Fast Forward STL

Keith Alper
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Business
  • Updated Biweekly

Fast Forward STL is a business and innovation podcast hosted by entrepreneur, investor, producer, and CEO of The Nitrous Effect companies, Keith Alper. Each episode features leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators doing remarkable work connected to St. Louis and the greater region. Together, they explore ideas, stories, and strategies that shape growth, spark curiosity, and occasionally make you say, “I didn’t know that.” From bold startups to legacy organizations reinventing themselves, the conversations dig into how people build, create, and solve real problems, and why it matters to our city’s future. The goal is simple: learn, explore, and help move St. Louis fast forward through business, leadership, and innovation.

  1. Sep 24

    Live: The Business of Sports in St. Louis

    This special episode of Fast Forward STL Live was recorded before a live audience at St. Louis CITY SC’s corporate headquarters. Presented by Greater St. Louis, Inc., CEO Ron Kitchens kicked off the discussion, and host Keith Alper interviewed an all-star panel: Brad Dean (President & CEO, Explore St. Louis) Marc Schreiber (President, St. Louis Sports Commission) Carolyn Kindle (CEO & Member of Ownership Group, St. Louis CITY SC) Chris Zimmerman (CEO, St. Louis Blues); Anuk Karunaratne (President of Business Operations, St. Louis Cardinals) Tune in to hear from some of the region’s leading sports voices to explore the powerful connection between sports and business in the St. Louis economy. Whether you work in the sports or entertainment industry or just love sports, this episode will get you excited about where our region is headed. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe. See related stories and resources from this episode at https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/fast-forward-stl/episode-19 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwYnyrcREHGmdXtX9NEhHsFKPnlX-sLmL&si=1nKDfMtmRLjbB07i  Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GMNrMGxJcajuyAsnAAkTa Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fast-forward-stl/id1862226079  This episode is sponsored by Greater St. Louis, Inc., supported by St. Louis CITY SC, Vistage Chair St. Louis, and Logic Systems; and in partnership with The Nitrous Effect. Major sporting events bring visitors, investment, and national attention to the city while creating opportunities to showcase St. Louis on a larger stage. See how Greater St. Louis, Inc. is driving St. Louis forward. New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/how-to-listen/ Have an idea for a future episode? Email podcasts@stlmag.com.  Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email advertisting@stlmag.com.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  2. Sep 10

    Explore St. Louis and the Business of Tourism

    In this episode of Fast Forward STL, host Keith Alper speaks with Brad Dean, president and CEO of Explore St. Louis. From leading tourism growth in Puerto Rico to now driving conventions, meetings, concerts, and major events in St. Louis, Brad is helping shape the future of St. Louis as one of America’s great destination cities. Tune in to hear lessons learned through his previous roles in Puerto Rico and Myrtle Beach, what he loves about St. Louis, what he’s accomplished so far and what’s ahead, and what it will take to move the region forward. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe. See related stories and resources from this episode at https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/fast-forward-stl/episode-18 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwYnyrcREHGmdXtX9NEhHsFKPnlX-sLmL&si=1nKDfMtmRLjbB07i  Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GMNrMGxJcajuyAsnAAkTa Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fast-forward-stl/id1862226079  This episode is sponsored by Fast Forward STL Live. Join host Keith Alper on September 16 for a discussion about the business of sports in St. Louis as he interviews an all-star panel, featuring Carolyn Kindle, St. Louis CITY SC; Chris Zimmerman, St. Louis Blues; Anuk Karunaratne, St. Louis Cardinals; Brad Dean, Explore St. Louis; and Marc Schreiber, St. Louis Sports Commission. Get tickets. New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/how-to-listen/ Have an idea for a future episode? Email podcasts@stlmag.com.  Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email advertisting@stlmag.com.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  3. Aug 27

