Advertise on podcast: Fast Forward STL

In this episode of Fast Forward STL, the tables turn on host Keith Alper as St. Louis Magazine business editor Eric Schmid, who writes the daily St. Louis Business newsletter, steps behind the mic to ask the questions. Get to know Alper as he reflects on everything from his first job at Six Flags to his work today as CEO of The Nitrous Effect, a collective of marketing and events agency. He shares why he’ll never leave St. Louis, his thoughts on AI, and the importance of giving young people opportunities. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe. See related stories and resources from this episode at https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/fast-forward-stl/episode-20 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwYnyrcREHGmdXtX9NEhHsFKPnlX-sLmL&si=1nKDfMtmRLjbB07i Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GMNrMGxJcajuyAsnAAkTa Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fast-forward-stl/id1862226079 This episode is sponsored by Greater St. Louis, Inc. and Vistage St. Louis. Greater St. Louis, Inc. brings civic and business leaders together to advance economic growth across all 15 counties. Growth. People. Place. Prosperity. Discover what’s next at https://greaterstlinc.com/ New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/how-to-listen/ Have an idea for a future episode? Email [email protected]. Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email [email protected].

This special episode of Fast Forward STL Live was recorded before a live audience at St. Louis CITY SC’s corporate headquarters. Presented by Greater St. Louis, Inc., CEO Ron Kitchens kicked off the discussion, and host Keith Alper interviewed an all-star panel: Brad Dean (President & CEO, Explore St. Louis) Marc Schreiber (President, St. Louis Sports Commission) Carolyn Kindle (CEO & Member of Ownership Group, St. Louis CITY SC) Chris Zimmerman (CEO, St. Louis Blues); Anuk Karunaratne (President of Business Operations, St. Louis Cardinals) Tune in to hear from some of the region’s leading sports voices to explore the powerful connection between sports and business in the St. Louis economy. Whether you work in the sports or entertainment industry or just love sports, this episode will get you excited about where our region is headed. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe. See related stories and resources from this episode at https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/fast-forward-stl/episode-19 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwYnyrcREHGmdXtX9NEhHsFKPnlX-sLmL&si=1nKDfMtmRLjbB07i  Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GMNrMGxJcajuyAsnAAkTa Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fast-forward-stl/id1862226079  This episode is sponsored by Greater St. Louis, Inc., supported by St. Louis CITY SC, Vistage Chair St. Louis, and Logic Systems; and in partnership with The Nitrous Effect. Major sporting events bring visitors, investment, and national attention to the city while creating opportunities to showcase St. Louis on a larger stage. See how Greater St. Louis, Inc. is driving St. Louis forward. New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/how-to-listen/ Have an idea for a future episode? Email [email protected].  Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email [email protected].  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Fast Forward STL, host Keith Alper speaks with Brad Dean, president and CEO of Explore St. Louis. From leading tourism growth in Puerto Rico to now driving conventions, meetings, concerts, and major events in St. Louis, Brad is helping shape the future of St. Louis as one of America’s great destination cities. Tune in to hear lessons learned through his previous roles in Puerto Rico and Myrtle Beach, what he loves about St. Louis, what he’s accomplished so far and what’s ahead, and what it will take to move the region forward. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe. See related stories and resources from this episode at https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/fast-forward-stl/episode-18 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwYnyrcREHGmdXtX9NEhHsFKPnlX-sLmL&si=1nKDfMtmRLjbB07i  Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GMNrMGxJcajuyAsnAAkTa Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fast-forward-stl/id1862226079  This episode is sponsored by Fast Forward STL Live. Join host Keith Alper on September 16 for a discussion about the business of sports in St. Louis as he interviews an all-star panel, featuring Carolyn Kindle, St. Louis CITY SC; Chris Zimmerman, St. Louis Blues; Anuk Karunaratne, St. Louis Cardinals; Brad Dean, Explore St. Louis; and Marc Schreiber, St. Louis Sports Commission. Get tickets. New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/how-to-listen/ Have an idea for a future episode? Email [email protected].  Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email [email protected].  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Fast Forward STL, host Keith Alper speaks with St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer. A St. Louis native and first-generation college graduate, Spencer has built her career in public service, with a focus on transparency, public safety, neighborhood revitalization, and responsible governance. A year-plus into her tenure as mayor, she reflects on the challenges and lessons so far, the importance of alignment between government and civic organizations, the priorities she’s excited to advance, and what it will take to move the St. Louis region forward. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe. See related stories and resources from this episode at https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/fast-forward-stl/episode-17 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwYnyrcREHGmdXtX9NEhHsFKPnlX-sLmL&si=1nKDfMtmRLjbB07i  Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GMNrMGxJcajuyAsnAAkTa Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fast-forward-stl/id1862226079  This episode is sponsored by SSM Health Cardinal Glennon and supported by Fast Forward STL Live. The Glennon Gallop returns Saturday, September 12, presented by T. Danis Charitable Trust. Cheer on an exciting polo match and take part in the iconic champagne divot stomp, all while supporting a great cause. Best of all, your attendance benefits The Danis Pediatric Center at SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital. Learn more and reserve your spot. New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/how-to-listen/ Have an idea for a future episode? Email [email protected].  Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email [email protected].  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Fast Forward STL, host Keith Alper speaks with Ed Glotzbach, Tournament Chairperson of the 2026 BMW Championship, coming to Bellerive Country Club August 18–23. Glotzbach shares lessons from a career that includes leadership roles at Southwestern Bell/AT&T, TPI, and Spire Energy before taking listeners behind the scenes of the years of planning behind the scenes of the years of planning behind the BMW Championship. He discusses the local businesses helping bring the tournament to life, its economic and charitable impact, the importance of putting eyes on St. Louis, and what fans can expect this August. Tune in to hear his leadership lessons and thoughts on how the championship can help move the region forward. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe. See related stories and resources from this episode at https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/fast-forward-stl/episode-16 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwYnyrcREHGmdXtX9NEhHsFKPnlX-sLmL&si=1nKDfMtmRLjbB07i  Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GMNrMGxJcajuyAsnAAkTa Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fast-forward-stl/id1862226079  This episode is sponsored by Bank of Washington and supported by SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Foundation. Some banking questions can wait until tomorrow. Others can’t. When an important transfer, payroll file, or account issue needs attention today, Bank of Washington is there with local bankers who know your business and are ready to help. When you call, a real person answers. No phone tree. No pressing ‘1’. No explaining your situation over and over again. Just local service, personal support, and responsive bankers who are ready when you need them most. Discover the difference of local banking. New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/how-to-listen/ Have an idea for a future episode? Email [email protected].  Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email [email protected].  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Fast Forward STL, host Keith Alper speaks with Missouri State Senator Brian Williams. Since first being elected in 2018 to represent Missouri’s 14th Senate District, which covers portions of St. Louis County, Williams has championed criminal justice reform, expanded access to healthcare, and secured major investments for the region. Now, as a candidate for St. Louis County executive, Williams discusses his personal and political journey, why he’s seeking the office, and his vision for the county’s future. Tune in for a conversation about leadership, public service, and what it will take to move the St. Louis region forward. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe. See related stories and resources from this episode at https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/fast-forward-stl/episode-15 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwYnyrcREHGmdXtX9NEhHsFKPnlX-sLmL&si=1nKDfMtmRLjbB07i  Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GMNrMGxJcajuyAsnAAkTa Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fast-forward-stl/id1862226079  Don’t miss Fast Forward STL Live on September 16, presented by Greater St. Louis, Inc. Join host Keith Alper for a live podcast recording discussing the business of sports in St. Louis. The all-star panel includes Carolyn Kindle (St. Louis CITY SC), Chris Zimmerman (St. Louis Blues), a representative from the St. Louis Cardinals, Brad Dean (Explore St. Louis), and Marc Schreiber (St. Louis Sports Commission). Register today. New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/how-to-listen/ Have an idea for a future episode? Email [email protected].  Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email [email protected]. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Fast Forward STL, The Muny’s artistic director and executive producer, Mike Isaacson, joins host Keith Alper. Isaacson discusses his career journey from Broadway and The Fox to leading The Muny’s transformation, now in the midst of its 108th season. He shares how a $100 million capital campaign and a commitment to innovation have elevated every aspect of one of St. Louis’ most beloved institutions, while preserving its century-old tradition. Tune in for a conversation about leadership, innovation, the business of live entertainment, and the future of St. Louis. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe. See related stories and resources from this episode at https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/fast-forward-stl/episode-14 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwYnyrcREHGmdXtX9NEhHsFKPnlX-sLmL&si=1nKDfMtmRLjbB07i  Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GMNrMGxJcajuyAsnAAkTa Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fast-forward-stl/id1862226079  This episode is sponsored by Bank of Washington and supported by St. Louis Science Center.  At some banks, you’re just a number in a system, but at Bank of Washington, you’re a neighbor. They greet you by name. They listen, they help, and they make time to understand what’s actually going on in your life, because that’s how community banking is supposed to work. If being known by name matters to you, you’ll feel right at home with the Bank of Washington. Learn more. New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/how-to-listen/ Have an idea for a future episode? Email [email protected].  Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email [email protected]. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Fast Forward STL, host Keith Alper is joined by Donn Rubin, founding president and CEO of BioSTL. They go deep on the partnerships and leadership that’s helping position St. Louis as a leader in the biosciences. Rubin also shares his career journey, explains why collaboration is essential to attracting talent and investment, and explores what’s ahead for one of the region’s fastest-growing industries. Tune in for a conversation about entrepreneurship, economic growth, and the future of St. Louis. