Nestled in the heart of Washington, Missouri, Oxfest has become a staple of the local music scene. We’re joined by Ken Boland, emcee of the event, and he takes us on a journey through the festival's inception. Picture this: a few friends reminiscing about their late brothers, the discussion turns serious, and before you know it, a music festival is born! Fast forward nine years, and the Oxfest Music Festival has transformed from a modest gathering to an exciting full-day festival featuring 14 amazing bands.

From rock to bluesy tunes to country beats that’ll have you two-stepping, this festival is about more than just music; it’s about supporting local charities that focus on helping kids in need. We discuss the various organizations that benefit from the festival, how they work to uplift the community, and why your attendance matters. Ken’s enthusiasm for the festival is contagious, making it clear that this is not just another summer concert venue—it’s a heartfelt mission to create a positive impact for kids through music and camaraderie.

[00:00] Campfire Festival Idea

[01:10] Show Banter Begins

[02:08] Sponsor And Jazz Hands

[03:15] Meet Ken Bolen

[03:32] Why It’s Called Oxfest

[05:34] Festival Growth And Stages

[06:50] Tickets Parking And What To Bring

[08:45] Pro Production And Giving Back

[10:24] Seven Charities Supported

[15:22] Mission And Volunteers

[18:55] Main Stage Lineup

[22:54] Blues Stage Highlights

[26:14] Country Stage Acts

[29:13] Next Up Kids And Food

[29:45] Mortgage Sponsor Break

[30:32] Dred Scott Stamp Petition

[31:46] OxFest Details Recap

[32:25] Kid Zone and Youth Bands

[34:09] Food Drinks and Sponsors

[37:09] Safety and Special Guest Sarah Kraffty

[39:32] Visit Washington Missouri

[40:32] Tickets Donations and Thanks

[43:36] Welcome Corps PSA

[44:25] Banana Split Day Editorial

[45:59] National Days

[49:30] Humor and Final Signoff

Takeaways:

• The Oxfest Music Festival is a heartfelt tribute to lost loved ones, aiming to raise funds for local charities that support children and families.
• This year, the festival will feature 14 diverse bands across multiple stages, including rock, blues, country, and more, making it a must-attend event.
• If you're looking for a family-friendly festival, Oxfest has a Kid Zone with activities like face painting and a petting zoo, so bring the whole crew!
• The festival not only highlights great music but also emphasizes community engagement, showcasing local organizations that support underprivileged children.
• Mark your calendars for September 19th at the Washington Fairgrounds, where gates open at 11:30 AM—don't forget your chairs and good vibes!
• Oxfest is not just about the music; it's about creating a supportive environment for kids and families, with all proceeds going to local charities.

• OxFest Music Festival
• OxFest - Facebook

This is Season 9! For more episodes, go to stlintune.com

#oxfest #oxfestmusicfestival #washingtonmo #sarahkraffty #washingtonfairgrounds #thecoveringhouse #allabilitiesathletics #duanehaddoxmemorialscholarship #casaofmideastmissouri #wingseducationalfoundation #wholekidsoutreach #oneclassroom

Character matters, folks! From the office to the classroom, character is the secret sauce that makes everything better. Our conversation is with Mike Park, the CEO of CharacterPlus®, the largest and most successful community-­wide character education initiative in the country. He examines and probes the importance of character in shaping not just individuals, but entire communities. We begin with a thought-provoking quote: 'Character is like a tree, and reputation is like its shadow.' As we unravel this metaphor, we learn that while reputation is what others see, character is the deep-rooted essence of who we really are.

Mike takes us on a journey through his own life, sharing how his experiences as a military intelligence officer taught him the value of kindness and compassion in building relationships. He emphasizes that character isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s crucial for families, schools, and workplaces. When people feel trusted and valued, they thrive—hello, happy families and productive workplaces!

So, whether you’re a parent, a teacher, or just someone navigating daily life, this episode is packed with nuggets of wisdom on how to cultivate character in ourselves and others. Let’s get "characterific", people!

