Shows
Topeka InsiderThe Sky's No Limit for Topeka's Development | Curtis SnedenCurtis Sneden, Director of Development at the Metropolitan Topeka Airport Authority (MTAA), shares exciting developments happening at Topeka's two airports and their adjacent industrial park. He reveals plans to bring commercial airline service back to Topeka Regional Airport, with flights potentially starting in early 2026 to destinations like Orlando, Las Vegas, and Phoenix.• The MTAA operates both Topeka Regional Airport (formerly Forbes Field) and Philip Billard Airport, plus an industrial park with development potential• Data shows approximately 1,400 Topekans drive to KCI daily, creating strong market demand for local commercial air service• Airlines have shown significant interest in Top...2025-07-251h 09
Topeka InsiderFrom News Reporter to PR Pioneer: Giving Topeka’s Small Businesses a Voice | India YarboroughIndia Yarborough, Topeka's newest PR pioneer, shares her journey from Mississippi journalist to founding Local Lens PR, the city's first public relations firm dedicated to helping small businesses find their voice. She explores the critical distinction between marketing and PR while explaining how her business fills a gap in the local market for strategic communications.• Moved to Topeka in 2019 as a reporter for the Topeka Capital Journal, having never visited Kansas before• Found Topeka to be the "perfect small city" with unique qualities that convinced her to stay for six years and counting• Worked at the Gr...2025-07-1155 min
Topeka InsiderCoaching The Whole Player: Blueprint for Success at Washburn | Brett BallardCoach Brett Ballard shares his journey from player to head basketball coach at Washburn University and reveals how he's built a winning program focused on developing players both on and off the court.• Growing up in Hutchinson, Kansas before becoming a preferred walk-on at KU under Roy Williams• Volunteering for Bill Self after graduation to get his foot in the coaching door• Being part of KU's 2008 national championship team as a staff member• Building Washburn into a program that's reached five NCAA tournaments in seven eligible seasons• Leading the team to the Division II Final F...2025-06-271h 10
Topeka InsiderDino Days, Sumatran Tigers, & Future of The Topeka Zoo | Dennis DinwiddieDennis Dinwiddie shares his 15-year journey as Director of Conservation at the Topeka Zoo, where he oversees initiatives protecting endangered species locally and globally. Through partnerships with other zoos and conservation organizations, the Topeka Zoo funds rangers in Sumatra, supports black-footed ferret reintroduction, and creates habitats for monarch butterflies.• Topeka Zoo funds a ranger in Sumatra's Leuser Range, the last stronghold for fewer than 400 remaining Sumatran tigers• Monarch butterflies have declined by 90% in 15-20 years due to loss of milkweed, their only egg-laying plant• The zoo hosts an annual native plant sale the day before Mother...2025-06-1352 min
The Asian American AthleteCoaching the Columbia Women’s Basketball Team, Playing D1 College & Pro Hoops, and a Legendary Basketball Journey with Megan GriffithIn this episode, host Justin Hong interviews Megan Griffith, the Head Coach of the Columbia women’s basketball team, on her basketball journey as a player and coach. During the episode, Megan talks about her family’s back story, growing up in the Philadelphia area, and playing sports in her early days (3:20).She also shares about her experiences playing college basketball at Columbia (8:04) and pro basketball in Europe (10:28) before eventually making the transition into coaching (13:32).She gives us an inside look at how she lande...2025-06-0439 min
Topeka InsiderWinners Focus on Winning: Former Greater Topeka Partnership CEO | Matt PivarnikMatt Pivarnik reflects on nearly a decade of service as CEO of the Greater Topeka Partnership and the remarkable transformation the community has experienced during this time. From becoming the first city in America to measure its Net Promoter Score to seeing dramatic improvements in hope, health, happiness, and prosperity metrics, Topeka's renaissance demonstrates the power of changing community mindset.• Topeka was the first city to measure its net promoter score, rising from -47 to +1• Major developments transforming Topeka include Westridge Mall's conversion to a corporate campus and two significant downtown housing projects• Community perception matter...2025-05-3044 min
Topeka InsiderThrough the Lens: Photojournalism, Topeka, and Capturing Moments That Matter | Evert NelsonEvert Nelson, chief photojournalist at the Topeka Capital Journal, shares his journey from growing up in Topeka to capturing iconic moments that have appeared in Time Magazine and Sports Illustrated. His unique perspective on visual storytelling and finding extraordinary narratives in everyday events gives us insight into the power of photojournalism.• Born in Costa Rica but raised in Topeka, Evert knew he wanted to be a photojournalist from fourth grade• Influenced by his uncle Andy Nelson who worked for the Christian Science Monitor in Washington DC• Photographed the Colorado Rockies for two seasons, capturing unique shots...2025-05-1653 min
