ThriveIN Wabash County

Rivers connect communities — economically, environmentally, and recreationally.In this episode of ThriveIN Wabash County, Adam Stakeman sits down with Jess Linder, Executive Director of Northeast Indiana Water Trails, and Past Director Kyle Quandt to talk about the growth and impact of water trails across the region.They discuss how NEIWT works with local communities to expand river access, improve safety and signage, and promote paddling as both recreation and economic development. From early challenges to major milestones, Kyle reflects on the organization’s foundation, while Jess shares her vision for the future and what’s ahead for Northeast Indiana’s waterways.In this conversation, you’ll hear:The origin and mission of Northeast Indiana Water TrailsHow water trails drive tourism and local economic growthThe importance of river access, conservation, and safetyLeadership transition and the next chapter for NEIWTOpportunities for Wabash County residents to get involvedWhether you’re an avid paddler or someone who simply values strong regional partnerships, this episode highlights how thoughtful investment in outdoor recreation strengthens communities throughout Northeast Indiana.Get outside. Explore local waterways. Support the river systems that connect us all.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

Mayor Scott Long joins Adam and Christine in the ThriveIN studio for a fact-based, educational conversation about how Indiana’s current legislative session affects the City of Wabash and Wabash County.The discussion covers Local Income Tax, property taxes and assessments, land use regulations, housing costs, and the ongoing debate around growth and local control. Mayor Long explains how state-level decisions impact city budgets, public services, development, and affordability — highlighting both potential challenges and opportunities.Whether you’re concerned about rising assessments, curious about zoning authority, or want a clearer understanding of how state policy affects local life, this episode offers practical insight without partisan politics.Resources: https://www.cityofwabash.com/Mayor Long's Contact Email: mayor@cityofwabash.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  or email us at thrivepod@destinationwabashcounty.com

All three hosts sit down with Chris Wetherford—more than the Senior Vice President of Operations at PaperWorks Industries. Chris is a husband, father, avid cyclist, and deeply invested community stakeholder.In this episode, Chris shares how he leverages Wabash County’s local resources to attract and retain talent, why the county’s outdoor recreation scene plays a role in quality of life, and how serving on boards and committees helps move the community forward. Hear Chris’ “why” for Wabash County and his perspective on what it takes to build and sustain a thriving community.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 

Alex brings Executive Director Cynthia Johnson and Board Member Julie Garber of the Learn More Center into the studio to talk about real opportunity through education. Discover how this organization is helping adults earn high school diplomas, gain industry-recognized certifications, and learn English as a second language. With a ribbon cutting for a brand-new facility in late 2025, the Learn More Center is leveling up its impact and empowering Wabash County residents to build brighter futures.Listen in to hear how education is opening doors—and learn how you can support, volunteer, or take the next step with the Learn More Center.More about the Learn More Center: https://learnmorecenter.org/wp/More about The Community Foundation of Wabash County: https://cfwabash.org/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 

Christine and Adam put their famous podcast co-host in the hot seat for a conversation listeners have been waiting for. Who is Alex Downard—beyond the mic?In this episode, Christine and Adam dig into Alex’s journey to Wabash County, what inspired him to stay, and how he landed in his role as President & CEO of the Community Foundation of Wabash County. Now leading a team of nine and stepping into the shoes of nationally respected former President & CEO Patty Grant, Alex shares how he approaches leadership, honors legacy, and finds deep purpose in work that is both inspiring and impactful.From community philanthropy to vision-casting for the future of Wabash County, this episode offers a candid look at the leader—and person—helping shape what’s next.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>

Join Adam Stakeman and Christine Flohr on this episode of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast as they sit down with Michael Beauchamp and Jen Rankin, self-described River Rats and co-founders of Wabash River Defenders. Mike and Jen share the story behind this grassroots organization dedicated to protecting, cleaning, and celebrating the Wabash River. Listeners will learn about the history of the River Defenders, memorable cleanup stories, the river’s importance to Wabash County, and how local residents and volunteers have helped make a lasting impact.Jen and Mike also discuss the organization’s other projects including River Wild, future goals and ways the community can get involved.Whether you love the outdoors, care about conservation, or want to make a difference in your own community, this episode is packed with inspiration, practical ways to take action, and heartwarming stories from the banks of the 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

Please note that due to video issues, this is an audio episode only. To catch Bill's smiling face follow him on Facebook or catch his podcast Sports Talk lined below. The ThriveIN Podcast trio sits down with Wabash County youth sports legend Bill Barrows for a heartfelt conversation about service, leadership, and community. From his impactful years at the YMCA to being named the 2019 Distinguished Citizen of the Year, Bill’s legacy is woven into the fabric of local athletics and youth development.A familiar voice at countless local sporting events, Bill has spent decades announcing games, building quality youth programs, and investing his time where it matters most—kids and families. As a husband, father, and grandfather, he reflects on the changes he’s witnessed in Wabash County, the values that have guided his work, and what continues to make him proud to call this place home.To catch Bill's podcast hosted by the Wabash County Museum, you can listen here: https://www.youtube.com/@WabashCountyMuseum or https://www.wabashmuseum.org/This episode is a tribute to dedication, mentorship, and the lasting impact one person can have on an entire community.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>

