On this episode of the STL Bucket List Show, we sit down with Sean Hamlin, co-founder of VHS Group and Race Haus, to break down how a home services and technology company unexpectedly evolved into one of the most exciting new motorsports experiences in St. Louis.

Sean shares how VHS Group began with smart home installations, home theaters, and custom tech builds before expanding into golf simulators—and eventually stumbling into the idea that would become Race Haus after a client requested a custom racing simulator setup. That single project quickly snowballed into a fully immersive racing lounge in Webster Groves, where guests can compete on professional-grade simulators, experience real racing dynamics, and build a growing community around motorsports.

He walks through the early days of experimentation, the rapid viral growth on social media, and how Saint Louis embraced the concept far faster than expected. From weekends packed with high-end cars outside the building to competitive leagues forming inside, Race Haus has quickly become a destination for both casual fans and serious racing enthusiasts.

The conversation also dives into what it’s like building multiple businesses at once—balancing leadership, family life, a full-time career, and entrepreneurship—plus the importance of building the right team, embracing technology, and learning when to step back and let systems scale.

From smart homes to simulators, from local experiments to national ambitions, this episode is about turning passion, technology, and community into a completely new kind of entertainment business.

They discuss:

 - Building VHS Group and smart home technology services
 - The origins of Race Haus and the first simulator build
 - Golf simulators and early tech innovation
 - Creating an immersive racing experience in Webster Groves
 - Viral growth and St. Louis car community support
 - Scaling multiple businesses simultaneously
 - Leadership, burnout, and entrepreneurial discipline
 - The role of AI, automation, and technology in growth
 - Building leagues and competitive racing experiences
 - Expansion plans and the future of Race Haus
 - Creating a new entertainment category in St. Louis


🎙 New episodes drop every Wednesday.

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Apple Podcasts ▶ https://apple.co/36ycuuO
Spotify ▶ https://spoti.fi/3svGoqS

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Website ▶ stlbucketlist.com

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Website ▶ https://www.bucketlistcreative.com/about-us

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🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube
📍 Recorded at Bucket List Podcast Studio, St. Louis, MO

On this episode of the STL Bucket List Show, we sit down with David Stine and Stephanie Abbajay—owners of Stine Woodworking—to talk about their journey from Washington, D.C. to building one of the most respected custom woodworking brands in St. Louis.

David shares how he went from practicing law to pursuing woodworking full-time, while Stephanie breaks down how their partnership—both in marriage and business—helped turn a side hustle into a nationally recognized company. From early struggles breaking into the St. Louis market to working with some of the city’s top restaurants and designers, their story is all about persistence, craftsmanship, and betting on yourself.

We talk about what it really takes to build a business from the ground up, the importance of relationships, and how they’ve stayed relevant for nearly 30 years. They also dive into working as a husband-and-wife team, setting boundaries, and why staying in your lane is key to long-term success.

Plus, they share insights on the future of handmade craftsmanship in an AI-driven world, the power of the St. Louis community, and how their work continues to shape some of the city’s most iconic spaces.

From career pivots to building a legacy, this episode is packed with perspective for entrepreneurs, creatives, and anyone chasing meaningful work.

They discuss:

 - Leaving a law career to pursue woodworking
 - Building a business from a Midwest farm
 - Breaking into the St. Louis market
 - Working with top restaurants and local brands
 - The power of relationships and networking
 - Running a business as a married couple
 - Setting boundaries between work and life
 - Staying relevant in a digital and AI-driven world
 - The future of craftsmanship and skilled trades
 - Why “staying in your lane” matters

🎙 New episodes drop every Wednesday.

🔔 SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY WEEK 🔔

🎧 LISTEN ON:
Apple Podcasts ▶ https://apple.co/36ycuuO
Spotify ▶ https://spoti.fi/3svGoqS

🔗 CONNECT WITH STL BUCKET LIST:
Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/stlbucketlist/?utm_source=Instagram
Website ▶ stlbucketlist.com

🤝 WORK WITH STL BUCKET LIST
Interested in partnering or sponsoring an episode?
Email ▶ [email protected]
Website ▶ https://www.bucketlistcreative.com/about-us

Support the show

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube
📍 Recorded at Bucket List Podcast Studio, St. Louis, MO

On this episode of the STL Bucket List Show, we sit down with Sarah Fenske—journalist, podcast host, and writer at St. Louis Magazine—to talk about her journey through the ever-changing world of media.

She shares how she fell into journalism, built her career through traditional newsrooms, and adapted as the industry shifted from print to digital. From leading the Riverfront Times to launching a daily newsletter, Sarah has experienced every era of modern media firsthand.

We talk about how journalism has evolved, the pressure of digital metrics, and what it takes to stay relevant in a world dominated by social media and constant content.

