They're all part of this week's conversation about the Flint Hills — and honestly, it's one of those episodes that makes you want to book a trip to Manhattan, Kansas immediately. We sat down with Stephen Bridenstine, Director of the Flint Hills Discovery Center, to talk about what it really takes to understand one of the most unique — and misunderstood — landscapes in America. Stephen came to Kansas by choice (his words), and 12 years later, he's still here and still learning. 

Highlights

• A young sports broadcaster from Quinter, Kansas is going viral for taking audience-submitted phrases and slipping them seamlessly into live play-by-play — and it is absolutely worth your time
• Stephen Bridenstine moved to Manhattan, Kansas sight unseen, driving a moving van down Highway 177 with everything he owned — and the first thing he saw was the Flint Hills Discovery Center
• The Flint Hills Discovery Center isn't just a history museum or a nature center — it intentionally tells an interconnected story spanning 13,500 years of human and natural history
• Ranching in the Flint Hills actually mimics what bison did for thousands of years — and it's essential to the health of the tallgrass prairie ecosystem
• Fire isn't a threat to the Flint Hills. It's a tool. Stephen once had to explain this live on the Weather Channel.
• The Discovery Center's star bond project was so successful, the bonds were paid off years ahead of schedule — which funded a second museum right across the street
• The Flint Hills Festival draws over 9,000 attendees and is the one day per year the Discovery Center is free to the public
• The Flint Hills covers 4 million acres — roughly the size of New Jersey — stretching from the Nebraska border to Oklahoma
• Sydney went to boarding school in Missouri, where a third of her class was international students. Gus's claim to fame was "most likely to do something sciencey."

Chapters

• 0:00 – Hilarious Sports Broadcaster from Quinter
• 2:42 – Podcast Intro & Guest Tease
• 3:15 – Meet Stephen Bridenstine
• 3:48 – Kansan by Choice: Stephen's Story
• 5:34 – Life in a College Town
• 8:15 – From the Park Service to Museum Work
• 11:13 – Inside the Flint Hills Discovery Center
• 11:49 – Exhibits and Visitor Flow
• 15:42 – From Educator to Director
• 19:33 – Learning the Flint Hills
• 22:35 – Flint Hills Festival Highlights
• 25:55 – How the Discovery Center Was Built
• 28:29 – Downtown Redevelopment Wins
• 30:22 – Planning a Flint Hills Trip
• 31:33 – Public Prairie Access Tips
• 33:43 – Stay Overnight and Explore
• 34:36 – Ranching Mimics Bison
• 37:13 – Fire as a Tool
• 38:14 – Discovery Center Events
• 40:07 – Kid-Friendly Highlights at the Center
• 41:10 – Celebrity Guessing Game (Kansas Edition)
• 49:20 – Scholars Bowl Deep Cuts
• 51:38 – Final Thanks and Plugs

Resources Mentioned

• Flint Hills Discovery Center — Manhattan, Kansas
• Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve — Strong City, Kansas (National Park Service & The Nature Conservancy)
• From the Land of Kansas — Kansas-made products program (featured in Episode 53)
• SB Mowing — Spencer, Kansas-based viral mowing content creator
• Blank.in.a.ship — TikTok account of the Quinter sports broadcaster featured at the top of the episode
• Jim Richardson on Episode 20 of Ask A Kansan

Learn more about the podcast at askakansan.com!

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network, for more information, visit ictpod.net

Kansas has been growing, raising, and producing world-class products for nearly 50 years under one of the most underrated state trademark programs in the country. Sammy Gleason from the From the Land of Kansas program joins us to unbox the special Kansas 250 gift box — and what comes out of it tells a surprisingly complete story about who we are as a state. From kettle corn and sandhill plum jelly to red wine chocolate sauce and freeze-dried space ice cream, we explore the hidden gems that Kansans are making right in our own backyard. Then we get into something a little more contentious: the Kansas state flag. We share flag designs from our team and from our listeners — and make the case for why the flag you fly says more about a state than the seal printed on it.

Highlights

• The Kansas 250 special edition gift box and everything packed inside it — including who packed it and why that matters
• From the Land of Kansas is a 48-year-old state trademark program that's free to join for any Kansas farm, ranch, or small business
• Products need an agriculture tie to qualify — even candles have to contain lavender or soy
• The online marketplace at fromthelandofkansas.com ships Kansas products to 46–47 states during the holiday season
• Retail stores carrying 3 or more From the Land of Kansas products can become members — including Prairie Land Market in Salina and Wilkins Acres in Abilene
• Product gaps the program is looking to fill: sunflower seeds and crackers
• Kansas wine is growing — a wine trail is in the works in the Manhattan/Alma area
• The program's gift boxes were a first among state branded programs — and other states followed their lead
• 50th anniversary of the program is coming up in about 2 years
• The North American Vexillological Association's five rules of good flag design — and how the Kansas state flag stacks up
• Highlights from Manhattan, Kingman, and Park City's flag designs — and why they work
• Flag redesign submissions from the Ask a Kansan team and listeners

Chapters

• 0:00 – Cold Open: Funny Socks
• 1:16 – Episode Intro & Made in Kansas Preview
• 2:10 – Sammy Gleason Joins the Show
• 2:37 – Kansas 250 Gift Box Unboxing
• 6:53 – What Is From the Land of Kansas?
• 7:30 – Sammy's Career Path to the Program
• 9:25 – Kansas Roots and How She Got Into Marketing
• 12:45 – Membership Process and the Online Marketplace
• 14:56 – Road Trips and Small Town Cafes
• 21:08 – Beyond Food: Non-Food Products and Other State Programs
• 22:01 – How the Trademark Sticker Works
• 24:08 – What Products Are Missing
• 25:10 – Shelf Stable and Pop-Up Considerations
• 26:13 – Flint Hills Pints & Freeze-Dried Space Ice Cream
• 27:21 – Making Kansas Products Stand Out
• 28:40 – Kansas Wine Tour Ideas
• 31:30 – Retail Partners Across Kansas
• 28:48 – Shipping Gift Boxes Nationwide
• 30:11 – Next Big Program Goals
• 31:05 – What Kansas Producers Are Like
• 32:52 – Post-Show Product Curiosities
• 33:36 – How to Be a Podcast Guest
• 34:23 – Flag Design Rules Recap
• 36:06 – Best Kansas City Flags
• 39:31 – Team Flag Redesigns
• 44:22 – Viewer Flag Submissions
• 48:13 – Why Flags Matter
• 50:03 – Submit Your Flag Design
• 51:20 – Final Wrap & Thanks

Resources

• From the Land of Kansas — state trademark program for Kansas-grown, raised, and produced products
• Schlaegel's Popcorn — kettle corn featured in the Kansas 250 gift box
• Cocoavino — red wine chocolate sauce, Overland Park
• Flint Hills Pints — Kansas ice cream, including new freeze-dried space ice cream
• Prairie Land Market — local Kansas products retailer in Salina, From the Land of Kansas member
• Wilkins Acres — Kansas products store in Abilene, From the Land of Kansas member
• Boot Hill Distillery — value-added Kansas grain products, Dodge City

Learn more about the podcast at askakansan.com!

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network, for more information, visit ictpod.net

Matt Bain, Director of Conservation for The Nature Conservancy in Kansas, makes a compelling case that the Kansas prairie isn't just beautiful — it's the foundation of clean water, healthy soil, thriving wildlife, and the ranching culture that holds it all together. A born-and-raised Kansan who grew up farming in Ness County, Matt brings 22 years of professional conservation experience and a deep personal land ethic to this conversation. From the dancing mating rituals of the Greater and Lesser Prairie Chicken to a 10,000-year-old kill site hiding in plain sight on the Smoky Valley Ranch, this episode is packed with the kind of stories that make you see Kansas differently.

Highlights

• Conservation isn't non-use — it's wise use, and Kansas farmers and ranchers have been living that land ethic for generations
• 62% of all North American grasslands are gone; Kansas has only 20% of its native prairie remaining
• The three ecological drivers that created and maintain Kansas prairie: grazing, drought, and fire
• Two-thirds of all Lesser Prairie Chickens on Earth now exist in a narrow strip of land between Hays and the Colorado border
• Prairie Chickens are a "canary in the coal mine" for ecosystem health — when they disappear, so does clean water, healthy forage, and soil
• The Flint Hills alone loses 2.2 million acre-feet of water annually to encroaching trees and shrubs
• The 12 Mile Creek site on Smoky Valley Ranch rewrote North American history — a spear point embedded in a 10,000-year-old bison skeleton proved humans were here far earlier than anyone believed
• Ecotourists from 20+ countries visit Smoky Valley Ranch annually for Lesser Prairie Chicken viewing tours
• Kansas was the first state to ban sport hunting of feral hogs — a counterintuitive move that actually worked
• How to support conservation: become a member of The Nature Conservancy, buy a duck stamp, or purchase a hunting or fishing license

Chapters

• 0:00 — Cold Open: Prairie Chickens doing their thing
• 1:56 — Meet Matt Bain
• 4:37 — What Conservation Actually Means
• 5:52 — Why Matt Chose This Path
• 8:38 — Grasslands Are Disappearing Fast
• 10:25 — Misconceptions About Conservation
• 12:37 — Cattle, Fire, and Prairie Balance
• 17:46 — Raising Kids with a Land Ethic
• 20:49 — Why Prairie Chickens Matter
• 28:32 — From Kansas Wildlife & Parks to The Nature Conservancy
• 32:49 — Ecotourism and the Wonders of the Prairie
• 37:11 — Smoky Valley Ranch: History Beneath Your Feet
• 41:56 — Tracing Spring Water Back to Its Source
• 43:38 — The Audio Tour at Smoky Valley Ranch
• 44:11 — How to Support the Nature Conservancy
• 46:14 — Hosts Wrap Up & Key Terms Defined
• 48:25 — Segment: Name That Kansas Even-Toed Ungulate
• 50:15 — Bison & Whitetail Deer
• 53:35 — Mule Deer & Elk
• 56:18 — Pronghorn & Feral Hogs
• 1:02:28 — Wrap Up & Credits
• 1:03:17 — Subscribe, Merch & Newsletter

Resources

• The Nature Conservancy in Kansas — nature.org
• Kansas Mammal Atlas — Sternberg Museum of Natural History, Fort Hays State University
• Smoky Valley Ranch — Nature Conservancy property and Lesser Prairie Chicken stronghold
• Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) — USDA Farm Service Agency
• Duck Stamps — Purchase at the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
• Ask a Kansan Episode 29 on the Ogallala Aquifer featuring Rex Buchanan

Learn more about the podcast at askakansan.com!

