Saint Louis In Tune

We get old-school spycraft and new-school lessons from Merryl Goldberg, and I promise—this is not your typical textbook history. The episode unfolds with a background history of refuseniks, why Soviet Jews were refused permission to emigrate, the risks of dissent, and how a ragtag ensemble from the Klezmer Conservatory Band decided to be part of the solution. Merryl describes intimate scenes—subway chases to lose KGB minders, apartments turned into concert halls, having her passport and belongings taken away, and a kid taught to blow bubble gum bubbles—moments that humanize the Cold War’s abstract geopolitics. These vignettes show how everyday joys can sustain resistance even when the KGB is watching. Read more in her book: Notes of Deception: How a Quartet of American Musicians Outwitted the KGB.Beyond the thrills, Merryl offers four concrete takeaways that feel timely: resistance matters (even small acts add up), arts keep you human and resilient, advocacy can turn private suffering into political momentum, and humor is an essential survival tool. We link her work directly to real policy outcomes—information she smuggled boosted efforts by Amnesty, scientific and interfaith groups, and reportedly influenced the human-rights focus in Reagan-era summits. If you’re the kind of person who wants practical inspiration with a side of history (and maybe a klezmer beat in your head), Merryl’s story will make you feel empowered to act—one starfish at a time.[00:00] Cold War Mission Setup[00:36] Show Intro and Guest Tease[01:44] Meet Merryl Goldberg[03:07] What Is Klezmer Music[05:48] Refuseniks Explained[07:18] Recruitment and Phantom Orchestra[09:54] The Music Cipher Trick[12:53] Coauthor and NSA Connection[15:08] Cybersecurity Fame Twist[17:48] Finding the Phantom Orchestra[21:44] Break and Sponsor Message[23:36] Back From Break and Rapport[25:22] Smuggling Stories in Scores[28:29] Impact on Reagan-Gorbachev Talks[31:05] Deported and Exposed[32:19] Capitol Hill Fallout[33:08] Humor Under Surveillance[34:43] Bubblegum and Baseball[36:31] Cipher Beats the KGB[38:11] Four Lessons for Today[41:38] Book Plug and Farewell[45:50] Ads and Sponsor Break[47:04] Hosts React and Debrief[48:10] Holiday Bits and Banter[49:35] Texting Code Comedy[50:46] Final Sign OffTakeaways:We learn that a klezmer quartet used music as a literal cipher to smuggle human-rights information out of the Soviet Union.Merryl created a musical code disguised as sheet music, and the KGB never suspected it hid addresses, names, and directions.You should notice how arts and advocacy teamed up: songs, jam sessions and humor kept dissidents resilient and deeply connected.Smuggled stories informed Western politicians and organizations, helping push human-rights onto summit agendas with measurable impact.If you're wondering about courage: a few determined musicians and dozens of advocates can topple policies and shift geopolitics.Arts skills translate directly to cybersecurity — creativity, risk-taking, and empathy matter when defending systems.Small compassionate acts — teaching a kid to blow bubble gum or sharing baseball — sustain humanity under duress.Humor became an operational tool, keeping morale high while the KGB tried their best to intimidate.Merryl Goldberg - Jewish Book Festival SpeakerShowpass - Merryl Goldberg EventMerryl Goldberg - Official Home PageMerryl Goldberg - NEC Alumna Recounts Spy MissionMerryl Goldberg - Harper Collins Author PageOther Shows You May Enjoy After Listening TodayThe Holocaust's Hidden Hero: Fritz BauerHow Irena Sendler Saved 2500 Children During the HolocaustThe High Stakes of Global Hostage & Prisoner NegotiationsThis is Season 9! For more episodes, go to stlintune.com#nccstl #coldwar #reagansummit #NotesofDeception #MerrylGoldberg #KlezmerConservatoryBand #klezmermusic #refuseniks #StLouisJewishBookFestival

