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A weekly podcast conversation, produced by Link 2 Lee's Summit, highlighting local issues and people in Lee's Summit, Missouri. Host Nick Parker and guests discuss pertinent issues and topics concerning local residents and introduce listeners to some of the people who help make Lee's Summit a vibrant community.
632 Episodes
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Host Nick Parker sits down with Matt Baird, President of the Lee's Summit Chamber of Commerce and military veteran, for a meaningful Veterans Day conversation about service, sacrifice, and community connection.
Matt opens up about his military journey — from being a history-loving kid who dreamed of service to his time in ROTC and active duty. He candidly discusses both the rewards and challenges of military service, including the leadership issues that ultimately led to his decision to leave active duty.
The conversation explores how America's treatment of veterans has evolved across generations, from the Greatest Generation's reluctance to share their stories to Vietnam veterans' difficult homecomings to today's more supportive environment.
Matt shares the impactful work of the Chamber's Military Affairs Committee, including:
The downtown veterans banner program that sells out every year
Welcome packets for new Whiteman Air Force Base airmen filled with Lee's Summit goodies
Annual Veterans Day luncheon honoring local veterans
Wreaths Across America and support for the Veterans Day Parade
Partnership with local JROTC programs and Civil Air Patrol
You'll be surprised to learn just how many Whiteman Air Force Base personnel — including one-third of B-2 pilots — choose to make Lee's Summit home, largely because of our excellent school district.
A thoughtful episode about honoring service while building authentic community connections.
The need has never been greater. In this episode, host Nick Parker talks with David Fritz and Ben Martin from the Lee's Summit Rotary Clubs and Monica Humbard about the growing food crisis in our community and an annual event designed to support local nonprofit efforts to ease the burden of those in need. Learn about nearly 4,500 students on free or reduced lunch in Lee's Summit, about local food pantries serving record numbers and how you can help at the November 14th Feed Lee's Summit event at Unity Village's Goppert Center.
The fundraiser supports five vital organizations with a goal of raising $250,000. Tickets are going fast at feedls.org.
In this episode, Nick Parker sits down with Babir Sultan, owner of FavTrip convenience stores, to explore an unconventional approach to running a gas station business. Babir shares his journey from being a doorman in Brooklyn to becoming a tech-savvy entrepreneur who's revolutionizing the convenience store industry through social media, AI, and community engagement.
Discover how FavTrip reaches nearly 20 million people monthly through organic social media content, why they deliberately chose not to sell liquor or lottery tickets, and how they're using AI to combat shoplifting. Babir discusses empowering employees through live streaming, the importance of knowing your strengths, and why staying local is more valuable than nationwide expansion.
Whether you're an entrepreneur, a Lee's Summit resident, or someone interested in innovative business strategies, this conversation offers insights on blending technology with traditional retail, building authentic community connections, and pursuing your passion projects alongside business growth.
Join host Nick Parker as he sits down with Seth Moses, branch manager at Mid-Continent Public Library's Colburn Road branch, to explore how modern libraries have transformed into vibrant community hubs that go far beyond books. Discover the surprising services available like passport acceptance and notary services, learn about Book Speed Dating events for finding your next great read, and hear how libraries now host gaming nights, D&D sessions, and even serve as co-working spaces with coffee shops. Seth shares insights on everything from the growth of digital collections through the Libby app to the Square One Small Business Center helping local entrepreneurs, plus why half of local households already have library cards and what you're missing if you don't. Perfect timing for National Read a New Book Month and National Sign Up for Your Library Card Month — you'll be amazed at what these modern community centers offer beyond the traditional quiet study spaces of the past.
For National Suicide Prevention Month, host Nick Parker talks with Kirstie Millar and Heather Mason from ReDiscover Mental Health about how Lee's Summit is pioneering mental health crisis response through their co-responder program that embeds trained professionals with police officers. The conversation covers the 988 Crisis Lifeline, why talking about suicide creates safety rather than danger, and practical advice for parents on having difficult mental health conversations with their children. Learn about ReDiscover's "No Wrong Door" approach to accessible mental health care and upcoming community events including 988 Awareness Day (September 8th) and their annual Suicide Prevention Walk (September 27th).
This episode provides crucial information about local resources while addressing the reality that mental health support requires both professional intervention and community-wide cultural change.
Resources mentioned:
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988)
ReDiscover Mental Health: RediscoverMH.org | 816-966-0900
Mobile crisis response available 24/7 in Lee's Summit area
Host Nick Parker welcomes Megan Mercer and Pearl Rovaris MacDonald from the all-female improv comedy troupe, Pretty.Funny., for a hilarious conversation about their 17+ year journey in Kansas City comedy.
