Smart Talks. Cold Drinks.

Presenting THINK & DRINK – where the curious gather. This ongoing lecture series delivers a wide array of topics that generate fresh perspectives, ideas, and discussion. These community-driven events are powered by a collaboration between UMKC, Linda Hall Library, The Third Place Historian, and Casual Animal Brewing Company. 

Your RSVP is appreciated to help us preset the room and accommodate as many seats as possible for interested attendees. You will also receive at least 1 reminder email about the event when you RSVP.

October 1 - Why Public Radio Matters For Music Lovers

Speaker: Michelle Bacon, Content Manager, 90.9 The Bridge

Unlike commercial stations, The Bridge is 100% programmed by Kansas City music lovers and funded by members, giving the freedom to include local, community and undiscovered voices on their airwaves. They’ll discuss their process of choosing music for playlists, as well as how the public radio model differs from other stations, and how their fundraising model is evolving. Attendees will experience first-hand their process of picking music for rotation by playing snippets of songs and having the crowd “vote” on their favorites. Don’t miss this exploration of local public media and the work The Bridge does as a radio station to elevate local and underserved artists, while highlighting what’s happening in the community around us.

Michelle Bacon is a Kansas City-based musician, writer and creative strategist who cares about how local scenes connect to larger opportunities. As Content Manager at 90.9 The Bridge, she amplifies independent artists through editorial work, on-air programming and community-driven initiatives. A prominent bassist and drummer who has performed with more than 30 acts, Michelle brings an artist-first perspective as a creative consultant. She is the director and bandleader of The Band That Fell To Earth, a longstanding David Bowie tribute concert series rooted in community, collaboration and shared cultural impact.