Ron Stevens shows up with a grin and a vault of St. Louis rock stories, and we let him run—so get your running shoes on! We venture through the Imperial Awards (the Hall of Fame got fancier), which occurs November 20 at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center (210 East Monroe) with tickets via Metrotix. You’ll hear why the ceremony was renamed (as a nod to Club Imperial) and how that club’s integrated audiences in the ’60s and ’70s made it a cultural touchstone. Ron teases the Aardvarks as the house band (they haven’t shared a stage since President Reagan), and the evening promises vintage tunes, reunions, and surprises—Mike Krensky will even belt out “The Cheater” alongside the band. We also get into who’s getting honored and why: musicians like Fontella Bass and Full Moon Consort, radio pioneers such as DJ Spider Burks and John Beck, plus local institutions and behind-the-scenes folks (think Music Land Records, Tony Roldan, and more). The voting process? Mostly public nominations and votes—so you have a say. On top of the glitz, there’s a big heart. For the Society’s charity work, all profits from The Imperial Awards this year will benefit Central Visual & Performing Arts High School. There will also be special tributes — including one for David Surkamp of Pavlov's Dog and his late wife Sarah — that turn the show into a living memorial as much as a party. If you love St. Louis music lore, this is an evening you won’t want to miss![00:00] Classic Rock Honors Tease[00:31] Hosts Intro[01:17] Quote & Guest Intro[01:50] Meet Ron Stevens[02:59] Society Origins Mission[03:52] COVID Fundraiser Success[05:11] Imperial Awards Logistics[06:53] Aardvarks Reunion Band[08:37] Inductees And Voting[12:54] Why Imperial Awards Name[14:51] Outside Influences Explained[17:25] Tributes And Special Guests[21:50] Break And Sponsor Spots[24:10] Back From Break Radio Talk[25:06] KSHE Rivalries Memories[26:13] Origin Of KSHE Pig[27:18] Radio Career Origin Story[28:30] Kicked Off Live On Air[30:50] Weekend Shift Breakthrough[32:07] Meeting Joy After Midnight[34:10] Restoring Soulard Dream House[35:21] Fountain on Locust Legacy[35:43] Selling During COVID Shift[37:23] Restaurant Advice And Doubters[40:29] Imperial Awards Ticket Plug[43:42] Days Of The Day Banter[44:40] Halloween Mansion And SLIFF[46:35] Jokes Segment Rapid Fire[49:33] Comedy Albums And Opening Acts[51:10] Charlie Daniels Hat Story[51:43] Final Thanks And Sign OffTakeaways:We learned the St. Louis Classic Rock Preservation Society (now branded as the Imperial Awards) preserves regional music history while raising money for local charities — during COVID over $100,000 was raised to help live-entertainment workers.You should know the induction process is democratic: the public nominates and votes, so fans — not just industry insiders — decide who makes the Hall of Fame.We found out the ceremony moved from a banquet to a full theatrical production at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center on November 20th — buy your tickets on MetroTix and get there early for Aardvarks pre-show tunes.You’ll get true reunion vibes: inductees span musicians, DJs, record execs, venues and outside influences, which highlights how interconnected St. Louis’ music scene has always been.We’ll see heartfelt tributes and musical reunions — from the Aardvarks serving as house band to Mike Krenski singing “The Cheater,” plus a planned memorial performance for David and Sarah Surkamp.You’ll appreciate the society’s cultural nod: naming the awards “Imperial” honors Club Imperial’s integrated, influential crowds in the 1960s–70s — a big, important part of St. Louis music history.We heard Ron and Joy’s backstory about radio, restaurateur-ship, and historic-home restoration — proof that one passionate couple can reshape neighborhoods, preserve culture, and throw an unforgettable Halloween party.St Louis Classic Rock Preservation Society with Hall of Fame InformationFacebook - St. Louis Classic Rock Preservation SocietyMetrotix - The Imperial AwardsFacebook - The Imperial AwardsThis is Season 9! For more episodes, go to stlintune.com#stlouisrock #stlouisrockpreservationsociety #imperialawards #halloffameceremoney #kirkwoodperformingarts #ksheradio

