On this episode of The Sauce Podcast, host Lauren sits down with Bethany Budde-Cohen — owner of SqWires Restaurant & Market — to celebrate 25 years of one of Lafayette Square’s most beloved dining destinations and the story behind its lasting success.

Bethany shares how she transformed a 130-year-old wire factory into a warm, character-filled restaurant, and the challenges that came with it — from construction setbacks and a major fire to navigating recessions and a global pandemic. Through it all, SqWires has remained rooted in its identity: elevated Midwestern comfort food, local sourcing, and a deep connection to the neighborhood.

They talk about what’s kept SqWires thriving for over two decades, including house-smoked staples, a strong relationship with local farmers, and a commitment to consistency while still evolving with the times. Bethany also dives into the return and reinvention of the market concept during COVID, and how it’s become a curated, community-focused space for fresh, local goods.

Beyond the food, the conversation highlights the importance of family in the business — including Bethany’s daughter stepping into a leadership role — and what it means to grow something that’s truly part of the fabric of St. Louis.

From historic spaces to homemade herbs, from resilience to reinvention — this episode is all about building something that lasts.

In this episode:

•  The story behind SqWires Restaurant & Market 
•  Transforming a historic wire factory into a restaurant 
•  Overcoming a fire, delays, and economic challenges 
•  What defines “elevated Midwestern” cuisine 
•  House-smoked meats, brunch staples, and menu favorites 
•  Sourcing local ingredients and working with farmers 
•  The return and evolution of the SqWires market 
•  Adapting through COVID and changing customer needs 
•  Running a family business with the next generation 
•  Why Lafayette Square is such a special community 

Come for the conversation. Stay for the culture. 🌿
 ✨ Presented by SWADE Dispensary, with 12 locations across Missouri. Learn more at swadecannabis.com. Our other podcast sponsors are 4 Hands Brewing Co. and LHM.

🎧 Watch on YouTube or listen on Spotify and all major platforms.
 📅 New episodes drop every Tuesday.

On this episode of The Sauce Podcast, host Lauren sits down with Braden— one of St. Louis’ fastest-growing food influencers — to talk about the highly anticipated Foodies Eat First Fest and how he’s turning the city’s food scene into a national destination.

Braden breaks down the vision behind the festival, built “for foodies, by foodies,” and how he’s bringing together some of the most talked-about chefs, restaurants, and creators in one place — all at an accessible price point. From VIP all-you-can-eat experiences to curated vendor lineups and afterparties, this isn’t your typical food festival.

But the conversation goes deeper than just the event. Braden shares his journey from corporate America to full-time creator, how he built a following by spotlighting local businesses, and why he believes St. Louis is one of the most underrated food cities in the country.

They also dive into the future of Foodies Eat First — including expansion plans, restaurant week, micro festivals, and how content creators are driving real economic impact in cities like St. Louis.

From toasted ravioli to Wagyu, from social media to city-building — this episode is all about passion, hustle, and putting St. Louis on the map.

In this episode:
 - The concept behind Foodies Eat First Fest
 - How the festival makes high-end food more accessible
 - Featured chefs, restaurants, and unique food experiences
 - VIP vs General Admission breakdown
 - Expanding into multiple festivals and events
 - The rise of the creator economy in St. Louis
 - Braden's journey from corporate to content creator
 - How influencers are driving tourism and local growth
 - Favorite underrated food spots around St. Louis
 - The future of Foodies Eat First

Come for the conversation. Stay for the culture. 🌿
 ✨ Presented by SWADE Dispensary, with 12 locations across Missouri. Learn more at swadecannabis.com. Our other podcast sponsors are 4 Hands Brewing Co. and LHM.

🎧 Watch on YouTube or listen on Spotify and all major platforms.
 📅 New episodes drop every Tuesday.

On this week’s episode of The Sauce podcast, host Lauren sits down with Cally and Rich Conyers, owners of Prohibition, a hidden speakeasy tucked beneath a historic 150-year-old building in St. Louis’ Lafayette Square.

They share how a fire-damaged, nearly demolished building was transformed into one of the city’s most immersive nightlife experiences—blending history, design, and storytelling into a moody, jazz-filled escape. But what truly sets Prohibition apart is its mission: honoring the rebellious, trailblazing women of the 1920s who defied the law, ran speakeasies, and helped shape the Prohibition era without recognition.

From cocktails inspired by real historical figures to carefully curated artifacts and archives, every detail of the space is designed to bring these untold stories to life. Cally and Rich also dive into the evolution of the concept, the challenges of restoring a historic property, and how they’re creating a one-of-a-kind experience in St. Louis.

