Best Quad City Arts Podcasts (2025)

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Unpacking Fun Home: A Conversation with Director Bradley Robert Jensen 39:10

Play Pause

7d ago39:10

39:10

Don't miss Fun Home running from May 30th to June 14th at the Black Box Theater; for tickets and information, visit www.theblackboxtheater.com.By Ben Gougeon

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In Her Genes: A Breast Cancer Story 23:09

19d ago23:09

23:09

At just 14 years old, Tamera began noticing changes in her body—early signs that would later become part of a much larger story.By Jasmine Babers-Gunn, Kayla Babers

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Wood and Spirit: The Legacy of George Nakashima 37:52

21d ago37:52

37:52

In this episode of Talking Art, host Ben Gougeon welcomes esteemed documentary maker John Nakashima to discuss his latest film, George Woodworker, a heartfelt exploration of the life and legacy of his uncle, George Nakashima.By Ben Gougeon

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Talking Art with Jarabe Mexicano 36:40

1M ago36:40

36:40

Talking Art with Jarabe MexicanoBy Ben Gougeon

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In Her Corner Part 2 18:50

1M ago18:50

18:50

This conversation is a love letter to the friendships that keep us grounded and growing. Hosted by Kayla Babers & Jasmine Babers Gunn. Guests include Amiya Woods, Alisha Hanes & Dylaan Bibbs.By Jasmine Babers-Gunn, Kayla Babers

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QC, That’s Where a glowing gift to the Quad Cities becomes Iowa’s largest public art display 37:13

1M ago37:13

37:13

Send us a text Something extraordinary is about to light up the Quad Cities skyline. The Figge Art Museum's glass façade will soon transform into Evanescent Field – a breathtaking light installation and the largest public art display in Iowa's history. As the Figge celebrates its centennial year, Executive Director Melissa Mohr and one of the Senio…

1
Jazz Ambassadors: Bridging Cultures Through Music 31:33

2M ago31:33

31:33

In this episode of "Talking Art," host Ben Gougeon welcomes a very special guest: United States Army Master Sergeant James Old, the tour coordinator for the U.S. Army Field Band. With an exciting free concert coming up on April 17th at the Adler Theatre in Davenport, listeners are treated to an in-depth discussion of the rich history and vibrant fu…

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Directing Dreams: Emma Watts' Debut with 'Exit, Pursued by a Bear 45:41

2M ago45:41

45:41

In today’s installment, host Ben Gougeon sits down with Augustana College senior Emma Watts, a burgeoning talent in Theatre and Film, who is making her directorial debut with Lauren Gunderson’s darkly comedic play, Exit, Pursued by a Bear.By Ben Gougeon

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Igniting Creativity: The Making of The Firebird 36:26

3M ago36:26

36:26

In this episode of "Talking Art," host Ben Gougeon welcomes Ballet Quad Cities' Artistic Director, Courtney Lyon, to dive deep into the enchanting world of ballet and the upcoming production of Igor Stravinsky's "The Firebird."By Ben Gougeon

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In Her Corner: Friendship, Boundaries & Betrayal 36:40

3M ago36:40

36:40

In this episode, we are talking about something that shapes so much of ourlives—female friendships.By Kayla Babers, Jasmine Babers-Gunn

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World, meet the QC. QC, meet the World. 33:30

3M ago33:30

33:30

Send us a text We're diving deep into the transformative power of cultural exchange, as our guest, Emerald Johnson from the Iowa Resource for International Service, shares her insights on what it means to welcome someone from across the globe into your home. Discover how hosting fosters unforgettable connections, bringing families together through …

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From Tradition to Innovation: Darrah Carr's Dance Journey 30:30

3M ago30:30

30:30

In this episode of Talking Arts, host Ben Gougeon welcomes Darrah Carr, the Artistic Director and Choreographer of Darrah Carr Dance, a contemporary Irish step dance company based in New York City.By Ben Gougeon

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'QC, That's Where' your next cat might be at a cat lounge 21:52

3M ago21:52

21:52

Send us a text Captivating and unique, Books & Meows is not your average spot for coffee and cuddles. This podcast episode dives deep into the establishment's heart, exploring how Nicole Puryear has created a sanctuary blending feline friendlies with the love of reading. Nicole shares the journey behind opening her cat lounge, emphasizing its missi…

