STCNOW The Pulse

🎙️ MEET ANDREW SCHEMPF — MUSIC, MINISTRY & THE BOAR’S HEAD TRADITION 🎶I n this episode, we sit down with Andrew Schempf, Music and Worship Director at Immanuel Lutheran Church and School in St. Charles, Missouri. From growing up in Wisconsin to leading choirs, orchestras, and worship teams, Andrew shares his journey into music education and ministry—and how it all led him to Immanuel. We dive...

In this inspiring episode of The Pulse, we sit down with Martin Hanley, Director of the Lewis and Clark Career Center in St. Charles, Missouri. From his early days in IT to winning the Missouri ACT Administrator of the Year Award, Martin shares his journey and the transformative impact of career and technical education (CTE) on students across the county.🏫 What You'll Learn:How Lewis and Clar...

In this inspiring episode of The Pulse, we sit down with Lydia Allen—founder of Sugar & Slice—to explore her journey from baking in her childhood kitchen at age 14 to opening her second storefront on Main Street. Lydia shares how her mom’s buttercream roses sparked a competitive fire, how she balanced school, a job at Dairy Queen, and a booming cake business, and why she’s passionate about cre...

🎙️ The Pulse Podcast | Shelly Roy: Legacy, Advocacy & Community ImpactIn this inspiring episode of The Pulse, we sit down with Shelly Roy—a powerhouse of compassion and community leadership. From founding the Bev Roy Hope Foundation in honor of her mother’s journey with Alzheimer’s, to spearheading initiatives like the Main Street Memory Café and Forget Me Not Park, Shelley shares how personal...

In this episode of The Pulse Podcast, host Ed Akers sits down with Duchesne High School President Paul Boschert—a man whose roots run deep in St. Charles. From helping his uncle’s mayoral campaign to coaching, teaching, and leading at multiple schools, Paul’s story is a testament to dedication, community, and coming home.🎓 Graduate of Duchesne & Lindenwood 🏈 Coach, Teacher, Broadcaster, AD,...

In this heartfelt and humorous episode of The Pulse , former Assistant City Administrator Brent Schulz takes us on a journey through nearly three decades of service to St. Charles—from his unexpected start as an environmental health officer to helping launch beloved traditions like Music on Main. Brent shares stories of his passion for plant physiology, his entrepreneurial adventure with the Busy...

On this episode of The Pulse Podcast, host Ed Akers sits down with Kim Hudson—City Clerk and behind-the-scenes quarterback of St. Charles' government meetings. From mastering Robert’s Rules of Order to orchestrating council sessions with the precision of a stage director, Kim shares how her role keeps local democracy running smoothly. Hear how she balances legal lingo, records dating back to 1...

In this episode of The Pulse Podcast, host Ed Akers sits down with the ever-hustling Mark Tenholder, General Manager of the St. Charles Convention Center. From managing events with 900-guest breakfasts to surprise award moments and even weddings with elephants, Mark shares behind-the-scenes insights from his 30+ year journey in the hospitality industry. Learn how this city-owned facility thrives w...

Tap dancing his way from New York City to Las Vegas and everywhere in between, Anthony Russo has returned to his hometown of St. Charles —just in time for 636 Day! In this episode of The Pulse , host Ed Acres sits down with Anthony to uncover his journey in music, dance, and the performing arts . From growing up in a family-owned dance studio to landing a spot on Tap Dogs before graduating high sc...

From poolside beginnings to running aquatic facilities, Missy Hollander turned a summer job into a lifelong passion! In this episode of The Pulse, we dive into the world of lifeguarding, the behind-the-scenes magic of keeping pools running, and even answer the age-old question—what does an aquatics coordinator do in the winter? Grab your sunscreen, jump in, and join the conversation!

In this episode of The Pulse, host Ed Akers sits down with Lieutenant Dan Gibbons, Public Information Officer for the St. Charles Police Department. They cover everything from the city’s new high-tech training facility to the do’s and don’ts of golf cart driving. Plus, get an inside look at the mounted patrol program (yes, real horses!) and the importance of hands-free driving. It's a deep div...

