Best Blansit Podcasts (2024)

1
E45 Empowering Our Community: A Conversation with Dr. Amy Blansit 42:41

1d ago42:41

42:41

When Amy Blansit moved to north Springfield during her college years at Drury University, she fell in love with both the charm of the historic buildings and her late husband Drew Lewis. Continuing the mission she and Lewis shared of improving the community through asset-based urban development, she founded the Drew Lewis Foundation, which provides …

1
Episode 28 Part 2: Crime Prevention is a Community Thing 45:31

3h ago45:31

45:31

Send us a Text Message. Dr. Amy Blansit and Chief of Police Paul Williams continue their discussion onBy The Drew Lewis Foundation

1
Enrichment Today Episode 29: Bikers Against Child Abuse 35:04

15d ago35:04

35:04

Send us a Text Message. On this episode of Enrichment Today, we are joined by Fester and Morticia with Bikers Against Child Abuse.By Dr. Amy Blansit

1
E44 The Importance of Youth Mental Health: Amy Hill LCSW on the Current Mental Health Crisis' Impact on Children 35:31

1M ago35:31

35:31

With anxiety, depression and the risk of suicide on the rise among children and teens, mental health and education experts are searching for answers to intervene in the ongoing mental health crisis impacting our youth. In this episode, Tom Carlson speaks with Amy Hill LCSW (licensed clinical social worker), Executive Vice President of Community and…

1
E43 Capturing Authenticity: A Conversation with Portrait Photographer, Filmmaker and Humanitarian Randy Bacon 35:19

2M ago35:19

35:19

Award-winning Springfield photographer Randy Bacon is driven by a simple but profound ideology when it comes to his work in portraiture, filmmaking and the nonprofit sphere: each and every person is a unique individual who deserves to have their story shared with the world. Never losing a sense of wonderment, he has used the culmination of four dec…

1
E42 Ensuring Great Futures: Boys & Girls Clubs CEO Brandy Harris on Uplifting Local Youth 36:21

2M ago36:21

36:21

For Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield CEO Brandy Harris, leading efforts to improve the lives of disadvantaged children in the Springfield metro is a full circle moment. Having lived through a difficult childhood facing poverty and abuse, Harris believes her current position is a testament to the transformational impact caring adults can have on a …

1
E41 Arena Football in Southwest Missouri: A Conversation with Ozarks Lunkers General Manager Caleb Scott 26:15

3M ago26:15

26:15

Get ready, football fans, Southwest Missouri will welcome its new professional arena football team, the Ozarks Lunkers, on June 1, 2024. For the first time, Springfieldians will get the exhilarating opportunity to watch this fast-paced, indoor version of American football live. As a kickoff to this noteworthy season, host Tom Carlson sat down with …

1
Enrichment Today Episode 28 Part 1: Responding in the Best Way Possible 37:53

3M ago37:53

37:53

Send us a Text Message. Welcome back, we are thrilled that you are joining us for the return of Enrichment Today! On Episode 28, CEO of the Drew Lewis Foundation and host Dr. Amy Christine Blansit sits down with Chief Williams from the Springfield, MO Police Department to have an honest conversation about Chief William’s career in the police force,…

1
E40 Directing the District: Superintendent Dr. Grenita Lathan on the Trajectory of Springfield Public Schools 41:00

3M ago41:00

41:00

While becoming the superintendent of Missouri’s largest school system in 2021 may have been a daunting task, Dr. Grenita Lathan’s extensive experience in education has uniquely equipped her for this leadership role for Springfield Public Schools. Having served as the superintendent of Houston, Texas schools and held a variety of positions in public…

1
E39 Talking a Blue Streak: Police Chief Paul Williams on the State of Law Enforcement 49:30

4M ago49:30

49:30

As a third-generation policeman, Springfield Police Chief Paul Williams has devoted his life to law enforcement. He joins In Our Town host Tom Carlson to discuss policing from the perspective of 43 years of expertise in the field. Touching on topics such as the impacts of public perception of officers and the COVID-19 pandemic on the police force, …