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Community and Culture: The Heartbeat of Circa 21 36:57

4M ago36:57

36:57

In this episode of Talking Art, host Ben Gougeon sits down with Brett Hitchcock, Vice President of Circa 21, to delve deep into the vibrant world of local theater and the exciting happenings at Circa 21 and its intimate side venue, the Speakeasy.By Ben Gougeon

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The True Cost of Beauty 45:37

4M ago45:37

45:37

How much is beauty really costing us? On this episode of Love Girls The Podcast, hosts Kayla Babers and Jasmine Babers-Gunn dive into the true cost of beauty—breaking down their own monthly spending and uncovering the price we pay for looking and feeling our best.By Jasmine Babers-Gunn, Kayla Babers

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Cultural Preservation Through Music: Goitse's Mission 32:00

4M ago32:00

32:00

In this episode of Talking Art, host Ben Gougeon welcomes Colm Phelan and Danny Collins from the award-winning traditional Irish ensemble, Goitse.By Ben Gougeon

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A Century of Creativity: Celebrating 100 Years of the Figge Art Museum 33:40

4M ago33:40

33:40

In this episode of "Talking Art," host Ben Gougeon welcomes Melissa Mohr, the newly appointed Executive Director and CEO of the Figge Art Museum, to explore the dynamic landscape of the arts in the Quad Cities.By Ben Gougeon

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Body Talk 27:29

5M ago27:29

27:29

Exploring Fat Phobia and Social Media's Grip on Body ImageBy Jasmine Babers-Gunn, Kayla Babers

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Blending Borders: The Art of Fusion Dance with Chicago Dance Crash 34:13

5M ago34:13

34:13

In this exciting episode of Talking Art, host Ben Gougeon welcomes the dynamic trio from Chicago Dance Crash—Artistic Director KC Beavis, Executive Director Jessica Leyva, and dancer Phill Wood.By Ben Gougeon

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Talking Art with Jonathan Turner 47:04

5M ago47:04

47:04

Talking Art with Jonathan TurnerBy Ben Gougeon

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Voices Unleashed: Empowering Youth Through Poetry with Aubrey Barnes 45:28

6M ago45:28

45:28

With a passion for empowering the next generation of voices, Aubrey Barnes shares his journey from a shy junior high student discovering poetry as a means of self-expression to becoming a pivotal figure in the Quad Cities' arts scene.By Ben Gougeon

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Lessons from the Campaign Trail 21:43

6M ago21:43

21:43

Thurgood Brooks and his teenage campaign manager, Amelia Rursch, reflect on the highs and lows of his mayoral race. In this candid conversation, they share the untold stories behind the campaign and the lessons they learned from facing defeat. Hosted by Kayla Babers and Jasmine Babers-Gunn with teen co-host, Dalaysia Dixon.…

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Improvising Tradition: Lawrence Hobgood on Jazz and Christmas Spirit 48:22

6M ago48:22

48:22

In this episode of Talking Art, we sit down with the remarkable Lawrence Hobgood, a multifaceted pianist, composer, arranger, producer, educator, and proud Yamaha artist.By Ben Gougeon

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The Afroverse: Exploring Vibrant Art and Cultural Commentary 33:48

7M ago33:48

33:48

In this episode, host Ben Gougeon from Quad City Arts sits down with the dynamic Isaiah "Zay" Williams, an artist, filmmaker, and the recent Citizen of the Year award winner in Rock Island.By Ben Gougeon

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'QC, That's Where' we're nurturing tomorrow's leaders today 37:05

7M ago37:05

37:05

Send us a text Rene Gellerman, President and CEO of United Way, joins us to share the inspiring journey behind her new book, "Adventures of Kids United: The Glass Bridge." Her personal story translates into a powerful narrative about five children discovering their unique superpowers. Through the lens of the iconic Sky Bridge (located in Davenport,…

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Beyond the Stereotypes: Understanding Black Mental Health 30:52

7M ago30:52

30:52

In this episode of Love Girls The Podcast episode, host Kayla Babers and Jasmine Baber-Gunn welcome Dr. Tiffany Stoner Harris to discuss the critical importance of representation in mental health treatment.By Jasmine Babers-Gunn, Kayla Babers

