans across the metro have stepped up to help Afghan refugees, few have gone as far as Ann Wittman. She's crowd-funded to give families cars, plane tickets and washing machines. In one case, she even bought a family a house. Wittman discusses how she got involved and outlines her new goal: a capital campaign to buy 30 Afghans used cars.

Amid baby formula shortage, milk donations flow in Missouri Jun 09, 2022

As baby formula shortages continue, breast milk donors like Afsheen Wira have stepped up to the plate. The St. Louis nursing student explains how she ended up with 5,000 surplus ounces of milk — and why she was happy to share it with families in need.

The Caregiver Club helps St. Louis families deal with dementia Jun 08, 2022

Cousins Jodie Finney and Alicia Christopher each have a parent dealing with dementia. After bonding over their shared experiences, they formed a new nonprofit to help families dealing with the same issues — and provide practical support.

Analysis: Lewis Reed resigns as President of the Board of Aldermen Jun 08, 2022

STLPR Justice Correspondent Rachel Lippmann breaks down the news of Lewis Reed’s resignation as President of the Board of Aldermen. He’s the third St. Louis official facing federal bribery charges to resign in recent weeks. At a press conference this morning, Mayor Tishaura Jones said she expects more indictments to come.

How Tonka the chimp was found, alive, in a Missouri basement Jun 08, 2022

A Missouri woman named Tonia Haddix was ordered by a St. Louis judge to relinquish celebrity chimp Tonka to an animal sanctuary. She claimed he was dead — but last week, her lies unraveled. PETA attorney Jared Goodman explains how the case was cracked in the nick of time, and the fate that could now await Haddix.

In ‘Look at me like you love me,’ St. Louis’ Jess T. Dugan captures queer love, and more Jun 07, 2022

The St. Louis Art Museum added six images from St. Louis photographer Jess T. Dugan to its permanent collection. Dugan’s work has been praised as “gorgeously sensitive portraits of queer love.” T,” but their latest photobook, “Look at me like you love me,” turns the camera on the photographer as well.

Producers say beefalo is the meat of the future Jun 07, 2022

Supporters of beefalo, a cattle and bison crossbreed, say there is big potential to provide better, healthier meat by combining the best qualities of the two species. STLPR Correspondent Jonathan Ahl shares why proponents believe it’s the future of U.S. meat production — and what critics have to say.

How Charles Daniels turned American swimming from joke to juggernaut Jun 07, 2022

St. Louis attorney Michael Loynd’s nonfiction debut, “The Watermen,” explores the birth of American swimming through the remarkable rise of Charles Daniels, an underdog from a scandal-marred background who became the first American swimmer to win an Olympic gold medal.

How Wash U scientists — and St. Louis patients – helped perfect COVID-19 tests Jun 06, 2022

If you’ve used an at-home test to figure out whether you had COVID-19, you may have a patient at Barnes-Jewish Hospital to thank. More than 6,500 patients there were enrolled in clinical trials to evaluate COVID-19 tests. Washington University’s Dr. Stacey House, the principal investigator in those trials, discusses how her team handled 24 trials in just two years.

Episcopal Bishop Deon Johnson: ‘I’ve always wanted to be in a place to help people’ Jun 06, 2022

Deon Johnson became the first Black bishop and openly gay leader of the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri in 2020. He discusses his journey from Barbados to the Midwest, his push for inclusivity in the church and how he hopes to combat falling church membership.

Rabbit rescues at capacity as pets get dumped across St. Louis Jun 06, 2022

St. Louis residents are finding abandoned pet bunnies across the city — and few rescues have the capacity to take them in. The founder of Dolly’s Dream Home rescue, Katie Kottmeyer, explains what got her into rabbits and what people should know before adopting or buying them.

Rabbit rescues at capacity as pets get dumped across St. Louis Jun 06, 2022

St. Louis residents are finding abandoned pet bunnies across the city — and few rescues have the capacity to take them in. The founder of Dolly’s Dream Home rescue, Katie Kottmeyer, explains what got her into rabbits and what people should know before adopting or buying them.

After 15 years on the Point, Lux says goodbye to radio and hello to medical marijuana Jun 03, 2022

Ashley “Lux” Elzinga spent 15 years as an on-air personality for 105.7 FM the Point. She discusses why she left her dream job, how she dealt with toxic online comments and her new direction as a social media content creator promoting medical marijuana brands.

Lafayette Square garden tour showcases historic St. Louis neighborhood Jun 03, 2022

Since 1969, members of the city’s Lafayette Square neighborhood have invited people into their homes and gardens as a neighborhood fundraiser. Two residents discuss how far the neighborhood has come since those days — and how even small city lots can contain amazing gardens.

Indictments of 3 high-profile St. Louis officials shake up Board of Aldermen Jun 03, 2022

One day after the revelation of bribery charges against three members of the St. Louis Board of Aldermen (including its president), the Board convened, with a new leader presiding. STLPR Justice Correspondent Rachel Lippmann discusses the allegations against the officials — and the response from City Hall.

At 50, St. Louis Public Radio looks back and to its future Jun 02, 2022

KWMU (now St. Louis Public Radio) made its broadcast debut on June 2, 1972. In this episode, we talk with longtime STLPR staffer Mary Edwards about the history of the station, and we hear from CEO Tina Pamintuan about her vision for the future.

Don Corrigan tells the stories of ‘Amazing Webster Groves’ Jun 02, 2022

Longtime Webster-Kirkwood Times editor Don Corrigan discusses his new book about Webster Groves, what the documentary “16 in Webster” got right about the bucolic suburb, and whether Webster citizens are right to block new development.

New $25 million St. Louis venture capital fund to boost minority startups Jun 01, 2022

The venture capital space is overwhelmingly represented by white-owned companies. A St. Louis-based firm is hoping to change that by investing its millions in underrepresented founders whose ideas are being overlooked. Ascend Venture Capital founder Dan Conner and partner Yinka Faleti discuss how VC firms can increase diversity — and make huge returns at the same time.

For one Missouri family, the joy of adoption has become a 4-year legal battle Jun 01, 2022

An international adoption has entangled a Missouri family into the legal systems of two countries. Adam and Jill Trower discuss their efforts to bring home a four-year-old orphan named Luke, who is currently living in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and why they’re suing the U.S. government to do it.

‘The Karate Kid: The Musical’ plans to go from Kirkwood to Broadway Jun 01, 2022

The musical is the first pre-Broadway tryout to come to St. Louis. Original screenwriter Robert Mark Kamen joined the show to talk about how the process of its creation sold him on musicals and whether “wax on, wax off” will get a solo track.

Missouri lawmakers seek to gag pharmacists on ivermectin, hydroxychloroquine sulfate May 31, 2022

Missouri lawmakers recently passed a bill to restrict pharmacists from telling patients about risks around ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine sulfate — both sometimes used to treat COVID-19 despite having no FDA clearance for that use. St. Louis University sociologist Liz Chiarello explains how the bill fits into recent political battles affecting pharmacists.

In St. Louis ERs, gunshot wounds are a daily occurrence — and a public health emergency May 31, 2022

While the nation reels from the mass shooting in an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, Dr. Kristen Mueller reflects on the amount of everyday firearm injury she sees as an emergency care physician in St. Louis — and what it would take to reduce the toll.

Why did students' Lindenwood suit succeed where Wash U's failed? Separate online pricing May 27, 2022

The Legal Roundtable discusses how two lawsuits over the pandemic-era switch to Zoom classes turned out very differently. Panelists also discuss a pair of big jury verdicts, Sunshine law litigation involving former Gov. Eric Greitens and former Attorney General Josh Hawley, and more.

From death to the Delmar Divide, See STL Tours don’t flinch from showing St. Louis May 26, 2022

The Missouri Historical Society’s two-year-old See STL Tour program offers two dozen walking and bus tours that go far beyond what you might expect. Tour guides Amanda Clark and Josiah Gundersen discuss what people take from the tours and how they each fell in love with the city’s more unusual stories, locations and characters.

Prosecutor’s motion to vacate Mike Politte conviction could be a game changer May 26, 2022

Washington County Prosecutor Josh Hedgecorth recently filed a motion to vacate the conviction of Michael Politte, who spent 23 years behind bars for allegedly murdering his mother. Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker, who is the only prosecutor in Missouri to successfully deploy the state’s new wrongful conviction law, discusses what could happen next.

School buses are failing to pick up Afghan refugees in St. Louis May 26, 2022

Afghan refugee students are missing school because St. Louis Public School District doesn’t have enough drivers to fill their bus routes. Without a car, driver’s license or strong grasp of English, many parents are unable to get their children to school without a bus. Sue Scott, a volunteer with Welcome Neighbor, joins the show to talk about how missed bus routes affect the Afghan family she’s partnered with.

After demolition, what’s next for Jamestown Mall? May 25, 2022

Jamestown Mall has sat vacant in unincorporated St. Louis County for about just over a decade. Now that the St. Louis County Council has approved a plan for its demolition, urban planner and consultant Bob Lewis discusses what could happen next — and why the mall was doomed to fail. (Correction: The former Jamestown Mall is located in unincorporated St. Louis County, not Florissant, MO.)

Here’s what St. Louis booksellers are reading this summer May 25, 2022

Summer days can present an opportunity to explore fictitious worlds or delve into a gripping historical epic, and St. Louis’ local booksellers are on the case. Mark Pannebecker of Spine Bookstore and Cafe, Ymani Wince of Noir Bookshop and Joice Carrawell of Little Readers reveal their summer reading lists, including adult novels and children’s books.

Missouri prisons are banning physical mail and replacing it with photocopies May 25, 2022

Starting July 1, Missouri's inmates will no longer be able to receive personal mail. Instead, they'll get photocopies. St. Louis Public Radio reporter Shahla Farzan shares what she's learned about the new policy — including concerns from criminal justice advocates who worry the policy will only further isolate inmates from the outside world.

Karviva beverage company aims to unite ‘ancient wisdom with modern innovation’ May 24, 2022

St. Louis-based Fulfill Food & Beverages recently notched $1 million in annual sales — largely due to the popularity of its Karviva (formerly Karuna) prebiotic smoothie and juice beverages. Founder and CEO Angela Zeng talks about the company and her entrepreneurial journey.

Gabe Montesanti learned to ‘Brace for Impact’ — and found life in the roller derby arena May 24, 2022

Gabe Montesanti came to St. Louis for grad school at Wash U, and quickly found herself sucked into the roller derby scene. She discusses her new memoir, her complicated family relationships and how she owes everything to a near-catastrophic injury.

New film ‘Head Over Heels’ explores wrestling at the Chase Hotel May 23, 2022

The new documentary “Head Over Heels: Remembering Wrestling from the Chase” explores St. Louis’ wrestling mid-century heyday. Film producer and local historian Ed Wheatley discusses the matches, the TV series and the documentary.

Soccer star and World Cup-winner Lori Lawson cheers equal pay breakthrough May 23, 2022

In 2015, Lori Lawson won a World Cup with the U.S. national team. But she and her teammates were paid significantly less for the win than male players — and that unequal system persisted until last week, when U.S. Soccer announced a new collective bargaining agreement that equalizes pay for men and women. Lawson joins St. Louis on the Air to discuss what led to this historic agreement.

Amur leopard cubs at St. Louis Zoo owe their existence to ‘computerized dating’ May 23, 2022

Amur leopard cubs Anya and Irinia were born last month at the St. Louis Zoo. Steve Bircher, curator of carnivores at the St. Louis Zoo, explains how their birth is part of an elaborate scientific matchmaking service that’s meant to preserve the species. Fewer than 100 Amur leopards now exist in the wild.

15 years in the making, St. Louis band Thor Axe releases debut album May 20, 2022

Guitarists Phil Ring and Ryan Wasoba share the secrets of Thor Axe, a long-running side project for members of indie rock band So Many Dynamos that brings humor (and influences of Nintendo video game soundtrack) to the St. Louis band scene.

How a surprising MoBot discovery is saving Mead’s milkweed May 20, 2022

Beloved by Monarch butterflies, Mead’s milkweed has become threatened as prairie habitats disappear. Now researchers at the Missouri Botanical Garden have made a surprising discovery that is giving the species a fighting chance at survival. MoBot scientist Christy Edwards discusses how her research changed conservation practices.

How a fuel specialist fights fire with fire in Missouri’s Mark Twain forest May 20, 2022

Bennie Terrell has worked for 22 years as a fuel specialist in Missouri’s Mark Twain National Forest. He describes how prescribed burns help restore ecosystems — while also addressing an ongoing controversy over a prescribed burn gone terribly awry in New Mexico.

Afghan refugees now have permanent housing in St. Louis. Next up: classes, grants and new careers May 19, 2022

Seven months after landing in St. Louis, nearly 600 Afghan refugees are living in permanent housing. But the International Institute has higher aims: to turn St. Louis into a destination for more Afghan refugees. CEO Arrey Obenson and Moji Sidiqi, who manages the Afghan Support Program, discuss what’s on tap.

Bilingual International’s senior center reunites after two years of separation May 19, 2022

Missouri’s only senior center devoted to immigrants and refugees resumed its popular senior groups in April. Producer Kayla Drake went to the Macklind International Senior Center’s picnic in Tower Grove Park — their first since the pandemic started.

Campbell House tells the story of Eliza Rone and slavery in the 19th century May 19, 2022

Up until about a decade ago, it was believed that prominent 19th-century St. Louisans Robert and Virginia Campbell had never enslaved people at the St. Louis mansion that bears their name. A small detail in a St. Louis census changed that understanding, and now the story of an enslaved woman, Eliza Rone, is told in the new exhibit, “The Back of the House: Servants and Slavery at Campbell House.”

After his ‘little brother’ was murdered in Kinloch, author Ben Westhoff sought answers May 18, 2022

Ben Westhoff discusses his relationship with Jorell Cleveland, with whom he was paired by Big Brothers Big Sisters — and his quest for the truth about Cleveland’s life and death after the 19-year-old was murdered in north St. Louis County.

Post-Dispatch Editor Alan Achkar: Changes are coming May 18, 2022

Former Post-Dispatch metro editor Alan Achkar recently returned to lead the daily as its editor-in-chief. He discusses what got him into journalism, what brought him back to St. Louis, and why he’s axing arts reviews. He also takes questions from callers.

How a biologist will become the fourth generation to lead Heffern jewelry in Clayton May 17, 2022

Kit and Webster Heffern are keeping a 109-year history alive with their jewelry business, Elleard Heffern Fine Jewelers. The father and son discuss their unusual paths to the family business, as both pursued careers in science and engineering before embracing their roles, and heritage, as purveyors of luxury.

Kroenke and NFL worked hand in hand to hide Rams’ relocation plans, Post-Dispatch finds May 17, 2022

A new investigation by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reveals how Rams owner Stan Kroenke and the NFL worked hand-in-hand to secure the team’s relocation to Los Angeles. Business reporter Austin Huguelet gives an overview of the saga.

St. Louis needs to do more than repave its dangerous streets, committee urges May 17, 2022

After St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones signed an $84 million infrastructure bill that will repave the city’s most pothole-riddled streets, the Community Mobility Committee made an unusual request: Slow down. The committee’s Liz Kramer tells us why, and what the city can do to better protect pedestrians on those streets.

Fatal State Violence Project went from tracking deaths to supporting families May 16, 2022

Toni Taylor and Emanuel Powell have direct experience with “fatal state violence.” That’s the term used by Arch City Defenders to describe deaths in the region’s jails and at the hands of its police. One year into the Fatal State Violence Project, Taylor and Powell describe the tragedies that informed its creation and how they reach other families struggling in grief.

Missouri GOP’s gridlock over maps proved a blessing to Democrats May 16, 2022

STLPR Statehouse Correspondent Sarah Kellogg discusses how the state’s 2022 legislative session ended Friday with a congressional map — and how bickering over that map derailed many red-meat Republican priorities.

Amid baby formula shortage, St. Louis parents turn to Facebook swap groups May 16, 2022

When Joanna Busby realized she couldn’t find formula for her 3.5-month-old son, she started a Facebook “formula swap” group that’s grown to 900-plus members in the St. Louis region. As the national shortage continues, Busby shares what she and other parents are doing to keep their kids fed.

New St. Louis facility offers high-tech space for confidential information May 13, 2022

The Globe Building’s new “sensitive compartmented information facility” brings new opportunities to St. Louis-based geospatial intelligence firms that require a classified environment to conduct business. Geospatial intelligence and national security expert Keith Masback shares what the facility brings to the region.

For Opera Theatre of St. Louis, this spring brings 2 world premieres May 13, 2022

Opera Theatre of St. Louis Artistic Director James Robinson is at the helm of both “Awakenings” and “Harvey Milk,” two operas readying for world premieres within a week of each other. Robinson discusses both shows, the source material they draw upon and his work bringing “Fire Shut Up in My Bones” from its St. Louis debut to the Met.

‘We Live Here Auténtico!’ embraces Latino identity in St. Louis and beyond May 13, 2022

"We Live Here Auténtico!” is an outgrowth of two separate podcasts: "We Live Here" and "Auténtico!" Co-hosts Gabriela Ramirez-Arellano and Alejandro Santiago joined the show.

How City Museum defied building codes to become a St. Louis landmark May 12, 2022

Three members of the former “Cassilly crew” share behind-the-scenes tales about this St. Louis treasure and swap stories about the visionary who made it all possible: Bob Cassilly.

Soccer is the hook at New Dimensions — but the real goal is teaching life skills May 12, 2022

Unlike pricey club sports, New Dimensions is free and offers soccer and life skills training for kids who need it. Co-founder Tom Michler shares what he’s learned about the myriad benefits of unstructured play — and the magic of building community with families from all over the world.

Soccer is the hook at New Dimensions — but the real goal is teaching life skills May 12, 2022

Unlike pricey club sports, New Dimensions is free and offers soccer and life skills training for kids who need it. Co-founder Tom Michler shares what he’s learned about the myriad benefits of unstructured play — and the magic of building community with families from all over the world.

EcoTones brings music inspired by nature to a Powder Valley trail May 11, 2022

Cellist Jody Redhage Ferber’s new concert series brings top musicians to a Kirkwood hiking trail, with small combos on six different stages playing music inspired by the wildlife around them (and even echoing their calls). Ferber explains what inspired her vision — and how she hopes it can bring a new audience to classical music.

For trans Missouri youth and their parents, legislature’s focus brings anxiety May 11, 2022

For the past three years, Missouri lawmakers have introduced legislation that targets trans youth. A bill making headway in the current session would prevent trans girls from playing on girls’ sports teams. Two moms of transgender kids discuss how they mobilized to speak out against the bill — and how it would affect their children.

EcoTones brings music inspired by nature to a Powder Valley trail May 11, 2022

Cellist Jody Redhage Ferber’s new concert series brings top musicians to a Kirkwood hiking trail, with small combos on six different stages playing music inspired by the wildlife around them (and even echoing their calls). Ferber explains what inspired her vision — and how she hopes it can bring a new audience to classical music.

In ‘Shmuel’s Bridge,’ a St. Louis poet retraces his family’s Holocaust journey May 10, 2022

Jason Sommer discusses his new book, “Shmuel’s Bridge,” and the story it tells of his 2001 trip to Eastern Europe with his Holocaust survivor father, Jay. The men retraced the final journey of Jason’s uncle Shmuel, who was shot by German guards after making a desperate bid to flee the cattle car transporting to Auschwitz.

Joanna Serenko’s next act after ‘The Voice’: an album that shows her ‘Best of Me’ May 10, 2022

St. Louis singer-songwriter Joanna Serenko discusses how she went from being a finalist on “The Voice” to releasing her debut album — and her plans to travel the country in a van after she gets her nursing degree.

Bill to ban tents from St. Louis sidewalks raises questions of legality, alderman says May 09, 2022

About eight people experiencing homelessness are living in tents in south St. Louis along the River Des Peres. Some members of the St. Louis Board of Aldermen want to make that illegal — to pitch tents in public right of ways. 12th Ward Alderman Bill Stephens shares why he’s asking his colleagues to hit the pause button.

In ‘The Holy Ghost,’ John Hendrix draws on Peanuts, Calvin and Hobbes and life’s big questions May 09, 2022

Wash U professor John Hendrix explains how doodling during a sermon led to his new graphic novel, how it was inspired by both his Christian faith and his doubt, and why it took 10 years to bring it to book form.

Move over, Gateway Arch: St. Charles hopes Riverwalk project will be a destination May 09, 2022

St. Charles is putting $350 million into a new riverfront development. They hope to attract younger people and more tourists, and say the Riverwalk project will “redefine the city.” Mayor Dan Borgmeyer discusses his vision for the riverfront and speaks to some criticisms of it.

St. Louis construction firm sees minorities and women as keys to labor shortage May 06, 2022

Construction firms are grappling with labor shortages across the country. St. Louis-based McCarthy Building Companies discusses how it’s found success by targeting younger workers, women, and minorities — and finding ways to retain them.

Missouri's 'trigger law' is ready for Roe's demise. What happens then? May 06, 2022

Missouri’s “trigger law” goes into effect if Roe v. Wade is repealed — and could have a big impact on residents. The law would eliminate most abortion access, and law professor Marcia McCormick explains how it could also affect contraception and fertility.

Nikki Glaser takes on St. Louis living in her new show on E! — and so do her parents May 05, 2022

Nikki Glaser has spent more than two years living in her hometown, St. Louis. A new reality show on E! documents her move back as she reconnects with old friends and hangs out with her parents, Julie and EJ. Stick around to the end for a few extra bonus minutes of talking with Nikki and EJ!

How Babyation built a better breast pump — from St. Louis May 05, 2022

Samantha Rudolph, founder and CEO of Babyation, explains why she and her husband gave St. Louis a chance, how they were able to bring their manufacturing here, and the challenges they encountered while taking the Babyation breast pump from concept to market.

Sarah Delashmit faked cancer and tragedy. ‘Sympathy Pains’ traces her downfall May 04, 2022

After the success of her podcast “Dr. Death,” medical journalist Laura Biel dove into the case of a St. Louis-area woman named Sarah Delashmit, who left a trail of fraud and heartbreak going back decades. Biel discusses what she uncovered, and her new podcast chronicling the bizarre case, “Sympathy Pains.”

Kaleidoscopes get a close-up in St. Louis as international expo makes its first visit May 03, 2022

Kaleidoscope art is a serious venture. Artists and collectors Mike and Donna Thibodeau of St. Charles discuss the kaleidoscope exhibit on display at the Foundry Art Centre and the international expo that comes to Westport Plaza later this month.

How STLPR hopes to save birds from deadly window strikes May 03, 2022

STLPR’s Greg Munteanu discusses the station’s Give STL Day campaign, which aims to raise money for window decals to stop bird strikes on its building in Grand Center. Ken Buchholz, director of the Audubon Center at Riverlands, shares his perspective on the importance of protecting migratory birds.

Sleep apnea correlates with increased traffic accidents for older adults, sleep expert says May 03, 2022

The director of Wash U’s Sleep Medicine Center discusses his new study on sleep apnea and driving behavior, takes questions from listeners and explains why it’s important not to let sleep problems go untreated.

St. Louis evicts 2 small homeless camps even as riverfront camp earns a ‘pause’ May 02, 2022

The city offered a last-minute “pause” on eviction plans for a homeless encampment on the Mississippi River, but still forced two smaller camps nearby to move on Monday. Producer Danny Wicentowski shares the latest from the scene, including a morning protest.

How St. Louis-based Metaphase came to design popular household products May 02, 2022

The red Solo Cup, Gatorade sport bottle, Harry’s Razor and many more common household products were designed in St. Louis. Metaphase Design Group founder and CEO Bryce Rutter’s 30-year-old company has quietly been working with some of the most recognizable companies in the world, and he joined the show to share the stories behind his company’s success.

Recycling 101: What to toss as alley pickups resume in St. Louis May 02, 2022

St. Louis has gone without alleyway recycling for nearly a year, but Mayor Tishaura Jones promises it's coming back this May. Earthday365 Program Director Bob Henkel gives a refresher course on what to toss in your bin — and where it goes after that.

All-woman tackle football team St. Louis Slam wants to win it all – again Apr 29, 2022

St. Louis has a recent history of heartbreak with its football teams, first losing the NFL’s Rams, then the XFL’s Battlehawks – but this weekend, the St. Louis Slam opens its first home game in what could very well be the latest in a string of championship seasons. Running back Taylor Hay joins the show to talk about the return of this all-women tackle football team.

Missouri school districts are fighting over underpaid teachers. Many have already left Apr 29, 2022

Missouri teachers rank 50th in the nation in starting pay. They’re begging lawmakers to approve a salary increase but that hasn’t happened since 2006. In this episode, three Missouri teachers educators talk about how the state’s low teaching salaries affect their personal lives, their classrooms and their plans for the future.

For ‘STL Veg Girl,’ plant-based restaurant week will take the stress out of vegan dining Apr 29, 2022

St. Louis will see its first plant-based restaurant week May 1-7. Caryn Dugan, a.k.a. “STL Veg Girl,” discusses why she decided to launch the event, and why veganism shouldn’t be anxiety-inducing.

As St. Louis seeks to evict riverfront camps, residents are clear: They don't want to go Apr 28, 2022

Residents of four St. Louis encampments are now packing up their belongings in anticipation of a May 2 eviction. Residents say they would rather stay in the camps than go to temporary shelters — and question the timing of the city’s notice to vacate. Unhoused STL Founder Ramona Curtis shares her concerns, along with two camp residents.

For Arundhati Roy, the St. Louis Literary Award allowed her to see the river of her childhood dreams Apr 28, 2022

Acclaimed author Arundhati Roy discusses why she’s always felt a kinship to the Mississippi River, why she was eager to visit Ferguson, what drives her activism and what keeps her from despair. Roy is in St. Louis to receive the 2022 St. Louis Literary Award from St. Louis University.

Congressional candidates Greitens, Roberts find legal disputes front and center Apr 27, 2022

On this month’s Legal Roundtable, attorneys Booker T. Shaw, Mary Anne Sedey and Bill Freivogel discuss the legal settlements Sen. Steve Roberts Jr. entered with two women who accused him of sexual assault, former Gov. Eric Greitens’ child custody case, race-related strikes on potential jurors and more.

As St. Louis weighs ‘reimagining public safety,’ new report offers a road map Apr 26, 2022

A report by the Center for Policing Equity provides public safety recommendations to St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones and the St. Louis police. Co-author Hans Menos discusses t5he state of St. Louis policing — and where the city can go from here.

Mayor Jones: $150M for north St. Louis is a 'down payment' for future growth Apr 26, 2022

St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones hopes to devote 60% of the city’s remaining American Rescue Plan Act funds into a historic north city investment. She discusses her deep ties to north St. Louis, the opposition she faces from some members of the Board of Aldermen and her plans for the city’s troubled Justice Center.

In the Metro East, residents battle raw sewage, flooding — and indifference Apr 25, 2022

Residents of the former town of Centreville, Illinois, (now Cahokia Heights) have for decades dealt with flooding and sewage overflows. A scientist, a lawyer and a resident working to address the longstanding problems describe where things are at — and what it will take to bring relief.

The Missouri History Museum’s Jefferson statue gets context — and grapples with slavery Apr 25, 2022

Thomas Jefferson’s complex history is now being acknowledged with interpretive panels in front of the Missouri History Museum’s sculpture of the third president. Jody Sowell of the Missouri Historical Museum and history professor Priscilla Dowden-White discuss why the time was right to add context to the 1913 statue — and what we can take from Jefferson’s story.

For SLU prof Rachel Greenwald Smith, compromise is not a virtue Apr 22, 2022

In this encore episode, Professor Rachel Greenwald Smith discusses her provocative new book of essays “On Compromise: Art, Politics, and the Fate of an American Ideal,” how she handles strange bedfellows and how her free-wheeling childhood left her wanting more.

Missouri was the nation’s ‘puppy mill capital’ — but advocates fought back Apr 22, 2022

For years, Missouri was known for its problem dog breeders. In this encore episode, advocates explain what changed after legislation cracked down on the industry — and where they still see room for improvement in the Show Me State.

Small St. Louis business faces eviction for $160 million development Apr 21, 2022

St. Louis developer Green Street’s $160 million redevelopment of the historic Armory building in Midtown seeks to erase St. Louis Woodworks, which faces eviction in less than a month from its home of 20 years. St. Louis Woodworks owner Steve Rothschild says the developer has gone too far. The developer says only that it will “continue to abide by the rulings of the courts."

Creve Coeur resident finishes her 15th Boston Marathon at 77 Apr 21, 2022

Bonnie Bence came to running late in life, but she has made up for lost time. She’s now completed 31 marathons, including her 15th Boston Marathon this week at age 77. She shares what she’s learned in the nearly two decades she’s ran marathons.

Gay men should be allowed to donate blood without celibacy rules, exec says Apr 21, 2022

Men who have sex with men face restrictions for donating blood, including a three-month celibacy period. One Midwestern blood donation organization is hoping to change the regulations. Pete Vox of ImpactLife explains the historic reasons for the prohibition and what he sees as a common-sense alternative.

Analyzing Mayor Tishaura Jones' State of the City — and big pledge to north St. Louis Apr 20, 2022

STLPR reporter Rachel Lippmann breaks down last night's State of the City address, in which St. Louis Mayor Tishaura O. Jones vowed to invest $150 million in federal funds in the city’s north side, promised a 3% raise and $1 million in paid family leave for city employees, and announced that alley pickup for recycling should resume in May.

How a gay St. Louis pastor triggered a war within the Presbyterian Church in America Apr 20, 2022

For nearly 20 years, Greg Johnson has pastored Memorial Presbyterian Church in St. Louis. Recently, the PCA attempted to ban clergy like him for identifying as gay. It failed, but another attempt is likely at the 2022 general assembly. Johnson shares his story and why he thinks evangelical churches need to shift their tone towards the LGBTQ community.

Ballwin artist’s Ukrainian Easter eggs are a hit Apr 20, 2022

Katherine Alexander discusses how she turned to the art of pysanky after leaving her career in music education — and found both a creative outlet and a big following on Tik Tok. She’s now using Ukrainian Easter eggs to raise money for Ukraine.

St. Louis environmentalists honored for 2022 Earth Day celebration Apr 19, 2022

St. Louis Earth Day Festival is back in Forest Park after a two-year hiatus. Jess Watson, the executive director of earthday365, and Sierra Club partner Leah Clyburn give a preview of the event and discuss what environmental justice looks like for the St. Louis region.

Dream Builders 4 Equity focuses on making bosses out of local youth Apr 19, 2022

Dream Builders 4 Equity has pioneered a new workforce development model in St. Louis over the last six years. CEO Michael Woods and the nonprofit’s mentees share how the organization runs a successful workforce development model for area youth.

How St. Louis-based Stonemaier is changing the (board) game Apr 18, 2022

Jamey Stegmaier, co-founder of St. Louis-based Stonemaier Games, discusses the art of designing a hit board game and why tabletop games will never go out of style — even in a digital age. This episode originally aired on Nov. 19, 2021.

How To Block (Not Blast) Mosquitoes For A Healthier Ecosystem Apr 18, 2022

In this encore episode, Jean Ponzi of the Missouri Botanical Garden explains how fogging for mosquitoes has grave consequences for our ecosystem — and how we can make ourselves less attractive to these pests without harming the environment.

'Shutterbee' Has Biologists Asking St. Louisans To Collaborate As Backyard Naturalists Apr 18, 2022

Citizen scientists are helping biologists monitor our region's bee populations through the Shutterbee initiative. In this encore episode, Nicole Miller-Struttmann talks about how Shutterbee works and the critical roles bees play in our ecosystem.

Judges deny bond entirely in St. Louis as cash bail usage drops, report finds Apr 15, 2022

A new report from the Freedom Community Center found St. Louis Circuit Court judges are increasingly denying bond — even for misdemeanor charges. Founder Mike Milton and policy organizer Hattie Svoboda-Stel discuss what this shift away from cash bail means for people charged with crimes, and the community.

Now people can get help with warrants at a second St. Louis County Library branch Apr 15, 2022

The Tap In Center at St. Louis County Library's Florissant Valley branch gives people a space to address outstanding warrants and other legal matters without risking arrest. Nearly 300 warrants have been recalled since the center launched in the fall of 2020. Grant manager Miranda Gibson explains what led to a second location at the library branch in Moline Acres.

For poet Dana Levin, St. Louis is 'the navel of the nation' Apr 15, 2022

Dana Levin discusses exploring St. Louis after moving from Santa Fe, why she’s not ready to reject T.S. Eliot and the themes in her new book, “Now Do You Know Where You Are.”

Missouri truckers find themselves in the driver's seat amid national shortage Apr 14, 2022

Amid a national shortage of 80,000 truckers, companies are struggling to hire and retain the next generation of drivers. A St. Louis trucker tells us what brought him back to the road in 2022, while Tom Crawford of the Missouri Trucking Association shares what companies are doing to keep the industry rolling.

Bold Spoon Creamery's Rachel Burns turned out-of-control mint into a thriving business Apr 14, 2022

Bold Spoon Creamery started out because founder Rachel Burns couldn’t kill her mint plant. All her excess mint (and plenty of atypical flavors later) led to Bold Spoon launching in 2020. Now, Straub’s and Schnucks carry pints. Burns joined the show to share how not even a pandemic could stop her success.

East St. Louis principal Brittany Green transformed a failing school — and won statewide honors for it Apr 14, 2022

Principal Brittany Green is a finalist for the 2022 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Leadership for her work transforming Gordon Bush Elementary from a failing school to a “commendable” one. She shares how she changed teacher mindsets and how she fights burnout.

Black opioid overdose deaths in St. Louis are up 500% in 6 years Apr 13, 2022

New data on opioid deaths among Black St. Louisans show fatal overdoses up by more than 500% since 2015. A physician and a researcher with the new CENTER Initiative discuss what they’re doing to reduce those deaths.

What to eat at City Foundry STL and 2 new restaurants to try this month Apr 13, 2022

City Foundry STL — the popular retail, entertainment and food hub in midtown St. Louis — has 16 food stalls, with another on the way. Sauce Magazine Executive Editor Meera Nagarajan gives her recommendations. She also details a new restaurant to try in West County and one in St. Charles.

How 2 Metro East teachers use infographics to explain American history Apr 13, 2022

O’Fallon, Illinois, junior high school teachers PJ and Jamie Creek built a thriving business creating detail-rich posters about American government. They discuss their first book, “We the People and the Presidency,” and the art of making social studies accessible to students.

COCA’s ‘Big Machine’ tells the true story of a toxic workplace — with song and dance Apr 12, 2022

Playwright Colin Healy’s “Big Machine” was inspired by the deadly events at a Standard Oil factory in Bayway, New Jersey, in 1924. He and director Nancy Bell discuss the history of lead poisoning — and what it takes to transform tragedy into musical theater.

As 5 St. Louis Starbucks take steps to unionize, experts see new hope for labor Apr 12, 2022

Five St. Louis-area Starbucks stores have filed for unionization. Two workers discussed what’s driving these efforts, as Wash U’s Jake Rosenfeld gives insight to the wave of unionizations sweeping the nation.

For Black entrepreneurs, Missouri’s marijuana industry offers potential — and heartbreak Apr 11, 2022

Black entrepreneurs want to see more entrepreneurs from marginalized backgrounds break into the cannabis industry. The executive director of Exit Now, Marne Madison, discusses what it will take to make that vision a reality, while Adrienne Scales-Williams and Jamila Owens-Todd of Luxury Leaf share their story as Black women working in medical marijuana in Missouri.

How lead poisons kids across Missouri -- and the Midwest Apr 11, 2022

Decades after lead was banned in residential paint, water pipes and gasoline, thousands of Missouri children continue to suffer from lead poisoning. Reporter Allison Kite discusses her new deep dive into the issue, co-produced by the Missouri Independent and NPR's Midwest Newsroom.

Missouri’s parole system has sent thousands back to prison for minor violations. Terrell Robinson is one. Apr 08, 2022

Terrell Robinson has served 12 years in Missouri prisons for a parole violation that he says was never explained to him. Attorneys at the MacArthur Justice Center say his incarceration is part of a pattern that led to a federal judge ruling in 2020 that Missouri’s parole system is unconstitutional. Attorney Amy Breihan and Robinson’s wife Lawanda discuss his case.

Local developer Lux Living draws criticism for business practices Apr 08, 2022

Lux Living is one of the largest developers in St. Louis, yet many of their tenants are dissatisfied. Current and former tenants continue to voice complaints, and the company’s business practices also are drawing heat. In this episode, we talk with St. Louis Post-Dispatch reporter Jacob Barker. He recently reported on the company and the brothers who run it.

Analysis: St. Louis County voters rebuff Sam Page Apr 08, 2022

Voters in St. Louis County on Tuesday dealt County Executive Sam Page two decisive defeats. In one of them, voters passed Proposition B, which prohibits the county executive from holding another job. Page has worked some hours as anesthesiologist and critics made no secret about the measure targeting him. STLPR Political Correspondent Jason Rosenbuam breaks down the election results as Page faces a Democratic primary challenger in August’s election.

How utility right-of-ways in Illinois became a key habitat for native plants Apr 07, 2022

Areas near power lines are often desolate. But wildlife biologists see them as an opportunity to plant pollinator habitats. Staffers at Ameren Illinois and Pheasants Forever, Quail Forever discuss how they’ve transformed 175 acres in Illinois by removing invasive species in favor of native plants.

St. Louis treatment court grads say the program is tough — but a life changer Apr 07, 2022

In its 25 years, St. Louis’ drug treatment court has gone from being perceived as a way to keep drug convictions from marring otherwise clean records to helping the city’s most vulnerable. Commissioners Rochelle Woodiest and Matt Melton discuss their work — as three graduates share how it changed their lives.

Local florists at Urban Buds tackle waste and share spring planting tips Apr 06, 2022

Co-owners of Urban Buds, Karen “Mimo” Davis and Miranda Duschack, talk about their path to becoming farmer-florists, how their industry is wasteful and what they’re doing about it. Plus, home gardeners get some tips for planting flowers.

‘Practical abortion fund’ sees surge of patients traveling to Illinois Apr 06, 2022

Illinois has become a destination for people seeking abortion, and “practical abortion funds” make cross-country trips a possibility. Midwest Access Coalition director Diana Parker-Kafka explains how logistics are increasingly key to abortion access.

LoFi St. Louis celebrates 10 years on Cherokee Street Apr 06, 2022

St. Louis’ music video festival involves three crews making 13 music videos on Cherokee Street over a single day. Founder Bill Streeter explains the event’s accidental origins, how it’s changing this year and what he’s learned in a decade of capturing live performances on video.

How Affton High teaches Bosnian American studies to a new generation Apr 05, 2022

Brian Jennings’ Bosnian American studies course at Affton High School seeks to engage the district’s large Bosnian population — and tell the story of a community shaped by genocide. He and his students share what they’ve learned in class.

Disappearing texts could effectively erase Missouri's public record laws, lawyer says Apr 05, 2022

St. Louis attorney Mark Pedroli discusses his five-year battle over disappearing text apps by officials in the office of then-Governor Eric Greitens, how the probe ensnared the office of then-AG Josh Hawley and what he sees as troubling implications for transparency in Missouri.

From ‘Shark Tank’ to Target — St. Louis invention goes nationwide Apr 04, 2022

St. Louis entrepreneur Akeem Shannon went on ABC’s “Shark Tank” in 2020 and scored an investment for his product, Flipstik. Pandemic-related supply chain issues dealt Shannon a blow, but he’s overcome those. In this episode, Akeem Shannon explains how and what led to scoring a nationwide deal with Target.

One caveat to St. Louis’ lower murder rates Apr 04, 2022

An investigation by ProPublica and APM Reports and St. Louis Public Radio revealed that officials were lowering St. Louis' murder count by classifying some killings as justifiable homicides instead. The report's co-author, investigative reporter Jeremy Kohler, shares the details.

Push to save St. Louis’ Culver House unites developer and preservationists Apr 04, 2022

A $100 million expansion of Powell Hall requires the demolition of the historic Culver House — unless preservationists can find an alternative. Recently, backers trying to save the building gained an unexpected ally: Longtime developer Steve Smith.

For local artists, NFTs present opportunities — even as they upend the art world Apr 01, 2022

St. Louis artists have started selling NFTs, and it’s helped them make money and get their work out to a wider audience. Many people say the digital tokens are hopelessly speculative — but one expert says their success points out the underlying nature of the art market in general.

Pro & Con: How Prop R would affect St. Louis’ Board of Aldermen Apr 01, 2022

Prop R would shift ward redistricting in St. Louis into civilian hands and require new disclosures for aldermen. Jami Cox, the policy chair for Reform St. Louis, makes the case for Prop R, while former alderwoman Heather Navarro shares her concerns about the changes it would bring.

Legal Roundtable discusses St. Louis’ fight over qualified immunity, missed deadlines and more Mar 31, 2022

Attorneys Bevis Schock, Nicole Gorovsky and Connie McFarland-Butler discuss a copyright infringement claim against U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley, St. Louis’ aggressive defense of cops accused of civil rights abuses, and more. Editor’s note: During the on-air discussion of AG Eric Schmitt’s case against the Lee’s Summit school district, we wrongly indicated that the judge had granted default judgment to the district; instead, the case is still pending. We regret the error.

She gave her kidney to a high school acquaintance — and it changed his life Mar 30, 2022

John “JT” Thomas was an otherwise healthy 20-year-old when he was diagnosed with kidney failure in 2012. He discusses a life-changing kidney donation alongside his living donor, Niki Nickeson, a former high school acquaintance who felt compelled to give a kidney.

‘Shawnee Showdown’ details how activists stopped the clearcutting of an Illinois forest Mar 30, 2022

Three decades ago, the Shawnee National Forest was the focus of fierce battles over commercial logging on public lands. A new documentary by filmmaker Cade Bursell revisits that history and calls attention to new efforts to preserve the forest. Bursell discusses the film alongside longtime environmental activist John Wallace.

Recordings reveal secrets of St. Louis’ exploration of airport privatization Mar 29, 2022

Attorney Mark Pedroli and journalist Steve Vockrodt discuss revelations and share highlights from the 50-plus hours of recordings that capture meetings of the working group exploring leasing St. Louis’ airport to a for-profit entity.

Former refugee returns to Ukraine’s border on a solo humanitarian mission Mar 29, 2022

St. Louisan Gene Litvin traveled to Poland this month to help Ukrainians fleeing the war. Litvin, who himself left Ukraine in the 1990s as a Jewish refugee, shares what he saw, how he raised $20,000 to aid Ukraine and where he spent the money.

A Missouri archivist's favorite documents, from the Camp Jackson affair to Kate Chopin Mar 28, 2022

Missouri History Museum archivist Dennis Northcott discusses some of his favorite handwritten letters in the museum archives, including eyewitness accounts of a deadly incident in St. Louis during the Civil War and the terrible train accident that killed the father of future author Kate Chopin.

With V15Able, Letisha Wexstten wants to help disabled people get jobs Mar 28, 2022

Born without arms, Letisha Wexstten achieved YouTube fame by showing people all the things she can do — drive a car, bake a cake and more. Now, she wants to help other disabled people demonstrate what they can do via her online career development platform V15Able, which links people with disabilities to employers.

92-year-old MoDOT manager Shirley Norris gets the best fan mail ever Mar 28, 2022

MoDOT engineer Shirley Norris earned the admiration of people around the country after we interviewed her about her career as the state’s oldest full-time employee. Producer Kayla Drake checks in as she receives a surprise package from someone who was touched by her story.

Washington Park Cemetery volunteers vow to correct historic Black gravesite’s neglect Mar 25, 2022

Washington Park Cemetery, a century-old Black cemetery in north St. Louis County, is seeing new attention from volunteers after decades of neglect. Producer Emily Woodbury visits the site and talks to descendants of people buried there, while community advocate Aja Corrigan shares her hope for renewal.

As the pandemic raged, Kathy Gilsinan found ‘The Helpers’ Mar 25, 2022

St. Louis-based journalist Kathy Gilsinan discusses her new book about the people who tried their best to help others during the COVID-19 pandemic — and how not getting the marriage proposal she expected led her to her first book proposal.

Dogs get a rare treat for National Puppy Day: a ride on the St. Louis Wheel Mar 24, 2022

Pups rode free on the Ferris wheel at St. Louis' Union Station on March 23, 2022. STLPR's Lara Hamdan checks in with local people and their pets on how that played out.

As Marko Polo, kid favorite Mark Pagano launches a solo act Mar 24, 2022

Local musician Mark Pagano is leading the way for St. Louis’ “kindie” music scene, making charming kids’ music their parents also listen to. He explains how his band FIRE DOG fell into kids’ music and the reason for his new moniker.

Daylight saving time year-round would make our lives worse, Wash U expert says Mar 24, 2022

A switch to permanent daylight saving time might seem appealing for those who enjoy lighter evenings. Wash U’s Erik Herzog discusses research that shows it could have dangerous effects on health and safety and our natural biological rhythms.

Drill sergeant-turned-photographer shines light on unhoused veteran Mar 23, 2022

Jerry Tovo is a successful commercial photographer, but instead of glossy advertisements or models, his new exhibition at the International Photography Hall of Fame turns the focus on homeless veterans. A former drill sergeant, Tovo discusses his past in the military, the challenges of finding his subjects, and his hopes for change.

Cleanup of big Edwardsville oil spill continues, but pipeline concerns persist Mar 23, 2022

A spill from Marathon Petroleum unleashed around 165,000 gallons of crude oil in and around Edwardsville. For nearby residents like Toni Oplt, the environmental disaster raises questions — and concerns about the next spill. The Sierra Club also shares its concerns.

Camp Indigo Point will bring LGBTQ youth together this summer Mar 23, 2022

Camp Indigo Point is a week-long summer camp for LGBTQ youth. While some camps exist like this on the coasts, this one — located in southern Illinois — is the one of the first in the Midwest. It’s now drawn kids from 19 different states, and will take place for the first time this June. The response from parents and kids has been greater than the founders ever anticipated.

How Lance Geiger became a YouTube star with ‘The History Guy’ Mar 22, 2022

Lance Geiger is “The History Guy” on YouTube. The former corporate trainer was laid off in 2015, and in 2017, he launched the channel. He recently surpassed 1 million subscribers and his videos have more than 2.7 million total views. In this episode, Geiger shares his unusual path to becoming a YouTube star.

Alcohol costs U.S. employees 232 million workdays, Wash U study finds Mar 22, 2022

Adults who struggle with alcoholism miss an average of 32 workdays a year — double the number of workers who don’t suffer from alcohol use disorder. Two Wash U psychiatrists discuss their new study — and how workplaces hold the solution.

How the 211 hotline fails homeless people — and leaves volunteers to pick up the slack Mar 22, 2022

Major St. Louis hospitals rely on one volunteer to place discharged patients who need shelter — instead of United Way’s 211. The hospital has called Nicole Warrington 400 times in the past year. She explains how the unpaid role has affected her life and what local officials need to do to fix the problem.

As West Lake Landfill cleanup gets delayed, Just Moms STL wants answers Mar 21, 2022

The EPA admits that nuclear waste at the West Lake Landfill Superfund site is more extensive than previously stated. Dawn Chapman, a Maryland Heights resident who lives two miles from the site, discusses her frustration with the agency — and her fears over what the tests will reveal.

New energy standards in St. Louis mean changes for 65% of big buildings Mar 21, 2022

Buildings across St. Louis of 50,000 square feet or more must comply with new energy guidelines — or face fines of up to $500 a day beginning in 2025. The manager of the city's new Office of Building Performance explains the new rules, while Cara Spencer, director of the new Building Energy Exchange St. Louis, explains how her organization will help building owners comply.

Sentenced to 15 years for weed, a Missouri mom finally comes home Mar 17, 2022

A Missouri mom was trapped in a 15-year sentence for selling a few ounces of weed – until a commutation from the governor set her free last month. But clemencies can only chip away at the ongoing effects of Missouri’s draconian drug laws. One lawmaker hopes her new bill can do more.

How the Irish found their place in St. Louis — and helped shape the city Mar 17, 2022

The Irish immigrants who flocked to St. Louis in the 19th and 20th centuries faced prejudice and violence — but in many cases also found good fortune.

As Costco construction begins, small U City businesses feel left behind Mar 16, 2022

Easton Romer of De Palm Tree, businessman Max Tsai and barber shop owner Carl Walker share their experiences being displaced by the Costco now under construction in University City. They say they received little, if any, information from city officials.

Sheena Chestnut Greitens analyzes China’s tightrope walk amid Russia’s invasion of Ukraine Mar 16, 2022

Former First Lady of Missouri Sheena Chestnut Greitens, a foreign policy expert, discusses China's response to the war in Ukraine, China’s strategic partnership with Russia and the lessons China and Taiwan are taking from the conflict.

Michael Yochim’s ALS diagnosis didn’t stop his tribute to America’s national parks Mar 15, 2022

Fenton native Michael Yochim refused to let an ALS diagnosis stop him from writing a book-length tribute to the national parks. “Requiem for America’s Best Idea” is out now. Yochim’s dear friend, William R. Lowry, discusses the book and his friend’s life.

How BandTogether has become an important part of LGBTQ culture in St. Louis Mar 15, 2022

BandTogether has been a space for LGBTQ musicians and their allies for 25 years. Their artistic director Gary Reynolds and longtime member Jerry Farris discuss the history of the band, how they’ve cultivated a close-knit community, and how society’s views on LGBTQ folks have changed since BandTogether first started out.

Mister Gary: Behind the crown of St. Louis’ King of Hospitality Mar 14, 2022

For more than eight years, Gary Boyd has donned the crown and scepter of “Mister Gary,” host of the interview show “Them Yo People.” Boyd tells us about his favorite interview subject, the meaning behind “Them Yo People,” and what it takes to be St. Louis’ “King of Hospitality.”

314 Day means sharing the STL love Mar 14, 2022

314 Day was celebrated by St. Louis’ Black community in the aughts, but has since become a city-wide celebration. Author Keisha Mabry Haymore explains how she found her way in St. Louis, while others share their favorite things, from the city’s accent to its cuisine.

Celebrate 314 Day like you're from the Lou and you're proud Mar 11, 2022

We explore the origins of 314 Day and what's planned for this year's "homecoming weekend," with perspective from founder Young Dip and STLPR engagement editor Lara Hamdan.

In ‘Then the War,’ Carl Phillips asks us to try a little tenderness Mar 10, 2022

Acclaimed poet Carl Phillips discusses the ideas in his new poetry collection, his interactions with the St. Louis police and why he plans to leave the city.

Missouri House weighs legalizing sports wagers Mar 10, 2022

Missouri lawmakers are considering the biggest expansion of gambling in the state since voters approved riverboat — and ultimately riverside — casinos three decades ago. Rudi Keller shares the details.

Seth Staton Watkins will take his Irish tunes from TikTok to real life this St. Patrick’s Day Mar 10, 2022

Irish folk singer Seth Staton Watkins discusses finding success on TikTok, why everyone can relate to Irish culture, and the special guest who will join him on stage at his first ever in-real-life-concert on St. Patrick’s Day.

Stereotaxis opens new HQ in downtown St. Louis, plans for growth Mar 09, 2022

One of Cortex’s first tenants in the early aughts, Stereotaxis has now moved to a new headquarters in downtown St. Louis. CEO David Fischel explains why he bet big on the surgical device maker and why the former home of the St. Louis Globe-Democrat makes sense for its future growth.

Wash U study aims to find out how divorce affects young children Mar 09, 2022

Washington University is conducting a study to look at the psychiatric toll of divorce in children. We talk to the researcher leading the effort. By studying participants’ brains — and hair follicles — they can see how divorce might affect childrens’ stress levels.

This St. Louis family lost their dog to toxic algae. Why aren’t more states testing their lakes? Mar 08, 2022

In September 2020, a St. Louis couple took a trip to Lake Centralia in Illinois for a weekend getaway. When they arrived, their dog Zeus jumped in the lake and lapped up the crystal-clear water. The dog died after exhibiting textbook symptoms of toxic algae poisoning. Harvest Public Media reporter Dana Cronin explains why toxic algae is a growing concern, and why Missouri and Illinois don’t regularly test their lakes.

St. Louis author shares tips on ‘How to Pet a Cat’ Mar 08, 2022

Angela Staehling, an artist based in Wildwood, scored a deal for a book titled “How to Pet a Cat.” It’s available now at retailers across the U.S. She shares the idea behind it and a few petting techniques, including how not to pet.

City-funded homeless camp project hits a dead end — for now Mar 08, 2022

Community resistance has stalled the $900,000 project to establish St. Louis’ first city-funded intentional encampment. The project’s sponsor, St. Patrick Center, talks about what’s next.

How Ukranians use social media to combat Russian disinformation Mar 07, 2022

Since the 2014 Maidan Revolution, Ukrainians have become experts at combating Russian disinformation. UMSL Professor Lara Zwarun shares what Ukrainians today are getting right — and how they’re winning hearts and minds around the world.

‘Everything Is Terrible!’ turns forgotten kids movies into live St. Louis show Mar 07, 2022

“Kidz Klub” splices together low-budget children's movies into something new and darkly funny. Hear from the co-founder of the artist collective Everything Is Terrible! about what he calls an “assault on all your senses.” The one-night only event is at Off Broadway this Friday.

Sumner High School’s choir is bringing 90s R&B to upcoming Black History concert Mar 04, 2022

Maria Ellis has her choir students rehearsing some 90s classics, like “No Diggity,” for their upcoming Black History Month performance. And, she hopes to take them to Carnegie Hall to perform next year.

‘Let There Be Theatre Day’ kicks off with no director, no set and one very confused actor Mar 04, 2022

At exactly 2 p.m. around the world on March 13, theater lovers will take part in a production of “White Rabbit, Red Rabbit.” St. Lou Fringe Festival President Matthew Kerns explains why — and what makes the play so unique.

92-year-old MoDOT manager has no plans for retirement Mar 04, 2022

At 92, Shirley Norris manages projects worth millions of dollars at the Missouri Department of Transportation. Norris shares her secrets of longevity and tells tales from her nearly half-century of work for the agency.

Casey Nolen says goodbye to St. Louis Mar 03, 2022

After nearly 15 years at KSDK, Casey Nolen is leaving St. Louis for WUSA. He discusses his work as a “backpack journalist,” his journey from Missouri’s Bootheel to Mizzou and how he fell in love with coworker Abby Llorico.

BJC’s plan to boost health equity in St. Louis rests on partnerships Mar 03, 2022

There’s an 18-year gap in life expectancy between Clayton and north St. Louis. Jason Purnell of BJC Healthcare discusses the health care system’s plan to narrow that gap by partnering with community organizations and focusing on healthy food access, financial investment and maternal health.

Missouri spent $25M to send health workers to hospitals with a contract marked by high costs, no-shows Mar 02, 2022

Last fall, Missouri inked a no-bid contract worth more than $30 million with a Texas company. Despite the company's promise to send the state hundreds of healthcare workers, there were many no-shows — and the costs for services were high. Missouri Independent reporter Tessa Weinberg digs into the story.

Best Healthcare Institute prepares minority students for pharmacy careers Mar 02, 2022

A brochure Mario Coronado’s uncle found for the Best Healthcare Institute led Coronado to the free summer school program — and his job as a pharmacist. Institute co-founder Steven Player of BJC Healthcare joins Coronado to discuss how the program prepares minority high school students for future studies in pharmacy and other health care fields.

Pulitzer Arts Foundation’s ‘Assembly Required’ has visitors step into, and onto, art Mar 02, 2022

The Pulitzer Arts Foundation’s new exhibition “Assembly Required” asks visitors to engage with, construct, deconstruct and even step on art. Curatorial Associate Heather Alexis Smith gives a preview of the show ahead of its opening day on March 4.

Attorney blasts St. Louis' appeal on behalf of cops engaged in 2017 ‘kettling’ arrests Mar 01, 2022

Javad Khazaeli represents a retired Air Force lieutenant colonel swept up in the mass arrests that followed St. Louis Police’s “kettling” tactics in 2017. He explains his shock that the city is appealing a recent appeals court verdict — and who he thinks is really driving the city’s strategy.

Country artist Matt Jordan reps the Midwest with ‘Heart of the Heartland’ Mar 01, 2022

Eureka native Matt Jordan talks about making a name for himself in the country-rock genre and going against the grain by emphasizing his Midwestern roots.

Forest ReLeaf is bringing back St. Louis’ tree canopy — and focusing on new neighborhoods Mar 01, 2022

The nonprofit organization Forest ReLeaf has distributed tens of thousands of free trees around St. Louis. Executive director Meridith McAvoy Perkins explains how it’s removing barriers to make it easier for underserved neighborhoods to plant and sustain more trees.

Fontbonne’s new Center for Bosnian Studies preserves history for new generations, scholars Feb 28, 2022

Since 2006, Fontbonne University has sought to record oral histories from survivors of the Bosnian War. Now the Bosnian Memory Project has a new name, a permanent home and an expanded mission. Director Adna Karamehic-Oates and Srebrenica massacre survivor Behedin Piric discuss the importance of preserving this history.

Monica Butler wants to save gospel music history by bringing a hall of fame to St. Louis Feb 28, 2022

Monica Butler says gospel music history is being lost. To salvage it, she wants to open a gospel music hall of fame on the site of a historic Central West End church. She discusses her inspiration for the project and her reaction when fire broke out in the church last fall.

Smaller-brained birds shrink in response to climate change, Wash U study finds Feb 25, 2022

In the past four decades, smaller-brained birds have been shrinking, but a Wash U study finds that’s less true of their bigger-brained counterparts. Study co-author Justin Baldwin shares what’s driving the changes, as well as his passion for birds both as a researcher and bird watcher.

How a Kirkwood octogenarian became an international money mule Feb 25, 2022

After Glenda Seim, 81, became the victim of a Nigerian scam artist, she herself victimized others. Seim was sentenced in federal court yesterday after pleading to two felonies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tracy Berry and journalist Ryan Krull discuss online scams and the heartbreaking details in Seim’s case.

How the Missouri Botanical Garden is helping save a critically endangered agave plant Feb 25, 2022

The Agave pelona is nearly extinct, thanks to its extremely limited native habitat and threats from humans. One is in bloom now at the Missouri Botanical Garden, offering a once-in-decades opportunity to shore up the species’ future.

Employee misconduct, SNAP program and Missouri’s gun law draw lawsuits Feb 24, 2022

The Legal Roundtable discusses how companies could face liability over their employees’ actions — even when the employees aren’t on the clock. The panel also digs into a new lawsuit against the state’s administration of federal SNAP benefits and lawsuits challenging Missouri’s new gun law.

SLU vaccine researcher works to get ahead of future epidemics Feb 23, 2022

As COVID-19 cases drop in the St. Louis region and across the U.S., researchers are wasting no time in the development of vaccines for other emerging diseases. SLU researcher Dr. Sarah George discusses vaccines in the works now and answers listener questions about antibodies, boosters and public health precautions.

‘I knew what she was capable of’: Joel Schwartz on the evil of Pam Hupp Feb 23, 2022

Pam Hupp is now a suspect in three murders (and has been convicted of one). Defense attorney Joel Schwartz discusses the long road to exonerate his client Russ Faria and bring attention to the O’Fallon, Missouri, woman now charged with killing Faria’s wife.

Pedestrian death tally remained high in 2021 — ‘an indictment of our system’ Feb 22, 2022

St. Louis-area pedestrian deaths increased in 2021 from the prior year. And while car crashes with injuries slightly decreased, that’s no reason to celebrate — 2020 saw record-high numbers. Trailnet’s Sam McCrory discusses a new study outlining the problem and offering possible solutions.

One St. Louis woman waited 10 years for Section 8 housing — and almost lost it Feb 22, 2022

Kim Daniel waited 10 years to get housing through her Section 8 voucher. Eventually, her voucher was approved in her ideal neighborhood, but a surprise health issue left her disabled — and almost cost her the housing she waited so long for.

Humans of St. Louis tells the story of the city in its new book Feb 21, 2022

Since 2014, Humans of St. Louis has crafted approximately 3,500 portraits of St. Louisans. Now, highlights are compiled in a book. Co-author Lindy Drew and poet Pacia Elaine Anderson explain how it came together.

How George Washington’s hair became a totem — and a proof of belonging Feb 21, 2022

Collecting the hair of prominent people was once a thriving hobby. Historian Keith Beutler of Missouri Baptist University explains how that hobby hit a fever pitch with George Washington — and continues today.

How to research your St. Louis house’s history — and learn all about its past occupants Feb 18, 2022

Ever wondered about who lived in your house — and what they did? An expert from the Missouri History Museum details how to research your home’s history, while locals who unearthed details about their house share their stories.

Kevin Buckley’s Irish fiddle shines in debut solo album ‘Big Spring’ Feb 18, 2022

After a bout with COVID, St. Louis musician Kevin Buckley had to get out of the house. He traveled to one of the largest springs in the country — in the heart of Missouri’s Ozarks. That’s where he drew inspiration for his new debut solo album, “Big Spring.”

In ‘That’s What She Said,’ 10 St. Louis women take the mic Feb 17, 2022

“That’s What She Said” has become a biannual hit in Champaign, Illinois, bringing a cast of local women together to tell their stories in a one-night-only event. Producer/director Jenny Pratt explains why she’s bringing the show to St. Louis and discusses the process with cast member Rhoda Banks.

Wash U researchers are exploring psychedelic drugs — for science Feb 17, 2022

Researchers at WashU are studying how psychedelics like psilocybin can be used therapeutically. They discuss its uses — and its limits — during what they say is a “renaissance” of research into the impact of psychedelic drugs.

A marina for St. Louis? A Mississippi River enthusiast makes the case Feb 16, 2022

Travel writer Dean Klinkenberg is convinced St. Louis is missing out by not having a marina within its borders. He discusses how a modest marina could withstand floods — and why the fear of barge traffic shouldn’t be enough to torpedo the idea.

Valencia Miller is showing St. Louis a different kind of tattoo shop Feb 16, 2022

Valencia Miller, a.k.a. Miss V, learned to tattoo from two tattoo legends in Hawaii. Now, as the first Black woman to open a tattoo shop in St. Louis, she’s brought her talents to Lafayette Square.

Journalist accused by Gov. Parson speaks out: ‘He’s done me wrong’ Feb 16, 2022

St. Louis Post-Dispatch journalist Josh Renaud heard gasps from across the newsroom when Missouri Gov. Mike Parson publicly accused him of being a hacker. The ordeal has caused anxiety and sleepless nights. Now that prosecutors have declined to file criminal charges, Renaud is telling his side of the story.

In ‘My Flipping Family,’ the McMiller brothers shine a spotlight on St. Louis — and north county Feb 15, 2022

Jon and Willie McMiller went from rehabbing homes in their native north St. Louis County to filming a pilot for HGTV. They talk about their hopes to land an HGTV series, the breakout family member in My Flipping Family and what their show could do for St. Louis.

A downtown memorial will honor enslaved people who sued for freedom Feb 15, 2022

In the half-century between the Louisiana Purchase and the Emancipation Proclamation, approximately 400 enslaved people sued for their freedom at the St. Louis courthouse. St. Louis Circuit Court Judge David Mason and attorney Paul Venker discuss how that history has now led to a memorial bearing the names of the people suing.

Missouri Republicans can’t agree on redistricting. Here’s why Feb 14, 2022

Republican infighting in the Missouri Senate means there's still no approved congressional map. It’s caused hours of debate, a filibuster and many, many late nights. STLPR statehouse reporter Sarah Kellogg explains why this is taking place. She also discusses the House-approved supplemental budget bill and a resolution to make changes to the state’s ballot initiative process.

As St. Louis safe haven homeless shelters close, organizers call on the city to step up Feb 14, 2022

In the last week, two temporary safe haven shelters closed their doors — leaving homeless people outside during frigid weather. Volunteers and providers are calling on St. Louis officials to create more shelter capacity to prevent deaths.

Love Songs To Keep You Warm On Cold Winter Nights Feb 14, 2022

In the middle of winter’s coldest month, we make time to celebrate love. What better way to get in the mood than to listen to some love songs? In this episode, area songwriters share the best love songs they’ve written, as well as their all time favorites.

Ghost Army soldiers finally get congressional honors, 7 decades after deceiving (and defeating) Hitler Feb 11, 2022

Filmmaker Rick Beyer discusses the work of the Ghost Army in World War II, which used subterfuge to fight the Nazis. He also explains how efforts in Missouri helped lead to a congressional medal for the unit’s 1,100 veterans.

For cleaner water, Mizzou researchers call for updates to the Clean Water Act Feb 11, 2022

Two Mizzou researchers detail how the Clean Water Act has fallen short — and offer specific policy solutions to clean up the “nonpoint source pollution” that escapes its regulations. They believe those changes would significantly improve the quality of U.S. lakes, rivers, wetlands and coastal areas.

Meet Felipe Zapata, botanical adviser for ‘Encanto’ Feb 11, 2022

Felipe Zapata credits his time in St. Louis for helping his work as the botanical adviser for “Encanto.” The native of Colombia earned his Ph.D. at UMSL and studied at the Missouri Botanical Garden. He called his time working on the film “amazing.”

‘Athletes always rise to the occasion’: Former Olympic-level competitors reflect on Winter Games Feb 10, 2022

Pauline Lee went from figure skating in the Olympics for Taiwan to teaching at SLU. She and UMSL Anthropology Professor Susan Brownell discuss the 2022 Beijing Games.

Comedian David Cross is over that disastrous St. Louis set — but Florida is dead to him Feb 10, 2022

David Cross discusses his new standup comedy special, his work on “Station Eleven,” why “Arrested Development” is indisputably done and how he got over his negative feelings about St. Louis.

For St. Louis firefighters, comrade’s death spurs attention to 10K homes Feb 09, 2022

After the January death of firefighter Ben Polson, St. Louis Fire Chief Dennis Jenkerson talks about renewed efforts to rate the structural integrity of vacant buildings — and whether more vacant homes should be torn down.

3 new restaurants to try this February Feb 09, 2022

Sauce Magazine Executive Editor Meera Nagarajan explains why Peruvian fine dining, a sweet shop and a wine bar top this month’s hit list — and shares good news for lovers of vegan tacos.

Michael Politte wins parole; will leave Missouri prison this April after 20 years Feb 09, 2022

Michael Politte was convicted of killing his mother as a teen, but has always insisted he didn’t do it. His sister Melonie and attorney Megan Crane discuss the news of his favorable decision from the parole board — and what comes next in his quest for exoneration.

STL Reentry Collective focuses on trauma-informed workshops to keep people out of prison Feb 08, 2022

The STL Reentry Collective is on a mission to reimagine how people adapt to life after prison. The organizers, formerly incarcerated individuals themselves, are focused on addressing the trauma they say often lands people back in prison.

‘Privacy is not dead, but it is under threat,’ says Wash U’s Neil Richards Feb 08, 2022

Wash U law professor Neil Richards discusses how knowledge is power, and what that means for our privacy as tech companies and governments seek to surveil us. He also shares where he sees hope even with privacy’s continued erosion in the digital age.

The Wordle craze won’t last forever. Have fun while it lasts Feb 07, 2022

Atlantic contributor Ian Bogost discusses why Wordle is such a hit, what that tells us about the moment we live in, and the importance games play in society. He also explains how his background as a video game designer fits into his new role as director of Wash U’s film and media studies program.

The hunt for critical minerals is on — in Missouri Feb 07, 2022

Rare earth minerals — the commodities used to manufacture everything from smartphones to missile systems to electric vehicles — are in high demand. Missouri State Geologist Joe Gillman discusses the search for critical minerals in the Midwest.

To fix social media, a Wash U student turns to her peers Feb 04, 2022

In sixth grade, Emma Lembke couldn’t wait for permission to explore social media. But by high school, she found herself disgusted with her apps. Now she and other teens are building a movement for change.

There's still no safe haven shelter in St. Louis after city officials halted contract plans Feb 04, 2022

St. Louis officials abruptly canceled plans to fund a low-barrier shelter with Bridge of Hope in January. The nonprofit’s executive director discusses how that decision came as a shock, and whether she’s willing to work with the city again.

Gov. Parson said he’d only hire a health director who shared his ‘Christian values.’ Complaints followed Feb 04, 2022

Rabbi Daniel Bogard and Wash U Law Professor John Inazu share their thoughts on recent comments by Missouri Gov. Mike Parson, who said he’d only hire a health director who shared his “Christian values.”

Gov. Parson said he’d only hire a health director who shared his ‘Christian values.’ Complaints followed Feb 04, 2022

Rabbi Daniel Bogard and Wash U Law Professor John Inazu share their thoughts on recent comments by Missouri Gov. Mike Parson, who said he’d only hire a health director who shared his “Christian values.”

The best local theater in 2020 and 2021 — St. Louis Theater Circle unveils nominations Feb 02, 2022

"Chicago," "Jersey Boys" and "King Lear" received the most nominations from the St. Louis Theater Circle. The Muny and the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis received 27 nominations each. Local theater critics Gerry Kowarsky and Tina Farmer discussed the state of the local theater scene and how the group is changing its acting categories.

O’Fallon councilwoman’s ouster presents First Amendment concerns, attorney says Feb 02, 2022

Katie Gatewood was removed from her job as a councilwoman in O’Fallon, Missouri, after digging into the now former police chief’s past in Texas. Gatewood’s attorney Dave Roland shares why he believes the council violated her constitutional rights.

The Center for COVID Control made $155M on COVID testing — and collapsed after an FBI raid Feb 02, 2022

Journalist Kelly Bauer discusses her investigation into the Center for COVID Control, a testing company that reaped $155 million from the federal government from 300 sites across the U.S., including four in St. Louis. Bauer’s investigation found that the company mishandled both COVID-19 tests and personal data.

Can you take a photo on Metro? 1st Amendment questions are common, and complicated Feb 01, 2022

Metro Transit’s restrictions on photography spur a broad conversation about what rights photographers have involving public places, government buildings and private citizens. Washington University’s Lisa Hoppenjans shares insight on the evolving First Amendment case law.

Chuck Berry’s Life — From The Ville To The Duck Walk — Featured In PBS Documentary Feb 01, 2022

An hour-long episode of “In Their Words” had its Nine PBS premiere last July. It airs again tonight at 8. The episode features everyone from Berry’s widow and children to musician Keith Richards and St. Louis developer Joe Edwards. We listen back to our conversation from last summer about the episode.

Legal Roundtable on AG’s flurry of lawsuits, a controversy in Quincy and more Jan 31, 2022

A panel of attorneys discusses Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt’s lawsuits against 45 local districts, as well as a huge controversy over a sexual assault case in Quincy and a recent 8th circuit ruling on St. Louis police officers’ “kettling” arrests.

Huge staffing shortage leaves over 500 disabled Missourians waiting on services Jan 28, 2022

People with disabilities have been left in the lurch as the Medicaid-funded direct care provider system sees its worst staff shortage in decades. Providers and parents discuss the fallout — and whether the state is doing enough in response.

Eleri Ward’s Sondheim show interprets the Broadway legend in an unusual, intimate way Jan 28, 2022

The singer began arranging covers of Stephen Sondheim songs three years ago — just for personal enjoyment. Now her indie-folk tribute to the late Broadway legend is headed to St. Louis.

Long-haul COVID comes into focus thanks to St. Louis doctor’s research Jan 27, 2022

When St. Louis gastroenterologist Dr. Leonard Weinstock realized how much long-haul COVID-19 had in common with a little-known syndrome, he snapped to attention. He and a patient discuss how his research has led to a potential breakthrough in treating her long COVID.

‘The Real Killer’ details how the wrong man served decades in prison for a St. Louis murder Jan 27, 2022

Leah Rothman and Kay Lincoln discuss the case for Rodney Lincoln’s innocence and the new podcast that details his wrongful conviction for the murder of JoAnn Tate.

Drummer Montez Coleman had ‘great grooves’ — and made fellow musicians shine Jan 26, 2022

Jazz drummer Montez Coleman, a native of East St. Louis who returned to the Gateway City after years in New York City, recently died at age 48. Fellow musicians remember him as a joy-filled performer — and friend.

Want good grades? Stick to a sleep schedule, Wash U study finds Jan 26, 2022

A new study suggests that even more than sleep quantity, sleep consistency is critical for young adults’ happiness and cognitive functioning. Washington University psychologist Tim Bono discusses what we can all take from its findings — and how to fine-tune our sleep patterns.

Lipedema gets new attention from St. Louis doctors after years of neglect, misdiagnosis Jan 26, 2022

Lipedema is a big problem for many women — yet the condition is frequently misdiagnosed. Dr. Thomas Wright discusses what happens when it goes untreated, and how a new study at Washington University School of Medicine seeks to advance understanding of its biology.

A St. Louis woman discovered her mom’s secret past — as a Vietnamese rock star Jan 25, 2022

Dr. Hannah Ha recently uncovered a surprising secret about her mother: Before fleeing Vietnam, Phương Tâm had been a rock star in her native Saigon. Ha and music producer Mark Gergis discuss South Vietnam’s thriving 1960s music scene — and how they compiled Tâm’s decades-old recordings in a new album.

For 2 vegan businesses, St. Louis proved the perfect launch pad Jan 25, 2022

Marc Connor of Rootberry and Rita Childers of Core + Rind both started exploring vegan food after they found it left them more energized and healthier. Now, they’re on a mission to bring plant-based foods to even the most stubborn carnivores — and they’re doing it from St. Louis.

How the St. Louis Zoo cares for its 3 quinquagenarian elephants Jan 24, 2022

Three elephants at the St. Louis Zoo recently celebrated their 50th birthday. It’s a remarkable milestone, and zoological manager Katie Pilgram-Kloppe explains how the zoo provides specialized care for its “golden girls.”

Olympian credits St. Louis speedskating scene for his start Jan 24, 2022

Speedskater Ian Quinn heads to the Winter Games in Beijing on Thursday. He discusses his humble beginnings as an 8-year-old kid in St. Louis and the changes he made to win a spot on the Olympic team after two previous attempts.

A Red Circle aims to open a grocery store owned and operated by north county residents Jan 24, 2022

North St. Louis County residents lack options for high quality, affordable produce. A Red Circle is raising money for something its executive director believes will help meet the need: a community-owned and operated grocery store.

‘Don’t stay quiet’ — and other lessons Herculaneum’s cleanup offers decades later Jan 21, 2022

The former director of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources discusses the unprecedented buyout effort in lead-contaminated Herculaneum, Missouri, in 2003 — and what we can learn from that effort today.

A former police chief explores how the system failed her sister — and rural Missouri Jan 21, 2022

Former Winfield, Missouri, police chief Betty Frizzell discusses how a toxic stew of mental illness, opioid abuse and domestic violence set her family on a tragic path — and her efforts to fight for her sister, who is now serving a life sentence for murder.

‘The people of St. Louis want to recycle,’ says alderwoman Jan 20, 2022

St. Louis has gone without a curbside recycling program for eight months now. 28th Ward Alderwoman Heather Navarro discusses what it will take for the city to again separate recyclables from trash.

What happened to Tonka? Missouri chimp at center of court battle is missing — or dead Jan 20, 2022

A federal judge in St. Louis has spent years dealing with the case of the Missouri Primate Foundation, a Festus-based breeding compound where chimps were allegedly held in squalid conditions. Now the legal battle has a new focus: Did celebrity chimp Tonka die, or was he spirited away in violation of court orders?

Wash U program shows occupational therapy can be a powerful tool for homeless shelters Jan 19, 2022

Occupational therapy students help St. Louis’ homeless residents learn life skills, from setting goals to shopping. Washington University Assistant Professor Quinn Tyminski discusses the program’s benefits to both students and those they serve.

Special Coverage: Missouri Gov. Mike Parson’s State of the State Address, Democratic response Jan 19, 2022

Listen to our special coverage of Gov. Mike Parson’s annual State of the State Address and the Democratic response from state Sen. Lauren Arthur. STLPR host Sarah Fenske guides our coverage along with statehouse reporter Sarah Kellogg and political correspondent Jo Mannies.

STL's collaborative food scene earns a place in Eater’s list of where to eat in 2022 Jan 19, 2022

Bernie Lee of Akar and Kurt Bellon of Izumi discuss the communal St. Louis food scene, how it’s changed in the past few years — and how it feels to be recognized as an international hot spot for food.

Bonus: Listen to wolves at the Endangered Wolf Center howl at the full moon Jan 19, 2022

Wolves are often villainized in media and folklore. The Endangered Wolf Center in Eureka, Missouri is on a mission to break that stereotype. Among other programs, the center invites people on wolf howls to learn more about these shy animals.

Why some Missouri doctors are ditching the insurance system for ‘direct primary care’ clinics Jan 18, 2022

Dr. Lauren Mitchell and Dr. Jennifer Allen explain why they’ve joined estimated 30-plus Missouri physicians by establishing clinics outside the insurance-based system. Direct primary care clinics charge monthly fees, but doctors say they are overall more affordable and more flexible for patients.

5 new restaurants to try this January Jan 18, 2022

Five new restaurants ranging from late-night hot spots to coffee shops get Sauce Magazine's nod this January.

Advocates drop opposition to Jefferson Bank merger after First Mid inks a community benefits agreement Jan 18, 2022

Community advocates had publicly opposed First Mid Bank & Trust’s plans to purchase St. Louis-based Jefferson Bank. Now they’ve dropped their opposition after reaching a community benefits agreement with First Mid that includes the opening of two new bank branches to serve low-to-moderate-income and minority communities.

Missouri bill would peel back the Sunshine Law, make open records more costly Jan 14, 2022

Missouri’s current Sunshine Law says citizens cannot be charged for any records review done by government attorneys, but a bill being prioritized by Gov. Mike Parson could change that. Advocates explain how it would affect access to records in Missouri.

Crawford County’s refusal to prosecute a Black man’s killer has activists pushing for federal review Jan 14, 2022

Justin King, 28, was killed by a neighbor in Bourbon, Missouri. The county prosecutor says the shooting was self-defense under Missouri law, but civil rights activists say that’s not the full story.

Missouri legislators ring in 2022 with map drama, wage issue — and some lingering tensions Jan 14, 2022

St. Louis Public Radio statehouse reporter Sarah Kellogg discusses what the Missouri legislature has been working on in its first two weeks this year, and what’s to come this session.

Ike, Tina and the vibrant East St. Louis music world that shaped them Jan 13, 2022

Ike and Tina Turner were transplants who met in St. Louis and became a powerhouse duo. NYU professor Maureen Mahon discusses how the clubs of 1950s East St. Louis brought them together and inspired their sound.

Cortez Bufford police shooting sees new forensic analysis Jan 13, 2022

Investigative journalist Alison Flowers discusses her forensic analysis of lighting conditions during a 2019 police shooting, which she believes demonstrates that a St. Louis police officer could not have been telling the truth about acting in self-defense.

Bettie Mae Fikes sees the civil rights struggle continue from 1960s Selma Jan 13, 2022

Known as the “Voice of Selma,” Bettie Mae Fikes describes what got her involved in the civil rights movement, the violence she witnessed and her thoughts on voting rights legislation now pending in Congress.

Jennings schools fight to stay ahead of omicron surge — and stay in person Jan 12, 2022

Jennings School Superintendent Paula Knight finds herself in a constant struggle to maintain what’s best for her students and staff. Despite the odds, her district has managed to stay in-person during the COVID-19 pandemic.

For SLU prof Rachel Greenwald Smith, compromise is not a virtue Jan 12, 2022

The St. Louis University professor discusses her provocative new book of essays “On Compromise: Art, Politics, and the Fate of an American Ideal,” how she handles strange bedfellows and how her free-wheeling childhood left her wanting more.

Cars dominate a key St. Louis transit hub — but a different Grand Boulevard is possible Jan 11, 2022

Midtown St. Louis is seeing big developments. But the Grand MetroLink Station functions as a car-centric “doughnut hole” in its center. Kim Cella of Citizens for Modern Transit and traffic engineer Chris Beard discuss the problems — and a new report urging improvements.

Zamzama Safi fled Kabul for suburban St. Louis. She’s found freedom — and anxiety Jan 11, 2022

Afghan refugee Zamzama “ZZ” Safi loves her life in St. Peters, Missouri, but remains terrified for her family that remains in Afghanistan. The former linguist for U.S. forces gives an update on her life in Missouri, five months after fleeing the Taliban.

What the EPA’s accelerated Superfund cleanups mean in a region with a long legacy of contamination Jan 10, 2022

For those concerned about Superfund sites in Missouri and Illinois, the EPA’s newly announced cleanup plans for 49 sites across the U.S come as great news. But community members say it’s also a reminder of just how much work still needs to be done.

Alzheimer’s studies to include more Black people Jan 10, 2022

Washington University recently received millions of dollars in grant money that researchers hope will turn the tide on Alzheimer’s research. Dr. John Morris and professor Joyce Balls-Berry explain the work they’re doing.

Seniors debunk myths about assisted living with new murder mystery Jan 07, 2022

For residents of Arrow Senior Living communities, writing a mystery novel together proved to be the perfect pandemic project. A resident co-author and the organization’s editor and archivist discuss the creation of “The Old and the Beautiful.”

Rep. Mary Elizabeth Coleman sees Texas as a model in her quest to end abortion in Missouri Jan 07, 2022

Missouri state representative Mary Elizabeth Coleman discusses her controversial new abortion bill, modeled after the one introduced in Texas last year, and why she believes banning abortion empowers women.

Omicron spike has St. Louis health director promising more tests, new strategies Jan 06, 2022

Dr. Mati Hlatshwayo Davis digs into the region’s recent huge wave of COVID-19 cases and her approach to combating the pandemic. She also opens up about what keeps her going in a job and a field that has been incredibly challenging of late.

Al Watkins on fighting for the ‘QAnon Shaman’: ‘There’s method behind the madness’ Jan 06, 2022

Clayton attorney Al Watkins discusses his representation of Jacob Chansley, the Arizona man who became the face of the Jan. 6 insurrection — and how going viral helps his legal advocacy.

Americans’ anger over politics threatens democracy, WashU professor finds Jan 05, 2022

Political anger leads to polarization, and that has Washington University professor Betsy Sinclair worried. She explains what's driving the anger, and how it puts the nation's future at risk.

Local restaurants fear new COVID wave could push them to the brink Jan 05, 2022

Qui Tran and Jason Sparks, two local restaurant owners, are mentally and physically exhausted from working to stay afloat during the pandemic.

Amtrak service is now speedier from St. Louis to Chicago — but less frequent to Kansas City Jan 04, 2022

Service along the passenger rail line that runs between St. Louis and Kansas City was reduced by 50% earlier this week due to a lack of funding from the state of Missouri. Amtrak’s Marc Magliari explains what’s going on.

St. Louis has yet to open a 'safe haven' homeless shelter this winter, despite federal funds Jan 04, 2022

Local providers and organizers are scrambling to keep a pop-up emergency shelter open during freezing temperatures, while they wait on the city to fund one.

A Colombian immigrant made St. Louis home. Now his dad does too Jan 04, 2022

After Carlos Restrepo became a U.S. citizen in 2015, he kickstarted his father’s journey to the U.S. Carlos and his father, Luis, discuss their journey to St. Louis and the local support they found along the way.

Margaret Hermes’ new novel was inspired by backpacking Europe — and 4 decades of gestation Jan 03, 2022

"The Opposite of Chance" was published 39 years after author Margaret Hermes wrote its first chapters. She explains what took so long, how she overcame the story's complications, and how intense research allowed her to bring characters far different from herself to life.

Red Cross responds to disasters, sounds alarm on ‘dangerously low’ blood supply Jan 03, 2022

The need for blood is on the rise, but the Red Cross is seeing fewer first-time donors — and is down to about one day’s worth of reserves. Joe Zydlo digs into what’s causing the shortfall, and how it plays into the organization’s recent response to tornadoes in Missouri and Arkansas.

State-of-the-art tech helps Wash U researchers better understand shut-ins Jan 03, 2022

By utilizing state-of-the-art technology, Wash U researchers hope to develop a better understanding of how rivers may react to future flooding events. Geomorphologist Claire Masteller joins us to discuss her work studying bedrock river erosion.

In ‘My Fugitive,’ a lawyer’s daughter trains her eye on the FBI’s excesses Dec 29, 2021

In this encore of a one-hour special edition, Nina Gilden Seavey discusses her podcast "My Fugitive," which connects the story of anti-war activist Howard Mechanic with that of another fugitive who spent time in St. Louis: James Earl Ray, who was convicted of killing Martin Luther King Jr.

Areva Martin wants to shift the ‘Lean In’ paradigm: ‘You can't lean into a closed door’ Dec 28, 2021

Lawyer and author Areva Martin discusses her book “Awakening: Ladies, Leadership, and the Lies We've Been Told” in this encore episode.

‘Road Diet’ Cuts Hampton Avenue’s 4 Lanes To 3 In Hopes Of Making Road Safer For All Dec 28, 2021

Hampton, a formerly four-lane thoroughfare, now limits traffic to one lane in each direction, with the addition of a center turning lane plus wider parking lanes on the sides. The city has plans for a somewhat similar transformation along Lindell Boulevard by Forest Park.

Michael Politte has served 22 years for murdering his mother. Experts say he’s innocent Dec 27, 2021

Michael Politte was sentenced to life without the possibility of parole for allegedly murdering his mother as a 14-year-old. Attorneys and advocates explain the growing body of evidence that he’s actually innocent — and Politte tells his story.

Did Amazon do enough to protect workers? Legal Roundtable discusses that and more Dec 23, 2021

Attorneys Mark Smith, Nicole Gorovsky and Connie McFarland-Butler talk about the big legal questions after a deadly tornado in Edwardsville, what Missouri law really says about who has the power to issue mask mandates, litigation against the Gateway Pundit and more.

Sophia Benoit on leaving Kirkwood, finding Twitter and loosening up Dec 22, 2021

Kirkwood native (and GQ sex columnist) Sophia Benoit discusses growing up in the St. Louis suburbs, the joys of Twitter and letting go of that bad first boyfriend.

Washington University has portrayed its cofounder as an abolitionist — he wasn't Dec 22, 2021

Washington University has previously portrayed co-founder William Greenleaf Eliot as an abolitionist. In a contributed segment from STLPR’s Marissanne Lewis-Thompson, she talks with Wash U student Nkemjika Emenike and professor Iver Bernstein about how Eliot was not an abolitionist. A recent article in the university’s independent student newspaper, “Student Life,” uncovered the details.

Tony's 82-year-old pastry chef Helen Fletcher spills her baking secrets Dec 21, 2021

Longtime baker and Tony’s pastry chef Helen Fletcher shares tips and tricks for baking cookies in this “St. Louis on the Air” interview.

‘It doesn’t have to be this way’: Amazon warehouse culture gets a closer look Dec 21, 2021

Jason Struna, a professor who studies warehouse work and distribution centers, describes Amazon work culture and offers insight to the Edwardsville warehouse where 6 workers were killed this month.

For Guns N’ Roses guitarist Richard Fortus, Pale Divine reunion will be a family affair Dec 20, 2021

As Pale Divine reunites for a show this New Year’s Eve, guitarist Richard Fortus discusses why the beloved St. Louis band broke up, his work as the longtime guitarist for Guns N’ Roses, and why The Psychedelic Furs recorded their most recent album in St. Louis.

Dr. Alex Garza hopes St. Louis can learn from the military’s COVID response Dec 20, 2021

Dr. Alex Garza discusses again leading the St. Louis Metropolitan Pandemic Task Force after his deployment in Kuwait and shares lessons he learned overseas.

In St. Louis, police will no longer issue marijuana citations Dec 20, 2021

A new law in St. Louis basically extends the possession rights enjoyed by medical marijuana card holders to everyone. Alderman Bret Narayan explains the bill’s genesis — and why it’s not yet legalization.

Bonus Episode: St. Louisan Shayn Prapaisilp shines light on anti-Asian discrimination Dec 18, 2021

Shayn Prapaisilp is a lifelong St. Louisan. But as an Asian American, he’s still regularly asked where he’s “really” from. In this episode, he fires back with his answer.

St. Louis’ almost-famous 1970s girl band the Welders finally gets its due Dec 17, 2021

All-girl punk band the Welders burst onto the St. Louis music scene in the 1970s. But their work never made it to vinyl — until now. Host Sarah Fenske sits down with three of the founding members of the band.

SLU prof’s invention makes masked singing a snap Dec 17, 2021

St. Louis University music professor Stephanie Tennill explains how she invented VocalEase, a mask now being used by top opera singers — and why it’s being manufactured right here in St. Louis.

5-year-old December 5th Fund has helped 60 St. Louis families ‘forget cancer’ for a day Dec 16, 2021

Tom Wiley, who lost his late wife to breast cancer in 2016, started The December 5th Fund to provide sweet memories and home-related help to other families in the midst of hard journeys. Now, the St. Louis nonprofit is expanding its efforts into southern Illinois.

From St. Louis, Clever Real Estate works to disrupt the real estate industry Dec 16, 2021

Clever Real Estate is growing fast by disrupting how real estate agents are found — and how much they get paid. Co-founder Luke Babich explains why St. Louis is a perfect place to grow the business.

The Missouri Botanical Garden is on a mission to save the Fraser fir Dec 15, 2021

Becky Sucher, senior manager of living collections, discusses a conservation effort involving the garden’s horticulturists — and some 17,000 seeds from the Appalachian Mountains.

The Missouri Botanical Garden is on a mission to save the Fraser fir Dec 15, 2021

Becky Sucher, senior manager of living collections, discusses a conservation effort involving the garden’s horticulturists — and some 17,000 seeds from the Appalachian Mountains.

Missouri AG ‘doesn’t have the authority’ over school COVID measures, lawyer says Dec 15, 2021

After Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt sent school districts around the state cease-and-desist letters about their COVID-19 precautions, Joe Hatley sent his own letter back, on behalf of a Lee’s Summit school district. Hatley explains why Schmitt’s opinion is wrong in his view.

St. Louis Santas dance in the streets — and swim with sharks Dec 14, 2021

Santa takes many forms this holiday season. St. Louis’ own "Cocoa Santa,” hip-hop Santa and the St. Louis Aquarium's "Scuba Claus” share their perspectives on the role of a lifetime.

The scoop on 2021's best new restaurants Dec 14, 2021

Sauce Magazine Executive Editor Meera Nagarajan digs into why nine new restaurants earned rave reviews from Sauce staff.

‘Missouri is dinosaur country,’ says fossil hunter Guy Darrough Dec 13, 2021

Fossil hunter Guy Darrough discusses how recent new discoveries have changed our understanding of Missouri’s state dinosaur, Parrosaurus missouriensis, and what its excavation site in Bollinger County tells us about Missouri’s ancient past.

6 people died after a tornado tore through an Amazon warehouse in Edwardsville Dec 13, 2021

On Friday night, an EF-3 tornado tore through an Amazon warehouse in Edwardsville, Illinois, killing six people. Another tornado killed a woman in Defiance, Missouri. STLPR Correspondent Jonathan Ahl talks about the disasters and the questions that remain unanswered.

How teen sisters built a nonprofit with 19,000 volunteers Dec 13, 2021

As high school students, Shreya and Saffron Patel set out to help their grandmother – and ended up founding the nonprofit Letters Against Isolation, which has helped senior citizens around the world. Wash U sophomore Shreya Patel discusses the organization’s big reach.

Struggling with mental health? St. Louis psychiatrist’s app can help Dec 10, 2021

Dr. Dale Anderson created a free app for those struggling with mental health in the pandemic. He believes even small doses of cognitive behavioral therapy can get people to a healthier place.

A new initiative is helping artists buy homes in Gravois Park Dec 10, 2021

St. Louis Art Place Initiative hopes to help 20 artists purchase homes in a four-block area of the city’s Gravois Park neighborhood. Operations director Kaveh Razani explains how the program works and what it hopes to do for artists, and the Cherokee Street area, as housing costs escalate.

How communists (briefly) ran St. Louis Dec 10, 2021

Author Mark Kruger (“The St. Louis Commune of 1877”) describes how the railroad strike of 1877 became a much broader strike in St. Louis, basically shutting down all commerce in the city — and how communists took control of the city.

As Afghan refugees face a hard landing in St. Louis, nonprofit leaders form ‘Refugee Command Center’ Dec 09, 2021

The International Institute of St. Louis is overwhelmed trying to resettle more than 300 Afghan refugees and turning to other nonprofits for help.

Musician Lydia Caesar wants everyone to know they can have a legendary love Dec 09, 2021

Lydia Caesar has found a home in the St. Louis music scene. Her new EP tells listeners not to settle or sacrifice themselves in relationships, but to strive for something monumental.

COVID case spike has St. Louis hospitals stretched thin Dec 08, 2021

The head of the St. Louis Metropolitan Pandemic Task Force discusses the latest regional trends, the Missouri attorney beneral’s fight against mask mandates and whether the omicron variant could be a cause for optimism.

Best books of 2021, chosen by St. Louis librarians Dec 08, 2021

Librarians Jennifer Alexander of St. Louis County Library and Kathy Condon Boettcher of St. Louis Public Library share their favorite books released in 2021.

Small but spirited, Sumner High choir finds hard-fought harmony Dec 08, 2021

For choral conductor Maria Ellis and her students, convening historic Sumner High’s first choir in decades has proved to be a challenging task — but also full of reward. We check in with the choir as it prepares for a winter concert.

Catholic priest abuse survivors use drama therapy techniques to heal old wounds Dec 07, 2021

In the new Netflix documentary “Procession,” six survivors of sex abuse by Catholic priests process their trauma by using drama therapy techniques. Filmmaker and Mizzou Professor Robert Greene joins the show alongside one of the survivors.

Rapper Murphy Lee has a new distribution plan: He wants you to text him Dec 07, 2021

Grammy Award-winning rapper Murphy Lee discusses his rise to fame as a St. Lunatic, his new journey as an independent artist and why he wants fans to reach out and text him.

Traveling Celtic show makes its first-ever St. Louis stop — and features local artists Dec 06, 2021

Tomáseen Foley’s “A Celtic Christmas,” now in its 26th year, is making its first-ever St. Louis stop Dec. 13 — and two locals have big roles. They join us in anticipation of the big evening.

How should St. Louis spend its $500M Rams settlement? Dec 06, 2021

St. Louis Post-Dispatch sports columnist Ben Frederickson discusses the road to St. Louis’ settlement over the Rams’ departure, why an expansion team was never in the mix, and his thoughts on how to spend the money.

As fentanyl kills record numbers of Americans, experts see ways to stop its menace Dec 03, 2021

Percy Menzies, founder of Assisted Recovery Centers of America, and Ben Westhoff, author of “Fentanyl, Inc.” discuss how fentanyl is fueling record-high overdose deaths and what we can do to help people affected by it.

In ‘Profit and Punishment,’ Tony Messenger exposes how the justice system traps poor people Dec 03, 2021

Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist Tony Messenger discusses his first book, which expands on his columns about debtors prisons and the fight to reform the court fees and fines that trap Americans in a cycle of poverty

Missouri was the nation’s ‘puppy mill capital’ — but advocates fought back Dec 02, 2021

For years, Missouri was known for its problem dog breeders. Advocates explain what changed after legislation cracked down on the industry — and where they still see room for improvement in the Show Me State.

Clayton native Jo Firestone on ‘Joe Pera Talks With You,’ teaching comedy to seniors and more Dec 02, 2021

After attending Clayton High School, comedian Jo Firestone went to college and then to New York City, where she’s lived for more than a decade. But one of her current gigs, as a writer, producer and co-star in a hit TV show, puts her back in the Midwest in a fictional version of Marquette, Michigan.

CAM commemorates World AIDS Day and St. Louis’ history with the disease Dec 01, 2021

It’s been 40 years since the first official HIV/AIDS case was diagnosed in the U.S. But researchers now know the 40-year mark is likely an incomplete understanding of the disease’s beginnings.

St. Louis eyes MetroLink expansion even as bus service contracts Dec 01, 2021

St. Louis has $41 million in sales tax revenue that could be used to build a north-south MetroLink expansion. But is that what the city’s public transit system needs? Transit scholar Kate Lowe and community members weigh in.

How shopping local turns small purchases into a big deal for St. Louis Nov 30, 2021

Shopping local can make a big difference for the region, as the Federal Reserve’s Bill Rodgers explains. He’s joined by Debra Hunter, co-owner of Provisions St. Louis, and St. Louisans sharing their favorite local spots.

Families facing tax foreclosure in St. Louis would see relief via new fund Nov 30, 2021

Approximately 50 St. Louis families lose their homes to tax foreclosure each year, even though they owe on average just a few thousand dollars. Abdul Abdullah talks about a new fund that aims to help those families stay in their homes and keep the tax collector at bay.

Beth Bacon’s book teaches kids that getting vaccinated may hurt a little, but it helps a lot Nov 30, 2021

St. Louis author Beth Bacon discusses her new book “Helping Our World Get Well: COVID Vaccines,” the art of a good children’s book and how to talk to kids about complicated topics.

Hedge fund known for gutting newspapers makes play for St. Louis Post-Dispatch owner Nov 29, 2021

Alden Global Capital wants to buy the company that owns the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. An investigative reporter and the president of the union that represents Post-Dispatch staffers discuss what that could mean for the daily — and St. Louis.

Entertainer and St. Louis native Josephine Baker to be inducted into the Panthéon Nov 29, 2021

More than 45 years after her death, St. Louis native and entertainer Josephine Baker is receiving France’s highest honor: induction into the Panthéon. We talk with Lionel Cuillé of Washington University and Lois Conley of the Griot Museum of Black History about Baker’s life and legacy.

For Christine Brewer, cabaret’s intimacy is something new Nov 29, 2021

Opera star Christine Brewer discusses the cabaret show she debuts this weekend in St. Louis, how she was pushed to become a performer and what makes her nervous even after all these years singing in public.

'The National Road' explores 'a changing America' from the ground Nov 26, 2021

Tom Zoellner's new book, "The National Road: Dispatches from a Changing America," is a journey into the uneasy soul of the nation: What unites us, what divides us, and what lies in the middle of the cities of the coasts.

These 2 St. Louisans are bringing new life to crossword puzzles Nov 26, 2021

Matthew Stock and Sid Sivakumar started out talking crossword puzzles and became fast friends. Now, a puzzle they co-wrote has been published in the New York Times. They discuss the joy of puzzle making with host Sarah Fenske.

How Eureka’s Endangered Wolf Center is fighting to bring red wolves back from the brink Nov 26, 2021

Fewer than 20 American red wolves live in the wild throughout the U.S., all in a refuge in North Carolina. Two Missouri-born wolves were flown there last month to join the population, providing a critical source of new genetic diversity.

In ‘My Fugitive,’ a lawyer’s daughter trains her eye on the FBI’s excesses Nov 24, 2021

In this one-hour special edition, Nina Gilden Seavey discusses her podcast "My Fugitive," which connects the story of anti-war activist Howard Mechanic with that of another fugitive who spent time in St. Louis: James Earl Ray, who was convicted of killing Martin Luther King Jr.

Kroenke vs. the NFL? Legal Roundtable tackles the latest in Rams' litigation, and more Nov 23, 2021

The Legal Roundtable discusses the latest in the litigation over the Rams’ departure from St. Louis, the Missouri Democratic Party’s attempt to fight unionization of its employees and the surprisingly short sentence given to a former police officer accused of beating an undercover colleague.

Sk8 Liborius was an underground draw for a decade. Now St. Louis' skate church is going legit Nov 22, 2021

The building that began as St. Liborius Catholic Church has housed one of St. Louis’ coolest underground spots: Sk8 Liborious. Two of its owners discuss how they turned the deconsecrated church into a skate haven — and their plans to turn it into an official arts center.

Why public radio journalists filed suit against St. Louis police Nov 22, 2021

Minnesota Public Radio is suing St. Louis police over their refusal to release clearance status information for homicides, information sought by St. Louis Public Radio in collaboration with APM Reports. STLPR Justice Correspondent Rachel Lippmann discusses the suit — and what families of crime victims say about getting information from the department.

Food Outreach expands to help veterans with uncontrolled diabetes Nov 22, 2021

Food Outreach provides nutritious meals to people living with cancer or HIV. Now the nonprofit is piloting a project to help veterans with uncontrolled diabetes. Executive Director Julie Lock explains the impetus.

After 29 years, the Midwest Avengers are still innovating with ‘Vengadores Del Medio Oeste’ Nov 19, 2021

Two members of Midwest Avengers explain what’s kept the hip-hop rock band together for nearly 30 years — and how they navigated a world that wasn’t quite ready for their music.

How St. Louis-based Stonemaier is changing the (board) game Nov 19, 2021

Jamey Stegmaier, co-founder of St. Louis-based Stonemaier Games, discusses the art of designing a hit board game and while tabletop games will never go out of style in a digital age.

A 3-wheel car from 1933? Buckminster Fuller’s invention was ahead of its time Nov 19, 2021

The futuristic, sustainability-focused legacy of the late American architect Buckminster Fuller lives on, including in the St. Louis region. Hundreds of people stopped by SIUE’s Fuller Dome last week to take a spin in a replica of Fuller’s 1933-built Dymaxion Car.

Pocketparks aims to beautify St. Louis, one vacant lot at a time Nov 18, 2021

A new nonprofit is doing big things in small spaces. Pocketparks’ founder explains how, and why, she’s taking vacant lots in St. Louis and transforming them into community spaces.

With $19 million, Brickline Greenway moves closer to construction Nov 18, 2021

The Brickline Greenway aims to connect the Gateway Arch to Forest Park and Fairground Park to Tower Grove Park with pedestrian and bike paths. Great Rivers Greenway discusses how two recent federal grants will fuel the ambitious plan to connect 17 city neighborhoods.

How thousands of racial covenants helped shape segregation in St. Louis Nov 18, 2021

More than 30,000 property deeds in St. Louis include language that excludes Black people and those of certain religions from buying the homes. STLPR reporter Corinne Ruff and historian Colin Gordon talk about the two-part investigation on the topic.

Too little sleep — or too much — is linked with cognitive decline, Wash U study finds Nov 17, 2021

Washington University researchers find cognitive decline is linked to having too little or too much sleep. Dr. Brendan Lucey discusses how the data untangles the complicated relationship between sleep, Alzheimer’s and cognitive function and gives advice on better sleep.

Brutal assaults on St. Louis County corrections officers prompt changes at the jail Nov 17, 2021

Two St. Louis County corrections officers were brutally attacked by inmates in recent weeks. Attorney Elad Gross describes the attacks as acting jail director Scott Anders explains what he’s doing to prevent them from happening again.

A St. Louis man went viral looking for love — and may have found it Nov 16, 2021

Colin O'Brien's quest for a date made him an internet sensation earlier this year. And now, he has some news, as he explains in this episode.

Lisa Napoli on how ‘Susan, Linda, Nina & Cokie’ made NPR a powerhouse Nov 16, 2021

Author Lisa Napoli discusses her book “Susan, Linda, Nina & Cokie” and the early days of NPR with Sarah Fenske before a live audience at St. Louis Jewish Book Festival.

How lawyers are helping north St. Louis advocates deal with their neighborhoods’ biggest problems Nov 15, 2021

North St. Louis neighborhoods get help tackling big problems with Legal Services of Eastern Missouri’s Neighborhood Vacancy Initiative. Attorney Peter Hoffman and neighborhood advocate Tonnie Glispie-Smith discuss the progress they’ve seen and the grant that will allow program expansion.

Born in St. Louis, Airly is the world’s first ‘climate-friendly snack cracker’ Nov 15, 2021

The co-founders of Airly Foods explain how they invented a snack cracker that actually takes carbon out of the air, how they’re already seeing demand from grocers across the U.S., and how they hope to be a “lighthouse brand.”

Parents and school districts weary of two-week quarantines, consider test-to-stay Nov 12, 2021

Missouri is a local control state, so COVID policies in schools vary statewide. Margie Vandeven, commissioner of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, discusses the options available to schools and how to keep kids in the classroom.

How to combat vaccine hesitancy? Take a cue from psychology Nov 12, 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic prompted Molly Wilson to seek a deeper understanding of vaccine hesitancy — and the possibilities for breaking through it. She discusses how public health officials might persuade parents as they weigh vaccinating their kids.

Analysis: Assessing Cori Bush's infrastructure "no" vote Nov 11, 2021

Cori Bush's "no" vote on the infrastructure bill went against the votes of many of her democratic colleagues. St. Louis Public Radio political correspondent Jason Rosenbaum digests the vote and its implications.

For veterans with PTSD, Illinois nonprofit's service dogs are a game changer Nov 11, 2021

Service dogs can make a big difference for veterans suffering from PTSD. Nicole Lanahan of Got Your Six Support Dogs discusses her organization’s work, and Navy veteran Andy Canning shares how his dog Arkum helps him and his family.

UMSL economist and St. Louis heating vendor weigh in on Spire’s STL Pipeline snafu Nov 11, 2021

Spire’s Nov. 4 email about its STL Pipeline sparked alarm. UMSL economist Lea Kosnik says higher energy bills are a concern for this winter but residents shouldn’t be too concerned about the pipeline closing. Carondelet Mechanical owner Jesse Irwin, whose phone has been blowing up with people hoping to switch to electric heat, also joins the conversation.

For Clifton Daniel, playing Truman in ‘Give 'em Hell, Harry!’ is all in the family Nov 09, 2021

Harry Truman’s grandson, Clifton Daniel, portrays the late president in a one-man show, “Give 'em Hell, Harry!” Daniel talks about his grandfather and this weekend’s performance in Rolla.

Bus drivers and riders alike are frustrated amid Metro Transit worker shortage Nov 09, 2021

Metro Transit plans to suspend six MetroBus routes and reduce the frequency of service along 31 others later this month in response to an ongoing operator shortage. Local Metro operator union rep Catina Wilson and rider Mitch Eagles join the talk show to share their concerns and ideas for a way forward.

No, St. Louis is not arriving later at peak fall foliage. A biologist explains why Nov 09, 2021

Conventional wisdom holds that leaves are changing colors later than they used to due to climate change. But Susanne Renner, an honorary professor of biology at Washington University, says that’s not true — and explains what her research shows about fall foliage.

Military historian John McManus explores the Army’s Pacific War in new book Nov 08, 2021

Military historian John C. McManus of Missouri S&T is the author of the new book “Island Infernos.” It explores the U.S. Army’s Pacific War during World War II. McManus joins guest host Jeremy D. Goodwin.

Areva Martin wants to shift the ‘Lean In’ paradigm: ‘You can't lean into a closed door’ Nov 08, 2021

Lawyer and author Areva Martin discussed her book “Awakening: Ladies, Leadership, and the Lies We've Been Told” before a live audience. The St. Louis native explained the lies told to women and why society needs an overhaul, not a tweak.

Like St. Louis, Quincy has a rich history as a gateway city Nov 05, 2021

We'll listen back to when Rob Mellon, executive director of the Historical Society of Quincy and Adams County, guided us through SeeQuincy's new self-driving tour. It highlights 20 historically significant sites and stories in Quincy, Illinois.

Fish Use Dramatic Pauses Too, Wash U Professor Finds Nov 05, 2021

Biologist Bruce Carlson joined our program in June to talk about the evolution of communication in the animal world. In this encore discussion, he explained how fish use electric pulses as they signal their peers.

‘Down Along With That Devil’s Bones’ Reckons With Monuments To Nathan Bedford Forrest Nov 05, 2021

In this encore discussion, journalist Connor Towne O'Neill delves into his new book, “Down Along With That Devil’s Bones," which explores monuments to Confederate General Nathan Bedford Forrest in four Southern cities — and the people seeking to take them down.

Proposed St. Louis ward map tries to keep neighborhoods together Nov 04, 2021

In 2012, St. Louis residents voted to cut the number of wards in half – 28 to 14. STLPR reporter Rachel Lippmann talks about how this process is playing out now that the Board of Aldermen has released its first draft of a map.

What ‘first responder’ status means for 911 dispatchers in St. Louis County Nov 04, 2021

A dispatcher explains how the St. Louis County Police Department is paving the way for centers across the region to formally recognize 911 dispatchers as first responders.

In ‘Ferguson Rises,’ Michael Brown Sr. finds resilience after tragedy Nov 03, 2021

The documentary film "Ferguson Rises" focuses on Michael Brown Sr. in the five years after the death of his son. Filmmaker Mobolaji Olambiwonnu discusses the film ahead of its showing at the St. Louis International Film Festival.

How the quest to make Augusta the next Napa has left some residents uneasy Nov 03, 2021

Augusta is seeing a big increase in economic development. While it seems like a positive change for the small St. Charles County town, some residents worry that too much is happening too quickly.

While the world shouts, Zadie Smith wants to whisper in your ear Nov 03, 2021

British-born writer Zadie Smith comes to town this week as the 54th recipient of the St. Louis Literary Award. She discusses everything from death, anger and the COVID-19 pandemic to her first foray into writing a historical novel.

Teens seeking abortions in Illinois won’t need parental notification in 2022 Nov 02, 2021

The Illinois legislature has repealed parental notification laws for abortion — one of the state’s last abortion restrictions. An abortion provider discusses why she pushed for the repeal, and how it will affect her practice.

How a Clayton-raised filmmaker landed Scorsese for her feature debut ‘The Oratorio’ Nov 02, 2021

After growing up in the St. Louis area, Mary Anne Rothberg wound up in New York City, in the advertising industry. But in recent years, she’s shifted to documentary films — and her very first feature-length one features Martin Scorsese on camera.

For 54 years, SLU’s literary award has connected big-name writers and St. Louis audiences Nov 02, 2021

Since 1967, the St. Louis Literary Award has brought heavy hitters to town, including Shelby Foote, Eudora Welty and Chinua Achebe. Executive director Ted Ibur discusses the award’s history and what it’s like to deal with writers such as Margaret Atwood and Stephen Sondheim.

We need to talk about mental health and college kids, Wash U psychiatrist says Nov 01, 2021

Washington University’s Dr. Jessi Gold says the COVID-19 crisis has been particularly hard on college students, and yet they are often not part of the conversation about pandemic impacts. Gold joins us for a look at what is happening on campus — and what can be done.

‘Recovering engineer’ Charles Marohn has a few ideas for St. Louis Nov 01, 2021

The Strong Towns founder and former engineer discusses what his former profession gets wrong, what makes streets safer and why St. Louis is, in one key way, a “tragedy” — albeit one that could still be fixed.

In St. Louis, a search for solutions as drivers keep killing pedestrians Oct 29, 2021

Pedestrian deaths have spiked in St. Louis in recent months. Tiffanie Stanfield and Xandi Barrett discuss what they’re each doing to prevent such traffic violence.

Substitute teachers are in short supply. Missouri hopes it's found a solution Oct 29, 2021

STLPR's new education reporter, Kate Grumke, discusses her first story for the station that takes a look at how the state of Missouri is trying help alleviate the short supply of substitute teachers and meet demand.

Get in the Halloween spirit with this recitation of Poe’s ‘The Masque of the Red Death’ Oct 29, 2021

Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Masque of the Red Death” is a most appropriate tale for Halloween during the pandemic. This audio version is recited by historical interpreter Anne Williams with production and sound design by Aaron Doerr.

Nurses remember Homer G. Phillips Hospital as ‘a pillar of the Black community’ Oct 28, 2021

Homer G. Phillips Hospital was internationally known as a state-of-the-art institution and for training Black medical graduates, when few institutions in the U.S. did so. Former nurses and a historian remember its legacy.

Downtown tax district makes its case for renewal Oct 28, 2021

Kelli McCrary, executive director of the Downtown St. Louis Community Improvement District, discusses the tax district’s quest for renewal and vision for downtown amid criticism from some local property owners.

Metro Transit hubs get behavioral health specialists in new pilot program Oct 27, 2021

As part of an ongoing focus on increasing safety and comfort along Metro Transit vehicles, Bi-State Development’s Taulby Roach has high hopes for a new partnership aimed at connecting struggling riders with much-needed services. He and the CEO of Chestnut Health Systems, Dave Sharar, talk with host Sarah Fenske.

For ‘Bat Week,’ conservation efforts at Shaw Nature Reserve take center stage Oct 27, 2021

In honor of “Bat Week,” we talk with two local scientists about their work at the Missouri Botanical Garden’s Shaw Nature Reserve to highlight the winged mammals that keep our insect populations in check.

Towns hit by flooding get help from Ducks Unlimited Oct 27, 2021

Creating wetlands in farm country can reduce the severity of flooding downstream. The Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative and Ducks Unlimited have partnered to create more wetlands in the Mississippi River basin.

Jordan Ward is St. Louis proud even after 8 years — and dance success — in LA Oct 26, 2021

Singer-songwriter Jordan Ward discusses his successful music and dance journey — and love for the south side of St. Louis — ahead of his homecoming show at the Blueberry Hill.

Bobby Norfolk returns to the stage with ‘Terrifying Tales’ Oct 26, 2021

The Emmy Award-winning storyteller discusses his haunted storytelling event — and leaves listeners hanging with a two-minute teaser of a spooky story.

Advocates see red flags as First Mid seeks to acquire Jefferson Bank & Trust Oct 26, 2021

Fair housing and consumer advocates say First Mid Bank & Trust’s record shows significant fair lending and redlining concerns. They explain why the Federal Reserve should block its merger with Jefferson Bank & Trust.

NFL’s removal of lead St. Louis attorney seems ‘a little bit like sandbagging,' says Legal Roundtable Oct 25, 2021

The Legal Roundtable digs into litigation over the Rams’ departure from St. Louis, a professor’s demands against Gov. Mike Parson, religious freedom in Missouri and more.

'Science' study details incarceration's toll on families Oct 22, 2021

Next year marks 50 years since rates of imprisonment rapidly increased in the U.S. Washington University sociology professor Hedwig Lee explains how people with family members in prison are affected by their time inside.

Quincy will give people $3,500 to move to the Gem City Oct 22, 2021

Businesses in Quincy, Illinois, are growing — and the area’s workforce needs to catch up. Mayor Mike Troup explains how the Quincy City Council aims to attract new workers by offering to help pay their rent or buy a new home.

‘Trains & Trolleys’ explores the railroads that altered St. Louis’ fortunes Oct 22, 2021

Author Molly Butterworth discusses how St. Louis fell behind in its efforts to become a hub on the transcontinental railroad — and the history of streetcars and rail travel in and around the Gateway City.

How volunteers brought a historic Black St. Louis cemetery back from the brink Oct 21, 2021

After decades of grassroots organization and cleanup efforts by volunteers, the Father Dickson Cemetery in Crestwood has been added to the National Register of Historic Places.

#TooGoodToWaste highlights how wasted food fuels climate change Oct 21, 2021

One of the best ways to combat climate change is by actually eating the food we buy. This episode of "St. Louis on the Air" talks about how minimizing food waste helps our environment — and our wallets.

A St. Louis doula is on a mission to help her fellow moms Oct 21, 2021

As a doula, Eboni Hooper-Boateng supports women throughout pregnancy and labor. She discusses her work, how she’s helping women of color and teens access her services, and what the American birthing establishment can learn from Ghana.

How St. Louis is tied to the hot and cold past of the air conditioner Oct 20, 2021

Due to climate change, the U.S. is going to keep getting hotter. More and more, people will turn to air conditioning. In this documentary produced by Science Friday in partnership with STLPR's Shahla Farzan, we take a look at the history of air conditioning and the worsening effects of climate change.

Missouri’s K-12 schools can access free COVID testing. Most haven’t signed up Oct 20, 2021

Screening testing programs seek to stop COVID-19 spread before symptoms develop. But while the CDC has made them free for K-12 schools, only 18 of Missouri’s 500+ school districts have signed on. The state’s contractor discusses efforts to get more schools on board.

As civil war rages in Ethiopia, Missouri’s Tigrayans find support and community Oct 19, 2021

Tigrayan expats in St. Louis and Kansas City discuss the violence and turmoil in their home country of Ethiopia and share how a local support group has helped them come to terms with it.

Ending the racial wealth gap through reparations: Local policies or federal payments? Oct 19, 2021

STLPR reporter Chad Davis talks about his feature report on St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones' efforts to enact reparations on the local level.

Collinsville School District's implements unique plan to address teacher shortage Oct 19, 2021

When it comes to the shortage of teachers in America, one local school district is looking at an unusual talent pool: Its own student body. We delve into how the “Kahoks Teaching Kahoks" aims to encourage its own students to become educators.

A $16 million investment is coming to the old Schnucks Plaza in Dellwood Oct 18, 2021

R&R Marketplace is a $16 million investment coming to the Dellwood/Ferguson area. Pastors Ken and Beverly Jenkins discuss their vision for the area which has long been subject to disinvestment.

Pete Souza reflects on presidential photography career ahead of Hall of Fame induction Oct 18, 2021

Pete Souza gives us a brief inside look at what it was like to be a presidential photographer during President Obama’s and President Reagan’s administrations. Millions of photos later, he’ll be inducted into the International Photography Hall of Fame in St. Louis on Oct. 29.

America’s Center expansion hits a major snag: an impasse over a north county rec center Oct 18, 2021

Convention center backers planned on a $210 million expansion. But the funds are being blocked in St. Louis County over a two-year-old promise the council chair says wasn’t kept. Jacob Kirn of the St. Louis Business Journal explains the impasse.

T-Rex’s GeoSeed Grant Program awards $20,000 to 5 geospatial intelligence initiatives Oct 15, 2021

Researchers at Lindenwood University and the St. Louis Zoo are developing virtual reality lessons that can teleport students to a desert across the world — or even just to the city’s zoo. T-Rex’s GeoSeed Grant Program is giving them $20,000 to start.

In ‘Harrow,’ Joy Williams wants us to ponder our culpability Oct 15, 2021

Acclaimed author Joy Williams discusses her new novel “Harrow,” guilt, typewriters, and the new exhibition at Washington University looking at her life and work.

