OUTdrive: Recent Episodes
Cliff Callis
Join Cliff Callis, OUTdrive podcast host, for actionable marketing insight you can apply to help your brand reach, connect and convert rural American consumers.
How do you market business-to-business (B2B) in rural America? Join Cliff in this OUTdrive episode as he sits down with Amy Roraback, marketing lead at KMW Loaders, a Kansas-based equipment company. They explore the day-to-day of rural B2B marketing, including the tools and strategies Amy uses to support sales and grow brand awareness. Hear how consistent service, smart technology and creative thinking help build lasting customer relationships.
In this special 250th episode of OUTdrive, host Cliff Callis takes the mic solo to reflect on five years of podcasting and the many guests who have helped shape the show. From business owners and marketers to rodeo announcers and rural leaders, Cliff revisits some of the most memorable conversations, insightful quotes and meaningful lessons learned.
Tune in for reflections, appreciation and a look at what’s to come as OUTdrive continues its mission to connect with rural America and share the stories that matter most.
In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff Callis visits with Melanie Rice, National Account Executive for Learfield News & Ag and President of the National Agri-Marketing Association. Growing up on a Missouri farm and now raising her family in rural Iowa, Melanie shares how her agricultural roots shaped her career in media and marketing. Listen in as she discusses the evolving role of ag media, the importance of collaboration between sales and marketing and why staying connected to rural America remains at the heart of her work.
OUTdrive host Cliff Callis sits down with Bruce Richards, External Affairs Director for Central Peninsula Hospital, to talk about delivering health care in rural Alaska. From his start in the family paving business to navigating politics and now leading key legislative efforts in the health care space, Bruce’s story is as wide-ranging as the geography he serves. Learn how his hospital is addressing workforce needs, building strong community relations and expanding services in one of the most remote parts of the U.S.
What makes someone click “buy” online? Sarah Gallagher has been chasing that answer for over 20 years. As the leader of Gamma Waves, a Shopify-focused e-commerce agency, she’s helping brands grow with smarter strategy, faster sites and more human experiences. In this episode, Sarah and Cliff talk about how the online shopping space has evolved, what brands can do to stand out and why performance matters more than ever.
Discover how the Springfield, Missouri, region is building momentum in rural economic development with guest Ben Vickers, Manager of Business Development for the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce. Ben and Cliff discuss the area’s strengths in manufacturing, food processing, workforce and quality of life, as well as how strategic planning and strong storytelling are attracting businesses, retaining jobs and creating quality opportunities across a 10-county footprint.
In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff visits with Steven Brunner, founder of King of the Mountain Sports Marketing. With nearly four decades of experience, Steven shares stories from the global stage of sports promotion—from the Olympics to the Great Wall of China. He also reflects on what it takes to build and sustain a business, offering lessons in grit, service and staying focused. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at sports marketing and the mindset that keeps a business rolling.
Meet Tucker Hancock, the driving force behind Fern Thatcher, a leather goods company rooted in tradition and built on family values. In this episode, Tucker shares his journey from military service to entrepreneurship, crafting high-quality leather products while balancing family life and business growth. Tune in to hear his insights on leadership, leatherwork and maintaining a hands-on approach in a modern world.
In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff Callis sits down with Julianna Sonnik, an account executive at Callis, to discuss the importance of building strong relationships in rural marketing. Julianna shares her journey from growing up in Sedalia to pursuing her MBA while working in marketing. She also discusses her experiences in the retail jewelry business and how they prepared her for her current role. Tune in to hear her insights on marketing strategies, relationship building and the power of community engagement.
Rural America’s banking needs are changing, and BTC Bank is leading the charge with innovative ideas and a community-first mindset. Cliff Callis welcomes Jonathan Fish to OUTdrive to discuss how BTC Bank is revolutionizing rural banking with mobile branches, youth-focused programs and a dedication to local investment.
Mental health care can be hard to find in rural communities, but one Missouri-based practice is changing that. Country Crossroads Counseling blends traditional therapy with unique, nature-based approaches to help children, teens and adults navigate life’s challenges. In this episode, founder Susie Arbo shares how she built a thriving practice, the role animals play in therapy and why meeting people where they are—whether in a barn, a school or online—makes all the difference.
Marketing success isn’t just about creativity—it’s about strategy. In this episode, we sit down with Peter Murphy Lewis, also known as Strategic Pete, to explore how fractional CMOs help businesses build smarter, stronger marketing systems. From his diverse career spanning continents to his passion for training future marketing leaders, Pete shares valuable insights on business growth, problem-solving and the role of strategy in today’s rapidly changing landscape.
Storytelling is at the heart of marketing and communications, whether in business, sports marketing or education. In this episode, we chat with Kat Lucchesi, a professor at the University of Missouri School of Journalism, about her experiences in collegiate athletics, digital media and teaching the next generation of communicators. Tune in for valuable lessons on branding, audience connection and the evolution of social media.
Access to quality health care is essential for every community, and rural hospitals play a vital role in ensuring patients get the care they need close to home. In this episode, we sit down with Marvin Smoot, Vice President of Clinic Operations at Bothwell Regional Health Center, to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities in rural health care. Marvin shares insights on building strong provider-patient relationships, making strategic decisions to balance quality and cost and how Bothwell is innovating to serve central Missouri.
The Super Bowl isn’t just about football—it’s also the biggest night in advertising. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff Callis sits down with agency president Megan Hartman and account executive Josie Gregory to break down the game’s most memorable ads. From the ones that scored big to the ones that missed the mark, they analyze the strategies, creative choices and marketing takeaways. Tune in for expert insights on what made this year’s commercials stand out.
Marketing is constantly evolving, and staying ahead requires strategy, innovation and a strong ethical foundation. In this episode, Korena Keys of KeyMedia Solutions shares her insights on digital marketing, AI and the importance of responsible advertising. From starting a business at her kitchen table to leading a successful agency, Korena’s story is one of adaptability and growth.
Missouri’s child care crisis affects more than just parents—it impacts businesses, workforce retention and local economies. In this episode, Robin Phillips, CEO of Child Care Aware of Missouri, talks about the challenges of child care accessibility and affordability in rural communities. She shares how her organization is helping families find care, supporting child care providers and working with businesses to address workforce needs through child care solutions.
Discover how Agri-Pulse grew to become agriculture's leading voice for legislative and regulatory news. In this episode of OUTdrive, founder Sara Wyant shares her journey from growing up on a farm in Iowa to building a trusted media brand covering food, agriculture and rural issues.
Sara reflects on how her upbringing shaped her passion for journalism, leading her to create Agri-Pulse, a company dedicated to informing advocates and connecting communities. She dives into the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of rural advocacy and the evolving role of technology in delivering impactful stories.
Tune in to hear Sara’s insights on the future of agriculture, her commitment to empowering rural America, and what it takes to build a successful business from the ground up.
Sports bring people together, especially in rural America. In this episode, Cliff and Kim Anderson, former college basketball coach turned broadcaster, dive into how sports unite communities, inspire passion and shape identities. Tune in as they discuss everything from Chiefs football to high school basketball, and how broadcasting keeps Kim’s love for the game alive.
Join us as we take a ride through some of OUTdrive’s most popular episodes from 2024. Host Cliff Callis reflects on insightful conversations with marketing professionals and community leaders, discussing everything from Super Bowl ad strategies to rural banking and state fairs.
Whether it's connecting national brands to local markets, blending tradition with modern marketing or building trust within communities, this recap highlights valuable takeaways that will help you drive success in 2025.
Explore the story behind Danuser Machine Company, a fourth-generation family business built on quality and customer care. Glenn Danuser reveals the company’s approach to innovation, service and sustaining a legacy that began back in 1910. Tune in to learn how Danuser navigates the challenges of modern manufacturing and marketing while honoring its heritage.
Rural health care faces unique challenges, from smaller populations to overcoming misconceptions about care quality. Learn how creative strategies, innovative programs and grassroots community engagement are helping rural hospitals deliver quality care and build strong connections.
Abbe Ream, Director of Marketing at Harrison County Community Hospital in northwest Missouri, exemplifies this proactive approach. When the hospital identifies a need—such as autism diagnosis services—it take action, establishing clinics to reduce wait times for diagnoses. Tune in to hear more innovative initiatives, discover actionable strategies for marketing in rural areas and learn how to make a meaningful impact in your community.
Liza Buchanan, Vice President of Marketing at Sunstate Equipment, shares her journey and insights as she markets the national construction equipment rental company in a highly competitive environment. With a dynamic background spanning corporate marketing, nonprofit work and running her own advertising agency, Liza brings a wealth of experience to OUTdrive. Her expertise in rural community development and corporate strategy uniquely positions her to build Sunstate’s brand awareness nationally while driving leads into local markets.
Tune in to gain valuable insights into building effective marketing strategies, the importance of understanding customer needs and how to create impactful brand narratives that drive real results.
Artificial Intelligence offers powerful ways for marketers to streamline tasks and personalize customer experiences and balancing innovation with responsible use is essential for building trust. Callis’s Digital Services Director Kyle Meek explores these opportunities, discussing how AI is transforming marketing and business for rural American markets. Sharing insights from the recent Marketing AI Conference, Kyle explains the rapid evolution of AI, from simple machine learning to advanced tools like ChatGPT that can engage in natural conversations.
Join us to hear about new trends, copyright issues, data bias and more in this informative episode.
Marketing pro Danny Vowell, the marketing manager at Best Way AG, brings a rich blend of experience in journalism, photojournalism and business communications to his role. Raised in a rural setting with deep family roots in farming, Danny has a personal understanding of the agricultural community’s values and challenges. His background in mass communications and a career spanning local journalism to in-house marketing for industry leaders gives him a unique perspective on reaching rural audiences.
In this episode, Danny discusses how storytelling and relationship-building play pivotal roles in connecting with the agriculture community. From navigating rapid technology changes to the authentic appeal of rural life, Danny provides a wealth of advice for marketers targeting rural audiences.
Attorney Chris Spangler could have built a law practice anywhere, but he chose to establish his career in the heart of rural America. A Missouri native and graduate of the University of Missouri, Chris returned to central Missouri after attending law school in Kansas City. Today, he co-leads the law firm, Spangler Ward, with his partner, Laurie Ward. Chris has also brought his son, Cale, into the firm, reflecting his commitment to a family-first lifestyle—with friends as a close second. Beyond the firm, he owns a row crop farm, staying deeply connected to his agricultural roots. Join us as Chris reflects on his journey from radio to law, his passion for serving the community and the values that guide his life and career.
April DeGraff, a seasoned marketing professional, has over 15 years of experience, with a decade dedicated to health care marketing. Growing up in rural Missouri and earning a degree from Missouri Valley College, April has a unique understanding of both rural communities and the health care landscape. She has served in various roles including a stint in an agency setting, but found her passion lies within health care systems. Now a senior marketing advisor at University of Missouri Health Care, she combines her deep-rooted curiosity and strategic mindset to tackle the complexities of promoting an academic medical center while focusing on community impact and effective patient communication.
Tune in to learn how to build effective marketing campaigns, overcome misperceptions of academic health care and stay ahead in a rapidly changing environment.
Reaching rural audiences requires a tailored approach. Dr. Shannon McCarthy, Associate Professor of Marketing at the University of Central Missouri, brings us a unique perspective, having lived on both coasts and in the Midwest. She highlights that while there are differences between urban and rural America, people’s core desires remain the same: they want to live in happy, healthy communities.
Listen in as Dr. McCarthy shares practical, authenticity-driven strategies for crafting marketing approaches that resonate with rural consumers.
This week’s episode of OUTdrive features a conversation unlike any we’ve had before. Cliff sits down with an unexpected guest—a chatbot named AI-dilene! Together, they dive headfirst into how artificial intelligence is reshaping the world of marketing. Listeners get an inside look at how AI functions, what it can offer to businesses and why marketers everywhere are taking note of this revolutionary tool.
If you’re curious about how AI might impact the future of rural marketing or just want to hear some forward-thinking strategies, this episode is a must listen. Join us on this unique journey and discover how AI can elevate your marketing strategy.
The landscape of digital media is evolving, and AI is at the forefront. In this episode, Rachel Hernandez, Director of Marketing at Next Net Media, discusses the integration of AI in marketing strategies. While some are apprehensive about these changes, Rachel views them as opportunities for growth and innovation. She highlights that AI can enhance data analysis and customer insights, allowing marketers to focus more on storytelling and build genuine connections with their audience.
Tune in to learn more about current digital media trends and how to help your brand stand out in a crowded marketplace.
Have you ever wondered what it takes to be an account executive at a marketing agency in rural America? Josie Gregory, the newest account executive at Callis, breaks it down in our latest episode. From communication and strategy to research and project management, the role involves multiple hats. Josie highlights the importance of listening to clients and delivering creative solutions tailored to their needs.
Tune in for a fascinating look into the day-to-day responsibilities that drive successful marketing campaigns and the career path that led her here.
To truly thrive, startups must prioritize validation over assumptions—driving their success with real data instead of guesswork. Lilly Garrett, a marketing strategist based in London and co-founder of MAXIA Marketing, understands the importance of validating product ideas and establishing strong marketing foundations. Lilly began her entrepreneurial path at 19, working with early-stage companies across various industries from tech to fashion. She offers practical advice for other entrepreneurs, stressing the need for focus and prioritization in marketing efforts.
Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or an established marketer, tune in to this episode to hear actionable strategies and gain a global perspective on current marketing trends.
Good marketing isn't just about crafting the perfect campaign—it's about building genuine relationships and maintaining transparency with your audience in a competitive landscape. Authenticity is key! Megan Elsey, Director of Marketing & PR at MJE and MJE Livestock Equipment, emphasizes the importance of genuine content over polished productions. In rural communities, real stories and user-generated content often resonate more. This approach not only builds trust but also aligns with the practical nature of the agricultural sector.
Join us today to learn how to adapt your marketing approach to meet the unique needs and challenges of your audience, especially in niche markets.
Ever heard of the "three-legged stool” of marketing? Brad Grupe, owner and broker agent for Town and Country Insurance, uses this metaphor to describe the balance needed between marketing, client relationships and community service. Effective marketing requires a deep understanding of consumer behavior and strategic thinking, especially in industries like insurance where clients depend on reliable support during challenging times.
Tune in to hear how these elements work together to create a robust and trustworthy business model, particularly in rural settings.
By leveraging storytelling, embracing modern marketing tools, and fostering collaboration, rural businesses and organizations can thrive in a changing economic landscape. Bing Schimmelpfenning, the executive director of the Harrisonville Chamber of Commerce, emphasizes that effective marketing is all about telling your story—whether it’s about a product, service, or personal journey. This approach helps businesses connect with customers on a deeper level.
A key takeaway? Get involved in community events like Chamber coffees and luncheons to share your story and build meaningful relationships. Tune in to this episode to learn more about the power of storytelling and community.
From demanding time commitments to the need to think quickly on your feet, promoting sporting events can be a whirlwind. Ryan Anderson, Assistant Athletic Director for Communications at the University of Central Missouri (UCM), provides an inside look into sports marketing during our latest episode. Utilizing traditional advertising and innovative social media strategies, the UCM Athletics communications team pulls out all the stops to engage students and attract fans. Their collaborations with university marketing and the use of platforms like Instagram and Facebook are truly next level.
Tune in to learn about the multifaceted role of sports communications, the challenges and rewards of the job and the marketing strategies employed to promote collegiate athletics.
You probably know that the Missouri State Fair draws thousands of people from across the Midwest each year. To some, it may seem like the fair just happens, when actually, a lot goes into it. One of those people who help make it happen is Paul Beykirch, president of County Distributing. County is a regional Anheuser-Busch distributor and one of the fair’s long time sponsors and supporters. Paul joins us today to delve into the marketing strategies their company uses to maximize the opportunity of this iconic event. From leveraging data analytics to community sponsorships, it's fascinating to hear how businesses like County Distributing enhance the fair experience and build brand loyalty.
Tune in to discover how County adapts to changing consumer preferences and the strategies they implement to thrive in today’s market. Plus, learn more about the beverage business and the history of the popular Clydesdales, a crowd favorite!
Tourism is a powerful driver for local economies, and Sedalia is no exception. The Sedalia Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) is committed to showcasing our city’s unique offerings. Joining us today are Carolyn Crooker, Kyle Herrick and Rick Yeager from the Sedalia CVB to share insights on how attracting visitors year-round can significantly boost our community. Whether it’s hiking the Katy Trail, exploring local museums or enjoying seasonal events like the Missouri State Fair and others, there’s always something to do.
Tune in to get a taste of what makes Sedalia so special. Whether you’re a local resident or planning your next getaway, there’s something for everyone in this charming town. Visit the Sedalia CVB website for more information and start planning your trip today!
Kim Anderson's journey from rural America to professional athletics and coaching paints a vivid picture of the evolving landscape of college sports, the influence of marketing, and the distinct characteristics of rural communities.
Kim's roots in rural America, shaped by his father's role as a basketball coach, laid the foundation for his athletic career. From parental guidance to navigating the changing dynamics of college recruitment, Kim's journey showcases the pivotal role of strong role models and adaptability. Transitioning from player to coach, he emphasizes the importance of motivation and relationship-building in mentoring the next generation. Moreover, he reflects on the impact of modern shifts like the transfer portal and NIL policies, alongside the necessity for effective marketing strategies in collegiate athletics. Throughout, Anderson's appreciation for the values and support inherent in rural communities shines, underscoring their influence on athlete development and program success.