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe. See related stories and resources from this episode at https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/fast-forward-stl/episode-13 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwYnyrcREHGmdXtX9NEhHsFKPnlX-sLmL&si=1nKDfMtmRLjbB07i  Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GMNrMGxJcajuyAsnAAkTa Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fast-forward-stl/id1862226079  This episode is sponsored by Cardinals Nation Restaurant and Bar. Take your game day to the next level at Cardinals Nation Restaurant and Bar, located right across the street from baseball heaven. Enjoy fan-favorite food, ice-cold drinks, and an unbeatable atmosphere before, during, or after the game. From classic ballpark flavors to chef-inspired specialties, there’s something for every Cardinals fan. Reserve your table today. New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/how-to-listen/ Have an idea for a future episode? Email [email protected].  Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email [email protected]. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Fast Forward STL, Clementine’s Creamery owner Tamara Keefe comes on the show. Hear how she turned a childhood family tradition into a multi-state brand that’s now in 30 Schnucks stores, launched selective Midwest-first franchising, opened a parlor on Walmart’s headquarters in Bentonville, Arkansas, and more. Keefe shares why she left a successful corporate career to make Clementine’s happen, and how she figured out the secrets to quickly scaling a business. Along the way, she improved leadership practices and implemented ways to ensure quality and consistency remained the same even as the company grew. Clementine’s growth has also yielded benefits for the local St. Louis community, such as her investment in a 25,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in North City that’s creating new employment opportunities. Plus, hear her thoughts on how to move the St. Louis region forward. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe. See related stories and resources from this episode: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/fast-forward-stl/episode-12 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwYnyrcREHGmdXtX9NEhHsFKPnlX-sLmL&si=1nKDfMtmRLjbB07i  Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GMNrMGxJcajuyAsnAAkTa Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fast-forward-stl/id1862226079  New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/how-to-listen/ Have an idea for a future episode? Email [email protected].  Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email [email protected].  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Fast Forward STL, Keith Alper sits down with Amy Shaw, the president and CEO of Nine PBS who’s helping shape the future of public media in St. Louis and beyond, while leading her organization through a period of significant change that still keeps community at the center of its mission. Shaw shares now Nine PBS is adapting to the desires of modern audiences, including plans to make its campus more collaborative and community-focused. Shaw also reflects on her career journey, personal challenges, and the role public media plays in bringing people together. She offers her vision for the future of both Nine PBS and St. Louis, which includes celebrating local stories, expanding access to education, engaging new voices, and strengthening regional connections. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe. See related stories and resources from this episode: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/fast-forward-stl/episode-11 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwYnyrcREHGmdXtX9NEhHsFKPnlX-sLmL&si=1nKDfMtmRLjbB07i  Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GMNrMGxJcajuyAsnAAkTa Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fast-forward-stl/id1862226079  This episode is sponsored by Bank of Washington.  Lot of banks talk about giving back, but Bank of Washington actually shows up. Volunteer work and support for nonprofits and Main Street businesses are all driven by a belief that banking should create real impact, not just transactions. When customers choose this bank, they help make that impact possible. Learn more. New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/how-to-listen/ Have an idea for a future episode? Email [email protected].  Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email [email protected].  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Fast Forward STL, Keith Alper speaks with St. Louis City Comptroller Donna Baringer about about leadership, public service, and the challenges of modernizing city government. Baringer shares her journey finding her way into public service having grown up in the state's capital and later returning as a Missouri House representative, before her unexpected victory in the race for St. Louis' comptroller. She goes deep on how her office is working to make city operations faster, more efficient, and more accountable through new technology and streamlined processes. The conversation also explores broader issues facing cities today, such as managing public funds, supporting community organizations, improving downtown vitality, transportation, safety, and the overall quality of life. Baringer discusses her ideas for creating a more welcoming and active urban core, attracting residents and visitors, and building long-term momentum for the region’s future. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe. See related stories and resources from this episode at https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/fast-forward-stl/episode-10 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwYnyrcREHGmdXtX9NEhHsFKPnlX-sLmL&si=1nKDfMtmRLjbB07i  Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GMNrMGxJcajuyAsnAAkTa Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fast-forward-stl/id1862226079  New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/how-to-listen/ Have an idea for a future episode? Email [email protected].  Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email [email protected].  