[00:00] Why Character Matters

[01:25] Lincoln Quote and Guest Intro

[02:51] Mike Park Origin Story

[05:24] Defining Character and ABCs

[09:52] Reflection and Social Skills

[13:20] PRIMED and Micro Kindness

[15:26] Character Plus History

[21:46] What Schools of Character Do

[25:00] Integrity Recognition and Equity

[27:00] Character in Hiring and Life

[29:46] Better Rate Mortgage Sponsor

[30:30] Welcome Corps Invitation

[31:14] Businesses Need Character

[32:59] Professional Academy Launch

[36:45] Social Emotional Skills

[40:16] ROI of Character Culture

[46:01] PRIMED Personal Framework

[54:19] Closing Thanks and Signoff

Takeaways:

• Character is like a tree, while reputation is merely its shadow; let's nurture the tree!
• In today's fast-paced world, people often neglect the importance of character in their lives.
• Building positive character traits can significantly improve relationships and foster a sense of belonging.
• Schools that prioritize character education see notable improvements in student performance and behavior.

• Character Education & Resources | CharacterPlus
• CharacterPlus - Facebook
• CharacterPlus | Podcast on Spotify
• CharacterPlus - YouTube
• CharacterPlus® | LinkedIn
• Character.org - Home Page
• Character.org - Facebook
• Character.org (@CharacterDotOrg) / X
• Character.org - Instagram

This is Season 9! For more episodes, go to stlintune.com

#charactereducation #charactermatters #characterintheworkplace #charactertraits #buildingcharacter #characterandleadership

Gather around, friends! We’re getting our lawn chairs, walking shoes, and appetite ready for a world of cultural connection through the Festival of Nations. It is a spectacular event that’s more than just a festival – it’s a celebration of unity, diversity, and delicious food! Imagine this: people from over 90 different cultures come together in Tower Grove Park, setting up booths that are bursting with flavor, rhythm, and tradition.

In this episode, Arnold and Mark chat with Terry Bates from the International Institute of St. Louis, who talks about international retail vendors, food vendors (that will make your taste buds do a happy dance), and performances that bring the entire world to St. Louis, all in one weekend! The Festival of Nations has been a staple since 1932 – yes, that’s almost a century of bringing people together! As Terry explains, this event is not just about sampling exotic dishes (though we will definitely be doing that!), but about creating a spirit of unity where diversity is celebrated, and every culture is cherished.

Whether you're a veteran festival-goer or a curious newbie, you’ll find something that speaks to your heart – and your stomach! Oh, and did I mention the VIP oasis? Because if you want to chill like royalty while munching on some international delights, you’ll want to check that out. So open up your lawn chairs, use your cash-less method to try some empanadas, and join us as we explore the magic that happens when cultures collide in the most delicious way possible!

[00:00] Festival Spirit Intro

[00:33] Show Welcome Setup

[01:27] Quote And Guest Intro

[02:30] Festival History Overview

[03:22] What To Expect

[04:26] Stages And Schedule

[06:26] Food And Shopping Tips

[08:15] Parking Cashless Weather Pets

[11:57] Sponsors And Institute Mission

[14:11] Volunteers And Logistics

[19:11] Getting Involved Year Round

[21:25] Festival Pitch And Wrap

[25:10] Sponsor Ad Break

[25:40] Sponsor Message

[25:54] Dred Scott Stamp Petition

[27:11] Festival of Nations Love

[28:43] National Days

[29:29] Catalog Nostalgia

[31:12] Senior Texting Codes

[32:29] Jokes And One Liners

[34:18] Yogi Berra Explains Jazz

[35:56] Old School Memories

[41:05] Perspective Quote Finale

[41:40] Mark Meets John Mulaney

[45:50] Wrap Up And Credits

Takeaways:

• When diverse cultures come together, we connect through music, food, and traditions, creating lasting friendships.
• The Festival of Nations highlights the beauty of multiculturalism, showcasing over 100 cultures through food and performances.
• Get ready for an epic celebration on August 29th and 30th at Tower Grove Park, featuring tons of food and fun events!
• Our community thrives when we welcome different cultures, reinforcing the idea that no culture is foreign here.
• The festival's cashless payment system means you'll need to bring your cards, so plan ahead to munch on all that delicious food!
• Don’t just show up for half an hour – grab your lawn chair, come hungry, and enjoy a full day of performances and cultural experiences!

