For some St. Louisans living on the street, frostbite can cause lasting harm

For some St. Louisans living on the street, frostbite can cause lasting harm

Author: St. Louis Public Radio February 13, 2026 Duration: 21:26
Many often associate frostbite with outdoor sports and mountain climbers with blackened fingers and faces. But advocates in St. Louis say the issue is also commonly seen in people closer to ground level — people experiencing homelessness or who otherwise lack a stable place to stay in freezing temperatures. STLPR reporter Sarah Fentem shares insights from her recent reporting on the suffering and challenges facing homeless people during the recent streak of bitter cold. We also hear from Kevin Roberts, a resident of an encampment who lost two toes to frostbite last winter; and Dr. Josh Fernelius, a volunteer with Street Med STL, who shares his experience treating frostbite among St. Louis’ homeless population.

Tune in to St. Louis on the Air for the conversations that define our city and region. Produced by St. Louis Public Radio, this daily podcast goes beyond the headlines to foster a genuine dialogue, one where community voices are central. Each episode gathers a range of perspectives-from everyday residents to experts and creators-to thoughtfully examine the issues, challenges, and innovations shaping life here. You might find yourself immersed in a discussion about local history one day and a deep dive into a groundbreaking scientific discovery the next. The program consistently makes space for the artists, musicians, and authors who contribute to the cultural fabric of the area. What you’ll hear is a respectful and honest exchange of ideas, reflecting the complex character of St. Louis itself. It’s a direct line to the stories of the people who live, work, and create in this community. For anyone curious about the forces at play in the region or simply wanting to feel more connected, this podcast serves as an essential, engaging resource. The result is a comprehensive audio portrait of a city in motion, delivered with the depth and nuance you’d expect from public radio.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 100

St. Louis on the Air
Podcast Episodes
Need to unwind? St. Louis labyrinths offer a mindful escape [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 17:42
If life’s hustle has you looking for a reset, St. Louis has a hidden solution. Labyrinths throughout the region can provide a unique, meditative escape. Robert Fishbone, labyrinth designer, artist and owner of “On the Wa…
How to manage frost-shocked plants and other tips for spring gardeners [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:02
Spring has officially sprung — so what’s up with the frost wilting gardens and frustrating gardeners? Missouri Botanical Garden’s Daria McKelvey and University of Missouri Extension’s Eliza Pessereau share their do’s and…
Missouri lawmakers prepare for second half of legislative session [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:32
Democratic Sen. Tracy McCreery and Republican state Rep. George Hruza join “The Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air” to preview the second half of the 2026 legislative session. The St. Louis County legislat…
Taking stock of Stratton's big win in the Illinois Democratic primary [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 12:09
Illinois Democrats picked Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton as their nominee to succeed retiring U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin. The Chicago-based politician defeated two sitting Democratic congress members to move on to the November ele…