Karri Wilson's story is deeply rooted in the agricultural lifestyle of rural America. Growing up on a farm near the Missouri State Fairgrounds in Sedalia, Karri developed a love for horses and a strong work ethic that has shaped her personal and professional life. Her background in social work and her transition to the role of Executive Director of the Missouri State Fair Foundation highlight her commitment to community involvement and agricultural education.
Listen in to hear about Karri’s passion for the Missouri State Fair and her dedication to the Foundation's mission of promoting agricultural education, community engagement, and youth development in rural America.
Ever wondered what goes into creating an unforgettable fair experience? Kari Mergen, the Marketing Director of the Missouri State Fair, has been at the helm for a decade, carefully balancing between tradition and innovation. Her meticulous organization and flexibility ensure that every year is better than the last for fairgoers. From overseeing marketing to managing special events, Kari's strategic approach keeps the fair relevant and exciting.
Tune in to learn about the upcoming plans and innovative strategies for this year's 11-day event, August 8-18 in Sedalia.
Dr. Levi Harris began his journey into medicine in southwest Missouri with an early exposure to the field while working in a local veterinary clinic. This experience planted the seeds for his future career of caring for people as a medical doctor as he witnessed firsthand the impact of health care in a community setting. Levi's formative years were shaped by the values and work ethic inherent to rural life, which would later influence his approach to medicine. His academic pursuits led him to Missouri State University for his undergraduate studies where the decision to embrace a career in medicine became clear. His passion for helping others and his fascination with the human body's complexities fueled his ambition. It was during this time that Levi decided to become a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), a path that emphasizes a holistic approach to patient care.
During this episode, Levi shares the rigorous and rewarding experiences of medical school, which prepared him for his next chapter in the Bothwell-University of Missouri Rural Family Medicine Residency. Tune in to hear more about what it’s like being a family doctor in rural America.
Andrew Stallcup, a digital marketing strategist at Callis, has a unique background for his role with our marketing agency. After serving in the military working in psychological operations (code word: marketing), Andrew further developed his skill set to evolve into a strategist focusing on the business side of digital.
Andrew offers a fascinating perspective on the importance of strategy in our campaigns and the significant role of influencer marketing in today's landscape. His military background parallels the core of what we do in marketing and his experiences in Iraq and Africa, along with his current role in training the next generation of military personnel, have equipped him with a unique skill set that translates seamlessly into the digital marketing sphere.
Join us today to delve into the complex world of digital marketing strategy.
Tim Kondratyuk's story is a classic narrative of American determination, tracing his roots back to Ukrainian immigrant parents and a childhood on a Missouri farm. As the eldest of nine, Tim's early life was defined by hard work and resilience, qualities that have served him well in his entrepreneurial journey. Today, he is not only a dedicated family man but also a key figure behind US Quality Construction, a company that has soared to impressive heights in the construction industry.
US Quality Construction has made a name for itself in the home improvement sector, focusing on new deck construction and the repair or replacement of exterior home features. Under Tim's guidance, the company has experienced rapid growth, doubling its business annually for the past four years. The secret to their success? A strategic approach to marketing. Tune in to hear more about the transformative impact of technology on small businesses.
As the creative director of Outback Team Building and Training, Mike Cavers's journey began in Ottawa, Canada, where his love for entertainment took root. His early years were marked by a natural talent for engaging audiences, which he cultivated through lead roles in high school plays and further developed while studying acting and literature at university. Mike's career flourished as he landed roles in TV shows and commercials, and he even imparted his knowledge by teaching public speaking.
When the pandemic hit in 2020, Mike faced the abrupt loss of contracts but quickly pivoted to seize new opportunities. His entrepreneurial drive led him to start his own company, providing corporate entertainment that skillfully blended humor with education. He combined his expertise in education and entertainment to create virtual team-building experiences that connected people during a time of isolation. Mike's adaptability and creative vision are at the heart of his success, and he's excited about what the future holds. Tune in to hear more about the universal human need for connection and belonging, and how team-building activities fulfill this need, fostering unity within groups. His story is an inspiration for those looking to adapt and find new opportunities in a changing world.
Nicholas Harrison, a Canadian-born author, actor, and self-proclaimed Jedi, has led an extraordinary life that intertwines with the world of entertainment and creativity. With a Ph.D. in film and theater history, Nick's career spans 35 years, covering various roles from a fight director and stunt performer to a morning radio personality and corporate entertainer. His small-town, blue-collar upbringing, where entertainment served as a vital escape and joy, has deeply influenced his passion for the industry. His stories and wisdom, accumulated from a lifetime of diverse experiences, reflect his dedication to his craft and the entertainment world.
Nick's approach to marketing and content creation is rooted in authenticity and the power of human connections. His ability to create enchanting characters and experiences, honed through enchanting guests at Disneyland and corporate events, offers valuable lessons for marketing beyond the entertainment sector. Tune in to learn more about the art of crafting stories that resonate.
Ever wonder how the Missouri and Iowa State Fairs became such beloved events? According to Gary Slater, formerly the director of both fairs, "It's all about vision and teamwork.” Gary's insights into the art of drawing crowds to these agricultural, entertainment and community celebrations reveals a shared belief in the importance of engaging the audiences and creating memorable experiences. This episode is a masterclass in event marketing and engagement that you don't want to miss.
It's not every day you meet someone who has built their career from the ground up. Jason Moore's rise from a homebuilder to carpenter at the Missouri State Fairgrounds to Missouri State Fair director is a testament to his dedication, hard work, and passion. His journey began with hands-on work, which laid the foundation for his deep understanding of the fair's operations. From there, he was promoted to facilities manager where he further honed his skills. Now serving as director, he’s ambitiously leading the fair into new territory. Jason is a real people person and has a vision for where he sees the fair going, and he’s dreaming big.
Tune in to hear about the intricate planning required to create lasting memories for thousands of fairgoers, the projects going on right now on the fairgrounds, and the vision for the Missouri State Fair of the future. And make plans to attend the fair happening August 8-18 for 11 days of Summer’s Best Story.
Growing up on a farm teaches the value of community and caring—not just for the land and animals, but for the people around us. Dr. Misty Todd grew up on a farm in northeast Missouri, where she learned the values of diligence, community service, and caring for others, which later propelled her toward a career in family medicine. Her journey led her to the Bothwell Cole Camp Clinic and the Bothwell University of Missouri Rural Family Residency program, which she leads for Bothwell.
Dr. Todd plays a pivotal role in training new physicians through this innovative program, a partnership with the University of Missouri aimed at combating the shortage of rural physicians. Bothwell's teaching hospital environment provides residents with a rich learning experience, while Dr. Todd and her colleagues strive to create a supportive community that encourages young doctors to establish their practices locally.
Listen in to learn more about the crucial impact of rural medicine on national health care and Bothwell's commitment to nurturing a new generation of family physicians in the heart of rural America.
In today's competitive industry, marketing strategies like trade shows and fostering long-term client relationships are crucial for sustainable business growth. Mike Hill, general manager of Big Rocks Engineering, a company making significant strides in the manufacturing and engineering sector, shares the importance of trade shows in their marketing strategy. Big Rocks Engineering skillfully utilizes trade shows to maintain a strong presence, connecting with existing customers and reaching potential new ones. This approach has become a fundamental element in their search for new business opportunities and in demonstrating the value they offer.
Mike's impressive background spans over two decades in engineering and manufacturing, beginning with a physics degree and evolving through various roles, including aerospace defense and running his own manufacturing plant, before founding Big Rocks Engineering in 2015. Listen in to learn the importance of strong business relationships and adapting to industry changes.
Crafting the perfect trip is not just about finding a spot on the sand, it's about creating a travel experience that dives deeper into your passions. Jamie Anderson is an independent travel consultant known for her personalized travel planning and rural Missouri charm. Despite the digital age making travel planning seem easy, Jamie's services are in high demand because she offers a human touch that algorithms cannot. She meticulously tailors each journey to her client's desires, ensuring their trips are meaningful and aligned with their interests.
Join us to learn more about the irreplaceable value of a travel consultant in crafting unforgettable journeys, reminding us that the essence of travel lies in the personalized experiences and memories we create. And for those planning their next trip, consider the unparalleled benefits of working with a travel consultant to make your adventure truly your own.
Doug Fish, CEO of BTC Bank, is a true embodiment of rural American values and a visionary in community banking. From his humble beginnings on a small dairy farm to leading BTC Bank's expansion to 23 locations across Missouri and Iowa, his story is one of hard work and innovation. Imagine setting up mobile banks in shipping containers to reach the underserved – that's BTC Bank's level of commitment! This innovative approach is a testament to their dedication to serving people where they are, quite literally. But it’s not just about being physically present, it’s about embedding oneself into the fabric of the community for the long haul.
Listen in to our 200th episode to discover how technology, community involvement, and customer preferences are shaping the future of rural banking.
It's fascinating how chance encounters can lead to monumental projects and a pivotal moment that completely changes the course of your career. In this episode, Michael Eaton, the Executive Director of the Missouri Association of Manufacturers, recounts the 'God moments' that led to his incredible journey from architecture to art and then eventually marketing to manufacturing—a transition driven by the practical need to make a living while staying true to his creative roots. Today, Michael supports the work of the growing Missouri manufacturing industry and his story is a compelling narrative of how one can intertwine their creative passions with their professional life.
Dive into Michael's story for a dose of inspiration and a reminder that sometimes the universe conspires in our favor.
Sometimes, the best investment is in the next generation. Seasoned entrepreneur Wayne Swisher collaborated with his wife Kelly to create Waymaker, a platform to connect retiring business owners with young, aspiring entrepreneurs. Together, they encourage every individual to stay active in business and community life, regardless of age, and help young people transition into new careers as business owners. For them, it’s all about ensuring a legacy of reliability, work ethic and invaluable life lessons.
Tune in to hear Wayne’s full story and learn about the power of mentorship, adapting to market changes and staying true to your roots.
Ever wonder what it takes to bring a brand to life? It's not just about the visuals; it's the voice that often resonates with us. Today’s guest, Michael Ashcraft, a professional voice and on-screen talent who you may know as the voice of the Missouri State Fair, dives into the creative process. Together, he and Cliff explore how collaboration in the studio is key to refining the delivery of advertising content. It's not just about reading a script; it’s about interpreting and perfecting it to ensure the message hits home.
Tune in to learn more about what it means to be a recognizable sound in an ever-changing world of advertising.
Can you imagine mastering a skill set that's 852 hours in the making? That's the reality for students in the graphic design program at the Career Technology Center (CTC) at State Fair Community College, where instructor Linda Harris molds the creative minds of tomorrow. With an emphasis on industry-standard software, and the chance to earn college credits, these students are set on a path to success.
Join us to hear how Linda's roots influenced her creative journey and the values she's passing on to the next generation. Her story is one of dedication and love for the simplicity and authenticity of rural America.
Aaron Warbritton's journey from a small-town upbringing to a trailblazer in the hunting video industry is a tale of passion and perseverance. Raised in a close-knit farming community in Missouri, Aaron's childhood was steeped in the traditions of hunting and fishing. These early experiences fostered a profound respect for nature and a dream to one day create hunting videos.
Aaron's unwavering dedication to his dream led him to pursue a digital media and video production education and eventually create his YouTube channel, The Hunting Public. Despite financial challenges and a modest start, Aaron and his partner's YouTube channel grew organically into a platform that now includes merchandise and consulting services.
Tune in to learn more about how Aaron is shaping a positive hunting culture for generations to come.
Did you know that local charm can be your ticket to global markets? In part two of this two-episode series, I sat down again with Paul Ruppert, an international strategy consultant, to discuss how rural American companies can craft compelling stories around their unique products. These narratives resonate not only domestically but internationally. It's fascinating how a local advantage can become a global phenomenon!
Listen in to hear how Paul leveraged demographic insights and shed a light on the role of artificial intelligence in streamlining operations from customer care to conversational commerce.
Sometimes, you really never know what you’re getting into when you jump into a business opportunity, or where it might take you. For our guest today, opportunities have taken him all over the world, and then some.
Paul Ruppert is an international strategy consultant with a specialty in mobile telecommunications, working primarily with private equity firms and enterprise level organizations. With a background in product development, strategic partnerships, and global operations, Paul has been on the leading edge of marketing and technology throughout his career. He also has a unique connection to rural America and advises our audience to be bold as they move through life and work. Listen in for a really interesting conversation about business, technology, politics and life in the first of a two-part series.
Effective marketing isn't just about the message, it's about the medium and the people, too. In this episode, Gunther Hartman, head of marketing and human resources at Zimmerman Manufacturing, gives us a peek into their high-quality content creation—from drones to testimonials. It's about crafting stories that resonate and visuals that captivate.
Zimmerman Manufacturing is dedicated to crafting cutting-edge farm equipment and while the Midwest is their core market, they've expanded their horizons to serve farmers as far away as Australia. Gunther discusses their marketing playbook, which includes leveraging social media, sprucing up their website, and making a splash at trade shows—all with a laser focus on creating top-notch content and ensuring customers have a great experience.
Tune into this episode to hear all the smart ways they promote their products and how sales and marketing join forces to really connect with the heartland of America.
It was the most wonderful night of the year, right? When else are you surrounded by your family and friends, cheering on your favorite football team, watching entertaining commercials, and eating chicken wings? It's none other than the SUPER BOWL! In this episode, a few members of our Callis team join Cliff to talk about their favorite ads during the big game…and maybe the ones that didn't quite cut it. Get your game face ready for an episode full of NFL chat, all things marketing and, of course, some laughter.
The Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade (SHOT) Show is an annual event that brings together retailers, distributors, media, marketers, and other industry professionals to explore the latest innovations and strategies in the outdoor industry. Callis account executives Darren Grove and Seth Brunkhorst joined Cliff at this year’s event, then joined him on the podcast to discuss their takeaways from the show. Learn more about industry research findings, the significance of storytelling in marketing, the relentless pursuit of innovation and more.
Tune in to hear about the industry's dynamic nature, where innovation, consumer trends, and strategic relationship-building are key to thriving in the competitive landscape of the shooting, hunting, and outdoor trade.
Innovation is everywhere and in rural America, it shows up in everyday places. In small towns, from coast to coast, entrepreneurs are using new ideas, new technologies, and out of the box ingenuity to start and grow successful businesses and energize communities. Sometimes, it takes an outside perspective to see all the possibilities. Other times, folks back home know what they want to accomplish. They just don’t know how to make it happen. They need guidance or coaching and our guest in this week’s podcast does just that.
Deb Brown is one of the co-founders of saveyour.town, a business that helps make small communities more relevant and vibrant. Along with her business partner, Becky McCray, Deb coaches small towns to make them better, promotes collaboration over committees, and provides ideas and expertise that make rural communities join together for the common good.
Listen in to hear about some of the strategies and exercises they use to accomplish their goals, many of which can be done by everyone in the community without hefty budgets or corporate involvement. With a background in social media and Chamber of Commerce management, and with a love for the people of rural America, Deb is helping communities’ own citizens save their town with their own resources.
There are endless opportunities in rural America for entrepreneurs to start and grow successful businesses. However, not everyone is going to have all the skills and experience necessary to sustain it. Most of us need support in areas where we might be weak. Many times, entrepreneurs may have a great idea and the drive and determination to see it through but they may not have the resources or expertise to do what it takes to be successful. They have the passion but they may need help to fill in the gap in their experience, and that brings us to our guests today.
Darline Mabins and Duan Gavel are leaders of the Multicultural Business Association (MBA) of Springfield, Missouri. MBA’s mission is to promote economic development and business opportunities through advocacy, networking, and capacity building for women, minority-owned businesses, and entrepreneurs. Darline is the Executive Director of the organization and Duan is the Second Vice President, in line to one day be President. Both have a real passion for helping people and MBA does just that. Listen in and learn about MBA and how they are working with over 100 small businesses and entrepreneurs in southwest Missouri to help them succeed in business and in life, and how they’re using a variety of marketing techniques to do it.
Savvy marketers know that digital is driving brand awareness and sales in today’s world. But there are so many forms and variations for digital, how do you decide which ones to use? In today’s episode, you’ll hear from a young marketing professional who understands her markets and knows what’s working. For most consumers, you’re probably never going to think about needing body work for your vehicle, unless of course you do. For an auto body specialist, this makes brand building and search engine optimization very important, so a potential customer either has your brand name top of mind or they find you easily with an online search.
At Collision Leaders, a regional auto body repair specialist that serves a rural America market in several locations in Missouri and Kansas, Gabriella Ellis is using a mix of digital strategies to reach their targets. From TikTok videos to text bots to social media, Collision Leaders is standing out in the digital marketing landscape. Listen in as Gabby, a digital media production graduate from the University of Central Missouri, shares her approach to digital marketing.
Out here in the country, people take care of each other. They know their neighbors and they value the relationships they have with them. They also know that there are challenges that people face as they steer their way through life. In our community, there are many organizations that are working to help people deal with some of these challenges, whether they be financial, health related or educationally focused. One such organization is United Way of Pettis County, which brings people and resources together to serve those in need. Sometimes, it’s through their own innovative programs, delivered by volunteers. Other times, it’s through grantmaking that helps fund the work of other crucial organizations. In both, collaboration is key and that brings us to our guest, Rachelle Simon.