• Festival of Nations
• International Institute of St. Louis – Immigrant Services & Community Engagement Hub since 1919
• Festival of Nations - Facebook
• Festival of Nations - Instagram

This is Season 9! For more episodes, go to stlintune.com

#festivalofnations #StLouisculturalfestival #TowerGroveParkevents #communityunity #InternationalInstituteofStLouis #familyfriendlyfestivals #culturalperformances #StLouistourism

There are pressing needs of children with disabilities and their families in our community. Brian Roy, CEO of Variety St. Louis, joins us to shed light on the amazing work the organization does. For over 90 years, Variety St. Louis has been a beacon of hope, providing essential medical equipment, therapy services, and inclusive opportunities for children with disabilities. Brian shares how the organization has evolved from its early days as a social club into a vital service provider that identifies and fills the gaps in support for families.

Variety St. Louis offers various programs, from equipping children with necessary medical devices to providing therapy services that many families struggle to access. Brian discusses the challenges faced by families in affording these vital services and how Variety St. Louis steps in to bridge the gap. With heartfelt stories from families, he illustrates the profound impact of these resources on children’s lives, helping them achieve independence and confidence. He emphasizes the significance of inclusive opportunities that not only help children with disabilities but also enrich the community as a whole.

We touch on the critical aspect of funding and how Variety St. Louis operates primarily through private contributions. Brian shares insights on how the fundraising landscape has evolved and the importance of community support. He candidly discusses the challenges of securing funds while emphasizing the impact that even small donations can have on a child’s life. The ultimate message: together, we can redefine possibilities and create a more inclusive world for all children.

[00:00] Why Variety Matters

[00:30] Show Welcome and Sponsor

[01:27] Thought for the Day

[02:19] Meet Brian Roy

[03:00] Variety History and Shift

[04:51] Who They Serve

[05:51] Equipment and Therapy Help

[08:10] Arts and Camp Programs

[09:25] Adventure Camp Explained

[12:19] Ages and Transition to 21

[14:17] Service Area and Vision

[15:37] Inclusive Theater Spotlight

[18:30] Current Productions Update

[20:18] Impact Stories from Families

[25:03] Break and Sponsor Message

[26:17] Dred Scott Stamp Petition

[27:23] Variety Funding Overview

[28:15] Gala Evolution and Headliners

[31:06] Private Funding and Impact Data

[35:14] Budget and Scaling the Mission

[37:58] How Families Find Variety

[41:03] Program Limits and Eligibility

[44:17] Donation Impact Breakdown

[49:46] Karaoke Banter and Wrap Up

[51:21] Final Credits and Sign Off

Takeaways:

• There's a real need in our community for support systems for children with disabilities and their families.
• Variety St. Louis is stepping up by providing essential medical equipment and therapy services to make life easier for these kids.
• Our programs not only offer tools but also priceless experiences, like summer camps and performing arts, to help kids thrive socially.
• Funding for these programs mainly comes from private donations, which is crucial since there are no federal programs covering these services.

• Variety Kids | Greater St. Louis Region | Supporting Kids with Disabilities
• Variety the Children's Charity of St. Louis | Facebook
• Variety the Children's Charity of St. Louis | Instagram
• Variety the Children's Charity of St. Louis (@VarietySTL) / X
• Variety the Children's Charity of St. Louis | YouTube
• Variety the Children's Charity of St. Louis | LinkedIn

This is Season 9! For more episodes, go to stlintune.com

#varietystl #childrenwithdisabilities #specialneedssupport #assistivetechnologyforchildren #adaptiveequipmentfordisabilities #specialneedscamps

Ever thought about the whirlwind world of music promotion? Well, we explore the dynamic life of Pam Lewis, the powerhouse behind PLA Media. Pam shares her colorful journey from the hustle and bustle of MTV to co-managing legends like Garth Brooks. If you’ve ever wondered how a music star gets their big break, Pam’s your person! She takes us through the ups and downs, the strategic moves, and the sheer grit it takes to make it in an industry that’s as unpredictable as trying to pin jelly to a wall. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about the talent; it’s also about the tenacity to keep creating opportunities.

