What’s the tea in Rural KC

Scott Duncan, owner of Universal Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Odessa, joins me to share how he built his dealership from the ground up — starting with used cars, big risks, and a whole lot of grit. From Michigan to Chicago to Kansas City, Scott walks us through his journey in the automotive industry, growing from a one-room startup to 85 employees across two locations.We talk real estate investing, 1031 exchanges, the bold move to purchase the west wing of the old Odessa outlet mall, and how a USPS contract became an unexpected win. Plus, Scott gives insight into today’s used car market, the impact of the chip shortage, and the best time of year to buy a vehicle.If you love a good entrepreneurial story with some real-world business insight, grab your iced coffee and let’s sip. 🚗☕RURAL KC'S BEST KEPT SECRET: Urban Trends BoutiqueThe Parkville Needlepoint House

In this episode of What’s the Tea in Rural KC, I sit down with Tiffany Meinershagen, Executive Director of John Knox Village East, to talk about the realities families face as loved ones age. We dive into the emotional challenges of role reversal, why healthcare directives and power of attorney matter more than you think, and how rural communities can better access specialized care close to home.Tiffany also shares insight into senior living options, outpatient therapy services available locally, and what families should know about Medicare vs. Medicare replacement plans. Plus, we spill the tea on exciting renovations happening at John Knox Village East and some of Higginsville’s best hidden gems.If you have aging parents, work in healthcare, or live in a rural community, this episode is packed with practical advice and perspective you won’t want to miss.

Odessa veterinarian Dr. Jim Peddicord joins me to share stories from his 45-year career caring for animals across rural Missouri. From starting his clinic in a converted lumber yard to treating everything from wolves to Burmese pythons, Jim reflects on the moments that shaped his life in veterinary medicine. We also talk horses, farm calls, breeding performance horses, and the realities of serving a small-town community. This episode is full of humor, heart, and a behind-the-scenes look at a career dedicated to animals and the people who love them.

In this episode of What’s the Tea in Rural KC, Kelsey sits down with Larry Hall, recipient of the 2025 Odessa Chamber of Commerce Hometown Hero Award. From his 30 years in the Odessa school district to his continued service through the Optimist Club and Community Service Center, Larry shares stories of quiet leadership, community impact, and a lifetime of showing up for others.

Kelsey sits down with friend and design-lover Megan Madsen to recap their favorite things—from trending paint colors and must-watch shows to viral recipes and splurge-worthy finds. They share honest takes on home projects, mom life hacks, ski trip prep, and the little things that made the year memorable. It’s a cozy, chatty episode full of real-life recommendations and plenty of laughs.OUR FAVORITE THINGSPAINT COLORS: Worldly GreyHushed AuburnSnowboundGossamer VeilAlabasterClassic GreyModern GreyNAIL COLOR:Bubble Bath @ Beauty Nail BarMINI HUMIDIFIER SHOWS:Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model OlympicsTaylor Swift: The End of an EraNight AgentThe Beast in MeLandmanBOOKS:The CorrespondentThe FavoritesThe Last House on the StreetFOODS:Brownie PuddingSweet Potato MuffinsSweet Potato BowlsSushi Bowls - Japanese Rice single serve, Thai Chili tuna pack, avocado + Yum Yum sauce, EBTB, and soy sauceMartini DipVenison AppetizerNescafe Gold Coffee - 2 teaspoons coffee, 1 teaspoon brown sugar, 1 teaspoon honey + water, ice, half and half, and milkSPLURGE ITEMS:Dope Ski JacketOur Place Air FryerAthleta Swing DressAlo HatNinja Pro Espresso MachineBombas SocksTRIPS:Big Sky SkiingBig Sky Breakfast - Western CafeIdaho Springs, CO Breakfast - Main Street Restaurant7-year-old trip - NYC (Rockettes, American Girl, Statue of Liberty, Ice Skating at Central Park, Christmas Market)Sequoia National Park/Yosemite National ParkGlacier National ParkFAVORITE THINGS PARTY:Bogg BagSimmer PotBrie DishMarble Cheese SlicerCandle WarmerHanni MoisturizerOwala Coffe CupJBL SpeakerLululemon SocksBloom Clear ProteinDime PerfumeLife in Lilac Candles - Always Welcome/HavenGeometry Dish TowelsCOOKBOOKS:Half Baked HarvestTruly SimplePioneer Woman CookbookYou Got This!DINNER IN A PINCH:Salsa Verde Chicken Pasta

In this episode of What’s the Tea in Rural KC, Kelsey chats with Sommer Watts, owner of Somersault Gymnastics and recipient of the 2025 Odessa Chamber of Commerce New Business of the Year Award. Summer shares how a side-gig tumbling class grew into a thriving gymnastics program serving over 100 local kids, the challenges of entrepreneurship as a single mom, and her vision for the future of gymnastics in rural KC.

