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

One month after Loryn and Edo Nalic opened Balkan Treatbox in 2019, I had the privilege of sitting down with Loryn and getting her take on the success of the restaurant. Now Loryn is a culinary superstar being recently crowned the James Beard Best Chef Midwest. She takes us on a delightful journey through her culinary roots and the evolution of her restaurant, Balkan Treatbox. From her childhood memories of cooking with family to the whirlwind of opening a food truck and now a full-fledged restaurant, Loryn shares the ups and downs of her culinary career. She recounts the transformative moments that shaped her passion for food, like her early days busing tables and her leap into pastry chef roles. We get into the intricacies of running a food truck, the challenges of sourcing ingredients, and the creativity that fuels her menu, which is inspired by the rich flavors of the Balkan region.

As we celebrate her recent accolades, we also reflect on how community support and a team effort has been vital to her success, emphasizing the collaborative spirit among local chefs in St. Louis. Loryn and Arnold explore the vibrant food scene in St. Louis, highlighting how the city is gaining recognition on a national scale. They discuss the camaraderie among local chefs and how this interconnectedness strengthens the culinary landscape.

Loryn's anecdotes about her experiences, from baking bread in a food truck to managing the demands of a bustling restaurant are engaging and give us a behind the scenes view. Listeners get a taste of the mouthwatering dishes served at Balkan Treatbox, like the beloved wood-fired bread and the unique flavors of cevapi, and how every dish tells a story. This conversation is not just about food; it’s about passion, perseverance, and the joy of bringing people together through delicious meals.

[00:00] Meet Loryn Nalic

[00:13] Early Food Roots

[00:55] Pastry Breakthrough

[01:46] From Sysco to Pappy's

[03:21] Launching the Truck

[04:49] Food Truck Reality

[08:35] From Truck to Restaurant

[09:16] Balkan Menu Tour

[12:19] Design and Identity

[15:12] Opening Challenges

[18:47] Lunch Only Growth

[23:03] Precision and Pastry

[24:10] St Louis Food Community

[27:37] How to Visit and Follow

[28:47] What is Next and Farewell

Takeaways:

• Loryn Nalic's journey from culinary dreams to James Beard Best Chef accolade is truly inspiring!
• Building a food truck is not just grilling and cash registers, it's a complex culinary adventure!
• The St. Louis food scene is thriving, with chefs supporting each other like one big happy family!
• Every dish served is crafted with love, using fresh ingredients and traditional Balkan recipes!
• Transitioning from a food truck to a full-fledged restaurant has its challenges, but the rewards are worth it!
• Social media is the lifeblood of food trucks – it’s how they keep their hungry fans in the loop!

• Balkan Treat Box - St. Louis
• Instagram - Balkan Treatbox
• Facebook - Balkan Treatbox

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

#balkantreatbox #jamesbeardaward #stlouisfood #foodtrucks #balkanfood #streetfood #balkancuisine #woodfiredcooking #handmadebread

Forest Park, a vibrant gem in St. Louis, is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year, and let me tell you, it's got quite the backstory! We get right into the heart of the park's history, where we explore its origins and the myriad of events that have taken place since 1876. From hosting Olympic events to being the backdrop for Janis Joplin's free concert that had hippies dancing under the stars, Forest Park has always been a hub of activity and culture.

Our guests, Amanda Doyle and Cameron Collins, are the authors of a brand-new book that captures the essence of the park's rich history, titled 'Forest Park, St. Louis: Gathering Places Since 1876.' They share fascinating anecdotes, including how the park was once considered a potential site for an airport! Who would've thought that the sprawling greens could have been a runway? This episode is a delightful mix of humor and history, perfect for anyone wanting to learn more about this beloved park with some hidden history.

[00:00] Forest Park Teaser

[00:35] Show Welcome and Sponsor

[01:13] World Refugee Day Plug

[02:05] John Muir Quote and Guests

[03:00] Authors Bios and Banter

[04:11] First Forest Park Impressions

[07:09] Janis Joplin Free Concert

[08:53] Founding Vision and Land Deal

[11:13] Park Memories and Renewal

[14:03] Writing the Book Together

[15:35] Pageant and Kennedy Woods

[18:51] Hidden Monuments and River Des Peres

[21:45] Worlds Fair Myths and Legends

[24:44] Cut Stories White Ghost Dogs

[26:01] Handball Rivalries and Crime

[26:20] Handball Rivalry Tale

[26:57] Book Tour Dates

[28:24] Research Beats AI

[30:33] Bandstand Basement Lore

[32:33] Forest Park Fun Facts

[34:52] Tornado Tree Aftermath

[35:35] Sponsor Break

[38:15] Writing The Book Together

[43:25] Design Choices And Layout

[47:09] Wrap Up And Odd Holidays

[51:35] Final Sign Off

Takeaways:

• Did you know that Forest Park was the site of Olympic events, making it a historical gem?
• Each year, over 15 million visitors flock to Forest Park, proving it's a must-visit spot!
• Janis Joplin once rocked a free concert at the World's Fair Pavilion in Forest Park, how cool is that?
• Forest Park is the first park in the country featuring a statue of Thomas Jefferson, predating D.C.'s by 30 years!
• The park has undergone a massive transformation, thanks to the efforts of Forest Park Forever, revitalizing its beauty.
• Did you know that the park's original plan was for it to be double its current size? That's some ambitious dreaming!