We welcomed filmmaker Joseph Puelo and Vietnam veteran Edward Drew to the studio to introduce Brothers in Blood: Black in Vietnam, a documentary that grew out of an unexpected conversation while getting tires fixed at a Costco. Joseph, a Lindenwood University graduate and Emmy-nominated documentarian, organized the documentary as a layered film. He combined: first-person interviews with veterans of varied roles (medics, therapists, combat and support personnel); historians, scholars, and authors like Dr. Gerald Early and Dr. Christopher Tinson who contextualize the larger black Vietnam narrative; and lastly, archival photos.We discussed how the project was structured to include both volunteered and drafted perspectives, and how funding and outreach — including the Better Angels Society Levine fellowship and ongoing PBS conversations — have shaped distribution hopes. The film will premiere at the Hi-Pointe Theater during the 35th St. Louis International Film Festival on Saturday, November 14 at 4 p.m., followed by a Q&A featuring the living veterans, Gold Star family member Estella Shockley, and moderated by Dr. Tinson. This screening aims to connect veterans and community members for a direct conversation about hidden chapters of American history.[00:00] Intro[00:52] Costco Tangent[01:17] Hitchcock Quote and Guests[02:33] Costco Meeting Sparks Film[03:27] Edward Drew Vietnam Background[06:11] Building the Documentary Team[09:02] Black and White Experience in War[11:42] History Context and EO 9981[15:46] Draft Lottery and Youth in War[17:57] Drafting the Poor[19:05] Finding the Film Story[21:29] Veterans Finally Heard[23:34] War Aftermath Revealed[26:52] Healing Through Screenings[28:18] Festival Details and Links[30:07] Sponsor Break[31:58] Reflection and CloseTakeaways:We introduced Brothers in Blood, Black in Vietnam, a documentary by Joseph Puelo that centers around black veterans' firsthand experiences in Vietnam.Many black servicemen fought and bled alongside white soldiers in combat but commonly experienced social separation and loneliness afterward.The Vietnam experience is connected to a longer American pattern: black soldiers repeatedly fought for freedoms abroad yet returned to systemic inequities at home in housing, education, and benefits.Draft systems and socioeconomic pressures disproportionately pushed poor and black young men into frontline service during the Vietnam era.Many long-term consequences for veterans, including higher rates of PTSD, homelessness, substance misuse, and enduring family trauma that persisted for decades.Community screenings and post-film Q&A panels, where veterans and historians speak directly to audiences, can begin a process of public recognition and healing.Emphasis on the film's careful structure: historians provide context while a diverse set of veterans—drafted, volunteers, medics, and therapists—share varied personal perspectives.Viewers are encouraged to attend the St. Louis premiere and engage in the discussion, because listening to these stories helps the public understand historical injustices and supports veteran voices.Tickets on Sale HereCaleo ProductionsTICKETS - Brothers in Blood: Black in VietnamBrothers in Blood: Black in Vietnam - InstagramBrothers in Blood: Black in Vietnam - FacebookThis is Season 9! For more episodes, go to stlintune.com#brothersinbloodblackinvietnam #vietnamwar #blacksoldiers #premieremovie #vietnamveterans #soldierswithptsd #warinvietnam