Pearl shares how a double-dog dare in the late 80s launched her comedy career, while Megan discusses joining the troupe fresh out of college in 1999. Together, they reveal the secrets behind their popular "real women" comedy shows that celebrate everyday life through clean, observational humor.
Highlights include stories of performing while pregnant, creating song parodies so convincing that kids think they're the originals, and their signature mime routines. The duo explains how they transformed from Comedy Sports players into Pretty.Funny., finding new venues across Kansas City and building a loyal following who travel across the country to see their shows.
Learn about their creative process, comedy heroes like Carol Burnett and Lily Tomlin, and get details about their upcoming Vacation Show on August 23rd at Unity Village's Goppert Center. This episode showcases the vibrant local arts scene and proves that improv comedy is alive and well in the Kansas City area.
In this episode of Lee's Summit Town Hall, hosts Nick Parker and Vanessa Hickman sit down with Meals on Wheels of Lee's Summit representatives Jenni Edwards (Operations Director), Terry Kincheloe (Board Member), and Susan Newsome (Board Member) to explore the 50-year journey of this vital community organization. From its humble beginnings in 1974 serving 15 clients to today's operation delivering meals to 140+ residents across Lee's Summit, Lake Lotawana, and Greenwood, the conversation reveals how this locally-funded nonprofit has become much more than a meal delivery service. Listeners will discover the life-saving wellness checks, the unique 50-year partnership with Lee's Summit Medical Center that allows for customized dietary accommodations, and the incredible volunteer network that keeps the organization running. The discussion also covers how the organization has adapted during challenging weather, supports families caring for aging parents, and continues to seek community awareness and involvement as Lee's Summit grows toward 110,000 residents.
In this episode, Nick Parker and Collin Brich discuss the upcoming Lee Summit Jazz Fest, highlighting the festival's details, food offerings, musical lineup, and community impact. They emphasize the importance of local businesses, volunteer opportunities, and the overall excitement surrounding the event.
In this heartfelt episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker welcomes special guest Nikeese Hannibal for an honest and reflective conversation centered around Father's Day. This episode delves into the unique experiences of growing up without a dad. Nick and Nikeese share personal stories, exploring the emotional complexities of loss, absence, and the different forms of mentorship that have shaped their lives.
Listeners will hear about Nick's journey after losing his father to cancer at a young age and Nikeese's experience growing up without knowing his father due to legal circumstances. The episode touches on how relationships with uncles, grandfathers, and mentors can influence ones growth, and the nuanced feelings surrounding Fathers Day. The duo candidly discuss the challenges of defining fatherhood, the impact of stereotypes, and how these experiences shape their identities.
Tune in for an episode filled with genuine stories, introspective dialogue, and valuable insights on appreciating the figures who step in to guide us, even when they aren't our biological fathers.
Summer is officially getting ready to start. Downtown Lee's Summit's Julie Cook and Jenny Gale drop by the vault to sing us a song about next week's Downtown Days festival - my, and yours, kickoff to summer. In addition to some improv singing, we're filling you in on all the details of this popular annual festival drawing more than 80,000 people into our historic shopping and entertainment district.
Host Nick Parker and Jason Norbury discuss the exciting progress on Lee's Summit's new downtown farmers market and performance space on Green Street, set to open in August after years of planning. The duo also covers the early announcement of two mayoral candidates — business owner and City Council member Cynda Rader and current Mayor Pro Tem Beto Lopez — who are already positioning themselves for next year's election. The episode takes a somber turn as they honor four recently deceased community members who made significant contributions to Lee's Summit: Andy Lock (Third Street Social owner), Jody Fristo (arts advocate), Peggy Doughty (Blue Heron owner), and Brad Rackers (theater director and teacher). The show closes with audio from a previous interview with Rackers about his "F Word" speech on failure and learning.
Ever wondered what happens when passion meets plastic bricks? In Episode 862 of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker welcomes Phil and Lori Volen, the creative minds behind Phillori Phigures (see what they did there?).
These downtown Lee's Summit entrepreneurs transformed their pandemic hobby into a thriving business crafting custom, Lego-compatible figures that are captivating collectors everywhere.
But this isn't just another business origin story. Nick dives into the truly important questions that divide the brick-building community: Are you Team Builder, meticulously crafting masterpieces that remain pristinely displayed? Or Team Player, dumping out containers and letting imagination run wild? The Volens share their own brick-building philosophies and how these different approaches influence their unique creations.
Whether you're a dedicated collector or someone who steps on plastic bricks in the middle of the night, this episode explores how a simple toy became a creative business venture creating community, one custom mini-figure at a time.
In this election-focused episode, host Nick Parker and guest Jason Norbury provide a breakdown of the four candidates competing for just two available seats on the Lee's Summit Board of Education. They explore the priorities and perspectives of Michelle Dawson, Jennifer Foley (current board president and lone incumbent), Nikki Nickens, and Leon Weatherby.