Rachelle is the Executive Director of United Way of Pettis County. She grew up in our community, ventured away to study and work in a variety of settings, including counseling, higher education, non-profit and religious ministry. Rachelle then returned to rural Missouri to share her talents and experience. Listen in as she shares her perspectives on lifelong learning, how by working together you can make a big impact and how we as people make the world work, not the other way around.
Welcome to OUTdrive and welcome to 2024! We hope each of you had a safe and happy new year’s celebration, however you chose to spend it.
Today, we’re taking a special drive down memory lane and revisiting some of the most impactful stories and insights we shared over the past year. We want to be up front and share with you though that we used AI technology tools to scroll through all 52 episodes to give us a starting point for today … so buckle up and let’s get rolling.
Our highlights include a focus on the economic landscape in Missouri, exploring the essence of leadership, learning that though business is serious, it can also be fun, as well as the importance of connections and hearing about new technologies and ideas that are paramount to being effective.
Doing our podcast over the past three and a half years has been fun all along the way, enjoying the journey and enjoying the people we have met and gotten to know. As marketers, we must be lifelong learners to keep pace with the exciting developments in digital marketing, and our podcasts have been one way we have accomplished that.
If you missed any of our previous episodes, you can find them all on ecallis.com or by searching for the OUTdrive podcast on your favorite audio streaming platform. And, stay tuned every week as we have some really great episodes coming up.
As we wrap up today’s journey, let’s remember … rural America is vibrant, ever-evolving and full of surprises. 2023 was a fantastic year at OUTdrive and at Callis and we’re just getting started on another new adventure. Thanks for taking the time to ride along with us today and stay tuned for more stories from the heartland about the dynamic nature of rural America marketing, where it’s heaven on earth.
In marketing, there are a lot of variables, strategies and tactics that you have to consider when laying out a marketing plan. None is more important than your target audiences. Many times, there are more than one, so identifying who they are, why they should be interested, how they think, how they buy and how to reach them is critical. For a would-be entrepreneur, it can be a daunting task, especially if your business is a part-time venture.
You know, it’s really cool when a person’s interests and hobbies turn into a real business enterprise. It’s even better when you do it with other people who share the same passion for what you’re doing. Anyone can start a business today but growing a sustainable business takes vision, talent, some good fortune and a lot of hard work, and it should all start with a business plan that accurately depicts the target audiences. After that, all your decisions on products, pricing, distribution and promotion can be made with those markets in mind. Today’s guest and his partners at Phantom V have done just that.
Mike Hammerly is a partner in a Missouri distillery named Phantom V. An automation specialist by trade, Mike and his four partners got together a few years ago and started to build something special. They all had the interest in making spirits but they all also had the experience and expertise to do it the right way, with a business plan and sound marketing strategy. Over the past few years, they’ve developed a nice niche for inventive, delicious alcoholic drinks that people love. And while they’re currently only available in three states, there are people from all over the country asking for Phantom V spirits. Listen in as Mike tells the story of how they got started, how they’re growing organically, how they’re figuring out the challenges of distribution, marketing and growth and how they’ve positioned themselves for a step to the next level….and it all starts with knowing your audiences and making great products that your markets love.
Innovation and ingenuity are alive and well out here in rural America, but that’s not anything new. Ever since our country was founded, entrepreneurs, inventors and capitalists have all dreamed big and created even bigger. For instance, who would have thought that 100 years ago the small community of Marshall, Missouri, would jump on the map because of the airplane? Remember, 100 years ago! Yet, just a few short years after the Wright Brothers took the first flight at Kitty Hawk, airplanes were being made there.
To hear more about this amazing story, as well as many others, step back into time at the Nicholas-Beazley Aviation Museum. If you’re lucky, you’ll get the guided tour from our guest today, Bryan Berlin. Bryan and his lovely bride own their families’ Century Farms – over 100 years in the making – and they’re both also on the Board of Directors of the impressive aviation museum on the south side of Marshall. Listen in and learn more about the museum’s unique history, how small town ingenuity can overcome many challenges, how they’re telling people about the museum and more.
Out here in the country, we take conservation seriously. Whether it’s our farmers who manage their properties for sustainability, our hunters who meticulously nurture the land they hunt on or the fishermen who help keep our streams, rivers and lakes clean, there’s an understanding in rural America that conservation is a fundamental part of life. Here in Missouri, we are lucky to have an abundance of all of those things and we are working hard and collaborating to make sure we have them for generations to come.
One person who is working hard to make that happen is Tricia Burkhardt, the Executive Director of The Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation (MCHF). MCHF is an organization that is passionate about preserving, conserving, and enhancing our state’s natural resources and they are dedicated to finding ways to get people outdoors so they can learn to appreciate our fish, forest and wildlife. Listen in as we discuss the foundation and their programs, how they’re telling their story and how they’re encouraging people to enjoy our natural resources.
We say it all the time. Marketing technology is driving innovation in rural America, as well as around the world. Every day, new media emerges that enables marketers to deliver messages in ways they’ve never had the opportunity to use before. Staying up to date with the new is challenging, but at Callis, we are committed to doing so. Our clients depend upon us to be ahead of the latest innovations, and we’re proud to vet new technologies and lead our clients to the ones that make sense for them.
One of the ways we stay ahead of the curve is through continual learning. In this episode, Callis’s Digital Services Director Kyle Meek shares his takeaways from a recent summit he participated in with other agencies from around the country. You’ll hear all about the hot topic, artificial intelligence (AI) and how it’s being used, along with updates on Google’s latest ventures and changes, SEO and PPC trends, social media, web development, first-party data and more. Listen in and be prepared to take lots of notes.
Today is the second part of our two part series about economic development in Missouri, with our guest, Subash Alias, CEO of the Missouri Partnership. As you recall from last week’s podcast, the Missouri Partnership is a public-private economic development organization that helps attract new business to Missouri.
Many people are really unaware about what economic development is and how important it is in attracting new jobs and capital investments and I’m pleased we were able to share the Missouri Partnership’s role in this endeavor. One of the things we discussed in this week’s conversation with Subash is how surprised people are with the diversity of our state’s economy, how many high profile businesses there are here, how low our taxes and cost of living are and what a high quality of life we enjoy. They are also impressed with the technology we are utilizing across the state in every industry and particularly in animal science, plant science and agriculture in general. We also have a great discussion on the approach the Missouri Partnership is taking with marketing the state’s abundant assets and amenities to prospective businesses and site selection consultants. Listen in to truly one of our best episodes to date.
Today, we’re excited to premier a two part series about economic development in Missouri. We begin with our guest, Janelle Higgins, the Vice President of Marketing and Communications for Missouri Partnership, a public-private economic development organization that helps attract new businesses to Missouri. If you’ve listened to some of our podcasts before, you know I’m a big supporter of economic development, whether that be business attraction or retention, tourism, job growth or any of the other components that contribute to economic development in rural America.
In her role, Janelle leads their team's video and visual strategy, develops and implements public relations efforts, and utilizes traditional and digital media to market and promote Missouri throughout the world. If you know much about Missouri, you know that we have an abundance of assets and amenities to talk about and we get into some of those today. We also discuss the types of businesses the partnership is trying to attract, how they’re reaching them, their new marketing campaign they’ve just launched and much more.
All of us leading businesses and organizations today need someone we can talk to; someone to share challenges and opportunities, to question things we’re doing, to inspire us from time to time and to serve as a mentor. Many of us might benefit from having several advisors. But whether it’s one or many, it’s always beneficial to have a sounding board, a different perspective and perhaps a coach to help us navigate the treacherous waters of running a business or organization or maybe just changing careers. Our guest today helps individuals and companies do just that.
Whitney Kinne and her husband, Shane, are the co-owners of Whitney Kinne Consulting, a Missouri-based business that helps organizations and professionals in agriculture reflect and refocus on their vision and mission in work and in life. The Kinnes use their experience and enthusiasm to lift others to new heights – to make each of us better every day.
Listen in as Whitney shares her background growing up in a family of entrepreneurs dedicated to agriculture and discusses how her business got started, how it’s grown and how it’s serving today’s leaders and organizations.
Business is a serious business, but it can also be fun, and it should be. Life’s too short to not have a good time doing what you do to earn a living. For Jonathan Hartenstein that means having fun building relationships that turn into friendships that translate to sales. You see, JR, as he is known to his many friends, is a real estate broker at the Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri’s heaven on earth. Through his outbound and inbound marketing efforts, JR attracts people to him who are looking to invest in property or move to the lake.
JR has been living at the lake for nearly 50 years, and he specializes in luxury homes, condos and building sites. Needless to say, JR knows the lake inside and out and he understands how to market, both his business and the properties he represents, and many are pretty darn impressive. Listen in as we discuss the multitude of opportunities that are exploding at the lake, the marketing techniques JR uses to attract new clients to his real estate business and why you might consider investing there.
The digital marketing and advertising agency industry, like many others, is changing. Nearly every day, new technologies, tools, ideas and best practices are introduced to the professionals who work in it. Callis is no different. Our goals as an agency are to always keep up with the changes, vet the ones that look interesting, and adopt the ones that make sense for our clients. It’s just one of the reasons we’ve been able to stay relevant and sustain our business over the last 37 years.
In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff visits with agency president Megan Hartman as they debrief from their recent, semi-annual peer meeting in Columbus, Ohio. Some of you may know that Callis is certified by the Agency Management Institute, a nationally recognized association for the development of better advertising agencies. If you’re a regular listener, you’ve heard us talk about this experience before. This session was especially beneficial with some really great discussions about agency operations, people utilization, services and technology. And we always share our big ideas, our challenges, frustrations, and financials, and our wins and losses. So, listen in as we share our thoughts and perspectives on key takeaways, new uses for AI and technology and other topics that could impact your business going forward.
Whether you make them in person or through the media you utilize, good marketing is all about making connections. In this episode with David Pearce, former banker, statesman and now head of governmental affairs at the University of Central Missouri, we discuss how connections made today can impact you even years later. David comes from a rural background and has a distinguished career as the head of marketing for a large, regional banking group, as a state legislator and senator, and now does public affairs. Over the years, he has gained incredible experience with both personal and corporate branding and he shares his thoughts and philosophies for what it takes to be successful and stand out in both arenas. Listen in for key insights on dealing with people, solid foundational marketing, journaling, and building a lifetime of connections.
Out here in the country, there are a lot of exciting things happening. Every day, entrepreneurs, both young and old, are coming up with innovative ideas and turning them into some of the new products and services we experience in our lives. Many times, those folks need a little shot in the arm financially to either help them get their idea off the ground, grow it or scale it, and that brings us to our guest today.
Neenah Jain is the Chief Financial Officer for Armory Square Ventures. Neenah is a lifelong Midwesterner who currently resides in Indianapolis and she brings a wealth of experience to our podcast, having moved back and forth between the business worlds of Dallas and New York and more rural communities like the one she grew up in. As a partner at ASV, Neenah is a leader on a team dedicated to backing mission-driven entrepreneurs who strive to transform traditional industries and uplift their communities.
Listen in to learn what kind of companies and entrepreneurs venture capitalists are looking to partner with, how the process works, why a VC might be a better option than a traditional bank loan and how they help companies grow and someday sell.
Out here in rural America, as well as in cities, many churches are struggling to stay relevant and meet the needs of its members and society. For most churches, bouncing back from the effects of the pandemic has been challenging, as people have gotten out of the habit, lost interest or simply found other things to do. However, some churches have not only survived but thrived thanks to good leadership, a vision, strong communications and the grace of God.
Listen in to our interview with Chris Guffey, the pastor at Cornerstone Baptist Church in Pettis County, Missouri, as he shares his perspective on serving the Lord, his congregation and his community. Chris is a mentor to many, with a focus on youth, and he has built a dynamic church by leading by example and using innovative marketing tools to help tell their story. There are takeaways galore for anyone working in the marketing space or for those of us dealing with the challenges of life today.
Over the past few years, it has become faster, better and easier to collect data on practically anything. Technology tools like artificial intelligence and predictive analytics are driving this capability and we don’t see it slowing down anytime soon. But as more and more data is collected, the question becomes, what do you do with it and how do you use it. Many companies just don’t have the resources or expertise to collect it, manage it, analyze it or visualize it. However, there are companies and people out there who are doing amazing things with data and you’re going to hear about that in our episode today.
Jim Barker is the Chief Revenue Officer for Live Earth, a real-time data visualization and data streaming platform. Listen in as we discuss the evolution of technology and the internet, some of the really cool things Live Earth is doing with technology, data and visualization that affect real lives, how the discovery process can unearth amazing ideas, how artificial intelligence (AI) is being utilized, and more.
There are many opportunities for young men and women to work in the world of agriculture, whether that’s on the farm, marketing or selling products or serving the ag community in some way. Unfortunately, there are also a lot of challenges that can sometimes get in the way but there are also hard working people and businesses that are helping serve those young, beginning farmers, women in agriculture and those pursuing paths less chosen. They serve Missouri’s farm and ranch families and are committed to telling the story of agriculture.
Listen in as I visit with Kate Lambert, Vice President of Marketing for FCS Financial and one of those people who help make things happen and get things done. Learn about innovative programs that serve the agricultural community, how Kate stays grounded balancing life with a family on the farm and her career, and how content marketing is helping to tell the FCS story.
Insurance is one of those things you need, but you hope you never need to use. I really think most people don’t really understand insurance. Think about it. When have you ever read an insurance policy from start to finish? There is always fine print in your policy. There are exclusions. There are multiple options for any one kind of insurance you may be considering. So to me, this makes the relationship you have with your insurance broker and insurance agent vital. You must be able to depend upon your agent to help you cover your risk, because that’s really what you’re talking about. You need an agent you can trust, because if you ever do have a problem, you want to make sure you can contact that agent and get things taken care of for you.
One of those guys is Sonny Broyles and for 25 years, Sonny has been helping people protect their assets, their families and their livelihoods as an agent and now managing partner for Preuitt Insurance. Stay tuned as we talk about the insurance business, the different types of insurance you may need and why you so need to make sure you’re covered, just in case. I think you’ll find it interesting.
Today’s short solocast is about labor, and I’m proud to say I work with some of the best labor talent you’ll find anywhere. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to work with a lot of great people – great associates, great clients, and great partners, many of whom have become great friends. I tell people often, you can’t have too many friends, and I really believe that. So to our associates at Callis, thank you for everything you do for our clients and our business. We truly value your talent and your hard work. To our clients, I want to say thank you from all our team members for the honor to work with you and for you. You are the reason for any success we have enjoyed. And to all our friends who are listening in on our podcast today, thank you for spending your valuable time to be with me. That means a lot and I personally invite you to listen in to a short message thanking you and recognizing America’s labor.
In our advertising agency and with our clients, strategy is at the forefront of everything we do. Solid strategy built on good data can be the difference between success and failure and I’ve found over the years that some people are really good at it. One of those people is Steve Dust, an old friend, one of our first clients and a guy who has worked hard in a variety of roles to help develop the robust Midwest economy that we enjoy today.
Listen in as Steve shares his perspective on economic development, scenario planning - an approach he uses to create out of the box strategies, his insight on what’s happening at the Lake of the Ozarks from a development point of view, and his take on the changes and opportunities ahead for rural America.
For some people, inspiration comes from music, nature or animals. Others are inspired by the words and actions of people, like Kelsey Miller, an incoming freshman at Mizzou and the 2023 Missouri State Fair Queen. Kelsey grew up on her family farm in Jonesburg, Missouri and for years, has been looking forward to going to college to study to become an ag teacher, so she could inspire others to pursue their dreams. Kelsey’s advice is to always believe in yourself and know there are always people behind you who want to see you succeed. In this episode recorded the day after she was crowned queen, Kelsey shares her insight into rural America, the Missouri State Fair, growing up in agriculture and how to reach her, as a consumer.
Busy people know how to get things done and our guest today is one busy woman working in agriculture. As a wife, mother, farmer and director of the Missouri Department of Agriculture, Chris Chinn is leading the way in the state’s largest industry. Most people would be amazed at the number of initiatives the department has going at any one time and this time of year, it gets even busier as the Missouri State Fair expands from about 25 people to over 900 to greet and serve fairgoers. Chris and her family have been involved in agriculture her entire life and she sets a shining example as an advocate for farmers and ranchers around the state, not to mention all the other things she has on her plate.
Listen in to get familiar with the Department of Agriculture and its programs, some of the challenges faced by farmers today, how Chris appreciates the family feel of the ag industry and some of the innovative ways the state is telling the story.
The opportunities for women working in agriculture are tremendous and the Missouri State Fair has opened the door for many over the years. This year’s fair theme is Where Traditions Grow, and one of the traditions the fair opens with each year is its queen contest.
Today’s guest is Elsie Kigar, an impressive young lady who currently reigns as the Missouri State Fair Queen. Having grown up and worked on her generational family farm, shown cattle from a young age, and rolled out a farm-to-fork beef business during the pandemic, Elsie has laid a solid foundation for a career in agriculture. As the State Fair Queen, she has also had the opportunity to represent the fair and advocate for agriculture throughout the state, speaking at events, judging contests and growing in her role. Listen in for insight into life on the farm, how being queen has shaped her as a purpose-driven woman, how to reach young people of her age and some of the traditions she and her family enjoy each year at the fair.