How Mike Parson mangled the idea of HTML source code — and set off a furor Oct 15, 2021

In light of Gov. Mike Parson accusing the St. Louis Post-Dispatch of hacking a state website, we discuss HTML source code, encoding vs. encryption — and the ramifications for future security flaws.

Juror in Michael Politte trial: ‘Michael is innocent’ Oct 14, 2021

Linda Dickerson-Bell was on the jury that sent Michael Politte to prison for life. She discusses her deep regrets about the verdict — and the guilt she’s lived with ever since.

‘Joy in the Morning’ found joy at the Fountain on Locust. She’s ready for a new chapter Oct 14, 2021

Joy Grdnic Christensen went from radio fame to opening the Fountain on Locust. She explains why she’s moving on, what she’ll do next and how a long marriage is like St. Louis.

Missouri farmers harvesting chestnuts can make $6,000 an acre Oct 13, 2021

Missourians seeking to move from row crop production to small-scale farming see chestnuts as the path to get there. Jonathan Ahl explains why.

‘Digging Up Dessa’ encourages girls to follow their science dreams Oct 13, 2021

Metro Theater Company’s new play is aimed at young girls interested in math and science. It involves grief, dinosaurs and a groundbreaking paleontologist. Director Julia Flood delves into what it took to put on the company’s first in-person show since the pandemic began.

‘Breastfeeding is work,’ says St. Louis RN calling for more support for moms Oct 13, 2021

St. Louis lactation consultant and La Leche League leader Erin O’Reilly discusses the impediments to breastfeeding among American women — and calls for policy changes to support them.

‘Camp Scout’ finds musician Mikey Wehling, his dog and his dobro in a meditative place Oct 12, 2021

Earlier this year, St. Louis musician Mikey Wehling took his dog, Scout, out into the woods of eastern Missouri, along with an instrument he was just beginning to learn how to play. They brought back a meditative compilation of songs, which now comprise Wehling’s seventh solo release.

‘Lost Tables’ and ‘Lost Dishes’ pay tribute to the St. Louis restaurants of yesteryear Oct 12, 2021

Radiologist-turned-food journalist Dr. Harley Hammerman takes St. Louis down a food-filled memory lane with his blogs “Lost Tables” and “Lost Dishes.” He discusses the blog’s inspiration, sets some misinformation straight, and shares restaurant memories with listeners.

‘Wrestling at the Chase’ details pro wrestling’s St. Louis heyday Oct 11, 2021

In the 1960s and '70s, “Wrestling at the Chase” regularly drew crowds to the Chase Park Plaza Hotel — and thousands more watched the matches on TV. Historian Ed Wheatley explores the highlights along with listeners.

First openly trans person to run for Missouri legislature shares why she quit Oct 11, 2021

Kendall Martinez-Wright’s mental health issues led to a suicide attempt and her decision to suspend her campaign. In this episode, the Democrat from Palmyra opens up about what happened — and how she’s finding a way forward.

Doing business with a medical marijuana company? Your bank may balk Oct 08, 2021

The medical marijuana industry in Missouri is thriving. But accessing banking has proven a struggle for many dispensaries and even vendors doing business with them — even though their businesses are legal. St. Louis accountant David Smith explains why.

BioSTL invested in Benson Hill when it needed money. Now it’s worth $2 billion Oct 08, 2021

Ag-tech startup Benson Hill is now a publicly traded company worth $2 billion. Charlie Bolten of BioGenerator explains how BioSTL helped the St. Louis company get its start — and go public in less than a decade.

Wealthy neighborhoods attract more biodiversity in St. Louis. It’s called the ‘luxury effect’ Oct 08, 2021

More money, more animals. Washington University scientist Solny Adalsteinsson explains how St. Louis topped the list in a recent study looking at the “luxury effect” across 20 cities — and why that’s not a good thing.

STL.works helps St. Louisans land well-paid jobs, no college required Oct 07, 2021

A two-year-old initiative from the Regional Business Council aims to recruit, train and mentor kids for skilled labor jobs as early as high school. Leader Art McCoy discusses its impetus -- and the big payday for people who participate.

‘A Culinary History of Missouri’ explores the history of what we ate and how we cooked it Oct 07, 2021

Author Suzanne Corbett discusses her new book detailing the “foodways and iconic dishes” of the Show Me State — and shatters some myths about famous St. Louis food innovations.

How Steph Del Rosso turned anger into laughter in 'The Gradient' Oct 06, 2021

Playwright Steph Del Rosso discusses her play about a startup that aims to rehabilitate men accused of sexual misconduct. “The Gradient” makes its world premiere at the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis.

Why Jimiyu — and orangutans and big cats too — are getting COVID-19 shots Oct 06, 2021

The St. Louis Zoo is vaccinating mammals against COVID-19, including chimpanzees, orangutans, lemurs, foxes and most of the zoo’s big cats. Dr. Sathya Chinnadurai explains why these species are being prioritized.

St. Louis is overhauling its 911 system to fix long hold times Oct 06, 2021

Wait times for 911 calls in St. Louis far exceed national standards. Interim Public Safety Director Dan Isom explains the complicated process of merging three dispatch centers to one and how that could fit into expanding the Cops and Clinicians program.

Local unions face uncertainty after Carpenters union shutters St. Louis regional council Oct 05, 2021

The United Brotherhood of Carpenters was long a political powerhouse in the St. Louis region — but now the organization has shuttered its St. Louis office and moved leadership to Chicago. Two experts analyze possible reasons for the shakeup and explore the potential fallout.

Wash U scientists to continue Mars research with $11.8 million NASA contract renewal Oct 05, 2021

Most of what mankind knows about Mercury, Venus, Mars and Earth’s moon sits on servers in St. Louis thanks to researchers at Washington University. Earth and planetary sciences professor Raymond Arvidson discusses his department's latest $11.8 million contract renewal with NASA.

Rams and Kroenke again try to move trial outside St. Louis in ‘extraordinary’ challenge Oct 05, 2021

Former Missouri Appellate Court Judge Booker Shaw discusses the latest Hail Mary attempt by Stan Kroenke and the NFL — and why even a loss may not be enough to stop their efforts to move the trial from St. Louis

‘Summer in St. Louis,’ a reflection on love and revolution, brings home Berlin festival win Oct 04, 2021

"Summer in St. Louis'' recently won Best Super Short Drama at the Berlin Flash Film Festival. Director Câmi Thomas shares how the film reflects her love for her community and the “constant narrow avoidance of danger” in St. Louis.

Scholars call for more attention to Native American knowledge, impacts in fight against climate change Oct 04, 2021

Ahead of the “Indigenous Knowledge & Sustainability” conference kicking off in St. Louis, two Native American scholars discuss how some solutions to climate change can cause great harm to indigenous communities.

Hundreds gather to honor St. Louisans lost to COVID during pandemic's first 19 months Oct 04, 2021

A large crowd and energetic choir came together at the Sheldon Concert Hall on Saturday night for Requiem of Light, a public memorial honoring the thousands of St. Louisans lost to COVID-19. In this episode, we share reflections and musical highlights.

Busch Stadium could be hurting the Cardinals’ offense. Now they’re looking for a change Oct 01, 2021

The Cardinals' offense is better on the road than it is at Busch Stadium. This episode of "St. Louis on the Air" discusses what role the stadium itself plays, and looks into how physics can affect the game.

‘Art Along the Rivers’ celebrates centuries of art at the confluence Oct 01, 2021

St. Louis Art Museum’s new show features art inspired by, and made within, the region where the three most powerful rivers in the U.S. come together. The curators explain the road trips and rare finds that brought the exhibit together.

How The St. Louis Chamber Chorus Found A Way To Sing Again, Masks And All Sep 30, 2021

As the St. Louis Chamber Chorus returns to the stage after 20 months, artistic director Philip Barnes discusses choirs in the age of COVID-19 and masks you can actually sing in.

Missouri Has Entered ‘Demographic Winter,’ With More People Dying Than Being Born Sep 30, 2021

As of 2020, more people are dying than being born in Missouri. St. Louis University professor Ness Sandoval explains how we got here and what it will take to rebound from that decline.

Osage Nation Sees Donation Of Missouri Acreage Just After ‘Devastating’ Picture Cave Auction Sep 30, 2021

The Native American Rights Fund donated 20 acres of ancestral Osage lands in Lafayette County, Missouri, to the Osage Nation this month. Andrea Hunter, the director of the Osage Nation Historic Preservation Office, discusses the gift, and the sale of Picture Cave, in this episode.

Michael Politte Has Served 22 Years For Murdering His Mother. Experts Say He’s Innocent Sep 29, 2021

Michael Politte was sentenced to life without the possibility of parole for allegedly murdering his mother as a 14-year-old. Attorneys and advocates explain the growing body of evidence that he’s actually innocent — and Politte tells his story.

‘The City Has The NFL By The Throat’: Legal Roundtable Digs Into Rams’ Litigation Sep 28, 2021

The Legal Roundtable digs into litigation around mask mandates and how Zoom testimony affects the right to confront your accuser — and the panelists disagree as to whether they’d settle with the NFL and Stan Kroenke or take their chances at trial.

How 12 Acres Of Cornfield Became A Maze At Eckert’s Millstadt Fun Farm Sep 27, 2021

At Eckert’s Farm in Millstadt, Illinois, there’s an intricate 12-acre corn maze that, this year, honors health care workers. Hugh McPherson of Maize Quest talks about the precise high-tech operation of corn mazes.

The Bail Project Closes St. Louis Office As Cash Bail Use Sharply Declines Sep 27, 2021

The Bail Project is closing its St. Louis office after nearly four years. CEO Robin Steinberg explains why, and discusses how the bigger fight against cash bail continues, with former St. Louis-based “bail disruptor” Mike Milton.

Bonus: Leonard Slatkin On Building A Better Pipeline For Conductors Sep 25, 2021

St. Louis Symphony Orchestra Conductor Laureate Leonard Slatkin lays out possible solutions to the lack of native-born music directors in American orchestras and the lack of a thoughtful career path for talented assistant conductors.

The Cherokee Street Statue Is Gone, And Its Sculptor Is Fine With That Sep 24, 2021

Artist Bill Christman never considered his Cherokee Street statue, installed in 1985, among his best work. He explains why — and shares its design process and why he’s not upset about the sculpture’s removal.

Laclede's Landing Concert Series Brings New Life To St. Louis Riverfront Sep 24, 2021

A new concert series is now up and running in what may seem like an unlikely place: Laclede’s Landing. It hasn’t come without complications. Drew Jameson of Jamo Presents discusses what the concert series has to offer and how it’s part of a larger effort to revive downtown St. Louis.

How STL Juntos Helped Latinos Lead Missouri In Vaccinations Sep 24, 2021

The Latino community is leading Missouri in vaccination rates — thanks to a local volunteer group connecting local Spanish speakers with both resources to navigate the pandemic and health professionals.

Bonus: Nikki Glaser Is Getting Ready For What Comes After Comedy Sep 24, 2021

Comedian Nikki Glaser recently started taking voice lessons. In this bonus podcast episode, she explains how she has a new job in mind.

Deep-Diving Nine PBS Film Explores History Of 7 Navy Ships Named St. Louis Sep 23, 2021

“USS St. Louis: Centuries of Service” highlights the first USS St. Louis’ role fighting piracy and the slave trade, “Lucky Lou’s” escape from Pearl Harbor, and the current crew’s reflections on their vessel and the city she honors. The documentary is produced, written and narrated by St. Louisan Kara Vaninger.

From St. Louis, An Afghan Contemplates His Homeland Sep 23, 2021

Born in Afghanistan, Qais Meraj has made a life in St. Louis. He discusses his work as an interpreter for the U.S. military, his family’s journey and his fears for loved ones left behind.

Comedian Nikki Glaser On St. Louis Living, FBoy Island And More Sep 22, 2021

Comedian Nikki Glaser talks about reacquainting herself with her hometown after moving back to St. Louis in 2020, what her hit HBO Max show “FBoy Island” taught her about love and more.

In ‘The State Must Provide,’ Adam Harris Explores Racial Disparities In Higher Education Sep 22, 2021

Atlantic staff writer Adam Harris discusses his new book “The State Must Provide,” which explores the long history of inequality in higher education, and offers a provocative remedy for the funding woes of historically Black colleges.

For Leonard Slatkin, Classical Music’s ‘Crossroads’ Requires Boldness Sep 21, 2021

Leonard Slatkin, conductor laureate of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, discusses his new book and what it will take for classical music to thrive again.

For Somi Kakoma, ‘Dreaming Zenzile’ Was Years In The Making Sep 21, 2021

Grammy-nominated jazz singer Somi Kakoma has spent almost seven years turning the story of South African singer Miriam Makeba into a musical. She discusses its world premiere in St. Louis — and plans for Off Broadway.

Downtown St. Louis Aldermen See Challenges, Cause For Optimism Sep 20, 2021

Downtown St. Louis has been hard-hit during the pandemic, with office workers replaced by troublemakers on many evenings. Aldermen Jack Coatar and James Page discuss the issues facing the neighborhood and Mayor Tishaura Jones’ plan to tackle them.

Writer Jeannette Cooperman On How Today’s Humans Shuttle ‘In And Out Of Doom’ Every Day Sep 20, 2021

In her timely essay for Washington University’s Common Reader, longtime St. Louis journalist Jeannette Cooperman explores the often surreal contrasts between “our quiet, lamp-lit private life” and “the shadows outside our window” in the contemporary world. She shares excerpts and reflections with producer Evie Hemphill in this episode.

After 8 Intensive Weeks And An Influx Of $50K, Business Owners Reflect On Accelerator’s Merits Sep 17, 2021

The University of Missouri-St. Louis DEI Accelerator program wrapped up its inaugural cohort earlier this year. In this encore from May, we listen to two participants who thrived as part of the program.

'Ghost Army' Inches Closer To Achieving High Honors Sep 17, 2021

During WWII, 1,100 men formed the "Ghost Army." Their job was to deceive enemy troops — and they did. We listen to this encore from May 2021. The effort is now just 15 U.S. senators away from approval.

In ‘Crushed’ Podcast, St. Louis Native Explores ‘98 Home Run Race Sep 16, 2021

Sports writer Joan Niesen goes deep on baseball’s steroid era in her podcast, Crushed.” Her conversation with Sarah Fenske originally aired on April 9, 2021.

10 Years Sober, Katie Collier Talks Addiction In The Restaurant Industry Sep 16, 2021

In this encore episode, the chef and co-owner of Katie’s Pizza & Pasta Osteria reflects on a decade of sobriety and what it took to achieve that milestone.

‘The Joy and Transformative Power of Lifelong Learning’ With Tom Vanderbilt Sep 16, 2021

In this encore presentation, author Tom Vanderbilt talks about his new book, "Beginners: The Joy and Transformative Power of Lifelong Learning," which highlights his year-long experience tackling new skills.

Marc Maron On ‘WTF,’ St. Louis And The Magic Of A Good Conversation Sep 15, 2021

The acclaimed comic joins us to discuss his return to touring and the ongoing enthusiasm for his groundbreaking podcast.

How The Urban League Chips Away At Vaccine Hesitancy, One Shot At A Time Sep 15, 2021

Ever wonder what drives vaccine hesitancy? Fred Scott got his vaccine this morning and explains why. We also talk with James Clark of the Urban League about the organization’s efforts to get more shots in arms.

How Pfizer’s Chesterfield Staff Raced The Clock To Develop, Manufacture And Test Its COVID Vaccine Sep 14, 2021

The manufacturing of every Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine dose produced to-date has started in Chesterfield, Missouri. The company also tests every batch. Justin Sperry, head of R&D at the site, explains how and what it took to develop the vaccine.

Paul Artspace Leaves Florissant Home To Offer Residencies Across St. Louis, And The World Sep 14, 2021

The original Paul Artspace is located just over a mile from a busy thoroughfare in north St. Louis County. While founder Mike Behle says the group will still host bonfires and other occasional events on the property, the actual artist residencies will take place elsewhere moving forward.

New St. Louis City Counselor Comes With New Mandate For Police Abuse Cases Sep 13, 2021

In defending claims of police abuse, St. Louis officials have generally prioritized protecting taxpayers over making victims whole. That strategy will change with a new city counselor, journalist Bill Freivogel explains

For Singer-Songwriter Yannon, Pandemic Isolation Provided Inspiration Sep 13, 2021

Kara Yannon delves into her her music journey, and preview tracks from her first album “Cohesion," ahead of its debut on Oct. 3.

Pop Up Prairie Wants To Add Patches Of Prairie To St. Louis Parks Sep 13, 2021

In 2015, Jeff Harris and his sister Leigh Harris founded the nonprofit with a goal to turn 10% of city parks into native prairie restorations within the next 10 to 20 years.

Mensi Project Gets Boost In Efforts To Address Period Poverty On Campus Sep 10, 2021

Christy Ferguson started the Mensi Project in 2018 at Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville to donate unneeded menstrual products to someone who could use them. Now the university is funding the effort.

The Dome’s Future Rests On NFL Lawsuit, Convention Center Plans Sep 10, 2021

Jacob Kirn of the St. Louis Business Journal discusses his reporting on the Dome, which faces big maintenance needs even as it's set to soon lose funding for them. Locals' lawsuit against the NFL could change the equation.

Remembering 9/11, And Its Impact On St. Louis Sep 10, 2021

Twenty years later, the events of Sept. 11, 2001, and the response to the attack still define America in many ways — and continue to shape the world far beyond U.S. borders. St. Louisans share their reflections in this episode.

Playing Live Music 'Is Like Therapy,' Says Pianist Dave Grelle Sep 09, 2021

Soul-jazz pianist Dave Grelle takes the stage this weekend at the inaugural Music at the Intersection festival with his band Playadors and Funky Butt Brass Band.

Missouri Cave Containing Ancient Pictographs To Be Auctioned Off To Highest Bidder Sep 09, 2021

Carol Diaz-Granados, along with her husband James Duncan, have devoted years of time and anthropological research to Picture Cave, and are appalled by the prospect of its auction. They would like to see the property in the care of the Osage Nation. In this episode, we hear from the couple as well as Selkirk Auctioneers & Appraisers.

Encore: Celebrating ‘A Miracle World Series’ — And That Amazing Game 6 — In ‘11 In ’11’ Sep 08, 2021

Post-Dispatch columnist Benjamin Hochman discusses the Cardinals' triumph in the 2011 World Series in this encore epsiode. Listeners also share their stories about Game 6, Hochman's pick for the greatest game in World Series history.

Encore: Biotech Startup Seeks To Avoid ‘Rubber Apocalypse’ With Sunflowers Sep 08, 2021

Edison Agrosciences is the St. Louis based agricultural biotechnology company working to develop alternative rubber crops. In this encore episode, here why it believes sunflowers can become a source of homegrown rubber.

Encore: G’Ra Asim’s ‘Boyz N The Void’ Explores Being Black And Punk Sep 08, 2021

Author and punk musician G'Ra Asim discusses his new book in this encore episode, and how he feels about moving back to St. Louis, the city he left as a 10-year-old.

Hampton Avenue’s New ‘Road Diet’ Offers Glimpse Of Lindell’s Future Sep 07, 2021

Hampton, a formerly four-lane thoroughfare, now limits traffic to one lane in each direction, with the addition of a center turning lane plus wider parking lanes on the sides. The city has plans for a somewhat similar transformation along Lindell Boulevard by Forest Park.

‘Brainscapes’ Explores The ‘Mind-Bending’ Maps That Shape Our Perceptions Sep 07, 2021

Rising star Washington University neuroscientist Rebecca Schwarzlose discusses her new book "Brainscapes," and what scientists have learned about the maps in our brains

All Your Feral Hog Questions, Answered Sep 03, 2021

Listen to reporter Jonathan Ahl and feral hog trapper Kevin Crider discuss Missouri's success in culling the feral hogs wreaking havoc in rural areas. bit.ly/2YqmEtp

Meet STLPR's New CEO, Tina Pamintuan Sep 03, 2021

St. Louis Public Radio will soon have a veteran public radio journalist and station leader as its new CEO. Tina Pamintuan joins STLPR on December 1.

BONUS: 'St. Louis On The Air' Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary Sep 03, 2021

This show is celebrating its silver anniversary. We listen back to the beginning of the very first episode in 1996, hear staff reflections and some favorite excerpts.

Founder Of Fast-Growing St. Louis Startup Engagedly Makes Music A Side Project Sep 02, 2021

Sri Chellappa, co-founder and president of Engagedly, discusses the company's meteoric growth, move from a downtown incubator to Maplewood and the St. Louis area's startup scene, as well as his own new role as the owner of a recording studio

Kishi Bashi To Play His First Symphony Show In St. Louis Sep 02, 2021

Acclaimed musician Kishi Bashi previews his multimedia performance of "Improvisations on EO9066" by the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. It explores Japanese internment during WWII.

How St. Louis Became A Place Of Refuge For Japanese Americans Facing Internment In 1940s Sep 02, 2021

Local historian Mark Sundlov discusses the "Righting a Wrong: Japanese Americans and World War II" exhibit at Soldiers Memorial Military Museum.

Father-Son St. Louis Duo Complete Tour Of America — On Unicycles Sep 01, 2021

Two years ago, Hogan Haake of Webster Groves decided to embark with his son on a quest: to unicycle in all 48 continental states before the teen graduated high school.

How Welcome Neighbor STL Is Helping Refugees Find Their Place In St. Louis Sep 01, 2021

Jessica Bueler details what led her to found Welcome Neighbor STL in 2016, and how it continues to help. Syrian refugee Mawda Altayan joins the conversation.

St. Louis Sees Increased Diversity, Slow Growth In 2020 Census Numbers Aug 31, 2021

St. Louis has long thought of itself as a Black and white city. Now U.S. Census Bureau numbers show the region’s composition changing, with increases in Asian, Latino and multiracial residents.

For 175 Years, St. Louis’ Mercantile Library Has Collected The History Of A City — And A Nation Aug 31, 2021

More than 300 artifacts and artworks comprise the current exhibition at the Mercantile, which is the oldest extant library west of the Mississippi River.

For Old Chain of Rocks Bridge, A Fascinating Past And A Hopeful Future Aug 30, 2021

Sharon Smith of the Missouri Historical Society joins us to discuss the bridge’s history. We also hear from Great Rivers Greenway about some big plans for the site going forward.

Meeting Urgent Afghan Refugee Needs In ‘Heartbreaking Situation’ Aug 30, 2021

Liberty Vittert, a professor at Washington University who serves on the North American arm of the UN Refugee Agency, discusses its work in Kabul and how you can best help Afghan refugees

Through Stitches Of History, Missouri Bicentennial Quilt Reminds Viewers The Art Form Is ‘Alive And Well’ Aug 30, 2021

The Field House Museum boasts a wide collection of quilts on display, ranging from 19th-century creations to more modern quilts. Now one final quilt completes the collection: the MO Bicentennial Quilt. He hear about how its pieces came together.

Frizz Fest Returns To Tower Grove Park To Celebrate Natural Hair Aug 27, 2021

This weekend’s event is the fourth iteration of the natural hair and beauty celebration that St. Louisan Leslie Hughes first launched in 2017.

Historic Sumner High School Has Its First Choir In Decades Aug 27, 2021

On the first day of the semester, as Maria Ellis waits to meet her students and kick off a brand-new arts and activism focus at the recently saved school, Chuck Berry tunes played quietly through a speaker. St. Louis stops by to document the anticipated rehearsal.

How A St. Louis Nun Found Love, Kept Her Faith And Inspired A Novel Aug 27, 2021

Marian O'Shea Wernicke's novel "Toward That Which Is Beautiful" draws on her time as a nun in Peru. She explains why she entered the convent as a St. Louis teen and why she left 11 years later

New Normal ‘Truly Embraced By Kids,’ Says Jennings Superintendent Aug 26, 2021

Jennings Superintendent Paula Knight shares how educators are rethinking back-to-school this year. Like others across the region, the district plans to proceed with in-person classes Monday through Friday, even with the threat of the Delta variant.

Missouri History Museum's ‘St. Louis Sound’ Exhibit Explores How The Region Became A Musical Powerhouse Aug 26, 2021

The Missouri History Museum's new exhibit was designed like an album, with both the greatest hits of St. Louis music and some deep cuts from more obscure favorites. The museum's Andrew Wanko discusses the region's impact on popular music

Legal Roundtable Discusses How The Attorney Who Cursed Out A Judge Avoided Jail Time Aug 25, 2021

Attorneys Jennifer Joyce, Connie McFarland-Butler and Nicole Gorovsky dig into legal matters in the news, including the AG's suit against school mask mandates, problems at the St. Louis Circuit Attorney's Office and a high-profile case of attorney discipline

Want A Vaccine Mandate At Work? Here’s What To Consider Aug 24, 2021

Yesterday, the Food and Drug Administration gave full approval of Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine. And while that doesn’t directly affect the legality of vaccine mandates in the workplace, it may make it easier for employers to institute one.

Afghan Interpreter Escapes Kabul, Plans New Life In St. Louis Aug 24, 2021

ZZ escaped Kabul just 10 hours before the Afghan government fell. She's happy to be in St. Louis but is worried about her family that's still there.

Afghan Interpreter Escapes Kabul, Plans New Life In St. Louis Aug 24, 2021

ZZ escaped Kabul just 10 hours before the Afghan government fell. She's happy to be in St. Louis but is worried about her family that's still there.

‘This Is A Long Game’: International Institute Sees Needs And Opportunities As St. Louis Welcomes Afghans Aug 23, 2021

The organization's president and CEO, Arrey Obenson, joined the show. The St. Louis community could welcome upwards of 1,000 Afghans to the area.

Dr. Debbye Turner Bell’s New Book Explores ‘Courageous Faith’ Aug 23, 2021

Dr. Debbye Turner Bell — the first and only Miss Missouri to be crowned Miss America — shares details from her new memoir, "Courageous Faith: A Lifelong Pursuit of Faith Over Fear."

Fully Vaccinated? St. Louis Court Offers $100 Incentive As Part Of Warrant Forgiveness Aug 20, 2021

There are about 138,000 outstanding bench warrants in St. Louis. Judge Newton McCoy discusses how the court is helping people clear their warrants — and get vaccinated at the same time.

Navajo Chef Explores Indigenous Midwestern Cuisine With Bulrush Aug 20, 2021

Chef Freddie Bitsoie is partnering with St. Louis restaurant Bulrush on two meals celebrating the cuisine of the Hopewell tradition, which flourished in the Midwest before Europeans colonized the continent. He discusses the cuisine with Bulrush chef/owner Rob Connoley.

20 Years After Release Of ‘Beautiful’ Along The Mississippi, Javier Mendoza Band To Play It Again Aug 20, 2021

Javier Mendoza, who goes by Hobo Cane as a solo artist these days, will rejoin original members of his band in St. Louis this Saturday in celebration of the 20th anniversary of the album.

How Photo Flood St. Louis Captured All 79 City Neighborhoods Aug 19, 2021

Photo Flood St. Louis formed nine years ago, organizing local photographers to "flood" St. Louis' 79 neighborhoods and document each one. Founder Jason Gray discusses the group's journey -- and what it was like shooting the 79th neighborhood at long last

How Modern Widows Club Is Helping New Widows During The Pandemic Aug 19, 2021

The Modern Widows Club has grown to 37 chapters across the U.S., with more than 1,000 members who lost a partner far too young. Hear about how the local chapter is helping its newest members.

Wash U Biologist Explains How Lizards Evolved For Specialized Life In Trees Aug 18, 2021

Washington University biologist Aryeh Miller explains how he analyzed data from 2,600 lizard species to find if lizards with toepads had an evolutionary advantage for life in the trees relative to their padless counterparts.

At Rise, Terrell Carter Aims To ‘Come Alongside’ Local Communities Dreaming Big Aug 18, 2021

Terrell Carter, the new executive director of the nonprofit Rise Community Development, talks about his vision for the local community development organization.

St. Louis County Sees Fewer Jail Admissions, But Longer Stays Aug 18, 2021

Overall jail admissions in St. Louis County declined over the last decade. Yet the number of people in the jail at any given time remained stubbornly high, according to a new report produced by criminologists at the University of Missouri–St. Louis.

Unvaccinated Pregnant Women Are Getting Seriously Ill From COVID-19 Aug 17, 2021

Many pregnant women have not gotten vaccinated against COVID-19. As the third wave of the coronavirus pandemic hits the St. Louis region, many of them are ending up in the ICU.

St. Lou Fringe Festival Is Back — With Opera, Experimental Works And More Aug 17, 2021

A total of 22 independent productions comprise this year’s series of events. The hybrid festival wraps up Sunday, with some of the virtual offerings to be available on demand soon afterward.

‘Step Inside’ Vincent Van Gogh’s World In Exhibit Opening At The Galleria Aug 16, 2021

Enfolding visitors in a wide-ranging, walk-through reimagination of the artist's work and mind, the audiovisual spectacle has proved to be a wildly popular one in all sorts of cities. This fall it's headed to St. Louis.

‘It Seems Like A Dream Still’: Collinsville Native Michelle Bartsch-Hackley On Gold Medal Win Aug 16, 2021

Collinsville High School grad Michelle Bartsch-Hackley helped the U.S. women's indoor volleyball team win its first ever gold medal. She describes what it was like and her path to the Olympics.

‘Bare Hands Rescue’ Puts St. Louis’ Wildlife Command Center Front And Center Aug 16, 2021

Michael "Bare Hands" Beran is the star of a new reality TV pilot airing on Animal Planet and Discovery+. He discusses his journey to the screen and wildlife work along with local producer Michael D. Francis

Unvaccinated COVID-19 Patients Barely Surviving, Respiratory Therapist Says Aug 12, 2021

SSM Health respiratory therapist Sherri Pipkens says that in previous coronavirus waves, most of her patients were elderly, overweight or had pre-existing conditions. Now, she’s treating patients of all demographics.

Indie-Rock Band Choir Vandals Is Ready To Mix Things Up Aug 12, 2021

Since forming the indie-rock band in 2013, it's become their longest running gig yet.

'Moms Are Tough': Lisa Clancy On Fighting For Mask Mandates Aug 12, 2021

St. Louis County Councilwoman Lisa Clancy discusses her failed attempt to reinstall a county-wide mask mandate and the criticism she's taken for caring for her two-month-old baby during council meetings.

Best Way To Protect Kids From COVID-19 Is For Adults, Teens To Get Vaxxed, Pediatrician Says Aug 11, 2021

Pediatrician Dr. Jason Newland explains why kids older than 12 years old should get vaccinated and answers lingering questions parents may have about these shots.

Cathy ‘MamaCat’ Daniels On The Potbangerz Legacy Aug 11, 2021

Cathy “MamaCat” Daniels, a community volunteer, activist and founder of the nonprofit PotBangerz, reflects on her years serving the St. Louis community.

Getting Rental Assistance To Residents In St. Louis City And County Aug 11, 2021

ArchCity Defenders attorney Lee Camp discusses delays (and successes) in getting rental assistance to residents in need.

Missouri Became A Slave State 200 Years Ago, With Grave Consequences For Black Residents Aug 10, 2021

On August 10, 1821, Missouri became the 24th state — the first located west of the Mississippi River, and the 12th to allow slavery. Listen as two historians go over its history.

Staging ‘The Glass Menagerie’ Where Tennessee Williams’ St. Louis Story Began Aug 10, 2021

A new version of "The Glass Menagerie" opens next week at one of the St. Louis apartment buildings that inspired it. Its director and the artistic director of the Tennessee Williams Festival St. Louis discuss the challenges, and excitement, surrounding the site-specific production

Encore: Family Pet Center At Children's Hospital Brings Touch Of Home To Patients Aug 09, 2021

St. Louis Children’s Hospital is home to one of only four family pet centers in the world where families can bring their pet into the hospital to visit a patient. Hear how it impacts young patients and their worried parents in this encore discussion.

Encore: Missouri Folk Arts Highlights 200 Stories In Bicentennial Celebration Aug 09, 2021

In Missouri’s own bicentennial year, Missouri Folk Arts’ staff shared 200 stories over the course of 52 weeks about folk and traditional arts in the Show-Me State.

Encore: How Pickleball Took St. Louis By Storm Aug 09, 2021

Pickleball has seen explosive growth in the St. Louis metro. In this encore edition of "St. Louis on the Air,' certified instructor Mike Chapin explained how he brought the first permanent courts here and why demand shows no signs of lessening.

Listen: Highlights From Syna So Pro’s ‘After Hours’ Event Aug 06, 2021

Listen to highlights of host Sarah Fenske's conversation with the extremely talented one-woman orchestra, Syna So Pro.

Restaurant ‘Have A Cow’ Is On A Mission In St. Louis’ Gate District Aug 06, 2021

Have A Cow Cattle Company and Urban Farm Store opened in St. Louis’ Gate District in January. It’s a restaurant and a farm – with a mission. We talked with owner Steve St. Pierre then and we bring you an encore of that conversation.

Pedestrian Deaths In St. Louis Nearly Doubled Last Year, Fueling New Push For Safer Streets Aug 06, 2021

In this encore conversation that aired in January, we talk with Jacque Knight, chair of St. Louis' Community Mobility Committee. She shared how the group is focusing its efforts and what local residents can do to amplify its work.

How Foxing Landed André De Shields For Their Latest Project: ‘Draw Down The Moon’ Aug 05, 2021

St. Louis-based band Foxing discuss their music journey and the release of their latest album, “Draw Down the Moon,” ahead of their first performance at the Pageant.

St. Louis' First 'Intentional' Homeless Camp Sees High Demand In First Week Aug 05, 2021

St. Louis’ first intentional encampment for homeless people provides an alternative for residents of the impromptu Interco Plaza encampment downtown.

For City Foundry STL, Aug. 11 Is The Big Day Aug 05, 2021

The $210 million City Foundry STL project in Midtown is preparing to open its doors to the public for the first time. The developers share details on the redevelopment project's inspiration, construction complications and top-notch Food Hall

How BioSTL’s Science Coach Program Turns Teens Into Scientists Aug 04, 2021

Science Coach executive director Jill Malcom delves into what the program has to offer science teachers and sixth through 12th graders in St. Louis and across the country. Elijah Jones shares how he went from doing experiments in his front yard to getting a full-ride scholarship to study chemistry.

How A St. Louis Scientist Is Helping Bring Golden Rice To The Philippines Aug 04, 2021

Golden Rice could be a game changer for nations with high rates Vitamin A deficiency. Don MacKenzie of the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center explains why, and what it took to gain regulatory approval in the Philippines

Black Missouri Farmer: ‘We Are A Rapidly Dying Species’ Aug 04, 2021

Farmer Lorenzo Powell is one of 207 Black Missouri farmers. As he continues the legacy of his family farm into its sixth generation, we follow his journey and how he is waiting for a response to the injunction against debt relief from the American Rescue Plan.

From Dutchtown’s Melvin Theatre, Restoration House STL Helps Homeless Young Adults Aug 03, 2021

Restoration House STL provides age-appropriate mentoring and services for young adults aged 18 to 25.

Humane Society Of Missouri’s New Center Offers Innovative Pain Management For Pets Aug 03, 2021

Dr. Travis Arndt highlights what the Animal Medical Center of Mid-America's new Integrated Veterinary Pain Management Center has to offer — including chiropractic care, underwater treadmills, platelet-rich plasma therapy and more.

Dr. Faisal Khan: ‘No One Walked A Mile In My Shoes That Evening’ Aug 02, 2021

St. Louis County Public Health Director Dr. Faisal Khan alleged that he endured racist slurs and physical abuse at the July 27 County Council meeting focused on the county's new mask mandate. He discusses those allegations and why he stands by his letter

'This Won't Be Forever': St. Louis Restaurateurs On Requiring Indoor Diners Be Vaccinated Aug 02, 2021

Some St. Louis restaurants are now saying they want only vaccinated patrons to dine indoors — and some are demanding proof. Two restaurateurs explain how that’s going.

Encore: Why You’re Paid What You’re Paid (It’s Not What You Think) Jul 30, 2021

Washington University Sociology Professor Jake Rosenfeld discusses why you're paid what you're paid -- and the answers may surprise you. This conversation first aired in April 2021.

Encore: Under Dan Martin’s Steady Hand, 120-Year-Old Weatherbird Still Lands In Post-Dispatch Daily Jul 30, 2021

We listen back to this conversation from April 2021 with Dan Martin about his daily doodling of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch's Weatherbird.

Jay Farrar On The Questions, ‘Reverie’ And Gratitude That Mark Son Volt’s ‘Electro Melodier’ Jul 29, 2021

Fourteen songs comprise Son Volt’s 10th studio album, which drops Friday. Its title comes from the names of vintage amplifiers — and also points to the album's blend of genres and return to “more melodic, uptempo, upbeat type songs,” Farrar tells host Sarah Fenske.

Mayor Tishaura Jones On Her First 100 Days Jul 29, 2021

St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones discusses why she went around the Board of Aldermen to kickstart eviction relief, highlighted actions in her first few months as mayor and shared her next priorities

What Will It Take To Overcome Vaccine Hesitancy In Rural Missouri? Jul 28, 2021

Public health experts believe vaccine hesitancy and refusal are largely to blame for the proliferance of the delta variant and that coronavirus infection rates will continue to increase if vaccination rates remain stagnant.

‘I Don’t Believe In Writer’s Block’: Scott Alexander Hess On Writing Fiction Jul 28, 2021

The St. Louis native, who just published two new novellas, specializes in LGBTQ-themed fiction. He discusses the craft of writing and his new book's St. Louis roots

AG’s Lawsuit Against St. Louis Mask Mandates Has Difficult Road, Experts Say Jul 27, 2021

The Legal Roundtable discusses why the MO Attorney General's bid to block mask mandates in St. Louis is likely doomed -- and also digs into problems at the office of St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner

‘We All Need A Dose’ Of Sugar: Cheryl Strayed On ‘Tiny Beautiful Things’ At The Grandel Jul 26, 2021

In this episode of the talk show, both Strayed and local actor Michelle Hand join us to discuss the upcoming St. Louis premiere and its particular resonances during the challenging COVID-19 era.

Missouri Didn’t ‘Win The Lottery’ With $450 Million Opioid Settlement — But It Helps Jul 26, 2021

St. Louis University Sociology Professor Elizabeth Chiarello outlines ways the state should spend the $450 million it will get from a lawsuit against manufacturers and distributors of addictive opioid painkillers.

Celebrating The Way Out Club’s 27-Year Run As ‘Birthing Ground’ For St. Louis Art Jul 23, 2021

The cherished community gathering place and watering hole is closing at the end of this month, with husband-and-wife owners Sherri Lucas and Bob Putnam convinced it’s time to begin a new chapter in their lives.

New NCAA Rules Offer Opportunity For Local College Athletes Jul 23, 2021

Recent changes to NCAA's regulation on name, image and likeness has allowed for athletes across the nation to capitalize on the new publicity. One Mizzou football player shares how he has made a name for himself.

Chuck Berry’s Life — From The Ville To The Duck Walk — Featured In PBS Documentary Jul 22, 2021

The new hour-long episode of "In Their Words," set to premiere on Nine PBS at 7 p.m. July 27, features everyone from Berry's widow and children to musician Keith Richards St. Louis developer Joe Edwards.

At 19, Fiona Scott Will Take The Solo Cabaret Stage At Blue Strawberry Jul 22, 2021

Fresh off her first year as an undergrad at Oklahoma City University, Scott impressed Blue Strawberry owner Jim Dolan with her performance at an open mic night earlier this summer. On July 29, she's putting on a full show.

‘A Troubling Reality’: Problems At Circuit Attorney’s Office Stall Reform Agenda Jul 22, 2021

Matthew Mahaffey, St. Louis district defender for the Missouri State Public Defender, explains how problems at the St. Louis Circuit Attorney's Office are affecting his clients — and harming Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner's reform agenda.

Missouri-Born Civil Rights ‘Warrior’ C.T. Vivian Tells His Story In Posthumous Memoir Jul 21, 2021

The Rev. C.T. Vivian was a confidant of Martin Luther King Jr. and a man who played a pivotal role in desegregating lunch counters, buses and beaches. In this encore presentation of our March 2021 conversation with him, co-author Steve Fiffer discusses Vivian's legacy and his early years in Boonville, Missouri, and Macomb, Illinois.

Elijah Lovejoy’s Life And Tumultuous Times Get Their Due In ‘First To Fall’ Jul 21, 2021

Abolitionist newspaper editor Elijah Lovejoy became the first American journalist slain for his work when he was murdered by a pro-slavery mob in 1837 Alton. In this encore presentation of an April 2021 conversation, we talk with journalist Ken Ellingwood about Lovejoy's life and times.

As Illinois Phases Out Eviction Moratorium, Housing Advocates Gear Up Jul 20, 2021

Illinois begins winding down its eviction moratorium on Aug. 1. Bob Palmer, policy director for Housing Action Illinois, shares resources residents can tap into for financial and housing assistance.

Missouri Explorers Program Challenges You To Explore City And State Jul 20, 2021

The Missouri Explorers program was crafted to celebrate the Show Me State's bicentennial — and encourages residents and tourists alike to travel by offering a series of challenges. Karen Meirink of Explore St. Louis shares some highlights.

2 Touring History Exhibits To Explore In The Metro East Jul 20, 2021

Matt Meacham of Illinois Humanities delves into two exhibitions currently touring the state: the Smithsonian's “Voices and Votes: Democracy in America” and the “Illinois Freedom Project.”

How St. Louis Shaped Tennessee Williams’ Life And Work Jul 19, 2021

Tennessee Williams lived in St. Louis longer than anywhere else -- and the city exerted a powerful hold on his imagination. Washington University professor Henry I. Schvey discusses that sometimes toxic relationship and his new book about Williams, "Blue Song"

As Live Music Returns, Big Venues Enter St. Louis Market Out West Jul 19, 2021

St. Louis on the Air checks in with representatives from the Factory in Chesterfield and Maryland Heights' St. Louis Music Park — and local musician and talent booker John Henry shares his sense of what this means for the region's music scene.

Acclaimed Poet, Ferguson Native Naomi Shihab Nye Honored By Wash U Jul 16, 2021

Naomi Shihab Nye went to Central Elementary School in Ferguson and Wash U is welcoming her with with a virtual homecoming on Saturday.

A Mid-Season Cardinals Check-In With Sports Columnist Ben Hochman Jul 16, 2021

Benjamin Hochman, sports columnist for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, shares his take on the Cardinals run in the MLB season so far and whether the team may decide to trade players before the deadline on July 30.

How Missouri Lawmakers Agreed On New Gas Tax Increase — And Its Rebate Feature Jul 16, 2021

Missouri drivers will soon have to start paying a higher gas tax. It’s been called an overdue increase needed to repair crumbling roads and bridges. But others think it's an unfair tax on the population.

Local Movie Theater Owners Face Uncertain Path Ahead Jul 15, 2021

Harman Moseley has seen plenty of evolution in the film exhibition industry since he got his start in it in August 1977. But he calls the onslaught of streaming services and a global pandemic, combined, a paradigm shift.

Wash U Neurologist Explains Controversy Behind New Alzheimer's Drug Jul 15, 2021

Biogen’s new Alzheimer's drug is controversial — but it’s still in demand.

For Filmmaking Pair Behind ‘Liberty,’ St. Louis Premiere Is A Long-Hoped-For Moment Jul 14, 2021

St. Louis-based filmmakers joined St. Louis on the Air to talk about their newest film "Liberty", which was shot in in south St. Louis and Troy, Illinois.

Illinois’ Energy Debate Continues Amid Proposals To Close Coal-Fired Plants Jul 14, 2021

Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's latest clean energy plan would phase out coal-burning plants by 2035. Environmentalists are optimistic, but some city leaders are skeptical.

‘Rural Children In Crisis’ Brings Light To Dental Care Disparities In Rural Missouri Jul 13, 2021

The new documentary "Rural Children in Crisis: Access to Missouri Oral Care" highlights disparities in dental care for children in rural Missouri — and what needs to be done to prevent young kids from experiencing tooth decay.

MoBot Exhibit Explores How Missouri Saved French Wine Jul 13, 2021

Guest host Rod Milam explores an exhibit at the Missouri Botanical Garden called "Grafting the Grape: American Grapevine Rootstock in Missouri and the World."

How 4 St. Louis French Organizations Come Together To Celebrate Bastille Day Jul 13, 2021

Guest host Rod Milam talks with Isabelle Heidbreder, the executive director of Alliance Française de St. Louis in advance of Bastille Day.

Jefferson County Health Officials Prepare For COVID-19 Delta Variant Jul 12, 2021

Communications specialist Brianne Zwiener with the Jefferson County Health Department delves into how the county is navigating the pandemic.

Thinking Of Returning A Pandemic Pet To A Shelter? Consider These Remedies First Jul 12, 2021

Stray Rescue's director of operations, Andrea Wilkey, shares some advice for pandemic pet owners to prevent their return to area shelters.

Remembering Larry Giles, Founder Of Sauget’s National Building Arts Center Jul 12, 2021

On June 12, Larry Giles passed away at the age of 73, after a struggle with leukemia. He was known as decent, honest and tough. On top of that, Giles was, as the St. Louis Post-Dispatch recently put it, “the man who saved St. Louis.” In this episode, STLPR's Shula Neuman talks with two of his friends and colleagues.

‘Make Your Own Adventure’: Cyclists Share Their Go-To Rides In St. Louis And Beyond Jul 09, 2021

St. Louis Public Radio's Jonathan Ahl talks with Emma Klues of Great Rivers Greenway and Trailnet's Kevin Hahn about some of their favorite trails. Listeners share their suggestions, too.

‘Burroak Baroque’ To Bring Bach (And More) To Webster Groves Jul 09, 2021

The brainchild of Walter Parks and his wife, Margo, the July 16 event just behind their backyard promises both traditional and modern interpretations of 17th- and 18th-century European music and dance. A wide range of artists are adding their talents to the bill.

Laughing Gas Can Provide Relief For Depression, Study Finds Jul 08, 2021

Of the 24 people who participated in a phase 2 clinical trial involving nitrous oxide breathing treatments, 17 saw improvements. In this episode, we hear from one of them and also talk to co-investigator Dr. Charles Conway of Washington University.

As Male Dragonflies Adapt To Climate Change, Females Might Be Less Attracted Jul 08, 2021

New research: Male dragonflies are adapting to hotter temperatures by developing less colorful wings but that may make it difficult for them to mate.

U.S. Supreme Court Revives Lawsuit Accusing St. Louis Police Of Excessive Force Jul 08, 2021

Attorney Kevin Carnie Jr. of the Simon Law Firm discusses Lombardo v. City of St. Louis. The U.S. Supreme Court revived the lawsuit against the St. Louis Police, forcing the 8th circuit to take another look at the legal standard for excessive force.

Missouri River Offers ‘Abundant Water Supply’ — Even During Western Drought Jul 07, 2021

Missouri American Water Director Timothy Ganz discusses how high demand for water impacts the Missouri River, immediate and long-term threats to the river, and what it takes to produce clean drinking water from a waterway with such high turbidity levels.

‘Ask Me Another’ Canceled, Ophira Eisenberg Still Plans To Make St. Louis Laugh Jul 07, 2021

Comedian Ophira Eisenberg discusses the end of her NPR show and her upcoming set in St. Louis, while local comedian Yale Hollander provides perspective on the local comedy scene.

Remembering Hazel Erby, Who Built An ‘Electoral Behemoth’ In St. Louis County Jul 07, 2021

St. Louis County Councilwoman Rita Heard Days joins host Sarah Fenske in remembrance of her friend and predecessor, and 18-year-old resident Marquis Govan adds his perspective, too.

'Poetry For All' Wants To Help You Find Poetry That Speaks To You Jul 06, 2021

The podcast “Poetry for All” aims to make poetry more accessible for both longtime lovers of the medium and those who haven't read a poem since high school.

Cat Neville Has Big Plans For Emmy-Nominated ‘TasteMAKERS’ — And A New Gig In Hermann Jul 06, 2021

The St. Louis-based food journalist explains how she conceived and launched her acclaimed PBS show, what's holding up its third season, and why Missouri wine gets an unfair rap

3 Black St. Louis Women Explain How They Persisted In Corporate America Jul 05, 2021

Women of color hold just 4% of C-suite jobs in the U.S. In this special encore presentation of the talk show, we listen back as three St. Louis women who’ve defied the odds share stories of the challenges they faced, and how they rose to the top.

Reginald Dwayne Betts On Incarceration, Chauvin Verdict — And Poetry Jul 05, 2021

In this special encore presentation, we listen back to our April conversation with poet, lawyer and advocate Reginald Dwayne Betts. Twenty-five years ago, he saw his entire life trajectory change in the space of 30 minutes. In what he has since described as “a moment of insanity,” Betts, then a 16-year-old high school junior, carjacked a man. He would serve eight years in prison for the crime.

‘After The Uprising’ Follows Ferguson Activist’s Search For Answers In Son’s Death Jul 02, 2021

Since the untimely death of her son Danyé Dion Jones in October 2018, Ferguson activist Melissa McKinnies has been on a quest to learn more about what happened to the 24-year-old. McKinnies’ journey is the focus of a new podcast from iHeartRadio.

How Godfrey’s Richel Stratton Found A Career In Ghost Hunting Jul 02, 2021

After staring in the new documentary "The Sleepless Unrest," paranormal investigator Richel Stratton shares her ghost stories and what it was like to investigate the infamous house that inspired "The Conjuring."

Despite Massive Surplus, Gov. Parson Vetoes $115 Million From Missouri Budget Jul 02, 2021

Rudi Keller, the deputy editor of the Missouri Independent, recaps the end of Missouri's special session — and the resolution involving Missouri’s Medicaid program. https://bit.ly/3h9zDq2

5 Years In, Concordance’s Prisoner-Reentry Model Gets Big Expansion Push Jul 01, 2021

Danny Ludeman went from running a huge brokerage to trying to stop prison recidivism. He explains what he's learned in his 5 years and how he hopes some long-awaited data could fuel major expansion

Garza Talks Kuwait Deployment, Delta Variant And Missouri’s Latest COVID-19 Surge Jul 01, 2021

St. Louis Pandemic Task Force leader Dr. Alex Garza discusses his upcoming four-month-long deployment to Kuwait, and pandemic matters currently impacting the St. Louis region.

Steak ’N Shake Defamation Case Offers ‘Chilling Effect’ For Angry Facebook Posts Jun 30, 2021

The Legal Roundtable discusses how a former restaurant server ended up on the hook for an $80,000 jury verdict, as well as other legal matters in the news.

St. Louis Pediatrician Shares Tips For Persuading The Vaccine Hesitant Jun 29, 2021

SLUCare Pediatrician Dr. Kenneth Haller shares what he’s learned about approaching vaccine hesitancy by working with his clients.

How Edwardsville Residents Are Grappling With Controversial Namesake Jun 29, 2021

Two historians discuss Ninian Edwards' significance to the history of Illinois amid the ongoing efforts in Edwardsville to remove a statue of the city’s namesake.

$10 Billion Proposal From Rep. Bush Would Move Crisis Response To New Agency Staffed By Social Workers Jun 28, 2021

Congresswoman Cori Bush's new bill is called the People’s Response Act. It’s a $10 billion package aimed at putting community organizations, social workers and nurses on the front lines of the nation’s mental health crisis — and scaling back the role of law enforcement. She explains why.

What America Gets Wrong About Poverty — And Why That Matters Jun 28, 2021

Mark Rank of Washington University's Brown School argues that most Americans have an incorrect view of who is poor, and what causes their poverty. He explains what the data says, and what that says about us as a nation

‘It Was Electric’: Inside The U.S. Olympic Gymnastics Trials With STLPR’s Eric Schmid Jun 28, 2021

On the heels of the final day of the women’s competition, our Metro East report joins host Sarah Fenske with an update on the results and what this major downtown event meant for the St. Louis region.

Why 3 St. Louisans Hauled A 700-Pound Piano Up A 758-Foot Cliff Jun 25, 2021

St. Louis on the Air's Evie Hemphill and Paola Rodriguez tagged along to document the feat, which is just the latest stunt the Jackson Pianos crew has undertaken in celebration of Make Music Day STL. That’s part of a global effort held each year on the summer solstice.

St. Louis Librarians Share Their Best Beach Reads Jun 25, 2021

What makes a good summer read? For librarians Jennifer Alexander and Jen Ohzourk, it’s a book that is captivating, escapist, and easy to put down and pick back up again later — perhaps after a swim or bike ride. They share their favorites in this episode.

Via Metro STL Offers Uber-Style Rides On Demand For Underserved County Areas Jun 24, 2021

Earlier this month, transit riders who use Metro Transit’s app to purchase tickets and choose routes may have noticed a new option popping up on their screens: Via Metro STL. The on-demand, $2-per-ride transit service started operating in certain areas of St. Louis County a year ago, and has recently been expanded.

Classic 107.3 Highlights St. Louis’ Bosnian Community In ‘Musical Ancestries’ Jun 24, 2021

Explore the soundscape of Bosnia-Herzegovina in Classic 107's upcoming “Musical Ancentries” program.

Why The Missouri Medicaid Ruling Threw Advocates For A Loop — And What Comes Next Jun 24, 2021

Attorney Chuck Hatfield explains why a Cole County ruling on Medicaid expansion is not at all what he expected -- but could provide swift resolution of Missouri's looming $1.9 billion question

‘ESTL Voices’ Highlights East St. Louis Artists — And Their Outsized Influence On Music Genres Jun 23, 2021

Belleville News-Democrat reporter DeAsia Paige delves into East St. Louis’ rich musical heritage and discusses her inaugural four-part series for the paper, titled “ESTL Voices.”

Family Pet Center At Children's Hospital Brings Touch Of Home To Patients Jun 23, 2021

St. Louis Children’s Hospital is home to one of only four family pet centers in the world where families can bring their pet into the hospital to visit a patient.

WerQfest Returns This Summer To Celebrate St. Louis’ Queer Community — In Person Jun 23, 2021

WerQfest arts and culture festival is back — and it's bigger and better.

Analysis: The Fracture Among St. Louis City, Service Providers After 5 Homeless Deaths During Winter Jun 22, 2021

Homeless service providers in St. Louis say the city erred in failing to fund a 24-hour, no-barrier shelter last winter. As a result, they say, five people died. STLPR's Shahla Farzan joins us in this episode with the latest on local providers’ plans to split off from the city and directly challenge it for federal funding for homeless services.

Missouri Motorcyclists See Big Spike In Deaths After 2020 Helmet Law Repeal Jun 22, 2021

Year-to-date, fatalities have increased by 40% in 2021 according to the Missouri Department of Transportation. St. Louis resident and Harley rider Justin Adams shares his perspective on the matter, as do callers.

‘You Hear Gunfire All The Time’: Moms Demand Action Seeks Change In Missouri Jun 22, 2021

Tonya McCaw and Leslie Washington discuss how gun violence has affected their lives and discuss their work to push for change in Jefferson City

Contraceptives At Issue In Missouri Are Not 'Abortifacients,' Planned Parenthood OB-GYN Says Jun 21, 2021

The Missouri Legislature needs to finalize an agreement to accept major Medicaid funding from the federal government, but Republican lawmakers aren’t on the same page. The fight is over birth control.

Fight Over Medicaid Coverage Of Birth Control Could Imperil Missouri Budget Jun 21, 2021

Reporters Jason Rosenbaum and Jo Mannies discuss some GOP lawmakers' efforts to block renewal of a tax that funds Medicaid in Missouri — and the crowded field for Roy Blunt's Senate seat.

How Black Joy Broke Barriers Through Opera — Just In Time For Juneteenth Jun 18, 2021

Opera singer Will Liverman tells of the journey behind curating the Missouri History Museum and Opera Theatre of St. Louis show “I Dream a World” in commemoration of Juneteenth.

How Prosecutors Convicted Former Cop Dustin Boone After Hung Jury Jun 18, 2021

Christine Byers of KSDK discusses what she saw at the two trials of former St. Louis police officers accused of beating an undercover colleague -- and how newly discovered racist text messages factored into the jury's decision

‘In Our Voices’ Video Project Highlights Stories Of LGBTQ Community Jun 18, 2021

A new documentary series, “In Our Voices," tells the stories of LGBTQ locals by giving them control of the interview.

The Workhouse, St. Louis' Long-Criticized Jail, Is Closing This Week — Sort Of Jun 17, 2021

St. Louis Public Radio reporter Chad Davis joins the show to discuss the latest developments surrounding the city's Medium Security Institution.

Like St. Louis, Quincy Has A Rich History As A Gateway City Jun 17, 2021

Rob Mellon, executive director of the Historical Society of Quincy and Adams County, guides us through SeeQuincy's new self-driving tour that highlights 20 historically significant sites and stories in Quincy, Illinois.

Chris Andoe On ‘House Of Villadiva’ And LGBTQ St. Louis’ Warring Tribes Jun 17, 2021

Journalist Chris Andoe discusses his work covering the city's often fractious LGBTQ scene, the secrets of a good interview and why St. Louis is better than San Francisco or New Orleans

Fish Use Dramatic Pauses Too, Wash U Professor Finds Jun 16, 2021

Fish only seem silent when you’re on the outside looking in. Bruce Carlson’s lab at Washington University has been breaking new ground in our understanding of how they communicate. The fish the biology professor studies use electric pulses — and, as it turns out, pregnant pauses — as they signal their peers.

Celebrating ‘A Miracle World Series’ — And That Amazing Game 6 — In ‘11 In ’11’ Jun 16, 2021

Post-Dispatch columnist Benjamin Hochman discusses the Cardinals' triumph in the 2011 World Series -- and hears listeners share their stories about Game 6, Hochman's pick for the greatest game in World Series history

Landlord And Housing Advocates Say Eviction Moratoriums Are Not Enough Jun 15, 2021

The eviction crisis advocates fear is on the horizon will likely have a disproportionate impact on communities of color, single female-led households, and households with children. That’s according to a new report from the Metropolitan St. Louis Equal Housing & Opportunity Council, which found that more than 5,000 evictions have been filed in the city of St. Louis and St. Louis County between March 2020 and January 2021.

Missouri Traffic Fatalities Soared In 2020 — Even With Driving Down Jun 15, 2021

Among the 987 deaths last year, 128 were pedestrians, some of them struck on roadways after exiting their own vehicles in the wake of incidents.

How Eureka’s Endangered Wolf Center Is Fighting To Bring Red Wolves Back From The Brink Jun 15, 2021

Fewer than 20 American red wolves live in the wild throughout the U.S., all in a refuge in North Carolina. Two Missouri-born wolves were flown there last month to join the population, providing a critical source of new genetic diversity.

‘Gateway To Pride’ Exhibit Seeks More Details About LGBTQ History In St. Louis Jun 14, 2021

In this encore episode, we hear about Missouri History Museum's virtual "Gateway to Pride" exhibit. It delves into the many untold stories of St. Louis’ LGBTQ residents, and wants St. Louisans to contribute any stories and artifacts they have that can expand the narrative.

‘The Snatch Racket’ Explores The 1930s Kidnapping Epidemic In America — And St. Louis Jun 14, 2021

In this encore episode, we listen back to our conversation with Carolyn Cox. Her nonfiction book explores how the FBI was able to end the plague of kidnappings that terrorized St. Louis and the U.S. in the 1930s.

Native Plants To St. Louis Are Front And Center In New, Free Garden Plan Jun 14, 2021

We'll listen back to how landscaper Susan Van de Riet designed a time and budget-friendly garden plan with plants native to St. Louis in this encore discussion.

Wildlife Rescue Center In Ballwin Sees Recent Surge In Creaturely Patients Jun 11, 2021

Kim Rutledge of the Wildlife Rescue Center explains how the center handled its busiest year yet during the pandemic and details its work to assist turtles, deer, fox and even badgers in need.

How To Block (Not Blast) Mosquitoes For A Healthier Ecosystem Jun 11, 2021

Jean Ponzi of the Missouri Botanical Garden explains how fogging for mosquitoes has grave impacts on the ecosystem as a whole -- and how we can make ourselves less attractive to these pests without harming the environment.

Some Lung Cancer Patients See Big Breakthrough With New Drug Jun 11, 2021

We explore a promising clinical trial out of Washington University. Some lung cancer patients are seeing huge benefits from a new drug that just received FDA approval.

How An All-White Jury Was Again Seated In Retrial Of Former St. Louis Officers Jun 10, 2021

Peter Joy of Washington University School of Law says the current system is broken. He discussed possible solutions.

Entrepreneur’s Death Is a Reminder That COVID-19 Kills Jun 10, 2021

Mark Anthony Campbell died last month, three weeks after being diagnosed with COVID-19. Sylvester Brown Jr. discusses why Campbell wouldn't get vaccinated and what we can learn from his tragic death

COVID-19 Diverted Resources From Sexual Health, But Providers Are Ramping Up Jun 10, 2021

STI rates dropped in 2020 — but it’s not because people stopped having sex. Area sexual health centers aim to catch up after the pandemic hindered efforts to mitigate and treat sexually transmitted infections.

For Melissa Scholes Young, Writing About Small-Town Missouri Is A Path To Empathy Jun 09, 2021

Hannibal native Melissa Scholes Young discusses her second novel, "The Hive," with host Sarah Fenske.

Animal Rights Advocates Celebrate ‘A Banner Year’ In Illinois Jun 09, 2021

The Illinois legislature passed a number of animal welfare bills and while the trajectory of such legislation in Missouri is usually bleak, there was a bright spot there too.

Reflecting On 50 Years At CID, Robin Feder Is Hopeful About Future Of Deaf Education Jun 08, 2021

The spring of 2021 has been a time of celebration for the Central Institute for the Deaf, which has served children for more than a century. Two weekends ago, 11 students graduated from the St. Louis-based school, each of them ready to attend neighborhood schools alongside their peers in the fall. And last week, the organization offered a tribute to its longtime executive director, who has seen deaf education change in remarkable ways over the course of her career.

A Ferguson Man Will Pick America’s Best Terrier Jun 08, 2021

William Potter will judge the terrier group when the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show returns this weekend. He explains what goes into a judge’s assessment, and how he really feels about “Best in Show”

With Madigan Gone, Gates Were Open For Illinois Lawmakers Jun 08, 2021

While the former Illinois House speaker liked to play gatekeeper, and keep tight control of the agenda, his successor flung those gates open this year — for better or for worse.

What Karen Aroesty Learned In 26 Years At The Anti-Defamation League Jun 07, 2021

Karen Aroesty left her job as regional director of the Anti-Defamation League Heartland on May 31. In this interview, she shares what she learned about fighting xenophobia during that time — and what gives her hope for the future.

Big Decisions About Work Culture Face Employers — And Their Employees — In A Post-COVID Age Jun 07, 2021

In this episode, managers and employees alike join SLU's David Kaplan and STLPR host Sarah Fenske for a wide-ranging conversation about navigating shifts from remote work back to on-site expectations — and finding the best path forward.

Forest Park’s New Nature Playscape Beckons The Curious Jun 04, 2021

Over the past two years, an area of Forest Park the size of more than 15 football fields has been transformed into the Anne O’C. Albrecht Nature Playscape. It opened to the public earlier this week, sporting a colorful range of native and diverse plant species — and curiosity-sparking play elements made out of everything from limestone to willow branches.

GOP-Backed Law Targeting Public Unions Rejected By Missouri Supreme Court Jun 04, 2021

The Missouri Supreme Court upheld a lower court’s ruling this week and struck down a 2018 law that sought to impose new restrictions on collective bargaining for public sector unions — while exempting public safety unions from the requirements.

Marisa Silver On ‘The Mysteries’ Of Life And St. Louis In The ‘70s Jun 04, 2021

The LA-based author discusses her new novel, "The Mysteries," which is set in 1973 St. Louis.

St. Louis Real Estate Boom Continues As Bidding Wars Persist Jun 03, 2021

Homes in the St. Louis area continue to move quickly and they go under contract for more than what sellers ask. We talk about this trend with two real estate agents and hear home buying experiences.

'King Lear' Takes The Stage In St. Louis Shakespeare Festival's Return To Forest Park Jun 03, 2021

St. Louis Shakespeare Festival's producing artistic director Tom Ridgely and Carl Cofield, who's directing "King Lear" with a cast and crew made up entirely of persons of color, join the show.

How A St. Louis School Made In-Person Learning Work, All Year Long Jun 02, 2021

Jonathan Butterfield of Lutheran High School South shares his takeaways from an unusual school year. The Affton school was one of the few secondary schools in St. Louis to offer five-day-a-week in-person education to its students during the COVID-19 pandemic.

St. Louis Police Killing Of Cortez Bufford Probed In New Intercept Report Jun 02, 2021

On Dec. 12, 2019, near the corner of Bates and Virginia in St. Louis’ Carondelet neighborhood, 24-year-old Cortez Bufford died after being shot multiple times by St. Louis police Officer Lucas Roethlisberger. The case, like that night, has remained shrouded in darkness, as investigative journalists Alison Flowers and Sam Stecklow detail in their newly published deep dive.

How One Of The Rarest Trees In The World Bloomed In St. Louis Jun 02, 2021

Andrew Wyatt of the Missouri Botanical Garden discusses what garden researchers know about the Karomia gigas tree species, and the garden’s efforts to prevent its extinction.

Massive Livingston County Hog Operation Plan Highlights CAFO Growth in Missouri Jun 01, 2021

Hundreds of Livingston County residents, alongside environmental and farming advocacy groups, recently voiced opposition to a proposed concentrated animal feeding operation coming to the county. The proposal was since rescinded, but some believe the debate over CAFOs in Missouri is just getting started.

New Agreement, Funding Paves Way For Land Trust Focused On North St. Louis Green Spaces Jun 01, 2021

An ongoing effort to renew and maintain vacant spaces in several north St. Louis neighborhoods just got a big boost, with the St. Louis Development Corporation last week formalizing a collaboration that will create the St. Louis Community Land Trust.

Hit List: 6 New Restaurants To Try This June Jun 01, 2021

Our friends at Sauce Magazine explain where you should be dining this month — especially if you’re feeling a bit crabby.

Federal Lawsuit Alleges St. Louis Jail Correctional Officers Abused Detainees May 28, 2021

A series of disturbances at the St. Louis City Justice Center earlier this year brought attention to conditions inside the downtown jail. Now, a new lawsuit accuses jail staffers of routinely using chemical agents to punish and harm detainees. And, it says, as punishment, they turn off the water — depriving detainees of both hydration and the ability to flush toilets, sometimes for days.

Wash U Study Reveals People With Mild COVID-19 Cases May Have Lasting Antibody Protection May 28, 2021

New research out of Washington University upends the conventional wisdom about immune responses to COVID-19 infections. Its author explains how a previous study misinterpreted key data — and what we can learn from his findings instead.

For Keyon Harrold, Jazz St. Louis Role Is A Musical Homecoming May 28, 2021

Ferguson native Keyon Harrold discusses his new role as the creative advisor at Jazz St. Louis, previously known as Jazz at the Bistro, and why jazz purists need to open their eyes to other music genres.

Racist Text Messages Speak To Former Officer’s State Of Mind, Lawyers Say May 27, 2021

The Legal Roundtable digs into new evidence against former St. Louis police officers charged with beating an undercover colleague, misconduct charges against the St. Louis circuit attorney and more. (Editor's note: During the conversation, we cite a KMOV report that incorrectly states that a judge granted prosecutors the right to call Ashley Marie Ditto to testify. The judge's ruling did not address that.)

After 8 Intensive Weeks And An Influx Of $50K, Business Owners Reflect On Accelerator’s Merits May 26, 2021

In addition to providing underrepresented founders with equity-free funding, the eight-week-long business development program through the University of Missouri-St. Louis connects participants with educational resources and with successful entrepreneurs for mentoring sessions.

The Ghost Army’s Battlefield Deceptions Could Finally See Congressional Honors May 26, 2021

A World War II unit that tricked the Nazis with inflatable tanks and elaborate sound effects is being honored in Missouri -- an effort supporters hope will lead to Congressional action. Filmmaker Rick Beyer and soldier's daughter Carolyn Spence Cagle discuss the Ghost Army's legacy.

‘Ready To Wear’ Explores St. Louis Fashion — From Early Fur Trade, To Shoe Empires, To Invention Of Juniors May 25, 2021

Valerie Battle Kienzle joins host Sarah Fenske to discuss her fascinating and colorful new book “Ready to Wear: A History of the Footwear and Garment Industries in St. Louis,” recently released by Reedy Press.

Wash U Prison Education Project Celebrates First Grads, Program Expansion May 25, 2021

Ever since launching the program at Missouri Eastern Correctional Center in Pacific in 2014, Rob Henke and Barbara Baumgartner have been passionate leaders of the Washington University Prison Education Project. Dozens of individuals have taken the program’s Wash U-taught courses while incarcerated, and in the past two years, those efforts have started to pay off in the form of earned college degrees.

Quincy Art Show ‘The Other Room’ Features Masterpieces By 6 Black Artists May 25, 2021

St. Louis-based art collector Robert Powell discusses his new curated art show in Quincy surveying contemporary Black artists.

How A Last-Minute Edit Doomed Parole Option For Some Missouri Drug Offenders May 24, 2021

“Heartbroken” is the word Missouri state Rep. Cheri Toalson Reisch used to sum up what she’s feeling in the wake of the 2021 legislative session. On Tuesday, the Republican from Hallsville learned that legislation she’d hoped would soon open doors for certain nonviolent drug offenders serving decades-long, no-parole terms didn’t make it into the final version of Senate Bill 26.

‘Lake Loch Pond Monster’ Takes 1st Place At Cinema At Citygarden Competition May 24, 2021

“Lake Loch Pond Monster,” the creation of independent filmmaker Carolina Diz and actress and creator Brittany Zeinstra, is the winner of this year’s biennial Cinema at Citygarden film competition.

‘I’m Still Around’: Susan Polgar Is Leaving Webster, But She Can’t Quit Chess (Or St. Louis) May 24, 2021

Susan Polgar, the first woman to earn the Chess Grandmaster title by norm and rating, will soon retire from Webster University. She discusses nature vs. nurture, women and chess and her future plans for the championship program she built from scratch

Device Developed By WashU Physician Helps Stroke Patients Regain Hand Movement May 21, 2021

The IpsiHand Upper Extremity Rehabilitation System recently received market authorization from the Food and Drug Administration. The device has stroke patients utilize a robotic exoskeleton on their hand and wrist, allowing them to open and close their hand using their minds.

Freedom Community Center To Offer St. Louis New Model For Restorative Justice Podcast May 21, 2021

Mike Milton’s new organization will offer diversion from the criminal justice system for an intensive process including both victim and defendant. He and UMSL’s John Nanney explain what inspired it, and how it will work

Isom Urges Veto On Missouri Bill That Would Target Police For Infringing On Gun Rights May 20, 2021

The “Second Amendment Preservation Act” could cause serious problems for law enforcement, says St. Louis Interim Public Safety Director Dan Isom. He explains his concerns, which include costly fines for police departments that seek to enforce gun laws

Lyndsey Ellis’ Debut Novel, ‘Bone Broth,’ Explores St. Louis Through One Local Family May 20, 2021

Florissant-based novelist Lyndsey Ellis discusses the 16-year journey to bring her novel to publication, and the St. Louis history that provides a backdrop to its plot.

On Endangered Species Day, St. Louis Band Honors ‘Creatures With Whom We Share Our World’ May 20, 2021

For nearly a decade, the local band FIRE DOG has been writing songs about endangered species. It even released a concept album. Now band leader Mark Pagano has enlisted area elementary school kids to help the band in its fixation — and the kids have crafted some great lyrics. We play some highlights.

A Half-Century Since They Disappeared, The ‘Lost Boys Of Hannibal’ Still Prompt Questions May 19, 2021

Fifty-four years ago this month, three boys went missing in Hannibal, Missouri, and were never seen again. The cold case, situated as it is in the boyhood home of Mark Twain and beloved fictional characters like Tom Sawyer and Becky Thatcher, has been the subject of attention and speculation by everyone from authors to armchair detectives in the decades since.

Exploring The Science Behind Missouri’s 16,000-Plus Sinkholes May 19, 2021

In this episode, we discuss the science behind Missouri’s many sinkholes and learn how the city of St. Louis was developed upon porous and uncertain terrain.

Sylvester Brown On ‘White Castles With Jesus & Uncle Ray At The Used Tire Shop’ May 18, 2021

Sylvester Brown grapples with race and humanity in his new story collection. In this episode, we listen back to his January 2021 conversation about it with host Sarah Fenske.

In ‘The Hill,’ A Third-Generation Author Explores St. Louis’ Italian Bastion May 18, 2021

LynnMarie Alexander’s new book, “The Hill: St. Louis’s Italian American Neighborhood,” is a coffee table-ready compilation of the neighborhood’s history and highlights. We listen back to our conversation with her in this encore episode.

After Tackling Parking Woes From D.C. to Seattle, Chesterfield-Based Fybr Is Coming To Kirkwood May 17, 2021

Chesterfield based tech company, Fybr, has installed 275 wireless parking sensors in downtown Kirkwood. Starting this week, residents and visitors will be able to access real time parking availability via the mobile app, Park Kirkwood.

Ameren Missouri VP On Sustaining The Grid While Moving To Clean Energy May 17, 2021

As vice president of sustainability and electrification for Ameren Missouri, Gwen Mizell is juggling more than one big challenge. Climate pledges are great, but how does a major utility company make the shift to clean energy while maintaining reliable and affordable services — and also reckon with the reality that the technology needed to become totally green does not yet exist?

Takeaways From Missouri's Legislative Special Session May 17, 2021

Missouri lawmakers wrapped their special session Friday with some surprising moves — and serious frustration on both sides of the aisle. Jason Hancock of the Missouri Independent gets us up to speed on the bills that made it through — and the surprising alliances that shaped the session.

Public Officials On Zoom While Driving Shows ‘The Extreme Of The Problem,’ Advocate Says May 14, 2021

An Ohio state senator went viral last week after he was caught on camera driving during a Zoom debate on penalties for — you guessed it — distracted driving. But Andrew Brenner is hardly an outlier: Numerous elected officials, including St. Louis aldermen, have been spotted driving while participating in virtual public meetings.

Homeless Man Wins $150K As Judge Strikes St. Louis County’s Solicitation Ordinances May 14, 2021

Attorney Bevis Schock discusses how police citing and arresting his client has led to a six-figure bill for St. Louis County -- and changes to county ordinances

G’Ra Asim’s ‘Boyz N The Void’ Explores Being Black And Punk May 14, 2021

Author and punk musician G'Ra Asim discusses his new book and how he feels about moving back to St. Louis, the city he left as a 10-year-old.

Circus Flora Returns To The Big Top With ‘St. Lou Revue’ May 13, 2021

After a lengthy hiatus, Circus Flora's big red tent in Grand Center will once again fill with circus tricks and fans next month — and lots of St. Louis talent. With shows running June 4-6, “The St. Lou Revue” promises a focus on hometown performers and plenty of COVID-conscious safety measures, plus some talented canine newcomers from Purina.

In ‘Partying With A 4.0,’ Missouri S&T Graduating Senior Offers Insight On Finding Balance May 13, 2021

On Saturday, Ashley-Ann Davis will offer some words of wisdom to her fellow graduating seniors at the Missouri University of Science and Technology in Rolla. She’s one of just four students scheduled to speak at the university’s in-person commencement ceremonies. But when it comes to giving life advice, the 22-year-old hasn’t just written a speech — she’s also got a small book to her name.

Teen Vaccine Eligibility Has St. Louis Parents Excited May 13, 2021

Pediatric infectious disease physician Dr. Jason Newland of Washington University discusses the FDA's authorization of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for younger teens.

Medical Marijuana Sales Soar In Missouri, What’s Next? May 12, 2021

Missouri’s medical marijuana industry is faring well since the first dispensaries opened their doors last October. Today, more than 100,000 patients and caregivers use and purchase medical cannabis in the state.

Parson Joins Other GOP Governors In Ending COVID-19 Unemployment Program Participation May 12, 2021

This week, Missouri Governor Mike Parson joined a growing number of GOP governors in rejecting federal unemployment benefits. Beginning June 12, the state will no longer participate in a half-dozen federal programs designed to aid out-of-work residents during the pandemic, including the $300-per-week supplemental benefits given to unemployed workers.

A Different Mission — How The Military Is Giving Vaccines At The Dome May 12, 2021

Two military members share their experience working with FEMA and other agencies to distribute vaccinations at The Dome at America’s Center

Veteran Chef Who Quit Food Service Industry Says It Needs To Evolve May 11, 2021

Restaurateurs across the region are grappling with staff shortages. Former chef Patrick Tague, who spent about 30 years in the industry, hopes that the demand for workers will lead to a kinder, gentler culture for food service workers, and more jobs with employee benefits like health insurance.

Critical Race Theory Seeks To Tell ‘A More Accurate Story,’ Supporters Say May 11, 2021

At a time when opinions about critical race theory and inclusive pedagogy are loud and manifold, two experts from Webster University offer a closer look at what critical race theory is — and what to make of the controversy surrounding it.

Alex And Carly Garcia Open Up About ‘Having My Best Friend All Over Again’ May 11, 2021

In late February, Honduran immigrant and longtime Missourian Alex Garcia left the Maplewood church where he'd been living in sanctuary for 1,252 days. He and his wife, Carly, join host Sarah Fenske to discuss their reunited life and remaining challenges ahead.

Opera Theatre Of St. Louis On Its Sold-Out 2021 Season — And That Pandemic Parenting Opera May 10, 2021

Opera Theatre of St. Louis’ sold-out 2021 season moves outdoors for the first time. Among its world premieres: A timely comic opera about parenting in a pandemic

Shankar Vedantam Of 'Hidden Brain' On The ‘Useful Delusions’ That Sustain Humanity May 10, 2021

We talk with "Hidden Brain" host Shankar Vedantam, His new book is "Useful Delusions: The Power & Paradox of the Self-Deceiving Brain."

St. Louis Muslims Find New Ways To Celebrate Ramadan During Pandemic May 07, 2021

Last year, COVID-19 restrictions put a damper on festivities. But this year, precautions and vaccines helped return a sense of normalcy to the religious traditions. Producer Lara Hamdan checks in with local Muslims to hear how they are observing Ramadan.

How St. Louis Journalists Kept Print Alive As Pandemic Raged May 07, 2021

The Webster-Kirkwood Times and the Riverfront Times faced an uncertain future last March. As the coronavirus spread across the U.S., management at both newspapers sought to suspend print editions. Journalists from both organizations share how they battled back from the brink.

Revival Runway Connects Refugee Teens With The Fashion Industry May 06, 2021

Aloha Mischeaux, program director of Revival Runway, shares details about the new collaborative group where local models, photographers and designers mentor refugee students interested in the fashion industry.

Tracing St. Louis Activists' Evolving Fight For Black Lives And Police Reform May 06, 2021

Rebecca Rivas' new two-part series looks and how and why Ferguson activists gave up trying to reform local police departments and decided instead to take control of them. They’ve found huge political success in the last five years.

‘It’s A Reckoning’: Restaurateurs Grapple With Staff Shortages As Customers Return May 06, 2021

Restaurants across the metro continue to reopen and expand their service as diners return to restaurants. There’s just one problem: They can’t find enough good help. St. Louis Magazine’s George Mahe and Tom Schmidt of Salt + Smoke join us to discuss what's going on.

In ‘Snow Blind,’ St. Louisan Finds Path Forward After Losing Sight In Random Shooting May 05, 2021

Thirty years ago this summer, an act of random violence stole William Johnson’s eyesight, and the lives of two of his colleagues, during a business trip to Atlanta. Johnson describes what happened — and how he adapted to his new reality in the months and years that followed his return home to St. Louis — in his new memoir.

Newly Inaugurated Chancellor Discusses Program Cuts, State Of Higher Ed And Why She’s Hopeful About UMSL’s Future May 05, 2021

Chancellor Kristin Sobolik joins host Sarah Fenske to share her vision for the University of Missouri-St. Louis as well as her perspective on some of the biggest challenges currently facing UMSL and higher education as a whole.

How Pickleball Took St. Louis By Storm May 04, 2021

Pickleball has seen explosive growth in the St. Louis metro. Certified instructor Mike Chapin explains how he brought the first permanent courts here and why demand shows no signs of lessening.

Rockwood Controversy Spurs GOP Push To Ban Critical Race Theory In Schools May 04, 2021

A proposal introduced by Missouri Republicans — and its roots within a debate raging among teachers, administrators and parents within the Rockwood School District — is the subject of Tony Messenger’s latest column, “Missouri Republicans embrace racism and censorship in trying to ban the 1619 Project.”

One Year In, St. Louis County Police Chief Barton Defends Her Record On Race May 03, 2021

STLPR reporter Rachel Lippmann spoke with Chief Mary Barton about her controversial tenure. Hear most of that conversation.

Pernicious Effects Of Racially Restrictive Housing Covenants Still Felt Today May 03, 2021

Though racially restrictive covenants have been illegal for more than 70 years, their impact can still be felt today. That’s the focus of a new paper by Colin Gordon in the Journal of Urban History.

How St. Louis Nearly Became The Nation’s Capital May 03, 2021

In the 1860s, a plan to move the U.S. Capitol from D.C. to St. Louis garnered substantial support. Journalist Livia Gershon gives a crash course in this long-forgotten history.

How A ‘Small Object With A Large Story’ Traveled From A Concentration Camp To St. Louis Apr 30, 2021

As a 14-year-old imprisoned in a satellite camp to Auschwitz in 1944, Ben Fainer crafted a bracelet engraved with his name, his ID number and some decorative elements. We explore Fainer's story and how the bracelet made it's way to St. Louis.

This Week's Friday Legislative Roundup With The Missouri Independent Apr 30, 2021

Missouri Independent editor-in-chief Jason Hancock explains what’s happening in the Missouri legislature. The discussion delves into various topics, including the decision to not fund Medicaid expansion, COVID-19 liability and vaccine passports.

‘Lights Out Heartland’ Aims To Keep Migrating Songbirds Flying Safe Over St. Louis Apr 29, 2021

When migrating songbirds get to a major city like St. Louis, light pollution can cause them to become disoriented or exhausted, and sometimes die. A new effort seeks to address the problem by encouraging businesses and individuals in the Midwest to turn off exterior lights during May and September.

21 St. Louisans Challenged Themselves To 24 Hours On Foot, Finding Adventure Close To Home Apr 29, 2021

Last month, Mark Fingerhut set out from his home in St. Louis’ Dogtown neighborhood to see how far his feet could take him over the course of 24 hours. And he convinced 20 fellow St. Louisans to do the same, dubbing the adventure the 24 Hours from Home Challenge.

ACLU Class Action Suit Against St. Louis Police Hits Snag With Appellate Ruling Apr 28, 2021

The legal roundtable featuring Mark Smith, Jennifer Joyce and Sarah Swatosh digs into cases including a class-action lawsuit against police treatment of protesters in St. Louis, lawsuits against the city's earning tax, and the resumption of jury trials during the pandemic.

Composer Tells Father’s Story From Auschwitz To St. Louis In Rock-Opera Concert Apr 27, 2021

St. Louis composer Jeremy Schonfeld shares how his father's memoir, "Absence of Closure" inspired his "Iron & Coal" rock-opera concert.

Activist Kayla Reed Describes Witnessing ‘Inhumane Conditions’ At St. Louis Jails Apr 27, 2021

Kayla Reed shares what she saw at the City Justice Center and the Medium Security Institution, better known as the Workhouse — and what she hopes city leaders will do with those observations.

Hesitation Toward COVID Vaccine Remains Strong Among Many Missouri Residents, New Poll Finds Apr 27, 2021

Polling suggests that attitudes and misunderstandings among political conservatives and people with limited health care coverage may pose the biggest challenges to mass vaccination.

‘Libertarian Rex’ Digs Into Sinquefield’s Political Ambitions — And Failures Apr 26, 2021

Rex Sinquefield has had an outsized influence on the St. Louis region — whether he’s pushing a city-county merger or turning the Central West End into a world capital of chess. And for most of that time, fellow St. Louisan Devin Thomas O’Shea has been watching to see what the libertarian billionaire’s next moves might be.

The St. Louis Region Has Seen Huge Leadership Changes In 2 Years. What’s Next? Apr 26, 2021

St. Louis has voted new leaders into key offices from county executive to mayor to congresswoman. So what should be on the area's to-do list? UMSL professor Anita Manion and listeners shared their agendas for a transformed region.

People Are Reporting Unusual Periods After Receiving COVID-19 Vaccines — Here’s What We Know Apr 23, 2021

After receiving a COVID-19 vaccine, some people are reporting heavier menstrual cycles and more cramping. To date, there are no published scientific studies about a possible link, but researchers are looking into it.

St. Louis Lagers Shine Amid Craft Beer Renaissance Apr 23, 2021

The lager has a long history in St. Louis — and despite its low-key image, experts say it’s surprisingly difficult to make well. Two local brewers discuss the lager’s local roots, and highlight some new favorites.

Friday Legislative Roundup With The Missouri Independent Apr 23, 2021

Missouri Independent editor-in-chief Jason Hancock explains what’s happening in the Missouri legislature. The discussion delves into various topics, including the expulsion of one of its members, and debates about the rights of transgender youth and critical race theory.

MoBot’s Conservation Work In Madagascar Hopes To Combat Deforestation Woes Apr 22, 2021

Missouri Botanical Garden ecologist Adam Smith studied the island's deforestation and found that all of Madagascar's rainforests could disappear by 2080. Botanist Jeannie Raharimampionona explains how MoBot's protected sites in Madagascar aim to combat this prediction.

Elijah Lovejoy’s Life And Tumultuous Times Get Their Due In ‘First To Fall’ Apr 22, 2021

Abolitionist newspaper editor Elijah Lovejoy became the first American journalist slain for his work when he was murdered by a pro-slavery mob in 1837 Alton. Journalist Ken Ellingwood discusses his life and times.

For The Reverend Michelle Higgins, Activism And Pastoral Care Go Hand-In-Hand Apr 21, 2021

For the Reverend Michelle Higgins, pastoral work shares deep ties with social justice activism. The self described “protestor who has become a pastor” is the first Black woman to permanently lead the congregation at Saint John’s Church (the Beloved Community) in north St. Louis.

Reginald Dwayne Betts On Incarceration, Chauvin Verdict — And Poetry Apr 21, 2021

Twenty-five years ago, Reginald Dwayne Betts saw his entire life trajectory change in the space of 30 minutes. In what he has since described as “a moment of insanity,” Betts, then a 16-year-old high school junior, carjacked a man. He would serve eight years in prison for the crime.

St. Louis Field House Museum Commemorates 175th Anniversary Apr 20, 2021

The Field House Museum's "Momentous Milestones" exhibit highlights the history of the oldest privately-owned residential home in St. Louis.

New Evidence Shows Deforestation Didn’t Cause Cahokia’s Collapse Apr 20, 2021

For several decades, one of the most persistent theories of Cahokia's collapse has blamed self-inflicted ecological disaster. Geoarchaeologist Caitlin Rankin explains how her research debunks that theory.

Sierra Club Says Ameren Missouri’s 2050 Climate Goal Is Just ‘Too Slow’ Apr 20, 2021

Earlier this year, the Sierra Club released “The Dirty Truth About Utility Climate Pledges,” a report grading 50 utility companies across the U.S. on their transition from coal to clean energy. Ameren Missouri is among them, and received a D.

Explore Ancient Nubian Art At The St. Louis Art Museum Apr 19, 2021

The latest exhibition at the St. Louis Art Museum, “Nubia: Treasures of Ancient Africa,” offers new ways of understanding Nubia’s history and contemporary relevance.

Rep. Cori Bush Proposes $1 Trillion Green New Deal For Cities Apr 19, 2021

U.S. Rep. Cori Bush is introducing legislation that would directly fund local governments disproportionately impacted by climate change. The Green New Deal for Cities would authorize $1 trillion in spending over the next four years.

Analysis: Big Changes On Rolla City Council This Week After Pandemic Restrictions Apr 19, 2021

STLPR's Jonathan Ahl explores the political fallout from a mask mandate and other coronavirus-related restrictions in Rolla.

Update On What’s Happening In The Missouri Legislature Apr 17, 2021

Missouri Independent editor-in-chief Jason Hancock explains what’s happening in the Missouri legislature. The discussion involves the ongoing snafu around unemployment overpayments, Rep. Rick Roeber, Rush Limbaugh and more.

Inspired By ‘Song Exploder,’ St. Louis-Based ‘Songs Out Loud’ Has Local Artists Talking Apr 16, 2021

The podcast's creator, Aaron Doerr, has released six episodes just in the past two months, featuring local bands ranging from Middle Class Fashion to Mathias & The Pirates. More conversations and tunes drop every other Tuesday.

‘The Price Of Health’ Exposes What’s Driving The Runaway Cost Of Pharmaceutical Drugs Apr 15, 2021

Michael Kinch's new book, "“The Price of Health: The Modern Pharmaceutical Enterprise and the Betrayal of a History of Care," digs into the many factors leading to exorbitant drug prices. He discusses what he found, and what it would take to address them.

Lyda Krewson: Being St. Louis Mayor Was ‘Honor Of A Lifetime’ Apr 15, 2021

In 2017, St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson was elected the city’s top executive, making her the first woman to win the job. Four years later, she’s set to retire, marking an end to 24 years in public service.

Michael Chabon’s TV Success Won’t Lure Him From His First Love, The Novel Apr 14, 2021

Chabon, who is this week receiving the 2020 St. Louis Literary Award, discusses his successes, his struggles and how the joy of good sentences continues to sustain him.

St. Louis Crisis Nursery Keeps Kids Safe 24/7, No Matter What Life Throws At Their Parents Apr 14, 2021

For 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, the St. Louis Crisis Nursery welcomes children in need of care due to factors like homelessness, illness or extreme parental stress. Its clinical worker explains how it assists those families -- and how the pandemic affected its work.

6 New Food And Drink Spots To Check Out This April Apr 14, 2021

Sauce Magazine's Meera Nagarajan highlights six new food and drink establishments in the region.

Under Dan Martin’s Steady Hand, 120-Year-Old Weatherbird Still Lands In Post-Dispatch Daily Apr 13, 2021

First hired by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch in 1980, Martin has been drawing the beloved Weatherbird character for 35 years now. He’s the sixth artist to carry on the legacy since the cartoon first appeared in the February 11, 1901, edition of the newspaper.

‘I Have To Do Something’: Nikylan Knapper On Becoming Maplewood’s 1st Black Mayor Apr 13, 2021

On April 6, Knapper earned support from 58% of voters. The federal administrative law judge and school board member, who defeated incumbent Mayor Barry Greenberg, joins host Sarah Fenske to discuss her campaign and her hopes for her community's future.

‘Mid-Mod Quincy’ Highlights Midcentury Modern Masterpieces Apr 12, 2021

Up for a road trip? In this encore episode, we listen back to our conversation about a self-guided tour promoted by the visitor's bureau in Quincy that highlights 30 of the city’s trove of mid-century modern designs.

‘Oldest St. Louis’ Spotlights The Area’s Long-Surviving Places And Things Apr 12, 2021

In this encore episode, we listen back to a conversation with local author NiNi Harris, where she drills down on which places can claim to be the oldest in St. Louis.

St. Louis Doctor Found ‘Scattered Sparks Of Light’ In A Year Away From Her Family In An RV Apr 09, 2021

As a frontline worker, Dr. Tiffany Osborn lived in an RV for the past year to protect her family from the coronavirus. She's fully back home now, and joins the talk show to share other reflections she’s had throughout the year — and the fate of the RV trailer.

In ‘Crushed’ Podcast, St. Louis Native Explores ‘98 Home Run Race Apr 09, 2021

Sports writer Joan Niesen goes deep on baseball’s steroid era in her new podcast, Crushed.” She explains how she fell in love with baseball as a 10-year-old in St. Louis, and how subsequent revelations affected her fandom

‘These Are People First’: Mayor-Elect Tishaura Jones Talks Justice Center Issues, Historic Win And More Apr 08, 2021

Less than 48 hours since her victory in Tuesday’s big race and with only 12 days until she’ll be sworn into office, St. Louis Mayor-elect Tishaura Jones said on Thursday's show that she’s ready to move fast on a number of fronts — including how to address the critical issues currently facing the City Justice Center.

Why You’re Paid What You’re Paid (It’s Not What You Think) Apr 08, 2021

Washington University Sociology Professor Jake Rosenfeld discusses his new book, “You’re Paid What You’re Worth And Other Myths of the Modern Economy,” and the complicated issues surrounding compensation.

Missouri Republicans Weigh Minimum Wage Decrease Apr 08, 2021

St. Louis Public Radio reporter Corinne Ruff discusses a proposal by Missouri House Budget Chair Cody Smith, R-Carthage, to roll back or delay a voter-approved minimum wage increase.

Takeaways From A History-Making Election Night In St. Louis Apr 07, 2021

Tishaura Jones' landmark mayoral win ushers in a new era for St. Louis politics.

After Jail Unrest, St. Louis Task Force Chair Calls For New Urgency — And New Management Apr 07, 2021

Since late December, five protests have erupted at the Justice Center in downtown St. Louis. This latest came Sunday night, when a group of detainees broke windows on the third floor and threw objects out of the windows. Inmates could be heard chanting, “We need help” and “We want court dates.”

Pianos For People’s 300th Donation — A Baldwin From Ballwin — Finds Eager Young Player In St. Louis Apr 07, 2021

Last week, as Laurie Bowen watched movers transport her cherished upright piano from the front of her home to the trailer hitched to their truck, she grew a bit emotional. She wiped away some tears. But they were happy ones, especially as she thought about what the instrument would mean for its new owner, 11-year-old piano student Amani Dugger, who lives in St. Louis.

Former St. Louis Elections Director’s Electronic Poll Book Streamlines Voting Process Apr 06, 2021

KnowInk founder Scott Leiendecker shares how he developed the Poll Pad and how his voter registration company is becoming one of the fastest-growing companies in the region.

How St. Louisans Inspired, And Subsidized, Hemingway Apr 06, 2021

In his book “Hemingway’s St. Louis: How St. Louisans Shaped His Life and Legacy,” Andrew J. Theising argues that many of Ernest Hemingway’s great adventures have roots in St. Louis. He explains how Hemingway's three St. Louis-born wives and their family fortunes helped to launch the novelist.

Analysis: Prosecutors Retrying 2 St. Louis Cops Face Tough Road To Conviction Apr 06, 2021

Federal prosecutors will retry two St. Louis police officers charged with beating an undercover colleague after the jury deadlocked last week. A former federal prosecutor shares his analysis of what went wrong at trial -- and what this means for others making similar claims against St. Louis Police.

Meeting St. Louis’ Incoming And Outgoing Youth Poets Laureate Apr 05, 2021

In January, shortly after poet Amanda Gorman inspired the nation with her reading at President Joseph Biden’s inauguration, St. Louis' outgoing youth poet laureate, Sarah Abbas, and the city’s next poet laureate, Grace Ruo, shared their hopes for bringing written and spoken words to bear on society.

What History Tells Us About The Mobilization Of Hate Groups In The U.S. Apr 05, 2021

In this encore episode, we listen back to a conversation with Washington University Sociology Professor David Cunningham, who shares what we can learn about right-wing, white nationalist groups today — and best practices for defeating them — by studying their mobilization during other moments in our nation's history.

‘It’s Just Incredibly Frustrating’: Voter-Approved Medicaid Expansion Now Faces Uncertain Fate In Missouri Apr 02, 2021

Republicans in the Missouri House this week declined to fund the expansion of Medicaid. To their colleagues across the aisle, including state Rep. Peter Merideth, D-St. Louis, the GOP arguments in recent days against funding the change haven’t made much sense. In this conversation, Merideth, the ranking minority member of the House Budget Committee, offers his sense of recent developments and where this battle may be headed next.

At 57, Mrs. Missouri Wauneen Rucker Still Finds New Adventures Apr 02, 2021

This year's reigning Mrs. Missouri is one of just two Black women ever to hold the title, and at 57, the oldest yet. She shares how pageants prepared her for life in the Marines and discusses why the St. Louis Diaper Bank is close to her heart.

Denève Celebrates ‘Being Together’ As Symphony Concerts Resume In Powell Hall Apr 02, 2021

Stéphane Denève and Marie-Hélène Bernard of the St. Louis Symphony discuss the effects of the pandemic, returning to Powell Hall and their vision for the future.

Meet CC Ice, The Missouri Native Making ‘WandaVision’ Stunts Possible Apr 01, 2021

For the past four years, CC Ice has been helping Elizabeth Olsen portray the Marvel superhero Wanda Maximoff, assisting the actress with everything from flying to fight scenes as her stunt double. That work culminated in the January 2021 premiere of “WandaVision," which focuses on Wanda’s corner of the Marvel universe. For Ice, who grew up in Barnhart, Missouri, it’s been a thrill watching fans devour a show starring the character she’s spent years developing.

‘Now Was The Appropriate Time’: St. Louis County’s Presiding Judge On Restarting Evictions, Jury Trials Apr 01, 2021

Last week, the St. Louis County Courts began again allowing eviction proceedings under limited circumstances. On April 5, it will allow a much broader array of evictions to resume — with about 600 cases already in the final phases and ready for service.

Mayoral Debate Gets Testy, Pushes Candidates To Reflect On St. Louis’ Racial Divide Mar 31, 2021

The debate between Alderwoman Cara Spencer and Treasurer Tishaura Jones, one week before the mayoral election, featured several pointed exchanges on everything from how they would allocate federal COVID-19 relief funds to their plans to improve police accountability.

Legal Roundtable Digs Into Trial Of St. Louis Cops Charged With Beating Colleague Mar 29, 2021

A federal jury is weighing the case against three St. Louis Metropolitan Police officers charged with beating a colleague as he worked undercover at a protest. The Legal Roundtable analyzes the case against them and other legal matters, too.

As Missouri Weighs Curbing Voter Access, Congress Looks To Expand It Mar 26, 2021

As Missouri lawmakers contemplate laws making it harder to vote without a photo ID, 42 other states are considering more than 250 bills that would raise barriers to voting.

3 Black St. Louis Women Explain How They Persisted In Corporate America Mar 26, 2021

Women of color hold just 4% of C-suite jobs in the U.S. Three St. Louis women who’ve defied the odds share stories of the challenges they faced, and how they rose to the top.

St. Louis Moved Homeless People Into Hotels, Putting Some In Danger: 'We Were An Eyesore To Them' Mar 25, 2021

St. Louis Public Radio reporter Shahla Farzan discusses her report, in collaboration with American Public Media, about how the city's decision to relocate homeless residents to temporary shelters across the city may have put residents in even greater jeopardy.

Asian American St. Louisans Call For An End To Anti-Asian Rhetoric Mar 25, 2021

What’s it like growing up in a Black and white city when you don’t fit neatly in either category? A Chinese American and Thai American share their perspective on life in St. Louis — and the deadly attacks in Atlanta that have galvanized Asian American communities across the U.S.

6 St. Louis Visual Artists Embody The City’s ‘Creative Renaissance’ In Griot Exhibit Mar 25, 2021

"In the City: Memories of Black Presence" opens March 26 at the Griot Museum of Black History and Culture. It showcases the works of St. Louis artists examining the city as part of a fellowship at Harvard University.

How Grind + Growth Helps Provide Access To Resources For Minority Business Owners Mar 24, 2021

We meet the founder of the local nonprofit Grind + Growth and one of the startups getting a boost from her efforts. Valerie Liddell’s goal is to help Black and other rminority entrepreneurs achieve their dreams.

Planned Parenthood, Metro Trans Umbrella Group Partner On Care Designed By And For Transgender Community Mar 24, 2021

A $3 million, multi-year effort, TRANSforming Community TRANSforming Care is billed as the first program of its kind in Missouri, expanding access to health care regardless of a patient’s ability to pay.

Great Food, Fans And Innovation Have South Grand Mainstay Cafe Natasha’s Pressing On Mar 23, 2021

St. Louisan Natasha Bahrami discusses her family’s journey in the restaurant industry, her recent induction into the Gin Hall of Fame and more.

St. Louis University Infectious Disease Physician Answers Vaccine Questions Mar 23, 2021

What does your body’s reaction to the COVID-19 vaccine reveal about your immune system? And what’s with reports of a post-vaccine arm rash? In this episode, the director of St. Louis University’s Center for Vaccine Development discusses the latest vaccine news and answers listener questions.

Missouri Lawmakers Return From Legislative Spring Break, Busy Eight Weeks Ahead Mar 22, 2021

After an active first few months of the 2021 legislative session, lawmakers return to Jefferson City with several priorities on the agenda of the Republican supermajority.

Comedian Michael Yo Is Back On Stage After Surviving COVID-19 — And Headed To St. Louis Mar 22, 2021

It took Michael Yo months to fully recover from his early and scary case of COVID-19 last year. But now the horizon is looking a lot brighter, and Yo is even traveling to St. Louis for in-person appearances this weekend at the Funny Bone in Maryland Heights. Those will be safe, masked, limited-capacity shows, and they’re expected to sell out.

‘The Snatch Racket’ Explores The 1930s Kidnapping Epidemic In America — And St. Louis Mar 22, 2021

Carolyn Cox discusses her new nonfiction book, which explores how the FBI was able to end the plague of kidnappings that terrorized St. Louis and the U.S. in the 1930s.

Local Music Venue, Production Company Dedicated To Putting On High-Quality Livestream Concerts Mar 19, 2021

The Sinkhole owner Matt Stuttler and Arch City Audio Visual Services event producer Chris Keith share about how the pandemic impacted their services, and discuss details about their virtual concert series, “I Watched Music On The Internet.”

Unvaccinated Seniors Must Now Wait In Line With Half A Million Newly Eligible Missourians Mar 19, 2021

Though Missouri has been vaccinating seniors for months, nearly half haven't received COVID-19 shots.

Long Waits For Preliminary Hearings In St. Louis Draw Public Defender’s Ire Mar 19, 2021

The district defender for St. Louis says the way the circuit attorney and judges handle preliminary hearings is a major reason defendants spend months in jail without being convicted of a crime. He explains what needs to change.

Ken Kwapis Went From Belleville To The Big (And Little) Screen Mar 18, 2021

In this encore from last October, we talked with director and Belleville native Ken Kwapis. He launched "The Office" and has directed 11 feature films. His recent book is "But What I Really Want to Do Is Direct: Lessons From a Life Behind the Camera."

Clownvis Presley’s Pandemic Shows Draw Dedicated Crowds To Yaquis On Cherokee Mar 18, 2021

The entertainer Clownvis is from St. Louis and after cold weather, his shows resume at Yaquis on Cherokee Street this weekend. Here's an encore of our conversation from last October with this zany, talented and thoughtful musician.

St. Louis Progressives Aim To ‘Flip the Board’ For A New Majority Mar 17, 2021

Candidates Anne Schweitzer and Shedrick Kelley explain why they're part of a group that hopes to defeat more establishment-minded Democrats to seize progressive control of the St. Louis Board of Aldermen. Reporter Rachel Lippmann provides analysis.

‘Radio Resistance’ Explores Connection Between Activism In St. Louis And The World Mar 17, 2021

Stories of Resistance at the Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis includes video, photography, drawing, sculpture and painted installations by 19 artists. It also includes the museum’s first podcast, “Radio Resistance.” Among those featured will be Congresswoman Cori Bush, activist and professor emeritus Harry Edwards and Harvard professor and author Walter Johnson.

Feeling Unhappy? The Rep Invites You To Call ‘Human Resources’ Mar 17, 2021

The Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company’s "Human Resources," presented by the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis and created by Telephonic Literary Union, is a choose-your-own-adventure story via phone. What initially sounds like a typical customer service hotline invites callers to discover the unexpected.

Dogtown Is Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, Without The Crowds Mar 16, 2021

For the second year in a row, COVID-19 is putting the kibosh on the St. Patrick's Day parade and Irish festival that typically bring crowds of revelers to the vibrant St. Louis neighborhood. But the Dogtown community is still going green this week, finding creative and cautious ways to celebrate Ireland’s patron saint — while also raising funds for what organizers anticipate will be a return to traditional festivities in 2022.

Vote On The Coolest Thing Made In Illinois Mar 16, 2021

For the second year in a row, the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association is highlighting the state’s diverse manufacturing sector with a bracket-style tournament. The Makers Madness contest started with 311 nominees. After nearly 140,000 votes, eight products are now vying to be declared the state’s coolest.

City Justice Center Gets A Close Look — And ‘Urgent’ Recommendations — After Feb. 6 Riot Mar 16, 2021

Last month, more than 100 detainees at the St. Louis Justice Center revolted, attacking a guard, smashing windows and setting fires to protest their living conditions. The detainees held a floor of the jail for nearly seven hours. Now a new task force, created to investigate conditions in the jail, has released a report that seeks to explain what went wrong and what it will take to fix it.

Missouri-Born Civil Rights ‘Warrior’ C.T. Vivian Tells His Story In Posthumous Memoir Mar 15, 2021

The Rev. C.T. Vivian was a confidant of Martin Luther King Jr. and a man who played a pivotal role in desegregating lunch counters, buses and beaches. Co-author Steve Fiffer discusses his legacy and his early years in Boonville, Missouri, and Macomb, Illinois.

Many Mothers Left The Workforce In States With Remote Learning. What's Next? Mar 15, 2021

Washington University sociologist Caitlyn Collins discusses the troubling trend of mothers dropping out of the workforce during the pandemic -- and how the U.S. lags behind other countries in supporting parents.

Reflections On 12 Months Of COVID-19 — The Losses, The Struggles And The Lessons Mar 12, 2021

As coronavirus cases spread and shutdowns got under way a year ago this week, few of us had any idea what to expect in the days and months ahead — nor would we have guessed the crisis would extend well beyond the year 2020.

Biotech Startup Seeks To Avoid ‘Rubber Apocalypse’ With Sunflowers Mar 11, 2021

Edison Agrosciences is the St. Louis based agricultural biotechnology company working to develop alternative rubber crops. It’s found a product that it believes can become a source of homegrown rubber: sunflowers.

Trash Traps In River Des Peres Watershed Stop Litter At Its Source Mar 11, 2021

A yearlong collaboration between the Missouri Confluence Waterkeeper, Blue2Blue Conservation and researchers at Wichita State University, the effort centers on three litter-collection devices installed at area creeks. In this segment, we travel to Deer Creek in Maplewood for a closer look.

Haley Woolbright’s New Song Celebrates Love That Can Withstand COVID-19 Mar 11, 2021

St. Louis singer-songwriter Haley Woolbright planned to record her new song as a wedding surprise for her husband. The pandemic changed those plans -- but taught the couple some things about love.

Historic Sumner High Lives On, Staving Off Closure Again Mar 10, 2021

St. Louis’ historic Sumner High School has dodged closure once more. Tuesday night, the St. Louis Public School board approved a new effort to reinvigorate Sumner's declining enrollment, rather than close the historic school.

St. Louis County Council Chair Says She And Sam Page Haven't Talked — In Months Mar 10, 2021

Council Chair Rita Heard Days recently beat back a lawsuit to hold the chairwoman's post. She discusses her relationship with the county executive, her priorities and her thoughts on COVID-19 restrictions in St. Louis County.

Lamar Johnson’s Lawyers To File For Habeas Corpus After Supreme Court Loss Mar 10, 2021

Last week the Missouri Supreme Court dealt another blow to Lamar Johnson, who's spent 26 years in prison for a murder prosecutors say he didn't commit. His lawyer discusses next steps in the quest for his freedom.

Missouri Republican Leaders Seek To Change Voter ID Laws Mar 09, 2021

Republican lawmakers in Jefferson City are seeking to update some of the state’s photo ID laws as they pertain to elections. Rep. John Simmons, R-Washington, sponsored the bill — which passed the House on Feb. 24 and is on its way to the Senate for consideration.

Marian Middle School Wraps Students In Support All the Way Through College Mar 09, 2021

Marian Middle School is the city's only all-girls Catholic middle school. School administrators describe it as a “school beyond walls” because its students are equipped with resources that help them, and their families, overcome societal and financial obstacles.

Missouri Folk Arts Highlights 200 Stories In Bicentennial Celebration Mar 09, 2021

In Missouri’s own bicentennial year, Missouri Folk Arts’ staff are sharing 200 stories over the course of 52 weeks about folk and traditional arts in the Show-Me State.

'The Zealot And The Emancipator' Explores The Different Paths Of Abraham Lincoln And John Brown Mar 08, 2021

One of our favorite recent conversation was with H.W. Brands. His recent book, "The Zealot and the Emancipator: John Brown, Abraham Lincoln and the Struggle for American Freedom," explores the run-up to slavery's abolition — and choice to confront its "great evil" via politics or violence — through the lives of two men: John Brown and Abraham Lincoln.

'Beyond The Ballot' Explores History Of Women's Suffrage Movement In St. Louis Mar 08, 2021

Today is International Women’s Day and we’re listening back to our conversation from last summer about 100 years since the ratification of the 19th Amendment, which granted U.S. women the right to vote. St. Louis women were among some of the earliest suffragists and an exhibit at the Missouri History Museum about those women remains on display.

St. Louis Singer-Songwriter Lloyd Nicks Finds His Breakthrough With ‘Never Fail’ Mar 05, 2021

At the start of the coronavirus pandemic, and after 10 years of pursuing music professionally, Lloyd Nicks couldn’t have anticipated the year 2020 being his biggest yet. But last summer, everything changed when one of his songs started hitting airwaves across the U.S.

‘Keep Live Alive’ Show Raises Funds For Sidelined Entertainment Workers In St. Louis Mar 05, 2021

As a longtime professional in the live entertainment industry, Greg Hagglund watched far too many livelihoods crumble around him over the past year. But in recent months he’s collaborated with other local industry veterans on a concrete way to help them: Keep Live Alive St. Louis. The ongoing effort includes the premiere of a 90-minute video special March 12, featuring local and national performers.

Missouri’s Public Defender Funding At The Fore After Big Court Win Mar 05, 2021

Missouri’s “waiting lists” for public defenders were declared unconstitutional last month. Judge William E. Hickle ruled that the Missouri Office of State Public Defender violated the constitutional rights of indigent people awaiting trial by forcing them to wait for weeks, and even months, for an attorney. Tony Rothert of the ACLU of Missouri and state Rep. Tony Lovasco, a Republican from O'Fallon, discuss what happens next.

MO Attorney General’s Office Communicated About ‘War Games’ With GOP Group Via Government Email Mar 04, 2021

St. Louis attorneys Elad Gross and Mark Pedroli got a surprise in a set of documents they recently unearthed via Sunshine requests: proof that Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt’s office exchanged emails with the Rule of Law Defense Fund leading up to the November 2020 election — and continued to receive numerous communications from the fund afterward.

Carey Gillam's 'The Monsanto Papers' Gives A Behind-The-Scenes Look At Roundup's Legal Battles Mar 04, 2021

In 2018, Bayer-Monsanto lost a $289 million jury verdict in a case brought by a groundskeeper who claimed the weedkiller Roundup gave him cancer. Author Carey Gillam discusses her new book about that litigation.

Takeaways From A Landmark St. Louis Election Mar 03, 2021

How did Tishaura Jones and Cara Spencer move onto the April mayoral election? For Jones, it was a strong performance in north St. Louis and parts of south St. Louis, and approval voting may have been key in getting Spencer to the second round.

Ready Or Not, School Districts Prepare For Spring Standardized Tests Mar 03, 2021

Missouri school students will sit down for state assessments soon. For some, it’ll be their first time in a classroom in more than a year. Teachers and parents say testing should be canceled, but education officials counter that the data is critical.

StoryCorps To Feature ‘Untold Black Stories Of Alton’ Mar 03, 2021

StoryCorps is turning its ear to tell the stories of Black people from Alton. We previewed a virtual event happening this Friday, "Untold Black Stories of Alton" and got a sneak peek at one of the conversation.

Jamaa Birth Village Expands Its Reach Through STL 360 Doulas Initiative Mar 02, 2021

Earlier this year, Brittany "Tru" Kellman’s efforts got a big boost: a $1 million grant to train hundreds of doulas in an effort to reduce Missouri's maternal mortality rates and racial disparities. Kellman and her Jamaa Birth Village team are partnering with local nonprofit Generate Health on the three-year project. Host Sarah Fenske talks with Kellman and Generate Health's Kendra Copanas, and we also hear from Charity Bean, a recently trained doula who has since opened her own practice.

Remembering Churchill’s Missouri Trip, ‘Iron Curtain’ Speech 75 Years Later Mar 02, 2021

This Friday marks 75 years since Winston Churchill delivered the famous "Iron Curtain" speech. Tim Riley of America's National Churchill Museum talks about the significance of that speech and shares details about Churchill's trip to Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri.

Artist Aaron Fowler’s St. Louis Show Is Making Dreams Come True Mar 01, 2021

Aaron Fowler has found huge success in the contemporary art world. Now he debuts his first solo exhibition in his hometown, N2EXISTENCE: GENESIS, which opens March 6 at the Luminary. Fowler explains how he went from St. Louis' Carr Square neighborhood to the Ivy League, and what it's been like to be back in his hometown for a year's residency.

'Extraordinary Black Missourians’ Details Even More Lives That Made History Mar 01, 2021

Co-authors John A. Wright Sr. and John A. Wright Jr. discuss the new, second edition of their book, newly out from Reedy Press, and why the stories of so many notable Black people have been forgotten or concealed.

St. Louis Chemical Engineer Who Led Pfizer Team Says The Vaccine Is The Only Way Out Mar 01, 2021

Paul Mensah, a Black chemical engineer and vice president of Bioprocess Research and Development group at Pfizer in St. Louis, led a team of scientists, engineers and technicians to develop Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine.

Cops Lose Qualified Immunity In 2 Federal Cases, Suggesting ‘Shift’ Toward Accountability Feb 26, 2021

The Legal Roundtable discusses developments involving the area's judicial system, including two 8th circuit rulings on qualified immunity for police officers and lawsuits over Missouri's Sunshine law.

Inspired By Sobriety, St. Louis Musician Dear Genre Debuts ‘Man In Full’ Feb 25, 2021

André Cataldo of Dear Genre considers his latest album, “Man in Full,” his most “tame and mature” sound. He delves into his musical journey and share tracks from his sixth album.

Bill Increasing Penalties For Protesters Wins Initial Approval In Missouri Senate Feb 25, 2021

Missouri Independent reporter Rebecca Rivas provides the latest on sweeping legislation that recently gained preliminary approval in the Missouri Senate. It would crack down on protesters — and give new rights to cops accused of misconduct.

Florissant’s History Of Slavery Gets A Close Look In ‘In The Walnut Grove’ Feb 25, 2021

Andrew J. Theising discusses the new book he edited for the Florissant Valley Historical Society, which provides a close look at slavery in the north county St. Louis suburb.

Translation App Aims To Make International, Multilingual Conferences Doable In A Virtual Age Feb 24, 2021

For many of us, mastering muting, unmuting and other basics of virtual work and schooling has proved to be more than enough of a challenge on top of everything else this past year. But St. Louisan Susanne Evens and her team of translators around the world have been busy in recent months tackling a different challenge: how to make large-scale international gatherings possible, and still understandable, in a virtual age.

St. Louis Mayoral Hopefuls Square Off In Debate That Centered On Crime Feb 24, 2021

The four contenders for mayor of St. Louis discussed crime prevention, the COVID-19 pandemic and transportation funding in one of the last virtual showdowns before the March 2 primary election.

Seniors In St. Louis County Can Apply To Get A Tablet — For Free Feb 24, 2021

St. Louis County Library director Kristen Sorth discusses the center's "GrandPad" initiative, where they aim to distribute about 1,500 tablets as part of their ongoing Digital Equity Initiative.

Illinois’ End To Cash Bail Has Activists Celebrating — And Critics Hoping For Changes Feb 23, 2021

Advocates are celebrating a new law that will end wealth-based pre-trial detention in Illinois. With Governor J.B. Pritzker's signature yesterday, the state becomes the first in the country to eliminate cash bail.

Jefferson Spaces Resident, Service Provider Share Their Perspectives On New Tiny Homes Feb 23, 2021

A newly launched community of 50 tiny, transitional homes, located at Jefferson and Martin Luther King Drive in St. Louis, is now nearly at capacity. We talk with Tom Mangogna of the Magdala Foundation, which is operating the village, and with tiny-home resident Florine McBride. She moved in just a couple weeks ago with her emotional control cat, Logan.

‘The Stress Is Still There’: Frontline Workers Share Their Frustrations And Joys 11 Months Into COVID-19 Crisis Feb 22, 2021

As the pandemic drags on and many people settle further into a more virtual world, others are in their 11th month of continually interacting with members of the public and risking their own health to help keep people supplied with food and other necessities. In this episode, we hear from several of those workers.

With New Electric Vehicle Requirements Added To St. Louis Codes, Local Electricians Are Ready Feb 22, 2021

Mayor Krewson recently signed a bill mandating more electric vehicle charging stations in the city. Linda Little, assistant director of the Electrical Industry Training Center, explains how the St. Louis company helped standardize the charging process nationally ten years ago.

Artist Ekene Ijeoma Seeks To Capture The Languages And Accents Of St. Louis Feb 22, 2021

The New York-based conceptual artist explains his project "A Counting," which aims to create a "sound portrait" of St. Louis.

Catch Le’Ponds Back On Stage At The Grandel Next Month Feb 19, 2021

The artist Le’Ponds is known for her dreamy, almost haunting songs. The St. Louis-based singer-songwriter and guitarist tells us about her musical journey and latest projects.

How Operation Winter Haven Kept 260 Homeless St. Louisans Out Of The Cold During Deadly Snap Feb 19, 2021

Advocates for St. Louis' homeless population explain how they came together in a two-week blitz to get people out of the cold -- and the political backdrop that made such efforts necessary.

