In this interview months in the making, Eric sits down with Zoë Herr and Sandy Pellerano. Both are pursuing a doctorate in the sciences, but in fresh and unexpected areas: Zoë is studying the role of Hope in scientific research, and Sandy is among the first ever class to get a PhD in Happiness and the Science of Human Flourishing. It turns out, Hope and Happiness are not achieved by luck or circumstance, but have scientific underpinnings. The key to both? COURAGE.

Congressional candidate Fred Wellman and lifetime St. Louisan Amy McLaughlin join Eric to talk about living through unimaginable loss—and how they are able to live joyful and purposeful lives. This is the first of our "Humanity series" for Season 2, where we explore what makes us human and why it's important to be as human as possible.

Therapists Anita Santiago and Diane Davis, Mindset coach Travis Thomas, Dietitian Jen McDaniel, and Fitness Expert Erin Fahs share insights and inspiration for turning a new leaf in 2026.

Kezia Jackson is a clinical psychologist and the founder and CEO of Healing Spaces, a mental health practice that specializes in serving BIPOC populations. As one of the just 4% of mental health professionals who are Black, she and her team are on a mission to meet a drastic need.

Washington Post book critic Ron Charles is not only one of the most influential people in the literary world, he is also a St. Louis native, a former teacher at John Burroughs (and colleague of Jon Hamm), and Eric's former college professor. He brings a joy and enthusiasm to the craft (and to everything) that is nothing short of pure delight! Ron and Eric discuss AI, publishing, where readers have gone, and the rise of Romantasy. You'll love it!

In this spooky Halloween edition of the pod, Eric talks to two St. Louis County Council members: Lisa Clancy and Kelli Dunaway. Lisa is a social worker who has dedicated her life to helping her community. Kelli is a real-life witch, who tells a harrowing story of encountering Eric (nee Mark) in a past life, 500 years ago. It's a hell of a ride! Happy Halloween, everybody!

Eric speaks with Congressional candidate Fred Wellman and a dozen protesters in West St. Louis County, including a two-time Trump voter who took a stand to protest Donald Trump's authoritarianism. Make sure to listen to the end for important takeaways!

Joshua David Stein is in from NYC to sample fare for Esquire's Best New Restaurants feature and Gerard Craft is celebrating 20 years of Niche Food Group. We talk about Gerard's amazing path from reform school graffiti writer to James Beard Award winner, we talk about St. Louis's vibrant food scene and why it beats NYC and LA, and we talk single dad stuff. This is one you don't want to miss!

A politico, a minstrel, a farm boy, and a mensch—Truman Kennedy joins the pod to regale Eric with music and tales of Tulsa larceny. Meet the man who has demonstrated that progressive causes can win in rural Missouri.

St. Louis's best barber is also a reformed church kid, a punk singer and guitarist, and a tireless activist for colorectal cancer awareness and policy. Go deep with Cranford the Barber!