Podcast
ThriveIN Wabash County
Hosted by Destination Wabash County · EN
Hosted by three passionate leaders—Adam Stakeman, Alex Downard, and Christine Flohr—the podcast dives into the people and projects shaping Wabash County’s future. Every episode offers its listeners key takeaways that can be implemented in their own communities and will cause you to pause and celebrate the wins in your own backyard. With backgrounds in community development, economic growth, outdoor adventure, marketing, and tourism, the trio interviews local business owners, nonprofit leaders, and creatives who are all working to make Wabash County thrive. Subscribe and join us!
29episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Kyle & Aubrey Williams
2d ago01:13:12Tap to summarizeWhat started with a plane ticket to Missouri turned into a life built on partnership, purpose, and entrepreneurship for Kyle and Aubrey Williams.In this episode of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast, Christine sits down with the duo to explore their journey—from their early days together to the many ventures they’ve built along the way. From a glass bottle business to real estate, construction, demolition, and even birthing babies, Kyle and Aubrey have embraced a diversified approach to entrepreneurship while raising their daughter and investing in their community.The conversation winds its way down memory lane before landing on their newest and most exciting venture: Fore Seasons Social Club—a space designed to bring people together and create new experiences in Wabash County.This episode is all about taking chances, building boldly, and growing something meaningful—together.Resources:Fore Seasons Social Club: https://www.foreseasonswabash.com/https://www.facebook.com/foreseasonswabashKWA Holdings: https://kwarentals.holidayfuture.com/https://www.facebook.com/kwaholdingsrentals/Your Hometown Handyman:https://www.facebook.com/yourhometownhandyman85Aubrey the Doula:www.aubreythedoula.comhttps://www.facebook.com/aubreythedoulaIf today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories.A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Bowen Health, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County.We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM.
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Building a Better Wabash Through Green Space
1w ago00:48:40Tap to summarizeWhat role do parks play in building a thriving community?In this episode of ThriveIN Wabash County, Adam Stakeman sits down with Adam Hall, Superintendent of Wabash City Parks, to discuss the vision and work behind Wabash’s green spaces.They cover the impact of local parks on quality of life, economic development, and public health, along with current improvements and future plans for the parks system. Adam also shares what it takes to manage and maintain public spaces that serve residents year-round.Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the community, this conversation highlights how thoughtful investment in green space helps shape a stronger, more connected Wabash.If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories.A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County.We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM or email us at thrivepod@destinationwabashcounty.com
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Debunking Rural America: Six Myths Holding Us Back
2w ago01:01:41Tap to summarizeIn this episode of ThriveIN, Alex and Adam take calls from rural sociologists Tim Slack and Shannon Monnat to discuss their recent article, “Six Myths About Rural America.”For years, rural communities have been shaped by simplified — and often inaccurate — narratives about politics, poverty, opportunity, and decline. Dr. Slack and Dr. Monnat break down six of the most common myths and explain what the data actually reveals about rural life in America today.The conversation explores how these misconceptions influence media coverage, public policy, and even how rural residents see themselves. It also challenges listeners to rethink what they assume they know about small towns and the people who call them home.At ThriveIN, we care deeply about what it means to build strong communities in places like Wabash County. This episode invites you to look beyond the headlines and engage with a more accurate, more nuanced understanding of rural America.If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories.A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County.We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM.
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Where Craftsmanship Meets Calling
3w ago00:55:20Tap to summarizeAlex and guest co-host Conner Hindman sit down with James Davis, owner of Creedence Contracting, LLC, for a conversation about business, craftsmanship, faith, and family.Based in Northern Indiana, Creedence Contracting is built on the belief that quality work and strong relationships go hand in hand. From custom homes and barndominiums to post-frame buildings, additions, garages, concrete work, remodeling, roofing, and outdoor structures, James and his team are committed to excellence on every project.But this episode goes beyond construction. James shares how he has intentionally centered his business operations around his faith and a deep commitment to his family. He talks about leading with integrity, building trust with clients, and creating a company culture rooted in reliability and strong values.Reference links:Website https://creedencecontracting.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CreedenceContractingLLCIf today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories.A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County.We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM.