Missouri has a rich history of winemaking and in fact has been credited with helping to save the French wine industry. Today, there are nearly 130 wineries, hundreds of grape growers and thousands of jobs in this growing industry, right here in our state. To help make it grow, the Missouri Wine and Grape Board works with wineries and growers to promote Missouri wines. The person in charge of marketing for the board is our guest, Annette Alden. Annette’s background in agriculture started at an early age, growing up on her family farm. She discovered marketing in high school and has never looked back, landing her “perfect job” with Missouri Wines in 2016.
Listen in for insight into Missouri wines and how they are marketed, including their recent competition and their presence at the Missouri State Fair. We also discuss her role as a woman in agriculture and how important it is to her, and we close with information about a new Missouri Wines program that is just rolling out.
Every year at this time, our advertising agency is busy putting the finishing touches on the marketing campaign for the Missouri State Fair, one of our oldest clients. We love the fair and all the traditions that make the fair what it is, which is what inspired the theme for this year’s 11 day event, held August 10-20 in Sedalia. The theme is Where Traditions Grow and you can listen in as our guest Kari Mergen, the Marketing Director for the fair, shares some of the traditions and reasons why people come to the fair year after year. She also discusses what’s new at the fair, along with some of the marketing strategies we’re using this year to attract fairgoers.
It’s almost a perfect scenario in marketing when you’re at a place where the story practically tells itself. Great brand with history and reputation. Great people with a real passion for what they do. Great products that you just can’t get enough of. Our guest today is proud to be in that place. Listen in on my conversation with Aaron Oelger, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Hodgdon Powder, a major manufacturer of smokeless powder for the ammunition industry. Aaron shares his thoughts on what’s working in strategic marketing, the importance of knowing your customer, the value of authenticity, what it takes to be a good marketer, and more.
There are a lot of cool things going on in our schools today that many people might be surprised to hear about, like robotics. Innovation is driving technology and our local high school is leading the way with a nationally recognized robotics program that gives students the opportunity to create and compete on a global level. Through other new programs, like Queen City CAPS, students will be able to work hand in hand with regional manufacturers, health care organizations and businesses to do real world projects and find a career that best fits their skills and interests. Much of this has been led by teacher, coach and mentor Michael Wright. Listen in as he shares the story of how Team Scream came to be, some of the experiences they’ve had in just a few short years, how students work together in a team approach, and more!
It’s always interesting when business models change to meet our changing world. A great example is real estate where the online auction platform has transformed the industry. Listen in to my conversation with Justin Hubbs, a Real Estate District Manager with BigIron Realty. BigIron burst on the scene in our region over the past few years and Justin shares his insight on what it takes to grow a successful business, how storytelling has played an important role in their marketing mix and how from his perspective, land is more than an asset, it’s a legacy.
Technology is driving marketing today, just like it is in almost every industry. Over the last 30 years, our society has experienced a revolution in the way digital marketing has emerged and developed. Chris Young has lived it first hand, as a computer salesman, a businessman, a digital director for an ad agency and today as the Web and Digital Marketing Director at the University of Central Missouri. Learn about some of the tips and tools Chris and his team use to accomplish their website and marketing goals. We also discuss the “why” behind digital marketing, what makes a great digital marketer and what it takes to grow a successful business.
You know, sometimes we get a bad rap out here in the country that we’re behind the curve in the use of technology and innovation, but honestly, nothing could be further from the truth. Our guest today is proof of that. Taylor Moreland is the founder and owner of a Missouri company called Agri Spray Drones that manufactures and markets drones for agricultural applications. What was once accomplished primarily with crop dusting can now be done efficiently and effectively with large, commercial drones that fly right over the top of a field, applying chemicals to the parts of the field that need it. Taylor and his team believe in empowering rural America with new opportunities and they are building a company to do just that.
Listen in to hear Taylor’s story about starting and growing their business and how they’re not only making innovative products for the ag industry, but marketing them in innovative ways as well.
Agriculture is the biggest industry in the state of Missouri and its importance to feeding the world is enormous. In addition to growing crops for food and fiber, storing and distributing it is an equally vital task in the process. Our guest today has been producing the grain bins that enable farmers to store their produce until they’re ready to sell for nearly 50 years. Bub Caldwell is the President of W. B. Young, Missouri’s premier grain handling specialist since 1959.
In this episode, Bub shares the story of how W. B. Young was founded, his evolving role over the years, and how he has grown the business by paying attention to what’s going on in the world, building relationships and taking care of his customers and employees. He also describes how he is transitioning his business and rewarding his loyal employees through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and how that works.
Twice a year, our agency principals team up with other small agency owners around the country to catch up and help each other be better. We’ve been involved in a peer group for nearly 20 years and it’s one of the reasons we’ve been able to stay relevant and current with all the changes going on in our industry. When we get together, whether it’s in person or virtual, we discuss the hottest marketing trends, share best practices and new technologies, pitch big ideas and talk through the challenges we’re facing in our firms.
Today, I’m driving solo to share some of those hottest marketing trends and tips with you. Sit tight and listen in for insight on what’s working and what you should be working on, things to think about for your own marketing program and questions you should ask yourself to help you fine tune what you’re doing. It’s brief but packed full of marketing insight for rural America.
I always love talking shop with other agency owners. In this intriguing episode, I interview John Smiddy, founder, president and chief strategist at LeadPlan Marketing in Michigan. He’s also the author of the book Stop Guessing Start Marketing and the host of The Marketing Fundamentals Podcast. John got his start in the music business, touring around the country with a variety of bands, promoting products at those shows and realizing that as much as he enjoyed playing music, he really loved the marketing side of it. Listen in as John shares the logic behind his P5 marketing strategy, how to build a strong brand identity and how to scale a business through effective marketing. We also get into the digital marketing landscape and where we see it going into the future.
We believe we’ve got it pretty good out here in rural America, where we enjoy a high quality of life, with plenty of great opportunities and a safe environment in which to live, work and play. It may be the world’s best kept secret. Our guest today is a person who is telling that story through his work in economic development consulting. Rob Harrington is the principal of Rural Growth Strategies, and he founded his company to help small communities overcome the challenges of getting their message out to someone who may be interested in what they have to offer. Listen in to get a better understanding about the people of rural America, hear about some of the opportunities we have here, gain insight into why a business should consider relocating to a small community and learn how technology and innovation are creating a springboard to future growth.
It’s always amazing how one experience in life prepares you for the ones that follow. That’s the way it’s supposed to be, right? Our podcast guest, Jim Marino, got his start during college working for a construction, development and marketing conglomerate in Missouri. From there, he took his sales, project management and business expertise to a metal building manufacturer in Georgia and a garage door maker in Alabama, before coming full circle in his current role as a Business Development Executive for a steel building company in Texas. Listen in as Jim and I discuss how business development, sales and marketing integrate to form a powerful tool to grow a business, the biz dev strategies he employs to recruit and retain clients and his appreciation for growing up in a small town in rural America.
Most people today recognize that digital media has revolutionized modern marketing plans. Yet, nothing replaces the look and feel of a high-end magazine. Every day, millions of people throughout rural America and the world consume content found in magazines, and then they pass them along. Today’s guest has built a very successful career creating, publishing, marketing and in some cases, selling upscale lifestyle magazines targeted to female readers. Listen in to hear about Dave Leathers’ career path, how he has grown and marketed many different publications and his thoughts on rural America.
Very few family businesses survive past a third generation and a fourth is a rarity. Zephyr Manufacturing is one of those elite companies who has not only survived but thrived for nearly 100 years. Our guest today is RJ Lindstrom, who is the current president, owner and the great-grandson of the founder. Built on values that focus on made in America, quality products and great customer service, Zephyr is around today because of the business and marketing decisions made by RJ and his predecessors. One thing’s for sure – each generation had to be open to change and evolve to meet its current and future needs.
Organizations, businesses and people change. Consequently, brands need to change to reflect a renewed mission, vision or purpose. Recently, Callis helped Center for Human Services rebrand with a new visual identity, new messaging and imagery, a new website and a comprehensive marketing communications program. Center for Human Services is a world class organization in the heart of Missouri that serves thousands of individuals across the state with developmental and behavioral challenges. Marissa Ivie is CHS’s Director of Outreach and Communications, and she recognized the need for a new brand and advocated to make it happen. The result is a refreshed look and feel that has reinvigorated the organization and positioned it to capitalize on the substantial growth CHS is experiencing.
Listen in for Marissa’s take on when to rebrand, the process and the results.
Some people just know from a young age what they want to do when they grow up. For Taylor Howard, it was marketing, with a fascination for why advertisers said and showed what they did. That interest has carried over into her career in the B2B technology, automation and electric supply industry. Today, she strategizes on why people buy what they buy and she develops successful marketing strategies to reach them. Stay tuned for Taylor’s thoughts on how marketing is the first touch in B2B marketing, her career at SMC and her advice to follow your passion.
There are literally thousands of opportunities in today’s world to find a career that fits well with your interests and strengths. Our guest today was fortunate to find one right out of college that fit so well, he stayed for a 30 year career.
Steve Moore is a chemical engineer by trade. Having grown up in a suburban/rural setting, he attended Mizzou and was recruited by Procter & Gamble, where he relocated to Cincinnati. After a very successful career leading global research and development on several major brands, he shifted his focus and applied his expertise and strengths to other business ventures. Today, he is directing his energies toward cancer research and living a full and active life.
Listen in to hear his insight on navigating a path with a Fortune 500 company and all the opportunities that can come your way. You can also learn about his appreciation for life in rural America.
The Missouri State Fairgrounds is known primarily for the State Fair which is held every year around the middle of August. What you may not know though is there are events there year-round. From rodeos, quinceañeras and weddings, to picnics, concerts, camping, and livestock shows, the Missouri State Fairgrounds has events that spark interest in individuals from all over rural America. Across the 396 acres of the fairgrounds’ property, 20 different venues are available to rent for an event. The person to call to arrange these events is our guest today.
Steven Sims, the Missouri State Fair Off Season Events and Concessions Manager, is joining us to discuss the year-round use of fairgrounds, the process of booking concessions, and his passion for putting on events for rural Americans.
What you’ll learn:
- Steven Sim’s background, hometown, education, and family
- Steven Sims discusses what he enjoyed most about going to Missouri Valley College
- Steven Sim’s role at the Missouri State Fairgrounds and what he appreciates most about his position
- The architecture of the historical buildings and how many buildings on the property are used for events at the Missouri State Fairgrounds
- Steven’s insight on working with several vendors for a variety of events and his favorite history and traditions at the Missouri State Fair
- Marketing strategies Steven is utilizing to inform people about the events that are happening at the fairgrounds.
- Steven discusses what sets the fairgrounds apart from other venues in the area.
The propane industry is changing and innovation and new technologies are driving this misunderstood clean energy to the top of the energy charts. In this fascinating episode, Cliff visits with Tucker Perkins, the President and CEO of PERC, the Propane Education and Research Council. Learn how the industry has evolved and how PERC is helping to educate the people of rural America through a podcast, social media and digital marketing.
Tune in to hear Tucker Perkins discuss how the propane industry has changed over the years and the exciting opportunities ahead for a cleaner future.
What you’ll learn:
- Tucker Perkins’ knowledge of the propane industry and passion for educating rural America about propane
- The importance of helping people understand why propane is a clean energy
- How the propane industry has changed over the years and the science behind it
- The perception of propane among the masses versus people who actively use propane in their daily lives
- The future of autogas and the opportunity it can provide for the transportation market
- Learn how PERC is engaging digitally with their audience to share educational messages about propane
- How propane is used today and how it can play a big role in a cleaner, environmental future
Ice Cream Factory owners Katie and Shannon Imler love to make people happy, and they do it with ice cream. What started out as a scoop shop in Eldon serving the ice cream they make by hand has turned into a bustling operation selling 30-plus flavors in over 2,000 retail stores in the central United States. You can still enjoy Imler’s ice cream in the scoop shops but you can also now find it in grocery stores, coffee shops, bakeries and more. Today, we are pleased to welcome Katie Imler, co-owner and marketing manager for Ice Cream Factory.
Tune in and hear Katie Imler’s story about how she and her husband conceived the idea of opening the ice cream shop, their marketing strategy, what flavors they offer, and how they continue to grow and expand their business.
What you’ll learn:
- Katie Imler’s background and education
- The process of how Katie and her husband got started in the ice cream making business
- Katie’s role in Ice Cream Factory, obstacles she has faced while starting a new business, where the business is located, and what they are doing to expand
- The main markets Katie’s business reaches and where their products are sold
- How the marketing strategy has changed and what marketing efforts they are implementing that have been successful
- How the Bicentennial flavor was created and how they partnered with the governor to create a personalized ice cream flavor for him
- How reels and video have made a big impact for the Ice Cream Factory’s social media
- What the Ice Cream Factory brand stands for and the memories the Imlers want their customers to make with their flavors they offer
It’s no surprise that technology continues to keep evolving. Streaming companies like DirectTV Stream, YouTube TV, Hulu Plus Live TV, Sling TV, FuboTV, and Philo just to name a few, are fighting for consumers' dollars. Many consumers compare several streaming services and then make the ultimate choice to decide which one they are going to use. Streaming services and devices that allow streaming have a big impact on today's broadcasting industry. It’s important for broadcasters to know which streaming services their audiences are using and what devices they are streaming on so they know what devices and platforms to be utilizing to reach their audience. Today's guest Josh Tomlinson brings insight from PBS affiliate KMOS-TV out of Warrensburg which primarily focuses on serving folks across the state of Missouri.
Tune into part 2 of a 2-part series and listen to Josh Tomlinson discuss the effects of streaming TV, the impact of the pandemic, and how KMOS-TV is educating the next generation of broadcasters.
What you’ll learn:
- Learn how streaming services have developed, and how it has had an effect on broadcasting television
- Josh shares why it is essential to be seen on multiple platforms and how KMOS-TV negotiates agreements to have KMOS-TV’s content on multiple platforms
- How KMOS-TV markets to its viewers and how they ensure its viewers are growing over time
- Learn about KMOS-TV’s fastest-growing demographic and how they track their demographic data
- The importance of curating content to make it useful and engaging to KMOS-TV viewers
- The relationship between KMOS-TV and UCM, and how they are educating the next generation of broadcasters
- How the pandemic impacted the broadcasting industry and how KMOS-TV was able to adapt during the pandemic
- Where broadcast tv is headed and what changes will be made to the broadcasting industry in the next few years
Many businesses look for creative ways to inform, educate, and entertain their audience. Nowadays it can be hard to capture attention or know what forms of media will reach your target audience in rural America. While there are countless new media options to choose from, getting back into broadcast TV may be the right move for your business. Today's guest, Josh Tomlinson, brings insight from PBS affiliate KMOS-TV out of Warrensburg which primarily focuses on serving folks across the state of Missouri.
Tune into part 1 of a 2-part series and listen to Josh Tomlinson discuss the impact broadcasting has in today's world, from over-the-top streaming to cable, and how Missourians can support their local PBS affiliate stations.
What you’ll learn:
- Josh’s background, education, and life growing up in Marceline, the home of Walt Disney
- Josh’s freelancing opportunities after college and his knowledge of information technology and the videography industry
- How Josh worked his way up to being the Manager and Director of Broadcasting Services at KMOS
- How video has blown up in the last few years and the power that video has in the world today
- Josh’s passion for his position and what roles & duties he carries at KMOS
- Josh educates us on KMOS’s city of license, broadcasting tower, and location
- The geographic area KMOS specifically serves and how that makes KMOS unique
- How streaming services have been a game changer for the broadcasting industry
At some point, every organization will need public relations support. This can come in several different forms, like reputation management, public affairs, or crisis communications, which is why it’s important to take an integrated marketing approach, combining advertising and strategic communications efforts. For nearly 25 years, Dr. Tricia Hansen-Horn has taught this idea to students at the University of Central Missouri as a program coordinator and professor of Public Relations.
Tune into this episode to hear Tricia’s approach to strategy, social media, and crisis communications and learn more about the innovative Public Relations and Strategic Communications program at UCM.
What you’ll learn:
- Tricia’s background and passion for teaching in the Midwest at the University of Central Missouri (UCM)
- Details on the student-led public relations firm at UCM and the curriculum of the PR and Strategic Communications program
- The digitalization of education and the changes she has seen in her nearly 25 years in the university setting
- The idea of “integrated marketing” and what it really means in a technology-driven world
- Tricia’s approach of teaching PR strategy to college students and those new to the marketing industry
- The ways Tricia keeps up with emerging technologies, such as integrating AI in the classroom, and some of the trends Tricia is seeing in the industry
- Tricia’s strategy behind crisis management and handling communications in high-pressure situations
- Tricia’s involvement and details behind the 2016 Greater Kansas City Public Relations Team of the Year Award
Terms like sales and marketing often get thrown around interchangeably but are also two departments that sometimes compete with each other for resources within a business. We think it’s not only possible but vital for these teams to be on the same page. Today’s guest, Don Schlesselman, knows that better than most. His expertise and leadership in both areas allow Angler’s Port Marine to reap the benefits of a synergistic sales and marketing program, year after year, even with all the challenges that marketers face in today’s world.