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network, for more information, visit ictpod.net

The Cosmosphere in Hutchinson, Kansas, is far more than a place to see old rockets. It holds the most U.S. space artifacts outside the Smithsonian and the most Soviet artifacts outside of Moscow — and right now, with humanity heading back to the moon, there's never been a more exciting time to pay attention. Claire Ludes, Senior VP and Chief Development Officer, pulls back the curtain on the institution's remarkable history, its world-class restoration shop, its summer camps that build the next generation of aerospace workers, and what's coming next as private spaceflight rewrites the rules.

Highlights

• Tanner got exclusive footage of baby rhino Creed (named after Chiefs center Creed Humphrey) at Rolling Hills Refuge
• Claire's path to the Cosmosphere ran through OCCK, district retail management, and the Salina Area United Way — before a recruiter convinced her she didn't need to move to Hutchinson
• The Cosmosphere holds the most U.S. space artifacts outside the Smithsonian and the most Soviet artifacts outside Moscow
• Founder Patty Carey started with a stargazing ball in a chicken coop at the Hutchinson Fairgrounds in 1962
• SpaceWorks, the Cosmosphere's fabrication and restoration division, did approximately 90% of props for the film Apollo 13 and has worked on the Apple TV+ series For All Mankind
• The Cosmosphere restored Liberty Bell 7 — Gus Grissom's Mercury capsule — after it was recovered from the ocean floor where it had sat for decades
• Jeff Bezos's dive team recovered Saturn V engines from the ocean; the Cosmosphere's SpaceWorks division did the F-1 engine restoration
• The Cosmosphere received a flown Merlin engine donated by SpaceX and is getting a SpaceX parachute that visitors can touch
• Artemis II astronauts have called the Cosmosphere the best space museum in the world
• Summer camps run from 3rd grade through 12th grade; in 2025 the Cosmosphere celebrated 40 years of camps with an alumni reunion
• A brand new drone camp is launching in summer 2025 in partnership with K-State Salina
• A Cosmosphere alum who works at JPL spent an entire day with Ryan Gosling during the making of Project Hail Mary — and the film is currently playing in the Cosmosphere's dome theater
• Sally Ride and Kansas astronaut Steve Hawley were married in Salina, in the backyard of Hawley's parents' home on Santa Fe Avenue
• Sydney's segment took a wild turn through 1957 newspapers.com rabbit holes — Sputnik coverage, moon tourism satire, vintage marriage advice columns, and grocery ads featuring 63-cent rump roast

Chapters

0:00 – Baby Rhino Surprise

2:18 – Podcast Intro / Space Nerds

2:58 – Meet Claire Ludes

3:31 – Unboxing Cosmosphere Swag

5:43 – Claire's Career Journey

8:31 – Artemis II Buzz

11:10 – Cosmosphere Origin Story

15:17 – Iconic Artifacts Spotlight

18:09 – Keeping Up With Space

21:47 – Museum Renovation Tour

25:29 – Camps & Mission Control

29:58 – Soft Skills From Space Camp

33:02 – Space Inspiration & Spinoffs

34:58 – Project Hail Mary Talk

35:59 – Cosmosphere Dome Film

36:40 – Learning the Museum

38:35 – Education Pipeline Impact

41:20 – Kansas Partnerships

44:46 – Salina Space Trivia

48:08 – Museums Shape the Future

48:48 – SpaceWorks Restoration Story

50:41 – Merch & Stickers

53:44 – Sputnik Newspaper Oddities

58:23 – Marriage Advice Rabbit Holes

1:04:36 – Vintage Grocery Ads

1:05:47 – Wrap Up & Goodbye

Resources Mentioned

• The Cosmosphere — Hutchinson, Kansas
• Rolling Hills Refuge — Salina, Kansas (home of baby rhino Creed)
• NASA Artemis Program
• SpaceX

Learn more about the podcast at askakansan.com!

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network, for more information, visit ictpod.net

Highlights

• President Muma is the only physician assistant to serve as president of any university in the country — and he didn't even know it until the national PA organization called him.
• WSU's innovation campus was literally a golf course just eight years ago — now it's home to companies like Airbus and Deloitte, with students earning real paychecks from day one.
• The Shocker Career Accelerator connects students to industry partners from the moment they step on campus — not just junior or senior year — to keep them on track and in Kansas after graduation.
• WSU's National Institute for Aviation Research has students operating multimillion-dollar robots, doing real work that other universities fly in to study.
• WSU just surpassed $400 million in research expenditures and $600 million in research awards — and is now partnering with KU on a biomedical campus that is the largest capital investment in downtown Wichita's history.
• A WSU anthropology professor rediscovered Etzanoa, a lost city of 20,000 people in southern Kansas — one of the largest pre-Columbian settlements in North America — and a local high schooler found the cannonball that proved it.
• Tours of the Etzanoa site are available through the Cherokee Strip Land Rush Museum in Arkansas City for just $10.

Chapters

0:00 – Hike With Madeline

1:04 – Childlike Presence

2:04 – On Location at WSU

3:08 – Meet President Muma

3:37 – Kansas Roots and Return

6:10 – From PA to Professor

9:00 – Clinician Mindset in Leadership

11:37 – Campus Transformation and Innovation

15:14 – Book and Applied Learning

17:43 – Shocker Career Accelerator

18:55 – NIAR: Real-World Research

19:56 – Keeping Talent in Kansas

21:23 – Future Vision: Biosciences

23:34 – AI's Impact on Campus

27:03 – Kansas Support and Research Growth

29:23 – Post-Interview Reflections

30:23 – Sheriff's Reflection on Ramadan

31:46 – Kansas's Lost City Rediscovered

38:27 – Tours and Episode Wrap

Resources

• Wichita State University
• WSU Innovation Campus
• National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR)
• Student Centered, Innovation Driven by Rick Muma
• Etzanoa Tours 
• WSU Tech

Learn more about the podcast at askakansan.com!

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network, for more information, visit ictpod.net

Rolf Potts has spent decades asking that question. A fourth-generation Kansan from Wichita, Rolf is one of the most recognized travel writers working today and the author of Vagabonding, a book that has quietly changed the way a generation thinks about long-term travel. But this conversation goes beyond passport stamps. We talk about how growing up with two schoolteacher parents shaped the way Rolf sees the world, why he thinks curiosity is the most underrated skill a writer can have, and how he's channeling a lifetime of storytelling into something deeply Kansan — a short film and a feature-length documentary called Kansas Never Plays Itself.

Highlights

• Rolf's parents were both schoolteachers, and he credits them with instilling the curiosity that drives his travel writing and storytelling
• His first and best-known book, Vagabonding, was essentially a letter to his teenage self about giving yourself permission to travel — without waiting for retirement or the "right" circumstances
• He taught English in Korea in the 1990s and entered Europe for the first time via the Trans-Siberian Railway — traveling through 40–50 countries before ever visiting Paris
• Rolf distinguishes between guidebook writing and the kind of literary travel writing he practices — a blend of personal memoir and reported journalism
• He has interviewed one travel writer per month on his website, rolfpotts.com, for 25 years
• He and his wife, actress Kiki, co-wrote and co-executive produced a short film shot almost entirely on their property in Kansas
• His documentary Kansas Never Plays Itself explores how Kansas is misrepresented — or simply absent — in cinema, drawing on the work of filmmakers like Gordon Parks
• His advice to Kansans: stop apologizing for where you're from. Authenticity is a superpower

Chapters

0:00 — New Mugs

1:05 — Meet Rolf Potts

2:32 — Curiosity From Teachers

3:55 — Travel Bug and Vagabonding

5:15 — Finding a Writing Life

6:17 — What Travel Writing Is

9:00 — Offbeat Destinations

12:10 — Travel as Education

13:54 — Planning vs. Spontaneity

17:13 — Meeting Kiki in Kansas

19:37 — Screenwriting Origins

22:21 — Making a Kansas Short Film

27:24 — Kansas Never Plays Itself

33:12 — Place and Storytelling

35:53 — Rehumanizing Place Stories

37:22 — Kansas as a Destination

38:55 — Authentic, Not Apologetic

40:42 — Wrap Up and Links

42:02 — Post-Show Reflections

43:26 — Two Truths and a Lie

1:00:54 — Final Goodbye

Resources Mentioned

• rolfpotts.com — Rolf's website, home to 25+ years of travel writing interviews, books, social media links, and more
• Vagabonding by Rolf Potts — Amazon
• Kansas Never Plays Itself — https://youtu.be/ra70AoXqHLQ?si=q5BQCyGuaVNMnnq3
• Paris Writing Workshops — pariswritingworkshop.com — the summer writing program Rolf teaches
• Energy Green Grandpa (YouTube) — George Potts, Rolf's father, and his channel about sustainable energy: https://energygreengrandpa.com/

Learn more about the podcast at askakansan.com!

