There's Just Something About Kansas City

Kansas City isn’t just famous for barbecue—it’s making history with the world’s first Museum of Barbecue. In this episode, we sit down with founder and food writer Jonathan Bender, an East Coast foodie turned KC convert, who has dedicated his life to documenting America’s most mouthwatering comfort food. From burnt ends and rib tips to the pitmasters who built KC’s reputation, Jonathan shares the stories, culture, and traditions behind why Kansas City barbecue is truly unmatched. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or simply someone who craves the smoky flavor of authentic BBQ, this episode will leave you both hungry and inspired.

Do you know the real story behind Ted Lasso?Meet Donnie Campbell: the longtime Kansas high school basketball coach known not just for his winning record, but for the way he builds relationships, instills confidence, and teaches life's lessons through the game. Years ago, Donnie coached a young Jason Sudeikis, who would later model his Emmy Award winning character, Ted Lasso, after Coach Campbell’s style of leadership and relentless optimism. From the locker room to the small screen, Coach Campbell’s influence has reached far beyond the hardwood. We talk about his coaching mentorship and what it’s like to see your philosophy come to life as a global phenomenon.

Discover the incredible journey of Michael Mackie: 8-time Emmy Award–winning journalist and one of Kansas City’s most recognizable media personalities. Known for interviewing nearly 1,000 celebrities, including 11 Oscar winners, Mackie shares the untold stories behind his new book “You Have 4 Minutes!” and his life as a go-to celebrity interviewer.He’ll tell you he’s locally famous for being locally famous, but his story goes much deeper than that. In this episode of There’s Just Something About Kansas City, Michael opens up about his battle with food and alcohol and how the two almost cost him his life, along with the powerful steps he took to reclaim his health. We also explore his recent travel writing for Lonely Planet ahead of World Cup 2026 in Kansas City, plus his feature series on the KC Streetcar line for The Pitch Magazine.If you’re interested in celebrity interviews, Kansas City culture, World Cup 2026 travel tips, or a real story of addiction recovery and reinvention, this conversation is for you.

Celebrate the 100th episode of There’s Just Something About Kansas City with a special live panel recorded at J. Rieger & Co.Host Frank Boal brings together four of Kansas City’s most influential leaders: Andy Rieger (President, J. Rieger & Co.), Kathy Nelson (President & CEO, Visit KC and the Greater Kansas City Sports Commission & Foundation), George Guastello (President & CEO, Union Station Kansas City), and Bob Kendrick (President, Negro Leagues Baseball Museum).In this milestone episode, hear firsthand how Kansas City’s top voices are shaping the city’s future—from tourism and sports to history, culture, and economic growth. Whether you’re a KC local, history buff, or sports fan, this inspiring conversation spotlights the people and places that make Kansas City one of the most dynamic cities in America.Cheers to the next 100!

Deron Cherry is a Kansas City Chiefs legend and one of the greatest defensive backs in NFL history. In this episode, Deron reflects on his incredible journey from undrafted free agent punter to six-time Pro Bowl safety and member of the Chiefs Hall of Honor. We dive into the defining moments of the 1980s Kansas City Chiefs defense, the lessons that fueled his NFL success, and the impact of his leadership on and off the field. Deron also opens up about his life after football—his business ventures, community work, and his lasting commitment to giving back to Kansas City.If you’re a fan of Kansas City Chiefs history, legendary NFL players, or inspiring athlete stories, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

Mike Davidson, longtime Kansas City Chiefs Head Equipment Manager turned Chiefs Historian, takes us behind the scenes of one of the NFL’s most iconic franchises. In this episode, Mike shares unforgettable stories about Lamar Hunt, the visionary who not only founded the Chiefs but also helped shape today’s National Football League.From the creation of the AFL-NFL merger, to how the name “Super Bowl” was born, to why we see Roman numerals on the big game, Lamar Hunt’s influence reaches far beyond Kansas City. Mike dives deep into the Chiefs’ rich history, insider moments from his 22 years with the team, and the legacy that still defines the NFL today.Whether you’re a lifelong member of the Chiefs Kingdom or a football fan curious about the history of the Super Bowl, this episode is packed with rare insights and stories you won’t hear anywhere else.

Julian Zugazagoitia, Director and CEO of the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City, has lived, studied and worked at some of the greatest art museums in the world - and museums in places like Mexico City, Paris and NYC helped him develop a deep love for art and artists from all corners of the globe. In today’s episode, Julian shares what landed him in the heart of the Midwest, where he’s spent more than 15 years elevating the Nelson into one of America’s top art museums.In this episode, he discusses:His international path through some of the world’s most prestigious art museumsHow he’s shaping the Nelson-Atkins as a hub for culture, creativity, and community in Kansas CityThe museum’s bold new 61,000-square-foot expansion project currently underwayWhy he believes art should be accessible to everyone, across all generations and communitiesIf you’re passionate about art, culture, or the future of Kansas City, this conversation with Julian Zugazagoitia offers an inspiring inside look at leadership, creativity, and vision.