Host Alex Downard sits down with Dr. Stacy Young, President of Manchester University, for a deep and hopeful conversation about the future of higher education in rural Indiana.Dr. Young shares her passion for creating affordable, accessible degree pathways that reduce barriers and widen opportunities for every student who steps on campus. She explains how Manchester is expanding “earn while you learn” programs that give students real-world experience, reduce debt, and build confidence long before graduation day.Together, they explore how Manchester University is becoming a true beacon for talent attraction—not only developing skilled graduates, but drawing fresh energy and ideas into Wabash County and the surrounding region. Dr. Young reflects on what it means to lead a historic institution into the next chapter, why rural communities are uniquely positioned for growth, and how education can be a powerful force for economic and personal transformation.Learn more about Manchester University: https://www.manchester.edu/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  or email us at thrivepod@destinationwabashcounty.com

Host Christine Flohr talks with Lesley Vigar, an experienced real estate agent and Wabash County Champion, about why a community’s image plays a critical role in relocation decisions. Lesley shares what homebuyers truly look for in a place to live and how Wabash County stands out compared to other markets she knows—through connection, quality of life, and a strong sense of community.Discover what turns a community into a place people are proud to call home.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>

In this episode of ThriveIN Wabash County, host Adam Stakeman sits down with Jason Kissel, Executive Director of ACRES Land Trust, to explore how land conservation is shaping the future of Northeast Indiana.ACRES, Indiana’s oldest land trust, protects more than 8,500 acres of natural and working lands across the region — including several treasured preserves right here in Wabash County. Jason shares the heart behind ACRES’ mission, how properties are protected “forever,” and why community partnerships and donor legacies make this work possible.Together, Adam and Jason dive into what it means to protect not just land, but the stories, memories, and sense of placethat come with it.Learn MoreVisit ACRES Land Trust: https://acreslandtrust.orgExplore local preserves in Wabash CountyIf 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

Adam, Alex, and Christine are ringing in the New Year with energy and excitement as they launch Season 2 of ThriveIN. And they’re starting it off with a twist: listener-submitted “Most Likely To…” questions that put the hosts in the hot seat.For an hour of insight, laughter, and light-hearted chaos, the trio reveals their picks for prompts like:“Who is most likely to adopt an Amish lifestyle?”“Who is most likely to write a book?”…and plenty more that you definitely don’t want to miss.It’s a fun, candid start to the season—one that sets the tone for another year of showcasing the people, stories, and momentum that prove Wabash County is truly thriving.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>

In this special year-end episode, the hosts take a heartfelt and humorous look back at 2025—what they’ve learned, what surprised them, and how the stories of Wabash County have shaped the first year of ThriveIN.From behind-the-scenes moments to the conversations that changed their perspective, this wrap-up is part reflection, part celebration, and all about community. They also share what they’re most excited for as Season 2 launches in 2026, including new voices, deeper dives, and more inspiration from the people who make Wabash County THRIVE.You’ll laugh, you’ll reflect, and we hope you’ll feel the pulse of what it means to thrive in Wabash County.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>

In this episode, host Alex Downard sits down with well-known servant leader and longtime Wabash County business owner, Brian Howenstine. Brian proudly claims to be the podcast’s biggest fan—and after hearing this conversation, you’ll understand why his passion for community runs so deep.Alex and Brian dive into Brian’s decades of involvement in Wabash County, his commitment to servant leadership, and the lessons he’s learned balancing business, family, and civic responsibility. From heartfelt reflections to light-hearted moments, this episode captures Brian’s genuine spirit and unwavering dedication to helping Wabash County thrive.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>

Christine brings together her marketing team from Visit Wabash County for a candid conversation about what it’s really like to market a destination. Content Manager Biz Bishop and Creative Lead Brittany Riner share their experiences building strategic marketing plans, creating content that resonates, and showcasing the best of Wabash County.Learn about the task management, ASANA, which they use to keep their workload progressingHear how to leverage Google Analytics to make data-driven decisionsSprout Social is their "go to" for social media management. If you would like more information about topics discussed in this episode, please fill out the form below. 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>