Book Tour Dates/Times

June 20: Noon-2pm, Barnes & Noble in Ladue

June 22: 1-2pm, Clarendale Clayton

June 24: 4-7pm, Forest Park Boathouse (150th anniversary of the park)

July 22: 7pm, St. Louis County Library Main Branch

September 20: 2-3:30pm, Kirkwood Public Library

• Amanda E Doyle - Author
• Distilled History - Cameron Collins
• Forest Park: St. Louis’s Gathering Place Since 1876 – Reedy Press
• Instagram - Forest Park 150

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

#forestpark #forestpark150 #stlouisparks #urbanparks #stlouishistory #urbanparkhistory

Andre' Mack joins us to discuss his incredible journey through the world of wine and opens up about the pivotal moments that shaped his career and life. He shares his initial inspiration which came from watching a television show and the “aha” moment tasting three different wines side by side. Eighteen months later he become a sommelier at The French Laundry and later run a major New York program at Per Se. If that wasn’t enough he founded Maison Noir Wines in Oregon along with a design studio. We also talk about upcoming projects in the works.

Andre's infectious passion for hospitality shines through as he encourages people to integrate wine into their everyday experiences rather than treat it as an elite indulgence. He emphasizes the importance of keeping your 'eyes on the prize' and doing the hard things that lead to fulfilling your dreams. Our conversation is a delightful blend of personal reflection and professional insight, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in wine, hospitality, or simply living life to the fullest.

[00:00] Eyes on the Prize

[00:31] Show Welcome and Sponsor

[02:03] Meet Andre' Mack

[02:34] Why He's in St Louis

[03:08] First Wine Aha Moment

[06:03] Fast Track to French Laundry

[06:33] Obsessive Study and Staging

[08:49] No Looking Back Mindset

[10:08] New York Leap

[10:53] From Sommelier to Winemaker

[12:10] Discomfort and Discipline

[12:59] Army Brat Roots

[15:27] Training Palate and Nose

[18:13] Skills from the Job

[20:47] Inspiration Not Motivation

[21:59] Free Time and Learning

[22:14] Creative Side Hustles

[22:22] Quality Time Parenting

[23:17] Future Projects Reveal

[24:50] Designing Wine Tools

[26:05] Kids Passions Homeschooling

[30:50] Bond Villain Yacht Tales

[33:35] Wine As Life Condiment

[37:02] Marketing Culture Relevancy

[38:52] Reflection

Takeaways:

• Stay focused on your goals because only you know where you're headed, so keep your eyes on the prize!
• Sometimes, you've got to tackle the not-so-fun stuff to reach your ultimate destination, but trust me, it's worth it!
• Andre' Mack's journey is a wild ride; from financial advisor to sommelier at the French Laundry in just 18 months, talk about hustling!
• Wine is more than just a drink; it’s a condiment for life, elevating every experience and making moments more memorable!
• If you want to develop your palate for wine, taste everything, because practice and repetition are key to mastering those flavors!
• Remember, to be a master of something, you have to stay a student for life, always learning and evolving!

• Andre Hueston Mack
• Instagram - Andre' Mack
• YouTube - Andre' Mack
• Facebook - Maison Noir Wines
• Maison Noir Wines

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

#andremack #maisonnoirwines #sommelier #winemaker #vintner #hospitality

This episode is a delightful glance into the world of classical music as we sit down with the charismatic pianist Brian Woods. We celebrate the genius of Sergei Prokofiev, particularly focusing on his lesser-known works. Brian’s upcoming album, 'Radical Miniatures,' serves as the backdrop for our lively discussion.

Brian reveals how he’s taken these short pieces, which clock in at under three minutes each, and turned them into a collection that’s as engaging as it is innovative. Brian shares his excitement about the creative process behind the album, detailing how Prokofiev’s ability to convey complex emotions in such brief compositions resonates with today’s fast-paced world. He highlights how these pieces can capture audiences’ attention in a way that longer works sometimes struggle to do.

We also discuss the significance of stage presence, with Brian emphasizing the importance of storytelling in music and how he aims to make classical performances feel less intimidating and more accessible to everyone. Listeners are treated to a rich tapestry of insights about both the music and the musician. Brian’s infectious enthusiasm shines through as he discusses his artistic journey, from his early days to his current role as a music director at the World Chess Hall of Fame. His passion for connecting with audiences is palpable, and it’s clear that he sees music as a living, breathing entity that thrives on interaction and engagement. This episode is a refreshing reminder of how classical music can be both profound and approachable, making it a delightful listen for music lovers and casual listeners alike.