1
E38 Let’s Go Cardinals!: Dan Reiter on Opening the 2024 Baseball Season 34:47

4M ago34:47

34:47

The weather is finally warming up and we can already taste the popcorn and Cracker Jacks. It’s time to celebrate the beginning of baseball season as the Springfield Cardinals have gotten off to a red-hot, record-breaking start. Join host Tom Carlson and Dan Reiter, vice president and general manager for the Springfield Cardinals, for this home run …

1
E37 Missouri’s Evolving Educational Landscape: A Conversation with Hal Higdon 41:45

5M ago41:45

41:45

Dr. Hal Higdon, the Chancellor of the Ozark Technical Community College System and President of OTC's Springfield Campus, joins host Tom Carlson for an in-depth conversation. As the longest serving public college president in Missouri, Dr. Higdon has been a catalyst of growth for OTC and has fostered a wide range of training programs to meet the ne…

1
E36 Springfield's School Board Election: A Clash of Visions 50:48

5M ago50:48

50:48

The forthcoming Springfield School Board election on April 2, 2024, is marked by unprecedented fundraising and ideological divides. In this episode, Tom interviews Calvin Morrow and Mary Griffith, representatives of the Back On Track PAC, offering insights into their support for incumbent Maryam Mohammadkhani amidst a backdrop of contrasting vision…

1
E35 Leading the Future: Jack Stack's Vision for Drury's Breech School of Business 27:09

5M ago27:09

27:09

A titan in Springfield’s business community and CEO of Springfield Remanufacturing Corporation, Jack Stack shares his latest endeavor as the Interim Dean of the Breech School of Business at Drury University. With his unparalleled expertise and unwavering commitment to excellence, Jack provides unique insights into his vision for shaping the next ge…

1
E34 Lighting the Path: Dr. Robert Carolla's Reflections on Life and Mortality 40:20

6M ago40:20

40:20

Join us as we delve into the profound insights and experiences of one of Springfield's esteemed oncologists, Dr. Robert Carolla. Dr. Carolla, a pioneer in his field, sheds light on the delicate balance between life and mortality that oncologists navigate daily. Through his work with the Hospice Foundation of the Ozarks and national recognition from…

1
E33 Building Unity: A Conversation with Terri West McQueary and Jim Anderson 30:19

6M ago30:19

30:19

Tom Carlson sits down with Terri West McQueary and Jim Anderson, the chairs of the newly-formed nonpartisan PAC, United Springfield. In this discussion, Terri and Jim share insights into the PAC's mission to foster a diverse and robust field of candidates for local elections. Discover the motivations behind the formation of United Springfield, the …

1
E32 The Mayor's Seat: Tom Carlson and Mayor McClure Discuss Springfield's Journey 45:14

7M ago45:14

45:14

Tom Carlson, host of In Our Town and a former mayor of Springfield, engages in a sit-down conversation with the current mayor, Ken McClure. Join us for a compelling dialogue covering the intricacies of managing a city during a pandemic, notable achievements under McClure's tenure, the city's ongoing challenges and a look towards the future. This ep…

1
E31 Show-Me Green: Insights from Old Route 66 Wellness Post-Legalization 28:07

7M ago28:07

28:07

John Lopez, the trailblazing founder and CEO of Old Route 66 Wellness in Springfield and Ozark, joins up with Tom to reflect on the journey one year after the legalization of recreational marijuana in Missouri. Lopez shares his perspective as an entrepreneur on navigating the changing regulatory landscape, the impact of legalization of recreational…

1
E30 State of Public Education: John Jungmann 45:34

8M ago45:34

45:34

Former Springfield Public Schools superintendent John Jungmann talks about the state of public education, home schooling and charter schools as well as challenges facing teachers and school boards across the country.By Springfield Daily Citizen