Peter Mallouk is the President and CEO of Creative Planning, one of the fastest-growing independent wealth management firms in the United States with over $370 billion in assets under management. But before becoming one of the most influential voices in finance, Mallouk’s story started right here in Kansas City.The son of Egyptian immigrants, Peter Mallouk learned the value of hard work early, taking jobs from newspaper delivery to working as a “clubbie” at Kauffman Stadium. After earning both his business and law degrees from the University of Kansas, Mallouk set out to build something different in the financial world: a true “one-stop shop” that combined financial planning, investing, and legal guidance. That idea became Creative Planning, which has since transformed into a nationally recognized leader in wealth management. Beyond finance, Mallouk is also a Kansas City Royals owner and, together with his wife Veronica, leads KC CAN!, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting at-risk youth across the metro.In this episode of There’s Just Something About Kansas City, Peter shares how his parents’ decision to settle in Kansas City set the stage for his remarkable journey—from humble beginnings to becoming a nationally-recognized financial advisor, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and community leader.

After losing her husband, Marine helicopter pilot Shawn Campbell, in a tragic night operations training accident, Kelli Campbell-Goodnow faced the unimaginable: raising four young children alone. Joining her parents in Kansas City, Kelli transformed her grief into a mission to serve others.Today, as Executive Director of the Valor Partners Foundation, she is working to provide scholarship support for the spouses and children of 100% disabled and deceased veterans. In this inspiring interview, Kelli shares her powerful story of resilience, service, and hope, from navigating loss to leading a nonprofit that’s making a real difference.

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 pandemicsTwo World WarsThe Great DepressionProhibition (with rumors of visits from Tom Pendergast!)And every economic downturn for nearly 150 yearsWe 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 leaderWinning the World Series with the RoyalsThe meaning behind the “Alex Gordon Heart and Hustle Award”His pride in being a Nebraska Cornhusker and College Baseball Hall of FamerHow he and his family are now giving back to the Kansas City communityIf you're a fan of baseball, underdog stories, or hometown heroes — this one’s for you.

In this episode of There’s Just Something About Kansas City, we revisit our powerful conversation with Allan Swan, President of Panasonic North America, about the largest economic development project in Kansas history — the new $4 billion lithium-ion battery plant in De Soto, Kansas.Allan shares how Kansas beat out over 100 other locations across 13 states to become home to Panasonic’s cutting-edge EV battery manufacturing facility, a key player in the booming electric vehicle (EV) industry. The factory will create up to 8,000 new jobs and is already partnering with local schools and universities to develop the skilled workforce needed.We also dive into Panasonic’s vision for the future of clean energy, electric transportation, and lithium battery innovation. Plus, Allan offers a personal look at how he and his family have embraced Kansas City — and what sets this community apart.Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most transformative tech projects in the Midwest.

Today, we're bringing back our conversation with our dear friend, the late Jim Eddy. We hope you enjoy his stories of life, love, family, and food as much as we do. Thank you for your legacy, Jim. You've made a lasting impact on this city, and you are deeply missed. ____________________________________Jim Eddy is a Kansas City second-generation restaurateur and Kansas City native who has seen it all. Take a trip back in time to the food, entertainment, and lifestyle from the 1940s, ‘50’s and 60’s in Kansas City to today. The “Eddy Brothers” became world-famous during the era of the Supper Club Circuit, and Kansas City was right in the middle of the boom.Eddy’s Supper Club at 13th and Baltimore in KC was hoppin’ in the ‘50’s, hosting some of the biggest names in pop music. Jim Eddy talks through everything from mandated 24/7 bowling alleys during WWII, to a terrible business decision passing on a to-be pop icon, to the KC Chiefs and Popeye’s chicken. Take the wild ride through KC food history with Jim Eddy!

Graham Zusi is a Kansas City soccer legend and a former U.S. Men’s National Team star who competed in the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. But what’s he doing now—and what does he think about the World Cup coming to Kansas City in 2026?In this episode of There's Just Something About Kansas City, Zeus himself sits down to talk about his journey from youth soccer to NCAA championships at Maryland, his incredible MLS career with Sporting KC, and his role in one of the most exciting eras of American soccer.Now serving as the World Cup Community Ambassador for NBKC, Zusi is staying busy off the pitch—working in a local bike shop, traveling the world, and seeking out adventure in places like Patagonia and Cuba.If you're a soccer fan, Kansas Citian, or just love a good adventure story, this episode has something for you.🎧 Listen now to hear Graham Zusi’s thoughts on Kansas City's moment in the World Cup spotlight, what drives him today, and how he’s redefining life after pro sports.

