• What does it take to grow a restaurant group in a constantly shifting industry, and land a spot inside one of the city’s biggest stages?
• In Episode 31, Alexis Zotos sits down with Ben Hillman, President of Gastronauts Food Group, to talk about the evolution of his hospitality career and the momentum behind some of St. Louis’ most recognizable concepts. Their hospitality group is behind popular brands like Hi-Pointe Drive In, Chicken Out and Taco Buddha.
• Now, Taco Buddha is stepping onto a new stage as one of the food partners at CITYPARK, home of St. Louis City SC, a major milestone for the growing group. Ben shares what that opportunity means, along with an honest look at the realities of the past few months: opening new restaurants, closing others, and navigating the ever-changing economics of hospitality.

Yemeni coffee has a rich history that dates back centuries and thanks to Ali Othman and his family, that tradition is alive and thriving right here in our region.

We sat down with Ali, co-founder of Mocha Point, the St. Charles-based coffee shop that has quickly built a loyal following and is now expanding to Kansas City and Midtown near the City Foundry. What started as a vision to share authentic Yemeni coffee and hospitality has grown into something much bigger, a gathering space rooted in culture, connection and community.

Ali shares the meaning behind the name “Mocha,” the deep Yemeni roots of coffee itself, and what it has meant to introduce traditional flavors and customs to the Midwest. We also talk about entrepreneurship, thoughtful growth and the responsibility that comes with representing culture through business.

It’s a conversation about honoring the past while building something bold for the future.

Rung, a St. Louis–based nonprofit, is dedicated to helping women build economic stability, confidence, and long-term opportunity. Located in the Fox Park neighborhood, Rung works with women navigating systemic economic, social, and health barriers, offering education, coaching, and community to support real, lasting change.

This week CEO Leslie Gill shares how they are changing lives and the future of St. Louis one class at a time. This conversation is about leadership, equity, and what it truly takes to build systems that help women not just survive, but thrive.