From delicate butterflies along the Wabash River Trail to world-class performers on the Honeywell Center stage, writer, editor, and photojournalist David Nelson has a gift for helping us see the extraordinary in the everyday.In this episode of ThriveIN Wabash County, host Adam Stakeman sits down with David to talk about his craft, his process, and the power of perspective. Whether he’s behind a camera, editing a story, or documenting community moments, David invites us to pause, look closer, and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us.In this conversation, you’ll discover:How David captures both the quiet wonders of nature and the energy of live performance.The role of storytelling in helping us connect with our community.Why shifting our perspective can change how we experience the world.How creativity and curiosity fuel a deeper appreciation for Wabash County and beyond.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>

In this special episode, the ThriveIN hosts are saying thank you to their loyal listeners with FIVE amazing giveaway packages! Each themed bundle—Adventure, Date Night, Family Fun, Shop Local, and the Mele Kalikimaka Big Kahuna Prize Package—all are packed with hundreds of dollars in local gift cards, perfect for the upcoming holiday season.HOW TO ENTER:Step 1 - Subscribe, rate, and review the ThriveIN podcast on Spotify and/or Apple Podcasts (remember your user handle (name)Step 2 - Complete THIS LINK and add your user handle. (https://forms.gle/d7ZbSAq4hMsp4KUJ7) Contest runs from December 2 - December 7. The winners will be announced on December 8 via ThriveIN social media and will be notified directly.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>

In this episode, Alex sits down with Indiana Senator Andy Zay for a candid and heartfelt conversation about public service, personal conviction, and staying grounded in what matters most. Senator Zay shares openly about his deep love for his family, his faith, and his unwavering commitment to serving rural Indiana with integrity.Alex isn’t afraid to ask the challenging questions—what does it really look like to serve in the Indiana Senate while remaining true to the people and communities that shaped you? Senator Zay reflects on the responsibilities of leadership, the weight of representing his district, and the values that guide him through tough decisions.This episode offers an authentic look at a leader whose heart remains firmly rooted at home, even as he navigates the demands of public office. Whether you're interested in rural advocacy, public service, or stories of purposeful leadership, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss.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>

In this episode, we sit down with Mike and Maria Smyth, a dynamic couple who moved back to the U.S. and chose Wabash County as the place to put down roots. They share their journey of opening the Eclectic Shoppe, a unique small business that has added charm and vibrancy to the area. Now living in LaFontaine—a quiet town just outside Wabash—the Smyths are channeling their entrepreneurial drive into revitalizing Main Street and investing in their community's future.Tune in to hear what brought them to Wabash County, how they built their business from the ground up, and why they're committed to making a lasting impact in the place they call home.If you enjoyed the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast, be sure to download and subscribe to future episodes. Be sure to follow the podcast's journey on Facebook and Instagram. A special thank you to our supporters: 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 making this podcast possible. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County.We’d love to hear from you! Reach out to us by completing this <FORM>

Trails do more than connect towns—they connect people, boost economies, and inspire healthier lifestyles. In this episode of ThriveIN Wabash County, co-hosts Adam Stakeman and Christine Flohr sit down with Amy Ford to talk about the vision, development, and lasting impact of the Wabash River Trail, which stretches from Wabash to Lagro.Together, they explore how this project has transformed both communities—economically, socially, and physically. From increased outdoor recreation opportunities to attracting visitors and supporting local businesses, the trail has become an essential part of life in Wabash County.In this episode, you’ll learn about:-The inspiration and community effort behind developing the Wabash River Trail.-How the trail has supported economic growth for both Wabash and Lagro.-The health and wellness benefits for residents who use the trail daily.-What’s next for the trail and how it continues to shape the county’s future.We hope you enjoyed this episode of ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Be sure to follow and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay in the loop. A special thank you to our supporters: 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 making this podcast possible. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County.We believe in the power of supporting others. If you would like us to speak in your community or hop on a conference call, please email us at thrivepod@destinationwabashcounty.com and we will gladly set up a time!

*Please be advised: this episode discusses addiction and thoughts of suicide. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please call or text the national hotline - 988In this episode, Adam and Christine sit down with local entrepreneur Nick Palmer, whose story is one of resilience, perseverance, and redemption. Despite personal struggles with addiction and hitting rock bottom, Nick never gave up.Through determination and hard work, he launched a successful food truck business—Nick's Dog Cart, all while maintaining a full-time job. Nick shares how the Wabash County community stood by him through his journey and how he’s now giving back to the same people who supported him. His story is a powerful reminder that even in the toughest seasons, growth and purpose can emerge. This is an episode that captures the heart of what it means to fight for your future and believe in new beginnings.Follow Nick's Dog Cart on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nicksdogcart and join him on his journey of sharing joy.If you enjoyed the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast, be sure to download and subscribe to future episodes. Be sure to follow the podcast's journey on Facebook and Instagram.A special thank you to our supporters: 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 making this podcast possible. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County.We’d love to hear from you! Reach out to us by completing this <FORM>