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network, for more information, visit ictpod.net

Highlights

• Deb Goodrich was inspired to become a journalist by watching Lois Lane on Superman at age four
• She began writing for her local paper in Stuart, Virginia at age 15 and worked across radio, TV, newspaper, and magazine
• Deb became a history major at Washburn University after a political science professor told her that's what she was — she had no idea
• She lived as historian-in-residence inside a historic home at Topeka Cemetery, where she first learned about Charles Curtis
• Charles Curtis was Vice President of the United States under Herbert Hoover (1929–1933), enrolled in the Kaw tribe, and is the first person of color to serve as VP — a story most Kansans don't know
• Deb is working on a book, From the Reservation to Washington, about Charles Curtis, as well as a screenplay
• She's collaborated extensively with filmmaker Ken Spurgeon, including on Touched by Fire (Bleeding Kansas) and The Moccasin Speaks (currently on PBS)
• Her upcoming film Under the Painted Sky tells the story of the German Family Massacre in Western Kansas
• She serves as Garvey Texas Foundation Historian-in-Residence at the Fort Wallace Museum in Oakley
• Deb's next book idea: Killers I Have Known
• Kansas's biggest export, according to Deb, is talent — and that needs to change
• Gus introduces a segment called "Less Fun With Flags," analyzing the Kansas state flag against the five rules of good flag design from the North American Vexicological Association
• Kansas scored 3.01 out of 10 (a D-minus), ranking 69th out of 72 US state and Canadian provincial flags
• The Wichita city flag scored 8.41 out of 10 in 2004, ranking 6th best among 150 American cities — proof Kansans can do better

Chapters

0:00 – Australia Pin Giveaway

2:23 – Podcast Intro / Meet Deb Goodrich

3:28 – Meet Deb Goodrich

6:00 – Journalism Origins: Lois Lane

7:35 – History Bug: Cemetery Lessons

9:34 – The Charlie Curtis Story

12:26 – Topeka Cemetery Adventures

17:29 – Film Work With Ken Spurgeon

21:11 – Fort Wallace and Many Hats

26:52 – The Oakley / Annie Oakley Myth

28:33 – How Deb Got to Kansas

28:45 – Mayberry Roots

29:29 – Topeka and Washburn

30:19 – Media Ethics Wake-Up

31:09 – Switching to History

32:29 – Court Reporting Lessons

35:21 – Journalism Meets Film

37:10 – Kansas Pride Problem

40:20 – Fort Wallace Plug

42:24 – Post-Interview Wrap

43:45 – Less Fun With Flags

45:33 – The Five Rules of Good Flag Design

47:02 – Kansas Flag Fails

52:38 – Wichita Flag Wins

55:10 – Redesign Ideas and Outro

Resources

• From the Reservation to Washington by Deb Goodrich (book on Charles Curtis) — available on Amazon
• The Moccasin Speaks — documentary on the German Family Massacre, currently airing on PBS
• Under the Painted Sky — upcoming film by Ken Spurgeon and Deb Goodrich
• Touched by Fire — film about Bleeding Kansas by Ken Spurgeon
• Bloody Dawn by Tom Goodrich — book on the Lawrence Massacre
• Fort Wallace Museum — Oakley, Kansas; 2025 theme: "From Wallace to the Little Big Horn" https://ftwallace.com/

Learn more about the podcast at askakansan.com!

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network, for more information, visit ictpod.net

HIGHLIGHTS

• TikTok tree controversy sparks debate about Kansas history and landscape

• Growing up across from Sterling College Theater ignited Kiki's passion for performance

• Training at London's Guildhall School as the only American in her class

• Career highlights: playing Cordelia to Kevin Kline's King Lear at The Public Theater

• Meeting her husband Rolfe during the pandemic through online dating in Kansas

• Creating "The Game Camera" short film with a primarily female cast and crew

• Fighting for Kansas film tax incentives: 38 states have them, Kansas needs to catch up

• Why women over 40 face fewer opportunities in film—and how Kiki is changing that

• Kansas represents "difficult beauty" that requires staying power to appreciate

CHAPTERS

[0:00] TikTok Tree Controversy

[1:16] Podcast Intro and Guest Introduction

[1:57] Meet Kiki Bush

[3:30] Sterling Roots and Theater

[6:38] KU to England Drama School

[10:19] Career Highlights and New York

[14:07] Acting Calling Moment

[15:07] Pandemic Homecoming to Kansas

[18:46] Life in Saline County Now

[20:15] Fighting for Film Incentives

[22:40] Call Your Legislators

[23:00] How Film Tax Credits Work

[23:40] Keeping Kansas Creatives Home

[24:16] Making The Game Camera

[26:32] Origins of the Story

[28:44] Equity On Set

[30:27] Aging and Beauty Standards

[33:51] Why Kansas Stories Matter

[34:22] Difficult Beauty of Kansas

[40:50] Post Interview Takeaways

[41:19] Kansas Hot Takes Game

[43:10] Sunsets, Sunflowers, and Pride

[45:37] Wrap Up and Subscribe

RESOURCES

• Grow Kansas Film - Organization advocating for Kansas film tax incentives (contact for talking points to reach your legislators): https://www.growkansasfilm.com/

• Sterling College - Sterling, Kansas: https://www.sterling.edu/

• Guildhall School of Music and Drama - London, England: https://www.gsmd.ac.uk/

• Shocker Studios - Wichita, KS - https://www.wichita.edu/academics/fine_arts/digital_arts/shocker_studios.php

Learn more about the podcast at askakansan.com!

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network, for more information, visit ictpod.net

HIGHLIGHTS

• Ken's journey from construction worker to history professor to award-winning filmmaker

• How Civil War reenactments became the bridge between academia and cinema

• Working with Rance Howard (Ron Howard's father) and learning to direct seasoned actors

• The making of Sod and Stubble - filming in 95°+ Kansas heat with 100 crew members in Downs, Kansas

• Why the community built a replica pioneer house specifically for the film

• The challenges of independent film financing with 47 investors

• Why Kansas needs a film incentive bill to compete with Oklahoma, Texas, and Georgia

• The difference between documentaries and narrative features - and why "movies are made in the edit room"

• Balancing teaching history at Friends University with directing feature films

• Why Kansas filmmakers shouldn't fear outside competition or collaboration

CHAPTERS

[0:00] The Sourdough Journey - Sydney debates naming her sourdough starter

[2:14] Podcast Theme: Kansas Filmmaking Month

[3:20] Meet Ken Spurgeon - History professor and filmmaker

[4:02] Origins of a Historian - The Civil War weapon that sparked everything

[5:46] Finding the Teaching Path - Seven years away from school working construction

[8:51] Favorite Eras and Curiosities - Early America, Civil War, and the American West

[9:47] Reenactments to Film Sets - From living history to working on Gods and Generals

[11:20] First Documentary Breakthrough - Tackling Bleeding Kansas

[12:30] Lessons from Documentaries - Money, flexibility, and learning not to "over-speak"

[15:30] Why Film in Kansas - "I'm sticking my foot in the ground and filming here"

[18:17] Film Incentives and Financing - Why tax breaks matter and how 47 investors funded Sod and Stubble

[23:00] From Docs to Features - Winning the Wrangler Award and transitioning to narrative films

[24:08] Working with SAG and Rance Howard - The rehearsal moment that taught Ken to be a director

[30:20] On Set Reality Check - When the vision in your head meets reality

[31:21] Movies Made in Edit - The three versions of every film

[34:18] Sod and Stubble Origins - Filming the greatest pioneer story in American history

[36:24] Filming in Kansas Heat - Shooting outdoors, Monday-Friday, June through August

[38:18] Small Town Production Logistics - How Downs, Kansas fed 100 crew members

[41:07] Professor and Filmmaker Balance - Teaching history while making movies

[42:21] Kansas Film Future - Why we shouldn't fear freedom or outside filmmakers

[47:31] Post-Interview Reflections - Gus and Sydney discuss directorial styles

[48:49] Kansas Movie Trivia Game - Testing film knowledge with movies shot in Kansas

[55:48] Wrap Up and Subscribe

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Educational Institutions

• Friends University (Wichita, Kansas) - Where Ken teaches history and filmmaking

• Wichita State University - Where Ken completed his degrees under Dr. Craig Miner and Dr. Jay Price

Films & Projects

• Home on the Range - Ken's documentary that won the Western Heritage Award (Wrangler)

• Gods and Generals (2001) - Civil War film where Ken worked as a reenactor

• Road to Valhalla - Earlier Ken Spurgeon project featuring Buck Taylor

Books

• Sod and Stubble (2024) - Ken's feature film based on the 1930s Kansas pioneer memoir

Kansas Movies Mentioned in Trivia Segment

• The Wizard of Oz (1939) - Promotional footage filmed in Liberal, Kansas

• Picnic (1955) - Shot in Halstead, Hutchinson, Wichita, and Salina

• In Cold Blood (1967) - Filmed in Holcomb, Garden City, and Dodge City

• Up the Academy (1980) - Filmed at St. John's Military School in Salina

• Paper Moon (1973) - Shot in Hays, McCracken, and surrounding western Kansas towns

WHAT'S YOUR SOURDOUGH STARTER'S NAME?

