Episodes
-
On this episode of The Sauce Podcast, host Lauren sits down with Edie Hsia, general manager and bar manager at Saigon Café, for a conversation about cocktail creativity, Vietnamese cuisine, Asian food culture, and the growing hospitality community in St. Louis.
Edie shares how he helped develop Saigon Café’s evolving cocktail program — from clarified cocktails and bottled drinks to presentation-driven creations inspired by travel, flavor, and visual storytelling. He explains the clarification process behind one of the restaurant’s most popular cocktails and why aroma, appearance, and balance are just as important as taste.
The conversation also dives into the food side of Saigon Café, including the restaurant’s fan-favorite papaya salad, shaking beef, spring rolls, and the care that goes into sourcing ingredients and building flavor.
Along the way, Edie opens up about his Taiwanese background, growing up connected to his family’s legendary restaurant Tai Ke Shabu Shabu, and how returning to Taiwan later in life reshaped his perspective on food, culture, and hospitality.
Lauren and Edie also talk about travel, Asian nightlife and cocktail culture, pickleball, local restaurant favorites, and the community-driven energy behind the Central West End’s Red Lantern Festival.
In this episode:
Building Saigon Café’s cocktail program Clarified cocktails and bottled drinks Vietnamese cuisine and fan-favorite dishes Taiwanese roots and family restaurant history Returning to Taiwan and traveling through Asia Favorite St. Louis restaurants and hidden gems Pickleball, community, and hospitality culture The story behind Red Lantern Festival Cocktail presentation and creative inspirationCome 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 Amy Guo, co-owner of Sando Shack and Hello Poké, for a conversation about entrepreneurship, Japanese comfort food, food halls, and the unexpected path that brought her family back to St. Louis.
Amy shares the story behind Sando Shack — the Japanese-inspired sandwich concept known for its katsu sandos, fruit sandos, and creative flavors — and how what started as small pop-ups during the pandemic eventually grew into a food truck, a brick-and-mortar restaurant, and a new home in Maplewood.
She also reflects on launching Hello Poké inside City Foundry and how a move from Seattle to St. Louis unexpectedly changed the direction of their lives and careers. From operating inside one of the city’s biggest food destinations to navigating entrepreneurship for the first time, Amy opens up about the realities of restaurant ownership, learning to lead, and adapting to constant change.
The conversation also explores St. Louis’ growing food scene, Maplewood’s supportive small business community, authentic Asian cuisine in the city, and some favorite local spots around town.
Along the way, Amy shares stories about food trucks, festivals, balancing multiple concepts, and why she believes St. Louis continues to evolve in exciting ways.
In this episode:
The story behind Sando Shack and Japanese-style sandwiches Building Hello Poké at City Foundry Moving from Seattle back to St. Louis Launching restaurants during the pandemic Pop-ups, food trucks, and early entrepreneurship Expanding into a brick-and-mortar space The move from Morganford to Maplewood Challenges of restaurant ownership and leadership City Foundry’s growth and St. Louis food halls Maplewood’s business community and local support Favorite St. Louis restaurants and hidden gems Exploring authentic Asian food in St. Louis Festivals, food trucks, and future plansCome 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. -
Episodes manquant?
-
Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of suicide, mental health struggles, paranormal themes, and substance use that some listeners may find sensitive or distressing.
On this episode of The Sauce Podcast, host Lauren sits down with longtime St. Louis radio personality Dave Glover for one of the wildest and most entertaining conversations yet — covering everything from his unexpected journey from lawyer to radio host, to mental health, cannabis, live music, Bigfoot encounters, ghost hunting, aliens, and the St. Louis restaurant scene.
Dave reflects on celebrating 25 years on air with The Dave Glover Show and explains how he accidentally fell into radio after a career in law. He shares stories about improvising live radio for four hours a day, building authentic connections with listeners, and how personal tragedy transformed the direction of his show.
The conversation also dives into mental health, therapy, and Dave’s experience using cannabis gummies to help manage anxiety and stress. From solo Cardinals games and favorite dispensary finds to live music and performing Beatles covers with his band, the episode balances heartfelt moments with hilarious stories throughout.
Then things take a paranormal turn.
Dave opens up about his lifelong fascination with Bigfoot, recounting a strange encounter in the Colorado mountains that left both him and a skeptical friend stunned. The conversation continues into aliens, UFOs, haunted houses, paranormal investigations, the infamous Sallie House, the Exorcist house in St. Louis, and unexplained psychic experiences that still stick with him today.
Along the way, Dave also shares some of his favorite St. Louis restaurants, talks about the city’s evolving food scene, and reflects on why St. Louis deserves more credit nationally.
