Podcasts / Fast Forward STL / How Donna Baringer is leading St. Louis’ financial future

How Donna Baringer is leading St. Louis’ financial future

How does a city actually manage billions of dollars, fund major projects, and keep services running efficiently? St. Louis Comptroller Donna Baringer discusses modernizing City Hall, improving accountability, and the investments shaping St. Louis’ future.

 In this episode of Fast Forward STL, Keith Alper speaks with St. Louis City Comptroller Donna Baringer about about leadership, public service, and the challenges of modernizing city government. Baringer shares her journey finding her way into public service having grown up in the state’s capital and later returning as a Missouri House representative, before her unexpected victory in the race for St. Louis’ comptroller. She goes deep on how her office is working to make city operations faster, more efficient, and more accountable through new technology and streamlined processes. The conversation also explores broader issues facing cities today, such as managing public funds, supporting community organizations, improving downtown vitality, transportation, safety, and the overall quality of life. Baringer discusses her ideas for creating a more welcoming and active urban core, attracting residents and visitors, and building long-term momentum for the region’s future. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple PodcastsSpotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe.

 ”I got an email from the water department and they said, Holy… I wanna kiss you.“—Donna Baringer on modernizing the department’s technology

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About The Host

Keith Alper

Keith Alper

As the CEO of St. Louis–based Nitrous Effect, Keith has more than 30 years of experience in marketing, branding, and event production. He works across large-scale live events, broadcast projects, and creative strategy. He’s an active contributor to the region’s entrepreneurial community, serving in advisory and board roles. Keith is the author of From Like to Love, a reflection on how organizations build stronger, more meaningful connections. He’s excited for you to join him on his podcasting journey with Fast Forward STL.