In this episode of Fast Forward STL, host Keith Alper sits down with St. Louis native Jim McKelvey, co-founder of Block (formerly Square), to talk about the lessons he’s learned from building a global company and how those ideas apply beyond business. From launching Mira and co-founding Third Degree Glass Factory, to growing a global fintech company, McKelvey reflects on curiosity, creativity, and the value of learning by doing. He explains why understanding emerging technology, such as artificial intelligence, matters far beyond the tech world, and how innovation can help make cities like St. Louis safer and more approachable. It’s a conversation about learning from experience, thinking differently, and imagining what’s possible for the city’s future. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe.

This episode is sponsored by Capes Sokol, a St. Louis–based law firm trusted by business leaders and decision-makers navigating growth, change, and risk. Their attorneys advise companies on business operations, real estate, litigation, and strategic planning, always with a practical, business-minded approach. Capes Sokol helps leaders make confident, informed decisions at every stage. Learn more.

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• Square co-founder Jim McKelvey details how he changed the payment game and beat Amazon in a new book

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In the debut episode of Fast Forward STL, host Keith Alper interviews David Karandish, an accomplished entrepreneur and CEO of Capacity, an AI-driven support automation platform. David shares his entrepreneurial journey from his early ventures to selling a company for nearly $1 billion and discusses how Capacity supports businesses by automating customer service tasks. He also addresses the potential of AI in transforming industries and offers insights on fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in St. Louis. You don’t have to be a business insider to enjoy this one—if you’re interested in St. Louis and the ideas driving its future, this episode has something for you. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe.

This episode is sponsored by Capes Sokol. Capes Sokol is a St. Louis–based law firm that partners with entrepreneurs and growing businesses to turn ideas into sustainable success. From entity formation and contracts to intellectual property and scaling strategies, their attorneys provide clear, practical legal guidance, so founders can focus on building what’s next. Whether you’re launching or leveling up, Capes Sokol is here to support your growth. Learn more.

New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing!

Want more? Check out all of St. Louis Magazine’s podcasts.

You may also enjoy these articles from SLM:

• St. Louis Magazine‘s latest business coverage
• More podcasts from St. Louis Magazine
• Subscribe to St. Louis Magazine‘s Business newsletter
• St. Louis Business 500

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Fast Forward STL is a business and innovation podcast hosted by entrepreneur, investor, producer, and CEO of The Nitrous Effect companies, Keith Alper. Each episode features leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators doing remarkable work connected to St. Louis and the greater region. Together, they explore ideas, stories, and strategies that shape growth, spark curiosity, and occasionally make you say, “I didn’t know that.” From bold startups to legacy organizations reinventing themselves, the conversations dig into how people build, create, and solve real problems, and why it matters to our city’s future. The goal is simple: learn, explore, and help move St. Louis fast forward through business, leadership, and innovation.

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