Kansas City barbecue is built on legacy, and few names carry that weight like Zarda.

In this episode of There’s Just Something About Kansas City, we sit down with Terry Hyer, COO of Zarda, to talk about leading one of the region’s most recognizable barbecue brands into its next chapter.

Terry shares his path into the business and what it means to help steward a multi-generational Kansas City staple. We explore how Zarda balances tradition with the realities of modern growth, from operations and maintaining consistency across locations to adapting to evolving customer expectations.

We also dig into the competitive Kansas City barbecue landscape, the decisions that shape what ends up on your plate, and the behind-the-scenes challenges of running a legacy restaurant brand.

Along the way, Terry shares memorable stories - like how a 1970 Camaro inspired his storied journey, and how his mother recruited Mike Zarda to sell Terry on a college degree - and offers insight into what it takes to keep a beloved brand relevant in a city known as the Barbecue Capital of the World.

🎧 A must-listen for BBQ lovers, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in the future of Kansas City food culture.

A big idea can change a city - and sometimes, it starts with one voice encouraging others to dream bigger.

In this timely re-release, we revisit our conversation with Kay Barnes - former mayor of Kansas City, MO - a transformational leader whose vision helped reshape downtown Kansas City and redefine what’s possible for the region.

Her influence is once again front and center.

Following the announcement of a new Kansas City Royals stadium near Crown Center, owner John Sherman pointed directly to Barnes - and a handwritten note she sent him encouraging him to “think big… then think bigger” - as a key inspiration behind the vision becoming reality.

In this conversation, Barnes reflects on leadership, long-term vision, and what it truly takes to move a city forward. From downtown development to civic momentum, her insights offer powerful context for one of the biggest moments in Kansas City’s future.

🎧 Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting it now, this episode is a reminder that bold ideas & the people behind them can shape a city for generations.

In October 2024, we sat down with John Sherman, owner of the Kansas City Royals, for an in-depth conversation about the future of the franchise, his vision for a downtown ballpark, and what it would take to secure the next generation of Royals fans.

Now, that vision is becoming reality.

On April 22, 2026, Sherman joined leaders from Kansas City and the state of Missouri to announce plans for a new stadium in the Crown Center area — marking a major turning point for the team and the region.

In this timely re-release, Sherman’s earlier insights take on new meaning. He discusses the challenges, opportunities, and long-term impact of bringing a project like this to life — from financing and public-private partnerships to fan experience and downtown development.

Whether you’re hearing it again or for the first time, this episode provides essential context for one of the biggest sports and economic development stories in Kansas City today.

🎧 A must-listen for Royals fans, Kansas Citians, and anyone following the future of downtown Kansas City.