There's Just Something About Kansas City

When some people hear “historical society,” they think… boring. But the story of Overland Park is anything but.In this episode of There’s Just Something About Kansas City, we’re joined by Brad Moore, Executive Director of the Overland Park Historical Society, for a deep dive into the people, places, and moments that shaped one of the largest cities in Johnson County.Brad is more than a historian — he’s a storyteller, preservationist, and passionate advocate for bringing local history to life in fresh, engaging ways. From little-known stories and hidden gems to the legends of downtown Overland Park, he shares how history connects communities and gives deeper meaning to the places we live.Frank is joined by his wife Sarah, Brad’s elementary school classmate, in hosting a conversation that blends personal stories with fascinating local insight.Whether you’re a lifelong resident or new to the area, this episode will change the way you see Overland Park — and prove that history is anything but boring.

For more than 50 years, Rainy Day Books has been at the heart of Kansas City’s literary community, connecting passionate readers with some of the biggest authors in the world.In this episode of There’s Just Something About Kansas City, we sit down with Annie Krieg, General Manager of Rainy Day Books, to explore the story behind this beloved independent bookstore and its lasting impact on Kansas City.Founded by Vivien Jennings and Roger Doeren, Rainy Day Books became a national model for author events, hosting literary icons like Stephen King, Walter Cronkite, Anne Rice, and even Bill and Hillary Clinton.Now entering its next chapter, the store has been acquired by the Kansas City-based team behind Made in Kansas City, ensuring it remains locally-rooted for decades to come.Annie shares how Rainy Day Books grew into a literary hub, what makes independent bookstores so essential in today’s world, and why community-centered spaces like this still matter more than ever.This episode is about books, connection, and the magic that happens when a city gathers around stories.🎧 A must-listen for readers, writers, and anyone who loves Kansas City.

There’s no better way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day than with Kansas City’s favorite Irishman, Eddie Delahunt.Born and raised in Dublin, Eddie shares the remarkable story of his journey from Ireland to Kansas City. Along the way, he reflects on his early life in Dublin as his father worked for Guinness, his years sailing the world in the Irish Merchant Marine, and the path that eventually brought him to the American Midwest.In this special St. Patrick’s Day episode, Eddie talks about discovering Kansas City, why he decided to stay, and how music became the thread connecting every chapter of his life.You’ll also hear Eddie perform a few of his favorite songs as he shares stories from a life filled with travel, music, and the enduring spirit of Ireland.So pour yourself something green and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with the one and only Eddie Delahunt.

Former Kansas City, Kansas mayor Joe Reardon has spent much of his career working at the intersection of public service, economic development, and regional collaboration. Today, he serves as President and CEO of the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, where he plays a key role in shaping the future of the Kansas City region.In this episode, Reardon reflects on his time leading Kansas City, Kansas, sharing lessons learned while navigating major civic challenges and working to grow the community. He discusses why cooperation across the state line between Kansas and Missouri is essential to the region’s long-term success.Reardon also talks about the Chamber’s priorities for strengthening the regional economy, supporting businesses of all sizes, and elevating Kansas City’s national reputation as a place to live, work, and build a business.From city hall to the boardroom, Reardon shares his perspective on leadership, regional partnerships, and what it will take for Kansas City to compete—and thrive—in the years ahead.

This one is personal.Brie Morgan Bauer is someone I’ve known since she was three years old — my youngest daughter’s closest friend and someone our family loves dearly. But Brie’s story is now known far beyond Kansas City.If you follow @BeauandBrie on social media, you may already know that Brie survived a devastating case of Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome (STSS) — a rare and life-threatening bacterial infection. What makes her story even more extraordinary is that both she and her newborn son, Beau, survived.It was, in every sense, a double miracle.The infection led to the loss of all four of Brie’s limbs. But this episode is not just about survival — it’s about resilience. It’s about refusing to let trauma define you. It’s about motherhood, identity, and finding purpose in unimaginable circumstances.Today, Brie channels that purpose into advocacy through Brie’s Hope, the foundation she created dedicated to saving lives through sepsis awareness, early detection, and compassionate support for those navigating life after limb loss. Through Brie’s Hope, she is building community, offering encouragement, and helping others navigate their own recovery journeys with dignity and strength.In this deeply moving conversation, Brie shares what happened, how she fought to recover, and why she is committed to turning her experience into hope for others.This is a story about resilience, faith, family, and the extraordinary ways people can rise above their circumstances and help others do the same.