South City Hospital, Previously St. Alexius, Has New Owners And A New Mission Feb 19, 2021

About four miles south of the Gateway Arch, right near the riverfront in south St. Louis, sits a hospital with a long and troubled history — and what its new leaders hope will be a much brighter future. Best known for being the location of the only documented exorcism in the United States, the hospital is now benefiting from a new vision for serving the community that surrounds it.

Some Missouri Drug Offenders Still Spending Decades In Prison Despite 2017 Repeal Feb 18, 2021

A new report from the Riverfront Times puts the disparity in stark contrast: While Missouri inmates on average spend less than four years in prison, some of the state’s nonviolent drug offenders are still serving decades-long, no-parole terms. In this segment, host Sarah Fenske talks with the RFT's Danny Wicentowski and Republican state Rep. Cheri Toalson Reisch. We also hear from two men who recently had their sentences commuted by Governor Mike Parson.

How A St. Louis Startup Is Helping NASA Interpret Mars Rover Findings Feb 18, 2021

Pablo Sobron, the founder and CEO of Impossible Sensing, explains how his Cherokee Street-based startup is aiding in the work of the Perseverance rover touching down this week on Mars -- and his bigger plans for future Mars' missions.

With Eviction Moratorium Soon To Expire, Housing Advocates Fear ‘House Of Cards’ Collapse Feb 17, 2021

In this episode we hear from two struggling tenants at the Fountains at Carondelet as well as Lee Camp, an attorney with ArchCity Defenders. Kennard Williams, a lead organizer with Action St. Louis and active member of the St. Louis Housing Defense Collective, joins host Sarah Fenske throughout the discussion, and also interacts with callers.

County Library’s ‘Tap In Center’ Helps Residents Resolve Warrants, Get Legal Assistance Feb 17, 2021

The St. Louis County Library's Tap In Center seeks to provide a safe space for people who need assistance in resolving warrants, meeting with an attorney, learning their case status or applying for a public defender.

Reporter Kayla Drake Discusses Vaccination Road Trips Feb 16, 2021

Scores of St. Louis residents are traveling to rural Missouri counties to get vaccinated. Reporter Kayla Drake discusses the issues surrounding these road trips.

Walter Parks Found A New Life In St. Louis, And A Passion Researching Okefenokee Swamp Music Feb 16, 2021

After Walter Parks started researching his musical and cultural roots in southeast Georgia, he found a treasure trove of material in the Library of Congress’ American Folklife Center. The library had preserved early field recordings of homesteaders in the Okefenokee Swamp region, where Parks remembers camping and exploring as a kid. In this conversation, the writer, guitarist and vocalist joins host Sarah Fenske to share stories and tunes ahead of his show at the Blue Strawberry.

'We Live Here' Explores Effects Of Environmental Racism In St. Louis Feb 16, 2021

The "We Live Here" team delves into their latest Farm Dreams & Toxic Dust episode, and what the rest of the season on environmental racism has to offer.

Increased Hair Loss Tied To Pandemic Stress, St. Louis Entrepreneur Says Feb 12, 2021

Abra McField, the CEO and founder of St. Louis based Abra Kadabra Hair & Healing, has noticed a surge in clients dealing with hair loss since the COVID-19 pandemic began.

Native Plants To St. Louis Are Front And Center In New, Free Garden Plan Feb 12, 2021

Susan Van de Riet is the owner of St. Louis Native Plants, a landscape consulting and design company that helps locals figure out the ideal way to grow a garden in their yard. She recently designed a native garden plan with the local chapter of Wild Ones Natural Landscapers. It’s time and budget friendly and totally free to download.

Girlhood Around The World, And In St. Louis, Is Focus Of New Diary-Based Book Feb 12, 2021

Journalist Masuma Ahuja discusses her new book, which compiles diary excerpts from 30 teenaged girls in 27 countries. She explains why she sees hope in even the most challenging stories.

Love Songs To Keep You Warm On Cold Winter Nights Feb 11, 2021

In the middle of winter’s coldest month, we make time to celebrate love. Valentine’s Day is Sunday. What better way to get in the mood than to listen to some love songs?

‘Abortion Is Winning’ Says Medical Students For Choice’s Pamela Merritt Feb 11, 2021

As the new executive director of Medical Students for Choice, St. Louisan Pamela Merritt works with medical student groups across the globe to ensure they have access to training in abortion. She discusses those efforts and her perhaps surprising assertion that "abortion is winning."

As Ward Reduction Looms, New St. Louis Coalition Pushes Redistricting Reform Feb 10, 2021

The year 2021 is shaping up to be a pivotal one in St. Louis politics — with both a new mayor being chosen and a new system of approval voting being pioneered. But the big shifts won’t stop with this spring’s elections: The city is also set to reduce its number of wards from 28 to 14, ultimately shrinking the size of the Board of Aldermen by half.

‘Hope Is Rising’: Sauce Magazine Highlights 5 New Restaurants In The Region Feb 10, 2021

Sauce Magazine executive editor Meera Nagarajan highlights five new food-and-drink establishments in the St. Louis area.

Black Squares Has Big Plans To Bring Chess To More Black St. Louisans Feb 10, 2021

Black Squares is a new program looking to expand access to chess for low-income and Black and brown youth in north St. Louis. The founders explain how they're planning to make a St. Louis version of Washington Square Park in the Hyde Park neighborhood.

Ice Cream Demand Fueled 2020 Growth For Metro East's Prairie Farms Dairy Feb 09, 2021

Prairie Farms representative Darin Copeland discusses the initial impact of the pandemic on the company’s production, which Prairie Farms products have proven pandemic popular and how its farmers have been able to keep up a new set of demands.

‘We Need To Get Back To Trials’: St. Louis Mayor Says COVID Pause Triggered Unrest At Downtown Jail Feb 09, 2021

Mayor Lyda Krewson discusses the causes of recent unrest at the City Justice Center, as well as changes to the police 911 dispatch system, the state's vaccine rollout and more.

World Chess Hall of Fame’s New Exhibit Highlights Chess Prodigies Feb 08, 2021

The World Chess Hall of Fame's most recent exhibition, “Masterminds: Chess Prodigies," explores the stories of chess prodigies from past to present.

Cortex-Based PercayAI Is Harnessing Data, Academia To Speed Up Scientific Breakthroughs Feb 08, 2021

Allyson Mayer, a computational biologist for the St. Louis startup, is particularly hopeful about a current project she hopes will help COVID-19 "long-haulers."

Human Pest In Your Life? MoBot Will Name A Cockroach In Their Dishonor Feb 08, 2021

Tad Yankoski, Missouri Botanical Garden’s senior entomologist and "bug dad," returns to the program to dismantle cockroaches' bad reputation and detail some of their positive attributes.

‘It’s The Same Fears’: A Missouri S&T Class Finds Solace In Pandemic Literature Feb 05, 2021

Bubonic plague. Influenza. The Red Death. An infection of zombies. For humanities scholar Marie Lathers, reading fiction about these and other pandemics has proved to be a surprisingly comforting experience over the past year. And now, she's leading a group of Missouri S&T students on a similar journey.

5 Years After Rams Broke Local Hearts, Plenty Of St. Louisans Are Rooting For Chiefs Feb 05, 2021

With Sunday's big game looming, Jeremy Housewright and Kendel Beard join host Sarah Fenske to share their perceptions of Chiefs fandom growth in the St. Louis region and what sets the Kansas City team apart.

Analysis: Parson Doubles Down On Enforcing Unemployment Overpayments Feb 05, 2021

STLPR's Corinne Ruff gives us a closer look at the enormity of what the Missouri Department of Labor is demanding back from residents whom it mistakenly overpaid a collective total of $150 million in unemployment benefits — and how lawmakers are fighting against that demand.

Faced With Obstacles, These 2 St. Louis Chefs Are Finding Success During The Pandemic Feb 04, 2021

Every year, Sauce Magazine profiles rising stars in the St. Louis restaurant industry in its "Ones to Watch" feature. We meet two of them: Juwan Rice and Justin McMillen.

For Lewis Reed, Mayor’s Job Would Allow ‘Implementation’ Of Priorities At Long Last Feb 04, 2021

The longtime president of the St. Louis Board of Aldermen, Lewis Reed, is making his third run for mayor. He discusses his agenda.

This Chemist Is Helping Black Girls In St. Louis Fall In Love With STEM Feb 03, 2021

Chemist Cynthia Chapple is the founder of Black Girls Do STEM, a local organization focused on the empowerment of Black girls in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. She explains how the organization is trying to combat barriers faced by women of color in the STEM fields.

As Mayor, Cara Spencer Would Use ‘Focused Deterrence’ To Fight Crime Feb 03, 2021

Alderwoman Cara Spencer is making her first run for citywide office in the mayoral primary this March. She explains her vision for the city and why being an outsider might actually be a benefit.

As Mayor, Tishaura Jones Would ‘Reenvision’ Public Safety — And Maybe Cut Police Overtime Feb 02, 2021

St. Louis Treasurer Tishaura Jones almost won the 2017 mayor's race -- and is one of four candidates this spring. She explains her thoughts on public safety and what she'd do as mayor.

10 Years Sober, Katie Collier Talks Addiction In The Restaurant Industry Feb 02, 2021

The rates of alcohol and drug abuse are higher within the food service industry than most other professions. And yet, restaurateur Katie Collier is a testament to the fact that you don’t need to leave the service industry to curb an addiction. After struggling with substance abuse for years, Collier is now celebrating a decade of sobriety.

STLPR's Rolla Correspondent Discusses The Potential Impacts Of Better Rural Internet Access Feb 01, 2021

Concerns about the rural-urban divide are a common refrain in 21st-century America. In his latest feature for St. Louis Public Radio, reporter Jonathan Ahl digs into one big idea for a solution to that issue and more: better rural internet access. He talks with host Sarah Fenske about the possibilities.

As Mayor, Andrew Jones Would Have The Police Department’s Back Feb 01, 2021

Mayoral candidate Andrew Jones is the only person in the race who’s never held elected office. He explains why voters should trust him with the city, and how his plan to get tough on crime is different than Mayor Krewson’s.

How A St. Louis Toy Kickstarter Raised $2.4 Million — And Counting Feb 01, 2021

The biggest campaign on Kickstarter right now comes courtesy of a St. Louis dad who lost his job in the pandemic and decided to go all-in on a simple idea with big appeal: magnetic pillow forts. Conor B. Lewis explains his vision for Fort.

Tim Portlock’s ‘Nickels From Heaven’ Isn’t Dystopian — It’s Reality Jan 29, 2021

2020 Great Rivers Biennial Arts Award recipient Tim Portlock delves into his “Nickels from Heaven” exhibit. The St. Louis-based artist uses aesthetic conventions from 19th-century American landscape paintings to illustrate his themes about America’s identity.

Grafton Mayor Sees Hope In STORM Act’s $200M Loan Fund Jan 29, 2021

The STORM Act, signed into law on Jan. 1 by then-President Donald Trump, authorizes FEMA to provide $200 million for a Resilience Revolving Loan fund and allows states to offer low-interest loans to counties and cities for disaster mitigation projects.

Missouri Democrats’ Support For Accused Colleague Draws Rebuke From Staffers Jan 29, 2021

Legislative aides to Missouri Democrats are angry that they voted to censure state Rep. Wiley Price, not expel him. Price is accused of threatening an aide to cover up a sexual interaction with an intern. Jason Hancock of the Missouri Independent explains why staffers are so upset.

‘Lynch’s Slave Pens’ In Shadow Of Busch Stadium Will Get Historical Marker Jan 28, 2021

Democratic lawmakers want to commemorate a sordid chapter in St. Louis history at one of downtown's most visited sites — pens that held enslaved people in what's now the shadow of Busch Stadium. We discuss the new effort and the history behind it.

Free Speech In 2021 Requires Oversight, But From Whom? Jan 28, 2021

The ability to speak freely in 2021 is complicated in ways the framers of the U.S. Constitution never envisioned. In this episode, we discuss how the First Amendment applies in this brave new world and whether unpopular speech — be it a dissenting opinion, a false claim or outright hate speech — deserves protection not just from the government, but tech giants like Twitter, Facebook and Google.

Newly Launched Restaurant ‘Have A Cow’ Is On A Mission In St. Louis’ Gate District Jan 27, 2021

Steve St. Pierre opened Have A Cow Cattle Company and Urban Farm Store, along Lafayette Avenue in the Gate District neighborhood, on Jan. 20. In addition to the restaurant's menu items and other products, the for-profit endeavor incorporates goals of service, loving one’s enemies and breaking down barriers.

Pedestrian Deaths In St. Louis Nearly Doubled In 2020, Fueling New Push For Safer Streets Jan 27, 2021

Jacque Knight, chair of St. Louis' Community Mobility Committee, joins the talk show to share how the group is focusing its efforts and what local residents can do to amplify its work to improve road conditions for all users.

McCloskey Suit Against Villa Duchesne Faces ‘Uphill Battle,’ Legal Roundtable Says Jan 26, 2021

St. Louis on the Air's Legal Roundtable discusses a lawsuit attorney Mark McCloskey filed against a local Catholic school, an age discrimination claim against KMOV, St. Louis County's governance battle and more.

What History Tells Us About The Mobilization Of Hate Groups In The U.S. Jan 25, 2021

Washington University Sociology Professor David Cunningham shares what we can learn about right-wing, white nationalist groups today — and best practices for defeating them — by studying their mobilization during other moments in our nation's history.

Youth Poets Laureate Of St. Louis Share Their Own Timely Pieces On Heels Of Inauguration Jan 25, 2021

Sarah Abbas and Grace Ruo, both 17, discuss Amanda Gorman's inaugural poem. They also share their hopes for bringing written and spoken words to bear on society, and read poems of their own.

Rep. LaKeySha Bosley Is Fighting For Your Right To Natural Hair Jan 22, 2021

Missouri Rep. LaKeySha Bosley discusses political journey and some of her initiatives tackling criminal justice reform, police brutality and the CROWN Act, which aims to address Black hair discrimination

Sylvester Brown On ‘White Castles With Jesus & Uncle Ray At The Used Tire Shop’ Jan 22, 2021

Sylvester Brown’s new book, “White Castles with Jesus and Uncle Ray at the Used Tired Shop,” collects stories and essays the St. Louis native and longtime journalist wrote from 1995 to 2018. That period covers Brown’s years as the founder and publisher of upstart Take Five Magazine, his tenure as a columnist at the St. Louis Post-Dispatch and his many years of maintaining a blog.

‘Gateway To Pride’ Exhibit Seeks More Details About LGBTQ History In St. Louis Jan 21, 2021

The Missouri Historical Society has a major project underway to document and preserve aspects of LGBTQ history in St. Louis. To help prepare for a special exhibition on the LGBTQ community that will open in 2024, the Missouri History Museum is first presenting a virtual exhibit, which launches Thursday, to kickstart the effort.

Metro Theater’s ‘Jacked!’ Is A Modern-Day Interpretation Of A Classic Fairy Tale Jan 21, 2021

Host Sarah Fenske explores Metro Theater's "Jacked!" production, which incorporates storytelling, poetry and hip-hop to spread an age-appropriate message about substance abuse and its effects on the community.

The Pandemic Is Exacerbating Antibiotic Resistance, Says Concerned Wash U Physician Jan 21, 2021

A study published in the peer-reviewed medical journal Clinical Infectious Diseases finds that in addition to up to half of adults being wrongfully prescribed antibiotics in hospital settings, one in four children given antibiotics in children’s hospitals are prescribed the drugs inappropriately.

With Aerial Surveillance Bill On Hold, Alderwoman Pushes For Privacy Protections Jan 19, 2021

Last Friday, the St. Louis Board of Aldermen was prepared to vote on a plan that would have compelled the mayor’s office to contract with Persistent Surveillance Systems, an Ohio company that hopes to use planes equipped with high-resolution cameras to monitor the city in a bid to solve violent crimes. Alderwoman Annie Rice of the 8th Ward discusses what’s next for that proposal, as well as a plan she introduced that would provide some oversight to surveillance used by the city and its police department.

School Bus Drivers Got Unemployment During Shutdown. Now Missouri Wants It Back Jan 19, 2021

As a local union rep, Dan Thacker isn’t accustomed to dealing with unemployment processes. But when the COVID-19 crisis started hitting St. Louis hard 10 months ago, that changed. Thacker, the principal officer with Teamsters Local 610, encouraged the public-sector school bus drivers and monitors the union represents to apply for unemployment when schools shut down. They did so, and were approved. Now those same workers are receiving letters from the state demanding the money back.

Filmmaker Brings ‘Before I Die’ Project Back To St. Louis Jan 19, 2021

Local filmmaker shares more about her latest endeavor to bring the international community art "Before I Die" project back to St. Louis in hopes of reinstilling hope and reminding people of all the good left to accomplish in this lifetime.

East St. Louis Native Wants Black Communities To Have More Access To Financial Services Jan 15, 2021

In this episode of "St. Louis on the Air," we talk with East St. Louis native Alex Fennoy who was recently recognized with the 2020 George Bailey Distinguished Service Award from the American Bankers Association for his work bringing banking services to underserved communities.

Some Vaccine Recipients Anticipate A ‘Whole New World’ After Immunization Jan 15, 2021

Community members share how their lives are beginning to change and what they’re looking forward to the most, now that they’ve received the vaccine. St. Louis Public Radio health reporter Sarah Fentem also fields questions about the vaccine rollout.

Pastors North, South Of Delmar Plan Peace March At ‘Pivotal Time’ In America Jan 14, 2021

Rev. Derrick Perkins and Pastor Eric Stiller share the plans their St. Louis congregations and communities have for this weekend while reflecting on how Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy speaks to this current moment in American history.

St. Louis Public Schools Will Close 8 Schools, Sparing 3 Jan 14, 2021

Education reporter Ryan Delaney joins to discuss the move by St. Louis Public Schools to reduce the number of schools in the district — closing at least eight schools and giving three others a reprieve — in an effort to put more funding toward support services and academics, rather than facilities costs.

With New Big Band Song, Missouri Man Honors His Grandmother’s Dream Jan 14, 2021

Leona Augustine wrote “I’m Dreaming of No One But You" in 1942 while missing her beau, who'd enlisted in the Army. It was published as sheet music. But it's only now being released as a single, all thanks to her grandson. He explains how the song became his pandemic project.

Challenges — And Hope — Loom Large For Doorways’ Cooper House Amid COVID-19 Crisis Jan 13, 2021

Ever since it opened in 1997, Cooper House has prided itself on offering a vibrant quality of life to people who are unable to live independently as a result of HIV/AIDS. The residential facility, located in St. Louis’ Central West End neighborhood, typically serves 36 individuals. But in 2020, that community dwindled to 27 people. We talk with Pat Plumley, chief program officer for Doorways, the nonprofit that oversees Cooper House, and medical director Dr. Jim Hinrichs, an infectious disease specialist.

How 2 St. Louisans Are Bringing New Life To Crossword Puzzles Jan 13, 2021

Matthew Stock and Sid Sivakumar started out talking crossword puzzles and soon became fast friends. Now a puzzle they co-wrote has been published in the New York Times. They discuss the joy of puzzle making with host Sarah Fenske.

Uncovering The Meaning Of Indigenous Drawings In Missouri Rock Art Jan 12, 2021

Carol Diaz-Granados and Jim Duncan have researched rock art — referred to as petroglyphs and pictographs — for more than 30 years in Missouri. They discuss how the petroglyphs and pictographs in Missouri came to be and what they tell us about the state's indigenous history.

Illinois Lawmakers Face House Speaker Debate And Out-Of-Balance Budget As Session Convenes Jan 12, 2021

NPR Illinois statehouse reporter Hannah Meisel gives a preview of this year's Illinois legislative session, where lawmakers are expected to address the state budget (which is $4 billion out of balance) and several proposals designed to narrow racial economic inequities.

For The Lincoln Project, Sen. Josh Hawley Is Now 'Front And Center' Jan 12, 2021

Republicans (and former Republicans) formed the Lincoln Project to defeat Donald Trump. Now Sen. Josh Hawley is in their sights. Co-founder Reed Galen explains how they plan to get inside his head -- and what it will take to end their campaign against him.

Post-Trump World Could Mean Big Changes For Local Immigrants, Including Alex Garcia Jan 11, 2021

Along with Alex and Carly Garcia, UMSL political scientist Adriano Udani and St. Louis-based attorney Javad Khazaeli, both sons of immigrants, discuss the changes they anticipate President Joe Biden's administration making when it comes to U.S. immigration policy and regulation — and what it all could mean for immigrants in the region.

First Female TV News Photographer In St. Louis Market Reflects On 41 Years At KSDK Jan 11, 2021

Terri Krueger worked at KSDK for 41 years, and went from the lone female photographer in the TV market to one of many. She discusses her career and what changed in her four decades of journalism.

The Knuckles’ Album ‘Good Timing’ Aims To Combat ‘Spiritual Lows’ Jan 08, 2021

Singer Aloha Misho and rapper Rockwell Knuckles discuss their latest music projects as The Knuckles band. They describe their debut album’s vibe as joyous, aimed at combating the “spiritual lows” brought on in 2020. In addition to the “Good Timing” album, each artist has their own individual music projects planned for the year.

‘The Joy and Transformative Power of Lifelong Learning’ With Tom Vanderbilt Jan 08, 2021

Author Tom Vanderbilt talks with host Sarah Fenske about his new book "Beginners: The Joy and Transformative Power of Lifelong Learning" which highlights his year-long experience tackling five new skills: chess, singing, surfing, drawing, and juggling.

Missouri Lawmakers Convene In Jefferson City For The 2021 Session Jan 08, 2021

St. Louis Public Radio reporter Jaclyn Driscoll joins Sarah Fenske to discuss the major issues likely to be debated this session at the Missouri Statehouse, including COVID-19 liability protection for businesses, Medicaid expansion and the state budget.

Aldermanic Committee Backs Aerial Surveillance To Fight Crime In St. Louis Jan 07, 2021

On Tuesday, the public safety committee of the St. Louis Board of Aldermen voted to endorse a controversial aerial surveillance program in hopes of solving violent crime. In this episode, we discuss the proposal with Missouri Independent reporter, Rebecca Rivas.

Hawley 'Knows He's Lying' And That Makes Him Dangerous, McCaskill Says Jan 07, 2021

Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley was the first senator to announce his challenge to Congress’ certification of Joe Biden’s electoral college victory. Does he bear responsibility for the violent scene yesterday at the Capitol? Host Sarah Fenske explores that question with former Senator Claire McCaskill.

Made In St. Louis, The ‘GenerIter’ Could Open Music Composition To The Masses Jan 07, 2021

Thomas Park’s invention, the GenerIter, uses Python code to transform a series of sounds into a piece of music. Would-be composers can plug in short clips of their choosing and let the code do the rest. With it, he’s generated thousands of unique pieces in just a few minutes, and he hopes other musicians and music enthusiasts will join him in doing the same.

Analysis: St. Louis' March 2 Primary Looms Large, And Looks Different, In The Wake Of Prop D Jan 06, 2021

The mayor's race in the city of St. Louis is coming up fast, and with the recent passage of Proposition D plus Mayor Lyda Krewson's decision not to run for reelection, there are some big changes compared to the mayoral race four years ago. St. Louis Public Radio's Rachel Lippmann brings us up to speed.

Fast Democracy Lets You Track Government In Action In 50 States Jan 06, 2021

Husband-and-wife co-founders Sara Baker and Anatolij Gelimson discuss their St. Louis-based startup Fast Democracy, which lets activists and professionals alike keep an eye on legislatures in all 50 states.

MoBot Discovered About 200 New Plants In 2020 Jan 06, 2021

Missouri Botanical Garden President Peter Wyse Jackson and Senior Vice President of Science Jim Miller share examples of the center's new plant discoveries worldwide and talk about the overarching view and particularities of this work.

St. Louisans Enter The New Year With Modest Stimulus, Big Needs And Eagerness To Help Jan 05, 2021

The year 2020 changed our world in a multitude of ways — and fueled escalating levels of need in our communities. That the United Way of Greater St. Louis experienced its highest number of 211 calls ever is just one indicator of how many people are struggling.

St. Louis Stars, Kansas City Monarchs Now Part Of Official MLB Record Jan 05, 2021

Major League Baseball announced in December that it would recognize Negro League players as Major Leaguers in the official records. Local baseball historian Ed Wheatley says the move reflects an important declaration from MLB that “Black players matter.”

Analysis: Sen. Josh Hawley's Objection To President-elect Joe Biden’s Electoral College Win Jan 05, 2021

Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley has been making headlines — but even some people who supported his ambitions are wildly unhappy with his recent actions. UMSL political science professor Anita Manion delves into why Missouri’s junior senator is objecting to the certification of a Biden victory. What does he hope to accomplish? Does he have any chance of succeeding?

Meet St. Louis Zoo’s Newest Primate — Raven The 2-Month-Old Chimpanzee Jan 04, 2021

In October, St. Louis Zoo chimpanzee Utamu gave birth to a baby girl. Two months later, the infant — named Raven — is starting to reach exciting milestones, like reaching for objects and trying to mimic chimpanzee vocalizations.

How 'The Fighting Bunch' Took On Corrupt Local Government, And Won Jan 04, 2021

In August 1946, a group of World War II veterans took up arms against their own government — and mounted the only successful armed rebellion on U.S. soil since the American Revolution. Author Chris DeRose shares their story.

Remembering Lives We Lost In 2020 Dec 31, 2020

The year 2020 has been a bad year for so many people. On this last episode of the year we remember some of the lives we've lost -- from COVID-19 to gun violence, and more.

Circuit Attorney’s Removal From McCloskey Prosecution ‘Highly Unusual,’ Experts Say Dec 23, 2020

St. Louis on the Air's legal roundtable discusses a judge's removal of Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner from the prosecution of attorney Mark McCloskey, lawsuits against Missouri's medical marijuana regulations, and more.

Mercy Hospital Chaplain Reflects On Loss And Love In 2020 Dec 22, 2020

Rev. Allison Wible, a hospital chaplain for Mercy Hospital St. Louis, reflects on the quiet, unseen moments she’s been witness to over the past year as she works with COVID-19 patients and their families.

How To Learn More About Your Family’s History This Holiday Season Dec 22, 2020

For 15 years, the Grannie Annie Family Story Celebration has encouraged young people to discover, write and share stories about their family history. The St. Louis based non profit’s co-founder, Connie McIntyre, would like people of all ages to seek out their family history this holiday season, whether they do so in person or on a video call.

‘The Glowy Snowy Day’ Offers Pandemic-Safe Drive-Through Puppetry Dec 22, 2020

A joint production of the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis and Kansas City-based StoneLion Puppet Theatre, “The Glowy Snowy Day” adapts Ezra Jack Keats' beloved children's book with giant illuminated puppets and a podcast soundtrack. The Rep's Adena Varner explains its inspiration.

‘A New Holiday,’ Premiering This Week, Features An All-Black Cast And Gorgeous St. Louis Scenes Dec 21, 2020

If enjoying thoughtful, heartwarming films is on your holiday to-do list, there’s a brand-new St. Louis-made musical well worth your time. “A New Holiday” tells the story of 10-year-old Thelma as she grapples with the loss of her grandmother and looks toward a different kind of Christmas — themes that resonate especially in 2020. Soul singer Brian Owens directed the 33-minute film, which features an all-Black and almost entirely St. Louis-based cast.

UMSL Nursing Student's Research Looks At Immobility After Hospital Stays — And Solutions Dec 21, 2020

In her four-plus decades working as a nurse, Lila Moersch has seen a lot — including the loss of mobility many older patients experience following hospitalization. Time and again, she’s observed adults who were active and independent prior to a hospital stay struggle to walk and take care of themselves afterward. The common problem is the focus of a dissertation Moersch recently completed as part of her program of study at the University of Missouri-St. Louis' College of Nursing.

A St. Louis CEO Wants To Make Social Media Friendlier And Less Toxic Dec 21, 2020

Mich Hancock, CEO of the social media marketing firm 100th Monkey, has developed five steps to making the Internet a better place. She explains the mistake too many people are making, and why we have more control over our online experience than we realize.

‘How Are You Today?’ Book Helps Kids Talk Through Their Emotions Dec 18, 2020

Linda Mitchell talks about her new book that explores how to help children deal with their feelings, with photos captured by her husband Odell Mitchell Jr., a retired St. Louis Post-Dispatch photographer. “How Are You Today? A Celebration of Children’s Emotions" is a photography book geared toward a pre-kindergarten through elementary school audience.

63106 Project Explores How A St. Louis ZIP Code Is Weathering The Pandemic Dec 18, 2020

The "63106 Project" chronicles life in the city's most vulnerable ZIP code during the pandemic. Founder Richard Weiss of Before Ferguson Beyond Ferguson discusses the nonprofit journalism project, along with writer Leyla Fern King and story subject Misha Marshall.

Superintendent Needs ‘Something Concrete’ To Stop St. Louis Public Schools’ Closure Plans Dec 18, 2020

Activists and alumni have pushed back on the St. Louis Public Schools' plan to close 10 schools, claiming they were rushed and came with too little public notice. The district's superintendent has paused the plan for a month, but says on air that critics will have to step up to reverse course.

Meet The 2 St. Louis Theater Impresarios Who Helped Bring Netflix’s ‘The Prom’ To Life Dec 17, 2020

Have you watched The Prom on Netflix yet? If not, you should get cracking — it’s fizzy and funny and almost certain to make you smile. The two St. Louis theater impresarios share how they helped bring it to life on Broadway first.

‘Dancers & Dogs’ Photography Captures Hearts With ‘Muttcracker’ Campaign Dec 17, 2020

St. Louis photographers Kelly Pratt and Ian Kreidich talk about their Dancers & Dogs photography project that showcases Saint Louis Ballet dancers with their pet dogs. Their ongoing "Muttcracker" initiative is a partnership with Stray Rescue to promote pet adoption this holiday season.

Go! International Prepares East St. Louis Youth For Big Things Dec 17, 2020

Over the past decade and a half, Seth Hamilton’s love for foreign languages and martial arts has taken him to destinations around the world: Nicaragua, Guatemala, France and north Africa. Now he’s sharing his love of travel with kids in East St. Louis. His nonprofit Go! International offers free language classes to East St. Louis youth, as well as martial arts training and entrepreneurship programs.

Vaccine Distribution In St. Louis Raises Many Questions, Challenges Dec 16, 2020

We explore the ins and outs of local coronavirus vaccine distribution — and why some healthcare workers are getting left behind in the first round. We also discuss the public health messaging necessary to get everyone on board.

How Missouri’s Garbled Coronavirus Data Misled The Public Until It Was Too Late Dec 15, 2020

The way Missouri tracked hospital bed capacity was misleading at best and dangerously inaccurate at worst. KCUR health reporter Alex Smith talks about his recent investigation into this issue.

How Missouri Became ‘Bear Country’ Again After Near-Depletion Dec 15, 2020

Missouri Department of Conservation furbearer biologist Laura Conlee will join us to talk about the expanding black bear population in Missouri, new hunting guidelines and the Be Bear Aware Campaign.

Missouri Woman's Vaccine Trial Experience Provides Valuable Lessons Dec 15, 2020

Arnold resident Carrie Rayfield Cabral participated in Pfizer's vaccine trial this fall. In this interview, she shares why she's convinced the trial spared her from serious illness, and what she hopes others take from her experience.

As Clementine’s Grows, Marc Maron Is Raving About Its Pint-Sized Delights Dec 14, 2020

Tamara Keefe joins us to share how her local creamery is managing to keep delighting ice cream fans near and far this holiday season — and why she wants the general public to be more cognizant of what people in the food industry are going through right now.

Best Books of 2020, Chosen By St. Louis Librarians Dec 14, 2020

Librarians Jennifer Alexander of St. Louis County Library and Jen Ohzourk of St. Louis Public Library share their favorite new books of the past year.

Piano-Grams Bring St. Louisans Much-Needed Cheer Amid A Dreary Year Dec 11, 2020

Last Saturday, along south St. Louis’ lively Cherokee Street, it was almost possible to forget about the coronavirus pandemic for a bit. The sun was shining. The businesses along Antique Row were looking festive. Shop owners carefully handed out cookies to passersby. And right near Whisk bakery sat a white van with a bright yellow piano inside it, along with a pianist: Alexandra Sinclair.

Lisa Montgomery Endured Years Of Abuse. Now Her Lawyers Fight To Stop Her Execution Dec 11, 2020

Lisa Montgomery is scheduled to die on Jan. 12. She faces the death penalty for one of the most heinous murders in recent Missouri history. Her lawyer explains her tragic life story and makes the case for sparing her life.

Missouri’s Only Nonprofit Environmental Law Firm Has St. Louisans Taking Global Issues Local Dec 10, 2020

Earlier this year, after being approached by the Great Rivers Environmental Law Center, Karisa Gilman-Hernandez and her colleagues at Dutchtown South Community Corporation added excessive air pollution to the list of things they're no longer willing to see the community they serve just put up with. She offers her perspective to "St. Louis on the Air," and host Sarah Fenske talks with Great Rivers staff attorneys Bob Menees and Sarah Rubenstein about why the pollution burden in the Dutchtown area caught their eye and how their legal efforts there fit in with other issues in their portfolio.

Missouri Veterans Commission Chairman Reflects On COVID-Related Failures, Next Steps Dec 10, 2020

In his work leading the Missouri Veterans Commission, Tim Noonan serves in a volunteer capacity. But in the year 2020, the job has proved to be a particularly intense one — and in recent weeks it’s been filled with tragedy. The seven long-term care facilities the commission oversees suffered "a prolonged and rapidly escalating outbreak of COVID-19" beginning in September, according to a recent summary of an independent investigation.

For Arts Writer Jessica Baran, Criticism Is Key To Growth Dec 09, 2020

Jessica Baran has been awarded an Andy Warhol arts writers grant to subsidize her ongoing “critical engagement with art, artists and exhibitions” in the Midwest. She explains what drives her criticism and how the St. Louis arts scene has changed.

ACLU Victory Clears The Way For More Missouri Referendums Dec 09, 2020

A judge's decision could mean big changes for Missouri residents' abilities to referendum the decisions of the state legislature. ACLU Legal Director Tony Rothert explains why.

NPR’s Carrie Johnson Reflects On DOJ Changes Under The Trump Administration Dec 09, 2020

In the 20 years that NPR justice correspondent Carrie Johnson has covered the U.S. Department of Justice, she’s learned to expect changes with each administration. “But there have been seismic shifts in this DOJ under President Trump,” she says.

Missouri’s Medical Marijuana Program Sees 67K Eager Customers Wanting More Dec 08, 2020

Missouri’s fledgling medical marijuana program has approved nearly 70,000 patient and caregiver applications — so many, there is not yet enough legal cannabis in the state to serve them all. But people working in the industry say patience is necessary. The seeds of the solution to both problems are already in the ground.

This Year’s Hanukkah Hullabaloo Will Be A Star-Studded (Virtual) Party Dec 08, 2020

St. Louis-based roots-rock band Brothers Lazaroff's 9th annual Hanukkah concert is going virtual, with guests including Tweedy, Ray Benson and Kinky Friedman himself. The brothers behind the band explain the event's unlikely origin story and how they're making it happen this year.

Bi-State CEO, St. Louis Sheriff Say Metro Is Making Strides On Security Dec 07, 2020

Just before the onslaught of the COVID-19 crisis, Taulby Roach told us that Metro Transit had identified security concerns as a key problem within the regional public transportation system — and was deploying a comprehensive strategy to improve community trust. Now, nine months later, the Bi-State Development CEO and local law enforcement leaders say real progress has been made. St. Louis Sheriff Vernon Betts and Roach talk with host Sarah Fenske and with callers.

How Michael Shreves, AKA Michelle McCausland, Changed St. Louis LGBTQ History Dec 07, 2020

Michael Shreves was a trailblazer for St. Louis’ LGBTQ community. Performing in drag as Michelle McCausland, he won a sexy legs contest aimed solely at women. He also led the charge to overturn St. Louis’ archaic laws banning drag performances — by fighting his own misdemeanor arrest. We’ll remember this remarkable man. He died last month of COVID-19.

Mizzou Ph.D Student Examines COVID-19’s Impact On St. Louis’ Bus System Dec 04, 2020

We meet University of Missouri-Columbia engineering student Maged Shoman, who dug deep into St. Louis-area bus data. He explains what he learned about bus routes in the pandemic.

‘A Walking Xmas Carol’ Brings A Hip-Hop Dickens To Life In the Central West End Dec 04, 2020

St. Louis Shakespeare Festival’s new production proves that all the world really is a stage — with actors and dancers bringing a hip-hop version of "A Christmas Carol" to Central West End storefronts. Host Sarah Fenske discusses this unique collaboration and explores some excerpts from the witty musical soundtrack for this reimagined holiday tale.

St. Louis Teenagers Are Learning To Sew — Because Children Need PPE Too Dec 04, 2020

Eighteen-year-old Shelei Pan discusses how she started an effort to teach other teenagers sewing skills to make free masks for area children. Project Masked has donated more than 2,000 masks to local nonprofits so far, and more than 150 volunteers have lent a helping hand.

30 Years Later: Remembering Iben Browning’s False New Madrid Earthquake Prediction Dec 03, 2020

Thirty years ago, the late Iben Browning, a self-proclaimed climatologist, predicted that the St. Louis area was in for a major earthquake along the New Madrid Seismic Zone. He forecast that it would happen right around Dec. 3, 1990, sparking a media frenzy in the small town of New Madrid, Missouri, and causing many to stock up on emergency supplies.

Restaurants — Struggling Themselves — Remain Creative Partners In Feeding St. Louis Dec 03, 2020

It might seem that restaurant owners Joe Jovanovich and Mohammed Qadadeh have enough on their plates just keeping their eateries open. They run the Pat Connolly Tavern and American Falafel, respectively, and are busy finding innovative ways to operate and pay their employees during the challenging year that is 2020. Yet they’ve also stepped up to address food insecurity among their neighbors in the midst of all that — as have many of their peers in St. Louis’ vibrant, and hard hit, restaurant industry.

SSM Health Officer: “Yesterday We Were at 96% Capacity For Our Intensive Care Units” Dec 02, 2020

Commander of the St. Louis Metropolitan Pandemic Task Force, Dr. Alex Garza, provides clarity on some of the public health assertions made by Missouri Sen. Andrew Koenig on Tuesday when he introduced a proposal to limit the actions of local municipalities as it relates to the pandemic.

‘Just Top Notch’: Remembering Sarah Bryan Miller, Critic And Lover Of St. Louis’ Classical Music Scene Dec 02, 2020

Over the weekend, the St. Louis region lost a beloved champion of its cultural institutions. Sarah Bryan Miller, 68, was the longtime classical music critic for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. She died early Saturday morning after a long struggle with cancer, one that lasted about a decade. In this tribute segment, we talk with several of her friends and also share music performed by and for her.

How A Conservation Project Has Saved Missouri's Hellbenders For Another Generation Dec 02, 2020

Almost 20 years ago, the St. Louis Zoo and Missouri Department of Conversation set out to shore up critically endangered hellbender populations in Missouri. They explain how they worked to bring these aquatic salamanders back from the bring.

CEO Of Brand-New Greater St. Louis Inc. Has Big Plans For The Region Dec 01, 2020

In January, the St. Louis Regional Chamber, AllianceSTL, Civic Progress, Downtown STL, Inc. and Arch to Park will officially become Greater St. Louis Inc. The new organization's new CEO, Jason Hall, explains how organizers pulled off a rare merger in this fractured town — and the changes he hopes will accompany it.

After Page’s COVID-19 Restrictions, Missouri Lawmakers Take Aim At Local Mandates Dec 01, 2020

Missouri state Sen. Andrew Koenig of West St. Louis County discusses legislation he's introducing to curtail local governments' ability to enact COVID-19 restrictions. This comes amid some GOP outcry over St. Louis County Executive Sam Page's indoor dining curbs.

Kahlil Robert Irving’s ‘At Dusk’ Exhibit Ruminates On Physical, Digital Time Dec 01, 2020

A 2020 Great Rivers Biennial Arts Award recipient, Kahlil Robert Irving joins host Sarah Fenske to delve further into his exhibit theme at the Contemporary Art Museum in St. Louis and his career growth as an artist.

Park Use Soars In St. Louis As Pandemic Drags On Nov 30, 2020

Neighborhood parks and other green spaces and trails continue to be among the liveliest places in the region as the COVID-19 crisis continues. Great Rivers Greenway's Emma Klues and Tower Grove Park's Bill Reininger offer their insights on the increased interest in the outdoors, even as we head into winter, and we hear from listeners as well.

Exploring ‘Iconic Restaurants Of St. Louis’ With Ann Lemons Pollack Nov 30, 2020

Ann Lemons Pollack's new book, “Iconic Restaurants of St. Louis,” tells the story of 41 places that stood the test of time, from long-shuttered standbys to places still going strong after more than a century. The author discusses what she learned, and her own personal journey to becoming an adventurous eater.

Novelist Eric Von Schrader’s Debut Depicts A Parallel St. Louis Nov 27, 2020

St. Louis native Eric von Schrader has penned his first novel. It imagines a St. Louis full of gleaming buildings, international tourists and glowing bricks — yet the city remains grounded in real life with characters living and working in real St. Louis places. This conversation initially aired in September.

Vintage Vinyl's Tom 'Papa' Ray Shares His Love Of Music And St. Louis Nov 27, 2020

Vintage Vinyl, the record shop on Delmar, is a St. Louis institution. Owner Tom "Papa" Ray was recently featured in this Nine Network documentary about the shop and in this encore episode he shares his love of music and of St. Louis.

UMSL Supply Chain Expert Reflects On Industry Possibilities, Lessons Of 2020 Nov 25, 2020

The supply chain is an aspect of life many people take entirely for granted — except when local stores run out of, say, toilet paper, hand sanitizer and food staples. George Zsidisin, who directs the Supply Chain Risk and Resilience Institute at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, joins "St. Louis on the Air" for a closer look at this complex system.

‘Enough’ Showcases Poetry And Protest Art Nov 25, 2020

"Enough: Say Their Names..." is a 226-page, full-color compilation of images and words by several photographers, eight authors and a designer, all of whom donated their talents and time to the cause. Project ringleader Ronald Montgomery discusses the effort, and several contributors read poems that appear in the new volume.

Consultant Makes The Case For Market-Based Health Care Nov 24, 2020

It didn’t take a pandemic to prove that the U.S. health care system is broken, but this year’s COVID-19 outbreak certainly provided more evidence of what we all knew. To fix it, we need to “change the entire game,” says Rita Numerof, president and co-founder of the health care consulting firm, Numerof & Associates.

Majority Of St. Louis County Residents Still Susceptible To COVID-19 Nov 24, 2020

Only a small fraction of St. Louis County residents have antibodies to the coronavirus, according to a recent survey launched by the Institute of Public Health at Washington University. This means that the vast majority of people in the region are still susceptible to COVID-19, says Dr. Elvin Geng, an infectious disease professor at the Washington University School of Medicine.

Concerts Canceled, Beth Bombara Has Found Community By Livestreaming Nov 24, 2020

Singer-songwriter Beth Bombara was gearing up to tour the U.K. Enter the coronavirus and those plans had to be canceled. Eight months later, Bombara was prepping for a show at the Pageant. Rising coronavirus case counts killed that too. The talented St. Louis musician explains how she’s still staying connected with fans even after months of canceled gigs and shuttered venues.

Missouri Woman’s $100K Jury Verdict Shows How Sex Discrimination Takes Many Forms Nov 23, 2020

St. Louis on the Air’s monthly Legal Roundtable dug into the case of a Greene County woman who says she was fired for being ugly, the lawsuit Tofurky Co. filed against Missouri, and lawsuits seeking to reopen indoor dining in St. Louis County.

How Drones Are Taking Nadia Shakoor's Farm Tech Invention To the Next Level Nov 20, 2020

In 2017, plant scientist, Nadia Shakoor developed the PheNode device, a solar-powered environmental sensor and phenotyping station for crops. Sensors and cameras on the tool take real-time measurements of everything from humidity to soil pH. And this past summer, she won a $1.4 million federal grant to enhance the platform by adding an autonomous drone. It’s called FieldDock. And it just might be a game-changer.

Westminster Christian’s ‘Another Day Of Masks’ Is The Pandemic Parody We Needed Nov 20, 2020

A Christian school's "LaLa Land" parody shows students juggling Zoom calls, Plexiglass barriers and social distancing restrictions — and, yes, getting an education — while wearing masks. The video's producer and star explained how they made it happen.

Hounds Shakes Things Up For ‘Cattle In The Sky’ Album Nov 20, 2020

The St. Louis-based band dropped a new single Nov. 13 — the same day the group announced its forthcoming sophomore record, titled “Cattle In The Sky.” Frontman Jordan Slone and bassist/vocalist Jack McCoy join "St. Louis on the Air" to talk about their musical evolution and share some tunes.

Krewson Will Not Seek Second Term As Mayor, Announces Retirement From Public Office Nov 20, 2020

St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson has announced she will not seek reelection and plans to retire in April. Krewson has been mayor for four years. In a press conference Wednesday afternoon, Krewson said that after 23 years as an elected official, she had decided to step away.

Alleging Retaliation, Some St. Louis County Library Staffers Push For Culture Change Nov 19, 2020

As a part-time clerk for St. Louis County Library, Maura Lydon felt like she was beginning to fulfill her calling over the past couple years. She had decided on a career in libraries and was eager to experience her next steps. Then, in August, the library system laid her off, along with 121 other part-time employees. The library administration cited reduced services and efforts to be “good stewards” of taxpayer funds as the basis for the staff cuts. But that reasoning doesn’t hold up in the opinions of some current and former employees.

Vaccine Delivery And Distribution Present New Challenges Nov 19, 2020

In recent weeks, both Pfizer and Moderna Inc. announced that their COVID-19 vaccines are 95% effective. But does it mean everyone will have a vaccine by New Year’s Eve? Not quite, says Michael Kinch, associate vice chancellor at Washington University in St. Louis.

In Unexpected Exhibit, German Art Is On Display At The St. Louis Art Museum Nov 18, 2020

“Storm of Progress: German Art after 1800” is on display at the St. Louis Art Museum. Curators put together the exhibit in short order after the pandemic derailed the museum's already planned upon exhibit schedule.

How To Cancel Your Holiday Plans, With Love Nov 18, 2020

With coronavirus cases increasing at an alarming rate across the U.S., public health officials advise families to cancel any plans for a big Thanksgiving dinner this year. But what do you do when your family is not on the same page?

Getting Creative About Connecting With Older Loved Ones, Nursing Homes Residents Nov 17, 2020

Mid-November is arguably a bit early to start putting up holiday decorations. But it’s not at all too soon to make thoughtful plans to safely connect with relatives, particularly those who are more isolated this year, and spread some joy. “Start having those conversations now,” Marjorie Moore, executive director of the nonprofit organization VOYCE, tells St. Louis on the Air. She and Vanessa Woods of Vitality Ballet talk through some ideas with host Sarah Fenske.

In ‘The Hill,’ A Third-Generation Author Explores St. Louis’ Italian Bastion Nov 17, 2020

LynnMarie Alexander, the director/archivist of the Hill Neighborhood Center, has a new coffee table book about St. Louis' beloved Italian-American neighborhood. She explains the neighborhood's history and shares some highlights.

In The 1980s, St. Louis Police Partnered With Social Workers — Only To Abandon The Effort Nov 16, 2020

Amy Hilgemann remembers the job she had in the early 1980s as among the most fulfilling work she ever did. At the time, she directed Crisis Intervention Services, a collaboration with the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department. Officers were empowered to hand off certain situations to a dedicated group of six social workers, including Hilgemann, whom they could call on seven days a week. The program got some rave reviews. But when the initial funding stream ran out, it ended.

STLPR's Sarah Fentem Looks At How Area Leaders Are Responding To Spiking Coronavirus Cases Nov 16, 2020

Coronavirus diagnoses are soaring across the Midwest, and the St. Louis metro area has seen an average of 2,206 new COVID-19 cases per day over the last week. That's up 43% over the week prior. So far, to date, 2,036 people in the region have died. But leaders can’t get on the same page in their mitigation methods. And that could be dangerous, as St. Louis Public Radio reporter Sarah Fentem explains.

‘Songs For St. Louis’ Brings Opera Magic To Public TV Nov 16, 2020

Filmed in Grand Center in October, “Songs for St. Louis: A Concert in the Commons” features three young operatic stars singing some of the most beloved songs of Broadway and opera. Patricia Racette of Opera Theatre of St. Louis explains the concert's origins.

Sentenced To Life As Juveniles, St. Louis Men See Freedom After Decades In Prison Nov 13, 2020

A class-action lawsuit changing how Missouri handles parole hearings has meant new hope for 98 Missouri men sentenced to life without parole for crimes they committed as juveniles. Host Sarah Fenske talked to several men who have been released after decades behind bars.

Analysis: Why Missouri’s Eric Schmitt Jumped Into A Pennsylvania Election Battle Nov 12, 2020

As legal challenges by the Trump campaign mount in the wake of President-elect Joe Biden’s victory, Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt is deploying his office in an attempt to stop some votes from counting in Pennsylvania. Host Sarah Fenske talks with Washington University's Ronald Levin about whether precedent is on Schmitt's side, and what might happen next.

St. Louisan, Flipstik Inventor Makes Deal On Hit TV Show ‘Shark Tank’ Nov 12, 2020

St. Louis entrepreneur Akeem Shannon, 28, invented Flipstik — a device that allows users to stick their smartphone on any flat surface or use it as a kickstand. He pitched it on ABC's "Shark Tank" and secured a deal with investor Lori Greiner.

St. Louis Native’s Documentary ‘Lights Of Baltimore’ Tells The Story Of Freddie Gray’s Community Nov 12, 2020

Beau Willimon joins St. Louis on the Air to talk about how his documentary "Lights of Baltimore" sheds lights on the development of policing in Baltimore, early redlining practices and the disinvestment in Black communities around the U.S. He also talks about the free screenwriting class he's offering as part of the St. Louis International Film Festival.

Wash U Professor Explains Why Political Polls Were Wrong — Again Nov 11, 2020

In the month leading up to Election Day, most public opinion polls showed former Vice President Joe Biden leading by a sizable margin, yet his margin was much closer than many pollsters predicted. As Vittert writes in a recent editorial, “How were all the pollsters so wrong, again, even after the soul searching and methodological recalibrating that followed 2016?”

St. Louis Was Once A Hub For Candymaking Nov 11, 2020

In the 20th century, St. Louis was a hub for candy manufacturing. As 94-year-old candy magnate Menlo Smith puts it, “St. Louis was the best place in the country to manufacture confectionery if you were going to be distributing it nationwide.” Smith is the man behind favorites such as Pixy Stix, SweeTarts and Nerds.

Food Insecurity Is Up — And St. Louis’ Food Banks, Pantries And Farms Are Responding Nov 10, 2020

At Blessed Teresa of Calcutta Parish food pantry in Ferguson, volunteers have seen a 25% client increase in recent months, with Blessed Teresa serving about 1,300 people in October alone. That’s in keeping with what food banks and other partners are observing throughout the area, according to Operation Food Search’s director of strategic services, Lucinda Perry. She’s seen about a 40% increase in food insecurity amid COVID-19 upheaval. The St. Louis community is stepping up to help, including local farms such as EarthDance.

Here’s How A Puppet Show Is Dispelling Misperceptions About Refugees Nov 10, 2020

The Refugee Integration Project spent 12 months documenting critical shifts and moments for refugees who resettled in St. Louis. The stories emerging from that research will be presented this week in a new puppet show called “We Came As Refugees: An American Story.” A collaboration with the University of Missouri-St. Louis, the St. Louis Storytelling Project and the University of Missouri Extension, it's all in an effort to help increase awareness about refugees and challenges they face in the United States.

8 New St. Louis Restaurants To Try This November Nov 10, 2020

New restaurants and bars continue to open in the St. Louis region — often with extensive safety protocols. And they’re offering new items for local food lovers and ways for patrons to get their favorite dishes. Sauce Magazine features eight new restaurants in its November Hit List, and executive editor Meera Nagarajan joined "St. Louis on the Air" to talk about them.

St. Louis Health Care Workers Feel Strain As Coronavirus Cases Spike Nov 09, 2020

Members of the St. Louis Metropolitan Pandemic Task Force said that as hospitals in the St. Louis region near their capacity to treat coronavirus patients, doctors, nurses and other hospital staff are overworked and afraid.

‘Oldest St. Louis’ Spotlights The Area’s Long-Surviving Places And Things Nov 09, 2020

Author Nini Harris' new book “Oldest St. Louis” explores the history of everything from the oldest house in the region (which dates to 1790s Florissant) to the region’s oldest prayer vigil (ongoing since 1928). She explains how she got to the bottom of things and why her findings give her hope.

‘Test Pattern’ Film Examines How Medical System Deals With Sexual Assault Nov 06, 2020

Among the offerings of this year’s St. Louis International Film Festival is “Test Pattern.” It is the first feature film by St. Louis native Shatara Michelle Ford and, which follows a young Black woman as she navigates the medical and justice system after an assault.

Missouri GOP Leader Details How Republicans Trounced Democrats Nov 06, 2020

Missouri Republicans performed exceptionally well on Tuesday. Jean Evans, the Missouri GOP’s executive director, joins the show to discuss the winning strategy that she said boiled down to three things: great candidates, a strong ground game and the Democratic Party’s failure to resonate with Missouri voters.

The Story Of Folk Hero John Henry — Beyond The Ballad Nov 06, 2020

St. Louis filmmaker Matthew Rice's "The Ballad of John Henry" is streaming as part of this year's extended St. Louis International Film Festival. The documentary delves into the folk hero John Henry's hardships of living under Virginia’s “Black codes” and the convict-lease program, an unjust legal system developed after the Civil War as a replacement for slavery.

As Missouri And Illinois Lead The U.S. In Sheltered Workshops, Advocates Push For Change Nov 05, 2020

In September, the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights released a report supporting the phaseout of subminimum wage for people with disabilities. For St. Louisan Colleen Starkloff, co-founder of the Starkloff Disability Institute, it’s about time. While she’s quick to acknowledge the good intentions of the 1938 Fair Labor Standards Act exception when it was first created, she’s convinced that phasing it out is critical to human dignity and inclusive employment practices. “There’s a way to do that, and sheltered workshops aren’t it,” she says.

How Cops & Clinicians Plans To Change Policing In St. Louis, Beginning With Just 16 Hires Nov 05, 2020

A new program in St. Louis will divert some 911 calls crisis counselors, while some social workers will now respond to calls for service alongside a cop. The city's point person on the project and the contractor handling calls discuss the rollout and the goals behind it.

A Deep Dive On Tuesday’s Election Results In The Show-Me State Nov 04, 2020

In conversation with UMSL's Anita Manion and St. Louis Public Radio's Jason Rosenbaum, we dig into some of the biggest local and statewide races and issues voters weighed in on this fall — and what to make of the results. We also talk with Congresswoman-elect Cori Bush and with STLPR reporters Jonathan Ahl and Jaclyn Driscoll.

In 2020, St. Louis Mediation Project Is A Lifeline For Tenants, Landlords Alike Nov 03, 2020

KaDrea Harrison doesn’t particularly enjoy asking for help. So when she was unable to work because of COVID-19 and fell behind on rent earlier this year, she hesitated telling her leasing office. But now she’s glad she did, because it was quick to direct her to something called the St. Louis Mediation Project. Elad Gross is the outreach coordinator for the partnership.

How To Foster Civic Engagement With Kids On Election Day Nov 03, 2020

While most voters head into the voting booth alone, all 50 states allow parents or guardians to bring their kids with them to the polls. Nareissa Smith, an attorney and teacher with the St. Louis-based company, Varsity Tutors, says this is a good practice because it's a learning opportunity and it gets kids excited about civic engagement.

Whether You Vote Predicts How You Comply With Social Distancing Guidelines Nov 03, 2020

A study in the Journal of Public Economics finds that people who vote, regardless of party affiliation, are more likely to comply with voluntary public health directives during the pandemic. Co-author John Barrios of WashU’s Olin Business School explains what the study tells us about America.

Tennessee Williams Festival Makes Radio Plays Of His Classics Nov 02, 2020

“I really wanted to do something for our audience that would take them away from their computer,” the festival’s executive artistic director, Carrie Houk, explains. Radio seemed the perfect medium, and indeed, she and other organizers, including Brian Hohlfeld, are finding that the playwright's dialogue translates well to it.

Why Some St. Louis Trees Have Yet To Change Colors During This 'Wonky' Fall Nov 02, 2020

This year’s fall foliage looks a bit different than past years. Among the golden, warm-toned hues sprucing up the St. Louis region for autumn is still a noticeable amount of green leaves. Daria McKelvey of the Missouri Botanical Garden explains why.

St. Louis’ First Radio Broadcast Was 100 Years Ago Nov 02, 2020

On November 2, 1920, William E. Woods made St. Louis’ first radio broadcast, announcing election results from his home on De Tonty Street out to the airwaves. Frank Absher of the St. Louis Media History Foundation gives us the details.

How Artificial Intelligence Plays A Role In Flu Prevention Oct 30, 2020

Dr. Ravi Johar, chief medical officer of UnitedHealthcare of Missouri, explains how health officials are getting a handle on what to expect where this flu season — and how that data is driving their decisions.

When The 1918 Flu Pandemic Canceled Halloween, Missouri Got Creative Oct 30, 2020

How did Missouri celebrate Halloween during the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic? A professor shares what she's found in her research — and describes how Halloween has changed in the last century even beyond the need to contain germs.

‘Mid-Mod Quincy’ Highlights Mid-Century Modern Masterpieces Oct 29, 2020

A new self-guided tour promoted by the visitor's bureau in Quincy highlights 30 of the city’s trove of mid-century modern designs.

A Wash U Professor Explains Why Daylight Saving Time Is Bad For Us Oct 29, 2020

A growing body of evidence suggests that our twice-yearly tradition of changing our clocks isn’t just irritating. It’s actually dangerous. Washington University Biology Professor Erik Herzog makes the case for why we'd be better off eliminating Daylight Saving Time.

Legal Roundtable Discusses DoorDash Lawsuit, Whistleblower Protections Oct 28, 2020

A panel of experts discusses lawsuits and criminal cases in the news this past month, including a St. Louis restaurant's lawsuit again DoorDash, a former St. Louis County employee's whistleblower claim and a possible copyright claim against a pair of St. Louis lawyers.

High School Administrators Make The Case For In-Person Learning Oct 27, 2020

Administrators from both public and private schools in St. Louis County explain how they are making in-person learning work amid difficult circumstances.

‘Down Along With That Devil’s Bones’ Reckons With Monuments To Nathan Bedford Forrest Oct 27, 2020

Journalist Connor Towne O'Neill discusses his new book, “Down Along With That Devil’s Bones," which explores monuments to Confederate General Nathan Bedford Forrest in four Southern cities -- and the people seeking to take them down.

‘The Silent Pope’: St. Louis University Grapples With Pope Pius XII’s Legacy Oct 26, 2020

Some Saint Louis University alumni are asking SLU President Fred Pestello to “open a process to rename the Pius XII Memorial Library.” It currently honors a former pope who stands accused of enabling the Nazis.

Claire Saffitz On Gooey Butter Cake And How St. Louis Made Her A ‘Dessert Person’ Oct 26, 2020

Bon Appetit Test Kitchen breakout star Claire Saffitz discusses her new book, “Dessert Person: Recipes and Guidance for Baking with Confidence,” how St. Louis played a role in her online stardom and why she left the Test Kitchen.

Ken Kwapis Went From Belleville To The Big (And Little) Screen Oct 23, 2020

Ken Kwapis' new book, “But What I Really Want to Do Is Direct: Lessons From a Life Behind the Camera,” provides plenty of useful advice to would-be directors and also details the lessons he learned as a movie lover growing up in suburban St. Louis.

Clownvis Presley’s Pandemic Show Draws Dedicated Crowd At Yaquis On Cherokee Oct 23, 2020

St. Louis native Mike Leahy is the portrayer of Clownvis Presley — a character who combines musical parody and comedy. His live cast "Clownvis To The Rescue" show started after his gigs were cancelled due to the pandemic. It now draws a dedicated crowd every Friday and Saturday night at Yaquis on Cherokee Street.

Helping Pets Stay Stress Free Post-COVID Oct 22, 2020

With more people working from home, dogs and cats suddenly find their owners home most of the time. Veterinary behaviorist Dr. Debra Horwitz says it's normal for pets to develop new habits from the change in routine.

Missouri Independent Aims To Shed New Light On Jefferson City Oct 22, 2020

This week, the Missouri Independent launched with big plans for covering Missouri state government. The nonprofit news site promises to provide “relentless investigative journalism that sheds light on how decisions in Jefferson City are made and how those decisions affect Missourians.”

Auctioning Art And Whiskey, Cherokee Street Denizens Keep Each Other Afloat Oct 21, 2020

The Cherokee Virtual Silent Auctions Facebook page is a dedicated place where locals can donate items to raise money for the city's artists, bar and industry workers affected by the pandemic. So far, more than $44,000 has been raised.

What Missouri Schools Can Learn From How Germany Has Handled School Reopenings Oct 21, 2020

St. Louis Public Radio education reporter Ryan Delaney is in Germany for one month thanks to the Education Writers Association and the Pulitzer Center. He joins St. Louis the program from Berlin to discuss what he’s learned about the German way of handling education in the pandemic.

Prop R Would Increase Property Taxes To Fund Early Childhood Education Oct 21, 2020

Prop R asks city voters to increase property taxes, but some critics worry because the money it raises would go to nonprofits outside the public school system. A Yes on Prop R backer addresses those concerns.

Pro & Con: Amendment 3 Has Missouri Voters Back To The Drawing Board On Legislative Districts Oct 20, 2020

Missouri state Sen. Bob Onder (R-St. Charles County), a lawmaker in favor of Amendment 3, and Sean Soendker Nicholson, campaign director for Clean Missouri, which is urging a "no" vote on the ballot issue, join St. Louis on the Air to debate the pros and cons.

Auditor Nicole Galloway Makes Her Case To Be Governor Oct 20, 2020

Missouri State Auditor Galloway joined St. Louis on the Air two weeks before Election Day to make her final case against incumbent Governor Mike Parson — and answer to GOP attacks that accuse her of being pals with an anti-Trump celebrity.

St. Louis Startup Wants To Sell Men On Something New: Sunscreen Oct 19, 2020

A study by St. Louis University researchers last year found that incidence of head and neck melanoma among younger people rose significantly in recent decades — by 51% in fact. The researchers also found that incidence was higher among males than females, and pointed to that discovery as one to take into consideration when it comes to prevention campaigns. Central West End resident Elianna Goldstein points to it as a market opportunity.

Pro & Con: Prop D Would Transform St. Louis Politics. The Question Is How Oct 19, 2020

Proponents of a ballot initiative St. Louis voters are weighing this fall argue Proposition D would change municipal races for the better. They envision a nonpartisan system that puts the focus on local issues that matter most, fosters a more responsive government and addresses the vote-splitting associated with the heavily Democratic city’s current primary setup. But not everyone is on board.

‘Some Really Big Shoes To Fill’: Friends And Fellow Performers Remember St. Louis Legend Kim Massie Oct 16, 2020

“When I get in front of my audience,” Kim Massie once told St. Louis Public Radio’s Nick Garcia, “I don't care if I’m playing for free or if I’m playing for a million bucks. I’m going to give you the same show, because that could very well be my last show, and you’re only as good as your last performance. … So I give it my all, every time I sing.”

Holocaust Survivor Charles Klotzer Has Kept St. Louis Media Honest For 50 Years Oct 16, 2020

In the wake of stubbornly inaccurate mainstream coverage of protests at the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Charles Klotzer launched what is now known as the Gateway Journalism Review. The first issue appeared in September 1970, and the now-quarterly publication is still going strong — even as its contemporaries have long since ceased operations.

Concerned About Barrett Nomination, St. Louis LGBTQ Couples Get Hitched Oct 16, 2020

This week, a pair of women from the Mehlville area of south St. Louis County got married just outside St. Louis City Hall. They were part of a much larger movement of pop-up weddings there within the past week — all designed to highlight concerns within the LGBTQ community related to the Supreme Court nomination of Amy Coney Barrett.

St. Louis Symphony's Return To Powell Hall Combines Small Audiences, Big Compositions Oct 15, 2020

The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra returns to Powell Hall this week. Seven months after the coronavirus pandemic shut down events, the symphony kicks off a shortened season of “chamber orchestra concerts." Music director Stephane Deneve previews the season and its highlights.

Regina Taylor Wants ‘To Root’ Herself In St. Louis As The Rep’s Playwright-In-Residence Oct 15, 2020

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis has some big news today: an acclaimed new playwright in residence. She’s a Golden Globe award winner and a two time Emmy nominee. And thanks to a grant from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, she’ll be working in St. Louis for the next three years.

How St. Louis Is Grappling With Artificial Intelligence’s Promise And Potential Peril Oct 15, 2020

Tinus Le Roux, CEO of FanCam, and Sara Baker, policy director for the ACLU of Missouri discuss artificial intelligence’s potential for both good and evil. The issues they raise are currently getting a fuller airing at Prepare 2020, virtual month-long conference by Prepare.ai.

This St. Louis-Born App Can Help Fix Your Neighborhood Oct 14, 2020

National politics might dominate the news right now, but Washington University professor Betsy Sinclair says there is a resurgence of political life at the local level — and technology can help with that. She co-founded Magnify Your Voice, a civic engagement app meant to help residents work together to tackle a project in their neighborhood.

‘The Zealot And The Emancipator’ Explores The Different Paths Of Abraham Lincoln And John Brown Oct 14, 2020

H.W. Brands’ new book “The Zealot and the Emancipator: John Brown, Abraham Lincoln and the Struggle for American Freedom” explores the run-up to slavery's abolition -- and choice to confront its "great evil" via politics or violence -- through the lives of two men: John Brown and Abraham Lincoln.

75-Year-Old ‘Serialpreneur’ On Navigating Professional Ups And Downs, New Chapters Oct 14, 2020

Whether it’s 20 tips for 20-somethings or 30 movers and shakers under the age of 30, there’s always a new list aimed at young professionals doing big things. And that makes sense — early adulthood, after all, is typically focused on forging a career path. But maybe there should also be some different lists. Say, 70 first-time novelists over the age of 70, or 80 up-and-coming small business owners in their 80s. St. Louisan Lynn Hamilton believes it's never too late to try something new.

Meet The Mysterious Fiddle Assassin Breaking The Silence In Alton Oct 13, 2020

A masked violinist has been making music while strolling the streets of Alton. There are rumors that she's a ghost from the Mississippi River and that she hasn’t been seen since the 1918 influenza. She calls herself the Fiddle Assassin, and says her only enemy is the coronavirus.

'Forest Park: A Walk Through History' Takes Readers Off The Beaten Track Oct 13, 2020

Carolyn Mueller, a local author and zookeeper at the St. Louis Zoo, has explored the trails of Forest Park for more than a decade. And with locals practicing social distancing as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak, some of the spots Mueller highlights in her new book, “Forest Park: A Walk Through History,” are particularly timely.

Tattooed Egyptian Mummies Offer Lessons About Body Art Then And Now Oct 13, 2020

As a scholar who works with human remains, Anne Austin had long looked closely at bones. Her training is in osteology and Egyptology, and for many years she worked to expand the world’s knowledge about the health, medicine and disease of past civilizations. But in 2016, her focus suddenly turned from bones to ancient skin — and body art.

Indoor Theater Production To Be A Pandemic First For St. Louis Oct 12, 2020

Theater returns to a St. Louis stage this month — and for the first time since the region shut down in March, it’ll be indoors and with an in-person audience. Midnight Company's mounting of Eric Bogosian’s “Sex, Drugs, Rock & Roll” comes with the ArtSafe seal of approval, and a host of safety precautions.

‘The National Road’ Explores ‘A Changing America’ From The Ground Oct 12, 2020

Tom Zoellner’s new book, “The National Road: Dispatches From a Changing America," is a journey into the uneasy soul of the nation: What unites us, what divides us and what lies in the middle of the cities of the coasts.

Tackling America’s ‘Silent Epidemic’ Of Pedestrian Deaths — In St. Louis And Beyond Oct 09, 2020

Angie Schmitt’s new book, “Right of Way: Race, Class and the Silent Epidemic of Pedestrian Deaths,” examines why more American pedestrians are dying, who makes up these deaths and what simple yet concrete things we could do to save people like them. She discusses her book on St. Louis on the Air, and we hear from a victim's sister and a local transportation policy planner, too.

10 New Restaurants — And Some Ghost Kitchens — To Try In October Oct 08, 2020

New places continue to open in the St. Louis region — often with extensive safety protocols. And they’re offering new items for local food lovers and ways for patrons to get their favorite dishes. Sauce Magazine features 10 new restaurants to check out for this month’s Hit List.

‘Where It Hurts’ Brings Attention To Rural Health Care Access Oct 08, 2020

Missouri has lost seven rural hospitals since 2014. It’s a trend seen in areas across the country, and it’s a topic explored extensively in the new podcast “Where It Hurts.”

Crestwood Elementary P.E. Instructor Is Missouri Teacher of the Year Oct 08, 2020

Crestwood Elementary School physical education teacher Darrion Cockrell hasn’t just overhauled his school’s fitness program. His creative virtual education videos have also caught the attention of influencers such as Chance the Rapper and Ellen DeGeneres. Now, Cockrell has been awarded the distinction of Missouri Teacher of the Year.

SSM Health’s Focus Is On COVID-19, Cancer Care And The Pandemic’s ‘Downstream Effects’ Oct 07, 2020

In the summer of 2018, St. Charles resident Cindy Fricke got some really bad news following her annual mammogram: She had breast cancer. The diagnosis put her on a long, two-year path involving chemotherapy, radiation and a partial mastectomy. Now she is cancer free, and as she continues to receive care through SSM Health, her outlook is full of gratitude and optimism, even amid a pandemic.

New NPR Podcast Delves Deep Into 'No Compromise' Gun Culture Oct 07, 2020

NPR's new podcast "No Compromise" dives deep into the most uncompromising corner of the gun debate — it follows groups like the Missouri Firearms Coalition that feel the NRA is too soft on gun rights. Podcast co-host Chris Haxel of KCUR shares what they uncovered in their investigation.

Presidential Illness, Past And Present — And The Downplaying Of It Oct 06, 2020

President Trump is far from the first president to face serious illness in office. And it’s not just President Roosevelt or President Wilson who kept the details from the American public. Washington University history professor Peter Kastor puts the president’s bout with COVID-19 in context. And, we explore the media’s role in pressing for details — or giving the White House a wide zone of privacy.

Circus Harmony’s ‘Balancing Act’ Shows Young St. Louisans ‘Walking The Pandemic Tightrope’ Oct 06, 2020

In recent months, as Jessica Hentoff and her Circus Harmony crew began planning the social circus organization’s first performance in a long while, they didn’t have to search too far for the show’s overarching theme. “Circus is always an analogy for life,” Hentoff, artistic/executive director, explains, “but now more than ever.”

What You Need To Know About Nontraditional Voting Methods Oct 05, 2020

With the 2020 presidential election less than a month away, St. Louis Public Radio correspondent Jason Rosenbaum breaks down the differences between absentee and mail-in voting, shares the deadlines to apply for either method and discusses why sending materials ASAP is the best way to make sure that your ballot counts.

‘Candy Men’ Tells The Story Of St. Louis’ Own Switzer’s Licorice Oct 05, 2020

Patrick Murphy discusses his book "Candy Men," which tells the story of Switzer Licorice Co. His great-grandfather co-founded the company, which made candy in St. Louis for more than a century.

Remembering Cardinals Pitching Legend Bob Gibson Oct 05, 2020

St. Louis Cardinals fans and baseball lovers everywhere are mourning the loss of legendary pitcher Bob Gibson, who died Friday at the age of 84. Gibson is the second Cardinals great to pass away in the space of a month. Gibson’s longtime teammate Lou Brock, 81, died Sept. 6.

MoBot’s Architecturally Groundbreaking Climatron Greenhouse Celebrates 60 Years Oct 02, 2020

Missouri Botanical Garden horticulturist Susie Ratliff has worked at the center's Climatron since 1997. She'll share tidbits about the geodesic dome's iconic history and all the care that goes into its living collection.

Schnucks Partners With Black-Owned Businesses To Bring Local Products To Shelves Oct 02, 2020

Schnucks “Local Grab and Go” program is bringing local products made by Black-owned businesses to supermarket shelves.

The Nine Network’s ‘Teaching In Room 9’ Puts Local Teachers On TV Screens Oct 02, 2020

Throughout the pandemic, the Nine Network has been featuring local teachers teaching on a show called “Teaching in Room 9.” This fall, the PBS affiliate has actually increased from two to three hours a day. One local teacher explains how she learned to teach for TV.

Encore: ‘Kind Of Settling In’: Nikki Glaser To Continue Comedy Career From St. Louis Oct 01, 2020

St. Louis native and comedian Nikki Glaser explains how her living situation, which involved a move back home to stay with her parents, is actually fueling her creativity. Host Sarah Fenske talked with her in July.

Encore: 'Dewey Defeats Truman' Depicts Shocking Upset By 'Little Man From Missouri' Oct 01, 2020

In 1948, Harry S Truman looked like a sure loser. He’d inherited the presidency soon after becoming Roosevelt’s vice president, and the media quickly concluded he was in over his head. So how did this quote “little man from Missouri” pull off the political upset of the century? Author A.J. Baime talks about the election in his book, “Dewey Defeats Truman.”

Encore: St. Louis NASA Engineer Uses Hip-Hop To Get People Interested In Math And Science Oct 01, 2020

Dajae Williams is a rocket scientist. The native St. Louisan is a quality engineer at NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab in Los Angeles, California. The 26-year-old turns turns daunting math and science theories and formulas into hip hop songs. Producer Lara Hamdan talked with Williams in May about how she’s educating kids by building a bridge between science, technology, engineering, math — and hip-hop.

Missouri Woman's Sentence After Encouraging Her Boyfriend To Kill His Son Sparks Legal Questions Sep 30, 2020

Emily Paul encouraged her boyfriend to kill his son. She's serving four months in prison but could serve 10 years if she violates probation. Her case raises interesting legal questions. She was miles away when it happened. Is pressuring someone to do something in a text message enough to net a long prison sentence? Our Legal Roundtable panelists discussed that case and others.

How Protecting Wildlife Protects Us Too Sep 29, 2020

How do diseases jump from animals to humans? And is there anything we can do to stop them? A Washington University professor explains the problem — and some possible solutions.

How 'Restaurant Impossible' Saved A Ferguson Restaurant — Twice Sep 29, 2020

Sonny and Bridgett Lewis’ eatery in Ferguson was just hitting its stride when the pandemic hit. Enter Restaurant: Impossible — with a plan to save this family business during the biggest crisis local restaurants have seen in a century.

How 2 Women Teamed Up To Write ‘Sister Of The Chosen One’ Sep 29, 2020

Erin Armknecht and Colleen Oakes are old friends with college who wrote a novel together. They discuss their unique collaboration and the joys of the young-adult genre.

3 Years After Taking Sanctuary In A Maplewood Church, Alex Garcia Still Needs A Path Forward Sep 28, 2020

Alex Garcia has spent the last 1,101 days living in a Maplewood church. In 2017, Immigration and Customs Enforcement denied Garcia’s request for a stay of removal from the United States, and the Honduran native still lacks a viable path to U.S. citizenship. Until he has one, he and his community of supporters have made clear, Christ Church is home.

Sgt. Heather Taylor On Fighting Back, Retiring From The St. Louis Police Sep 28, 2020

Sgt. Heather Taylor shares her thoughts after 20 years in the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department. As president of the Ethical Society of Police, Taylor was a thorn in the side of department brass.

‘The Best Way To Experience An Apple’: Eckert’s President Offers His Picks, Insights Sep 25, 2020

The year 2020 has taken plenty of well-deserved criticism, but its pumpkin harvest is actually looking pretty good. That’s according to Chris Eckert, president of Eckert’s, which operates pick-your-own operations in Belleville, Grafton and Millstadt, Illinois. The company's pumpkin picking season got going last weekend, with apple picking also well underway. And if you ask Chris Eckert, there’s “no better way to grocery shop” right now than going outside and choosing produce straight from the source.

Q&A: St. Louis Health Director On Playground Reopenings And More Sep 25, 2020

The City of St. Louis has restricted playground access for months, even while bars and restaurants have reopened. The city's Department of Health director, Dr. Fredrick Echols, joins us to discuss what has driven the city’s playground policy.

‘Black In The Middle’ Highlights The Midwestern Black Experience Sep 25, 2020

“Black in the Middle: An Anthology of the Black Midwest" explores the experience of Black people in the Midwest. Editor Terrion L. Williamson and contributor Lyndsey Ellis discuss the book.

Dred Scott’s Great-Great-Granddaughter Wants To Make His Grave ‘A Place Worthy Of Pilgrimage’ Sep 24, 2020

Lynne Jackson sometimes struggles to find her great-great-grandfather’s grave. Located in north St. Louis’ sprawling and historic Calvary Cemetery, the headstone is just two and a half feet high. A cemetery map helps, and on it, his grave is indicated in the key, with the number 19 beside his name: Dred Scott. It’s a modest memorial, and it’s also “the most asked-for grave out there,” according to Jackson, who last week launched a fundraiser in hopes of creating a nine-foot-tall educational memorial at the spot.

STL Sloup Returns, With Microgrants On Offer Sep 24, 2020

This month, the pop-up soup dinner that provides funding for good causes returns to St. Louis after a five-year hiatus. Anne McCullough explains what led her to bring back STL Sloup.

St. Louis Archbishop Rozanski: ‘We Know We Have A Ways To Go’ Sep 24, 2020

The new archbishop of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of St. Louis shares his thoughts on racism, sexual abuse, and calls from activists to remove the statue of St. Louis the King atop of Art Hill.

In CAM Show, Rachel Youn Explores Where Megachurch Meets Dance Club Sep 23, 2020

We explore the latest Great Rivers Biennial exhibit at the Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis with Misa Jeffereis, the assistant curator at CAM who organized the show, and Rachel Youn, whose "Gather” gallery on display blends the lines between dance and worship.

Wash U’s Former Provost Calls Trump’s COVID-19 Messaging ‘Psychically Devastating’ For Scientists Sep 23, 2020

Holden Thorp, who is now the editor-in-chief of Science, has found it necessary to speak out in recent months about what he terms “an extreme attack on science that’s acute and forceful and very much in the news.” He doesn't mince words in his latest editorial for the magazine.

How St. Louis Companies Are Pandemic-Proofing Their Offices Sep 22, 2020

Some companies are welcoming workers back to the office. That comes with risks because of the coronavirus pandemic but we talk with employers who are trying to do it the right way and making necessary accommodations. Architect Megan Ridgeway of Arcturis also explains how she's working with companies to accomplish these goals.

Emerging Ag-Tech Company Benson Hill Forges Unique Path, Opens St. Louis Headquarters Sep 22, 2020

Benson Hill is considered a rising star in the ag-tech space. The company was established in 2012 and has garnered about $133 million in funding, including from the investor arm of Google, GV. Co-founder and CEO Matt Crisp joins the show to talk about creating better tasting and more sustainable food. He also explains why the company chose St. Louis to open a new $53 million headquarters.

Brock Seals On The Intersection Of Art And Activism Sep 22, 2020

Brock Seals talks about his “artivism,” a term coined to describe the intersection between art and activism, and his upcoming project called “The Artivist.”

Baltimore’s Aerial Surveillance Could Offer Preview For St. Louis Sep 21, 2020

Persistence Surveillance Systems originally developed its technology for military use and now hopes to bring it to St. Louis to lower the city's crime rate. The company has been running a pilot program in the city of Baltimore — in conjunction with the city's police department — since April. Baltimore journalist Joanne Cavanaugh Simpson discusses the results of the trial run and how residents feel about the new technology.

Downtown West Demolition Plans Spark Pleas For City To Reconsider Sep 21, 2020

Some St. Louis residents have expressed concerns after demolition permits were issued for a group of historic buildings along the 1900 block of Olive Boulevard. The fate of another building, at 201 S. Jefferson, also has people speaking up. To city resident Catherine Hamacher, who works as an urban planner, both cases are a reminder that, oftentimes, “people have a hard time seeing the ‘what could be.’”

How To Prepare When Winter Is Coming During A Pandemic Sep 21, 2020

St. Louis Public Radio's Sarah Fentem discusses finding safe ways to connect in yet another unprecedented season, what to keep in mind about the likelihood of significantly more indoor time, and how to approach the prospect of, well, being a bit cold at times in exchange for safer interactions.

‘Entrepreneur’-Inspired Music Video Highlights Black Business Owners In St. Louis Sep 18, 2020

In August, Pharrell Williams and Jay-Z released their music video “Entrepreneur” which features Black entrepreneurs from across the country. The video inspired St. Louis’ Jason Wilson, owner and CEO of Northwest Coffee Roasting Company, who collaborated with local director David Kirkman to create an edition of “Entrepreneur” that highlights Black-owned businesses in St. Louis.

Wellston’s Trojan Park Demonstrates The Power Of Parks In A Community Sep 18, 2020

Wellston's Trojan Park was recently named one of two winners of 2020's Urban Open Space Award. Landscape architect Chip Crawford joins us to discuss the park's surprising origin story and what makes a great park.

From The Archives: Remembering William H. Danforth In His Own Words Sep 18, 2020

William H. Danforth II died on Wednesday. The former chancellor of Washington University transformed the institution into a top-tier school, and he was the founding chairman of the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center. We listen back to excerpts from his appearance on the show from February 2008.

Geri L. Dreiling’s New Novel ‘Crime Beat Girl’ Is Set In St. Louis Sep 17, 2020

“Crime Beat Girl” tells the story of Debbie Bradley, who leaves her journalism job in Washington, D.C., to be closer to family in her native St. Louis. Author Geri L. Dreiling joins us to discuss her new novel.

St. Louis County Health Director On Youth Sports, In-Person Instruction And Flu Shots Sep 17, 2020

The co-director of St. Louis County’s public health department, Spring Schmidt, joins to talk about kids and COVID-19, youth sports restrictions, Halloween during a pandemic and the importance of flu shots.

In 'The Last Children Of Mill Creek,' Vivian Gibson Portrays A Vanished St. Louis Neighborhood Sep 16, 2020

We talk with St. Louis author Vivian Gibson. Her debut book written at the age of 71 is a memoir about growing up in St. Louis neighborhood that no longer exists, “The Last Children of Mill Creek.” This is an encore of an interview that aired in April 2020.

What ‘Defund The Police’ Could Look Like In A City Known For Violent Crime Sep 16, 2020

Defunding police departments is a major goal for many Black Lives Matter protesters. But for others, it’s a scary idea — and that’s true for many St. Louis residents. In this episode, we explore what it means to defund the police in a city that struggles with high rates of violent crime. University of Missouri-St. Louis criminologist Richard Rosenfeld joins the discussion. This is an encore of an interview that aired in July 2020.

Ferguson-Raised Olympian Gwen Berry Speaks Out After Being Punished For Raising Fist Sep 15, 2020

As many athletes have returned to fields, courts and arenas during the coronavirus pandemic, so have sports protests. More and more professional athletes are kneeling during the national anthem, displaying Black Lives Matter messages on their gametime attire, and speaking out publicly about police brutality and systemic racism. “But there’s at least one place where protesting is still not allowed,” an op-ed piece in the New York Times featuring St. Louis-area native Gwen Berry noted earlier this month: an Olympic podium.

For Brandon Bosley’s Ward, Grand Avenue Water Tower Makeover Is A Big Deal Sep 15, 2020

The Grand Avenue Water Tower has been a familiar sight for Brandon Bosley ever since he moved to St. Louis’ College Hill neighborhood at age 7 — until this past weekend, that is. Now the 3rd Ward alderman will need to get used to the tower’s bright new facade. On Saturday, a whole host of volunteers helped give the 149-year-old tower a long-overdue fresh coat of paint as part of the St. Louis community’s latest Operation Clean Sweep.

Are Schools That Shield Coronavirus Data Interpreting HIPAA Correctly? Sep 15, 2020

Belleville News Democrat reporter Megan Valley joins the program to talk about how the lack of coronavirus transparency is concerning parents in the Metro East.

The St. Louis Team That Needed 5 Straight Wins Got Them — All In One Long Day Sep 14, 2020

Even one baseball game has plenty of innings — seven, nine, or, if there’s an especially stubbornly tied score, perhaps even 11 or 12 innings. But it all pales in comparison to the 39 innings Tom Sullivan and his teammates completed over the course of a single summer day (and night) in St. Louis 43 years ago.

Longtime ‘Places For People’ Leader Reflects On Evolution Of Mental Health Treatment Sep 14, 2020

For more than 40 years, Joe Yancey has worked to help those with mental illness receive the treatment and support they need to lead successful, fulfilling lives. The former CEO of Places for People retired last month.

WePower Wraps Up First Business Accelerator For Black, Latino Entrepreneurs Sep 11, 2020

WePower's Elevate/Elevar business accelerator aims to uplift and assist Black and Latino entrepreneurs in St. Louis. It's inaugural cohort finished last month, and companies in the program averaged a 350% increase in sales.

‘Artists Are Translators’: Door Murals Showcase Culture Of Old North St. Louis Sep 11, 2020

Artists who live in north St. Louis are painting murals on business and residential doors and fences. Vibrant homages depict jazz culture, African-inspired flowers, St. Louis greats such as Josephine Baker and more.

Metropolitan Orchestra Of St. Louis, Union Avenue Opera Partner On Outdoor ‘Reboot’ Sep 11, 2020

It’s been six long months since Wendy Lea has been able to play or perform with the group of musicians dearest to her heart — or put a paycheck in their pockets. But this weekend, that’s changing as masked members of the Metropolitan Orchestra of St. Louis carefully gather on an outdoor stage alongside the Union Avenue Opera.

Residential Recycling Uptick Presents Challenges, Benefits Sep 10, 2020

Republic Services general manager Brent Batliner talks about how the Hazelwood-based facility has adjusted to changes brought on by the pandemic and reiterates what to avoid tossing in the recycling bin.

‘Dance The Vote’ 2020 Series Puts Artistry In Service Of Voting Rights Sep 10, 2020

Even as the COVID-19 crisis derailed many of Dance the Vote’s typical endeavors, St. Louisan Joan Lipkin and her collaborators knew that artists remained “an essential part of the conversation.” They decided to center the contributions of artists of color, and commissioned a series of videos highlighting the work of choreographers in St. Louis as well as beyond.

St. Louis Zoo Chimpanzee Utamu To Give Birth This Fall Sep 09, 2020

St. Louis Zoo resident Utamu is pregnant. The 18-year-old chimpanzee is expected to give birth this fall. In this interview, primate manager Helen Boostrom talks about how zookeepers are caring for Utamu during her pregnancy, what to expect during the birth, and how a new baby may alter the group dynamics of the facility’s nine chimpanzees.

How Sinquefield/Brown Split Played Into Airport Privatization Failure Sep 09, 2020

Last week, supporters of a plan to privatize St. Louis Lambert International Airport announced they would withdraw the initiative set for city ballots this November. A week later, two of the major entities behind the privatization push announced they had decided to part ways just one day before the announcement on the airport initiative. In this episode, St. Louis Business Journal reporter Jacob Kirn talks about the end of the 14 year relationship between conservative billionaire Rex Sinquefield and political consultant Travis Brown.

William Morris’ New Video ‘The Protest Project’ Is Ripped From The Headlines Sep 09, 2020

Artist William Morris' latest video debuts at the Bruno David Gallery this Saturday. “The Protest Project" explores how the coronavirus pandemic collided with an equally devastating problem this spring — racism and police brutality.

Novelist Eric Von Schrader’s Debut Depicts A Parallel St. Louis Sep 08, 2020

First-time author Eric Von Schrader discusses “A Universe Less Traveled," a work of speculative fiction that toys with St. Louis history. He explains some of the real-life legends that inspired it.

Vintage Vinyl Takes Star Turn In New Nine Network Documentary Sep 08, 2020

The documentary “Papa Ray's Vintage Vinyl Roadshow" debuted on the Nine Network. Vintage Vinyl co-founder Tom Ray discusses the show's inspiration, his shop on Delmar and his lifelong love of music.

Kip and JJ Loui’s ‘Show Me State’ Highlights Missouri And Its Characters Sep 04, 2020

Ever since he was a kid, Kip Loui has been fascinated by Defiance, Missouri. Something about the name of the town captured his imagination, and once he became a musician, he told himself that someday he would write a song called “Defiance.” “Then the current guy was elected president,” Loui says. And soon that song was in the works — along with the 11 others that would eventually become “Show Me State,” the album that he and his wife, JJ Loui, released earlier this year.

SLPS Educator Of The Year Jana Flynn Traded Courtrooms For The Classroom Sep 04, 2020

Last week, just before St. Louis Public Schools kicked off a fall semester like no other, Jana Flynn’s masked colleagues surprised her with flowers, a plaque and signs — all in celebration of her being named the district’s 2020 Educator of the Year. SLPS cited the gifted specialist's “passion, dedication and desire to think outside of the box” in her work with students ranging from preschool to eighth grade.

Remembering Lamont Hadley Sr., St. Louis Singer And COVID-19 Casualty Sep 04, 2020

St. Louis R&B legend Lamont Hadley Sr. recently died after a long battle with COVID-19. His longtime partner and son remember his life and music.

‘It Does Not Even Come Close’: Virtual Learning A Struggle For Many Special Needs Students, Parents Sep 03, 2020

Many schools are now conducting classes 100% online. Navigating virtual education has many families scrambling to make it work, but likely none more so than families with special needs students. We explore how families with children with developmental disabilities are particularly challenged by schools moving to virtual learning.

‘Black Like Me’ Explores Race And Allyship In Staged Reading At The Rep Sep 03, 2020

Monty Cole's new play “Black Like Me,” grapples with John Howard Griffin’s seminal book. He explains how he adapted it for 21st century audiences, and how it found its way to the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis.

Why St. Louis Scientists Have Their Eyes On Mars Sep 02, 2020

This summer, the Perseverance rover launched as part of the Mars 2020 mission. It’s scheduled to land on the Red Planet next February. Washington University's Raymond Arvidson will explain his lab’s role with the mission.

‘Rung For Women’ Aims To Help St. Louisans Move Up Economic Opportunity Ladder Sep 02, 2020

For more than 20 years, St. Louis native Leslie Gill has been focused on getting women what they need, whatever that may be. When she worked for Annie Malone Children & Family Services, that could mean shelter, clothing or food. Now, as president of the new nonprofit Rung for Women, it’s about providing what she terms “holistic self-sufficiency.”

Missouri Senate Approves Legislation Eliminating St. Louis Police Residency Requirement Sep 02, 2020

The Missouri Senate earlier today passed legislation eliminating the residency requirement for St. Louis police officers. Yesterday, senators during their special session also advanced legislation through a committee that they say is tough on crime. Statehouse reporter Jaclyn Driscoll talks about the latest developments.

Dutchtown Resident Memorializes St. Louisans Lost To COVID-19 Sep 01, 2020

Jessica Murray built a St. Louis COVID Memorial website to memorialize the local lives lost to the virus. Murray researches obituaries, listens to family accounts and seeks out additional information online to craft each story — all with her pet cockatoos by her side.

'A Case Of Whack-A-Mole': Alderman Talks Crime, Resident Concerns In Downtown St. Louis Sep 01, 2020

Jack Coatar was worried about an exodus of residents and businesses from downtown St. Louis even before the area began seeing civil unrest and a surge in crime this summer. Now the 7th Ward alderman is hearing people express more and more concerns. In an area that used to bustle with concertgoers, diners and Cardinals fans on many nights, the pandemic-driven vacuum of activity has been filled with something else entirely.

Mental Health Support For Frontline Workers, From The ER To The Grocery Store Aug 31, 2020

“Thank you, frontline and essential workers. You are our heroes.” From yard signs to grocery store intercoms to stump speeches, such sentiments have become a fixture of American culture in 2020. But Dena Tranen, a mental health professional based in Clayton, knows that gratitude alone is insufficient.

Want To Juggle? St. Louisan Thom Wall Says It’s About ‘Cultivating A Relationship’ Aug 31, 2020

Thom Wall is among the world’s most notable jugglers — and now he’s able to offer his tips and tricks to enthusiasts of all levels. The St. Louis native is coming out with a new book: “Juggling: What It Is and How to Do It."

Lumiere Place Halts Layoffs For 97 Longtime Workers Aug 31, 2020

Longtime Lumiere Place have dodged layoffs. Instead, they'll remain on a recall list that allows them to keep their seniority if the hotel/casino reopens their job stations before April. Kim Bartholomew of Unite Here Local 74 explains the good news.

Army Trombonist Traces Military Roots To The Civil War Aug 28, 2020

For army trombonist Spc. Joseph Murrell, the military might just be destiny. According to his family research, almost every man in his paternal blood line — except for his father — served the military in some way. The legacy started when Murrell’s long-ago ancestor, Pvt. William Murrell, joined the Union Army in 1863. A runaway slave, Pvt. Murrell had fled to Ohio and served in the 109th United States Colored Troop.

Missouri Senator Jill Schupp On Her Plan To Unseat Ann Wagner Aug 28, 2020

Missouri state Sen. Jill Schupp (D-Creve Coeur) wants to unseat Rep. Ann Wagner (R-Ballwin) in Missouri's second congressional district. We talk with Schupp about why she thinks she's the better candidate in a race that the nonpartisan Cook Political Report now considers a tossup.

How A Clayton Woman Turned Angst Over A Construction Project Into Art Aug 28, 2020

Artist Judith Shaw's show at the St. Louis Artists’ Guild was directly inspired by the $770 million construction project just outside her condo. Shaw used tire tracks made by heavy machinery as the basis for a series of prints -- and formed some unlikely friendships in the process.

How Prop D Would Change St. Louis Municipal Elections Aug 27, 2020

In the city of St. Louis, primary elections frequently have bigger consequences than general ones. But one item St. Louis voters will see on their Nov. 3 ballots could change that pattern in a big way: Proposition D. Touted by proponents as a minor change for voters that would mean big improvement for St. Louis, the measure would establish a nonpartisan election system for the offices of mayor, comptroller, the president of the Board of Aldermen and alderman.

Wash U-Based ‘Focus-19’ Initiative Puts 211 Call Data To Good Use Aug 27, 2020

For evidence of the coronavirus pandemic’s wide-ranging toll on society, monthly jobs reports and quarterly GDP numbers are go-to sources of information — and highly credible ones. But for a more granular, real-time sense of the extent of community needs, a group of researchers at Washington University has been looking elsewhere: at 211 calls.

New Children’s Book Highlights Early 20th Century Riverboat Culture Aug 27, 2020

In her new children’s book "Ruth’s River Dreams," historian Elizabeth A. Pickard re-imagines the life of river historian and educator Ruth Ferris, who lived from 1891–1993. Ferris made it her life’s work to study Missouri’s waterways — particularly the Mississippi River.

Lemp Brewery Collapse Crumples Decades Of History, Hundreds Of Bikes Aug 26, 2020

When part of the Lemp Brewery collapsed this past weekend, it didn’t just destroy hundreds of bicycles. It also turned 160 years of history to dust. We checked in with the nonprofit whose inventory was crushed, as well as a local historian.

Airport Privatization Plan Earns ‘Overwhelming’ Opposition From Labor Council Aug 26, 2020

In July, the Greater St. Louis Labor Council voted to oppose the airport privatization plan being put before city voters, even though the carpenters' union is a major backer. President Pat White explains why.

Grand Jury Secrecy And Prosecutor’s Discretion Probed By Legal Roundtable Aug 25, 2020

Six years after Michael Brown was killed by a Ferguson police officer, his death continues to generate debate. St. Louis on the Air’s Legal Roundtable discussed St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell’s decision to reopen and then close the case, as well as the lawsuit filed by a grand juror seeking to expose what happened in the criminal probe into Brown’s death.

'Summer Of Violence' Keeps Stray Rescue's Donna Lochman Busy Saving Dogs Aug 24, 2020

For 20 years, Donna Lochman has driven the streets and alleyways of St. Louis, looking for stray dogs — and sometimes a cat — to rescue from harm's way. On Monday’s St. Louis on the Air, we ride along with Lochman to learn more about her work as a rescuer for Stray Rescue of St. Louis.

How A Belleville Family Solved An 86-Year-Old Mystery Aug 24, 2020

Growing up, Vic Svec of Belleville, Illinois, knew his father’s origin story as a ripped-from-the-headlines mystery — one that would probably never be solved. But 86 years later, thanks to DNA and online sleuthing, he and his family cracked the case. He explains how.

Mvstermind Previews His ‘BEGREATFOOL’ EPs — What He Calls His ‘Survival Guide’ Aug 21, 2020

Mvstermind — the performing name of St. Louis native Muhammad Austin — talks about how he lyrically skates past personal anxieties and overcoming universal troubles in "GEMS." He discusses the trajectory of his artistry and what it’s like pulling together projects when a pandemic halts production.

An Avian Dilemma — How Birds Are Hijacking Others’ Nests To Raise Their Young Aug 21, 2020

A new study published in the Nature Connections journal looks at the particular phenomenon of brood parasites. These are birds that try to trick other birds into raising their eggs. They parasitize other nests by “squatting and dropping” their eggs there instead of using their own. Washington University assistant professor in biology Carlos Botero explains why birds do this in the first place and how it impacts Missouri’s ecology.

Black Business Month A Much-Needed Boost Along Delmar Loop Aug 21, 2020

August is Black Business Month, and for Delmar Loop-based bakeshop owner Stephanie White, the 31 days of attention to small businesses like hers are a particularly welcome event this year. White, who opened Sugar Momma’s at 6016 Delmar Blvd. in 2016, hasn’t seen as much foot traffic as she’d hoped for the past few years. And once COVID-19 entered the mix, the challenges escalated. But Sugar Momma's is still hanging on.

Why Kamala Harris Is A Game-Changing Vice Presidential Pick Aug 20, 2020

Senator Kamala Harris' acceptance of the Democratic Party’s vice presidential nomination marked the culmination of one of the longest and most critical vice presidential searches in the nation’s history. Host Sarah Fenske talks about the selections Joel Goldstein. He is a professor of law emeritus at St. Louis University School of Law and the author of “The White House Vice Presidency: The Path to Significance, Mondale to Biden.”

Photojournalist Wiley Price Has Long Made St. Louis His Focus Aug 20, 2020

As a young man in the early 1980s, Wiley Price was spending many hours a day in the darkroom at the University of Missouri-St. Louis — and freelancing for local newspapers as well as the Associated Press. As he honed his craft, he also noticed something lacking in the industry. “I wanted to start seeing our people in the news,” Price, who is Black, explains. Four decades later, the 64-year-old is still “documenting Black St. Louis history in real time,” as a recent St. Louis American profile of him puts it, even amid a pandemic.

Comedian Alonzo Bodden: Unbelievable ‘Doesn’t Apply Anymore’ Aug 19, 2020

Comedian Alonzo Bodden of “Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!” fame and host of the podcast “Who’s Paying Attention?” will be performing in St. Louis this week at Helium Comedy Club. In this interview, host Sarah Fenske talks with Bodden about how the pandemic has impacted his work as a panelist on “Wait Wait” and as a comic.

Regional Arts Commission Raises $500,000-Plus For Local Artists Aug 19, 2020

Of the many industries decimated by the coronavirus, the arts may have been hit the hardest. Host Sarah Fenske discusses the arts and culture climate in St. Louis, and hear from an artist about her hardships throughout the pandemic and how she’s remained busy.

Missouri Paleontologist Shares Story Of Unearthing Rare Triceratops Skull Aug 19, 2020

Earlier this summer, Missouri paleontologist David Schmidt and a small team unearthed a rare triceratops skull in the South Dakota Badlands. Schmidt describes what the excavation process was like and what he and his fellow researchers hope to learn from the bones of the dinosaur they named “Shady.”

Illinois Lieutenant Governor Seeks To ‘Infuse Love’ In Juvenile Justice System Aug 18, 2020

Earlier this month, when Illinois Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton announced a plan to overhaul the state’s juvenile justice system, she repeatedly used a word that stood out to ProPublica reporter Duaa Eldeib: "love." In this interview, Eldeib talks about her reporting on Illinois’ plan and how it may have been influenced by what’s known as the “Missouri Model.”

How Facebook Friendships Could Predict The Spread Of COVID-19 In Missouri Aug 18, 2020

Researchers at Washington University's Institute for Informatics are using Facebook’s Social Connectedness Index to study the potential impact of students and faculty returning to various counties within Missouri. Can Facebook connections predict the spread of COVID-19?

High School Principal Explains Why He’s On Board With In-Person Classes Aug 18, 2020

Unlike most area high schools, Lutheran High School South in Affton will be open for in-person instruction five days a week. Principal Jonathan Butterfield explains how, and why his own children will be among those returning to class this week.

More Than A Witch’s Best Friend — Clearing Misconceptions About Black Cats Aug 17, 2020

Every year, Aug. 17 is National Black Cat Appreciation Day. These felines have become the poster cats for superstition, but they’re so much more than the age-old myths stacked against them. Humane Society of Missouri’s Becky Krueger delves into the myths surrounding black cats, and how that's impacted their adoption rates.

We Stories Takes Anti-Racism Work National Aug 17, 2020

We Stories is a St. Louis organization that helps foster conversations about racism and race among white families and children. And this summer, it went national. Program manager Rhema Anazonwu talks about expanding the organization’s efforts to help lead the conversation in communities in, and beyond, St. Louis for transformative reconciliation.

Elsa Hart’s ‘The Cabinets of Barnaby Mayne’ Examines Murder In 18th-Century London Aug 17, 2020

St. Louis-based author Elsa Hart's fourth book is a vividly rendered murder mystery set in 18th-century London. She discusses “The Cabinets of Barnaby Mayne" and the craft of mystery writing.

Lauren Brown Shares What It’s Like Being ‘Black At Mizzou’ In APM Documentary Aug 14, 2020

We delve into the APM Reports “Black at Mizzou” documentary, in which "We Live Here's" Lauren Brown details how Black students fostered their own community, what they call “Black Mizzou,” the racism she faced on campus, where the leaders of the Concerned Student 1950 movement are today and what they think of the movement’s legacy.

CEO Of St. Louis City SC Explains Reasoning Behind ‘City,’ Details What’s Next Aug 14, 2020

St. Louis City SC CEO Carolyn Kindle Betz explains what's behind the newly announced name of St. Louis’ Major League Soccer team. The crest features the Gateway Arch and wavy lines that signify the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers. The colors — red and navy blue — were inspired by St. Louis’ flag.

‘A Late Summer Night’s Stroll’ Through Forest Park Aug 14, 2020

Outdoor activities are all the rage these days, especially those that allow for social distancing. But St. Louis’ Shakespeare in the Park tradition regularly draws dense crowds — and its actors were hesitant enough about the idea in 2020 that this year’s iteration was ultimately canceled. In the midst of all of that, the festival team and a host of local artists got creative, and A Late Summer Night’s Stroll was born.

Kim Gardner Fires Back At Parson, Calls State Intervention A ‘Dangerous Proposition’ Aug 13, 2020

St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner cruised to victory in the city’s Democratic primary. Less than a week later, Governor Mike Parson proposed legislation that would give Attorney General Eric Schmitt the ability to take over the prosecution of certain high-level felonies in St. Louis. In this interview, Gardner joins host Sarah Fenske to talk about the governor’s proposal and discuss plans for her next term.

St. Lou Fringe Fest Goes Virtual With 20+ Acts Over 8 Days Aug 13, 2020

In a way, the reinvention of performing arts in the age of coronavirus fits right in with the founding spirit of the St. Lou Fringe Fest. Now in its ninth season, the festival draws its inspiration from mid-20th-century Scotland, where avant garde artists responded to a more traditional festival by setting up makeshift venues in alleys and streets — anywhere they could connect with an audience. Now places like couches and closets are among the best and safest spots to do so.

Examining Parson’s Approach To St. Louis’ Crime Problem Aug 12, 2020

During the special legislative session this week, Missouri Gov. Mike Parson called for lawmakers to allow the state's attorney general to intervene in local homicide cases. In this interview, St. Louis Public Radio reporter Rachel Lippmann discusses the governor’s attempts to solve St. Louis’ crime problem. She also talks about the work of the federal agents who have been handling homicide cases in St. Louis for a few years and how Operation LeGend fits into that effort.

‘Operation Warp Speed’ Has Wash U Scientist Worried Aug 12, 2020

Michael Kinch is as eager as anyone for a COVID-19 vaccine. But the Washington University professor of biochemistry and molecular biophysics is also worried about the potential implications of rushing through development and U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval, especially with so much political pressure in the mix.

COVID-19 Rehab Group Aims To Help With Arduous Recovery Process Aug 11, 2020

Many COVID-19 patients report both physical and psychological problems after leaving the hospital. Their experience is referred to as “post intensive care syndrome.” Now a new University of Missouri-St. Louis psychosocial rehabilitation group aims to help adults aged 50 and older as they deal with the syndrome and the overall recovery process. In this episode, we learn about why such a group is necessary from clinical geropsychologist Ann Steffen, a professor of psychological sciences at UMSL.

Why Clean Missouri Backers Hope To Stop Amendment 3 Aug 11, 2020

This November, the Missouri legislature is asking voters statewide to consider a constitutional amendment to repeal the one they approved two years ago. Clean Missouri's campaign manager explains the arguments against repeal.

Passions For Music And Mental Health Intertwine For Be.Be Aug 11, 2020

Outlets that spur creativity can help draw people out of the mental staleness brought upon by recurring daily routines. Music is Brianna Brown’s saving grace. Her stage name is Be.Be, and the R&B and soul singer wants to spread awareness about music’s impact on mental health.

Hit List: 4 New St. Louis Restaurants To Try This August Aug 10, 2020

We re-connect with our friends at Sauce Magazine to hear about what new food and drink establishments to check out in the area. Joining the conversation are Meera Nagarajan and Heather Hughes Huff, art director and managing editor, respectively.

Why Some St. Louis Parents Are Opting For Private School This Fall Aug 10, 2020

St. Louis Post-Dispatch education reporter Blythe Bernhard put the school re-opening situation in stark terms in a story last week: “No public school in St. Louis city or county will open five days a week to all students this fall,” she wrote. “No private school is likely to open 100% online.” In this interview, Bernhard talks about why some private schools are seeing rising enrollment for the fall semester and why private institutions are offering more in-person learning than their public counterparts.

Local Teens, UMSL Faculty Turn Scrambled Lab Plans Into Collaborative COVID-19 Study Aug 10, 2020

A year ago, high school student Dakota Warren could often be found in the backyard of biologist Patty Parker, catching birds in an effort to get blood samples. When she wasn’t in Parker’s yard, she was busy in Parker’s lab at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, conducting DNA research with those samples. This summer, Warren planned to return to Parker’s lab, but then the pandemic hit. And like most people with any plans for 2020, Parker and her teenage interns had to rethink theirs.

St. Louis Symphony Musicians Are Serenading Neighborhoods With Yard Concerts Aug 07, 2020

A rise in confirmed COVID-19 cases has postponed St. Louis Symphony Orchestra's season again. However, that hasn’t stopped the musicians from continuing to serenade community members. SLSO musicians are traveling to different neighborhoods to play music for residents during the pandemic. These aren’t anything like a regular Powell Hall performance — there aren’t any fancy clothes, balcony seats or rehearsals involved. Just musical connection.

Cori Bush Sets Sights On DC After Toppling Clay Dynasty Aug 07, 2020

Missouri 1st Congressional District nominee Cori Bush has been a protest leader, a single mom, a pastor and a nurse. Now she’s likely headed to Washington D.C. In this episode, Bush joins host Sarah Fenske to talk about her goals for office and what she sees as the biggest challenges ahead.

With Missouri Legislature Cracking Down On Offenders Again, Advocates Are Worried Aug 06, 2020

Both the Crime Bill signed by Missouri Governor Parson in July and the crime-focused special session now underway in Jefferson City could lead to longer sentences for Missouri defendants. Two experts share concerns about the state's "tough on crime" direction.

St. Louis’ Robust Theater Scene Inspired Smith Sisters’ Entertainment Aspirations Aug 06, 2020

America's entertainment industry has St. Louis to thank for the creativity fueling some of the most wildly popular shows out there these days. And that includes the Smith sisters: Mariah, Rachel Colleen and Lauren Ashley Smith. On top of other pursuits, the three of them have now combined forces to host their new SiriusXM initiative "Smith Sisters Live,” a six-week pop culture show. They join host Sarah Fenske to talk about how their St. Louis roots have impacted their outlooks on life and career paths.

Cori Bush Upsets Lacy Clay In Congressional Democratic Primary Aug 05, 2020

Tuesday’s primary election in Missouri saw many incumbents hold onto their seats — and one major upset. St. Louis Public Radio correspondent Jason Rosenbaum discusses Cori Bush’s remarkable victory over incumbent U.S. Rep. Lacy Clay, as well as the passage of Missouri Amendment 2, which makes Missouri the 38th state to expand Medicaid.

How Cardinals Sound Engineers Bring Energy And Ambience To A Fan-Free Stadium Aug 05, 2020

We check in with Tony Simokaitis, scoreboard director for the St. Louis Cardinals. His job is to create that faux-crowd energy in an empty ballpark — if the team ever gets back on the field. Seven Cardinals players and six staff members tested positive for the coronavirus. Sports writer Derrick Goold gives us the latest on that.

St. Louis Woman Details Recovery After Dad’s ‘Terminal’ COVID-19 Case Aug 04, 2020

Calvin Davis became very ill in late March, and was diagnosed with COVID-19 shortly after. After being admitted to the hospital on April 9, he spent 76 days there and more than 90 days away from home as he battled the coronavirus. For much of that time, he was on a ventilator. In this interview, we hear the incredible story of one family’s battle against the coronavirus and the intensive recovery process that they are still dealing with, weeks later.

Just How Essential Is Privatization To Getting Rid Of Lambert's Debt? Aug 04, 2020

Consultants who work closely with conservative billionaire Rex Sinquefield have gathered enough signatures to force a vote on the privatization of St. Louis Lambert International Airport this November. If voters say yes to the plan, the city would basically be required to lease the airport to a private company by next summer. One argument for doing that is that it could help pay down the airport’s half a billion dollar debt. St. Louis Public Radio reporter Corinne Ruff recently dug into that claim.

‘Election Insiders’ Goes Behind The Scenes With St. Louis County Elections Board Aug 04, 2020

Author Gloria Shur Bilchik spent 18 months observing the St. Louis County Board of Elections. She discusses “Election Insiders: Behind the Scenes With the People Who Make Your Vote Count” with host Sarah Fenske.

‘Beyond The Ballot’ Explores History Of Women’s Suffrage Movement In St. Louis Aug 03, 2020

This month marks 100 years since the ratification of the 19th Amendment, which granted U.S. women the right to vote. But the fight for women’s suffrage was a long one, starting many decades prior to that celebratory day in 1920. And St. Louis women were among some of the earliest suffragists around the country. In this segment, host Sarah Fenske talks with local curator Katie Moon and scholar Elizabeth Eikmann.

'Yogi' Recalls The Pride Of St. Louis' Hill Aug 03, 2020

“Yogi: A Life Behind the Mask" author Jon Pessah discusses Yogi Berra’s remarkable life, including his early years on the Hill, his baseball career and the racial slurs he faced as an Italian in the 1940s.

Getting Up To Speed On Medicaid Expansion Ahead Of Next Week’s Vote Jul 31, 2020

Missouri’s Aug. 4 primary has snuck up fast during a year when the U.S. presidential election is looming large amid a global pandemic. But plenty of key local races will be decided in the heavily Democratic St. Louis region — and voters throughout the state will determine whether Missouri expands Medicaid coverage, joining the 37 other states that have opted to do so in conjunction with the Affordable Care Act. If passed, Amendment 2 (the Medicaid Expansion Initiative) would effectively expand Medicaid eligibility to include adults between the ages of 19 and 65 whose income is at or below 138 percent of the federal poverty level. As of 2020, that amounts to $17,608 for an individual and $36,156 for a household of four.

How Ida B. Wells Paved The Way For Citizen Journalists Today Jul 31, 2020

Contemporary citizen journalists can find a lot of common ground with a trailblazer who was active during the late 19th and early 20th centuries: Ida B. Wells. Motivated by false narratives and the downplaying of abuse of Black Americans of her day, Wells chronicled the stories of those impacted by lynchings and riots. Wells’ quantitative work pioneered the way for data journalism and inspired her great-granddaughter Michelle Duster to dedicate her life to countering false narratives.

Rock Hill Widower’s Experience As A Cancer Caregiver Inspires Memoir Jul 30, 2020

In “Ordinarily Extraordinary: Love and Anger, Life and Death, Hope and Inspiration,” Patrick P. Long reflects on the moments of doubt, stress and anxiety that come with a spouse’s cancer battle. In this episode, he talks with host Sarah Fenske about his memoir and how despite a devastating loss, he developed the belief that nothing in life is insurmountable.

Katherine Dunham’s Namesake Nonprofit Hasn’t Lost Its Vision For East St. Louis Jul 30, 2020

All too often, artistic expression proves inaccessible to everyday people, a kind of luxury out of reach for those struggling to make ends meet. Katherine Dunham understood this reality when she first turned her attention to East St. Louis in the 1960s. And so does Leverne Backstrom, one of a handful of dedicated community members still carrying on the world-renowned dancer and choreographer’s legacy there today.

McCloskey Charges, County ‘Extortion’ Controversy Fuel July’s Legal Roundtable Jul 29, 2020

Attorneys Mark Smith, Nicole Gorovsky and Dave Roland dig into the legal matters of the month, including the criminal charges filed against two personal injury attorneys and an allegation of "extortion" St. Louis County has made against a local attorney.

‘Kind Of Settling In’: Nikki Glaser To Continue Comedy Career From St. Louis Jul 28, 2020

St. Louis native and comedian Nikki Glaser explains how her living situation, which involved a move back home to live with her parents, is actually fueling her creativity.

Catch The Muny’s Greatest Hits Without Leaving Your Living Room Jul 28, 2020

The Muny's artistic director and executive producer shares highlights for this summer's virtual variety hours — a star-studded mix of never-before-aired clips from past Muny shows, cast reunion sing-alongs, and song and dance performances by Muny artists.

Belleville West Graduate Has The Secret To Speechmaking Success Jul 28, 2020

For Jaylon Muchison, speech has paid off in a big way. The recent Belleville West High School graduate recently netted $22,500 from Optimist International’s 2020 Oratorical World Championship — winning his regional and state rounds before claiming the international title. That money will make a huge difference as the 18-year-old heads to the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign this fall. He plans to pursue a double major in acting and communications.

Pediatricians Weigh In On St. Louis County Youth Sports Decision Jul 27, 2020

An increase of COVID-19 cases in the region has caused the St. Louis Sports Medicine COVID-19 Task Force, the St. Louis County Department of Public Health and the City of St. Louis Department of Health to initiate a hold on all youth sport games and scrimmages. The move has some pediatricians frustrated that the focus has been on youth sports, rather than congregations in bars and restaurants.

'American Skyjacker' Podcast Details 1972 High-Flying Drama At Lambert Airport Jul 27, 2020

Aircraft hijackings have been rare in recent years. But a half century ago, they were a frequent occurrence. Between 1967 and 1972, 130 commercial airplanes were hijacked in the U.S. alone. That’s according to a newly launched podcast that dives deep into a hijacking in which St. Louis Lambert International Airport plays a starring role. The 10-part series, “American Skyjacker: The Final Flight of Martin McNally," is hosted and co-produced by St. Louis-based journalist Danny Wicentowski. In this segment, host Sarah Fenske talks with Wicentowski about the drama that took place that day, and what went into turning the saga into a podcast series.

Tent Mission STL Founder On Her Suit Against St. Louis Police Jul 24, 2020

On her good days, 51-year-old Sharon Morrow is out the door pretty early, helping to get food and water to homeless St. Louisans. And for Morrow, who is disabled and also a breast cancer survivor, April 14, 2019, started out as one of those days where she felt healthy enough to do the work. But as St. Louis police officers began arresting a man outside City Hall that afternoon, she started filming. Soon, Morrow herself would be arrested — and in a lawsuit filed last Friday, the ACLU of Missouri alleges it was retaliation for her First Amendment activities.

'Believe Project' Literary Show Highlights Black Authors, Children’s Books In St. Louis Jul 24, 2020

A new local literacy-based children's show dubbed as “the modern, hip-hop Mr. Rogers experience” aims to highlight Black authors and Black protagonists. Four pilot episodes of the Believe Project include appearances by local authors, literacy vignettes of children reciting their favorite books or poems, and creative learning activities for children associated with the featured books.

New WATER Institute At St. Louis University Aims To Solve Big Problems Jul 24, 2020

Last month, St. Louis University launched its interdisciplinary WATER Institute. Director Amanda Cox and Administrative Director Rachel Rimmerman join host Sarah Fenske to explain what it's focused on and describe some important water-related research already underway.

St. Louis County Executive Primary Debate: 4 Democratic Candidates Square Off Jul 22, 2020

The four Democratic candidates running for St. Louis County Executive face off in an hour-long debate. Nine Network, 5 On Your Side and St. Louis Public Radio partnered to host the hour-long St. Louis County Executive Democratic Primary Debate between incumbent Sam Page and his challengers: Jake Zimmerman, Mark Mantovani and Jamie Tolliver. The candidates took questions from Casey Nolen, Jason Rosenbaum and Ruth Ezell. Topics included challenges presented by the coronavirus, gun violence, mass transit and economic development. Republican candidates Paul Berry III and Ed Golterman are vying for their party’s nomination.