Tune into this episode to find out why combining sales and marketing efforts can help reel in more business and convert customers.
What you’ll learn:
- Don’s background and his career journey to Angler’s Port Marine
- An overview of Angler’s Port Marine, from the services they offer to how they approach their business and customers
- What marketing pieces Don is using to generate new leads and the importance of the Missouri State Fair for Angler’s Port Marine
- The benefits of companies combining sales and marketing efforts
- New features and technology a buyer might find on a boat today
- Changes Don has seen in consumer preferences and behavior in recent years
- Don’s passion for sponsoring children in Africa and details on his own foundation, ZZ Pendana
It’s almost that time of year again, when friends and family gather together around the TV to watch commercials, and maybe catch some football in between. That’s right - it’s time for the Super Bowl. In this episode, Ivy Reynolds returns to OUTdrive to talk all things advertising during the “Big Game,” from the average cost of a 30-second commercial spot to the top-rated ads of all time.
Lace up your cleats and catch this Hail Mary of an episode full of fun facts and stats on America’s favorite live-TV event of the year.
What you’ll learn:
- Super Bowl game and marketing trivia
- Cliff and Ivy’s thoughts behind the cultural phenomenon of Super Bowl commercials
- The strategy behind releasing ads on YouTube before the Super Bowl Sunday
- A breakdown of the Top 10 Super Bowl commercials of all time
- The effectiveness of Super Bowl commercials today
- Draft picks of Cliff and Ivy’s Super Bowl favorites - food, commercials, halftime shows and top game moments
- A review of the early-released ads for Super Bowl LVII
There is no better place to connect with a number and variety of customers and potential customers than at a trade show. It gives you the opportunity to launch new products or services in a venue where you can draw extra excitement from people interested in your industry. Today’s episode comes to you fresh off the flight back from Las Vegas for my trip to SHOT Show 2023. My key takeaway this year? Trade shows are back - and in a big way.
Tune into this mini-episode for an update on the outdoor shooting sports industry, key takeaways from SHOT Show, and how you can incorporate trade shows back into your marketing mix.
What you’ll learn:
- An overview of SHOT Show and Cliff’s 25+ year history of attending the show
- A climate overview of the outdoor shooting sports industry
- Why businesses should consider adding trade shows back into their marketing mix
- Cliff’s personal highlights and marketing insights from the 2023 show
- Notable and creative trade show booth ideas from SHOT Show this year
- Cliff’s thoughts on the show as a whole and what its success means for Callis
In the midst of an increasingly digital world, the demand for blue-collar jobs and industry workers is still prevalent, and maybe even amplified. But even in trades like welding, construction, and manufacturing, customer service and satisfaction drive future business and opportunities. Today’s story is proof that with a vision and customer-forward mentality, you can start, manage, and grow a nationally recognized business right here in rural America. In this episode, Gary McMullin joins the podcast to talk about his entrepreneurial journey in the welding and construction industry over the last 50 years.
Tune in this week to hear what Gary has to say about business longevity, customer relations, and adapting to new marketing strategies.
What you’ll learn:
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Gary’s background and journey to the welding industry
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A brief history of W & M, from where it started to where it is now
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What Gary believes it takes to run a successful business today and key takeaways about dealing with customers
- Highlights from a few of the projects that stand out in Gary’s career
- Why Gary chose to maintain his headquarters in rural America despite doing business across the country
- How Gary markets W & M and how they live out their brand story
- Gary’s passion for farming, hunting and golfing
A key component of marketing and sales rests in the people behind the product or service. As a marketing agency based in rural America, we love a good story, especially if it has local roots and ties to agriculture. Today’s episode has all three components. I sat down with Michael Hemme to talk about his family’s business, Hemme Brothers Farmstead Creamery.
Tune into this episode to learn how the Hemme Brothers create a product and operate a business “that’s better from the beginning.”
What you’ll learn:
- Michael’s background growing up on a dairy farm and how they transitioned into the creamery business
- How the Hemme Brothers’ operation and responsibilities are broken down among the family members
- Why the Hemme family decided to go with a vertically integrated approach to their business, controlling the product from crop to curd
- What makes Hemme Brothers cheese unique from other products and producers
- The ways they distribute their products and where consumers can find their cheeses
- Some of the ways they take their product to market and share the Hemme Brothers story
- What Michael loves about rural America and living in the country
- Michael’s advice for how people can support farmers and people in agriculture
Did you know St. Louis claims the fourth largest sewer district in the country, only behind New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago? The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District (MSD) is responsible for servicing nearly 10,000 miles of pipeline and over a million customers. So, you may be wondering what all this has to do with rural America. Geographically speaking, St. Louis sits in the middle of the heartland and is known as the gateway to the west. There are also a number of world-class agriculture companies located there, like Monsanto, Purina and Anheuser Busch (yes, beer is made using grains grown in rural America). And, if you think about rural America as a mindset and a lifestyle, there are thousands of rural Americans who live there. So, in this episode, Sean Hadley from St. Louis joins the podcast to talk about their approach to mass communications for a major city utility system.
Tune in to hear from Sean as he shares valuable insight on crisis communications, the importance of telling your own story, and some interesting facts about the fourth-largest sewer system in the country.
What you’ll learn:
- Details on the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District (MSD), the public affairs team, and Sean’s role with MSD
- How Sean’s initial career path in news media and broadcast communications led him to the role that he serves today
- A recent crisis management situation regarding storms and flooding that impacted MSD
- Insight into the construction of the wastewater tunnels and details on the consent decree St. Louis is under due to the Clean Water Act
- What Sean thinks it takes to be successful in a media career
- How organizations can tell their own stories without relying on media outlets
- Sean’s thoughts on the diversity of rural America, from St. Louis and Warrensburg, Missouri
5… 4… 3… 2… 1… Happy New Year! We hope you had a safe and fun weekend celebrating the start of the new year. Now that 2023 is officially here, we thought it was the perfect time to take a look back at our top downloaded episodes from 2022. In this edition of OUTdrive, we revisit our top five most popular podcasts of the year.
Join us as we countdown our most-listened-to episodes and uncover the takeaways they all have in common.
What you’ll learn:
- Details on OUTdrive’s top five podcasts of 2022
- Key takeaways and common themes from our top downloaded episodes
“Culture is intangible, but you can feel it when you walk in a room.” How would you describe the culture at your company? Whether it is clearly defined or not, every organization has a certain feel - or a “vibe” as the cool kids call it these days. At Callis, we walk the line between hard work and good fun. We have a group of the right people who really care. We strive to make smart decisions and accept that change is inevitable. And, we do all this to maintain our client’s trust.
Check out this mini episode to learn more about the Callis core values and take a peek inside our work culture.
What you’ll learn:
- An inside look at the company culture at Callis
- How the Callis team lives out their core values
- Why culture is an important piece of any organization
Those of us who live, work and play in rural America know how important farmers are to our society. But, not everyone lives in a region surrounded by farms and farmland, which is why Missouri Farmers Care was established to promote the growth of Missouri agriculture and rural communities through communication, education and advocacy. In this episode, Executive Director Ashley McCarty explains why education is the primary pillar in executing a successful marketing strategy.
Tune in to hear from a Missouri family farm owner and executive director as we discuss all the pieces Missouri Farmers Care has in play throughout the agriculture industry.
What you’ll learn:
- What Missouri Farmers Care is and their primary initiatives
- Details on Ashley’s experience studying agriculture abroad in the Czech Republic
- How the Stand for Ag podcast came to fruition
- The content MFC is pushing on their social media channels that is garnering solid engagement
- Information on the “Drive to Feed Kids” and how MFC partners with other organizations to fight food insecurity in the state
- Ashley’s definition of the rural lifestyle and what it means to work in agriculture
- How Ashley markets the McCarty Cattle Company and the importance of off-farm marketing
- More about Ashley’s family and their farm operation, McCarty Cattle, in Northeast Missouri
There are no less than a million things you can be doing digitally to reach your audience, and it’s easy to fall into the idea that you need to have a presence on every new media channel out there. Sometimes, you just need to get back to grassroots marketing. Politicians refer to it as “shaking hands and kissing babies,” but we like to think of it as staying connected to your fan base. In this episode, I visit with Mizzou Associate Athletic Director Brad Loos on the ways the Tiger Scholarship Fund is speaking to its stakeholders.
Our podcast typically highlights industry trends, new technologies, and improved communication tools. Join us as we dive back into the basics of face-to-face and personalized marketing.
What you’ll learn:
- Brad’s background and career journey through coaching college basketball and his life lessons from growing up as a “gym rat”
- Brad’s perspective on winning the 2014 National Championship at the University of Central Missouri
- What the transition from athletics to administration was like and some of the things Brad learned within the process
- Marketing strategies that Brad and the Tiger Scholarship Fund and the University are using to reach local donors and supporters
- How the NIL impacts the fundraising efforts of the college athletics programs
- The importance of social media in athletics and how it fits into a bigger communications plan
- An update on Brad’s daughter Rhyan, how the annual #RallyforRhyan game came to fruition, and information on this year’s fundraising game
There is no denying that healthcare is complex. Terminology, technology, and insurance just scratch the surface of understanding the system. This impacts the way hospitals and healthcare systems communicate with stakeholders, from the messaging they use to the media platform they use to get it out there. In this episode, Missouri Hospital Association CEO Jon Doolittle and I discuss successful communications strategies, approaches to recruitment challenges, and the intangible benefits rural healthcare systems provide in their communities.
Despite the complexity of the industry, marketers are tasked with sharing their stories in a clear, simple, and compelling way. Tune into this episode to learn how MHA is helping hospitals approach communication plans for their communities, patients, and employees.
What you’ll learn:
- Jon’s rural American background and career journey to his current role with the Missouri Hospital Association (MHA)
- Details on some of the major initiatives happening at the Missouri Hospital Association
- The similar challenges that urban and rural hospitals are currently facing
- The “intangibles” that hospitals provide to the communities they serve
- Impactful communication strategies Jon is seeing in healthcare and what MHA is doing from a marketing standpoint to communicate with members
- Jon’s perspective on the use of social media for healthcare organizations
- Strategies hospitals are using to attract healthcare workers into the industry
- What Jon values in rural American communities
The time between Thanksgiving and Christmas can feel like sprinting through a marathon, especially for those in the marketing industry. We know many of our listeners are back at it, too, grinding away to catch up on emails and tasks following the Thanksgiving holiday. That’s why we made today’s episode “bite-size,” so you can make the most of your time during a busy week. In this episode, I’m joined by Callis President Megan Hartman to discuss key takeaways from our recent agency peer meetings in Boston.
At Callis, we prioritize professional development and continuing education, which makes peer groups and an agency network so valuable. Tune in to hear what we learned and why joining a peer network makes sense for you - no matter your industry.
What you’ll learn:
- What Agency Management Institute (AMI) is and the benefits of being part of a peer group for support and best practices
- Details on Megan and Cliff’s visit to Boston and their favorite parts of the trip
- A brief state of the marketplace from Cliff
- Megan’s key takeaways on new practices and trends
- Cliff’s takeaways and perspective on changes in agency life
- Megan and Cliff share what changes and growth they see in the 2023 Callis plan
Every loyalty program should be designed to do one primary function: connect people; connect people to the things they want, to the rewards they can earn, or the status they want to attain. For example, we see commercials all the time for companies emphasizing their points, miles, and perks for frequent flyers. In this episode, airline loyalty thought leader Mark Ross-Smith joins OUTdrive from across the world in Malaysia for an introspective on building a successful loyalty program.
Mark is the CEO and co-founder at StatusMatch, a global status management firm that works with some of the world's largest airline brands. His company enables individuals to maintain their status level when they switch to a new airline or hotel chain. Mark has 20 years of experience leading loyalty programs in travel and telecommunications, most recently at Malaysian Airlines. Mark is also the founder and editor of the industry blog, TravelDataDaily.com. He is a globally recognized, award-winning thought leader and known as one of the “brightest minds in loyalty.”
Tune in for a dynamic conversation with Mark on the marketing behind loyalty campaigns, the impact of big tech on airlines, and an international perspective on rural America.
What you’ll learn:
- Mark’s background and how his career journey through telco and startups eventually led to a niche in the airline loyalty industry
- Details behind Mark’s industry blog, TravelDataDaily.com
- Marketing and industry insights from Mark’s time running the Malaysia Airlines loyalty program
- Details behind Mark’s company, StatusMatch.com, which helps consumers maintain loyalty status when they switch their business to a new airline or hotel
- The audience that StatusMatch is trying to reach and how audience behavior impacts the strategy used to reach them
- What it’s like living in Malaysia and the positive perceptions of rural America from around the world
“If you give a man a fish, you feed him for a day. If you teach a man to fish, you feed him for a lifetime.” There are very few things you can do throughout your whole life, but fishing is one of them. And, there is hardly a better place to do it than here in Missouri. In this episode of OUTdrive, I had the chance to visit with Brian Sowers to talk about all the things Crappie Masters is doing to reach youth, amateur, and professional anglers, alike.
This is one honey hole of an episode you don’t want to miss. Tune in to hear Brian share his best fishing stories, details on Crappie Masters and fishing tournament trails, and ways to get involved in the sport’s educational pieces.
What you’ll learn:
- How Brian got to where he is today in his role with Crappie Masters, including his background in radio and how he got started
- An overview of the Crappie Masters organization and tournament trail, with details on membership and other information available on crappiemasters.net
- The difference between recreational fishing and tournament fishing
- The strong educational components and the investment of ag commodity groups into the Crappie Masters organization
- Multimedia marketing strategies Crappie Masters uses to get their message out to anglers, potential members, and sponsors
- Details on Brian’s role as emcee for the Missouri State Fair parade and flag retreat
- What Brian loves about Missouri, plus his top fishing stories
When a consumer comes across your online presence, can they tell who you are? Or, maybe more importantly, can they tell what you are not? In our second episode with Steve Kroll, we discuss why businesses located in the Midwest should be leaning into what they know and asking for support in delivering the message. As Steve puts it, we want our client’s consumers to feel like they are “running their fingers through the wheat.” To achieve that, you need authentic representation and a digital-savvy team that can get you found.
Check out Part 2 of this mini-series to learn what Midwest businesses can do to reach rural American consumers and the best ways to approach a digital marketing strategy.
What you’ll learn:
- Industry insights Steve and the Granular team are seeing happening right now that they are incorporating into client programs
- Details on the latest tool in Google’s tool belt - performance max campaigns
- The skills marketers should invest in learning outside of high-level digital expertise
- Insights on Midwest-based business marketing tactics and how they can improve
- How to approach building a foundation for a digital marketing program
- Why Granular puts an emphasis on philanthropy in their business
- Where marketers can go to find more relevant content on digital strategy and tactics
How do you know if your marketing campaign is working? Not all channels are created equally when it comes to reporting. Fortunately, digital marketing avenues such as Search Engine Marketing (SEM), offer the value of predictive analytics and effective reach. In the first episode of a two-part podcast series, I sit down with Steve Kroll, President of Granular, to discuss his lifelong exposure to and the power of online relevancy.
Tune in to this podcast for a deeper understanding of why getting your SEO and SEM strategy on the right track is paramount for the success of your digital marketing campaigns and online presence.
What you’ll learn:
- Steve’s background growing up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and where his passion for digital and online business started
- Details behind Steve’s first job as an intern with a digital marketing agency in the early 2000s
- How Steve’s family, support system, and early job exposure provided the perfect launch pad for his career
- An overview of Granular and the digital advertising space Steve’s team specializes in
- The predictability of search engine marketing (SEM) and how important FAQs are in developing an SEM strategy
- Other things businesses can do to make Google reward their site with better placement on the search results page
- A deep dive into the impact of paid search on organic search
How do you know if your marketing campaign is working? Not all channels are created equally when it comes to reporting. Fortunately, digital marketing avenues such as Search Engine Marketing (SEM), offer the value of predictive analytics and effective reach. In the first episode of a two-part podcast series, I sit down with Steve Kroll, President of Granular, to discuss his lifelong exposure to and the power of online relevancy.
Tune in to this podcast for a deeper understanding of why getting your SEO and SEM strategy on the right track is paramount for the success of your digital marketing campaigns and online presence.
What you’ll learn:
- Steve’s background growing up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and where his passion for digital and online business started
- Details behind Steve’s first job as an intern with a digital marketing agency in the early 2000s
- How Steve’s family, support system, and early job exposure provided the perfect launch pad for his career
- An overview of Granular and the digital advertising space Steve’s team specializes in
- The predictability of search engine marketing (SEM) and how important FAQs are in developing an SEM strategy
- Other things businesses can do to make Google reward their site with better placement on the search results page
- A deep dive into the impact of paid search on organic search
At Callis, we take pride in putting together a great marketing team to develop and execute the best insights and strategies for our clients. Part of that comes from finding people with all types of business-related backgrounds, like sales, finance, or communications. Darren Grove, one of our account executives, is a prime example of that philosophy. Darren brings years of sales experience and high-level business education to our team. In this episode, Cliff and Darren cover a lot of ground on what makes a great sales, business, and marketing professional.