She also opens up about the challenges of keeping quality storytelling alive, the rise of AI in media, and why she still believes in the future of local journalism—especially in St. Louis.

The conversation highlights how media is changing, but also where real opportunity still exists for creators, journalists, and storytellers willing to adapt.

From career pivots to industry insights, this episode is packed with perspective for anyone building something in media.

They discuss:

•  Falling into a career in journalism 
•  The evolution from print to digital media 
•  Lessons from the Riverfront Times era 
•  Building a daily newsletter from scratch 
•  The role of social media and content creation 
•  AI’s impact on journalism and storytelling 
•  The future of local media in St. Louis 
•  Balancing creativity with business and advertising 

🎙 New episodes drop every Wednesday. 

🔔 SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY WEEK 🔔 

🎧 LISTEN ON: 

Apple Podcasts ▶ https://apple.co/36ycuuO 

Spotify ▶ https://spoti.fi/3svGoqS 

🔗 CONNECT WITH STL BUCKET LIST: 

Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/stlbucketlist/?utm_source=Instagram 

Website ▶ stlbucketlist.com  

🤝 WORK WITH STL BUCKET LIST 

Interested in partnering or sponsoring an episode? 

Email ▶ [email protected] 

Website ▶ https://www.bucketlistcreative.com/about-us

Support the show

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube
📍 Recorded at Bucket List Podcast Studio, St. Louis, MO

On this episode of the STL Bucket List Show, we sit down with the creator behind Ope Outdoors to talk about his journey to building a creative brand in St. Louis.

He shares how studying chemistry led to a career he didn’t love, and how picking up a camera changed everything. What started as a creative outlet turned into photography, video work, and eventually Ope Outdoors, a brand inspired by the Midwest and the outdoors.

We talk about building a business from scratch, finding a unique visual style, and learning through trial and error. He also opens up about pitching his brand to retailers, facing rejection, and staying consistent.

The conversation highlights how Ope Outdoors has grown beyond apparel into a community-focused brand, hosting cleanups and bringing people together across St. Louis.

From creative risk to real impact, this episode is full of insight for anyone building something of their own.

They discuss:

 - Transitioning from a chemistry career to creativity
 - Starting and growing Ope Outdoors
 - Photography, video, and creative style
 - Turning content into a business
 - Learning from rejection and taking risks
 - Building community through outdoor events

🎙 New episodes drop every Wednesday.

🔔 SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY WEEK 🔔

🎧 LISTEN ON:
Apple Podcasts ▶ https://apple.co/36ycuuO
Spotify ▶ https://spoti.fi/3svGoqS

🔗 CONNECT WITH STL BUCKET LIST:
Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/stlbucketlist/?utm_source=Instagram
Website ▶ stlbucketlist.com

🤝 WORK WITH STL BUCKET LIST
Interested in partnering or sponsoring an episode?
Email ▶ [email protected]
Website ▶ https://www.bucketlistcreative.com/about-us

Support the show

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube
📍 Recorded at Bucket List Podcast Studio, St. Louis, MO

On this episode of the STL Bucket List Show, we sit down with NHL legend Chris Pronger to talk about his new book Earned and the mindset that shaped one of hockey’s most dominant careers.

Pronger breaks down what “earned” really means to him — from making it to the NHL, to becoming a leader, to sustaining success through discipline, accountability, and consistency. He reflects on his early career struggles, including being booed on home ice, and how adversity helped build the resilience that defined his legacy.

We also dive into his deep connection to St. Louis, a city he’s called home for over two decades, and why the Midwest culture and community continue to make it special for athletes long after their playing days.

Beyond hockey, Pronger opens up about his transition into life after the NHL — from working in front offices, to entrepreneurship, broadcasting, public speaking, and ultimately finding purpose in teaching others through real-life lessons. He shares how his book came together through storytelling, speeches, and years of lived experience.

This episode is packed with leadership insights, mindset shifts, and practical lessons on accountability, failure, and betting on yourself.

They discuss:

 - What “earned” means in sports and life
 - Overcoming early career adversity in the NHL
 - Leadership, standards, and accountability
 - Life and community in St. Louis
 - Transitioning out of professional hockey
 - Entrepreneurship and finding purpose post-career
 - Writing Earned and lessons from the book
 - Betting on yourself and handling failure

🎙 New episodes drop every Wednesday.

🔔 SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY WEEK 🔔

🎧 LISTEN ON:
Apple Podcasts ▶ https://apple.co/36ycuuO
Spotify ▶ https://spoti.fi/3svGoqS

🔗 CONNECT WITH STL BUCKET LIST:
Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/stlbucketlist/?utm_source=Instagram
Website ▶ stlbucketlist.com

🤝 WORK WITH STL BUCKET LIST
Interested in partnering or sponsoring an episode?
Email ▶ [email protected]
Website ▶ https://www.bucketlistcreative.com/about-us

Support the show

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube
📍 Recorded at Bucket List Podcast Studio, St. Louis, MO

On this episode of the STL Bucket List Show, we sit down with Ricky—founder of Run Crew—to talk about how running, community, and purpose are transforming lives across St. Louis.