We also get to hear some juicy behind-the-scenes stories about the artists she’s worked with and the lessons learned along the way. What’s super inspiring is how Pam emphasizes the importance of education and mentors in her life. She fondly recalls her time at Wells College, where she was surrounded by strong role models. From her mom’s sage advice about financial independence to her early days in the fast-paced world of cable TV, Pam’s narrative isn’t just about glitz and glam, but about perseverance and self-discovery. As she reflects on her career, she reminds us that success isn’t merely what you achieve, but how you uplift those around you.

So, if you’re looking for motivation to chase your dreams or want to sneak a peek into the music industry’s inner workings, this episode is a must-listen. Grab your headphones and get ready to be inspired!

[00:00] Show Teaser Intro

[01:28] Meet Pam Lewis

[02:14] Garth Name Stories

[03:21] Pam Career Highlights

[04:47] Wells College Roots

[07:32] Backstage To Nashville

[10:09] Music Shaped Her

[12:52] MTV Origin Story

[16:28] Launching MTV

[20:32] MTV Breakthrough Era

[23:28] Managing Garth Brooks

[26:08] Capitol Deal Twist

[28:06] Finding the Right Producer

[28:41] Allen Reynolds Steps In

[30:25] First Album and Radio Seminar

[31:47] Garth at Country Radio Seminar and Story Songs

[34:34] Coaching Stage Presence

[35:55] Saving Music Row Landmarks

[39:08] Buying Buildings on the Row

[43:21] Franklin Roots and Ben Franklin

[45:58] Ben on the Bench Project

[49:31] Legacy Perseverance and Farewell

Takeaways:

• The music industry isn't just about talent; it's about creating your own opportunities every single day.
• Pam Lewis shared her incredible journey from a country music novice to a powerful promoter, proving that persistence pays off.
• Finding success in music means being adaptable and willing to reinvent yourself when the industry changes, just like Pam did.
• Pam's work with Garth Brooks highlights the importance of stage presence and connecting with audiences in innovative ways.
• Music has a healing power that can help people through tough times, as discussed in the context of therapy and personal experiences.
• The evolution of MTV shaped the music landscape, demonstrating how media and music intertwine to create iconic moments.

• PLA Media Homepage
• PLA Media - Instagram
• PLA Media - Facebook
• PLA Media (@plamedia) / X
• PLA Media | LinkedIn

This is Season 9! For more episodes, go to stlintune.com

#musicindustry #nashville #countrymusic #garthbrooks #plamedia #musicpromotion #mtv #franklintennessee

If you’re looking for a little inspiration to get off the couch and into the great outdoors, you’ve hit the jackpot with this episode! Join us as we chat with Brad Kovach, about the upcoming Gateway Outdoor Summit—an event that’s not just a gathering but a movement to foster collaboration among outdoor professionals.

Brad highlights the importance of connecting over shared passions for nature and creating community-driven projects that make the outdoors more accessible for everyone. He shares anecdotes that will tug at your heartstrings and ignite your adventurous spirit, reminding us of the joy of exploring the natural world. Plus, we get the scoop on how attendees can expect to engage in meaningful discussions and networking opportunities that could lead to real change.

Whether you're a trailblazer or simply someone who enjoys the occasional picnic in the park, this episode is your call to action to embrace the outdoors and all the wonders it holds!

[00:00] Show Welcome

[02:09] Thought For The Day

[02:55] Summit Versus Expo

[04:20] Venue Tickets Format

[06:05] Who Should Attend

[09:35] Breakouts And Speakers

[12:28] Keynote Anthony Reed

[17:21] Outdoor Recreation Boom

[21:00] Get Outside Commercial

[24:06] Break And Sponsors

[25:47] Return From Break

[26:14] Camp Roots Outdoors

[27:42] Launching Terrain Magazine

[28:10] Building River City Outdoors

[29:32] Free Gear Library

[31:33] Favorite Trails And Sports

[32:09] Event Links And Access

[35:31] Parks Funding Talk

[37:33] Sponsor And Foundation Break

[39:11] Back From Break Reflections

[42:33] Quotes And Laughs

[45:28] Final Thanks And Signoff

Takeaways:

• Outdoor enthusiasts have a chance to engage with experts and community leaders at the Gateway Outdoor Summit.
• The Summit focuses on improving outdoor access and promoting inclusivity, which is essential for community growth.
• Attendees can expect networking opportunities and breakout sessions to facilitate collaboration and action.
• Brad Kovach emphasizes the importance of grassroots initiatives in transforming outdoor recreation in St. Louis.
• The event features keynote speaker Anthony Reid, who will inspire attendees with his journey in distance running.
• River City Outdoors provides a gear lending library to encourage outdoor activities without the financial burden of equipment.