Sydney's looking for the perfect name for her sourdough starter! Drop your best pun or creative suggestion in the comments. The punier, the better!

Learn more about the podcast at askakansan.com!

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network, for more information, visit ictpod.net

HIGHLIGHTS

• A McPherson antique store's viral TikTok ad featuring Sarah McLachlin's iconic ASPCA song—but for abandoned antiques

• How Ashley went from zero gardening experience to farming thousands of flowers on half an acre

• The difference between annuals and perennials, and why Ashley's back is grateful for the peony pivot

• Why Kansas weather is the biggest challenge for flower farmers (spoiler: it's not just the tornadoes)

• The surprising number of flower farmers across Kansas—probably one in your county

• How Bobcat let Ashley test drive a tractor for a week, knowing she'd never give it back

• Why Ashley prefers being the grower over being the florist (wedding pressure is real)

• The "reluctant farmer husband" phenomenon and how military training prepared Matt for flower farming

• Victory Gardens during WWII: Kansas grew 17 million quarts of canned food in 1943 alone

• Container gardening tips and when to plant: potatoes on St. Patrick's Day, tomatoes on Mother's Day, peppers by Memorial Day

CHAPTERS

[0:00] Local TikTok Find: McPherson Antique Store Ad That Cracked Us Up
[1:02] Why the Ad Works: Sound Effects, Song Choice & Instant Nostalgia
[1:53] Welcome to Ask A Kansan + Meet Today's Guest (Vail Family Farms)
[2:53] Getting Set Up: Ashley Joins the Conversation
[3:22] What Is a Specialty Cut Flower Farm? Size, Scale & What They Grow
[4:41] Annuals vs Perennials: The Peony Pivot (and Saving Your Back)
[5:58] How It Started: Pandemic Chickens to Full-On Flower Farming
[7:40] Year One Reality Check: No Tunnels, No Tractor, Just Prairie Ground
[10:22] Extending the Season: High Tunnels, Grants & Kansas Wind Survival
[12:39] Selling the Blooms: Subscriptions, Farmers Markets & U-Pick Events
[15:35] Bouquets & Weddings: Design Pressure vs Being the Grower
[17:10] From Nursing to Farm Life: Making the Jump + Family Behind the Business
[19:18] 'Reluctant Flower Farmer': Matt's Role and the Support System
[19:60] Reluctant Farmer Husband: Military Life Meets Flower Farming
[21:25] How Many Flower Farmers Are in Kansas? Finding Local Growers
[22:14] The Biggest Challenge: Kansas Weather, Wind & Growing Zones
[23:51] Support Networks & The Insurance Gap for Specialty Crops
[26:23] Next 5 Years: Peony Expansion + Spring Crop Strategy
[27:42] Building the Farm Brand on Social Media (and Keeping It Real)
[29:32] Scaling Advice: Home Garden Tips vs Farming Thousands of Plants
[30:44] Where to Find Vail Family Farm + Wrap-Up of the Interview
[31:40] Post-Interview Chat: Farm Visits, Book Clubs & Photo Sessions
[32:27] Theme Segment: Victory Gardens—History, Kansas Stats & Why It Matters
[36:19] Planting Calendar & Container Gardening: Potatoes to Peppers
[39:31] Final Thoughts: Gardening Trends + Subscribe, Newsletter & Merch

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Vail Family Farm
Instagram: @vailfamilyfarm
Facebook: Vail Family Farm

Learn more about Victory Gardens: https://kgi.contentdm.oclc.org/digital/collection/p16884coll1/id/2183

https://www.farmprogress.com/farm-life/victory-gardens-were-growing-all-across-kansas-during-wwii

Learn more about the podcast at askakansan.com!

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network, for more information, visit ictpod.net

Highlights:

• Started civic engagement at age 9 with a Haiti relief fundraiser that raised $3,400 

• Appointed to Salina's Human Relations Commission at 13, then Planning Commission at 16

• Founded Kansas Civic Network at age 21 during COVID-19 pandemic

• Helped establish Lindsborg's first food pantry in city history after discovering 1/3 of Bethany College students were food insecure

• Built a remote, all-volunteer team of young professionals from 7+ states using Handshake platform

• Conducted USDA-funded seminars revealing critical gaps in organic farming education for Latino farmers in southwest Kansas

• Operates with radical transparency: "We're basically a club of young doers"

• Core philosophy: "We just do it" - removing barriers and focusing on community benefit over organizational ego

Chapters:

[0:00] Introduction - Meet Semi Quinn the Bison

[1:58] Meet Andres Mata: Early Life and Civic Engagement

[6:56] The Kansas Civic Network: Mission and Impact

[11:17] Challenges and Success Stories in Rural Kansas

[13:54] Building a Team of Young Doers

[26:40] Organizational Structure and Future Goals

[36:20] Founding the Kansas Civic Network

[37:02] Challenges and Hopes for Kansas

[39:16] The Role of Politics in Community Work

[41:29] Engaging Communities and Institutions

[44:49] Organic Farming Project

[47:47] Concluding Thoughts and Reflections

[48:31] Post-Interview Reflections

[54:27] Who's A Kansan: Community Organizer Edition

[63:21] Closing

Resources Mentioned:

• Kansas Civic Network - https://www.kscivicnetwork.org/

• Bethany College (Lindsborg, Kansas) - https://www.bethanylb.edu/

• Kansas 250 - https://www.travelks.com/kansas-250/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network, for more information, visit ictpod.net

Highlights:

• How pandemic isolation and TikTok sparked Steven's Kansas content creation journey
• The infamous Little Jerusalem camping fail and reversing a mile down a muddy road in a minivan
• Why Steven focuses on promoting small-town Kansas businesses instead of just Wichita and Kansas City
• The colorblind video that hit 2 million views and temporarily impressed his teenage kids
• Steven's burger philosophy: three in one day was a mistake, and why he won't trash restaurants publicly
• Partnerships with Kansas State Fair and River Festival, plus dreams of World Cup content
• The gap in Kansas' food scene: where's a good bagel shop when you need one?
• Steven's most memorable meals: pasta in Italy, farm-to-table in Fort Wayne, and rare AHI tuna in Wichita
• Why Steven can't schedule content more than a day ahead (and the stressful 4-6 PM scramble)
• Teaching, social media, and staying authentic both on and off camera
• The Volga Germans' legacy: how Catherine the Great, Turkey Red wheat, and bierocks transformed Kansas

Chapters:

• [0:00] Discovering a Supercell Shelf Cloud
• [1:50] Introducing Steven Kimmi
• [2:41] Welcome, Steven Kimmi
• [3:22] Steven's Journey as a Content Creator
• [4:03] Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Taste Test
• [6:08] Adventures and Challenges in Kansas
• [14:52] Focusing on Food and Small Businesses
• [17:46] Collaborations and Future Plans
• [21:02] The Influence of Social Media on Teaching
• [21:57] Handling Negative Experiences at Restaurants
• [22:48] Burger Eating Adventures
• [23:51] Content Scheduling Struggles
• [25:00] Kansas Food Scene and Restaurant Gaps
• [28:45] Memorable Dining Experiences
• [31:45] Thanks for joining us
• [33:48] The Volga Germans and Kansas Wheat
• [39:04] The Legacy of Volga German Cuisine
• [40:55] Concluding Thoughts and Upcoming Features

Resources Mentioned:

• Steven Kimmi on TikTok
• Steven Kimmi on Instagram
• Steven Kimmi’s website: https://stevenkimmi.com/
• Cozy Inn (Salina, Kansas)
• Jiffy Burger (Smith Center, Kansas)
• Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park
• Kansas Sampler Foundation
• Kansas State Fair
• Salina River Festival

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network, for more information, visit ictpod.net

Highlights:

• How a K-State ag communications student created a viral farming music video that got 5 million views in one week—with zero marketing budget

• The moment everything changed: being on Fox & Friends in New York City just four days after posting their first video

• Why "I'm Farming and I Grow It" became a cultural phenomenon and launched a 13-year YouTube career

• Balancing full-time farming with content creation, speaking engagements, and managing multiple social media platforms

• Living with Type 1 diabetes as a farmer and traveler—playing the "video game" of insulin management on expert level

• What Greg learned about agriculture by visiting all 50 states twice and 10 countries

• The current challenges facing American farmers and why community support matters more than ever

• Why the "Tractor Stuck" video resonates with farming families and teaches an important lesson about asking for help

• How faith, family, and farming intertwine in Greg's daily life

• Why traveling the world made Greg love Kansas even more

Chapters:

[0:00] Madeline's Photography Adventures

[1:30] Introducing Greg Peterson

[2:37] Greg's Musical and Farming Background

[5:05] The Viral Success of Peterson Farm Brothers

[14:17] Balancing Farming and Content Creation

[19:23] Living with Type 1 Diabetes

[24:35] Building a Community Around the Channel

[26:35] Kids and Tractors: The Viral Video

[27:26] Challenges in American Agriculture

[29:35] The Importance of Community in Farming

[31:25] Educating the Public About Farming

[35:26] The Role of Faith in Farming

[36:42] Love for Kansas: A Farmer's Perspective

[39:50] TikTok Fun and Kansas Culture

[46:54] Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas Pride

[48:30] A Hobbit-Inspired Pub in Kansas

[50:07] Wrapping Up: Final Thoughts and Farewell

Resources Mentioned:

• Peterson Farm Brothers YouTube Channel

• Kansas State University

• Pilgrim's Keep Pub in St. Mary's, Kansas

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network, for more information, visit ictpod.net

Highlights

• Colby's "On the Road and to the Stars" TV show has expanded statewide across Kansas

• Kansas Tourism is releasing 34 gift boxes featuring Kansas artisan products for Kansas Day

• The importance of local community warriors who share their towns with visitors

• Why Castle Rock deserves as much attention as Monument Rocks

• How thrift shopping has become a legitimate travel draw for Kansas towns

• Big Ed's Steakhouse in Bird City as a must-visit Kansas dining destination

• The surprising fact that most states don't celebrate their birthday like Kansas does

• Why winter is actually the best time to explore Kansas state parks and hiking trails

• How Kansas continues to surprise visitors with its progressive history and diverse topography

Chapters

[0:00] Family Christmas and My Kansas Flag

[1:30] Introduction to Kansas Day

[2:45] Interview with Kolby from Kansas Tourism

[5:17] Kansas Tourism Campaigns and Celebrations

[8:30] Exploring Kansas: Hidden Gems and Local Experiences

[15:45] Fashion and Thrift Shopping in Kansas

[20:15] Kansas Food Adventures

[25:30] Kansas History and Fun Facts

[30:00] Nostalgic School Memories

[32:15] Kansas Day Traditions

[34:00] Planning a Kansas Trip for Influencers

[38:45] Challenges of Traveling in Kansas

[41:30] Winter Adventures in Kansas

[44:00] Surprising Facts About Kansas

[48:15] Celebrity Encounters and Kansas Destinations

[52:30] Who's That Kansan? High Flying Edition

[58:45] Closing Remarks and Farewell

Resources

• Kansas Tourism website: travelks.com

• Kansas Tourism on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube

• Sunflower Summer app

• Wild Man Vintage (Lawrence, Kansas)

• Big Ed's Steakhouse (Bird City, Kansas)

• Castle Rock (northwest Kansas)

• Monument Rocks (western Kansas)

• Garden of Eden (Lucas, Kansas)

• Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum (Atchison, Kansas)

• Cosmosphere (Hutchinson, Kansas)

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network, for more information, visit ictpod.net

HIGHLIGHTS

• Kansas is celebrating America's 250th birthday throughout the entire year with events in communities across the state

• The Kansas 250 Commission has partnered with organizations like Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks for a 250-point challenge and      From the Land of Kansas for special product boxes

• A statewide service day is planned for September 11, 2026, encouraging Kansans to volunteer in their communities

• Rosa Cavazos created the Topeka Chocolate Festival, which drew 50,000 people and featured 100 chocolate entries

• Rosa chairs a national Latino organization based in DC and has spoken at the National Mall about women's healthcare and equal pay

• Communities like Ottawa have created "250 things to do" lists, while Junction City and Atchison are planning special parades and events

• The Great American Picnic on July 5th will encourage neighbors to gather in parks and on their blocks

• Waldo, Kansas—population 30—fully embraces its connection to the "Where's Waldo?" book series with a statue in the city park

• Waldo was founded in 1888 as a railroad town and once had three newspapers serving 300 residents

CHAPTERS

00:00 - New Year Resolutions and Family Stories

02:36 - Celebrating the Sesquicentennial: Kansas 250 Commission

03:26 - Meet Rosa Cavazos: Special Projects Coordinator

05:08 - Kansas 250 Events and Community Involvement

15:15 - Personal Insights and Volunteering

22:47 - Event Planning Tips and Teamwork

23:52 - Challenges of Organizing a Large Festival

26:52 - Unique Challenges of Planning for the 250th Anniversary

32:21 - Celebrating Kansas' Heritage and Diversity

36:45 - Exploring Waldo, Kansas

39:56 - Where's Waldo?

43:02 - Conclusion and Farewell

RESOURCES MENTIONED

• America250KS.com - Official Kansas 250 Commission website with events, merchandise, and community celebrations - https://america250ks.com

• Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks - Partner for the 250 Challenge featuring state parks, fishing, hiking, and camping - https://ksoutdoors.com

• From the Land of Kansas - Organization promoting Kansas-grown products with special Kansas 250 boxes available January through July - https://fromthelandofkansas.com

• Kansas State Library - Monthly book series featuring Kansas authors and topics - https://kslib.info

• Boot Hill Distillery - Creating a special bourbon collection for Kansas 250 - https://boothilldistillery.com

• MANA National Organization - National Latino organization focused on women's healthcare and equal pay issues - https://hermana.org

• Watkins Museum (Lawrence) - Hosting "Hide the Semiquins" scavenger hunt with the Kansas 250 bison mascot - https://watkinsmuseum.org

• Newspapers.com - Historical newspaper archive - https://newspapers.com

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network, for more information, visit ictpod.net

Highlights

• The unique path Joe Owen took from Oklahoma to Kansas and into law enforcement
• What it’s really like to become a Kansas State Trooper: selection, training, and the meaning behind the uniform
• The broader role of the Kansas Highway Patrol beyond policing highways—including supporting federal and local agencies, and running the state’s Criminal Justice Information System
• The importance of integrity, humility, and discipline in recruiting new troopers
• How ham radio became a surprising passion and its relevance to emergency communications
• Winter driving safety tips every Kansan should remember
• How major events like FIFA coming to Kansas City impact law enforcement collaboration
• Personal stories of loss, resilience, and the deeper meaning behind wearing the badge
• Amusing and quirky moments from Kansas history, including windowless churches and blue laws

Chapters

0:00 – Kansas Comedy: Kathleen Madigan’s take on Kansas toll booths

2:18 – Welcome & Introduction to Kansas State Troopers

3:20 – Interview with Joe Owen: Background and Journey to Kansas

4:30 – Joe’s Path into Law Enforcement

6:07 – Lessons from the Road: No Stop is Insignificant

15:21 – The Many Roles of Kansas State Troopers

26:36 – Training, Recruitment, and What Makes a Good Trooper

29:50 – Pop Culture, Agency Collaboration, and Favorite Law Enforcement Depictions

44:14 – Ham Radio: A Trooper’s Unexpected Hobby

49:34 – Winter Driving Safety Tips

59:01 – FIFA’s Impact on Kansas City Law Enforcement

1:03:01 – Reflections: The Meaning of the Badge

1:09:28 – Post-Interview Reflections & Fun with Mustaches

1:11:08 – Kansas History: Amusing Incidents and Blue Laws

1:32:25 – Closing Remarks & Appreciation

Resources Mentioned

• Kathleen Madigan’s Comedy Special (available on Prime Video): Kathleen Madigan on Prime Video
• Kansas Highway Patrol: https://kansashighwaypatrol.gov/
• Blue Bloods (TV Show): Blue Bloods on CBS
• Super Troopers (Movie): Super Troopers on IMDb
• Newspapers.com (Kansas history research): newspapers.com
• FCC Ham Radio Licensing: FCC Amateur Radio Service
  
  

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network, for more information, visit ictpod.net

Highlights

• The mission and structure of Prairie Paws Animal Shelter
• Emotional and practical challenges of shelter work
• What “no-kill” really means and how it’s achieved
• The role of volunteers and “Dog Day Outs”
• Memorable animal rescue stories, including Moose the dog
• Managing unusual animal drop-offs and Kansas animal ordinances
• The importance of community support and spay/neuter programs
• Advice for supporting your local shelter and adopting pets

Chapters

4:59 – Introducing Brandon Sokol from Prairie Paws Animal Shelter

6:43 – Challenges and rewards of shelter work

10:30 – Managing capacity and maintaining no-kill status

14:18 – Volunteer contributions and “Dog Day Outs”

26:35 – Odd animal drop-offs and unusual pets

27:56 – Animal control, ordinances, and shelter operations

31:04 – Feral cats and trap-neuter-return programs

32:41 – Personal pet stories and naming pets

36:39 – Community support for animal shelters

Resources Mentioned

• Prairie Paws Animal Shelter: prairiepaws.org
• Adopt a Pet: adoptapet.com
  
  

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network, for more information, visit ictpod.net

Highlights

• The meaning and Midwest origins of the “grandma basement”
• How the podcast began and the team behind the scenes
• Favorite guest moments and what made them memorable
• Lessons learned from Kansas historians, artists, journalists, and community leaders
• Tanner’s photojournalist adventures across the state
• Unique Kansas events: rodeos, peace treaties, and Swedish festivals
• The importance of parks, wildlife, and green spaces in Kansas
• A look at the “guest book” and fun awards for standout guests
• Hopes and plans for the next season, including new regions and stories