1
ENCORE ICYMI: Richard Crabtree - Local Historian/Realtor 28:52

8M ago28:52

28:52

We're taking our top downloaded episode of 2023 out for another spin around the block for those that missed it the first go around. Local historian and realtor Richard Crabtree discusses how past development has shaped Springfield, its neighborhoods and some of the present challenges facing the city’s future growth.…

1
E29 Kitty Ledbetter - Broadcasting the Ozarks: Si Siman and Country Music at the Crossroads 24:44

8M ago24:44

24:44

Kitty Ledbetter, author and Professor Emeritus at Texas State University, joins Tom to discuss everything from her early days as Springfield's first female radio DJ to Victorian women's periodicals to her latest book on Si Siman and the history of Springfield's music scene from 1930s to the 80s.By Springfield Daily Citizen

1
E28 Cotton Candy to Corporate Strategy: A Conversation with Aaron Owen 26:31

9M ago26:31

26:31

Aaron Owen discusses improvements, strategy and growth under his leadership as the CEO of the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, which is home to Missouri's second largest fair, and quickly becoming an entertainment hub responsible for bringing major events and entertainers to Southwest Missouri.By Springfield Daily Citizen

1
E27 Energizing Springfield: A Conversation with the Directors of Vitality and Development 38:55

9M ago38:55

38:55

Amanda Ohlensehlen, Director of Economic Vitality for the City of Springfield and Ben Jones, Director of Development for City Utilities, join Tom to discuss the incentives that the city uses to entice businesses to move here and stay, as well as encourage new business and entrepreneurship within the community.…

1
E26 Adapt or Die: A Conversation with Thomas Douglas, CEO of JMARK 35:02

10M ago35:02

35:02

Join us as we delve into Thomas Douglas's wealth of experience and uncover the secrets behind his remarkable success. Get ready for an enlightening conversation about adaptability, entrepreneurship, and the indispensable skills needed to thrive in today's fast-paced world.By Springfield Daily Citizen

1
Enrichment Today Episode 27: Helping Others Discover Themselves 31:57

10M ago31:57

31:57

Send us a Text Message. On Episode 27 of Enrichment Today, Director of Development Holly Melton sits down with Dami Odunewu, Founder and CEO of Purpose Connect, to talk about overcoming cultural differences, improving readiness in professional spaces, and so much more.By Dr. Amy Blansit

1
E25 Steve Edwards: The Current State of Healthcare and Life After Cox Health 38:11

10M ago38:11

38:11

Tune in for a captivating conversation with Steve Edwards, a true healthcare visionary, and learn about his reflections on leadership, his challenges and legacy while at Cox Health, and the exciting chapters that lie ahead. Whether you're a healthcare professional, a community member, or simply interested in stories of leadership and reinvention, t…

1
E24 Reflecting on Legacy and Transition: Clif Smart's Departure from Missouri State University and the Path Forward 36:41

11M ago36:41

36:41

In this special episode of In Our Town, Tom bids a fond farewell to a beloved figure in higher education as Clif Smart, the distinguished President of Missouri State University, embarks on his well-deserved retirement. Join us as we reflect on Clif's transformative leadership, the impact he has had on the university and community, and what the futu…

1
E23 Celebrate SGF Arts and Culture with Megan Buchbinder 23:15

11M ago23:15

23:15

Whether you're an art aficionado, a culture connoisseur, or simply curious about the artistic heartbeat of SGF, this episode is a must-listen. Join us for a delightful conversation about Celebrate SGF's 2023 theme of Arts and Culture , led by the passionate co-chair Megan Buchbinder, and gain a deeper appreciation for the rich artistic tapestry of …

1
E22 Navigating Safer Streets: Inside Springfield's Award-Winning Pedestrian Safety Program and Other Issues Facing Drivers 38:26

