Kezia Jackson is a clinical psychologist and the founder and CEO of Healing Spaces, a mental health practice that specializes in serving BIPOC populations. As one of the just 4% of mental health professionals who are Black, she and her team are on a mission to meet a drastic need.

Washington Post book critic Ron Charles is not only one of the most influential people in the literary world, he is also a St. Louis native, a former teacher at John Burroughs (and colleague of Jon Hamm), and Eric's former college professor. He brings a joy and enthusiasm to the craft (and to everything) that is nothing short of pure delight! Ron and Eric discuss AI, publishing, where readers have gone, and the rise of Romantasy. You'll love it!

In this spooky Halloween edition of the pod, Eric talks to two St. Louis County Council members: Lisa Clancy and Kelli Dunaway. Lisa is a social worker who has dedicated her life to helping her community. Kelli is a real-life witch, who tells a harrowing story of encountering Eric (nee Mark) in a past life, 500 years ago. It's a hell of a ride! Happy Halloween, everybody!

Eric speaks with Congressional candidate Fred Wellman and a dozen protesters in West St. Louis County, including a two-time Trump voter who took a stand to protest Donald Trump's authoritarianism. Make sure to listen to the end for important takeaways!

Joshua David Stein is in from NYC to sample fare for Esquire's Best New Restaurants feature and Gerard Craft is celebrating 20 years of Niche Food Group. We talk about Gerard's amazing path from reform school graffiti writer to James Beard Award winner, we talk about St. Louis's vibrant food scene and why it beats NYC and LA, and we talk single dad stuff. This is one you don't want to miss!

A politico, a minstrel, a farm boy, and a mensch—Truman Kennedy joins the pod to regale Eric with music and tales of Tulsa larceny. Meet the man who has demonstrated that progressive causes can win in rural Missouri.

St. Louis's best barber is also a reformed church kid, a punk singer and guitarist, and a tireless activist for colorectal cancer awareness and policy. Go deep with Cranford the Barber!

A very nuanced and in-depth look at the Muslim experience in America: from growing up between St. Louis and Syria to getting married at 18 to a unique perspective on US politics. This is an eye-opening interview with Islamic Center of Greater St. Louis Vice-Chair Maysa Albarcha.