Chapters

00:00 – Understanding the “Grandma Basement” Concept

03:22 – Reflecting on Past Episodes

04:11 – The Origin Story of the Podcast

07:19 – Highlighting Memorable Guests

13:24 – Discussing the Podcast’s Reach and Team

21:55 – Capturing Kansas: Rodeos, Peace Treaties, and Wildlife

29:57 – Whooping Cranes: A Remarkable Comeback

32:04 – Exploring Kansas Wildlife

32:31 – Lindsborg’s Biannual Ings Fest

33:30 – Traditional Swedish Costumes

35:27 – Lakewood Park: A Kansas Gem

36:56 – Looking Forward to 2026

41:40 – Reflecting on 2025 Guests

53:27 – Closing Thoughts and Thank Yous

Resources Mentioned

• Curious Kansan Newsletter & Stories: askakansan.com
• Peace Treaty Pageant (Medicine Lodge): peacetreaty.org
• Kansas Sampler Foundation: kansassampler.org
• Maxwell Wildlife Refuge: maxwellwildliferefuge.com
• Book: “Into Whooperland” by Michael Forsberg
• Episodes Referenced:
  • Adrian Zink (Ep. 3)
  • Dr. Andrew Orr (Ep. 11, “The Compassionate Kansan”)
  • Erika Nelson (Ep 16, “Big Little Big Kansan”)
  • Brooke Terrapin (Ep. 5, “Fashionable Kansan”)
  • Greg Victors (Ep. 26, “Steps of Tradition”)
  • Abel Frederic (Ep. 24, “Giving Kansas”)
  • Ross Janssen (Ep. 28, “Forecasting Kansas”)
  • Leslie Bishop (Ep. 1, “The Kansas Dynamic”)
  • Trisha Smith (Ep. 21, “Resilient Kansan”)
  • Rex Buchanan (Ep. 29, “Grounded Kansan”)
  • Marci Penner (Ep. 18, “Sampling Kansas”)
  • Carl Bowden (Ep. 6, “Leading Kansas”)
  • James Bowden (Ep. 17, “Unboxable Kansan”)
  • Cash Hollister (Ep. 22, “Beats Kansas”)

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and help us continue amplifying Kansas voices!

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network, for more information, visit ictpod.net

Highlights

• Ember Hope’s mission: empowering and supporting vulnerable children
• Real stories of impact—how kids’ lives are being changed
• The importance of trauma-informed care and community support
• Mitch’s personal journey: from career pivot to purpose-driven leadership
• Practical ways listeners can get involved and make a difference
• Q&A: Addressing the biggest challenges facing kids today

Chapters

• 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to Ember Hope’s Mission
• 04:10 – Why Supporting Kids Matters: The Heart of Ember Hope
• 11:25 – Stories of Transformation: Kids and Families Impacted
• 19:40 – Trauma-Informed Care: Meeting Kids Where They Are
• 27:15 – Mitch’s Career Pivot: Finding Purpose in Service
• 34:50 – Building Community Partnerships
• 41:30 – How You Can Help: Volunteer and Support Opportunities
• 47:55 – Listener Q&A: Challenges & Solutions for Kids
• 53:20 – Final Reflections & Call to Action

Resources Mentioned

• Ember Hope Official Website
• Volunteer Opportunities at Ember Hope
• Support: Donate to Ember Hope
  
  

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and help us continue amplifying Kansas voices!

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network, for more information, visit ictpod.net

Highlights

• Beccy Tanner’s journey from a farm in Radium, Kansas, to the Kansas Newspaper Hall of Fame
• The surprising story behind the name “Radium” and other Kansas towns
• What makes Kansas—and its people—distinctive and worthy of storytelling
• The evolution of journalism and the importance of passion in teaching history
• How Beccy’s reporting helped save the “Home on the Range” cabin
• Preserving the stories of African American homesteaders and Native Americans in Stafford County
• The role of grassroots art and hidden gems across Kansas
• Advice for aspiring storytellers: let people tell their own stories
• Fun with historical newspaper clippings and the quirks of Kansas history

Chapters

01:05 — Meet Beccy Tanner: A Seasoned Journalist

02:59 — Beccy’s Kansas Roots and Early Life

05:37 — The Unique Charm of Kansas: What makes this place special?

08:06 — Beccy’s Journalism Journey: From childhood dreams to the Wichita Eagle

14:47 — Impactful Stories and Real-World Change: Saving the “Home on the Range” cabin

21:19 — Retirement and Return to St. John: Coming home and giving back

23:14 — Preserving Kansas History: Museums, glass negatives, and untold stories

30:07 — Exploring Historical Newspapers: How journalism and storytelling have changed

32:20 — Advice for Aspiring Storytellers: Letting people’s voices shine

34:12 — Teaching Kansas History: Why it matters and how to inspire passion

37:06 — Kansas Leadership and Community Stories: Grassroots art and local legends

39:14 — Kansas Bus Trips and Hidden Gems: Off-the-beaten-path adventures

45:25 — Fun with Historical Newspaper Clippings: Guessing Kansas counties and quirky stories

53:39 — Wrap-Up: Reflections, gratitude, and a Kansas pep talk

Resources Mentioned

• Bear Grease, Builders and Bandits: The Men and Women of Wichita's Past
  • https://a.co/d/2klfqnI
• Kansas Leadership Center
  • https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/
• Stafford County Historical Museum
  • https://staffordcountymuseum.weebly.com/
• Kansas Sampler Foundation
  • https://kansassampler.org/
• Wichita Eagle
  • https://www.kansas.com/
• Kansas Magazine
  • https://www.travelks.com/kansas-magazine/
• Home on the Range Cabin
  • https://www.homeontherangecabin.com/
• Kansas History Museum
  • https://www.kansashistory.gov/museum
• Home on the Range Trailer
  https://youtu.be/WX07IbmUpak

If you’d like to learn more about Beccy’s work or any of the places and people mentioned, check out the links above or reach out for more information!

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and help us continue amplifying Kansas voices!

https://youtu.be/ZBPSHojkinc

Highlights

• The origin story of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation and its founder’s entrepreneurial journey
• How the foundation’s endowment model enables long-term, impactful giving
• The evolution from responsive grantmaking to strategic initiatives in education, arts, childcare, and housing
• The unique “working board” structure and what makes the foundation’s leadership model unusual
• Real stories of community impact, from theater camps to rural revitalization
• The importance of strong nonprofit boards and volunteerism in rural Kansas
• Insights on regional collaboration and lessons for other communities
• Local gems: Rock City, Minneapolis, and community events in Northwest Kansas

Chapters

01:50 – Meet Betsy Wearing: Career Journey & Nonprofit Roots

06:40 – The Dane G. Hansen Foundation: History & Mission

13:40 – Mr. Hansen’s Legacy & Philanthropy Approach

22:00 – How the Foundation Works Today: Scholarships, Grants, and Initiatives

28:20 – Strategic Initiatives: Literacy, Arts, Childcare, Housing

34:00 – The “Magic Corner” and Regional Impact

38:00 – The Role of Nonprofit Boards & Volunteerism

44:00 – Community Stories & Northwest Kansas Today Magazine

50:00 – Lessons for Other Regions & The Power of Local Agency

55:00 – Personal Legacy, Foundation’s Future, and Final Thoughts

1:00:00 – “Where in the Rectangle?”: Rock City & Local Recommendations

1:05:00 – Closing Remarks & How to Support the Show

Resources Mentioned

• Dane G. Hansen Foundation
  https://danehansenfoundation.org/
• Northwest Kansas Today Magazine
  https://danehansenfoundation.org/magazine/
• Curious Kansan Stories
  https://askakansan.com/curious-kansan
• Mid-America Arts Alliance
  https://www.maaa.org/
• Kansas Learning Center for Health
  https://www.learningcenter.org/
• Rolling Hills Zoo
  https://www.rollinghillszoo.org/
  
  

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and help us continue amplifying Kansas voices!

From the quirks of Kansas county fairs to the emotional rollercoaster of covering the Royals, this conversation with Joel Goldberg, the voice of the Royals, is packed with stories, insights, and a few surprises. Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan, a business enthusiast, or just love a good story, you’ll find something to take away from Joel’s journey through broadcasting, networking, and life in Kansas City.

Highlights

• The challenge of finding healthy food in rural Kansas
• Joel’s approach to networking and building authentic relationships
• Behind-the-scenes of preparing for a live broadcast
• How to balance being a fan and a professional in sports media
• The emotional side of seeing players come and go
• What makes Kansas sports fans unique
• Fun Kansas sports trivia and stories

Chapters

[0:00] – Opening banter: Kansas county fairs and fried food

[1:33] – Welcome and introduction to Joel Goldberg

[2:46] – The art of networking and building relationships

[6:06] – Broadcasting: preparation, nerves, and “winging it” with experience

[10:57] – Balancing fandom and professionalism as the Royals’ broadcaster

[18:39] – Family, career moves, and finding “home” in Kansas City

[24:19] – Royals memories: player trades, relationships, and the business of sports

[31:02] – The magic of unpredictable moments in sports

[38:09] – Broadcasting for a broad audience and the importance of trust

[42:34] – What makes Kansas fans unique

[45:40] – Closing thoughts and gratitude

[46:25] – Kansas sports trivia segment

Resources

• Joel Goldberg’s Podcast: Rounding the Bases
• Joel Goldberg’s Books:
  • Small Ball, Big Results
  • Rounding the Bases: Baseball & Business Lessons for Success in Life
• Joel Goldberg Speaking & Media: joelgoldbergmedia.com
• Kansas City Royals: royals.com
• James Naismith’s Original Rules of Basketball: KU Libraries Exhibit

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and help us continue amplifying Kansas voices!