What you’ll learn:
- Darren’s rural American background, growing up in both Minnesota and Alaska, and how that exposure led him to pursue a degree in aeronautics
- Darren’s enjoyment of flying drones and some recent examples of where he has been able to utilize his aviation skills and knowledge
- The strategies and paradigm shifts Darren saw throughout the course of his sales career
- Why it’s important that marketers have a knowledge of business to be successful
- Darren’s experience in the medical sales arena and learning how to deliver your pitch to highly educated medical personnel
- How Darren’s sales and B2B experience has transferred to marketing and insights from his entrepreneurial education
- Darren’s hobbies and interests outside of work and why he prefers the rural American lifestyle
Did you know that Missouri youth involved in agriculture education courses directly contribute to the state’s economy? In 2021 alone, Missouri FFA students generated over $58 million dollars of income through their supervised agriculture experience and work-based programs. And, those work experiences are not just farming-based, they are in business, tourism, science, and even marketing. In this episode, Keith Dietzschold outlines the incredible opportunities that ag education programs bring to our high school students and the importance of agriculture literacy in today’s world.
Tune in to learn more about the state’s agriculture education program and the life lessons Missouri FFA instills in thousands of young agriculturalists every year.
What you’ll learn:
- Keith’s background and how he got to where he is today with the Missouri Department of Education
- The primary focus of Keith’s department of Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources for the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
- Details and misconceptions behind the Missouri FFA education program and how Keith is striving to educate Missourians about all the other pieces of agriculture outside of farming
- The other organizations involved in ag education in the state of Missouri, from junior high students to young adults
- Where to find more information about Missouri Ag Education and key takeaways from the 2022 Annual Report
- The role the State of Missouri Ag Education has at the Missouri State Fair
- The types of life lessons youth learn while involved in FFA programs, primarily agriculture literacy and comprehension
- What media and strategies Missouri Ag Education programs are using to tell their story and to reach students and adults
Community colleges offer accessible and affordable training and education to a diverse demographic of students. This brings value and economy to the rural communities in which they serve. In this episode, Cliff chats with Dr. Brent Bates, the president of State Fair Community College, to discuss how community colleges should be considered a solution and asset to community challenges and opportunities.
What you’ll learn:
- Brent’s journey to education and the value of exploring career opportunities
- Why being president of State Fair Community College (SFCC) is Brent’s dream job and the vision he has for SFCC
- The community benefits of partnering with a community college in rural areas
- Details behind the development of the Olen Howard Workforce Innovation Center and other advanced technology education programs at the college
- The career paths available to SFCC students and the advantages that community colleges have over a four-year university
- How the demographics of community colleges tend to fluctuate with the state of the economy
- How the evolution of digital marketing has impacted SFCC’s marketing strategy in recent years
- Some of the lessons SFCC learned through the pandemic and the improvements they made to their virtual learning environment
Today’s market is lacking in what consumers crave most: authenticity. However, a recent surge in agritourism has many Missouri farmers opening their gates for visitors to buy locally sourced products, support small businesses, learn about agriculture firsthand and enjoy a family-friendly outing. It really doesn’t get more authentic than that. In this episode, Missouri State Fair Foundation executive director, Lorin Fahrmeier, discusses personal connections and how brands can reach rural American audiences. Tune in for a deep dive into Missouri farming and agriculture - as a business and lifestyle.
What you’ll learn:
- Lorin’s background growing up as an in-town farm kid in Marshall, Missouri and her career path to executive director of the Missouri State Fair Foundation
- Details on the Missouri State Fair Foundation and the support it provides to the fair
- Lorin’s takeaways from her first Fair as the executive director of the Foundation
- Lorin’s description of farm life and why she thinks farmers have to be “serial entrepreneurs”
- Details on Fahrmeier Farms U-Pick, produce market and winery
- The need for marketing strategy to address consumer assumptions and emotions
- Marketing trends in agriculture and the heightened interest in agriculture-related activities
Some people just know how to get the most out of life. They are constantly pursuing a new hobby or interest. They are involved in community boards and organizations. They are always in the know about the next big thing in town, most likely because they were part of the process to establish it. We often refer to them as movers and shakers, and our guest today is one of those people. In this episode, Cliff sits down with Dr. Doug Kiburz, a small-town orthopedic surgeon and true Renaissance Man.
Tune into this episode to learn more about Dr. Kiburz’s varied interests, perspectives, and historic community projects.
What you’ll learn:
- Doug’s background growing up in rural Nebraska and what led him to a career in medicine
- How advancements in technology have impacted hospitals and Doug personally during his years in practice
- Where Doug’s inspiration comes from and what he does in his free time (maintaining properties, serving on community boards, hosting foreign exchange students, writing books, traveling and so much more)
- Details behind the Trail’s End project in Sedalia, Missouri
- Doug’s involvement in the development of “Mentor Town USA” as a pipeline into the school district program that helps prepare youth for their future career path
- The inspiration behind and the details of the Mozark Music Festival in 2024 and the Peace, Love and Halloween concert on October 29, 2022 (www.themozark.com)
- Doug’s passion for cycling, specifically high-wheeled cycling on a penny-farthing
- What Doug loves about living in rural America and why he chose to practice in a rural community
Local governments address issues that have an impact on nearly everyone who lives, works or plays within city limits. If you look around rural communities, you’ll see that many public servants are our neighbors, co-workers, and local business owners. Unlike federal lawmakers, these individuals actually have skin in the game. For today’s episode, Cliff sits down with Andrew Dawson, mayor of Sedalia, to discuss the opportunities, challenges, and projects that lie ahead for Sedalia and communities like it.
Local governments address and balance the needs of both the city and its citizens. Tune into this episode to hear from Sedalia Mayor Andrew Dawson on public servanthood and why you can’t approach a public entity with a private sector mindset.
What you’ll learn:
- The types of communications and messages that Andrew fields daily as mayor
- What led Andrew into local government and how being a council member helped prepare him for his current role
- The strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and challenges that lie ahead of the city in the coming years, including addressing housing and a new sewer plant
- Some of the challenges that come with the role as mayor, from delegating to balancing the needs of the many to the needs of the few
- Opportunities for improved technology or automation in city departments
- The differences in the business approach between the public and private sector
- The City’s partnership with the Missouri State Fair, the economic and tourism impact, and what it means to our community
The long-term success of a business hinges on loyalty. Every day, companies are competing for brand loyalty, customer loyalty, and employee loyalty. This might be most evident in the car industry. Purchases are few and far between and a customer usually has their mind made up before they walk in the door. Building loyalty grows from the inside out, and today’s guests, Kyle and Kelsey Weymuth, experienced this firsthand growing up in a family-owned business that now boasts over 100 years of service to Central Missouri.
Through a family work culture, community involvement, and strategic marketing, W-K has hit the loyalty trifecta. Tune into this episode to hear how the Weymuth family has stayed up with trends, technology, and the ever-evolving world of consumer buying habits.
What you’ll learn:
- Kyle and Kelsey’s background growing up in the family business and the different paths they took that led to running W-K
- An overview of the car business and the different types of departments within W-K
- How Kyle and Kelsey divide up their daily responsibilities and how their long-time employees keep things running smoothly
- Details on the organic growth of W-K, the benefits of owning dealerships with different brands, and how the industry is moving toward the direction of consolidation
- The current challenges and trends in the automotive industry
- How W-K positions themselves in front of a rural audience, including details behind W-K’s new video podcast series, wkburnouts.com
- What Kyle and Kelsey love about living in rural America
2022 is a significant year for Callis & Associates - it’s our 35th Anniversary! Back in January, we started our #CallisTurns35 initiative on our digital and social channels. Every week for the first 35 weeks of 2022, we shared a lesson from each year Callis has been in business and featured a past client or project from that year, as well. It’s been a challenge to churn out this content every week, but it’s also been a joy looking back on work and memories from the last three and a half decades and we have seen some great engagement from our followers. As we approach our 35th week, we wanted to share a special OUTdrive episode in recognition of this initiative and celebration of 35 years in business.
Tune into this week’s solocast to learn more about #CallisTurns35 and grab a couple of key takeaways you can apply to your online and social strategy.
What you’ll learn:
- Details behind the #CallisTurns35 initiative
- What Cliff and the Callis staff have enjoyed about creating content for the blog and social media
- Where you can catch up on the last 35 weeks of content, at ecallis.com or on Callis social channels
- Some ideas for how to highlight milestones in your business
We know there can be a lot of complexity surrounding digital marketing, specifically within the topic of Search Engine Optimization. But, when you break it down, SEO can be simplified to crafting the most relevant and accurate answers to your consumer’s frequently asked questions. In this episode, agency owner Rogelio Rodriguez gives valuable and simplified insight into digital marketing and how to make it work for your business.
Check out this episode of OUTdrive to get a crash course from Rogelio in SEO, inbound marketing, and trending strategies like message testing and Account-Based Marketing.
What you’ll learn:
- How Rogelio’s time in the Marine Corps shaped him as a person
- What led Rogelio to online business, SEO and eventually digital marketing
- Some of the ways that companies can take initial sales leads and nurture them into repeat customers
- Rogelio’s insight for those looking to start inbound marketing and how to take FAQs and make them advantageous on your website and social media
- A simplified breakdown of SEO and the strategy behind it
- Strategies like message testing and Account Based Marketing, that Rogelio’s company has found effective
- Rogelio’s perception of rural America and his experience hiring talent from the Midwest
We know there can be a lot of complexity surrounding digital marketing, specifically within the topic of Search Engine Optimization. But, when you break it down, SEO can be simplified to crafting the most relevant and accurate answers to your consumer’s frequently asked questions. In this episode, agency owner Rogelio Rodriguez gives valuable and simplified insight into digital marketing and how to make it work for your business.
Check out this episode of OUTdrive to get a crash course from Rogelio in SEO, inbound marketing, and trending strategies like message testing and Account-Based Marketing.
What you’ll learn:
- How Rogelio’s time in the Marine Corps shaped him as a person
- What led Rogelio to online business, SEO and eventually digital marketing
- Some of the ways that companies can take initial sales leads and nurture them into repeat customers
- Rogelio’s insight for those looking to start inbound marketing and how to take FAQs and make them advantageous on your website and social media
- A simplified breakdown of SEO and the strategy behind it
- Strategies like message testing and Account Based Marketing, that Rogelio’s company has found effective
- Rogelio’s perception of rural America and his experience hiring talent from the Midwest
CEO’s have a lot on their plate, and managing finances is a critical part of running a business. Many small to medium size companies can’t justify a full-time CFO, meaning this responsibility often falls on the owner. But, there are financial support options for businesses that just need a little help. After spending most of her career in varying CFO roles, Rebecca Mankin established her own company, Mankin Consulting, which specializes in helping non-profits and community health organizations meet their financial goals.
Tune into this episode to learn more about the clients Rebecca serves and the common challenges they face.
What you’ll learn:
- A short background on Rebecca’s career journey and path to Sedalia, Missouri
- What prompted Rebecca to start her own business
- What Mankin Consulting does and the types of clients Rebecca serves
- How Rebecca takes Mankin Consulting to market and what strategies her team uses to attract new business
- What Rebecca loves about living and working in rural America
- Some common challenges Rebecca feels community and health organizations are facing today
A visit to the Gerken Dairy Center is a tradition for many who attend the Missouri State Fair. Ice cream, milking demos, and, of course, the butter cow sculpture, are just a few of the great things you can find inside the dairy barn. But, it also serves a greater purpose: connecting Missourians with the dairy farming community. The producer-to-consumer relationship is incredibly important in agriculture, and especially in the dairy industry. Midwest Dairy works to cultivate farmer connections, ensuring that the dairy story is shared in restaurants, grocery stores, ballparks, and homes across the nation. In this episode, Farmer Relations Manager Stacy Dohle joins the podcast to discuss effective ways Midwest Dairy is working to share farmer stories through media, Missouri program partnerships, and at state fairs across the Midwest.
What you’ll learn:
- Stacy’s background and how it lead to her current position
- The work and goals of Midwest Dairy
- Insight on Midwest Dairy’s work with the St. Louis Cardinals and the Race to the Plate partnership
- Opportunities offered by Midwest Dairy at the Missouri State Fair and what you can expect at the Gerken Dairy Center
- Effective ways to tell the farming story
- Background on the partnership with Grants Farm in St. Louis and Wonderscope in Kansas City
- The passion of Dairy Farmers
We believe some of the best agriculturists come from the state of Missouri; not just farmers and ranchers, but bee-keepers, winemakers, orchard owners, and many others, as well. The Missouri Grown program was established to share the stories and the farm-to-table experiences available across the state. As a farm kid turned Missouri Grown program manager, Taylor Tuttle has a passion for educating Missourians on all things agriculture, including the crops and value-added goods produced right here in our backyard. In this episode, Cliff chats with Taylor about the focus of Missouri Grown, where to find Missouri Grown products, and the educational opportunities provided through the Missouri State Fair.
What you’ll learn:
- Taylor’s background and journey from farm kid to her role as program manager for Missouri Grown
- The focus of Missouri Grown and information on becoming a member at www.missourigrownusa.com
- The educational opportunities the Missouri State Fair provides to Missouri Grown through the market and AgVenture areas
- Insight into the impact of the Missouri State Fair on the state’s agriculture industry
- How to find Missouri Grown products and other ways to support local producers outside of the state fair
- What Taylor's typical day looks like during the fair and the rest of the year
- Taylor’s key takeaways when it comes to marketing and connecting people to the agriculture industry
Rural Americans and their operations are what keep the world running. Just like anyone else, these business owners, manufacturers and farmers need access to reliable internet, but many rural areas lack a reliable connection or wifi. GoNetspeed, a fiber internet provider formerly known as Otelco, is out to change that. In this episode, Rick Lashley, Director of Wireless Operations and Product Development, explains the company’s primary goal of running fiber to rural American communities to support their business and lifestyle.
What you’ll learn:
- Rick’s responsibilities as Director of Wireless Operations and Product Development
- Rick’s favorite parts about serving rural America
- The purpose and focus of GoNetspeed
- The relationship between GoNetspeed and the Missouri State Fair
- Insight on why rural Americans are underserved by their fiber and how GoNetspeed fills the gap
- How to get in touch with GoNetSpeed at gonetspeed.com
- The role GoNetspeed has in Military Appreciation Day at the Missouri State Fair
- Details about how the internet and technology has changed and grown
- The role of the good people that make sure rural Americans can depend on their internet connection
Here in Missouri, there’s a MO adventure for every “M-O,” outdoorsmen, art enthusiasts, history buffs, foodies, sports fanatics, and everyone in between. The Division of Tourism’s “Find Your M-O” campaign is part of the state’s marketing effort to attract visitors to Missouri. And those efforts are pretty important, considering they produce a 13.5 billion-dollar impact. As the Director of Tourism and a lifelong Missourian, Stephen Foutes quite literally lives, works, and plays in the Show-Me State. In this episode, I chat with Stephen about how his experience and state pride combine in his role, promoting Missouri as a premier tourist destination.
What you’ll learn:
- The purpose of the Missouri Division of Tourism and how important tourism is to the state’s economy
- The role the division of tourism plays in the Missouri State Fair
- Stephen’s typical day as the Director of Tourism and how the variety of marketing roles prepared him for his current role
- Stephen’s favorite things to do around the state of Missouri
- Details behind the “Find your M-O” campaign, how it came to fruition, and the ultimate execution
- Insight on the behavior and interests of out-of-state visitors to Missouri, as well as trends Stephen is seeing within tourism, regionally and nationally
- How to find out more about Missouri tourism at VisitMO.com or at Welcome Centers across the state
We are coming up on the best 11 days of the year - the Missouri State Fair. One of our favorite parts of the Fair is interacting with the partners and sponsors who make it all possible. In this episode, Cliff is joined by Family Center Farm and Home co-owner and regional director Blake Mills and marketing manager David Swearingen. When Family Center Farm and Home opened their Sedalia location, becoming a sponsor with the Missouri State Fair made all the sense in the world for their marketing efforts.
Founded in 1965 by Blake’s grandfather, Family Center Farm & Home opened its first store under the name of Tractor Parts and Home Supply in Harrisonville, MO. Now, their business serves more than just farmers, offering something for everyone from dog owners to factory workers to interior designers. The flagship store is still open and the company has expanded to six additional locations - Butler, Rolla, Ozark, Sedalia, and St. Joseph, Missouri and Paola, Kansas.
FC Saddlery and Tack
Family Center Farm and Home
What you’ll learn:
- The origin story of Family Center Farm and Home, launched by Blake’s grandfather, and how it evolved into the store it is today
- Marketing strategies they use to reach their rural audience and the logistics behind the locations of their stores
- The role Family Center Farm and Home plays during the Missouri State Fair as a sponsor and the impact of fairground events on their Sedalia location
- An overview of the Saddlery and Tack branch of their business (FC Saddlery & Tack)
- The development and integration of their e-commerce presence, from their website to online ordering and in-store pickups
- Updates on Family Center’s rewards program and how the change in consumer buying habits has impacted their business model
- Advice for business owners and marketing managers who are stepping into the social media world and how they can keep tabs on what is going on in the communities they serve
What makes a great marketer? Someone who is strategic? Yes. Detail-oriented? Absolutely. Asks good questions? Certainly! All of these skills are part of the equation, but they also need to be business savvy. A great marketer should be able to look at the client’s business as a whole, see marketing as a piece of it, and then identify how it can better fit into the puzzle. In this episode of OUTdrive, I sit down with Callis President, Megan Hartman, to discuss how her business and entrepreneurial DNA helped build the foundation for a career in marketing.
