The STL Bucket List Show

Hosted by Lucas & Marissa Farrell

Business Entrepreneurship Society CultureInterviews guests

Website RSS feed

Episodes

222

Latest episode

Jun 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

Co-hosted by couple Lucas and Marissa Farrell, the founders of the popular Instagram account STL Bucket List. Lucas and Marissa discuss all things St. Louis with some of the city's most influential people. This weekly show highlights guest speakers with a passion for serving the community through talents, businesses, entrepreneurship, and influence. Tune in every Wednesday for real conversations with compelling minds in and around St. Louis.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

June 10, 202631 min

Fitz's Root Beer - Michael Alter on Building a St. Louis Icon One Root Beer at a Time

On this episode of the STL Bucket List Show, we sit down with Michael Alter, owner and founder of Fitz’s, to discuss the story behind one of St. Louis’ most iconic brands and how a small soda startup grew into a regional institution recognized across generations.Michael shares the history of Fitz’s, from its roots as a legendary St. Louis drive-in restaurant to relaunching the brand in 1992 with a vision of creating a craft soda microbrewery long before the craft beverage movement became mainstream.The conversation explores the evolution of the Delmar Loop, the importance of building a strong company culture, and how Fitz’s has remained relevant for more than three decades while staying true to its identity. Michael also discusses the company’s commitment to real cane sugar, product innovation, and the launch of Fitz’s newest mixer line featuring club soda, tonic water, and zero-calorie tonic water.They also dive into entrepreneurship, leadership, collaboration, and the challenges of navigating changing consumer trends while preserving the nostalgic experience that has made Fitz’s a St. Louis favorite.From family businesses and community impact to product development and local partnerships, this episode highlights what it takes to build a lasting brand and why Fitz’s continues to be woven into the fabric of St. Louis.They discuss:• The history and relaunch of Fitz’s in 1992• Building a craft soda company before craft beverages were mainstream• The story behind the iconic Fitz’s Root Beer brand• The growth and evolution of the Delmar Loop• Leadership lessons from 33 years of entrepreneurship• Building company culture and retaining great employees• Why Fitz’s remains committed to real cane sugar• Product innovation and launching the new mixer line• Collaborations with local brands and organizations• Working with 4 Hands Brewing Co. and the Gateway Arch• Creating memorable family experiences through the restaurant• The future of Fitz’s and evolving consumer trends• Favorite St. Louis restaurants, parks, and local businesses• Supporting local entrepreneurship and community growth🎙 New episodes drop every Wednesday.🔔 SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY WEEK 🔔🎧 LISTEN ON:Apple Podcasts ▶ https://apple.co/36ycuuOSpotify ▶ https://spoti.fi/3svGoqS🔗 CONNECT WITH STL BUCKET LIST:Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/stlbucketlistWebsite ▶ stlbucketlist.com🤝 WORK WITH STL BUCKET LISTInterested in partnering or sponsoring an episode?Email ▶ show@stlbucketlist.comWebsite ▶ https://www.bucketlistcreative.com/aboutSupport the show🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube📍 Recorded at Bucket List Podcast Studio, St. Louis, MO

June 3, 202641 min

May’s Night Market — Building One of St. Louis’ Biggest Creative Communities

On this episode of the STL Bucket List Show, we sit down with Katie of May’s Place and May’s Night Market to talk about building one of St. Louis’ most influential vintage brands and transforming a small local market into a citywide cultural event drawing more than 10,000 people.Katie shares the story behind launching May’s Place in South City, leaving the corporate fashion world behind, and creating a business rooted in sustainability, vintage fashion, and community. From signing a storefront lease in a single day to growing a nationally recognized vintage destination, this episode explores the evolution of one of St. Louis’ most beloved creative brands.The conversation dives into the environmental impact of fast fashion, the rise of vintage culture in the Midwest, and how May’s Night Market exploded from a small indoor gathering at The Ready Room into one of the region’s biggest shopping and community events at City Foundry.They also discuss balancing entrepreneurship and motherhood, building a business with family values, curating vendors with intention, and how local partnerships and community support helped the event grow year after year.From fashion and sustainability to small business and creative culture, this episode highlights how May’s Night Market has become one of St. Louis’ premier community-driven events while helping shape the city’s growing vintage and maker scene.They discuss: - The origin story behind May’s Place - Leaving corporate fashion to start a vintage business - Sustainability and the impact of fast fashion - Growing St. Louis’ vintage and creative community - How May’s Night Market began - Expanding from 800 to 10,000+ attendees - Curating vendors and building community-driven events - Balancing entrepreneurship and motherhood - Social media, photography, and creative branding - Favorite St. Louis restaurants, shops, and family activities🎙 New episodes drop every Wednesday.🔔 SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY WEEK 🔔🎧 LISTEN ON:Apple Podcasts ▶ https://apple.co/36ycuuOSpotify ▶ https://spoti.fi/3svGoqS🔗 CONNECT WITH STL BUCKET LIST:Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/stlbucketli...Website ▶ stlbucketlist.com🤝 WORK WITH STL BUCKET LISTInterested in partnering or sponsoring an episode?Email ▶ show@stlbucketlist.comWebsite ▶ https://www.bucketlistcreative.com/ab...Support the show🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube📍 Recorded at Bucket List Podcast Studio, St. Louis, MO