Before he became President of Union Broadcasting, Chad Boeger was already an entrepreneur.In kindergarten, he was buying Jolly Ranchers for two cents and selling them for five. By junior high and high school, he was running a thriving lawn care business. In college at the University of Kansas, he hustled any way he could to make ends meet, fully expecting to use his business degree to become an investment banker.But a passion for sports changed everything.In this episode of There’s Just Something About Kansas City, Chad shares how he went from earning $6.50 an hour selling ad space in a weekly newspaper to helping launch Kansas City’s first all-sports radio station, 810 WHB, and eventually becoming President of Union Broadcasting.We go behind the scenes of building a sports media brand from the ground up: navigating risk, betting on a format no one knew would work, and helping shape Kansas City’s sports conversation for decades.It’s a story about hustle, timing, entrepreneurship, and the power of following your passion, even when it leads somewhere completely unexpected.🎧 A must-listen for sports fans, aspiring entrepreneurs, and anyone curious how great media companies get built.

As the world tunes in to the Winter Olympics, we revisit one of the most iconic moments in sports history — the 1980 “Miracle on Ice.”In February 1980, the United States was emerging from a decade marked by recession, gas shortages, and national uncertainty. Then, in Lake Placid, New York, a group of young American hockey players stunned the world by defeating the dominant Soviet Union team, the feared Red Army, in what many still consider the greatest upset in sports history.Our guest, Ken Morrow, was a defenseman on that gold medal-winning U.S. Men’s National Hockey Team. He shares what it felt like that night, the mindset of legendary coach Herb Brooks, and even reads a powerful letter Brooks wrote to the team months later explaining why he pushed them so relentlessly.After the Olympics, Morrow went on to win four Stanley Cups with the New York Islanders, cementing an extraordinary professional career.But this conversation also hits close to home. Ken has lived in Kansas City for more than 20 years and currently serves as President of KCIce, helping grow the sport at the grassroots level. We talk about what brought him to Kansas City, the state of hockey in the Midwest, and what makes this city such a special place to build a life and legacy.This is more than a hockey story:  it’s about leadership, belief, community, and the places we choose to call home.🎧 A timely and inspiring listen during the Winter Games, and just one more reason Kansas City can call itself a city of champions.

Almost erased from mainstream history, Sarah Rector was a young Black girl whose life defied every expectation of her time.In 1907, through the Dawes Allotment Act, Sarah — a descendant of formerly enslaved people — was granted 160 acres of land in Oklahoma. The land was considered undesirable and difficult to farm. But beneath it lay oil. When a well struck crude, Sarah became one of the richest Black children in American history, and that well is still producing today.In this episode of There’s Just Something About Kansas City, historian and educator Diane Euston brings Sarah Rector’s remarkable story to life — far beyond what’s portrayed in the film Sarah’s Oil, which focuses only on her early years.Diane shares how national leaders like Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. Du Bois advocated for Sarah’s education at the Tuskegee Institute, why she eventually moved to Kansas City, and how she became one of the most prominent socialites in KC history — Black or white.We explore her marriage at 18, her children, and the Kansas City home that still stands today — where she hosted icons such as Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Joe Louis, Jack Johnson, Josh Gibson, and the Kansas City Monarchs.It’s a powerful story of wealth, resilience, race, education, and legacy — and a vital chapter of Kansas City history that deserves to be remembered.🎧 A must-listen for history lovers, KC locals, and anyone inspired by untold American stories.

In this episode of There’s Just Something About Kansas City, the longtime Kansas City and Oklahoma City TV meteorologist shares behind-the-scenes stories from the unpredictable world of live television weather — unforgettable storms, on-air surprises, and the moments viewers never see.After years in broadcast meteorology, Gary channeled his experience into launching Weather 20/20, an innovative long-range forecasting system designed to help individuals, businesses, and communities better prepare for what’s ahead.But this conversation goes beyond the forecast. Gary also offers an honest and personal reflection on growing up knowing he was gay, what that meant in earlier decades of broadcast television, and why he chooses to speak openly about it today.Smart, candid, and full of insight, this episode blends Kansas City media history, weather science, entrepreneurship, and personal resilience — all in one unforgettable conversation.🎧 A must-listen for weather watchers, media fans, and anyone who’s ever waited out a Midwest storm.

Dan Meers might be one of the most recognizable people in the city — but you wouldn’t know him from Adam without his giant head, crazy eyes, and 85 inch waist. For more than 35 years, Dan Meers brought energy, humor, and heart to Kansas City as the legendary KC Wolf, the mascot of the Kansas City Chiefs.In this episode of There’s Just Something About Kansas City, Dan takes us behind the mask and into one of the most unique careers in professional sports. He shares how he got his start as Truman the Tiger at Mizzou, became Fredbird with the St. Louis Cardinals, and eventually found his calling as KC Wolf, one of the most beloved mascots in the NFL.But this conversation goes far beyond sports. Dan reflects on how he’s used his platform to share a message centered on family, faith, and encouragement, and he opens up about his wife Cam’s courageous battle with cancer. With grace and honesty, Dan speaks directly to those facing similar struggles, and wants them to know they are not alone.It’s a powerful, heartfelt, and unforgettable story about purpose, perseverance, and finding light in even the hardest moments.🎧 An episode that will inspire Chiefs fans — and anyone in need of hope.

