Category: Podcast Transcripts

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October 7, 2026

Season 2, Episode 2: Conversation with Dr. Matthew Naylor, President and CEO of the National World War I Museum and Memorial

Host Michael Mackie sits down with Dr. Matthew Naylor, President and CEO of the National WWI Museum and Memorial, as the institution prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary. Naylor shares plans for this milestone—including art installations illuminating the Memorial’s iconic tower—and reveals how the Museum is continuing to evolve with immersive exhibits, technology and vision for the future. Hear the fascinating story of why the Museum is in Kansas City and its enduring relevance today. Learn more about the impact of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the future Kansas City Royals stadium plans and more.
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September 2, 2026

Season 2, Episode 1: Conversation with Stacie McDaniel, Executive Director of the Midwest Trust Center at Johnson County Community College

Host Michael Mackie sits down with Stacie McDaniel, Executive Director of the Midwest Trust Center at Johnson County Community College, to discuss one of Kansas City's leading performing arts organizations located in Johnson County and our first organization featured that is not located on the Streetcar line.
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August 5, 2026

Episode 12: Conversation with Stuart Carden, Artistic Director of the Kansas City Repertory Theatre

Host Michael Mackie sits down with Stuart Carden, Artistic Director of the Kansas City Repertory Theatre, to discuss the future of one of Kansas City's leading performing arts organizations. Carden shares an update on KCRep's search for a new theater venue, what the organization needs in its next home and whether it plans to continue using Copaken Theater after the move. The episode concludes with a preview of KCRep's 2026–2027 season.
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July 1, 2026

Episode 11: Conversation with Mayor Quinton Lucas, Mayor of Kansas City

Host Michael Mackie sits down with Quinton Lucas, Mayor of Kansas City, Missouri. Get an inside look at Mayor Lucas’s insights on the World Cup and what it means for Kansas City’s future. Hear the mayor's thoughts on the City’s growing cultural landscape, including the new arts destinations in the 18th & Vine area and the Kansas City Symphony’s new venue in the South Plaza district. He shares where he would like to see the Kansas City Streetcar expand in the future, provides a status update on the South Loop project and more.
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June 3, 2026

Episode 10: Conversation with Sidonie Garrett, Executive Artistic Director of the Heart of America Shakespeare Festival

Host Michael Mackie sits down with Sidonie Garrett, Executive Artistic Director of the Heart of America Shakespeare Festival. Their discussion centers around the upcoming 2026 production of Macbeth. Garrett discusses tips for the ultimate "theatrical tailgating" experience and why Southmoreland Park is the ideal place for residents and visitors to the upcoming World Cup to experience classic Shakespeare in an inviting setting for ​free. They also discuss continuing educational partnerships with local organizations such as The Black Repertory Theater of Kansas City and plans for their big 35th anniversary.
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May 6, 2026

Episode 9: Dr. Peggy Shannon, The Nerman Family President of the Kansas City Art Institute

Host Michael Mackie sits down with Dr. Peggy Shannon, The Nerman Family President of the Kansas City Art Institute, to explore the school’s evolving strategic vision. They discuss Marble & Canvas, the new on‑campus retail store showcasing student and alumni work, and how the Streetcar extension is already boosting foot traffic along The Arterie—Kansas City’s emerging cultural corridor. The upcoming Selfie Love Scavenger Hunt will allow residents and World Cup visitors to experience the entire cultural corridor, take pictures and win prizes throughout the summer.
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April 1, 2026

Episode 8: Kathy Nelson, CEO & President of the Kansas City Sports Commission & Visit KC, and Lindsey Douglas, Chief Operating Office of KC2026

Host Michael Mackie sits down with Kathy Nelson, CEO & President of the Kansas City Sports Commission & VisitKC, and Lindsey Douglas, Chief Operating Officer of KC2026, to discuss how the World Cup will impact international, national and regional visitors and local residents. Transportation options including the new Streetcar extensions are discussed as key components of accessibility for all events from May through July in Kansas City and for easy accessibility to cultural arts activities for residents and visitors after the World Cup.
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March 4, 2026

Episode 7: Conversation with Jon Stephens, CEO & President of KC Port Authority

Host Michael Mackie sits down with Jon Stephens, CEO & President of KC Port Authority to discuss the development of the River Market and Riverfront areas, their current and upcoming programs and future strategic plans. Jon discusses exciting new projects and how the upcoming extension of the Streetcar to Berkley Park and expanding the riverfront trails from Rock Island Bridge to the East Bottoms will enhance accessibility and improve walkability to residents and visitors alike.
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February 4, 2026

Episode 6: Conversation with Eric Dorfman, CEO & President of Linda Hall Library

Host Michael Mackie sits down with Dr. Eric Dorfman, CEO & President of the Linda Hall Library, to discuss the 80th anniversary of the Linda Hall Library, their upcoming program and future strategic plans. Dorfman also discusses Linda Hall Library's first gift shop, opening every Saturday instead of just once a month and how the new streetcar extension will make their organization more accessible to residents and visitors alike.
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