Adam Wayne stands out in a way in which his photography ties him to St. Louis and its people. Adam sees the city as a network of connections: the Arch not only as landmark but as a motif woven into leaves, puddles and architecture. He discusses personal coincidences like shared birthdays that deepen his sense of place and the way a photograph can freeze the sound and feeling of a moment.We talked about photography as memory-making; how a single image can return him to the exact feeling he had when he pressed the shutter—and how that enduring link is central to his ambition to create "legendary" shots. Adam’s advice for aspiring photographers is find your own style, focus on what excites you, and practice relentlessly. We discussed how framing, timing and attention to surroundings matter more than expensive gear, and how persistence leads to opportunities—commissions, gallery residencies, and repeat buyers. Follow Adam on Instagram at @adamwayne_arts, visit his displays at local galleries and the Arch Store, and consider supporting local artists who help people see familiar places in new ways.[00:00] Opening Tease[00:22] Intro[01:18] Sponsor And Quote[02:09] Adam Returns[02:41] Butcher Shop Life[03:17] Dog Food Side Business[05:31] Photography Philosophy[07:53] Short Frame Explained[09:31] Fine Art Identity[12:26] Where To Buy Prints[13:21] Why Metal Prints[14:17] Arch Obsession[16:36] Studio Wall Stories[19:56] No Filters Old Camera[23:57] Break And Sponsors[25:56] Editing App Workflow[27:25] Quick Photo Editing Tricks[28:05] Phone vs Camera Settings[29:26] Competitive Creative Mindset[31:02] Arch Reflection Heart Shot[32:39] Where to See His Work[33:59] Advice for New Photographers[38:19] Selling Prints and Classics[41:00] Break and Sponsor Messages[43:03] Days of the Day[46:10] Funny Signs and Wrap UpPrevious Conversation on Saint Louis In Tune-The Brilliance is in the SimplicityTakeaways:I manage Max's Deli and Butcher Shop in Florissant and balance that work with photography as a serious, ongoing creative side hustle.I focus my photography on short-frame compositions, using angle and light to highlight unique St. Louis details rather than broad landscape shots.We talked about how reflections, water patterns, and small framing windows produce emotionally resonant images that invite viewers to pause and study details.I prefer metal prints for original work because they offer a high-gloss, durable, frameless presentation that preserves sharpness and color vibrancy.We discussed practical workflow improvements like syncing my Canon to a phone, using the Photo Editor app, and editing quickly on mobile for faster publishing and sharing.I recommend that photographers find a niche, practice consistently, and develop a signature style rather than trying to replicate someone else’s work.We highlighted commercial strategies: exhibiting at local galleries, participating in art fairs, placing work in retail outlets like the Arch store, and accepting commissions.I shared that certain images can become perennial best-sellers, and that focused effort on composition and presentation has resulted in meaningful sales and gallery interest.Adam Wayne Arts - InstagramAdam Wayne Arts - Home PageAdam Wayne - Soulard Art GalleryThis is Season 9! For more episodes, go to stlintune.com#adamwayne #adamwayne_arts #soulardgallery #gatewayarch #localphotography

We welcomed St. Louis native Jessica Radloff, a New York Times bestselling author, TV host, and podcaster, to discuss her upcoming book, Young Sheldon: The Juicier Than Meemaw’s Brisket Inside Story of the Hit Comedy (releasing October 20, 2026), and her work on The Big Bang Theory: The Definitive, Inside Story of the Epic Hit Series and official podcast. Jessica explained she began watching The Big Bang Theory after seeing reruns while sick in St. Louis, then pursued deep, new interviews—over 200 hours—for fresh behind-the-scenes details.Many cast members recorded their own audiobook portions for the Young Sheldon book, including Reba McEntire. She teased surprises such as Jim Parsons becoming narrator late in development and a recast librarian role, plus end-of-series tensions and spinoff drama. Jessica encouraged preorders and will appear on November 8, at 7:00 PM at the St. Louis Jewish Book Festival with Matt Hobby. She advised aspiring journalists to diversify skills and build relationships amid major media industry changes.