Small towns are the heart and soul of Missouri, and what better way to explore this vibrant culture than through the lens of Caitlin Yeager's new book, Small Town Missouri? This episode of Saint Louis in Tune opens to the colorful tapestry of Missouri's lesser-known gems. From charming town squares where everybody knows your name to hidden histories waiting to be uncovered, Arnold and Mark chat with Caitlin about the inspiration behind her book and the unique stories that each small town has to offer.

There's a lot more than meets the eye in these communities, and Caitlin highlights the significance of local festivals, historic landmarks, and the nostalgia that these places evoke for lifelong residents. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or just a little local history, this episode is packed with insights that might inspire you to hit the road and explore the Show-Me State on your own. Plus, Caitlin shares some hilarious anecdotes about her research process, including the inevitable “why isn’t my town included?” questions she faces from locals, reminding us all that every small town has its own unique charm and story to tell.

[00:00] Introduction to Small Towns and Hosts

[01:15] Sponsor Acknowledgements and Listener Engagement

[01:32] Return to Civility: Patience with Elderly Drivers

[02:53] Introducing Caitlin Yeager and Her Book

[03:41] Exploring Small Town Missouri

[04:56] Walt Disney's Connection to Marceline

[06:57] Highway 36: A Scenic Road Trip

[08:28] The Process of Selecting Towns for the Book

[11:50] The Resurgence of Small Towns

[14:57] Missouri Humanities Council and Small Town Showcase

[16:05] Seasonal Festivals and Community Reunions

[17:45] Balancing Growth and Small Town Charm

[18:43] Hidden Gems and Surprising Discoveries

[22:04] Upcoming Book Signings and Events

[22:30] Route 66 Festival Announcement

[22:51] Upcoming Book Signings and Events

[23:19] Where to Find Caitlin Yeager's Book

[24:16] Thank You and Podcast Information

[25:06] Better Rate Mortgage Ad

[25:54] Dred Scott Heritage Foundation

[26:54] Welcome Core Initiative

[27:50] Discussion on Small Town Missouri

[29:52] St. Louis County Municipalities

[37:32] Bizarre Items from 1902 Sears Catalog

[42:32] Humor and Fun Facts

[46:02] Conclusion and Credits

Takeaways:

• Small towns have unique charm and character that make them worth exploring.
• Caitlin Yeager's book, Small Town Missouri, offers a treasure trove of stories and history.
• The resurgence of interest in small towns has inspired many to return and invest in their communities.
• Festivals in small towns often serve as family reunions, bringing people back together to celebrate their roots.

Book Signing

• Saturday, June 21, from 10am-2pm Red Cedar Visitors Center, Pacific, MO 1047 E Osage St, Pacific, MO 63069 (636) 271-0500 ext. 222 Free and open to the public

Presentation and Book Signing

• Thursday, June 26, from 7 – 8 p.m. Kirkwood Public Library 140 E Jefferson Ave, Kirkwood, MO 63122 (314)821-5770 Free and open to the public

Book Signing

• Saturday, July 19, from 11 am-3 p.m. Read the Room Bookstore, Perryville, MO 9 E Sainte Marie St, Perryville, MO 63775 Free and open to the public

• Small Town Missouri – Reedy Press

This is Season 8! For more episodes, go to stlintune.com

#missouri #missourismalltown #weekendtrip #daytrip #smalltowns #smalltownsinmissouri

Harry Weber takes us on a captivating journey through the world of sculpture and art. From his early days drawing to creating monumental works that grace parks and public spaces, Harry shares the stories behind his inspirations and the creative process that fuels his artistry. With a casual, conversational style, he reflects on the importance of drawing from life, the challenges of sculpting, and the collaborative nature of his work. Listeners will find themselves laughing and learning as Harry playfully navigates through his experiences, touching on everything from his military background to his fascination with the human form in art. This episode serves not just as a glimpse into the life of a sculptor, but also as a reminder of the passion and dedication that goes into the creation of every piece of art.

So join us as we explore the intricacies of Harry's craft, from the conceptual drawings that start it all to the final installation of his larger-than-life sculptures. Through his engaging storytelling, Harry not only showcases his artistic journey but also highlights the universal themes of perseverance, creativity, and the joy of making art that resonates with people. Whether you're an aspiring artist or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of sculpture, this episode is a delightful mix of humor, insight, and inspiration that you won't want to miss.