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Fast Forward STL, Keith Alper speaks with Tarlton Corporation executive chair and CEO Tracy Hart—a trailblazing corporate leader who has tripled the company’s growth, all while helping shape St. Louis through both construction and civic leadership. Tarlton has played a role in transforming some of the city’s most recognizable spaces, including The Muny, the St. Louis Zoo, the Old Courthouse, and other major infrastructure projects across the region. This conversation goes far beyond the job site, though, as Hart discusses how technological advancements are changing the construction industry, why more young people should consider a career in the skilled trades, and what it will take to revitalize downtown St. Louis. She also reflects on becoming the first woman to chair The Muny, navigating personal tragedy, and the value of asking questions and taking chances. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe. See related stories and resources from this episode at https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/fast-forward-stl/episode-9 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwYnyrcREHGmdXtX9NEhHsFKPnlX-sLmL&si=1nKDfMtmRLjbB07i  Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GMNrMGxJcajuyAsnAAkTa Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fast-forward-stl/id1862226079  This episode is sponsored by Bank of Washington.  Lot of banks talk about giving back, but Bank of Washington actually shows up. Volunteer work and support for nonprofits and Main Street businesses are all driven by a belief that banking should create real impact, not just transactions. When customers choose this bank, they help make that impact possible. Learn more at https://www.bankofwashington.com/ New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/how-to-listen/ Have an idea for a future episode? Email [email protected].  Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email [email protected]. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Fast Forward STL, Keith Alper sits down Marie-Hélène Bernard, president and CEO of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. She shares how one of the nation’s oldest orchestras continues to break barriers and redefine its role in the community. Drawing from her immigrant roots, she’s expanding access to music and looking to build a more inclusive future for the arts locally. Bernard also goes deep on the $140 million transformation of Powell Hall and the long-term vision that drove it. In a challenging funding landscape, she makes the case for why the arts and philanthropy are essential to innovation, education, and a thriving city. It’s an inspiring look at leadership, resilience, and the power of music to shape what’s next for St. Louis. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe. See related stories and resources from this episode: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/fast-forward-stl/episode-8 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwYnyrcREHGmdXtX9NEhHsFKPnlX-sLmL&si=1nKDfMtmRLjbB07i  Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GMNrMGxJcajuyAsnAAkTa Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fast-forward-stl/id1862226079  New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/how-to-listen/ Have an idea for a future episode? Email [email protected].  Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email [email protected]. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Fast Forward STL, Keith Alper sits down with Emily Hemingway, a tech entrepreneur who has spent two decades driving innovation and economic growth in communities across the country. Most recently as founding CEO of Tech STL—a nonprofit focused on proactively growing the tech ecosystem in the St. Louis metro area—she launched one of the region’s largest tech communities and STL Tech Week, which has drawn tens of thousands of attendees. Hear about the evolving demand for tech skills across industries, the shrinking pipeline of entry-level roles, and what St. Louis must do to retain talent and strengthen its tech ecosystem. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe. See related stories and resources from this episode at https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/fast-forward-stl/episode-7 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwYnyrcREHGmdXtX9NEhHsFKPnlX-sLmL&si=1nKDfMtmRLjbB07i  Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GMNrMGxJcajuyAsnAAkTa Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fast-forward-stl/id1862226079  This episode is sponsored by Bank of Washington.  Lot of banks talk about giving back, but Bank of Washington actually shows up. Volunteer work and support for nonprofits and Main Street businesses are all driven by a belief that banking should create real impact, not just transactions. When customers choose this bank, they help make that impact possible. Learn more at https://www.bankofwashington.com/ New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/how-to-listen/ Have an idea for a future episode? Email [email protected].  Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email [email protected]. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Fast Forward STL, Keith Alper sits down with Steve O’Loughlin, president of Lodging Hospitality Management (LHM), Missouri’s largest hotel operator, with 19 hotels and more than 5,000 rooms; plus Westport Plaza, St. Louis Union Station, several restaurants, and a growing portfolio of experiences—including the Aquarium, The Polar Express, and seasonal pop-ups. Steve shares how he grew up in the hotel business, working his way from a maintenance role to president alongside his father, who transformed LHM from a third-party manager into a property-owning powerhouse. They discuss his role as chairman of Explore St. Louis, the city’s tourism momentum, his optimism for the next generation, downtown growth, and what’s ahead for the Gateway City. It’s a positive conversation about St. Louis you won’t want to miss.  Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwYnyrcREHGmdXtX9NEhHsFKPnlX-sLmL&si=1nKDfMtmRLjbB07i  Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GMNrMGxJcajuyAsnAAkTa Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fast-forward-stl/id1862226079  This episode is sponsored by Bank of Washington (https://www.bankofwashington.com/) and supported by the St. Louis Sports Commission (https://stlbizdash.com/). Bank of Washington believes banking should feel personal, because your goals are personal. With local decision-making, innovative tools, and people who genuinely care, they’re here for what matters most—you.  New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/how-to-listen/ Have an idea for a future episode? Email [email protected].  Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email [email protected]. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.