11M ago38:26

38:26

Join Tom for a discussion with Brett Foster, City of Springfield's Traffic Engineer, and Mandy Buettgen-Quinn, the mastermind behind SGF Yields and SafeAcross, Springfield's groundbreaking pedestrian safety initiative. Discover the secrets behind their award-winning program, gain insights into creating safer urban driving environments, and hear ins…

1
E21 Leading Higher Education: A Conversation with John Beuerlein, Interim President of Drury University 27:10

12M ago27:10

27:10

Join us as Tom uncovers the wisdom and vision that drives John Beuerlein's dedication to empowering students and shaping the future of education at this 150 year old university. Whether you're an educator, a student, or simply curious about the future of higher learning, this episode promises a thought-provoking exploration of leadership in academi…

1
E20 Behind the Spotlight: Scott Siman’s Odyssey Through Country Music 41:50

1y ago41:50

41:50

Scott's candid storytelling offers a rare glimpse into the evolution of an industry titan, tracing his footsteps from the roots of The Ozarks Jubilee to navigating the ever-evolving landscape of the entertainment business. He shares stories of stars encountered along the way including Chet Atkins, Ralph Foster, Alan Jackson, Charlie Daniels among a…

1
E19 11th Annual Route 66 Festival with Cora Scott 15:25

1y ago15:25

15:25

In this episode of "In Our Town," we delve into the heart of Springfield's iconic Route 66 Festival, a spectacular event set to captivate the town and draw in a massive crowd of 75,000 enthusiasts including visitors from every state and from 18 countries. Get ready to rev up your engines as we explore the rich automotive history and much more with …

1
E18 Wild Chronicles: 100 Years of Wonder at Dickerson Park Zoo with Mike Crocker 33:04

1y ago33:04

33:04

Step into the captivating world of wildlife as we embark on an extraordinary journey through time with Mike Crocker, soon to retire and has spent an awe-inspiring 47 years at the Dickerson Park Zoo as its superintendent, caring for over 400 species of animals. Mike shares his remarkable experiences, touching stories, and insights that have shaped t…

1
Enrichment Today Episode 26: Fashion Forward, A Magical Night 13:54

1y ago13:54

13:54

Send us a Text Message. On this episode of Enrichment Today, Holly Melton and Zack Wilson will be talking about the Drew Lewis Foundation's 9th annual Fashion Forward event. This is a night where kids from underserved communities receive a brand new back to school outfit and shoes, and then they get to show it off in a fashion show. To learn more o…

1
E17 Taking Flight: The Remarkable Expansion and Vision of SGF-Branson Airport with Brian Weiler 31:00

1y ago31:00

31:00

Brian Weiler, Director of the SGF-Branson Airport, joins Tom to discuss the phenomenal growth of the airport, its future, Brian's wish list and tips for travelers.By Springfield Daily Citizen

1
E16 Fighting Sex Trafficking: Nadia Cavner and Jeff Tiegs 31:23

1y ago31:23

31:23

Nadia Cavner and Jeff Tiegs discuss their efforts to rescue victims of sex trafficking from the Middle East to the US to Springfield.By Springfield Daily Citizen

1
E15 Artist/Writer Nicole Chilton: How Dreams Speak 27:43

1y ago27:43

27:43

In addition to exploring common dream symbols and using dreams as a problem solving tool, Tom and Nicole discuss her first book "How Dreams Speak" as well as the the process for getting a book published.By Springfield Daily Citizen

1
E14 Trash Talk with Laurie Davis 27:35

1y ago27:35

27:35

The city landfill is filling more quickly than expected and one reason is people throw away many things that can be recycled. Laurie Davis, with Springfield's Department of Environmental Services, joins Tom to discuss the ins and outs of recycling.By Springfield Daily Citizen

1
Enrichment Today Episode 25: The Last Mile 46:01

1y ago46:01

46:01

Send us a Text Message. On this episode of the Enrichment Today Podcast, our host, Holly Melton, interviews Bart Brown, the president and CEO of Ozarks Food Harvest, to talk about partnerships and hunger in our area.By Dr. Amy Blansit

