Grow Clinton Podcast

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Oct 2026

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About the show

The Grow Clinton Podcast Welcome to the Grow Clinton Podcast! Do you have an idea for a special guest or topic we should cover? Email podcast@growclinton.com. Get ready for an exciting journey into the heart of the Greater Clinton Region! We’re diving into the vibrant stories of the people, projects, and partnerships that are sparking innovation and driving progress right here. This podcast, brought to you by Grow Clinton, a lively 501(c)(6) nonprofit based in Clinton, Iowa, serves as your go-to source for all things related to business retention, attraction, and tourism. We’re here to celebrate the efforts that keep our regional economy thriving and buzzing with energy! Why Tune In? Nestled along the beautiful Mississippi River, the Greater Clinton Region is a powerhouse of manufacturing and creativity. With major employers and top-notch infrastructure—including three Class I railroads, a fantastic highway system, and direct river access—this region is primed for growth and investment. Whether you’re a business mogul, a community cheerleader, or just someone with a curious ear, you’ll be inspired by the incredible stories and expert insights that showcase how Grow Clinton is crafting a stronger, more connected community. Join the Fun! Want to shine a spotlight on your business or organization in our podcast? We’d love to hear from you! If you have questions or an idea for an awesome guest, please email podcast@growclinton.com. Give us a shout at the Grow Clinton office: (563) 242-5702 Check us out at www.GrowClinton.com. Our Mission To promote business growth, build community, and advocate for the sustainable economic success of the Greater Clinton Region.

Listen to episodes

10 recent

October 30, 2026Episode 28325 min

GCP283 - Meet Joe Brown, Candidate for Clinton County Treasurer

Who is running for local office, and what experience would they bring to the job? Episode 283 of the Grow Clinton Podcast features Joe Brown, a candidate for Clinton County, Iowa, Treasurer, giving listeners a chance to get to know someone seeking to serve their community. Local elections are an opportunity to learn more about the people seeking public office. This episode puts another local candidate at the microphone and invites listeners to take an active interest in Clinton County’s future. Meet Joe Brown Brown’s campaign highlights a background in education, administration, and state government. According to his campaign website, his experience includes serving as an Iowa state senator, 17 years as a school superintendent, and 13 years as a high school principal and teacher. During his time in the Iowa Senate, he served on the Education, Energy, County Government, and Labor committees. His campaign emphasizes a commitment to serving as a full-time county treasurer and working collaboratively with cities, townships, school districts, and county departments. Brown also states that he would work equally for Democrats, Republicans, and Independents. Get to Know a Local Candidate The Grow Clinton Podcast connects listeners with people, organizations, and conversations from across our region. Episode 283 offers an opportunity to learn more about Brown as you consider the candidates seeking local office. Whether you are a longtime Clinton County resident, a business owner, or someone looking to become more engaged in the community, make time to get to know the people on your ballot. For additional information about Brown’s background and campaign priorities, visit https://www.JoeBrown.win. Nonendorsement: A guest's appearance on the Grow Clinton Podcast does not constitute an endorsement by Grow Clinton of that guest, their candidacy, or their political positions. Grow Clinton invited all candidates, both challengers and incumbents, to participate in the podcast. Catch all Grow Clinton Podcast episodes wherever you listen to podcasts. - Apple Music - Spotify - Amazon Music - Buzzsprout - Overcast - YouTube For more information about the Grow Clinton Podcast, visit https://www.facebook.com/growclintonpodcast . Have an idea for a show topic or guest? Email podcast@growclinton.com . Have an idea for a podcast guest? Send us a message!