Highlights

• The quirky debate: Why are you “on” a bus but “in” a car?
• Danielle’s move from Houston to Topeka and how Kansas became home
• Building Authentic Media: from journalism to boutique branding
• The role of faith and personal growth in entrepreneurship
• Overcoming self-doubt and the “belief problem” in business
• The impact of community and networking for women leaders
• The story behind Danielle’s women’s empowerment event, Rise and Thrive
• Authenticity in marketing: why your story matters more than trends
• The evolving landscape of branding—cell phone videos vs. polished productions
• What makes someone a Kansan? Reflections on belonging and identity
• Fun segment: “Who’s That Kansan?”—trivia about notable Kansans

Chapters

00:00 – The “on a bus, in a car” debate

01:28 – Introducing Danielle J. Martin

03:23 – Danielle’s journey: Houston to Topeka

06:16 – Founding Authentic Media and the power of story

10:04 – Challenges of being a woman entrepreneur

13:25 – Building community and the importance of networking

16:30 – Rise and Thrive: Women’s empowerment in Topeka

18:30 – The Authentic Media podcast: goals and vision

22:03 – Authenticity in branding and marketing

27:00 – The “7 Whys” and getting to the heart of your story

32:03 – Adapting to Kansas culture and communication

36:00 – What makes a Kansan? Reflections on home and identity

41:00 – “Who’s That Kansan?” trivia segment

49:00 – Closing thoughts and resources

Resources Mentioned

• Authentic Media – Danielle J. Martin’s branding and consulting company
• Ask a Kansan Podcast – Official website
• Simon Sinek: Start with Why – Book referenced in the discussion
• Smoky Hill River Festival – Community event and upcoming documentary

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and help us continue amplifying Kansas voices!

Highlights

• Midwest wedding sendoff traditions you have to see/hear to believe
• High school theater rituals that might surprise you
• The story and mission of the Land Institute, explained by its president
• How perennial grains could change the future of farming
• Building a global network for sustainable agriculture from Salina, Kansas
• The importance of community, culture, and leadership at the Land Institute
• The science and symbolism of prairie roots
• Kansas pride, flatness debates, and the hidden beauty of the prairie
• The longest sculpted brick mural in the U.S. and other Kansas curiosities

Chapters

0:00 – Midwest Wedding Traditions

1:14 – High School Theater Shenanigans

2:46 – Wedding Gifts and Games

3:47 – Introduction to the Podcast

3:53 – Meet Rachel Stroer of the Land Institute

8:09 – The Mission of the Land Institute

21:54 – Challenges and Future of Sustainable Agriculture

36:02 – Celebrating 50 Years and Future Aspirations

39:58 – Agriculture: A Human Endeavor

42:12 – Kansas: More Than Just Flat Land

44:13 – The Mystery of the Prairie

45:00 – The Science of Prairie Roots

49:59 – Shoutouts and Upcoming Events at the Land Institute

51:40 – The Longest Sculpted Brick Mural in the U.S.

56:18 – Curious Kansan: Exploring Kansas

57:22 – Wrap Up and How to Connect

Resources

• The Land Institute: https://landinstitute.org/
• Kernza® Perennial Grain: https://kernza.org/
• Prairie Festival (Land Institute 50th Anniversary, Sept 25–27, 2026): Prairie Festival Info
• Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari: https://www.ynharari.com/book/sapiens/
• Sushi Go! (the game): https://gamewright.com/product/Sushi-Go
• Cloud Anthologies Mural, Concordia, KS: Cloud County Tourism
• Curious Kansan Newsletter: https://askakansan.com/

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Highlights

• The surprising connection between oil, water, and earthquakes in Kansas
• How induced seismicity changed the way the state manages natural resources
• The real story behind the High Plains and Ogallala aquifers—and why it matters for the future
• Why “crisis” isn’t always the right word for slow-moving environmental challenges
• The role of community, conversation, and compromise in solving big problems
• Kansas’ hidden gems: from wildflowers on the Cimarron National Grassland to the pride of the Flint Hills
• The importance of curiosity and open-mindedness in seeing the beauty of Kansas

Chapters

0:00 – TikTok Surprise & Opening Banter

1:20 – Introducing the Podcast and Guest

2:01 – Rex Buchanan’s Background & Kansas Roots

4:49 – Career in Geology and Science Communication

7:48 – Dealing with Induced Seismicity (Manmade Earthquakes)

11:51 – Earthquake Public Relations & Task Force

22:00 – Understanding the High Plains Aquifer

28:31 – Future of Water in Kansas: Is It a Crisis?

36:31 – Political Challenges in Natural Resource Management

36:59 – Misconceptions About Fracking and Earthquakes

41:38 – Fieldwork, Measuring Water, and Appreciating Kansas’ Beauty

47:53 – Promoting Kansas’ Hidden Gems

56:23 – Closing Thoughts, Acknowledgements, and Fun Stories

Resources

• Kansas Geological Survey – Learn more about Kansas geology and water resources
• Plainspoken Scientist Blog – Science communication interviews, including a 2015 interview with Rex Buchanan
• Smoky Hill Museum, Salina, KS – Local history and First Thursdays presentations
• Audubon of Kansas – Field trips and prairie chicken viewing
• Cimarron National Grassland – Largest publicly accessible property in Kansas
• Ask a Kansan Podcast Website – More episodes, show notes, and resources

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and help us continue amplifying Kansas voices!

Highlights

• The story behind Kansas’ most famous weather dog, May, and her predecessor Millie
• How Ross Janssen’s passion for weather started in fourth grade and led to a 22-year career
• The science (and art) of predicting tornadoes, hail, and Kansas’ wild weather
• What it’s really like to deliver life-saving information during severe storms
• The evolution of storm chasing—from palm pilots to live-streaming and crowded highways
• How meteorologists balance scientific accuracy with the psychological needs of their audience
• The impact of streaming, social media, and YouTube on local weather coverage
• Advice for aspiring meteorologists (and why you shouldn’t let a low math score stop you)
• Personal stories from the hosts and guests about storm chasing, weather clubs, and growing up in Kansas

Chapters

00:00 – Weather Club Origins & Storm Chasing Stories

02:17 – Introducing Ross Janssen & May the Weather Dog

04:53 – Ross’s Path to Meteorology and Kansas Roots

13:14 – The Human Side of Weather Broadcasting

21:10 – The Science of Tornadoes and Severe Weather

34:46 – Technology, Storm Chasing, and the Changing Media Landscape

46:06 – The Psychology of Weather Communication

56:43 – Streaming, Social Media, and the Future of Local News

1:10:07 – Advice for Aspiring Meteorologists

1:18:46 – Storm Chasing Tales with Tanner

1:27:54 – Listener Call to Action & Closing

Resources Mentioned

• KWCH (Ross Janssen’s station): https://www.kwch.com/
• Ask a Kansan Podcast Website: www.askakansan.com
• National Weather Service: https://www.weather.gov/
• Submit your storm photos or questions: http://www.askakansan.com/contact

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and help us continue amplifying Kansas voices!

Highlights

• Dr. Frank Tracz’s early life, career path, and what drew him to Kansas State University
• The challenges and triumphs of building the K-State band program from the ground up
• Reflections on 33 years of leadership, culture, and tradition in the band
• The emotional process of retirement and advice for the next director
• The unique relationship between band and football culture at K-State
• Stories of support from alumni and community, including Eric Stonestreet
• The work ethic and diversity of band students—and why employers love them
• Personal stories from the hosts about their own band experiences and mentors

Chapters

00:00 – AI Searches & Fun Icebreakers

03:15 – Meet the Hosts and Dr. Frank Tracz

04:50 – Early Life and Career Beginnings

05:51 – Journey to Kansas State University

09:14 – Building the Band Program

11:02 – Challenges and Achievements

12:09 – Retirement Reflections

18:57 – Band Culture and Traditions

23:32 – Marching Band Dynamics

26:17 – Hope and Future of the Band

27:08 – Band Kids at Football Games

27:41 – Writing Recommendations for Band Students

28:05 – The Work Ethic of Band Kids

30:29 – Recruiting for the Band

32:43 – The Magic of K-State Band

33:32 – Memorable Band Experiences

36:08 – Fundraising and Support for the Band

39:24 – Rivalries and Band Unity

40:46 – Reflecting on a Career in Band

42:14 – Personal Band Stories and Farewell

Resources

• Kansas State University Bands: K-State Bands Website
• Ask a Kansan Podcast: askakansan.com
• K-State Marching Band on Social Media: Facebook, Instagram
• Curious Kansan Blog: Curious Kansan
• Previous episodes mentioned:
  • Carl Bowden on Leadership (K-State Band alum)
  • Dr. Andrew Orr (K-State Professor, History & War)
  • Dr. Carlton Shield Chief Gover (Pawnee Nation, Archaeology)

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and help us continue amplifying Kansas voices!

