City Stories

Kentucky League of Cities
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Places & Travel
  • Updated Monthly

Unlock the secrets to building better communities with KLC’s City Stories! Each month, this Kentucky League of Cities podcast explores the fascinating history, culture, and everyday life of Kentucky's cities. From lessons in resilience to innovative ideas, every episode offers insights that can inspire growth and improvement in communities everywhere. Whether you’re a city leader, a history buff, or someone who loves unique stories, City Stories is for you! Listen now and explore more at klc.org.

Episodes

  1. Kentucky Professional Sports Teams

    Apr 30

    Kentucky Professional Sports Teams

    When people think of professional sports, major U.S. cities often come to mind. However, some smaller Kentucky cities are home to professional sports franchises that contribute significantly to community pride, engagement, and the local economy.

    25 min
  2. Ep 8 - Henderson BBQ

    Apr 1

    Ep 8 - Henderson BBQ

    In Henderson, Kentucky, barbecue isn’t just food—it’s a tradition woven into the city’s culture. Thomason’s barbecue stands out with smoky beans cooked in a pit right in the restaurant and a signature vinegar-based dip that brings every bite to life. Owner Kevin Gibson’s chip mutton recipe combines bold flavors and family memories, making Henderson a must-visit for anyone craving authentic barbecue experiences. For local pitmasters like Anita Hamilton, the secret ingredient is love. It’s not about awards but the joy of seeing someone’s smile after a good meal—barbecue as an act of care When you want the real taste of Kentucky, Henderson delivers every time.

    10 min
  3. Ep 7 - Owensboro Barbecue

    Mar 4

    Ep 7 - Owensboro Barbecue

    Owensboro, Kentucky isn’t just a city—it’s a story told through barbecue. Here, mutton smoked low and slow over hickory coals isn’t just food, it’s heritage. Local pitmasters carry on traditions that unite a community—where coal miners sit next to millionaires, and every job matters. It’s about faith, family, and fire, and the pride of serving neighbors first. Owensboro barbecue is a culture; it’s bluegrass, bourbon, and a flavor found nowhere else. If you follow the smoke, you’ll find Western Kentucky, just right.

    10 min

  4. Feb 1

    Ep 6 - History of Dueling

    Did you know Kentucky’s Constitution still requires elected officials to swear they haven’t fought a duel? In this episode, we explore the fascinating history of dueling in Kentucky, why it was so tied to personal honor, and how the law tried—and failed—to stop it. From politicians like Henry Clay stepping onto the dueling ground to the shift in culture after the Civil War, we dive into how these traditions shaped the state and why some outdated laws are still with us today.

    12 min

  5. Jan 1

    Ep 5 - Crater City

    Discover Middlesboro, Kentucky—the only city in the U.S. built inside a meteor crater. Mayor Boone Bowling shares how this unique geography brings both opportunities and challenges, from attracting curious tourists to facing growth limitations and infrastructure hurdles. Yet, Middlesboro’s strong community, rich history, and willingness to innovate are driving it forward. Whether you’re drawn by the crater, the small-town pride, or even the hometown of the Six Million Dollar Man, this city proves that embracing your unique story is the key to thriving.

    8 min

  6. 11/30/2025

    Ep 4 - When Weather Turns Wild

    What is causing deadly storms in Kentucky's cities? Hear from AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jonathan Porter about the weather patterns. Mayfield Mayor Kathy O'Nan also discusses the impact storms have on cities.

    14 min
  7. Ep 3 – The Rise of the Amphitheater

    11/03/2025

    Ep 3 – The Rise of the Amphitheater

    City Stories travels to Beaver Dam, Kentucky, where the small city is hosting musicians from across the country, and tourists from across the globe.

    16 min
  8. Ep 2 – Dark Tourism

    10/07/2025

    Ep 2 – Dark Tourism

    In the second episode of City Stories, we take you to two of the most haunted places in Kentucky. KLC Director of Communications and Marketing Michele Hill ventured into the unknown for our listeners.

    14 min
  9. Ep 1 - Identity and Rebirth

    09/21/2025

    Ep 1 - Identity and Rebirth

    In the first episode of City Stories, we travel to Irvine and Ravenna, Kentucky. The cities were built to accommodate railroads that are no longer running. With an identity steeped in railway culture, these communities are searching for a new identity and looking to the past for inspiration for their future.

    12 min
  • 9 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Unlock the secrets to building better communities with KLC’s City Stories! Each month, this Kentucky League of Cities podcast explores the fascinating history, culture, and everyday life of Kentucky's cities. From lessons in resilience to innovative ideas, every episode offers insights that can inspire growth and improvement in communities everywhere. Whether you’re a city leader, a history buff, or someone who loves unique stories, City Stories is for you! Listen now and explore more at klc.org.

Information

  • Creator
    Kentucky League of Cities
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    9
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    City Stories