‘Dewey Defeats Truman’ Depicts ‘Little Man From Missouri’ And His Shocking Upset Jul 22, 2020

Author A.J. Baime joins host Sarah Fenske to discuss his new book, "Dewey Defeats Truman: The 1948 Election and the Battle for America’s Soul." The book explores how Truman shocked the media, the political polling experts and his opponents by winning election to the seat he'd inherited three years before with the death of Franklin Roosevelt.

‘After Shelter’ Gathers St. Louisans’ Pandemic Reflections For StoryCorps Jul 22, 2020

The Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis has added a new component to its exhibition of the work of Derek Fordjour: a "microprogram" called After Shelter. The museum is asking patrons to share their oral reflections on Fordjour's art and the pandemic, with the audio to be archived with the national nonprofit StoryCorps. Chief Curator Wassan Al-Khudhairi joined host Sarah Fenske to explain the idea behind the audio project and how it fits with the themes in Fordjour's work. We also played some of the museum patrons' reflections.

'Be The Change': One Man's Journey From Protester To Police Officer Jul 21, 2020

Aloni Benson found himself on the frontlines in Ferguson in 2014, calling for change after a police officer killed Michael Brown Jr. But protesting wasn't enough. Two years later, Benson became an officer with the St. Louis County Police Department. St. Louis Public Radio’s Marissanne Lewis-Thompson talks with him and his wife Khalia about his decision to become a cop, raising a black son, and what it’s like being a police officer assigned to protests.

Remembering MLK's 'Field General,' C.T. Vivian Jul 21, 2020

Vernon Mitchell Jr. was an undergrad at the University of Missouri-Columbia, intent on heading next to medical school, when he enrolled in a course on the Black freedom movement — and soon decided to become a historian instead. “It changed everything for me,” Mitchell recalls about the class, taught by Mizzou’s Carol Anderson. And one moment, and person, stood out to Mitchell as his professor introduced her students to key figures and events within the civil rights movement: the Reverend C.T. Vivian, a Missouri native described by the New York Times as a “field general” for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The footage of Vivian confronting law enforcement in 1965 on the steps of a Selma courthouse has remained seared in Mitchell’s consciousness ever since. Mitchell, who is now a faculty member at Washington University in St. Louis, joins host Sarah Fenske to remember the life and legacy of Vivian. He passed away Friday at the age of 95 — mere hours before a fellow civil rights legend, U.S. Rep. John Lewis, 80, also died.

Successful MLB Season Would Be 'A Remarkable Feat Of Human Cooperation,' Says Derrick Goold Jul 21, 2020

As the St. Louis Cardinals start their 2020 season with a home opener against the Pittsburgh Pirates this Friday, a burst of brightly colored familiarity will return to downtown. But not the tens of thousands of fans that typically fill Busch Stadium. As the Redbirds’ devoted fans gather instead (and hopefully in socially distant ways) around TVs and other devices to take in the abbreviated, 60-game season, conditions inside the stadium will be a whole new ballgame. In this conversation, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch’s Derrick Goold joins host Sarah Fenske to talk about the upcoming season. They discuss some of the biggest changes — and the big remaining questions — associated with this year’s play, as well as the strength of the year’s roster.

Sound Bites: With Caribbean Roots, Jerk Soul Finds Home In St. Louis Jul 20, 2020

When one thinks of “the island life,” sentiments of a tropical ocean breeze, easygoing lifestyle and good food likely come to mind. And that is very much part of the experience. But with the good, comes the bad — and Zahra Spencer and Telie Woods saw the worst of it. They are the owners of Jerk Soul, a Caribbean carryout restaurant on Cherokee Street. Sauce Magazine detailed Spencer’s and Woods’ harrowing story of opening their first restaurant — despite hurricanes, transatlantic moves and barely knowing one another in its July issue. Guest host Jeremy D. Goodwin talks with with Spencer and Woods for our monthly Sound Bites segment alongside Sauce Magazine managing editor Heather Hughes Huff.

Tre G Wants To See More Representation Of Black Queer Musicians In St. Louis Jul 20, 2020

Guest host Jeremy D. Goodwin talks with singer-songwriter-actor Tre G about navigating “the new normal” as a performer and finding his place in an ongoing movement towards racial equity. Recently, he organized WerQfest to do just that. The digital festival was geared toward celebrating Black queer art and community.

‘Unprecedented’ Increase In Children Hospitalized For Self-Harm, Pediatrician Says Jul 20, 2020

Hospitals in St. Louis are seeing more children and teens showing up for self-harm during the pandemic, according to emergency medicine pediatrician Dr. Rachel Charney of SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital. In this interview, she talks about what is leading to the increase in these cases, as well as potential warning signs that parents and caregivers can look for.

Millet, Van Gogh, Dalí Paintings On Extended Display At St. Louis Art Museum Exhibit Jul 17, 2020

The St. Louis Art Museum has extended because of the pandemic the stay of “Millet and Modern Art: From Van Gogh to Dalí” through September. The curators say the exhibition acknowledges the contributions of a largely forgotten artist who was instrumental in the birth of modern art: 19th-century French painter Jean-François Millet. Millet’s work features landscapes, nudes and other work that inspired other artists such as Vincent van Gogh and Claude Monet. In an encore of this conversation aired February 20, 2020, host Sarah Fenske talks with Simon Kelly, curator of modern and contemporary art at the St. Louis Art Museum.

Jane Elliott Taught Kids Not To Be Prejudiced; Now She Sees Racism Growing Jul 17, 2020

In April 1968, Jane Elliott was a third grade teacher in the small town of Riceville, Iowa. On the day after Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, she felt compelled to shift her lesson plans. She decided to teach her young white students about discrimination by telling the children that brown-eyed people were superior to their blue-eyed peers. She watched as the students turned on each other. Then, the next day, she reversed the script. The exercise highlighted the arbitrary and irrational basis of prejudice, an issue that Americans continue to grapple with more than five decades later. This is an encore of a conversation we first aired September 9. 2019

How The Mississippi River Shaped St. Louis Jul 16, 2020

We have an encore of discussion from December 6, 2019. The Mississippi River has been integral to life in the St. Louis region for hundreds of years — from Native Americans who occupied areas in and around Cahokia Mounds to the later arrival of Europeans. Host Sarah Fenske talks with Andrew Wanko, public historian for the Missouri Historical Society and author of the new book, “Great River City: How the Mississippi Shaped St. Louis.” David Lobbig, curator of environmental life at the Missouri Historical Society, also joined the conversation. He is the content lead on the Missouri History Museum’s newest exhibit, “Mighty Mississippi,” which is open at the museum until June 2021.

Walter Johnson Explains Why St. Louis Is 'The Broken Heart Of America' Jul 16, 2020

We have an encore of a discussion from May 11, 2020. Walter Johnson’s book reframes American history so that St. Louis sits at the center. No more looking at the nation as if it’s that New Yorker cartoon where everything important happened in New York City or Los Angeles, and the vast middle was mere flyover country. In Johnson’s telling, the St. Louis story is the American story — and it’s a messy, often ugly, one. The book is titled “The Broken Heart of America: St. Louis and the Violent History of the United States.”

St. Louis Patients Wait Weeks For Coronavirus Test Results Jul 15, 2020

In late June, when a customer at Herbie’s restaurant in Clayton tested positive for the coronavirus, owner Aaron Teitelbaum immediately closed the business and told employees to get tested to see if they were infected. Teitelbaum expected to wait a few days for his employees’ results to come back. But almost three weeks later, many were still waiting. In this episode, we hear from Teitelbaum, as well as the incident commander of the St. Louis Metropolitan Pandemic Task Force, Dr. Alex Garza. Garza describes why it’s taken so long for many COVID-19 test results to be delivered and what hospital admissions data says about how the coronavirus is spreading through the region.

Meet The 2020 LaunchCode Inclusion Moonshot Award Winner: Flourish St. Louis Jul 15, 2020

Less than two years ago, the staff behind Flourish St. Louis set a daring goal: eliminate racial disparity and infant mortality by 2033. They called it their organization’s “North Star,” or main purpose. The drive to reach that goal was reignited when the organization earlier this month received the 2020 Launchcode Moonshot Inclusion award for its approach to improving the health of Black moms and babies. Kendra Copanas is the executive director of Generate Health, the center that provides staff support and coordination for Flourish community-wide effort. Mia Daugherty is a member of the Flourish Community Leaders Cabinet. Copanas and Daugherty join guest host Jonathan Ahl to share the experiences of the people the organization serves and the work that’s led them to this point.

Meet The 2020 LaunchCode Challenge Moonshot Award Winner: Black Males In Education St. Louis Jul 15, 2020

Darryl Diggs Jr. and Howard Fields III, the founders of Black Males in Education St. Louis, talk about how their platform helps educators of color connect, find mentorship and advocate for more Black voices in the classrooms. Diggs and Fields received the 2020 Launchcode Moonshot Challenge award. Diggs is the principal at Hardin Middle School in the City of St. Charles School District, and Fields is the assistant superintendent at Kirkwood School District.

How The Cocoa And Cumin Concert Series Spotlights St. Louis Artists Of Color Jul 14, 2020

Vanika Spencer and Sapna Bhakta are St. Louis transplants, but they’ve made the city their home and are doing their part to shine a light on everything it has to offer. They are the duo behind the Cocoa and Cumin Concert Series. For the past couple of years, Spencer and Bhakta have hosted concerts right from their south St. Louis apartments. The smaller space offers the opportunity for people to connect with the artists in an intimate way, and vice versa. Their goal is to showcase local musicians of color. They join producer Lara Hamdan to talk about the series' growth and what future events will look like.

Preparations Underway For Reopening St. Louis Schools In The Fall Jul 14, 2020

Health and education leaders in St. Louis County and the city recently released a set of guidelines for schools to use as they decide how to conduct in-person learning in the fall. The list includes things like staggered lunch times, protocols for health screenings upon entry, and guidance on mask usage for students and teachers. In this episode, we talk with Superintendent Art McCoy of the Jennings School District to get his perspective on reopening. We also hear from several parents, including a mother who started the organization, Bridge 2 Hope – St. Louis, in order to elevate parent voices in conversations about education, particularly in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

How Educators Are Rethinking History Curriculum Jul 13, 2020

As the Black Lives Matter movement draws attention around the world to long-entrenched racial injustices of the present day, the past looms large as well. Reckoning with United States history seems critical to any contemporary progress on everything from housing disparities to mass incarceration. Guest host Rachel Lippmann hosts a conversation with educators and historians focused on rethinking the teaching of history. The show will delve into how curriculums have evolved in the past — and still need to change going forward.

How Guidelines Surrounding International Students In Age Of Coronavirus Could Affect Colleges Jul 10, 2020

Earlier this week, the Trump administration said that it planned to enforce a rule that international students must take in-person classes to be in the country on student visas. That’s even though COVID-19 has many universities adjusting plans for the fall semester. Some are going online-only. Others plan to only partially reopen their campuses. And up to 1 million students could be affected. Joining host Sarah Fenske to talk about what this decision means for students enrolled in local colleges, and for those colleges, is Jim Hacking. He is an attorney who specializes in immigration law. Also joining the conversation was Mark Kamimura-Jiménez. He is the Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and Dean of the Center for Diversity and Inclusion at Washington University in St. Louis. The segment includes comments from Victor Butinier, an international PhD student at Washington University that would have to go back to France if classes go entirely online.

Analyzing The Four Democratic Candidates Running For St. Louis County Executive Jul 10, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske talks with STLPR reporter Jason Rosenbaum about the four Democratic candidates vying to be St. Louis County Executive: Sam Page, Jake Zimmerman, Mark Mantovani and Jamie Tolliver. During the interview, we hear highlights from the candidates' appearances on the Politically Speaking podcast.

Wallow, Grieve And Dance With CaveofswordS Latest Record Jul 09, 2020

St. Louis band CaveofSwords promises that its new album is quote “Good Music to Feel Bad to.” That’s a great title, and the songs deliver. Two of its members join host Sarah Fenske to discuss the band’s inspiration and perspiration. In the words of the band, these are “Songs to quote wallow and grieve with your friends, but also dance to." All proceeds from digital sales of "Good Music to Feel Bad to" for the summer of 2020 will go to Arch City Defenders & Action STL.

St. Louis' Hill Neighborhood Is Focus Of New Documentary ‘America’s Last Little Italy’ Jul 09, 2020

For a long time, 27-year-old St. Louis native Joseph Puleo mostly associated the city’s iconic Hill neighborhood with a wealth of delicious Italian food and colorful fire hydrants. That changed a couple years ago when a conversation with a fellow Italian American, Rio Vitale, prompted Puleo to begin what would become his first feature-length film. “He was concerned we were losing stories that need to be told,” Puleo says. Within five days of Vitale’s suggestion that he dig into the history of the Hill, Puleo was in longtime residents’ homes. Many dozens of interviews and months of film editing later, “America’s Last Little Italy: The Hill” is making its debut at the 20th Annual — and first virtual — Whitaker St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase. The documentary is one of 15 film programs that will be available for streaming July 10 to 19. Listen as host Sarah Fenske talks with Puleo and with Chris Clark, artistic director for Cinema St. Louis.

What ‘Defund The Police’ Could Look Like In A City Known For Violent Crime Jul 08, 2020

Defunding police departments is a major goal for many Black Lives Matter protesters. But for others, it’s a scary idea — and that’s true for many St. Louis residents. In this episode, we explore what it means to defund the police in a city that struggles with high rates of violent crime. Criminologist Richard Rosenfeld joins the discussion, as well as California-based reporter Abené Clayton. Clayton talks about what’s behind a big drop in violent crime in Oakland and what St. Louis can learn from the West Coast city’s experience.

Pandemic Delay Led To More Opportunities For North Sarah Food Hub Jul 08, 2020

Gibron Jones had big plans for an industrial kitchen in north St. Louis. The kitchen was located in the city’s Vandeventer neighborhood, just a bit north of Delmar. And his plan was to open a food production incubation space there — the North Sarah Food Hub. He wanted to help St. Louisans start food-based businesses — and bring healthier options to their neighbors. Jones got his city permits finalized in March. Then COVID-19 shut the city down. He found himself making a very unusual pivot. He joins Sarah Fenske to describe what happened — and what comes next for this innovative food hub.

Protesting When Marching Isn't A Safe Option Jul 07, 2020

Zulyema Tang-Martinez wanted to join the protests sweeping the U.S. this year. She has a long record of activism dating back to her days as a student at Berkeley in the 1960s and 70s. But the University of Missouri-St. Louis biology professor emeritus is now 75. She has health conditions. How could she join in without taking unnecessary risks? The solution for Tang-Martinez was a car caravan — and on June 20, it found big success. She joins host Sarah Fenske to to talk about that protest, and marching for justice when you probably shouldn’t be marching at all.

Nicholas Phillips of St. Louis Magazine Talks Kim Gardner Jul 07, 2020

Loathed by many police officers but beloved by progressive supporters, St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner is arguably the city's most controversial elected official. Journalist Nicholas Phillips explains what he learned about her in a deep dig for St. Louis Magazine, and what the statistics tell us about her performance as city prosecutor.

Brian Owens Is Building A ‘Creative Ecosystem’ In North St. Louis County Jul 07, 2020

Soul singer Brian Owens credits the "heavenly hookup" for two developments at the nonprofit he founded in his native Ferguson: the donation of a building it will use as headquarters and $200,000 in funding. Owens joins host Sarah Fenske to describe his vision for Life Creative, a "creative ecosystem" that includes both the Life Arts nonprofit and a for-profit platform.

How To Safeguard Mental Health As Pandemic Becomes ‘A Really Long Haul’ Jul 06, 2020

It was one thing to navigate the initial stress and disruptions of the coronavirus pandemic. And early on, as people looked for ways to guard mental well-being amid big changes, many people realized that it helped to have a sense of horizon in sight. “I can shelter in place for a month” and “One semester at home is manageable” were common — and useful — mindsets. But as weeks turn into months and maybe even years of new normals, frustration and anxiety may be mounting. In this conversation with host Sarah Fenske, Dr. Jessi Gold of Washington University offers strategies and insights for safeguarding your mental health at this time.

St. Louis’ ‘Close The Workhouse’ Campaign Gears Up To Close The Deal Jul 06, 2020

For more than two years, activists have sought to persuade city officials to close the city's Medium Security Institution, better known as the Workhouse. They believed they had the votes to strip funding for the jail from the city's Fiscal Year 2021 budget, only to see their dreams dashed. Now they're pinning their hopes on a new board bill introduced by President Lewis Reed. Action St. Louis Executive Director Kayla Reed joined us to discuss the legislation.

Hearing More Fireworks This Year? You’re Not Alone Jul 02, 2020

Many sanctioned fireworks shows are canceled this summer due to the pandemic, but people continue to set off everything from firecrackers to Roman candles in backyards and streets throughout the region. The number of calls to the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department about illegal fireworks has quadrupled from the same time last year. This episode features various perspectives on fireworks including enthusiasts, the mildly annoyed and pet owners. We also hear from the St. Louis Fire Department about the dangers of using fireworks.

In ‘Friends And Strangers,’ J. Courtney Sullivan Examines Female Power and Privilege Jul 02, 2020

Author J. Courtney Sullivan joins host Sarah Fenske for a discussion of her new book, "Friends and Strangers," which explores privilege and the "hollowing out" of America through the lives of two women: journalist Elisabeth and her babysitter Sam.

St. Louis Restaurateurs Navigate Delivery Service Fees, Reopening Jul 01, 2020

The pandemic has led to an increased demand for food delivery services, like DoorDash and Postmates. In March, Chipotle Mexican Grill announced they would expand their delivery services by partnering with Uber Eats. But for local eateries, the price of working with a third party delivery service can be steep. In this episode, local restaurateurs share their experience working with third party delivery services, as well as how they are approaching the re-opening of their facilities.

The Intertwined History — And Future — Of St. Louis And The 100-Year-Old ACLU Jul 01, 2020

With protests against police brutality and attention to systemic racism sweeping the nation in 2020, there’s renewed urgency surrounding the efforts of the American Civil Liberties Union. The organization is also celebrating 100 years of existence, both at the national level and in Missouri — and a crew at Washington University Libraries has recently dug deep into records of that century’s worth of history. In this episode, host Sarah Fenske talks about the past and present of the ACLU with Curator Of Local History Miranda Rectenwald and Luz María Henríquez, executive director of the ACLU of Missouri.

Analysis: STLPR's Corinne Ruff On The Resurgence of Developments Toward Potential Airport Privatization Jun 30, 2020

On Monday, the St. Louis Board of Aldermen gave initial approval to a plan that would put airport privatization before voters. The citywide vote would come this fall, with a big push to lease the airport to a private vendor by next July. So why now? And who stands to benefit? In this episode of the talk show, St. Louis Public Radio's Corinne Ruff joins host Sarah Fenske to talk about the idea Mayor Lyda Krewson once rejected is now on the fast-track. Listeners weigh in during the conversation as well.

'With You STL' Shows DEA Focus On Outreach, Opioid Crisis Jun 30, 2020

More often than not, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration is associated with tracking drug cartels and arresting traffickers. But the law enforcement agency also ensures physicians and pharmacists are following the law with regards to prescriptions, a role that has become even more critical as well as more challenging in recent months. And in the DEA’s St. Louis Division, the COVID-19 pandemic has prompted more focus on community outreach, particularly as the opioid crisis continues to ravage the country. Earlier this month, the St. Louis County Department of Health reported a 47% increase in opioid-related deaths among Black men in 2019. This spring, the division launched the website With You STL in an effort to help connect community members with critical resources for prevention, treatment and recovery. In this conversation, Special Agent in Charge Bill Callahan and Inez Davis, the division’s diversion program manager, talk with host Sarah Fenske. Representatives from local treatment and prevention organizations offer their perspectives as well.

St. Louis Couple Points Guns At Protesters — Was It Legal? Jun 29, 2020

Portland Place residents Mark and Patricia McCloskey came outside their million-dollar home in St. Louis Sunday evening and brandished guns at protesters who were making their way to protest in front of Mayor Lyda Krewson’s house. Did the McCloskey’s illegally brandish their weapons? Does the castle doctrine come into play? How does Portland Place being a private street affect the rights of its residents — and demonstrators passing through? Host Sarah Fenske talks with our Legal Roundtable panelists about those issues and more.

"St. Louis on the Air" Extended: Fans Share Their Thoughts On "Country Grammar's" Impact Jun 26, 2020

"St. Louis on the Air" hears from residents sharing their fondest memories of Nelly's "Country Grammar" and what they admire most about Nelly’s success and representation of the region.

SLU Researcher Worries Pandemic Will Be Normalized — Unless Social Norms Change Jun 26, 2020

As an assistant professor of health management and policy at St. Louis University, Michael Rozier is used to thinking a lot about matters of public health — and finding plenty of reasons for hope. But last week, with COVID-19 case numbers in the U.S. suggesting any end to the pandemic is still a long way off, he took to Twitter to offer some less-than-optimistic predictions. In this episode, Rozier joins host Sarah Fenske for a look at how and why people are — and in other cases aren’t — working to change key social norms during an ongoing pandemic. Rozier, who is also a Jesuit priest, emphasizes that this crisis is still solvable. The conversation also includes comments from acclaimed restaurateur Gerard Craft and St. Louis-based rideshare driver Bob Ell.

At 20, Nelly’s ‘Country Grammar’ Still Makes St. Louis Proud Jun 26, 2020

Twenty years ago, a record release on June 27 changed the course of St. Louis’ presence in the hip-hop world and overall cultural identity. Cornell Haynes Jr., a.k.a. Nelly, debuted his first solo album, “Country Grammar,” bringing national attention to St. Louis’ distinct accent and steez. The album rose to No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and is in a rare class of hip-hop albums to be awarded a diamond certification, having sold more than 10 million copies. Host Sarah Fenske revisits that moment with Vango Jones. Jones is a St. Louis native, and he recently wrote an in-depth piece for the St. Louis American about how “Country Grammar” helped shape St. Louis pride in many aspects, from sports to fashion. Residents also share their fondest memories and what they admire most about Nelly’s success and representation of the region.

Sheriff, Advocates Brace For Surge Of Evictions In St. Louis Jun 25, 2020

When the coronavirus pandemic forced St. Louis courts to close, there were about 150 eviction cases in the works. Since then, the St. Louis Sheriff's Department says phones have been ringing off the hook with requests from landlords whose tenants have failed to pay rent. In this episode, Sarah Fenske talks with Sheriff Vernon Betts about how his office is preparing for a surge in evictions once the courts fully reopen. Several housing advocates also join the discussion to contextualize the broader housing crisis they foresee if hundreds of St. Louisans end up being evicted in the months ahead.

St. Louis' LGBTQ Film Festival Goes Virtual For 13th Annual Run Jun 25, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske explores the 13th annual QFest, presented by Cinema St. Louis. The film festival showcases contemporary gay cinema, spotlights the lives of LGBTQ people and celebrates queer culture. Joining the discussion is Chris Clark, Cinema St. Louis' artistic director and QFest organizer, to talk through what this year's festival has to offer. Also joining the discussion is local director Dan Steadman, who’s participating in QFest for the first time and has two short films on the lineup.

How A MoBot Entomologist Became A 'Single Bug Dad' Jun 24, 2020

Earlier this year, the federal government intercepted an unusual find: egg cases holding what could become hundreds of black market praying mantises. Host Sarah Fenske explores how those egg cases ended up at the Missouri Botanical Garden —and what happened when they hatched.

Ali Araghi Discusses 'The Immortals of Tehran' Jun 24, 2020

The author of the “The Immortals of Tehran” is an Iranian translator and writer. He was born in Tehran. But for the past four years, he’s lived here in St. Louis, where he's a PhD student at Washington University. He discusses his new book, and time in the Midwest, with host Sarah Fenske.

COVID-19 Treatment Developed In St. Louis To Begin Human Trials Jun 23, 2020

A drug developed in St. Louis is beginning human trials with the idea of helping those most at risk of dying from COVID-19. ATI-450 was originally developed by Confluence Discovery Technologies in 2013 as a treatment for autoimmune diseases, particularly rheumatoid arthritis. Confluence co-founder Joe Monahan discusses with host Sarah Fenske how it might now also help with the new coronavirus -- and what it will take to bring it to market.

Crime Victim Center Responds To Surge In Domestic Violence Cases Jun 22, 2020

Nearly 90% of the Crime Victim Center’s cases deal with domestic violence, and according to the nonprofit’s executive director Marti Kelly, there is currently an increase in such cases in the St. Louis region. She believes this is due to recent stay-at-home orders. In this episode, Sarah Fenske talks with Kelly about the organization's work, and domestic violence survivor Alexis shares how the Crime Victim Center helped her and her son in the courtroom.

Body Cameras Will Bring Changes To St. Louis' Police Department Jun 22, 2020

The city of St. Louis approved a $5.7 million contract last week to outfit its police officers with body cameras. City officials said some cops could be wearing cameras within a month. But the policies surrounding the cameras remain unclear. The spokesman for the city’s police union argued in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch that any changes to equipment need the union’s approval. The city counselor disagrees, saying the power rests solely on Chief John Hayden. And with the union spokesman (a controversial figure in his own right) claiming he has “no confidence” in Hayden, the details could become a flashpoint. Public Safety Director Jimmie Edwards joins host Sarah Fenske to discuss the body cameras and the devilish details that could keep the police union and transparency advocates at loggerheads in their implementation.

'The 2nd 4th Of July': Juneteenth Commemorates End Of Slavery In U.S. Jun 19, 2020

Juneteenth, sometimes called Freedom Day or Jubilee Day, is one of the oldest celebrations practiced in the United States. And it has taken on added significance during periods of the country’s history where the push to end racial inequities has been in the spotlight. Local Juneteenth parade organizer Carla "Coffee" Wright and Calvin Riley Jr, director of the George B. Vashon Museum, join host Sarah Fenske to talk about the holiday's origins and commemoration of it.

City Museum And Other Hands-On Places Discuss Their Reopening Jun 19, 2020

In recent weeks, many St. Louis institutions have begun to reopen after months of coronavirus-mandated closures. City Museum General Manager Rick Erwin discussed the difficulties of adapting a free-for-all playland to the age of COVID-19. Reps from the St. Louis Science Center and Magic House also shared their thoughts.

St. Louis Lambert International Airport Celebrates 100 Years Of Existence Jun 18, 2020

Thursday marks 100 years since the inception of St. Louis Lambert International Airport. On June 18, 1920, Major Albert Bond Lambert and the Missouri Aeronautical Society leased 170 acres of farmland in north St. Louis County to serve as an airfield for St. Louis. Today it is the oldest continuously operating commercial airport in the U.S. Daniel Rust is the author of “The Aerial Crossroads of America: St. Louis Lambert Airport and Flying Across America: The Airline Passenger Experience.” He joins host Sarah Fenske to delve deeper into St. Louis Lambert International Airport’s 100 years and its impact in the region.

17-Year-Old Poet Honored As 'Young Visionary' Jun 18, 2020

At 17, St. Louis resident Antigone Chambers Reed is already a writer, actor and human rights activist. And earlier this month, she added yet another role to the mix when she was named the 2020 Jamala Rogers Young Visionary. The award is given annually by the Youth Council for Positive Development, recognizing young adults who are working for social justice and making a difference in their community. The council is associated with the Organization for Black Struggle, which celebrated 40 years of existence earlier this year. Reed’s project, Writing Through Trauma, impressed the selection committee with its vision to provide people in her community with a safe, creative space to process, heal and share lived experiences of violence. Making use of the $2,000 prize that accompanies the award, Reed expects to launch her free virtual workshop later this year. In this conversation she shares her passion for the work she is doing. The segment also includes pre-recorded comments from youth empowerment organizer Janis Mensah. In addition to discussing her plans for her workshop, Reed reads part of her poem "You Ask Me About North Saint Louis."

Engaging Children In Political Protest Jun 17, 2020

The average protester might seem like a young adult, but parents are also bringing out their children with them to demonstrate. Host Sarah Fenske explores that decision with parents about how they navigate the ongoing shift in culture when it comes to conversations about race, and making the decision to bring kids to protests. Joining the discussion are We Stories board members Jenna Voss and Pamela Washington.

After Columbus' Removal, Who Should St. Louisans Honor With A New Statue In Tower Grove Park? Jun 17, 2020

After Tower Grove Park removed a statue of Christopher Columbus on June 16, it doesn't look like a new statue will be erected anytime soon due to COVID-19 budget challenges, according to a park official. But that got us wondering who St. Louisans should honor with a statue: Dred Scott, Josephine Baker, someone from the Osage Nation? We got the backstory from Washington University history professor Peter Kastor and architecture historian Chris Naffziger. We also sought listener suggestions.

‘Biological Annihilation’ Another Challenge For Humanity, MoBOT’s Peter Raven Says Jun 16, 2020

In between all the news updates about the COVID-19 pandemic and protests against police brutality, a totally different story jumped out from the St. Louis Post-Dispatch the other day. “Mass species extinctions are accelerating,” the headline began. That’s the existentially disturbing takeaway from a new study co-authored by Peter Raven, president emeritus of the Missouri Botanical Garden. Examining the populations of nearly 30,000 vertebrates, and particularly the 515 species that are on the brink of extinction, Raven and his colleagues found that 20% of all species could be gone by the middle of the 21st century. From there, the numbers could grow far worse in the coming decades because of how “extinction breeds extinction.” It’s all part of what Raven describes as an accelerating, human-caused “ongoing sixth mass extinction” — and it’s also a state of affairs about which Raven refuses to despair. In this segment, he joins host Sarah Fenske to dissect the new study’s findings and explore where to go from here in trying to prevent ecological collapse.

Local Book Stores See Surge of Interest in Books About Racism Jun 16, 2020

Nine of the top 10 books on the New York Times' nonfiction bestseller list are about race, or racism. And local book stores are seeing a similar surge. Jeffrey Blair of Eye See Me African American Children's Bookstore and Danielle King of Left Bank Books joined host Sarah Fenske to describe what they're seeing, and share their picks.

How Debunked Theories Of Human Origins Still Influence Contemporary Understandings Of Race, Racism Jun 15, 2020

As part of his research into human origins for a recent book, Dr. Joshua Swamidass, an associate professor of laboratory and genomic medicine, has looked closely at how race has been defined in recent centuries. "If you go back about 150 years ago in science, and 500 years ago in theology, people have been wondering about this idea of polygenesis,” a long-dominant theory of disparate human origins, Swamidass explains. “Many scientists believed that — and that there’s a hierarchy [of races], with Europeans at the top.” Genetic science since the 1960s and ’70s has strongly disproved such ideas, and yet this has led to what Swamidass calls "a hangover of misunderstanding" surrounding terms like "race" and "racism." In this episode, host Sarah Fenske talks with Swamidass about why understanding the ways in which humans thought about race, and were influenced by racism, in the past is perhaps more timely than ever.

Florissant Police Detective Fired After Video Sparks Outrage — And Protests Jun 15, 2020

Sarah Fenske talks with St. Louis Public Radio political correspondent, Jason Rosenbaum, about a third straight weekend of protests in St. Louis, his recent reporting on the firing of Florissant police detective Joshua Smith (after a video of him hitting a man with an SUV sparked outrage throughout the region), and his recent conversation with outgoing Ferguson Mayor James Knowles III.

Florissant Resident Kennedy Mitchum Got Merriam-Webster To Rethink Its Definition Of Race Jun 15, 2020

What’s in a word? The answer is a whole lot when it comes to words such as “race” and “racism.” And contemporary definitions of these terms can vary widely — both in dictionaries and in hearts and minds. Florissant resident Kennedy Mitchum recently grappled with this in an unusual way, and with striking results. After noticing some of her day-to-day associates citing Merriam-Webster’s definition of racism as a kind of dismissive proof text in conversation with her, the Nerinx Hall High School and Drake University alumna reached out to the dictionary’s editors, asking them to update the entry to better reflect the historical context of systemic oppression. Many emails later, the editors eventually came around, ultimately telling Mitchum that changes to the entries on “racism” as well as related terms are now in the works.

Obituary: Former St. Louis Police Captain David Dorn Dies At 77 Jun 12, 2020

We remember former St. Louis Police Captain David Dorn. He served 38 years with the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and served as Chief of Police for Moline Acres. Dorn was shot and killed on June 2nd after responding to an alarm at the pawn shop where he moonlit as a security guard. His death shocked those who knew him here in St. Louis, and those who didn’t across the country. Hundreds of people gathered on June 10th at the St. Louis Friendly Temple on Martin Luther King Drive for David Dorn’s funeral. He is survived by his wife, adult children and grandchildren.

Ed Wheatley Discusses 'Baseball in St. Louis: From Little Leagues to Major Leagues Jun 12, 2020

In 2016, Ed Wheatley retired from his job as an engineer at AT&T. But Wheatley has kept busy — to the point that Reedy Press recently published his third book in as many years. Wheatley’s “Baseball in St. Louis: From Little Leagues to Major Leagues” surveys the city’s rich baseball history, from the Major Leaguers who got their start here to the semi-pro and amateur leagues that flourished for decades. In this conversation, Wheatley shares some of the remarkable facts he uncovered about baseball’s 160 years in St. Louis. He recalls the Khoury League, which began here in 1934, the Negro Leagues that provided a home for some gifted players shut out of the big leagues, and the high school and college teams that proved a major source of talent for the St. Louis Cardinals and more.

Meet Harris-Stowe President Corey S. Bradford Sr. Jun 12, 2020

Corey S. Bradford Sr. chose a tough time to come home to the St. Louis metro. The native St. Louisan took office as president of Harris-Stowe State University on May 4 — an unprecedented time for higher education, which is grappling with both funding shortages due to the economic downturn and complications from the coronavirus. In this interview, he talks with Sarah Fenske about his career in higher education, his reasons for returning to St. Louis and the challenges Harris-Stowe faces in an uncertain time.

Duo Dogs Helps People With Mobility Or Hearing Issues Stay Independent Jun 11, 2020

St. Louis-based nonprofit Duo Dogs has placed trained service dogs with clients in 38 states, as well as Canada and the United Kingdom. Their dogs are taught a wide range of skills that make them the perfect assistant for people who have trouble getting around or have hearing disabilities. In this episode, we learn about how the organization trains their puppies to become the ultimate companion to those in need.

Ohun Ashe Seeks To Uplift Black Businesses Even As She Protests For Black Lives Jun 11, 2020

The death of George Floyd has not just sparked action to protest against police brutality, but it’s also led to more conversations about how to support and uplift black Americans. Anti-racism books are selling out and topping best-seller lists, while infographics about how to best support local black-owned businesses are filling social media feeds. LaShell Eikerenkoetter, also known as Ohun Ashe, advocates for black lives in the streets as a frontline protester — and she does the same advocacy online for black entrepreneurs. She created For the Culture STL, a directory of black-owned businesses and events in the St. Louis area. She said support for the initiative has skyrocketed over the past couple of weeks. She host Sarah Fenske to talk about these two parallel efforts.

Wake Up' Film Takes On The Scourge Of Suicide Jun 10, 2020

Alex Lindley and Danny Kerth are among the St. Louisans affected by suicide; they’ve each lost friends and family to it, including their mutual friend Ryan Candice. After Candice’s death in 2014, Lindley and Kerth started Project Wake Up — a nonprofit organization working to destigmatize mental illness and suicide, and raise awareness about providing adequate access to mental health care in the country. Their film, “Wake Up," highlights the voices of people from various walks of life along their mental health journeys. Kerth joins host Sarah Fenske to talk about the film’s future and ways it aims to spread awareness about various ways to seek help, including telehealth care.

How Disruption Compels Change Jun 10, 2020

As a professor of political science at Washington University, Clarissa Rile Hayward had a front-row seat for the protests and disruption that followed the death of Michael Brown in Ferguson in 2014. She paid attention as activists blocked highways, demonstrated at a symphony performance and even interrupted brunch at fancy restaurants to agitate for the Black Lives Matter movement. And she found herself thinking about what tactics work, and why. Hayward recently published a paper detailing this new way of looking at disruption in the Journal of Politics. In this interview, she discusses her findings and how they apply to the current protests sweeping the globe.

Tory Sanders' Death In Missouri Gets New Push From Lawmakers, NAACP Jun 10, 2020

Three years ago, a Tennessee man made a wrong turn and ended up lost in rural Missouri. The man, Tory Sanders, sought help from local law enforcement — only to end up dead in a Mississippi County jail cell eight hours later. Two top jail officials reportedly pressed down on Sanders' neck for more than three minutes even as a colleague urged them repeatedly to ease up. Then-Missouri Attorney General Josh Hawley declined to prosecute anyone for those actions. Now, George Floyd's death at the hands of Minneapolis police is reigniting interest in Sanders' 2017 death. Host Sarah Fenske talks with Missouri NAACP President Nimrod Chapel Jr.

Finding Ways Forward For Rural Communities That Already Faced Big Challenges Pre-Pandemic Jun 09, 2020

For Dr. Sameer Vohra and his colleagues, a focus on improving the lives of people in southern and central Illinois has long been at the heart of their work. But now, in the age of COVID-19, the urgency of their mission is more obvious than ever. Vohra leads SIU School of Medicine's Department of Population Science and Policy as its founding chair, and the coronavirus pandemic has magnified many of the challenges that the region’s small cities and rural communities already faced. In this episode, Vohra joins host Sarah Fenske to share his insights on these challenges — and what can be done to address them. The conversation also includes comments from Audrey Gough, the health director for Shelby County, Missouri, about what she’s observed on the other side of the Mississippi River.

Quincy Protesters Affirm That Black Lives Matter In Small-Town Illinois Jun 09, 2020

Quincy, Illinois, is among the thousands of cities across the country where demonstrations against police brutality have taken place in the past two weeks. Illinois’ Gem City has a population of about 40,000, with nearby Hannibal adding another 17,000. Jessica Benton and Michelle Renee Houston are longtime Quincy residents. They’re among the community members taking action in their own ways to raise awareness about police brutality and racism, joining a movement inspired by the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis. They join host Sarah Fenske on Tuesday’s St. Louis on the Air to talk about how their community is reacting to the Black Lives Matter movement and the change they’d like to see happen.

More Than 250 Missouri Nursing Home Residents Died From COVID-19 Jun 09, 2020

Data from the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services shows that, as of May 31, 253 Missouri nursing home residents had died of COVID-19. That’s about a third of the state’s 771 deaths. Marjorie Moore, executive director of VOYCE, an advocacy group for those in assisted living or nursing homes, joins to talk about what that figure says to her and the changes she would like to see moving forward.

For Blind, Deaf St. Louisans, Pandemic Adds New Challenges Jun 08, 2020

Most people have become uncomfortable navigating public life in the months since the new coronavirus hit, but things are even more difficult for those who experience the world differently than the majority, like those with blindness or those who are deaf. In this episode, host Sarah Fenske talks with Nick Silver, who is almost completely blind, and Colleen Burdiss, who is hard of hearing, about how they've been getting by in the last few months.

‘Certified Divorce Real Estate Specialist’ Is Ready For Pandemic-Fueled Spike In Splits Jun 08, 2020

In many cases, real estate transactions are a happy occasion. First-time homebuyers smile and hold up keys. Families move from one locale to another and begin exciting new chapters. But for others, selling or buying a home can be an enormous headache that’s just one part of a bigger mess: a divorce. And with the COVID-19 crisis, some lawyers have reported an increase in inquiries from people thinking about splitting up. St. Louis native Kathy Helbig has spent 25 years working in the region’s real estate industry. In that time, she’s helped many clients make these complex shifts as they try to work together — separately and as cordially as possible. And now, she’s Missouri’s first certified “divorce real estate specialist,” having recently undergone 40 hours of virtual training toward that end. In this segment, Helbig joins host Sarah Fenske to talk about what makes real estate transactions particularly tricky while divorcing. She also touches on the housing market trends she’s been observing during the coronavirus pandemic.

Thousands March In St. Louis, Continuing Protest Against Police Brutality Jun 08, 2020

Protests against police brutality continue to fill the streets of St. Louis, its suburbs and even the small towns of rural Illinois and Missouri. On Sunday, thousands braved brutal temperatures to march at St. Louis City Hall. St. Louis Public Radio’s Kayla Drake joins Sarah Fenske to share the latest on the movement that began in Ferguson and now has the world on the march.

Rallies In Kirkwood, St. Charles Highlight 10th Day Of Protests Jun 07, 2020

In the past week, protests against police brutality have filled the streets of St. Charles, O’Fallon, Kirkwood, Frontenac and more. In this episode, we explore the movement’s potential to lead to meaningful reform, as well as what will it take for all of St. Louis to affirm that black lives matter. Sarah Fenske talks with St. Louis Public Radio political editor, Fred Erlich, reporter Jonathan Ahl, and listeners who call in to share what’s on their minds at this moment in time.

Local Bartender And Actor Turns Her Hatchback Into A Roving Curbside Cabaret Jun 05, 2020

Theater and restaurant workers have taken huge economic hits lately, and back before the coronavirus pandemic hit, Anna Blair was a busy member of both industries as an actor and bartender. Now theaters are closed, and restaurants and bars are seeing little traffic. But after experiencing some initial deep worry, Blair came up with an idea for how she wanted to spend her time during this crisis. She calls it Curbside Cabaret Cocktails. People looking for “a jolt of joy” can book her to serenade them karaoke-style — and mix them a drink while she’s at it. The other day, the St. Louis on the Air team stopped by one of Blair’s curbside performances in south St. Louis.

The Legacy Of ‘Reticent Disrupter’ Ruth Harris, An Early President Of Stowe Teachers College Jun 05, 2020

Vanessa Garry is passionate about preparing aspiring administrators to lead today’s schools. As an assistant professor of educator preparation and leadership at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, she often finds herself looking to the past for some of the most important lessons she teaches. That history is not always easy to grapple with, and Garry knows its ugliness better than most. The Missouri General Assembly’s 1847 passage of an act making it illegal to educate people of color is just one early example. Even after that changed in 1865, public schools were segregated by law. By the early 20th century, African American communities were leading the way in search of progress and reform. And one of those leaders was growing up in St. Louis’ Ville neighborhood: Ruth Harris. Described by Garry as a “reticent disrupter” in the Jim Crow era, Harris in 1940 became the first African American female president of Stowe Teachers College, which is now Harris-Stowe State University. This year marks the 80th anniversary of her appointment. Listen as Garry talks with host Sarah Fenske about Harris’ life and legacy.

Children In Foster Care Facing Even Greater Challenges During The Pandemic Jun 05, 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted almost everyone, but the epidemic poses unique challenges to children in foster care. Host Sarah Fenske talks with Rita Soronen, CEO of the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption,about the unique challenges facing kids in foster care right now. Also joining the conversation is t. Louis-based foster care recruiter Edna Green, who recently helped in the adoption of three St. Louis siblings. We also talk with their newly adoptive mother, Celeste Scott.

A Space For Men Of Color To Heal From Societal Trauma Jun 04, 2020

Jermar Perry and Bryant Antoine are social workers and friends. They graduated together from St. Louis University's Master of Social Work program in May 2019. Since then, the like-minded duo have launched an initiative aimed at what they say is their “life’s purpose” — helping men of color gain access to mental health resources. Perry and Antoine are the facilitators of the Village Healing and Writing Circle for Men of Color. The group's objective is to "heal from oppression, racism, toxic masculinity and the daily ills of life." It’s an effort to help black men, who are often dismissive of seeking mental health help, open up about their experiences and the world of therapy.

O’Fallon Teens' Protest Draws Huge Response Jun 04, 2020

Seventeen-year-old Jalen Thompson and his friends Ryan Staples, Joseph Bartholomew and Ryan Fetsch had barely wrapped up their senior year at Fort Zumwalt West High School when protests against police brutality flared up across the country, sparked by the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis. Thompson and his friends wanted to seize the moment and find a way to galvanize their suburban community of O’Fallon, Missouri, which is largely white. They expected maybe a couple hundred people to show up at their June 1 demonstration — what they got was close to 2,000 people. In this episode of the talk show, Thompson joins host Sarah Fenske to talk about how he organized the first protest he’s ever even attended, the pushback he initially faced and how he’s already caught the attention of national media outlets — including MSNBC and the Today Show.

Pandemic Perpetuates 'Period Poverty' In St. Louis Region Jun 04, 2020

Last year, a report published in the medical journal Obstetrics and Gynecology surveying low-income women in St. Louis found that nearly two-thirds of them can’t always afford pads or tampons — often resorting to rags, diapers or paper towels. According to Laurel Segrist, program manager for the St. Louis Alliance for Period Supplies, such “period poverty” in the region is still as pressing of an issue than ever, perpetuated by the coronavirus pandemic.

How Cognitive Dissonance Explains The Risks We Take, Decisions We Make Jun 03, 2020

When Heather Mitchell saw those viral Lake of the Ozarks images of not-so-socially-distanced partying over Memorial Day weekend, she felt concern and frustration — like many people. But she also saw the situation as a clear example of the various ways humans respond when new information conflicts with previously held beliefs. Mitchell is an associate professor of psychology at Webster University, and she specializes in cognitive dissonance. In the age of COVID-19, that means exploring how people deal with that psychological conflict — and the ways they rectify the uncomfortable disharmony between their beliefs and behaviors. In this episode of the talk show, Mitchell talks with host Sarah Fenske and responds to listener comments and questions about this topic.

Analysis From STLPR's Jason Rosenbaum: Ella Jones' Victory, Protests, Curfews Jun 03, 2020

St. Louis Public Radio political correspondent Jason Rosenbaum goes behind the headlines with Sarah Fenske on several of the biggest developments in the region over the past couple days. Callers join the conversation as well.

Ferguson's Mayor-Elect Ella Jones On The Future She Envisions Jun 03, 2020

Last night, the city of Ferguson elected its first black mayor: Ella Jones. She is also the first woman to hold the position. She talks with host Sarah Fenske about her historic win as well as her concerns and hopes for the north St. Louis County municipality.

6 Years After Ferguson, St. Louis Activists' Message Remains: 'Black Lives Matter' Jun 02, 2020

Long before protests against police brutality spread to cities across the country, they took place in Ferguson. In this episode, Ferguson activists leading the community in today's protests share their thoughts on the movement now sweeping the globe, and where things stand right here in St. Louis.

Analysis: Four St. Louis Police Officers Shot During Protests Jun 02, 2020

Four St. Louis police officers were shot late Monday night after official protests in the city ended over the killing of George Floyd. Two were shot in the leg, one in the arm and one in the foot, said Police Chief John Hayden. He was visibly frustrated as he gave an update on the shootings shortly before 2 a.m. Host Sarah Fenske talks with STLPR reporter Rachel Lippmann about the events.

Protests Against Police Brutality Spark Across St. Louis Region Jun 01, 2020

Protests against police brutality have now broken out around the world in response to the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis. That of course includes St. Louis, Clayton, University City and Ferguson. St. Louis Public Radio's Jason Rosenbaum joins host Sarah Fenske to discuss what happened over the weekend locally — and why so many St. Louisans are again taking to the streets.

How St. Louis Plans To Conduct Contact Tracing, Hire More Workers Jun 01, 2020

St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson has announced a plan to distribute $64 million in federal aid intended to bolster the city’s response to the coronavirus. The plan, which Krewson said she’ll submit to the Board of Aldermen for revisions and approval, includes $2.5 million for contact tracing: to hire 25 people and invest in technology. In this episode of the talk show, host Sarah Fenske is joined by St. Louis Alderwoman Cara Spencer, D-20th Ward, who chairs the city’s Health and Human Services Committee. Acting health department director Dr. Fred Echols also offers his perspective alongside Franda Thomas, the health department’s communicable disease bureau chief.

Local Bike Shops See Uptick In Sales During Pandemic May 29, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske talks with Big Shark Bicycle Company owner Mike Weiss about why his shop is seeing an increase in bike sales during the COVID-19 crises and talk with Emma Klues of Great Rivers Greenway about her recommendations for specific biking trails and routes to explore while continuing to help limit the spread of the coronavirus

Drury Hotels Exec Runs Entire Length Of Katy Trail For Hospitality Workers May 29, 2020

St. Louisan Eric Strand just set a fastest known time with his run across the entire length of the Katy Trail, covering over 240 miles in just three days and 14 hours. Since announcing his plans and setting up a GoFundMe charity page just last week, the Drury Hotels chief operating officer has raised nearly $40,000. It will all go to a foundation fund to help frontline hospitality workers who have lost their jobs due to the pandemic. Host Sarah Fenske talks with Strand about his experience running the trail and his response to the GoFundMe page.

Arts United STL Brings Heavy Hitters Together For A Virtual Showstopper May 29, 2020

Imagine orchestrating a virtual telethon in the middle of a pandemic. A host of St. Louis arts organizations led by Opera Theatre St. Louis did just that, with the Arts United STL benefit set to premiere online May 31. Host Sarah Fenske talks with Opera Theatre General Manager Andrew Jorgensen about the financial needs that inspired the event and the difficulties that go into producing such a large group undertaking in the age of social distancing.

Legal Roundtable Tackles Tuition Reimbursement, Businesses And More May 28, 2020

Legal Roundtable: Can students sue their universities for not refunding tuition and fees after they were forced to study from home because of the pandemic? Can St. Louis County force the House of Pain gyms to close? What about churches? Legal experts Bill Freivogel, Nicole Gorovsky, and Dave Roland talk with host Sarah Fenske about these issues and more.

Tattooed Egyptian Mummies Offer Lessons About Body Art Then And Now May 27, 2020

As a scholar who works with human remains, Anne Austin had long looked closely at bones. Her training is in osteology and Egyptology, and for many years she worked to expand the world’s knowledge about the health, medicine and disease of past civilizations. But in 2016, her focus suddenly turned from bones to ancient skin— and body art. “As I was doing my research, I accidentally came across this really heavily tattooed mummy — minimum 30 tattoos, on her arms, her shoulders and her back,” Austin recalls. “That discovery literally rewrote what we understand about tattooing in ancient Egypt. And since then I’ve been able to go back and find more tattoos at the site [where] I work.” The University of Missouri-St. Louis professor isn’t fascinated by these ancient tattoos merely for their own sake. She sees relevance for our understanding of contemporary body art as well — from the stories they tell, to the wide range of functions they serve, to the stigma that is sometimes associated with tattoos. Austin’s expertise came in especially handy while serving on the dissertation committee for Lacee Kaufmann, who just earned her PhD in nursing at UMSL. Kaufmann’s qualitative study probed the experiences that 12 participants — each of whom have tattoos covering at least 9% of their body — have had with health care providers.

Caring For People With Dementia During A Pandemic May 27, 2020

It’s not just parents of young children trying to balance caregiving with other responsibilities during this pandemic. People whose loved ones suffer from dementia are also finding themselves under increased stress. Adult day centers are closed to limit the spread of COVID-19. Many therapists and other support staff no longer offer in-person visits. And people with Alzheimer’s or other cognitive impairments may not realize why masks are necessary, much less remember the explanation from hour to hour. Memory Care Home Solutions has been helping its “care partners” deal with those complications — and many more — throughout the months of the pandemic. Amy Sobrino, program services coordinator for the organization, says its services continue, albeit remotely. Clients like Gail Brown, whose mother lives with dementia, say that assistance has been a godsend.

The Arch's Mike Ward Has Served The National Park Service For 37 Years May 26, 2020

Gateway Arch National Park Superintendent Mike Ward talks with host Sarah Fenske about his 37-year-long career with the National Park Service. He started working at the Abraham Lincoln National Historic Site in his hometown of Springfield, Illinois, when he was just a teenager. After eight years of experience, he took on a more supervising role at the Ulysses S. Grant Historic Site in St. Louis. His took his expertise with him to renovate the Voyageurs National Park in Minnesota. But when the Gateway Arch underwent its $380 million renovation in 2016, Ward came back in St. Louis to lead the project. Ward talks with Fenske about those cherished sites and what it takes to keep them going.

COVID-19 Crisis Heightens Substance Use Concerns — But There May Be Some Positives May 26, 2020

Daily life in the age of the coronavirus is riddled with stressors and stress can lead to increased substance use — as well as the possibility of relapse for those working to stay sober. Host Sarah Fenske talks with Jenny Armbruster of NCADA and also hears from people in long-term recovery as they discuss substance use disorder, relapse and navigating tough conversations in the age of COVID-19.

Bathtub Gin and Bootleggers: St. Louis' Wild Prohibition Years May 22, 2020

The 18th Amendment of the United States Constitution established the prohibition of alcohol in the U.S. Enforcement of the new law started on January 17, 1920. In this encore episode, our panelists dive into St. Louis' rich Prohibition-era history. They describe the time robbers siphoned off 3,000 barrels of whiskey from the Jack Daniels distillery, how Anheuser-Busch survived more than a decade of a nationwide ban on alcoholic beverages, and they recall the tale of a 1922 New Year’s Eve party at the Chase Hotel when an enforcement raid led to plates being thrown, shots being fired and pandemonium spilling out onto Lindell Boulevard.

St. Charles Teacher Gets Seal Of Approval From ‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’ Cast May 21, 2020

These days, Zoom calls are more likely to inspire grousing than gratitude. Who wants to make uncomfortable eye contact with their boss or professor — and themselves? But Vikki Siddell of St. Charles recently joined a very different Zoom call, one where she got to talk — and perform — in front of celebrities including Daniel Radcliffe, Tina Fey and St. Louis’ own Ellie Kemper. Siddell joins host Sarah Fenske to talk about what it was like performing for some of her favorite actors.

St. Louis Libraries Plan A New Normal, Slow Reopening May 21, 2020

St. Louis Public Library and St. Louis County Library locations closed to the public earlier this year in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, both local systems have begun to release some cautious and partial reopening plans. During the closures, the libraries have been quick to assure patrons that they needn’t worry about returning overdue items during the crisis — and will be given plenty of time to return items in the coming days as book drops soon begin operating again. Host Sarah Fenske talks with SLPL CEO Waller McGuire and SLCL Director Kristen Sorth about the wide-ranging roles that libraries have been playing lately — and what their immediate future holds.

Wash U's Dr. Joshua Swamidass Builds Bridge Between Science And Creation Myths In New Book May 21, 2020

Bring up Adam and Eve in contemporary conversation, and you’ll likely be met with either total skepticism or deep confidence, depending on one’s audience. Diametrically opposed views of the biblical origin story come with the territory of ongoing cultural battles between creationists and evolutionists and the typical right and left. But Washington University’s Dr. S. Joshua Swamidass, who describes himself as “a scientist in the Church and a Christian in science,” is hoping to shift the conversation. In this encore segment, host Sarah Fenske talks with Swamidass about his book “The Genealogical Adam and Eve: The Surprising Science of Universal Ancestry.” Swamidass hopes to reach secular and religious readers alike. “What if the traditional account is somehow true, with the origins of Adam and Eve taking place alongside evolution?” he asks.

How Day Cares Are Navigating Social Distancing Guidelines May 20, 2020

As day cares set to reopen in the coming weeks, host Sarah Fenske explores how some centers will navigate the ever-so-changing guidelines. Joining are a provider that has remained open to provide care for children of health care and essential workers, and a provider that is set to reopen soon.

John O'Leary Wants You To 'Rediscover Your Childlike Wonder' May 20, 2020

As a nine-year-old, John O’Leary nearly died. He was playing in his garage in St. Louis when he accidentally set off an explosion. He was left with third-degree burns covering his entire body — and even had to have his fingers amputated. O’Leary recounted the story of his near-death and ultimate survival in his book “On Fire,” which became a national bestseller. And now he’s back with another book: “In Awe: Rediscover Your Childlike Wonder to Unleash Inspiration, Meaning, and Joy.” In this interview, O’Leary explains his thesis: that we start life with all the right tools for happiness, only to have childlike senses such as “wonder” and “expectancy” drilled out of us. He talks about how to reclaim these tools, and how to rediscover our belief that anything is possible.

Meet Alton’s Mysterious Fiddle Assassin May 19, 2020

A masked violinist has been making music while strolling the streets of Alton. There are rumors that she's a ghost from the Mississippi River and that she hasn’t been seen since the 1918 influenza. She calls herself the Fiddle Assassin, and says her only enemy is the coronavirus. In this episode, Sarah Fenske talks with the violinist about what it's been like to play for the empty streets of Alton during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Training Missouri's Workforce For The Post-Pandemic Era May 19, 2020

More than 260,000 Missourians filed claims showing they were unemployed as of May 2. To Jeff Mazur, the executive director of the tech training nonprofit LaunchCode, the numbers are a wakeup call for workforce training programs, which he believes have failed to keep up with the realities of the modern workplace. Mazur and state Senator Brian Williams (D-Ferguson) will discuss some of the challenges likely to face St. Louis-area workers once the pandemic ends — and what it will take to meet them where they’re at in a changing world.

How To Provide Meaningful Recognition To Nurses May 19, 2020

In addition to caring for their patients, nurses are often the glue that holds families together during a crisis. That level of care can sometimes lead to compassion fatigue, according to Cindy Lefton, a registered nurse and vice president of organizational consulting at Psychological Associates. As the coronavirus pandemic takes a toll on healthcare workers in the region, Lefton talks with host Sarah Fenske about the importance of nurse recognition and appreciation, as well as some practical ways nurses can stave off burnout and compassion fatigue

Next Steps For College Grads Entering A Newly Challenging Job Market May 18, 2020

Before COVID-19 spread throughout the St. Louis region, many graduating college seniors had their eyes set on internships and prospective careers. Then the pandemic led many businesses to rescind offers or turn applicants away. Now, many young adults are facing a newly uncertain job market full of unexpected challenges and trends. Host Sarah Fenske talks with John Link, Webster’s director of career services, and hears from local grads about how they’re figuring out next steps.

St. Louis County Executive Sam Page Addresses The Realities Of Reopening May 18, 2020

After nearly eight weeks of coronavirus-related stay-at-home orders, St. Louis County officially begins to reopen on Monday, May 18 — with a few caveats. Some businesses, like gyms, swimming pools and bars that do not serve food, remain closed. But businesses such as restaurants and hair salons will open at limited capacity. St. Louis County Executive Sam Page said reduced capacities, masks and barriers between customers and employees will be “our new normal.” Dr. Page talks with host Sarah Fenske about the reasoning behind certain restrictions and his expectations for this next phase.

UMSL Music Faculty Create Virtual Choir To Remind Students 'You've Got A Friend' May 15, 2020

Monday’s show (May 18) will include a focus on the unique challenges this coronavirus pandemic presents for college students. Graduating seniors are closing one chapter of life this spring and beginning a new one, during one of the most uncertain periods in all of our lifetimes. And as we look toward that segment next week, a project aimed at college students has caught our attention this week. On social media, a Zoom-style video making the rounds featured the music department at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. It’s their very own version of Carole King’s timeless song, “You’ve Got A Friend.” Instrumental and choral faculty alike lent their voices to different lines of the song. They also played violins and cellos and, in a few cases, shared some visual antics. Take a listen and hear the masterminds behind the project describe how they brought it all together as a gift for their students.

St. Louis NASA Engineer Uses Hip Hop To Get Young People Interested In Math And Science May 15, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske talks with NASA engineer Dajae Williams, a St. Louis Native, on how she’s using hip hop to make math and science more accessible to young people.

Repeal Of Clean Missouri Redistricting Plan Will Go To Voters May 15, 2020

In 2018, voters approved the Clean Missouri constitutional amendment that included state redistricting and ethics changes. Now the Missouri House is backing an initiative to repeal the effort. In this interview, host Sarah Fenske talks with St. Louis Public Radio correspondent Jason Rosenbaum about his reporting on the ballot initiative aimed at repealing the Clean Missouri redistricting system.

St. Louis Fire Department Works Through Coronavirus Challenges May 15, 2020

St. Louis Fire Department employees are working on the front lines during the coronavirus pandemic. Captain Garon Mosby talks with host Sarah Fenske about the ongoing COVID-19 toll and some of the challenges the department faces as a result of the coronavirus outbreak. Also included are pre-recorded comments from Laura Keller, executive director of the St. Louis Fire Department Foundation, who herself battled COVID-19.

COVID-19 Dampens Ramadan Spirits, But Local Muslims Continue To Serve Community May 14, 2020

The local Muslim community are halfway through observing the holy month of Ramadan. But this year, they've had to navigate it differently in wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. With mosques closed, and social distancing recommended by city and county officials, many are having to observe the occasion without their friends and family. Joining host Sarah Fenske to talk about the changes are Dr. Mahrukh Khan and Donnell "Malik" Sims. They share how they're observing Ramadan while they treating and caring for patients infected with COVID-19 in underserved areas.

How One UMSL Professor And A Trio Of 3D Printers Are Making Masks More Comfortable May 14, 2020

Back in March, the University of Missouri-St. Louis put out a university-wide call, asking those with 3D printers to print face masks in light of COVID-19. Glen Anderson, an associate professor at UMSL, sought to answer that call. After some research, Anderson soon found out that printing masks with these particular machines just wasn't feasible. Instead, he continued brainstorming and turned to manufacturing surgical mask ear savers. Host Sarah Fenske talks with Anderson about his grassroots operation aimed at making critical workers just a little more comfortable. The conversation also includes comments from two local respiratory therapists who are using the devices.

Pokey LaFarge On His Eighth Studio Album, Leaving St. Louis And Hitting Rock Bottom May 14, 2020

Musician Pokey LaFarge’s concerts scheduled for this weekend at Off Broadway are on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic. Leaving St. Louis for LA in 2018, LaFarge has gone through a self-described “fall from grace.” He’s now out with his eighth studio album and producer Alex Heuer talked with him.

'Shutterbee' Has Biologists Asking St. Louisans To Collaborate As Backyard Naturalists May 13, 2020

Reading the headlines of 2020 can be pretty overwhelming. Between a pandemic, an economic crisis and even a much-hyped sighting of “murder hornets” in the Pacific Northwest, it can all leave one feeling pretty helpless about attempting to be a force for good in the world. But on an ecological level, at least one such attempt can take place right in one’s own backyard — and Nicole Miller-Struttmann and bee experts everywhere will be grateful for it. Miller-Struttmann and fellow biologists at Webster University and St. Louis University are launching Shutterbee, a collaborative project powered by citizen scientists. It requires only some sunshine, a camera and completion of a single virtual training session on May 20, 21 or 23. Shutterbee’s organizers are intent on reaching a real scientific goal: to discover how landscape features and land management decisions affect bee diversity and behavior. In this episode of the talk show, Miller-Struttmann joins host Sarah Fenske to talk about how Shutterbee works. She also delves into the critical roles bees play on Earth and some of the threats they face.

Why Railroad Lovers Are Turning Their Eyes To Quincy May 13, 2020

As Quincy, Illinois, gets ready to be that state’s first Virtual Railfan location, we talk with local train enthusiasts about their devotion to the activity, and explore the success Virtual Railfan has already seen on the other side of the Mississippi River, in both La Plata and Kansas City, Missouri. Host Sarah Fenske is joined by Bob Cox, a station manager of Virtual Railfan at La Plata, and well known in the railfan community — he even has a bobblehead made in his honor. Also joining the program is Richard Cain, a meteorologist at KHQA in Quincy, and a train enthusiast who helped bring Virtual Railfan to that city.

Sunshine Law Loss Leaves University of Missouri With $175K Bill May 13, 2020

Attorney Dan Kolde sued the University of Missouri on behalf of the Beagle Freedom Project for violating the state's open records law. After he won at trial, the university has agreed to spend $175,000 to close out the case. Kolde discusses the lawsuit with host Sarah Fenske.

Already-Struggling Rural Hospitals Now Deal With Coronavirus Challenges May 12, 2020

Rural hospitals in Missouri have stopped elective and non-emergency procedures and have opened up their beds to treat those with COVID-19. As a result, those hospitals have lost income. Reporter Jonathan Ahl talks with host Sarah Fenske about his latest feature on how hospitals in central Missouri are dealing with the coronavirus.

‘Day One’ Highlights A St. Louis School’s Focus On Immigrant And Refugee Students May 12, 2020

The documentary “Day One” follows a group of teenage refugees enrolled at a unique public school in St. Louis. The school only enrolls refugees and immigrants. The film is now playing on PBS stations around the country, including the Nine Network. In this interview, Sarah Fenske talks with the documentary’s producer and director, Lori Miller, about what she learned while filming these students.

Kirkwood Teen Joanna Serenko Makes It To Top 9 On NBC's 'The Voice' May 12, 2020

Kirkwood native Joanna Serenko debuted to a national audience on NBC’s “The Voice” on Feb. 24. After the coronavirus upended live performances, the show went on a brief hiatus and returned with many performers singing at home — including Serenko. Serenko talks with host Sarah Fenske about her journey thus far on the singing competition — and her musical journey in St. Louis, which includes her training at Webster University’s School of Music and JazzU at the Bistro.

Walter Johnson Explains Why St. Louis Is 'The Broken Heart Of America' May 11, 2020

Walter Johnson’s new book tells the story of St. Louis’ history. In Johnson’s telling, it’s a messy, often ugly struggle where racism is paramount. The historian and Harvard University professor talks to host Sarah Fenske about his book “The Broken Heart of America: St. Louis and the Violent History of the United States" and what we can learn about America by examining St. Louis.

COVID-19 Brings Diversity Of Older Adults Into Focus Alongside Vulnerabilities May 11, 2020

It comes as no surprise that older individuals are more at risk for COVID-19 and the crisis has revealed longstanding disparities regarding systematic racism and ageism in the St. Louis area. Nancy Morrow-Howell, the director of the Harvey A. Friedman Center for Aging at Washington University, hopes the revelation of the disparities will lead to improvements, such as a deeper understanding of older adults as the diverse individuals that they are. Morrow-Howell talks with host Sarah Fenske about both the challenges and opportunities she foresees in the months and years ahead.

St. Louis Mayor Details Specifics Of May 18 Reopening May 08, 2020

Almost two months have passed since St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson declared the coronavirus pandemic a public health emergency. Following the declaration, Krewson ordered many venues, bars, and restaurants to close. Now Krewson says the city will ease public health restrictions starting May 18. In this interview, host Sarah Fenske talks to Krewson on about what reopening St. Louis will look like, the city’s decision to clear an encampment of homeless people downtown, and a digital program the city’s Department of Health is using to conduct COVID-19 contact tracing.

Missouri's Former Governor Explains Why Jim Bakker Is Not A Coronavirus Villain May 08, 2020

In March, Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt filed a lawsuit against Branson-based televangelist Jim Bakker, alleging Bakker had touted a product called “Silver Solution” as a treatment for the coronavirus. Consumers, Schmitt suggested, could be victimized by the false information. Former Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon argues that the lawsuit violates Bakker’s First Amendment rights. Nixon explains to host Sarah Fenske why he thinks the televangelist is getting shafted by the state’s attorney general.

St. Louis Trans Individuals Face Challenges In Coronavirus Pandemic May 07, 2020

Transgender and non-binary individuals have it hard. And it’s gotten worse since the coronavirus pandemic hit the St. Louis area. Some don’t have access to cars and some are homeless. Sayer Johnson, co-founder and executive director of the nonprofit Metro Trans Umbrella Group talks to host Sarah Fenske about the challenges trans and non-binary people face before and during the coronavirus pandemic. Ashe Valentine, who is non-binary, also joins the conversation to discuss the challenges they’re facing through this time.

Photographer Nate Burrell Discusses His 'Covid Days' May 07, 2020

Photographer Nate Burrell has captured musicians for more than a decade, shooting album art for St. Louis’ rising stars in the scene, including Pokey LaFarge and Kevin Bowers. But when the coronavirus shut down bars and music venues, Burrell turned his eye to a different series of images: Capturing the new normal that the coronavirus brought upon the city. Host Sarah Fenske talks to Burrell to discuss his two-week project, “Covid Days” and what he has observed in his journey throughout St. Louis.

How Vitendo4Africa Helps African Immigrants Get Their Footing In St. Louis May 07, 2020

Geoffrey Soyiantet, a Kenyan immigrant, founded Vitendo4Africa 10 years ago to support African immigrants in St. Louis. He joins host Sarah Fenske to discuss the organization's work, as well as its unique partnership with the St. Louis Zoo. Mike Fitzgerald, a veteran journalist who recently wrote a cover story for the RFT about the group, joins Fenske and Soyiantet to explain what native-born residents can learn from the African immigrants in this pandemic.

Nearly Complete 'Kinloch Doc' Explores Rich History Of All-Black City 'Hanging On By A Thread' May 06, 2020

The story that Alana Woodson has devoted so much of her time over the past few years to telling is far from a simple one. After all, it’s about Kinloch, Missouri — a once-thriving suburb that has nearly disappeared. Her father’s childhood home there is no more. And what was once a community of 6,500 black St. Louisans has dwindled to less than 200 residents today. But Woodson, who goes by Alana Marie professionally, has stayed the course, interviewing dozens of people and gathering countless hours of footage for her ongoing documentary project “The Kinloch Doc.” A short version of the film was screened at festivals in 2018 and 2019, and is available to view online. The feature-length iteration is currently in its rough-cut stage, and Woodson has been crowdfunding to help cover post-production expenses. She and her team launched a Kickstarter campaign April 10, and with just a handful of days left to raise funds, they’ve now surpassed their goal of $20,000, drawing support from several hundred backers.

Exploring Afro-Latin Music’s Midwestern Impact May 06, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske discusses the political and cultural significance of Afro-Latin music here in the Midwest with Pablo Sanhueza and Carmen Guynn. Sanhueza is known as the region’s premier salsa and Latin jazz percussionist and Guynn is a salsa instructor and the artistic director and owner of Almas Del Ritmo Dance Company. Ten years ago, she founded the St. Louis International Salsa Bachata Congress.

Comfort From ‘Behind A Glass’: How Funeral Homes Are Adjusting To Death During Pandemic May 06, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske talks with Marcus Harrison to learn about how morticians are organizing funerals and treating people who have died during the pandemic. Harrison is the general manager and embalmer at Austin Layne in north St. Louis County and said the center has seen COVID-19 victims daily.

St. Louis’ Homeless Residents Face More Uncertainty After City Removes Downtown Camp May 05, 2020

The St. Louis’ homeless population is no longer residing at the tent encampment near Market Street following an order from St. Louis Health Director Fredrick Echols. Echols ordered the camp to be cleared on April 29. In response, the nonprofit civil rights law firm ArchCity Defenders filed a federal lawsuit on May 1 that included a temporary restraining order against the city, but a federal judge rejected it. Another hearing, in that case, is scheduled for May 12. Host Sarah Fenske talks to Alex Cohen of grassroots collective #TentMissionSTL and with ArchCity about the City of St. Louis' attempt to clear the tent encampments downtown. We’ll also get the perspective of a homeless person who was a resident of the camp.

St. Charles County Executive Steve Ehlmann On Reopening Amid Pandemic May 05, 2020

St. Charles County is open for business. Host Sarah Fenske talked with County Executive Steve Ehlmann about the decision that’s in line with Gov. Mike Parson’s plan for the state. STLPR reporter Jason Rosenbaum also joined the discussion to talk about how local governments are proceeding and the political ramifications of it all.

Michael Kahn Is An Attorney By Day, Mystery Writer By Night May 04, 2020

What started as a dare from his wife has blossomed into an 11-part book series for St. Louis attorney Michael Kahn. Kahn works as senior counsel at Capes Sokol law firm by day, and by night, he writes mystery novels. In this episode, Sarah Fenske talks with Kahn about the latest book in his Rachel Gold series, “Bad Trust.”

Reflecting On Kent State Shootings, Wash U Protests Of 50 Years Ago May 04, 2020

This week marks 50 years since the Kent State shootings and related Vietnam-era protests at colleges and universities across the country, including at Wash U. Host Sarah Fenske talks in depth with Mike Venso, the Missouri Historical Society's military and firearms curator at Soldiers Memorial downtown, who has recently been doing research on the subject for an upcoming exhibit. Also joining the conversation is Howard Mechanic, who was one of seven people who faced charges in the wake of protests at Wash U.

Sauce Magazine Staffers Share Their Picks For The Best Curbside Cocktails May 01, 2020

In mid-April, the Missouri Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control suspended laws preventing St. Louis area restaurants from selling pre-batched cocktails. Now the restaurants are free to sell the to-go cocktails to customers who order them. Our friends at Sauce Magazine join host Sarah Fenske to talk about how area restaurants are faring with the changes and some of the best places to get curbside cocktails during this period.

Local Cartoonist Steenz Takes On Beloved 'Heart Of The City' Daily Comic Strip May 01, 2020

From working at a comic book store to writing and drawing a nationally syndicated newspaper comic strip, St. Louis cartoonist Christina Stewart — who goes by the name of Steenz — has made a name for herself. Stewart now produces former creator Mark Tatulli’s daily comic strip “Heart of the City." She joins host Sarah Fenske to discuss what plans she has for the beloved comic and her overall passion for the craft.

'We’re Here, And We’re Blessed': COVID-19 Patients In St. Louis Describe Disease May 01, 2020

Early in the coronavirus pandemic, doctors described COVID-19 as a virus with symptoms identical to the flu — coughing, shortness of breath and fever. But recovered patients say it’s much worse: a painful, unpredictable sickness causing a feeling akin to “drowning.” In this episode, St. Louis Public Radio reporter Sarah Fentem shares the stories of those who are recovering from COVID-19.

How A Small, Family-Owned Dairy Is Faring Well Despite Pandemic Apr 30, 2020

Dairy farmers are having a hard time after the coronavirus pandemic. With the closures of schools, workplaces and restaurants, some farmers are having trouble distributing their products. In response to the closure of businesses, these farmers are having to dump milk. Host Sarah Fenske touches base with Michael Turley of Rolling Lawns to check in on how his milk farm is doing amid the coronavirus pandemic.

In the 1920s, Hemingway Spent Quarantine With His Lover And His Wife — Both St. Louisans Apr 30, 2020

As most of us are self-quarantining in the wake of COVID-19, some of us are spending a lot more time with a significant other. In Ernest Hemingway’s case, nearly a century ago, it was with significant others — plural. Hemingway wound up sequestered with both his wife and his lover after his son Bumby was diagnosed with a highly contagious respiratory illness. Host Sarah Fenske talks with acclaimed author Lesley Blume about the whole ordeal.

Making Quarantine Work — Whether You’re Stuck At Home With An Ex Or A Classroom Pet Apr 30, 2020

Imagine breaking up with a partner, only to remain in the same house as them following a pandemic. Host Sarah Fenske talks with exes Dani and Logan about their interesting situation. The COVID-19 outbreak has them sheltering in place in a one-bedroom apartment in St. Louis’ Tower Grove South neighborhood. Also joining the conversation is a family who talks about their decision to take care of their son’s school's two parakeets.

Legal Roundtable Discusses State Lawsuits, Public Records And Worker Safety Apr 29, 2020

Missouri filed a lawsuit against China on April 21, alleging that the country did little to stop the spread of the COVID-19. On that same day, a judge ruled in favor of a genealogy group looking to obtain public records. And, two days later, advocates and workers from Missouri meat processing plant Smithfield Foods filed a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri for unsafe work conditions following the COVID-19 outbreak. In this episode, Sarah Fenske digs into these cases and more with legal experts Mark Smith, Bill Freivogel and Catherine Hanaway.

"Crip Camp" And The Disability Rights Revolution Apr 28, 2020

“Crimp Camp,” a Netflix documentary produced by former U.S. president Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama has won raves for its unflinching depiction of how Camp Jened brought together young people with wide-ranging disabilities and allowed them to experience life without their parents. Judy Heumann and Colleen Starkloff join host Sarah Fenske to discuss “Crip Camp” and the challenges the disability rights movement faces today.

As St. Louis COVID-19 Cases Hit Likely Peak, Hospitals Avoid Rationing Care Apr 28, 2020

Some hospitals across the U.S. are swamped from the COVID-19 outbreak and many health care workers are working around the clock to help those affected. But what about St. Louis-area hospitals? What’s going on here? Emergency medicine physician Dr. Kristen Mueller joins host Sarah Fenske to give a sense of how St. Louis area health care workers are doing in the midst of an (estimated) peak in COVID-19 cases in the area.

Catching Up With Forest Park’s Great Horned Owl Charles Apr 27, 2020

Naturalist Mark Glenshaw joins host Sarah Fenske and gives an update on the great horned owls Charles, as well as his other owl friend Daniel and other critters he keeps track of in Forest Park.

Cody Stokes' 'The Ghost Who Walks' Makes The Leap From St. Louis Festival To Netflix Apr 27, 2020

When Cody Stokes decided to shoot “The Ghost Who Walks” in his native St. Louis, it wasn’t because he was trying to make the city itself a character or was set on showcasing certain regional icons. The Gateway Arch, for example, doesn’t really make an appearance. But Stokes did choose St. Louis as his backdrop with good reason — and for viewers who know the region well, there’s plenty of local imagery to enjoy over the course of the fast-paced, 106-minute film. In this conversation, Stoke joins host Sarah Fenske for a closer look at his feature-length directorial debut, which is now reaching a wide audience on Netflix.

Tim Youd On Plans To Retype William Gass' Mammoth 'The Tunnel' Apr 27, 2020

Los Angeles artist Tim Youd is taking on his biggest challenge yet. Beginning May 1, Youd is retyping William Gass’ mammoth novel “The Tunnel” on live video stream, all 652 pages of it. It will be Youd's 67th project retyping a classic novel. He joins host Sarah Fenske to discuss this new project and why he chose this notoriously difficult work.

St. Louis Musician’s New Album Will Benefit Local Mental Health Nonprofit Apr 24, 2020

Embracing the new virtual landscape many musicians find themselves in during the age of social distancing, St. Louis musician John Henry is using a Kickstarter campaign for pre-orders of his new album, “Out at Sea.” If the fundraiser is successful, donors will not only receive a record and a screen print from local shop Sleepy Kitty, they will also be supporting a cause close to Henry’s heart: mental health advocacy. Every dollar of his $3,500 campaign will be matched by national and local businesses to benefit the National Alliance on Mental Illness St. Louis. In this episode, Henry talks about his inspiration for the album and the Kickstarter campaign.

Having Sleep Issues During The Pandemic? You’re Not Alone Apr 24, 2020

Having sleep problems during this pandemic? If so, you're not alone. Dr. Joseph Espiritu of the SLUCare Sleep Disorders Center answers your questions and has tips for getting better sleep. Stress, anxiety, screen time, alcohol and caffeine all play a role. Listen to learn how.

'Criminal' Co-Creators Phoebe Judge And Lauren Spohrer Talk Crime, Love And St. Louis Apr 23, 2020

Where some crime shows spin their speculative wheels or endlessly whip listeners back and forth between evidence of innocence or guilt, “Criminal” looks beyond the headlines and instead delves deep and focuses on the human moments and stories that lurk behind the headlines. Host Sarah Fenske talks to “Criminal” podcast’s co-creators, Phoebe Judge and Lauren Spohrer about what local fans can look forward to at the Pageant later this year. They also touch on the evolution of the show, how they’ve gone about expanding their repertoire to include “This Is Love” and “Phoebe Reads A Mystery”, and some of the most memorable St. Louis-related episodes of “Criminal.”

Feast Magazine, Small Circle Recipes Collaborate For Relief Fund Cookbook Apr 23, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske explores a collaboration between Feast Magazine and Small Circle Recipes: their “Extra Helping” community-sourced cookbook project features recipes from local chefs around the St. Louis area. The digital PDF cookbook and donation platform aims to benefit hospitality industry employees affected by the COVID-19 outbreak.

Missouri Secretary Of State Jay Ashcroft Discusses Voting In A Pandemic Apr 23, 2020

On April 17, the ACLU of Missouri filed a lawsuit against the state of Missouri, the Missouri Secretary of State and a few local boards of election to allow voting by mail in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak. The lawsuit argues that the “illness or disability” clause in state law should apply to those staying at home to avoid the coronavirus and allow them to cast absentee ballots.Host Sarah Fenske talks to Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft about his reasons for deferring to local boards of elections on the absentee ballot issue.

How A Holocaust Survivor’s Difficult Birth Led To His Career In High-Risk Pregnancies Apr 22, 2020

On April 22, 1943, Dr. Raul Artal Mittelmark was born in a Nazi concentration camp in Transnistria, a region in Eastern Europe. After the camp was liberated, his parents returned to their hometown: Czernowitz in Bukovina, which was under Communist rule. After several attempts to flee Communist Russia, the family was able to move to Romania, then the U.S. and, eventually, Israel. It was in Israel where Artal met his wife, and they eventually moved to St. Louis, Missouri, where Artal ended up serving 17 years as chairman of the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health at St. Louis University. In this episode, host Sarah Fenske talks with Artal about how his upbringing influenced his career in medicine as well as the medical ethics lessons we can still learn from the Holocaust.

MoBot’s ‘Planet Doctor’ Discusses 50th Earth Day, Sustainability Amidst Pandemic Apr 22, 2020

The coronavirus pandemic has prompted questions about ways to be sustainable at a time when single-use goods are preferred. The outbreak has also led to a decrease "St. Louis on the Air" to take questions on sustainability is Missouri Botanical Garden’s “planet doctor” Jean Ponzi. She is their EarthWays Center program manager.

ACLU of Missouri Legal Director Discusses Suit to Permit Increased Absentee Voting Apr 22, 2020

The ACLU of Missouri recently filed a class-action lawsuit to allow Missouri voters to cast absentee ballots during the pandemic without fear of prosecution. The organization's legal director, Tony Rothert, discusses why the suit is necessary with Sarah Fenske.

How American Sign Language Interpreters Are Interpreting A Pandemic Apr 21, 2020

How do you sign "coronavirus?" American Sign Language interpreters are communicating virtual government briefings to the deaf and hard of hearing population. Host Sarah Fenske talks with an interpreter from Paraquad’s Deaf Way Interpreting Services about the effects of the pandemic on interpreters and those who require their services.

Odd Couples Housing Fosters Intergenerational Living Among Students And Seniors Apr 21, 2020

Seniors living in the St. Louis area may well have some extra space in the house. At the same time, younger people are in need of good, affordable housing options. Put the two together, and everybody wins. That’s the idea behind a new St. Louis-based service called Odd Couples Housing. In this episode, host Sarah Fenske talks with the founders of Odd Couples Housing about the benefits of intergenerational living.

How Stay-At-Home Orders May Complicate Dire Situations For Abuse Survivors Apr 21, 2020

As movement is restricted to essential travel in many areas due to the COVID-19 outbreak, many families are stuck at home. Unfortunately, for victims of domestic and sexual violence, staying at home with their abusers leaves them with limited options to escape a hostile environment. Host Sarah Fenske checks in with Safe Connections, a local organization that works to prevent domestic and sexual violence, to discuss how they’re navigating victims who are more in contact with their abusers as of late.

'Former Fat Guy' Andy Boyle On Why We're Getting Fatter And How To Stop It Apr 20, 2020

As more people work from home during the COVID-19 outbreak, it's harder than ever to hit your 10,000 step goals. Some have found themselves gaining weight. Author (and self-described "former fat guy") Andy Boyle joins host Sarah Fenske to discuss his new book "Big Problems," which delves into "why we're getting fatter and what you can do to fix it."

Nonprofit Endangered Wolf Center Presses On With Care, Conservation During Pandemic Apr 20, 2020

Back in January, long before other Americans were suddenly stocking up on groceries and other essentials, Regina Mossotti and her colleagues were already paying close attention to COVID-19 headlines. They decided to order several months’ worth of food — for their wolves, that is. And now, they’re glad they did. Mossotti, a wildlife biologist, is director of animal care and conservation at the Endangered Wolf Center in Eureka, Missouri. While some staff members are now working from home, Mossotti and other animal caregivers are carefully continuing their essential on-site roles, even as they’ve had to temporarily shut down the educational programs so critical to the nonprofit’s revenue. In this segment, Mossotti joins host Sarah Fenske to discuss how the nearly 50-year-old nonprofit is adapting its efforts during this pandemic — and brainstorming alternative funding streams.

As Coronavirus Spreads, Doctors Fear For Themselves — And Their Families Apr 20, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske talks with St. Louis Public Radio health reporter Sarah Fentem about the fears emergency room doctors are facing as they’re treating the most seriously ill or injured patients from COVID-19 — a disease that puts them, their co-workers and their families at risk.

UMSL’s New Chancellor Kristin Sobolik Shares Her Plans Apr 17, 2020

On Friday’s “St. Louis on the Air” host Sarah Fenske talks to the newly appointed University of Missouri-St. Louis Chancellor Kristin Sobolik who joins us for a look at how she plans to lead the university in the challenging months ahead.

Local Chef, Webster Professor Discuss Small Business Relief Options Apr 17, 2020

In this episode of the talk show, local business owner Rob Connoley, who owns Bulrush in Grand Center, joins host Sarah Fenske and talks about his process of applying for a forgivable loan through the U.S. Small Business Administration. Also in the discussion is Joe Roberts, director of Webster University’s Entrepreneurship Program. Roberts talks about challenges people have encountered applying for the loans.

Pandemic Task Force Leader Dr. Alex Garza Talks Coronavirus Peak, More Apr 17, 2020

With St. Louis area officials extending stay at home orders either indefinitely or until mid May, the curve seems to be reaching its peak. That’s according to Dr. Alex Garza, the chief medical officer at SSM Health and is the commander of the St. Louis Metropolitan Pandemic Task Force. Garza, who joins host Sarah Fenske on Friday’s “St. Louis on the Air” talks about predictions regarding COVID-19 hospitalizations reaching its peak as early as April 25, but he cautions it’s not over yet.

Big Muddy Adventures’ Mike Clark Checks In From ‘Quarantine Island’ Apr 16, 2020

For most people, the main ingredients of social distancing and self-quarantine include the walls of one’s dwelling, a solid stash of groceries and a comfy couch. But Mike Clark, who’s the founder of Big Muddy Adventures, isn’t like most people. Since the COVID-19 outbreak started to spread throughout the St. Louis area, Clark left the city for an isolated location on the Mississippi River for a purpose — to raise money for the Gateway Resilience Fund. Big Muddy Adventures is encouraging people to pledge $1, $5 or maybe even $10 to the local COVID-19 relief fund for each day Clark stays put.

Bi-State’s Taulby Roach Offers Update On Regional Transit Challenges Apr 16, 2020

Many regular transit riders have taken to heart the push to only use buses and trains right now if absolutely necessary. And, as is the case among other rail and bus systems across the country, Metro Transit ridership and service frequency have both decreased significantly. Meanwhile, the transit agency has taken steps to try to protect its workforce, but some bus drivers and other workers would like to see more action. In this episode of the talk show, Bi-State Development CEO and President Taulby Roach joins host Sarah Fenske to provide the latest updates on the current challenges facing transit workers, riders and leaders.

St. Louis’ Homeless Population Faces Uncertainty During Coronavirus Outbreak Apr 16, 2020

Following the April 9 shakeup when officers woke up tent residents at 14th and Market Street at 4 a.m. and told them to leave, many have received conflicting messages from police since that day on whether they should vacate the premises. On Thursday’s “St. Louis on the Air” host Sarah Fenske joins Alex Cohen, a member of grassroots collective #TentMissionSTL, and talks to him about what’s going on in the tent encampments downtown. During the conversation, Cohen will discuss what #TentMissionSTL is doing to ensure the safety of the homeless population in St. Louis. Chico Williams, who stays in one of the tents downtown, will also join the discussion and give a first-hand account of what he’s experienced during the coronavirus outbreak in the city.

How Doulas Are Responding To COVID-19 Hospital Restrictions Apr 15, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske checks in with how doulas have had their practice disrupted due to the coronavirus and their efforts to ensure that their presence remains in hospitals, for the families that wish to have in-person care.

Vivian Gibson on 'The Last Children of Mill Creek' Apr 15, 2020

Vivian Gibson's new memoir describes growing up in St. Louis' Mill Creek neighborhood, a black enclave the city razed in 1959 in the name of urban renewal. Gibson discusses her book with host Sarah Fenske and how she became a published author at 71.

Tracking COVID-19 Cases By ZIP Code Highlights Inequities In St. Louis Region Apr 14, 2020

On April 8, St. Louis Health Director Dr. Fred Echols brought attention to the fact that, at that point, all 12 people who died of COVID-19 in St. Louis were African American. This echoed what other cities have experienced in treating COVID-19 patients — there are racial disparities in who is more at risk of a COVID-19 diagnosis due to long-standing socioeconomic factors that have disproportionately affected black Americans. In this episode, guests discuss the inequalities brought into stark light by COVID-19. Joining the conversation: Washington University’s Dr. Laurie Punch, who is currently working in Christian Hospital Northeast’s ICU, and Michal Grinstein-Weiss, the director of Washington University’s Social Policy Institute and of the Centene Center for Health Transformation. Grinstein-Weiss recently looked into COVID-19 case counts in ZIP codes across the St. Louis region.

Here Are Some St. Louis Musicians To Add To Your Pandemic Playlist Apr 14, 2020

Musicians around the country are having to postpone concerts across various areas in the region due to the COVID-19 outbreak. "St. Louis on the Air" touched base with five area musicians to see how they’re experimenting with reaching audiences in different ways — from dropping new projects while self-isolating to putting on free virtual concerts.

What Questions Do You Have About Home Gardening? Apr 14, 2020

While many are sheltering in place during the COVID-19 outbreak and looking for something to do, some are turning to gardening to pass the time. For National Gardening Day, Missouri Botanical Garden’s Daria Mckelvey joined host Sarah Fenske on Tuesday’s “St. Louis on the Air” to give advice to those wanting to get their start tending to plants.

Campaigning In The Age of Coronavirus Can Be Tricky Apr 13, 2020

Candidates Yinka Faleti and Michelle Sherod talked to host Sarah Fenske on Monday's "St. Louis on the Air" about the difficulties of campaigning online and bridging the gap regarding human interaction.

Here's How These St. Louisans Adjusted To Work-From-Home Life Years Ago Apr 13, 2020

As many people are adjusting to working from home, host Sarah Fenske checked in with some who have long-nailed their at-home routines on Monday's "St. Louis on the Air." Fenske asked two guests about what advice they have for staying productive during this shift from office space to home space.

Ethical Society Of Police Urges Transparency About COVID-19 Cases Among First Responders Apr 13, 2020

Heather Taylor with the Ethical Society of Police discussed with host Sarah Fenske on Monday's "St. Louis on the Air" her concerns about St. Louis’s unwillingness to report the number of COVID-19 cases that are first responders. Also featured in the discussion were callers who expressed concerns about the subject of health and safety among St. Louis Metropolitan Police officers.

Horns Of Joy: St. Louis Band Takes Music To The Streets To Soothe Isolated Neighbors Apr 10, 2020

Roommates and musicians Benjamin Kosberg and Dominique Burton set out to entertain themselves by performing on the streets of Tower Grove South last week. They didn’t realize that their ensemble would become one of the most anticipated neighborhood shows, as well as a local hit online. Host Sarah Fenske talks to the two founding members of the Red and Black Brass Band about their efforts to entertain self-isolated residents.

Surviving School At Home Apr 10, 2020

SIUE East St. Louis Charter High School Director Gina Jeffries joined host Sarah Fenske on Friday’s “St. Louis on the Air” to discuss how the school is handling all-remote work during the COVID-19 outbreak. Also during the show were listeners' questions and concerns about teaching at home.

Netflix Inclusion Director Explains What Holds Women Back At Work Apr 10, 2020

On Friday’s “St. Louis on the Air” we talked to Michelle P. King, director of inclusion at Netflix, and author of “The Fix: Overcome the Invisible Barriers Holding Women Back at Work.” The challenges many women face are only exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic. Also in the discussion was St. Louis Public Radio editor Maria Altman’s essay.

Phyllis Schlafly's Daughter Recalls The 'Mrs. America' She Knew Apr 09, 2020

An FX on Hulu limited series focused on Phyllis Schlafly, "Mrs. America," debuts April 15. Schlafly's daughter, Anne Schlafly Cori, says the family was not consulted. She discusses with host Sarah Fenske the Phyllis Schlafly she knew, and her concerns that filmmakers portrayed her mother as a monster.

'Mrs. America,' The Story of Phyllis Schlafly And The Equal Rights Amendment Apr 09, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske talks to "Mrs. America" showrunner Davi Waller on Thursday's "St. Louis on the Air" about the FX on Hulu drama miniseries, which tells the true story of the movement to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment, and the unexpected backlash led by a conservative woman named Phyllis Schlafly, played by Cate Blanchett. The conversation also touches on the decades of political history Schlafly and her political adversaries helped shape — and how Waller went about bringing this story to the screen.

Immigrant Women Are Stepping Up In St. Louis To Make And Donate Cloth Masks Apr 09, 2020

On Thursday's "St. Louis on the Air" host Sarah Fenske talked to The Collective Thread co-founder Terri Stipanovich and the nonprofit's goal to produce thousands of cloth masks, or personal protective equipment, for healthcare workers. During the show, Stipanovich discussed how the nonprofit is keeping its staff of primarily immigrant women working during the virus shutdown as it's their only source of income since spouses have been laid off.

'33 And Counting' Spotlights Missouri Grandmother’s Fight For Clemency Apr 08, 2020

Seventy-year-old Patty Prewitt has been busy making masks lately — like many citizen seamstresses working to help combat COVID-19. Prewitt, though, is sewing them for staff at the women’s prison in Vandalia, Missouri, where she’s serving a life sentence for her husband Bill’s 1984 murder. In the three and a half decades since that stormy and violent night in Holden, Missouri, Prewitt has consistently maintained that she is innocent, and that her husband’s death came at the hands of an intruder who also raped her. Prewitt’s case is getting some fresh attention thanks to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch’s Aisha Sultan. She recently released the film “33 and Counting” via the newspaper’s website. The 38-minute documentary digs into the wildly contrasting accounts of the crime as well as what Prewitt and her children and grandchildren have endured — and been fighting for — since her 1985 conviction. In this segment of the talk show, Sultan joins host Sarah Fenske to discuss Prewitt’s story and its particular urgency during a pandemic.

St. Louis Union Urges Governor To Mandate Face Coverings For Shoppers Apr 08, 2020

The union that represents thousands of grocery and other retail workers in the St. Louis area — United Food and Commercial Workers Local 655 — is asking Missouri Gov. Mike Parson to mandate that customers cover their faces while shopping in retail facilities deemed essential businesses. The union also asks that Parson designate all essential retail workers as temporary first responders, which would give them state-provided protective gear and other benefits. In this episode, host Sarah Fenske talks with the president of the UFCW 655, David Cook, as well as Chris Dean, a local grocery store employee who started the 'Who Are We' movement as a resource and organizing point for essential workers during the COVID-19 outbreak.

SLU Pandemic Researcher On Quarantine Procedure, Screening, Tracking Apr 07, 2020

SLU School of Law's Rob Gatter talked to Sarah Fenske on Tuesday's "St. Louis on the Air" about quarantine procedures and related topics that connect his research on pandemic preparedness. Also in the conversation were questions from callers regarding quarantine procedures.

St. Louis Author Takes Readers To Paths Less Traveled at Forest Park Apr 07, 2020

On Tuesday's "St. Louis on the Air" host Sarah Fenske talked to Carolyn Mueller, author of "Forest Park: A Walk Through History" and zookeper at the Saint Louis Zoo. During the show, Mueller discussed places to visit off the beaten path in Forest Park as well as lesser-known sculptures featured in St. Loius' flagship park.

Sarah Kendzior Discusses Book Detailing Donald Trump’s Rise To Power Apr 06, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske talked to St. Louis-baed author Sarah Kendzior Monday about her book “Hiding in Plain Sight: The Invention of Donald Trump and the Erosion of America”, which talks about Trump’s rise to power since the 1980s.

As Coronavirus Risk Grows, Missouri Prisons Resist Release Apr 06, 2020

On Monday’s “St. Louis on the Air” host Sarah Fenske talked to Sara Baker, policy director for the ACLU, who discussed COVID-19 in jails and prisons and her agency’s attempt at getting the state prison system to take action regarding the safety of inmates during the coronavirus outbreak.

St. Louis Dancer Brings Swing To The Living Room Apr 03, 2020

Following the COVID-19 outbreak, St. Louis dancer and musician Christian Frommelt had to look for new ways to teach new dancers while keeping safe distance. With video meetings becoming popular on social media after the coronavirus pandemic, Frommelt took to hosting virtual swing dancing lessons on the St. Louis Swing Dance Facebook page. On Friday’s “St. Louis on the Air” host Sarah Fenske talked to Frommelt about the abrupt change to live-streaming dance courses and what the future holds for the St. Louis dance scene. Also during the show, Fenske talked to Frommelt about the history of dance culture in the early 1900s.

As Nursing Homes Struggle With Coronavirus Prevention, Residents Become More Isolated Apr 03, 2020

Nursing homes are facing challenges to combat the COVID-19 outbreak. On Friday’s “St. Louis on the Air” host Sarah Fenske talks to science and environment reporter Eli Chen about her recent reporting on the challenges facing nursing homes in our region. And during the show, we eavesdropped on a conversation between 98-year-old nursing home resident Jean Hemphill and her granddaughter, Evie Hemphill.

A Local Nurse’s Push For N95 Masks Apr 03, 2020

At the St. Louis hospital where Emma Crocker works as a registered nurse, only employees working in areas with confirmed COVID-19 patients, like the emergency room and ICU, were given N95 masks from the hospital’s collection. N95 masks are in short supply across the country, and the hospital wanted to conserve their supply. Yet, Crocker was concerned that she and her colleagues were being exposed to the virus by unknowingly infected patients coming into their outpatient oncology clinic, which is located within the hospital. In this episode, Sarah Fenske talks with Crocker about her push for all hospital health care workers to have access to N95 masks.

Humane Society Offers Curbside Adoptions To Connect Pets With Homebodies Apr 02, 2020

Humane Society of Missouri President Kathy Warnick joined host Sarah Fenske on Thursday’s “Saint Louis on the Air” to talk about the organization's unique effort of partnering pets with families who are currently home-bound while still maintaining social distancing.

How The St. Louis Zoo Is Connecting With The City During The Pandemic Apr 02, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske talked to Saint Louis Zoo Director Micahel Macek about how the zoo is adjusting to closing its doors to visitors and their #BringTheSTLZooToYou social media updates.

ArchCity Co-Founder Discusses Ferguson Settlement Apr 02, 2020

On Thursday’s “St. Louis on the Air” host Sarah Fenske talked to Michael-Jon Voss, co-founder and special projects director with ArchCity Defenders, about a nearly $1.7 million settlement of a class action lawsuit against the City of Ferguson, Missouri. The settlement affects more than 10,000 citizens of the area who were charged fees for the issuance of warrants or for failing to appear for a municipal court date in Ferguson.

'We're Going To Be Sacrificing Some Of Them At This Time': Constitutional Rights And COVID-19 Apr 01, 2020

All those hypothetical questions we love to debate around issues of privacy, freedom and other civil rights? Many of them feel a lot less theoretical these days. The spread of coronavirus — and restrictions placed by the government on the public and private sectors in response — has given these questions a greater sense of urgency. This conversation focuses on COVID-19’s implications for government power and its limits as expressed in the United States’ founding documents.

What It Was Really Like In St. Louis During The 1918 Spanish Flu Pandemic Apr 01, 2020

In determining the best guidelines for government action during the COVID-19 outbreak, city leaders and officials are looking at how different metros responded during the 1918 flu pandemic. The general consensus is that because St. Louis implemented more extensive quarantine measures, the area had a lower death rate than other cities in the U.S. Chris Naffziger, who writes about history and architecture for St. Louis magazine, says that while city officials managed to prevent the deaths of thousands during the pandemic of 1918 through 1920, St. Louis’ response to the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic wasn't quite what we remember.

The Real Life Madam C.J. Walker and Annie Malone Mar 31, 2020

The new Netflix series explores the remarkable life of St. Louis washerwoman toward hair care magnate Madam C.J. Walker. It paints a rivalry with another St. Louis entrepreneur, one based in part on Annie Malone. Sarah Fenske talks about the true stories of both women's lives with a panel of experts that includes Walker's great-granddaughter, and biographer, A'lelia Bundles.

Remembering Two Local Residents To Die From Coronavirus Mar 31, 2020

Every day we report on the number of people who test positive for coronavirus and the number of people who die from it. Behind all of the numbers are personal stories. We talked with the families of Jazmond Dixon and Pete DaPrato. St. Louisan Jazmond Dixon, 31, was the first in the area to die from the coronavirus and Pete DaPrato, 72, of O'Fallon, Missouri, died last week.

How St. Louis' Hill Neighborhood Is Holding On In A Pandemic Mar 31, 2020

On Tuesday's "St. Louis on the Air" host Sarah Fenske talked to two restaurant owners located in The Hill neighborhood. Following the COVID-19 outbreak, many restaurants had to change their dining models to curbside or delivery when they were forced to shut their doors to the public. Chris Saracino, the president of the Hill 2000 Neighborhood Association and owner of four restaurants, including Chris' Pancake and Dining and Bartolino's Osteria, talked with Fenske about how his businesses are holding up following the pandemic. Larry Fuse, a Hill resident and owner of restaurants Lorenzo's Trattoria and Gelato di Riso also joined the show.

The Ethics Of Care During A Pandemic Mar 30, 2020

Medical ethicists are trained to confront ethical questions in medicine, and the novel coronavirus raises quite a few. For instance, in China and Italy, there have been reports of hospitals being forced to ration care for COVID-19 patients. This form of rationing care and prioritizing treatment is determined by a hospital’s crisis standards of care guidelines. According to Dr. Kimbell Kornu, an assistant professor of health care ethics and palliative medicine at St. Louis University, hospital administrators and clinical ethicists around the U.S. are preparing their guidelines now, looking back to protocols from the SARS outbreak of 2003 and care in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. In this episode, Sarah Fenske talks with Kornu about these and other ethical considerations surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic.

Metro Transit And Taxi Commission Focused On Rider And Operator Safety, Limited Trips Mar 30, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske talked to Reginald Howard, president of the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 788 about the safety procedures Metro Transit has implemented following the coronavirus outbreak. During the show included audio from Ron Klein, the executive director of the St. Louis Metropolitan Taxicab Commission, who talked about what the local taxi business is doing to ensure clean safety practices for riders. Also included were two callers who voiced their own questions and concerns about public transportation during the pandemic.

Jim McKelvey Explains How To Build A Business, 'One Crazy Idea At A Time' Mar 27, 2020

When Square co-founder Jim McKelvey went looking for role models, he found that entrepreneurs, unlike businessmen, are in short supply. In his new book, “The Innovation Stack: Building an Unbeatable Business One Crazy Idea at a Time," McKelvey explores how people with big ideas and a lot of bravery can solve big problems and build new companies. In this conversation, McKelvey discusses his book with Sarah Fenske and shares his thoughts on how the coronavirus pandemic could change the status quo.

#314Together Brings St. Louis Businesses And Customers Together Again Mar 27, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske talks to Christina Weaver of The Women's Creative and Jordan Bauer of the Instagram account STLouisGram and St. Louis guide and coupon book Experience Booklet to discuss #314Together, a new group aimed to bring local business and customers together again.

How Local Clergy Are Maintaining Community Virtually Mar 27, 2020

Over the past few weeks, local sites of worship have had to recalibrate how they serve their congregations during a time when coming together can do more harm than good. So, many clergy have urged their members to practice their faith at home for the time being, and congregations are adapting to connecting virtually. In this conversation, Sarah Fenske talks with Rev. Matt Miofsky of the Gathering and Rabbi Susan Talve of Central Reform Congregation about how they are approaching at-home services for their congregations.

Local Students Honored In C-SPAN Documentary Competition Mar 26, 2020

A homework assignment turned into cash and national recognition for some area high schoolers. Clayton High senior Lila Taylor and Kirkwood High junior Zach Baynham were both among the top winners in C-SPAN’s 2020 StudentCam competition. Taylor’s documentary looked at adult sentences for juveniles in the U.S. prison system, while Baynham explored the contributions of people with intellectual disabilities in the workforce. They join host Sarah Fenske to talk about their projects and what it was like putting together a documentary for the first time.

Outside-The-Box Options Let Some Weddings Go On In St. Louis Mar 26, 2020

This time of year typically marks the start of wedding season, with venues, vendors and engaged couples all gearing up for major gatherings. Now, many such celebrations have been cancelled or postponed in light of the ongoing spread of COVID-19, and those working in the event industry are reeling. But when the upheaval of coronavirus eventually settles down — and even in the midst of it all, in some cases — St. Louis remains a great city in which to get hitched. Just ask Carolyn Burke, whose small business aims to make St. Louis a destination for elopement. With courthouses currently closed to nuptials, she’s found a workaround by bringing her officiant credentials and related services straight to wherever couples are located. In this segment, host Sarah Fenske talks with Burke as well as two other locals who have a track record of helping people think outside the box about weddings and other events: Stuart Keating, co-owner of Earthbound Beer; and Rachel McCalla, event director at Third Degree Glass Factory. The conversation touches on local impacts of COVID-19 but especially focused on the creative thinking that was already underway among some local venues and vendors — and may be more attractive than ever as couples look toward what’s next. It also includes comments from Stuart Hultgren and Sara Hasz, a local engaged couple who had planned to get married in early May in Tower Grove Park.

Two St. Louis-Area Grant Funds To Bring Some Relief To Nonprofits, Small Businesses Mar 26, 2020

The COVID-19 Regional Response Fund was started two weeks ago to help non-profits hit hard by the novel coronavirus. With backing by the Community Foundation, the fund quickly garnered some major donations. The aim is to help nonprofits dealing with vulnerable populations. It wasn’t long after that a second fund was established, also in tandem with the Community Foundation. The Gateway Resilience Fund was created to help the restaurant and retail industries. Together, the two funds have already raised $1.4 million. In this episode, Sarah Fenske talks with Roo Yawitz, co-creator and advisor to the Gateway Resilience Fund.

How To Combat Isolation And Loneliness Among Seniors During The COVID-19 Outbreak Mar 25, 2020

Even before the outbreak of COVID-19 caused mass social distancing — keeping friends and family members apart for the sake of their health — many seniors felt isolated, particularly those living in nursing homes and assisted living communities. For those who were already lonely or isolated, things are likely to get worse in the months ahead, as caregivers find themselves overwhelmed and strained, and as social distancing recommendations continue. In this episode, we explore some things friends and family can do to make sure seniors are not only healthy, but also make sure they avoid falling into despair. We also highlight the Circle of Friends program that aims to connect seniors via weekly meetings. Circle of Friends is a collaboration between Community Health in Partnership (CHIPS) and the St. Louis Housing Authority.

Legal Roundtable Tackles Coronavirus Implications Mar 25, 2020

How has the coronavirus upended the legal profession? What happens when your right to a speedy trial clashes with the government’s cancellation of jury trials? Can an employer require workers deemed non-essential to show up, or face termination? In this episode, Sarah Fenske talks with a panel of legal experts about a variety of issues, including those triggered by the new coronavirus.

Best Books For A Pandemic? Experts Share 20 Top Picks Mar 24, 2020

There’s no time quite like the present for escaping into someone else’s story for a bit, and even in the technology-crazed 21st century, the written word is still the go-to medium for doing so. Books have a distinctive way of engaging hearts and minds for hours on end, providing everything from comfort and knowledge to intrigue and comic relief. And in the St. Louis region, our local booksellers, librarians and authors are great resources for recommendations of what to read — specifically some top picks for a pandemic. In this segment, LuAnn Locke, owner of Afterwords Books in Edwardsville, Illinois, and Jen Ohzourk, regional manager with St. Louis Public Library, talkwith host Sarah Fenske and fielded listener request and suggestions, too. The conversation also touches on how local bookstores are finding creative ways to continue connecting their customers to great reads and how book lovers can take steps to support those independent retailers.

Meet Luz Maria Henriquez, New ACLU Of Missouri Executive Director Mar 24, 2020

One month ago, Luz Maria Henriquez began a new job as executive director of the ACLU of Missouri. And the weeks since have made clear there will be no easing into things. The nation is now in an unprecedented period of economic shutdown and enforced social distancing, even as healthcare workers grapple with a terrifying pandemic. In this interview, Sarah Fenske talks with Henriquez about what she sees as the ACLU’s role during these troubled times. In the last week alone, that’s meant advocating for prisoners and voting rights.

Q&A: Debunking Myths About COVID-19, Treatment, Vaccines With Wash U's Michael Kinch Mar 23, 2020

Many aspects of everyday life and commerce are grinding to a halt in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, but the online world remains as frenetic as ever. And while virtual tools and social media platforms provide much-needed connections in these isolating times, they’ve also made it easy for harmful misinformation to spread almost as fast as the coronavirus itself. In this episode of the talk show, we work to combat some of these fake facts. Host Sarah Fenske talks with Michael Kinch, the director of Washington University’s Centers for Research Innovation in Biotechnology and Drug Discovery, and he fields lots of listener calls in addition to Fenske's questions.

Ken Burns’ New Documentary ‘East Lake Meadows: A Public Housing Story’ Mar 23, 2020

Documentarian Ken Burns’ latest work, “East Lake Meadows: A Public Housing Story,” explores the history of a former public housing community in Atlanta. It features the stories of residents and raises critical questions about race, poverty and public assistance. The film premieres Tuesday, March 24, at 7 p.m. on PBS. In this interview, Sarah Fenske talks with Burns about the film. She also gets his take on the current health crisis posed by COVID-19 and the value of looking back at history to inform us in these uncertain times.

Laid-Off Journalist Who Won't Stop Working Inspires A Weary Nation Mar 23, 2020

Alt-weeklies — which rely entirely on advertising and public events for revenue — were dealt a terrible early blow by the nation’s response to the coronavirus. From coast to coast, publications suspended print editions and laid off staffers. St. Louis’ Riverfront Times was among those hardest hit. The 42-year-old publication halted its print edition and laid off seven staffers, including three editors, the art director and a staff writer. Only two journalists remain on the payroll: Editor in Chief Doyle Murphy and Digital Editor Jaime Lees. But one of the laid-off journalists has simply refused to leave. Host Sarah Fenske talks to Riverfront Times Music Editor Daniel Hill, who, one day after being furloughed, defiantly posted on the publication’s website that he was going to keep writing whether or not he got paid for it.

Webster Professor, Students Aim Child Psychology Project At A Congressional Audience Mar 20, 2020

As someone focused on child and adolescent psychology, Webster University’s Deborah Stiles is used to writing about psychological theory and case studies — and working with multiple co-authors in doing so. But one of her most recent projects involves a total of 14 co-authors, and this one isn’t simply ending up in a scholarly journal. Instead, it’s headed to the halls of power in Washington. Titled “The Psychological Impact of Separating Immigrant Children from their Families,” the 48-page report tells the stories of 10 children caught in the middle of U.S. practices along the nation’s southern border. This segment features Stiles' recent conversation with host Sarah Fenske about how Stiles and her collaborators approached this unusual project. Kaori Chaki, one of the graduate students who traveled with Stiles to Seattle last month to present it at the Society for Cross-Cultural Research’s annual conference, also participates in the discussion.

Why St. Louis Public Radio Canceled Its Spring Pledge Drive Mar 20, 2020

Public health considerations and the effects of the coronavirus pandemic continue to be at the forefront of daily life. Among those effects, the last few weeks have been incredibly tough for journalists and nonprofits alike, St. Louis Public Radio included. The station is dealing with the difficulty of being dependent on members, even as they face serious anxiety as well as real or potential losses in income. St. Louis Public Radio continues to cover the news while minimizing in-person contact. That is not easy. In this interview, Sarah Fenske sits down with St. Louis Public Radio General Manager Tim Eby to talk about precautions the station is taking while still delivering content, the decision to cancel the annual Talk Toast Taste fundraiser gala (a virtual fundraiser to benefit St. Louis Public Radio is in the works) and why the station’s spring member campaign was canceled.

STLMade Reflects On 1st Year Of Movement Mar 20, 2020

Over the past 12 months, STLMade has featured regional staples ranging from Skate King to theWildey Theatre, profiling those who boost the local economy, including Tony’s Family Farms and Vega Transport, along the way. The three-year effort was started by regional representatives to highlight the stories of the people and businesses that make up the St. Louis region, and to help retain that talent. Leah Wilson, account director at Broughton Brand Company and fueler of the STLMade movement, joins host Sarah Fenske to reflect on the initiative's past year and plans to expand that unified message of pride to other areas of the country.

K-12 Learning Goes Virtual Mar 19, 2020

The summer slide — the propensity for students to lose academic achievements made during the school year — is something educators have expressed concern about for years. With the region’s schools being closed until at least early April due to the COVID-19 outbreak, teachers and administrators are working hard to make sure such a slide doesn’t happen this spring as well. In this episode, Sarah Fenske talks with St. Louis Public Radio’s education reporter, Ryan Delaney, about how K-12 schools are responding to coronavirus social distancing measures. Gary Ritter, dean of St. Louis University’s School of Education, also joins the conversation to discuss how teachers and parents can best prepare kids for virtual learning.

Elsa Lemp Film To Premiere At Chase 100 Years After Her Untimely Death Mar 19, 2020

The year 1920 was a pivotal one for the Lemp family in St. Louis, and not just because of the enforcement of Prohibition. One hundred years ago this week, the front page of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch proclaimed that Elsa Lemp Wright — then part of a local beer dynasty that had long rivaled Anheuser-Busch — had taken her own life. “This is the Lemp family for you,” her brother William Lemp Jr. said at the scene of her death. But was that really what happened? Local filmmaker Franki Cambeletta explores this question in his soon-to-be-released documentary from Shift Films, “Lemp’s Last Wright.” In this segment, host Sarah Fenske talks with Cambeletta about the project, which represents the culmination of many years of interest and research into Lemp Wright’s life.

University Leaders, Students Grapple With What’s Left Of This Semester Mar 19, 2020

Today’s college campuses are in many ways designed to be like small cities, featuring places to shop, eat and live daily life as well as learn and teach. And in the age of coronavirus, those campuses are facing major concerns and questions not unlike those that municipal leaders are grappling with. The University of Missouri-St. Louis’ Jessica Long-Pease is one of the people working closely with UMSL’s on-campus students and staff in this uncertain time. She’s the director of the Millennium Student Center and the Office of Student Life, both of which are normally buzzing with people.

Paige Alyssa Returns Home To Release New Music For 1st Time In 2 Years Mar 18, 2020

Paige Alyssa Hegwood is back — in St. Louis and in music. After spending some time in Los Angeles and doing some soul searching, the singer-songwriter is now expressing that growth both musically and individually. Through up-tempo pop and vibrant vocals, Paige Alyssa is releasing music on their own terms for the first time in two years with their new single, “What’s the Move,” which features mixing and mastering by Shock City’s Sam Maul. Paige Alyssa joins host Sarah Fenske to talk about their time in Los Angeles, how they overcame artistic struggles and what new music they have in store.

What A 14th-Century Novel Teaches Us About Social Distancing Mar 18, 2020

Rebecca Messbarger is a cultural historian of medicine, as well as a professor of Italian at Washington University. There, she teaches a class called Disease, Madness and Death — Italian Style. She begins the course by discussing the classic Italian novel “The Decameron.” Written in 1353, Giovanni Boccaccio’s work is framed by a story of medieval social distancing during the bubonic plague. Messbarger never imagined that it would be so relevant to today’s time. She joins host Sarah Fenske to talk about social distancing — both how it provided the framing device for “The Decameron" and was also at the root of St. Louis health commissioner Max Starkloff’s approach to the 1918 influenza pandemic.

How St. Paul Sandwiches Became A St. Louis Delicacy Mar 18, 2020

St. Louis has an abundance of unique culinary creations that locals don’t care to convince outsiders to embrace: one being a St. Paul sandwich. It’s an egg patty topped with lettuce, tomato and pickles, and held together by white bread smothered in mayo. Regional eaters can now find variations of the sandwich that include pork belly, ham or shrimp. Sauce Magazine’s Matt Sorrell recently delved into how exactly the cult favorite was created. Sorrell joins host Sarah Fenske to talk about the sandwich’s rise to fame as a St. Louis classic. Also joining the discussion are Ben Welch, the Midwestern executive chef who’s been eating St. Pauls since he was a kid, and Kristin Liu, whose family owned Chinese Gourmet Restaurant in Florissant from 1984 until it closed in 2017.

A Conversation With The Author Of 'Famished: Eating Disorders And Failed Care in America' Mar 17, 2020

According to Rebecca Lester, the author of “Famished: Eating Disorders and Failed Care in America,” eating disorders are among the most misunderstood medical conditions. For instance, she says there is an assumption that eating disorders are mostly a problem for upper-middle-class white girls. While that’s not completely untrue, it’s just a sliver of the story. In “Famished,” Lester looks closely at the impact of common misconceptions, as well as the way the health care system fails to treat these disorders.

Experts Share Coping Strategies For Stressful Times Mar 17, 2020

Schools are closed. Libraries are closed. Many restaurants have closed — with more almost certainly on the way. Health officials say all of those measures are essential, as the ongoing spread of coronavirus has led to best practices of “social distancing.” But in addition to COVID-19, the coronavirus has also spread widespread angst. People are worried about their jobs and their families, even as they confront a seemingly endless cascade of worrying headlines. In this episode of the talk show, listeners share their ideas for de-stressing in a stressful time, along with two experts: Tony Buchanan, a professor of psychology at St. Louis University and co-director of its neuroscience program, and Dr. Jessi Gold, an assistant professor in Washington University’s Department of Psychiatry.

Healthcare Providers Limited In Number Of Tests They Can Send For Processing Mar 16, 2020

There is a lot of anxiety swirling right now over the new coronavirus. There’s also a lot of misinformation. In this interview, Sarah Fenske talks with infectious disease physician Dr. Alexis Elward to help set the record straight and answer listener questions and concerns.