Topeka InsiderThe Rise of Saved Soles: Where Sneakers and Faith Create Community in Topeka | Eric PattersonEric Patterson turned his childhood sneaker obsession into Saved Soles, Topeka's first high-end sneaker store where faith and footwear create unexpected community. This 23-year-old entrepreneur shares his journey from selling lemonade door-to-door to opening a thriving business in Westridge Mall.• Saved Soles specializes in buying, selling, and trading high-end sneakers like Jordans, Nikes, and Yeezys• The store has been operating in Westridge Mall for about nine months with plans to expand to a larger location• Patterson explains how certain sneakers become valuable collectibles, with some models selling for thousands• Growing up as a pastor's kid, Pat...2025-05-0244 min
Topeka InsiderWashburn Basketball’s Final Four Journey: Team Culture, Mental Toughness & Community Support | Sam Ungashick, Jake Schadegg, and Andrew OrrThree Washburn basketball players—Sam Ungashick, Jake Schadegg, and Andrew Orr—reflect on their historic season that took them to the NCAA Division II Elite Eight for the first time in 24 years. They share insights on team chemistry, mental toughness, and their perspectives on basketball's place in their lives while celebrating the incredible community support they received throughout their championship run.• Team chemistry was the biggest difference between this season and previous years—everyone genuinely liked each other• Coach Ballard's consistent message that "basketball shouldn't be your identity" helped players maintain perspective• Mental toughness was just as impo...2025-04-1845 min
Topeka InsiderWhat Your Topeka House Is Hiding From You | Alex BuehlerAlex Buehler shares his journey from retail management to becoming Topeka's "Pi Guy" home inspector, offering insights into the surprising, dangerous, and sometimes creepy discoveries behind walls and underneath floors. His unexpected career change came after quitting his job without a plan, only to receive a call from an inspection company that would change his professional path forever.• Moving from retail to home inspection through an unexpected opportunity• Why he's known as "The Pi Guy" across Topeka• Terrifying structural issues including support beams cut for laundry chutes• Common problems found in almost every home inspecti...2025-04-0454 min
Indy Housing MarketJustin Griffith is Back! Container homes, Tariffs, Inspections and More!Justin Griffith comes back on the podcast like the good ole times to update us on his experience in this market with his container homes and how tariffs are affecting them. They also go into how inspections are going in this current market now that buyers are back on the rise.Thank You to F.C. Tucker Carmel for allowing us to film and record our podcast. Contact for more info Shelly Walters F.C. Tucker (317) 201-2601 shelly@shellywalters.com 2025-03-2858 min
Topeka InsiderSports-Life Connection With Topeka’s Top Coach | Chad ParksChad Parks transforms athletes through building culture and creating genuine connections, turning wrestling into a vehicle for character development far beyond the mat. His approach combines technical coaching with life lessons that prepare athletes for challenges in all aspects of their lives.• Wrestling background that began with his Hall of Fame coach father• Created distinctive team mottos like TCOB (Take Care of Business) and GET (Gratitude, Effort, Toughness)• Observes significant generational changes in youth sports, particularly decreased free play• Warns against sports specialization and over-scheduling that leads to burnout• Encourages parents to separate their chil...2025-03-211h 17
Topeka InsiderBoosting Topeka Businesses: Social Media Strategies | Gray MarshallDiscover how Gray Marshall, creative director at AIM Strategies, is shaping the social media landscape for Topeka businesses. In this episode, we delve into the strategies he uses to manage numerous social media accounts while emphasizing the importance of authenticity and community engagement. As local businesses strive to connect with a younger demographic, Gray shares valuable insights on what works and what doesn't in today's digital age.From understanding your audience to creating engaging content that resonates, we discuss essential tactics that drive engagement and foster community. Tune in as we explore the challenges of maintaining a...2025-03-0757 min
The Paranormal RundownEp. 037 - The First Paranormal Rundown SmackdownWelcome to Season 2, Episode 16 of The Paranormal Rundown! The Gang of Nerds is down to a Duo tonight, just Vic and Dave. So we decided to do something a little different (unusual for us, right?!) Vic is going to take the role of the Atheist, Material Reductionist, and Dave is going to be the Everything is Paranormal, God Loving Hippie. The goal was to debate the possible reality of the topic, and maybe choose a winner. We did have a fairly decent list of paranormal topics, but in true Rundown fashion we only got through Consciousness, a little about the A...2025-03-012h 30