From radio stories and live music to ghosts and cryptids — this episode truly goes everywhere.
In this episode:
- Dave Glover’s accidental path from lawyer to radio host
- Celebrating 25 years of The Dave Glover Show
- Learning to improvise live radio
- Mental health, therapy, and vulnerability on-air
- Cannabis gummies and managing anxiety
- Performing live music and Beatles covers
- Favorite St. Louis restaurants and hidden gems
- St. Louis food culture and restaurant scene growth
- Bigfoot encounters in Colorado
- Aliens, UFOs, and government footage
- Paranormal investigations and haunted houses
- The Sallie House and the Exorcist house
- Psychic experiences and unexplained coincidences
- Playing baseball at 60 and staying creativeCome 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. -
“The Sauce” with Jeff & Alex Henry – Bringing Yucatán Cuisine to St. Louis Through El Molino del Sureste
On this episode of The Sauce Podcast, host Lauren sits down with brothers Jeff and Alex Henry — the owners of El Molino del Sureste and Taqueria del Sureste — to talk about their journey from growing up between Missouri and Mexico to building one of St. Louis’ most exciting and celebrated regional Mexican restaurant concepts.
The brothers share how their upbringing in Mérida, Yucatán shaped their connection to food, family, and hospitality, and how summers spent cooking with their grandparents inspired Alex’s path into the culinary world. They dive into the evolution from opening inside City Foundry STL to launching their standalone South City restaurant, where they’ve been able to fully showcase the depth and creativity of Yucatán-inspired cuisine.
They also break down some of their standout dishes — from handmade masa creations and smoked sweet potatoes to traditional candied squash desserts — while explaining the techniques, ingredients, and philosophy behind their fully scratch-made kitchen. The conversation touches on seasonal menus, farm sourcing, house-grown herbs, and how their James Beard semifinalist recognition helped transform the trajectory of the business.
Beyond the food, the episode explores the importance of family, cultural identity, mentorship, and staying deeply connected to both St. Louis and Mexico while building something truly personal.
From Yucatán traditions to modern technique, from masa to mezcal cocktails — this episode is all about honoring heritage through food.
In this episode:
Growing up between St. Louis and Mérida, YucatánFamily traditions and learning to cook from their grandmotherAlex Henry’s path into the culinary worldOpening at City Foundry STL during uncertain post-pandemic timesExpanding into El Molino del Sureste in South CityRegional Mexican cuisine and Yucatán influencesScratch cooking and farm-to-table sourcingHandmade masa dishes and smoked sweet potato preparationsTraditional Mexican candying techniques and seasonal dessertsThe evolving cocktail program and bringing on beverage manager Ben BauerGardening, specialty herbs, and growing ingredients onsiteBecoming James Beard semifinalists and the impact on the restaurantFavorite St. Louis restaurants and exploring the cityWhat’s next for the future of the Sureste restaurantsCome 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 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 communityCome 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 FirstCome 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 storytellingCome 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 hospitalityCome 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. -
On this week’s episode of The Sauce Podcast, host Lauren Healey sits down with LaTasha Smith, owner of Intertwine Wine Bar in Dutchtown, for a conversation about entrepreneurship, education, and building spaces where community thrives.
LaTasha shares how a 10-year dream became reality — transforming a former residential space into a hidden, speakeasy-style wine bar where nearly everything inside was handcrafted by family. From a secret upstairs members’ lounge to a growing mocktail menu and themed pop-ups throughout the year, Intertwine is designed to be a modern-day “Cheers” in the heart of the neighborhood.
Beyond hospitality, LaTasha is deeply rooted in education. A longtime educator currently working in St. Louis Public Schools while pursuing her PhD and superintendency certification, she talks about why policy matters, the importance of investing in youth, and how leadership at the table can shape the future of communities.
In this episode:
- How Intertwine Wine Bar went from dream to grand opening in Dutchtown
- The power of pop-ups, mocktails, and creating inclusive spaces
- Balancing business ownership, full-time work in education, and a PhD program
- Why education and community development go hand in hand
📍 Intertwine Wine Bar is located in Dutchtown, St. Louis
🔗 https://intertwinebar.com/
Come in a stranger, leave a friend.Follow IntertWine Bar: @intertwinewinebar
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
On this week’s episode of The Sauce Podcast, host Lauren Healey sits down with Jared Williamson, Head Brewer at Schlafly Beer, to talk creativity, legacy, and what the future of beer really looks like.
Jared shares how his path into brewing began far from traditional beer school — starting as an art and music major before working his way up from cleaning kegs to leading operations at Schlafly’s original taproom. He dives into how beers are developed, from the “palate of the mind” to pilot batches, and what it means to honor a legacy brand while still pushing flavor forward.