St. Louis Mayor Says Future Of Dine-In Eating At Local Restaurants Still Uncertain Mar 16, 2020

One day after regional leaders announced broad new rules to limit gatherings in the St. Louis area to 50 people or fewer, St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson stressed their importance in “flattening the curve” of infections caused by the coronavirus across the U.S. Krewson stressed that while restaurants and bars are still open, they are subject to the 50-person limit at any point in time. They are also recommending that eateries move tables and other furniture so there is a six-foot space between diners. In this episode, Krewson also addresses restaurateurs’ questions about whether the region will follow the lead of Illinois and Ohio and shut down on-site dining.

One Thing The Coronavirus Hasn’t Canceled: The Illinois Primary Election Mar 16, 2020

St. Louis Public Radio's Metro East reporter Eric Schmid details Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's big steps to slow the spread of coronavirus ahead of the state's primary election.

The State Of St. Louis Print Media Mar 13, 2020

It’s been a tough decade for the media business, particularly for outlets focused on disseminating the written word. Publications have closed across the U.S. Many newspapers no longer offer daily editions. And many of the online news outlets vying to replace (or at least supplement) them have seen layoffs of their own. But despite a host of challenges to the advertising-based business model, St. Louis finds itself with a surprisingly robust print-media landscape. In this segment we discuss St. Louis’ media history and the current media landscape with Frank Absher, a radio veteran and the executive director of the St. Louis Media History Foundation; Gilbert Bailon, the editor of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch; longtime local writer Jeannette Cooperman, who is an inductee in this year’s St. Louis Media Hall of Fame; and Antonio French, a former alderman and mayoral candidate who became adept at using Twitter and Vine to chronicle the Ferguson protests in real time. French also recently started a pair of weekly newspapers.

Join The 'STL Exchange' 314 Day Party For $3.14 Mar 12, 2020

314 Day is this Saturday, and that means St. Louisans near and far are gearing up to show up and out for their city. The local holiday began as an informal celebration by residents — particularly in the black community. Within that community, people often gather for block parties, neighborhood barbecues and club events when the last numbers of their zip code or street number correspond with a date on the calendar. A day named for St. Louis’ main area code was a natural way to take the party city-wide. St. Louis natives Ryan Escobar, Tenelle Winmore and Sierra Brown are hosting their biggest 314 Day celebration yet. Called “STL Exchange,” the party will take place at the Contemporary Art Museum. Escobar and Winmore join host Sarah Fenske to share what makes them St. Louis-proud, preview the event and discuss how they hope to create a more united city.

Why The 2020 Census Matters For Missouri Mar 12, 2020

Across the metro area, residents of both Missouri and Illinois should start expecting a letter in their mailboxes that only makes its appearance once every 10 years. Forms for the 2020 census are expected to begin to arrive March 12. Host Sarah Fenske delves into why filling out the census is important, what’s different on this year’s form, and how the coronavirus pandemic could affect population counts. Joining the discussion to answer questions about the process and address potential concerns is Alex Rankin. She is Missouri Foundation of Health's interim director of health policy and is running the organization’s efforts to promote the 2020 census.

UMSL Opera Theatre Presents 'The Clever Artifice of Harriet and Margaret' This Weekend Mar 12, 2020

Vocal performance students at the University of Missouri-St. Louis have tackled some classic operatic works over the past decade through UMSL Opera Theatre, an ensemble led by faculty member Stella Markou. In 2011 UMSL Opera Theatre presented “The Marriage of Figaro,” and two years ago the group’s “Pirates of Penzance” tied for first place in a National Opera Association production competition. But this weekend the student performers are showcasing a more contemporary work at the campus’ Touhill Performing Arts Center. Titled “The Clever Artifice of Harriet and Margaret,” it’s a one-act chamber opera from composer Leanna Kirchoff that’s been described as a “cat-and-mouse conversation between two rivals.” In this segment, host Sarah Fenske gets a preview of the show from Markou, who is an associate professor of music and the director of vocal studies at UMSL. The conversation also includes upperclassman Lexi Neal, who has a leading role in the production. In addition to the on-air discussion, this segment features highlights from a recent rehearsal by the cast.

Terry Adkins Retrospective At The Pulitzer Opens Friday Mar 11, 2020

A new show opens at the Pulitzer this weekend. It’s a retrospective of artist Terry Adkins, who took inspiration from musical instruments, underappreciated historical figures — and the blues. Stephanie Weissberg joins host Sarah Fenske to discuss the Pulitzer show, “Terry Adkins: Resounding,” which opens this Friday. Weissberg is the associate curator at the Pulitzer Arts Foundation.

Bissell Mansion Keeps Drawing Crowds To North St. Louis For Dinner, Murder Mystery Mar 11, 2020

It’s Saturday night at Bissell Mansion, a nearly 200-year-old home overlooking Interstate 70 in north St. Louis. Dozens of people have gathered together to enjoy a meal — and a murder mystery. Over the course of the evening, dinner theater actors Linda Spall and Charles Huevelman put on a raucous show, “Phantom of the Grand Ole Opry,” in which Spall plays two characters, Tammy Whino and Dolly Pardon, and Huevelman portrays a very drunk Kenny Rogeers. The rest of the cast has been drafted from among audience members, who were each assigned a role as they arrived and provided with a partial script outlining that particular part in the story. By the time salads have been served, one of the characters has been murdered, and it’s up to a wild bunch of country stars to apprehend the killer. The whole scene is one that’s been a fixture at Bissell Mansion for more than three decades and continues to draw a crowd. In this conversation, longtime murder mystery actor John Vullo joins host Sarah Fenske to talk about the goings-on at Bissell and provide a closer look at what it is that keeps diners returning there for more comedic mayhem.

Local Universities, Businesses React To Coronavirus Mar 11, 2020

Local businesses and workers could both be impacted by the coronavirus, even if no one on the payroll actually contracts COVID-19. So how are business owners seeking to make sense of these uncertain times? What are universities doing to protect their students, staff and faculty? In this episode, we discuss the potential impact of coronavirus fears — and the likely increase in COVID-19 cases — on the St. Louis region.

MADCO’s New Show ‘Resilience’ Focuses On Battling Adversity With Movement Mar 10, 2020

Modern American Dance Academy’s new show “Resilience” is not what you might picture when you consider a dance performance. The MADCO show features four pieces, each touching on a type of trauma — everything from losing a child to the loss of one’s sanity — with a focus on battling adversity through movement. Possibly the most unique aspect of the show is that the dancing won’t end after the official performances are through. After the last ticketed show, MADCO’s education director, Darrell Hyche II, will spend the next year bringing related programming to under-served schools in the area, with the hope of giving the kids the tools they need to deal with anger, familial conflict, trauma and more. In this episode, we hear from Hyche as well as MADCO’s interim director, Belicia Beck.

‘Rainbow Capitalism At Its Finest’: St. Louis Blues’ ‘Hockey Is For Everyone’ Draws Criticism Mar 10, 2020

With the St. Louis Blues decision to roll up Pride Night into its "Hockey Is For Everyone" event, some in the LGBTQ community aren't happy. Host Sarah Fenske talks with PrideSTL board members Marty Zuniga and Jordan Braxton about why they're disappointed with the Blues decision to incorporate Pride Night into one fundraising event with other nonprofits.

Author Scott Phillips Discusses 'That Left Turn At Albuquerque' Mar 10, 2020

Scott Phillips may be the most acclaimed novelist living in St. Louis today. Best known as the author of “The Ice Harvest,” he’s won the California Book Award and been a finalist for the Edgar Award and the Hammett Prize. His latest novel, “That Left Turn At Albuquerque,” finds Phillips in familiar territory, with a crime caper, a cast of amoral characters and plenty of dark humor. In this segment he joins us to discuss the book and much, much more. A native of Wichita, Kansas, Phillips lived in Paris and Los Angeles before settling in St. Louis. He is also one of the co-founders of St. Louis’ Noir at the Bar chapter, which has become a must-visit for traveling crime authors and also paved the way for similar groups across the U.S.

Second Chance Job Fair Helps Ex-Offenders Find Employment Mar 09, 2020

Former Missouri State Senator Jeff Smith was sentenced to a year and a day in prison after being charged with two felony counts of conspiracy to obstruct justice following revelations about election law violations during his 2004 campaign. Since his release, he’s dedicated his efforts toward reforming the criminal justice system. One such effort led him to the St. Louis University Transformative Workforce Academy’s “Second Chance Job Fair,” which seeks to connect employers with ex-offenders looking for work. In this interview, Sarah Fenske talks with Smith about the impact of the job fair and what employers stand to gain from hiring ex-offenders. Tracy Stanton, who was hired by an employer after attending the very first job fair two years ago, also joins the conversation.

STLPR's Sarah Fenske And Bernie Sanders Talk Coronavirus, Health Care And Beating Trump Mar 09, 2020

Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Bernie Sanders sits down with St. Louis on the Air host Sarah Fenske ahead of a campaign rally in St. Louis on Monday. Missouri voters will go to the polls to cast primary ballots on Tuesday. The Vermont senator’s visit follows a campaign stop in St. Louis Saturday by former Vice President Joe Biden, whose campaign did not respond to interview requests from the talk show team. The conversation with Sanders touches on the senator’s strong showing in the 2016 primary, the new coronavirus and who’s best situated to unify the Democratic party and defeat President Trump. It also delved into the potential impact of a transition to Medicare for All on one of the St. Louis region’s biggest employers: the health care industry. In this segment Fenske also speaks with St. Louis Public Radio’s Jo Mannies, who provides analysis of the dynamics in Tuesday’s race.

Answering Your Questions About First Coronavirus Case In Missouri Mar 09, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske talks to experts about the Coronavirus. It’s now here in St. Louis County. What precautions should you take? The family of the first presumed case here has already broken its voluntary quarantine. Do officials see any hope for containing the disease Coronavirus spreads?

Sir Eddie C On Making ‘Regular People Rap’ Mar 06, 2020

Eddie Cox has always been fascinated by words, whether he’s stringing together freestyle raps with his friends or fine-tuning coherent arguments on debate teams. That interest has translated well to his star turn as hip-hop artist Sir Eddie C. The Belleville native is making waves in the St. Louis music scene and recently notched his first performances in New Orleans and Chicago. Cox joins host Sarah Fenske to talk about his musical craft and inspirations.

‘Eyes On The Prize’ Archive Brings ‘Bloody Sunday’ History To The Fore Mar 06, 2020

Fifty-five years ago this week, Alabama troopers greeted peaceful protesters gathered along a Selma bridge with billy clubs, tear gas, bullwhips and horses. And they didn’t hesitate to use them. “I felt like it was the last demonstration, it was the last protest on my part, like I was going to take my last breath from the tear gas,” John Lewis told filmmakers in 1985, two years before he’d begin his long tenure representing Georgia’s fifth congressional district. Parts of that interview are included in “Eyes on the Prize,” a 14-part film series that originally premiered on PBS in two parts in 1987 and 1990. It’s still considered the definitive documentary on the civil rights movement in America, and the complete oral histories that were gathered during its production, including the conversation with Lewis, have been preserved by Washington University Libraries. Many of the interviews are now digitized and accessible to members of the public. In this segment, Associate University Librarian Nadia Ghasedi joins host Sarah Fenske for a closer look at the enduring value of the Wash U Film & Media Archive’s “Eyes on the Prize” materials, which are part of its Henry Hampton Collection.

Missouri Rep Seeks To Require Consent For Pelvic Exams Of Unconscious Women Mar 06, 2020

For years, medical residents were taught how to give pelvic exams by performing them on women who were under anesthesia for unrelated procedures. The women were not asked to give consent first. In many cases, they weren’t even told the exam would happen. Illinois banned the practice in 2004. Host Sarah Fenske talks to GOP legislator Shamed Dogan, who is hoping to do the same in Missouri. Also joining the discussion is Jill B. Delston, a philosophy professor at the University of Missouri-St. Louis who explores the issue of giving pelvic exams without consent in her book “Medical Sexism.”

Researchers In St. Louis Searching For Coronavirus Vaccine Mar 05, 2020

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that as of midday Thursday, there are 18 states reporting confirmed and presumptive positive cases of the disease caused by the new coronavirus. That includes a total of 162 cases and 12 deaths from COVID-19 in the U.S. There are up to five reported cases in Illinois but none in Missouri. There are many efforts underway to create a vaccine to prevent the disease caused by the virus. In this episode, Sarah Fenske talks with a researcher in St. Louis who is doing just that. Sean Whelan, head of the Department of Molecular Microbiology at Washington University School of Medicine, joins the conversation, as well as Dr. Steven Lawrence, an infectious disease physician with Barnes-Jewish Hospital and an associate professor of Medicine and assistant dean for Curriculum and Clinical Science at Washington University.

A Conversation With The Author Of ‘City on a Hill: A History of American Exceptionalism’ Mar 05, 2020

When a country’s origin story is developed, whose stories get highlighted and whose get erased? How do we foster the ideals of a nation while recognizing that some perspectives have been trampled during its history? These are among several questions Abram Van Engen explores in his new book, “City on a Hill: A History of American Exceptionalism,” which examines the 1630 sermon “City on a Hill” by Massachusetts Bay Governor John Winthrop. In this interview, Sarah Fenske talks with Engen about how the sermon went from being lost to history for two centuries, to being invoked by politicians on both sides of the aisle. They’ll also discuss the conflict between the ideals of American exceptionalism and those of the America First agenda.

'We Had To Do Better': Metro Transit Leaders Discuss New Security Strategy Mar 04, 2020

Taulby Roach has made the safety of the St. Louis region’s transit system a major focus since becoming president and CEO of Bi-State Development 14 months ago. Just last week he and other area leaders gathered to mark the culmination of two years of study and planning aimed at improving safety on buses and light rail lines. They touted the creation of a four-prong “systemwide security strategy” aimed at reducing “the rate and perception of crime” on transit, among other commitments. Bi-State also recently selected private security firm GS4 for a three-year contract, and has a new plan in place for a bigger police presence on MetroLink. In this segment, Roach talks with host Sarah Fenske about the latest developments in the agency’s safety efforts. Kevin Scott, director of public safety for Metro Transit, also weighs in, and listeners join the conversation as well.

3 New Food And Drink Spots To Try This March Mar 04, 2020

It’s a question savvy diners confront with regularity: What new place should I try this month? Once again, our friends from Sauce Magazine visited "St. Louis on the Air" to help us answer the question. And while some months offer an embarrassment of riches, so many options that it’s hard to know what to do, this month promises an entirely manageable list: one restaurant, one bar and one coffee shop. Sauce Magazine managing editor Heather Hughes Huff and art director Meera Nagarajan delve into each spot’s charm.

STL-Style Celebrates 10 Years Of St. Louis-Themed Retail On Cherokee Street Mar 04, 2020

St. Louisans and tourists alike have lots of options for sporting their love of the Lou, whether they snap up airport tchotchkes or visit one of countless vendors around town making the most of the city’s prized Gateway Arch and other iconic #STL imagery. But one retail shop has stood out from the crowd in recent years: STL-Style. The brainchild of St. Louis-area natives Jeff and Randy Vines, STL-Style is marking a full decade of life on the city’s vibrant Cherokee Street this year. And on March 28, the identical twins promise a celebration featuring Brothers Lazaroff, drag performers, local brews and more. It will be, the Vines brothers say, “a block party for all ages and a must-do event for any self-respecting St. Louisan.” The Vineses join host Sarah Fenske to look back on their 10 years of business on Cherokee Street — and how they’ve observed the city and its image evolve during that time.

A Rough Mating Season For Forest Park’s Great Horned Owls, Charles And Danielle Mar 03, 2020

Mark Glenshaw is obsessed with owls. By day, he is a manager at Fontbonne University’s library; but by night, he frequents a discrete area of Forest Park, checking in on a great horned owl he named Charles. In this episode, Sarah Fenske talks with Glenshaw about his observations of Charles and his new mate, Danielle, over the past couple months.

UN's Wildlife Day Marks Worldwide Commemoration Of Biodiversity Mar 03, 2020

March 3 is United Nation’s annual commemoration of World Wildlife Day, a time to highlight the importance of Earth’s natural resources and call for action to protect them. Host Sarah Fenske discusses the impact of biodiversity loss on Missouri's lesser-known native plants and insects. Joining the discussion are experts from Missouri Botanical Garden: Quinn Long, director of the Shaw Nature Reserve, and Aaron Lynn-Vogel, horticulturist at the Kemper Center for Home Gardening. They talk about habitats and wildlife at Shaw Nature Reserve, which includes many species native to Missouri, and what homeowners can do to promote biodiversity in their own backyard through plant selection.

When LGBTQ Dating Apps Double As A Platform For Drug Trafficking Mar 03, 2020

While dating apps are making it easier to help people find love, many in St. Louis’ LGBTQ scene are finding drugs through the apps instead. As people put the letter “T” in capital letters in their usernames, or use ice cream or ice cube emojis to let others know they are carrying the drug on the dating apps, getting it is easier than ever. That’s according to former KSDK reporter Jeff Small. He joins host Sarah Fenske to discuss how drugs are being trafficked through digital means to the LGBTQ community, and details his own experience on the apps and how he conquered his own addiction. Brandon Reid, a housing intake coordinator for the St. Louis nonprofit organization Criminal Justice Ministry, and Jason Eccker, a licensed clinical social worker for Synchronicity Counseling Solutions, also join the conversation.

‘Definitely A Huge Problem’: Nurses, Faculty Grapple With St. Louis Nursing Shortage Mar 02, 2020

Gabrielle Bahr remembers being fascinated by the medical field even as a young child. And her family’s experience a handful of years later, when her younger sister spent a few months in a neonatal intensive care unit and interacted closely with the nurses there, solidified Bahr’s choice of career: She knew then and there it would become her passion. Now a staff nurse in the emergency department of Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Bahr has zero regrets about her job path despite its inherent stresses and difficulties. At the end of each long shift, she knows her work is meaningful. But sometimes she heads home feeling even more exhausted than usual. That’s because her nursing team, like so many in Missouri, is chronically short staffed. Industry veterans like Natalie Murphy describe the situation as a crisis, noting that the region’s nurse vacancy rate stands at about 20% among hospitals, clinics and outpatient provider locations. A leader at the University of Missouri-St. Louis’ College of Nursing, Murphy is working with a variety of partners to address the issue. But it’s not an easy thing to fix, as Murphy explains in this conversation with Bahr and host Sarah Fenske.

GOP Lawmakers Ask That Missouri Supreme Court Repeal ‘Flawed’ Bond Rules Mar 02, 2020

Last July, the Missouri Supreme Court enacted rules requiring judges to first consider non-monetary conditions for pretrial release when setting bond conditions. Since then, several high profile crimes have led to backlash against the new Missouri Supreme Court rules. Recently, more than 80 Missouri state representatives signed onto a letter asking the court to revoke the new bond rules. In this episode, we explore what was behind the initial rule changes by the Missouri Supreme Court and the current debate over whether those rules should be rescinded.

Legal Roundtable Tackles Dicamba Verdict, Public Defender Workloads, Pot Pardons, More Feb 28, 2020

In this month’s Legal Roundtable discussion, panelists offer their insight on a federal judge’s refusal to approve a deal reducing Missouri public defender workloads, a Kansas City initiative to clear marijuana convictions more easily, and the huge verdict regarding Monsanto’s weed killer Roundup.

Court-Ordered Electronic Monitoring Triggers Pushback In St. Louis Feb 27, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske hosts a conversation about the role of electronic monitoring services during the pretrial stages and what implications they can have for defendants.

'Lawyers Without Rights' Details How Nazis Targeted Jewish Attorneys Feb 27, 2020

What happened to Jewish lawyers after Hitler took power in Germany? The truth is a painful one. They were stripped of their licenses, driven from their homeland and, in many cases, murdered, even as their gentile colleagues stood silent. Those horrifying details are at the center of an exhibit that has now been shown all over the world. “Lawyers Without Rights: Jewish Lawyers in Germany Under the Third Reich” makes its St. Louis debut next month.

Lent, Self-Control And Some Tips For More Successful Attempts At Lifestyle Changes Feb 27, 2020

’Tis the season for attempted lifestyle changes and vice-forsaking of all sorts. For the more resolute, perhaps a new 2020 goal has really started to stick after two months of hard-fought discipline. Others, particularly many Christians, are just beginning to give something up for Lent, a 40-day period leading up to the celebration of Easter. Or at least they’ll try to give it up, whether it be a substance such as alcohol or sugar or, say, a digital denial of the self — like completely staying off of Facebook. Many people fail at these attempts, giving in before the 40 days are up. Why does this happen? The quick answer is that it’s due to a lack of self-control. But if you ask Washington University faculty member Leonard Green, he’ll insist it’s not so simple. In fact he avoids using the term “self-control” at all.

How The Modern Widows Club Helps Women Turn Grief Into Hope Feb 26, 2020

Cyndi Williams and Destiny Klimaszewski are the co-leaders of St. Louis’ Modern Widows Club. They both lost their husbands when they were still young. Turns out, they were far from alone. Now the club they started has swelled to more than 100 members. They join host Sarah Fenske and share how the organization helps foster friendships and connections between widows of all ages through regular meetings, community education, service and outreach.

St. Louis Uber Driver Shares Stories of How His Riders Got Through Tough Times Feb 26, 2020

Donald Bouton started moonlighting as an Uber driver almost five years ago. That’s not so unusual. A lot of St. Louisans took up ride-sharing as a second job — or even a first one — after it debuted in St. Louis in 2015. It’s the project Bouton launched while he was driving that’s unusual. Beginning in April 2016, he began keeping pen and paper in the backseat of his car. He asked his passengers to share what inspired them and helped them pull through adversity. And what he found was a serious dose of inspiration — and, ultimately, a book. “Backseat Inklings: Driving Positivity into the World, One Rider at a Time” is Bouton’s self-published account of his guests’ responses, unexpurgated and in their own handwriting. Bouton talks about the project in this conversation with host Sarah Fenske.

Actor In Metro Theater’s Adaptation Of ‘Ghost’ Aims To Change Perceptions Of Albinism Feb 25, 2020

As an actor, Ernest Emmanuel Peeples has portrayed a real range of characters — from Hamlet to the Ghost of Christmas Present. But in recent months, one particular theatrical role stands out from the rest: the opportunity to portray Lu, one of the adolescents at the center of Jason Reynolds’ wildly popular young adult novels, one of which is now also a play. Like Peeples, the character Lu has albinism, a genetic condition involving a lack of pigment that affects one’s skin, hair and eyes. Having this in common with a character is a first for Peeples, and a meaningful one. In this episode of St. Louis on the Air, he talks with host Sarah Fenske about his role in Metro Theater Company’s “Ghost,” which runs now through March 1 at the Grandel Theatre. The production is directed by Jacqueline Thompson, who also participates in the discussion.

Author Of 'The Suspect' — Detailing 1996 Olympic Bombing — To Speak In St. Louis Feb 25, 2020

Kevin Salwen is the co-author of a book about the 1996 Centennial Olympic Park bombing in Atlanta. The book — "The Suspect: An Olympic Bombing, the FBI, the Media, and Richard Jewell, the Man Caught in the Middle" — was, in part, the inspiration for a controversial film about the bombing and the man who was falsely accused for it. In this segment, host Sarah Fenske talks with Salwen ahead of his presentation at Central Reform Congregation in St. Louis.

How Community Support Saved 3 Local Businesses Feb 25, 2020

Earlier this year, Steve's Hot Dogs announced it was calling it quits after an 11-year run. But the outpouring that followed its closure announcement led directly to a new day for the eatery. As Ewing explains in this episode of St. Louis on the Air, the massive crowds in what he’d intended as the restaurant’s final week gave him a change of heart, and investment from Ewing’s longtime friend Danni Eickenhorst turned his idea to a reality. Steve’s Hot Dogs now plans to reopen. It’s not the only local business to experience a remarkable reversal of fortune. And in Belleville, after Memorial Hospital announced it would close Belleville Health and Sports Center, members formed a not-for-profit organization to take over the fitness center and keep it open. Host Sarah Fenske talks with guests from each of these businesses.

Criminologist, Prosecutor And St. Louis County Executive Talk Jail Reform Feb 24, 2020

St. Louis County’s jail population has dropped significantly over the past couple years, from an over-capacity total of 1,242 in the summer of 2018 to 930 inmates as of last week. The sustained decrease has been touted as one positive outcome among the justice reform efforts that followed protests in Ferguson. Much work remains — and thanks to five years of research led by University of Missouri-St. Louis Professor of Criminology and Criminal Justice Beth Huebner and funded by the John and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, collaboration continues between the researchers and the county, its circuit court and service providers. During this year’s Pierre Laclede Society Community Confluence donor event at UMSL Feb. 20, St. Louis on the Air host Sarah Fenske talks about ongoing efforts in the county, and addressed lingering challenges. She is joined by Huebner, St. Louis County Executive Dr. Sam Page and Julia Fogelberg, director of diversion and special programs for the St. Louis County Prosecutor's Office.

How A Servant Leadership Model Can Help Educators Move Beyond Test Scores Feb 24, 2020

Today’s teachers and school administrators are under increasing pressure on many fronts. There’s the increased focus on standardized testing, large class sizes and funding issues, not to mention the outside-the-classroom challenges complicating their students’ ability to learn. In the midst of all of this comes a refreshing focus — and a new graduate-level course — from two UMSL-connected leaders: Mindy Bier, co-director of the university’s Center for Character and Citizenship, and Tom Hoerr, assistant teaching professor and scholar in residence in the College of Education and former head of the New City School. During this year’s Pierre Laclede Society Community Confluence donor event that took place at UMSL Feb. 20, Bier and Hoerr talk with St. Louis on the Air host Sarah Fenske.

Underground Railroad Tours To Begin In Alton Feb. 29 Feb 21, 2020

The town of Alton was a major stop for escaped slaves making their way from St. Louis to Canada. In this interview, Sarah Fenske talks with J. Eric Robinson, assistant professor of history at the St. Louis College of Pharmacy and proprietor of J. E. Robinson tours, about the historic places and people involved in the Underground Railroad in St. Louis and in Illinois. Robinson will begin guided tours of Alton’s Underground Railroad history starting Feb. 29.

Diane Rehm Discusses Her Career, Advocacy Efforts At Edwardsville Event Feb 21, 2020

For three decades, Diane Rehm hosted a conversation with America. The Diane Rehm Show grew from a local show at NPR affiliate WAMU to a national juggernaut, with 2.8 million listeners every week. And even after her December 2016 retirement, Rehm has continued the conversation. She hosts a podcast; she also recently published her fourth book, “When My Time Comes.” In partnership with "St. Louis on the Air," Rehm discussed her career at a dinner hosted by the Mannie Jackson Center for the Humanities Foundation at the Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville. Here are the highlights from that conversation, including the secrets of her success and her reasons for becoming a passionate advocate for the “death with dignity” movement.

Have An Outstanding Warrant? St. Louis Court Will Offer Amnesty Feb. 24-27 Feb 20, 2020

St. Louis’ Municipal Court is hosting a warrant amnesty program Feb. 24-27. It’s an opportunity for people with outstanding bench warrants — excluding DUIs, leaving the scene of an accident and prostitution — to be able to pay their original fines and costs without penalty. In this interview, Emily Woodbury talks with Judge Newton McCoy about the program. Newton is an administrative judge in St. Louis City Municipal Court.

Illinois’ Leaning Tower Of Niles Among 12 Of The Latest Additions To The National Register Feb 20, 2020

Last week, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources announced the 12 sites in the state which were added to the National Register of Historic Places during 2019. That’s the official federal list of properties that merit special attention and preservation. Every Illinois county has at least one property or historic district listed in the National Register. Guest host Emily Woodbury learns more about the sites in Illinois that made it to the 2019 National Register of Historic Places, and what it took to get them on the list. Joining the discussion is Amy Hathaway, National Register and Survey Specialist for Illinois State Historic Preservation Office.

'There's No More Guessing': Brady Sims On The Sport — And The Science — Of Bull Riding Feb 20, 2020

Often referred to as the most dangerous eight seconds in sports, bull riding is not for the faint of heart. In fact, the medical director for the international organization Professional Bull Riders estimates that about one in 15 rides results in injury. Yet, the sport is gaining popularity. Since PBR was founded in 1992, the sport has grown into a global phenomenon. Over the course of a weeklong competition, riders can earn up to six figures in prize money. This weekend, PBR is hosting a competition at the Enterprise Center. Riders and their bulls will be coming to St. Louis with several events already under their belt, and competition this year has been tough. One of the riders competing is Brady Sims. The Missouri native is currently ranked as the 27th rider in the world.

Dicamba Verdict Could Be A Precedent For Other Farmers' Suits Feb 19, 2020

Big news out of Cape Girardeau: A federal jury there returned its verdict against agricultural companies Monsanto and BASF. The case involved some Cape Girardeau peach farmers who said they’d been damaged by the weed killer dicamba. And that verdict was staggering. It totaled $15 million in damages — and $250 million in punitive damages. That’s even more than attorneys had asked for. St. Louis Public Radio reporter Corinne Ruff was in Cape Girardeau when jurors returned their verdict. She’s joins host Sarah Fenske to talk about it.

Lambert TSA Manager And His Boss Reflect On Ambassador Award, Everyday Airport Shenanigans Feb 19, 2020

For the occasional traveler, the term “TSA” likely conjures images of opening laptop bags, taking off shoes, lifting arms overhead and hoping against hope that there’s no spare change hiding in a pocket. But for Transportation Security Administration manager Robert Davis, that scene has about as much to do with customer service as it does airport security — and earlier this month he was honored in a big way for his efforts. St. Louis Lambert International Airport named Davis its Ambassador of the Year at the airport’s annual employee celebration. The kudos came as part of the airport’s Catch Us Giving program, after Davis helped an international traveler avoid what could have otherwise turned into a travel nightmare. Davis — who first began working for the TSA when it was created in 2002, and always at Lambert throughout the 18 years since — joins host Sarah Fenske to talk about it. Also joining the conversation is Davis’ supervisor Shayne Danielson, who oversees airport security at Lambert.

Millet, Van Goh, Dalí Paintings On Display In New St. Louis Art Museum Exhibit Feb 19, 2020

The St. Louis Art Museum has opened an exhibition that its curators say acknowledges the contributions of a largely forgotten artist who was instrumental in the birth of modern art: 19th-century French painter Jean-François Millet. His work features landscapes, nudes and other work that inspired other artists such as Vincent van Gogh and Claude Monet. Host Sarah Fenske talks with Simon Kelly, curator of modern and contemporary art at the St. Louis Art Museum. He is the co-curator of the "Millet and Modern Art: From Van Gogh to Dalí" exhibition along with Maite van Dijk, senior curator at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam.

How The St. Louis Browns Integrated Baseball In The Region Feb 18, 2020

Jackie Robinson famously integrated Major League Baseball, taking the field for the National League’s Brooklyn Dodgers in April 1947. And the American League followed a few months later, when the Cleveland Indians put Larry Doby into the lineup. But right behind Cleveland were the St. Louis Browns. Just 12 days later, the team played its first black player. And two days after that, the Browns became the first club to put two black players into a game when Willard Brown and Hank Thompson took the field. Author Ed Wheatley discusses how fans and teammates reacted to Brown and Thompson — and why their time on the team proved short-lived. He also discussed another former Negro League star who did a stint with the Browns: the one and only Satchel Paige.

Ethics Commission Fines Greitens Campaign $178K For Donation Violations, He Hints Of A Comeback Feb 18, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske talks with St. Louis Public Radio reporter Jason Rosenbaum about former Missouri Gov. Eric Greitens. The Missouri Ethics Commission fined him $178,000 for failing to disclose in-kind donations but the commission also found no evidence that Greitens personally engaged in wrongdoing or that he had any knowledge of the ethics violations. The ex-governor has posted publicly on social media for the first time in months. Is he mounting a comeback?

WashU’s Pregnancy CARE Clinic Sees Increase In Polysubstance Abuse Feb 18, 2020

Washington University’s Clinic for Acceptance, Recovery and Empowerment (CARE) treats women who become pregnant while dealing with an opioid use disorder. It provides prenatal care, substance abuse treatment and extended postpartum support. In this episode, we talk with the clinic’s medical director, Dr. Jeannie Kelly, who says there is a high demand for these services in the St. Louis region. She also says they are seeing more patients who are addicted to multiple types of drugs, otherwise known as polysubstance abuse. About a third of the clinic’s patients have some sort of concurrent polysubstance use going on, and there’s been a rise in patients with addictions to meth.

Sound Bites: 3-Stop Nightlife Tours In 8 St. Louis Neighborhoods Feb 17, 2020

When you’re out on the town, it can be fun to try a couple different spots. What isn’t fun, though, is driving from one spot to another, or having to seek out parking in one packed neighborhood after another. Fortunately, our friends at Sauce magazine have addressed this problem in their most recent issue. They’ve outlined a three-stop nightlife tour in eight St. Louis-area neighborhoods in their “Night Moves” feature. Meera Nagarajan, art director of Sauce, and Heather Hughes Huff, Sauce’s managing editor, join host Sarah Fenske to explore the highlights the region has to offer for date nights.

Local Parishioner David Murphy Visits All 190 Catholic Churches In St. Louis Region Feb 17, 2020

David Murphy prides himself on being a “goal-setting” type-of-guy. Every year, he sets out different goals for himself — whether they’re physical, spiritual or work-related. And hitting those targets isn’t necessarily the intention. For Murphy, it’s more about the journey. And so for his 50th birthday last year, he wanted to go on a quest: One that turns a seemingly doable thing (say, going to Mass) into something grand — like visiting every active Catholic church in the Archdiocese of St. Louis. Inspired by his love for his Catholic faith and its deep history in the region, Murphy set out to visit each of the 190 active churches in the archdiocese, which covers ten counties and the city of St. Louis. He joins host Sarah Fenske to share what he learned — and which local churches made his “epic list.”

St. Louis Ferris Wheel Is Part Of Century-Old Tradition Feb 17, 2020

Following months of crowds and fanfare, most of the infrastructure associated with the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair was demolished soon after the festivities ended. That included George Ferris Jr.’s giant wheel, which had first debuted in Chicago in 1893 and boasted 36 observation cars — “each the size of a Bi-State bus,” as the St. Louis Post-Dispatch later described them. But Ferris’ legacy survived the dynamite and has seen something of a resurgence locally since the opening of the 200-foot-tall St. Louis Wheel at Union Station last fall. And last Friday, wheel-goers found a special celebration underway there: a very Valentine’s Day-themed observance of National Ferris Wheel Day. St. Louis on the Air producers stop by to take in the scene and talk with first-time riders. And host Sarah Fenske leads a discussion about St. Louis observation wheels past and present with Jody Sowell and Karyn Wilder.

Bathtub Gin and Bootleggers: St. Louis' Wild Prohibition Years Feb 14, 2020

The 18th Amendment of the United States Constitution established the prohibition of alcohol in the U.S. Enforcement of the new law started on January 17, 1920. In this episode, our panelists dive into St. Louis' rich Prohibition-era history. They describe the time robbers siphoned off 3,000 barrels of whiskey from the Jack Daniels distillery, how Anheuser-Busch survived more than a decade of a nationwide ban on alcoholic beverages, and they recall the tale of a 1922 New Year’s Eve party at the Chase Hotel when an enforcement raid led to plates being thrown, shots being fired and pandemonium spilling out onto Lindell Boulevard.

St. Louis Nonprofit Uses De-Escalation And Mediation Techniques To Curb Violence Feb 13, 2020

Better Family Life’s 24/7 hotline helps callers facing the possibility of gun violence connect with people trained in de-escalation and mediation techniques. They also offer assistance with seeking counseling and medical supplies. In this episode, host Sarah Fenske talks with several mothers who called the hotline on behalf of their sons, and we learn how the Better Family Life de-escalation team is tackling one of the most complicated pieces of the gun violence epidemic.

Wildhaber Says He Won't Leave St. Louis County Police Despite $10.25 Million Settlement Feb 13, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske discusses the highlights of St. Louis County Police Department Lieutenant Keith Wildhaber's first interview talking about his $10.25 million settlement case against St. Louis County. The gay police sergeant talked to St Louis Public Radio reporter Julie O’Donoghue, and said going forward, he’s intent on leading the department's newly formed Diversity and Inclusion Unit.

'Awakenings' Opera Premiering In St. Louis Comes From Unique Partnership Feb 13, 2020

Composer Tobias Picker has five operas to his credit, with commissions from the LA Opera and the Metropolitan Opera, among others, and serious acclaim. But his sixth opera, which makes its world premiere at the Opera Theatre of St. Louis this June, will have particular personal resonance. The librettist writing the words to go with Picker’s music is his husband, Dr. Aryeh Lev Stollman. And while Stollman has written three novels, this is his first time writing an opera libretto. Still, he brings a particular expertise to the show, which is an adaptation of Dr. Oliver Sacks’ nonfiction medical drama “Awakenings.” Like Sacks, Stollman is a physician who studies the nervous system (Stollman is a neuroradiologist; Sacks was a neurologist).

Michele Norris, Aisha Sultan And Colleen Starkloff On Diversity And Taking Action Feb 12, 2020

Increasingly more companies, organizations and governmental entities are establishing formal units focused on diversity and inclusion — the St. Louis County Police Department is one recent example in the bi-state region. But even as awareness of the importance of diversity and inclusion grows, it can sometimes seem like something that all too often gets stuck at the level of lip service rather than leading to real change. Webster University is aiming to move the needle “From Conversation to Action” over the course of its four-day Diversity & Inclusion Conference set for Feb. 24 to 27. All of the sessions are free and open to the public, with journalist and former NPR host Michele Norris, founder of The Race Card Project, giving the keynote address.

UMSL, Wash U Orchestras Combine Forces For Concert Featuring Video Game Favorites Feb 12, 2020

For about a year, Darwin Aquino has been serving as conductor of the orchestras at both the University of Missouri-St. Louis and Washington University. And on Tuesday evening, the two groups under his direction rehearsed together for the first time ever. Final preparations are underway for their distinctive concert this Sunday, where they’ll combine musical forces to present music from several popular video games, films and more. “It’s the music that we hear every day, and especially our young people,” he said during Wednesday’s St. Louis on the Air. “They are hearing that music while they play the video games or they see a movie. So that’s why we decided for this very special event [to] put two university orchestras together … playing the music of today.” From “World of Warcraft” and “Zelda” to “Harry Potter” and “Lord of the Rings,” Sunday’s program promises a wide range of beloved scores. There will also be visual highlights on a big screen accompanying each piece. The free performance at the 560 Music Center is billed as a family-friendly affair highlighting the talents of more than 100 young musicians.

Author Candacy Taylor Discusses 'Overground Railroad' Feb 12, 2020

Author Candacy Taylor’s stepfather grew up in the Jim Crow South. But it wasn’t until she began researching her new book, “Overground Railroad: The Green Book and the Roots of Black Travel in America,” that she started to understand what he’d endured. Black travelers in the 20th-century U.S. might be stopped by police on any pretext — and face serious harassment. They might be turned away by hostile hoteliers or gas station attendants. And that’s not even mentioning “Sundown Towns,” all-white towns which sometimes even featured signs warning black people to stay out in the harshest of terms. Missouri and Illinois were among the five states having the most Sundown Towns, Taylor writes. And so black men like Taylor’s stepfather turned to the “Green Book.” Victor Green’s book highlighted businesses from coast to coast where black travelers could count on friendly reception — a respite from the racism and uncertainty that marred other spots on the roadways.

A Look At Why Visits To The Gateway Arch Are Down — Despite $380 Million Redevelopment Feb 11, 2020

According to the St. Louis Business Journal, the Arch grounds aren’t getting the kinds of projected visitation numbers calculated before the $380 million redevelopment that wrapped up in 2018. It was projected that there would be a 25% to 33% increase in visitors to the monument in the first two years after completion. Host Sarah Fenske delves into reasons why that hasn’t been the case and what new initiatives are in store to help bring those visitation numbers up. Joining the discussion are Jacob Kirn, St. Louis Business Journal economic development editor, and Mike Ward, superintendent of the Gateway Arch National Park.

STLPR's Rachel Lippmann Discusses The Latest News Out Of The St. Louis County Police Department Feb 11, 2020

On Monday, St. Louis County Police Chief Jon Belmar, announced plans to retire from the department this spring. Within hours, more department-related news broke: St. Louis County has reached a $10.25 million settlement with county police Lt. Keith Wildhaber, who sued the county and was awarded a nearly $20 million in October after a jury agreed he had been passed over for promotions because of his sexual orientation.

Priorities Of The Missouri Legislative Black Caucus In 2020 Feb 10, 2020

In Missouri’s history, the state has seen more than 7,000 state legislators. Fewer than 140 of those have been black. Since 1989, the Missouri Legislative Black Caucus has helped African American lawmakers work together as a minority in the state capitol. In this interview, Sarah Fenske talks with State Representative Steve Roberts Jr. about the priorities of the Missouri Legislative Black Caucus this year.

‘Happiness 101’ Offers Wash U Prof’s Secrets For A Happy Life Feb 10, 2020

What would it take for you to be happy? Tim Bono has written a book on the subject. It’s called Happiness 101, and draws on what he’s learned in his nine years teaching The Science of Happiness course at Washington University. And he might suggest you’re asking the wrong question. It’s not about being happy. It’s about being happier. He explains the reasons for that shift in thinking to host Sarah Fenske.

After A Decade With Cancer, Critic Gets Big Gift From Her Subjects: A New Choral Commission Feb 10, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske talks with classical music critic for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Sarah Bryan Miller. Several of the city’s music organizations came together to commission a major composer to write a piece in her honor.

St. Louis Symphony Orchestra To Feature Women, 2 World Premieres In 2020-21 Season Feb 07, 2020

The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra is in the midst of its first season with music director Stéphane Denève at the helm, but the organization is already looking ahead. Earlier this week, the symphony announced the lineup for Denève’s second season. It begins this fall, and it focuses on the theme of “music inspired by and written by women.”

Late Board Member's $45 Million Donation Will Boost Opera Theatre Of St. Louis Feb 07, 2020

Opera Theatre of St. Louis just got the biggest gift in the organization’s history -- $45 million. In this segment, Sarah Fenske talks about this very nice surprise with the general director of Opera Theatre of St. Louis, Andrew Jorgensen.

St. Louis Theater Circle Announces 2020 Nominees, Celebrates 8 Years Of Awards Feb 07, 2020

Every year, the St. Louis Theater Circle honors the best of local professional theater, voted on by local critics. In this segment, Calvin Wilson, theater critic for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, and Tina Farmer, theater reviewer for KDHX, join host Sarah Fenske to release the 2020 award nominees and discuss some of the highlights. St. Louis Theater Circle asserts that this year's nominations represent the most competitive field in the eight years of the awards.

Luminary Collaborates With ArchCity Defenders For ‘America's Mythic Time’ Exhibit Feb 06, 2020

Artists are no strangers to political activism. Through captivating installations, they’re able to visualize complex themes that resonate with movements and social causes. A new exhibit at the Luminary Center for the Arts, “America’s Mythic Time,” takes it to the next level with an unusual partner — ArchCity Defenders. But the collaboration isn’t really that far-out. The two organizations have worked together closely for years, co-sharing spaces and political expertise. Host Sarah Fenske discusses how social justice issues such as mass incarceration and debtors’ prisons and initiatives like Close the Workhouse can be translated in a way that reaches gallery visitors. Z Gorley, ArchCity Defenders’ communications director, joins the conversation, as well as Kevin McCoy, one of the featured artists in the exhibit.

St. Louis Fire Department Officials Field Questions About Working With 'Live Rescue' TV Show Feb 06, 2020

News crews haven’t had a monopoly on live footage of breaking news and emergency situations in quite some time. Among other innovations, the proliferation of cellphone video — especially video taken by bystanders during first-responder interactions with citizens — has been a game changer in recent years for the public’s understanding of such events. Production companies including Big Fish Entertainment have also turned their cameras toward the real-life drama. And in “Live Rescue,” a Big Fish show currently airing on the A&E Network, St. Louisans are finding themselves in the spotlight. Last April, the St. Louis Fire Department entered into an agreement with Big Fish to allow the company access to record the activity that surrounds calls for help and various crises that department personnel respond to on an everyday basis. As the St. Louis Post-Dispatch’s Erin Heffernan reported earlier this week, the department does not receive any money in exchange. But Captain Garon Mosby, public information officer for the department, is deeply involved with the production of “Live Rescue,” regularly traveling to New York City on Big Fish’s dime to help produce the Monday evening broadcast. In this segment, Mosby and St. Louis Fire Chief Dennis Jenkerson offer a closer look at the collaboration.

‘St. Louis Superman’ Producers Head To The Oscars With Bruce Franks Jr. Feb 06, 2020

The directors and subject of “St. Louis Superman,” the documentary film showcasing the story of former Missouri state Rep. Bruce Franks Jr., will be in Los Angeles for this Sunday’s Academy Awards ceremony. The film has been nominated for a Best Documentary Short Subject Oscar. The documentary follows Franks’ journey as a lawmaker and his push for a proposal to recognize youth violence as a public health epidemic. In this interview, we hear from the film’s directors, Smriti Mundhra and Sami Khan.

Adia Harvey Wingfield On The Intersection Of Workplace Status, Perceptions Of Racial Discrimination Feb 05, 2020

Washington University’s Adia Harvey Wingfield, who is a professor of sociology, has long been interested in the ways that race, class and gender influence everyday workplace structures and interactions. Her most recent book, “Flatlining: Race, Work, and Health Care in the New Economy,” looks closely at the experiences of black workers in health care — as does a new study of which she is the co-author. Focused around 60 in-depth interviews with black doctors, nurses and technicians, the study suggests that among people of color, one’s professional status within an organizational hierarchy has a significant effect on how one perceives instances of racial discrimination. In this segment, Harvey Wingfield joins host Sarah Fenske to discuss the implications of this research for the health care industry and beyond.

Meet James Biko, CAM's New DJ-In-Residence Feb 05, 2020

Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis recently announced its latest multidisciplinary artist patrons can expect to see at the space during its First Fridays and other CAM events. James Biko is an East St. Louis-born and St. Louis-based artist prominent in the local hip-hop and soul scene. He’s been on the radar of music aficionados in the city, and is a ten-time Riverfront Times Music Award winner. He also co-hosts the “Rawthentic” radio program, with Cleo Jones on KDHX, which plays hip-hop, R&B and soul on Thursday evenings. Besides the local recognition, Biko has also performed at national and international music festivals. On Wednesday’s St. Louis on the Air, Biko joins host Sarah Fenske to talk about his new residency and musical process.

Shipping-Container Markets Along MetroLink Await Bi-State Decision Feb 05, 2020

In January, St. Louis’ regional transit agency considered taking on operation of the embattled Loop Trolley — and ultimately declined to do so. At this month’s meeting of the Bi-State Development board, a totally different project’s future will come before the agency: the two shipping-container-sized grocery stores located along MetroLink in north St. Louis County. The stores are operated by a nonprofit subcontractor, Link Market, which formed about two years ago. They were funded by a grant Bi-State was awarded from the Missouri Foundation for Health and meant to be a pilot project addressing the region’s food deserts. But this past summer, as reported by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch’s Tony Messenger, Link Market founder Dr. Jeremy Goss learned Bi-State had concerns about their financial viability. After a meeting of various parties in St. Louis County Executive Sam Page’s office, the shipping-container markets got an extension from Bi-State. And as the St. Louis Post-Dispatch’s Andrew Nguyen explains in this segment in conversation with Goss and host Sarah Fenske, Bi-State’s board should vote Feb. 21 on a proposal to donate the shipping containers to the Link Market.

St. Louis Booksellers, Wash U Prof And Community Members Reflect On ‘American Dirt’ Controversy Feb 04, 2020

After Left Bank Books cancelled a planned event late last month with bestselling author Jeanine Cummins in the wake of outcry about her new novel, the independent bookstore met with waves of feedback from every corner, some of it very angry. In this segment, the St. Louis on the Air team seeks to take the conversation that the situation has sparked and push it forward in productive ways. Host Sarah Fenske talks with Kleindienst and with Ignacio Sánchez Prado, a professor of Spanish, Latin American Studies and Film and Media Studies at Washington University who was born in Mexico. Also joining the discussion is Kelly Von Plonski, owner of Subterranean Books. The segment also includes brief comments from Christina Rios and Alicia Hernandez, who are both members of the local Latinx community. Rios was until recently the longtime artistic director of R-S Theatrics, and Hernandez is a local community organizer working on immigration issues.

St. Louis Sister Cities Marks 60th Year Since Its First Partnership In Germany Feb 04, 2020

The Sister Cities International program began in 1956, and the people-to-people, citizen diplomacy initiative took off across the country. A few years later, in 1960, St. Louis’ first partnership abroad flourished in Stuttgart, Germany, through the World Trade Center St. Louis' international mission. Now St. Louis has 16 sisters abroad, from Argentina and Senegal to Indonesia. Host Sarah Fenske learned more about what it takes to become a sister city with Susanne Evens, president of St. Louis-Stuttgart Sister Cities Committee, and Tim Nowak, executive director of World Trade Center St. Louis.

New St. Louis Restaurants To Try This February Feb 03, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske talks up some of the latest additions to the St. Louis region’s food-and-beverage community. Joining her for the Hit List segment are Sauce Magazine managing editor Heather Hughes Huff and art director Meera Nagarajan.

The Black Vote, Then And Now Feb 03, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske discusses the influence of the black vote on local and national politics. Joining her for the conversation is Shakia Gullette, director of African American Initiatives for the Missouri Historical Society, and Gena McClendon, director of the Voter Access and Engagement and the Financial Capability and Asset Building initiatives at the Center for Social Development at Washington University.

Local High School Senior Gabe Fleisher Launches ‘Wake Up To Politics’ Podcast Feb 03, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske talks to Gabe Fleisher from the "Wake Up To Politics" podcast about the Iowa caucuses.

How Limited Attention Spans Can Hinder Decision Making — And Impact Impeachment Proceedings Jan 31, 2020

The impeachment proceedings in Washington, D.C., have frequently lasted into the evening hours. Beyond thinking about the legal issues that senators are grappling with, we found ourselves contemplating something a bit closer to home. Namely, the modern American attention span. When you’re used to checking your phone every five minutes, how do you possibly sit quietly for hours on end … listening? Joining host Sarah Fenske to discuss the matter is Jameca Falconer, a professor of Behavioral Analysis in the Webster University. Steve Smith also joins the conversation. He’s the director of Washington University’s Weidenbaum Center.

Keeping The History Of St. Louis’ Historic Black Cemeteries Alive Jan 31, 2020

Established in 1920, Washington Park Cemetery in Berkeley served as a for-profit burial place for African Americans. Before it stopped operating in the 1980s, the graveyard became the largest African American cemetery in the region. However, years of neglect and various city project expansions were not kind to the burial grounds. Now the cemetery may soon come under public ownership. The City of Berkeley is in the process of purchasing Washington Park Cemetery. In this episode, we talk about what happened to Washington Park Cemetery and remember the stories of those who are buried there. We also talk with advocates for two other historic black cemeteries in the region, Greenwood Cemetery in Hillsdale and Father Dickson Cemetery in Crestwood, about how they fight abandonment and lack of upkeep to keep their history alive.

FCC Investigation Of Bob Romanik, Entertainment Media Trust Reaches Critical Juncture Jan 30, 2020

For years, Bob Romanik’s presence on St. Louis-area AM radio airwaves has been marked by constant, overt racism. Somehow, the Illinois-based shock jock remains on air, as the Riverfront Times’ Danny Wicentowski notes in his latest reporting on the saga. But as Wicentowski detailed in his story published Monday, the current Federal Communications Commission investigation surrounding Romanik has to do with something else: evidence that he is acting as the de-facto owner of Entertainment Media Trust, which owns multiple radio stations in the region. As a felon, that’s something Romanik is barred from doing. Jane Halprin, an FCC administrative law judge, issued an order last Friday setting a Feb. 10 deadline for EMT’s attorney to explain, as Wicentowski reported, “why she shouldn't throw the license renewal applications out due to ‘EMT’s continuous efforts at obfuscation.’” In this episode, host Sarah Fenske talks with Wicentowski about the implications of this investigation — and what happens next for the “Grim Reaper of Radio.”

Understanding The Impact Of The FDA’s New Tobacco Sales Age Limit Jan 30, 2020

The year 2020 marks a lot of developments related to the habit of lighting up. The federal sales age for purchasing tobacco and nicotine products is now 21 and older. Recreational marijuana is now sold in cities across Illinois. Missouri dispensaries are selling medical marijuana. And, teenagers are continuing to vape at rates that concern public health officials. In this interview, Sarah Fenske talks about the impact of these developments with Dr. Laura Bierut, a psychiatry professor and founding director of the Health & Behavior Research Center at the Washington University School of Medicine.

How Bulrush Is Studying The Pre-1870 Cuisine Of Indigenous, Enslaved People Of The Ozarks Jan 30, 2020

Chef Rob Connoley’s acclaimed St. Louis restaurant, Bulrush, isn’t just a delicious night out. It’s also a deep dive into the culinary history of the region. The Grand Center eatery takes its inspiration from cuisine in the Ozarks region prior to 1870, before railroads allowed for easy transport of foodstuffs. And, in recent months, the restaurant has doubled down on that exploration. Aided by college interns, Connoley has begun researching the food of marginalized populations in the area at that time. That includes both indigenous people, enslaved people and freed slaves. In this segment, we talk with Connoley and St. Louis University student Gabriel Shoemaker, and with Dr. Andrea Hunter, director/tribal historic preservation officer for the Osage Nation Historic Preservation Office. She discusses what the Osage ate prior to their first encounters with Europeans in 1673, and how that changed in the centuries that followed.

How This Attorney May Force St. Louis County To Revise Long Outdated Vagrancy Ordinances Jan 29, 2020

In St. Louis County, it’s illegal to be a "vagrant." Host Sarah Fenske talks with attorney Bevis Schock — who is challenging the ordinance — and learns about what his client has endured.

How Kaldi’s Plans To Teach Women in Rwanda The Coffee Business Jan 29, 2020

Kaldi’s Coffee is a St. Louis company. Other than a few outlets in the Atlanta area, Kaldi’s lacks a physical presence outside Missouri. But in the past year, Kaldi’s co-owner Tricia Zimmer Ferguson has been spending time far from the Midwest — in Rwanda. Ferguson is also working with the nation’s only women’s college, Akilah Institute. A group from Kaldi’s is committed to teaching its students about the coffee and tea industries, opening career opportunities for them. Zimmer Ferguson and Karen Sherman, president of Akilah Institute, join host Sarah Fenske to discuss the collaboration.

Public Health Depends On Well-Being Of Other Animals, The Environment Jan 29, 2020

The director of the St. Louis Zoo Institute for Conservation Medicine, Dr. Sharon Deem, wants people to understand just how much human health is dependent on the health of other animals and the environment. The interconnection between people, animals, plants and their shared environment is the main focus of the CDC’s “One Health” movement, in which the St. Louis Zoo is a leader. In this interview, Deem talks about emerging public health issues, everyday solutions to global threats and the St. Louis Zoo’s role within the One Health movement.

New Children's Choir Brings Joyful Noise Back To Maria Ellis’ Old Stomping Grounds Jan 28, 2020

Growing up in north St. Louis County, where she was leading choirs by the time she was 12 years old, Maria Ellis remembers thinking about St. Louis Children’s Choirs as “the ultimate vocal group.” But as her alma mater, the University of Missouri-St. Louis, notes in a recent UMSL Daily story about Ellis’ journey, Ellis couldn’t afford to join the SLCC program as a child. She did participate in one of the organization’s community honors choirs, and now she’s come full circle, having landed a position as SLCC’s community engagement manager several years ago. But shortly after starting that job, she realized the north St. Louis County honors choir she’d so enjoyed as a child was no more. Now, in 2020, it’s coming back thanks to Ellis.

STLPR's Kae Petrin Discusses Latest Developments In The Loop Trolley Saga On 'St. Louis On The Air' Jan 28, 2020

On the heels of Bi-State Development's meeting where committee members declined to move forward a proposal that the regional transit agency take over trolley operations, St. Louis Public Radio's Kae Petrin joins host Sarah Fenske in studio to talk about it.

New Study Challenges 'Myth' Of Cahokia's Lost Civilization Jan 28, 2020

In the popular imagination, Cahokia seems to represent a cautionary tale. What today remains only as a series of mounds outside Collinsville, Illinois, used to be a thriving city — bigger than London in the mid-13th century. There may have been as many as 40,000 people living there. Yet in the years that followed, the population faced rapid decline. By 1400, what was a city had become a wasteland. Yet a new paper suggests that narrative is at best incomplete. Published yesterday in “American Antiquity,” the study uses fecal deposits to show that the exodus from the site was short-lived. A fresh wave of native people settled in Cahokia and repopulated the area from 1500 to 1700. In this segment, A.J. White discusses the paper and how the longer timeline of his study destroys “the myth of Cahokia’s Native American lost civilization.” A doctoral student in anthropology at the University of California-Berkeley, White is the study’s lead author.

Legal Roundtable Discusses Gardner Lawsuit, Roundup Trial, Title IX Case Jan 27, 2020

Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner is suing the St. Louis Police, a former undergrad is suing Washington University, and across the country, there are thousands of lawsuits against Bayer-Monsanto. Locally, a trial kicks off in St. Louis this week involving Bayer-Monsanto’s weed killer Roundup, as well as one in Cape Girardeau involving Dicamba. In this episode, a panel of legal analysts joins host Sarah Fenske to discuss these cases and more.

Remembering G.H. 'Bert' Walker III Jan 24, 2020

George Herbert Walker III, better known as Bert, was a St. Louis businessman, philanthropist and former U.S. Ambassador to Hungary. He died Saturday at the age of 88. In this remembrance, we listen back to when Walker came on the show in March 2007.

Downtown St. Louis Is Brighter And Smarter — Here’s Why Jan 24, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske learns more about Downtown STL’s process of upgrading the street lights throughout downtown's 360 square blocks. Once completed, St. Louis will become one of the largest smart cities in the U.S., second only to San Diego. Joining the discussion is Downtown STL CEO Missy Kelley and the father-and-son team that helped develop the smart technology: Ted Stegeman, CEO of Labyrinth Technologies, and his 23-year-old son John, the company’s chief technology officer.

A Look At The State Of The Region's Sidewalks — And How To Improve Them Jan 24, 2020

In an age of crumbling infrastructure across the U.S., sidewalks have been no exception to the pattern of decay. The city of St. Louis alone is home to roughly 2,000 miles worth of sidewalks, and both the physical condition and suitability of those streetside pathways vary widely. David Newburger, St. Louis' commissioner on the disabled, is constantly working with colleagues to update sidewalks and maintain ADA compliance, and they’re also thinking about sidewalks within the context of streets as a whole. Meanwhile, local municipalities including both St. Louis and Kirkwood are participating in the National Complete Streets Coalition, which is focused on making roads better for all types of users rather than prioritizing drivers. U.S. Department of Transportation statistics on pedestrian deaths show there’s still much work to be done. For Kirkwood City Councilwoman Kara Wurtz, the fact that Missouri ranks among the more dangerous states for pedestrians is a problem. She’s made addressing it within her municipality’s borders a focus. In this episode of the talk show, Wurtz and Newburger join host Sarah Fenske for a discussion about the state of the region’s sidewalks and what needs to happen to improve pedestrian comfort and safety. Also participating in the conversation is Cindy Mense, CEO of Trailnet. The discussion also includes listeners during the show who call in and post messages on social media with their thoughts on sidewalks.

SLU Is Training People To Intervene With Empathy In Tense Parent-Child Interactions Jan 23, 2020

When news breaks about a dangerous situation, it’s natural to wonder what one might have done in a similar scenario: Tried to help? Been courageous? Perhaps made things worse? Running into burning buildings and shielding others from active shooters may be the sort of dramatic situations that come to mind. But far subtler opportunities to intervene on behalf of fellow humans come up more regularly than one may recognize — right in the grocery checkout aisle, for example, when witnessing a tense parent-child interaction. That’s the sort of scene Nancy Weaver and her colleagues at St. Louis University’s College of Public Health and Social Justice have been helping others around the region visualize and then learn to respond to in positive, practical ways.

St. Louis Wildlife Project Captures The Day-To-Day Of Region’s Wild Animals Jan 23, 2020

There are roughly 2.8 million people living in Greater St. Louis, many of whom would be surprised to know that they share the space with a good variety of wildlife. The St. Louis Wildlife Project now has four seasons of data that they hope will give insight into how wildlife occupy and utilize the region’s urban spaces. For the past year, they’ve collected images from 34 motion-activated cameras planted in parks and green spaces across St. Louis. They’ve spotted foxes, turkeys, river otters, and even a couple bobcats. In this interview, Sarah Fenske talks with the researchers involved to learn about their observations from the past year.

Schlafly CEO Fran Caradonna Discusses 30 Years In St. Louis' Craft Beer Scene Jan 23, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske talks with Fran Caradonna, Schlafly’s CEO, about how St. Louis’ craft scene has changed in the last three decades, Schlafly’s expansion plans and what it’s like being a woman in a field long dominated by men. She's helped position the now 29-year-old brewery in a much-changed beverage landscape.

STLPR's Wayne Pratt Previews Highlights Of NHL All Star Game Jan 22, 2020

St. Louis Public Radio morning newscaster and reporter Wayne Pratt joins host Sarah Fenske to talk about all the excitement in the city as the National Hockey League kicks off festivities for this weekend’s all-star tournament. It’s the first time the Blues will host the league’s all-star events since 1988.

St. Louis Public Library Puts Finishing Touches On Plans For New Makerspace At Barr Jan 22, 2020

In some ways, the concept behind St. Louis Public Library’s Creative Experience makerspace, located at its downtown branch, sounds pretty simple: It’s a space dedicated to creating things. But as makers of all sorts of stuff know, it can be difficult to bring even the best ideas to fruition without the right tools. That’s exactly where Creative Experience comes in — providing studio-quality software and equipment to help bring many different kinds of projects to life. Now, SLPL is adding a second such makerspace to the library district, reinventing existing space at its Barr branch located at Jefferson and Lafayette avenues.

New Harvard Fellowship Boosts 6 St. Louis Visual Artists Jan 22, 2020

The Commonwealth Project at Harvard University aims to model a new way for universities to engage with social problems through service and collaboration, with a special focus on St. Louis. A half-dozen local artists were selected for its new #IntheCity Visual Arts Fellowship last November. The goal of the program is to provide exposure and resources for up-and-coming artists in the region. Joining host Sarah Fenske to discuss the fellowship is Kareem "Tef Poe" Jackson and two visual artists and 2020 Harvard Commonwealth fellows: Collin Elliott and Nyara Williams.

Get To Know A Couple Of Sauce Magazine's 'Ones to Watch' In 2020 Jan 21, 2020

On this month’s Sound Bites segment, produced in partnership with Sauce Magazine, managing editor Heather Hughes Huff gives an overview of the six up-and-comers the publication chose for its annual "Ones to Watch" feature that highlights local culinary talent. Host Sarah Fenske talks with Hughes Huff as well as featured restaurateurs, Alejandra Fallows and Bailey Schuchmann.

Salam Clinic Establishes Free Psychiatric Clinic In Ferguson Jan 21, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske delves into the Salam Clinic’s impact on the region and the services its first psychiatric clinic will offer. Joining the discussion are cardiologist Dr. Zia Ahmad, founder and medical director of Salam Clinic, and psychologist Dr. Syed Mumtaz, coordinator of the clinic’s Mental Health Services.

Twain Impersonator To Perform “Mark Twain on Slavery” This February Jan 21, 2020

Richard Geary is an actor, director and playwright. He frequently portrays the author Mark Twain, using only the words of Sam Clemens himself. Geary owns the Planters Barn Theater in Hannibal, and his 18th season there kicks off this May. This summer’s show is called “Mark Twain for President,” and it focuses on Twain’s satirical runs for the nation’s highest office. Before that, on February 21 and February 22, Geary will perform a show called “Mark Twain on Slavery.”

UMSL Student, Professors Look Towards 2nd Civil Rights Tour This Spring Jan 20, 2020

During this episode, in light of the observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, host Sarah Fenske talks with Lucy Grimshaw, Courtney McDermott and Sha-Lai Williams about how the UMSL tour has influenced their perspective on the civil rights movement — and the connections they see to St. Louis events and issues, both past and present.

STLPR's Jason Rosenbaum Digs Into Details Of Kim Gardner's New Lawsuit Jan 17, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske talks with the St. Louis Public Radio political correspondent who has been following this story.

St. Louis Mayor Discusses Future Of Workhouse On Friday's Talk Show Jan 17, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske talks with Mayor Lyda Krewson as the Close the Workhouse campaign relaunches its push surrounding St. Louis’ Minimum Security Institution.

Close The Workhouse Launches New Campaign, Attracts Surprising Allies Jan 17, 2020

The effort to shutter the city’s workhouse jail got new life this week with the launch of what activists call Close the Workhouse 2.0. Their argument this time isn’t just about poor conditions. It’s about the $10 million the city could save with jail closure. Host Sarah Fenske talks to one of the campaign’s co-founders, Kayla Reed. Also joining the discussion is prosecutor Mary Pat Carl, the former lead trial attorney under former Circuit Attorney Jennifer Joyce, who supports the campaign.

STLPR's Julie O'Donoghue and Jaclyn Driscoll Provide Analysis Day After Parson's State Of The State Jan 16, 2020

Following Governor Mike Parson's 2020 State of the State address, host Sarah Fenske digs into its main themes and a few surprises with St. Louis Public Radio's Jaclyn Driscoll and Julie O'Donoghue.

What The Science Says About Following A Keto Diet Jan 16, 2020

A few weeks ago on the show, we learned about a brand new medical device that allows users to measure nutritional ketosis with a breathalyzer. Nutritionists say they’ve witnessed the reemergence of the keto diet as a means for weight loss in the past few years. Both during and after that segment aired, we received a lot of questions about the keto diet, as well as some concern that this may be an unhealthy choice for some people. In this conversation, we dive into what the research says about keto with several nutritionists.

STLPR's Special Coverage Of Missouri Governor's State Of The State Address Jan 15, 2020

St. Louis on the Air host Sarah Fenske talks with St. Louis Public Radio reporters Jaclyn Driscoll and Jason Rosenbaum during this broadcast of Gov. Mike Parson's 2020 speech.

How SLU’s Geospatial Institute Is Working On Wildfires Jan 15, 2020

Vast wildfires in Australia, California and elsewhere continue to have wide-sweeping impacts, testing the limits of firefighters on the front lines and presenting new challenges for experts in all sorts of sectors. At St. Louis University’s Geospatial Institute, also known as GeoSLU, researchers are using remotely sensed images and spatial analysis to extend our understanding of these disasters and others. The geospatial technology helps them predict wildfires as well as map the extent and severity of wildfires after they have occurred. In this segment, host Sarah Fenske leads a conversation about the difference this research can make. She talks with Ness Sandoval, associate professor of sociology at St. Louis University and an associate director of the Geospatial Institute, and with Shawn Steadman, director of SLU’s emergency management program.

Will St. Louis City's Residency Requirement Survive Push For Legislative Change? Jan 15, 2020

Lots of things set St. Louis apart from other Missouri municipalities, from its fixation with the high school question to bread-sliced bagels. So the fact that the city of St. Louis is one of few municipalities in the state with a residency requirement for most of its government employees is hardly its most defining. But right now, it might be the most hotly contested. After the Board of Aldermen rejected last fall Mayor Lyda Krewson’s plan to put the issue to voters — and have city residents decide whether to continue requiring city workers to live within the city limits — Krewson is now pushing for the legislature to take up her cause. House leadership seems on board. In this episode of St. Louis on the Air, host Sarah Fenske talks with longtime local journalist Ray Hartmann, who has a column in this week’s Riverfront Times on this subject. Also joining the discussion is St. Louis Public Radio reporter Rachel Lippmann.

'There Is A Lot Of Distress': Local Iranian Americans Discuss Tense International Moment Jan 14, 2020

The year 2020 is still in its infancy, yet it’s already been marked by a slew of troubling events near and far — from gun violence in St. Louis, to devastating wildfires in Australia, to dramatically escalating tensions between the U.S. and Iran. Many Americans may feel far removed from violence and loss in another part of the world, despite direct U.S. involvement, and everyday life goes on. But for those with loved ones based in volatile, vulnerable places, or who have deep cultural ties to a country such as Iran, the latest round of disturbing headlines can carry a lot more weight. In this episode, host Sarah Fenske hears from three local Iranian Americans, Dr. Bahar Bastani and attorney Javad Khazaeli and librarian Jaleh Fazelian, to get their perspectives.

Wash U Alum Miranda Popkey Discusses Her Novel 'Topics Of Conversation' Jan 14, 2020

Miranda Popkey’s new novel, “Topics of Conversation,” owes its existence to the MFA program at Washington University in St. Louis. The California native was a student there when she wrote much of it. The novel takes its inspiration from what it’s like to be a young woman in this fraught time. How do we talk about sex and our desires? How do we make sense of our choices, and our lives? In this episode of St. Louis on the Air, Popkey joins host Sarah Fenske to discuss her novel, which was recently named one of January’s 20 “must-read books” by Entertainment Weekly.

TEH Realty Troubles Spur City, Tenant Action In St. Louis Jan 13, 2020

A newly published Riverfront Times piece by Ryan Krull delves into the experiences of various TEH Realty tenants, detailing many miserable living conditions. In this episode, Krull joins host Sarah Fenske to discuss his reporting. Also joining the conversation are St. Louis Post-Dispatch reporter Jesse Bogan, who has also been following the developments surrounding TEH Realty, and Sunni Hutton, a volunteer grassroots organizer with Homes for All St. Louis.

Bad Landlord? Attorney Shares Rights, Legal Advice For Tenants Jan 13, 2020

Kalila Jackson joins host Sarah Fenske to discuss how tenants can exercise their rights without escalating the situation. She’s a staff attorney at the Metropolitan St. Louis Equal Housing and Opportunity Council, better known as EHOC. Also joining the conversation is Sunni Hutton, a volunteer grassroots organizer with Homes for All St. Louis.

St. Louis Alderwoman Cara Spencer Announces Run For Mayor Jan 13, 2020

Cara Spencer, who currently represents St. Louis' 20th Ward on the city's Board of Aldermen, announced on today's show that she plans to run for mayor. She talks with host Sarah Fenske about the decision.

How Low And No-Proof Cocktails Are Fomenting A Drinking Revolution Jan 10, 2020

Some of the area’s most buzz-worthy bars are focused on drinks that won’t get you buzzed — drinks that have the rich mouthfeel of a Manhattan without all the booze. That includes Elmwood in Maplewood. In this episode, Sarah Fenske talks with Elmwood beverage director Dave Greteman about how the low and no-proof ABV (alcohol by volume) options on Elmwood’s menu are changing the dynamic at its bar.

Congressman Clay Blasts Trump, Airport Privatization Effort Jan 10, 2020

U.S. Congressman William Lacy Clay Jr. (D-St. Louis) is issuing a dire warning when it comes to President Donald Trump’s actions regarding Iran. “If we don’t reign in this president’s recklessness, we will commit young men and women to a war zone in the Middle East, and the results will be a catastrophe,” he says in this episode of the talk show. “I’ve seen this before,” he continues. “And apparently no one in this president’s family has ever served in the military or ever gone to war, so it probably doesn’t faze him. He doesn’t realize what the damage will be to Americans in a war zone. It’s so cavalier.” In his conversation with host Sarah Fenske, Clay also has harsh words for the city of St. Louis’ aborted exploration of airport privatization. Months before Mayor Lyda Krewson pulled the plug on the costly effort, Clay had called for a public vote on any deal to lease St. Louis Lambert International Airport.

Two Physicians, Two Different Takes On Medical Marijuana Jan 10, 2020

Thousands of Missouri residents have received medical cannabis cards, and dispensaries are gearing up to begin sales of the product later this year, likely in the spring. Physicians have the ability to prescribe medical marijuana to patients via the state’s certification form, although they are not obligated to do so. Sarah Fenske talks with two physicians, who are also sisters, to get a sense of how they are preparing for implementation of this new law, and why they react differently when patients request their signatures on a medical marijuana certification form.

St. Louis Police Chief John Hayden On Violence Prevention In 2020 Jan 09, 2020

St. Louis Police Chief John Hayden says his crime-fighting strategy in north St. Louis, known as “Hayden’s Rectangle,” is working to curb violence in the city. In this interview, he talks with Sarah Fenske about this strategy, as well as the recent spate of violence on New Year’s Eve, the biggest impediments to officer recruitment and his goals for the coming months.

New Culture Walk And Airbnb Retreat Offers Ways To Meet East St. Louis Jan 09, 2020

For those interested in learning more about East St. Louis’ rich cultural legacy, a new “music and history walk” is one route to consider. Treasure Shields Redmond, daughter of East St. Louis Poet Laureate Eugene Redmond, is organizing opportunities for hipsters, jazz nerds and genuinely curious minds alike. Host Sarah Fenske talks with Shields Redmond how opportunities like the Historic Jazz & Poetry Excursion is showing the world a different East St. Louis than what you might see on the evening news.

Missouri's New Medical Marijuana Industry Puts Banks In A Tough Spot Jan 09, 2020

Missouri has collected more than 2,000 applications for medical marijuana business licenses - but who will bank those businesses? Many are not willing to take on the risk for something that is illegal at the federal level. St. Louis Public Radio reporter Corinne Ruff talks with Sarah Fenske about her exploration into the challenges facing banks hoping to get involved in this new industry.

‘Two Trains Running’ Brings August Wilson Back To The Black Rep Jan 08, 2020

This weekend, the Black Rep premieres its production of playwright August Wilson’s “Two Trains Running,” which tells the story of regulars at a Pittsburgh diner grappling with the civil rights movement, eminent domain and the threat of an urban renewal program that will change their neighborhood. In this segment, Sarah Fenske talks about the production with the Black Rep’s founder, Ron Himes, as well as the director for the Black Rep’s production of “Two Trains Running,” Ed Smith.

How Goodwill’s Adult High School Provides Tuition-Free Diplomas — And Changes Lives Jan 08, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske discusses the Excel Center and its vision for 2020. The program is an alternative tuition-free high school that helps adults over the age of 21 earn their high school diplomas. Joining the discussion is Jadee Lauer, St. Louis Excel Center director, and Victor Tenn, a recent graduate of the program.

STLPR's Jaclyn Driscoll, MO House Speaker Elijah Haahr and Senate Minority Leader Gina Walsh Preview Legislative Session Jan 08, 2020

Wednesday kicked off the new legislative session for the Missouri House and Senate. That means a whole host of lawmakers vying to get their bills passed. And it could mean changes to how they govern -- and how we live our lives. Joining host Sarah Fenske for this conversation from Jefferson City is St. Louis Public Radio reporter Jaclyn Driscoll. Also participating in the discussion are Missouri Speaker of the House Elijah Haahr and Senate Minority Leader Gina Walsh.

St. Louis Aquarium’s Thousands Of Fish Have Had Nearly 100,000 Human Visitors In Just 2 Weeks Jan 07, 2020

The St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station opened with a big splash on Christmas Day. Thousands of area residents have been streaming through its gates in the two weeks since, and aquarium staff have had to turn some families away due to sell-out crowds. For executive director Tami Brown, that and frustration with long lines have been the only downsides of an otherwise successful launch of the new downtown destination. Many visitors have expressed excitement about their experiences, staff have been enthusiastic about their interactions with visitors and animals alike, and the many marine species who now call the aquarium home seem to be adapting well. In this segment, Brown joins host Sarah Fenske for a deeper dive into the new activity at Union Station. Also joining the conversation is St. Louis Aquarium curator Aaron Sprowl, who discusses the wide-ranging creatures and their transition to a new space. The podcast also includes an audio tour of the aquarium, first impressions from children and adults alike, and plenty of questions from listeners who call into the show.

St. Louis City, County Libraries Are Now Officially Fine-Free Jan 07, 2020

Two of the largest library systems in the St. Louis region are axing fines for overdue library materials. St. Louis County Library and St. Louis Public Library join a trend of major metropolitan library districts across the U.S.— including Kansas City, Los Angeles, Salt Lake City and Chicago — that have eliminated fines for their users in an effort to increase access and equity within the communities they serve. Kristen Sorth of SLCL and Waller McGuire of SLPL join host Sarah Fenske for a conversation about the significance of this change, and two listeners share their stories as well.

New Local Food And Drink Spots To Try This January Jan 06, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske talks with our partners from Sauce Magazine about the latest additions to the St. Louis region’s food and beverage community to check out this January.

MLS Project Didn’t Get Missouri’s Approval For Tax Credits In 2019, But What About 2020? Jan 06, 2020

Host Sarah Fenske gets the latest on the Major League Soccer stadium being planned for St. Louis from St. Louis Business Journal reporter Jacob Kirn.

Troubling Practices Surround Civil Asset Forfeiture In Missouri Jan 06, 2020

Picture this. You’re driving on the highway when you get pulled over. The police rifle through your car. And then they help themselves to any cash they find, pushing you to sign a waiver that relinquishes your rights to it. They say if you don’t sign, you could be looking at years in prison. It might sound crazy, but it's actually a longstanding process throughout the country. And, as journalist Bill Freivogel discovered, it’s alive and well in Missouri. Local police agencies routinely seize large amounts of cash without ever charging suspects. They then use that money to build new headquarters, or buy military equipment or in one case, even a margarita maker. It’s called asset forfeiture. Freivogel has been covering the issue in depth over the past year in a series called Taken reported in conjunction with the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting. He joins host Sarah Fenske in this segment to talk about it.

Recreational Marijuana Sales In Illinois Top $3 Million On New Year’s Day Jan 03, 2020

The biggest party in town on New Year’s Day may well have been outside Illinois Supply & Provisions. Metro area residents stood in line for hours outside the Collinsville, Illinois shop with the goal of purchasing legal marijuana products, as Illinois just became the 11th state to legalize cannabis for recreational use. St. Louis Public Radio reporter Eric Schmid was at the shop on New Year's Day, and he joins host Sarah Fenske to discuss what people should know about buying and consuming Illinois’ recreational marijuana in 2020 and beyond.

Andy Magee Returns To St. Louis After Visiting All 419 National Parks In 2019 Jan 03, 2020

A year ago this week, Andy Magee set out on a 365-day quest to visit every single location within the U.S. National Park System. Now, after having spent the holidays exploring various parks in Hawaii, the local artist and co-owner of Cioci’s Picture Mart in Kirkwood has brought his long journey to a close. On New Year's Eve, he checked the final site off of his to-visit list: the Gateway Arch. In this conversation, he looks back on some of the biggest highlights and lessons from his trip.

Black Officers Union Discusses Criticism Of County PD’s Approach To Diversity, Inclusion Jan 03, 2020

In mid-December, St. Louis County Executive Sam Page touted his police department’s promotion of Lt. Keith Wildhaber as a key step toward thoughtful change within the department. But the Ethical Society of Police (ESOP), which represents many black officers in the St. Louis region, soon put out a statement saying it was “extremely disappointed” with Lt. Wildhaber’s promotion. In this interview, Sarah Fenske talks with the president of ESOP, St. Louis police Sgt. Heather Taylor, about ESOP's take on Wildhaber's promotion.

Affordable Housing Trust Funds And Their Effectiveness In The St. Louis Region Jan 02, 2020

Last month, the St. Louis County Council voted 4-3 for Councilwoman Lisa Clancy’s bill to establish a trust fund aimed at creating more affordable housing. In this segment, Sarah Fenske talks with Clancy about her proposal, as well as the major developments on housing affordability in the St. Louis region over the past few years. Gary Newcomer, director of operations for the Community Builders Network of Metro St. Louis, also joins the conversation.

St. Louisans Reflect On Trolley’s Brief Life While Showing Up In Droves For Its Last Day Jan 02, 2020

Over the past 13 months, the Loop Trolley regular traveled a 2.2-mile route from the Missouri History Museum to the Delmar Loop and back again several days each week. But on Sunday afternoon, it made its final few laps along those tracks — at least for now — before going out of service indefinitely due to funding problems.

UMSL Professor Questions ‘Medical Sexism’ In Linking Birth Control To Pap Smears Jan 02, 2020

Why do so many physicians require women to get a Pap smear and a pelvic exam before writing a one-year prescription for birth control? Most of us never think about that question. It is what it is. But Jill B. Delston isn’t like most of us. Her new book, "Medical Sexism," argues that linking these invasive procedures to birth control access is a form of medical sexism.

Legal Experts Offer Analysis Of Recent Missouri Cases In December Roundtable Dec 23, 2019

It’s been a busy and in some instances bizarre few weeks of legal news on both the regional and federal level — from the prospect of legal jeopardy for public defenders to a case involving a St. Louis-area doctor and his child bride. In this episode, host Sarah Fenske convenes our regular Legal Roundtable for a closer look at these stories and other recent developments pertaining to the law. Also on the lineup is the latest news surrounding St. Louis County Police Department Sergeant Keith Wildhaber — who has been tasked with overseeing a new diversity and inclusion unit after winning a $20 million jury verdict for sex discrimination — and a $113 million judgment facing Missouri taxpayers in light of an appellate court ruling about state corrections officers’ backpay. Joining the discussion are William Freivogel, J.D., journalism professor at Southern Illinois University Carbondale; local attorney Nicole Gorovsky, J.D., of Gorovsky Law; and Mark Smith, the associate vice chancellor and dean for career services at Washington University.

Blue Strawberry Will Kick Off 2020 With 3 Straight Nights Of Cabaret Dec 20, 2019

The St. Louis cabaret scene got a boost this fall with the debut of the Blue Strawberry, a dining and show destination on the eastern edge of the Central West End. A quick glance at the venue’s music calendar reveals a steady parade of performers — continuing on into the new year. And during the first weekend of 2020, New York-based singer/songwriter Rick Jensen will be collaborating with local cabaret performers, together presenting three consecutive evenings of storytelling and song. In this episode, host Sarah Fenske gets a preview from cabaret artists Beverly Brennan, Robert Breig and Dionna Raedeke.

St. Louis Chamber Chorus Celebrates 'Christmas Down Under' Dec 20, 2019

While many St. Louis-area residents are accustomed to celebrating Christmas during winter, it’s just the opposite in Australia where it’s summer. Host Sarah Fenske talks with Philip Barnes, artistic director of the St. Louis Chamber Chorus, about the organization’s “Christmas Down Under” concert.

St. Louis Mayor Krewson Pulls Plug On Airport Privatization Process Dec 20, 2019

A nearly two-year process to consider leasing St. Louis Lambert International Airport to a private operator is coming to a screeching halt. In this interview with Sarah Fenske, St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson explains why she is sending a letter to members of the Airport Advisory Working Group, asking that her representative, Linda Martinez, not support or vote to move forward with issuing a Request for Proposals.

With 2020 Around The Corner, This Local Sewing Group Still Crafts 18th-Century Clothing Dec 19, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske talks with members of the Saint Louis Georgian Sewing Society. Their stitch work takes them back to the seventeen hundreds.

Missouri Foster Kids To See Increased Protections After Legal Settlement Dec 19, 2019

An estimated 30% of Missouri youth in foster care or group homes are on psychotropic drugs of some sort — nearly twice the national average for kids that age. Many are on multiple drugs. And powerful anti-psychotic drugs have been used to treat conditions like ADHD and conduct disorders, even though the Federal Drug Administration hasn’t approved them for that use.

Women Comics Share Experiences From The St. Louis Comedy Scene Dec 18, 2019

Has the comedy scene become more inclusive in the last six decades? What does "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" get right and wrong about being a woman in comedy?

Activists, Legislators Push To Modernize HIV Transmission Laws Dec 18, 2019

At present, people living with HIV in Missouri can face consequences on par with murder conviction for transmitting the disease. In the Missouri House, state Reps. Holly Rehder (R-Sikeston) and Tracy McCreery (D-St. Louis) have each pre-filed bills for 2020 that they see as addressing an important public health issue.

Nearly A 3rd Of Bakers On ABC’s Holiday Show Are From St. Louis Region Dec 17, 2019

The bi-state area was particularly well represented on TVs across the nation Thursday evening during a two-hour ABC “The Great American Baking Show: Holiday Edition” premiere. Three of the 10 talented bakers competing in the first episode of this fifth season call the region home.

Great Rivers Greenway Has Vision For 20-Mile Network — And Wants Ideas For Its Name Dec 17, 2019

What once was a plan to build a continuous greenway along St. Louis’ Chouteau Avenue has morphed into something even bigger — and, after a year of planning and civic engagement, Great Rivers Greenway has now released a 140-page document outlining the overall aims of the project.

Digital Health Startup Launches Its First Medical Device In St. Louis Dec 17, 2019

The tech company Readout Health was founded in San Francisco, but it recently moved to St. Louis. Last week, the startup launched its first medical device, Biosense.

St. Louis Duo Spectator Speak On Music-Life Balance With Latest Release 'Charlie, Baby' Dec 16, 2019

St. Louis-based duo Spectator will join host Sarah Fenske to discuss their musical identity and journey.

'Path of the Past' Details Metro East Man's WWII Journey Dec 16, 2019

As soldiers from World War II increasingly reach the end of their lives, more people are trying to preserve their stories and experiences. One of them is Louis Baczewski. In June of 2015, Baczewski bicycled more than 700 kilometers, following the path of his grandfather’s armored division, which doggedly fought its way through Europe during WWII.

How The Fair Trade And Ethical Shopping Movement Is Evolving In St. Louis Dec 13, 2019

With just two weekends left before Christmas, the holiday shopping frenzy is in full swing. And like most Americans, gift buyers in the St. Louis region have countless options to choose from, both online and locally. But more and more people are choosing to put their discretionary dollars toward meaningful products — consumer goods that support a good cause. Julio Zegarra-Ballon, owner of Zee Bee Market, has been pleasantly surprised to see the growing appetite locally for fair trade and ethical shopping since opening his first brick-and-mortar outpost in the South Grand commercial district in 2014. The fair trade scene in St. Louis is still a relatively small one, and industry professionals including Alyson Miller, executive director of Partners for Just Trade, see plenty of room for more consumer education. In this episode, host Sarah Fenske talks with both Miller and Zegarra-Ballon. The conversation also includes comments from Patrice Estes, director of the mostly volunteer-run Plowsharing Crafts, which is headquartered in the Delmar Loop.

Jamaa Birth Village Founder Calls Mercy’s Ferguson Plans 'Predatory' And 'Opportunistic' Dec 13, 2019

Since Brittany “Tru” Kellman started Jamaa Birth Village in 2015, she’s sought to provide a community-driven solution to an ongoing nationwide health issue: the racial disparities within pregnancy-related mortality rates. African American women are three to four times more likely to die in childbirth than their white peers. For Kellman, who endured two cesarean sections and other challenges as a teen mom years ago, that work has been focused in Ferguson, Missouri, where she lives. But earlier this week, a letter published in the St. Louis American — and signed by many women of color who are leaders in the region — revealed a major controversy that’s been festering for months. “As black women and Missourians who organize to dismantle reproductive oppression,” the letter began, “we write to express our outrage and demand accountability for the disrespect and unethical treatment of Missouri’s first black Certified Professional Midwife [Kellman] by Mercy Birthing Center Midwifery Care.” Kellman has accused Mercy of breaking an agreement to “leave midwifery services in Ferguson to Jamaa,” as reported by St. Louis Public Radio. She said Mercy’s August announcement, of plans to open a nearby clinic next year, came after Jamaa agreed in March to train Mercy staff to administer culturally sensitive care at an existing clinic in Creve Coeur. In this episode, Kellman joins host Sarah Fenske to share her perspective on the situation. Mercy has declined interviews but this segment does include a statement from Mercy expressing regret over “the confusion that has arisen related to our plans.”

Appeals Court Weighs Authority Of Missouri Prosecutors To Correct Wrongful Convictions Dec 13, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske talks with St. Louis Public Radio reporter Rachel Lippmann about the latest in the troubling case of a St. Louis man found guilty of murder. Prosecutors say he’s not guilty. So why is he still in prison?

St. Louis Restaurants That Have Stood The Test Of Time Dec 12, 2019

Every month, we talk about the hottest new restaurants to open in the St. Louis area. But while that approach is a great way to meet newcomers, it tends to give short shrift to the places that consistently turn out excellent meals, day in and day out. In this episode, we aim to remedy that. St. Louis Post-Dispatch food critic Ian Froeb, Riverfront Times food critic Cheryl Baehr and St. Louis Magazine dining editor George Mahe join us to discuss some terrific restaurants that are still keeping things fresh after a decade in business. And we get these food writers’ picks for where they dine when they’re not on the job.

Humans of St. Louis Opens New Lambert Airport Exhibit Dec 11, 2019

Since 2014, the photo blog Humans of St. Louis has featured more than 2,400 stories online. Each post includes a photo and short description, giving the world an intimate look into the lives and struggles of the people who live in St. Louis. The organization has expanded its showcase to the St. Louis Lambert International Airport with a new exhibit, “Humans of St. Louis: The People of St. Louis, One Photo & Story at a Time.” In this segment, host Sarah Fenske talks with Humans of St. Louis co-founder and lead storyteller, Lindy Drew, as well as exhibit curator Brandelle Manini.

Nicole Galloway Discusses Ongoing St. Louis Audit Dec 11, 2019

St. Louis has the highest sales tax rates in the state of Missouri. Some parts of the city see rates as high as 11.679%. But the revenue doesn’t all go to the government. The areas with the highest tax rates may be as small as a few blocks — with extra taxes incurred by special taxing districts that operate largely without oversight from City Hall. Missouri State Auditor Nicole Galloway took on the city’s poor oversight of these districts in an audit last month. She also criticized the city for the lack of a comprehensive economic development plan to govern their formation. In this segment, Galloway talks with Sarah Fenske about what she learned, how the city responded to her findings and what comes next in her ongoing comprehensive audit of city operations.

Wash U's Dr. Joshua Swamidass Builds Bridge Between Science And Creation Myths In New Book Dec 10, 2019

Bring up Adam and Eve in contemporary conversation, and you’ll likely be met with either total skepticism or deep confidence, depending on one’s audience. Diametrically opposed views of the biblical origin story come with the territory of ongoing cultural battles between creationists and evolutionists and the typical right and left. But Washington University’s Dr. S. Joshua Swamidass, who describes himself as “a scientist in the Church and a Christian in science,” is hoping to shift the conversation. In his forthcoming book “The Genealogical Adam and Eve: The Surprising Science of Universal Ancestry,” he hopes to reach secular and religious readers alike. “What if the traditional account is somehow true, with the origins of Adam and Eve taking place alongside evolution?” he asks.

Raised in St. Louis, 4 Circus Harmony Alums Now Tour The World With Cirque Du Soleil Dec 10, 2019

Jessica Hentoff is quick to insist that the primary focus of Circus Harmony, the St. Louis-based organization she heads up, isn’t to turn kids into top-notch circus professionals. And yet the program has a track record of doing just that — even as it changes lives in other ways, too. This fall, a total of four Circus Harmony alumni are touring with Cirque du Soleil, the largest circus company in the world. They include St. Louis natives Melvin Diggs, Sidney ‘Iking’ Bateman, Terrance ‘T-Roc’ Robinson and Chauncey Kroner. Hentoff couldn’t be more proud of them — and just returned from travels to Vancouver and Chicago this past weekend where she watched them perform. In this segment, Hentoff talks with host Sarah Fenske will talk with Hentoff about the success the program and its participants have seen. The conversation also includes comments from Bateman and Diggs.

Sauce Magazine Names Its Picks For St. Louis' Best New Restaurants Of 2019 Dec 09, 2019

As the end of the year approaches, our partners at Sauce Magazine join "St. Louis on the Air" to reflect on the best new local restaurants serving up deliciousness in 2019.

SLU Professor Argues Generational Labels Like ‘Boomer’ And ‘Millennial’ Are Misguided Dec 09, 2019

While “the cyclical nature of generational denigration is embedded in our history,” generational labels like “Baby Boomer” and “Millennial” are artificial and wrong, says St. Louis University associate professor Cort Rudolph. Rudolph recently wrote about the topic in his campus editorial “OK Boomer Not OK, Nor Backed by Research.” In this discussion, Sarah Fenske talks with Rudolph about use of the recent phrase “OK Boomer” and what the research tells us about whether there are major differences between the Silent Generation, baby boomers, Generation X, millennials and the most recent category, Generation Z. Paul Taylor, author of “The Next America” and former vice president of the Pew Research Center, also joins the conversation.

Attorney Mark Pedroli Discusses Lawsuit Related to Airport Working Group's Many Closed Meetings Dec 09, 2019

A lawsuit filed Friday aims to open closed-door meetings and obtain documents held by a city working group considering leasing St. Louis Lambert International Airport. The plaintiffs allege members of the Airport Advisory Working Group knowingly violated the Missouri Sunshine Act in eight instances. Host Sarah Fenske talks with Mark Pedroli, founder of the Sunshine and Government Accountability Project.

How The Mississippi River Shaped St. Louis Dec 06, 2019

The Mississippi River has been integral to life in the St. Louis region for hundreds of years — from Native Americans who occupied areas in and around Cahokia Mounds to the later arrival of European settlers. In this segment, Sarah Fenske talks with Andrew Wanko, public historian for the Missouri Historical Society and author of the new book, “Great River City: How the Mississippi Shaped St. Louis.” Also joining the conversation is David Lobbig, curator of environmental life at the Missouri Historical Society. He is the content lead on the Missouri History Museum’s newest exhibit “Mighty Mississippi,” which opened November 23.

Remembering Longtime Urban League Leader James H. Buford, 75 Dec 06, 2019

The late James Buford had a philosophy for effecting change — one he put into practice for 28 years as CEO of the area’s Urban League. We'll hear from moments during his appearances on "St. Louis on the Air" and hear from those who worked closely with him.

Schupp Jumps Into Missouri 2nd Congressional District Race Against Wagner Dec 06, 2019

For voters in some St. Louis suburbs, the 2020 ballot just potentially got a lot more interesting. State Senator Jill Schupp announced that she will challenge Republican U.S. Rep. Ann Wagner for Missouri’s 2nd Congressional District, which covers most of St. Louis County, part of St. Charles County and even a bit of Jefferson County. The district favors Republicans. But Schupp is expected to mount a formidable challenge. In this segment, Sarah Fenske talks with political correspondent Jason Rosenbaum about Schupp’s announcement.

What You Need To Know As 2020 Affordable Care Act Deadline Approaches Dec 05, 2019

The deadline to enroll in a health care plan via the Affordable Care Act marketplace is Dec. 15. Are plans more or less affordable than in previous years? What should people be aware of while searching for plans outside of the ACA marketplace? In this conversation, Sarah Fenske puts these questions to Timothy McBride of Washington University in St. Louis. In addition to talking about the health and future of the ACA marketplace, McBride, the co-director of the Center for Health Economics and Policy, also discusses what Medicaid expansion could look like in Missouri.

Ethical Society Of St. Louis Considers Evolving Notions Of The Hero Ahead Of Star Wars Release Dec 05, 2019

As another Star Wars movie speeds toward the galaxy this month, fans are eagerly anticipating its arrival — while non-fans may be yawning over the premiere of yet one more big-budget action flick. But regardless of one’s feelings about Star Wars, Marvel or other modern myths that dominate pop culture, self-described “superfan but also a critical fan” James Croft argues that these persistent hero narratives overlap with the real world in powerful ways. “We can learn so much about ourselves and about our culture,” Croft has said, “by exploring how heroism is portrayed in movies like ‘Star Wars’ – including how notions of what heroism is, and who can be considered a hero, have developed over time.” As the outreach director for the Ethical Society of St. Louis, Croft plans to dig into this topic at a free event Thursday evening at the society. In this episode of the talk show, he joins Sarah Fenske in studio alongside Martin Casas, owner of Apotheosis Comics & Lounge, which is sponsoring the hero-focused event.

Photojournalism Prize Contest Showcases Teen Talent Dec 05, 2019

The St. Louis Public Radio digital team crafted its first Photojournalism Prize photography contest last month. Host Sarah Fenske talks bout the results and impact of the station's first photo competition for teens. Joining the conversation are St. Louis Public Radio’s visual communications specialist David Kovaluk, McCluer North student Mya Davis and Roosevelt High School teacher Sara Haag.

'High Low' Aims To Become A Literary Hub In Grand Center Dec 04, 2019

A newly renovated building is now open Grand Center. It’s called the High Low. And like many other buildings in Grand Center, it’s focused on the arts. But unlike many of the others, it’s not a theater or a performance space. Instead, it calls itself a “venue for freedom of expression through spoken and written word.” In other words, it aims to be a literary hub for a city that’s long had an outsized impact on the world of letters.

Where Did The Moon's Water Come From? WashU Researchers Search For Answers Dec 04, 2019

Astrophysicists at Washington University in St. Louis are teaming up to find some answers. The research team has been chosen as one of NASA’s eight new Solar System Exploration Research Virtual Institutes. They are part of a five-year cooperative agreement valued at more than $7 million.

NAACP St. Louis Chapter President Makes Case For Airport Privatization Dec 04, 2019

The City of St. Louis is considering leasing St. Louis Lambert International Airport to a private company. If such a deal goes through it would bring a cash windfall to the city. Host Sarah Fenske talks with Adolphus Pruitt, president of the NAACP’s St. Louis chapter. Despite skepticism and opposition from others, Pruitt is a vocal supporter of the idea to lease the airport.

Omnimax Theater Undergoes $3.5 Million Renovation, Switches To Digital Projection Dec 03, 2019

The Omnimax Theater at the St. Louis Science Center reopened last week after a $3.5 million renovation. Chief among the changes is a switch from film to digital projection. While most theaters have made that transition, the complexities of the Imax format on a domed screen presented challenges.

How Webster University's Nuns Charmed Hotel Magnate Conrad Hilton Into A Big Gift Dec 03, 2019

By the mid-1960s, Conrad Hilton’s brief marriage to Zsa Zsa Gabor was decades behind him. The hotel magnate was worth an estimated $100 million. But he was also notoriously cheap — with both his ex-wives and his children. So how did a pair of St. Louis nuns persuade Hilton to give them more than $1.5 million? As Webster University professor emeritus Allen Carl Larson discovered, it took three years of correspondence, a shared faith and a deep mutual respect.

Mo Rocca In Conversation At County Library Dec 02, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske talked with Rocca before a sold-out crowd at the library about his new book, “Mobituaries.”

Legal Roundtable Tackles Kroenke’s Phone Records, More Nov 27, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske will talk with our Legal Roundtable panelists about several current issues pertaining to the law.

Finding Joy In Gratitude This Thanksgiving Holiday Nov 26, 2019

The Thanksgiving holiday is a time to reflect and share the things for which we are grateful.

A Farmer's Journey From The Boardroom To The Fields Nov 26, 2019

Michael Turley wasn’t always a farmer. In fact, before he started managing the 120 Holstein cows on his family’s dairy farm in Greenville, Illinois, he was managing workers at the St. Louis communications and marketing firm Osborn Barr as its CEO.

'Scenes Of Historic Wonder' Displays 150+ Photos Of Old-Time St. Louis Nov 26, 2019

What does St. Louis’ Robison Park have in common with the Wild West Chimpanzee Show at the St. Louis Zoo? Both no longer exist — and both are depicted in a new book showing off historic photos from the Gateway City.

St. Louis Nonprofit Wants You To Learn Your Family’s History This Thanksgiving Nov 25, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske talks with Grannie Annie board member Martha Stegmaier and Karissa Hsu, who wrote a story about her grandmother’s journey to America after fleeing conflict in East Asia during WWII. Hsu is one of 38 students selected out of 536 submissions to be published in the 14th volume of the annual Grannie Annie book

Dellwood Burned Due To Proximity To Ferguson—But The City Bounced Back Nov 25, 2019

Nov. 24 marks five years since the aftermath of the grand jury decision not to indict Darren Wilson, the Ferguson police officer responsible for the fatal shooting of Michael Brown. Ferguson received a lot of attention during and after the unrest, but the town of Dellwood also experienced upheaval. After the grand jury decision, five of Dellwood’s stores were looted and 13 businesses were set on fire. In this segment, Dellwood Mayor Reggie Jones and business owner Kurtis Barks of Complete Auto Body and Repair discuss how the city recovered from the damage and where Dellwood is headed in the future.

What A German City Can Tell Us About How To Handle Gentrification In St. Louis Nov 25, 2019

“The Future of My City” project aims to connect students in the Ruhr area of Germany and the Rust Belt here in the United States. These areas have a lot in common; in many cases they’re trying to find their place in the post-industrial world. As part of the project, students from the University of Missouri–St. Louis traveled to Dortmund, Germany to see its revitalization efforts up close. The paper they wrote tied for first place in the “Future of My City” competition. In this discussion, UMSL graduate and doctoral students, Adam Brown and Liz Deichmann, talk about the findings of their study.

From 6 Members To 300: Cricket Academy Thrives In St. Louis Area Nov 22, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske talks to American Cricket Academy and Club founder and president Ajay Jhamb about what the cricket sport is all about and how local kids can get involved. Also joining the discussion are cricket players Taine Dry, 15, and Pooja Ganesh, 11.

ProPublica's Investigation Into The Use Of Seclusion Rooms In Illinois Schools Nov 22, 2019

Sarah Fenske talks with Jennifer Smith Richards of the Chicago Tribune and ProPublica reporter Jodi Cohen about their reporting on the use of seclusion rooms in Illinois schools

What Makes Music ‘Beautiful?’ Chamber Project St. Louis Explores Concept Musically Nov 22, 2019

The Chamber Project St. Louis is exploring the concept of beauty in its 12th season by digging beneath the surface and asking questions about what should be considered beautiful, who gets to decide and why it matters. Its executive director Dana Holte and St. Louis musician and composer Syrhea Conaway, also known as Syna So Pro, join host Sarah Fenske to discuss the topic.

140 St. Louis Kids Pirouette In 'Nutcracker' At The Fox Theatre Nov 21, 2019

The Great Moscow Ballet’s Nutcracker made its local premiere at the Fabulous Fox this week. On stage with its star ballerinas? A bunch of local kids, being wowed by the experience. We’ll learn how they get chosen and what their preparation looks like. Host Sarah Fenske talks with Yuriy Kuzo, Moscow Ballet soloist and audition director, about the production.

One Of These Humanitarians Will Win $1 Million: SLU Helps Decide Opus Prize Nov 21, 2019

Every year, one lucky group is the recipient of the Opus Prize. It’s given to an organization developing quote creative solutions to some of the world's most pressing problems. And it comes with a one million prize courtesy of the Opus Prize Foundation. Host Sarah Fenske talks with a group of St. Louis University students who were charged with deciding who gets it.

The Rep’s Hana Sharif On Her Directorial Debut, An Adaptation Of Pride And Prejudice Nov 21, 2019

The new artistic director for the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, Hana Sharif, makes her directorial debut at the Rep this December with an adaption of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice.” In this interview, Sarah Fenske talks with Sharif about the production and her background.

How Danger At Local Corner Stores Led To Food Access Vulnerabilities Nov 20, 2019

Kaiser Health News Midwest Correspondent Cara Anthony joins host Sarah Fenske to talk about her latest report examining problems that shoppers in East St. Louis encounter at local corner stores.

U.S. Attorney Jeff Jensen Reflects On 2 Years As The Region's Top Prosecutor Nov 20, 2019

Jensen will joins host Sarah Fenske to discuss how his office handles everything from racketeering cases to civil forfeiture — and, under Jensen, has made violent crime in St. Louis a particular focus. Both a CPA and a former FBI agent, Jensen will share his thoughts on his office’s greatest triumphs and biggest frustrations — and what he hopes to accomplish in the next year.

Parson Reflects On Challenges And Opportunities As Missouri Governor Nov 20, 2019

Missouri Governor Mike Parson joined STLPR reporter Jason Rosenbaum in a wide-ranging interview. The topics included workforce development, abortion in light of controversy concerning Planned Parenthood, the Hyperloop initiative, regulating guns and more.

St. Louis' Most Lamented Restaurant, Bar Closings Of 2019 Nov 19, 2019

Each month, our partners at Sauce Magazine join us to hash out some of the top food and drink additions to the region. But 2019 has said its fair share of goodbyes to notable establishments in the St. Louis, from the tragic fire that shut down Goody Goody Diner to the closing of Piccione Pastry on the Delmar Loop after a seven-year run. Sauce’s managing editor Catherine Klene and artistic director Meera Nagarajan join the program to talk through some of the closings patrons miss most.

'Passport to the Ozarks' Highlights Top Regional Destinations Nov 19, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske talks with seventh-generation Ozarker Kaitlyn McConnell about her new guidebook, "Passport to the Ozarks," which lists 61 “out-of-the-way places to see, visit and experience throughout the Missouri Ozarks.”

A Conversation With Former Roosevelt High Football Coach Trey Porter Nov 19, 2019

In the wake of St. Louis Public Schools’ termination last month of Trey Porter, Roosevelt High School’s now former football coach and athletic director, there were more questions than answers. Porter joins host Sarah Fenske to share his perspective on the events of recent days.

Black Violin and Mad Keys Liven Up Classical Music By Adding Hip Hop to Strings Nov 18, 2019

What happens when you pair hip hop and violin? Host Sarah Fenske explores the answer with acclaimed hip-hop violin duo Black Violin, alongside St. Louis music producer and musician Brandon McCadney, known as Mad Keys.

100 Years Of The International Institute Of St. Louis Nov 18, 2019

The International Institute of St. Louis has been a welcome community for immigrants and refugees to the area for 100 years. In this segment, Sarah Fenske talks with the group's president and CEO, Anna Crosslin, as well as the founder of St. Louis Bosnians Inc. and the director of Grupo Atlantico.

'College Behind Bars' Looks At The Transformative Potential Of Prison Education Programs Nov 15, 2019

Filmmaker Lynn Novick’s new documentary “College Behind Bars,” set to air on PBS later this month, follows the journeys of men and women pursuing academic degrees while in prison. In doing so, it illustrates the life-changing nature of educational opportunity while also putting a human face on mass incarceration and, as the film’s website puts it, “our failure to provide meaningful rehabilitation for the over two million Americans living behind bars.” Prison education programs including the one featured in Novick’s film, the Bard Prison Initiative, are among efforts to address that failure across the nation. Locally, both St. Louis University and Washington University run programs that bring faculty members to several of the region’s correctional institutions to lead college-level classes. And like other such programs, they boast extremely low recidivism rates for participants who have since been released from prison. In this episode, Novick sits down with host Sarah Fenske to discuss her film and the critical issues it puts in the spotlight. An alumnus of the Bard Prison Initiative, Salih Israil, participates in the conversation, too, as does Paul Lynch, the director of SLU’s Prison Program.

Former Cardinals Team Physician Recommends Athletes Follow A Plant-Based Diet Nov 15, 2019

In the new Netflix documentary, "Game Changers," the former team physician for the St. Louis Rams and Cardinals challenges what he refers to as a “locker room mythology about meat, protein and strength.” Dr. James Loomis says that contrary to popular belief, protein isn’t what sustains a person’s energy. Rather, energy comes from carbohydrates, and when carbohydrate calories are sacrificed for protein calories, athletes can develop symptoms like chronic fatigue or loss of stamina. In this segment, Sarah Fenske talks with Loomis about the rise of plant-based eating in professional sports.

Withdrawal From Paris Agreement Could Cost Midwest Commodities Producers Nov 14, 2019

The Trump administration’s formal withdrawal of the U.S. from the Paris Agreement on climate change has members of the Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative concerned. The organization is worried that the withdrawal could lead to U.S. commodities producers being taxed or penalized by countries that signed on to the accord, something that the European Union has signaled they would like to pursue. In this interview, Sarah Fenske talks with the executive director of the Mississippi River Cities & Towns Initiative, Colin Wellenkamp, as well as Kimmswick, Missouri, Mayor Phil Stang, about what leaving the accord could do to the competitiveness of Midwest commodity exports.

Comparing Missouri And Illinois' Medical Cannabis Laws Nov 14, 2019

At their core, Missouri and Illinois programs do the same thing: They allow doctors to certify patients to use cannabis if they have a qualifying condition. But there are significant differences in the details of each law. In this segment, Sarah Fenske talks with St. Louis Public Radio reporter Jaclyn Driscoll about the differences between the two state's medical marijuana programs.

Metro Theater’s Radio Play Within A Play Reimagines 'It's A Wonderful Life' At A 1940s Radio Station Nov 14, 2019

Metro Theater Company’s Julia Flood was looking for a classic holiday show this fall — one that would also speak to Metro’s mission as a theater company inspired by the intelligence and emotional wisdom of young people. Her colleague John Wolbers’ fresh take on the story of George Bailey and the town of Bedford Falls aspires to fit the bill. Set at a fictional St. Louis radio station 70 years ago and framed as a radio play within a play, the local playwright’s retelling of “It’s a Wonderful Life” aims to build a generational bridge. The 50-minute production opens this Sunday at the Grandel, with the cast introducing younger theatergoers — and audiences of all ages — to the golden age of radio as well as a long-beloved tale. In this segment, Wolbers joins host Sarah Fenske to talk about his adaptation ahead of its opening matinee (performances run Nov. 17 through Dec. 15). Also joining the broadcast are cast members Alicia Revé Like, Abraham Shaw and Chris E. Ware. The trio present a scene from the play during the show, complete with Foley sound artistry.

As Farmers Market Season Winds Down, Tower Grove's Grows A Winter Version Nov 13, 2019

The weather outside may be frightful, but Patrick Horine, co-founder of the popular Tower Grove Farmers Market, isn’t exactly closing up shop for the colder months these days. As he looks toward the final market of the season this weekend in the south St. Louis park, he’s also gearing up for its wintry equivalent — which is growing. Initially launched in 2007 as a monthly affair, the Winter Market this year will take place weekly beginning Dec. 7. And it’s moving to the spacious Koken Art Factory in St. Louis’ Fox Park neighborhood to accommodate dozens of local vendors. In this segment, Horine joins Sarah Fenske for a sneak peek at the wintry offerings, which also will feature a holiday theme the first three Saturdays of the season. He also discusses farmers market trends in the region as a whole.

Film Co-Produced By UMSL Professor Documents Mass Sterilization During Holocaust Nov 13, 2019

In 2012, Rita Csapo-Sweet and her husband, the late Frederick Sweet, jointly published a paper on the ghastly but little-known legacy of Carl Clauberg, a German physician who conducted mass sterilization experiments at Auschwitz during World War II. Clauberg would use his work in the concentration camp to develop a pioneering fertility test. “Clauberg’s name needs to be placed next to [Josef] Mengele’s in its rightful place in infamy,” the two scholars concluded, emphasizing that Clauberg’s medical crimes against humanity “must be disclosed whenever the test bearing his name appears” in modern biomedical texts. As Csapo-Sweet and Sweet dug into their research, filmmakers Sylvia Nagel and Sonya Winterberg also began a documentary about Clauberg — and the St. Louis-based couple’s academic article filled in key gaps in the filmmakers’ story. Nagel and Winterberg reached out to Csapo-Sweet in 2015, and she joined the documentary as its American producer. Now complete, “Made in Auschwitz: The Untold Story of Block 10” will be screened this weekend as part of the St. Louis International Film Festival. In this episode of St. Louis on the Air, host Sarah Fenske talks with Csapo-Sweet about the film and the history of genocidal collaboration by medical professionals, both during the Holocaust and more recently. Csapo-Sweet is an associate professor of media studies at the University of Missouri-St. Louis.

How Missourians Can Combat Honeysuckle Infestation, Other Invasive Species Nov 13, 2019

Bush honeysuckle isn't native to Missouri, but the species is flourishing in the state. In an effort to upset honeysuckle infestation, the Missouri Botanical Garden has organized public events and volunteer removal days to raise public awareness about the need for bush honeysuckle removal and the benefits of replacing it with native plants. Host Sarah Fenske talks with the garden’s restoration outreach coordinator, Ali Brown, about the organization’s Honeysuckle Sweep Month, the impacts of honeysuckle and other invasive plants in Missouri and what can be done to combat their disruptions.

How An Influential—Possibly Flawed—Psychiatric Study Changed The Course of Modern Medicine Nov 12, 2019

In 2009, New York Post reporter Susannah Cahalan suddenly experienced hallucinations, paranoia, seizures and catatonia. She was misdiagnosed for a month before she was finally treated for a rare autoimmune disease that can attack the brain, anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis. She investigated her experience and published the details in her 2012 book, “Brain on Fire: My Month of Madness.” Led by a concern that others suffering from this condition were being mistreated in psychiatric hospitals, she began looking into an influential 1973 study titled "On Being Sane in Insane Places" by psychologist David Rosenhan. The details of her investigation are found in her latest book, “The Great Pretender: The Undercover Mission That Changed Our Understanding of Madness.”

Working In Madagascar, St. Louis Scientists Hope To Help Both People And Planet Nov 12, 2019

For nearly three decades, the Whitney R. Harris World Ecology Center at the University of Missouri-St. Louis has bestowed its World Ecology Award on prominent biodiversity-minded individuals ranging from John Denver to E.O. Wilson. But this year the center is instead honoring a pair of world-class local institutions — the Missouri Botanical Garden and the St. Louis Zoo — for their critical research and conservation work in Madagascar. In this episode, Sarah Fenske talks with the center’s interim director, Patty Parker, and with a Malagasy scientist, Fidisoa Rasambainarivo, who is in St. Louis to speak at an upcoming gala where the zoo and garden are being honored. The conversation also includes comments from zoo and garden staff.

A Meteor Shower Caused The Fireball Spotted Over Eastern Missouri Nov 12, 2019

Last night, a meteor shower caused a bright flash in the night sky that many home security cameras in the St. Louis area captured. The annual Taurid meteor shower, which is known to burn more brightly than other meteor events, hit its peak on Monday evening. In this segment, Sarah Fenske talks about the science behind Monday's meteor with Will Snyder, manager of the James S. McDonnell Planetarium at the St. Louis Science Center.

Air Force Veteran Sheila McGlown Is Still Fighting For Others As A Cancer Patient Nov 11, 2019

In 2009, when Sheila McGlown began battling metastatic breast cancer at the age of 43, she was already a skilled fighter. She’d spent 25 years in the U.S. Air Force, a background she says gave her strength as well as a sense of defiance that would serve her well amid new challenges. Ten years later, McGlown is still undergoing cancer treatment — and still focused on the service to others that she cherished during her military career. The Swansea, Illinois, resident has found a new passion for advocacy around the inclusion of women of color in clinical trials. Meanwhile, she’s also 16 months into a clinical trial participation herself. In this episode of the talk show, in light of Veterans Day, McGlown joins Sarah Fenske to discuss her ongoing journey.

Meg Cabot, Ridley Pearson On DC Comics' Line Of Superhero-Based Graphic Novels Aimed At Young Readers Nov 11, 2019

Parents and educators often look for various ways to engage kids in reading. While traditional novels are seen as the “ideal,” graphic novels can be just as effective. Similar to comic books, graphic novels tend to be in a longer format, and the narrative is largely self-contained. With the combination of text and pictures, graphic novels have complex plots, characters and conflicts. DC Comics recently introduced a line of superhero-based graphic novels aimed at middle-grade readers — kids between the ages of 8 and 12. Host Sarah Fenske talks with authors Ridley Pearson and Meg Cabot ahead of their St. Louis County Library appearance.

Privatization Critics Hope To Make Their Case At Public Forum Nov 11, 2019

For months on end, consultants with an interest in privatizing St. Louis Lambert International Airport have billed tens of thousands of dollars while working to craft language underpinning an airport lease. Their chief antagonists have been working just as long — only they’re doing it without any hope of a payday. Calling themselves STL Not for Sale, the group of gadflies has been a familiar presence at public forums. They want to force a public vote on a deal that Mayor Lyda Krewson prefers to leave to the Board of Aldermen. In this segment, host Sarah Fenske talks with Josie Grillas and Chris Ottolino of STL Not for Sale about their efforts and the “town hall” they’re hosting on Nov. 14.

EHOC's New Intramarket Report Shows Rising St. Louis Rents Nov 08, 2019

St. Louis’ relatively low cost of living is an oft-touted point of pride for the region. But a newly released report by the Metropolitan St. Louis Equal Housing and Opportunity Council, or EHOC, suggests that life in the Gateway City isn’t so affordable for everyone — especially when it comes to paying rent. Compiled by the organization’s community engagement specialist, the report aims to fill an information gap when it comes to understanding local rent costs. And one of the key takeaways from Glenn Burleigh’s ZIP-code-level analysis is that perceptions of gentrification are rooted in reality: Across the city of St. Louis, rents are rising faster than in the metropolitan region as a whole, and twice as fast in the central corridor and south St. Louis. In this episode, Burleigh joins host Sarah Fenske to discuss the implications of EHOC’s recent findings as well as related topics.

St. Louis International Film Festival Docs Zoom In On True Crime, Stadium Financing, More Nov 08, 2019

The 28th St. Louis International Film Festival returns this week to offer local moviegoers the chance to view international films, documentaries, American indies and shorts over the course of 11 days. Host Sarah Fenske talks with Cinema St. Louis artistic director Chris Clark about some of this year’s highlights. Also joining the discussion are two film directors whose works take a look at issues pertaining to the region, albeit vastly different ones.

Hospital Staff Face Growing Problem Of Violent Patients Nov 07, 2019

Nurses say that the threat of violence is increasingly part of their jobs, and both hospitals and college instructors are finding ways to help them maintain safety in the face of that danger. This troubling landscape is the focus of a new piece by "5 On Your Side" KSDK reporter Jenna Barnes.

‘Chicago,’ ‘Sweeney Todd’ And ‘On Your Feet!’ To Star In 2020 Muny Season Nov 07, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske talks with Mike Isaacson, artistic director and executive producer of the Muny. In addition to the 2020 season, they touch on the Muny’s $100 million capital campaign and recent renovations, as well as local and national musical theater trends.