    The Business of Running St. Louis Government

    In this episode of Fast Forward STL, host Keith Alper speaks with St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer. A St. Louis native and first-generation college graduate, Spencer has built her career in public service, with a focus on transparency, public safety, neighborhood revitalization, and responsible governance. A year-plus into her tenure as mayor, she reflects on the challenges and lessons so far, the importance of alignment between government and civic organizations, the priorities she’s excited to advance, and what it will take to move the St. Louis region forward. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe. See related stories and resources from this episode at https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/fast-forward-stl/episode-17 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwYnyrcREHGmdXtX9NEhHsFKPnlX-sLmL&si=1nKDfMtmRLjbB07i  Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GMNrMGxJcajuyAsnAAkTa Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fast-forward-stl/id1862226079  This episode is sponsored by SSM Health Cardinal Glennon and supported by Fast Forward STL Live. The Glennon Gallop returns Saturday, September 12, presented by T. Danis Charitable Trust. Cheer on an exciting polo match and take part in the iconic champagne divot stomp, all while supporting a great cause. Best of all, your attendance benefits The Danis Pediatric Center at SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital. Learn more and reserve your spot. New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/how-to-listen/ Have an idea for a future episode? Email podcasts@stlmag.com.  Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email advertisting@stlmag.com.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  4. Aug 13

    The BMW Championship’s Impact on St. Louis

    In this episode of Fast Forward STL, host Keith Alper speaks with Ed Glotzbach, Tournament Chairperson of the 2026 BMW Championship, coming to Bellerive Country Club August 18–23. Glotzbach shares lessons from a career that includes leadership roles at Southwestern Bell/AT&T, TPI, and Spire Energy before taking listeners behind the scenes of the years of planning behind the scenes of the years of planning behind the BMW Championship. He discusses the local businesses helping bring the tournament to life, its economic and charitable impact, the importance of putting eyes on St. Louis, and what fans can expect this August. Tune in to hear his leadership lessons and thoughts on how the championship can help move the region forward. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe. See related stories and resources from this episode at https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/fast-forward-stl/episode-16 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwYnyrcREHGmdXtX9NEhHsFKPnlX-sLmL&si=1nKDfMtmRLjbB07i  Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GMNrMGxJcajuyAsnAAkTa Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fast-forward-stl/id1862226079  This episode is sponsored by Bank of Washington and supported by SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Foundation. Some banking questions can wait until tomorrow. Others can’t. When an important transfer, payroll file, or account issue needs attention today, Bank of Washington is there with local bankers who know your business and are ready to help. When you call, a real person answers. No phone tree. No pressing ‘1’. No explaining your situation over and over again. Just local service, personal support, and responsive bankers who are ready when you need them most. Discover the difference of local banking. New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/how-to-listen/ Have an idea for a future episode? Email podcasts@stlmag.com.  Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email advertisting@stlmag.com.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  5. Jul 30

    Inside Brian Williams Bid for St. Louis County Executive

    In this episode of Fast Forward STL, host Keith Alper speaks with Missouri State Senator Brian Williams. Since first being elected in 2018 to represent Missouri’s 14th Senate District, which covers portions of St. Louis County, Williams has championed criminal justice reform, expanded access to healthcare, and secured major investments for the region. Now, as a candidate for St. Louis County executive, Williams discusses his personal and political journey, why he’s seeking the office, and his vision for the county’s future. Tune in for a conversation about leadership, public service, and what it will take to move the St. Louis region forward. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe. See related stories and resources from this episode at https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/fast-forward-stl/episode-15 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwYnyrcREHGmdXtX9NEhHsFKPnlX-sLmL&si=1nKDfMtmRLjbB07i  Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GMNrMGxJcajuyAsnAAkTa Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fast-forward-stl/id1862226079  Don’t miss Fast Forward STL Live on September 16, presented by Greater St. Louis, Inc. Join host Keith Alper for a live podcast recording discussing the business of sports in St. Louis. The all-star panel includes Carolyn Kindle (St. Louis CITY SC), Chris Zimmerman (St. Louis Blues), a representative from the St. Louis Cardinals, Brad Dean (Explore St. Louis), and Marc Schreiber (St. Louis Sports Commission). Register today. New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/how-to-listen/ Have an idea for a future episode? Email podcasts@stlmag.com.  Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email advertisting@stlmag.com. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  6. Jul 16