The conversation explores the rich history of Prohibition, the resurgence of speakeasy culture, and how Prohibition STL is blending past and present through live jazz, curated menus, and interactive storytelling.

From hidden entrances to powerful stories, this episode highlights how history, hospitality, and creativity can come together to create something unforgettable.

In this episode:
 - Transforming a condemned 150-year-old building into Prohibition
 - The inspiration behind honoring women of the 1920s
 - Real stories of female bootleggers, owners, and activists
 - Designing an immersive speakeasy experience
 - The hidden entrance and atmosphere behind Prohibition STL
 - Jazz nights and bringing music history back to St. Louis
 - Expanding the cocktail menu and upcoming food program
 - Future plans for tastings, performances, and storytelling

Come for the conversation. Stay for the culture. 🌿
 ✨ Presented by SWADE Dispensary, with 12 locations across Missouri. Learn more at swadecannabis.com. Our other podcast sponsors are 4 Hands Brewing Co. and LHM.

🎧 Watch on YouTube or listen on Spotify and all major platforms.
 📅 New episodes drop every Tuesday.

On this week’s episode of The Sauce podcast, host Lauren Healey sits down with Brennan England, founder of the St. Louis Cannabis Club and The Cola Lounge—Missouri’s first cannabis consumption space.

Brennan shares how his journey from activism and community-building led to creating a platform where cannabis culture meets education, wellness, and entertainment. From launching just before COVID to building a thriving network of events, partnerships, and experiences, he breaks down what it takes to normalize cannabis and create safe, inclusive spaces.

The conversation dives into the evolution of the St. Louis cannabis scene, the vision behind the “Greenlight District,” and how experiential events—from comedy shows to wellness gatherings—are helping reshape public perception. Brennan also discusses the rise of cannabis tourism, innovative concepts like the Puff Puff Passport, and how collaboration across local businesses is driving growth in the industry.

From grassroots beginnings to city-wide impact, this episode highlights the power of community-first entrepreneurship and redefining what cannabis culture can look like.

In this episode:

 - Launching the St. Louis Cannabis Club and The Cola Lounge
 - Creating safe, social cannabis experiences without alcohol
 - The vision behind the Greenlight District
 - How events are breaking stigma around cannabis
 - The Puff Puff Passport and cannabis tourism
 - Building partnerships with local brands like SWADE and 4 Hands
 - The future of cannabis culture in St. Louis

Come for the conversation. Stay for the culture. 🌿
✨ Presented by SWADE Dispensary, with 12 locations across Missouri. Learn more at swadecannabis.com. Our other podcast sponsors are 4 Hands Brewing Co. and St. Louis Union Station.

🎧 Watch on YouTube or listen on Spotify and all major platforms.
📅 New episodes drop every Tuesday.

Come for the conversation. Stay for the culture. 🌿
 ✨ Presented by SWADE Dispensary, with 12 locations across Missouri. Learn more at swadecannabis.com. Our other podcast sponsors are 4 Hands Brewing Co. and LHM.

🎧 Watch on YouTube or listen on Spotify and all major platforms.
 📅 New episodes drop every Tuesday.

On this week’s episode of The Sauce podcast, host Lauren Healey sits down with Michael and Meredith Shadwick, the duo behind Honey Bee's Biscuits and a growing collection of beloved businesses in Kirkwood.

Michael and Meredith share how their journey started during COVID, experimenting with food and launching at local farmers markets with no expectations—only to be met with overwhelming demand, long lines, and a defining moment that confirmed they had found something special.

The conversation explores the rapid growth of Honey Bee's Biscuits, from early pop-ups to a brick-and-mortar success, and the evolution into multiple concepts across Kirkwood. They also discuss what it was like taking over the iconic Spencer’s Grill, balancing tradition with new ideas, and building a brand rooted in community.

From sleepless nights and early uncertainty to scaling a multi-business operation, this episode highlights the realities of entrepreneurship and the power of following what you love.

In this episode:

 - Starting Honey Bee's Biscuits during COVID
 - Turning a farmers market concept into a thriving business
 - The moment they knew it was going to work
 - Expanding into multiple concepts in Kirkwood
 - Taking over and evolving Spencer’s Grill
 - Building community through food and hospitality

Come for the conversation. Stay for the culture. 🌿
 ✨ Presented by SWADE Dispensary, with 12 locations across Missouri. Learn more at swadecannabis.com. Our other podcast sponsors are 4 Hands Brewing Co. and LHM.

🎧 Watch on YouTube or listen on Spotify and all major platforms.
 📅 New episodes drop every Tuesday.

On this week’s episode of The Sauce podcast, host Lauren Healey sits down with Brandon Cavanagh, Senior Director of Marketing at SWADE Dispensary, one of Missouri’s leading cannabis brands.