ArchCity Defenders Celebrates 10 Years Of Advocacy, Growth Nov 07, 2019

Ten years ago, a trio of recent law school graduates formed a nonprofit law firm. They called it ArchCity Defenders. And they had a novel idea: wraparound services, not just legal representation, for the people who needed it most. As Michael-John Voss explains it, he and his co-founders, Thomas Harvey and John McAnnar, were inspired by the Jesuit tradition at St. Louis University School of Law. After taking classes in public interest law, they found themselves working on projects representing those too poor to afford lawyers. “We saw the fact that the existing entities that were supposed to serve the indigent population were overburdened and overworked,” he say. “And there was no communication between the civil and criminal organizations that are supposed to serve this population. We thought, ‘There’s got to be a better way to do this.’” In this episdoe, he and ArchCity Executive Director Blake Strode talk with host Sarah Fenske.

New Book Highlights The Lesser-Known Accomplishments Of Michelangelo In His 80s Nov 06, 2019

Most people are knowledgeable about the early accomplishments of Michelangelo, like his work on the Sistine Chapel ceiling in his 30s. But the artist and architect worked well into his 80s, at a time when the average life expectancy was about 40 to 45 years. The latter part of Michelangelo’s career is the focus of a new book by Washington University Art History Professor William Wallace. It’s titled “Michelangelo, God's Architect: The Story of His Final Years and Greatest Masterpiece.”

Pianos For People's New Director To Carry On Founder's Mission Nov 06, 2019

Last month, Tom Townsend died at 60, just two weeks after being diagnosed with a rare, aggressive form of cancer. It was a devastating blow. Just one year before, Townsend had survived being shot in an attempted carjacking. And he was a much-loved figure in St. Louis. One big reason for that was the organization he founded: Pianos for People. A retired advertising executive, Townsend had devoted what would prove the final seven years of his life to helping underprivileged students access both free pianos and free lessons in playing them. But Pianos for People continues its work. And in this episode, we meet its new director and hear from some young pianists, too.

New Book Highlights The Lesser-Known Accomplishments Of Michelangelo In His 80s Nov 06, 2019

Most people are knowledgeable about the early accomplishments of Michelangelo, like his work on the Sistine Chapel ceiling in his 30s. But the artist and architect worked well into his 80s, at a time when the average life expectancy was about 40 to 45 years. The latter part of Michelangelo’s career is the focus of a new book by Washington University art history professor, William Wallace. It’s titled “Michelangelo, God's Architect: The Story of His Final Years and Greatest Masterpiece.”

North St. Louis Site Has NGA Looking To ‘Change The Way Our Agency Does Business’ Nov 05, 2019

In three weeks, the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency will formally break ground on Next NGA West, its long-anticipated new headquarters that will be located in north St. Louis. The $1.7 billion construction project is expected to last several years, with a goal of completing much of the campus in 2023. In this segment, Next NGA West Program Director Sue Pollmann joins host Sarah Fenske to give an update on the project and to discuss the spy agency’s hopes for the St. Louis region as a geospatial industry hub.

Harriet Tubman Impersonator Shares Reaction To Tubman Biopic Nov 05, 2019

In this segment, Sarah Fenske talks with Harriet Tubman impersonator Glynis Brooks about her reaction to the new Tubman biopic and her role as a Tubman impersonator.

Reagan Speechwriter Recalls ‘Tear Down This Wall’ And Comments On GOP, Josh Hawley Nov 05, 2019

Peter Robinson had just turned 30 years old when, as Ronald Reagan’s speechwriter in 1987, he was tasked with crafting what would become one of the world’s most famous presidential speeches. “I spent six years in the Reagan White House and I wrote tens of thousands of words, and nobody remembers anything except six of them — and one of them is ‘mister,’” said Robinson, referring to the memorable “tear down this wall” line that Reagan directed at Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev before a crowd of thousands at the Berlin Wall. In this episode, Robinson joins host Sarah Fenske in light of the 30-year commemoration of the fall of that wall.

MADCO Dance Production Features The Human Stories Behind Cold War Politics Nov 04, 2019

Saturday (Nov. 9) will mark 30 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall that divided Germany from 1961 to 1989. In this episode, we discuss a local dance production being staged this week by Modern American Dance Company, or MADCO, that explores the personal stories behind the Cold War politics of the time. The production, “WallSTORIES,” is choreographed by native Berliner Nejla Yatkin and is a collaboration between MADCO and the University of Missouri-St. Louis' German Culture Center.

Recent Missouri Ruling Has Implications For Understanding Of Lobbyists, First Amendment Rights Nov 04, 2019

Ron Calzone isn’t a paid lobbyist. He might be better described as an activist. He has strong opinions about politics -- conservative ones. And because of that, he spends a fair amount of time in Jefferson City at the Missouri Capitol, seeking to persuade lawmakers to come around to his point of view. Not everyone likes that, and in 2014, someone filed a complaint against Calzone with the Missouri Ethics Commission. They said he needed to file as a lobbyist and pay annual registration fees, and the commission agreed. But Calzone didn’t back down so quickly. He’s a guy with strong opinions, after all. And he believed that being treated as a lobbyist violated his First Amendment rights, so he sued. Last Friday, he won. A nine-judge panel of the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals overruled a previous three-judge panel that had ruled against Calzone. In an 8-1 decision, the judges agreed that demanding Calzone register as a lobbyist violates his rights. In this segment, Calzone’s attorney, David Roland, talks with host Sarah Fenske.

Flyover Comedy Festival Has St. Louis Scene Ready For Its Closeup Nov 04, 2019

The St. Louis comedy scene is a busy one. Just about any night of the week, you can catch local comedians honing their sets at open-mic night, improvising madly on stage with a troupe of their closest friends or battling each other with wit and good humor as local drunks cheer. For the past three years, a three-day comedy festival has brought those disparate elements together. The Flyover Comedy Festival launched in 2017 and returns to the city’s Grove neighborhood beginning this Thursday (Nov. 7). It’s a showcase for local talent in the scene and also a chance for big names to show off their best stuff. In this segment, St. Louis on the Air host Sarah Fenske and co-founder Zach Gzehoviak discuss the festival with local comedians Kenny Kinds and Tina Dybal.

St. Charles County Executive Weighs In On Airport Privatization Nov 01, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske talks with St. Charles County Executive Steve Ehlmann about why he supports the exploration of regional governance of St. Louis Lambert International Airport.

Nonprofit Uses Martial Arts To Teach Mindfulness, Meditation And Self-Defense Nov 01, 2019

In this segment, we learn about the Excelsior Program, which aims to help kids overcome trauma by teaching them meditation, mindfulness, and martial arts.

Why Female Entrepreneurs Flourish In St. Louis Nov 01, 2019

The first-ever STL Startup Week begins November 1, celebrating a growing entrepreneurial scene in a city once better known for beer and brick. An integral part of St. Louis’ startup scene: women. Host Sarah Fenske discusses the startup culture in St. Louis and local efforts to support women and their businesses.

'Small Circle' Recipes Help Home Chefs Cook Like The St. Louis Pros Oct 31, 2019

The holiday season often signals a time when people gather together and aim to impress their friends and loved ones with their cooking skills. And now, home chefs can try some recipes not found in the Martha Stewart and Rachel Ray cookbooks. R.J. Hartbeck and Mary von der Heydt have launched a series of short cookbooks titled “Small Circle,” each showcasing about 10 recipes from noted chefs around St. Louis. They talk about what inspired the cookbooks and how they’ve gone about curating the notebook-style publications with host Sarah Fenske.

Lack Of Online Sales Tax Could Be Costing Missouri Up To $600 Million Annually Oct 31, 2019

Sarah Fenske talks with state Sen. Karla May (D-St. Louis) and state Rep. Justin Hill (R-Lake St. Louis) about the recent push for an online sales tax in Missouri and how the issue may be addressed in the upcoming legislative session, which begins Jan. 8.

How Annie's Hope Helps Kids Cope With Grief Oct 31, 2019

Annie's Hope founder and executive director Becky Byrne joins host Sarah Fenske to discuss the organization’s work to help entire families in their mourning process. Joining the conversation are Riley Mitchell and his father, Brandon. Riley, 10, lost his mother suddenly as a young child and has participated in Annie’s Hope camps and other events.

Legal Experts Discuss Police Discrimination Suit, Beer Battle, More Oct 30, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske will be joined by a panel of legal experts to discuss a variety of recent local and national stories pertaining to the law.

Get To Know Board Of Freeholders Member, Business Owner Jason Wilson Oct 29, 2019

In this St. Louis on the Air episode, Sarah Fenske talks with St. Louis Public Radio correspondent Rachel Lippmann about recent complications in the Board of Freeholders process. We also meet Board of Freeholder member and local business owner Jason Wilson.

What's Driving The Proliferation Of Golf Carts In Soulard And Beyond Oct 29, 2019

Golf carts have long been transcending the fairways, clubs and expensive sporting equipment they evoke. In St. Louis, they’re somewhat synonymous with Soulard, where many residents use the vehicles for everyday purposes around the neighborhood — and the carts have become a common sight in some other St. Louis areas as well.

How St. Louisans Celebrate Día De Los Muertos, The Day Of The Dead Oct 28, 2019

Growing up in Mexico, Lizett Mata spent a lot of time in early November each year at her father’s grave. He died when she was just seven years old, and Mata and her family would annually bring some of his favorite things to the cemetery to celebrate his and other departed loved ones’ lives. They’d spend the whole day there.

Jeannette Cooperman Looks Back On 24 Years Of St. Louis Journalism Oct 28, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske talks with St. Louis Magazine writer Jeannette Cooperman, who is leaving for a job as a staff writer at the Common Reader, a journal of essays housed at Washington University.

St. Louis County Officials Want Change In Police Leadership Oct 28, 2019

In this conversation, St. Louis Public Radio correspondent Jason Rosenbaum talks with Sarah Fenske about how St. Louis County Executive Sam Page and several county council members are calling for an immediate change in police administration following a nearly $20 million verdict against the county in a discrimination lawsuit by a gay officer.

Trick Or Treat Tips That Can Help Children With Disabilities This Halloween Oct 25, 2019

Parents of children with intellectual or developmental disabilities have additional things to consider when preparing for Halloween, particularly for children whose disabilities aren’t visible. To help ensure a successful holiday for children with disabilities, Jeanne Marshall and Melanie Mills of Easterseals Midwest join guest host Jeremy D. Goodwin to discuss what caretakers and neighbors can do to accommodate.

Behind The Headlines: Will The Loop Trolley Be Able To Get Back On Track? Oct 25, 2019

Only eleven months into its operating life, the Loop Trolley may not be long for this world. The Loop Trolley Company announced Oct. 12 that it needs an influx of $200,000 to continue running the trolley cars through the end of 2019 — and another $500,000 for next year. In this episode, St. Louis Public Radio’s Jeremy D. Goodwin goes behind the headlines with STLPR political correspondent Jason Rosenbaum for analysis of the latest developments surrounding the trolley. Years in the making, the Loop Trolley took $51 million to build, with the majority of the funding coming from a Federal Transit Administration grant.

St. Louisans Are Undertaking A Reenactment Of Robert Campbell's Wake 140 Years After His Death Oct 25, 2019

Halloween-related celebrations are legion in St. Louis, with wide-ranging revelry options available each year for enthusiasts of every sort. At the Campbell House Museum — located downtown and at the less ghoulish end of the Halloween spectrum — the holiday observance typically involves a lot of history as well as a coffin, leeches and more. This month marks 140 years since the death of the fur trader Robert Campbell, one of early St. Louis’ most prominent citizens and the museum property’s former owner, and on Friday evening members of the Mourning Society of St. Louis will be on hand to oversee this year’s iteration of the Twilight Tours. Three members of the small but active society join St. Louis Public Radio’s Jeremy D. Goodwin on this episode for a preview of the nearly sold-out event — and they talk about their historical reenactment work more broadly as well.

Meet CAIR-MO’S New Executive Director, Mojda Sidiqi Oct 24, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske talks about Missouri's Council on American Islamic Relations' past and future with its new executive director Mojda Sidiqi and her predecessor Faizan Syed.

Haitian-American Writer Edwidge Danticat To Receive 2019 St. Louis Literary Award Oct 24, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske talks with Haitian-American writer Edwidge Danticat, recipient of the 2019 St. Louis Literary Award given by the St. Louis University Library Associates.

Sports Writer, Players And Alderwoman Weigh In On Coach Firings At Roosevelt, Cardinal Ritter Oct 24, 2019

Last week was a busy one for David Kvidahl, who covers high school sports for STLhighschoolsports.com and STLtoday.com. On Tuesday he was calling Cardinal Ritter College Prep to let school officials know he planned to publish a story about a football player at the Catholic school taking to the field while ineligible. The next day he was reporting that St. Louis Public Schools had terminated Roosevelt High School athletic director and head football coach Trey Porter. Then, on Friday, Cardinal Ritter announced that its entire football staff had been “permanently released” by the school. In this episode, Kvidahl joins host Sarah Fenske to go behind the headlines on the latest developments in both the Roosevelt and Cardinal Ritter stories. The conversation also includes comments from two Roosevelt football players who have come to Porter's defense and from St. Louis Alderwoman Christina Ingrassia (D-6th Ward).

St. Louis BWorks Celebrates 3 Decades Of Helping Youth Gain Skills And Confidence Oct 23, 2019

Through a “learn and earn” method, the organization BWorks, helps hundreds of kids each year, having expanded to include instruction in creative writing and computers as well. The organization was recently awarded a Quality of Life award from St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson’s office.

Many St. Louis Area Trees Aren’t Changing Colors — Here’s Why Oct 23, 2019

Drives around the St. Louis area have so far been a little less colorful this fall. That’s mainly due to unusual daytime and nighttime temperatures that are preventing chlorophyll from breaking down. The breakdown in chlorophyll causes leaves to lose their green color.

Continuity's 'In Motion' Conference Brings Filmmakers To St. Louis Oct 23, 2019

Continuity’s executive director and co-founder, Dan Parris, joins host Sarah Fenske to talk about the organization’s efforts. They are also joined by YouTuber Letisha Wexstten and continuity graduate Erica Renee Walker

Researching African American History And Genealogy Oct 22, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske discusses how research has led some locals of African descent to a better understanding of their complicated American stories

Researching African American History And Genealogy Oct 22, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske discusses how research has led some locals of African descent to a better understanding of their complicated American stories

St. Louis on the Air's Sarah Fenske Talks With STLPR's Kae Petrin And Local Attorney Mary Anne Sedey Oct 21, 2019

St. Louis on the Air's Sarah Fenske Talks With STLPR's Kae Petrin And Local Attorney Mary Anne Sedey Host Sarah Fenske talks with St. Louis Public Radio reporter Kae Petrin and with local attorney and employment law expert Mary Anne Sedey about new efforts to give workplace protections to LGBTQ workers in Missouri. The state civil rights law is silent. But that’s not stopping some gay, lesbian and transgender activists.

How Baldwin's 'If Beale Street Could Talk' Is Bringing A Campus Together Oct 21, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske talks with dean of the University of Missouri St. Louis Andrew Kersten and Associate Professor of History Priscilla Dowden-White about how James Baldwin’s 1974 novel is resonating across campus and the broader St. Louis community, decades after it was written. The conversation will also include the perspectives of several UMSL students and faculty members.

New 'SQSH' Helpline Is A Resource 'For The St. Louis LGBTQIA+ Community, By The Community' Oct 18, 2019

Growing up in Singapore, Washington University undergraduate Luka Cai was closeted, finding little support there for members of the LGBTQ community. But even in their new home of St. Louis, where Cai openly identifies as a pansexual transmasculine queer person, they’ve observed a need for more peer-to-peer support. “When I came to St. Louis I felt very much more affirmed and accepted by the St. Louis queer community, and I saw the same needs around me,” Cai said, “of people feeling isolated, rejected, discriminated against — and that comes out in terms of housing insecurity and employment security as well.” This led Cai to the idea for SQSH, the St. Louis Queer+ Support Helpline that they and a co-founder launched earlier this month. The all-volunteer effort aims to be “for the St. Louis LGBTQIA+ community, by the community,” inviting calls to 314-380-7774, with highly trained volunteers ready to provide support.

Reflecting On Sauce Magazine’s Success In The Food Journalism Scene Oct 18, 2019

Month after month, Sauce Magazine joins our program for a monthly Sound Bites segment to showcase the latest food trends and highlight local chefs, farmers, restaurateurs and more. Host Sarah Fenske delves into the history of the food publication itself, which launched in St. Louis in 1999 when the Internet was still in its infancy. Twenty years later, Sauce Magazine is still going strong.

Jane Smiley Wants America To Get To Know St. Louis Better Oct 18, 2019

Jane Smiley recently came back to St. Louis for her 50th high school reunion. But unlike many of us, the Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist wasn’t content simply to explore what had changed around town. Smiley also wrote an essay about the city for the New York Times. In this interview with Sarah Fenske, Smiley discusses her essay, detailing her abiding love for St. Louis, particularly its foliage and its wonderful old houses.

Clearing Up Misconceptions About Being Intersex Oct 17, 2019

Being born intersex isn’t limited to ambiguous genitalia. There’s a plethora of intersex conditions, about 150. Host Sarah Fenske talks with Dr. Christopher Lewis about the condition and Jordan Braxton, who is intersex herself.

How Forai Handicrafts Helps Refugee Women In St. Louis Make Friends, Income Oct 17, 2019

Forai, an organization based in Maplewood, has helped refugees attain the skills they need to start businesses. Host Sarah Fenske talks to its founder and some of the women who got a leg up through its unique mission.

More Than 10,000 Untested Rape Kits In Missouri Set To Be Cataloged Oct 17, 2019

Missouri has more than 10,000 untested rape kits sitting on shelves in police departments and hospitals, but the state is finally set to have a full inventory of those kits by the end of October. In this segment, host Sarah Fenske talks with St. Louis Public Radio reporter Jaclyn Driscoll about her reporting on the federal Bureau of Justice Assistance grant set aside for this project.

Understanding Dyslexia And Supporting Students With Different Reading Abilities Oct 16, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske discusses the importance of early intervention and how people with dyslexia can thrive in school and in life with Webster’s Paula Witkowski, a professor of literacy and speech-language pathologist in the School of Education, as well as several local parents of dyslexic children.

Get To Know St. Louis’ Sister City In Senegal Oct 16, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske talks to Senegalese artist Modou Dieng, who curated a new contemporary art exhibition at the Barrett Barrera Projects center. “Saint Louis to St. Louis: The City on the River meets River City" notes the parallels between the two cities named for St. Louis the King — one in the Midwest and one in the West African country of Senegal.

A Conversation With NPR Correspondent Aarti Shahani Oct 15, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske sits down with NPR’s Silicon Valley correspondent Aarti Shahani who discusses her memoir about her family’s journey from pre-partition India to Casablanca to New York. It’s called “Here We Are: American Dreams, American Nightmares.”

Local Girl Scout Earns Top Honors For Letter-Writing Campaign Supporting Cancer Patients Oct 14, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske talks with longtime Girl Scout and St. Louis-area resident Lauren Vanlandingham about being named a 2019 National Gold Award Girl Scout. Also joining the conversation is Aurrice Duke-Rollings, chief marketing and communications officer for the Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri.

Recognizing Indigenous People's Day With a Native Storyteller Oct 14, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske talks with Suzanne Michelle White of the Choctaw Tribe of Oklahoma, a descendant of Cherokee, Delaware, and Lumbee nation/tribes, about Indigenous People's Day and how people may observe it.

How City And School District Boundaries Separate St. Louisans Oct 14, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske delves into how municipal boundaries and school district boundaries were drawn to exclude and how local policies and services were weaponized to maintain civic separation. Joining the conversation are: history professor Colin Gordon, author of "Citizen Brown: Race, Democracy, and Inequality in the St. Louis Suburbs," as well as Erica Williams, a North County resident and founder of the nonprofit A Red Circle, and David Dwight, of Forward Through Ferguson.

The Mighty Cricket Challenge Aims To Get The Squeamish Comfortable With Eating Insects Oct 11, 2019

St. Louis resident Sarah Schlafly founded Mighty Cricket, a startup that produces food products including powdered, roasted crickets. She joins host Sarah Fenske to discuss a challenge she made calling on local businesses to offer her product in one of their October menu items.

The Mighty Cricket Challenge Aims To Get The Squeamish Comfortable With Eating Insects Oct 11, 2019

In order to get St. Louisans more comfortable with the idea of eating insects, Schlafly launched the Mighty Cricket Challenge, calling on local businesses to offer her cricket powder in one of their October menu items. Host Sarah Fenske talks with Schlafly about her work and this month’s campaign.

Downtown St. Louis Businesses Are Ready For Cardinals’ Boost Oct 11, 2019

The St. Louis Cardinals have advanced to the National League Championship Series for the first time since 2014. Host Sarah Fenske talks with Missy Kelley, the CEO of Downtown St. Louis, Inc., about the economic boost the Cardinals’ success is providing to the St. Louis metro.

How A St. Louis Official Wants To Bridge The Class, Racial Divide With A $10/Hour Open Bar Oct 11, 2019

St. Louis Recorder of Deeds Michael Butler joins host Sarah Fenske to talk about his idea for a $10/hour open bar came about and its potential pitfalls.

Q&A: St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson On Airport Privatization Oct 10, 2019

Mayor Lyda Krewson is among the three city officials who have the ultimate say in whether any airport privatization deal goes through. She joins host Sarah Fenske to share her thoughts on the process, among other topics.

Birthday Celebration, Strauss And Mozart Highlight Leonard Slatkin’s Return To Powell Hall Oct 10, 2019

This weekend’s concerts at Powell Hall are a homecoming for Leonard Slatkin in more ways than one. In addition to returning last year to live in the St. Louis area, the music conductor laureate of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra is taking the podium, in part, to revisit his SLSO sendoff in 1996. Slatkin will be conducting the world premiere of variations on a theme of Paganini that were composed for Slatkin's recent 75th birthday. The compositions update five original themes inspired by the Italian-born composer that were first performed when Slatkin’s 17-year tenure with the SLSO was ending.

Metro, CMT And Riders Talk Transit Shortly After Rollout Of Bus System Overhaul Oct 09, 2019

Those who staff and depend on the St. Louis region’s public transit system have seen some significant changes in recent days, particularly with the implementation of Metro Reimagined, Metro Transit’s overhaul of its Missouri-side bus lines. Host Sarah Fenske talks with transit riders and other stakeholders about the current state and future of public transit in the region. Joining the conversation are Metro Transit executive director Jessica Mefford-Miller, Citizens for Modern Transit board member D'Andre Braddix and St. Louis resident and frequent transit rider Mitch Eagles. The discussion also includes pre-recorded comments and live calls from commuters.

St. Louisans Weigh In On What Makes A Workplace Where Women Thrive Oct 09, 2019

Women comprise nearly half of the United States’ civilian labor force, according to the Department of Labor’s latest statistics. Yet their annual median earnings — about $42,000 — still fall about $10,000 short of the median paycheck men see each year. And along with the compensation gap, other workforce gender-equity disparities remain common for many industries and employers. The Women’s Foundation of Greater St. Louis aims to measure progress on that front with its Women in the Workplace Employment Scorecard. The voluntary rating system, which is now underway for this year, includes a voluntary employer survey exploring policies, practices and work culture. In this episode, host Sarah Fenske talks with Women’s Foundation Executive Director Lisa Weingarth about the organization’s findings on what makes a company work for women. The conversation also includes Affinia Healthcare's Kendra Holmes and NCADA's Stacie Zellin as well as the perspectives of fellow working women Catherine Brown and Emily Cantwell on what makes a job environment a great one — and what doesn’t.

Persistent Surveillance Systems Makes Pitch To Bring Aerial Surveillance to St. Louis Oct 08, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske gets the details on a controversial aerial surveillance program being proposed for St. Louis city.

Emotional Support Animals Draw Controversy In The Air And In Neighborhoods Oct 08, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske delves into the purpose of emotional support animals, how they differ from standard service animals or pets, and what the law says about them.

How One Family Helped To Integrate University City High School Oct 07, 2019

University City, Missouri, is considered to be among the more diverse communities in a region still grappling with the stubborn legacy of segregation. But five decades ago, things were different in U. City, including at the local schools. When Judy Gladney began attending University City High School in the '60s, she was one of its very first African American students, and found herself bridging two disparate worlds. So did Eric Vickers, Gladney’s future husband. Years later, the two would send their children through the same school district, which is now largely non-white. As Gladney looks toward her 50th high school reunion this month, she joins host Sarah Fenske alongside her daughter Erica Vickers Cage and local journalist and storyteller Ellen Futterman.

Botanical Garden's New Solar Program Brings Green Power To Homes, Businesses Oct 07, 2019

While the sun’s rays were at full effect this August, the Missouri Botanical Garden launched its Grow Solar St. Louis program for St. Louis-area home and business owners. Property owners throughout the city and county can participate in this pilot program to help pool their buying power for discounts on solar panels. Host Sarah Fenske delves into why the initiative was started and how interested St. Louisans can use green energy to power their homes.

Pet-Friendly Domestic Violence Shelters Help Abuse Victims Stay Safe Oct 04, 2019

Only 10% of domestic violence shelters accept pets. That means many people fleeing abuse find themselves giving up animals with whom they’ve formed meaningful bonds. Lydia’s House is a St. Louis shelter that houses battered women and their pets for up to two years. The pet-friendly amenities at Lydia’s House are the result of Purina’s Purple Leash Project and the work of Rescue Rebuild. In this interview, Sarah Fenske talks about this ongoing effort with Purina president Nina Leigh Kruger and Karen Kirk, the executive director of Lydia’s House.

Unique St. Louis Collaboration Combines Jazz, Dance And Shakespeare Oct 04, 2019

The late, great jazz composer and bandleader Duke Ellington once said, “Whether it be Shakespeare or jazz, the only thing that counts is the emotional effect on the listener.” In the summer of 1956, Ellington found himself seriously digging the bard. Inspired by his encounters with the Stratford Shakespeare Festival while on tour in Stratford, Ontario, he composed a twelve-part suite titled “Such Sweet Thunder.” This week, the critically acclaimed suite becomes the soundtrack for a new joint production from Shakespeare Festival St. Louis, Nine Network of Public Media, Jazz St. Louis, and The Big Muddy Dance Company. In this segment, Sarah Fenske talks about the production with Tom Ridgely, executive producer of Shakespeare Festival St. Louis, and Gene Dobbs Bradford, president and CEO of Jazz St. Louis.

Hit List: New Local Restaurants To Try This October Oct 04, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske talks with our partners at Sauce Magazine about the latest additions to the St. Louis region’s food-and-beverage community.

A British Niece's Inquiry Into The Life Of St. Louis Philanthropist Mary Ranken Jordan Oct 03, 2019

Growing up in Great Britain, Susan Walker heard bits and pieces about her great-aunt Mary Ranken Jordan, who had immigrated to the U.S. from Northern Ireland in the late 19th century. But several years ago she became determined to learn more about this distinguished yet mysterious relative. She knew of her lasting impact in St. Louis, and now Walker’s research into Ranken Jordan’s life and legacy has her traveling overseas herself to the Gateway City. In this segment, Sarah Fenske talks with Walker about the children’s hospital Jordan founded in 1941, what she’s learning through her research — and about what she’s still hoping to discover about her great-aunt from others.

Women, People Of Color Comprise Over Half Of Police Cadets In St. Louis’ Rebooted Program Oct 03, 2019

Lt. Darla Gray remembers being the last person to enter the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department’s cadet program before it was dissolved in 1981. Now Gray is helping to lead its return. The program started back up in 2018 and presently boasts 64 aspiring officers. “I was actually looking at retirement, and they told me they were starting the program back up and asked if I would like to help develop it,” explains Gray. “And I postponed my retirement to do it, because I believe in this program that much.” In this episode, host Sarah Fenske talks with several of the young people currently participating in the cadet program as well as with Public Safety Director Jimmie Edwards.

Dr. Marty Makary On Why Health Care Costs Keep Skyrocketing — And What To Do About It Oct 02, 2019

Much of the conversation about contemporary American health care revolves around money more than actual medicine. But given the crushing costs associated with seemingly every aspect of the industry, that focus isn’t so surprising. As Dr. Marty Makary of Johns Hopkins University notes in his newly published book “The Price We Pay: What Broke American Healthcare — And How To Fix It,” one in five Americans currently has medical debt in collections. In this episode, Makary joins host Sarah Fenske to talk about his research into why costs are skyrocketing — and what can be done to redesign the broken U.S. health care system.

Lewis Reed Is Ready To Move Forward With An RFQ For Airport Privatization Oct 01, 2019

Among the local politicians with huge sway over the potential privatization of St. Louis Lambert International Airport is St. Louis Board of Aldermen President Lewis Reed. Host Sarah Fenske gets the politician's thoughts on the city’s exploration of a controversial experiment in privatization. Reed could ultimately prove the swing vote that determines whether an airport lease is approved.

Author Meaghan Winter Examines How Democrats Lost Missouri In "All Politics Is Local" Oct 01, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske talks with New York-based journalist Meaghan Winter about her book: “All Politics Is Local: Why Progressives Must Fight For The States.” It examines how Missouri, once a purple state, had become solidly red — with GOP representatives handily passing legislation that just years before might have felt too extreme.

Access To Voting Unequal For Those In Low-Income Communities, People With Disabilities Sep 30, 2019

In this segment, Sarah Fenske talks with Gena McClendon of Washington University about a study finding that on Election Day, voters encounter more obstacles in predominantly black and low-income neighborhoods. Local election board directors from the city and county, Gary Stoff and Eric Fey, also join the conversation.

Freezer Discovery In South St. Louis Unearths Family Mystery Sep 30, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske takes a closer look at a St. Louis story, about a baby found in a freezer, that riveted the nation when it first broke. The family mystery behind the shocking headline is the focus of a new Riverfront Times feature.

Brian Owens To Feature, Honor Fellow Ferguson Native Michael McDonald This Weekend Sep 27, 2019

The artistic path of Brian Owens has long charted both tribute territory and totally new ground, and Owens is known to navigate both well. The local singer-songwriter’s 2017 album “Soul of Cash” premiered via Rolling Stone, and that same year Owens released the song “For You,” showcasing the vocals of five-time Grammy winner Michael McDonald alongside his own. McDonald and Owens share a hometown — Ferguson, Missouri — and are collaborating musically again this Sunday during a benefit concert at the Touhill Performing Arts Center celebrating McDonald’s legacy. Owens joins host Sarah Fenske to discuss the event, which is billed as “A Night for Life” and also features “The Voice” contestant Kennedy Holmes. Owens also discusses his journey as a musician and community activist.

Botanical Garden Looks At Effects Of Climate Change On Plants In The Midwest Sep 27, 2019

The Missouri Botanical Garden's scientists are closely surveying Midwestern plant life. Host Sarah Fenske talks about climate change’s effects on them with Missouri Botanical Garden's assistant scientist, Adam Smith, and Daria McKevley, a supervisor of home gardening information and outreach at the center.

Here’s What St. Louis Can Learn From Denver’s Failed Airport Privatization Deal Sep 27, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske talks with St. Louis Public Radio reporter Corinne Ruff about Denver’s failed effort in airport privatization. Does it present a cautionary tale for St. Louis?

Local Father, Attorney Speak Out About A Ferguson Officer's History Of Abusive Policing Sep 26, 2019

Attorney Javad Khazaeli discusses the many complaints about former officer Eddie Boyd’s behavior over the years ⁠— and the fact he was hired in Ferguson after complaints of misconduct as a St. Louis Metropolitan Police officer. He also reveals that Boyd has recently left the Ferguson Police Department. In addition to the conversation with Khazaeli, this segment includes an interview with Walter Rice, Khazaeli's client, who details for the first time the impact that his arrest, and that of his wife, has had on their family.

Sound Bites: The Accomplished Careers Of Servers At Some Of St. Louis' Oldest Restaurants Sep 26, 2019

Sauce Magazine’s latest issue features local career servers at some of St. Louis’ oldest establishments, like Tony’s and Sidney Street Cafe. Host Sarah Fenske talked with two of them about why they love what they do, how they’ve made a living in a job so dependent on gratuity and why the job is something for others to consider.

Empower Missouri's SNAP Challenge Shows The Difficulty Of Feeding A Family On Benefits Sep 25, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske discusses Empower Missouri’s latest SNAP Challenge, which invites state and federal legislators to participate and shop for a three-day supply of food for a family of four using only the amount of money available to families from the program. She talked with Empower Missouri’s executive director, Jeanette Mott Oxford, and Shavanna Spratt, a stay-at-home mother who relies on SNAP benefits, and State Rep. Mary Elizabeth Coleman (R-Arnold), who participated in the challenge and documented her experience on Twitter.

NPR Legal Affairs Correspondent, Nina Totenberg, Coming To St. Louis In October Sep 25, 2019

In this episode of St. Louis on the Air, Sarah Fenske talks with NPR legal affairs correspondent Nina Totenberg. They discuss the rate at which the Trump administration has appointed federal appeals court judges and district court judge, the upcoming Supreme Court docket, and the loss of Nina's friend and colleague, Cokie Roberts.

Mini-Medical School Offers Chance To Understand How Diseases Are Treated Sep 24, 2019

Since 1999, Washington University’s Mini-Medical School has taught students everything from the basics of a checkup to how to repair nerves via microscopic surgery. In this episode of St. Louis on the Air, host Sarah Fenske learns more about Mini-Medical School by chatting with its director, Dr. Cynthia Wichelman. One of the courses’ presenters, a physician who studies gastrointestinal diseases, also joins the conversation alongside her patient, who lives with a chronic, inflammatory bowel disease.

Lion’s Choice Is Food & Wine’s — And Many Missourians’ — Top Pick For Fast Food In The Show-Me State Sep 24, 2019

Several years ago, restaurant industry veteran Michael “Kup” Kupstas was happily enjoying retirement when the appeal of Lion’s Choice prompted a change of plans. He wound up reentering the workforce in 2017 as the regional fast-food chain’s president and CEO. “It was really the similarity of an experience I had early on [in a previous role] with Panera, to be honest,” Kupstas says in this episode, explaining what impressed him about Lion’s Choice. “I think what makes certain brands stand out is that they are able to differentiate dramatically in a really crowded field.” Kupstas tells host Sarah Fenske that he was also drawn to the “loyal, fanatic fans” and the employees of Lion’s Choice, which Food & Wine magazine recently deemed Missouri’s best fast food.

Legal Roundtable Tackles ‘Kettling’ Arrests, Twitter Controversy, More Sep 23, 2019

St. Louis on the Air host Sarah Fenske was joined by Bill Freivogel of Southern Illinois University Carbondale, Mark Smith of Washington University, and Mary Anne Sedey of Sedey Harper Westhoff P.C. for September's legal roundtable. This included a federal lawsuit seeking class action status in connection with the so-called “kettle” arrests from 2017, an ongoing case about whether a Missouri representative can block a constituent on Twitter, and recent happenings in the St. Louis circuit attorney’s office.

Parson Pledges State Troopers, Victim Support In Plan To Curb Violent Crime In St. Louis Region Sep 20, 2019

Yesterday, Missouri Governor Mike Parson came to St. Louis for a packed afternoon of meetings. The topic: crime in St. Louis. His solution? More state troopers assigned to the city, in a variety of roles. And more funding -- $2 million -- for victims of violent crime. In this St. Louis on the Air segment, Sarah Fenske talks with St. Louis Public Radio reporter Rachel Lippmann about the governor's priorities.

Laugh Tracks Comedy Series Brings Surge In Ridership To Loop Trolley Sep 20, 2019

The Loop Trolley platform just outside the Pageant in the Delmar Loop was packed last Friday evening with people waiting to board. That hasn’t been a common sight in recent months following the launch of the controversial trolley, but on this particular night, something was different. Local comedian Yale Hollander was rolling out the first iteration of Laugh Tracks, a unique comedic combination in which attendees need only pay the $2 trolley fare for about 45 minutes of family-friendly standup while riding the nostalgic vehicle. He talks with host Sarah Fenske and with local developer and trolley booster Joe Edwards about the comedy, the trolley and more.

Understanding Forward Through Ferguson's New Report On 'The State of Police Reform' Sep 20, 2019

Forward Through Ferguson has released the second report of their State of St. Louis series, “The State of Police Reform: What has and hasn’t changed in St. Louis policing?” The report concludes that since the Ferguson unrest, there have been more programs implemented than actual changes in policy, and that these programs bring short-term benefits, stopping short of lasting growth. The report says that the St. Louis region is in desperate need of holistic public safety policies that don’t rely on an arrest-and-incarcerate model. Sarah Fenske talks with Karishma Furtado, data and research catalyst for Forward Through Ferguson, in this episode of St. Louis on the Air.

Cherokee Street's Burgeoning Western Wear Night Brings Out The Cowboy Fashionistas In St. Louisans Sep 19, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske talks with Western Wear Night ringleaders Ryan Koenig and Lucas Hanner. The segment also takes listeners to the latest iteration of the monthly event at the Whiskey Ring, which in some cases has attracted hundreds of attendees over the course of the evening.

Comptroller Darlene Green Adamant On Airport Privatization Opposition Sep 19, 2019

Comptroller Darlene Green joins host Sarah Fenske to explain her outspoken views on airport privatization and a number of other city matters.

St. Louis Woman’s GoFundMe To Feed Kids Raises 40 Times Original Goal Sep 18, 2019

For five years, Champale Anderson has been distributing free snack bags to the kids in her neighborhood who would otherwise go hungry. She had been supplying the snacks out of pocket for awhile, and decided recently to start a GoFundMe campaign. She started the campaign with a goal of raising $1,500, and as of September 16, has raised more than $60,000. In this segment, Sarah Fenske talks with Anderson about her hopes for the campaign, which she is calling Champ’s Teardrops.

St. Louis Illustrator Mary Engelbreit Is Ready to Talk Politics at BookFest Sep 18, 2019

Before she became a household name for her internationally acclaimed illustration work, Mary Engelbreit was a typical young adult finding a way to make a living in St. Louis. In her late teens and early 20s, she worked at a local art store and an ad agency — and then landed a job as an editorial artist for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. But she was let go during her probation period, as she tells host Sarah Fenske in this episode, after she challenged the fact that men were paid much more than women. Leaving the daily newspaper gave her the time to develop greeting cards, and from there, what would become a wildly popular company bearing her name. Throughout her career, her lifelong love for drawing has remained central. She continues to call St. Louis home, and she talks about her journey and her craft ahead of her appearance at this weekend's BookFest in the Central West End.

New Book Details Cardinals’ History — ‘From A Park, To A Stadium, To A Little Piece Of Heaven Sep 18, 2019

In this interview, Sarah Fenske talks with historian Connie Sexauer about her new book “From A Park, To A Stadium, To A Little Piece of Heaven."

James Brandon’s Debut Novel About A Gay Boy In 1970s St. Louis Still Resonates Today Sep 17, 2019

“Soul Train” was on TV. Groovy teachers were teaching “Jonathan Livingston Seagull” to the high school English classes. David Bowie stopped by Kiel Auditorium to promote a little album called “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars.” Was there a more idyllic time to be a teenager than Creve Coeur in the early 1970s? For Jonathan, the protagonist of James Brandon’s new young adult novel “Ziggy, Stardust & Me,” it isn’t quite that simple. Sure, the music is incredible. But Jonathan is gay. And in St. Louis in 1973, that means intense and even painful therapy.

Bill McClellan On 39 Years In St. Louis And the Joy Of Journalism Sep 17, 2019

Bill McClellan has been entertaining and enlightening the readers of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch for 39 years, all but three of them as its columnist. In recent months, even as he battles cancer for a second time, he has continued to file regular dispatches that probe the city’s past and its future with insight and good humor. In this episode, McClellan talks about the future of daily newspapers, the columns he’s lived to regret and the reason he continues to write, despite enduring regular chemotherapy treatments.

How Entrepreneurial 'Boomerangs' And Transplants Are Finding Their Way In St. Louis Sep 16, 2019

Since Jessica Ciccone moved back to her hometown of St. Louis in 2012 after years living in Boston, she’s found a niche connecting local professionals with business resources and service activities — and with each other. Those passions all come together in the nonprofit she helped to form a couple years ago, St. Louis Startup Ambassadors, for which she now serves as board vice president. The organization helps transplants find their way in what can be an insular town — although St. Louis natives and “boomerangs” like herself, who’ve moved back after years away, are also welcome. In this episode of the talk show, host Sarah Fenske chats with Ciccone and with Samantha Rudolph, the founder of Babyation, a company Rudolph describes as “unapologetically for moms." The shared their insights on starting businesses based in St. Louis and their experiences as professionals in a place recently named No. 1 among U.S. cities for its number of female entrepreneurs. The conversation also includes comments from Anthony Bartlett, who runs St. Louis Transplants, and Pravina Pindoria, co-founder of Tallyfy, as well as listeners.

SLSO Music Director Stéphane Denève Begins St. Louis Tenure With ‘A Gift To The Community’ Sep 16, 2019

Sarah Fenske talks with the new music director of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra (SLSO), Stéphane Denève, ahead of its 140th season. Marie-Hélène Bernard, president and CEO of the SLSO, also joins the conversation.

New List Details Historic Buildings And Places In Danger Of Being Lost Sep 13, 2019

The Missouri Alliance for Historic Preservation is releasing its 2019 "Places in Peril" list today, which details places threatened by deterioration, lack of maintenance, insufficient funding, imminent demolition and development. Sarah Fenske talked with Missouri Preservation's executive director, Bill Hart, about the places included on this year’s list.

Municipal League Of Metro St. Louis About To Launch Board Of Freeholders Process Sep 13, 2019

The Municipal League of Metro St. Louis is in the process of submitting petitions to the election boards of the city and county that would begin the Board of Freeholders process. In this segment, Sarah Fenske talks with political correspondent Jason Rosenbaum and Municipal League executive director Pat Kelly who help explain how the Board of Freeholders process will work in the coming weeks and months.

Talking ‘Ghoul School’ With Local Scare Actors Sep 12, 2019

On Thursday’s St. Louis on the Air, host Sarah Fenske was joined by Richard Ivey and Bailey Gettemeier, the actor managers of The Darkness and Creepyworld, respectively. They talked about running haunted houses, getting punched in the face on the job, and what it means to work as a scare actor.

Stephen Fried Talks About the Fascinating Life of Dr. Benjamin Rush Sep 12, 2019

Dr. Benjamin Rush is not yet the subject of a Ken Burns miniseries, but he surely ought to be. The Philadelphia physician was a signer of the Declaration of Independence, an anonymous polemicist who helped inspire the Boston Tea Party and the editor of Thomas Paine’s wildly influential “Common Sense.” And, as detailed in a new biography by Stephen Fried, he both treated and became a close friend to several U.S. presidents. He personally brought Thomas Jefferson and John Adams back together after their friendship seemed permanently ended. In this episode, Fried discusses “RUSH: Revolution, Madness, and the Visionary Doctor Who Became a Founding Father.” Published last year, the book is just out in paperback.

Indie Musicians, Distribution Companies Partner To Make A Mark With Streaming Sep 11, 2019

A lot has been said about music streaming, from its power to shift consumer habits to its role in shaping how artists get paid. For better or worse – it’s completely disrupted the music industry. Host Sarah Fenske talks with Anthony Anderson, founder of GF Music Group, and St. Louis Musician Kayla Thompson (KV The Writer). Also featuring comments from Jay Washington (Qwerty) in conversation with STLPR producer Alexis Moore.

St. Louis Officials Defend Airport Privatization Process Sep 11, 2019

Two high-ranking city officials join host Sarah Fenske to discuss the state of the St. Louis Lambert International Airport privatization process: Paul Payne, the city budget director and chairman of the airport working group, and Linda Martinez, deputy mayor for development.

Rhea Butcher Brings ‘Good Things’ To The Midwest — And The Ready Room — This Weekend Sep 11, 2019

LA-based comedian and podcaster Rhea Butcher is well aware that there are some bad things going on in today’s world. But the focus of Butcher’s current “Good Things Comedy Tour” lies elsewhere: with the good stuff. “To only look at the bad would be to give in to the bad, I feel like, in these times,” the Midwest native tells St. Louis Public Radio’s Kae Petrin. “And so to have a good time, or to spend time in goodness and having fun and being kind and being joyous and happy, is not to ignore the bad things. It’s actually a form of self-care and growth and invigoration to take care of each other, I’ve found.” That’s the kind of vibe that eventgoers of all ages can expect at the Ready Room this Sunday.

Redevelopment 'Limbo' Faces Some Residents And Business Owners In U City Sep 10, 2019

Danny Wicentowski conducted lots of different interviews for his latest Riverfront Times cover story digging into the status of a proposed $190 million Novus redevelopment near Interstate 170 and Olive Boulevard. The same word — limbo — kept popping up in his conversations with various sources, as he mentions in his piece. The proposed development was publicly unveiled more than a year ago. Yet residents and business owners in the path of the Costco-focused "University Place" are still waiting to find out whether it's definitely moving forward. That's left their future in the neighborhood uncertain. Host Sarah Fenske talks with Wicentowski about his reporting on the saga. The conversation also includes comments from longtime U City homeowner Letha Baptiste, who has thus far declined to accept Novus’ offer of an option contract on her house.

Ladue Boy Earns Finale Slot on Food Network’s ‘Kids Baking Championship’ Sep 10, 2019

Thirteen-year-old St. Louisan Tarek Husseini spent four weeks in Los Angeles this past summer competing for a $25,000 prize. Now, for the last six weeks, viewers of the Food Network’s “Kids Baking Championship” have watched Husseini and other up-and-coming bakers impress the judges with one kitchen creation after another. The Ladue resident made it through the semifinal episode that premiered on Monday. In this talk show segment, he chats with host Sarah Fenske ahead of next week's final episode.

DeBunking The Myth Of A Link Between Mass Shootings And Mental Illness Sep 10, 2019

In this interview, Dr. Jessica Gold, an assistant professor of psychiatry at Washington University in St. Louis, talks with Sarah Fenske about the danger of a perceived link between mental illness and gun violence.

Historian Patricia Cleary Digs Into The Long-Lost Mounds Of St. Louis Sep 09, 2019

A multitude of truncated earthworks — more commonly known as mounds — once dotted the St. Louis landscape. For the ancient Mississippian people who constructed them many centuries ago, these structures were full of meaning and purpose. The mounds also drew the interest of European newcomers to the region long after the mounds were built. But by the late 19th century, most of these sacred Native American places had been destroyed — the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site in Collinsville, Illinois, being a significant exception. In this conversation, host Sarah Fenske talks with Patricia Cleary, a St. Louis native who is currently working on a book about the mounds that she plans to publish leading up to Missouri’s bicentennial celebration of statehood in 2021.

Jane Elliott Taught Kids Not To Be Prejudiced. Now She Sees Racism Growing Sep 09, 2019

In April of 1968, Jane Elliott was a third-grade teacher in the small town of Riceville, Iowa. On the day after Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, she felt compelled to shift her lesson plans. She decided to teach her young white students about discrimination by telling the children that brown-eyed people were superior to their blue-eyed peers. She watched as the students turned on each other. Then, the next day, she reversed the script. The exercise highlighted the arbitrary and irrational basis of prejudice, an issue that Americans continue to grapple with more than five decades later. In this episode, host Sarah Fenske explores that topic and others with Elliott ahead of the internationally known lecturer’s address at the Washington University School of Medicine on Monday evening. Also joining the conversation is Rachelle D. Smith, a Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Leader for the School of Medicine.

UMSL Researchers Seek To Better Understand Police Behavior In The Wake Of Ferguson Unrest Sep 06, 2019

In this conversation, we hear from an UMSL researcher who analyzed seven years of arrest data to see whether the so-called “Ferguson effect” caused an increase of crime in St. Louis. The “Ferguson effect” refers to the idea that when police face a high level of scrutiny, law enforcement activities are stifled, and that leads to a spike in violent crime. Lt. Colonel Ronnie Robinson of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department also joins the discussion.

Airport Privatization Spokesman 'Very Likely' Called St. Louis On The Air Using A Fake Name Sep 06, 2019

Did the spokesman for a group exploring privatizing St. Louis' airport call into St. Louis on the Air under a fake name? An audio forensics expert who listened to the recording says it's "very likely." In this segment, Sarah Fenske talks with St. Louis Public Radio reporter Corinne Ruff, who looked into this story.

Turmeric And Utah Station Are Sauce's Picks For New St. Louis Restaurants To Try This September Sep 06, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske checks in with the team at Sauce Magazine to discuss the latest restaurant additions — as well as upcoming concepts and some closings — within the St. Louis region’s food and beverage community. Joining the discussion are managing editor Catherine Klene and art director Meera Nagarajan.

CAM’s Latest Exhibits Delve Into Nuances Of Race, Nationality, Mourning, More Sep 05, 2019

The Contemporary Art Museum in St. Louis is using art to engage history and contextualize the present. chief curator Wassan Al-Khudhairi joined St. Louis on the Air with artists Stephanie Syjuco and Bethany Collins to discuss the CAM’s fall exhibitions.

Meatless Alternatives Have Local Diners Lining Up Sep 05, 2019

In January 2018, the Impossible Burger first arrived in the St. Louis market. The meat-free patty was just like the real thing – it even bled. It became an immediate sensation. But it was soon snapped up by Burger King for its “Impossible Whopper.” After a hugely successful rollout right here in St. Louis, its popularity made the Impossible patties too popular for many locals to obtain. But they still had plenty of options. Some have experimented on their own to create tasty meat-free concoctions. Others are turning to more local alternatives. In this episode, Sarah Fenske talks with Todd Boyman, CEO of Hungry Planet, and with Chris Bertke, executive chef of the newly opened vegan-focused restaurant Utah Station. The segment includes comments from other food and restaurant industry professionals as well.

6 Local Storytellers Take The Microphone, Share Tales Of The St. Louis They Know And Love Sep 04, 2019

The legacy of George B. Vashon. The history of the St. Louis Browns. The special moments that took place at the Top of the Tower. A handful of local authors and historians revisited all of this and more during last week’s STL Storytelling Live event at the Missouri Athletic Club in downtown St. Louis. This episode features highlights from the evening, with stories running the gamut from the humorous, to the surprising, to the hopeful. The storytellers include Bill Clevlen, Carol Shepley, Amanda Doyle, Ed Wheatley, Calvin Riley and Cameron Collins.

How The CommUNITY Arts Festival Uses Art Therapy To ‘Heal’ A City Scarred By Violence Sep 03, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske talks to CommUNITY Arts Festival founder Paige Walden-Johnson and Rain Stippec, the dancer who was shot eight times in the back two years ago. They discussed Stippec’s journey to recovery and how the arts festival has grown to be an asset to the city by addressing gun violence.

Shakespeare Festival St. Louis Shakes Up 'As You Like It' With A Production That Crosses The River Sep 03, 2019

All the world’s a stage, Shakespeare instructed us in his beloved romantic comedy “As You Like It.” And in its new production of that very show, Shakespeare Festival St. Louis plans to put that to the test in both the streets of Pagedale, Missouri, and the farmland of Calhoun County, Illinois. Its remix of the classic play, titled “Love at the River’s Edge,” transports audience members across the Mississippi River to examine the urban and rural divide. In this episode, host Sarah Fenske discusses the new production, which kicks off September 13 as part of the Shakespeare in the Streets initiative, with executive producer Tom Ridgely and director Kathryn Bentley.

Local Muslims Share Details Of Their Journey To Mecca For Hajj Aug 30, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske explores the religious obligation of Hajj, the annual Islamic pilgrimage, and what it all entails. Joining the program were St. Louisans Shahab Mushtaq and Faiza Mushtaq. The husband and wife duo were among the millions of Muslims who traveled more than 7,000 miles to attend Hajj this year. Also joining the conversation was Faizan Syed, executive director of Missouri’s Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR.)

Getting To Know The New 'We Live Here' Podcast Team Aug 30, 2019

"We Live Here," the podcast that St. Louis Public Radio launched in the wake of the Ferguson uprising, is entering its fifth season this fall – with new voices at its helm. Co-hosts Ashley Winters and Jia Lian Yang, as well as associate producer Lauren Brown, are preparing to release a series of new episodes in the coming weeks. In this episode of "St. Louis on the Air" they join Sarah Fenske to discuss where "We Live Here" is headed and how they’re hoping to engage with listeners near and far.

What Happened To The Families Kicked Off Missouri's Medicaid Program? Aug 30, 2019

In this segment, host Sarah Fenske talks with St. Louis Public Radio reporter Sarah Fentem about her reporting into the experience of Medicaid eligible families across the state who say they’ve been arriving at doctors’ appointments to learn their children have been unwittingly dropped from the program.

Lamar Johnson's Supporters Hope For A Reprieve Aug 29, 2019

Lamar Johnson has been in prison for 24 years. A St. Louis jury found him guilty of murder in 1995 – and he’s been serving a life sentence without the possibility of parole ever since. St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner now says prosecutors in her office engaged in serious misconduct. Saying her Conviction Integrity Unit has found new evidence that Johnson is actually innocent, she sought a new trial. St. Louis Circuit Judge Elizabeth Hogan denied that request. She says Gardner’s motion came “approximately 24 years” past the deadline. Tricia Bushnell, director of the Midwest Innocence Project, isn’t buying it.

St. Louis Author Ben Westhoff Tackles 'Fentanyl, Inc.' Aug 29, 2019

Fentanyl has become an international scourge. It’s been blamed for a spike in drug overdose deaths in Missouri as well as around the world. It’s both contaminated many recreational drugs and become a substitute for heroin in many American cities. And yet the Chinese factory responsible for manufacturing most of its precursors has received funding and lucrative tax breaks from the Chinese government. Through years of research, St. Louis journalist Ben Westhoff has become one of the foremost experts into the international fentanyl trade. In this episode, he discusses his new book, “Fentanyl, Inc.: How Rogue Chemists Are Creating the Deadliest Wave of the Opioid Epidemic.” Westhoff talks about how his investigation followed the drug from its manufacture in China to the streets of St. Louis – and the terrible impact that synthetic, laboratory-made drugs are having on communities around the world.

Performer Maxi Glamour Does St. Louis Proud On Season 3 Of 'Boulet Brothers' Dragula' Aug 28, 2019

As a St. Louis-based designer, burlesque performer, artist and more, Maxi Glamour’s personal and professional brand is a multifaceted one. But one particular title does stand out, and that’s Glamour’s drag performer identity as the “Demon Queen of Polka and Baklava.” That persona comes to life in a new way in the new season of the “Boulet Brothers’ Dragula” reality TV series, which features Glamour. The first episode premiered on Amazon Prime Video on Tuesday, and in this episode of the talk show, host Sarah Fenske talks with Glamour about their experience on “Dragula” as well as other topics. Glamour, who identifies as queer and non-binary, is believed to be the first drag performer from St. Louis to appear on a major televised drag competition. They became a fan of the show long before being cast in it.

Investigative Journalist To Give Talk On The World’s Most Popular Weed Killer, Roundup Aug 28, 2019

Glyphosate, the active ingredient in the weed killer Roundup, is manufactured by Monsanto-Bayer. Depending on who you talk to, it’s either a safe, highly effective herbicide, or, it’s a dangerous substance linked to cancer cases from use by farmers and landscapers. In this interview, Sarah Fenske talks with journalist Carey Gillam, who is coming to St. Louis to talk about her investigations into the topic of agrochemical safety and corporate interests.

Big Muddy Canoe Trips Are Reintroducing St. Louisans To Their Mighty Mississippi Aug 27, 2019

Despite its ever-present vastness along the Missouri-Illinois border, the Mississippi River is easy for locals to take for granted. And all too often, residents completely avoid the river. It’s one thing to drive above it on a highway or eat a meal at a restaurant overlooking the water; relatively few actually travel its meandering length. But the people behind Big Muddy Adventures are aiming to change that, one canoe trip at a time. Host Sarah Fenske talks with the company’s founder and lead guide, Mike Clark, who is better known as “Muddy Mike," and Roo Yawitz, general manager of Big Muddy Adventures. And, producer Evie Hemphill talks with some enthusiastic recent canoe passengers.

The Intersection Of Politics, Policy And Car-Centric Culture At Regional Trouble Spots Aug 27, 2019

Every city has its nightmare intersections, and many residents could likely cite a personal nemesis or two. In the greater St. Louis area, the crossroads of North Grand Boulevard and Interstate 64 in Grand Center, and Eager and Hanley in Brentwood, may well come to mind among other notoriously tricky traffic spots. Frequently stressful for drivers and non-drivers alike, these sections of public infrastructure can seem like a permanent fixture of civic life, along with the honking, confusion and rage they trigger. But change can sometimes happen. In this episode, host Sarah Fenske takes a closer look at some of the region’s worst intersections – and discusses how planners work to address trouble spots in an age of crumbling infrastructure across the U.S. The conversation also touches on what residents can do to help address problematic roads and contribute to smoother, safer streets for all. Joining the discussion are Scott Ogilvie, who is a transportation policy planner for the City of St. Louis, and Kea Wilson, a St. Louis-based communications manager for Strong Towns.

Adorable And Endangered: Somali Wild Ass Born At St. Louis Zoo, 1 Of Only 68 in North America Aug 26, 2019

On July 30, St. Louis gained a new resident — Tobias, the Somali wild ass. His birth is special, since he is part of a subspecies that is both critically endangered in the wild and underrepresented in zoos nationwide. In this segment, Sarah Fenske talks with Tim Thier, the acting curator of antelope at Saint Louis Zoo, about the Somali wild ass and the zoo's conservation efforts in the Horn of Africa.

A Close Look At The Dreams Of A Trio Of Athletes Aug 26, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske talks with a local artist who takes a contemporary look at St. Louis athletes pursuing their dreams as fighters.

St. Louis Youth Group Hits The Road To Commemorate First African Slaves Aug 26, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske talks with St. Louis Public Radio reporter Andrea Henderson about how a group of local residents doing their part to remember the first slaves brought to the English colonies four hundred years ago this month.

Botanical Garden Staff Return From Conservation Trip In Kyrgyzstan Aug 23, 2019

Earlier this week, members of the Missouri Botanical Garden horticulture staff returned from a research trip in the Central Asia country of Kyrgyzstan. Host Sarah Fenske talks to Megan Engelhardt, manager of the Botanical Garden's Seed Bank, and horticulturist Dave Gunn, about how the staff went about bringing seeds back to add to the Botanical Garden’s seed bank to propagate.

Renowned Chef Gerard Craft Opens Up About Mental Health Journey In The Restaurant Industry Aug 23, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske talks with renowned St. Louis chef Gerard Craft about his battles with anxiety, and the way rankings and awards wreaked havoc with his well-being.

New Football Team, St. Louis Battlehawks Will Play At The Dome in 2020 Aug 23, 2019

The XFL is a planned professional U.S. football league with the mission of reimagining America’s favorite sport. The league originally debuted in 2001, and only lasted one season. XFL games are set to begin again in February 2020. The St. Louis BattleHawks were one of the league’s eight teams announced this week. In this interview, Sarah Fenske learns about the XFL resurgence by talking with the BattleHawks team president, Kurt Hunzeker.

‘Metro’s Turning Their Backs’ On Transit Operators, Union Rep Says After Monday’s Chaotic Commute Aug 22, 2019

Thousands of people in the St. Louis region depend on Metro Transit’s 83 total MetroBus routes and 46 miles of MetroLink tracks to get where they need to go every day. But on Monday, many of those transit users were left waiting at their usual stops for many minutes, some even for hours, as expected public transportation vehicles did not arrive. The transit agency cited a driver shortage early Monday as the cause of the delays, putting out a statement that read, in part, “Due to an unusually high number of MetroBus operators already calling off work and declining to work extra assignments, we anticipate that we will not be in position to deliver the normally high quality service the region has come to expect every day.” In this episode, host Sarah Fenske hears from riders who ran into snafus on Monday – and also talks with Catina Wilson, vice president of Amalgamated Transit Union Local 788, and St. Louis Public Radio digital reporter Kae Petrin.

What's The Deal With Airport Privatization In St. Louis? Aug 22, 2019

For more than a year, city officials and an army of consultants have been exploring the possibility of leasing St. Louis Lambert International Airport to a private entity. Host Sarah Fenske explores where things stand with leasing the city’s largest public asset alongside St. Louis Public Radio reporter Corinne Ruff and Alderwoman Cara Spencer, D-20th Ward.

Ballet for Seniors: Dancing Without An Age Limit Aug 21, 2019

In this segment, we mark National Senior Citizens Day by talking with Vanessa Woods, who teaches ballet classes to seniors in assisted living facilities.

Remembering St. Louis Theater Icon Linda Kennedy, 68 Aug 21, 2019

Last Friday, local theater veteran Linda Kennedy died after battling cancer. She was 68 years old. In this episode of the show, host Sarah Fenske talks with Ron Himes, founder and producing director of the Black Rep, where Kennedy performed many of her greatest roles.

6th Ward Alderwoman, Soccer Enthusiasts Discuss What’s Next As St. Louis Nets An MLS Team Aug 21, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske delves into the latest news surrounding plans for a Major League Soccer team in St. Louis. Joining the discussion are Alderwoman Christine Ingrassia, whose 6th Ward encompasses the west downtown area where the proposed stadium would sit; “St. Louligan” Stu Hultgren, a south St. Louis resident and avid local soccer fan; and “Mr. Soccer” Bill McDermott, St. Louis University’s longtime men’s soccer game announcer. The conversation also includes questions from listeners and their wide-ranging opinions on what the new team ought to be named.

Remembering Influential Local Writer, Arts Advocate And Radio Producer Lorin Cuoco Aug 20, 2019

St. Louis’ literary community lost one of its most influential members, Lorin Cuoco, 64, earlier this month. The longtime editor and poet passed away at her University City home Aug. 8 after a long illness, as reported by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Cuoco is perhaps best known for her work alongside the late novelist William Gass, a dear friend and collaborator. Together they founded and oversaw Washington University’s International Writers Center (now the Center for the Humanities), and she edited multiple books with Gass. She was also a force for the St. Louis Poetry Center, the River Styx literary organization and other local efforts to raise the profile of St. Louis’ literary scene. On top of all that, she was an accomplished radio professional. In this episode, host Sarah Fenske discusses Cuoco’s life and legacy with two people who observed her influence firsthand: Mary Edwards and Joel Minor. Remembrances from multiple listeners are also included.

From Private Homes To Rented Spaces, Pop-Up Restaurants Enter St. Louis Food Scene Aug 20, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske explored how and why people start their own pop-ups, and how patrons can find out about them for the latest Sound Bites segment with Sauce Magazine. Joining the program were Sauce managing editor Heather Hughes – and pop-up owners Chelsie Hellige of Spirit House and Steven Pursley of Ramen x Rui.

U.S. District Court Orders Missouri Parole Board To Change Parole Process for Juveniles Aug 20, 2019

A U.S. District Court recently ruled that the Missouri Parole Board has been violating the U.S. and Missouri constitutions in its handling of cases involving juvenile offenders. In this interview, host Sarah Fenske talks with the director of the MacArthur Justice Center, Amy Breihan, about the ways Breihan feels the parole board has failed to comply with state and federal law in its handling of cases involving young people who were originally given mandatory life sentences without parole.

Legal Roundtable On Stenger Sentence, Amighetti’s On The Hill, Armed Man At Walmart, More Aug 19, 2019

Legal experts Bill Freivogel, Mark Smith and Lisa Hoppenjans discuss topics including the sentence of former St. Louis County Executive Steve Stenger, a licensing dispute concerning a restaurant on The Hill and the case of a man wearing body armor and carrying a rifle who caused panic at a Walmart in Springfield, Missouri.

STLPR's Shahla Farzan Discusses Her Reporting On Drug Overdoses In Missouri Prisons Aug 16, 2019

More than 430 inmates have overdosed in Missouri prisons since May 2017, and at least five of them have died after taking controlled substances such as heroin, fentanyl and synthetic cannabinoids. St. Louis Public Radio’s Shahla Farzan talks with host Sarah Fenske about her recent reporting on the situation.

St. Louis Loves Its Beer – And Its Growing Alcohol-Free Options, Social Scene Aug 16, 2019

From its early Lemp Brewery days to the Schlafly era and beyond, St. Louis has earned its reputation as a drinking town. But lately the city is also seeing a nightlife trend that doesn’t involve alcohol at all. Among other beverage and restaurant industry professionals, the people behind WellBeing Brewing, a locally based company that exclusively makes non-alcoholic craft beer, have helped to catalyze the movement. So has the Wellness Council of St. Louis, which is affiliated with the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse and oversees Sans Bar STL. The inaugural Sans Bar STL event early this year drew about 300 people to Third Degree Glass Factory for a night of music, glass-blowing, tarot card readings and handcrafted alcohol-free drinks. Host Sarah Fenske discusses St. Louis’ growing sobriety scene with Genevieve Barlow, co-founder of WellBeing Brewing; restaurant industry veteran Tom Halaska; and Nichole Dawsey, executive director of NCADA.

St. Louis School Districts Respond To Summer Gun Violence, Loss Of Students Aug 16, 2019

St. Louis Public Schools has lost four children to gun violence over summer break, including the most recent death of Xavier Usanga, an incoming second-grader at Clay Elementary, who was shot and killed on Monday. In this St. Louis on the Air episode, host Sarah Fenske talks with school officials about the ways their districts are helping St. Louis kids cope with a long, violent summer.

UMSL Chancellor Tom George Looks Back On 16 Years Of Leadership Aug 15, 2019

The chancellor is the chief academic, administrative, and budgetary officer of the University of Missouri-St. Louis, and Tom George has held the post for the past 16 years. He is retiring Sept. 1. In this St. Louis on the Air segment, Sarah Fenske talks with George about his tenure, major trends in higher education and what he hopes to see in the university’s future.

New Missouri S&T Chancellor Wants To Build On Strengths, Pursue More State Funding Aug 15, 2019

In this St. Louis on the Air segment, guest host Jonathan Ahl talks with the new chancellor of Missouri University of Science and Technology.

RFT, Intercept Writers Discuss The Story Of Olajuwon Davis, A Ferguson Protester Ensnared By The FBI Aug 14, 2019

"How has the death of Michael Brown Jr. impacted your life?" That's among the questions that the St. Louis Public Radio community and people throughout the region have been pondering in recent days in light of the five-year anniversary of the Ferguson protests. The answers are myriad, but Olajuwon Davis’ certainly stands out in the crowd: He’s spent most of his life since that time in prison. How and why Davis’ life changed so drastically in the wake of Brown’s death is the focus of a newly published report by the Riverfront Times’ Danny Wicentowski. In it, Wicentowski details everything from the moment Davis, then a member of the New Black Panther Party, first became active in Ferguson to his arrest and conviction in an FBI sting for “planning and conspiring to ignite explosive devices” among other charges. Prosecutors would allege he and his alleged co-conspirator Brandon Baldwin sought to blow up the Gateway Arch. Host Sarah Fenske discusses Davis’ prosecution with Wicentowski and with Trevor Aaronson, who is a contributor to The Intercept and the author of “The Terror Factory: Inside the FBI's Manufactured War on Terrorism.”

Former VICC Students Share Experiences With Busing As Program Winds Down Aug 14, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske explores what the busing experience has been like for students who participated in St. Louis' desegregation program – and if it’s really time to wind it down. Joining the conversation were former VICC students Maalik Shakoor and Hope Rias; and Veronica Johnson, a civil rights attorney in St. Louis who represented the NAACP and helped bring about the busing program by suing the St. Louis schools.

Tonina Saputo On Staying True To Musical Identity And Making Obama's Favorites List Aug 13, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske talks with artist Tonina Saputo, who is among the rising names in the local music scene, and whose reach is far and wide. The St. Louis-raised musician has made the world her stage, performing throughout Europe and singing in both English and Spanish. Former President Barack Obama is a fan himself and placed her song “Historia De un Amor” on his best-of-the-year roundup.

How the Post-Dispatch Is Trying to Create a Better Comment Section Aug 13, 2019

Last week, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch unveiled a new online comment system. Declaring its old Facebook-based model broken, the daily newspaper explained that community moderation and a scoring system for commenters would give greater prominence to readers who “consistently drive positive conversation.” The paper's reader engagement editor, Beth O’Malley, joins the show to discuss how the new system is working and the difficulties of keeping online conversation civil in an angry age. Lindsay Toler, digital engagement producer for St. Louis Public Radio, also participates in the discussion.

Local Experts Talk Next Steps To Address Missouri’s Opioid Crisis After Discouraging 2018 Outcomes Aug 12, 2019

A few weeks ago, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released some positive statistics related to the ongoing opioid crisis. While drug overdose deaths in the U.S. had reached record levels in 2017, the nation saw an overall 4.2% decline in 2018. In Missouri, though, the 2018 outcomes were far less hopeful – despite an influx of $65 million in federal funds aimed at addressing the crisis over the past few years. Provisional data for the state indicates a 16% increase in drug overdose deaths over the course of last year. Host Sarah Fenske talks with two local experts about where Missouri should go from here in light of the discouraging statistics.

Immigration-Focused Plays Among Wide-Ranging Works At This Year’s St. Lou Fringe Festival Aug 12, 2019

To describe the St. Lou Fringe Festival as a theater event is something of a misnomer. There are plenty of actors, playwrights and other theater professsionals involved in the annual six-day-long extravaganza that gets underway this Tuesday. But there are also poets, dancers, performance artists, sculptors, burlesque performers and improv acts. This year’s offerings also run the gamut with offerings by established and experienced playwrights as well as emerging artists and previously untested work. That’s by design, according to organizer Matthew Kerns. He and playwright Shannon Geier, whose local headline act “Check In” will help kick off the festival, talk with host Sarah Fenske.

Reflections On Community Trauma 5 Years After #Ferguson Aug 09, 2019

This edition of St. Louis on the Air features highlights from a live storytelling event with speakers whose lives changed drastically after Michael Brown Jr. was fatally shot by a police officer in Ferguson.

STLPR 'Living Ferguson' Project Puts Community Voices In Spotlight Aug 08, 2019

It’s been five years since Michael Brown was killed by a Ferguson police officer, setting off a protest movement that led to big changes here in St. Louis and throughout the world. Remembering those events, the St. Louis Public Radio newsroom interviewed nearly twenty people for its Living Ferguson project. By talking to people who lived the events in Ferguson, or are directly touched by the systemic inequalities exposed in its wake, the reporters seek to illuminate what we remember, how we have changed, and what we hope for. Shula Neuman, executive editor of the St. Louis Public Radio, joins host Sarah Fenske to talk about the project.

St. Louis Artist Wins Jury Verdict Against Pop Star Katy Perry Aug 08, 2019

Last week, St. Louis attorney Michael Kahn won over a federal jury in a case looking at whether the Katy Perry song "Dark Horse" infringed on the copyright of a 2009 rap song “Joyful Noise” by St. Louis artist Marcus Gray, who is known as Flame. The jury decided that Katy Perry and Capitol Records must pay Gray $2.78 million in damages. In this segment, Sarah Fenske discusses the case with Kahn, as well as copyright expert Micah Zeller of Washington University Libraries.

Francis Lam Has Some Thoughts About St. Louis-Style Food Aug 08, 2019

As the host of The Splendid Table, a cookbook editor and food journalist, Francis Lam has explored cuisines from all around the world. That may be one reason he’s not at all disconcerted by St. Louis’ method of slicing bagels as if they were loaves of bread.

Autistic Kirkwood Resident Tanner Craft Chronicles Mother-Son Journey In 'Diagnosis' Aug 07, 2019

The first few minutes of Tanner Craft’s new short film pair a seemingly everyday scene – a mother and her young son at a doctor’s office – with an unsettling soundtrack. There’s a looming, ongoing hum audible beneath the dialogue as the physician tells the mother that her son has autism spectrum disorder. “It’s a developmental disorder,” the doctor says, the mother appearing overwhelmed. “It impairs his ability to communicate and interact with others.” But “Diagnosis,” which Craft wrote, directed and produced, doesn’t stop there. The film goes on to highlight a mother-son journey from early diagnosis, to learning more about autism and existing resources, to finding new ways to connect with one another and thrive. On Wednesday’s St. Louis on the Air, host Sarah Fenske talked with both Craft and his mother, Tanya Craft, about the film and about autism’s influence on their lives.

How St. Louis' Small But Vibrant Latino Community Is Making Strides In All Sorts Of Sectors Aug 07, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske delves into ways that St. Louis’ Latino community continues to grow and influence the city – artistically and otherwise. A local artist and podcast host share their experiences of navigating a bicultural life, the importance of representation in their fields of work and how the Latino arts scene is expanding in the region.

International Institute’s Weekly Lunch Fosters Community While Featuring Immigrant Caterers Aug 07, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske sits down with Anna Crosslin, CEO of the International Institute, and Nadya Kanim, a business specialist there, to discuss their weekly lunch, the institute’s efforts to support immigrants, and the bevy of cuisines on the menu.

International Institute’s Weekly Lunch Fosters Community While Featuring Immigrant Caterers Aug 06, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske sits down with Anna Crosslin, CEO of the International Institute, and Nadya Kanim, a business specialist there, to discuss their weekly lunch, the institute’s efforts to support immigrants, and the bevy of cuisines on the menu.

St. Louis Story Stitchers Advance Civic Pride Through Performance Art Aug 06, 2019

Young adults throughout the St. Louis area make up the artist collective, St. Louis Story Stitchers. They aim to showcase the region’s culture through performance art, and they work to curb gun violence, which many of its members have grown up with.

Hit List: New St. Louis Restaurants To Try This August Aug 05, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske talks with our partners from Sauce Magazine about the latest additions to the St. Louis region’s food-and-beverage community. Joining her for the conversation were Catherine Klene and Matt Sorrell, managing editor and staff writer, respectively.

Sam Page Reflects On His First 100 Days As St. Louis County Executive Aug 05, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske talks with Dr. Page for a look at what he’s accomplished in his first 100 days in office as St. Louis County Executive, and what he hopes to do in the weeks and months to come.

Quincy Senior High School Music Director Kathi Dooley Becomes 'Queer Eye' Star Aug 02, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske talks with longtime Quincy Senior High School music director Kathi Dooley about her experience on Netflix's "Queer Eye" makeover show, "Dooley-cizing," her future plans and more.

Missouri Public Defender Suit Settlement Faces Fierce Resistance From State Attorney General Aug 02, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske spoke with Amy Breihan, director of the MacArthur Justice Center, and Nicholas Phillips, a reporter at Missouri Lawyers Weekly, about developments in a case against the state of Missouri, for allegedly failing to provide “meaningful” legal representation for indigent defendants, as the U.S. Constitution requires. Because the public defenders’ office is overworked and underfunded, the ACLU and the MacArthur Justice Center argued, poor people charged with a crime are denied their constitutional rights.

The High Cost Of Child Care Aug 01, 2019

Paying for child care is one of the largest expenses per month for families. According to the Economic Policy Institute, the average annual cost of infant child care in Missouri is about $800 a month. At the same time, day care providers are tasked with more work for little pay. On Thursday’s St. Louis on the Air, host Sarah Fenske hosts a discussion on the rising cost of child care, the impact on families, and the challenges facing child care center teachers.

The High Cost Of Child Care Aug 01, 2019

Paying for child care is one of the largest expenses per month for families. According to the Economic Policy Institute, the average annual cost of infant child care in Missouri is about $800 a month. At the same time, day care providers are tasked with more work for little pay. On Thursday’s St. Louis on the Air, host Sarah Fenske hosts a discussion on the rising cost of child care, the impact on families, and the challenges facing child care center teachers.

2 New History Museum Exhibits Showcase Iconic Newspaper Photos Jul 31, 2019

Host Sarah Fenske previews the latest Missouri History Museum exhibits: “Pulitzer Prize Photographs” and “In Focus: St. Louis Post-Dispatch Photographs.” The first is a traveling exhibit from the Newseum in Washington, displaying the most comprehensive collection of Pulitzer-winning photos ever assembled. The second provides a companion exhibit that shows off the work of local photojournalists.

St. Louis Teens Win Major Poetry Slam Competition, Besting Teams From Around The World Jul 31, 2019

A group of local teens made St. Louis proud earlier this month when they earned first place at the 2019 Brave New Voices International Youth Poetry Slam Festival in Las Vegas. Sarah Fenske talks with two members of the award-winning team: Zack Lesmeister, who is a graduate of Marquette High School, a freshman at Emerson College and a former St. Louis youth poet laureate, and Keana Fox, a graduate of Collinsville High School who is headed to college in Indianapolis this fall. Also participating in the discussion is one of the team’s coaches, Sahara Sista SOLS.

How St. Louis County’s Jail Population Dropped 22% Over The Course Of A Year Jul 30, 2019

St. Louis County has significantly reduced its jail population over the past year, as Missouri Lawyers Weekly reported last month. Officials say the drop from an over-capacity total of 1,242 inmates in July 2018 down to 965 as of May 2019 has a lot to do with justice reform efforts that began in the wake of Ferguson protests. University of Missouri-St. Louis criminologist Beth Huebner has led research in collaboration with the county, its circuit court and service providers – an effort fueled by $4.5 million in grant funding from the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation. She talks with host Sarah Fenske about the progress she’s observed in the county system as well as aspects still in need of change.

As His Time In Office Winds Down, Bruce Franks Reflects On Being In The Political Spotlight Jul 30, 2019

"St. Louis on the Air" host Sarah Fenske talks with State Rep. Bruce Franks Jr. ahead of his resignation from the Missouri House on July 31, capping off an unlikely political tenure that placed the Ferguson activist and rapper firmly into the political spotlight.

Meet: New 'St. Louis On The Air' Host Sarah Fenske Jul 29, 2019

Sarah Fenkse is among the notable media leaders of St. Louis. She’s served as the editor-in-chief of the Riverfront Times for the past four years, reporting on various topics such as breaking news, business, arts and culture. She’ll now be heard on the airwaves as the new official host of "St. Louis on the Air" at St. Louis Public Radio.

Package Killer Cold Cases Remain Unsolved Nearly Three Decades Later Jul 29, 2019

In the early 1990s, a man abducted and murdered at least three women from south St. Louis. This man is known as the package killer and the three murders remain cold cases nearly 30 years later. In this St. Louis on the Air segment, guest host Jonathan Ahl talks with Riverfront Times contributor Ryan Krull, who has investigated the details of these cold cases over the past year. Also joining the conversation are cold case detective Sgt. Joseph Burgoon and the stepsister of one of the women murdered by the package killer.

Sound Bites: The Art Of Salad Making, Plus Sauce’s Top 12 Picks Around Town Jul 26, 2019

"St. Louis on the Air’s" latest Sound Bites segment with Sauce Magazine explores how salads are indeed culinary staples that can withstand the vegan trends of 2019 and beyond. St. Louis Public Radio’s Jeremy D. Goodwin talks about how the magazine compiled its list of the 12 best salads foodies should try in the St. Louis area with Sauce’s art director, Meera Nagarajan, and Kevin Willman, chef and owner of Farmhaus Restaurant.

Reporter’s Lawsuit, Filed Against City Of St. Louis In Wake Of Stockley Protests, Will Proceed Jul 26, 2019

A federal judge on Tuesday ruled on the City of St. Louis’ motion to dismiss a lawsuit filed by a former St. Louis Post-Dispatch reporter. The decision went mostly in the reporter’s favor and allows the lawsuit to proceed. Now based in Washington state, journalist Mike Faulk filed the suit following a September 2017 protest related to the acquittal of former police officer Jason Stockley. Faulk was reporting on the protest when he alleges police officers unlawfully assaulted and arrested him. St. Louis Public Radio’s Jeremy D. Goodwin goes behind the headlines in this segment to talk with Faulk about where things stand.

Metro Transit Unveils Updated Plans For Bus System Overhaul This Fall Jul 25, 2019

From the announcement of MetroBus service shifts coming this fall, to record-setting MetroLink ridership the day of the St. Louis Blues parade last month, to security challenges, the past year and a half has proved to be a pivotal time for Metro Transit. The developments have daily implications for area residents who depend on public transportation. Metro Transit’s executive director, Jessica Mefford-Miller, joins St. Louis Public Radio’s Jeremy D. Goodwin to provide an update on the latest changes to bus and train service in the region. She focuses on what’s in store with the Metro Reimagined plan set to launch later this year.

Legal Roundtable Talks 'Play Gloria' Ownership, U.S. Supreme Court Term, More Jul 25, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio’s Jeremy D. Goodwin delves into a variety of recent local and national stories pertaining to the law.

Branson Mayor, Fire Chief Discuss Last Summer’s Duck Boat Tragedy, What's Next For Community Jul 23, 2019

Last Friday marked the one-year anniversary of a tragic accident that killed 17 people near Branson, Missouri, one of the state’s biggest family vacation destinations. The drownings occurred when a Ride the Ducks boat capsized and sank on Table Rock Lake in neighboring Stone County. In this talk show segment, Branson Mayor Edd Akers and Fire Chief Ted Martin look back on the day of the tragedy and also discuss efforts to support victims and their families and bring healing to the Branson community.

St. Louis County Obscures Euthanasia Rate Via ‘Paperwork Magic’ Jul 23, 2019

The St. Louis County Pet Adoption Center was once celebrated for lowering its euthanasia rate, but a recent audit found that the rate was only lowered after the shelter implemented the practice of labeling the “owner requested euthanasia” check box as simply “ORE” on animal surrender forms. In this episode of St. Louis on the Air, Jeremy D. Goodwin talks with Danny Wicentowski, who has been covering this story as a staff writer for the Riverfront Times.

St. Louis County Obscures Euthanasia Rate Via ‘Paperwork Magic’ Jul 23, 2019

The St. Louis County Pet Adoption Center was once celebrated for lowering its euthanasia rate, but a recent audit found that the rate was only lowered after the shelter implemented the practice of labeling the “owner requested euthanasia” check box as simply “ORE” on animal surrender forms. In this episode of St. Louis on the Air, Jeremy D. Goodwin talks with Danny Wicentowski, who has been covering this story as a staff writer for the Riverfront Times.

Darwin Aquino On Leading Gateway Festival Orchestra, Growing Up In Dominican Republic Jul 23, 2019

When Darwin Aquino was a young boy growing up in the Dominican Republic, his father directed him to choose one instrument to learn to play. Aquino opted for the violin and, with that early decision, took his first steps along a musical journey that would eventually lead him to St. Louis. Along the way, his musical accomplishments have also expanded beyond his skills as a violinist. Aquino is now a conductor and a composer, with his current roles including positions at both Washington University and the University of Missouri-St. Louis. He was also recently named the musical director of Gateway Festival Orchestra, which is wrapping up its 2019 season this Sunday. Aquino talks with St. Louis Public Radio’s Jeremy D. Goodwin about his local musical endeavors and compositions.

3 St. Louisans Talk Emoji, Online Etiquette And Navigating A Rapidly Evolving Visual Language Jul 22, 2019

Emoji have come a long way in recent years, with smiling faces and simple thumbs up now vastly outnumbered by a wide range of visual expressions available for digital use. As this visual language infuses contemporary forms of communication more and more, emoji present both opportunities and challenges in humans’ abilities to understand each other.

Giving Women The Tools To Run For Office Jul 22, 2019

Over the weekend, the National Women’s Political Caucus convened in St. Louis to give women the chance to network, recruit, train, and provide support for political campaigns. In this St. Louis on the Air segment, guest host Jeremy Goodwin talks with St. Louis Public Radio political correspondent Jason Rosenbaum and University of Missouri political analyst Hanna Brant about the convention and the representation of women in American politics.

Giving Women The Tools To Run For Office Jul 22, 2019

Over the weekend, the National Women’s Political Caucus convened in St. Louis to give women the chance to network, recruit, train, and provide support for political campaigns. In this St. Louis on the Air segment, guest host Jeremy Goodwin talks with St. Louis Public Radio political correspondent Jason Rosenbaum and University of Missouri political analyst Hanna Brant about the convention and the representation of women in American politics.

Behind The Headlines: Rachel Lippmann On Two Big Stories Of The Week Jul 19, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio reporter Rachel Lippmann goes behind the headlines with guest host Jim Kirchherr on two big stories from recent days: John Rallo, a major campaign donor to former St. Louis County Executive Steve Stenger, pleaded guilty to federal charges on Tuesday. And, St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner has publicly spoken out defending her conduct with regard to the case involving former Missouri Governor Eric Greitens. She's also been defending the changes she’s made to the circuit attorney’s office.

Original Earth, Wind & Fire Member Shares Evolution From Band's Early Days Jul 19, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio arts and culture editor David Cazares talks with Ralph Johnson of Earth, Wind & Fire ahead of the band's performance at the Stifel Theatre in St. Louis. The group has received multiple Grammy Awards and is enshrined in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

St. Louis’ World Naked Bike Ride Organizers Gear Up For This Weekend Jul 19, 2019

Nearly a decade ago, HandleBar owner Tatyana Telnikova began heading up the after-party for St. Louis’ World Naked Bike Ride. She’s now even more deeply involved as an organizer of the annual event, which gets going at 4 p.m. Saturday in the Grove neighborhood. Telnikova talks with guest host Jim Kirchherr of the Nine Network about this growing St. Louis tradition. Twelve years running, the ride aims to raise awareness about oil dependency, body positivity and cyclist vulnerability.

Remembering The Apollo 11 Moon Landing Jul 19, 2019

Saturday marks the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 lunar landing, when humanity took its first steps on another planetary body via astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin. In this St. Louis on the Air segment, guest host Jim Kirchherr remembers that day in history with the manager at the James S. McDonnell Planetarium, Will Snyder, and Linda Godwin, a professor of physics and astronomy at the University of Missouri and retired NASA astronaut.

Wash U’s Dr. Anne Cross Discusses Strides In Multiple Sclerosis Research Jul 18, 2019

Years ago, when many multiple sclerosis researchers believed that a type of immune cell known as a T cell was the cause of the disease, Dr. Anne Cross turned her focus instead to B cells. Her findings have led to key breakthroughs in MS research – and also to receiving the John Dystel Prize for Multiple Sclerosis Research from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and the American Academy of Neurology.

Oratory’s Enduring Role In Light Of Optimist International’s Oratorical World Championships Jul 18, 2019

Guest host Jim Kirchherr of the Nine Network talks with a past winner of the competition, Justice Hill, who is now a SLU student, as well as Rebecca Butler Mona, the president of Optimist International. Also joining the discussion is Wayne Fields, the Lynne Cooper Harvey Chair Emeritus in English at Washington University. Among other books, Fields is the author of “Union of Words: A History of Presidential Eloquence."

Chavisa Woods’ Newly Released Memoir ‘100 Times’ Uncovers Cumulative Impact Of Sexism Jul 17, 2019

While many writers pen memoirs because of something particularly distinctive or unusual about their lives, the reason Chavisa Woods gives for writing hers is pretty much the opposite. “I felt that it was incumbent for me to put this on the page ... because my life is not exceptional,” Woods, the author of “100 Times: A Memoir of Sexism,” says. “And I think when people hear that you’ve experienced 100 formative incidents of sexism, maybe the first reaction is, ‘Oh, I can’t believe that it influences your life so much.’ But I think when most women stop and think about discrimination, harassment, groping, sexual violence and also microagressions, you’ll see that you could easily compile [such a list]. ”

Jaclyn Driscoll On New Role As St. Louis Public Radio's Statehouse Reporter Jul 16, 2019

Guest host Jim Kirchherr of the Nine Network talks with Jaclyn Driscoll, who recently joined St. Louis Public Radio’s newsroom as its statehouse reporter to help cover all things Missouri politics.

Goodbye Questionable School Lunches, Hello Tasty And Nutritious Meals? Jul 16, 2019

Guest host Jim Kirchherr of the Nine Network talks about the latest trends in school lunches and more with St. Louis Public Radio reporter Chad Davis; past School Nutrition Association President Becky Domokos-Bays and Irene Wan, director of food services for the Maplewood Richmond Heights School District.

A Look At The Decline In Lobbyist Spending In Missouri Jul 16, 2019

Guest host Jim Kirchherr of the Nine Network delves into lobbying in Missouri and how it's evolved over time with University of Missouri-St. Louis political scientist Anita Manion and David Jackson, a principal with Gamble & Schlemeier, Missouri’s largest lobbying firm.

Treating Local Violence As A Public Health Crisis Jul 15, 2019

In this "St. Louis on the Air" segment, guest host Jim Kirchherr of the Nine Network discusses ongoing violence in the region, as well as solutions which aim to address it as a public health issue. Joining the discussion are Poli Rijos of Washington University’s Gun Violence Initiative and Jessica Meyers of the St. Louis Area Violence Prevention Commission.

Exposure To Violent Crime And Its Long-Term Impact On First Responders Jul 15, 2019

St. Louis Fire Department Chief Dennis Jenkerson says that paramedics see the impact of so much violence that they're quitting faster than he can hire replacements. In this "St. Louis on the Air" segment, we talk about the impact of violence in the area and the toll it takes on the morale and the mental health of those providing emergency care.

Ozark Trail Association President, Local Photographer On Exploring Missouri’s Longest Hiking Trail Jul 12, 2019

Meandering over more than 400 miles of southeast Missouri is a network of hiking trails that’s been in existence since the 1970s: the Ozark Trail. Its history, along with its natural beauty, fill the pages of Don Massey’s photographic book titled “The Ozark Trail: Images of Missouri’s Longest Hiking Trail.” Massey is a member of the Ozark Trail Association, and he joins St. Louis Public Radio’s Jason Rosenbaum for this conversation alongside the association’s president, Kathie Brennan.

Behind The Headlines: Delving Into The Latest In The Ongoing Abortion Battle, Legal Fights To Come Jul 12, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio's Jason Rosenbaum goes behind the headlines to discuss the latest news in the ongoing abortion battle in Missouri with politics editor Fred Ehrlich.

Hip-Hop Artist Tef Poe Heads To Jordan In Efforts To Foster Diplomacy Through Music Jul 12, 2019

St. Louis-based hip-hop artist Kareem Jackson, who goes by the stage name Tef Poe, talks about his upcoming travels Jordan as part of Next Level, a cultural exchange program the U.S. State Department-sponsored is heading alongside the Meridian Center for Cultural Diplomacy and the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. The project seeks to use artistic collaboration and social engagement to enhance people-to-people diplomacy, especially among young audiences.

Women's Suffrage, Equal Rights 100 Years After Missouri Ratified 19th Amendment Jul 11, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio’s Jonathan Ahl discusses the advancement of women’s suffrage and equal rights in Missouri with Nancy Miller, co-president of the League of Women Voters of Metro St. Louis, and Vivian Eveloff, director of the Sue Shear Institute for Women in Public Life at the University of Missouri-St. Louis.

St. Louis’ Boxing Scene, 'Hidden Underbelly' On Big Screen During Filmmakers Showcase Jul 11, 2019

Six of the 113 films in the spotlight during the 19th Annual Whitaker St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase are feature length. Collectively, they take viewers from the women’s prison in Vandalia, Missouri, to Henry Shaw’s Museum at the Missouri Botanical Garden, to World War II and more. In this St. Louis on the Air segment, St. Louis Public Radio’s Jonathan Ahl talks with the filmmakers of “Road to the Pros” and “The Ghost Who Walks.”

This Year’s Filmmakers Showcase Features 113 Films With St. Louis Ties Jul 10, 2019

Ranging from narrative and experimental shorts to feature-length documentaries, the lineup also includes a documentary short directed by 14-year-old Joshua Kelley. Kelley, whose film “A Look Ahead: Our Energy Future in 20 Years” considers the future environmental state of St. Louis and the country as a whole, joins St. Louis Public Radio’s Jonathan Ahl for a conversation. Also participating in the discussion is Chris Clark, who is the artistic director of the nonprofit Cinema St. Louis. The organization presents the annual festival, which serves as the region’s primary venue for films made by local artists.

Moving Forward On Racial Equity In St. Louis City, County Post-Better Together Jul 10, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio’s Jonathan Ahl talks with St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell; Cristina Garmendia, author of St. Louis’ Equity Indicators Baseline Report as well as a staff member at Washington University’s Race and Opportunity Lab at the Brown School; and Wally Siewert, director of civic engagement and the Impact Fellows program for FOCUS St. Louis.

'BrainWorks' Production Takes Neuroscience Out Of Surgical Room And Onto Theater Stage Jul 09, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio’s Jonathan Ahl talks with Washington University neurosurgeons Albert Kim and Eric Leuthardt about the particularities of the brain and their “BrainWorks” theater production that dramatizes real-life neurological cases to help explain the science behind brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s, epilepsy, brain tumors and strokes.

Local Farmer, Mayor Offer Updates, Perspectives On Effects Of Flooding Jul 09, 2019

After a very rainy spring and early summer that have included more than 80 days of flooding along rivers in the St. Louis region, many area residents are still feeling the effects. St. Louis Public Radio’s Jonathan Ahl talks with guests from both Illinois and Missouri about the impacts they’ve been dealing with in their respective communities. Joining the discussion are Adam Jones, a fourth-generation farmer on about 900 acres in Missouri, and Herb Simmons, the longtime mayor of East Carondelet, Illinois.

Author Frank DiStefano On The Future Of American Politics Jul 08, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio’s Jonathan Ahl discusses factors contributing to the country’s current political environment with Frank DiStefano, author of “The Next Realignment: Why America’s Parties Are Crumbling and What Happens Next."

Author Frank DiStefano On The Future Of American Politics Jul 08, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio’s Jonathan Ahl discusses factors contributing to the country’s current political environment with Frank DiStefano, author of “The Next Realignment: Why America’s Parties Are Crumbling and What Happens Next."

Civil Rights Activist Percy Green And Writer Devin Thomas O’Shea On All Things Veiled Prophet Jul 03, 2019

Several longstanding St. Louis traditions get underway this week, including Fair St. Louis and the VP Parade. Both events have connections to the Veiled Prophet Organization, which was founded in 1878 by white elites. The organization and its regular celebrations have been associated with civic pride and philanthropy – and at times with controversy, secretive rituals and protest. St. Louis Public Radio’s Shula Neuman looks back on Veiled Prophet history and considers the organization’s evolution and ongoing influence while talking with two guests: Percy Green, a prominent civil rights activist perhaps best known for scaling the Gateway Arch 55 years ago, and Devin Thomas O’Shea, a Chicago-based freelance writer who recently finished an as-yet-unpublished novel inspired by the city’s Veiled Prophet traditions.

Sportswriter Rob Rains Offers Mid-Season Cardinals Analysis Ahead Of All-Star Game Jul 03, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio’s executive editor Shula Neuman talks about the ongoing St. Louis Cardinals season and what’s ahead for the team as they go on break for the All-Star game with Rob Rains of STLSportsPage.com.

How Parents Navigate Giving Their Children 'The Talk' Jul 02, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio executive editor Shula Neuman explores how parents approach “the talk” with their children – which often varies widely across race, gender and cultural lines.

Teddy Washington, His Mother And Dick Weiss Reflect On IHOP Incident Jul 02, 2019

A year after being racially profiled along with fellow black college students in Clayton, Missouri, Teddy Washington and his mother, Denise Washington, talk with St. Louis Public Radio's Shula Neuman. Also joining the discussion is Richard Weiss, whose story about the 2018 incident will appear in this Sunday's edition of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. His reporting is supported through a grant from the Pulitzer Center.

Hit List: New St. Louis Restaurants To Try This May Jul 01, 2019

Sauce Magazine art director Meera Nagarajan and staff writer Matt Sorrell talk up some of the latest additions to the St. Louis region’s food-and-beverage community.

STLPR's Eric Schmid Aims To Enhance News Coverage Of The Metro East Jul 01, 2019

Eric Schmid joined St. Louis Public Radio’s newsroom a few weeks ago as its Metro East reporter – a new role made possible through the Report for America initiative, which aims to fill important gaps in local journalism. Schmid talks with St. Louis Public Radio editors Shula Neuman and Maria Altman about what this means for the station’s news coverage and how he hopes to help boost people’s understanding and knowledge of communities just across the river from St. Louis.

STLPR Reporters Sarah Fentem And Jason Rosenbaum Discuss Latest Developments In Ongoing Missouri Abortion Fight Jul 01, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio editor Maria Altman talks with reporters Sarah Fentem and Jason Rosenbaum about the legal and political drama surrounding the state's only remaining abortion clinic.

Behind The Headlines: The Path To Legalization Of Recreational Marijuana In Illinois Jun 28, 2019

Earlier this week, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed legislation that will soon make recreational marijuana legal in the state. The law takes effect Jan. 1, 2020, and makes Illinois the 11th state to allow recreational use. St. Louis Public Radio’s Rachel Lippmann goes behind the headlines on the news with Amanda Vinicky of Chicago public media outlet WTTW.

STLPR's Rachel Lippmann Talks With Niece Of Illinois Sailor Whose Remains Are Finally Headed Home Jun 28, 2019

It’s been nearly eight decades since Illinois sailor William Klasing was killed during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. His remains were just recently identified after a long process of identifying dozens of men who died on the USS Oklahoma. This weekend, members of his family from near and far are gathering in Trenton for a funeral procession and reburial in his honor.

Listen: Heavy Rain Couldn't Stop 4th Annual Celebration Of Make Music Day St. Louis Jun 28, 2019

During St. Louis’ Make Music Day last Friday, people gathered in places around the St. Louis area to do just that. And on what was meant to be the longest, sunniest day of the year, it began to rain. While it halted some outdoor performances, many, like those inside Evangeline’s Bistro and Music House, went on. St. Louis Public Radio's Alexis Moore takes in the scene.

Following Blues’ Stanley Cup Win, St. Louis Public Library Is Growing The Team’s Official Archive Jun 28, 2019

Two and a half weeks ago, the St. Louis Blues made history with their first Stanley Cup, and the memories are still fresh for lifelong and recent fans alike. To help keep those memories alive for many years to come, St. Louis Public Library is encouraging people around the region to contribute Blues-related artifacts to the team’s official archive. St. Louis Public Radio’s Rachel Lippmann talks about the archive and what sorts of materials the library is seeking to add to it with Amanda Bahr-Evola, manager of special collections and digital archives.

Local Pediatrician On Vaccine Worries, Conversations With Parents And Advancing Research Jun 27, 2019

Dr. Ken Haller regularly finds himself assuring parents that childhood vaccines are safe. He tries to do so with empathy, because along with having confidence in vaccinations, he also believes parents genuinely want what’s best for their kids. The Saint Louis University associate professor of pediatrics talks with St. Louis Public Radio’s Rachel Lippmann about how he navigates those vaccine worries.

ArchCity Defenders Co-Founder, Law Professor Offer Analysis Of Missouri’s New Pretrial Rules Jun 27, 2019

Missouri Chief Justice Zel Fisher in January announced coming changes to the state’s pretrial rules, which govern bail, detention and other practices directly impacting citizens accused of a crime. The new rules, described by Fisher as “common-sense modifications” within a system that too often treats defendants according to their pocketbooks instead of the law, go into effect July 1. St. Louis Public Radio’s Rachel Lippmann discusses the implications with a Washington University law professor and a representative from ArchCity Defenders.

Local Soccer Coaches, Including Former US Team Member, Talk Women's World Cup Ahead Of Quarterfinals Jun 26, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio’s Rachel Lippmann delves into the Women’s World Cup and the state of women’s soccer with Lori Chalupny-Lawson: former U.S. Women’s National Team member, current Maryville University head coach and assistant club director of the newly formed all-girls soccer club Fire & Ice Soccer Academy. Olivia Silverman, assistant coach of the St. Louis Lions women’s team; was a goalkeeper for Saint Louis University and played on three U.S. National youth teams, also joined the conversation.

Metro Trans Umbrella Group Leaves St. Louis PrideFest Parade Over Police Marching In Uniform Jun 26, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio’s Rachel Lippmann discusses the contention surrounding police presence at this year's PrideFest, and the broader status of the transgender community in St. Louis with Jordan Braxton, the director of diversity and inclusion for Pride St. Louis, and Sayer Johnson, the executive director of the Metro Trans Umbrella Group.

Kris Kleindienst Reflects On 50 Years Of Left Bank Books Jun 25, 2019

Left Bank Books is turning 50 this year. Co-owner Kris Kleindienst talks about the shop’s storied history with St. Louis Public Radio’s Rachel Lippmann. Located in St. Louis’ bustling Central West End neighborhood, the independent bookseller got its start in 1969 when a group of Washington University graduate students set out to create a place where one could find all kinds of literature. Left Bank will formally celebrate its 50-year milestone in October.

Local Surgeons, Mother Discuss Trauma And Gun Violence Facing Many Children And Families Jun 25, 2019

Earlier this month, four St. Louis-area children died as a result of guns over the course of just five days. St. Louis Public Radio’s Rachel Lippmann discusses the ongoing violence and related trauma that many children in the region face – as well as resources and ideas for a way forward. Joining the conversation are Erica Jones, who has lost both a 7-year-old godson and an adult daughter to guns in recent years; Dr. Brad W. Warner, the Jessie L. Ternberg MD PhD Distinguished Professor of Pediatric Surgery at Washington University School of Medicine and surgeon-in-chief at St. Louis Children's Hospital; and Dr. Nicole Wilson, pediatric surgery fellow at St. Louis Children's Hospital.

Delving Into 'Known & Grown' Campaign, Ethical Practices In Local Agriculture Industry Jun 24, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio’s Rachel Lippmann delves into what the Missouri Coalition for the Environment's Known & Grown project entails, as well as its broader implications for growers and consumers, with the MCE’s food and farm director Melissa Vatterott and local food coordinator Rae Miller.

A Look At Tariff Impacts And Investments In Missouri In Light Of Gov. Parson's Recent Trade Trip Jun 24, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio’s Rachel Lippmann talks trade and tariffs as they pertain to Missouri with David Meyer, senior lecturer in management in the Olin Business School at Washington University in St. Louis, in light of Gov. Mike Parson’s recent return from a trade trip in Europe.

Behind the Headlines: A Look At Kansas City’s New Mayor Jun 21, 2019

Guest host Jim Kirchherr of the Nine Network goes behind the headlines with Brian Ellison, a host and contributor for NPR-member station KCUR in Kansas City, to discuss Kansas City's new mayor. Mayor-elect Quinton Lucas is a private attorney and alecturer at the University of Kansas School of Law, and he previously served on the city council.

Behind the Headlines: Latest In Missouri Abortion Battle, Tisaby Indictment Jun 21, 2019

Guest host Jim Kirchherr of the Nine Network goes behind the headlines with Rachel Lippmann to discuss multiple top news stories of the week, including the Missouri’s health department decision to not renew Planned Parenthood of St. Louis' abortion license, and the indictment of the former FBI agent who was hired to help with the investigation into former Missouri Gov. Eric Greitens.

Sound Bites: What All Goes Into Making Sugarfire Smoke House's Award-Winning Barbecue? Jun 21, 2019

This year, Sugarfire Smoke House won three Sauce Magazine Readers’ Choice awards: Favorite Restaurant, Favorite Barbecue and Chef of the Year – which went to Matt Glickert, catering and events chef for Sugarfire 44 in Valley Park, Missouri. Glickert talks about his award, Sugarfire’s success, statistics on the thousands of pounds of meat the restaurant goes through each month and more. Sauce Magazine art director Meera Nagarajan also joins the conversation to talk about other notable winners from this year’s Readers’ Choice, and the magazine’s food tasting Saucy Soiree event at Union Station.

ShowcaseSTL Returns To The Grove This Weekend With Over 100 Local Musical Acts Jun 21, 2019

St. Louis’ biggest local music festival gets underway Friday evening and all day Saturday with a lineup that the Riverfront Times has billed as its best yet. Featuring more than 100 performances by St. Louis-based bands across 11 venues, ShowcaseSTL 2019 aims to match that quantity with quality, and organizers have taken a collaborative, input-heavy approach to planning. Guest host Jim Kirchherr of the Nine Network talks with RFT music editor Daniel Hill and with Joe Hess, who has spearheaded the curation of the lineup.

Chris Bolyard Of Bolyard's Meat And Provisions Talks Skill, Meat Industry Ahead Of 'The Butcher' Jun 19, 2019

Many years ago, St. Louisan Chris Bolyard made the decision to switch careers and go from working in restaurants to becoming head butcher and owner of Bolyard’s Meat and Provisions located in Maplewood. Now the local face will soon be familiar to many across the nation after his appearance on a new History Channel television series called "The Butcher." The goal of the show is to help educate the public on the skills that it takes to butcher whole animals.

Inside 'The St. Louis Anthology,' A Newly Released Treasure Trove Of Local Voices Jun 19, 2019

Poems about St. Louis’ vibrant Bosnian community. A story of racial segregation in 1907 St. Louis that still resonates. An ode to Imo’s. These are just a few of the nearly 70 locally focused writings that fill “The St. Louis Anthology,” a newly released 240-page book. Its editor, St. Louis native Ryan Schuessler, talks about the project with St. Louis Public Radio's Shula Neuman.

3 Women On The Nuances, Positive Effects Of Paid Family Leave Policies – And Why US Lags Jun 18, 2019

The United States remains the only industrialized country that does not provide some form of universal paid family leave. Many American workers continue to have to choose between maintaining their livelihood and caring for loved ones. There is some momentum in Congress to potentially change that, and meanwhile policy varies widely at the state and employer levels. In the St. Louis region, some organizations are recognizing the positive impact that paid family leave can have, and that trend is the focus of a free Tuesday evening panel, The Future of Family Leave.

20-Plus St. Louis Theater Companies To Perform Short Shows For Grand Center Theatre Crawl Jun 18, 2019

The 2019 Grand Center Theatre Crawl provides locals with the opportunity to explore new venues in St. Louis' Grand Center while enjoying short performances by over 20 local theater companies. St. Louis Public Radio’s Holly Edgell discussed what all the event will entail with Mark Abels, treasurer of West End Players Guild; Christopher Limber, artistic director of Prison Performing Arts; and Peggy Holly, event founder and lead volunteer organizer.

25 Years Later, Survivor Of Rwandan Genocide Shares Story Ahead Of History Museum Event Jun 17, 2019

Marie-Christine Williams, a survivor of the 1994 Rwanda massacre, and Ron Klutho, refugee services coordinator for BIAS, talked with St. Louis Public Radio's Jonathan Ahl about the Triumph Over Darkness program commemorating the UN Day in Support of Victims of Torture on June 26.

Departures Of Several St. Louis-Area Campus Leaders Come Amid Ongoing Challenges In Higher Ed Jun 17, 2019

A handful of leaders at St. Louis-area universities are each departing key roles this year. The most recent news of such shifts came last week as both Harris-Stowe State University President Dwaun Warmack and Washington University Provost Holden Thorp announced they are leaving their posts. In addition, Wash U Chancellor Mark Wrighton and University of Missouri-St. Louis Chancellor Tom George are retiring, while Lindenwood University President Michael Shonrock was let go earlier this year and McKendree University President James Dennis plans to retire after the 2019-2020 academic year. Joining St. Louis Public Radio’s Jonathan Ahl to help make sense of this trend and others within higher education are three guests who have been watching it all closely.

STLPR's Jonathan Ahl Talks With Kasi Lemmons Ahead Of 'Fire Shut Up In My Bones' World Premiere Jun 14, 2019

The librettist discusses her work on the opera, which opens this weekend at Opera Theater of St. Louis.

From The Dabke To The Knafeh, Heritage Festival Showcases Palestinian Culture In Forest Park Jun 14, 2019

Palestinians are often portrayed in the media only when it comes to the Israel-Palestine conflict, but not much is discussed about the nuances of their culture, from the food they eat to the different identities that make up the culture. The Palestine Heritage Festival, organized by the Missouri chapter of American Muslims for Palestine, brings together all aspects of Palestinian life, such as music, dance and food to history and architecture.

Public Safety Director, St. Louis Resident And Co-Founder Of Ben & Jerry's Talk Workhouse, Cash Bail Jun 14, 2019

On Tuesday a federal judge ruled that St. Louis jails cannot hold inmates simply because they cannot make bail. That decision came just one day before a press conference at City Hall, where Ben Cohen, co-founder of Ben & Jerry’s, joined representatives of the Close the Workhouse campaign in urging city officials to shut down the Medium Security Institution, known as the workhouse. In this episode of "St. Louis on the Air," Cohen joins Inez Bordeaux, who spent about a month incarcerated in the workhouse in 2016, for a conversation with St. Louis Public Radio’s Jonathan Ahl. Ahl also talks with the city’s public safety director, Jimmie Edwards, who gives his perspective on the condition of the workhouse, the cash bail system and related topics.

St. Louis Native Brittany Packnett Discusses Work Around Justice, Empowerment and Difference-Making Jun 13, 2019

Activist, educator and writer Brittany Packnett returns this week to her hometown of St. Louis – the place where she participated in protests after the police shooting of Michael Brown and was appointed to the Ferguson commission in 2014. Now based in Washington, where she is Teach for America’s vice president of National Community Alliances, Packnett has been described by former President Barack Obama as a leader whose voice “is going to be making a difference for years to come.”

Superfan, STLPR Reporters Reflect On Huge Night In St. Louis Blues History Jun 13, 2019

Hours after the St. Louis Blues brought home the Stanley Cup for the first time in franchise history, St. Louis Public Radio's Jonathan Ahl talks with superfan Dennis Minner and STLPR reporters Rachel Lippmann and Wayne Pratt about what just happened.

Legal Roundtable Talks MO Abortion Saga, Fake IL Attorney, Police Comments, More Jun 12, 2019

From the continuing drama surrounding abortion access in Missouri to the investigation of St. Louis Metropolitan Police officers whose racist Facebook posts have been in the spotlight, this month’s Legal Roundtable touches on a variety of the latest regional as well as national news stories that bring up questions related to sunshine law, the First Amendment and other legal matters.

A Look At St. Louis County Council Now That Sam Page Has Ascended To County Executive Jun 11, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio’s Jonathan Ahl delves into changes that new County Executive Sam Page has made since being sworn in with reporters Chad Davis and Jason Rosenbaum and politics editor Fred Ehrlich.

What's Ahead For Missouri As Medical Marijuana Applications Open Up For Patients, Providers Jun 11, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio’s Jonathan Ahl discusses what the legalization of medical marijuana means for Missouri and the process of how physicians prescribe it as dispensaries start opening up.

St. Louisan Andy Magee Checks In Partway Through 365-Day Exploration Of The National Parks Jun 10, 2019

On Jan. 1, St. Louis resident Andy Magee embarked on an unusual adventure with a goal to visit all 418 National Park Service units around the U.S. within the course of a single year. He’s now five months into that journey – and back in St. Louis this week for a pit stop. He gives an update on his travels, which began during the federal government shutdown.

SLUCare Geriatrician, Founder Of CST Discuss Innovations In Dementia Treatment Jun 10, 2019

More and more people are experiencing the debilitating effects of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. The Alzheimer’s Association notes that one in three seniors die with dementia, and by 2050 nearly 14 million Americans are expected to be living with it. Those growing numbers are spurring innovative efforts to treat dementia, including Cognitive Stimulation Therapy, a non-drug treatment that is the focus of a conference taking place Monday and Tuesday at St. Louis University. John Morley and Martin Orrell are among CST’s proponents, and both doctors join St. Louis Public Radio’s Jonathan Ahl to talk about what they and their peers have described as a common-sense approach to treating dementia.

STLPR Science Reporter Eli Chen Discusses Impact Of Recent Flooding In Region Jun 07, 2019

Communities along the Mississippi River are getting used to record flood levels lately. As the water creeps higher, residents and business owners are filling sandbags and holding their breath. Science reporter Eli Chen discussed what kind of impact the flooding has left on the region.

Behind The Headlines: Updates Regarding Renewal Of Planned Parenthood’s Abortion Clinic License Jun 07, 2019

As Planned Parenthood awaits St. Louis Circuit Court Judge Michael Stelzer’s decision on whether the center is able to renew its abortion clinic license, St. Louis Public Radio’s Jeremy D. Goodwin went behind the headlines with health reporter Sarah Fentem to discuss developments in the case this week.

Reflecting On The Stonewall Uprising Of 50 Years Ago And St. Louis' LGBTQ History Jun 07, 2019

In the wee hours of a Saturday morning in the summer of 1969, nine New York City police officers entered Greenwich Village’s small Stonewall Inn. Police raids of gay bars were a frequent occurrence at the time, but this particular instance was different. This time, people around the Stonewall fought back, and the ensuing several days of confrontation between police and activists greatly accelerated the growth of the gay rights movement. St. Louis Public Radio’s Jeremy D. Goodwin talks with Steven Louis Brawley, Paul Thiel and Miranda Rectenwald, reflecting on the Stonewall uprising of 50 years ago and what was happening among the local LGBTQ community at that time.

Circus Flora's 33rd Season Takes Audience Members On Flying Adventure Inside Schnucks Grocery Store Jun 06, 2019

Circus Flora is a longstanding tradition for many St. Louisans and is back in action this month for its 33rd season. This year’s show is bringing audiences to an unlikely place for an adventure – a grocery store. Schnucks, to be exact. St. Louis Public Radio’s Jeremy D. Goodwin delves into how “The Caper in Aisle 6” takes a usually mundane trip to the store and turns it into an exciting visual performance for circusgoers.

Missouri S&T Military Historian Reflects On Legacy And Lessons Of D-Day 75 Years Later Jun 06, 2019

While traveling in Europe for events related to the 75th anniversary of the Allied forces' pivotal invasion of northern France during World War II, John McManus talks with St. Louis Public Radio’s Jeremy D. Goodwin, delving into what occurred on June 6, 1944, why it still resonates and what people today can learn from studying and reflecting on the tragedy of war.

Food As Medicine: How Some Physicians And Nutritionists Are Working To Transform Health Care Jun 05, 2019

There is a movement growing among health advocates to better understand how more nutritious food can help combat chronic illnesses and pharmaceutical drug dependency. Susan Benigas of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine and the Plantrician Project and local nutritionist Ghaida Awwad of Nature’s Clinic, based in O’Fallon, Missouri, are among those advocates.

Readers Meet A Celebrity, Activist, Mother, Spy In 'Josephine Baker's Last Dance' Jun 05, 2019

Before she became a celebrity, a war hero and civil rights activist, Josephine Baker was a girl growing up in early 20th-century St. Louis. Historical fiction writer Sherry Jones has a new book out inspired by Baker’s remarkable life and is headed to her late heroine’s hometown this week to discuss it at Left Bank Books. Jones talks about the book, “Josephine Baker’s Last Dance,” and the woman behind it, with St. Louis Public Radio’s Jeremy D. Goodwin.

Longtime Political Reporter Looks Back On 4 Decades Of Covering Abortion Issue In Missouri Jun 04, 2019

Tussles over abortion rights are nothing new in the Show-Me State, and St. Louis Public Radio's Jo Mannies has observed many political and legal battles over the years since Roe v. Wade. She looks back with STLPR's Jeremy D. Goodwin.

A Dozen Bands From Near, Far Gather In St. Louis This Week For Twangfest 23 Jun 04, 2019

For the 23rd year in a row, Twangfest is gathering musicians from around the country in St. Louis this week for a four-day-long celebration of Americana music. Described by its all-volunteer organizers as “the big top of a musical three-ring circus,” the nonprofit festival is this time around bringing in everyone from the Columbia, Missouri-based Burney Sisters and The Delines of Portland, Oregon, to the rock band Superchunk.

'Queer Eye' Style Expert Tan France Goes Beyond Love For Fashion In 'Naturally Tan' Memoir Jun 04, 2019

Tan France is best known for his role as fashion expert on the hit Netflix series “Queer Eye,” where he and the rest of “the Fab 5” transform people’s lives – and bridge social divides – with inspiring lifestyle makeovers. Now France has a brand-new memoir out titled “Naturally Tan.” St. Louis Public Radio’s Kae Petrin discusses it with France ahead of his sold-out event this weekend at St. Louis County Library headquarters.

Delving Into Nuances Of The Band ‘Phish’ With Musicologist Jake Cohen Jun 03, 2019

Phish, the Vermont-spawned jamband will open its summer tour with two shows at Chaifetz Arena this month. For a band that’s one of the country’s top touring acts, Phish remains strangely misunderstood. St. Louis Public Radio reporter Jeremy D. Goodwin explores the popularity and nuances of Phish with musicologist Jake Cohen, who presented at the first-ever Phish Studies Conference at Oregon State University.

STLPR's Alex Heuer Talks with Blues' Retiring National Anthem Singer Charles Glenn Jun 03, 2019

In conversation with executive producer Alex Heuer, Charles Glenn looks back on many fond memories singing the national anthem before St. Louis Blues home games.

Applying 'The Language Of Leadership' At Work And At Home Jun 03, 2019

Krister Ungerböck often works with high-profile CEOs, coaching them on best practices when it comes to leadership, communication and employee engagement. But his efforts to help people lead well extend beyond the upper echelons of organizational management and into everyday workplaces as well as family life. St. Louis Public Radio’s Jeremy D. Goodwin talks with Ungerböck ahead of his appearance at the University of Missouri-St. Louis.

Local Muslim Organization Prepares Barbecue For Veterans At Jefferson Barracks Center While Fasting May 31, 2019

Since 2007, the Muslim Community Services of St. Louis have annually put together a Memorial Day barbecue to serve patients and staff at the Jefferson Barracks Division of the VA Medical Center in south St. Louis County. They aim to create an environment where there is mutual learning and understanding in efforts to dispel potential misconceptions on both sides. Producer Lara Hamdan talks with some of the organizers and participants.