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Bridging Genres: Sabrina Tabby and ATLYS 45:46

7M ago45:46

45:46

In this episode, we sit down with the talented Sabrina Tabby, a violinist of the dynamic string quartet ATLYS.By Ben Gougeon

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Building Community Through Arts: Kevin Maynard’s Legacy at Quad City Arts 33:32

8M ago33:32

33:32

Tune in for an enriching discussion that dives deep into the heart of community art and the exciting future ahead for Kevin Maynard and the Quad Cities.By Ben Gougeon

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Dating and Modern Marriage: Part 2 29:00

8M ago29:00

29:00

This is part two with special guests, Dylaan Bibbs, Teresa Babers, Legend Donaldson, and teen guest Darrionna Harrison for a candid discussion on navigating relationships and the journey to finding love.By Kayla Babers, Jasmine Babers-Gunn

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Kulaiwi: A Journey Through Hawaiian Music and Culture 38:41

8M ago38:41

38:41

In this episode of Talking Art, Kevin Maynard sits down with Pono Fernandez and Shawn Pimentel, two dynamic members of the acclaimed Hawaiian music group Kulaiwi.By Kevin Maynard

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Dating and Modern Marriage Part 1 35:45

8M ago35:45

35:45

Hosted by Kayla and Jasmine Babers with special guests, Dylaan Bibbs, Teresa Babers, Legend Donaldson and teen guest Dalyasia Dixon for a candid discussion on navigating relationships, exploring the world of dating apps, and the journey to finding love.By Kayla Babers, Jasmine Babers-Gunn

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Crafting Connections: Meet the Artists of Riverssance Festival 45:08

9M ago45:08

45:08

Ben Gougeon sits down with two exceptional artists, ceramicist Jim Cronk and jeweler Ann Hartley, as they prepare for their upcoming exhibition at the highly anticipated Riverssance Festival of Fine Art.By Ben Gougeon

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Sculpting Stories: The Art of Dean Kugler 42:26

9M ago42:26

42:26

In this episode of Talking Art, hosts Dawn Wohlford-Metallo and Ben Gougeon from Quad City Arts, sit down with the talented mixed media artist and sculptor, Dean Kugler.By Ben Gougeon

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QC, That's Where the Marching Illini Celebrates Labor Day! 21:58

9M ago21:58

21:58

Send us a text What sparks a lifelong passion for music? Join us as we uncover the journeys of Jack and Anna, two spirited members of the University of Illinois Marching Illini, as they prepare for a heartfelt return to their hometown of Geneseo. From the sousaphone to the trumpet, Jack and Anna reveal their deep connections to their instruments, t…

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Transformative Power of Dance: More Than Just Performance 35:17

10M ago35:17

35:17

Join us for an inspiring episode featuring a discussion with Courtney Lyon, the Artistic Director of Ballet Quad Cities, as we delve into the exciting launch of their 28th season.By Kevin Maynard

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Musical Influences and Inspirations: A Deep Dive with Hembree 34:36

10M ago34:36

34:36

Join us for a conversation with Isaac Flynn and Alexander Ward, from the indie rock band Hembree.By Kevin Maynard

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Celebrating 10 Years: The Bill Bell Jazz and Heritage Festival 33:10

11M ago33:10

33:10

Tune in to discover how the Bill Bell Jazz and Heritage Festival brings the Quad Cities community together through music, education, and a shared passion for preserving the region's vibrant cultural heritage.By Ben Gougeon

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An Epic Canoe Journey with Dana Starkell: From Childhood Adventures to Record-Breaking Feats 58:49

11M ago58:49

58:49

Send us a text Do not attempt the feats described in this podcast unless with a trained guide or professional. Always practice safety on the water. Find paddlecraft info on the US Coast Guard's website, here Adventurer Dana Starkell shares his awe-inspiring journey, starting from his unique upbringing with an eccentric father who turned ordinary da…

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The Impact of Murals in Community Building: A Discussion with Nicole Salgar and Atlanta Dawn 38:10

11M ago38:10

38:10

In this engaging podcast episode, muralists Nicole Salgar and Atlanta Dawn take listeners on a journey through their creative process and artistic inspirations as they discuss their work on two large-scale murals in downtown Rock Island, Illinois.By Kevin Maynard