Brandon shares his journey from the St. Louis hospitality scene, including owning a popular bar in The Grove, to transitioning into the cannabis industry. He talks about how that background shaped his approach to marketing, community engagement, and creating experiences that connect people in new ways.

The conversation explores the growth of SWADE, from early days in Missouri’s medical market to becoming a vertically integrated company with locations across the state. Brandon also dives into the brand’s focus on community partnerships, unique events, and breaking the stigma around cannabis.

From restaurant collaborations like the Best Buds series to large-scale activations at festivals and new concepts like The Church on Delmar, this episode highlights how cannabis culture is evolving and becoming more integrated into everyday life.

In this episode:
 - Brandon’s journey from bar owner to cannabis marketing leader
 - The growth of SWADE and Missouri’s cannabis industry
 - What it means to be a vertically integrated cannabis company
 - Community partnerships and the Best Buds event series
 - New concepts like The Church on Delmar
 - Breaking the stigma around cannabis use

Come for the conversation. Stay for the culture. 🌿
 ✨ Presented by SWADE Dispensary, with 11 locations across Missouri. Learn more at swadecannabis.com.

Come for the conversation. Stay for the culture. 🌿
 ✨ Presented by SWADE Dispensary, with 12 locations across Missouri. Learn more at swadecannabis.com. Our other podcast sponsors are 4 Hands Brewing Co. and LHM.

🎧 Watch on YouTube or listen on Spotify and all major platforms.
 📅 New episodes drop every Tuesday.

On this week’s episode of The Sauce podcast, host Lauren Healey sits down with Loryn Nalic, chef and co-owner of Balkan Treat Box and Telva at The Ridge—two of St. Louis’ most celebrated dining spots.

Loryn shares how she turned a passion for Balkan cuisine into a successful food truck and, eventually, a nationally recognized restaurant. She talks about the early challenges, the moment she realized the concept was taking off, and how that growth led to new ventures like Telva, a café rooted in European coffee culture.

The conversation also covers the realities of running a restaurant, building a team, expanding service, and what it means to receive multiple James Beard nominations.

From wood-fired breads to evolving menus and new ideas, this episode highlights the creativity and resilience behind one of St. Louis’ most beloved culinary brands.

In this episode:

 - The origin of Balkan Treat Box and starting as a food truck

 - Bringing Balkan flavors and culture to St. Louis

 - The story behind Telva at The Ridge

 - Growing and scaling a restaurant business

 - Earning James Beard recognition

 - New menu items and expanding service


Come for the food. Stay for the story. 🍽️
✨ Presented by SWADE Dispensary, with 11 locations across Missouri. Learn more at swadecannabis.com. Our other podcast sponsors are 4 Hands Brewing Co. and LHM.

Come for the conversation. Stay for the culture. 🌿
 ✨ Presented by SWADE Dispensary, with 12 locations across Missouri. Learn more at swadecannabis.com. Our other podcast sponsors are 4 Hands Brewing Co. and LHM.

🎧 Watch on YouTube or listen on Spotify and all major platforms.
 📅 New episodes drop every Tuesday.

On this week’s episode of The Sauce podcast, host Lauren Healey sits down with Danni Eickenhorst, CEO of HuSTL Hospitality and co-owner of some of St. Louis’ most beloved restaurants, including Steve’s Hot Dogs, Steve’s Meltdown at City Foundry, and the iconic The Fountain on Locust.

Danni shares how an unexpected partnership with musician and restaurateur Steve Ewing helped save Steve’s Hot Dogs from closing and led to a new chapter for the brand. From simplifying menus and building stronger teams to expanding into new locations and partnerships, Danni explains how HuSTL Hospitality is rethinking what it means to run a restaurant in today’s challenging industry.

The conversation also dives into Danni’s background in nonprofit leadership and crisis response, including her experience working on disaster recovery after the 2011 Joplin Tornado and how those skills helped her lead community relief efforts when a tornado impacted parts of St. Louis near their restaurants.

Danni also discusses the realities of running restaurants today — from rising costs and unpredictable weather to shifting customer habits — and how her team is adapting by expanding into catering, festivals, food trucks, and partnerships across the region.

From loaded hot dogs and smash burgers to art deco dining rooms and ice cream martinis, this episode highlights the creativity, resilience, and community spirit behind some of St. Louis’ most recognizable dining spots.