How Locals Can Foster A Healthy Environment Through Everyday Living Habits May 31, 2019

The 18th annual Green Living Festival returns to the Missouri Botanical Garden this weekend and offers patrons expertise on making links between sustainability and a healthy environment. Guest host Jim Kirchherr talks with Jean Ponzi, green resources manager at the Missouri Botanical Garden, to expand on the importance of sustainability and green living.

Behind the Headlines: STLPR's Sarah Fentem Discusses Evolving Abortion Access In Missouri May 31, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio reporter Sarah Fentem joins "St. Louis on the Air" for analysis of the licensing situation at the state's only remaining abortion clinic and related topics.

Wash U's Michael Kinch Traces Past, Future Of Cancer In 'The End Of The Beginning' May 30, 2019

Cancer in its many forms has plagued humanity for millennia, and it’s still taking a relentless toll in the 21st century. The hope that scientists will eventually find a cure can feel like a long shot. But one Washington University scholar is making the case that cancer researchers are on the cusp of a breakthrough. In his latest book, “The End of the Beginning: Cancer, Immunity, and the Future of a Cure,” Michael Kinch offers readers a history of cancer research and treatments, as well as a view toward what’s ahead in this rapidly evolving field.

STL Village, Similar Communities Are Growing A New Approach To Aging In Place May 30, 2019

May is Older Americans Month, and senior citizens currently make up the fastest-growing age group in the U.S. Expanding along with their numerical ranks is a movement among older adults committed to enabling people to age in place – in communities of their choosing. Producer Evie Hemphill talks with three St. Louisans who are deeply invested in efforts to help seniors thrive right where they are.

Legal Roundtable Looks At Implications Of Abortion Ban And Other Local, National Developments May 29, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio executive editor Shula Neuman discusses current issues pertaining to the law with a panel of legal experts. Topics include the recent wave of anti-abortion bills passed in Missouri, Alabama and other states; last week's espionage indictment of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange; and the legal implications involving the indictment of former St. Louis County Executive Steve Stenger.

How 'Mixed Feelings' Group Helps Multiracial Individuals Find Comfort, Expand On Their Identities May 28, 2019

Producer Lara Hamdan talks with Alyson Thompson, founder of the Mixed Feelings group dedicated to creating a community for multiracial people seeking community among other multiracial and multiethnic individuals. It relaunches in June and will include events that center on community building in various ways through private meetups, including themed discussions, low-key parties and film screenings, as well as informational talks for people who don’t identify as mixed-race but would like to learn more.

'Historic Missouri Roadsides' Offers Fresh Routes For Exploring The Show-Me State May 28, 2019

From French colonial architecture in Ste. Genevieve and “levee-high pie” in Kimmswick to Civil War history in Bonnots Mill, Missouri is home to plenty of fascinating travel destinations –many of them off the beaten path. Bill Hart gives readers a roadmap for exploring them in “Historic Missouri Roadsides.” He talks with St. Louis Public Radio editor Holly Edgell.

28th Annual St. Louis African Arts Festival Showcases Eclectic African Culture In Forest Park May 24, 2019

The 28th annual St. Louis African Arts Festival will return to the World’s Fair Pavilion in Forest Park this weekend. Running Saturday through Monday, the festival aims to educate people in St. Louis about the wide ranges of cultures among African nations and the African diaspora. A couple of the festival’s organizers discuss what patrons can expect at the event, such as an African marketplace, movies, food, various cultural demonstrations, kids’ activities and more.

STLPR Digital Reporter Kae Petrin Discusses Reporting On Webster University Title IX Developments May 24, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio's Kae Petrin talks with guest host Sharon Stevens about the allegations of sexual misconduct involving the head of Webster University's game design program.

28th Annual St. Louis African Arts Festival Showcases Eclectic African Culture In Forest Park May 24, 2019

The 28th annual St. Louis African Arts Festival will return to the World’s Fair Pavilion in Forest Park this weekend. Running Saturday through Monday, the festival aims to educate people in St. Louis about the wide ranges of cultures among African nations and the African diaspora. A couple of the festival’s organizers discuss what patrons can expect at the event, such as an African marketplace, movies, food, various cultural demonstrations, kids’ activities and more.

How An UMSL Graduate Overcame Life Of Addiction And Gang Involvement, Earned Social Work Degree May 24, 2019

St. Louis resident Harold Crawford is among many local college graduates who are celebrating major academic milestones this spring. The path he traveled to get to his University of Missouri-St. Louis degree was an unusual one – and far from easy. Crawford lived through tough times to make ends meet and left a life of crime and gang involvement about a decade ago.

Author, Poet Jason Reynolds Inspires Youth During Onstage Conversation At University City High School May 23, 2019

Poet and author Jason Reynolds talks with former “We Live Here” podcast co-host Kameel Stanley at an event at University City High School. Reynolds writes books for middle grade and young adult audiences.

STLPR's Rachel Lippmann Recaps Blues' Big Tuesday Night Victory Over The Sharks May 22, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio reporter Rachel Lippmann talks with guest host Sharon Stevens as the St. Louis Blues head back to the Stanley Cup Final for the first time in 49 years.

'Flores Mexicanas' Exhibit Explores 'A Lindbergh Love Story,' Work Of Esteemed Mexican Painter May 22, 2019

Guest host Sharon Stevens explores parts of the new “Flores Mexicanas: A Lindbergh Love Story” exhibit at the Missouri History Museum with the exhibit’s content lead and public historian Adam Kloppe. The exhibit illustrates the couple’s celebrity status as ambassadors for aviation and America.

Ozarks-Based HillBenders Guitarist Jim Rea On Bluegrass, Mixing Genres And Opening For The Who May 22, 2019

English rock band The Who first released “Tommy,” the wildly successful rock opera, on May 23, 1969 – exactly 50 years ago this Thursday, when Missouri-based bluegrass band The HillBenders are set to open for The Who at Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre. It might seem an unlikely concert pairing, except that The HillBenders’ 2015 album is a full-length Tommy tribute, bluegrass-opry style. "St. Louis on the Air" producer Evie Hemphill talks with Jim Rea, the group’s guitarist and musical director, as he and the rest of the HillBenders anticipate sharing a stage with The Who.

More Than 30 Dance Companies, 300 Artists Gather In St. Louis For Spring To Dance May 21, 2019

A three-day-long dance extravaganza gets underway later this week as Spring to Dance takes over the Touhill Performing Arts Center at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. Considered to be Dance St. Louis’ signature festival of the year, this 12th annual event will feature everything from tap, ballet and clogging to hip-hop and aerial performances Thursday through Saturday.

Humane Society, APA Reps Talk Missouri Puppy Mills, What Everyday People Can Do To Help May 21, 2019

Missouri is home to 22 of the 100 puppy mills on the Humane Society's most recent list of known problem dealers, topping the list for the seventh year in a row. Released last week, the “Horrible Hundred” report highlights animal-welfare issues including high puppy death rates, underweight dogs, neglected health needs and other problems. Guest host Sharon Stevens discusses the topic with Sarah Javier, president and executive director of the Animal Protective Association of Missouri, and John Goodwin, senior director of the Humane Society's Stop Puppy Mills Campaign.

Cyclist Liz Heller Talks Passion For Sport, Aftermath Of Breaking 2 World Records May 20, 2019

In April, St. Louis lawyer Elizabeth “Liz” Heller took a break from the office and spent some time racing on a velodrome – an arena for track cycling – in Aguascalientes, Mexico. At the International Cyclists Union competition, she broke two world records: one in the women's over-50 category in the one-hour ride and the other in the individual two-kilometer pursuit. She joined guest host Sharon Stevens to talk about how she got hooked on the sport.

Digging Into How Farmers Cultivate Mushrooms For Local Restaurants May 20, 2019

This month’s Sound Bites segment with Sauce Magazine features Nicola Macpherson of Ozark Forest Mushrooms, an immigrant from the UK who runs a mushroom farm and supplies many of the restaurants in the St. Louis area with mushrooms. Macpherson and Sauce's managing editor Catherine Klene expand on how people get their start in mushroom farming and what all goes into it.

STLPR Reporters Recap Missouri Legislative Session May 20, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio's Rachel Lippmann and Jason Rosenbaum talk with guest host Sharon Stevens on the heels of Missouri's latest legislative session in Jefferson City.

'Volcanoes: Fire of Creation' IMAX Film Takes Viewers Up Close To Nature’s Dangerous Wonder May 17, 2019

Producer and director Michael Dalton-Smith’s early passion for volcanoes has followed him throughout his career. His film “Volcanoes: Fire of Creation” takes viewers on an IMAX adventure to the boiling lava lakes of the world, grasslands and the depths of the oceans, all where volcanoes help shape vibrant ecosystems. He delves his interest in volcanoes, the theory of how they developed billions of years ago and what it’s really like getting up close to a boiling lava lake.

‘Shocked By Turn Of Events’: Belleville Mayor Discusses Partial Closure Of Lindenwood’s Belleville Campus May 17, 2019

St. Charles-based Lindenwood University made the decision that it will cease its daytime undergraduate academic programs at its Belleville campus following the 2019-2020 academic year. Belleville Mayor Mark Eckert talks about what the consolidation means for the community.

Crime, Punishment And A Striking Look At The Justice System's Sentencing Practices May 17, 2019

Doyle Murphy discusses his latest feature for the Riverfront Times, which digs into the question of what constitutes just punishment. In the piece, he juxtaposes the sentence a former Webster University administrator received after stealing about $375,000 from the institution with the sentences handed down in other specific crime cases in the region.

Luminary's 'Counterpublic' Exhibit Animates Cherokee Street, Caters To Various Communities May 16, 2019

The Luminary Arts Center “Counterpublic” exhibition is scaled to a neighborhood “set to animate the everyday spaces of Cherokee Street” with expansive artist commissions, performances, processions and more. Local artists José Guadalupe Garza and Miriam Ruiz talk about why they installed a mobile library in El Chico Bakery, a family owned and operated Mexican bakery in south St. Louis. The Luminary’s Katherine Simóne Reynolds, one of the curators for the “Counterpublic” exhibit, also takes part in the conversation to expand on the project’s impact in the south-city neighborhood.

2 St. Louisans Reflect On Continuing Journeys After Undergoing Treatment For Breast Cancer May 16, 2019

St. Louis-area residents Rachel Webb and Jossalyn Larson come from different walks of life, but they have at least one path in common: They’ve both in recent years developed breast cancer – and have chosen to open up online about their experiences living with it. While they now have intensive treatments and surgeries behind them, their respective journeys are far from over. The two women join guest host Ruth Ezell to discuss some of the surprises and challenges they’ve been encountering lately.

How Educators Can Develop More Well-Rounded Approaches To Teach History In An Inclusive Way May 15, 2019

As the U.S. population grows more ethnically diverse, many historians and educators are becoming more aware of changing demographics and are keen on ensuring that diversity is reflected in the way the nation’s history is presented in classrooms. Guest host Ruth Ezell of the Nine Network delves into how educators are developing more well-rounded approaches to teaching history in an inclusive way.

Inside St. Louis' First Home Built From Shipping Containers With Owners Travis And Gina Sheridan May 15, 2019

After many months of planning and construction, the owners of a unique project in north St. Louis are now calling the completed space home. Gina and Travis Sheridan moved into their house, which is made out of nine steel shipping containers and located in the Old North neighborhood, several weeks ago. In this episode of "St. Louis on the Air," they discuss what went into the effort and share what they’re enjoying most about their distinctive new abode.

A Look At Veterinarian Shortage, Other Challenges Within The Profession May 14, 2019

Like many urban and rural areas around the U.S., the St. Louis region has seen a shortage of veterinarians, and it's affecting clinic hours, staffing and wait times in some communities. Guest host Ruth Ezell talks with three people deeply invested in the profession and in seeing both veterinarians and the animals they care for thrive.

A Conversation With Benjamin Akande, Director Of Wash U's Africa Initiative May 14, 2019

A little over a year ago, Benjamin Akande was tasked with a big job: strengthening and expanding Washington University’s efforts in Africa. He was appointed as director of the Africa Initiative, which aims to strategically enhance a wide range of institutional activities connected to the African continent. He gives an update on the initiative, offers his perspective on the demise of Better Together proposal that sought to consolidate St. Louis and St. Louis County and also addresses other topics.

SLCL Director Expands On ‘Your Library Renewed’ Campaign, New Branch Openings, Other Initiatives May 13, 2019

Guest host Ruth Ezell of the Nine Network talks with St. Louis County Library Director Kristen Sorth about the final projects in the Your Library Renewed campaign, which includes the new library branch openings in the region, among other initiatives.

Elected Officials, Mississippi River Cities & Towns Initiative Rep Talk Flooding, Solutions May 13, 2019

Residents of towns along the Mississippi River are all too familiar with the effects of flooding on their communities. The disasters happen again and again, and people are eager for a path forward – and for solutions that look beyond levees. Guest host Ruth Ezell talka with Jo Anne Smiley, the mayor of Clarksville, Missouri, and Phil Stang, the mayor of Kimmswick, Missouri, about their goals moving ahead. Colin Wellenkamp, executive director of the Mississippi River Cities & Towns Initiative, also participates in the discussion.

Avengers Stuntwoman And St. Louis-Area Native CC Ice Helps Superheroes Save The Universe On Screen May 10, 2019

CC Ice talks with producer Evie Hemphill about working on the Marvel movies, the intense and inherently risky nature of her chosen profession – and how growing up in Missouri has influenced her life and career.

How Schools Can Help Accommodate Muslim Students During Ramadan May 10, 2019

This week marked the beginning of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. Many Muslims locally and around the world are observing this holiday by daily fasting, increased religious observance and self-reflection. For the next few decades, the month will take place within the school year. The Missouri chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations released “An Educator’s Guide to Ramadan and Accommodating Muslim Students” to help schools better understand and accommodate Muslim students during this time.

2 St. Louis Science Reporters Share Takeaways From Mississippi River Trip May 09, 2019

As journalists who frequently produce stories focused on the environment, St. Louis Public Radio’s Eli Chen and the St. Louis Post-Dispatch’s Bryce Gray are no strangers to the Mississippi River and its critical role in their city. Now they’ve traveled all 2,300-plus miles of it, following the Big Muddy from Minnesota to Louisiana and bringing home an even deeper understanding of the waterway. Chen and Gray returned earlier this month from a weeklong Institute for Journalism & Natural Resources trip along the Lower Mississippi. The experience was part of a fellowship that also included exploration of the Upper Mississippi in 2018.

Post-Dispatch's Stu Durando Focuses On Caregivers, Victims Of Violence In 'Under The Gun' May 09, 2019

The latest local reminder of an ongoing nationwide epidemic came over the weekend as at least 19 people were injured and two people killed in St. Louis during multiple incidents involving guns. Guest host Jim Kirchherr talks with the St. Louis Post-Dispatch’s Stu Durando about his new book “Under the Gun: A children’s hospital on the front line of an American crisis.”

Terry Baker Mulligan On Writing, Motherhood and Raising ‘Sons Who Take Risks’ May 08, 2019

St. Louis-based author Terry Baker Mulligan, who wrote the award-winning memoir “Sugar Hill: Where the Sun Rose Over Harlem,” joins guest host Jim Kirchherr to discuss her new book “These Boys are Killing Me: Travels and Travails With Boys Who Take Risks,” and what lessons she’s learned from her experience as a mother.

Cori Bush, Amy Vilela And Fellow Progressives Look Beyond 2018 In 'Knock Down The House' May 08, 2019

It’s been about a year since New York’s Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and other progressive women around the country were busy taking on powerful Democratic incumbents during the 2018 midterms. St. Louisan Cori Bush was one of them, and her challenge of longtime Congressman Lacy Clay fell short in the primaries. But she and the three other candidates whose campaigns are featured in the new Netflix documentary “Knock Down The House” say 2018 was just the beginning. Bush and fellow progressive Amy Vilela, of Nevada, were both in St. Louis last week for the film’s premiere in select theaters including the Tivoli. In this episode of "St. Louis on the Air," they talk with producer Evie Hemphill.

Sculptor Edwina Sandys Discusses Art, The Cold War, Life As Winston Churchill’s Granddaughter May 07, 2019

Edwina Sandys, a sculptor and Winston Churchill's granddaughter, joins guest host Jim Kirchher to discus the sculpture she created in Fulton commemorating her grandfather's famous "Iron Curtain" speech, her artistic process and more.

SLSO's Stéphane Denève And Marie-Hélène Bernard Recap Season Ahead Of Finale May 07, 2019

Ahead of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra’s season finale, music director designate Stéphane Denève and CEO Marie-Hélène Bernard recap Denève’s first season at Powell Hall as music director designate and what’s in store for next season.

STLPR's Fred Ehrlich Offers Analysis Of Latest News Regarding Better Together Proposal May 07, 2019

The St. Louis Public Radio politics editor joins guest host Jim Kirchherr for an update on the news that broke this week about the ambitious plan that had aimed to consolidate St. Louis and St. Louis County governments.

Hit List: New St. Louis Restaurants To Try This May May 06, 2019

Sauce Magazine managing editor Catherine Klene and staff writer Matt Sorrell talk up some of the latest additions to the St. Louis region’s food-and-beverage community.

Midwest Leaders Talk Autonomous Vehicles And Their Potential Impact Among Local Communities May 06, 2019

The idea of autonomous vehicles, or AVs, used to seem rather futuristic. But if the latest technological advancements and general cultural buzz about self-driving cars are any indication, AVs are moving ever closer to becoming everyday transportation reality along U.S. roadways. What that shift could mean for all sorts of sectors and communities is on the minds of regional leaders who are gathering Tuesday for a town hall in St. Louis. The free event is aimed at fostering dialogue “about the full range of the impacts of AVs,” from workforce implications to environmental effects and more.

NPR’s Lead Political Editor Domenico Montanaro Talks National Politics, Modern Journalism May 03, 2019

NPR political editor Domenico Montanaro joins St. Louis Public Radio’s Shahla Farzan to discuss some of the latest hot-button political issues, how he goes about covering politics in increasingly politically contentious times and how teaching high school English prepared him to go on air.

How Local Businesses Are Celebrating Free Comic Book Day May 03, 2019

Free Comic Book Day dates back to 2002 and was started to help bring new readers into independent comic book stores. Local shops and libraries across the city and county will observe the event and offer visitors free comics. Apotheosis Comics & Lounge owner and resident comic book expert Martin Casas; Jim Mahfood, a St. Louis native who worked on “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse”; and Maggie Thurston, an indie comic artist, talk about the celebration and comics in general

Going Behind The Headlines On Stenger Reporting With Post-Dispatch's Jacob Barker May 03, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio’s Shahla Farzan takes a closer look at the biggest regional story of the week: the indictment and resignation of former St. Louis County Executive Steve Stenger. Joining the conversation is St. Louis Post-Dispatch reporter Jacob Barker, one of the journalists behind much of the reporting that detailed reasons why Stenger was indicted.

3 St. Louisans Talk Growing Presence, Influence Of Asian Pacific Americans In Region May 02, 2019

For native St. Louisan Bret Narayan, April was a big month. The first-term 24th Ward Alderman was sworn into office and is believed to be the first Asian Pacific American to serve on the city’s governing board. And with May being Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, Narayan is partnering with the Office of the St. Louis City Recorder of Deeds to celebrate the contributions of some of his fellow citizens. He talks with guest host Sharon Stevens alongside Anna Crosslin, president and CEO of the International Institute of St. Louis, and Harold Law, who first came to the United States in 1956 as a Chinese refugee and has since played integral civic roles in the local Asian American community.

‘There’s An Immortality To Theater’: Ed Asner, Jeff Cohen Talk ‘Soap Myth,’ Holocaust Remembrance May 02, 2019

Seven-time Emmy winner Ed Asner and playwright Jeff Cohen discuss the play "The Soap Myth," a play about an elderly Holocaust survivor on a mission, with "St. Louis on the Air" guest host Sharon Stevens.

Delving Into St. Louis County’s Latest Affordable Housing Report, Related Topics May 01, 2019

A new report by the St. Louis County Affordable Housing Trust Fund Task Force outlines various “place-based” and “mobility-based” strategies to create pathways for very low- and low-income families to move into neighborhoods with existing opportunity. Guest host Sharon Stevens discusses the report in depth with Chris Krehmeyer and Adrian Bracy, co-chairs of the task force. Chris Krehmeyer is the CEO of Beyond Housing and Adrian Bracy is the CEO of the YWCA of Metro St. Louis.

Literary Laughs In Store As Local Writers, Comedian And Weike Wang Combine Their Talents Next Week May 01, 2019

In the wide and varied world of entertainment, there are standup comedy shows, there are author readings – and then there’s the “literary reading comedy mashup.” That’s how the staff of the St. Louis-based literary magazine Boulevard is billing next week’s Three Writers and a Comedian shindig at the Schlafly Tap Room. Local writers Christopher Candice and Gabe Montesanti as well as Tina Dybal, the reigning champion of St. Louis’ Funniest Person Competition, discuss humor, writing and more ahead of the free event.

Sound Bites: How Keeping Food Out Of Landfills Makes The Earth Greener Apr 30, 2019

Composting and combating food waste are the subjects of this month's Sound Bites segment with Sauce Magazine. Sauce managing editor Heather Hughes and Total Organics Recycling marketing coordinator Sara Koziatek join guest host Sharon Stevens to explain what composting is, how it helps the environment and how some local restaurants are making it a priority to keep food scraps out of landfills.

Mercantile Library Promises Weekend Of Artist Demos, Treasures To Fit Every Budget At Print Fair Apr 30, 2019

For one weekend every year, the J.C. Penney Conference Center at the University of Missouri-St. Louis transforms into an art and book lover’s paradise. And this year, people can take it all in for free. Local artists Erin Blumer and Juliette Travous, who will be giving watercolor and pastel demonstrations during the final day of the fair, and the Mercantile Library’s fine arts curator, Julie Dunn-Morton, discuss the 13th annual event.

STLPR's Sarah Fentem Shares Merger-Related Takeaways From Her Recent Trip To Indianapolis Apr 30, 2019

The St. Louis region continues to buzz with questions about the Better Together proposal that would consolidate St. Louis and St. Louis County governments if the plan is approved in a statewide vote next year. St. Louis Public Radio's Sarah Fentem headed to another Midwestern city, one that went through a consolidation effort five decades ago, in search of some answers.

STLPR's Fred Ehrlich Gives Update On Changing Leadership In St. Louis County Apr 30, 2019

Following a newsy 24 hours since the federal indictment of now-former St. Louis County Executive Steve Stenger, St. Louis Public Radio politics editor Fred Ehrlich discusses what's ahead for county government.

Special Coverage Of Steve Stenger's Resignation With STLPR Reporters, UMSL Political Scientist Apr 30, 2019

Executive producer Alex Heuer talks with St. Louis Public Radio reporters Jason Rosenbaum and Rachel Lippmann, along with University of Missouri-St. Louis political scientist Dave Robertson regarding the resignation and indictment of former St. Louis County Executive Steve Stenger.

Gentlemen Of Vision Coach, Filmmakers Take St. Louis Story To Colombia Apr 29, 2019

The team behind “Gentlemen of Vision” expand on their trip to Cartagena, Colombia, where they showed the film and talked to Colombian audiences about St. Louis and the similar challenges that face disadvantaged young people in both places.

St. Louis County Executive Steve Stenger Resigns After Being Indicted On Pay-To-Play Allegations Apr 29, 2019

Guest host Sharon Stevens talks about the breaking news with St. Louis Public Radio political reporter Jason Rosenbaum, UMSL political scientist Dave Robertson and Washington University law professor Peter Joy.

STLPR's Jason Rosenbaum And Jo Mannies Talk With Former Missouri Gov. Matt Blunt Apr 26, 2019

Matt Blunt served as the Republican governor of the Show-Me State from 2005 to 2009. Since leaving office, he's become the president of the American Automotive Policy Council.

St. Louis Public Radio Investigative Reporter Discusses Recent Reporting On The Murder Rate In East St. Louis Apr 26, 2019

STLPR's Beth Hundsdorfer goes behind the headlines for a closer look at a newly published report.

CHARIS Women’s Choir Talks Inclusivity, Community Collaboration Ahead Of Spring Concert Apr 26, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio reporter Jonathan Ahl talks with CHARIS – The St. Louis Women’s Chorus artistic director Stuart Chapman Hill and members Wendy Bell and Emma Young about their spring season, community involvement and collaborations with other choruses and community arts and social services organizations.

Local Booksellers Have Big Plans For Independent Bookstore Day This Weekend Apr 25, 2019

Saturday is Independent Bookstore Day, and many of the bookstores in the St. Louis region and beyond are going all out for the celebration of an industry that is much more than business.

Webster U Professors Expand On Group’s Work To Provide Health, Legal Services At Southern Border Apr 25, 2019

The national dialogue about the immigrants and refugees seeking a better life in the U.S. is fraught with strong opinions and divisive rhetoric. But some St. Louisans are finding ways to turn their concern about what is happening at the border into action and service. A group of professors at Webster University have been involved in those efforts and have now taken two trips, along with groups of Webster students, to the border.

Never Another Late-Night King? Comedian Jay Leno Looks Beyond Appointment TV Ahead Of St. Louis Visit Apr 24, 2019

Comedian and former “Tonight Show” host Jay Leno delves into his career, what he makes of the rise in streaming services and waning of appointment viewing and more.

'Feeding Cahokia' Outlines New Findings About Agriculture, Women And Life In Ancient Civilization Apr 24, 2019

Cahokia Mounds – the peaceful, sprawling historic site that sits just outside Collinsville, Illinois – was once home to thousands of people. Contemporary understandings of what life was like within the thriving ancient civilization continue to evolve and expand, and Washington University paleoethnobiologist Gayle Fritz’s new research is part of that. Her new book “Feeding Cahokia: Early Agriculture in the North American Heartland” presents fresh findings about Cahokian agriculture – and about the role and status of the women who took the lead in this aspect of daily life.

The Latest Transplant Advancements, Continuing Needs In Light Of Donate Life Month Apr 23, 2019

The year 2018 was a record one for organ transplants in the U.S., with more than 36,000 people receiving new organs. But there is still great need for more donors: About 8,000 people die each year because the organs they need are not donated in time. Diane Brockmeier, president and CEO of Mid-America Transplant, and Dr. Will Chapman, chief of transplant surgery at Washington University and Barnes-Jewish Hospital, discuss some of the latest advancements and answer questions about becoming a donor.

‘A Feeling Of Home About It’: Leonard Slatkin Returns To St. Louis And To The SLSO Apr 23, 2019

Leonard Slatkin discusses his return to St. Louis ahead of a concert celebrating the 50th anniversary of his debut with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra.

Legal Roundtable Dives Into Latest Local, National Developments Apr 22, 2019

Our monthly Legal Roundtable got underway as St. Louis Public Radio reporter Jonathan Ahl delved into a variety of recent local and national stories pertaining to the law with Bill Freivogel, journalism professor at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, Mark Smith, associate vice chancellor of students at Washington University, Marie Kenyon, director of the Peace and Justice Commission of the Archdiocese of St. Louis.

KVtheWriter Takes Control Of Sticky Situation In 'Love Sucks!' EP Apr 19, 2019

Ever been dumped in an ice cream shop? Writer and artist Kayla “KVtheWriter” Thompson has, and she can assure the uninitiated that it’s not sweet. Did the experience ruin ice cream for her? Sure. But it also became the basis of her upcoming EP titled “Love Sucks!” St. Louis Public Radio reporter Jeremy D. Goodwin talks with Thompson about her curation of written, visual and aural depictions of her journey through love and loss.

St. Louis Treasurer Tishaura Jones Discusses City Finances, Improving Access To Banking Apr 19, 2019

St. Louis Treasurer Tishaura Jones joins St. Louis Public Radio reporter Jeremy D. Goodwin to discuss her plans to reevaluate the banks that are approved to handle the city's money, her opposition to Better Together, and more.

STLPR's Jeremy Goodwin Talks With Kaiser Health News Midwest Correspondent Lauren Weber Apr 19, 2019

This behind-the-headlines segment focuses on a new report about how syphilis is invading rural Missouri and a fraying health safety net is failing to stop it.

Accomplished Science Educator And Bee Expert Talks Trends, Myths Surrounding 6-Legged Friends Apr 18, 2019

The welfare of all sorts of insects has been garnering attention of late, with some disconcerting headlines about declining insect populations. St. Louis Public Radio’s Jeremy D. Goodwin talks with Webster University biologist Nicole Miller-Struttmann to learn more about what is happening and how humans can help bees and other insects thrive.

'Defining Millennials': Breaking Misconceptions, Sharing Experiences, More Apr 18, 2019

Millennials, who are set to outnumber baby boomers sometime this year, are members of a generation often dubbed as lazy, oversensitive and entitled. But are they really? Or are they just misunderstood and maligned? Eric Goedereis, associate professor of psychology at Webster University and academic director of Webster’s gerontology program; Kendra Elaine, a millennial leadership expert and diversity coach; and Steph Kukuljan, a St. Louis Business Journal reporter, discuss the millennial generation, their experiences, misconceptions about them and more.

The Past, Present And Future Of St. Louis' Major Fires, Historic Buildings Apr 17, 2019

The flames that engulfed Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris on Monday have people around the world thinking about the importance of cultural preservation and fire safety as well as the fragility of cherished landmarks. St. Louis Public Radio's Jeremy D. Goodwin explores how those topics have informed local efforts associated with protecting historic buildings and St. Louis’ cultural heritage.

Delving Into Life, Legacy of Louis Armstrong With Author Ricky Riccardi Apr 17, 2019

Ricky Riccardi – author of “What a Wonderful World: The Magic of Louis Armstrong’s Later Years” – sits down with St. Louis Public Radio’s Jeremy D. Goodwin to discuss the importance and impact of Armstrong’s early career.

O’Fallon, Missouri-Based Author Of ‘American Hemp’ Sees Big Potential For The Newly Legalized Crop Apr 16, 2019

Jen Hobbs' just-released book is titled “American Hemp: How Growing Our Newest Cash Crop Can Improve Our Health, Clean Our Environment, And Slow Climate Change.”

Hot Pursuit: St. Louis County Officer Explains Police Chase Policies, Practices Apr 16, 2019

St. Louis County police officer Benjamin Granda joins producer Alex Heuer to discuss how officers decide when or when not to chase down a suspect, and how attitudes toward chases have shifted recently.

‘Long Roads To Freedom’ Civil War Panel Honors St. Louisans Who Championed Civil Rights Apr 15, 2019

Harris-Stowe State University and Missouri Humanities Council are commemorating some of the city’s past residents in a new Civil War panel titled “Long Roads to Freedom.” Delving into the topic's history are Gregory Wolk, Heritage Resources coordinator for Missouri Humanities Council, and Gregory Carr, Instructor in Speech and Theater at Harris Stowe State University.

How The Home Works Program Is Helping Students, Teachers Succeed In The Classroom Apr 15, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio reporter Jeremy D. Goodwin talks with Karen Kalish, founder and CEO of Home Works, The Teacher Home Visit Program; Lisa Pines, a school secretary at Vashon High School who has made over 80 home visits; and Diane Dymond, principal of Stix Early Childhood Center.

'The Best Office In The City': Forest Park's Lead Horticulturist Talks Plants, Spring Suggestions Apr 12, 2019

A conversation with Forest Park Forever’s horticulture superintendent Roman Fox about all things Forest Park in the springtime, including the best spots for a walk in the park and how his team maintains all of the plant life.

St. Louis Activists Help Build Protest Movement For Immigrant Rights In Southwest Texas Apr 12, 2019

St. Louis activists have been applying the community-organizing skills they learned during Ferguson on the southern U.S. border to protest the Trump administration's border policies. St. Louis visual journalist Carolina Hidalgo recently returned from reporting on their actions and joins this conversation alongside activists Cathy "Mama Cat" Daniela and Elizabeth Vega.

The 2019 St. Louis Teen Talent Competition Finals Promise A Showcase Of Rising Stars Apr 12, 2019

St. Louis is home to a thriving performing arts scene, with a wide range of plays, concerts and much more on the collective playbill any night of the week. But it’s not every day a show provides a little of everything – all of it courtesy of some of the city’s youngest performers. On Saturday evening, the 2019 St. Louis Teen Talent Competition will bring audience members a total of 15 performances that run the gamut, from vocal and instrumental numbers and dances to musical theater and circus acts.

'The Backbone' Of US Government: Former Diplomat Tom Countryman On The Future Of Civil Service Apr 11, 2019

Tom Countryman, the former U.S. State Department assistant secretary for International Security and Nonproliferation, discusses the future of diplomacy and civil service and modern diplomatic concerns with St. Louis Public Radio reporter Rachel Lippmann.

Josh Hawley Reflects On His First Few Months In The U.S. Senate With STLPR's Jason Rosenbaum Apr 11, 2019

Saturday marks the 100th day that U.S Sen. Josh Hawley has been in office.

NGA, SLU And The 21st-Century Geospatial Ecosystem Apr 10, 2019

David Berczek, chief of the NGA Office of Corporate Communications West, and Ken Olliff, vice president for research at Saint Louis University, joined Wednesday’s St. Louis on the Air to discuss the future of the geospatial ecosystem in our region.

Rafia Zafar's 'Recipes For Respect' Explodes Stereotypes, Illumines History Of African American Food Apr 10, 2019

“When is a cookbook more than a set of instructions? And how might a meal rewrite history?” These two questions frame Washington University scholar Rafia Zafar’s exploration of the rich history of African American food and dining in her new book “Recipes For Respect: African American Meals and Meaning.” In it, Zafar leads readers to a deeper understanding of the authors and chefs whose lives and contributions she brings to the fore.

Drawing On A Tradition Of ‘Protest Music’: Singer-Songwriter Jay Farrar Discusses Latest Son Volt Album Apr 09, 2019

Jay Farrar, lead singer and songwriter for the St. Louis band Son Volt, discusses their newest album "Union" with producer Alex Heuer

'Facing Segregation' Co-Editors, EHOC Rep Share Evidence-Based Solutions For St. Louis And Beyond Apr 09, 2019

Washington University’s Molly Metzger and Hank Webber are co-editors of the new book “Facing Segregation: Housing Policy Solutions for a Stronger Society.” Will Jordan is the executive director of the Metropolitan St. Louis Equal Housing and Opportunity Council, or EHOC.

St. Louis Blues' Soon-To-Retire National Anthem Singer Reflects On 19 Years' Worth of Performances Apr 08, 2019

For the past 19 years, Charles Glenn’s voice has regularly set the tone for St. Louis Blues home games. Last week he announced that this will be his last season singing “The Star-Spangled Banner” for the hockey team, citing multiple sclerosis as a factor in his decision to retire.

'Fake News' Then And Now: New Film Digs Into Joseph Pulitzer's Life And Legacy, Connections To Today Apr 08, 2019

Like many documentarians, Oren Rudavsky delved into his latest film project eager to “get under the surface” of his subject’s public persona. And his soon-to-premiere documentary “Joseph Pulitzer: Voice of the People” manages to do just that. But Rudavsky’s primary reasons for making the film about the celebrated giant of American journalism and founder of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch were political ones, he tells executive producer Alex Heuer.

Endangered Wolf Center Studies Why Captive African Painted Dogs Look Different Than Wild Ones Apr 05, 2019

Science reporter Eli Chen takes listeners on a trip to the Endangered Wolf Center in Eureka, Missouri, to show how the center is seeking to understand and support the endangered African painted dog. The center is currently home to 23 painted dogs who were born this past winter.

Behind The Headlines: An Oral History Of The 'St. Louis Six,' From Slaughterhouse To Sanctuary Apr 05, 2019

The Riverfront Times' Danny Wicentowski goes behind the headlines with St. Louis Public Radio's Alex Heuer to remember the steers who took the city by storm – and the people who helped them find their way back to pasture. Also participating in the discussion are Ellie Laks, founder of the Gentle Barn, and local rescue enthusiasts Adam Brewer and Kelly Manno.

Talking All Things Sport, Literature And More With Gerald Early Apr 04, 2019

Acclaimed scholar, critic and essayist Gerald Early discusses a variety of topics: including baseball, his latest book, "The Cambridge Champion of Boxing," and the value of literary works.

As Cardinals Prepare For Delayed Home Opener, Derrick Goold Delves Into The Team’s Present, History Apr 04, 2019

The St. Louis Post-Dispatch's lead Cardinals beat reporter Derrick Goold joins St. Louis Public Radio reporter Rachel Lippmann to discuss the new baseball season and his revised book on the team's history.

Wash U Doctors Take Mental-Health-Focused Approach To Trauma, Care and Justice Apr 03, 2019

Producer Alex Heuer talks with two Washington University School of Medicine professionals who are spearheading efforts to help Rohingya refugees living in camps located in Bangladesh: Dr. Anne Glowinski, professor of psychiatry, and Dr. Rupa Patel, assistant professor of medicine.

UMSL Student Entrepreneurs Take Their Business Concepts To Next Level Apr 03, 2019

UMSL student Letisha Wexstten won $15,000 two weeks ago in a campus competition for her business concept that aims to help people with disabilities find employment. Alex Zvibleman won $10,000 for his coffee-shop concept, and Bailee Warsing and Tim Bragg won $5,000 for the business they've co-founded, Singular Construction Automation. They discuss the stories behind their endeavors and what's next with producer Evie Hemphill.

Hit List: Sauce Magazine's Top Picks For New Local Restaurants To Try During The Month Of April Apr 02, 2019

Sauce Magazine managing editors Catherine Klene and Heather Hughes talk up some of the latest additions to the St. Louis region’s food-and-beverage community.

Mark Wrighton Talks Legacy As Wash U Chancellor, Future At Better Together Apr 02, 2019

After leading Washington University for nearly a quarter century, Chancellor Mark Wrighton will retire this summer. He joined St. Louis Public Radio's Maria Altman to discuss his tenure at the school, and his future as campaign chairman for Better Together.

A Conversation With Fort Leonard Wood's New Leader, Maj. Gen. Donna Martin Apr 01, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio's Jonathan Ahl talks with U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Donna Martin, who is the first woman and third African American to lead the base.

Sound Bites: How St. Louisans Are Turning Their Love For Beer Into A Thriving Homebrewing Scene Apr 01, 2019

It’s no secret that St. Louisans love their beer, so much so that some take the matter into their own hands with no intention of ever going pro. Homebrewing is the subject of this month’s Sound Bites segment with Sauce Magazine. Producer Lara Hamdan talks with local homebrewers Suzie Emiliozzi, president of The OG: Women’s Craft Beer Collective, and Troy Meier, president of the STL Hops Homebrew Club. Sauce managing editor Catherine Klene also participated in the discussion.

'A Natural, Powerful, Beautiful Part Of Life': Pushing Back Against Ageism With Ashton Applewhite Apr 01, 2019

Twenty-first-century humans who make it to age 65 are tending to live longer than previous generations did – a pattern that Ashton Applewhite describes as a global demographic phenomenon and one that should be celebrated. Applewhite is the author of "This Chair Rocks: A Manifesto Against Ageism."

Former Secretary Of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano Shares Insights On American Security Policy Mar 29, 2019

Former Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano delves into how American security policy has developed since 9/11, as well as the ways in which politicians have ignored significant threats like domestic extremism, cybersecurity and climate change.

Going Behind The Headlines On Recent Developments In Steve Stenger's Office Mar 29, 2019

Political reporter Jason Rosenbaum and politics editor Fred Ehrlich unpacked all of the recent news out of the St. Louis County executive office and its implications for the Better Together proposal.

St. Louisan Mendel Rosenberg Reflects On Holocaust, Lessons For Today In New Memoir 'Thriver' Mar 29, 2019

Local journalist Dick Weiss has partnered with Mendel Rosenberg on his newly published memoir titled “Thriver: My Journey Through Holocaust Nightmare to American Dream.”

Another Look At The Loop Now That Its Trolley Is Operating Mar 28, 2019

Joining this conversation with executive producer Alex Heuer is Rachelle L’Ecuyer, executive director of the Delmar Loop. The segment also includes pre-recorded comments from passersby, business owners, a Loop Trolley rider and St. Louis University's Bob Lewis, who is an assistant professor of urban planning and development.

'Diversity In Approach Is Our Strength': Bill Kristol And Sarah Kendzior On Navigating Politically Divided Times Mar 28, 2019

Conservative commentator Bill Kristol and progressive journalist and writer Sarah Kendzior discuss how to move forward in the current divided American political landscape.

Interactive 'Print To Pixels' Exhibit At Central Library Demonstrates How Words Changed The World Mar 26, 2019

With items on display ranging from cuneiform to 3D printers, the new exhibit at St. Louis Public Library’s Central Library branch showcases the evolution of print over the course of two millennia. Titled “Print to Pixels,” it looks at how words have changed the world “in nearly every way possible,” as Waller McGuire puts it. He and Eric Woods, owner of the Firecracker Press, discuss it.

Catching Up With Longtime St. Louis Television Personality Karen Foss Mar 26, 2019

For 27 years, Karen Foss was a familiar face for many people in the St. Louis region. She worked as a TV anchorwoman for KSDK (Channel 5) from 1979 until her retirement in 2006. Host Don Marsh talks to her about her role in news coverage and her take on the industry today.

How Can Consumers Protect Their Privacy As Advanced Artificial Intelligence Becomes Commonplace? Mar 25, 2019

Host Don Marsh talks about artificial intelligence and big data tracking in light of growing privacy concerns, as well as the role of AI in the health-care industry.

Retiring St. Louis Zoo Employees Discuss Animals They've Cared For Over The Years, Evolution Of Zoos Mar 25, 2019

It takes a village to raise a child, and it might take even more than that to care for the nearly 15,000 animals that call the St. Louis Zoo home. Jack Grisham and Eric Miller are two people who know this well. They are retiring from the St. Louis Zoo after a combined 66 years of work experience there.

Local Muslim Community Addresses Mental Health And Security Concerns After New Zealand Massacre Mar 22, 2019

Host Don Marsh talks with local members of the Muslim community about the aftermath of the terrorist attack on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand.

The Pros – And Cons – Of Rising Property Values Mar 22, 2019

Host Don Marsh talks to St. Louis County assessor Jake Zimmerman about the recent rise in property values in the county, and the potential impact on property taxes.

Behind The Headlines: Examining Coal Ash Waste In Missouri Mar 22, 2019

Host Don Marsh talks with science reporter Eli Chen in light of proposed changes to Missouri's regulations on coal ash contamination.

Going Beyond Musical Giants Of St. Louis: Illustrated Book Highlights Local Performers, Venues, More Mar 21, 2019

Many of St. Louis' known – and not-so-known – performers are included in a big pictorial history of St. Louis and its music, titled “St. Louis Sound: An Illustrated Timeline.” It also goes beyond the men and women who made and wrote the music; it includes the disc jockeys who promoted it, the record stores that sold it and the venues where musicians performed in. Host Don Marsh talks with the authors of the book, Steve Pick and Amanda Doyle.

Legal Roundtable Looks At Latest Local, National Developments Mar 20, 2019

The discussion touches on regional matters including pretrial detention at the St. Louis' medium-security Workhouse, the latest news surrounding the Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner’s office and the police department, and the proposed Missouri legislation that would change Title IX procedures at colleges and universities in the state, among other topics.

‘You’re Just You Up There’: Beverly Brennan On ‘Love And Marriage’ And Cabaret Mar 19, 2019

It’s been said that life is a cabaret. But what exactly is a cabaret? Ask storyteller and performer Beverly Buck Brennan, and she’ll list three key things: a singer, a piano and someone to play it. “Cabaret also, by definition, is about getting to know the performer personally,” the lifelong St. Louisan says. “It’s not like you’re in a musical or you’re playing a character – you’re just you up there, which I had to learn about … I had to really pull back [from musical-theater training] … and try to mellow out and be really in a conversation with the audience.”

Ozarks Cuisine Takes Center Stage At Bulrush, Set To Open This Spring Mar 19, 2019

Including Missouri, Arkansas and Oklahoma, the Ozarks is a geographic region known for its mountainous topography, forests and tourism. The region also has a unique culinary history. Host Don Marsh talks to St. Louis native and chef Rob Connoley, the James Beard Award semifinalist for Best Chef Southwest who is planning to open a restaurant rooted in Ozark cuisine.

‘There’s Always Been An Extra Spot’ For Wealthy, Privileged Students: Inside College Admissions Mar 18, 2019

Alan Byrd, dean of enrollment at University of Missouri-St. Louis, and Debbie Greenberg, College Bound's director of college counseling, discuss longstanding disparities and ongoing challenges within the college-admissions industry.

Composer, Trumpeter Terence Blanchard Talks Upcoming Opera Premiere, Working With Spike Lee Mar 18, 2019

The name Terence Blanchard is well known in the worlds of jazz and opera. Host Don Marsh talks with the Academy Award nominee and Grammy Award-winning composer/trumpeter about his latest OSTL commissioned production, “Fire Shut Up in My Bones,” as well as his work on the recent Spike Lee film, "BlacKkKlansman."

St. Louis Board Of Alderman Election Results Have Some Calling For Ranked-Choice Voting Mar 15, 2019

Host Don Marsh explores alternative forms of voting with David Kimball, professor and Graduate Director of Political Science at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. Some methods include ranked choice, proportional and cumulative voting.

From Kenya To California, ‘Superpower Dogs’ IMAX Film Shows How Dogs Help Save Mankind Mar 15, 2019

Dogs are often regarded as “man’s best friend,” but to many, they can be so much more. “Superpower Dogs,” a new IMAX film which opens Friday and plays through July at the St. Louis Science Center, shows working dogs all over the world and the ways they are vital – from search and rescue to protecting endangered wildlife.

Missouri Legislative Action Halfway Through The Session Mar 15, 2019

Host Don Marsh talks with political reporter Jason Rosenbaum in advance of legislators' spring break. Fights over abortion, transportation and finances lie ahead.

Celebrating All Things St. Louis For 314 Day Mar 14, 2019

March 14 is celebrated nationally as Pi Day in honor of the mathematical constant π. But in St. Louis, the local community acknowledges another aspect of the 314 numerical value – the city itself. For years, locals – especially in the black community – have embraced showing pride for St. Louis through informal gatherings or St. Louis-themed parties and supporting local businesses.

Backers Of Proposed $175 Million Convention-Center Upgrade Hope To Sustain, Grow Regional Revenue Mar 13, 2019

To hear Kitty Ratcliffe tell it, the America’s Center Convention Center in downtown St. Louis has had a good run since it first opened in 1977 – and since it grew bigger with the addition of the Dome in 1995. But now, the president of Explore St. Louis says, the 42-year-old complex needs some major attention – to the tune of $175 million in upgrades and expansion.

Sylvester Brown Shares What's Possible 'When We Listen' Mar 13, 2019

Seven years ago, writer and community activist Sylvester Brown founded the Sweet Potato Project in north St. Louis to promote urban farming and provide entrepreneurial skills to underserved youth. Brown’s involvement in the project has now led to his newly released book “When We Listen: Recognizing The Potential of Urban Youth.” He talks with host Don Marsh about his vision for engaging area young people and their impact on the future.

Producer Paul Blake Reflects On 'Beautiful' Return To Fox Theatre, 22 Years At The Muny, Carole King Mar 12, 2019

When “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” opens its 2019 North American tour at the Fabulous Fox Theatre Tuesday evening , it will be a bit of a homecoming for stage producer Paul Blake. Blake, who joined host Don Marsh on Tuesday’s St. Louis on the Air, spent 22 years as executive producer at the Muny.

Wash U Researchers Discuss Latest Findings About Suicidal Ideation Among Children, Young People Mar 12, 2019

A study released this week by the National Institutes of Health indicates that nearly one-third of Americans between the ages of 10 and 12 “screened positive for suicide risk in emergency department settings.” Meanwhile, researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have been studying even younger children who think and talk about suicide – and their most recent findings refute some conventional wisdom about children’s understanding of what it means to die.

A Look At Efforts To Attract Young Professionals To The St. Louis Region Mar 11, 2019

Host Don Marsh discuses a variety of local efforts underway to attract and retain newcomers to the St. Louis region.

Thinking Outside The Lawn: Fostering Native Habitats, Caring For Natural World Right In The Backyard Mar 11, 2019

Even as an especially wintry winter continues to make itself known across the St. Louis region, spring is more and more on residents’ minds – and will finally be here, at least officially, in less than two weeks. Along with warmer temperatures the new season brings renewed focus on gardening and yardwork. Representatives from the St. Louis Audubon Society, Shaw Nature Reserve and the Missouri Department of Conservation discuss ideas for fostering native habitats and incorporating native plants as part of those efforts.

A Look At Efforts To Attract Young Professionals To The St. Louis Region Mar 11, 2019

Host Don Marsh discusses local efforts underway to attract and retain newcomers to the region – and also delve into how transplants can take advantage of the innovation community in St. Louis.

'Fly Girls' Author Celebrates 5 Remarkable Women Pilots Who Broke Barriers During Great Depression Mar 08, 2019

Ninety years ago, daring air races across the U.S. routinely attracted crowds that would dwarf attendance at spectacles such as the Super Bowl today. “I’m talking about a half million people – paying customers – during the Great Depression coming out to watch races over the course of a weekend,” Keith O’Brien said during Friday’s St. Louis on the Air. “An additional half million would watch for free from the hoods of their automobiles parked on nearby highways … in this little window of time, air racing was one of the most popular sports in America.” The pilots vying for the prize were usually men, and the few women pilots were often ridiculed – until they combined forces to break down barriers and make aviation history.

Behind The Headlines: Understanding The Challenges Facing Public School Teachers In St. Louis Mar 08, 2019

Earlier this week, the local union representing educators who serve in St. Louis Public Schools began arbitration relating to its claims about pay discrepancy within the district. Host Don Marsh led a conversation in light of that news, touching on challenges surrounding teacher compensation as well as other matters.

6 Questions And Answers With St. Louis County Executive Steve Stenger Mar 07, 2019

Host Don Marsh talks with St. Louis County Executive Steve Stenger about the state of the county and recent news concerning the region.

NASA Astronaut Cady Coleman Celebrates Missouri Girl Scouts, Shares ‘Magic’ Of Life In Space Mar 07, 2019

Retired astronaut and U.S. Air Force officer Catherine “Cady” Coleman is among very few people who have lived in space. But during a visit to St. Louis last month, she came across as equally excited about life on earth – especially because of her interactions with some accomplished high school students. Thursday’s "St. Louis on the Air" included a conversation with Coleman as well as comments from two Gold Award Girl Scouts, 17-year-old Molly Frei and 16-year-old Lilly Orskog, whom Coleman came to town to help celebrate alongside the Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri.

Affordable-Housing Crisis In St. Louis Area Mirrors National Trends, Says Urban Strategies President Mar 06, 2019

A 2018 study by the National Low Income Housing Coalition showed that a St. Louisan who earns minimum wage would have to work 81 hours per week in order to afford a modest apartment. That reality is part of what Esther Shin describes as a "national affordable-housing challenge" stretching from San Francisco to New York City.

St. Louis Board of Aldermen Primary Election Analysis Mar 06, 2019

Host Don Marsh discusses the results of the St. Louis primary election in which race for president of the Board of Aldermen is the most high profile.

'Too Many Families Going To Bed Hungry': A Look At Food Insecurity In The St. Louis Region Mar 05, 2019

Roughly 850,000 people are facing food insecurity in the state of Missouri alone – and that includes about 220,000 kids. Representatives from Food Outreach, Operation Food Search and the St. Louis Area Foodbank discuss the issue and their distinctive efforts to address it.

‘Probably The Biggest Party On Earth’: Comparing Mardi Gras Celebrations In St. Louis And Brazil Mar 05, 2019

Mardi Gras one of St. Louis’ biggest events, but it’s even bigger in cities across the county and world. The holiday dates back to the middle ages and has evolved over time. Host Don Marsh explores Mardi Gras festivities here in St. Louis and Brazil, where the holiday is referred to as Carnival.

Local CPA Answers Questions As April 15 Tax-Filing Deadline Looms Mar 04, 2019

Many average Americans aren’t seeing the kinds of refunds they expected in the wake of President Trump’s Tax Cuts and Jobs Act – instead, it’s wealthier people that are tending to see larger refunds. That’s according to Lance Weiss, a certified public accountant and partner with SFW Partners, LLC in St. Louis.

Hit List: Sauce Magazine's Top Picks For New Local Restaurants To Try During The Month Of March Mar 04, 2019

Host Don Marsh talks about some of the latest additions to the St. Louis region’s food-and-beverage community with Sauce Magazine managing editor Catherine Klene and staff writer Matt Sorrell.

Behind the Headlines: Methodists Vote To Uphold Ban On Same-Sex Weddings, LGBTQ Clergy Mar 01, 2019

At a United Methodist Church conference in St. Louis, delegates from around the world narrowly voted to uphold a ban on same-sex weddings and on ordaining LGBTQ clergy. We talk with STLPR reporter Shahla Farzan about the conference and with two Methodists about the decision.

Missouri-Based Adoptee, Adoptee-Rights Advocate Share Personal Stories And Insights Mar 01, 2019

Host Don Marsh talks with two St. Louisans directly impacted by adoption – and by the Missouri Adoptee Rights Act, which thousands of people have taken advantage of since the legislation passed in 2016. Patti Naumann is a lineal descendant of a deceased Missouri adoptee, and Jason Reckamp is an adoptee who recently connected with his birth parents after many years of searching.

Seeking ‘A Better Ride’: Bi-State’s New CEO Talks Future Of Metro Transit, Customer Safety, Comfort Feb 28, 2019

Taulby Roach, who started as CEO and president of Bi-State Development about two months ago, discusses the state of public transit in the St. Louis region.

Sound Bites: The Art Of Chocolate Making And Experimenting With ‘Funky’ Flavor Combinations Feb 28, 2019

St. Louis on the Air’s latest Sound Bites segment with Sauce Magazine explores how local chocolatiers create confections ranging from truffles and sauces to classic chocolate bars – and what makes them different from mass-produced chocolates from companies such as Mars and Hershey’s.

'Segregation by Design' Puts St. Louisans In Conversation With Harris-Stowe, Wash U Scholars Feb 26, 2019

A new volume co-edited by Harris-Stowe State University's Mark Abbott and Washington University's Catalina Freixas features a variety of locally based conversations, as well as essays by current and former St. Louisans in response to those conversations, reflecting on the experience of segregation in America and ways to address it.

St. Louis Band Ms Hy-C & Fresh Start Reflect On International Blues Challenge Win Feb 26, 2019

Locally based musicians Ms Hy-C and the Fresh Start band caught international attention when they won first place in the 2019 International Blues Challenge held in Memphis last month. Host Don Marsh talks with several of the band members: lead singer Jacinta Branch-Griffin – also known as Ms Hy-C – as well as guitar player Thomas “Tommie” Johnson and drummer Tyrone McCain.

Legal Roundtable Looks At Implications Of National Emergency, Other Matters Feb 25, 2019

Joining host Don Marsh for in-depth analysis in this segment are Mark Smith, J.D., associate vice chancellor of students at Washington University; William Freivogel, J.D., journalism professor at Southern Illinois University Carbondale; and Donna Harper, J.D., partner at Sedey Harper Westhoff P.C.

Bidding Farewell to Johnny Mac's After 52 Years Feb 22, 2019

The local sporting goods store Johnny Mac's announced it was being acquired by a Texas company and will close its retail locations. The company's president Bob McArthur joins host Don Marsh to discuss his memories from the store and the difficulties for local businesses competing with online retailers.

Bidding Farewell to Johnny Mac’s After 52 Years Feb 22, 2019

The local sporting goods store Johnny Mac's announced it was being acquired by a Texas company and will close its retail locations. The company's president Bob McArthur joins host Don Marsh to discuss his memories from the store and the difficulties for local businesses competing with online retailers.

Behind The Headlines: US Supreme Court Rules On Civil Asset Forfeiture Feb 22, 2019

Our weekly Behind the Headlines segment is an update to a story we brought you Monday about civil asset forfeiture. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled unanimously on the matter earlier this week.

On-Air Tribute To Former St. Louis Public Radio Forecaster Ben Abell, Dead At 86 Feb 22, 2019

We listen to excerpts of a May 2, 2007 conversation with Ben Abell, a tongue-in-cheek pledge drive skit from decades ago and listener reflections.

Spreading Ari’s Light: Dance Therapy Initiative In St. Louis Honors Arianna Dougan Feb 21, 2019

Host Don Marsh talks to three guests about the benefits of dance therapy – also known as movement therapy –for cancer patients.

St. Louisian Derik Scott Advances To ‘Titan Games’ Semi-Finals with ‘The Rock’ on NBC Feb 21, 2019

Last month, NBC premiered Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s show “Titan Games,” a reality television program where men and women compete in emotional and daunting physical challenges. Tonight, the semi-finalists will compete and inch one step closer to the final prize –among them is native St. Louisan Derik Scott. The 30-year-old attorney joins host Don Marsh to talk about his participation in the athletic competition.

St. Louis Native Kevin Mayes’ Costume Work On ‘Black Panther’ In Oscar Spotlight Feb 21, 2019

The Marvel hit “Black Panther” brought the fictional country of Wakanda to the big screen and showcased exuberant sub-Saharan African culture – and St. Louis native Kevin Mayes was a part of that process. Mayes is a clothing designer who served as the head tailor for the film’s costumes, helping bring the visions of designer Ruth E. Carter to life.

3 Candidates, 3 Questions, 3 Answers In Race For St. Louis Board Of Aldermen President Feb 20, 2019

Host Don Marsh talks with incumbent President Lewis Reed, who has held the seat since 2007, along with two key challengers, Alderwoman Megan Green, who currently represents the city’s 15th Ward, and state Senator Jamilah Nasheed, whose 5th District includes the eastern half of St. Louis.

'Incredibly Concerning' And Growing Number Of US Teens Are Vaping, Says Wash U Researcher Feb 19, 2019

A recent study of American teenagers showed a big jump in nicotine vaping among young people in 2018. Even as many steer clear of other substance-related activities such as binge drinking and drug use, the number of teens who are vaping has more than doubled since 2017. "The data shows that one in five middle schoolers are using these products and one in three high school [students] are using these products, so those are incredibly concerning numbers,” Dr. Patricia Cavazos-Rehg said during Tuesday’s St. Louis on the Air Cavazos-Rehg, who is an associate professor in the Washington University School of Medicine’s Department of Psychiatry, told host Don Marsh there’s a need for more education about vaping – and its risks – among both teens and their caregivers.

Catching Up With The St. Louis Fire Department Feb 19, 2019

Host Don Marsh discusses the current state of the St. Louis Fire Department, touching on various recent initiatives as well as challenges ahead. Joining him for the conversation are Chief Dennis Jenkerson and Capt. Garon Mosby.

Civil Asset Forfeiture - Important Drug-Fighting Tool Or Policing For Profit? Feb 18, 2019

Host Don Marsh delves into the way in which police departments use civil asset forfeiture as well as its legal implications. St. Louis Public Radio city politics reporter Rachel Lippmann and legal expert William Freivogel join the discussion.

Wash U Sociologist's New Book Explores How Women Navigate Work And Family In US, Elsewhere Feb 18, 2019

Host Don Marsh talks with Caitlyn Collins, author of "Making Motherhood Work: How Women Manage Careers and Caregiving." The newly released book looks at working mothers' daily lives and the revolution in public policy and culture needed to improve them.

Mother Of Bullying Victim, STLPR Reporters Discuss Difficulty Of Addressing Cyber Bullying Feb 15, 2019

St. Louis Public reporters Ryan Delaney and Lindsay Toler talk about the effects of cyberbullying and its impact a one local family as well as the challenges in trying to get cyberbullying removed. Tina Meier, whose 13-year-old daughter Megan took her own life in 2006 after she was bullied online, joins the conversation. Tina established the Megan Meier Foundation in 2007 to wage a campaign against cyberbullying.

Behind the Headlines: More Questions – And Some More Answers – About Potential City-County Merger Feb 15, 2019

The St. Louis Public Radio newsroom has been fielding a wide range of questions from listeners the past few weeks concerning Better Together’s recently unveiled proposal for a reunification of St. Louis and St. Louis County. Host Don Marsh and several STLPR journalists aim to provide answers to a number of those Curious Louis queries that haven’t already been answered.

The Good, The Bad, The Ugly Side Of Fast Fashion Feb 14, 2019

A Curtain Closing For The Rep’s Artistic Leader, Steven Woolf Feb 14, 2019

For more than 30 years, Steven Woolf has been at the heart of the Repertory Theater of St. Louis. Since taking the helm as artistic director in 1986, Woolf oversaw three decades of productions and directed 47 shows. He joins host Don Marsh to reflect on his career, and to discuss his last production at The Rep – “Oslo.”

‘Parents Are Children's First, Best Teachers’: How Home-Visiting Model ‘Adds Value’ To Development Feb 13, 2019

Constance Gully, CEO of Parents as Teachers, joins host Don Marsh to talk about the national (with local roots) organization’s efforts to promote optimal early development in children by educating and engaging parents and guardians.

St. Louis Native Quincy Troupe Reflects On Miles Davis' Music, Friendship Feb 13, 2019

Host Don Marsh talks with Quincy Troupe about his friendship with Miles Davis, stories about the jazz great and a review of some of his music.

Combating ‘Angry Love’ With ‘Ruthless Compassion’: How To Help Children Struggling With Bad Behavior Feb 12, 2019

If a child faces abuse, neglect and/or household dysfunction early on life, those experiences can later affect how they form relationships with others. Some may resort to treating others in harsh ways, reflecting what they perceive as something that “resembles love.

Stephen Zwolak, founder and CEO of LUME Institute and executive director of University City Children’s Center, and Joshua Carlson, a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois and associate director of The Knowledge Center at Chaddock, explain to help intervene and address children struggling with challenging behavior.

What To Make Of The Fact That St. Louis Now Has A Selfie Museum Feb 12, 2019

The Selfie Room just made its debut in downtown St. Louis, offering the latest evidence of a seemingly ever-present selfie phenomenon. The museum’s mission is to “bring people together by taking photos with fun, whimsical backdrops” that comprise its interactive art exhibits. In this episode, host Don Marsh talks with Selfie Room co-owner Erica Klotz about what visitors can expect at the new entertainment destination – and also discusses the broader cultural landscape that surrounds it. Amber Hinsley, an associate professor in the Department of Communication at St. Louis University, and Jennifer Siciliani, a University of Missouri-St. Louis psychology professor in the area of behavioral neuroscience, also participate in the conversation.

Beyond The 'Rhetoric' – Reclaiming What's Become Almost A Pejorative Term Feb 11, 2019

While the art of persuasion and the study of public discourse have enriched human civilization for millennia, negative connotations frequently surround contemporary notions of rhetoric. Politicians are dismissed as "all rhetoric, no action," and talking heads on TV make everyday people sigh over "all the rhetoric" of the 24-hour news cycle. But for those who conduct research in the academic field of rhetoric – and anyone interested in the work that words can do – the term "rhetoric" still holds great hope and possibility for society. Host Don Marsh talks with two local scholars, Lauren Obermark and Paul Lynch, about cultural understandings of rhetoric, its positive uses and the ever-shifting ways in which humans communicate.

History Channel’s ‘President’s At War’ To Highlight Missouri S&T’s John McManus Feb 11, 2019

A two-night History Channel series, “Presidents at War,” will tell the stories of eight men who served in active duty and who would later become presidents of the United States. Host Don Marsh talks with military historian John McManus, a professor of history at Missouri S&T, who is featured in the show. In it, McManus specifically comments on the role of Dwight D. Eisenhower.

Behind The Headlines: Talking About Wash U Student Ngone Seck With Reporter Nancy Fowler Feb 08, 2019

STLPR reporter Nancy Fowler talks about her story published earlier in the week about first-generation student Ngone Seck whose dental problems are presenting a roadblock.

Behind The Headlines: Nancy Fowler Talks In-Depth About Her Story On Ngone Seck Feb 08, 2019

STLPR reporter Nancy Fowler talks in-depth about her story published earlier in the week about Ngone Seck, a first-generation student at Washington University whose encountered dental problems.

Behind the Headlines: A Closer Look At Sunshine Law In Missouri And Illinois Feb 08, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio investigative reporter Beth Hundsdorfer and longtime political reporter Jo Mannies offer analysis and context in light of what critics have called a "broadside attack" on Missouri Sunshine Law by state legislators.

Hit List: New St. Louis restaurants to try this February Feb 08, 2019

Host Don Marsh talks up some of the latest additions to the St. Louis region’s food-and-beverage community. Joining Marsh for the Hit List segment are Sauce Magazine managing editor Heather Hughes and staff writer Adam Rothbarth.

20 Years Before Virginia Blackface Scandal, Mel Carnahan Navigated Similar Revelation In Missouri Feb 08, 2019

In light of the controversy involving Virginia’s top leaders who recently admitted to appearing in blackface decades ago, longtime political reporter Jo Mannies joins host Don Marsh to reflect on her coverage of a similar case in Missouri in 1999, when a photo of then-Gov. Mel Carnahan in blackface – taken in 1960 – surfaced during Carnahan’s campaign for a seat in the U.S. Senate.

Rabbi Susan Talve Shares What She Observed In Guatemala As Global Justice Fellow Feb 07, 2019

The southern border of the U.S., along with the people who live somewhere beyond it, can seem far removed from the St. Louis region. But for local Rabbi Susan Talve, who recently returned from Guatemala, the difficult situations facing many of America’s southern neighbors feel more urgent than ever.

New Thriller By St. Louis Native James Rollins Probes Unsettling Aspects Of Artificial Intelligence Feb 07, 2019

"Crucible," the latest release from best-selling author James Rollins, is billed as a book that wrestles with deep questions about the future of humanity – a subject Rollins himself finds particularly disconcerting. "Doing the research [for the book] frightened me," the St. Louis native says. "And as a novelist, that's one way I get to sort of work through some of my fears – put it down on paper, try to make sense of it, try if I can to craft a happy ending, find some path through what’s coming next."

‘Queens Of The Board’ Take Center Stage In St. Louis Chess Club’s First All-Female Tournament Feb 06, 2019

The St. Louis Chess Club is currently hosting its first international all-female chess tournament in an effort to expand opportunities for women to enter the male-dominated sport. Jennifer Shahada, a two-time U.S. women's chess champion, commentator and analyst explains the excitement behind the Cairns Cup tournament to St. Louis Public Radio editor Holly Edgell.

African-American Soldiers Share Experience Of U.S. Military Service Over Generations Feb 06, 2019

Veterans Kim Chamberlain and 100-year-old Marshall J. Phillips share some of their experiences of African-Americans in the U.S. military. Marvin Alonso Greer, the education and visitor experience lead for Soldiers Memorial Military Museum, also talks to host Don Marsh about how a local event will showcase the contributions of African-American soldiers coming home from World War I in 1919 – and beyond.

‘You Can’t Just Be Sad-Sad’: Local Hip-Hop Artists Share Inspirations Behind ‘Sad-Happy’ Tunes Feb 06, 2019

St. Louis-based rapper pinkcaravan! and her frequent collaborator Namesake, a Kansas City-based producer, share their inspiration behind their "sad-happy" tunes — what Namesake describes as "colorful … vibrant … upbeat, fun. A hard-bop life.”

A Look At The Evolving Role – And Shifting Spaces – Of Today's Public Libraries Feb 05, 2019

Want to check out a telescope – or maybe a fishing pole? To hear Steve Campbell tell it, the local library’s probably got you covered. The director of the Scenic Regional Library serving nine eastern Missouri communities joins the talk show alongside Ferguson Public Library's Steve Bonner and JEMA's John Mueller.

STLPR-Led 'Fixed Odds' Series Looks At Problem Gambling In America Feb 05, 2019

A newly published Sharing America series titled "Fixed Odds" explores the effects of problem gambling on diverse communities across the U.S. Joining this episode to talk about it are Holly Edgell, who is St. Louis Public Radio’s race, identity and culture editor, and Dr. Timothy Fong, professor of addiction psychiatry and co-director of UCLA's Gambling Studies Program.

'Different Face' Of Addiction Has Led To 'Long Overdue' Shift From Criminal Justice To Public Health Feb 04, 2019

When David Patterson Silver Wolf refers to the U.S. opioid epidemic as part of a “disease of despair” and “a tough disease to treat,” he’s speaking from experience both professional and personal. The Washington University faculty member experienced substance-use disorder firsthand after growing up in a troubled home that quickly led him toward drugs and alcohol. Now, years later, he finds himself heading up the Brown School’s Community Academic Partnership on Addiction– a new effort aimed at addressing substance-use disorder among those struggling with it today.

Heart Expert Discusses Advancements In Treating Heart Disease, How To Lower Risks Feb 04, 2019

February is Heart Health Month, and heart expert Dr. Andrew Kates, professor of medicine and cardiologist with the Washington University Heart Care Institute at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, returns to St. Louis on the Air to help explain various matters of the heart.

Dr. Ashley Denmark Aims To ‘Normalize Success’ Among Minority, Under-served Children Feb 01, 2019

Ashley Denmark is a family medicine physician with BJC Healthcare. She grew up in Jennings, Missouri and at an early point in her life, her ambition to become a doctor as a black woman from Jennings was very much challenged. The physician talks to host Don Marsh about to her road to success and why she returned to St. Louis in an effort to inspire minority children to follow their dream careers and “normalize success.”

Behind The Headlines: What Your School’s Report Card Actually Means Is ‘Pretty Confusing’ Feb 01, 2019

STLPR education reporter Ryan Delaney talks about the just-released school report cards and standardized testing in Missouri.

Behind The Headlines: Analysis Of Recent SLMPD Controversies Feb 01, 2019

We go behind the headlines with STLPR politics editor Fred Ehrlich to discuss the week's news involving controversies involving St. Louis police officers.

Wash U Scholar Digs Into Other Polar Vortex – The Political Kind – As Anger Spikes, Trust Declines Feb 01, 2019

A few years ago, Steven Webster was working in Washington and frequently giving tours of the U.S. Capitol when one particular tour went rather south, to put it mildly – and also sparked his decision to study political science.

Local Media Professionals Discuss Steincross Slip Up, Coverage Of African-American Community Jan 31, 2019

Host Don Marsh talks with local media professionals about how the industry covers African-American communities – what has changed over the years and what's stayed the same.

Not Simply ‘None’: Local Religion Scholar, Humanist Discuss Spiritual Identity, Trends Jan 30, 2019

With a growing sector of America having left traditional religion in recent decades, speculation about the reasons for that exit is common, as are easy conclusions about what it all portends. But it's all a bit more complex. James Croft, outreach director for the Ethical Society of St. Louis, and Leigh Schmidt, the Edward C. Mallinckrodt Distinguished University Professor in the Humanities at Washington University, share their insights in this episode.

‘Key To Progress’: How St. Louisans Are Using Community Organizing And Engagement To Make Change Jan 30, 2019

Kevin McKinney, executive director of SLACO – the St. Louis Association of Community Organizations, and local photojournalist Richard Reilly talk to host Don Marsh about how community organizing has evolved in the St. Louis region over the past 40 years.

Extra: Curious Louis Questions Answered By Better Together Representatives Jan 29, 2019

STLPR reporter Chad Davis asks more listener questions about Better Together's proposal to representatives of the organization. The report was released on Monday.

Municipal League executive director and Creve Coeur mayor outline concerns, differing vision Jan 29, 2019

Pat Kelly of the Municipal League of Metro St. Louis and Creve Coeur Mayor Barry Glantz outline why they are opposed to Better Together’s approach and suggest an alternative route to a potential shift in regional governance.

Better Together’s Dave Leipholtz and Marius Johnson-Malone discuss nuts and bolts of newly released proposal Jan 29, 2019

Host Don Marsh and St. Louis Public Radio listeners talk with two staff members from Better Together, the organization that earlier this week formally unveiled a much-anticipated proposal for a reunification of St. Louis and St. Louis County.

‘I Became Their Voice’: Survivor Reflects On Holocaust, Preservation Of Stories Jan 28, 2019

Sunday marked the international community’s commemoration of lives lost and tragedy caused during the Holocaust. Although it took place more than 70 years ago, its lessons continue to resonate today. Dan Reich, curator and director of education at the Holocaust Museum & Learning Center, survivor Rachel Miller join host Don Marsh to discuss how the younger generations will continue to tell the stories of those who experienced the Holocaust as survivors pass away. Miller, who now resides in Chesterfield, Missouri, also shares her own harrowing story of living through the Nazi occupation.

Up-And-Coming Chefs Evy Swoboda, Dakota Williams Discuss Life In The Kitchen, Love For Industry Jan 28, 2019

Evy Swoboda and Dakota Williams are both still in their 20s, yet they've already made big strides in the St. Louis restaurant scene. They join host Don Marsh and Sauce magazine's Heather Hughes for a conversation.

A Look At The Latest Scientific Research About The Moon In Light Of Lunar Eclipse Jan 25, 2019

Although wintry skies in the St. Louis region didn’t make for ideal viewing conditions Sunday night as the sun, Earth and moon aligned for a total lunar eclipse, the anticipated celestial event still had many people looking skyward. It also sparked renewed interest in human understanding of the moon. In this segment, space journalist Rebecca Boyle, lunar scientist Brad Jolliff and St. Louis Public Radio’s own Eli Chen discuss the latest in moon research.

St. Louis Theater Circle Announces Its 2019 Nominees, Celebrates 7 Years Of Awards Jan 25, 2019

The St. Louis Theater Circle released its 2019 award nominees on Friday's St. Louis on the Air for locally produced professional theater in 2018. This is the seventh year of the awards. Judith Newmark, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch’s theater critic, and Mark Bretz, president of the St. Louis Theater Circle, join host Don Marsh to discuss the nominations and the upcoming award ceremony.

STLPR's Chad Davis Goes Behind The Headlines On Local Impacts Of Government Shutdown Jan 25, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio reporter Chad Davis talks with host Don Marsh about his recent coverage of how the partial government shutdown has been affecting a wide variety of St. Louis-area residents.

Post-Dispatch Columnist Tony Messenger: Debtors’ Prisons ‘Massive Problem’ In Missouri Jan 24, 2019

St. Louis Post-Dispatch columnist Tony Messenger talks with Don Marsh about his reporting series on debtors' prisons in rural Missouri – the practice of jailing people for not paying their court fines.

Local Organizations Collaborate To Increase Access To Menstrual Products Among Low-Income People Jan 24, 2019

A recent report surveyed low-income women in St. Louis and found that nearly two-thirds of them can’t always afford pads or tampons – often resorting to rags, diapers or paper towels. Host Don Marsh delves deeper into the issue of period poverty with Anne Sebert Kuhlmann, associate professor of behavioral science and health education at St. Louis University, who led the study. Also joining the conversation are Angie Weisman, executive director of Dignity Period, and Jessica Adams, executive director of St. Louis Alliance for Period Supplies and the St. Louis Area Diaper Bank.

Legal Roundtable: Analysis Of Judge’s Ruling Against Trump Administration, Missouri Politics, More Jan 23, 2019

St. Louis on the Air’s first monthly Legal Roundtable of the year returns as host Don Marsh delves into a variety of recent local and national stories pertaining to the law, including: a federal judge's ruling that blocks the Trump administration's plan to add a controversial citizenship question to the 2020 census, a federal court ruling that deemed the Affordable Care Act health plans unconstitutional, the lawsuit against the Sunset Hills retirement community Friendship Village and the appointment of Circuit Judge Robin Ransom to the Missouri Court of Appeals for the Eastern District.

‘It’s Always The Right Time To Fight Discrimination,’ Says Lawyer For LGBTQ Couple In Housing Case Jan 22, 2019

Arlene Zarembka, who is a lawyer for the plaintiffs in the case against Friendship Village, and Jeffrey Mittman, executive director of the ACLU of Missouri, discuss the context and implications of a circuit judge's recent dismissal of the suit.

St. Louis Performer Ken Page Honored For Lifetime Achievement Jan 22, 2019

Ken Page, whose career took him from The Muny to Broadway and the big screen, received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the local Arts and Education Council. Host Don Marsh talks to Page about his expansive career, which ranges from creating the character of Old Deuteronomy in the Broadway debut of the iconic musical “Cats” to voicing Oogie Boogie in Tim Burton’s film “The Nightmare Before Christmas.”

Why Are So Many St. Louisans Terrible Winter-Weather Drivers? Jan 18, 2019

Snow, ice, streets and St. Louis – it all tends to make for a tricky wintry mix, as was evident last weekend when a major snowstorm hit the region. With the potential for additional winter weather now imminent, this episode focuses on why some St. Louisans drive poorly in such conditions – and how residents can better prepare for and deal with future weather events. Joining the discussion are Kent Flake, commissioner of streets for the City of St. Louis, and Mike Right, vice president of public affairs for AAA of Missouri.

'The March Is Still On': 3rd St. Louis Women's March To Move Ahead Despite Weather Advisory Jan 18, 2019

Despite a winter weather advisory, the St. Louis Women’s March is still set to take place 10 a.m. Jan. 18 in downtown St. Louis. Host Don Marsh previews the march with two of this year’s local organizers and marchers: Lauren Kohn Davis and Heather Fleming. This year's event also includes an "action fair” that will house various organizations in the community helping women.

St. Louis Is An Ideal Spot To Watch This Year’s Super Blood Moon Eclipse Jan 18, 2019

STLPR science reporter Eli Chen previews the total lunar eclipse.

Krewson, Who Will Seek Re-Election As St. Louis Mayor, Talks Merger, Equity, Priorities For 2019 Jan 17, 2019

St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson gives an update on the state of the city and her priorities for 2019. The first-ever woman to hold the post, she confirms that she does have plans to seek a second term.

Analysis Of Gov. Mike Parson's State Of The State Address Jan 17, 2019

A conversation with STLPR reporters Jason Rosenbaum and Rachel Lippmann about Gov. Mike Parson's State of the State Address.

Live Coverage And Analysis Of Missouri Gov. Parson's 1st State Of The State Address Jan 17, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio's Jason Rosenbaum and Jo Mannies join host Don Marsh during a live broadcast of Gov. Mike Parson's State of the State Address and the Democratic response from state Sen. Gina Walsh.

Comedian, St. Louis Native Greg Warren Talks Comedic Process Ahead Of Funny Bone Appearance Jan 16, 2019

Last year, St. Louis native and comedian Greg Warren tried a new approach in his comedy career by adding an all-ages family show. He will do the same this year as he returns to St. Louis this week for his appearances at the Funny Bone comedy club in Maryland Heights. He talks with host Don Marsh about his comedic approach and upcoming shows.

Previewing Circus Harmony’s Latest Production ‘Accelerando,’ A Circus Spy Thriller Jan 16, 2019

Circus Harmony's new show “Accelerando” is a circus spy thriller where the performers twirl and climb their way to finding a top-secret document gone missing. Jessica Hentoff, artistic and executive director of the organization, joins host Don Marsh to discuss the show and other programs the social circus is conducting.

St. Louisan's Yearlong Tour of National Parks Takes Unexpected Turn With Shutdown Jan 16, 2019

Barricades and “park closed” signs weren’t quite the sort of sights Andy Magee anticipated photographing when he embarked a couple weeks ago on a 365-day tour of the National Park Service’s 418 units around the U.S. But so far, his "418 Parks" Facebook page is full of such photos – evidence of the ongoing partial shutdown of the federal government.

2 Weeks Into Office, St. Louis County Prosecutor Talks Reforms, Resources, Criticisms And More Jan 15, 2019

The first African-American to hold the post, Wesley Bell discusses his current focus on implementing the reforms he campaigned on during his recent race against longtime incumbent Bob McCulloch. Bell takes questions from host Don Marsh and from listeners on a range of topics.

A Closer Look At Illinois’ New Governor J.B. Pritzker Jan 15, 2019

Illinois Public Radio statehouse reporter Brian Mackey joins host Don Marsh to discuss the inauguration of Illinois' new governor J.B. Pritzker. Mackey highlights key moments of Pritzker’s speech and touches on what’s ahead for the governor and the state.

From St. Louis To Beijing: Author Elsa Hart Discusses Li Du Mysteries, Writing Process, What’s Next Jan 14, 2019

“City of Ink,” set in early 18th-century Beijing, is Elsa Hart’s third novel. She’s currently at work on her fourth. Hart talks with host Don Marsh about her characters and settings, some of her influences and favorite authors, and how she goes about bringing a centuries-old world to life for her readers.

St. Louis Cathedral Concerts' 'Joyous Jubilee' Series Highlights African-American Musical Influences Jan 14, 2019

Post-Dispatch Sportswriter Details What Makes A Baseball Legend Jan 11, 2019

Later this month, baseball fans and writers will react to who is inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame. How is those players chosen? St. Louis Post-Dispatch sportswriter Derrick Goold details that process in conversation with host Don Marsh.

STLPR's Kae Petrin And Shahla Farzan Discuss Safety Concerns About Lime, Bird Scooters Jan 11, 2019

Host Don Marsh talks with St. Louis Public Radio's Shahla Farzan and Kae Petrin about their recent reporting on the number of scooter-related injuries that area emergency rooms are seeing.

Longtime St. Louis Journalist Linda Lockhart Reflects On Career, More As She Retires Jan 11, 2019

Longtime St. Louis journalist Linda Lockhart retires this month after a media career spanning more than four decades. She talks with host Don Marsh about the changes she's seen in the industry over the years and highlights her favorite moments.

UMSL’s Terry Jones Reviews History Of St. Louis’ ‘Great Divorce’ And Various Attempts To Reunite Jan 10, 2019

Terry Jones, who is a professor emeritus of political science at UMSL and the author of “Fragmented by Design: Why St. Louis Has So Many Governments," offers his take on the latest talk of a city-county merger.

Longtime St. Louis Political Journalist Jo Mannies Reflects On Career, Major Stories Jan 10, 2019

STLPR political reporter Jo Mannies reflects on her career as a journalist and talks about the big and memorable stories she covered. Mannies is retiring but will work part time beginning in March.

Making It Work: What The Side Hustle Is Like In St. Louis Jan 09, 2019

Moonlighting, freelancing, working a second job, picking up a side hustle – all of these terms and cobbled-together career strategies have become common themes in an ever-changing 21st-century economy. And many people in the St. Louis region are among those who have adopted such an approach to making a living. Host Don Marsh leads a discussion about such labor trends, digging into the reasons behind them.

Hit List: New St. Louis restaurants to try this January Jan 09, 2019

Host Don Marsh talks up some of the latest additions to the St. Louis region’s food-and-beverage community with Sauce Magazine’s managing editor Heather Hughes and art director Meera Nagarajan.

Analyzing The First Day Of 2019 Missouri Legislative Session Jan 09, 2019

Host Don Marsh talks to St. Louis Public Radio political reporter Jason Rosenbaum as the Missouri General Assembly begins its 2019 session in Jefferson City.

Black Rep’s Latest Production Revisits Canfield Drive On Stage Jan 08, 2019

In 2014, writers Michael Walker and Kristen Adele Calhoun met for the first time as grad students in New York City through a play-reading group. On that same day, a young man named Michael Brown was shot nearly 1,000 miles away in Ferguson, Missouri.

Years later, they join host Don Marsh along with The Black Rep's producing director Ron Himes to discuss their "Canfield Drive" production.

Looking Towards ‘Bigger And Better Projects’: History, Future Of City Museum After Sale Jan 08, 2019

For more than 20 years, the City Museum in downtown St. Louis has provided a unique getaway. The museum is partly a playground, but it also contains numerous architectural marvels, many of which are the creation of Bob Cassilly, the founder of City Museum who died in 2011.

Host Don Marsh talks with Rick Erwin, director of the City Museum, about the history of the institution and about its recent sale to Premier Parks, an Oklahoma-based theme-park company.

Jeb Bush Calls Shutdown 'Embarrassing And Shameful,' Talks Trump, National 'Angst' Jan 08, 2019

Ahead of his Jan. 22 appearance in St. Louis, Republican politician and former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush discusses everything from the passing of both of his parents in 2018, to the uncertainty and future of the United States, to the current situation in Washington.

5 Ideas For Discovering And Appreciating Other Creatures Who Call St. Louis Home Jan 07, 2019

Host Don Marsh leads a discussion about observing and appreciating urban wildlife in the bi-state area. Joining the conversation are Danny Brown, a lifelong Missourian, retired biologist and avid wildlife photographer; and Mark Glenshaw, a local naturalist whose focus is the owls who reside in Forest Park.

Belleville Native, Wilco Frontman Jeff Tweedy Talks Childhood, Uncle Tupelo And Wilco Jan 07, 2019

Jeff Tweedy discusses his memoir, childhood, musical influences and founding Uncle Tupelo and Wilco. We also sample and analyze some songs from Tweedy's career.

Young star Kennedy Holmes talks with STLPR's Marissanne Lewis-Thompson following 4th-place finish on 'The Voice' Jan 04, 2019

Fourteen-year-old St. Louisan Kennedy Holmes made her hometown proud this past fall as she competed on NBC's "The Voice." She made it to the final episode of the season, ultimately snagging fourth place on the wildly popular show. St. Louis Public Radio newscaster Marissanne Lewis-Thompson talks with the young star shortly after the competition's conclusion.

Remembering St. Louis' 'lost' restaurants with local food writer Ann Lemons Pollack Jan 04, 2019

Rossino’s and Café Balaban are two restaurants many St. Louisans remember fondly. They're among the more than 40 restaurants highlighted in Ann Lemons Pollack's new book "Lost Restaurants of St. Louis." Pollack recalls bygone eateries that loom large in memories. She also profiles three iconic restaurants that still exist and even traces the food history of the 1904 World’s Fair.

Behind the Headlines: Lots to talk about in St. Louis County Jan 04, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio political reporters Jo Mannies and Jason Rosenbaum join "St. Louis on the Air" host Don Marsh for analysis of everything from recent changes to the St. Louis County Council to new ideas about potentially merging the county and St. Louis City.

Greitens saga or U.S. Senate outcome? STLPR reporters split on biggest political story of 2018 Jan 03, 2019

St. Louis Public Radio politics editor Fred Ehrlich and political reporters Jason Rosenbaum and Jo Mannies joined host Don Marsh during Thursday’s talk show to look back at the past year in local and regional politics. They also touched on what's in store in 2019.

‘Life doesn’t stop’: With chemo behind her, cancer patient Jossalyn Larson looks toward next chapter Jan 03, 2019

The year 2018 didn’t go down quite like Jossalyn Larson or her family expected. After being diagnosed with breast cancer in May, Larson underwent several months of chemotherapy. And yet through all the change, some things have stayed the same – and she’s found the various aspects of everyday life helpful as she travels a difficult path.

Beyond New Year’s resolutions: Fitness coach, client weigh in on what leads to real lifestyle change Jan 02, 2019

When it comes to New Year’s resolutions, an intention to lose weight continues to top the list for many Americans. All too often, those goals go unachieved – and another year goes by. In this episode of the talk show, two St. Louisans offer listeners suggestions for making real progress toward a healthier lifestyle.

Wash U seismologist sees no indication big St. Louis earthquake is likely – but doesn’t rule it out Jan 02, 2019

Last month’s 4.4 magnitude earthquake in Tennessee set off fresh questions about the potential for significant seismic activity occurring in the St. Louis region, which last saw earthquakes of magnitude 7 or larger in the early 19th century. According to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, the New Madrid Seismic Zone "appears to be about 30 years overdue" for a magnitude 6.3 quake. But on Wednesday’s St. Louis on the Air, Washington University Professor of Seismology Michael Wysession suggested that a focus on flooding and tornadoes remains appropriate when it comes to disaster preparedness in the region.

Edward Jones leader Jim Weddle retires, reflects on spending career with Des Peres-based firm Dec 28, 2018

Guest host Shula Neuman spoke with Jim Weddle, the outgoing managing partner of Edward Jones, who retires Dec. 31. Weddle reflected on spending his entire career with one of the St. Louis area's largest employers, the Great Recession of 2018 and the current economic situation.

‘It’s been a banner year:’ Attorney explains Illinois’ 6 animal welfare laws to take effect in 2019 Dec 28, 2018

Ledy VanKavage, senior legislative attorney for Best Friends Animal Society, talks about Illinois’ six new animal welfare laws, which will take effect Jan. 1, 2019.

Remembering Michael Castro, St. Louis' 1st poet laureate Dec 28, 2018

A discussion with two locally based poets and friends of St. Louis' first poet laureate, Michael Castro, who passed away Dec. 23 at the age of 73.

Legal Roundtable tackles biggest regional, national stories of 2018 Dec 28, 2018

"St. Louis on the Air’s" final monthly Legal Roundtable of the calendar year goes underway as host Don Marsh delves into a wrap up of the year’s major local and national stories pertaining to the law.

A look back at STLPR's Curious Louis series in 2018 Dec 21, 2018

St. Louis Public Radio reporter and weekend newscaster Shahla Farzan and engagement producer Lindsay Toler provide a year-in-review look at the station's Curious Louis features that were published in 2018.

Behind the Headlines: A conversation with owner of newly recovered tiny home Dec 21, 2018

On Friday’s St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh talked with Meghan Panu, the owner of a tiny house that was stolen in the city of St. Louis last weekend and discovered in Jefferson County earlier this week.

For acclaimed filmmaker and St. Louis native, love of film ‘started at the Tivoli Theatre’ Dec 21, 2018

Filmmaker and St. Louis native Karyn Kusama talks to host Don Marsh about her latest film, “Destroyer,” which follows a disgraced Los Angeles detective – played by Nicole Kidman. The film premiered at the Tivoli as part of the 2018 St. Louis International Film Festival in November and is slated for widespread release in January 2019.

Tax expert Lance Weiss answers questions on taxes, new forms, more Dec 20, 2018

As the end of the year approaches, it’s time to reconnect with St. Louis on the Air’s go-to tax expert for tips on how to minimize tax liabilities for 2018.

Affton woman drives hundreds of miles documenting seasonal light displays Dec 20, 2018

Laura Thake has driven hundreds of miles throughout the St. Louis region documenting the best home light displays and posting the photos and videos – with permission from homeowners – to her website.

12 questions for longtime St. Louis County prosecutor as he leaves office – and his answers Dec 20, 2018

Having first taken office in the early ’90s, Bob McCulloch has served as St. Louis County prosecutor ever since. But a stunning upset by Wesley Bell in this year's Democratic primary has McCulloch’s long tenure now coming to a close. Host Don Marsh and reporter Rachel Lippmann speak at length with McCulloch in this departing conversation, asking a wide variety of questions.

Sauce Magazine’s 9 best new restaurants of 2018, what’s to come Dec 19, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks with Sauce Magazine's managing editors Catherine Klene and Heather Hughes and art director Meera Nagarajan about what they consider to be the best new local restaurants – from fine dining to a breakfast-and-lunch café.

Outgoing U.S. Sen. Claire McCaskill talks with host Don Marsh, STLPR reporter Jo Mannies Dec 18, 2018

The longtime Missouri Democrat reflects on her time in the Senate and touches on a variety of political topics and challenges ahead as she departs office.

‘Still smoke to be cleared’: Documentarian urges St. Louisans to emerge from silos, start talking Dec 17, 2018

On Monday's St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh spoke with Cami Thomas, the creator of "Smoke City," a web series that explores a different St. Louis neighborhood in each episode.

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson one-on-one with STLPR reporter Jason Rosenbaum Dec 17, 2018

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson sat down with STLPR political reporter Jason Rosenbaum for a wide-ranging interview. The governor discussed healthcare, infrastructure and what it was like to take office after former Gov. Eric Greitens resigned amid multiple scandals.

How St. Louis women are helping others grow professionally Dec 14, 2018

Three St. Louis women join host Don Marsh to talk about their organizations are creating environments for women to thrive and grow professionally.

'It happens everwhere all the time': WaPo analysis looks at domestic violence in St. Louis, beyond Dec 14, 2018

On Friday’s St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh went behind the headlines on a newly published investigation by the Washington Post. That report found that 48 of the 148 women killed in St. Louis from 2007 to 2017 were murdered by an intimate partner – and that one-third of those men were publicly known to be a potential threat before the attacks occurred.

Wash U prof sees lessons for today in experiences of black students who desegregated private schools Dec 13, 2018

Wanda Ward. Jannard Wade. Malcolm Ryder. Those names probably don’t sound as familiar as Ruby Bridges or the “Little Rock Nine,” who are celebrated figures in the history of American civil rights. But during the same era in which Bridges and so many other black students were bravely challenging public school segregation in the South, some of their peers were also taking bold steps to integrate private institutions. That topic first piqued Michelle Purdy’s interest about 20 years ago, when she was an undergrad at Washington University exploring the history of education and particularly black education. Now a faculty member at her alma mater, she’s published a new book on the subject, and she joined Thursday’s St. Louis on the Air to discuss it with host Don Marsh.

City official, volunteer agree there's ‘more we can all do together’ to aid the unhoused this winter Dec 13, 2018

On Thursday's St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh facilitated a discussion about homelessness in the St. Louis region with local activist Teka Childress of St. Louis Winter Outreach and city official Irene Agustin of the St. Louis Department of Human Services.

Embracing a different approach: How some St. Louis area school districts are connecting health and education Dec 12, 2018

On Wednesday's St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh discussed efforts to link health and education with superintendent of University City Schools Sharonica Hardin-Bartley, director of Health Equity Works Jason Purnell and senior director of strategic initiative and partnerships at America’s Promise Alliance Monika Kincheloe.

‘Theater that feels a bit like a dare’: Metro’s ‘Wonderland’ sets Alice on even more unusual journey Dec 11, 2018

Audiences are collectively pretty familiar with falling through a rabbit hole to accompany a young girl named Alice on a strange trip involving everything from a queen to a cat to a jury composed of animals. But Metro Theater Company has added even more elements to Lewis Carroll’s classic story – in this case keyboarders, guitar players, bass players, an accordion, trumpet players and a clarinet, among others.

Producer Amy Martin explores ‘a nexus of many complex issues’ in ‘Threshold’ podcast Dec 11, 2018

Amy Martin joins host Don Marsh to talk about how her environmental reporting led her to create and produce the Montana Public Radio show and podcast “Threshold,” which delves deep into focused environmental topics and issues.

‘An astounding 5 years’: Reflections on the St. Louis Public Radio, St. Louis Beacon merger Dec 10, 2018

Monday, December 10, 2018 marked the five-year anniversary of the merger between St. Louis Public Radio and the St. Louis Beacon. STLPR general manager Tim Eby and St. Louis Beacon co-founder and former STLPR news editor Margie Freivogel spoke with Don Marsh about the vision five years after its realization.

Self-proclaimed ‘dork about Christmas’ Storm Large brings holiday cabaret to St. Louis Dec 10, 2018

On Monday's St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh spoke with singer, actor and writer Storm Large ahead of her St. Louis visit. She will be performing her holiday cabaret "Holiday Ordeal" at the Sun Theatre on Dec. 11.

'A growing, youthful part of the world': Webster University president reflects on time in Ghana Dec 07, 2018

Elizabeth Stroble, president of Webster University, joins host Don Marsh to talk about her first trip to the university’s newest campus, located in the heart of Accra, Ghana. The five-year-old campus is currently the only U.S. college campus in Ghana.

'We Live Here' team hands over microphone to St. Louis youth in latest podcast Dec 07, 2018

For four seasons now, St. Louis Public Radio’s We Live Here podcast team has been telling community-driven stories for listeners “somewhere on the woke spectrum.” A couple weeks ago, co-producers and hosts Tim Lloyd and Kameel Stanley took that concept one step further and asked a handful of local young people to do the storytelling themselves. The fresh voices that were in the spotlight at We Live Here’s well-attended house party on Nov. 27 are also the focus of this week’s new episode of the podcast.

Behind the Headlines: How Berkeley residents are reacting to Ferguson-Florissant School District's redistricting plan Dec 07, 2018

St. Louis Public Radio reporters Chad Davis and Ryan Delaney talk to Don Marsh about what the Ferguson-Florissant School District's redistricting plan means for Berkeley residents.

Doctor, former insurance exec and think-tank rep join talk show, debate future of U.S. health care Dec 06, 2018

Until a few years ago, Wendell Potter frequently crafted arguments against the idea of the U.S. government becoming more involved in health care. "I wrote a number of speeches for my CEO and delivered some myself that the government should get out of the way and let the free market work its magic in health care," the former Cigna executive says. "I came to realize the free market doesn’t work in health care like it does in other sectors of the economy … and that’s one of the reasons why we saw so many people who were uninsured and now a growing number of people who are underinsured." Potter discusses the status of advocacy efforts toward universal health care as well as the opposition at regional and national levels in this episode of St. Louis on the Air. Patrick Ishmael, director of government accountability for the Show-Me Institute, and Dr. Ed Weisbart, chair of the Missouri chapter of Physicians for a National Health Program, also participate in the conversation.

What’s climate change doing to the region? STLPR reporter, Missouri Sierra Club director explain Dec 06, 2018

St. Louis Public Radio's science and environment reporter Eli Chen and John Hickey, director of the Missouri chapter of the Sierra Club, join host Don Marsh to talk about how climate change is affecting the state, as well as what is being done to try and prevent its most harmful effects.

Scholars highlight impact of early adversity on developing brain, implications for criminal justice Dec 05, 2018

Neuroscience experts Anneliese Schaefer, Deanna Bartch, Elizabeth Scott and Susan Appleton join host Don Marsh to discuss how neuroscience can help non-scientists understand the impact of early adversity on developing brain.

‘This was not justice’: Author details grim, ongoing legacy of Fugitive Slave Act ahead of St. Louis visit Dec 05, 2018

On Wednesday's St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh spoke with Andrew Delbaco, author of "The War Before the War: Fugitive Slaves and the Struggle for America's Soul from the Revolution to the Civil War."

Longtime STLPR political reporter, disability rights advocate remember George H.W. Bush Dec 04, 2018

St. Louis Public Radio’s Jo Mannies joins host Don Marsh to remember the late George H.W. Bush, the 41st U.S. president. Marsh and Mannies reflect on their experiences as reporters during Bush’s time in politics as well as the former president’s legacy, successes and failures.

HIV PrEP program thrives in St. Louis, makes ‘tools to end the epidemic’ widely accessible Dec 04, 2018

On Tuesday's St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh spoke with guests working on research, treatment and advocacy for HIV/AIDS in honor of World AIDS Day.

Close associate of Jimmy Carter discusses some parallels between Carter, Bush ahead of Wash U event Dec 03, 2018

U.S. diplomat and attorney Stuart Eizenstat recently published a 1,024-page book on the one-term presidency of Jimmy Carter, for whom he served as a chief adviser, and he's headed to St. Louis this week to talk about it. But in conversation with host Don Marsh on Monday’s St. Louis on the Air, Eizenstat also offered some thoughts on another one-term presidency he observed closely – that of George H.W. Bush, who passed away just a few days ago.

4 years in, NCADA’s substance-related counseling program is helping hundreds of St. Louis-area teens Dec 03, 2018

In the midst of a nationwide opioid epidemic among U.S. adults, one organization in the St. Louis region is seeing some more positive trends among younger people when it comes to substance use.

STLPR's Ashley Lisenby discusses indictment of 4 St. Louis police offers with host Don Marsh Nov 30, 2018

St. Louis Public Radio reporter Ashley Lisenby goes behind the headlines on this week's news concerning the assault of an undercover officer during protests related to the Jason Stockley court ruling in 2017.

STLPR's Kae Petrin discusses investigation into Paul McKee's Northside Regeneration project Nov 30, 2018

The developer's $8 billion project made big promises to St. Louis. But it's left many buildings to rot. St. Louis Public Radio's Kae Petrin discusses a newly published report.

Rex Sinquefield, former U.S. chess champion discuss role of St. Louis in world chess scene Nov 30, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks about the role St. Louis is playing on the world chess scene after a local resident made it to the final round of he 2018 World Chess Championships.

Dogtown couple’s popup ‘secret suppers’ serve up authentic Thai cuisine, culinary conversations Nov 29, 2018

On Thursday's St. Louis on the Air, Heather Hughes of Sauce Magazine introduced host Don Marsh to a local couple bringing the flavors of Thailand to their Dogtown bungalow through their popup restaurant, Spirit House.

An in-depth conversation about transit, regional challenges with John Nations as he departs Bi-State Nov 29, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks at length with John Nations about the state of the Metro system and other regional efforts that have been among his responsibilities as CEO of the agency the past eight years.

St. Louis media icon Bernie Hayes details expansive career, new role at National Blues Museum Nov 28, 2018

Bernie Hayes is a familiar and much honored fixture in local media for years. He’s a teacher, columnist, educator and has deep community roots. He reminisces about his past roles in the broadcast and music industries with host Don Marsh.

‘It’s that feeling of joy’: Archdiocesan musicians prepare to ring in season at Cathedral Basilica Nov 28, 2018

Dianne Burpee has been an active member of community choirs and parish choirs for many years, but in her experience, nothing quite compares to singing inside the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis. Its appeal is part of what’s drawing her back to the space this weekend to participate in Christmas at the Cathedral for the 17th year in a row.

Journalists Art Holliday, Wiley Price reflect on careers, receiving ‘Living Legend’ awards Nov 27, 2018

St. Louis natives and media icons Art Holliday and Wiley Price reflect on their impactful careers in the region with host Don Marsh. The Greater St. Louis Association of Black Journalists awarded them the Living Legends award for their journalistic excellence.

Lots of questions plus some answers about nature of credit scores, financial literacy, disparities Nov 27, 2018

The median credit score in St. Louis is 665, just a few points beneath the national median. But a closer look at ZIP-code-level data shows a median score of just 532 in areas of the city that are predominantly non-white, whereas the median credit score for predominantly white areas is 732. "That's a very large gap, and we are here to do something about that," says Jared Boyd, chief of staff and counsel for the City of St. Louis Treasurer's Office.

Legal Roundtable takes closer look at latest national, local matters in the spotlight Nov 26, 2018

November's legal panel features Bill Freivogel, Mark Smith and Susan Appleton discussing a variety of recent local and national stories pertaining to the law.

STLPR's Holly Edgell and Ashley Lisenby showcase local, different holiday-shopping options for St. Louisans Nov 21, 2018

Host Don Marsh discusses how individual makers and various communities and cultures are broadening their holiday-shopping horizons in the St. Louis area.

STLPR's Tim Lloyd and Chad Davis talk up this week's episode of 'We Live Here' Nov 21, 2018

The latest episode of the podcast takes a close look at recent changes in St. Louis' Grove neighborhood.

The Grannie Annie Family Story Celebration helps children illustrate their heritage Nov 21, 2018

Founding members of The Grannie Annie Family Story Celebration join host Don Marsh to discuss the role the organization plays in encouraging young people to preserve family stories.

Local teen shares his discoveries about ‘a girl named Geneva Abbott’ and the 1st St. Louis arch Nov 20, 2018

Abdullah Brown-El discusses what he learned about Abbott, her 1930s peers and their early visions for the future of St. Louis while doing research in the Missouri Historical Society’s Library and Research Center. Elizabeth Pickard, director of education and interpretation, also contributes to the conversation.

Veterinary behaviorist: Consider pets' shifting needs this coming winter Nov 20, 2018

Veterinary behaviorist Dr. Debra Horwitz discusses your pets' needs in the colder months and what behavior changes they might experience as the snow falls and temperature drops.

‘We’ve got a double whammy’: Missouri farmers feeling negative impacts of trade war, bumper crop Nov 19, 2018

Recent trade disputes between the Trump administration and China have had a heavy impact on farmers in Missouri. Pat Westhoff, director of the University of Missouri’s Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute, and Blake Hurst, president of the Missouri Farm Bureau, discuss the situation.

Navigating divisive issues at the holiday dinner table with Dr. Marva Robinson Nov 19, 2018

The holidays are here, and so are those sometimes awkward holiday dinners that can often turn bitter if divisive issues come up. Host Don Marsh discusses the best ways to approach these holiday-time conversations with Dr. Marva Robinson, a licensed clinical psychologist in St. Louis.

Local recycling experts: To be part of solution, ‘don’t be a wishful recycler’ and no plastic bags Nov 16, 2018

The world of recycling is a global one, with lots of moving parts. But in places like St. Louis, it all still starts with local residents and what they put in their neighborhood recycling bins. At least that's where one regional organization is putting renewed focus as they try to spread a consistent message.

Big Muddy Dance Company explores haunted tale of Lemp mansion in new production Nov 16, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks about the Lemp family’s legacy and their mansion as portrayed in the Big Muddy Dance Company’s new production, "Lemp Legends: A Ghost Story," with the organization's executive director Erin Warner Prange.

STLPR reporter Melody Walker updates 'St. Louis on the Air' listeners on the status of the Loop Trolley Nov 16, 2018

St. Louis Public Radio economic development reporter Melody Walker goes behind the headlines with host Don Marsh to discuss the official dedication of the long-awaited trolley.

‘This is very much our lane’: St. Louis doctor talks politics, gun violence and prevention Nov 15, 2018

Dr. Sonny Saggar, owner of Downtown Urgent Care, has practiced medicine in the St. Louis region for many years but grew up in England. He’s worked in hospital emergency rooms in both countries.

Farrah Fazal’s 'North Star': Former St. Louis journalist details reporting on conflict zones abroad Nov 15, 2018

Witnessing famines, children starving to death, makeshift doctor’s offices and refugee camps, former St. Louis reporter Farrah Fazal details harrowing stories of people stuck in conflict zones and those trying to make it to host Don Marsh.

Historian Doris Kearns Goodwin shares insight on presidential administrations, future of politics Nov 14, 2018

Doris Kearns Goodwin is an award-winning American biographer, historian, and political commentator that specializes in analyzing the administrations of United States presidents, which she refers to as "her guys." Host Don Marsh talks to Goodwin about her perspective on the current state of political affairs.

Local author expands, updates illustrated timeline of St. Louis' 250 years and counting Nov 13, 2018

About four years ago, Carol Shepley was busy putting the final touches on her visually oriented history of St. Louis as the city celebrated 250 years. But there was still much more St. Louis history yet to be told, including about the tragedy and unrest that rocked the region that same month that she finished her book.

Jazz critic discusses genre’s roots, reinventions, representations ahead of St. Louis event Nov 13, 2018

On Tuesday's St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh spoke with jazz critic for NPR's Fresh Air Kevin Whitehead. Whitehead is the author of "Why Jazz: A Concise Guide," and his upcoming book, "Play the Way You Feel," will be released in 2019.

Former Dartmouth president details U.S. detachment from military service, Vietnam vets’ experiences Nov 12, 2018

Much has changed about the nature of warfare in the 100 years since the end of World War I, including the percentage of American adults who have served in the U.S. military. "I'm of the over-75 generation, [and] 52 percent of us are veterans," historian James Wright said on St. Louis on the Air. "The Vietnam generation, about 37 percent are veterans. And of course the current generation, in their 20s and early 30s, it's about 2 percent … it's clear which way this demographic is moving."

Delving into the history of the Jefferson Barracks Military Post Nov 12, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks to Mark Trout, president and CEO of the Missouri Civil War Museum, about the history and influence of the Jefferson Barracks Military Post, the oldest operational military installation in the region.

‘He was always a step ahead’: Buckminster Fuller’s lingering influence on St. Louis, the world Nov 09, 2018

For decades, R. Buckminster Fuller was known around the globe for his scholarship and his vision of a future that could work for everyone aboard what he described as “spaceship earth.” By the middle of the 20th century, he saw two possible destinations on humanity’s horizon – utopia or oblivion – and his lectures and writings still resonate today.

A tale of hijackings, rescues and a legendary St. Louis helicopter pilot Nov 09, 2018

Host Don Marsh goes behind the headlines with the Riverfront Times’ Danny Wicentowski about his newly published deep dive into the memorable life of Allen Barklage, a legendary St. Louis helicopter pilot.

STLPR's Abigail Censky on how women candidates fared nationally, locally in the midterms Nov 09, 2018

St. Louis Public Radio's Abigail Censky takes a close look at how things turned out this week for the record number of women candidates running for office in Missouri.

Conductor Stéphane Denève set to ‘build the romance’ with St. Louis Symphony Orchestra Nov 08, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks to St. Louis Symphony Orchestra's new music director Stéphane Denève about his "musical marriage" with the organization.

Medicare card changes, open enrollment ends Dec. 7 Nov 08, 2018

Host Don Marsh discusses a new law that entails new Medicare cards to prevent the risk of medical identity theft.

Hit List: New St. Louis restaurants to try this November Nov 08, 2018

Five new places in the spotlight this month include 58hundred, Poke Munch, The Baked Bear, Thai Table and Sze Chuan.

STLPR reporters, UMSL political scientist field listener questions about midterm election results Nov 07, 2018

Jason Rosenbaum and Jo Mannies as well as University of Missouri-St. Louis political scientist Anita Manion offered their perspectives on this week’s midterm election results.

From Missouri to California: A history of the Pony Express Nov 06, 2018

On Tuesday's St. Louis on the Air, Jim DeFelice discussed The Pony Express, an enduring icon of the American West. DeFelice's book, “West Like Lightning: The Brief, Legendary Ride of the Pony Express" takes a detailed approach to the history and legacy of the classic symbol.

St. Louis poised to become ‘major player’ in emergence of gene-editing technology Nov 06, 2018

On Tuesday's St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh explored the advent of gene-editing technology with three guest, each of whom have a different perspective on the burgeoning technology.

‘Trauma can be far-reaching and contagious’: How hate crimes can trigger post-traumatic stress Nov 05, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks to Dr. Anton Hart, clinical psychologist and psychoanalyst, who explains how the nuances of post-traumatic stress disorder are visible with exposure to everyday microaggressions, discrimination and racism.

Soldiers Memorial reopens in downtown St. Louis after major renovation, inside and out Nov 05, 2018

On Monday's St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh discussed the reopening of the downtown Soldiers Memorial Military Museum following renovations with Mark Sundlov, director of the Soldiers Memorial Military Museum and Karen Goering, managing director of administration and operations at the Missouri Historical Society.

Behind the Headlines: St. Louis Jewish leaders react to Pittsburgh synagogue shooting Nov 02, 2018

Host Don Marsh goes behind the headlines to discuss the local Jewish community’s reaction to last weekend’s tragic event in Pittsburgh at the Tree of Life synagogue, where 11 people were killed.

Annual film festival boasts flicks from near and far, ‘something for everyone’ Nov 02, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks to Cinema St. Louis' artistic director Chris Clark and a panel of documentarians about this year's 27th season of the St. Louis International Film Festival.

NPR’s Peter Sagal: On the obligation to be funny, Jewish identity, new book ahead of St. Louis visit Nov 01, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks with Peter Sagal, comedian, author and host of NPR’s “Wait Wait … Don’t Tell Me!” about his latest book, “The Incomplete Book of Running,” which explores why running is good, and why it helps with “the practice of perseverance” through life’s toughest moments.

Webster scholars push for move from 'media nihilism' to media literacy amid digital pitfalls, silos Nov 01, 2018

On Thursday's St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh discussed the importance of media literacy with Webster University scholars Jessica Bellomo, Deja Lawson, and Art Silverblatt.

St. Louis’ connection to 1924's deadly plague outbreak in Los Angeles Oct 31, 2018

Author and St. Louis native Jeff Copeland talks to host Don Marsh about the 1924 Los Angeles deadly plague outbreak and its St. Louis connections, detailed in his book, "Plague in Paradise: The Black Death in Los Angeles, 1924."

Making sense of the ‘uncanny’: Wash U neuroscientist explains science behind Halloween horror flicks Oct 31, 2018

On Wednesday's St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh spoke with Washington University neuroscientist Jeff Zacks about the brain's responses to watching horror movies.

Pro & Con: Will Missourians pass an initiative to legalize medical marijuana? Oct 30, 2018

As part of St. Louis Public Radio's "Inform Your Vote" ballot issues forum, Jack Cardetti, Brad Bradshaw, Mike Colona, and Brandon Costerison, debated the pros and cons of Amendment 2,Amendment 3 and Proposition C, the three competing ballot measures to legalize medical marijuana.

Pro & Con: Proposition B would raise the minimum wage to $12 for Missouri workers Oct 30, 2018

Tuesday's St. Louis on the Air featured a debate over the pros and cons of Proposition B: The $12 Minimum Wage Initiative that was originally held at the St. Louis Public Radio "Inform Your Vote" ballot issues forum. The proponent of Prop B was Richard von Glahn, the organizing director of Missouri Jobs for Justice; the opponent was Ray McCarty, president and CEO of Associated Industries of Missouri.

Pro & Con: Amendment 1, which would impact redistricting, lobbying, campaign finance in Missouri Oct 29, 2018

Among the measures Missouri voters will decide on Nov. 6 is Amendment 1: The Lobbying, Campaign Finance, and Redistricting Initiative. It would amend the state constitution to change several aspects of Missouri’s political system. Proponent Benjamin Singer and opponent Jim Talent discuss Amendment 1 with St. Louis on the Air host Don Marsh.

Pro & Con: Prop D, the gas tax increase measure on Nov. 6 ballot Oct 29, 2018

As part of the 2018 St. Louis Public Radio "Inform Your Vote" ballot issues forum, Scott Charton, SaferMO.com communications director, and Gwen Moore, a retired University of Missouri-St. Louis professor, debated the pros and cons of Proposition D: The Gas Tax Increase, Olympic Prize Tax Exemption, and Traffic Reduction Fund Measure

Illinois 12th Congressional District candidates spar in Carbondale debate Oct 26, 2018

We have excerpts of a 90-minute debate between Rep. Mike Bost, St. Clair County State's Attorney Brendan Kelly and SIU-Carbondale professor Randy Auxier.

Hauntings of St. Louis with storyteller Patrick Dorsey Oct 26, 2018

St. Louis on the Air host Don Marsh explores some of the region's spooky locales and tales with Pat Dorsey, author of the book "Haunted Webster Groves."

Behind the Headlines: Analyzing St. Louis County Executive Steve Stenger's re-election bid Oct 26, 2018

The St. Louis County Council has overridden County Executive Steve Stenger's veto of legislation that does away with a requirement that contractors bidding for construction work have apprenticeship programs. Host Don Marsh goes behind the headlines to talk about updates in the council with St. Louis Public Radio political reporter Jo Mannies.

Sound Bites: Local farmers ‘bridge the gap between farm, city life’ Oct 25, 2018

For our monthly Sound Bites segment with Sauce Magazine, host Don Marsh discusses the new generation of local farmers in St. Louis and how they work with area chefs.

‘There is no Nazi gene’: Granddaughter of Nazi recounts discovering, reconciling family’s dark past Oct 25, 2018

On Thursday's St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh spoke with Jennifer Teege, a German author whose book "My Grandfather Would Have Shot Me: A Black Woman Discovers Her Family's Nazi Past" details her discovery that her grandfather was an infamously brutal World War II commandant. The pair were joined by Dan Reich curator and director of education for the Holocaust Museum and Learning Center in St. Louis County.

‘Trying to do good work, practice faith’: Ahmad family gives back near and far Oct 24, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks to members of the Ahmad family, who reside in St. Louis County, about their volunteer work locally and abroad. The family co-founded Biking4Books, a non-profit that raises money to donate books to St. Louis city schools. They also travel to Bangladesh to help Rohingya refugees.

St. Louis' immigrant, refugee workforce to get assistance from federal grant Oct 24, 2018

On Wednesday's St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh facilitated a conversation about the limitations facing American immigrants seeking employment and new policies being implemented to diminish these barriers. Joining the conversation were Anna Crosslin, president and CEO of the International Institute of St. Louis; Amanda Bergson-Schilcock, director of upskilling policy at the National Skills Coalition in Washington, D.C.; and Eduardo Sequeira Hernandez, a recent Costa Rican immigrant serving now as a cloud compliance specialist for Nestlé Purina.

St. Louis trans and gender non-binary community reacts to Trump memo, details how to be an ally Oct 23, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks to members and an ally of Missouri's trans and gender non-conforming community about their efforts to bring awareness to the rights and presence of trans and gender non-conforming (TGNC) individuals.

‘Hitting the brakes on hate’ in the workplace takes proactive thinking, intentionality Oct 23, 2018

On Tuesday's St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh discussed confronting discrimination in the workplace with Susan Balk, Founder of Hatebreakers and Holly Edgell, St. Louis Public Radio race, identity and culture editor. Both guests will be participants in the Missouri Historical Society's upcoming "Woke at Work" panel.

From Trump to duck boats to voter ID laws, Legal Roundtable talks regional, national developments Oct 22, 2018

In conversation with panelists Bill Freivogel, Marcia McCormick and Mark Smith, host Don Marsh touches on several of the latest regional stories pertaining to the law as well as the confirmation of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh and the dismissal of Stormy Daniels’ defamation lawsuit against President Trump.

'Healthy, vibrant ecosystem' attracts STEM entrepreneurs to St. Louis region Oct 18, 2018

Emily Lohse-Busch, Natalie DiNicola and Sam Fiorello share their experiences with the local STEM startup scene with host Don Marsh.

3 women share insights, resources related to everyday difficulties that accompany cancer treatment Oct 18, 2018

Alongside current breast cancer patient Jossalyn Larson, cancer survivor Heather Salazar, who is president of Pink Ribbon Girls, and Dr. Theresa Schwartz, a breast surgeon with SLUCare and SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital, discuss some of the more mundane and often unanticipated challenges that frequently impact patients – and particularly women – while undergoing treatment.

Debating the pros, cons of a sales tax hike to fund St. Louis Zoo’s new center Oct 17, 2018

St. Louis county voters will have to decide whether they will approve a 1/8th of one cent sales tax increase to help fund and maintain the St. Louis Zoo’s operations, specifically a new Conservation and Animal Science Center. Host Don Marsh moderated an in-depth debate between a supporter and opponent of the proposition.

‘From this point forward’: Downtown bakery provides new hope to returning citizens Oct 17, 2018

On Wednesdays St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh spoke with Kalen McAllister and Pete Wallace, the founder and kitchen manager respectively of the Laughing Bear Bakery. The downtown shop is known for its delicious treats, and for its policy of only employing individuals with a felony record.