• Gateway Outdoor Expo & Gateway Outdoor Summit
• River City Outdoors
• Terrain Magazine – Outdoor Recreation, Adventure & Culture | St. Louis
• Facebook - Gateway Outdoor Summit
• Anthony Reed - Keynote Speaker for 2026 Gateway Outdoor Summit

This is Season 9! For more episodes, go to stlintune.com

#outdoorrecreation #gatewayoutdoorsummit #gatewayoutdoorexpo #missouriparks #biketrails #camping #rockclimbing

As the United States gears up to celebrate its 250th birthday, we explore the multi-faceted world of the United States Air Force Band of Mid America. Our guest, Technical Sergeant Brian Logan, shares insights into the unique role of military bands in today’s society. From concerts that honor veterans to community outreach programs that aim to connect and inspire, we learn how these musicians are more than just entertainers; they’re ambassadors of goodwill, bridging cultures through the universal language of music.

Technical Sergeant Logan takes us behind the scenes of the Air Force Band, explaining how he juggles his dual responsibilities as a musician and logistics coordinator. He recounts fascinating experiences while stationed in Europe and Africa, where music served as a powerful tool for diplomacy and cultural exchange. Listeners get an inside understanding of the Air Force’s mission through music, with Sergeant Logan articulating how they honor, connect, and inspire both service members and civilians alike.

Whether it’s performing at a parade or collaborating with local communities, the band’s impact is profound, and this episode celebrates the artistry and dedication of those who wear the uniform. Don’t miss the chance to catch them live at their upcoming concerts around St. Louis—because who wouldn’t want to see a bunch of talented military musicians rocking out for freedom?

[00:00] Show kickoff and intro

[01:03] Sponsor and quotes

[02:20] Meet Sergeant Logan

[02:45] Rank and career path

[04:23] Military band logistics

[07:20] Why Air Force bands exist

[09:40] Angola diplomacy story

[12:51] Mid America region and events

[14:04] Concert schedule and tickets

[16:11] Rock band and recruiting

[17:46] More dates and ensemble sizes

[20:11] Ceremonies And Parades

[20:44] Favorite Deployments

[21:08] Mauritania Border Guard Concert

[23:03] Music As Diplomacy

[24:31] Show Dates And Tickets

[27:35] Sponsor Mortgage Break

[28:26] Recap

[29:22] National Days

[31:18] Onion Burger Recipe

[32:36] Air Force Band History

[34:18] Humor And Sign Off

Takeaways:

• The United States Air Force Band of Mid America is a key player in celebrating the nation's 250-year journey, showcasing the rich history of military music.
• Technical Sergeant Brian Logan emphasizes the multifaceted role of military musicians, who not only perform but also handle logistics and coordination for events.
• The Air Force bands serve as cultural ambassadors, bridging gaps with international communities through music, fostering goodwill and understanding.
• The band is set to perform at several locations in the St. Louis area, including the Missouri Botanical Gardens, which is an exciting opportunity for the community.
• One of the most memorable experiences for the band was playing for Mauritanian border guards, showcasing how music can transcend cultural barriers and foster connections.
• Military bands, like the Air Force Band, play crucial roles in honoring veterans and serving as a source of inspiration and community engagement.