[00:00] Welcome and Introduction

[00:27] Meet Harry Weber: Renowned Sculptor

[01:26] The Art of Drawing and Sculpting

[02:49] Creating Iconic Sculptures

[04:42] The Process of Sculpting Large Pieces

[06:46] Challenges and Techniques in Sculpture

[19:44] Military Service and Personal Reflections

[27:51] Transition to Full-Time Sculptor

[28:39] Competing for Commissions

[28:55] The Impact of Public Sculptures

[30:10] Evolution of Technique

[31:50] Listening While Sculpting

[32:57] Historical Perspectives and Influences

[33:44] Meeting Influential Figures

[35:18] Parallels in History

[37:23] The Role of Money and Success

[47:13] Advice for Aspiring Artists

[57:08] Conclusion and Reflections

Takeaways:

• Harry Weber emphasizes the importance of drawing from life rather than photographs to capture true essence.
• Creating sculptures involves a mix of talent, hard work, and a sprinkle of luck, according to Harry.
• Harry's journey into art has been a lifelong passion, beginning at the age of four with drawing.
• The artistic process is a collaborative effort, especially when sculpting large pieces with engineers and other artisans.
• His sculptures include representations of historical figures and sports icons, making his work a significant part of American culture.
• The conversation highlights Harry's humorous take on the artistic process, revealing both the struggles and joys of being a sculptor.
• His sculptures are not just art pieces; they serve as cultural narratives, representing the stories and histories of the figures they depict.

Sculptures/Items Mentioned in the Conversation

• Harry Weber in his studio

Ever wondered what it’s like to grow up in a circus? Well, Jack Marsh, who literally rode a Clydesdale as a toddler and has a resume that includes Harvard and corporate law, shares his journey from the courtroom to the center ring. We kick things off with amusing stories of his childhood in Circus Flora, sprinkled with witty banter that keeps the vibe light and engaging. Jack reflects on what it means to find your true calling, especially when it means stepping away from a well-trodden path to embrace a world of wonder and whimsy.

We also delve into Circus Flora's latest production, Urban Legend, which artfully combines spectacular performances with a narrative that brings the local folklore to life. From daring aerialists to lovable performing dogs, this show has it all! Plus, we discuss the impact of their community outreach, like Clowns on Call, which brightens the days of kids in hospitals. If you’re looking for a dose of inspiration wrapped in laughter, this episode is the perfect pick-me-up!

[00:00] Introduction to Our Guest: Jack Marsh

[00:33] Welcome to St. Louis in Tune

[01:06] Sponsor Acknowledgment and Listener Engagement

[01:21] Return to Civility: Dining with Children

[02:06] Meet Jack Marsh: From Law to Circus

[03:12] Jack's Journey: From Harvard to Circus Flora

[04:46] The Founding of Circus Flora

[07:56] Celebrating Circus Flora's 39th Season

[08:12] Urban Legend: The Storyline and Acts

[10:20] Highlighting the Performers and Acts

[13:27] Special Performances and Community Engagement

[15:06] Introduction to Circus Flora

[15:28] Clowns on Call: Bringing Joy to Hospitals

[17:26] Share the Circus: Free Tickets for All

[18:32] Location and Seasonal Performances

[23:46] Circus Flora's Rich History

[24:46] Fun Facts and Trivia

[29:49] Closing Remarks and Announcements

Takeaways:

• Jack Marsh, the artistic director of Circus Flora, grew up surrounded by circus life, which shaped his career path remarkably.
• After graduating from Harvard and becoming a corporate lawyer, Jack realized his heart belonged to the circus, showcasing the importance of following your passion.
• Circus Flora combines thrilling circus acts with storytelling, creating a unique experience that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• The show Urban Legend features a fluffy, friendly monster that adds a whimsical touch, proving that not all monsters are scary!
• Circus Flora's Clowns on Call program sends performers to hospitals, helping to brighten the days of children facing tough times, showcasing the healing power of laughter.
• Their community outreach, Share the Circus, provides thousands of free tickets to ensure everyone can enjoy the circus, reinforcing the importance of accessibility in the arts.

• Circus Flora | A St. Louis Tradition For Over 30 years
• Instagram - Circus Flora
• Facebook - Circus Flora
• X - Circus Flora
• Circus Flora - Wikipedia

This is Season 8! For more episodes, go to stlintune.com

#circusflora #harvarduniversity #thecircus #thebigtop #clowns