Ricky shares his journey from growing up in Jennings and pursuing sports and music, to facing depression during the pandemic—and how a simple decision to start running changed everything. What began as a personal outlet quickly evolved into Run Crew, a movement focused on inclusivity, connection, and showing people that fitness is for everyone.

We dive into how Run Crew has grown from just a handful of people to hundreds across the city, creating a space where running is secondary to community. Ricky also opens up about breaking stereotypes around fitness, the importance of representation, and why movement can be a powerful tool for mental health.

The conversation highlights how Run Crew is activating spaces all across St. Louis, supporting local businesses, and building a culture that brings people together—no matter their background or ability level.

From personal transformation to citywide impact, this episode is packed with inspiration for anyone looking to get moving and get connected.

They discuss:

•  Ricky’s journey from athletics and music to Run Crew 
•  How running helped him overcome depression 
•  Building an inclusive and diverse fitness community 
•  Breaking myths and stereotypes around running 
•  The growth and impact of Run Crew in St. Louis 
•  Creating spaces for connection, wellness, and community 

🎙 New episodes drop every Wednesday.

🔔 SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY WEEK 🔔

🎧 LISTEN ON:
 Apple Podcasts ▶ https://apple.co/36ycuuO
Spotify ▶ https://spoti.fi/3svGoqS

🔗 CONNECT WITH STL BUCKET LIST:
 Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/stlbucketlist/?utm_source=Instagram
Website ▶ stlbucketlist.com

🤝 WORK WITH STL BUCKET LIST
 Interested in partnering or sponsoring an episode?
 Email ▶ [email protected]
Website ▶ https://www.bucketlistcreative.com/about-us

Support the show

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube
📍 Recorded at Bucket List Podcast Studio, St. Louis, MO

On this episode of the STL Bucket List Show, we sit down with Halley Moore of GeekPack to explore how community, technology, and connection are helping women build stronger, more scalable businesses.

Halley shares how GeekPack is redefining entrepreneurship by making tech more accessible and less intimidating for everyday business owners. From freelancers to established founders, the organization is helping women embrace digital tools and grow with confidence.

We also dive into the upcoming GeekPack IRL Tour stop in St. Louis — a full-day experience designed to help entrepreneurs step out of their day-to-day operations and focus on strategy, growth, and meaningful connections.

The conversation highlights the power of in-person events, the importance of representation in business, and why creating space for women to collaborate is more important than ever.

From navigating entrepreneurship to building a support system that lasts, this episode is packed with insight for anyone looking to grow their business.

They discuss:

 - What GeekPack is and who it serves
 - Making tech and digital tools more approachable
 - The power of community in entrepreneurship
 - Inside the GeekPack IRL Tour experience
 - Building confidence as a business owner
 - The impact of women-led businesses in St. Louis

🎙 New episodes drop every Wednesday.

🔔 SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY WEEK 🔔

🎧 LISTEN ON:
Apple Podcasts ▶ https://apple.co/36ycuuO
Spotify ▶ https://spoti.fi/3svGoqS

🔗 CONNECT WITH STL BUCKET LIST:
Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/stlbucketlist/?utm_source=Instagram
Website ▶ stlbucketlist.com

🤝 WORK WITH STL BUCKET LIST
Interested in partnering or sponsoring an episode?
Email ▶ [email protected]
Website ▶ https://www.bucketlistcreative.com/about-us

Support the show

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube
📍 Recorded at Bucket List Podcast Studio, St. Louis, MO

On this episode of the STL Bucket List Show, we sit down with Alex — a St. Louis real estate developer and investor — to talk about the transformation of Wash Ave and what it takes to build a thriving urban neighborhood.

Alex shares his journey from engineering into real estate and how nearly two decades of investing in St. Louis led him to focus on the opportunity along Wash Ave. The conversation explores the history of the district — from its roots as a booming garment hub to its evolution into a modern mixed-use neighborhood — and what makes it one of the most walkable areas in the city.

We dive into the strategy behind revitalizing a neighborhood, including the importance of residential density, local businesses, and creating a true live-work-play environment. Alex also discusses the challenges of working with historic buildings, the vision behind new developments like a food hall, and how thoughtful investment can bring long-term stability to downtown.

Along the way, he highlights the role of entrepreneurs, startups, and small business owners in shaping the culture of Wash Ave, and why a strong, vibrant downtown is critical to the future of St. Louis as a whole.