[00:00] Opening[00:41] Show Welcome Sponsor[00:52] Meet Jessica Radloff[02:41] St Louis Roots[03:03] Big Bang Breakthrough[04:49] Deep Research Process[06:16] Cast Reads Audiobook[07:37] Juicy Book Surprises[10:35] Naming Young Sheldon[12:28] Big Bang Universe Updates[14:31] Sheldon The Cat Story[15:25] How To Get The Book[17:48] St Louis Jewish Book Festival Event[20:16] Why Audiobook Is Special[25:01] Advice For Media Careers[30:01] Final Thanks Wrap Up[30:32] Recap & OutroTakeaways:Jessica spent over 200 hours interviewing cast and crew to ensure new, deeply reported material for the book.The oral history format made people more willing to be candid about tensions and surprises behind the scenes.She confirmed there are genuine surprises in the book, including narrator choices, casting changes, and spin-off-related tensions.Many original actors recorded their own sections, bringing authentic voices to listeners.She advised aspiring journalists to diversify skills across multimedia, public speaking, and platform-building to succeed in modern media.Jessica emphasized building professional relationships early and maintaining them rather than waiting until you're out of a job to ask for help.Listeners were encouraged to pre-order Young Sheldon to secure a copy for the October 20 release and to attend the November 8 event in St. Louis.St Louis Jewish Book Festival Speaker Series - Jessica RadloffPurchase - Young Sheldon The (Juicier-Than-Meemaw’s-Brisket) Inside Story of the Hit ComedyTikTok - Jessica RadloffX - Jessica RadloffLinkedIn - Jessica RadloffInstagram - Jessica RadloffFacebook - Jessica RadloffThis is Season 9! For more episodes, go to stlintune.com#jessicaradloff #youngsheldon #thebigbangtheory #YoungSheldonbook #YoungSheldonoralhistory #BigBangTheoryoralhistory #StLouisJewishBookFestival

We mark our 400th show by tracing how Saint Louis in Tune began, why we keep going, and what the program has always tried to do: offer fresh perspectives on issues and events by talking with experts, community leaders and everyday people who are making a difference. I recount an early studio anecdote about arriving a minute before our inaugural broadcast and explain why the show’s name — and even the logo — is rooted in my musical background: ‘‘In Tune’’ is a nod to my years as a musician and music educator.We highlight how the show’s mission translates into practice: we seek credible sources rather than lightweight opinion, invite local nonprofits and cultural institutions to tell their stories, and curate a wide range of topics from history and public policy to arts and health. Brief selections of memorable interviews are played. We explain how we select guests — driven by what interests us and by what will inform or challenge listeners. Throughout, we emphasize that while the program originates in St. Louis, its reach and relevance extend regionally, nationally and internationally via our website and podcast platforms. A big thank you to our listeners who are encouraged to explore stlintune.com where every episode is catalogued with background material and links so you can follow up on guests and topics. [00:00] 400th Show Kickoff[01:25] Thought To Ponder[02:29] First Show Story[04:38] Co Host Origins[05:32] Show Mission Branding[07:47] Name And Logo Trivia[08:48] Beatbox Champions Clip[12:09] Memorable Guests Topics[14:55] MLK Speeches Spotlight[16:23] USS Missouri Interview[24:39] Jokes And Fun Episodes[26:45] Holiday Gag Gifts[27:00] Big Issue Interviews[28:05] True Crime Spotlight[29:39] Why The Show Works[31:34] Inspiring Guest Stories[33:51] Music And Local Flavor[37:16] Going Deep On Tariffs[39:06] Jokes And Odd Holidays[44:44] Website And DIY Team[46:51] Episode 401 Tease[47:58] Wrapping Up Show 400Takeaways:We celebrate our 400th episode and reflect on nine seasons of varied, meaningful programming.I emphasize our mission to offer fresh perspectives with experts, community leaders, and everyday people shaping society.I describe our editorial approach of prioritizing credible experts and factual reporting over lightweight opinions and sensationalism.We use the show to amplify local nonprofits and initiatives, including Tiny Superheroes and the Woman's Safe House.I remind listeners that our content reaches beyond St. Louis through stlintune.com and major podcast platforms worldwide.Listeners are invited to explore episode archives, photos, and guest resources on the website and to leave reviews supporting our work.Links to Audio Conversations in This EpisodeBeatbox ChampionsHe Served on the USS MissouriSaint Louis In Tune - Home PageThis is Season 9! For more episodes, go to stlintune.com#stlintune #saintlouis #podcast #radiopodcast