May 27, 202637 min

STL Shock – Building Pickleball’s Fastest Growing Team in America

On this episode of the STL Bucket List Show, we sit down with Ross Chaifetz and Andrew Haines of the St. Louis Shock to talk about building one of the fastest-rising franchises in professional sports and why St. Louis has become one of the biggest pickleball markets in the country.Ross shares the origin story behind the St. Louis Shock—from identifying pickleball as an emerging investment opportunity during the pandemic to launching an expansion franchise in just two weeks and transforming it into one of Major League Pickleball’s premier teams.The conversation dives into the explosive growth of professional pickleball, why St. Louis was chosen as the home market, and how the Shock are building much more than a team through investments in facilities, technology, apparel, media, and nationwide player development programs.They also discuss bringing Major League Pickleball back to Chaifetz Arena, creating a world-class fan experience, the rise of young professional players, and how social media and content have helped redefine what a modern sports franchise can look like.From sports innovation to community impact, entrepreneurship to entertainment, this episode explores how the St. Louis Shock are helping shape the future of pickleball while putting St. Louis on the national stage.They discuss: The founding of the St. Louis Shock and Major League Pickleball expansion Why St. Louis became a top pickleball market Investing in the future of pickleball beyond the team itself Building a professional sports franchise in just two weeks Bringing MLP events to Chaifetz Arena Youth athletes and the future of the sport Growing the Shock nationally through player programs Shock & Awe and building a sports content brand Social media, fan engagement, and modern sports marketing The future of professional pickleball and MLP Saint Louis 🎙 New episodes drop every Wednesday.🔔 SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY WEEK 🔔🎧 LISTEN ON:Apple Podcasts ▶ https://apple.co/36ycuuOSpotify ▶ https://spoti.fi/3svGoqS🔗 CONNECT WITH STL BUCKET LIST:Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/stlbucketlist/?utm_source=InstagramWebsite ▶ stlbucketlist.com🤝 WORK WITH STL BUCKET LISTInterested in partnering or sponsoring an episode?Email ▶ show@stlbucketlist.comWebsite ▶ https://www.bucketlistcreative.com/about-usSupport the show🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube📍 Recorded at Bucket List Podcast Studio, St. Louis, MO

May 20, 202639 min

Chef to Butcher – Ryan & Eleni Build The Quarter Butcher

On this episode of the STL Bucket List Show, we sit down with Ryan and Eleni, founders of The Quarter Butcher, to talk about building one of the most unique food businesses in Saint Charles County and bringing whole animal butchery to Dardenne Prairie.Ryan shares his journey from culinary school and fine dining kitchens—including time at Bulrush, Pastaria, and The Last Hotel—to discovering a passion for butchery and eventually opening a family-owned butcher shop focused on local sourcing, sustainability, and craftsmanship.The conversation dives into how COVID reshaped their priorities, pushing them to leave the restaurant world behind and build something of their own while balancing marriage, parenthood, and entrepreneurship. They open up about the realities of running a family business together, learning how to separate work from home life, and building systems that protect both the business and their family.They also break down what makes The Quarter Butcher different—from bringing in whole sides of beef and utilizing every part of the animal to creating house-made sausages, deli meats, pet products, tallow goods, and launching an entirely new sandwich menu.From local farms to community building, sustainability to small business growth, this episode is about creating something meaningful while building a life around family and food.They discuss:Leaving fine dining and transitioning into butcheryOpening The Quarter Butcher in Dardenne PrairieWhole animal butchery and sustainable sourcingWorking directly with Missouri farms and producersBalancing marriage, kids, and entrepreneurshipBuilding a family business togetherLaunching the new sandwich program and deli menuHouse-made sausages, tallow products, and pet foodCommunity growth in Saint Charles CountySupporting local makers and businessesThe future vision for classes, dinners, and events🎙 New episodes drop every Wednesday.🔔 SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY WEEK 🔔🎧 LISTEN ON:Apple Podcasts ▶ https://apple.co/36ycuuOSpotify ▶ https://spoti.fi/3svGoqS🔗 CONNECT WITH STL BUCKET LIST:Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/stlbucketlist/?utm_source=InstagramWebsite ▶ stlbucketlist.com🤝 WORK WITH STL BUCKET LISTInterested in partnering or sponsoring an episode?Email ▶ show@stlbucketlist.comWebsite ▶ https://www.bucketlistcreative.com/about-usSupport the show🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube📍 Recorded at Bucket List Podcast Studio, St. Louis, MO