In this episode:

Saving Steve’s Hot Dogs and partnering with Steve Ewing

Taking over the iconic The Fountain on Locust

Building the restaurant group HuSTL Hospitality

How Danni’s nonprofit background shaped her leadership style

Supporting the St. Louis community during disaster recovery

Expanding into catering, festivals, and a new Steve’s Hot Dogs food truck

Favorite menu items, cocktails, and local restaurants

Come for the hospitality insights. Stay for the stories behind the restaurants that help define St. Louis’ dining scene. 🍽️


✨ Presented by SWADE Dispensary, with 11 locations across Missouri. Learn more about their Passport Membership program at swadecannabis.com. Our other podcast sponsors are 4 Hands Brewing Co. and LHM.

Come for the conversation. Stay for the culture. 🌿
 ✨ Presented by SWADE Dispensary, with 12 locations across Missouri. Learn more at swadecannabis.com. Our other podcast sponsors are 4 Hands Brewing Co. and LHM.

🎧 Watch on YouTube or listen on Spotify and all major platforms.
 📅 New episodes drop every Tuesday.

On this week’s episode of The Sauce podcast, host Lauren Healey sits down with Alisha Blackwell-Calvert, Advanced Sommelier and beverage director at Madrina in Webster Groves, for a conversation about wine, hospitality, and the journey behind becoming one of the most recognized beverage professionals in the country.

Alisha shares how her early love for science and curiosity about the world eventually led her to a career in wine — where chemistry, geology, and storytelling all come together in a single bottle. Now a 2025 James Beard semifinalist for Outstanding Beverage Professional, Alisha reflects on what the nomination means for her personally and for the St. Louis hospitality scene.

From working in some of the city’s most respected restaurants to spending time outside the industry at Louis Vuitton, Alisha talks about the experiences that shaped her approach to hospitality and luxury service. She also shares what it takes to pursue the coveted Master Sommelier certification — one of the most difficult professional exams in the world — and why the journey matters just as much as the title.

In this episode, Alisha also discusses building Madrina’s beverage program from the ground up, creating an Italian-inspired wine list that blends tradition with modern hospitality, and how travel, mentorship, and lifelong learning continue to shape her career.

In this episode:

- Alisha’s journey from Webster Groves native to Advanced Sommelier

 - Being named a 2025 James Beard semifinalist for Outstanding Beverage Professional

 - What it takes to pursue the Master Sommelier certification

 - Building Madrina’s wine and beverage program from scratch

 - Alisha’s favorite St. Louis restaurants and dining spots


📍 Madrina – Webster Groves, Missouri


Come for the wine knowledge. Stay for the stories behind the glass.

✨ Presented by SWADE Dispensary, with 11 locations across Missouri. Learn more about their Passport Membership program at swadecannabis.com. Our other podcast sponsors are 4 Hands Brewing Co. and LHM.

Come for the conversation. Stay for the culture. 🌿
 ✨ Presented by SWADE Dispensary, with 12 locations across Missouri. Learn more at swadecannabis.com. Our other podcast sponsors are 4 Hands Brewing Co. and LHM.

🎧 Watch on YouTube or listen on Spotify and all major platforms.
 📅 New episodes drop every Tuesday.

On this week’s episode of The Sauce Podcast, host Lauren Healey sits down with Rick Lewis, owner of Grace Meat + Three in The Grove and Grace Chicken + Fish, for a conversation about hospitality, risk-taking, and growing a restaurant brand with purpose.

Rick shares how his path from fine dining to Southern comfort food led him to help launch Nashville hot chicken in St. Louis before stepping out to build Grace from the ground up in 2017. What started as a leap of faith quickly grew — doubling in year two — and has since expanded to a second location, a thriving food truck, and a loyal community following.

From signing a lease and building out a restaurant in just three months to navigating today’s challenging restaurant economy, Rick opens up about what it really takes to sustain and scale a local concept. He also talks about leadership, faith, raising young kids while running a business, prioritizing health in an industry built on indulgence, and why supporting local restaurants matters more than ever.

In this episode:
 - How Grace Meat + Three went from concept to community staple

 - The differences between the Grove and Crestwood locations

 - Opening a second restaurant in today’s economic climate

 - Balancing business ownership, family life, and personal wellness


Why hospitality is about more than just food


📍 Grace Meat + Three – The Grove, St. Louis
📍 Grace Chicken + Fish – Crestwood, Missouri

Come for the fried chicken. Stay for the community.

✨ Presented by SWADE Dispensary, with 11 locations across Missouri. Learn more about their Passport Membership program at swadecannabis.com. Our other podcast sponsors are 4 Hands Brewing Co. and LHM.

Come for the conversation. Stay for the culture. 🌿
 ✨ Presented by SWADE Dispensary, with 12 locations across Missouri. Learn more at swadecannabis.com. Our other podcast sponsors are 4 Hands Brewing Co. and LHM.

🎧 Watch on YouTube or listen on Spotify and all major platforms.
 📅 New episodes drop every Tuesday.