Megan was recently named President and a partner in Callis & Associates. Megan began her career at Callis as an account manager and went on to serve in a number of account roles over the last 10 years. Prior to Callis, Megan started her business career at BluCurrent Credit Union, managing day-to-day operations of all branches. A Pettis County native and Northwest alum, Megan pursued earned a degree in business from Missouri State University.
What you’ll learn:
- Megan’s business background and her new role as president of the agency
- What makes a good account executive and how to get in contact with Callis
- Takeaways from the Build a Better Agency Conference in Chicago, put on by the Agency Management Institute (AMI)
- Some of the creative projects Megan’s been involved with at the agency over the last 10 years
- The relationship Callis has with the Missouri State Fair as their marketing partner
- Some of the marketing strategies and emerging media she’s seeing that have been the most effective
- Why developing personas is one of the most important parts of a business’ marketing plan
Investing in marketing is a self-fulfilling prophecy. History has shown that marketing works when done correctly. You can grow your business by increasing your investment in advertising, public relations, social media, and online. But it also works the other way. You can decrease your sales by lowering your investment. And if you keep cutting back over time, you might cut yourself right out of a job.
Business comes and business goes, but one thing should always stay the same - and that's your commitment to marketing. Tune into this episode for a special holiday edition of OUTdrive and insight on how committing to marketing in good times and bad can help you gain a bigger share of the market.
What you’ll learn:
- What successful businesses do to maintain their presence in the marketplace
- The importance of staying in front of your current customers while courting new ones
- Why you should increase your marketing spend when business isn’t going great
- What happens to your market share when you stop investing in marketing
- How cutting ad dollars may save you money in the short run, but is actually creating opportunities for your competitors
They say a dog is a man’s best friend, but for some individuals, their dog is a lifeline. Right here in rural America, we are privileged to have a nationally recognized organization and facility dedicated to raising, training, and placing service dogs with people in need. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff sits down with Kyle Cory-Yaeggi, Operations Director, and Laura Erganian, Fund Development Coordinator, from Retrieving Freedom, Inc.
Retrieving Freedom is a non-profit organization with a mission to change lives through the training and placement of service dogs for veterans with disabilities and children with autism.
The organization operates out of two Midwest locations, Waverly, Iowa, and Sedalia, Missouri as an accredited member of Assistance Dogs International. Retrieving Freedom is recognized nationally for its unique training methods and exceptional quality of its 117 service dog placements.
What you’ll learn:
- Kyle and Laura’s passion for the non-profit industry and how their career paths led them to Retrieving Freedom
- An in-depth overview of Retrieving Freedom, from their mission and their training program to their locations and placement processes
- Kyle and Laura’s respective responsibilities as Operations Director and Fund Development Coordinator
- Some of the marketing strategies Retrieving Freedom uses to communicate with different audiences
- How being located in rural America helps them better serve clients across the country
- Details on the summer volunteer opportunities and the annual public events Retrieving Freedom hosts in their communities
- What Kyle and Laura love about living in rural America and how they would characterize the Midwest
In today’s world, you can get data on just about anything. This leads to many businesses drowning in reports of thousands of rows of numbers. At Callis, we like to say that “data without action is just trivia,” meaning that unless you can do something with it, it’s just a number. On this episode of OUTdrive, guest and business owner JJ Reynolds shares with us how his company, Mediauthenic, works to collect better information for clients and present it in an actionable way.
What you’ll learn:
- JJ’s career journey into media buying and video production, and how that inspired him to chart an entrepreneurial course in marketing analytics
- The type of clients JJ works with and what the process of engaging with Mediauthenic, looks like
- The default “silo” setting most companies are in and how Mediauthentic gets them on the same page
- How JJ’s analytical, curious, and creative traits led to his career path and are seen in his personal life, as well
- What JJ’s average day looks like as the founder and media alignment specialist at Mediauthentic
- How a dashboard can change the way somebody thinks about their marketing
- How to simplify the process of gathering and analyzing data
In rural America, we do business with people we know, like and trust, especially with major purchases or services. Buying a home is typically one of the largest investments a person will make in their lifetime and it helps to know someone to be by your side throughout the process. That’s where the family team of Dave and Ryan Wiedeman have come to find success in the real estate market for over four decades.
What you’ll learn:
- How the real estate business became a Wiedeman family affair
- What separates Ryan and Dave from other real estate agents in the area
- How the buying process and consumer buying habits have changed due to home buyers’ access to data
- The benefits of being associated with REMAX and being under the umbrella of a larger organization
- Dave and Ryan’s perspective of the people of rural America
- The difference between marketing real estate in a small town versus a big city
- The new emergence of people moving across the country to rural areas and the recent interest in older homes around Sedalia
When it comes to “branding,” there is a lot of ambiguity. What is a brand? Can you measure how a brand works? How do you use it as part of a marketing plan? This is where our guest Karley Cunningham, business owner and branding strategist at Big Bold Brand, comes into play. In this episode, Karely offers up a paradigm shift and insightful perspective on how to approach branding as a way to define fundamental values and core messaging, and differentiate from competitors.
Join Karley and Cliff as they take a deep dive into brand leadership, the strategy before the strategy, and the difference between branding and marketing.
Surefire Audit & Guide download: https://www.bigboldbrand.com/surefireaudit/
What you’ll learn:
- Karley’s background growing up in Ontario, and the similarities between that area of rural Canada and rural America
- Karley’s experience as an endurance cycling athlete and the comparison of adrenal fatigue in sports and in business and how to address it
- Karley’s journey from a graphic designer to a strategic business owner
- Karley’s concept of “the strategy before the strategy”
- Karley’s current day-to-day role at Big Bold Brand and the type of clients she works with
- Defining brand leadership, Karley’s “surefire method” of differentiation and how to take the strategy off the page
- What the rural lifestyle means to Karley
In honor of Memorial Day and the extra-long weekend, Cliff is sharing a bite-sized podcast with some practical business advice. At Callis, Cliff’s team places an emphasis on education and professional development. One of the ways Callis accomplishes that is through involvement with the Agency Management Institute and by being part of a peer network.
Agency Management Institute (AMI) is a management consulting business specializing in helping owners of small and medium-sized marketing communication companies move up to their next performance level—and keep improving. The Agency Management Institute was founded in 1995 (formerly known as the Agency Management Roundtable or AMR) to teach and promote the highest standard of business practices and professional ethics among privately-owned agencies in North America.
Tune in to this special episode to learn more about the benefits of peer networks, then come back next week to hear from an international branding expert who Cliff met through AMI’s many connections.
What you’ll learn:
- The time and place where Cliff first heard about Google
- How Cliff got involved with AMI
- The benefits of joining a peer network group
- Examples of best practices Cliff has learned from his peer network group over the years
- How Cliff’s peer network helped guide business decisions through the height of the COVID-19 pandemic
Arrow Rock is a village in central Missouri with a total population of 37. And, each year, more than 33,000 patrons travel to this community to enjoy Broadway-caliber productions at the Lyceum Theatre. Celebrating its 61st season in 2022, the Lyceum is one of Missouri’s oldest professional regional theatres. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff sits down with Quin Gresham of the theatre’s leadership team to hear all the ways the Lyceum has been drawing crowds for over half a century.
Quin is the Producing Artistic Director at the historic Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre. 2022 marks his 18th season in this role. During his career, he has directed over two-dozen productions at the Lyceum. On the other side of the curtain, Quin has been a frequent Company member at the Lyceum since 1999. With more than 20 years of acting experience, he has appeared in over 50 productions. Quin is a graduate of the Conservatory of Theatre Arts at Webster University in St. Louis, where he earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting.
The Lyceum’s 61st season opens on June 2. Tune into this episode for a full show run-down on 2022, and learn more about how the Lyceum went from a dilapidated church to the first theatre in the state to receive the “Missouri Historical Theatre” designation.
What you’ll learn:
- The background story of how Quin decided to pursue acting and his journey to directing at the Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre
- A description of Quin’s role as Producing Artistic Director and his day-to-day responsibilities
- The difference between a producing theater, like the Lyceum, and a presenting theater
- A short history of the Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre
- Details on the shows of the 2022 season and how Quin selects which shows to bring in
- How to find more information and the best ways to share the Lyceum experience
- Quin’s connection to the LEAD Institute and service on their Board of Directors
- What Quin loves about living in mid-Missouri
While it may seem like the world of advertising is all headed toward the Metaverse, there is still value in traditional marketing. Radio, television, and newspaper, combined with digital components, can make an impact. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff sits down with Aric Bremer to discuss how businesses can use a multichannel approach to reach their goals and objectives.
Aric is a sales manager at Zimmer Radio and Marketing Group, where he works with numerous local businesses to put together comprehensive marketing plans that bring a positive return on their investments. Aric has been a radio personality with Clear 99 in Columbia, Missouri for over 20 years and still hosts the weekly Afternoon Drive show spot. Aric is also the voice of Mizzou Arena as the public address announcer for the Missouri Tigers men's basketball and Mizzou volleyball teams. Aric got his start in radio at KDRO in Sedalia when he was just 15 years old. He went on to earn a degree in communication from the University of Missouri.
Tune into this episode of OUTdrive to hear Aric’s tactical team approach to client marketing plans, how he became the voice of Mizzou Arena, and details behind starting “Blended, Blessed, & Always a Mess,” a podcast hosted by him and his wife, Angie.
What you’ll learn:
- Aric’s background growing up in Sedalia, Missouri, and his journey to working in radio
- Aric’s experience as the voice of Mizzou men’s basketball and volleyball
- What goes into Aric’s role as sales manager at Zimmer Radio Marketing Group, which includes digital marketing and on-air work
- The story of Aric’s blended family and how he and his wife decided to start the “Blended, Blessed, & Always a Mess” Podcast
- Marketing strategies Aric is seeing that are working well for his clients
- How Aric entered into the voice-over industry, working for regional, national, and even international companies
- Updates on the Mizzou basketball program and the 2022 Cardinal baseball season
- What Aric enjoys about living in rural America and why he loves the opportunity to come home to Sedalia
To put it simply, the rural American lifestyle builds character. The people raised in rural America are often the ones who go on to feed, lead, and serve our country. Today’s guest, Missouri Soy’s CEO Gary Wheeler, has done all three. In his role, he continues to spearhead legislation and representation for Missouri’s soybean farmers.
Wheeler has a Bachelor of Science in agriculture and a Master of Business Administration. He also proudly served his state and country for 11 years in the Missouri Army National Guard. He has been involved in many agriculture organizations including the U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance, U.S. Grains Council and U.S. Meat Export Federation, Missouri Society of Association Executives, Missouri Farmers Care, Missouri Economic Development Council, Missouri Chamber of Commerce and the Jefferson City Environmental Quality Commission.
Tune in to this episode to hear more about what Missouri Soy is doing to educate consumers and support rural America.
What you’ll learn:
- Gary’s background growing up in the small town of Risco, Missouri where his passion for agriculture started at an early age
- Gary’s experience in the military and how it shaped his perspective of rural America
- Gary’s journey to a career in the Missouri Department of Agriculture
- The importance of having the right people on staff and how to make that discernment
- The big picture initiatives that Missouri Soy is working on, from education to communication to policies
- The challenges of politics and legislation in state-funded organizations
- Details on the Center for Soy Innovation and the opportunities it provides for education
Happy 100th Episode! We’re celebrating the big 1-0-0 with a very special episode of OUTdrive. This week, guest host Ivy Reynolds turns the mic around to interview our host, the founder and CEO of Callis, Cliff Callis. In this episode, listeners get an in-depth listen to Cliff’s story, the origins of Callis, and life lessons from 35 years of business.
Cliff has over 35 years of experience and expertise in marketing, advertising and public relations. He grew up in the retail business, working alongside his father and brother, where he first learned about the customer experience. Today, he oversees a full-service marketing and advertising agency that specializes in marketing to rural America. Cliff focuses his efforts on client, employee and public relations and working with clients to help them strategically grow their business. He is also president of the Board of Directors of the Center for Human Services. Cliff is a graduate and former trustee of Missouri Valley College, where he studied business, economics and communications and competed in intercollegiate tennis. Cliff and his family reside outside Sedalia, Missouri, where he enjoys outdoor sports, travel and the inspiration of life’s experiences.
Tune in to celebrate the 100th episode of OUTdrive and hear Cliff’s thoughts on marketing, life achievements, and 35 years of business.
What you’ll learn:
- What it was like for Cliff growing up outside of Sedalia in the 1960’s, being part of a family business, and his experience during the Ozark Music Festival
- How Cliff’s career path changed from when he was in high school to the time he graduated from Missouri Valley College
- The story of what prompted Cliff to leave retail and start an advertising agency
- How Cliff’s role in the agency has changed throughout the years and the way the business has evolved over time
- The details behind Cliff’s morning routine and how it came to be a staple in his day
- Cliff’s favorite part of being in the marketing industry and how he approached taking the agency through the digital revolution
- Lessons Cliff has learned from over 35 years of business and what advice he would give his younger self
- What rural America means to Cliff - as a resident and a business owner
Small business owners have an inherent responsibility to be active and invested in their community. That’s especially true for OUTdrive guest John Kehde, who took his passion and civic duty to the highest commitment, serving and eventually leading the local government for the city of Sedalia. In this episode, John takes listeners back in time, giving a guided history of the city of Sedalia, Kehde’s Barbeque and his career span from the military to a restaurateur to a small-town mayor.
John is a local business owner and most recently served as the mayor of Sedalia. He has lived in Sedalia since his parents moved here in 1947. After serving in the Vietnam War and living in Denmark during his stint in the military, John, and his wife Chelsea, returned to Sedalia. John took over the family restaurant, Dog N’ Suds, and rebranded it to Kehde’s Barbeque. Along with running a family business, John served as a city councilman early in his career, and in 2018, he was elected mayor of Sedalia, and recently retired from that role. He is a Smith-Cotton High School alum and studied at the University of Missouri before going into the military.
Tune into this episode to hear all about his amazingly diverse life story and you’ll soon discover why every day is “the best day ever” for John.
What you’ll learn:
- John’s background and the origin story of Dog N’ Suds
- What it was like growing up in Sedalia back in the 1960’s
- John’s story of being drafted into the military, meeting his wife, Chelsea, and their experience living in Denmark during the Vietnam War
- How John made the necessary decision to transition the family restaurant to a barbeque joint after the fast-food chains came to town
- How the now-famous railcar came to be home at Kehde’s
- What attracted John to local government and ultimately serve on city council
- How John’s passion for his community and neighborhood prompted him to run for mayor some 30 years later
- The revitalization of Sedalia neighborhoods and what the city is doing to help clean up and revitalize areas of town
Now more than ever, people are invested in where their food comes from. Those who frequent local farmers’ markets have the luxury of knowing exactly where their food is grown and how it’s raised, and they have a chance to connect with the people who produce it. In this episode, Cliff had the chance to sit down with Bonita Riley and her daughter Taylor, members of the family behind Back Yonder Farms, to dive into the day-to-day of running a family farm and small business.
Back Yonder Farms is a diversified farming operation in Cole Camp, Missouri. Bonita and Rich Riley and their children and grandchildren make up the fourth, fifth and sixth generations of the family farming operation. The farm was homesteaded in the mid-1800s and has been operated by the family ever since. Back Yonder Farms specializes in pasture-raised meats, including pork and poultry, eggs, homegrown produce and baked goods.
Tune in to this episode to hear from Bonita and Taylor about what it takes to keep this family farm business running generation after generation.
What you’ll learn:
- Background on the Riley family, the longevity and history of their family farm, and details on the current diversified operation at Back Yonder Farms
- How the Riley family initially got involved with area farmers’ markets and how important the markets are to their business
- The story behind Back Yonder Farms’ famous giant cookies
- Where customers can find Back Yonder Farms, both at farmers’ markets and online
- How their social media has played a role in sharing their story and brand
- How they differentiate from other producers in the area, especially when it comes to the genetics of their pigs
- How the Riley’s have grown their business through experience and by continually seeking out new tools and ideas
- The characteristics of rural America and the importance of agriculture education in today’s youth
There is no shortage of beef producers in Central Missouri, but Brook and Larry White of White Angus Ranch are doing things a little different: raising grass-finished beef. Unlike “grass-fed” beef, “grass-finished” means corn and grain are never part of the animal’s diet, resulting in a leaner product. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff sits down with the Whites to learn more about their business, passion for customer service, and commitment to consistent quality in both their product and their brand.
In 2010, Brooke and Larry White purchased a plot of land and moved their cattle from Nebraska to Missouri, formally establishing White Angus Ranch. After selling products exclusively to neighbors, in 2013 the Whites decided to make raising beef a full-time business and get involved with local markets. White Angus Ranch specializes in raising premium quality, Black Angus Cattle, for grass-fed and finished beef sales. The Whites are active vendors in the Sedalia Area Farmers’ Market, Camdenton Farmers’ Market, and the Pulaski County Farmers’ Market. In 2016 they launched their website and online presence to sell their products online, shipping beef across the country.