In this episode of What’s the Tea in Rural KC, Kelsey Legate sits down with Shelly Milner, owner of Heartland Pantry and the 2025 Business of the Year Award recipient. Shelly shares how Heartland Pantry grew from homemade jams to a brick-and-mortar staple in Odessa, plus insights on catering, community support, and what’s next for the business—including expanded hours and new menu offerings. HEARTLAND PANTRY: https://www.heartlandpantry.com/KC SEED LIBRARY: https://kclibrary.org/locations/ruiz/seed-library

In this episode of What’s the Tea in Rural KC, Kelsey sits down with Christina Durrill, labor and delivery nurse and founder of Divine Interruptions. Christina shares her journey into microcurrent neurotherapy, a gentle, non-invasive treatment helping people find relief from anxiety, migraines, insomnia, trauma, and more. They talk faith, neuroscience, and what it looks like when purpose meets healing in rural KC.DIVINE INTERRUPTIONS: https://www.divineinterruptionskc.com/https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61587401018718SPILL THE TEA:*sponsored by Apothecary Quilt Company⁠ - Living in Rural Kanas City can be a vibrant, modern experience! At Apothecary Quilt Company, find fabrics from your favorite designers. Come shop our distinctive collections at the heart of historic downtown Odessa, MO, or visit our website at apothecaryquilyco.com. Mention THE TEA in store, or enter the code on our website for 10% off orders of $50 or more. Free shipping on orders of $100 or more. Apothecary Quilt Company, purveyors of fine quilting goods.*

In this episode of What’s the Tea in Rural KC, Kelsey Legate sits down with Mayor Bryan Barner, recipient of the 2025 Community Betterment Award. Mayor Barner shares his passion for communication, transparency, and community engagement, along with updates on major city initiatives, growth plans, and what’s ahead for Odessa. A thoughtful look at leadership, momentum, and the future of a small town on the rise.

In this episode of What’s the Tea in Rural KC, Kelsey Legate sits down with Rayna and Evan Young, recipients of the 2025 Business Persons of the Year Award. They share the journey of growing Young Learning Academy—from navigating early ownership during COVID to expanding facilities, strengthening curriculum, and investing in the future of local families. A candid conversation about leadership, resilience, and building something meaningful in your hometown.

In this episode of What’s the Tea in Rural KC, Kelsey Legate sits down with Rob Waibel, recipient of the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award, to reflect on over 40 years of service to the Odessa community. From coaching and mentoring generations of students to Friday night football announcements and lifelong community involvement, Rob shares stories of leadership, legacy, and the power of showing up for others.

In this episode of What’s the Tea in Rural KC, Kelsey Legate sits down with Dana Webb, Mayor of Oak Grove, to talk leadership, growth, and the future of Oak Grove. From serving during COVID to major infrastructure projects, community transparency, and what’s next for the city, this episode offers an inside look at small-town leadership in rural KC—plus a little friendly Odessa vs. Oak Grove banter.CITY OF OAK GROVE: https://www.facebook.com/cityofoakgrovehttps://cityofoakgrove.com/RURAL KC'S BEST KEPT SECRET*sponsored by Heartland Pantry - from small batch jams to fresh breakfast pop ups and catering for all kinds of gatherings, Heartland Pantry is all about homemade food made with heart. Stop in or oder catering and be sure to mention What's the tea in Rural KC to get 15% off your next purchase. Supporting local never tasted so good*Ground Roots Coffee

In this episode of What’s the Tea in Rural KC, Kelsey Legate sits down with Mickey Starr, the 2025 Volunteer of the Year, to celebrate the heart behind the service. From serving on the Board of Aldermen to showing up wherever help is needed, Mickey shares why volunteering matters, how anyone can get involved, and what makes Odessa such a special place to serve.

In this episode of What’s the Tea in Rural KC, Kelsey sits down with Ashley Vinson, owner of Evolved Health, to talk fitness, hormone health, and building a wellness business from the ground up. Ashley shares her journey from corporate life to personal training, plus practical tips on protein, meal prep, realistic fitness goals, and staying consistent without the burnout. She also spills what’s next for Evolved Health and the exciting wellness offerings coming to Rural KC.EVOLVED HEALTH: https://www.facebook.com/p/Evolved-Health-LLC-61574960964987/https://evolvedhealthllc.com/SIGN UP FOR EVOLVED HEALTH'S SNAKE SATURDAY 5K: https://runtheday.com/register/detail/snake-saturday-5k/RURAL KC'S BEST KEPT SECRET:*sponsored by Branded Boutique - offering a wide range of gifts, spirit wear, house plants, and organic cleaning/skincare products. Mentioned What's the tea in Rural KC podcast and get 20% off your next purchase*BLENDED BLISS - opening soon inside Iron Vault