October 29, 2026Episode 28222 min

GCP282 - Susie Mesecher and Andy Green Talk Rotary's 2026 Boo Bash

Halloween fun meets community connection on Episode 282 of the Grow Clinton Podcast! Susie Mesecher and Andy Green, representing Clinton's Rotary Club, join us to spotlight the upcoming Boo Bash, happening Friday, October 30, from 5–9 PM at the Copper Mill in Clinton, Iowa. The club's eighth annual event offers a festive way to kick off Halloween weekend. A Little Spooky, a Lot of Fun Looking for a reason to put together a costume and enjoy a night out? The Rotary Boo Bash brings dinner, dancing, costumes, and a live auction together for an evening of Halloween-themed fun. Bring your festive spirit and get ready to connect with others who enjoy coming together around a community tradition. In this episode, Susie and Andy spotlight the upcoming celebration and invite listeners to learn more about what Clinton's Rotary Club has planned. Mark Your Calendar Event: Clinton Rotary Club's 8th Annual Boo Bash Date: Friday, October 30, 2026 Time: 5–9 PM Location: Copper Mill, 2750 S. 27th Street, Clinton, Iowa For event information, visit the Clinton Rotary Club's Boo Bash calendar listing or check out the Facebook event page at https://www.facebook.com/events/1744568280017387 . Listen to Episode 282 Tune in to Episode 282 of the Grow Clinton Podcast featuring Susie Mesecher and Andy Green to hear about the Rotary Boo Bash. Whether you're a longtime Rotary supporter or simply looking for some Halloween-weekend fun, this episode puts a local celebration on your radar. Listen, share the episode with a friend, and get into the Halloween spirit with Grow Clinton and Clinton’s Rotary Club! Catch all Grow Clinton Podcast episodes wherever you listen to podcasts. - Apple Music - Spotify - Amazon Music - Buzzsprout - Overcast - YouTube For more information about the Grow Clinton Podcast, visit https://www.facebook.com/growclintonpodcast . Have an idea for a show topic or guest? Email podcast@growclinton.com . Have an idea for a podcast guest? Send us a message!

October 29, 2026Episode 28136 min

GCP281 - Meet Randy Meier, Candidate for Iowa House District 69

Who represents our region in Des Moines matters to the businesses, families, and communities that call the Clinton area home. Getting to know the people seeking that responsibility is key to staying informed and engaged. In Episode 281 of the Grow Clinton Podcast, we welcome Randy Meier, a candidate for Iowa House District 69. The episode gives listeners an opportunity to hear from a candidate seeking to represent our area and learn more about the person behind the campaign. Meet Randy Meier Meier’s background includes military service, law enforcement, and community advocacy. According to his campaign website, he grew up on a family Century Farm in Jackson County, served in the U.S. Army, and retired as a police detective commander. He continues his public-service work advocating for seniors and fraud victims. His campaign’s message, “Public Service. Not Politics.,” emphasizes integrity, collaboration, and fairness—values he identifies as central to his approach to serving Iowa House District 69. Get to Know His Priorities For listeners interested in learning more about Meier’s candidacy, his campaign website highlights three primary areas of focus: Fair taxes and wages for working families. Water quality and concerns about cancer rates in Iowa. Stronger public education. These priorities provide useful context for getting to know Meier and evaluating his approach to state-level public service. Visit his campaign website to learn more about his background and positions. Stay Connected to the People and Issues Shaping Our Region The Grow Clinton Podcast connects listeners with people whose ideas, experiences, and decisions help shape our region. Hearing directly from candidates is one way to move beyond campaign signs and get to know those seeking public office. Tune in to Episode 281 to hear from Randy Meier, candidate for Iowa House District 69, and stay engaged in the conversations that matter to the Clinton region. Listen wherever you access the Grow Clinton Podcast, and learn more about Randy at https://www.randymeieriowa.com Nonendorsement: A guest's appearance on the Grow Clinton Podcast does not constitute an endorsement by Grow Clinton of that guest, their candidacy, or their political positions. Grow Clinton invited all candidates, both challengers and incumbents, to participate in the podcast. Catch all Grow Clinton Podcast episodes wherever you listen to podcasts. - Apple Music - Spotify - Amazon Music - Buzzsprout - Overcast - YouTube For more information about the Grow Clinton Podcast, visit https://www.facebook.com/growclintonpodcast . Have an idea for a show topic or guest? Email podcast@growclinton.com . Have an idea for a podcast guest? Send us a message!

October 26, 2026Episode 28035 min

GCP280 - A Conversation with Iowa State Senator Mike Zimmer (District 35)

What’s ahead for Iowa Senate District 35? In Episode 280 of the Grow Clinton Podcast, we welcome Mike Zimmer, the district’s incumbent state senator, who is running for re-election. The Grow Clinton Podcast connects listeners with the people and perspectives shaping our region. This episode offers a chance to hear from a sitting state legislator and learn more about a candidate seeking to continue representing District 35 in Des Moines. Meet Mike Zimmer Zimmer describes himself as an educator, coach, small business owner, and public servant. His campaign emphasizes education, economic opportunity, and support for working families—priorities that connect with broader conversations about eastern Iowa's future. On his campaign website, Zimmer lists public school funding, work-based learning, affordable housing, and access to childcare as priorities. These issues provide useful context for listeners interested in his approach to state government and the needs of the communities he represents. Connecting State Government and Community Priorities For residents, employers, and community leaders, hearing directly from elected officials is an important part of staying engaged. Episode 280 gives listeners another chance to learn about a local leader as they consider their community's future. Whether you’re a business owner, a parent, a community advocate, or a voter, add this conversation to your listening list to get to know the candidates. To learn more about Zimmer’s background and campaign priorities, visit https://www.mikezimmerforiowa.com. Nonendorsement: A guest's appearance on the Grow Clinton Podcast does not constitute an endorsement by Grow Clinton of that guest, their candidacy, or their political positions. Grow Clinton invited all candidates, both challengers and incumbents, to participate in the podcast. Catch all Grow Clinton Podcast episodes wherever you listen to podcasts. - Apple Music - Spotify - Amazon Music - Buzzsprout - Overcast - YouTube For more information about the Grow Clinton Podcast, visit https://www.facebook.com/growclintonpodcast . Have an idea for a show topic or guest? Email podcast@growclinton.com . Have an idea for a podcast guest? Send us a message!

October 23, 2026Episode 27925 min

GCP279 - Building Steamer Success with Superintendent Kelli Parsons

Great things are happening at River Bend Schools, and episode 279 of the Grow Clinton Podcast spotlights the people, projects, and priorities moving the district forward. Join us as we welcome Kelli Parsons, superintendent of River Bend Schools in Fulton, Illinois, for a conversation about leadership, school improvements, student success, and the professional development work connecting the district’s educational priorities. From a new gym to the everyday work of supporting students and teachers, this episode offers a closer look at what’s ahead for the Steamers. A New Chapter in District Leadership A superintendent transition is a chance to build relationships, set priorities, and shape the district's future. Kelli will discuss the transition to a new superintendent and what this chapter means for River Bend’s students, staff, and families. Listeners will hear her perspective on leading the district while keeping student success at the center of the conversation. Building for the Future School facilities are another important part of River Bend’s story. Kelli will discuss the middle school construction project, including a new gym and upgrades to the walkway connecting the elementary and middle school. The district’s website also highlights its gymnasium addition, giving community members another way to follow this investment in River Bend’s facilities. riverbendschools Tune in for a closer look at the project and how these improvements fit into the district’s future plans. Successful Steamers: Celebrating Our Students There is plenty to celebrate at River Bend, and this episode makes room for the most important part of the story: the students. Kelli will share highlights of the great things happening with the Steamers. It’s a chance to recognize student accomplishments and the work of the educators, families, and school community who support them. Connecting the Work Behind Student Success What does it take to bring a district’s educational priorities together in meaningful ways? Kelli will discuss River Bend’s professional development work and the effort to braid together three key areas: Steamer Success Indicators Capturing Kids’ Hearts Teaching and Learning work The conversation will explore the district’s focus on connecting these efforts rather than treating them as separate initiatives—and what that work means for supporting students and educators. Thank You to the River Bend Team At Grow Clinton, we value the connection between strong schools and a strong region. We appreciate the educators and school leaders who help our communities look toward the future with confidence. Thank you to Kelli Parsons and the entire River Bend team for your ongoing support of regional economic and community development. We appreciate your partnership, your commitment to students, and your contributions to our region's future. Catch all Grow Clinton Podcast episodes wherever you listen to podcasts. - Apple Music - Spotify - Amazon Music - Buzzsprout - Overcast - YouTube For more information about the Grow Clinton Podcast, visit https://www.facebook.com/growclintonpodcast . Have an idea for a show topic or guest? Email podcast@growclinton.com . Have an idea for a podcast guest? Send us a message!

October 23, 2026Episode 27832 min

GCP278 - A Conversation with Clinton County Treasurer Dustin Johnson

What does it mean to steward taxpayer dollars? In episode 278 of the Grow Clinton Podcast, we welcome Dustin Johnson, the incumbent running for Treasurer of Clinton County, Iowa, to discuss fiscal stewardship and responsibility in local government. Dustin describes himself as a steward of tax dollars—a perspective that puts managing public resources at the center of his approach. This episode gives listeners an opportunity to hear directly from him about that outlook and his candidacy for another term. A Conversation About Public Responsibility Local government serves the community, and the way public dollars are managed is an important part of that responsibility. During our conversation, Dustin emphasizes responsible local government and what stewardship means to him. Conversations like this let listeners learn about candidates seeking public office, hear their perspectives, and consider the priorities they bring to the ballot. Thank You for Stepping Forward Thank you, Dustin, for joining the Grow Clinton Podcast, putting your name on the ballot, and running for office. We appreciate your willingness to participate in a public conversation and share your perspective with listeners. Candidate participation in the Grow Clinton Podcast does not constitute an endorsement by Grow Clinton of the candidate or their campaign for public office. Catch all Grow Clinton Podcast episodes wherever you listen to podcasts. - Apple Music - Spotify - Amazon Music - Buzzsprout - Overcast - YouTube For more information about the Grow Clinton Podcast, visit https://www.facebook.com/growclintonpodcast . Have an idea for a show topic or guest? Email podcast@growclinton.com . Have an idea for a podcast guest? Send us a message!