[00:00] Prokofiev Teaser

[00:38] Coffee Order Chaos

[01:33] Piano Quote

[02:29] Meet Pianist Brian Woods

[04:02] Dazzling Stage Presence

[08:24] Why Prokofiev Miniatures

[11:10] Short Pieces For Short Attention

[12:57] Album Success And Creating

[15:07] Prokofiev, The Rebel

[16:27] Visions Fugitives Preview

[20:42] Break And Sponsor Messages

[22:51] Album Release Details

[23:27] CDs Vinyl And Improvising

[24:35] Recovering Onstage Mistakes

[25:51] Recording Without Fear

[27:20] Tales Of Grandmother

[32:17] Sarcasms Explained

[38:01] Politics Behind The Music

[39:49] Chess Hall Concert Series

[49:04] Tickets And Farewell

Takeaways:

• Prokofiev's talent for short pieces showcases his genius in brevity and emotional impact.
• The podcast dives deep into Brian Woods' journey, revealing how personal connections shaped his career trajectory.
• Listeners learn about the importance of stage presence and how it enhances the overall concert experience for the audience.
• Brian Woods' new album, featuring Prokofiev's radical miniatures, is set to challenge traditional classical music norms and attract younger audiences.
• The conversation highlights the unique blend of classical music and storytelling that keeps audiences engaged and entertained.
• Exploring how Prokofiev pushed musical boundaries reflects the ongoing evolution of classical music in contemporary society.

• Home Page - Brian Woods Pianist
• YouTube - Brian Woods
• Instagram - Brian Woods
• Facebook - Brian Woods

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

#brianwoods #brianwoodspianist #prokofiev #pianomusic #classicalmusic #worldchesshalloffame #chess

If Dennis Brown were a weather report, today’s forecast would be: 50% wisdom, 50% experience, accompanied with a strong chance of storytelling. What a privilege to converse with Dennis as we explore his incredible journey through the world of theater and literature, from rubbing elbows with Hollywood legends like Gregory Peck and Jessica Tandy to sharing the stage with up-and-coming talent in St. Louis. He reflects on the heartwarming and sometimes hilarious moments from his years as a theater critic, revealing how he managed to maintain his passion for storytelling while navigating the ups and downs of the theatrical world.

One minute he's recounting the time he interviewed a young playwright, and the next, he’s dropping gems of wisdom about what it means to truly listen and engage with the stories that surround us. Dennis’s unique perspective not only captures the essence of theater but also serves as a reminder of the importance of community in the arts. Who knew that writing and storytelling could be as exhilarating as a rollercoaster ride? Buckle up, because Dennis is here to take us on a thrilling ride through the enchanting world of theater, one story at a time!

[00:00] Meet Dennis Brown

[00:33] Show Welcome and Banter

[01:32] Shaw Quote on Critics

[02:23] Dennis Background and Theater Roots

[03:32] Thesis That Started It All

[05:30] Teaching and Lifelong Learning

[07:51] Breaking Into the Post Dispatch

[09:31] Career Advice Stay Open

[11:17] CBS Speech to Publicist

[12:37] Working With Famous Actors

[15:21] Interviewing Secrets and Stories

[20:20] Sponsor Break and PSA

[22:14] Back to Stage Page and Books

[24:57] How to Be a Theater Critic: Informed Subjectivity

[28:52] Illustrations by Marjorie Williamson

[30:04] Illustration Perfectionism

[31:11] Choosing The Reviews

[33:58] Reviews As Short Stories

[36:18] The Lost Art Of Criticism

[40:03] Hook Meat And Ending

[41:03] Gregory Peck Prep Method

[47:04] GP On The Road

[52:00] Angela Lansbury Favor

[54:23] Final Book Plug Farewell

Takeaways:

• Our guest today is Dennis Brown, a super talented storyteller and playwright with some awesome stories to share about his adventures in theater.
• We dive into the world of theater history, featuring names like Gregory Peck and Jessica Tandy, and how they left their mark on the industry.
• Dennis emphasizes the importance of being informed rather than strictly objective when it comes to theater criticism; it’s all about that informed subjectivity, folks!
• The podcast reveals that Dennis' teaching experience keeps him young and in touch with fresh perspectives, highlighting the value of student insights.
• We also uncover that writing is a cerebral activity that connects us deeper, and even Gregory Peck had his unique way of learning lines by writing them out!
• Finally, we learn about Dennis' new book 'Stage Page', which is packed with reviews that tell more like short stories, celebrating the marvelous St. Louis theater scene.

• Dennis Brown - Home Page
• Dennis Brown - My Books

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

#stlouistheater #dennisbrown #theatercritics #CBS #publicist #screenwriting #theaterarts #websteruniversity