We welcome Angela Ricketts, an author, business owner, and nonprofit founder, ahead of the show’s 400th episode. Angela discusses her son’s diagnosis at age five with choroideremia, an ultra-rare, progressive blinding eye disease affecting boys and men. She contrasts families who wait to accept the disease with her approach of learning, fundraising, and advocacy.She shares how grief after losing her grandmother and father led her back to clay, inspiring Sight Stones—thumbprinted clay “worry stones” with a center hole symbolizing vision loss and messages about choosing focus. The donated proceeds (100%) of Sight Stones and her August-released book Never Lose Sight fund research for a cure for choroideremia. She highlights growing hope through gene therapy research and describes integrating the “never lose sight” mission into her St. Louis-based cleaning company’s supportive culture.[00:00] Choosing Hope[00:34] Show Introduction[01:41] Meet Angela Ricketts[03:49] Son’s Diagnosis[04:28] Understanding Choroideremia[05:55] Taking Action Path[08:08] Not Broken Moment[11:23] What Are Sight Stones[12:18] Never Lose Sight Message[15:13] Grief and Finding Focus[15:50] Hope in Clay Origins[21:37] Seeds of Happiness Connection[23:43] Genetics and Gene Therapy[25:29] Book and Speaking Mission[26:46] Break and What’s Next[27:19] Sponsor Break Better Rate[28:04] Welcome Corps Refugee Program[28:49] Back With Angela Ricketts[30:00] Grandma Inspired Cleaning[32:53] Ripple Effect Culture[34:21] Funding Vision Research[36:23] Waiting Room Sightstone[38:52] Kids Adapting To Vision[40:41] Family Coping And Travel[43:26] Story Matters Takeaway[46:08] Donations And Gift Ideas[48:32] Closing ThanksTakeaways:I remind listeners that every day we get to choose what to focus on, even amid crushing uncertainty.We created Sightstones — small clay worry-stone tokens stamped with a thumbprint and a hole — to fund research and spread a simple, tangible message.I started rolling stones from my garage and basically turned grief into purpose by fundraising for choroideremia research.We put 100% of the book proceeds toward research and I truly believe gene therapy will halt this disease for future kids.I learned that clay and pottery reconnected me to my dad and grandmother, pulling me out of stuck grief and into action.We use Sightstones in corporate settings, schools, and hospitals because a tiny, tangible reminder can change how people see their worth and purpose.As a mom I watched my son navigate progressive vision loss since age five, and I want listeners to know their stories matter — never lose sight of purpose, consider giving, because every dollar and shared stone moves research and hope forward.Home Page - Sight StonesFacebook - Sight StonesInstagram - Sight StonesLinktree - Sight StonesThis is Season 9! For more episodes, go to stlintune.com#sightstones #choroideremia #visionloss #visiondiseases #rareeyedisease #visionawareness #stlouisnonprofit