Before comedy clubs came to Kansas City, David Naster was already making people laugh on street corners. In this episode of There’s Just Something About Kansas City, we sit down with one of KC’s first stand-up comedians—who went from performing in the streets to opening for Celine Dion and headlining cruise ships around the world.Naster shares behind-the-scenes stories from LA’s legendary Comedy Store, how he convinced Stan Glazier to launch Stanford and Sons in Westport, and why he returned home to Kansas City. He also opens up about his personal struggles and how he’s helping others heal through humor with his book and podcast, You Just Have To Laugh.If you're interested in the roots of Kansas City’s comedy scene, cruise ship entertainment, or using laughter as a tool for mental health—this episode delivers it all.

Kansas City is the sports architecture capital of the world. But how did we get there?In today’s episode of There’s Just Something About Kansas City, we're talking with the man who literally wrote the book on the subject, “Designed in Kansas City” — sports architect, author, and historian Tom Waggoner.Tom takes us all the way from the Roman Colosseum to today's stadium debate, diving into how the Chiefs’ Arrowhead Stadium, Royals’ Kauffman Stadium, and the Truman Sports Complex as a whole changed the face of sports arenas in the 70's and how Kansas City's innovative edge in the field is shaping today's conversations. He also shares his thoughts on the future of the stadiums and what he’d share with the current owners of the Chiefs and Royals.Whether you’re following the stadium saga in KC, are a sports history buff, or just love a Kansas City story, this is essential listening.

What happens when a wild idea on a river float turns into one of Kansas City’s most ambitious development projects? In this episode of There’s Just Something About Kansas City, we sit down with Mike Zeller — entrepreneur, visionary, and CEO of Flying Truss — to talk about his bold plan to transform the historic Rock Island Bridge into America’s first trailhead and entertainment district on a bridge.What started as a joke — “Chicken on a Bridge!” — is now a massive revitalization effort connecting communities across the Kansas and Missouri rivers. Zeller shares how a dream became a development, the challenges of adaptive reuse, and why this railroad bridge-turned-riverfront attraction could become one of KC’s most iconic destinations.You’ll hear the origin story behind the project, the history of the bridge itself, what to expect from the future R.I.B. — food, music, trails & more, and why connecting the city above the river that helped to shape it matters.Whether you're into urban planning and redevelopment, creative placemaking, or just love a good Kansas City dream-turned-reality story, this episode is a must-listen.

Bryan Truta is the Senior Director of Radio Operations at KCUR’s 90.9 The Bridge, a KC native, and a 30-year veteran of the Kansas City music and media scene. If there's a radio station in town, chances are Bryan's worked there.In this episode of There’s Just Something About Kansas City, Frank and Bryan sit down for a wide-ranging, often hilarious conversation between longtime friends. Bryan shares his unforgettable first encounter with Frank, plus wild stories from his early days at 1510: the cockroach-infested home of Kansas City's first all-sports radio station that grew to become Union Broadcasting and Sports Radio 810 WHB.From Jason Whitlock and infamous holiday parties at Boal-Manor, to run-ins with the police (not the band) and a collapsing dance floor, Bryan’s got stories. Lots of them. But more than that, he’s a true Kansas Citian—deeply rooted, deeply respected, and still drawing a loyal following wherever he goes.Once upon a time, Bryan dreamed of becoming the liberal answer to Rush Limbaugh. Today, he’s on The Bridge—a fitting name for someone who’s never burned one in his career. In an industry known for churn and ego, that’s no small feat.Did we mention he learned to cross-stitch and Irish dance in grade school?Don’t believe us? Just listen to this episode of There’s Just Something About Kansas City.

Justin Gardner serves on the family board of Big Slick KC, a KC celeb-packed weekend of events raising money to support Children's Mercy KC. We're re-dropping this insightful episode in celebration of 2025's Big Slick weekend!During an internship and short stint at WDAF-TV, Justin Gardner, a University of Missouri Journalism School grad, found out editing the evening news content wasn’t the life for him. I’m sure all the shouting, cursing and swearing coming from the sports department didn’t help. So Justin used his skills to create commercials and enhance brands for several media companies like AMC Theaters. He brought the film office back to KC and serves as the president of the Film Commission of Greater KC. He also created the Robert Altman Emerging Filmmakers Fund for aspiring filmmakers. And now that his younger sister, comedian Heidi Gardner, is making her mark on Saturday Night Live, Justin has joined the family board of The Big Slick Weekend.