Topeka InsiderTransforming Play Into Power: Inside The Kansas Discovery Center | Laura BurtonThe episode explores the vital role of the Kansas Children's Discovery Center in fostering creativity and curiosity among children through hands-on learning. Laura Burton shares insights into the philosophy of educational play, the importance of community outreach, and the exciting plans for expansion, emphasizing the Center's commitment to accessibility and innovation in child development. • Importance of play in child development and learning • Personal story of Laura Burton's journey to the Discovery Center • Focus on interactivity and hands-on experiences in educational spaces • Upcoming expansion plans and new exhibit highlights • Community outreach efforts to make learning access...2025-02-211h 00The Paranormal RundownEp. 036 - Father Justin Allen - Thinking Outside the Fundamentalist BoxWelcome to Season 2, Episode 15 of The Paranormal Rundown! This episode we have Father Justin Allen join us. Fr. Justin is a priest with the Charismatic Episcopal Church, and fellow seminary student with Deacon Josh. His perspective is especially interesting for the Rundown, as he has not spent any significant time in his life thinking deeply on the paranormal or supernatural. We also have a very lively discussion about a green Tupperware lid that materialized in Vic's sink! The main topics discussed are Things Walking Around that are not Human, Mysteries of the Sacraments (especially Confession), Why the Paranormal Frightens Us, a...2025-02-172h 25
Topeka InsiderRaising the Bar: The Pennant, The Cyrus, and Topeka’s Future | Don HeilandTransforming Topeka takes more than grand investments; it requires community spirit, adaptability, and a vision for the future. Don Heiland discusses his journey from finance to architecture and details various projects that are breathing new life into Topeka while addressing the city's crucial needs.• Highlights the impact of the Cyrus Hotel on local tourism • Discusses the unique characteristics of boutique hotels versus chains • Explores The Pennant as an innovative dining and entertainment option • Insights into youth sports facilities’ importance for community retention • Explains the balance of historic preservation and modern development • Emphasizes the role of archite...2025-02-0750 min
Topeka InsiderFrom Prison to Topeka Fighter: Transformed Through Faith | John "Iron Man" CantrellJohn Cantrell shares his powerful journey from addiction and prison to becoming a heavyweight boxing champion. He highlights the transformative power of faith and community, offering insight into overcoming personal demons and the importance of sharing one's story for healing and growth.• Discusses early life struggles with addiction• Chronicles a near-death experience leading to a renewed faith• Explains the journey from prison to professional boxing• Highlights the importance of community and mentorship in recovery• Shares the story of becoming a father against all odds• Talks about ongoing business efforts aimed at community upliftment2025-01-241h 13
Topeka InsiderFrom Bullied Kid to Comedy King of Topeka | Malik In The StreetMalik El-Amin (Malik In The Street) shares his journey as a comedian, discussing the importance of laughter, community support, and resilience in navigating life’s struggles. His story highlights the connection between personal experiences and comedic expression, emphasizing the importance of pursuing one’s passion while remaining grounded in family and community.• Malik's childhood experiences leading to his comedic career• The role of Top City Comedy in his development as a performer• The significance of timing and delivery in stand-up• Balancing family life with a comedy career• The mission to uplift and support Topeka's creat...2025-01-1051 min
Topeka InsiderHarnessing Your Mindset With The Power of Words | Davis AtteberryThe episode with Davis Atteberry delves into the intersection of mental performance and golf, emphasizing how mindsets shape outcomes on and off the course. Through practical strategies like the four-step method, Davis illustrates how shifting language, breathing techniques, and awareness can facilitate deep personal change and resilience. • Introduction to Davis Atteberry, golf mindset and performance coach • Importance of mindset in enhancing performance • Effects of language on emotions and performance • Overview of the Four-Step Method for changing mindsets • Techniques to manage emotions during play • The concept of generational change in personal growth • Practical advice for...2024-12-2759 min
Topeka InsiderThe World’s Strongest 12 Year Old Lives In Topeka, KS | Bo JensenPrepare to be inspired by the incredible journey of Jackson Bo Jensen, the world's strongest 12-year-old powerlifter, and his supportive father, Joe Jensen. This episode takes you through Jackson's remarkable achievements, including his record-breaking lifts and his memorable experiences at a USA powerlifting event in Wichita. Discover how the world of powerlifting, often seen as an individual sport, is rich with community and camaraderie. Bo’s story is not just about lifting astonishing weights but also about the friendships and inspirations he's gained along the way.But there's more to Jackson than powerlifting. He’s also an acco...2024-12-131h 00
Topeka InsiderBreaking Bad or Specialty Coffee? Topeka’s Best Roaster | Jack HishmehJack Hishmeh, the spirited founder of Joylight Coffee Roasters, joins us in an exploration of his evolution from a basement hobbyist to a dedicated coffee entrepreneur. Jack, along with his wife Haley, unveils the technical world behind coffee roasting, drawing attention to roast curves and the rate of rise, akin to a legal "Breaking Bad" scenario. He shares insights into sourcing raw beans, aiming for direct trade relationships with farmers, and how learning from industry experts like Scott Rao has shaped his journey. Your taste buds will tingle as we explore the sensory experiences that make coffee a joyful...2024-11-2956 min