Wash U provost outlines big challenges, remains hopeful about future of college in America Oct 16, 2018

Is the purpose of college to prepare for a career or to pursue learning and knowledge as inherently worthwhile endeavors? That question isn’t a simple one to answer, and its tensions thoroughly inform a new book, co-authored by Washington University Provost Holden Thorp, titled "Our Higher Calling: Rebuilding the Partnership between America and Its Colleges and Universities."

Virtual reality training shapes Wash U faculty into 'effective gatekeepers' for students’ mental health Oct 16, 2018

On Tuesday's St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh discussed a new program implemented by Washington University in St. Louis that uses virtual reality to train faculty and staff in assessing and addressing the mental-health status of their students. He was joined by Jordan Worthington, the university’s assistant director of mental-health outreach and programming; Dr. Cheri LeBlanc, executive director of the Habif Health and Wellness Center; and Dr. Glenn Albright, the Co-Founder and Director of Research at Kognito, the health-simulation company responsible for At Risk for College and University Faculty and Staff.

Cornerstone Chorale and Brass lifts up message that 'nurtures our compassion' near and far Oct 15, 2018

Thirty years ago, Bruce Vantine decided he wanted to take the power of narrative choral music to a new level. "I had seen how effective [these] programs could be, and very often they’ve been focused on Christmas,” Vantine, who was on the University of Missouri-St. Louis music faculty at the time, recalled on Monday's St. Louis on the Air. "But I got the idea of doing a Thanksgiving type of a program with a social-justice message – so that we could touch people’s hearts." So began his St. Louis-based nonprofit organization that continues to spread its message of empathy throughout the U.S. and Canada.

'The stories are almost unknown': The search for Holland's African-American liberators Oct 12, 2018

A Dutch historian is in St. Louis this week searching for information about 172 African-American soldiers who are buried or memorialized in the Netherlands American Cemetery.

‘Vibrancy of contemporary Jewish culture’ on display at Sababa arts, culture festival Oct 12, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks with three local Jewish residents participating in the first Jewish arts and culture festival taking place in the city.

Behind the Headlines: Renewed hope for Major League Soccer in St. Louis Oct 12, 2018

Host Don Marsh discusses the mounting effort to bring a team to St. Louis with Webster University's Jack Croghan and local attorney and soccer enthusiast Brian Howe.

Bread, roses and how St. Louis artists are illuminating timely social issues Oct 11, 2018

Olivia Lahs-Gonzales, Miriam Ruiz and Colin McLaughlin - plus two very young local artists - explore immigration, labor and identity through a creative lens.

UMSL alum, best-selling author’s book chronicling heyday of US auto industry ‘not a book about cars’ Oct 11, 2018

On Thursday's St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh spoke with author and St. Louis native William Knoedelseder about his latest book, "Fins: Harley Earl, the Rise of General Motors, and the Glory Days of Detroit.”

The best new St. Louis restaurants this October Oct 10, 2018

On Wednesday's St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh was joined by two Sauce Magazine contributors for a conversation about the best new local restaurants in the month of October.

LaunchCode celebrates 5-year anniversary, continues to chip away at St. Louis’ ‘huge tech shortage’ Oct 10, 2018

“We’ve got over 1,400 careers that we’ve launched so far in the five years that LaunchCode has been [in St. Louis], but that doesn’t count the people who have taken our training and gotten placed elsewhere,” explains entrepreneur and investor Jim McKelvey.

How to avoid burnout amid emotionally draining work and ‘generally existing in America right now’ Oct 09, 2018

Ever get the feeling of excessive exhaustion, lack of sleep and motivation from working? Host Don Marsh talks about ways in which people who are invested in emotionally draining work can avoid burnout and practice self-care.

Broadway icon leads Variety’s inclusive ‘Little Mermaid’ show, calls it ‘extraordinary environment’ Oct 09, 2018

Musical-theater aficionados likely associate four-time Tony nominee Terrence Mann with the original Rum Tum Tugger of “Cats,” Inspector Javert in “Les Miserables” or perhaps one of the titular characters in “Beauty and the Beast.” Now the acclaimed actor is diving into yet another key role – this one on a St. Louis stage that will take him under the sea as King Triton.

‘Adding diversity to the region’: The influence of Hispanic business owners in Missouri Oct 08, 2018

The Hispanic community in the Missouri region has grown significantly over the past few decades and it's made it's impact on small businesses. In light of Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15 to Oct. 15), host Don Marsh talked to Gabriela Ramirez-Aarellan, business counselor at the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in St. Louis and. co-host of DMeToo podcast, photographer Carol Lara and Ness Sandoval, associate professor of sociology at St. Louis University, about the influence of Hispanic businesses on the region.

South-city Columbus statue provokes ‘a serious conversation about the past,’ says Wash U historian Oct 08, 2018

On Monday's St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh discussed Christopher Columbus’s complex legacy with Peter Kastor, professor and chair of the Department of History at Washington University. Marsh also spoke to Bill Reininger, the executive director of Tower Grove Park, regarding the status of the commission tasked with determining the future of the park's Columbus statue.

Behind the Headlines: What to make of Jason Kander’s decision to end mayoral campaign Oct 05, 2018

St. Louis Public Radio political reporter Jo Mannies and retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Jim Craig, director of UMSL’s Veterans Studies program, offer their perspectives on one of the big news stories of the week.

Longtime actor Joneal Joplin 'never looked back' after making shift from New York to St. Louis Oct 05, 2018

Joneal “Jop” Joplin has lost count of exactly how many roles he’s performed on St. Louis-area stages during his long acting career based in the region. “I know that I’ve done something like 215, 220 shows in St. Louis – 101 at the Rep, 66 at the Muny,” he estimated Friday while talking with host Don Marsh on St. Louis on the Air.

‘The power of your vote’: Boosting voter registration among low-to-moderate-income voters Oct 05, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks to local organizers of voter registration drives to see how they will try boost voter participation for the Nov. 6 midterm elections.

‘The power of your vote’: Boosting voter registration among low-to-moderate income voters Oct 04, 2018

Midterm elections are important. But Sandra Moore, former president of Urban Strategies, told "St. Louis on the Air" host Don Marsh that “mobilizing folks to register and vote” is what's most important. She helped organize a voter education and registration drive that seeks to energize women in north St. Louis and north St. Louis County for the Nov. 6 election.

Stephen Sondheim talks childhood, staying ‘step ahead’ of audiences, more ahead of SLU award Oct 04, 2018

Stephen Sondheim hesitates to settle on a single beginning point from which his now 70-year-long career in musical theater took off. There were the piano lessons he began taking as a young child, something he acknowledges may have “infiltrated” him early on. Then there’s the show he wrote at age 15, a script family friend Oscar Hammerstein gave an unsparing critique. He also credits his enjoyment of films growing up.

UMSL embarks on 5-year strategic plan, emerges from budget struggles Oct 03, 2018

UMSL Chancellor Tom George and Provost Kristin Sobolik address the state of the university.

Florissant teen and singer Kennedy Holmes is a strong contestant on the 15th season of NBC's The Voice – havung recieved approval by all four of the show's celebrity judges. Oct 03, 2018

13-year-old Kennedy Holmes took many people by surprise because of her mature voice on the 15th season of NBC's The Voice singing competition. During the blind auditions, all four celebrity judges spun around in approval to ask Holmes to join their team. Host Don Marsh talked to the Florissant teen about her experience on the show and what her life has been like since going viral.

Chanticleer brings 12 voices, many octaves, newly unearthed 17th-century ‘Salve Regina’ to St. Louis Oct 02, 2018

Over the past 40 years, San Francisco-based Chanticleer has gone to great lengths and unexpected places to refine and expand its vocal repertoire, bringing striking arrangements of popular music into the mix as well as commissioning new choral works by contemporary composers. But centuries-old songs can also be full of surprises – including Antonio de Salazar’s arrangement of “Salve Regina.”

Harvard philosopher’s roadmap to developing ‘a better kind of public discourse’ Oct 02, 2018

On Tuesday's St. Louis on the Air host Don Marsh spoke with author and Harvard political philosopher Michael Sandel about the erosion of civil public discourse, political polarization, and the role of truth in American democratic life.

From impoverished to "fame-ish": A conversation with St. Louis' own 'resale queen' Oct 01, 2018

On Monday's St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh talks with Sue McCarthy, the owner of Vault Luxury Resale and author of the new book "Good Better Best: The Rags-to-Riches Story of the Upscale Retail Queen."

East St. Louis native, Olympic gold medalist Dawn Harper Nelson returns home to inspire youth Oct 01, 2018

East St. Louis native and Olympic gold medalist Dawn Harper Nelson is taking a break from running and spoke to host Don Marsh about her career, being a female athlete, activism and upcoming speaking engagements.

Former SLTPR editor reflects on experience covering Anita Hill hearings, connections to this week Sep 28, 2018

Longtime journalist Margaret Wolf Freivogel shares her impressions of the Supreme Court confirmation hearings she observed in 1991 and 2018.

St. Louis Chamber Chorus premieres Latvian composer Ēriks Ešenvalds’ work based on friendship theme Sep 28, 2018

The universal concept of friendship will be explored musically in the St. Louis Chamber Chorus's opening concert to its 2018-2019 season, “States of Being." The SLCC's artistic director Philip Barnes and Latvian composer Ēriks Ešenvalds talked to host Don Marsh about their musical collaboration.

Latest ‘We Live Here’ episode explores broad implications of Maplewood settlement, ordinance changes Sep 28, 2018

Rosetta Watson was functionally evicted from Maplewood after a former boyfriend attacked her. She recently spoke with St. Louis Public Radio’s "We Live Here" podcast team after winning a settlement against the city.

Behind the Headlines: Expanding the conversation on charter schools Sep 28, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks to St. Louis Public Radio education reporter Ryan Delaney, who clarified the status of charter schools in the St. Louis area.

Missouri voters not a ‘monolithic voting block’: Inside the ‘Beyond the Ballot’ project Sep 27, 2018

Host Don Marsh delves deeper into the “Beyond the Ballot” project with St. Louis Public Radio reporter Ashley Lisenby and Harvest Public Media editor Erica Hunzinger to see what Missouri voters' aspirations are for the November midterm elections.

‘The most amazing machine that nature has devised’: WashU alumnus’ book takes deeper look at human h Sep 27, 2018

Dr. Sandeep Jauhar spoke about his newest book 'Heart: A History,' which examines the historical, philosophical, and physiological characteristic of the human body's most complex organ, the heart.

Legal Roundtable disentangles a complex week in the world of law Sep 26, 2018

St. Louis on the Air's monthly Legal Roundtable reconvened Wednesday to discuss a variety of local and national legal stories, from the Kavanaugh confirmation controversy to the new sex discrimination lawsuit surrounding a retirement community in Sunset Hills.

‘You can still get your Ted Drewes and your toasted ravs’: How smaller grocers survive in St. Louis Sep 25, 2018

Store owners Vincent Hromadka, Maddie Earnest and Chris Goodson are each familiar with the challenges – and the joys – of running a smaller grocery operation in the city.

Sound Bites: Increase in low-to-no-alcohol drink options has many St. Louisans' spirits high Sep 25, 2018

An evening of merriment, fun and flavor doesn’t have to involve alcohol – that’s an oft-repeated and frequently doubted notion. But it’s a growing mantra even among some bartenders and drink-industry enthusiasts, and it needn’t be a buzz kill.

‘Scottish-Americans are alive well in the state of Missouri’: Celebrating the contributions of Scottish culture Sep 24, 2018

Mark Sutherland and Thomas Richardson discuss the influence of Scottish culture on the St. Louis region ahead of the 15th annual St. Louis Scottish Games & Culture Festival.

St. Louis resources offer help to find passion, live healthfully later in life Sep 24, 2018

Deb Gaut, Paul Weiss and Dr. Ken Druck discuss aging successfully and living a full and healthy life.

'They still need us': How to help children navigate, process the digital world Sep 21, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks to educators Julie Smith and Marialice Curran about digital wellness and citizenship, and how to help guide children though the digital world.

Loved? Hated? Or both? The Rep’s ‘Evita’ portrays Eva Perón’s rise to power Sep 21, 2018

Host Don Marsh discusses the plot and musical set of The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis' "Evita" production with the company's artistic director Steve Woolf and actor Pepe Nufrio.

St. Louis-area minimalists maximize meaning in their lives with fewer items Sep 20, 2018

Amber Sebold and Carmen Connors discuss how they adapted minimalism to their own lives.

How 1 St. Louis group uses digital forensics to solve crimes Sep 20, 2018

Ken Nix explains the importance of the work done by the St. Louis Regional Computer Crimes Education and Enforcement Group.

St. Louis native Neal Bascomb details daring World War I prisoner escapes Sep 19, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks with St. Louis native Neal Bascomb, author of "The Escape Artists: A Band of Daredevil Pilots and the Greatest Prison Break of the Great War."

James Comey talks Kavanaugh, Mueller investigation – and says he’s not worried about his emails Sep 19, 2018

The former FBI director expresses both concern and hope about the state of U.S. institutions and the rule of law during a St. Louis Public Radio interview with Don Marsh.

Not a ‘charter versus district’ issue: A discussion with several leaders of local charter schools Sep 18, 2018

Where some school districts lack, charter schools provide. Host Don Marsh talked with Engin Blackstone, Christie Huck and Stella Erondu about what charter schools have to offer local communities.

St. Louis Symphony Orchestra opens 139th season this weekend Sep 18, 2018

Marie-Hélène Bernard and Erik Finley discuss the upcoming season for the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra ahead of its debut weekend.

Bookfest St. Louis is back for 2nd year, featuring 40-some authors from near and far Sep 17, 2018

Kris Kleindienst need only glance out toward the entrance to her bookstore at the corner of Euclid and McPherson avenues for some solid reminders of St. Louis’ literary legacy. The busts of four canonical writers adorn the intersection. But she's just as enthusiastic about St. Louis’ contemporary writing community as she is about the region’s historical claims to writerly fame.

Lebanese photographer makes return trip to Illinois, Missouri towns named Lebanon Sep 17, 2018

Photographer Fadi BouKaram, from Lebanon, talks to host Don Marsh about his return trip to U.S. towns named Lebanon.

St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner answers questions from Don Marsh, listeners Sep 14, 2018

St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner has been on the job for a little over a year and a half and her office has been the subject of some controversy and criticism, as highlighted in an in-depth piece in the Riverfront Times. Gardner agreed to join Don Marsh to respond to the recent attention.

Regional Arts Commission report calls for more collaborating, using arts to improve communities Sep 14, 2018

Felicia Shaw, executive director of the Regional Arts Commission, talked about a new in-depth report that highlights the importance of the arts in St. Louis and calls for more collaboration.

Deray Mckesson talks with host Don Marsh ahead of book event Sep 13, 2018

The civil rights activist and prominent Ferguson protester has a new book out, titled "On the Other Side of Freedom."

‘There’s no magazine quite like it’: Joyce Carol Oates, Carl Phillips on Boulevard's 100th issue Sep 13, 2018

For nearly 35 years now, St. Louis-based Boulevard magazine has been publishing works of fiction, poetry and nonfiction by both luminaries and emerging writers

New film ‘Swimming to Ferguson’ highlights St. Louisan’s efforts to ford channels, racial divides Sep 12, 2018

Henry Biggs remembers hearing "a lot of talk" about bridging St. Louis’ racial divides and disparities in the months that followed Michael Brown’s death. "But I didn’t really see many people saying, 'OK, well, what’s the thing that I could do?'"

For local artistic nonprofits, art is about much more than the product Sep 12, 2018

Alongside the work of established artists, entertainers and educators, artwork created through several outreach-oriented organizations will be in the spotlight this weekend in St. Charles.

'We Live Here' hosts discuss latest episode 'Nuisance, or Nonsense?' Sep 12, 2018

STLPR co-hosts/co-producers Kameel Stanley and Tim Lloyd discuss the latest episode of 'We Live Here,' about the story of a woman who called the police too many times and was evicted from her Maplewood home because of it.

‘A better world doesn’t happen – it gets made’: SCOTUS Justice Sonia Sotomayor stops in St. Louis Sep 11, 2018

Host Don Marsh speaks with U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor about the obstacles she overcame growing up and why she wants to inspire children with two recent book releases.

Beginnings of beer in St. Louis were ‘much more than Anheuser-Busch’ Sep 11, 2018

Cameron Collins, co-author of the third edition of “St. Louis Brews: The History of Brewing in the Gateway City,” talks about the city's brewing history and present-day craft beer scene.

UMSL professor looks at history of weather in St. Louis, impact on urban development Sep 10, 2018

Andrew Hurley, a history professor at University of Missouri-St. Louis, discusses his research of the history of weather events in St. Louis and their impacts on urban development.

STLPR's Jason Rosenbaum and Marshall Griffin discuss national, state politics – and their overlap Sep 10, 2018

The two St. Louis Public Radio reporters offer analysis of the impact of President Trump on Missouri races, the state legislative outlook with new Gov. Mike Parson in place and more.

STLPR editor offers suggestions of great stuff to do this weekend in lieu of LouFest Sep 07, 2018

Holly Edgell's report on “11 things to do this weekend now that LouFest has been canceled” was part of the newsroom’s broad coverage of the developing story over the past week.

LouFest founder recaps 2018 festival’s demise Sep 07, 2018

Like so many St. Louisans this week, LouFest founder Brian Cohen was surprised and saddened to learn that the major St. Louis music festival set for this weekend had been cancelled.

STLPR reporter looks back on the 20 years since Mark McGwire’s record-breaking home run Sep 07, 2018

Rachel Lippmann discusses the changing views of Mark McGwire since he hit his 62nd home run during the St. Louis Cardinals’ 1998 season.

How one Webster alumnus overcame video-gaming addiction, turned hobby into career-builder Sep 07, 2018

Charles Whitehead discusses video-gaming addiction with clinical therapist Nigel Darvell and shares a testimony of his recovery.

Anger, prayer, renewed push for accountability: St. Louis Catholics respond to clergy sexual abuse Sep 06, 2018

Two women from the Archdiocese of St. Louis, a representative of the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (SNAP), and Missouri Attorney General Josh Hawley discussed clergy sexual abuse in St. Louis.

Buses, carpooling services provide alternate options for St. Louis commuters Sep 06, 2018

Clint Dougherty and SJ Morrison discuss the services of Madison County Transit and RideFinders carpooling program.

‘You are not alone, we’re here to help’: St. Louis efforts unite in suicide prevention Sep 05, 2018

Dr. Bart Andrews, Shelby Zurick and Gary Robertson discuss suicide prevention in light of National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.

Must-visit restaurants for September Sep 05, 2018

Sauce Magazine's Matt Sorrell and Heather Hughes discuss this month's new restaurants worth trying.

The show will not go on: LouFest is canceled. Sep 05, 2018

STLPR reporter Jeremy Goodwin joins host Don Marsh to discuss the details behind the music festival's cancellation.

WashU linguist analyzes American dialects, discrimination Sep 04, 2018

Cultural anthropologist, linguist and psychologist John Baugh discusses the variety in American dialects of English and how that plays into discrimination.

Living with breast cancer: Jossalyn Larson shares her journey Sep 04, 2018

Jossalyn Larson of Owensville, Missouri, was diagnosed with breast cancer about two months ago and is publicly discussing what it's like and her ongoing treatments.

Book experts share strategies for choosing what to read next among so many possibilities Aug 31, 2018

When it comes to reading, one person’s great book can be another person’s dull tome. Anne Bogel and Holland Saltsman discuss how they connect good books to the right readers.

A fond farewell to retiring executive producer Mary Edwards Aug 31, 2018

Over the past 44 years, the radio and news industries have gone through many changes. Two things that haven’t changed during that time are Mary Edwards’ dedication and passion for her work at St. Louis Public Radio.

STLPR's Rachel Lippmann offers analysis of this week's move by Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner Aug 31, 2018

St. Louis Public Radio reporter Rachel Lippmann discusses the news that the St. Louis prosecutor's office will no longer accept cases from 28 local officers.

‘We Live Here’ revisits Shelley v. Kraemer 70 years later by talking with family who changed history Aug 30, 2018

"There's a certain kind of human truth that can only really be found by talking with family members who have this story that’s passed down generation to generation," says STLPR's Tim Lloyd.

St. Louis Marine veteran shares tales of war, camaraderie ahead of biennial reunion Aug 30, 2018

Veteran Marine Captain Allyn Hinton recalls memories of the Vietnam War and talks about the upcoming reunion of USMC combat helicopter pilots in St. Louis next week.

A conversation about St. Louis' troubled relationship with developer Paul McKee Aug 30, 2018

St. Louis Public Radio reporters Rachel Lippmann and Kae Petrin discuss the latest developments in the Northside Regeneration saga.

Labeled ‘toxic’ or not, a difficult work environment can take a lasting toll, say St. Louis experts Aug 29, 2018

Matt Grawitch with SLU’s School for Professional Studies and Dena Bubrick-Tranen of Middle Way Counseling and Consulting offer insights on coping with difficult workplace situations.

Big Muddy Blues Festival to bring sounds, soul to St. Louisans this weekend Aug 29, 2018

Jeremy Segal-Moss, Tracy Mitchell and Renee Smith discuss the rich St. Louis tradition of blues music in advance of the Big Muddy Blues Festival to take place Labor Day weekend.

‘Start business before you start business’: St. Louis organization aids micro-businesses, entrepreneurs Aug 28, 2018

Alyce Herndon and Reona Wise discuss resources provided by Grace Hill Women’s Business Center to aid entrepreneurs and micro-business owners.

‘I emulated her a lot’: Remembering Aretha Franklin with St. Louis jazz great Denise Thimes Aug 28, 2018

Denise Thimes was still a young girl when she first interacted with Aretha Franklin in St. Louis during the late '60s. Even then the Queen of Soul made a big impression on her.

‘Inequality wasn’t the intention, but inequality was the outcome’: Addressing bias in AI software Aug 27, 2018

Calvin Lai and David Karandish discuss the ways in which artificial intelligence can be biased and how to make it as objective as possible.

‘I was not seen, heard or listened to’ at hospital: Ferguson’s Tru Kellman finds her true calling Aug 27, 2018

After enduring two cesarean sections and other challenges as a teen mom herself, Tru Kellman started Jamaa Birth Village in 2015 to help address racial disparities in pregnancy-related mortality rates.

2 Metro East reporters take close look at perceptions, realities surrounding transit safety concerns Aug 24, 2018

A new Belleville News-Democrat investigation challenges common perceptions about how safe MetroLink is. Joe Bustos and Kelsey Landis discuss their findings.

Illinois forum tackles fiscal issues, population loss Aug 24, 2018

An Illinois issues forum explores fiscal issues and why people are leaving the state.

'The life of a baseball is very short': STLPR's Mary Leonard describes the process at Busch Stadium Aug 24, 2018

What happens to all those used baseballs the umpires toss out of St. Louis Cardinals games? That question from a listener prompted one St. Louis Public Radio reporter to hunt for some answers.

St. Louis man takes family on intercontinental adventure, inspires book about grandparenting Aug 23, 2018

Paul Gallant and Richard Weiss discuss grandparenting and the book “The Grand Journey: Lessons Learned While Navigating Wild Animals and Wilder Times with our Grandkids.”

Historic USS Missouri battleship undergoing renovations, preparing for WWII anniversary Aug 23, 2018

The historic battleship that was the site of the Japanese surrender during WWII is undergoing major renovations as it prepares for the 75th anniversary of the end of the war.

Legal Roundtable dives into Cohen, Manafort convictions Aug 22, 2018

Mark Smith, Brenda Talent and Bill Freivogel discuss recent local and national headlines during this month’s Legal Roundtable.

Trolley ‘coming very soon’ as Delmar Loop welcomes first executive director, looks to future Aug 21, 2018

Developer Joe Edwards and Delmar Loop executive director Rachelle L’Ecuyer discuss the state of the Loop as it awaits an operating trolley and continues to evolve as a dining, shopping and entertainment hub.

St. Louis American embarks on editorial endeavor to change narrative for black males Aug 21, 2018

Chris King and Sean Joe discuss what sparked their idea to influence the narratives that surround young black males.

STLPR’s Melody Walker discusses ongoing airport-privatization saga Aug 20, 2018

With the potential privatization of St. Louis Lambert International Airport still “up in the air,” St. Louis Public Radio’s Melody Walker offers analysis of the latest developments.

Abundance of digital data brings need for vigilance against its disappearance Aug 20, 2018

The digital age has ushered in many advancements and fresh possibilities – and also new concerns. One of those has to do with the need to protect vital scientific and public data.

STLPR reporter connects with Kenyan-born teens from St. Louis during their service trip Aug 20, 2018

St. Louis Public Radio's Ryan Delaney talks about his recent travels in Africa, where he caught up with some fellow St. Louisans.

‘Dark Money’ opens in St. Louis, sheds light on increasingly untraceable financing of political campaigns Aug 17, 2018

With a growing lack of transparency clouding money’s influence on politics around the United States, a new film digs into the issue by zooming in on one state in particular: Montana.

‘We Live Here’: Missouri Supreme Court reaches decision on Latasha Johnson’s tenants’ rights case Aug 17, 2018

"We Live Here" producer/host Tim Lloyd provides an update on the Missouri Supreme Court's ruling in favor of Latasha Johnson's landlord.

A conversation about the condition of public housing in East St. Louis Aug 17, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks with STLPR's Ashley Lisenby and the Southern Illinoisan's Molly Parker about the impact of the situation on residents of East St. Louis.

‘These are not your usual employees’: Attorney deciphers law, political protests, employees’ rights Aug 16, 2018

Mitch Margo, the Missouri Valley Conference’s general counsel, discusses the implications of the law when it comes to employees exercising their right to protest.

‘It packs an emotional wallop’: Union Avenue Opera takes on apartheid-era ‘Lost in the Stars’ Aug 16, 2018

Contrary to any stuffy misconceptions, opera isn’t something one simply observes or sits through – especially not an opera like Kurt Weill's 1949 “Lost in the Stars.”

Missourians struggling to keep up on child-support payments face ‘perpetuating cycle,’ say attorneys Aug 15, 2018

When Stephanie Lummus first entered nonprofit legal work, she didn’t expect that her efforts to represent homeless people and help them exit poverty would so often revolve around child support.

‘We’re just regular folks trying to live our lives’: Black, queer intersectionality Aug 15, 2018

Black Pride St. Louis President Randy Rafter and Center for Black Equity President/CEO Earl Fowlkes discuss the intersectionality between black and queer identities.

Wash U professor answers 10 questions about the psychology behind conspiracy theories Aug 14, 2018

Conspiracy theories are nothing new – but they are in the news a lot these days, and they seem to particularly plague the digital age.

3 St. Louis comics get candid about how diversity influences their performances Aug 14, 2018

Comedians Max Price, Tina Dybal and Duke Taylor discuss the diversity within St. Louis and how that plays out in their performances.

Jason Kander discusses new book, mayoral run and going outside one’s comfort zone Aug 13, 2018

The former Missouri secretary of state's book is titled "Outside the Wire: Ten Lessons I’ve Learned in Everyday Courage."

5 spots to caffeinate, dine during August Aug 13, 2018

Sauce Magazine's Catherine Klene and Heather Hughes talk about new restaurants and shops on their radar this month.

The story behind the name 'Bellerive' Aug 10, 2018

Sharon Person, professor of English at St. Louis Community College, shares the history behind Bellerive Country Club and its name.

STLPR's Wayne Pratt talks about his reporting on the 100th PGA Championship Aug 10, 2018

St. Louis Public Radio newscaster/reporter Wayne Pratt, who toured Bellerive in advance of the tournament, discusses his observations.

Putting on the PGA Championship at Bellerive: What does it take and other questions answered Aug 10, 2018

Mike DeCola, general chairman of the 100th PGA Championship, talks about what goes into putting together such a large event as well as the championship-making final three holes.

‘The fight must go on’: A conversation with St. Louis County’s next prosecutor, Wesley Bell Aug 09, 2018

Wesley Bell is an attorney, municipal-court prosecutor and Ferguson city-council member. Soon he’ll become St. Louis County’s first African-American prosecutor.

A few years in, ongoing work of Forward Through Ferguson still urgent – and difficult Aug 09, 2018

Forward Through Ferguson catalysts's Yinka Faleti, Karishma Furtado and David Dwight discuss their organization’s newly released assessment of progress toward racial equity in the St. Louis region.

STLPR reporters analyze Missouri primary election results Aug 08, 2018

Reporters Jo Mannies, Jason Rosenbaum and Rachel Lippmann talk about the results of Tuesday’s primary election in Missouri.

‘It’s totally wild, but it’s worth it:’ St. Lou Fringe Fest curates local, national independent art Aug 08, 2018

Matthew Kerns, Omega Jones and Madelyn Boyne discuss the upcoming 2018 St. Lou Fringe Fest.

Scooting around town on new Limes and Birds mildly terrifying, extremely fun, says RFT’s Daniel Hill Aug 07, 2018

Smartphone-based GPS tracking systems allow people in the St. Louis area to locate, unlock and ride the scooters recently launched by rival companies Lime and Bird.

Lawsuit targeting multiple parts of opioid epidemic is a novel approach Aug 07, 2018

St. Louis Attorney Jeff Lowe discusses the lawsuit filed in St. Louis Circuit Court that targets multiple parts of the opioid epidemic.

NCADA, mother of son who died from opioid overdose highlight prevention efforts Aug 07, 2018

Brandon Costerison of NCADA and Kathi Arbini of Fenton, Missouri discuss their efforts to curb the rising number of opioid-related deaths.

Tijuana Brass trumpeter Herb Alpert brings art as well as music to St. Louis Aug 06, 2018

Renowned Tijuana Brass trumpeter Herb Alpert discusses his art, music and philanthropic efforts in advance of his St. Louis appearance at The Grandel.

One’s protected, one’s connected: How Grafton and Ste. Genevieve responded to the Great Flood of ’93 Aug 06, 2018

The cities of Ste. Genevieve, Missouri and Grafton, Illinois, have taken very different approaches to coping with Mississippi River flooding since the Great Flood of '93.

5 questions for St. Louis County Executive Steve Stenger ahead of Tuesday’s primary Aug 03, 2018

Steve Stenger, who has served as St. Louis County executive since January 2015, hopes to serve another four-year term.

Behind the Headlines: STLPR political reporters discuss myriad issues in advance of Tuesday primary Aug 03, 2018

Reporters Jo Mannies and Jason Rosenbaum discuss a variety of issues in advance of the Aug. 7 primary in Missouri.

10 questions for incumbent Congressman Lacy Clay – and his answers Aug 02, 2018

U.S. Rep. Lacy Clay is seeking to serve a ninth term in the House of Representatives.

A conversation with St. Louis County executive Democratic candidate Mark Mantovani Aug 02, 2018

Democratic candidate for St. Louis County executive Mark Mantovani addresses issues pertinent to his campaign in advance of the Aug. 7 primary elections.

10 questions for Cori Bush, primary challenger in 1st Congressional District race – and her answers Aug 01, 2018

Florissant resident Cori Bush is an ordained pastor and registered nurse – and is currently running to become a congresswoman.

Next ‘We Live Here’ podcast fills audience in on vacant properties Aug 01, 2018

Kameel Stanley joins host Don Marsh to talk about the upcoming episode of “We Live Here.”

Sound Bites: A taste of Peru in St. Louis Aug 01, 2018

Catherine Klene, Stephanie Zeilenga and Jorge Calvo Jr. discuss Peruvian cuisine in this month’s Sound Bites segment with Sauce Magazine.

Legal Roundtable talks local discrimination issues, national political landscape Jul 31, 2018

Lawyers Bill Freivogel, Blake Strode and Dan Epps discuss the latest local and national judicial news during this month’s Legal Roundtable.

St. Louis listeners, longtime journalists share 25 takeaways a quarter-century after Great Flood of ’93 Jul 30, 2018

Host Don Marsh and guests discuss memories of the flood alongside a crowd of listeners calling and writing in to the show with their own vivid recollections.

Pro & Con: Prop A, the referendum on Aug. 7 ballot that would make Missouri a right-to-work state Jul 27, 2018

Missouri voters will decide whether to pass Proposition A during the Aug. 7 primary election. Host Don Marsh examines both sides of the hotly contested ballot issue.

Behind the Headlines: Trump touts tariffs at Granite city steel mill Jul 27, 2018

St. Louis Public Radio political reporter Jason Rosenbaum joined St. Louis on the Air host Don Marsh to provide analysis and a behind-the-scenes look at the president's recent visit.

Entertainer, St. Louis native Jenifer Lewis gets candid about bipolar disorder, career Jul 26, 2018

Actress, comedian, singer and activist Jenifer Lewis discusses her career highlights that led to the release of her book “The Mother of Black Hollywood: A Memoir.”

St. Louis artists, psychologist reflect on body image, social media Jul 26, 2018

Jenna Budreau, Dail Chambers and Marissa Southards discuss how social media influences body image, especially among youth.

Local living kidney donor, experts discuss life-saving way to ‘help someone else catch a break' Jul 25, 2018

In January, St. Louis-area resident Jane Beckman came across an article about a man in need of a new kidney – and another man who came to his aid. “I could do that,” Beckman thought to herself.

Soon-to-open Cortex MetroLink Station is more than just another stop, say regional transit leaders Jul 25, 2018

Metro Transit's Jessica Mefford-Miller and CMT's June McAllister Fowler discuss what the new stop and other plans in the works could mean for the future of transit in the St. Louis region.

‘We can’t leave it like this’: St. Louis youth organization honors legacy of Emmett Till Jul 24, 2018

Holly Ingraham, Amadi MuseMorris and Lizzy Mills discuss how Cultural Leadership honored the life of Emmett Till.

Emmett Till case reopened; Simeon Wright recounts personal experience Jul 24, 2018

Host Don Marsh revisits his 2014 conversation with Simeon Wright, cousin of the late Emmett Till, in light of the Department of Justice reopening Till’s decades-old cold case.

St. Louis roller derby league laces up for international competition Jul 24, 2018

Sarah “Bricktator” Arnosky and Brooke “Vicious van Gogo” Clark discuss the sport of roller derby and the Arch Rival Roller Derby’s upcoming opportunity to compete internationally.

Nuanced challenges, disparities face black doctors and other medical professionals of color Jul 23, 2018

Wash U’s Adia Harvey Wingfield, the 2018 recipient of the American Sociological Association’s Public Understanding of History Award, discusses her latest research.

Wash U administrator’s new book explores history, future of vaccination Jul 23, 2018

Michael Kinch, author of “Between Hope and Fear: A History of Vaccines and Human Immunity,” seeks to sift through his topic's complexity and reach lay audiences.

Behind the Headlines: Clayton officials meet with Wash U students, say city will conduct racial sensitivity training Jul 20, 2018

St. Louis Public Radio journalists Holly Edgell and Chad Davis talked about this week's news involving the temporary detention of 10 black Wash U students by Clayton police.

St. Louis Arches circus troupe returns from trip to Puerto Rico Jul 20, 2018

Jessica Henthoff and Ari Maayan of Circus Harmony talk about the St. Louis Arches' trip to Puerto Rico.

Behind the Headlines: Airspace restrictions during the vice president's visit Jul 20, 2018

STLPR data visual journalist Brent Jones talks about Temporary Flight Restrictions that go into effect when VIPs visit.

Behind the Headlines: Pence champions Trump, Hawley in St. Louis visit Jul 20, 2018

STLPR reporter Jo Mannies talks about Vice President Mike Pence's visit to St. Louis and its implications.

NPR political commentator Cokie Roberts discusses news of the day, pioneering women Jul 19, 2018

NPR political commentator Cokie Roberts was in St. Louis and stopped by to discuss news of the day and prominent women in United States history.

‘I Live Here’ event opens doors to community stories Jul 19, 2018

St. Louis Public Radio’s Kameel Stanley talks about the latest episode of “We Live Here.”

Area universities grapple with increased attention to Title IX concerns in light of Michigan State, #MeToo Jul 18, 2018

A local Title IX coordinator, an advocate for victims of sexual abuse and a senior reporter from the Chronicle of Higher Education discuss the renewed focus on sexual assault and harassment.

St. Louis Jesuit Daniel Lord to see screen time during Filmmakers Showcase Jul 18, 2018

Stephen Werner talks about the influential life and work of Daniel Lord.

St. Louis authors, We Stories use books to teach children diversity Jul 17, 2018

Aja La’Starr Owens, Georgie Herz and Adelaide Lancaster discuss how they use children’s literature to create conversations with kids about race and gender.

From Missouri to California – A history of the Pony Express Jul 17, 2018

Jim DeFelice discusses the history of the Pony Express and is the author of "West Like Lightning: The Brief, Legendary Ride of the Pony Express."

Wash U’s Marie Griffith sees shift occurring in some evangelical communities because of #ChurchToo Jul 16, 2018

Shortly after #MeToo got going, a related hashtag also appeared on social media: #ChurchToo. It caught the attention of Marie Griffith, a faculty member at Washington University.

St. Louis serves as backdrop for ‘Parallel Chords’; film to screen this Friday Jul 16, 2018

Catherine Dudley-Rose and Allyson Mace discuss the St. Louis-based film “Parallel Chords,” in advance of the screening at the St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase.

St. Louis native Joe Johnston explores history, culture of Southern cooking Jul 13, 2018

Joe Johnston discussed his new book, "Grits to Glory: How Southern Cookin' Got So Good" and upcoming appearances in Jefferson County.

‘Really something incredible’: Local guitarist recounts contest win, 30 Seconds to Mars performance Jul 13, 2018

Local guitarist Jerod Broadbooks won a radio contest and the prize was performing onstage with 30 Seconds to Mars. He talked about the experience.

Behind the Headlines - Former Gov. Eric Greitens faces new legal woes Jul 13, 2018

St. Louis Public Radio political reporter Jo Mannies talked about this week's news in which the former governor was accused of intentionally skirting election laws.

4 restaurants to try in July Jul 12, 2018

Sauce Magazine’s Heather Hughes and Catherine Klene talk veg-friendly restaurants and new places on their radar this month.

Plant-based restaurant options, lifestyles grow on St. Louisans Jul 12, 2018

Caryn Dugan and James Loomis discuss the benefits of a plant-based diet, leading up to the first plant-based nutrition summit held in St. Louis.

Cinema St. Louis' Chris Clark talks up the 2018 showcase Jul 11, 2018

Chris Clark, artistic director for Cinema St. Louis, discusses several of the more than 100 films in the spotlight as part of Filmmakers Showcase.

A sneak peek at this year’s Filmmakers Showcase lineup, including ‘Gateway Sound’ Jul 11, 2018

Justin Fisher discusses his documentary about the evolving recording industry. It screens at 4 p.m. Saturday as part of the 2018 St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase.

Insight Theatre Company presents “The Importance of Being Earnest” Jul 11, 2018

In advance of the debut of Insight Theatre Company’s “The Importance of Being Earnest, A Trivial Comedy for Serious People,” Ed Reggi and Tom Murray discuss the evergreen themes and diverse cast.

SIUE students spearhead archaeological dig on campus; ancient house found among remains Jul 10, 2018

Julie Zimmermann, Kelly Sopek and Payne Gray discuss the anthropological findings of an ancient Mississippian-era house on the SIUE campus.

Hazard or opportunity for McCaskill? SCOTUS nomination could be either, says Wash U law professor Jul 10, 2018

Washington University law professor Greg Magarian discussed the nomination of Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court and the implications on Missouri politics.

Arts As Healing classes offer respite as cancer patients become ‘lost in what they’re creating' Jul 09, 2018

Kathy McGee had just recently completed her cancer treatments when she visited Arts As Healing for the first time. She wasn’t exactly sure what she was getting into.

St. Louis-based author shares 100 unique road trip experiences Jul 09, 2018

Bill Clevlen chats about his new book “100 Things to Do in America Before You Die.”

Union Avenue Opera sets sail, opens season with 'H.M.S. Pinafore' Jul 06, 2018

Union Avenue Opera founder and artistic director Scott Schoonover discussed the company's season-opening production of Gilbert and Sullivan's "H.M.S. Pinafore."

St. Louis Treasurer Tishaura Jones and Rep. Bruce Franks Jr. discuss #ArchSoWhite Jul 06, 2018

The St. Louis-area black leaders discussed the #ArchSoWhite controversy just before hosting an inclusive ribbon-cutting at the Gateway Arch grounds.

Space-themed pop culture takes center stage at St. Louis Science Center’s First Friday event Jul 06, 2018

Margaret Weitekamp makes connections between reality and fiction in regards to two notable space-themed aspects of popular culture.

Pediatrician who uncovered Flint water issues details crisis, provides public health lessons Jul 05, 2018

Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha discusses what can be learned from the Flint water crisis.

Latest ‘We Live Here’ looks at gentrification in small St. Louis community Jul 05, 2018

Kameel Stanley discusses gentrification as the topic of the latest episode of “We Live Here," highlighting the west St. Louis County community of Westland Acres.

The sobering history of St. Louis children during the 1800s, early 1900s Jul 03, 2018

Historian Bonnie Stepenoff recounts the plight of St. Louis children in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Recovery programs, law enforcement, legislation work to combat St. Louis-area human trafficking Jul 03, 2018

Katie Rhoades and Norman Murphy discuss the pervasive issue of human trafficking in the St. Louis region as well as efforts to address it.

Sound Bites: Smoki O’s, Beast Craft BBQ pitmasters share barbecue tips Jul 02, 2018

Matt Sorrell, David Sandusky and Otis Walker ignite a conversation about barbecue just in time for the Fourth of July.

A rare copy of the Declaration of Independence is on display at Wash U Jul 02, 2018

In advance of Independence Day, the community has an opportunity to view a rare copy of the Declaration of Independence at Wash U.

Former Hells Angels leader George Christie acts out life of crime, danger, comradery in play Jun 29, 2018

Former Hells Angels leader George Christie lived a life of crime, danger and comradery. He portrays his life's story in the one-man show, "Outlaw."

St. Louis Labor Council president hopes SCOTUS ruling energizes opposition to Prop A on August ballot Jun 29, 2018

Pat White, president of the St. Louis Labor Council, discusses the state of organized labor in the bi-state region in light of the U.S. Supreme Court's new ruling related to union dues.

Fair St. Louis returns to the Gateway Arch Jun 29, 2018

James Boldt, general chairman of Fair St. Louis 2018, talks about this year's fair and its return to the Gateway Arch.

Gateway Arch Park Foundation takes on new role after renovation completion Jun 28, 2018

Samantha Fischer of the Gateway Arch Park Foundation discussed the role of the organization moving forward.

Audio Tour: New museum at the Gateway Arch to open July 3 Jun 28, 2018

Come along with reporter Mary Leonard as she gets a tour of the new visitor's center and museum at the Gateway Arch.

Downtown St. Louis soon to welcome thousands of fencers and their swords Jun 27, 2018

Bogdan Hamilton, Hossam Hassan and Daena Talavera share their love for the sport of fencing and their hopes for the 2018 National Championships as the events get underway in their home city.

FBI St. Louis welcomes first female assistant special agent in charge Jun 27, 2018

St. Louis FBI recently hired Alicia Corder to serve as the assistant special agent in charge. She and her supervisor Special Agent in Charge Richard Quinn talk about the organization’s efforts to diversify its agents.

Legal Roundtable discusses latest SCOTUS decisions, Stockley suit Jun 26, 2018

Bill Freivogel, Barbara Smith and Greg Magarian discuss recent SCOTUS activity as the session comes to a close.

Aaron Coleman uses poetry to turn memories into reflections and epiphanies Jun 25, 2018

Fulbright scholar and Cave Canem fellow Aaron Coleman writes, teaches and translates poetry. He talks about his craft and his book “Threat Come Close.”

The ‘volatile’ Mississippi: Challenges ahead as region sees continued development, more floods Jun 25, 2018

Rivers have never been static things – least of all the mighty Mississippi. But its recent volatility, combined with continued commercial development in regional floodplains, has many concerned.

Beyond borders: Children at heart of local implications, impressions of Trump’s immigration policy Jun 22, 2018

Three St. Louis-area residents whose areas of expertise shed light on the real-life impacts of evolving federal practices discuss the local ramifications.

New children’s book highlighting Cardinals baseball greats promotes bonding between generations Jun 22, 2018

The names of St. Louis Cardinals baseball players who are revered as heroes by many are often not even on the radar of younger fans. Author Ed Wheatley hopes to change that.

New episode of ‘We Live Here’ traces legacy of gated communities, street barriers in Gateway City Jun 21, 2018

The history of the region’s closed streets comes into sharp focus in the latest episode of St. Louis Public Radio’s “We Live Here” podcast.

Recent deaths in LGBTQ community prompt conversation about mental health Jun 21, 2018

Amid Pride month, our local LGBTQ community is mourning several losses. Mental health is a concern among LGBTQ individuals and Steph Perkins, Curtis Galloway and Emily Klamer discuss the issues and recommend resources.

Trains, planes and barge-o-mobiles: Moving St. Louis forward as a global freight hub Jun 20, 2018

National freight volume is expected to grow significantly over the next 30 years according to regional leaders who want to ensure that St. Louis captures a share of the increase.

Host of WBUR’s ‘Only A Game’ throws in the towel Jun 20, 2018

Bill Littlefield talks about his upcoming retirement from hosting NPR's Saturday morning sports program "Only A Game" for 25 years.

Growing loneliness epidemic speaks to ‘the difference between connecting and belonging’ Jun 19, 2018

A recent survey of more than 20,000 U.S. adults suggests that most Americans struggle with loneliness, and it’s an issue that has serious health implications. Local experts Amy Bertschausen, Elizabeth Sergel and Dixie Meyer discuss its increasing impact across generations.

Timothy O’Leary’s tenure as OTSL leader highlighted by inclusion, groundbreaking work Jun 19, 2018

Timothy O'Leary talks about the highlights of his time at Opera Theatre of St. Louis prior to his move to the Washington National Opera.

BBC documentary spotlights adventurous life of Robert Campbell, Irish farm boy turned St. Louis fur trader Jun 18, 2018

Film director Michael Beattie and Alan McFarland, a descendant of Robert Campbell, traveled to St. Louis from Northern Ireland for this week’s North American premiere and discussion of the documentary “Robert Campbell, Mountain Man.” They also talked about Campbell's life on Monday's St. Louis on the Air with host Don Marsh.

Play about gun violence aims to heal, inspire activism Jun 18, 2018

On Monday's St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh spoke with Joan Lipkin and Carol Swartout Klein about a play debuting in St. Louis titled "26 Pebbles."

‘Run-On Sentences’ play shares the voices, stories of incarcerated women Jun 15, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks about a creative collaboration between a nationally known playwright and a group of women incarcerated in Vandalia, Missouri.

St. Louis Public Radio's Ryan Delaney discusses debris issue at Gateway Elementary School Jun 15, 2018

On Friday's St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh talked with St. Louis Public Radio reporter Ryan Delaney. They discussed Delaney's recent investigation into the impact of demolition at the NGA site on students and staff at nearby Gateway Elementary School.

St. Louis Public Radio's Maria Altman and Rachel Lippmann discuss news involving developer Paul McKee Jun 15, 2018

On Friday's St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh discussed this week's headlines involving local developer Paul McKee. St. Louis Public Radio's Maria Altman and Rachel Lippmann joined the conversation to offer analysis.

‘Life is one big improv:’ how the skill can help you everyday Jun 14, 2018

On Thursday's St. Louis on the Air, Bob Baker, founder and director of the Improv Comedy Cabaret, Ken Haller, Saint Louis University professor and pediatrician, and John Larson, St. Louis Public Radio operations and program manager and author of “Just Say Yes: An Optimistic Guide for Entrepreneurs,” joined host Don Marsh in studio to discuss how improv skills can help you in the workplace.

NiNi Harris’ latest book takes readers beneath surface of St. Louis’ layered history Jun 14, 2018

Local historian NiNi Harris is the author of 14 volumes focused on the Gateway City’s history and architecture. She joined Thursday’s St. Louis on the Air to share highlights from her latest published work, “This Used to Be St. Louis.”

NPR Jerusalem correspondent Daniel Estrin shares Middle East insights during trip home to St. Louis Jun 13, 2018

On Wedensday's St. Louis on the Air, international journalist and St. Louis native Daniel Estrin talked with host Don Marsh in front of a live audience at St. Louis Public Radio. During the special broadcast, audience members asked questions about the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict as well as other topics.

Local pastor leaves Ferguson, reflects on strengths, weaknesses of community Jun 12, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks with Rev. F. Willis Johnson on St. Louis on the Air about his timeas the pastor of Wellspring Church in downtown Ferguson.

Jo Mannies and Marshall Griffin offer analysis of Parson's speech on 'St. Louis on the Air' Jun 12, 2018

On Tuesday's St. Louis on the Air, St. Louis Public Radio political reporters Marshall Griffin and Jo Mannies joined host Don Marsh to discuss new Missouri Gov. Mike Parson's Monday evening address.

‘A place of opportunity’: Benjamin Akande seeks to strengthen Wash U’s efforts in Africa Jun 11, 2018

Don Marsh talks to Benjamin Ola Akande, senior adviser to the chancellor and director of the Africa initiative at Washington University tasked with bringing the university’s various research and projects in Africa under one umbrella.

Ngone Seck shares her journey on 'St. Louis on the Air' alongside College Bound coach, STLPR reporter Jun 11, 2018

On Monday's St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh talked with local teen Ngone Seck, who moved to the U.S. about five years ago and graduated at the head of her class at Riverview Gardens High School this spring. She has now landed a full-ride scholarship to Washington University. Joining the conversation were St. Louis Public Radio reporter Nancy Fowler and College Bound academic coach Liliana Mora.

A mostly bygone big screen: Movie enthusiast recounts local history of drive-in theaters Jun 08, 2018

Tom Stockman, a self-described movie geek, joined Friday’s St. Louis on the Air for a look back at the heyday of St. Louis’ drive-in movie theaters, two of which still exist within an hour’s drive of the city.

Behind the Headlines: What to make of Supreme Court decision in favor of Colorado baker Jun 08, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks to Webster University legal studies professor Anne Geraghty-Rathert about the implications of the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in favor of a Colorado baker who refused to make a wedding cake for a same-sex couple on religious grounds.

‘Putt your way through downtown St. Louis’ at latest Sheldon Art Galleries mini-golf installation Jun 08, 2018

Producer Alex Heuer talks to Olivia Lahs-Gonzales, director of the Sheldon Art Galleries, about the Sheldon Art Galleries' "Golf the Galleries: Artist-Designed Mini Golf" exhibit.

100 Muny seasons to take center stage at Missouri History Museum Jun 07, 2018

On Thursday’s St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh offered listeners a sneak peek at the new exhibit "Muny Memories," which explores the century-old Muny from many different perspectives. Joining him for the discussion was curator Sharon Smith.

Latest episode of ‘We Live Here’ focuses on housing segregation Jun 07, 2018

On Thursday’s episode of St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh spoke with We Live Here co-host/producer Kameel Stanley about the podcast’s latest episode “The Segregation Myth-buster.”

3 new restaurants to check out in June Jun 06, 2018

On Wednesday’s St. Louis on the Air, two staff members from Sauce Magazine joined host Don Marsh to talk about new restaurants in and around Forest Park, as well as their favorite patios.

St. Louis Public Radio reporter/newscaster Wayne Pratt discusses Bayer's new ownership of Monsanto Jun 06, 2018

On Wednesday's St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh discussed this week's news that Bayer is acquiring longtime St. Louis-based company Monsanto. Joining him for the discussion was St. Louis Public Radio reporter/newscaster Wayne Pratt.

Missourian, Broadway actor Taylor Louderman shares journey from ‘Annie’ at age 10 to Tony nomination Jun 06, 2018

Producer Alex Heuer talked with Boubon, Missouri, native Taylor Louderman about her upbringing and recent Tony Award nomination.

Stages St. Louis has frank conversations on marriage in ‘I Do! I Do’ musical Jun 05, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks to actors Corinne Melançon, Steve Isom and Stages St. Louis associate producer, Andrew Kuhlman, about stages' "I Do! I Do!" production.

Changing needs, strategies in foster care as number of children in Missouri’s system increases Jun 05, 2018

Ryan Dowis of Cornerstones of Care and Melanie Scheetz of the Foster & Adoptive Care Coalition joined Tuesday’s St. Louis on the Air to discuss current challenges facing the region’s most vulnerable youth and those who care for them.

It has been this bad, says author, historian Jon Meacham in latest book, ‘Soul of America’ Jun 04, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks to author and historian Jon Meacham about Meacham's latest book, "Soul of America: The Battle for Our Better Angels."

Special coverage of Mike Parson's inauguration as governor of Missouri Jun 01, 2018

A special live edition of St. Louis on the Air included host Don Marsh in conversation with guests surrounding the swearing-in of Missouri Gov. Mike Parson.

Locally based Wee Heavies sing in ‘St. Louis on the Air’ studio ahead of concert at Sheldon Jun 01, 2018

St. Louis Public Radio contributor Charlie McDonald talks to locally based Wee Heavies band members.

Behind the Headlines: Discussion of Greitens’ resignation announcement Jun 01, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks to St. Louis Public Radio reporter Rachel Lippmann about Eric Greitens' resignation as Missouri governor.

Ferguson Starbucks manager calls company-wide anti-bias training ‘thought provoking’ Jun 01, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks to St. Louis Public Radio reporter Ashley Lisenby about Starbuck's nationwide biases training.

Time to mourn, time to dance as local cloggers reflect on Emily Webb’s legacy May 31, 2018

Emily Webb (1976-2018), a beloved wife and mother, began clogging as a young girl in St. Charles, Missouri. Family members and fellow cloggers joined St. Louis on the Air this week in remembrance of her love for the American folk dance and her influence on the local clogging community.

St. Louis veterans speak up about war experiences; exhibit to open at Soldiers Memorial this fall May 31, 2018

Host Don Marsh spoke with staff from the Missouri Historical Society and a St. Louis-area veteran about documenting veterans' stories orally.

Legal Roundtable analyzes Missouri governor's sudden resignation May 30, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with legal experts about the resignation of Missouri Governor Eric Greitens.

Special edition of 'St. Louis on the Air' as Greitens resigns May 29, 2018

St. Louis on the Air host Don Marsh talked with St. Louis Public Radio political reporters and other guests in the wake of Missouri Gov. Eric Greitens' sudden announcement.

Political parties vs. the people: How effective is the two-party system? May 29, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks about the structure and function of political parties and party leadership in the United States.

A look at the research behind implicit biases with Wash U professor Calvin Lai May 29, 2018

As that training got underway on Tuesday, St. Louis on the Air host Don Marsh talked with Washington University’s Calvin Lai, who is the director of research for Project Implicit.

WBEZ report finds inadequate housing options for prisoners with disabilities in Illinois May 25, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks with WBEZ criminal justice reporter Shannon Heffernan about how the state of Illinois regularly keeps prisoners with disabilities because of inadequate options for housing.

‘Aircraft Carrier’ film takes viewers aboard the USS Ronald Reagan May 25, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks with writer, director and producer Mark Krenzien about the IMAX film “Aircraft Carrier: Guardian of the Seas,” which takes place on the heavily restricted USS Ronald Reagan.

Behind the Headlines: This week's news involving Gov. Eric Greitens May 25, 2018

St. Louis on the Air host Don Marsh talked with reporters Jason Rosenbaum and Jo Mannies about this week's news concerning Missouri Gov. Eric Greitens.

NFL national anthem ‘standing’ policy highlights decades of protests by black athletes May 24, 2018

Sports sociologist Harry Edwards talks about the history of protesting in sports and of present-day protests during NFL games.

Latest ‘We Live Here’ episode puts spotlight on habitability, eviction issues affecting local renters May 24, 2018

On Thursday’s St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh talked with We Live Here co-host/producer Tim Lloyd about legal issues that are especially relevant for renters on a local level and how several attorneys are working on their behalf to try and change things.

Understanding Ramadan with 3 members of the local Muslim community May 24, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks to local Muslims about how they observe the holy month of Ramadan and all of its nuances.

St. Louis region home to some 8,500 camp opportunities helping kids make the most of summertime May 23, 2018

Joining Wednesday’s St. Louis on the Air for a conversation about the many summer programming options for children in Missouri and Illinois were Allie Cicotte, Mary Rogers and Vicki Lang.

Susan Graham returns to St. Louis, takes on title role in Opera Theatre of St. Louis’ ‘Regina’ May 23, 2018

Susan Graham, James Morris and Susanna Phillips joined St. Louis on the Air host Don Marsh on Wednesday's show to discuss the production.

Living healthy, fulfilling lives as Americans age May 22, 2018

St. Louis on the Air host Don Marsh talks about addressing a number of issues related to aging.

‘Even in his priesthood, some reviled him’: Effort to canonize 19th-century African-American priest moves forward May 22, 2018

On Tuesday’s St. Louis on the Air, Bishop Joseph Perry joined host Don Marsh to discuss the effort to canonize Fr. Augustus Tolton, who is considered to have been the first African-American priest in the United States. Ordained in 1886, the former slave was born near Hannibal, Missouri, and ministered in both Quincy and Chicago.

Care anywhere: The evolving state of telehealth care May 21, 2018

On Monday's St. Louis on the Air, local experts in telehealth care Dr. Jennifer Wessels, Colleen Berding and Melissa Douglass addressed some of the latest developments within the growing field.

Shakespeare Festival St. Louis returns to Forest Park, takes modern approach to ‘Romeo and Juliet’ May 21, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with the new executive director of Shakespeare Festival St. Louis and with the director of "Romeo and Juliet," returning to Forest Park in June.

Wrapping up Missouri legislative session, special session awaits May 18, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with St. Louis Public Radio reporters Marshall Griffin and Jo Mannies about the Missouri legislative session and looked ahead to the special session.

STLPR’s drone takes flight, enhances news coverage May 18, 2018

St. Louis Public Radio data and visual journalist Brent Jones talks to host Don Marsh about how the station is using a drone to enhance news coverage.

From Wash U debate to controversy, following up with Shiloh resident, 'red sweater guy' Ken Bone May 18, 2018

St. Louis Public Radio contributor John Larson talks to media sensation Ken Bone, a.k.a "red sweater guy."

A look at leading cause of accidental death for toddlers – and how to prevent it May 17, 2018

Joining host Don Marsh for a St. Louis on the Air conversation on Thursday about pool safety, particularly for young children, were Emily Wujcik, Stephe McCormick, Birch McMullin and Lisa McMullin.

Scientist Temple Grandin encourages kids to create, imagine in book for young readers May 17, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with Temple Grandin in advance of her appearance at the St. Louis County Library.

Starkloff Disability Institute seeks to expand career opportunities for high school students May 16, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks about efforts designed to inspire high school students with disabilities to explore vast career options.

Sound Bites: Lona’s Lil Eats gets some big attention May 16, 2018

Lona Luo, originally from rural China, joined St. Louis on the Air host Don Marsh and Sauce Magazine’s Matt Sorrell for a conversation about the success of her restaurant, Lona’s Lil Eats.

From helmets to courtesy to critical mass: A conversation about bike safety in St. Louis May 15, 2018

On Tuesday’s St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh led a conversation on the topic of bike safety in light of the recent arrival of the bright yellow and green bikes around town and the presence of more cyclists in general on local streets as temperatures climb. Joining the conversation were Taylor March, advocacy and education manager for Trailnet; St. Louis Public Radio digital reporter Kae Petrin; Sam Sadle, director of strategic development for LimeBike; and Lori Winkler, an injury-prevention nurse and coordinator of Safe Kids St. Louis at Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital.

Analysis: This week’s dramatic shift in the Greitens case May 15, 2018

Joining host Don Marsh on Tuesday’s St. Louis on the Air to unpack the developments of the past 24 hours were St. Louis Public Radio reporter Rachel Lippmann, former Missouri Supreme Court chief justice Michael Wolff and St. Louis Public Radio reporter Jason Rosenbaum.

‘Dust bowl’ created by NGA project demolition blamed for sickening kids, teachers May 14, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks with Ryan Delaney and Maria Altman about this two-part investigation and about the latest news concerning construction of the new NGA West Headquarters.

St. Louisan, bestselling author Curtis Sittenfeld discusses book of short stories, TV series May 14, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks with St. Louis author Curtis Sittenfeld about her book of short stories, "You Think It, I'll Say It."

River Styx staff, local writers anticipate magazine’s 100th issue May 11, 2018

River Styx editor Jason Lee Brown and writer Adrian Todd Zuniga discussed the magazine’s 2018 Literary Feast on Friday’s St. Louis on the Air in conversation with host Don Marsh.

An update on the Greitens trial with jury selection underway May 11, 2018

St. Louis Public Radio reporter Rachel Lippmann joined St. Louis on the Air host Don Marsh from the courthouse.

Remembering longtime evening host Gerry Rohde May 11, 2018

On Friday's St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh talked with several St. Louis Public Radio and Washington University colleagues who worked closely with Gerry Rohde, who passed away earlier in the week.

A look at the process of jury selection as Greitens trial looms May 10, 2018

Susan McGraugh, professor of law and supervisor of the Criminal Defense Clinic at Saint Louis University, talks to St. Louis on the Air host Don Marsh about the voire dire process.

A conversation with celebrated jazz vocalist Denise Thimes as her Mother’s Day concert approaches May 10, 2018

On Thursday’s St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh talked with jazz great Denise Thimes about her Mother's Day benefit concert, which is set for Sunday evening at the University of Missouri-St. Louis’ Touhill Performing Arts Center.

We Live Here: Nuisance laws in Maplewood take center stage amid federal lawsuit May 10, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks with We Live Here co-producer/host Kameel Stanley about the latest episode of the podcast.

Chase Park Plaza value tops that of 29 St. Louis neighborhoods, highlights opportunity, disparity May 09, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks with Jack Grone, editor of McPherson, about disparities and opportunities highlighted in his recent reporting about development incentives awarded to the Chase Park Plaza.

Slaying Dragons theatrical troupe sets the stage to address mental health stigmas May 09, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks about how the Slaying Dragons theatrical troupe uses dramas to remove the stigma of mental and emotional illness.

Tennessee Williams Festival St. Louis celebrates art, influence of playwright May 08, 2018

Host Don Marsh discusses some of the highlights of this year’s lineup in celebration of the third annual Tennessee Williams Festival St. Louis

‘Whether you’re 100 or ten, you’ve lived through some good Cardinals times,’ says Benjamin Hochman May 08, 2018

On Tuesday's St. Louis on the Air, Don Marsh talked with sports columnist and author Benjamin Hochman about his new book, "The Big 50: St. Louis Cardinals."

Talking with Tanzina Vega who takes on new role as ‘The Takeaway’ host May 07, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with Tanzina Vega, the new host of "The Takeaway."

The business, use of artificial intelligence in St. Louis May 07, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with three guests about the business and use of artificial intelligence in St. Louis in advance of a conference on Tuesday.

‘1A’ host Joshua Johnson talks up St. Louis, toasted ravioli and ‘phenomenal station’ with Don Marsh May 04, 2018

Joshua Johnson took a break from his live "1A" broadcasts from St. Louis on May 3 and 4 to talk host to host on "St. Louis on the Air."

Behind the Headlines: Talking with STLPR's Jason Rosenbaum about this week's Greitens news May 04, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with St. Louis Public Radio political reporter Jason Rosenbaum about this week's news involving Missouri Gov. Eric Greitens.

Hit List: 5 new St. Louis restaurants you should try in May May 04, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks with our partners from Sauce Magazine about the best new restaurants to try during the month of May.

Mary Meachum event takes closer look at not-so-fair aspects of 1904 World’s Fair May 03, 2018

On Thursday’s St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh discussed how people of color were treated unfairly at the fair, also known as the Louisiana Purchase Expedition. Joining him for the conversation was Angela da Silva, an adjunct professor at Lindenwood University and president of the National Black Tourism Network.

From Lady Day to Madame Gardarobe, Audra McDonald reflects on many roles ahead of St. Louis concert May 03, 2018

The six-time Tony Award-winning singer and actress joined this week’s St. Louis on the Air in advance of her performance this Sunday night at the Touhill.

Chamber Music Society celebrates St. Louis icons Leonard Slatkin and Ozzie Smith at upcoming gala May 02, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks with Leonard Slatkin and Chamber Music Society of St. Louis executive and artistic director Marc Gordon about what’s next for Slatkin as he retires as music director of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, the Chamber Music Society’s role in St. Louis and its 10th anniversary gala.

Bridging the digital divide: Problems with internet connectivity, technology acute in schools May 02, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with Rory Kennedy, Chris Bay and Tom Kroenung about the gap between those with ready access to the internet and related technologies and those who lack it.

Homebuyer help: Local housing partnership offers affordable home options for low-income residents May 01, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks about housing needs in the region and the role the St. Louis Housing Partnership plays in meeting them.

One Book, One Kirkwood program chooses NAACP Image Award winner for community reading, discussion May 01, 2018

Producer Alex Heuer talked with author Stephanie Powell Watts, author of "No One is Coming to Save Us," this year's choice in the One Book, One Kirkwood program.

Legal experts (from left) William Freivogel, Mark Smith, Brenda Talent touched on developments in the cases involving the Missouri governor as well as other matters pertaining to the law. Apr 30, 2018

On Monday’s St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh discussed the two felony charges facing Missouri Gov. Eric Greitens as well as other items of local interest pertaining to the law. Joining the discussion were legal experts William Freivogel, Mark Smith and Brenda Talent.

Free-speech implications of case involving St. Louisan’s artwork removed from US Capitol Apr 27, 2018

Host Don Marsh discussed the implications of the Pulphus v. Ayers case with regard to free speech.

Behind the Headlines: A closer look at a 'volunteer adjuncts' proposal at SIUC Apr 27, 2018

Host Don Marsh talk with Dave Johnson, president of the SIUC Faculty Association, about a proposal released earlier this week by a university administrator to hire "volunteer adjuncts."

Behind the Headlines: Discussing the latest developments in the Greitens saga Apr 27, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with St. Louis Public Radio reporter Rachel Lippmann about news this week involving Missouri Gov. Eric Greitens.

New report finds ‘serious shortages’ in access for mental healthcare Apr 26, 2018

Host Don Marsh discusses the significant disparities between mental healthcare needs and access to care in Missouri.

Award-winning podcast 'We Live Here' debuts fourth season, focuses on housing Apr 26, 2018

Host Don Marsh spoke with "We Live Here" co-hosts Tim Lloyd and Kameel Stanley about the debut of the podcast's fourth season.

‘It’s disheartening’: College students feel impacts, see programs cut as funding trends continue Apr 25, 2018

On Wednesday’s St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh discussed the impact of higher education’s ongoing budget crisis on those at the heart of the whole project: the students. Several local undergrads from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and the University of Missouri-St. Louis joined the conversation, along with Dennis McDonald, an adjunct instructor at St. Louis Community College and at Jefferson College.

‘It’s more than just gardening’: Urban farming creates opportunity for job growth, food access Apr 25, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks about urban agriculture and food justice in the St. Louis region.

St. Louis journalist Sarah Kendzior in conversation with Don Marsh Apr 24, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with St. Louis-based journalist and author Sarah Kendzior at Left Bank Books on April 17.

3 moms, 3 city council seats: What’s prompting more women, including St. Louisans, to run for office Apr 23, 2018

On Monday’s St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh talked with Heather Silverman, Jami Dolby and Kara Wurtz, who ran for city council seats in Creve Coeur, Chesterfield and Kirkwood, respectively.

Bill Nye the Science Guy tackles climate change at St. Louis Climate Summit Apr 23, 2018

On this week’s St. Louis on the Air, St. Louis Public Radio science reporter Eli Chen spoke with Bill Nye ahead of his keynote appearance Monday evening as part of the three-day St. Louis Climate Summit at Saint Louis University.

200 performers set to take audience on musical journey to Chaco Canyon, home to ancestral tribes Apr 20, 2018

Composer Gary Gackstatter, choral director Jim Henry and Native American flutist R. Carlos Gackstatter joined St. Louis on the Air this week for a discussion of the new symphony coming to the Touhill.

Behind the Headlines: News involving Gov. Greitens the week of April 15 Apr 20, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with political reporter Jason Rosenbaum and Washington University law professor Peter Joy about this week's (Apr. 15) news involving Gov. Eric Greitens.

Hannibal native, author Melissa Scholes Young sets debut novel in hometown Apr 19, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with author Melissa Scholes Young about her debut novel, "Flood."

One more word from Carl Kasell for St. Louis listeners Apr 19, 2018

In remembrance of NPR’s Carl Kasell, who passed away earlier this week, Thursday’s St. Louis on the Air included a segment in remembrance of the longtime newscaster and much-beloved radio personality.

Trained pigs usher in Circus Flora’s earlier start, permanent home in Grand Center Apr 19, 2018

For more than 30 years, Circus Flora, a one-ring circus that makes St. Louis its home, has offered a circus show that’s best described as live theater. It’s an intimate setting that is in stark contrast to the images some people might conjure of the large Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus which performed for the last time 10 months ago. Two things are significantly different about this year’s Circus Flora season, as Cecil MacKinnon and Jack Marsh noted this week on St. Louis on the Air.

1 year in: St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson answers 10 questions from Don Marsh, listeners Apr 18, 2018

Wednesday marked the first anniversary of St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson’s time in office. The first woman elected to lead the Gateway City, she joined St. Louis on the Air host Don Marsh for a conversation both reflecting on her first 12 months in the role and looking ahead.

50 years later: What kinds of improvements have been made in housing since the Fair Housing Act? Apr 17, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked about a new report on segregation in housing in the St. Louis region.

From backyard ant-watching to World Ecology Award: A conversation with E.O. Wilson Apr 17, 2018

Edward O. Wilson’s long career has been marked by enormous contributions to the field of biology, with an impact on global conservation efforts that is difficult to overstate. All of it grew out of his close attention years ago to something relatively small: the behavior of ants. Wilson recalled one of his earliest interactions with the insects, a memory from his boyhood in northern Alabama, on Tuesday’s St. Louis on the Air in conversation with host Don Marsh.

St. Louis-area high school students shine at Fox Theatre, attend special ‘Hamilton’ matinee Apr 16, 2018

Producer Lara Hamdan talks to students about their experience with the Hamilton Education Program created by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History.

Elsa Hart traces ancient borders, tells tales as she looks toward release of third mystery Apr 16, 2018

On Monday’s St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh talked with Elsa Hart about the inspiration for her books thus far, the craft of mystery writing and what’s next for her as an author.

‘It’s like Star Wars’: The potential future of gene-editing for autism treatment Apr 16, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked about the prevalence of autism and discussed the latest research in the diagnosis and treatment of autism.

Behind the Headlines: Taking stock of this weeks news involving Gov. Greitens Apr 13, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with St. Louis Public Radio reporter Jason Rosenbaum about this week's news involving Gov. Eric Greitens.

End of an era: David Robertson concludes 13-year SLSO music director tenure Apr 13, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with outgoing St. Louis Symphony Orchestra music director David Robertson about his 13-year tenure in St. Louis.

Religious scholars draw lessons for contemporary souls from King’s work at intersection of faith, politics Apr 12, 2018

Jonathan Walton of Harvard University and Lerone Martin, a Washington University faculty member, joined St. Louis on the Air host Don Marsh on Thursday for a discussion of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy.

NCADA launches ‘Talk About It’ as St. Louis region is poised to break record for opioid deaths Apr 12, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with about the scope of the opioid epidemic and a new program that seeks to prevent drug use.

‘How do you tell someone they’re dying?’ and other difficult questions – plus some answers Apr 11, 2018

Wednesday’s St. Louis on the Air included the sort of conversation that often doesn’t happen as often or as early as it should among loved ones – the kind about planning for the end of life. Joining host Don Marsh for the discussion was Cara Wallace, an assistant professor in the School of Social Work at Saint Louis University.

Rare Apollo 11 artifacts land at St. Louis Science Center Apr 11, 2018

A treasure trove of invaluable artifacts from the space race will be on display at the St. Louis Science Center.

Local research, upcoming conference seek to address many forms of school violence Apr 10, 2018

UMSL criminologists Lee Slocum and Finn Esbensen discussed a variety of safety issues that students and teachers deal with daily on Tuesday's St. Louis on the Air.

Do we need a 28th amendment to limit campaign funds from corporations and billionaires? Apr 10, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked to Jeff Clements, president of American Promise, and Megan Green, alderwoman of St. Louis’ 15th Ward, about an election financing reform which could result in a proposal for a 28th amendment to the U.S. Constitution..

‘We’ve seen a fundamental shift’: The local impact of evolving U.S. immigration policies Apr 09, 2018

SLU soccer stand-out Saadiq Mohammed (at left) and local attorney Javad Khazaeli talked with St. Louis on the Air host Don Marsh about how they’ve been impacted by recent shifts in U.S. policy.

From Dortmund to St. Louis, cities face ‘politically contradicting messages’ in efforts to incorporate newcomers Apr 09, 2018

Thousands of miles separate St. Louis, Missouri, from Dortmund, Germany, but when it comes to immigration and refugee resettlement, the two cities aren’t so far apart. Immigration scholars Jorg Ploger, Adriano Udani and Florian Sichling joined St. Louis on the Air host Don Marsh to discuss the incorporation of immigrants and refugees into their respective communities.

New concepts, potential ‘trade-offs’ define Metro’s vision for future of bus service in region Apr 06, 2018

On Friday’s St. Louis on the Air, Jessica Mefford-Miller joined host Don Marsh to discuss key features of the “Metro Reimagined” study that Metro Transit has released.

'Suddenly they were serving as mouthpieces': What's troubling about Sinclair's 'must-read' scripts Apr 06, 2018

Host Don Marsh went behind the headlines to discuss the issues raised by Sinclair Broadcast Group's statement regarding "fake news" that led to public outcry.

St. Louis looks to shift some focus from carbon footprint to climate handprint Apr 05, 2018

Catherine Werner, director of sustainability in St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson’s office, joins host Don Marsh for a conversation focused on the city’s latest initiatives related to climate action and urban ecology leading up to Earth Day.

Tiny Desk Happy Hour showcases 3 St. Louis bands Apr 05, 2018

On Thursday's St. Louis on the Air,STLPR’s Lindsay Toler and local musician Paige Alyssa discussed the broad spectrum of musical styles demonstrated among the local groups who entered this year’s competition.

‘This giant of a man’: Reflections on loss of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. 50 years after his death Apr 04, 2018

Longtime St. Louisans (from left) Mike Jones, Jamala Rogers and Virvus Jones joined Wednesday’s show to reflect on the impact of what occurred on April 4, 1968.

The best new St. Louis restaurants to try during the month of April Apr 04, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with Catherine Klene and Matt Sorrell of Sauce Magazine about the best new St. Louis restaurants in to try in April.

Popular Missouri History Museum civil rights exhibit to close April 15 Apr 03, 2018

Host Don Marsh spoke with Gwen Moore of the Missouri Historical Society about "#1 in Civil Rights: The African American Freedom Struggle in St. Louis." The exhibit closes April 15.

'East Los High,' other shows suggest 'crumbling' barriers to representation, says actress/producer Apr 03, 2018

Sonja Perryman has found her niche at the intersection of storytelling and public health. She stopped by the St. Louis on the Air studio to discuss her experience in a changing entertainment industry while visiting St. Louis to speak at Webster University.

From newspapers to novels: Anna Quindlen on writing, politics, state of journalism Apr 02, 2018

On Monday’s St. Louis on the Air, listeners heard host Don Marsh in conversation with bestselling novelist Anna Quindlen. She was in town last week for a book-signing event presented by St. Louis County Library, and Marsh interviewed her on stage before an audience of more than 200 people.

Leading through basketball: How a YMCA director is mentoring young adults on the court Mar 30, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with STLPR reporter Chad Davis and Marcus Wilson, a local YMCA director, about using basketball to teach life lessons.

An inside look at the legacy of William Gass through his literary papers, peers Mar 30, 2018

On Friday’s St. Louis on the Air, Washington University Libraries manuscripts curator Joel Minor joined host Don Marsh to share his impressions of Gass, who passed away in December at the age of 93 and will be celebrated at public events next week on the campus where he taught for many years.

Behind the Headlines: Cardinals’ prospects for 2018 the day after rough opening day Mar 30, 2018

The Redbirds have 161 games yet to go this year, and longtime sports writer Rob Rains says the team is looking stronger than it was a year ago. He discusses some of the question marks ahead of the Cardinals in the coming months with St. Louis on the Air host Don Marsh.

‘New Dance Horizons VI’ pairs renowned choreographers with St. Louis companies for world premieres Mar 29, 2018

On Thursday’s St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh discussed what makes the “New Dance Horizons VI: Live at the Grandel” event particularly unique with guests Brian Eno and Terence Marling.

Sound Bites: Recipes and tips for a successful, flavorful Indian dish Mar 29, 2018

Our monthly Sound Bites segment, produced in partnership with Sauce Magazine, was about recipes and tips for successful and flavorful Indian dishes.

Former Circuit Attorney Jennifer Joyce, legal roundtable discuss Greitens’ felony case, trial Mar 28, 2018

Host Don Marsh discussed current issues pertaining to the law with the panel of legal experts.

9 questions answered about 2017 tax returns. The deadline is April 17. Mar 27, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with CPA Lance Weiss recent tax law changes and about filing 2017 state and federal tax returns.

Is the drought over? Hydrologist Mark Fuchs talks about effect of rainfall in the St. Louis region Mar 27, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks to Mark Fuchs, hydrologist with the National Weather Service, about the increase of rainfall in the region.

Showcasing local Muslims’ nuanced identities through art Mar 26, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks about the Council on American Islamic Relations-Missouri's annual art exhibit showcasing local Muslim talent.

Building trust, combating violent crime among top priorities for St. Louis police chief Mar 26, 2018

The city’s high rate of violent crime remains a key challenge along with the need to rebuild trust with citizens in the wake of protests. Both issues loomed large on Monday’s St. Louis on the Air as John Hayden discussed his leadership of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department the past three months.

Behind the Headlines: Rachel Lippmann discusses the latest developments in the Greitens case Mar 23, 2018

St. Louis Public Radio reporter Rachel Lippman joined St. Louis on the Air host Don Marsh to give an update on the Missouri governor's felony invasion of privacy case.

STLPR reporter Eli Chen talks about what CT scanning technology is revealing about Egyptian mummies Mar 23, 2018

Eli Chen joined Friday's St. Louis on the Air to talk about how the observations Egyptologists and art historians have made from CT scans are challenging some long-held beliefs about how ancient Egyptians prepared dead bodies.

Behind the Headlines: Illinois gubernatorial, 12th congressional race to be competitive Mar 23, 2018

Belleville News-Democrat reporter Joe Bustos joined St. Louis on the Air host Don Marsh for a discussion of this week’s primary election results in Illinois.

Underwater discoveries from 2,800 years ago among Egyptian artifacts at Saint Louis Art Museum Mar 23, 2018

Franck Goddio described what coming across the underwater remains of an ancient city was like on this week’s St. Louis on the Air in conversation with host Don Marsh and Lisa Çakmak, associate curator of ancient art at the Saint Louis Art Museum.

Film festival explores ‘the real Wakanda’ through contemporary African cinema Mar 22, 2018

On Thursday’s St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh discussed the films with the festival’s founder, Wilmetta Toliver-Diallo, an assistant dean in the College of Arts & Sciences and senior lecturer in African and African-American Studies, and French filmmaker and activist Rokhaya Diallo.

Missouri Auditor Galloway details St. Louis audit, Jefferson City mood amid Greitens’ legal troubles Mar 22, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with Auditor Nicole Galloway about what her job entails, her ongoing audit of the City of St. Louis and they addressed the mood in Jefferson City as Gov. Eric Greitens’ felony invasion of privacy trial is set to get underway May 14.

Healing the soul: How to deal with unaddressed issues and grief Mar 21, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks about how people can deal with issues of grief and unaddressed issues for people nearing the end of their lives.

J Street founder discusses being pro-Israel and pro-peace in the 21st century Mar 21, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with the J Street president Jeremy Ben-Ami and Rabbi Jim Bennett about being “pro-Israel and pro-peace.”

SLUH band members reflect on unexpected face-to-face moment with Pope Francis Mar 20, 2018

“Magical” is one word that Jeff Pottinger used to sum up his and his music students' unforgettable experience last week in Italy. He discussed meeting the pope on Tuesday’s St. Louis on the Air with host Don Marsh along with two SLUH students – alto saxophonist Emanuel Parker and flutist Bryce Van Bree – who also joined the conversation after returning home from their travels.

‘Targets, not victims’: How to identify, address, prevent sexual harassment in the workplace Mar 20, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks about identifying, addressing and preventing sexual harassment in the workplace.

‘An impossible human being’: St. Louis native Josephine Baker and her quest to create a racial utopia Mar 19, 2018

During Monday’s St. Louis on the Air, producer Alex Heuer spoke with Emanuele Berry, formerly of St. Louis Public Radio and now a producer for Gimlet’s “The Nod,” about her interest in Baker’s life and legacy.

‘This is our future’: How youth activism influences various social movements Mar 19, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks with local students involved in a myriad of causes they are passionate about to discuss youth’s role in activism.

School walkouts and arming teachers: some Missouri schools already do Mar 16, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with St. Louis Public Radio reporters Ryan Delaney and Chad Davis about student protests and arming teachers.

‘Hamilton’ star Mandy Gonzalez interrupts Broadway run to perform in St. Louis for december Magazine Mar 16, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with actress and singer Mandy Gonzalez about her career, starring in "Hamilton" and upcoming performance in St. Louis.

Publisher Gianna Jacobsen talks about St. Louis' december Magazine Mar 16, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks with Gianna Jacobsen, the publisher of the non-profit literary journal headquartered in St. Louis.

Jason Rosenbaum provides an update on Gov. Eric Greitens' legal and political fate Mar 16, 2018

St. Louis Public Radio political reporter Jason Rosenbaum gives a update on Gov. Eric Greitens' legal and political status. The GOP chief executive was indicted last month on felony invasion of privacy charges.

Ahoy! Sea stories and buried facts from pirate expert Mark Hanna Mar 15, 2018

St. Louis on the Air host Don Marsh on Thursday for a conversation all about those that sailed the seas centuries ago and in more contemporary times.

Bridging regional divides by getting to know each other – and other neighborhoods Mar 15, 2018

On Thursday’s St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh discussed Neighborhoods United for Change, an initiative of the St. Louis Association of Community Organizations, with three engaged citizens.

‘God called and I answered:’ Catholic sisters’ history on display at St. Louis Public Library Mar 14, 2018

Host Don Marsh discussed the history and work of the 15 orders of Catholic Sisters in the St. Louis region.

St. Louis-based public radio collaborative covers intersection of race, identity and culture Mar 14, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with Holly Edgell and Ashley Lisenby about Sharing America, a collaboration based in St. Louis and funded by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting that covers the intersection of race, identity and culture.

From ‘Ingrassia balls’ to ‘stroads’: The push to increase safety along St. Louis streets Mar 13, 2018

St. Louis resident Kea Wilson, director of community engagement for Strong Towns, discusses her hopes to help improve safety for all road users.

Rebranding at Missouri Historical Society continues to emphasize local history Mar 13, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks with leaders of the Missouri Historical Society about recent changes at the institution, including the rebranding initiative and expansion efforts.

Women a growing force among student veterans at universities across Gateway region Mar 12, 2018

On Monday’s St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh talked with three local Army veterans about that growing force and about how St. Louis’ student veterans are collaborating as they plan for this year’s Student Veterans Week festivities set to begin March 17.

Is Daylight Saving Time necessary? And, why ‘springing ahead’ is harder than ‘falling back’ Mar 12, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with Washington University biology professor Erik Herzog about the effects of Daylight Saving Time.

Reporter Jason Rosenbaum joins 'St. Louis on the Air' to discuss the latest news about Gov. Greitens. Mar 09, 2018

Host Don Marsh spoke with St. Louis Public Radio political reporter Jason Rosenbaum about the latest news involving the indictment and political ramifications of Gov. Greteins affair and alleged illegal activity.

Demand uptick key to Granite City steelworkers’ return to work; tariff order ‘icing on the cake,’ says union rep Mar 09, 2018

On Friday’s St. Louis on the Air, United Steelworkers Local 1899 president Dan Simmons joined host Don Marsh to discuss the news that up to 500 workers will return to work at the steel mill around which the town was built.

St. Louis on the Air conversation about news that Cigna will buy St. Louis-based Express Scripts Mar 09, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks with Saint Louis University's Stephen Howard and UMSL Chancellor Tom George about health insurance giant Cigna agreeing to purchase the St. Louis-based pharmacy benefit manager Express Scripts.

St. Louis native Cory Finley makes directorial debut with psychological thriller ‘Thoroughbreds’ Mar 08, 2018

The first-time film director took a quick break from a busy opening week to talk about the movie with St. Louis on the Air producer Evie Hemphill. Finley also discussed what he remembers most about growing up in St. Louis and where he’s headed next as a storyteller.

The challenge of feeding an increasing global population in a warmer, wealthier world Mar 08, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with guests in advance of a panel discussion Thursday night at the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center called, "The Future of Food in a Wealthier, Warmer World."

Lessons for fragmented St. Louis: Pittsburgh expert shares insights on regionalism Mar 07, 2018

David Miller is a professor at the University of Pittsburgh and the organizing force behind CONNECT, an alliance of Pittsburgh and 40 surrounding municipalities. He talked with St. Louis on the Air host Don Marsh about how what matters isn't the number of governments within a given region, but how they work together.

Winter Opera St. Louis modernizes, sets Italian comic opera ‘L’Elisir d’Amore’ on The Hill Mar 07, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with three singers in Winter Opera St. Louis' final production of the season, "L’Elisir d’Amore."

Artist residency space in north St. Louis County expanding reach Mar 06, 2018

Paul Artspace’s Mike Behle and David Johnson, both artists in their own right, share a passion for providing other creative people with opportunities that will help them succeed in their endeavors. They joined St. Louis on the Air producer Evie Hemphill to talk about a new international partnership, the gift of time and space, pickles and more.

‘Learning to listen’: Former NPR CEO Ken Stern’s journey through the political spectrum Mar 06, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with former NPR CEO Ken Stern about his book "Republican Like Me: How I Left the Liberal Bubble and Learned to Love the Right."

A tale from The Story Collider: Andrew Oberle Mar 05, 2018

Oberle recounted his survival of a near-fatal attack by chimpanzees, along with his experience along the road to recovery, during a Story Collider event this past fall. The piece also aired on Monday’s St. Louis on the Air.

Getting a ‘like’ on Facebook won’t make you happy, says Wash U psychologist Mar 05, 2018

Are we as happy as we appear to be on social media? On Monday’s St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh explored that question and others in conversation with Tim Bono, a faculty member at Washington University. The psychologist’s new book “When Likes Aren’t Enough: A Crash Course in the Science of Happiness” draws on scores of happiness-related studies conducted with college students and other adults throughout the world.

A real-life Indiana Jones discusses field work – and what Hollywood gets right, wrong Mar 02, 2018

In his 25 years as a terrestrial and underwater archaeologist, Chris Begley has explored everything from prehistoric caves in Missouri to the legend of a lost civilization in Honduras. Along the way, he’s earned not just a Ph.D. but a reputation as “a real-life Indiana Jones. But on Friday, he downplayed the more daring aspects of his own adventures during a conversation with St. Louis on the Air host Don Marsh.

The best new St. Louis restaurants to try during the month of March Mar 02, 2018

The first question that St. Louis on the Air’s Don Marsh asked the Sauce Magazine team during Friday’s Hit List segment had to do with the word “cidery.”

‘It’s modern-day sex slavery’: House criminalizes promotion, facilitation, of online sex-trafficking Mar 02, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks to Congresswoman Ann Wagner to talk about her legislation criminalizing the advertising of sex trafficking online.

Remembering Mill Creek Valley, once home to 20,000 black St. Louisans Mar 01, 2018

Gwen Moore joined St. Louis on the Air host Don Marsh and two other panelists, Lisa Gates and Terry Jones, at Harris Stowe State University last week for a conversation about the community that once existed between 20th Street and Saint Louis University. The same day, HSSU unveiled a new campus mural, commissioned by Wells Fargo, honoring Mill Creek.

Greitens to go to trial May 14 Feb 28, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks to St. Louis Public Radio statehouse reporter Marshall Griffin about the governor’s felony charges and its effect in Jefferson City.

Science journalists Jon Cohen, Carl Gierstorfer explain how, why diseases spread Feb 28, 2018

Producer Alex Heuer talks with science journalist Jon Cohen, a staff writer for Science Magazine, and documentary filmmaker Carl Gierstorfer about their work on HIV, AIDS and Ebola.

St. Louis in 1849 – A tragic year of death, fire and other challenges Feb 27, 2018

On Tuesday’s St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh talks with Christopher Alan Gordon about his book, “Fire, Pestilence, and Death: St. Louis, 1849.”

Missouri’s new Wonders of Wildlife attraction transports visitors to African savanna, ocean, more Feb 27, 2018

Wonders of Wildlife spokesperson Shelby Stephenson visited St. Louis Public Radio this week to discuss what makes the new attraction unique. It’s housed at Bass Pro Shops’ national headquarters in Springfield, Missouri.

Legal Roundtable: Panel addresses governor’s indictment Feb 26, 2018

Joining host Don Marsh for the conversation were Mark Smith, J.D., associate vice chancellor of students at Washington University; William Freivogel, J.D., journalism professor at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale; and Rachel Sachs, J.D., associate professor of law at Washington University School of Law.

St. Louis on the Air: Discussing the news that Gov. Greitens was indicted Feb 23, 2018

Host Don Marsh spoke with St. Louis Public Radio reporters Rachel Lippmann and Jo Mannies about news that Gov. Greitens was indicted.

The climate is changing, but weather forecasting probably won’t Feb 23, 2018

On Friday’s St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh spoke with local meteorologist Cindy Preszler about the findings of some new research – along with Anthony Lupo, a professor of atmospheric science who helped lead the study.

A lesson in crisis communications as St. Louis-based Centene deals with negative press Feb 23, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked about crisis communications with Linda Locke, senior vice president and partner with Standing Partnership.

Homelessness in St. Louis and a local film addressing the issues of tent cities Feb 22, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks about the new documentary film, "Living in Tents," which features the stories of homeless people in St. Louis and more broadly, the issue of homelessness in St. Louis.

Pro & Con: House Bill 2179, a state bill set to penalize companies boycotting Israel Feb 22, 2018

Host Don Marsh discussed the potential impact of House Bill 2179 that would prohibit Missouri from entering into contracts over $10,000 with companies that engage in the boycott of, divestment from and sanctioning of Israel, an ally of the United States.

Tiny Desk Contest 2018: Who will be St. Louis’ top pick? Feb 21, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with engagement producer Lindsay Toler about the Tiny Desk Contest 2018.

BuzzFeed investigation finds Missouri execution drug supplier has troubled safety history Feb 21, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with BuzzFeed News reporter Chris McDaniel about his investigation that uncovered the pharmacy that has supplied Missouri with drugs for executions.

Sound Bites: Local chefs share their journeys toward a vibrant work-life balance Feb 21, 2018

Local culinary professionals Alex Feick and Josh Charles joined Sauce Magazine editor Catherine Klene and St. Louis on the Air's Don Marsh to talk about how they manage demanding careers alongside parenthood and other aspects of their lives.

Recognizing unconscious bias and what we can do about it Feb 20, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks about recognizing unconscious bias and how that can help further understanding and inclusion.

Travel expert Rick Steves gives advice on 'traveling thoughtfully' Feb 20, 2018

The prolific author and TV and radio host spoke with St. Louis on the Air producer Evie Hemphill in advance of his Feb. 20 talk at Powell Hall as part of the St. Louis Speakers Series.

Hip-hop history: Wash U professor uses 'Hamilton' as teaching tool Feb 19, 2018

Host Don Marsh spoke with Washington University history professor Peter Kastor about the historical accuracy of "Hamilton" and about its use as a teaching tool.

UMSL professor's book highlights what the framers were really thinking Feb 19, 2018

Political scientist David Robertson discusses his book "The Original Compromise," which looks at the creation of the U.S. Constitution.

Nurses for Newborns continues to help at-risk infants get a healthy start Feb 16, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked about services provided by Nurses for Newborns to provide a safety net and improve the outcomes of at-risk infants.

8th ward Alderwoman-elect Annie Rice, Sue Shear Institute’s Vivian Eveloff discuss women in politics Feb 16, 2018

Alderwomen-elect Annie Rice and Vivian Eveloff, director of the Sue Shear Institute for Women in Public Life at the University of Missouri-St. Louis talk about the increase in the number of women in elected offices.

STLPR reporters analyze special 8th ward alderman election Feb 16, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks to St. Louis Public Radio reporters Rachel Lippmann and Jason Rosenbaum about Annie Rice's win in 8th ward alderwoman election.

‘No doubt about it’: Mother of Mary Jo Trokey says postpartum disorder led to homicide-suicide Feb 15, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks about perinatal depression with Washington University experts; mother of Mary Jo Trokey joins conversation.

Local show feature blues music, the story of St. Louis’ entertainment history Feb 15, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks about a St. Louis themed variety show featuring blues music, comedy and discussions about life in a divided city.

African-American presence growing ‘slowly but surely’ in classical music, say visiting musicians Feb 14, 2018

Fewer than 2 percent of musicians in professional orchestras in the U.S. are African-American, and the Florida-based Ritz Chamber Players are eager to change that.

Non-profit Creative Reaction Lab engages young St. Louis black, Latinos to address societal issues Feb 14, 2018

Host Don Marsh discussed how technological and art design can reveal and address societal issues.

Growth in US hate groups slows, hate crimes on the rise: Wash U professor Feb 13, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with sociologist David Cunningham about the recent slowdown in the growth of hate groups in the U.S. as well as the concurrent increase in the number of hate crimes.

Ulysses Grant, St. Louis city-county divide among notable stories of love, loss in St. Louis’ past Feb 13, 2018

Host Don Marsh discusses interesting and obscure love and breakup stories that happened in St. Louis with Renegade STL.

Sound Bites: Where to go with your Valentine Feb 13, 2018

Host Don Marsh discussed tips for where to dine on Valentine's Day with our partners at Sauce Magazine.

An update on renovations at the Gateway Arch By LARA HAMDAN • FEB 9, 2018 Feb 12, 2018

St. Louis on the Air host Don Marsh spoke with Ryan McClure of the Gateway Arch Park Foundation and producer Alex Heuer about renovations at the national park.

From Scottrade Center to St. Peter’s Basilica, tenor Scott Kenneback combines faith, talent Feb 09, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with tenor Scott Kennebeck about his multi-faceted career and the various audiences he’s performed for.

St. Louis Chamber Chorus' will highlight the theme of love in ‘Love Dances’ concert Feb 09, 2018

British composer Francis Pott joined St. Louis on the Air host Don Marsh alongside Philip Barnes, artistic director of the Saint Louis Chamber Chorus, for to talk about a concert highlighting the theme of love.

Behind the Headlines: 2018 Illinois governor race ‘on track’ to being most expensive yet Feb 09, 2018

Host Don Marsh discusses the 2018 Illinois governor’s race and other political issues in the state.

KSDK news anchor Rene Knott highlights upcoming 2018 Winter Olympics coverage Feb 08, 2018

Producer Alex Heuer talks to KSDK news anchor Rene Knott about his trip to the 2018 Winter Olympics in South Korea.

UMSL professor Susan Brownell is studying hospitality at the 2018 Winter Olympics Feb 08, 2018

Producer Alex Heuer talks to UMSL anthropology professor Susan Brownell, who's attending the 2018 Winter Olympic and plans to study them from an anthropological point of view.

A trip down memory lane of the 1904 Olympics held in St. Louis Feb 08, 2018

Producer Alex Heuer delves deeper into the history of the 1904 Olympics held in St. Louis and new efforts set to commemorate its past.

Remember: Heart disease is still the leading cause of death – here’s how to prevent it Feb 07, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks to cardiologist Andrew Kates to discuss new developments in heart health research and answer questions about the heart.

‘Our kids are in crisis:’ Youth in St. Louis are facing challenges in school, health, juvenile systems Feb 07, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks about those injustices disadvantaged youth in St. Louis are facing, including inequities in quality of education, rate of school suspensions and more.

‘Journey to the South Pacific’ highlights world’s most diverse marine ecosystem Feb 06, 2018

Producer Lara Hamdan talks to filmmaker Mark Krenzien about his career and film, "Journey to the South Pacific," which takes place on a tropical island in West Papua.

What’s changed 10 years since the fatal Kirkwood City Hall shooting? Feb 06, 2018

Host Don Marsh discusses the issues raised by the shooting at Kirkwood City Hall 10 years ago and how they may have been addressed.

Mathews-Dickey Boys’ and Girls’ Club instills ‘respect, restraint, responsibility’ values Feb 05, 2018

Host Don Marsh discussed the history of the Mathews-Dickey Boys’ and Girls’ Club and a book that details it.

Missouri Republicans believe tax cuts are turning the tide Feb 05, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks to St. Louis Public Radio political reporter Jo Mannies about the Lincoln Days gathering, where Missouri Republicans discuss their plans for upcoming elections.

Journalist Linda Greenhouse writes about the evolution of political coverage post Trump Feb 02, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks with Pulitzer Prize winning journalist Linda Greenhouse about her career and the current state of media and political affairs.

Behind the Headlines: Residents hope to see full removal of hazardous waste at Westlake Landfill Feb 02, 2018

Don Marsh goes Behind the Headlines to discuss the aftermath of the Environmental Protection Agency’s decision on a partial removal of World War II-era radioactive waste at the West Lake Landfill, in northwest St. Louis County.

Non-profit Rx Outreach pharmacy provides low-cost medication to patients in need Feb 01, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks to Rx Outreach president Darryl Munden about the non-profit organization based in Maryland Heights, which is a fully licensed mail-order pharmacy.

Metro Theater Company’s ‘Bud, Not Buddy’ features score by Terence Blanchard Feb 01, 2018

St. Louis on the Air producer Alex Heuer talks with Grammy award-winning jazz trumpeter and composer Terence Blanchard about his score in the "Bud, Not Buddy" production.

EPA proposes partial removal of West Lake Landfill nuclear waste Feb 01, 2018

Host Don MArsh talks to St. Louis Public Radio science and environment reporter Eli Chen about an EPA proposal for the West Lake Landfill.

Sound Bites: The best new St. Louis restaurants to try during the month of February Jan 31, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks to our partners at Sauce Magazine about their top restaurant picks for the month of February.

'I was too black:' Discrimination, segregation perpetuate income inequality in St. Louis Jan 31, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks to St. Louis Public Radio digital reporter Kae Petrin and Washington University dean of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences William Tate about the income gap between white and black residents in St. Louis.

St. Louis women contribute to 500 Women Scientists, a global effort that promotes women in science Jan 30, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks with St. Louis members of the grassroots organization 500 Women Scientists about local activities taking place that will introduce more women and people of color to the science fields.

Community activists recall 1972 St. Louis jail protest, compare to today’s conditions Jan 30, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks with citizen negotiators during the 1972 City Jail sit-in protest and compared the experience with the protests of today.

New ArchCity Defenders’ executive director Blake Strode thinks city is falling short on reforms Jan 29, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks to ArchCity Defenders new executive director Blake Strode and the legal advocacy organization's continued efforts to help under-served citizens.

Conductor Stéphane Denève hopes to ‘marry’ French, American music in upcoming performances Jan 29, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks to conductor Stéphane Denève about his music career and upcoming role at the St. Louis Symphony and Orchestra.

How to spot, treat, prevent sexual abuse in children, adults Jan 26, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks about the issue of child sexual abuse raised by the trial of sports physician Larry Nassar and how to spot, treat and prevent it.

St. Louis Theater Circle announces its 2018 nominees, celebrates 6 years of awards Jan 26, 2018

Host Don Marsh discusses St. Louis Theater Circle' award nominations of 2018.

How will Facebook changes affect news consumption? NPR, STLPR weigh in Jan 25, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks about how users will experience new changes on Facebook and how media organizations such as St. Louis Public Radio and NPR are dealing with the changes.

January Jubilee workshop to highlight church music, support organists Jan 25, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks about the role and future of organ playing in churches.

Legal Roundtable panel addresses governor’s blackmail allegations, Frankie Freeman, more Jan 24, 2018

Host Don Marsh talks to our monthly Legal Roundtable panelists about recent issues pertaining to the law.

International journalist Robin Wright says career was a ‘total accident’ ahead of talk in St. Louis Jan 23, 2018

Producer Lara Hamdan talks to international journalist Robin Wright about her career, including what it's like covering the front lines with ISIS and interviewing former Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi.

Discussion: A community rallies to keep Alex Garcia safe from deportation Jan 23, 2018

Host Don Marsh discusses the case of Alex Garcia, an undocumented Honduran immigrant facing deportation, and a local church providing him sanctuary.

‘Faceless’ play focuses on topics of religion, radicalization Jan 22, 2018

Host Don Marsh talked with the playwright and the director of "Faceless." The play is now showing at The Rep.

With a rise in flu cases, what can be done to prevent, treat it? Jan 22, 2018

Host Don Marsh discussed why the flu is so prevalent in St. Louis and what can be done to prevent and treat it.

‘I didn’t know we had Spanish-speaking officers’ – Meet St. Louis police officers, the Rojas sisters Jan 22, 2018

Producer Char Daston profiles Suleima and Rosa Rojas, police officers with the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department

Behind the Headlines: Has Greitens’ affair affected his governance? Jan 19, 2018

On Friday’s Behind the Headlines segment, St. Louis on the Air host Don Marsh discussed Gov. Eric Greitens’ impact on governance after his admission to having an extramarital affair. Joining the discussion were St. Louis Public Radio politics editor Fred Ehrlich and reporter Jo Mannies. Ehrlich said he believes the scandal affected business in the Senate since the governor’s statewide tax-reform tour is on hold and proposed state budget has not been released. Various elected officials called on the governor to resign, but Ehrlich said he does not see that happening at the moment. “I think [Greitens is] going to try to move forward,” Ehrlich said. “Unlike a lot of political scandals where the official will go on a repentance tour, he’s not going to do that – even though the public wants it and he probably should.” Greitens’ has not appeared in the public since the news broke of his affair. Mannies said the governor is “missing his opportunity” to clear the air by staying quiet. “If he

Civil rights lawyer Frankie Muse Freeman advocated that everyone ‘do more’ Jan 19, 2018

Among the names of those who have been most involved in advancing civil rights in St. Louis, Frankie Muse Freeman’s is one of the most prominent. On Friday’s St. Louis on the Air , host Don Marsh discussed the life and legacy of the civil rights lawyer. Freeman died Jan. 12 at age 101. She worked to address and end cases of discrimination in St. Louis and nationally. Joining the discussion were community activist Percy Green, St. Louis City NAACP president Adolphus Pruitt II and James Buford, former president and CEO of the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis. “What I think about when I see Frankie is stature, courage, power, carriage – the way I would want my kids, anybody I know, to carry themselves as a leader in the African-American community,” Buford said. “She was magnanimous. She was holistic.” While Green’s political approach differed from Freeman’s, he said Freeman was personable. Green said he disagreed with some of Freeman’s political decisions, like her support of former

‘Definitely a chef year:’ Sauce Magazine’s ‘Ones to Watch’ in 2018 Jan 18, 2018

On this month’s Sound Bites segment produced in partnership with Sauce Magazine , managing editor Catherine Klene gave an overview of the six up-and-comers the publication chose for its annual " Ones to Watch " feature. The article highlights local culinary talent to watch in 2018. On Thursday’s St. Louis on the Air , host Don Marsh talked to Klene and featured chefs Bryan Russo and Evy Swoboda. “It’s definitely a chef year,” Klene said. “It speaks to the caliber of restaurants in St. Louis and the talent that these kitchens are incubating.” Klene said Sauce Magazine selected the professionals who not only cook well, but have potential to lead and partake in different culinary projects. “We want people with goals, who really want to grow in the St. Louis food scene; who are committed to this area and growing their careers and the culinary scene as a whole,” Klene said. For example, Russo experiments with bread and its various fermentations. He’s a chef at Público, a Latin-inspired

‘Gay Home Movie’ documentary opens discussions about race, gender and privilege Jan 18, 2018

Twenty years ago, St. Louis filmmaker Geoff Story went to an estate sale on Lindell Boulevard. There he picked up two canisters of home movies, not knowing what were on them. What Story found shocked him – dozens of gay men at a pool party in a remote location in Hillsboro, Missouri in 1945. Check out Nancy Fowler’s story about the home movies revealing what is was like being gay in mid-century St. Louis. Story’s upcoming documentary, “ Gay Home Movie ,” will incorporate the home videos as well as interviews with the families and friends of the men in these films. On Thursday’s St. Louis on the Air , host Don Marsh discussed what gay life was like during the 1940s and 50s in St. Louis. Joining the discussion was Nancy Fowler, arts and culture reporter at St. Louis Public Radio, Steven Brawley, author of "Gay and Lesbian St. Louis" and Miranda Rectenwald, curator of local history at Washington University. “[The videos are] a really wonderful glimpse. There is not a lot of visual

450 refugees are expected to resettle in St. Louis this year, compared to more than 1,100 in 2016 Jan 17, 2018

This year, the International Institute estimates the arrival of only 450 refugees arriving to St. Louis. That’s a sharp decline compared to the amount of refugee resettlement in previous years – 659 refugees in 2017 and 1135 refugees in 2016. On Wednesday’s St. Louis on the Air , host Don Marsh addressed the decline of refugees arriving to St. Louis over the past couple of years. Joining him for the discussion was Betsy Cohen, executive director of the St. Louis Mosaic Project and Anna Crosslin, president and CEO of the International Institute of St. Louis. Crosslin said initiatives at the White House last year resulted in the sharp decline of refugees resettled nationally and in St. Louis. Refugees are part of a subset of immigrants arriving to the United States, who are admitted due to well-founded fears of persecution in their native countries. The president’s executive orders and various travel bans heavily impacted the International Institute’s refugee clients, where family

'Take more breaks', 4 other facts about author Daniel Pink's scientific secrets of perfect timing Jan 17, 2018

Author Daniel Pink researched the science of timing to see how time of day affects what we do and how we do it. On Wednesday’s St. Louis on the Air , host Don Marsh talked to Pink about his latest book, “When: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing,” where the bestselling author drew on research from psychology, biology and economics to reveal how to live and work efficiently. Time of day influences our performance “Chronobiology” is the study of time in living organisms and their adaptation to solar and lunar-related rhythms. Understanding your “chronotype” (biological rhythm) is the first step to understanding what you should do, and the time of day to do it. Time of day explains 20 percent of the variants in human performance on brain power tasks at work. For example, handwashing in hospitals deteriorates significantly during the afternoon and physicians are more likely to prescribe necessary antibiotics in the afternoon and anesthesia errors are four times more likely to occur at

St. Louisan John McDaniel, Londoner Barb Jungr collaborate to perform the Beatles Jan 16, 2018

St. Louis native John McDaniel is a Grammy and Emmy award-winning musician. For years he performed as the band leader of The Rosie O’Donnell Show. Londoner Barb Jungr is known for her pop music, theater and cabaret performances. McDaniel and Jungr will perform together at Kranzberg Arts Center later this month. On Tuesday’s St. Louis on the Air , host Don Marsh talked with McDaniel and Jungr about their upcoming performance “Come Together,” which features music by the Beatles. Growing up not too far from Liverpool, the birthplace of the iconic band, Jungr had always avoided listening to their music until McDaniel arranged their song, “In My Life,” for her to perform. She loved the arrangement and the two decided to feature their take on the group’s music for their next album. The musical duo will give the familiar sound of the Beatles something new. They will take the music apart and reconstruct it to give the audience a different type of presentation. “We will take a song and have a

How and when to help children understand people’s differences effectively Jan 16, 2018

How can children learn to respect other people’s identities and differences in the world? On Tuesday’s St. Louis on the Air , host Don Marsh talked about how parents, grandparents, other relatives and caregivers can help young children understand and appreciate differences in other human beings, families and communities. Joining the discussion were Tabari Coleman, project director of the Anti-Defamation League’s A World of Difference Institute, and Stephen Zwolak, CEO of LUME Institute and executive director of the University City Children’s Center. Zwolak said concepts of understanding start imbedding at infancy. Coleman said understanding doesn’t mean ignoring another’s differences, but rather recognizing and accepting them. “Be matter of fact with a child, [do not] avoid the situation,” Coleman said. “When we don’t have an honest conversation, what we do is we prepare them to avoid those conversations when they get older.” Zwolak said the role of schools is more influential than

Researcher Vernon Mitchell Jr. wants to ‘humanize’ MLK in Washington University commemoration Jan 12, 2018

The impact of Martin Luther King Jr. continues to influence various civil rights movements today. Washington University will commemorate the late civil rights leader at 7 p.m., Monday, in Graham Chapel. On Friday’s St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh talked to Vernon Mitchell Jr., curator of Popular American Arts and Culture in the Department of Special Collections at Washington University. Mitchell talked about his research and the message he plans to deliver as part of the university's commemoration. He studies the impact of African-American art and culture on movements and popular culture. In his speech, Mitchell wants to reclaim King. “What I try to do when I teach about Dr. King is I try to humanize him. I try to take him off of the pedestal,” Mitchell said. “Not in a way that is sensational. I try to understand him as a man, as a human being.” Mitchell said that allows students to resonate with the iconic leader. During the civil rights movement, King remained hopeful in spite

Why did KMOV air Gov. Greitens’ affair story? TV reporter, St. Louis Public Radio editor discuss Jan 12, 2018

Should the news media have published a story about Missouri Gov. Eric Greitens’ extramarital affair and his alleged blackmail of a woman? On Friday’s Behind the Headlines segment, St. Louis on the Air host Don Marsh discussed journalism ethics and the process of reporting the affair with Lauren Trager, KMOV’s investigative reporter who broke the story , and with Shula Neuman, St. Louis Public Radio’s executive editor. The two journalists talked about their varying approaches. Neuman said St. Louis Public Radio decided not to go forward with a story on the affair, partly because the organization did not have on-the-record sources. “If the woman wasn’t willing to tell the story herself, then we didn’t think that it was appropriate to let somebody else tell the story for her ,” Neuman said. The unnamed woman made off-the-record remarks to Trager about the affair. KMOV also concealed the identity of the woman’s ex-husband to protect her identity. Trager said KMOV decided to publish its

Freeman Hrabowski to give MLK speech at UMSL observance Jan 12, 2018

As part of University of Missouri-St. Louis’ annual Martin Luther King Jr. observance, keynote speaker Freeman A. Hrabowski III will address the impact of the iconic civil rights activist over the last half century. The celebration is at 10 a.m. to noon on Jan. 15 at the Touhill Performing Arts Center. On Friday’s St. Louis on the Air , host Don Marsh talked with Hrabowski, president of the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) about his work in advocating for equal access to education for all. Hrabowski said he’ll draw on his experiences during the Civil Rights Movement and the ongoing fight for civil rights during his speech to look at the progression of education in American families. As a child in 1963, Hrabowski marched under the leadership of Martin Luther King Jr. in Birmingham, Alabama. He said barriers to education for all races remain. ‘Race still matters’ “This has been a 50-year experiment. It’s only been in the past 50 years that we’ve been trying to bring more

Analysis: Alleged blackmail scandal overshadows Greitens' State of the State address Jan 11, 2018

On Thursday’s St. Louis on the Air , host Don Marsh analyzed the aftermath of Missouri Governor Eric Greitens' 2018 State of the State address. Joining the discussion were St. Louis Public Radio’s statehouse reporter Marshall Griffin, political reporter Jo Mannies and interim political editor Jason Rosenbaum. Hours after Greitens delivered his second State of the State address, he acknowledged his involvement in an extra-marital affair before he launched his campaign for governor in the fall of 2015. Greitens and his wife, Sheena Greitens, issued joint statements through their lawyer after St. Louis television station KMOV-TV (Channel 4) reported on the matter , denying any allegations of blackmail. “It’s as if the State of the State address didn’t happen last night,” Griffin said. “Everything that constitutes the business of government right now is focused on this story that broke last night.” The House convened for five minutes Thursday morning to adjourn the meeting until next week,

Robert Wadlow, tallest man ever, turns 100 Jan 11, 2018

Feb. 22, 2018, marks the centennial of the birth of Robert Wadlow, the tallest man who ever lived, and a lifelong resident of Alton. Wadlow was normal size at birth, but a growth on his pituitary gland caused him to grow rapidly and never stop. By kindergarten, he was 5 feet 4 inches. He grew to 8 feet 11, and 490 pounds, by the time he died at age 22.

Before Target and Trader Joe’s in Brentwood – an African-American neighborhood was there Jan 10, 2018

The shopping center known as the Promenade at Brentwood was once a prominent African American neighborhood. The historic Evens-Howard Place neighborhood in Brentwood was home to generations of middle class African-American families for 90 years. On Wednesday’s St. Louis on the Air , host Don Marsh discussed the history of Evens-Howard Place with local writer Beth Miller, who’s researched the neighborhood. Also joining the discussion were Olivette Thompson, former resident of the neighborhood and Ed Wright, former alderman of the district that included Evens-Howard Place. Miller, who lives six blocks away from the historic neighborhood, decided to research the community after seeing it featured in a Missouri Historical Society picture book. “It’s difficult to describe, but I had a feeling come over me that said, ‘I need to tell this story,’” Miller said. She focused on the neighborhood after she realized many people had forgotten the area’s history. “It was a real tragedy to me that our

Musician Storm Large’s upcoming concert in St. Louis feels like ‘coming home’ Jan 10, 2018

When singer, songwriter and author Storm Large is not with her band Le Bonheur, she fronts Pink Martini and symphony orchestras. Her varied interests include performing music from Broadway, the American songbook, rock music and her own originals. On Wednesday’s St. Louis on the Air , producer Alex Heuer talked with the singer about her career and her performance in St. Louis on Jan.17 .

Comedian, St. Louis native Greg Warren adds family show to Funny Bone appearance Jan 09, 2018

For many years, comedian and St. Louis native Greg Warren traveled around the country to make people laugh. He’s appeared on CMT Comedy Stage, NBC's Last Comic Standing, Late Night with Seth Meyers and CBS's The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson. On Tuesday’s St. Louis on the Air , host Don Marsh talked with Warren about his upcoming appearances at the St. Louis Funny Bone. Friends, family and fans will line up to see the new material he’ll showcase, starting Jan. 11. “We’re also trying something new this year … I’m doing an all ages family show,” Warren said. “I do feel a little pressure there because I haven’t done a whole lot of that before.” The family show is open for kids ages 12 and older. Warren is now based in St. Louis after living in New York. He said often times, it’s hard for people to just sit down and think “what’s funny?” His comedic inspiration draws from a mixture of past experiences and current observations. Warren said he also journals freely in the morning to come

Missouri History Museum commemorates the state’s Emancipation Day Jan 09, 2018

This Thursday, Jan. 11, marks 153 years since slaves in Missouri were finally freed from bondage. Missouri’s Emancipation Day will be commemorated at the Missouri History Museum, in a collaborative event between the museum and Greenwood Cemetery. On Tuesday’s St. Louis on the Air , host Don Marsh discussed the event at the Missouri History Museum , which will highlight the lives before and after emancipation of six individuals buried in Greenwood Cemetery, located in Hillsdale. Joining the discussion were Shakia Gullette, manager of local history initiatives at Missouri History Museum, Etta Daniels, head historian at Greenwood Cemetery and Marvin-Alonzo Greer, visitor experience lead at Soldiers Memorial Military Museum. Greenwood Cemetery opened in 1874, shortly after the end of the civil war. It opened as the first commercial cemetery dedicated to the burial of African-Americans in the St. Louis area. Since its establishment, Daniels said more than 50,000 people have been buried at

Author Ken McGee gives a glimpse of 19th century St. Louis in ‘The Great Hope of the World’ novel Jan 08, 2018

The construction of the Eads Bridge a century and a half ago almost made St. Louis one of the most important cities in the country. The steel combined road and railway bridge over the Mississippi River brought rail and other traffic from the east to St. Louis and beyond. The bridge serves as the backstory to St. Louis author Ken McGee’s latest historical novel “The Great Hope of the World.”

St. Louis journalists Casey Nolen, Dick Weiss reflect on their media exchange program in Pakistan Jan 08, 2018

On Monday’s St. Louis on the Air , host Don Marsh talked to KSDK anchor Casey Nolen and long-time journalist Dick Weiss about their recent two-week visit to Pakistan. They were among a dozen visitors from media and academia who made the trip sponsored by the University Of Oklahoma Gaylord College Of Journalism and Mass Communications and the U.S. State Department.

Circus Harmony’s ‘Legato’ production journeys through 10 decades of circus Jan 05, 2018

Circus Harmony, the local social circus, is preparing for a series of performances at the City Museum this month. The production will take a look at circuses through the decades from 1920-2010. On Friday’s St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh talked about the next production, “ Legato ,” with Jessica Hentoff, artistic and executive director of the organization. The new show includes 20 performers, aged 10 to 22. Overall, the organization serves 1,400 people in the area each year. While Circus Harmony is a professional training school, Hentoff said the organization’s main purpose is social. “… And to help these kids so that what they learn in the circus ring will travel with them throughout their lives, whether they go on to circus careers or whatever they choose to do.” A social circus involves the teaching and performing of circus arts to motivate social change. While learning circus arts, people can also develop life skills, including responsibility, conflict resolution and the

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Host Don Marsh talked with the J Street president Jeremy Ben-Ami and Rabbi Jim Bennett about being “pro-Israel and pro-peace.”

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