Our conversation was like we were on a tour bus with Jefferson Starship original member David Freiberg and current lead vocalist Cathy Richardson. We trace David’s arc from the 60s San Francisco scene (Quicksilver Messenger Service, Jefferson Airplane, and yes, the Starship family tree) to being that humble glue-guy who’d rather make the song work than hog the spotlight. Cathy walks in with Broadway chops (she played Janis Joplin in Love Janice) and then casually becomes the modern voice of Jefferson Starship (with Grace Slick’s endorsement at the GRAMMY Salute to Music Legends).We get behind-the-scenes magic: the Miracles studio night, Pete Sears tracking bass on their new single "Jetpack," and recording in the very rooms where legends were made in Sausalito. Beyond the nostalgia, we also look into the practical stuff: what keeps a decades-old band alive (low ego, real friendship, and a shared mission), how they psych themselves up before stadiums with a ritual we now lovingly call "the clump," and the surprising logistics (yes, sometimes the bass is coming from a keyboard).The conversation moves from thoughtful nostalgia to the realities of the road, long bus days, the thrill of thousands of voices, and the joy of still having more music left. If you want a warm, honest look at longevity in rock with a side of good-natured ribbing, this is the one.[00:00] Jefferson Starship Intro[00:33] Show Welcome and Sponsor[01:02] Meet David and Cathy[03:08] Still Touring at 88[05:16] Band Chemistry and Mission[07:04] David the Glue and Ego[08:28] Making of Jane[09:44] Favorite Moments and Miracles[11:33] Cathy Journey to Frontwoman[14:30] Grace Slick and Hall of Fame[15:46] Tour Energy and The Clump[19:56] Musical Roots and Training[23:47] St Charles Show Details[24:05] Advice for Young Musicians[26:22] New Single Jet Pack[28:57] Thanks and Closing[29:36] Play Jet Pack and Sign OffTakeaways:We’ve kept Jefferson Starship alive by putting egos aside and focusing on the song, not stardom.David learned to be the glue by playing whatever fit the song, valuing arrangements and team contributions over personal spotlight every single time on stage and in studio.Cathy never imagined fronting Jefferson Starship, but portraying Janis opened doors and taught her to step into historic shoes confidently.Tour life is brutal and boring between shows, so JS invented the "clump" ritual to "psych ourselves up and blow each other's lungs out before hitting the stage."If you want it, do it: gig constantly, record your songs, hustle smart, and understand success can mean many sustainable musical lives, not just global superstardom.We put out "Jetpack" to have new conversation starters on tour, recording in the same Sausalito room where classic Jefferson Starship magic was made.Musicians don't retire — we stop when the music's gone; honestly, we still wake up hungry, so we're in it till we drop.Home Page - Jefferson StarshipYouTube - Jefferson StarshipFacebook - Jefferson StarshipX - Jefferson StarshipThis is Season 9! For more episodes, go to stlintune.com#jeffersonstarship #rockband #psychedelicrock #stcharlesfamilyarena #graceslick #paulkantner #davidfreiberg #cathyrichardson

Entrepreneur, filmmaker, and novelist Jonathan Bricklin discusses his latest project: reviving the Little People Social Club in New York City. Bricklin, who co-founded SPiN ping pong social clubs and opened a Western-themed pickleball saloon in Texas, explains the club will be designed and scaled for little people but open to everyone, featuring a speakeasy entrance, a low-counter main bar, classic parlor games (billiards, ping pong, shuffleboard, foosball, air hockey, backgammon, chess, darts), duckpin bowling, a disco dance floor, and a curated puppet theater. Our conversation also focused on inclusion and the lack of accommodations for little people, and Jonathan outlines membership options including founding, annual, and week-long passes priced by height. He partnered with UK creator Fats Timbo in this endeavor and is still deciding between two potential locations and expects clarity closer to December.