Concerts:

Wed, July 1st: Missouri Botanical Gardens, 7:00 PM CST (St. Louis, MO) Concert Band

Thurs, July 2nd: Old Post Office Plaza, 7:00 PM CST (St. Louis, MO) Concert Band

Fri, July 3rd: Bond County 4th Festival, 5:00 PM CST (Greenville, IL) Starlifter Rock/Pop Ensemble

Sat, July 4th: Celebrate St. Louis Parade, 4:00 PM CST (Downtown St. Louis, MO)

Tues, July 7th: Faust Park, 3:00 PM CST (Chesterfield, MO) Concert Band

• U.S. Air Force Band of Mid-America
• USAF Band of Mid-America TICKETS
• Facebook - USAF Band of Mid-America
• X - USAF Band of Mid-America
• Instagram - USAF Band of Mid-America
• YouTube - USAF Band of Mid-America

This is Season 9! For more episodes, go to stlintune.com

#usaf #usafband #usafbandofmidamerica #concertband #militarybands #freedom250 #bandconcerts

Diana Linsley, a seasoned photographer with a flair for capturing the essence of Missouri's natural beauty, joins us in a delightful chat about her latest collaboration with Don Corrigan titled Scenic Natural Wonders of Missouri. Diana shares how her passion for photography blossomed during her childhood on a strawberry farm. From her early days of snapping photos with a Kodak Instamatic to her current practice with a Canon R5, she navigates through the evolution of photography, both technically and artistically.

We shift towards the importance of storytelling in photography. Diana artfully discusses how capturing a moment goes beyond just the click of a shutter; it’s about conveying emotions and narratives through visuals. With anecdotes about her experiences at various stunning locations, such as the Loess Bluffs during the migratory season for snow geese, she explains how the right lighting and timing can elevate a photograph from mundane to magical. You are treated to a peek behind the curtain of professional photography, complete with tips on how to see the world through a lens and the sometimes-serendipitous nature of finding the perfect shot.

Our conversation humorously highlights Diana’s experiences researching and photographing lesser-known spots in Missouri, such as the quaint Castor River Shut-Ins. The episode wraps up with details on where to find Diana's book and upcoming book signings, hoping we leave you inspired to explore the natural wonders of Missouri! It’s a delightful blend of education, laughter, and photographic inspiration that’s sure to resonate with nature lovers and aspiring photographers alike!

[00:00] Storytelling Through Photos

[00:41] Host Intros and Trivia

[01:43] Thought to Ponder on Seeing

[02:59] Meet Diana Linsley

[03:27] Strawberry Farm Roots

[04:46] Falling for Photography

[06:32] Missouri Wonders Book

[07:07] Hidden Gems and Research

[08:14] Shooting the Whole State

[09:02] Collaboration and Favorites

[10:37] Book Signings Schedule (see below)

[12:08] Who the Book Serves

[13:17] Missouri Landscapes and Caves

[15:51] Emotion and Light

[17:39] Digital Gear and Ethics

[19:59] Finding Shots in the Field

[21:24] Tripods and Photo Volume

[22:25] Phones Versus Pro Cameras

[23:48] Break And Sponsor Spots

[26:13] Favorite Missouri Wildlife

[29:29] Hidden Public Lands

[30:28] St Louis Area Nature

[31:38] Route 66 And Times Beach

[33:09] Photography Career Advice

[36:32] Print Versus Screen Viewing

[37:26] Book Tips And Signings

[41:25] Closing Trivia And Signoff

Takeaways:

• Storytelling is key in photography; it's all about conveying feelings through images, folks!
• Diana Linsley emphasizes how capturing the right light can transform a photograph into something magical.
• The scenic wonders of Missouri are not just beautiful; they tell a story that connects us to nature.
• Exploring lesser-known areas in Missouri can reveal hidden gems perfect for hiking and photography.

Book Signings

• July 10-Dutzow Winery: 7-8:30 pm
• August 18-Powder Valley: Register at the MO Dept of Conservation
• September 12-Cooper's Landing Riverside Resort in Columbia, MO: 9am-4pm
• September 13-Cooper's Landing Riverside Resort in Columbia, MO: 10am-3pm

• Scenic Natural Wonders of Missouri
• Linsley PhotoStL
• Facebook - Diana Linsley
• Instagram - Diana Linsley
• LinkedIn - Diana Linsley
• Pinterest - Diana Linsley

This is Season 9! For more episodes, go to stlintune.com

#missouriparks #scenicwonderofmissouri #missourinature #naturephotography #photographingnature #hikinginmissouri