From walkability and community-building to development strategy and local impact, this episode offers an inside look at the people and ideas driving one of the city’s most exciting neighborhoods.

They discuss:

 - Alex’s journey into real estate and development in St. Louis
 - The history and evolution of Wash Ave
 - What makes a neighborhood truly walkable and vibrant
 - The importance of residential density and mixed-use development
 - Supporting local businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs
 - The vision behind new projects like a Wash Ave food hall

🎙 New episodes drop every Wednesday.

🔔 SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY WEEK 🔔

🎧 LISTEN ON:
Apple Podcasts ▶ https://apple.co/36ycuuO
Spotify ▶ https://spoti.fi/3svGoqS

🔗 CONNECT WITH STL BUCKET LIST:
Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/stlbucketlist/?utm_source=Instagram
Website ▶ stlbucketlist.com

🤝 WORK WITH STL BUCKET LIST
Interested in partnering or sponsoring an episode?
Email ▶ [email protected]
Website ▶ https://www.bucketlistcreative.com/about-us

Support the show

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube
📍 Recorded at Bucket List Podcast Studio, St. Louis, MO

On this episode of the STL Bucket List Show, we sit down with Kendall Davidson — a St. Louis rapper, producer, filmmaker, and entrepreneur — to talk about his creative journey and the release of his new project, Rise.

Kendall shares how growing up in St. Louis and starting in church music helped shape his creative foundation, eventually leading him into hip-hop, filmmaking, and producing his own music. The conversation explores how he blends multiple influences — from jazz and blues to rock and hip-hop — to create a sound that reflects the diverse musical legacy of St. Louis.

We also dive into the two-year process behind Rise, the discipline it takes to build a project independently, and how Kendall approaches songwriting, production, and storytelling through music. Along the way, he shares the impact of becoming a new father, the importance of creating opportunities for local artists, and why supporting the St. Louis creative community matters.

From studio sessions and music videos to favorite local restaurants and venues, this episode highlights the passion, persistence, and creativity behind one of the city’s emerging artists.

They discuss:

 - Kendall’s journey into music, filmmaking, and production

 - The inspiration behind his new album Rise

 - The two-year process of creating an independent project

 - Blending jazz, rock, blues, and hip-hop influences

 - Balancing music, business, and family life

 - Becoming a new father and finding motivation through creativity

 - Supporting and collaborating with the St. Louis music community

 - Favorite St. Louis restaurants, venues, and artists

🎙 New episodes drop every Wednesday.

🔔 SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY WEEK 🔔

🎧 LISTEN ON:
Apple Podcasts ▶ https://apple.co/36ycuuO
Spotify ▶ https://spoti.fi/3svGoqS

🔗 CONNECT WITH STL BUCKET LIST:
Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/stlbucketlist/?utm_source=Instagram
Website ▶ stlbucketlist.com

🤝 WORK WITH STL BUCKET LIST
Interested in partnering or sponsoring an episode?
Email ▶ [email protected]
Website ▶ https://www.bucketlistcreative.com/about-us

Support the show

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube
📍 Recorded at Bucket List Podcast Studio, St. Louis, MO

On this episode of the STL Bucket List Show, we sit down with Neil Salsich — musician, songwriter, and frontman of The Mighty Pines — to talk about his journey through the St. Louis music scene and the launch of his new podcast, Meet Me In Music, recorded right here at Bucket List Studios.

Neil shares how years of performing, songwriting, and hustling as a working musician led to new creative opportunities — from his experience competing on The Voice to building a platform dedicated to telling the stories of St. Louis musicians. We dive into the reality of balancing creativity with the business side of music, what life is really like as a full-time musician, and why preserving local music history matters now more than ever.

From late-night gigs and iconic St. Louis venues to the moments that shaped his career, this conversation highlights the passion, discipline, and community behind the city’s thriving music culture.

They discuss:

 - Launching the Meet Me In Music podcast

 - Neil’s journey performing on The Voice

 - Life as a full-time working musician

 - The St. Louis music scene and why its stories matter

 - Balancing creativity with the business of music

 - Iconic St. Louis venues and career milestones

 - Collaborating with musicians through live podcast performances

🎙 New episodes drop every Wednesday.

🔔 SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY WEEK 🔔

🎧 LISTEN ON:
Apple Podcasts ▶ https://apple.co/36ycuuO
Spotify ▶ https://spoti.fi/3svGoqS

🔗 CONNECT WITH STL BUCKET LIST:
Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/stlbucketlist/?utm_source=Instagram
Website ▶ stlbucketlist.com

🤝 WORK WITH STL BUCKET LIST
Interested in partnering or sponsoring an episode?
Email ▶ [email protected]
Website ▶ https://www.bucketlistcreative.com/about-us

Support the show

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube
📍 Recorded at Bucket List Podcast Studio, St. Louis, MO