Buckle up, Kansas City—this one’s a wild ride. He’s loud, he’s funny, and he’s been shaking up the airwaves for over three decades. In this episode, we sit down with Johnny Dare, the legendary host of The Johnny Dare Morning Show on 98.9 The Rock, to talk about his journey from high school dropout to one of the most recognizable voices in Midwest radio.

Johnny opens up about 34 years of radio mayhem, the sidekicks and skits that made headlines, and the moments that nearly got him kicked off the air. But behind the “shock jock” persona, you’ll also meet the man with a big heart: the one who started Bikers for Babies, Hope for the Holidays, and Hand Up!

It’s raw, it’s hilarious, and it’s real. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to Kansas City radio, this episode captures the chaos, comedy, and compassion that make Johnny Dare a local legend.

Every city has one legendary bar. The kind of place where stories start, friendships grow, and the night never really ends. In Kansas City, that place is Kelly’s Westport Inn.

Standing tall in its original 1800s building, once owned by Daniel Boone’s grandson, Kelly’s isn’t just a bar - it’s a living piece of Kansas City history. Wagon trains once stopped here before heading west, and today, locals still pack the place for cold beer, live music, and good conversation. Oh, and did we mention it’s haunted?

In this episode, Pat Kelly and Dave “Red” Cross share stories of hangovers, high jinks, hauntings, and heart, plus memories of the Grand Old Man (GOM) who gave Kelly’s its name. Whether you love KC nightlife, local lore, or a good ghost story, this episode will make you wish the walls could talk.

Full Rights - Music Pro, Artlist License

• The Black Archives of Mid-America is one of Kansas City’s most important cultural institutions, and at its helm is the dynamic and incredible Dr. Carmaletta Williams. Known locally as Dr. Carma, she’s a scholar, author, and lifelong advocate for preserving the history of African American life and culture. In this episode, Dr. Williams shares her journey from educator to cultural leader, the stories preserved within the Archives, and why protecting and celebrating Black history is vital for future generations.

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  Discover how the Black Archives of Mid-America has become a cornerstone in documenting the Black experience in the Midwest and beyond—through rare photographs, artifacts, and stories that illuminate a legacy of resilience, achievement, and community.

Kansas City isn’t just famous for barbecue—it’s making history with the world’s first Museum of Barbecue.

In this episode, we sit down with founder and food writer Jonathan Bender, an East Coast foodie turned KC convert, who has dedicated his life to documenting America’s most mouthwatering comfort food. From burnt ends and rib tips to the pitmasters who built KC’s reputation, Jonathan shares the stories, culture, and traditions behind why Kansas City barbecue is truly unmatched.

Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or simply someone who craves the smoky flavor of authentic BBQ, this episode will leave you both hungry and inspired.

Do you know the real story behind Ted Lasso?

Meet Donnie Campbell: the longtime Kansas high school basketball coach known not just for his winning record, but for the way he builds relationships, instills confidence, and teaches life's lessons through the game.

Years ago, Donnie coached a young Jason Sudeikis, who would later model his Emmy Award winning character, Ted Lasso, after Coach Campbell’s style of leadership and relentless optimism.

From the locker room to the small screen, Coach Campbell’s influence has reached far beyond the hardwood. We talk about his coaching mentorship and what it’s like to see your philosophy come to life as a global phenomenon.

Discover the incredible journey of Michael Mackie: 8-time Emmy Award–winning journalist and one of Kansas City’s most recognizable media personalities. Known for interviewing nearly 1,000 celebrities, including 11 Oscar winners, Mackie shares the untold stories behind his new book “You Have 4 Minutes!” and his life as a go-to celebrity interviewer.

He’ll tell you he’s locally famous for being locally famous, but his story goes much deeper than that. In this episode of There’s Just Something About Kansas City, Michael opens up about his battle with food and alcohol and how the two almost cost him his life, along with the powerful steps he took to reclaim his health. We also explore his recent travel writing for Lonely Planet ahead of World Cup 2026 in Kansas City, plus his feature series on the KC Streetcar line for The Pitch Magazine.

If you’re interested in celebrity interviews, Kansas City culture, World Cup 2026 travel tips, or a real story of addiction recovery and reinvention, this conversation is for you.

• Celebrate the 100th episode of There’s Just Something About Kansas City with a special live panel recorded at J. Rieger & Co.

  Host Frank Boal brings together four of Kansas City’s most influential leaders: Andy Rieger (President, J. Rieger & Co.), Kathy Nelson (President & CEO, Visit KC and the Greater Kansas City Sports Commission & Foundation), George Guastello (President & CEO, Union Station Kansas City), and Bob Kendrick (President, Negro Leagues Baseball Museum).

• In this milestone episode, hear firsthand how Kansas City’s top voices are shaping the city’s future—from tourism and sports to history, culture, and economic growth. Whether you’re a KC local, history buff, or sports fan, this inspiring conversation spotlights the people and places that make Kansas City one of the most dynamic cities in America.

  Cheers to the next 100!