If you’ve spent any time listening to Kansas City radio since the 1980s, you already know the voices, and the names, Mike Kennedy and Nycki Pace.In this episode of There’s Just Something About Kansas City, we sit down with two true KC radio icons who lived, shaped, and survived the Golden Age of radio. Nycki made her mark behind the microphone, becoming one of the most recognizable voices on the Kansas City airwaves, while Mike helped steer stations and formats from the programming side during some of the most competitive and transformative years in local radio history.Together, they share what it was really like inside the studios during the era of format wars, shifting audiences, and rapid changes in how people consumed music and media. We talk about radio then and now — what’s changed, what hasn’t, and what still matters most when it comes to connecting with listeners.Along the way, Nycki and Mike weave in unforgettable stories, behind-the-scenes moments, and reflections on why Kansas City radio has always been something special.🎧 A must-listen for media lovers, longtime KC radio fans, and anyone curious about how the airwaves helped shape the city.

When Kansas City celebrates, chances are Keli O’Neill Wenzel is behind it. As President and CEO of O’Neill Events, Keli has helped shape some of the biggest moments in Kansas City history, from World Series and Super Bowl parades to the NFL Draft and the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026. She and her team have also been the “wonder engineers” behind the KC Irish Fest, Boulevardia, the streetcar expansion, the WWI Centennial, and many, many more community celebrations. In this episode of There’s Just Something About Kansas City, Keli pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to execute large-scale, community-centered events that bring hundreds of thousands of people together. She shares the story of her family’s legacy in event production, the leadership lessons learned behind the scenes, and why creating moments of joy and connection matters so deeply to her.Whether you’re an entrepreneur, event planner, or just someone who loves watching big dreams come to life, this episode will inspire you to see your city, and your own work, in a whole new light. It’s the perfect conversation to start the year — about creativity, leadership, and the people who make Kansas City feel like home.🎧 Our first new episode of the year — available now.

As we kick off the New Year, we’re revisiting one of our most compelling conversations — a Best Of episode featuring Peter Mallouk, President and CEO of Creative Planning, one of the fastest-growing independent wealth management firms in the United States with more than $370 billion in assets under management.Before becoming a nationally recognized leader in finance, Peter’s story began right here in Kansas City. The son of Egyptian immigrants, he learned the value of hard work early — delivering newspapers, working as a “clubbie” at Kauffman Stadium, and finding opportunity through perseverance. After earning both his business and law degrees from the University of Kansas, Peter set out to reimagine financial services by creating a true one-stop shop that integrated financial planning, investing, and legal guidance. That vision became Creative Planning.Beyond the world of finance, Peter is also a Kansas City Royals owner and, alongside his wife Veronica, leads KC CAN!, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting at-risk youth across the Kansas City metro.In this episode of There’s Just Something About Kansas City, Peter shares how his family’s decision to settle in KC shaped his journey — from humble beginnings to entrepreneur, philanthropist, and community leader. It’s a timely and inspiring listen for the start of a new year.🎧 A Best Of encore — perfect for reflecting on leadership, legacy, and what’s possible in the year ahead.

As we ring in the New Year, we’re revisiting one of our most inspiring conversations — a Best Of episode featuring Danny O’Neill, founder of Kansas City’s iconic The Roasterie Coffee Company.Born one of ten children in Denison, Iowa, Danny always knew he wanted to build something meaningful. That spark turned into a calling during a high school exchange semester in Costa Rica, where he picked coffee beans by hand — an experience that changed the course of his life.After years of saving, Danny invested $17,000 in a coffee roaster, transformed his basement with corrugated tin, blue tarps, and fluorescent lights, and began air-roasting coffee. His first sale? A ten-pound bag for a coffee cart at KU Med. From there, The Roasterie grew into one of the most recognizable coffee brands in Kansas City and beyond.This episode is a powerful story of fear, perseverance, entrepreneurship, and hard work — and a reminder that big dreams often start in humble places.☕ A New Year’s week encore and a perfect listen for anyone thinking about what’s possible in the year ahead.

This Christmas week, we’re revisiting one of our all-time favorite conversations — a Best Of episode celebrating the legendary Denny Matthews, the longtime radio voice of the Kansas City Royals.Denny Matthews has been behind the mic since the Royals’ very first game in 1969, making him one of the longest-tenured broadcasters in Major League Baseball history. From mailing his résumé and demo tape to the Royals on a Schlitz beer tray to earning his place in the Baseball Hall of Fame, Denny’s career is inseparable from Kansas City sports history.In this episode, Denny reflects on growing up listening to broadcasting icons like Jack Buck and Harry Caray, his early days calling Royals baseball, and the moments that defined five decades in the booth. He also shares stories from his own athletic days — including playing in spring training games under Whitey Herzog and catching passes from Len Dawson.Warm, nostalgic, and full of unforgettable KC memories, this Best Of rerun is the perfect listen for longtime Royals fans and anyone who loves the golden age of baseball broadcasting.🎄 A holiday week encore celebrating one of Kansas City’s true treasures.

