Podcast
Fast Forward STL
Hosted by Keith Alper · EN
Fast Forward STL is a business and innovation podcast hosted by entrepreneur, investor, producer, and CEO of The Nitrous Effect companies, Keith Alper. Each episode features leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators doing remarkable work connected to St. Louis and the greater region. Together, they explore ideas, stories, and strategies that shape growth, spark curiosity, and occasionally make you say, “I didn’t know that.” From bold startups to legacy organizations reinventing themselves, the conversations dig into how people build, create, and solve real problems, and why it matters to our city’s future. The goal is simple: learn, explore, and help move St. Louis fast forward through business, leadership, and innovation.
10episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
How Nine PBS Is Shaping St. Louis
1w ago00:40:28Tap to summarizeIn 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 podcasts@stlmag.com. Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email advertisting@stlmag.com. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Transcribe →St. Louis Comptroller on City Hall Modernization
3w ago00:37:08Tap to summarizeIn 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 podcasts@stlmag.com. Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email advertisting@stlmag.com. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Transcribe →Tarlton’s Role in Building Modern St. Louis
May 700:32:11Tap to summarizeIn 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 podcasts@stlmag.com. Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email advertisting@stlmag.com.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Transcribe →Marie-Hélène Bernard on Music Shaping St. Louis’ Future
Apr 2300:39:41Tap to summarizeIn 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 podcasts@stlmag.com. Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email advertisting@stlmag.com.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Transcribe →Emily Hemingway on St. Louis’ Tech Future
Apr 900:34:34Tap to summarizeIn 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 podcasts@stlmag.com. Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email advertisting@stlmag.com.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Transcribe →Steve O’Loughlin’s Optimistic Vision for St. Louis
Mar 2600:37:21Tap to summarizeIn 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 podcasts@stlmag.com. Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email advertisting@stlmag.com.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Transcribe →Adam Birenbaum on St. Louis’ Financial Industry
Mar 1200:37:50Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Fast Forward STL, host Keith Alper sits down with Adam Birenbaum, chief executive officer of Focus Partners Wealth. Adam shares his intern-to-CEO story at the St. Louis-based wealth management firm, explains why comprehensive financial planning beats old-school brokerages, and weighs in on AI’s role in the industry. The conversation shifts to civics, where Adam makes a passionate case for merging the city and county as the region’s make-or-break issue. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe. This episode is sponsored by Royal Banks of Missouri and supported by Cardinals Nation. Discover how your business can reach new heights with treasury management services from Royal Banks of Missouri! Their local specialists offer customized banking solutions designed to maximize efficiency, streamline operations, reduce fraud risk, and set your business up for success. Learn more. New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing! Want more? Check out all of St. Louis Magazine’s podcasts. You may also enjoy these articles from SLM: St. Louis Business 500: Q&A with Adam Birenbaum, Focus Partners Wealth St. Louis Magazine‘s latest business coverage More podcasts from St. Louis Magazine Subscribe to St. Louis Magazine‘s Business newsletter Shop St. Louis Magazine podcast merch See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Transcribe →WashU Olin and St. Louis’ Future ft. Mike Mazzeo
Feb 2600:35:17Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Fast Forward STL, host Keith Alper sits down with Mike Mazzeo, dean of WashU Olin Business School. Hear about his journey from Stanford-trained economist and longtime Northwestern professor to university leadership during the rapid changes of 2020. Mazzeo outlines WashU Olin’s programs and shares why strengthening ties with St. Louis executives and alumni is key to deeper local engagement. He offers advice for navigating fast-moving change—including AI—emphasizing curiosity, flexibility, and critical thinking over narrow skills. The conversation also explores St. Louis’ future, from increasing density and attracting global talent to building a stronger health and biotech startup ecosystem, with practical insight on the industries and connections that can drive growth. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe. This episode is sponsored by Capes Sokol, a St. Louis–based law firm that helps businesses and individuals navigate legal challenges with clarity, strategy, and a strong understanding of today’s marketplace. Their attorneys collaborate closely with clients to support informed decisions and long-term growth. Whether you’re starting, growing, or protecting what you’ve built, Capes Sokol provides the legal insight to help you move forward with confidence. Learn more. New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing! Want more? Check out all of St. Louis Magazine’s podcasts. You may also enjoy these articles from SLM: St. Louis Business 500: Q&A with Michael Mazzeo, WashU’s Olin Business School WashU business school launches three new master’s programs with input from St. Louis employers New WashU initiative will bring business insights to health industry St. Louis Magazine‘s latest business coverage More podcasts from St. Louis Magazine Subscribe to St. Louis Magazine‘s Business newsletter Shop St. Louis Magazine podcast merch See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Transcribe →Constructing a Comeback: Rusty Keeley’s Vision for St. Louis
Feb 1200:33:59Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Fast Forward STL, host Keith Alper sits down with Rusty Keeley, CEO of Keeley Companies and new chairman of the Regional Business Council. Keeley shares how he grew his father’s asphalt paving business into a diversified empire topping 5,000 employees, employing a “fail fast, fail forward” philosophy and people-first culture. The discussion tackles some of St. Louis’ biggest challenges head-on: the city’s cop shortage, misleading crime statistics, the impact of a city-county merger, and a compelling case for embracing data centers. Keeley challenges civic leaders to think like entrepreneurs: move faster and worry less about barriers. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe. This episode is sponsored by Capes Sokol, a St. Louis–based law firm trusted by business leaders and decision-makers navigating growth, change, and risk. Their attorneys advise companies on business operations, real estate, litigation, and strategic planning, always with a practical, business-minded approach. Capes Sokol helps leaders make confident, informed decisions at every stage. Learn more. New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing! Want more? Check out all of St. Louis Magazine’s podcasts. You may also enjoy these articles from SLM: How Keeley Companies combines employee input and expertise to make a difference St. Louis Magazine‘s latest business coverage More podcasts from St. Louis Magazine Subscribe to St. Louis Magazine‘s Business newsletter See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Transcribe →From St. Louis to Global Tech Leader ft. Jim McKelvey
Jan 2900:33:54Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Fast Forward STL, host Keith Alper sits down with St. Louis native Jim McKelvey, co-founder of Block (formerly Square), to talk about the lessons he’s learned from building a global company and how those ideas apply beyond business. From launching Mira and co-founding Third Degree Glass Factory, to growing a global fintech company, McKelvey reflects on curiosity, creativity, and the value of learning by doing. He explains why understanding emerging technology, such as artificial intelligence, matters far beyond the tech world, and how innovation can help make cities like St. Louis safer and more approachable. It’s a conversation about learning from experience, thinking differently, and imagining what’s possible for the city’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. This episode is sponsored by Capes Sokol, a St. Louis–based law firm trusted by business leaders and decision-makers navigating growth, change, and risk. Their attorneys advise companies on business operations, real estate, litigation, and strategic planning, always with a practical, business-minded approach. Capes Sokol helps leaders make confident, informed decisions at every stage. Learn more. New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing! Want more? Check out all of St. Louis Magazine’s podcasts. You may also enjoy these articles from SLM: St. Louis Magazine‘s latest business coverage More podcasts from St. Louis Magazine Subscribe to St. Louis Magazine‘s Business newsletter St. Louis Business 500: Living Legends Square co-founder Jim McKelvey details how he changed the payment game and beat Amazon in a new book See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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