[00:00] Meet Jonathan Bricklin[01:59] Little People Club Origin[03:38] Designing the Space[05:58] Open to Everyone[07:29] Partnering with Fats Timbo[09:37] From SPIN to Saloon[11:45] Membership and Pricing[13:28] Photos and Visual Style[15:01] Why Physical Connection Matters[18:50] Dance Floor and Pitch[20:17] Opening Plans and Pushback[23:21] Hosts Reflect and WrapTakeaways:We chatted with Jonathan Bricklin about the Little People Social Club — a practical, scaled social space designed for little people but cheerfully open to everyone.The club's quirky features — a speakeasy entrance, very low bar, ping pong, duck pin bowling, puppet theater, and a disco dance floor — all meant to spark real-life conversations.A fun bit of serendipity: Jonathan found and partnered with Fat Timbo via ChatGPT to get authentic little-person design input and avoid tokenizing the project.The business reality: there simply aren’t huge local populations of little people, so memberships, visitor curiosity, and broader public support are critical for financial sustainability.Accessibility and inclusion — designing for little people is like adding curb cuts: it corrects an overlooked everyday barrier and normalizes diverse bodies in public spaces.This isn’t a gimmick or exploitation plot — while we hope it succeeds financially, the main aim is to create lasting social connections and celebrate cultural diversity.Home Page - Little People Social ClubX - Little People Social ClubInstagram - Little People Social ClubThis is Season 9! For more episodes, go to stlintune.com#littlepeoplesocialclub #littlepeople #socialclubs #newyorkcityclubs #jonathanbricklin #inclusion

Arnold Stricker and co-host Mark Langston introduce a special rebroadcast for the 25th remembrance of September 11, featuring remarks from the show’s 20th anniversary guests: photographer Henry Leutwyler and writer Kimberly Rex.Leutwyler discusses his National Geographic portfolio of recovered 9/11 objects, “Sacred Dust,” created by photographing items from the 9/11 Museum archives with a respectful, “portrait of objects” approach. He describes the selection process, the two-week shoot using respirators due to lingering dust, and the emotional flashbacks and smell encountered when opening containers.Rex, whose father died on the 104th floor of Tower One, reflects on enduring family grief, therapy, mental health impacts, how 9/11 continues to affect their lives through later illnesses, her writing as a form of honoring her father, her Ground Zero anniversary experience, and her belief that 9/11 is a sacred day that must be honored.Let us honor the memories of those lost and recognize the profound impact of 9/11 on countless lives. While we may not have the answers to the questions that linger, we can choose to remember, reflect, honor the legacies left behind, and ensure that the stories of those we lost are never forgotten.[00:00] 25th Remembrance Intro[01:36] Meet Photographer Henry Leutwyler[02:55] Portraits of Objects[04:13] Choosing Museum Artifacts[08:03] Sacred Dust Reality[08:53] Manhattan Flashbacks[11:41] Behind the Shoot[13:37] Henry Closing Thanks[13:49] Meet Writer Kimberly Rex[14:35] Grief That Lingers[17:48] Writing and Motherhood[20:43] Telling Kids About Dad[22:37] Ground Zero Anniversary[25:35] What Never Forget Means[27:40] Final Thanks and CloseTakeaways:This episode marks 25 years since 9/11, reflecting on loss and remembrance.Photographer Henry Leutwyler's work captures the essence of 9/11 through recovered objects.Kimberly Rex shares her personal journey of grief after losing her father on 9/11.The emotional weight of 9/11 continues to impact families years after the tragedy.Henry emphasizes the importance of respecting the items he photographed, calling them sacred dust.Both guests highlight the ongoing struggle with grief and how it shapes their lives today.Listen to the Complete Conversations9/11 Tribute: Capturing a Privileged Moment by Henry Leutwyler9/11 Tribute: Relecting on Losing a Father on 9/11 by Kimberly RexKimberly Rex, Writer - FacebookKimberly Rex - LinkedInKimberly Rex - InstagramHenry Leutwyler: Sacred Dust, photographs by Henry Leutwyler at Foley GalleryPress Release Leutwyler SacredDust.pdfHenry Leutwyler: JournalHenry Leutwyler - InstagramHenry Leutwyler Studio - FacebookHenry Leutwyler - ThreadsHenry Leutwyler - LinkedInThis is Season 9! For more episodes, go to stlintune.com#9/11remembrance #911 #twintowers #nypd #nyfd #september11 #sacreddust #cnn #washingtonpost #griefandrecovery