The conversation also explores how Schlafly is responding to changing drinking habits, including the rise of non-alcoholic and lower-ABV beers, and the launch of Shorty’s — a new line of small beers that are short on alcohol but long on flavor.
In this episode:
Jared’s journey into brewing and how creativity shapes his approach to beer
How Schlafly balances innovation with tradition while developing new beers
The rise of mindful drinking and the inspiration behind Shorty’s small beers
📍 Schlafly Beer is based in St. Louis, Missouri
🔗 https://www.schlafly.com/
Follow Schlafly: @schlaflybeerCome 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 Jackie Price, founder and owner of Fennel Cooking Studio in Midtown St. Louis.
Jackie shares her journey from culinary school to teaching at Saint Louis University, and eventually taking the leap to open Fennel — a hands-on cooking class studio built around accessibility, education, and community. She talks about blending culinary arts with nutrition, creating a space where people feel confident in the kitchen, and why food has always been her favorite way to bring people together.
In this episode:
- Falling in love with teaching cooking while still in culinary school
- Building Fennel as a hands-on, community-focused cooking studio
- Blending nutrition, practicality, and indulgence in the kitchen
- Offering skill-based classes, global cuisines, and seasonal cooking
- Launching food-centered travel retreats to Italy and France
- Why learning how to cook is one of the most empowering life skills
📍 Fennel Cooking Studio is located in Midtown St. Louis
🔗 https://www.fennelstl.com/
Follow Fennel: @fennel.stl
Follow Jackie: @jackieprice711Come 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 Oker, the Executive Chef at Pastaria and one of Sauce Magazine’s Ones to Watch in the February issue.
Brandon shares his path from growing up in a town of 300 people near Lake of the Ozarks to working his way from dishwasher to leading one of St. Louis’s most beloved pasta institutions. He talks about work ethic, mentorship, and why hospitality is something he feels is simply “in his bones.”
In this episode:
Brandon’s early kitchen days at Porta Chima and learning hospitality from the ground upHow his upbringing shaped his leadership style and approach to foodStepping into Pastaria as executive chef, what stays sacred, and where seasonality comes into playWhy Pastaria continues to thrive as an accessible, family-friendly, truly democratic restaurantDream future concepts, testing recipes at home, and cooking alongside his 5-year-old son, Winston📍 Pastaria is open 7 days a week, 4–9 PM
🔗 pastariastl.comFollow Brandon: @brandonoker
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 Jason Tilford, chef/owner behind Session Taco and the newly opened Lapez Mod Mex in the Central West End.
Jason walks through nearly two decades of building chef-driven concepts in St. Louis, starting with a tiny, made-from-scratch Tortilleria in the CWE, to opening Mission Taco Joint in 2012, and now evolving the brand back to its roots while launching Lapez as a more elevated, sit-down experience.
In this episode:
How Jason and his brother Adam got started with Tortilleria, handmade tortillas and scratch cooking before it was common in STLOpening Barristers, St. Louis’ first soccer pub, and building a chef-driven bar food conceptMilagro in Webster Groves, early acclaim, and how it helped spark what became Mission Taco JointWhy scaling the “taco joint” model didn’t work everywhere, and what they’re doing to course-correctWhat sets Lapez Mod Mex apart, Spanish-forward drinks, curated wines, seafood-driven dishes, and knife-and-fork platesA real conversation about the current restaurant climate, closures, and what the industry is facing right nowCome 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, host Lauren Healey is joined by Nathaniel Reid, chef and owner of Nathaniel Reid Bakery, one of St. Louis’ most celebrated bakeries.
Nathaniel reflects on nearly 10 years in Kirkwood, three expansions, and the mindset that’s helped the bakery thrive through consistency, craft, and community support.
In this episode:
How Nathaniel went from aspiring scientist to award-winning pastry chefWinning a national pastry competition in New York and competing on the world stage in JapanThree James Beard Award nominations and what those recognitions mean to himWhy pastry satisfies both his scientific mindset and creative instinctsBuilding a business rooted in consistency, simplicity, and team cultureMore highlights:
A wild early-career story involving a timber rattlesnake and an unexpected firingForaging, fossil hunting, and outdoor hobbies that still fuel his curiosityWhat it’s like watching customers and team members grow over a decadeWhy seeing smiles through the bakery window is the most rewarding part of the job🎧 Watch on YouTube or listen on Spotify and all major platforms.
📅 New episodes drop every Tuesday.Presented by Swade Dispensary, with 11 locations across Missouri. Learn more about their new Passport Membership program 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. - Montre plus
