Joy is sitting down with a true Springfield icon, Nick Russo, at the corner of South and McDaniel! This week, we’re diving into the incredible backstory of how a Jersey boy from Atlantic City ended up becoming a staple of the Ozarks.

Nick shares the hilarious story of getting accepted to college in 1965 after nearly 30 rejections and how he built legendary local hangouts like the Iron Horse, Pop’s Malt Shop, and Ebbets Field.

You'll hear all about the heart behind St. Michael’s, where his wife Jenny is the "straw that stirs the drink," baking those life-changing banana cakes and 16 other flavors fresh every day.

Plus, Nick opens up about his 28 years as an educator, his father’s secret meatball recipe, and why he never goes for a run without his favorite music. It’s a beautiful conversation about faith, romance, and the "God-given uniqueness" that makes Nick a local treasure! 🏃‍♂️🍝✨