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From Around the World to Wabash, Indiana: The Impact of the Honeywell Arts Academy
Apr 2100:57:06Tap to summarizeHosts Adam and Christine are joined by Cathy Gatchel, Chief Development Officer of Honeywell Arts & Entertainment, along with Ranaan Meyer, Artistic Director of Honeywell Arts Academy, and Emily Meyer, Director of Honeywell Arts Academy, for an episode dedicated to shining a light on the Honeywell Arts Academy. Discover the origins of the Academy, hear about its unique approach to mentorship and collaboration, and explore the vision that’s shaping its future.Led by Artistic Director Ranaan Meyer of the GRAMMY and Emmy award-winning group Time for Three and world-renowned faculty, the summer program takes place in Wabash, Indiana, and culminates in live performances. Founded in 2020, the Academy is an expansion of Wabass, a music program established in 2008 for double bassists, and will return in June of 2026 for its 19th year of tuition-free summer programs, bringing together emerging musicians from around the world for collaboration, mentorship, and performance.The Academy features three summer programs:Wabass: double bassists.Wabass Live – Thurs., June 11 at 7:30 p.m. at the Honeywell CenterSoundboard: pianists.Soundboard Live – Fri., June 12 at 7:30 p.m. at the Honeywell CenterResonance: multi-faceted musicians of any instrument.Resonance Live – Sat., June 13 at 7:30 p.m. at the Eagles Theatre To learn more about this year's performance schedule and its impact, visit www.honeywellartsacademy.org.A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County.We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM
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Beyond the Mic - Christine Flohr
Apr 1400:59:12Tap to summarizeIt’s Christine’s turn to take the HOT SEAT as hosts Alex and Adam flip the script and put her under fire with questions.In this episode, Christine shares why she fell in love with the world of tourism and marketing, the passion she has for telling the stories of her community, and why she proudly chooses Wabash County as the place she calls home.From her belief in the power of small communities to the work being done to create experiences that bring people together, listeners will hear what drives Christine both professionally and personally.A wife, a mother, and sometimes jokingly referred to as the “Leslie Knope of Wabash County,” this conversation offers a candid and fun look at who Christine is beyond the mic.Tune in for stories, laughs, and a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the heart behind the work.Resources: www.visitwabashcounty.comIf today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories.A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County.We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM
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Rooted to Serve: Tyler Niccum’s “Why”
Apr 700:56:46Tap to summarizeWhat does it truly mean to go the extra mile—for your family, your workplace, and your community?In this episode of ThriveIN Wabash County, all three hosts sit down with Tyler Niccum, a lifelong Wabash County resident and current County Commissioner, to explore a life built on service, commitment, and stepping into leadership when it matters most.From growing up in Wabash County to now helping lead it at the county level, Tyler shares how his deep roots have shaped his perspective and fueled his passion for giving back. Whether it’s supporting his family, showing up for his employer, or making decisions that impact the future of the community, Tyler lives out a mindset of going above and beyond.Resources: Wabash County Government: https://www.in.gov/counties/wabash/Center Court Cares: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579967895432If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories.A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County.We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM.
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Marketing 2.0 Print Is Not Dead
Mar 3100:51:13Tap to summarizeIn this energizing episode of the ThriveIN Podcast, Christine sits down with Visit Wabash County’s dynamic marketing team—Biz, Brittany, and marketing intern Isaac, who steps in as the guest host—to unpack what’s actually working in marketing today.From promoting a podcast to leveraging print media and maximizing email marketing, this conversation is packed with practical strategies that any business—large or small—can start using immediately.If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories.A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County.We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM.
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Beyond the Mic - Adam Stakeman
Mar 2401:08:05Tap to summarizeChristine and Alex turn the tables and put Adam in the hot seat on this episode of ThriveIN. From the heights he’s willing to climb—literally and figuratively—to reach a goal, to the heart behind the countless volunteer hours he pours into the community, Adam shares what drives him.As an on-the-road Sales Manager for JM Reynolds Oil, Adam offers a unique perspective on regional business, relationships, and why showing up matters. Beyond the title, he’s a father, brother, son, and proud stakeholder committed to seeing Wabash County not just grow—but truly thrive. Tune in for a conversation about grit, generosity, and what it means to lead from wherever you stand.If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories.A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County.We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM.
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Jeff & Karen - Living FOR others.
Mar 1700:59:41Tap to summarizeIn this heartwarming and witty episode of ThrivIN Wabash County, Christine welcomes community stakeholders Jeff and Karen Leslie into the studio. This dynamic duo shares how their faith, family, and service have shaped a life deeply rooted in Wabash County.From being active in their church’s FOR Campaign, advocating for foster care, and homeschooling their children, to Jeff transforming Center Court Barber Shop into an unexpected mission field, the Leslies embody what it means to show up where you live.Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on diverse education options, the power of being present and invested in your community, and why—after all the places they could be—they choose to love life right here in Wabash County.Resources for this episode:Josiah White's Foster Care: https://josiahwhites.org/Center Court Cares: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579967895432Bachelor Creek Church of Christ: https://www.bachelorcreek.com/If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories.A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County.We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM.
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