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Talking Art with Sarah Robb 31:49

12M ago31:49

31:49

Ben Gougeon talks with local muralist Sarah Robb about her work with the Quad City Arts Metro Arts program, the upcoming Chalk Art Fest at Schwiebert Park, and her life as an artist.By Ben Gougeon

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Summer Eats - Season 2: Episode 2 (Olympic Gyros) 31:09

12M ago31:09

31:09

AJ and Michael Tappa are back for the summer of 2024 with the award-winning "Summer Eats." On this episode, Olympic Gyros at 207 W. 53rd St., Davenport, Iowa, is featured in this lunchtime review. Special guests for this episode include David Baker, general manager of KALA, and Tappa friend Colin Saunders. Music for this season's podcast is used wi…

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'QC, That's Where' You'll Find A Legacy of Flight and Festivities 37:01

12M ago37:01

37:01

Send us a text Can you imagine an air show that not only fills the sky with breathtaking maneuvers but also rocks out with three incredible concerts? Join us for an enlightening chat with Evan Hopper, the Vice President of Air Show Operations, as we unravel the magic behind this year's Quad City Air Show, set for June 22nd and 23rd. Take a nostalgi…

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QC, That's Where Tradition Tastes Sweet at Whitey's Ice Cream 38:33

1y ago38:33

38:33

Send us a text What does it take to keep a family business thriving for generations? Join us as we sit down with Annika and Jon Tunberg from Whitey's Ice Cream, a beloved staple in the Quad Cities community. Jon reminisces about his early days with the company, from picking up trash in the parking lot before school to watching the business grow. An…

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Talking Art with Randy Cohen 30:22

1y ago30:22

30:22

Quad City Arts Executive Director Kevin Maynard sits down with VP of Research at Americans for the ArtsBy Kevin Maynard

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Summer Eats - Season 2: Episode 1 (La Duena Cocina) 54:53

1y ago54:53

54:53

AJ and Michael Tappa are back for the summer of 2024 with the award-winning "Summer Eats." On this episode, La Duena Cocina at 1330 Washington Street, Davenport, Iowa, is featured in this lunchtime review. Special guests for this episode include David Baker, general manager of KALA, and Steve Tappa, journalist and SAU graduate (and dad of AJ and Mi…

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Talking Art with Marc Zyla 1:07:11

1y ago1:07:11

1:07:11

In this episode of "Talking Art," Kevin Maynard from Quad City Arts sits down with Marc Zyla, principal horn of the Quad City Symphony Orchestra (QCSO).By Kevin Maynard

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QC, That's Where We're Navigating Parenthood with 'Quad Cities Mom' 21:44

1y ago21:44

21:44

Send us a text Join us as we delve into the unique world of Midwest parenting with Sierra Stuart and Alyssa Williams, of Quad Cities Mom. They share their journey of creating a digital space for parents, filled with practical tips, personal stories, and a directory of family resources. From toddler tantrums to family outings, we discuss the resourc…

1
It’s Love Girls, Live from the Figge Art Museum 22:30

1y ago22:30

22:30

This podcast is hosted by organization founder, Jasmine Babers, with special guests, Kevin Goff, Teresa Moore and Gaye Shannon Burnett. We are talking Hattie McDaniel, the first African American Woman to win an Oscar. Kevin Goff is the Great Grand Nephew of Hattie McDaniel.By Jasmine Babers-Gunn

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A Haven for Literature Lovers and Coffee Enthusiasts 30:50

1y ago30:50

30:50

Send us a text There's a special kind of connection that occurs when books and coffee come together, and this episode's guest, Kara Taghon from The Atlas Collective, is a true magician in that respect. With the scent of freshly brewed coffee in the air and a library of stories at our fingertips, we explore the creation of a community hub that's rei…

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Raising a Glass to Community and Education: The St Ambrose University Wine Festival Series 22:32

1y ago22:32

22:32

Send us a text Embark on a delightful journey with me as I sit down with Kristen Vito, the passionate assistant Director of Alumni Events and Community Engagement at St Ambrose University. During our conversation, we traverse Kristen's surprising path from exercise science to the vibrant world of community engagement, uncovering how her work is int…