    The Business Behind The Muny’s Modern Renaissance

    In this episode of Fast Forward STL, The Muny’s artistic director and executive producer, Mike Isaacson, joins host Keith Alper. Isaacson discusses his career journey from Broadway and The Fox to leading The Muny’s transformation, now in the midst of its 108th season. He shares how a $100 million capital campaign and a commitment to innovation have elevated every aspect of one of St. Louis’ most beloved institutions, while preserving its century-old tradition. Tune in for a conversation about leadership, innovation, the business of live entertainment, and the future of St. Louis. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe. See related stories and resources from this episode at https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/fast-forward-stl/episode-14 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwYnyrcREHGmdXtX9NEhHsFKPnlX-sLmL&si=1nKDfMtmRLjbB07i  Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GMNrMGxJcajuyAsnAAkTa Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fast-forward-stl/id1862226079  This episode is sponsored by Bank of Washington and supported by St. Louis Science Center.  At some banks, you’re just a number in a system, but at Bank of Washington, you’re a neighbor. They greet you by name. They listen, they help, and they make time to understand what’s actually going on in your life, because that’s how community banking is supposed to work. If being known by name matters to you, you’ll feel right at home with the Bank of Washington. Learn more. New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/how-to-listen/ Have an idea for a future episode? Email podcasts@stlmag.com.  Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email advertisting@stlmag.com. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  7. Jul 2

    BioSTL’s Vision for St. Louis Innovation

    In this episode of Fast Forward STL, host Keith Alper is joined by Donn Rubin, founding president and CEO of BioSTL. They go deep on the partnerships and leadership that’s helping position St. Louis as a leader in the biosciences. Rubin also shares his career journey, explains why collaboration is essential to attracting talent and investment, and explores what’s ahead for one of the region’s fastest-growing industries. Tune in for a conversation about entrepreneurship, economic growth, and the future of St. Louis. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe. See related stories and resources from this episode at https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/fast-forward-stl/episode-13 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwYnyrcREHGmdXtX9NEhHsFKPnlX-sLmL&si=1nKDfMtmRLjbB07i  Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GMNrMGxJcajuyAsnAAkTa Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fast-forward-stl/id1862226079  This episode is sponsored by Cardinals Nation Restaurant and Bar. Take your game day to the next level at Cardinals Nation Restaurant and Bar, located right across the street from baseball heaven. Enjoy fan-favorite food, ice-cold drinks, and an unbeatable atmosphere before, during, or after the game. From classic ballpark flavors to chef-inspired specialties, there’s something for every Cardinals fan. Reserve your table today. New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/how-to-listen/ Have an idea for a future episode? Email podcasts@stlmag.com.  Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email advertisting@stlmag.com. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  8. Jun 18

    Clementine’s Creamery’s Recipe for Midwest Growth

    In this episode of Fast Forward STL, Clementine’s Creamery owner Tamara Keefe comes on the show. Hear how she turned a childhood family tradition into a multi-state brand that’s now in 30 Schnucks stores, launched selective Midwest-first franchising, opened a parlor on Walmart’s headquarters in Bentonville, Arkansas, and more. Keefe shares why she left a successful corporate career to make Clementine’s happen, and how she figured out the secrets to quickly scaling a business. Along the way, she improved leadership practices and implemented ways to ensure quality and consistency remained the same even as the company grew. Clementine’s growth has also yielded benefits for the local St. Louis community, such as her investment in a 25,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in North City that’s creating new employment opportunities. Plus, hear her thoughts on how to move the St. Louis region forward. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe. See related stories and resources from this episode: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/fast-forward-stl/episode-12 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwYnyrcREHGmdXtX9NEhHsFKPnlX-sLmL&si=1nKDfMtmRLjbB07i  Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GMNrMGxJcajuyAsnAAkTa Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fast-forward-stl/id1862226079  New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/how-to-listen/ Have an idea for a future episode? Email podcasts@stlmag.com.  Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email advertisting@stlmag.com.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See All (20)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Fast Forward STL is a business and innovation podcast hosted by entrepreneur, investor, producer, and CEO of The Nitrous Effect companies, Keith Alper. Each episode features leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators doing remarkable work connected to St. Louis and the greater region. Together, they explore ideas, stories, and strategies that shape growth, spark curiosity, and occasionally make you say, “I didn’t know that.” From bold startups to legacy organizations reinventing themselves, the conversations dig into how people build, create, and solve real problems, and why it matters to our city’s future. The goal is simple: learn, explore, and help move St. Louis fast forward through business, leadership, and innovation.

Information

  • Creator
    Keith Alper
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    Fast Forward STL

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