Manufacturing HubEp. 183 - Engineer to Entrepreneur: Justin Dean on Automation and Business GrowthIn this expansive episode of Manufacturing Hub, we welcome back Justin Dean, an accomplished engineer, entrepreneur, and business leader, for a deep dive into his incredible career journey. Justin has transitioned from a technical expert in control systems and automation to a successful entrepreneur and private equity professional, and in this conversation, he shares valuable insights for anyone navigating the intersection of engineering and business.We start by exploring Justin’s early career, where his unexpected leap from studying art to pursuing electrical engineering set the stage for his passion for problem-solving. From designing complex control systems fo...2024-11-211h 05
Topeka InsiderEmpowering Entrepreneurs With Omni Circle In Topeka | Michael OdupitanFrom the sunny shores of West Palm Beach to the heart of Kansas, Michael Odupitan has journeyed far and wide, gathering experiences that shape his mission today. With the backdrop of personal tragedy and societal challenges, Michael is on a quest to rejuvenate communities. Our latest episode takes you through Michael's transformative path, fueled by his passion for collaboration and meaningful change, as he leads Omni Circle in Topeka.Entrepreneurs with a spark but lacking the know-how to fan it into a flame will find Omni Circle's approach enlightening. In this session, we uncover how this dynamic...2024-11-1553 min
Hail State Podcast NetworkDear Ol’ State: 125 Seasons Of Bulldog Football – Justin Griffith On Fridays this football season, Joel Coleman and Logan Lowery are celebrating 125 seasons of Mississippi State football by talking with several of the greats that have impacted Bulldog history. The latest episode features one of the greatest fullbacks to suit up for the Dawgs, Justin Griffith.2024-11-0840 minHail State Podcast NetworkDear Ol’ State: 125 Seasons Of Bulldog Football – Justin Griffith On Fridays this football season, Joel Coleman and Logan Lowery are celebrating 125 seasons of Mississippi State football by talking with several of the greats that have impacted Bulldog history. The latest episode features one of the greatest fullbacks to suit up for the Dawgs, Justin Griffith.2024-11-0840 min
Topeka InsiderBreeding Big Cats, Tiger King, and Topeka Zoo’s Next 5 Years | Shanna SimpsonStep into the wild world of zoo management with our special guest, Shanna Simpson, the dedicated animal curator at the Topeka Zoo. Shanna's childhood visit to SeaWorld sparked a lifelong passion for animal care, which she now channels into managing over 380 animals at the zoo. Discover how Shanna and her team navigate the complexities of animal acquisition, ethical considerations, and specialized care to ensure the well-being of every creature at the zoo. From the structured hierarchy of keepers to the personal tales of her journey, Shanna offers a unique perspective into a career many dream of but few understand.2024-11-011h 00
Topeka InsiderThe Real Reason Soliloquy Closed Its Doors In Topeka | Aaron ZentnerGet ready to explore the exciting world of pop-up cocktail bars with Aaron Zentner, one of the creative forces behind Soliloquy. Picture this: a casual conversation between Aaron and his friend David Vincent at Circle Coffee sparks the birth of a unique nightlife experience in Topeka. Aaron shares the innovative strategies they used, like operating with a catering license to maintain independence, and how they crafted artistic cocktails that captivated the local scene. Together with his best friends Blake and Dan, Aaron transformed Soliloquy from a simple idea into a beloved community spot, where customers were more than patrons—th...2024-10-1846 min
Topeka InsiderThis Topeka Coffee Shop Has Increased Home Values | David VincentCan a modest coffee cart transform an entire community? Meet David Vincent, the visionary behind Circle Coffee in Topeka, Kansas, who, along with his wife, turned a spur-of-the-moment purchase into a thriving community hub. They navigated the unexpected challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic with ingenuity, setting up pop-up events that ultimately led to opening their permanent location in 2022. David joins us to share how the couple's passion for coffee and community became the cornerstone of their success and how their journey exemplifies the power of serendipity and community support.Circle Coffee isn't just a place for coffee—it...2024-10-0452 min
Topeka InsiderThe Golf Grind From Topeka To The US Open Championship | Andrew BecklerEver wondered what it takes to transition from college golf to the pro circuit? Join us for our conversation with professional golfer Andrew Beckler, who candidly shares his journey from Washburn Rural High School to Kansas State to Washburn University and beyond. Learn how a prestigious award from Jack Nicklaus became the catalyst for Andrew's professional aspirations and discover the relentless practice and determination required to make it in the high-stakes world of pro golf. You’ll also hear heartfelt stories about Andrew's close bond with his father, the person who introduced him to the sport.Learn ab...2024-09-2051 min