Kansas City barbecue is built on legacy, and few names carry that weight like Zarda.

In this episode of There’s Just Something About Kansas City, we sit down with Terry Hyer, COO of Zarda, to talk about leading one of the region’s most recognizable barbecue brands into its next chapter.

Terry shares his path into the business and what it means to help steward a multi-generational Kansas City staple. We explore how Zarda balances tradition with the realities of modern growth, from operations and maintaining consistency across locations to adapting to evolving customer expectations.

We also dig into the competitive Kansas City barbecue landscape, the decisions that shape what ends up on your plate, and the behind-the-scenes challenges of running a legacy restaurant brand.

Along the way, Terry shares memorable stories - like how a 1970 Camaro inspired his storied journey, and how his mother recruited Mike Zarda to sell Terry on a college degree - and offers insight into what it takes to keep a beloved brand relevant in a city known as the Barbecue Capital of the World.

🎧 A must-listen for BBQ lovers, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in the future of Kansas City food culture.

A big idea can change a city - and sometimes, it starts with one voice encouraging others to dream bigger.

In this timely re-release, we revisit our conversation with Kay Barnes - former mayor of Kansas City, MO - a transformational leader whose vision helped reshape downtown Kansas City and redefine what’s possible for the region.

Her influence is once again front and center.

Following the announcement of a new Kansas City Royals stadium near Crown Center, owner John Sherman pointed directly to Barnes - and a handwritten note she sent him encouraging him to “think big… then think bigger” - as a key inspiration behind the vision becoming reality.

In this conversation, Barnes reflects on leadership, long-term vision, and what it truly takes to move a city forward. From downtown development to civic momentum, her insights offer powerful context for one of the biggest moments in Kansas City’s future.

🎧 Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting it now, this episode is a reminder that bold ideas & the people behind them can shape a city for generations.

In October 2024, we sat down with John Sherman, owner of the Kansas City Royals, for an in-depth conversation about the future of the franchise, his vision for a downtown ballpark, and what it would take to secure the next generation of Royals fans.

Now, that vision is becoming reality.

On April 22, 2026, Sherman joined leaders from Kansas City and the state of Missouri to announce plans for a new stadium in the Crown Center area — marking a major turning point for the team and the region.

In this timely re-release, Sherman’s earlier insights take on new meaning. He discusses the challenges, opportunities, and long-term impact of bringing a project like this to life — from financing and public-private partnerships to fan experience and downtown development.

Whether you’re hearing it again or for the first time, this episode provides essential context for one of the biggest sports and economic development stories in Kansas City today.

🎧 A must-listen for Royals fans, Kansas Citians, and anyone following the future of downtown Kansas City.

What can we learn from one of America’s most consequential presidents - and why does his leadership still matter today?

In this episode of There’s Just Something About Kansas City, we sit down with Alex Burden, Executive Director of the Truman Library Institute, to explore the enduring legacy of Harry S. Truman.

Known as “The Man from Independence,” Truman helped shape the modern presidency during a pivotal time in world history. Burden shares how Truman’s leadership continues to influence conversations around democracy, global responsibility, and civic engagement.

We also discuss the mission of the Truman Library Institute, the role of presidential libraries in preserving history, and how institutions like the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum are evolving to connect with new generations.

From behind-the-scenes insights to the importance of historical literacy in today’s world, this conversation offers a compelling look at why Truman’s story remains strikingly relevant.

As Truman famously said, “The buck stops here.”

🎧 A must-listen for history lovers, civic leaders, and anyone interested in the future of democracy.

Former MLB All-Star pitcher Mike Boddicker joins the podcast for a conversation that goes far beyond baseball.

From growing up in Norway to becoming a 1983 World Series Champion with the Baltimore Orioles, Boddicker shares the journey that led him to the big leagues — and eventually to the Kansas City Royals.

This episode is packed with behind-the-scenes clubhouse stories, unforgettable moments from his MLB career, and insights into the personalities that defined the game during his era. With humor and honesty, Boddicker brings listeners inside the world of professional baseball.

But the heart of this conversation is what he’s doing off the field.

Mike shares the inspiration behind the Boddicker Family Foundation and its mission to support children and families in need. He also discusses the foundation’s meaningful partnership with Children's Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, and why giving back to the community has become such an important part of his life.

It’s a conversation filled with baseball, laughter, and purpose — highlighting a life rooted not just in sports, but in making a difference.

The arts play a vital role in shaping a city’s identity. Few people understand that better than Deborah Sandler Kemper, General Director and CEO of the Lyric Opera of Kansas City.

In this episode of There’s Just Something About Kansas City, Deborah shares her journey from Philadelphia to becoming a leading voice in Kansas City’s arts and cultural community.

We explore her passion for the performing arts, her leadership at the Lyric Opera, and her vision for how arts organizations can strengthen communities and enrich lives. Deborah also reflects on the important role philanthropy and civic engagement play in building a vibrant, connected city.

This conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at arts leadership and the impact of cultural institutions on a growing metropolitan area.

🎧 A must-listen for anyone who cares about the future of the arts in 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.