Marilyn Maye is an American treasure and one of the greatest American Songbook and showtune singers of all time. A true cabaret legend, she made history with a record 76 appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson and has spent decades captivating audiences around the world.In this episode, Marilyn reflects on her extraordinary career, her deep connection to Kansas City’s jazz legacy, and what it means to represent her hometown wherever she performs. Named Kansas Citian of the Year in 2012, Marilyn continues to perform, teach, and inspire new generations of artists.At 97 years young, she’s still “kicking it,” still commanding the stage, and still proving why she’s often called the Taylor Swift of cabaret singers. This unforgettable conversation celebrates talent, longevity, and the magic of the American Songbook through the voice of one of its greatest champions.

Mary Don Beachy has devoted her life to inspiring others, first as a beloved Kansas City schoolteacher, and now as an author whose stories, humor, and heart continue to make an impact. She’s published five books, including two Kansas City–themed cookbooks: Step Up to the Plate, KC and Step Up for Seconds, KC.In this episode, Mary Don reflects on her years in education, the lessons that shaped her, and the unexpected path that led her from the classroom to the world of writing. She shares how teaching informs her storytelling, why she’s committed to creating work that uplifts others, and how she continues to live with purpose long after the school bell stopped ringing.Mary Don also speaks about her commitment to giving back: net proceeds from both of her Kansas City cookbooks are donated to The Community Baby Shower Program at Children’s Mercy, supporting mothers and babies across the region.It’s a warm, witty, and heartfelt conversation with an author who has spent a lifetime helping others learn, laugh, and grow.

In this special episode of There’s Just Something About Kansas City, the tables are turned as Executive Director—and Frank’s wife—Sarah McEnerney-Boal steps into the host chair to interview the man behind the mic.Frank opens up about his remarkable journey before Kansas City ever entered the picture: the unlikely and hilarious story of his recruitment to Villanova, the tough decision that broke his mother’s heart when he turned down Notre Dame, and the high draft lottery number that kept him out of the Vietnam War—and the complicated emotions that followed.From there, Sarah guides Frank through the twists that shaped his career: the moment he walked away from coaching and into broadcasting, his stint as a DJ on the West Coast, his unexpected chapter in Green Bay, and the move that ultimately brought him home to Kansas City sports.Listeners will also get a more personal side of Frank—his love of hiking 14ers, the golf community that grounds him, reflections on raising his kids, and the true origin story of the podcast he and Sarah built together. He even shares who his dream guests would be (and why).Warm, candid, and full of stories he’s never shared on mic before, this episode is a rare chance to hear Frank Boal in a new light—and to understand how this podcast continues to keep him curious, energized, and young at heart.

In this episode, Frank Boal sits down with Jonathan Thomas, President & CEO of American Century Investments, to explore how one of Kansas City’s most influential financial firms has woven purpose directly into its business model.Jonathan breaks down the company’s unique ownership structure, where over 40% of profits support life-changing medical discoveries at the Stowers Institute for Medical Research. He shares how this mission-driven approach fuels the company’s culture, values, and long-term strategy, proving that a global investment firm can deliver both performance and impact.They also dig into American Century’s long-running connection to the American Century Championship in Lake Tahoe — a celebrity golf tournament that blends star athletes, entertainment icons, charitable giving, and national visibility. Jonathan shares behind-the-scenes stories from the event, its philanthropic reach, and how it reinforces American Century’s belief in prospering with purpose.Whether you’re interested in leadership, philanthropy, finance, Kansas City business, or the intersection of profit and purpose, this episode offers a powerful look at what it means to build a company around making a difference.

Step into The Rabbit hOle, the world’s first immersive storybook museum right here in North Kansas City. In this episode, co-founder Pete Cowdin shares how he and Deb Pettit pulled from their experience at Reading Reptile, Kansas City’s beloved children’s bookstore, to create a groundbreaking cultural landmark where classic characters leap off the page and into real life.Pete takes us behind the scenes of the creativity, grit, imagination, and vision required to build an experience unlike anything else in the world. From interactive installations to literary adventures big enough for grownups, discover how The Rabbit hOle is redefining the way families experience children’s literature — and why Kansas City was the perfect place to make it happen.Whether you’re a parent, educator, creative, or KC culture enthusiast, this episode offers a magical look into a museum designed for everyone.Full Rights - Music Pro, Artlist License