1
E13 Living in Fear: Behind the scenes with the reporters 27:43

1y ago27:43

27:43

Daily Citizen reporters Jackie Rehwald and Steve Pokin join Tom to discuss their investigation of domestic violence in Greene County. While abuse affects thousands of lives here every year, many people still don’t believe it’s widespread or much of an issue.By Springfield Daily Citizen

1
Enrichment Today Episode 24: Shared Knowledge is Empowerment 1:04:47

1+ y ago1:04:47

1:04:47

Send us a Text Message. The Enrichment Today Podcast is hosted by Dr. Amy Blansit with special guests Chelsea Caceras and Ramon Martinez. Join them as they discuss the impacts of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, or DEI. To learn more about the Drew Lewis Foundation, visit our website https://drewlewis.org/ To continue to support what we do, feel f…

1
Navigating book bans: Regina Greer Cooper 34:38

1+ y ago34:38

34:38

Regina Greer Cooper, executive director of the Springfield-Greene County Library District, provides insights into the contentious issue of banning books, shedding light on new Missouri regulations and the potential impact on both library patrons and librarians.By Springfield Daily Citizen

1
Brian Fogle and the Community Foundation of the Ozarks celebrate 50 years 30:34

1+ y ago30:34

30:34

Brian Fogle, president of the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, talks with Tom about the organization's humble beginnings, its extraordinary growth and impact on Southwest Missouri as CFO approaches its 50th anniversary.By Springfield Daily Citizen

1
Enrichment Today Episode 23: Blue House Project Porch Party 25:28

1+ y ago25:28

25:28

Send us a Text Message. On the 23rd episode of Enrichment Today, hosts Dr. Amy Blansit and Holly Melton tell us all about the Blue House Porch Party, scheduled for May 5th at the Fairbanks. All are welcome to join us at 5 pm for music, memories, and Drew Lewis' favorite drink: the Cuba Libre! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrewLewisFoundation h…

1
Bestselling Author Nancy Allen 39:14

1+ y ago39:14

39:14

Springfield author Nancy Allen shares her nonlinear career path, from high school activist to trial lawyer to becoming a bestselling author of legal thrillers.By Springfield Daily Citizen

1
Shane Schoeller and the April 4, 2023 Elections 36:39

1+ y ago36:39

36:39

Greene County Clerk Shane Schoeller provides an overview on Missouri elections procedures, as well as processes implemented to maintain election integrity, as voters prepare for the April 4 municipal elections.By Springfield Daily Citizen

1
Past Present: Richard Crabtree - Local Historian/Realtor 28:52

1+ y ago28:52

28:52

Local historian and realtor Richard Crabtree discusses how past development has shaped Springfield, its neighborhoods and some of the present challenges facing the city’s future growth.By Springfield Daily Citizen

1
Enrichment Today Episode 22: Helping the Future 34:04

1+ y ago34:04

34:04

Send us a Text Message. Episode 22 of the Enrichment Today Podcast, hosted by Holly Melton with special guest Brandi VanAntwerp, the Executive Director of Foster Adopt Connect.By Dr. Amy Blansit

1
In Focus: Artist Julie Blackmon and Gallerist Bill Haw 30:44

1+ y ago30:44

30:44

Fine art photographer Julie Blackmon discusses inspiration, her approach to making images and the trajectory of her career with Kansas City gallerist Bill Haw of Haw Contemporary.By Springfield Daily Citizen

1
Enrichment Today Episode 21: Giving a Voice to Children 30:15

1+ y ago30:15

30:15

Send us a Text Message. Episode 21 of the Enrichment Today Podcast, hosted by Dr. Amy Blansit with special guest Katiina Dull, the Executive Director of the Child Advocacy Center. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrewLewisFoundation https://www.facebook.com/thechildadvocacycenter https://www.facebook.com/EnrichmentToday Instagram: https://www.ins…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Blansit Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide