Think MHK Podcast

In episode sixteen, Jason sits down with Shanna Goodman, the new Executive Director for Pottawatomie County Economic Development, as she shares her personal journey and experience in business development. The two discuss strategies for promoting economic development in Kansas, including utilizing partnerships, community career fairs, and entrepreneurship programs. Goodman emphasizes the importance of building relationships through networking and promoting the region as a whole and the role both have played during her first six months as director.

In this episode, Jason talks with consultant Matt Tarleton about Manhattan's updated strategic plan for economic development. Tarleton discusses strategies like understanding human behavior, regionalism, economic diversification, and job growth, emphasizing collaboration, right-sizing initiatives, and a growth mindset. The pair also address the challenges of implementing large-scale strategies and the importance of economic diversification for long-term sustainability.

In episode fourteen, Jason sits down with Nancy Burton, director of marketing, communications manager, and principal at BBN Architects and treasurer of the chamber’s board of directors. Nancy and Jason discuss the business climate in Manhattan, highlighting BBN Architects' long-standing connection to the community and their position in the architecture and landscape architecture field. The two also touch upon challenges faced by businesses in Manhattan, including retention, and emphasize the importance of regional collaboration, economic development, and networking to foster growth and progress.

On this episode, you will hear from two of the 15 Under 40 recipients, Alexis Glessner & Zach Sheppard. Alexis discusses her experiences with quality improvement initiatives in healthcare, emphasizing the importance of providing a positive patient experience and the value of connections and relationships in their professional and personal lives. Zach shares his journey, navigating career and personal growth through community involvement, highlighting his passion for their work and dedication to improving their community.

On this episode, Jason sits down with Gavin Schmidt, the newest member of the Chamber of Commerce’s executive committee. Gavin shares his personal journey from a small town in Kansas to becoming a market president at ESB Financial in Manhattan, highlighting the company's commitment to the community. Jason and Gavin discuss the current state of the banking industry in Manhattan, and Schmidt explains how the industry has evolved due to the city's economic growth potential. The two also discuss the significance of Manhattan's pro-growth culture and attractions, as well as the qualities of a successful entrepreneur.

In episode eleven, Jason sits down with Sarah Duggan and Natalie Gordon, two nominees of the 15 Under 40 program. Sarah Duggan shares her personal and professional journey, from growing up in Ottawa, Kansas, to becoming the Community Relations Director at Meadowlark. Natalie Gordon discusses her experiences living and working in Manhattan, highlighting the importance of networking, mentorship, and prioritizing one's health for career success.

In this episode, Jason has a conversation with Kale Terrill and Allison Muth, the Chair and Staff Liaison of the Helping Young Professionals Emerge (HYPE) program. The group discusses the importance of developing and supporting young professionals in Manhattan, emphasizing the need to bridge the gap and provide opportunities for young professionals. Kale shares his experience as the new chair of the Manhattan Young Professionals program, while Allison discusses her role at the Chamber of Commerce and how the organization supports young professionals. The three also talk about Manhattan Young Professionals' mission to engage, develop, play, connect, and give back to the community, highlighting the five pillars of the organization.

In episode nine, Jason interviews Lindsay Lowe and Stephanie Peterson, nominees of the 15 Under 40 program. Lindsay discusses her journey in the beauty industry, focusing on entrepreneurship and community involvement. Stephanie talks about her work with the Metropolitan Planning Organization in Manhattan, highlighting transportation planning and housing initiatives, and emphasizes patience, responsibility, and calculated risks in personal and professional growth.

In episode eight, Jason sits down with Tom Phillips, Chair of the Business Advocacy Committee. Tom shares his personal journey and experiences in Manhattan, highlighting his motivations for becoming engaged in local issues and his efforts to keep his finger on the pulse of key members in the community. Phillips discusses his experiences in political leadership and advocacy in Kansas, sharing insights on balancing community needs and political considerations, navigating dysfunctional political environments, and collaborating with other communities to advance common interests.

On this episode, you will hear from two of the 15 Under 40 recipients, Stephen Bridenstine & Kara Titus. Stephen Bridenstine discusses his career in public history and museum education, highlighting his personal and professional journey. Jason and Stephen talk about career development and personal growth, including not sweating the small stuff and taking opportunities as they arise. Kara provides insights into what her employer, Lightsource BP does, including solar farms and what they look like as well as how they are blending agriculture with solar. She also reveals why she and her husband chose Manhattan and what topic she would like to write a book about.