October 21, 2026Episode 27723 min

GCP277 - Meet Iowa State Representative Norlin Mommsen

Election conversations offer an opportunity to learn more about the people seeking to represent our communities. In Episode 277 of the Grow Clinton Podcast, we welcome Norlin Mommsen, the incumbent Iowa State Representative for District 70 and a re-election candidate. This episode lets you hear directly from Mommsen and get to know one of the candidates seeking a seat in the Iowa House of Representatives. Whether you are a business owner, community leader, or resident interested in state government, we invite you to listen and make learning about the candidates part of your election-season routine. About Representative Mommsen Mommsen is a farmer who grows corn and soybeans and raises cattle. Raised in Miles and residing in DeWitt, he brings an agricultural background to his work in the Iowa Legislature. He serves on the Agriculture, Appropriations, Natural Resources, and Transportation committees and chairs the Agriculture and Natural Resources Appropriations Subcommittee. For additional information about his background and election history, visit Norlin Mommsen’s Ballotpedia profile at https://ballotpedia.org/Norlin_Mommsen . Grow Clinton's Commitment to Candidate Access Nonendorsement: A guest's appearance on the Grow Clinton Podcast does not constitute an endorsement by Grow Clinton of that guest, their candidacy, or their political positions. Grow Clinton invited all candidates, both challengers and incumbents, to participate in the podcast. These conversations give listeners an opportunity to hear directly from candidates and form their own opinions. Catch all Grow Clinton Podcast episodes wherever you listen to podcasts. - Apple Music - Spotify - Amazon Music - Buzzsprout - Overcast - YouTube For more information about the Grow Clinton Podcast, visit https://www.facebook.com/growclintonpodcast . Have an idea for a show topic or guest? Email podcast@growclinton.com . Have an idea for a podcast guest? Send us a message!

October 14, 2026Episode 27633 min

GCP276 - Meet Iowa Senate Candidate Joe Stutting

Who is seeking to represent our region in Des Moines, and what priorities are shaping their campaigns? Episode 276 of the Grow Clinton Podcast features Joe Stutting, a Republican candidate for Iowa Senate District 35—a district that includes all of Clinton County and portions of Scott and Jackson counties. This episode gives listeners an opportunity to get to know a candidate seeking to represent our communities. Tune in to hear from Joe and learn more about the person behind the campaign. Get to Know Joe Stutting Stutting’s campaign website describes a background spanning education, military service, and local government. Raised in Clinton County, he served in the National Guard and built a career in education. His website identifies him as superintendent of the North Scott Community School District and notes his previous service on a city council. Those experiences provide context for his candidacy and the perspective he brings to public service. For listeners throughout the Clinton region, the episode offers another opportunity to get to know someone seeking a role in state government. Learn More About His Campaign Priorities On his campaign website, Stutting identifies several priorities for his Iowa Senate campaign: Cutting taxes and curbing wasteful government spending. Improving Iowa’s public schools and career training. Defending what he describes as conservative, small-town values. Ensuring Iowa remains a great place to live, work, and raise a family. These are priorities outlined in his campaign, not positions endorsed by Grow Clinton. Listening to candidates and reviewing their stated goals can help residents develop their own questions about the issues that matter to them. For more information about Joe’s background and campaign, visit https://www.joestutting.com . Catch all Grow Clinton Podcast episodes wherever you listen to podcasts. - Apple Music - Spotify - Amazon Music - Buzzsprout - Overcast - YouTube For more information about the Grow Clinton Podcast, visit https://www.facebook.com/growclintonpodcast . Have an idea for a show topic or guest? Email podcast@growclinton.com . Have an idea for a podcast guest? Send us a message!

October 13, 2026Episode 27527 min

GCP275 - Half Off Savings, and Community Giving with Necker’s Jewelers

Beautiful jewelry. Incredible savings. A commitment to giving back! Episode 275 of the Grow Clinton Podcast features Savannah Necker-Levesque of Necker’s Jewelers, who joins us to talk about the retailer’s upcoming Half Off Sale and the community-minded spirit behind the sparkle. With locations in DeWitt and Davenport, Iowa, Necker’s Jewelers is the region’s premier destination for quality pieces that stun. In this episode, Savannah shares why October is the perfect time to stop in, find something special, and support a meaningful local cause. Everything Under the Glass Is Half Off! Mark your calendar for October 23 and 24! Necker's Jewelers' Half Off Sale is coming to both locations, with a simple—and exciting—offer: everything under the glass is half off. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, getting a head start on holiday shopping, or treating yourself to a piece you’ll treasure, this two-day event is an opportunity to shop for something truly memorable. Here’s what to know before you go: October 23 and 24 Davenport and DeWitt, Iowa Everything under the glass is half off! The sale includes some top brands Necker's can't even mention! Both locations will be closed Wednesday, October 21, to prepare for the sale Supporting GiGi’s Playhouse This October's excitement extends beyond the jewelry cases! Through its Gift of Giving program, Necker's Jewelers donates a portion of each month's proceeds to a selected charitable organization. October's recipient is GiGi’s Playhouse Quad Cities, which provides free programs that empower individuals with Down syndrome and support their families. A percentage of all October proceeds will help advance that mission—making your purchase part of something bigger. It's a meaningful way to shop locally while supporting programs that make a difference in our region. A Thank-You to Savannah and the Necker's Jewelers Team Grow Clinton sincerely thanks Savannah Necker-Levesque and the entire Necker’s Jewelers team for their continued commitment to economic and community development throughout the Greater Clinton Region. Their investment in local business, community partnerships, and charitable giving reflects the kind of leadership that helps our region thrive. We appreciate their ongoing support and the opportunity to share their story on the Grow Clinton Podcast. For more information, visit Necker’s Jewelers’ official website at https://www.neckersjewelers.com . Catch all Grow Clinton Podcast episodes wherever you listen to podcasts. - Apple Music - Spotify - Amazon Music - Buzzsprout - Overcast - YouTube For more information about the Grow Clinton Podcast, visit https://www.facebook.com/growclintonpodcast . Have an idea for a show topic or guest? Email podcast@growclinton.com . Have an idea for a podcast guest? Send us a message!

October 12, 2026Episode 27424 min

GCP274 - Meet James McHugh, Candidate for Clinton County Attorney

What does the next chapter look like for the Clinton County Attorney's Office? In Episode 274 of the Grow Clinton Podcast, we sit down with James McHugh, the unopposed candidate for Clinton County Attorney, to discuss his plans for the office, why he's running, and his commitment to serving Clinton County. With current County Attorney Mike Wolf set to retire at the end of the calendar year, the conversation offers an opportunity to hear from the candidate preparing to step into this important role. Having worked under Wolf, McHugh will share what he has learned from his leadership and how he plans to build on that experience while making the position his own. A New Chapter for the County Attorney's Office A leadership transition brings questions about what will continue, what might change, and where opportunities for improvement exist. We'll explore McHugh's vision for the office, the priorities he hopes to establish, and why he wants to serve as Clinton County Attorney. The conversation will also cover the lessons McHugh has learned from working under Wolf. From those experiences to his leadership approach, listeners will hear how he envisions the office’s next chapter. Understanding the Legal Process and County Government We'll talk with McHugh about the legal process and what he wants residents to understand about the County Attorney’s Office. We’ll also explore the relationship between the County Attorney and the Clinton County Board of Supervisors. This part of the discussion will focus on how McHugh views that working relationship and his approach to serving alongside county leadership. Why He Wants to Serve Beyond his plans for the office, we’ll ask McHugh about his motivation for running. Why does he want to run? What draws him to this role? And what does he hope to accomplish for Clinton County? Although McHugh is running unopposed, this conversation gives residents an opportunity to get to know the candidate, hear his perspective, and learn more about his priorities ahead of the leadership transition. Catch all Grow Clinton Podcast episodes wherever you listen to podcasts. - Apple Music - Spotify - Amazon Music - Buzzsprout - Overcast - YouTube For more information about the Grow Clinton Podcast, visit https://www.facebook.com/growclintonpodcast . Have an idea for a show topic or guest? Email podcast@growclinton.com . Have an idea for a podcast guest? Send us a message!