This episode of the "Big Break" podcast stars a guest host, Chiara Cooper, Director of Marketing at the American Jazz Museum. In it she interviews Dr. Dina Bennett herself, ethnomusicologist and the executive director of the American Jazz Museum.

The podcast delves into Dr. Bennett's educational and professional background, which includes a Ph.D. in ethnomusicology and extensive experience working in various African American music museums.

As an ethnomusicologist, Dr. Bennett is uniquely positioned to lead the American Jazz Museum, an institution dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich history of jazz, which has deep roots in African American culture. Throughout the interview, Dr. Bennett shares her passion for music, her mentors, and her commitment to inspiring the next generation of ethnomusicologists and arts leaders.

The podcast highlights Dr. Bennett's "big break" moments, including her role in the development of the National Museum of African American Music in Nashville and her journey to becoming the executive director of the American Jazz Museum. As she takes on this leadership role, Dr. Bennett expresses her excitement to build upon the museum's strong foundation and guide it into the future, ensuring that the stories and contributions of African American musicians and artists are honored and shared with the world.

This podcast episode features an interview with Ollie Gates, the visionary behind the iconic Gates Barbecue in Kansas City, Missouri. The conversation delves into Gates' personal history, the evolution of the family business, and his deep commitment to the Kansas City community.

Mr. Gates shares his memories of growing up in the 18th and Vine district, the expansion of Gates Barbecue, and his emphasis on community service and giving back. He also discusses the lessons he learned from his time in the U.S. Army and his vision for revitalizing the 18th and Vine district. Overall, the episode provides a fascinating glimpse into the life and legacy of Ollie Gates, a true icon of Kansas City's business and cultural landscape.

In this episode, host Dr. Bennett, sits down with Chris Goode, the owner of Ruby Jean's Juicery, to discuss the inspiring story behind his business.

Goode shares how his late grandmother, Ruby Jean, inspired him to start the juicery in her honor, with the goal of making healthy living more accessible and approachable in urban community. The podcast episode explores the significance of the Troost Avenue location and Goode’s passion for educating the community, particularly children, about the importance of nutrition and the parallels between the improvisational nature of jazz and his entrepreneurial approach.