May 13, 202634 min

From Simulators to Supercars – Building a New Racing Culture in St. Louis

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.🔔 SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY WEEK 🔔🎧 LISTEN ON:Apple Podcasts ▶ https://apple.co/36ycuuOSpotify ▶ https://spoti.fi/3svGoqS🔗 CONNECT WITH STL BUCKET LIST:Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/stlbucketlist/?utm_source=InstagramWebsite ▶ stlbucketlist.com🤝 WORK WITH STL BUCKET LISTInterested in partnering or sponsoring an episode?Email ▶ show@stlbucketlist.comWebsite ▶ https://www.bucketlistcreative.com/about-usSupport the show🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube📍 Recorded at Bucket List Podcast Studio, St. Louis, MO

May 6, 2026Episode 21648 min

From Law School to Live-Edge Tables – How David Stine & Stephanie Abbajay Built Stine Woodworking

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/36ycuuOSpotify ▶ https://spoti.fi/3svGoqS🔗 CONNECT WITH STL BUCKET LIST:Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/stlbucketlist/?utm_source=InstagramWebsite ▶ stlbucketlist.com🤝 WORK WITH STL BUCKET LISTInterested in partnering or sponsoring an episode?Email ▶ show@stlbucketlist.comWebsite ▶ https://www.bucketlistcreative.com/about-usSupport the show🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube📍 Recorded at Bucket List Podcast Studio, St. Louis, MO

April 29, 2026Episode 21543 min

From Newsrooms to Newsletters – How Sarah Fenske Is Navigating the Future of Media in STL

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 ▶ show@stlbucketlist.com Website ▶ https://www.bucketlistcreative.com/about-usSupport the show🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube📍 Recorded at Bucket List Podcast Studio, St. Louis, MO

April 22, 2026Episode 21531 min

From Lab Coats to Lenses – How Ope Outdoors Turned Creativity and Community into a Movement in STL

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/36ycuuOSpotify ▶ https://spoti.fi/3svGoqS🔗 CONNECT WITH STL BUCKET LIST:Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/stlbucketlist/?utm_source=InstagramWebsite ▶ stlbucketlist.com🤝 WORK WITH STL BUCKET LISTInterested in partnering or sponsoring an episode?Email ▶ show@stlbucketlist.comWebsite ▶ https://www.bucketlistcreative.com/about-usSupport the show🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube📍 Recorded at Bucket List Podcast Studio, St. Louis, MO

April 15, 2026Episode 21431 min

Earned – NHL Legend Chris Pronger on Leadership, Resilience, and His New Book

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/36ycuuOSpotify ▶ https://spoti.fi/3svGoqS🔗 CONNECT WITH STL BUCKET LIST:Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/stlbucketlist/?utm_source=InstagramWebsite ▶ stlbucketlist.com🤝 WORK WITH STL BUCKET LISTInterested in partnering or sponsoring an episode?Email ▶ show@stlbucketlist.comWebsite ▶ https://www.bucketlistcreative.com/about-usSupport the show🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube📍 Recorded at Bucket List Podcast Studio, St. Louis, MO

April 8, 2026Episode 21342 min

From Rock Bottom to Run Crew – How Ricky Is Building Community Through Movement in St. Louis

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/36ycuuOSpotify ▶ https://spoti.fi/3svGoqS🔗 CONNECT WITH STL BUCKET LIST: Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/stlbucketlist/?utm_source=InstagramWebsite ▶ stlbucketlist.com🤝 WORK WITH STL BUCKET LIST Interested in partnering or sponsoring an episode? Email ▶ show@stlbucketlist.comWebsite ▶ https://www.bucketlistcreative.com/about-usSupport the show🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube📍 Recorded at Bucket List Podcast Studio, St. Louis, MO