Explore the life and legacy of Thomas Hart Benton, one of America’s most influential 20th-century artists, in this special episode recorded inside his original Kansas City studio at 3616 Belleview.

Our guest, Katie Hastert, site administrator and Benton historian at the Thomas Hart Benton Home and Studio State Historic Site, shares untold stories about Benton’s rebellious youth, turbulent education, and eventual rise as a leading figure in American art. Katie brings his spirit to life through her lively & humorous perspective paired with a deep understanding of Kansas City’s iconic muralist.

From being expelled from military school to clashing with top art institutions, Benton’s path was anything but smooth, but his perseverance paid off. His iconic murals now hang in institutions like the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, and his impact on American Regionalism still resonates today.

Learn why President Harry Truman once called him “the best damn painter in America”, and why his Kansas City studio is a must-visit for art lovers, history buffs, and locals alike.

As we gear up for the Kansas City Irish Fest, we’re revisiting our episode with Kerry Browne and John McClain, 4th-generation owners of Browne’s Irish Marketplace — the oldest Irish-owned business in the world outside of Ireland, and Kansas City’s oldest retail business.

Located in Midtown Kansas City, Browne’s is beloved for its Irish hospitality, curated imports from Ireland, and authentic Irish food, drinks, and gifts. It’s more than a store — it’s a living piece of Irish-American history.

In this episode, Kerry and John share how Browne’s has survived and thrived through:

• Two pandemics

• Two World Wars

• The Great Depression

• Prohibition (with rumors of visits from Tom Pendergast!)

• And every economic downturn for nearly 150 years

We also hear from their son Ian and longtime friend Pete McCluskey, a key player in both the KC St. Patrick’s Day Parade and KC Irish Fest, as they reflect on Irish culture, resilience, and the immigrant legacy that helped shape Kansas City.

Whether you’re Irish by birth or Irish at heart — this is a story worth raising a glass to. Sláinte!

• We’re throwing it back to our conversation with Alex Gordon, one of the greatest players in Kansas City Royals history and a future Royals Hall of Famer. Known for his grit, gold gloves, and iconic leadership during the 2015 World Series Championship run, Alex shares the story behind his legendary career.

  From being labeled the “next George Brett” to struggling early on at third base, Alex’s path was anything but smooth. But a key move to left field changed everything — sparking a career defined by elite defense, hard work, and unshakable determination.

  In this episode, Alex opens up about:

• • His transformation from top prospect to team leader

  • Winning the World Series with the Royals

  • The meaning behind the “Alex Gordon Heart and Hustle Award”

  • His pride in being a Nebraska Cornhusker and College Baseball Hall of Famer

  • How he and his family are now giving back to the Kansas City community

  If you're a fan of baseball, underdog stories, or hometown heroes — this one’s for you.