Highlights

• 
  The story behind the Wichita War Dancer and Greg’s personal journey
• Understanding Native regalia: meaning, tradition, and identity
• The history of Native Americans in Kansas, including the boarding school era and the Trail of Tears
• Cultural differences and commonalities among Native nations
• The importance of representation and combating stereotypes in media
• How non-Native Kansans can show respect and support for Native communities
• The role of elders, youth, and education in preserving culture
• Kansas-made products game: celebrating local innovation and heritage
• Tips for connecting with nature—ditch flowers, butterfly gardens, and more

Chapters

00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to Greg Victors

03:20 – Plains Indian Sign Language & Cultural Greetings

04:50 – Greg’s Background: Performer, Advocate, Educator

06:00 – The Meaning of Regalia and Identity

08:00 – Kansas Roots: Family, History, and the Ponca Nation

13:00 – The Boarding School Era and Haskell Indian Nations University

16:00 – The Ponca Trail of Tears and Kansas Connections

20:00 – Spiritual Connection to the Land

22:00 – Cultural Differences Among Native Nations

27:00 – The Role of Elders, Youth, and Passing Down Traditions

32:00 – The Story of the Wichita War Dancer: Dance, Performance, and Advocacy

38:00 – Symbolism in Regalia: Colors, Feathers, and the Morning Sun

43:00 – Modern Native Issues: Sovereignty, Rights, and Representation

48:00 – How to Show Respect and Support for Native Communities

52:00 – Representation in Media and Combating Stereotypes

56:00 – How to Connect with Greg Victors and Book Performances

58:00 – Celebrating Native Culture Year-Round

1:00:00 – Kansas-Made Products Game

1:15:00 – Ditch Flowers, Butterfly Gardens, and Local Nature

1:23:00 – Closing Thoughts & How to Support the Podcast

Resources & Links

• 
  Greg Victors – Wichita War Dancer: wichitawardancer.com
• Haskell Indian Nations University: haskell.edu
• Renaissance Cafe (Sponsor): renaissancecafeasaria.com
• Cohort Digital (Sponsor): cohortdigital (no .com)
• Ask a Kansan Sponsorships: askakansan.com/sponsorships
• Kansas-Made Products:
  • Adam Popcorn Popper: Quinn Craft Products
  • Stroud’s Locker Beef Jerky: stroudslocker.com
  • McCauley Aircraft Propellers: mccauley.txtav.com
  • Rogue Hoe Tools: prohoe.com
  • Grasshopper Mowers: grasshoppermower.com
    
    

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and help us continue amplifying Kansas voices!

Highlights

• The cereal-before-milk debate and other everyday brain teasers
• Dr. Matt Thompson’s path from Florida to Kansas Wesleyan University
• The meaning behind “the power of and” at KWU
• How faith, creativity, and leadership intersect in higher education
• Building resilient communities through local partnerships and initiatives
• The importance of vulnerability and support for students
• Kansas history trivia and stories, from dugouts to carousel horses
• The legacy of the Menninger family in mental health
• Best-tasting water in Kansas and the reopening of the Kansas Museum of History

Chapters

0:00 – Breakfast debates and brain teasers

2:52 – Welcome and guest introduction: Dr. Matt Thompson

4:56 – Matt’s background and journey to Kansas

6:05 – College experiences and lessons from set design

8:51 – First impressions of Kansas and cultural differences

12:07 – Faith background and its influence on leadership

14:33 – The “power of and” philosophy at KWU

17:09 – Growth, resources, and community at Kansas Wesleyan

20:43 – Looking up: vision, challenges, and the Community Resilience Hub

24:51 – Partnerships, collaboration, and vulnerability in Salina

28:49 – Supporting student growth and well-being

31:41 – Social media, presence, and the ministry of showing up

34:00 – Legacy, leadership, and the future of KWU

39:32 – Kansas trivia: water, museums, and artifacts

49:35 – Closing thoughts and how to connect with KWU

Resources Mentioned

• 
  Kansas Wesleyan University: www.kwu.edu
• Rodale Institute (regenerative organic farming): rodaleinstitute.org
• Kansas Museum of History: kshs.org/museum
• Lawrence Journal-World (Best Tasting Water): ljworld.com
• Kansas Public Radio: kansaspublicradio.org
• Menninger Foundation: menningerclinic.org
• Dickinson County Heritage Center (Abilene Carousel): heritagecenterdk.com
• CW Parker Carousel Museum (Leavenworth): firstcitymuseums.org
• Kansas Water Environment Association: kwea.net
  
  

Highlights

• 
  Abel Frederic’s journey from South Florida to Kansas and his path to community leadership
• The influence of Abel’s immigrant family and the American dream
• How United Way of the Plains supports nonprofits and provides direct services
• The impact of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library on early childhood literacy
• Behind the scenes of the Give Items of Value Warehouse and the 2-1-1 call center
• Addressing homelessness through the Continuum of Care program
• The importance of collaboration over competition in nonprofit work
• Innovative approaches to philanthropy and community impact
• Spotlight on Kansas artist Lester Raymer and the Red Barn Studio
• Reflections on technology, community, and the future of Kansas

Chapters

00:00 — Introduction & Nathan Pyle’s Illustrations

01:30 — Guest Introduction: Abel Frederic

03:27 — Abel’s Journey to Kansas

05:01 — Career and Community Impact

12:00 — United Way’s Role and Services

21:05 — Leadership Kansas Experience

26:35 — Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library

31:29 — Give Items of Value Warehouse & 2-1-1 Call Center

37:41 — Using Data to Support Nonprofit Partners

39:00 — Continuum of Care (COC) Program & Homelessness

45:13 — Community Partnerships & Success Stories

50:30 — Balancing Planning and Execution in Nonprofits

53:30 — Innovative Approaches in Nonprofit Work

61:25 — Encouraging Community Support and Participation

61:45 — Reflections & Closing

61:24 — Portrait of a Kansas Artist: Lester Raymer

71:13 — Closing Remarks & Future Segments

Resources Mentioned

• 
  United Way of the Plains: https://unitedwayplains.org/
• Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library: https://imaginationlibrary.com/
• Youth Horizons: https://youthhorizons.net/
• Stand Together Foundation: https://standtogetherfoundation.org/
• Red Barn Studio Museum (Lester Raymer): https://redbarnstudio.org/
• Catholic Charities Wichita: https://www.catholiccharitieswichita.org/
• Firekeeper Golf Course: https://www.firekeepergolf.com/
• Sunflower Summer App: https://www.sunflowersummer.org/
• Leadership Kansas: https://www.leadershipkansas.org/
• 2-1-1 Kansas: https://211kansas.org/
  
  

Interview Links

CKCIE - https://www.305ckcie.com/ 

Intro & Outro 

Mr. Beat Time Capsule - https://www.tiktok.com/@iammrbeat/video/7545193202417011999?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7426026952244659758 

We talk about the power of music in Kansas, how creativity can transform communities, and the intentional ways Cash invests his time and talent to make Salina a more vibrant place. His passion and thoughtfulness shine through in every story he shares, reminding us of the impact one person can have on the cultural fabric of our state.

Cash Hollistah (FB) - https://www.facebook.com/cashhollistah/ 

Cash Hollistah (Instah) - https://www.instagram.com/cashhollistah/ 

Sponsors

Renaissance Cafe - https://www.renaissancecafeassaria.com/ 

Cohort Digital - https://cohort.digital/ 

Link

Space Pen - https://a.co/d/5cx3MML

Maxwell Wildlife Refuge: https://maxwellwildliferefuge.com/

Outro

Kansas Jayhawks Fans - https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1EkVQsNw3r/

I Grew Up in Kansas - https://www.facebook.com/share/16Dk2PQYNr/

Canton, Kansas

ABC News Nightline even followed Jim into the field and behind the scenes at National Geographic headquarters, capturing the depth and dedication of his storytelling process. In our conversation, Jim reflects on how his Kansas roots shaped his perspective, the journey that launched his career, and the lessons learned from seeing the world through a lens.

Jim Richardson: https://www.jimrichardsonphotography.com/index 

National Geographic: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/expeditions/experts/jim-richardson/

Crossbow Productions Bio: https://youtu.be/Bn04SCwE_GY?si=pIOarCTCdQFFXCX0 

Geo Catching: https://www.geocaching.com/play 

Sponsors 

Cohort.Digiral - https://cohort.digital/

Renaissance Cafe - https://www.renaissancecafeassaria.com/ 

City: LIndsborg 

Our conversation explores the significance of the Pawnee Nation’s heritage, what Kansans can do to help protect and respect artifacts and sites, and how anyone interested can get involved in archaeology. Carlton offers a deeper understanding of the connections between culture, history, and community here in Kansas.

Carlton - https://biodiversity.ku.edu/people/carlton-shield-chief-gover

Carlton Podcasts

• https://www.archaeologypodcastnetwork.com/great-plains-archaeology
• https://www.archaeologypodcastnetwork.com/sitebites

KU Biodiversity Institute and Natural History Museum

https://biodiversity.ku.edu/

Pawnee Nation - https://pawneenation.org/

Outro

Bee TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@madie.mathews/video/7535269598564764958

Kansas Bee Association - https://www.facebook.com/groups/902499509808882/

Newsletter Link - https://www.askakansan.com/news

Sponsors

Cohort.Digital - https://cohort.digital/

Renaissance Cafe - https://www.renaissancecafeassaria.com/ 

Show Links

About Marci - https://kansassampler.org/about-marci 

Kansas Sampler Foundation - https://kansassampler.org/ 

Topic Links

James Bowden - https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-bowden-1756a4b1/ 

Sustain-A-Grain - https://www.sustainagrain.com/ 

Salina Innovation Foundation - https://www.salinatemple.com/ 

Sponsors 

Renaisance Cafe - https://www.renaissancecafeassaria.com/ 

Cohort.Digital - https://cohort.digital/ 

We dive into the impact of the Sunflower Summer App—an initiative that encourages families to explore museums, zoos, historical sites, and more across the state for free—and discuss how everyday Kansans can become ambassadors for local tourism. This episode is a call to adventure, community pride, and discovering just how much Kansas has to offer.

Kansas Tourism Website

The Ultimate Problem Solver - KAKE News Story

Abby Wray - KAKE Bio

Alissa shares her journey into the digital space, how AI can be used responsibly to benefit both marketers and consumers, and what smart digital distribution really looks like for modern businesses. Whether you're an entrepreneur or just curious about how online ads find you, this conversation will leave you thinking differently about the digital landscape.