On this special roundtable episode of The Pulse, Ed Akers sits down with Mary, Stacy, Sandy—and the ever-iconic Flat Charlie—to explore the heartwarming world of St. Charles’ Sister Cities. 🌍 From cultural exchanges and student adventures to surf sessions in Ireland and wine festivals in Frenchtown, this conversation celebrates international friendship, history, and connection. Hear stories from...

n this episode of The Pulse, host Ed Akers sits down with Missouri State Representative Travis Wilson of the 106th District. From his early days in local government to his current role in the Missouri House, Travis shares insights into the legislative process, how bills become laws, and the challenges and rewards of public service. We also dive into the economic development of St. Charles, the imp...

Ever wondered what it's like to be a firefighter in St. Charles? 🚒🔥 In this episode of The Pulse, host Ed Akers sits down with Fire Captain Kelly Hunsel to talk about life in the fire service. From the types of fire trucks and the intense training required to the unique challenges of firefighting in a historic city, Kelly gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the department. Plus, learn how c...

This special on-location episode of The Pulse takes you behind the scenes of the 2025 St. Charles County Mayor’s Charity Ball recipients. We visit five incredible organizations benefiting from this year’s event: The Boone Center, which creates employment opportunities for people with disabilities; Greater St. Louis Area Scouting; The Mid-America Veterans Museum, preserving and honoring our nation’...

From the STC Now magazine to city-wide events like the Mardi Gras and St. Patrick’s Day parades, Beth Norviel, Special Events & Communications Director, plays a key role in keeping St. Charles residents informed and involved. In this episode of The Pulse, we dive into the evolution of city communications, the challenge of reaching a diverse audience, and the massive effort behind organizing co...

In this episode, Kelsey Parks, Director of the Saint Charles Animal Shelter, shares everything you need to know about pet safety, the importance of microchipping (yes—even snakes!), and the city’s unique animal laws (ever wondered if you can own chickens in Saint Charles?). Plus, hear heartwarming stories about shelter rescues and how the community can get involved! Hey, listeners! If you're passi...

Dan's journey starts in Alaska, and as the son of 2 educators, he's always been interested in Science and Math. Now, Dan's department is heading up the biggest projects in the City, from the City Centre Complex to Riverpointe and everything in between....Dan really is "The Man" when it comes to engineering. Hey, listeners! If you're passionate about all things St. Charles City, you won’t want to m...

In this episode of The Pulse, we’re joined by Zach Tusinger, the Director of Community Development for Saint Charles. Zach shares his unique journey from a childhood shaped by civic-minded parents to becoming a driving force behind the city’s growth and harmony. We explore how his department works together like a symphony, balancing innovation and tradition, and even cover some strange animals loo...

In this episode of The Pulse, we sit down with Mike Klinghammer, a beloved figure in the Saint Charles community. From his impactful time on the city council to his work with local development and preservation, Mike’s contributions have left a lasting legacy. We dive into his passion for community improvement, the challenges he’s faced, and the stories behind some of Saint Charles’ most memorable...

Jessica Mannisi, Director of Exhibitions and the Foundry Art Centre joins me to discuss upcoming events at the Foundry and what it's like curating exhibitions. Check out all the Foundry Art Centre has to offer here: https://foundryartcentre.org/

Brain Gould served as an air traffic controllor in the United States Air Force and now serves the Saint Charles Community on the Veteran's Commission. St. Charles Salutes Veterans Day Celebration Saturday, November 9 Parade Begins at 11:00 AM Veterans Day Ceremony Following Parade Celebration from 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM Lewis and Clark Boathouse Parking Lot 1050 S Riverside Drive St. Charles, MO 63301...

José Jones came from Panama to attend Lindenwood University, and he hasn't looked back since arriving in St. Charles. https://theboxingtherapygym.com/ https://www.instagram.com/boxing_therapy_/?hl=en www.stcharlescitymo.gov/Real-Champions

This week I sit down with Aspen the Dog, who is a past participant in the award winning St. Charles Paw Parade. We discuss the specifics of the parade, the vendor fair, and Aspen's favorite costume. Join us at the Paw Parade on Oct 5th, starting in Frenchtown at 10:00 am