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Fast Forward STL

Fast Forward STL

Written by: Keith Alper
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About this listen

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.

Economics
Episodes
  • Building Big Tech in St. Louis ft. David Karandish
    Jan 15 2026

    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.

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    39 mins
  • Welcome to Fast Forward STL
    Dec 17 2025

    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.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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    1 min
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