Congratulations to the Odessa Church of Christ on being chosen to receive the 2025 Organization of the Year Award!This award is presented to an organization that serves the Odessa community through meaningful outreach and ongoing support.Odessa Church of Christ consistently demonstrates a heart for service through a wide range of community-focused efforts. Their involvement includes supporting I Love Odessa, maintaining a community garden and garden cart where anyone may take fresh produce at no cost, and encouraging residents to donate extra produce from their own gardens to help others.Throughout the year, the church finds creative and thoughtful ways to connect with the community. They deliver May Day flowers and Boo Grams to senior living centers, host a community-wide Vacation Bible School, and fill 30 backpacks for the BackSnack program. They also host a community trunk-or-treat complete with a free meal, provide Thanksgiving meals to families in need within the school district, and hand out free popcorn and popcorn balls during the Christmas Lighting ceremony.This year, The Odessa Church of Christ presented A Night in Bethlehem, an interactive experience for families, and continues to host an annual Christmas Store where children can shop for gifts for their families.Through their generosity, consistency, and commitment to serving others, The Odessa Church of Christ continues to make a meaningful impact in Odessa. Thank you for all you do to support and care for our community.

Kelsey sits down with Christine Hollingsworth, owner of Turquoise Door Bakery in Lexington, to talk baking, small-batch business, and slowing down in the new year. From no-spend January tips and using what you already have, to the story behind her beloved Springerle cookies, paint-your-own treats, and artisan baked goods, Christine shares how she turned a lifelong love of baking into a community favorite. They also dive into small-town collaboration, local media, and why investing in rural places matters.TURQUOISE DOOR BAKERY: https://www.facebook.com/TurquoiseDoorBakeryhttps://www.instagram.com/turquoisedoorbakery/https://www.turquoisedoorbakery.com/SIGN UP FOR A SPRINGERLE COOKIE CLASS AT TURQUOISE DOOR BAKERY: https://www.turquoisedoorbakery.com/cookie-classesKELSEY'S COOKBOOK: EVERYDAY MEALS FROM A RURAL KC KITCHEN. On sale now for $17! https://stan.store/kelseylegate/p/kelseys-cookbookRURAL KC'S BEST KEPT SECRET *sponsored by 2nd Street Nutrition - your local healthy hub in downtown Odessa. Offering clean, energizing teas, protein shakes, and supplements to fuel your healthy, active lifestyle. Open Monday-Friday 6:30-4, Saturday 9-2, Sunday 10-2. Mention "What's the tea in Rural KC" next time you're in and get 1/2 off your drink!* Route 24/224. Locations mentioned during the segment, belowFahrmeier FarmsWentworth Academy Museum: Lexington Historical Society MuseumBattle of Lexington MuseumWomen's Club of LexingtonRasa OrchardsSchreiman OrchardsPeters Orchards and Market

Kelsey sits down with Jamie Martinko for an update on Odessa Sports Lab and the exciting growth happening behind the scenes. From new programming and expanded training opportunities to community partnerships and what’s next for local athletes, Jamie shares how Sports Lab continues to evolve and invest in youth, performance, and small-town sports culture. A great listen for parents, athletes, and anyone cheering for Rural KC’s next generation.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579009710813Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sportslab_odessa/

Kelsey sits down with Eric Kosinski, MoDOT’s Improve I-70 Program Director, to break down one of the biggest infrastructure projects Missouri has ever seen. They talk funding, timelines, construction phases, and what the I-70 expansion really means for communities like Odessa — including the new interchange design, traffic impacts, and long-term growth. A must-listen for anyone wondering how this historic project will shape travel, safety, and economic development across Rural KC and the state.Improve I-70 Blue Springs to Odessa: https://www.modot.org/projects/improvei70/bluespringsodessa

Kelsey sits down with Katie Neuner from the MU Extension Office to talk all things community development, agriculture, and family life in Lafayette County. From canning and food preservation to 4-H programs, farm safety, mental health resources, and supporting local families, Katie shares how the Extension connects rural communities with the tools they need to learn, grow, and thrive. A practical, heart-of-the-community conversation for anyone raising kids, running a farm, or just loving small-town life in Rural KC.

Kelsey chats with Rebecca Baxter, owner of AirHeads KC, about balloon art, creative small-town business, and the hilarious chaos of life on her family’s farm. From giant balloon installs to pigs, peacocks, and twin-mom tales, this episode is full of personality, laughter, and Rural KC charm.AirHeads KC: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083401204050Winter Glow Dance Party: https://www.facebook.com/events/863811129486077/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22surface%22%3A%22home%22%7D%2C%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22attachment%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22newsfeed%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7DToy Grill: https://go.shopmy.us/p-32567402Amika Shampoo: https://go.shopmy.us/p-32567138Cabinet Pulls: https://go.shopmy.us/p-31015871ATLAS9: https://atlas9.com/?windows=welcomeActivate Kansas City: https://playactivate.com/kansas-cityThe Rabbit Hole: https://www.rabbitholekc.org/Kansas City Walk Thru Plans: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571850860085