Meet Richard Callow
Richard Callow, an enigmatic and influential figure in St. Louis, has woven a complex tapestry of influence that spans across politics, public relations, and the city's cultural and developmental landscapes. His story is one of intellect, strategy, and a certain mystique that has both captivated and confounded those who have crossed his path.
Born on the Selfridge Air Force Base north of Detroit, Callow's early years were marked by a transitory existence that saw him living in Japan and then San Antonio. His childhood was characterized by an outsider status that shifted with his geographical moves, yet it was this very experience that perhaps honed his adaptability and keen observational skills. His academic pursuits took him from a potential path in the priesthood to the philosophical halls of the University of Dallas and Boston College, where he immersed himself in medieval philosophy.
The shift from academia to the realm of political campaigns and public relations was not immediate but seemed a natural progression for Callow. His move to St. Louis in 1991 to serve as the communications director for then-Mayor Vincent Schoemehl marked the beginning of his deep engagement with the city's political and social fabric. The founding of his public relations firm, Public Eye Inc., allowed him to leverage his expertise in managing "contentious issues" for a diverse client base that ranged from political figures and corporate giants to cultural institutions.
Callow's reputation is multifaceted and polarizing. To some, he is a visionary with a creative mind unmatched in its ability to navigate and influence the complex web of city politics and media. To others, he is a Machiavellian figure, a master manipulator whose motives and methods are viewed with suspicion and sometimes outright hostility. His knack for remaining elusive and unpredictable only adds to the aura of intrigue that surrounds him.
Despite his controversial standing, Callow's impact on St. Louis is undeniable. He has been instrumental in shaping the careers of mayors, influencing major urban development projects, and orchestrating the media narrative around significant city events and policies. His ability to play the long game, to foresee the intersections of politics, public opinion, and media, has made him a sought-after advisor and strategist.
Yet, for all his public and professional maneuverings, the private Richard Callow remains something of an enigma. His partnership with Barbara Geisman, his taste in music and literature, and his self-description as a "Bill Maher Catholic" offer glimpses into a complex individual who defies easy categorization. His philosophical background, with its emphasis on rhetoric and persuasion, underscores a life devoted to the nuanced power of words and ideas.
Richard Callow's story is not just about the roles he has played in the public sphere; it's also about the broader questions of influence, integrity, and the interplay between personal and public life. In St. Louis, a city known for its intricate political and social dynamics, Callow stands out as a figure who has mastered the art of navigating these waters, for better or worse. His legacy, like his methods, will likely remain a subject of debate, admiration, and speculation for years to come.