The discussion delves into critical issues facing the district, including board-superintendent relations, teacher compensation, public communication strategies, and fiscal management. Each candidate's unique approach to these challenges offers listeners valuable insights into how they might shape the board's future direction.
Whether you're a decided voter or still weighing your options, this episode delivers the information you need to make an informed choice at the polls. Plus, Nick and Jason share how you can access candidate questionnaires at Link2LeesSummit.com and connect directly with candidates to have your specific questions answered.
Don't miss this vital conversation about the future of education in Lee's Summit!
In this episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker welcomes Lee's Summit R-7 School District Superintendent Dr. David Buck and Associate Superintendent Dr. Steve Shelton to discuss the upcoming $225 million no-tax-increase bond issue on the ballot. They delve into the specifics of the bond, which aims to address capital needs such as building renovations, safety improvements, and infrastructure upgrades within the district. The guests also highlight the importance of community involvement and planning for future growth. Tune in to learn about the critical projects included in the bond and how they will benefit the district.
In this episode of the Lee’s Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker welcomes Demetrios Walker, Community and Engagement Business Partner at ReDiscover, a nonprofit mental health center dedicated to supporting individuals affected by mental illness and substance use disorders.
Demetrios shares insights into ReDiscover’s commitment to providing accessible and culturally competent mental health services for both youth and adults. He highlights the importance of social and emotional wellness, the role of open dialogue in bridging generational gaps, and the need for action-oriented strategies to turn community conversations into meaningful change.
Nick and Demetrios also discuss ReDiscover’s partnerships with organizations like Prodeo, their mission to ensure community engagement, and the availability of essential mental health resources across the metropolitan area—including their main location at 1555 Northeast Rice Road in Lee’s Summit, Missouri.
Tune in for an important conversation about breaking down barriers, fostering safe spaces, and taking action to support mental health in our community.
In this episode of the Lee’s Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker welcomes back Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street's Julie Cook and Jenny Gale to chat about the second annual Shamrock the Block event! Happening afrom 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, this St. Patrick’s celebration is bigger and better than ever, packed with inflatables, food trucks, live entertainment, and even a bubble party!
Julie and Jenny share their excitement about the event’s growth and all the fun in store for families. Whether you're there for the festivities, the food, or just a little luck of the Irish, this is one event you won’t want to miss! Tune in and get the inside scoop on all things Shamrock the Block!
After a two-and-a-half-year hiatus, Jason Norbury is back on the Lee’s Summit Town Hall podcast! Host Nick Parker welcomes his longtime co-host to dive into the latest in local elections — the four candidates vying for two school board seats, and the critical role of the board in shaping district policies.
But that’s not all — there's big news at Link 2 Lee’s Summit! Nick and Jason announce the addition of high school sports coverage to the platform, which is celebrating its 9th anniversary, with veteran sports journalist Fred Liggett joining the team.
Join us as we reconnect with the heart of the podcast—local issues, community stories, and everything that makes Lee’s Summit home.
In this episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker sits down with Chris Madden, executive director of Lee’s Summit CARES. From his early aspirations in the arts to his leadership in education and community service, Chris shares his journey and the passion driving his work. They explore the vital resources available to help teens make informed decisions about their futures, as well as ongoing community efforts around substance misuse prevention and mental health awareness.
Join the conversation and discover how Lee’s Summit CARES is making a difference—and how you can get involved.
In this episode of Lee’s Summit Town Hall Podcast, host Nick Parker welcomes back Brian Pilachowski — graphic artist, entrepreneur, and the new owner of The Local Foundery. As the creative force behind Press Monkey Studio, Brian shares his journey of taking over the beloved local shop, the art of nostalgia-driven design, and the challenges of running a small business.
From expanding his product line — including plans for an exciting new kids' section — to his unique approach to custom apparel, Brian gives us an inside look at his creative process and the future of The Local Foundery. Plus, with the Super Bowl just around the corner, the duo dives into the energy surrounding local events in downtown Lee’s Summit.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation about art, entrepreneurship, and the power of community-driven retail! 🎨🛍️🎙️
Join host Nick Parker on this week’s Lee’s Summit Town Hall podcast as he sits down with Seth Allen, the mastermind behind Libations & Co. and The 1909 Club. From cozy cocktails to lively jazz nights, Seth shares the incredible journey of transforming his businesses into a cornerstone of downtown Lee's Summit nightlife.
Discover the secrets behind the dual vibes of Libations — a chic lounge downstairs and a jazz-filled haven upstairs — and hear how creative drinks (yes, the Old Fashioned still reigns supreme!) and community support have fueled their success. Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur, a jazz enthusiast, or just love a good story, this episode is sure to hit the right note!
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