Eyes On The Street

Walking artist Jonathon Stalls, author of WALK and creator of Pedestrian Dignity, joins us to explore how walking or using a wheelchair changes how we see and experience a community. We talk about his cross-country walks, the art they inspired, and what we learn when we experience places through the eyes of people who aren’t driving. Jonathon shares how slowing down creates space for connection, creativity, and a deeper understanding of place. We also discuss what it means to build communitie...

In this episode, Ryan talks with Storyville founder Phil Eich about the power of telling the real stories of people and places. Phil describes himself not as a storyteller, but a “story advocate,” helping people share stories that might otherwise go untold. They explore the impact those stories can have on individuals and communities, how thousands of individual stories collectively shape the story of a place, and why cities can actually lose their story when they try too hard to control it. ...

In this episode, Ryan talks with Ilana Preuss, author of Recast Your City, about the role small-scale manufacturing can play in building stronger, more authentic downtowns. They explore how what a place makes can be a powerful expression of its identity, why makers and producers are often the missing piece in downtown revitalization, and why the answer to a thriving downtown isn’t always more retail.

Universities are often one of a community's greatest assets, yet many cities, destinations, and campuses still have opportunities to work together more intentionally. In this episode, Ryan sits down with Mike Hooker, founder of Hooker Strategy Partners and former Colorado State University chief spokesperson, to explore how stronger town-and-gown partnerships can create more vibrant communities, stronger destination brands, and better experiences for residents, students, and visitors alike. Th...

In this episode I sit down with Melissa and Chris Bruntlett from Delft, Netherlands, urban mobility advocates and co-authors of Women Changing Cities. We explore how infrastructure shapes our daily lives, identities, and opportunities, and why the most successful cities often reflect a broader understanding of who public spaces are designed to serve. Our conversation examines the connections between leadership, transportation, public life, and the challenges facing cities today. Melissa and C...