Tune into this episode to hear the story behind White Angus Ranch and what you can do to help support local farmers, producers, and farmers’ market vendors in your community.
What you’ll learn:
- Background on the White family and the story behind White Angus Ranch and their grass-finished operation
- How they got involved with local farmers' markets and what it takes to be a consistent vendor
- The community, relationships, and partnerships the Whites have formed by being involved in farmers’ markets
- How the farmers’ markets themselves help market their products and business, primarily through social media
- Some of the other ways the Whites market their products and business outside of local markets and their emphasis on branding
- What sets the Whites apart from other beef producers in central Missouri
- The characteristics of rural America and the importance of supporting the lifestyle
- The short story of how the Whites became Boston Red Sox fans
Did you know that the produce in grocery stores travels an average of 1,500 miles before it ends up on your plate? Furthermore, the USDA estimates that on average, a farmer only earns 17.4 cents for every dollar spent on a food item. Compare these numbers to your local farmers’ market, where the produce is grown within a 50-mile radius and the farmer or producer earns an average of 85 cents on every dollar. Farmers’ markets around the U.S. offer consumers an opportunity to support local growers and businesses, eat healthier, and connect with community members, all in one place.
The Sedalia Area Farmers’ Market was established in 2009 by co-founders Bev Rollings and Brenda Raetz. Brenda oversees the day-to-day operations as the market manager and Bev currently serves as the treasurer. Matt Tennill and his wife, Kim, own Triple H Family Farms in Marshall, Missouri, specializing in fresh produce including greens, heirloom tomatoes, root vegetables, and honey. Matt was recently named president of the Sedalia Area Farmers’ Market board of directors.
If you need more incentive on why you should shop at your local farmers’ market, tune into this special panel episode to learn more.
What you’ll learn:
- A simplified overview of how farmers’ markets work and the benefits of buying produce from local markets
- The criteria for becoming a vendor at the Sedalia Area Farmer’s Market and how to get the process started
- How the Sedalia Area Farmers’ Market helps market their vendors and share the story of local farmers, growers and producers
- The logistics behind the set up of the market from week to week and the family-oriented, kid-friendly activities available on a monthly basis
- The individual and community health benefits of shopping at farmers’ markets
- How the Missouri Grown program and Community Supported Agriculture program support vendors across the state
- Details about the 2022 season of the Sedalia Farmers’ Market and the resources consumers can use to connect with the market online
Access to quality health care is at the core of a healthy community. Rural area hospitals play a vital role in attracting new families and businesses to small and mid-size cities. For this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff sat down with Dr. Stuart Braverman to discuss the ins and outs, challenges, and rewards of being a health care provider in rural America.
Stu is a general surgeon in the private practice and is the Chief of Staff at Bothwell Regional Health Center in Sedalia, Missouri. He has been practicing medicine for over 20 years. Stu received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri before going on to Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, Massachusetts. Tufts consistently ranks among the world's best medical research institutions for clinical medicine year after year. Stu then completed his residency for general surgery at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia before making his way back to Sedalia.
Tune into this episode to learn how the Bothwell Regional Health Center has grown and how medicine has advanced exponentially since Stu started practicing medicine.
What you’ll learn:
- What led Stu towards medicine and what influenced him to pursue general surgery over orthopedics or family medicine
- Why Stu decided to return to Sedalia after completing his education and residency programs out East
- Stu’s role as Chief of Staff at Bothwell Regional Health Center
- Some of the challenges rural health care systems like Bothwell face
- Why a young physician should consider settling in a rural community like Sedalia and the advantages that come with it, professionally and personally
- What Stu’s typical week and surgery schedule look like
- Some of the things Stu is seeing from a technology standpoint that are exciting in the medical world
- The emphasis Stu puts on the personal aspect of healthcare and taking pride in your own practices as a business
The Katy Trail State Park is the longest developed rail-trail in the country, spanning 240 miles between Clinton and Machens with 26 trailheads and four fully restored railroad depots along the way. Whether you are a bicyclist, walker, equestrian, nature lover or history buff, the trail offers opportunities for recreation, a place to enjoy nature and an avenue to discover the past.
After spending nearly her whole adult life around the Katy Trail, Kim Henderson saw an opportunity to bring more tourism to the small trail town of Windsor by building a cabin rental business.
Kim is the owner and operator of Kim’s Cabins. Located right on the Katy Trail, her business offers a tranquil escape with several recreational options for visitors. Before owning her own business, Kim spent several years at First Community Bank, now Equity Bank. She also served as the City Administrator of the City of Windsor until 2018 when she took her rental business full time. Kim gets to experience farm life on a daily basis and has gained quite the social media following by sharing photos of the nature and wildlife on her land.
Katy Trail State Park attracts people of all ages and interests. Tune in to hear how Kim’s Cabins put Windsor on the map as a must-stay destination for those making the state-wide trek on the trail or those just looking for a weekend getaway.
What you’ll learn:
- Kim’s background growing up in St. Charles, Missouri, moving to Wyoming to work in hospitality and then eventually settling in Windsor, Missouri
- The inspiration behind Kim’s Cabins and the need it fills for those traveling through Missouri, especially by trail
- How people can get ahold of Kim, book her cabin and follow her on social media
- What it takes to run a rental business and how important it is for small business owners to make personal connections
- The ways people find and review Kim’s business online through Google, community sites and social media
- Why more and more people are leaving cities for smaller communities and what trail towns have to offer those who are wanting to “getaway”
- What rural America means to Kim and the impact of Midwest hospitality she sees amongst trail people
Some of us chose our own paths in life. For others, the path is chosen for us. And if you’re Rob Hughes, the senior minister at Broadway Church in Sedalia, Missouri, the path will call you to ministry after years of working in a completely unrelated career field. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff sits down with Rob to talk about his unorthodox journey from the glitz of the West Coast film industry to a pulpit in the Midwest.
Rob has been the lead pastor and head of staff for nine years, following a nine-year stint serving in ministry in the Denver, Colorado area. Prior to his calling to ministry, Rob spent 15 years working on a variety of projects as a producer, editor, and director for National Geographic, Disney, Rocky Mountain PBS, and others. In addition to church ministry, Rob also serves as a chaplain for the Sedalia Police Department, a Commissioner for the Synod of Mid-Missouri, and is a member of the Pettis County Ministerial Association. Rob earned his Master of Divinity from Denver Seminary and studied film and communications at the University of California at Santa Barbara.
The local church has always been a pillar of small-town communities. Tune in to hear about the rewards, the challenges, and the revelations that come with leading a church staff and congregation in today’s world.
What you’ll learn:
- Rob’s background growing up in Southern California and how it shaped his original career path into the film industry
- The use of video in church services and the progression of video clips that suit the diminishing attention span of today’s audiences
- Rob's unorthodox journey into ministry and what he loves about his job as a pastor - collaborating with members and staff
- The impact of the pandemic on church attendance and active membership
- The origin story of One Track Train and future plans for the band
- Using new technology to communicate with the congregation and to attract new potential members to the church
- Closing thoughts on making the case for the local church and for God's existence in today’s world
Community is defined as “a feeling of fellowship with others, as a result of sharing common attitudes, interests, and goals.” A strong sense of community is part of what makes rural America a great place to live, work and raise a family. In this episode of OUTdrive, local Mexican restaurant owner Cesar Marin shares the stories of the Marin and Perez families, who saw moving to Missouri and joining a small-town community as an opportunity to build a better life.
Cesar is the owner of El Tapatio Mexican Restaurant in Sedalia, Missouri. Cesar’s mother and father-in-law, Maria and H.A. Perez, founded El Tapatio in 1995 and ran the business for 25 years. In 2021, they retired and passed the torch to their daughter, Minerva, and Cesar. In addition to his role at El Tap, he continues to work as a car salesman at Bryant Motors, located across the street from the restaurant. After spending most of his school-age years in California, Cesar’s family moved to Sedalia in the late ‘90s. Cesar graduated from Smith-Cotton High School and went on to study at State Fair Community College.
El Tapatio is a staple in the community thanks to the legacy the Perez family established over 25 years ago. Tune in to this episode to see how the pursuit of the American Dream and hard work cultivated a modern-day success story right here in Sedalia.
What you’ll learn:
- Cesar’s background growing up in California and his family’s move to Missouri in the late ‘90s
- The origin story of how Cesar’s father-in-law, H.A. Perez, founded El Tapatio over 30 years ago
- Cesar’s career journey at El Tapatio, working his way from a dishwasher to a manager to now owner
- How Cesar balances both ownership of El Tapatio and selling cars at Bryant Motors
- The importance of customer service and the power of online reviews
- Some of the ways El Tapatio gives back to the community, through fundraisers and sponsoring local sports teams, school districts, and law enforcement
- Why Cesar loves the Sedalia community and all aspects of the rural lifestyle - except for the winter weather
- Cesar’s life-long fandom of the L.A. Dodgers
Alternative energy solutions are a major point of discussion these days. One solution that is often overlooked is propane. Propane is being used across all industries to meet the need for a resilient, cleaner, greener energy solution, and the need for remote power where it isn’t readily available. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff is joined by Joe Calhoun, the Director of Business Development for the Propane Education and Research Council (PERC), to discuss all the ways propane is powering rural America and beyond.
Joe is the Director of Business Development for the Propane Education and Research Council. He leads PERC initiatives to grow propane demand by working directly with partners across multiple industries. Joe is responsible for business development, product development, and market development activities, which include outreach, communications, education, research, product development, technical integrations, and product commercialization.
Before assuming his position at PERC, Calhoun worked for RegO Products as business development manager for the propane and industrial gas markets. He also served as the national business development manager for Robinson Pipe and Vessel in De Pere, Wisconsin, the business development manager at TransTech Energy in North Carolina, as a regional sales manager for Ray Murray, director of corporate business development with Paraco Gas, and customer service and logistics manager at American Welding and Tank.
Propane fuels multiple industries, whether it’s grain drying, irrigation systems, transportation or combined heat and power. Tune in to hear about the innovation of propane and how it could benefit your business.
What you’ll learn:
- Joe’s journey to the propane industry and the role of business development throughout his career
- The goals and objectives of PERC and the marketing tools PERC uses to share the propane story
- The innovation of propane and its primary uses in agriculture, home building, and in response to natural disasters and severe weather across the country
- Details on the NC-TEC facility and other new programs PERC is using to train people in the industry
- What Joe believes it takes to be successful in business development
- Joe’s work from home experience and advice to those who are trying to manage it
- The impact of the pandemic on propane equipment and supply
Entrepreneurship has evolved over the years, but one thing is for certain, the American Dream is still alive and well for those who are willing to work for it. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff sits down with business owner Russell Childers to learn more about what it takes to be successful in real estate development.
Russell is the president of RAC-JAC Properties Incorporated, which owns and manages numerous types of business and real estate ventures. He is the definition of self-made and has been doing business in Sedalia and the surrounding area for the last 44 years. A lifelong Sedalia resident, Russell bought his first home when he was just 18 years old. He graduated from Otterville High School and attended SFCC Vocational Technology classes as an upperclassman. Russell is heavily involved in the Sedalia area, serving on community boards and supporting local schools.
Tune into this episode of OUTdrive to hear from Russell about current projects he is working on, how he identifies potential properties, and lessons learned from over 40 years of entrepreneurship.
What you’ll learn:
- Russell’s background growing up in the Sedalia and Otterville area and buying his first house
- Russell’s main buying focus right now in Florida and around the Lake of the Ozarks
- What Russell looks for when buying property and what excites him when it comes to a new project or opportunity
- Where Russell’s vision for buying property came from and what advice he would give to his younger self
- The struggle business owners face when they retire or transition out of a business and hand it off to someone else to take over
- Why trust and relationships are critical to success in his business, especially when it comes to advertising
- How Russell got involved with schools in the community and where that passion comes from
Sports columnist Ben Frederickson returns to OUTdrive to chat about all things sports and writing. Ben shares his hot takes on Mizzou Basketball, the possible outcomes of the MLB lockout, and the Blue’s chances at another playoff run. Cliff and Ben also dive a little deeper into storytelling, such as creating content for several multimedia platforms, using personas to reach consumers, and developing an ongoing dialog with your audience.
Ben, better known as the columnist behind “BenFred,” is a sportswriter for the St. Louis Post Dispatch. He graduated from Mizzou’s school of journalism and had reporting stints at news outlets across the country, including Wyoming and Tennessee before landing back in the Show Me State in 2015. Originally from Sedalia, Missouri, Ben got his start in journalism writing an “inside the huddle” column for the Sedalia Democrat on Sunday after Smith Cotton football games.
Tune in to this episode of OUTdrive for an update on your favorite teams and perspective from a writing professional when it comes to messaging that resonates with your audience.
What you’ll learn:
- Details behind the multimedia outlets Ben creates content for, including newspaper articles, online columns, radio shows, podcasts, videos, and how they are organized.
- The ongoing dialog Ben has with his readers and how good discussion can change opinions
- Ben’s hot takes on Mizzou basketball: the coaching staff and players
- An update on the MLB lockout situation and a look at spring training 2022
- The challenges of keeping tabs on several sports and trying to be in two places at once
- What Ben’s writing schedule looks like and how it’s split between online content and newspaper columns
- How to write for certain audiences and use personas in storytelling
- An overview of Ben’s background and journey from Sedalia to the St. Louis Post Dispatch
The Lake of the Ozarks flew under the radar for many years, and was considered a hidden gem for those that knew about it. That was until May 2020, when viral videos during the pandemic made headlines and popularity of the Netflix series Ozark brought attention from around the world to the mid-Missouri oasis. The media coverage drove hundreds of thousands of clicks to the Lake of the Ozarks website and had a huge impact on marketing. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff sat down with Eric Homan, the web administrator for the Lake of the Ozarks Convention and Visitors Bureau, to talk about marketing strategy and tactics along with new technologies emerging in the tourism industry. Eric has served as the web administrator at the Convention and Visitors Bureau for 18 years. In his role, Eric manages the website and leads the digital marketing efforts for the lake. He works closely with the board of directors and Missouri Department of Tourism to implement new messaging and campaigns across digital platforms. Eric earned his degree in computer programming and web development from State Fair Community College. A Smithton, Missouri native, Eric worked for his family’s livestock and pet food business for several years where he was tasked with running the accounting software along with delivering feed.
Tune in to this episode to learn more about what goes into marketing a popular vacation spot. From resorts and waterfront restaurants to hiking and fishing, the Lake of the Ozarks has it all, and more.
What you’ll learn:
- Eric’s role as the web administrator for the Lake of the Ozarks CVB and his non-traditional path to computer programming
- The positive and negative feedback and attention that came out of the pandemic for the Lake of the Ozarks
- What new strategies and messaging the CVB has used in recent years to connect people to their vacation guides, which is their primary marketing tool
- How the popularity of the Netflix series Ozark has impacted the Lake of the Ozarks marketing and tourism
- Details behind the new trends and uses of technology, such as virtual reality, in the tourism industry and how the CVB goes about taking on a new marketing platform
- How the Missouri Department of Tourism supports and helps fund marketing for the Lake of the Ozarks
- What Eric enjoys about his job and his advice for someone looking to go into the computer programming field
It’s often said “it takes a village” to raise a child, and Cliff’s guest in this episode of OUTdrive believes that to be true. Gary Beckman is the Executive Director of the Boys and Girls Club of West Central Missouri. He outlines the importance of programs and activities available to school age children through the Boys and Girls Club, especially in rural American communities.
Gary has nearly 30 years of experience working with Boys and Girls Club and community members of rural areas across the Midwest. Gary entered the position of Executive Director in 2017 after spending the first 20 years of his career with the Boys and Girls Club in Illinois. He had previously spent 16 years as the Executive Director of a club branch in Pontiac, Ill. and had early career experience working with the YMCA in Chicago. Originally from La Plata, Missouri, Gary earned his bachelor's degree in exercise science from Truman State University in Kirksville, Missouri.
Tune in as Gary shares the characteristics of support, guidance and grit the Boys and Girls Club helps instill in the youth of our community, and communities around the world.
What you’ll learn:
- Gary’s journey from the small town of La Plata, Missouri to working in corporate fitness in Chicago and how it ultimately led him to working for the Boys and Girls Club for the last 30 years in rural American areas
- What Gary’s typical day looks like as the executive director
- The challenges facing an organization like Boys and Girls club in rural America
- The community partnerships the club has developed over the years and how important investors are to the organization
- Details on the Boys and Girls Club annual Night of Heart and Hope happening on February 19th, 2022
- The characteristics of what rural America means to Gary
- Using storytelling in marketing and how sharing “your story” can have a big impact for non-profit organizations like the club
- The story of Gary’s mother, a Hall of Fame basketball player and the importance of remembering our history
Have you ever wondered what goes into producing a podcast? In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff breaks down the production cycle of our podcast from week to week. And, he answers the most frequently asked questions about creating a podcast, such as cost, technology and equipment needs, and ROI.
After producing over 85 episodes, the Callis team has become a well-oiled machine, but it wasn’t always easy and it’s still a lot of work to get it done every week. If you have been thinking about doing a podcast, tune in to this episode to learn how to get started.
What you’ll learn:
- An overview of the OUTdrive podcast from May 2020 to today
- Why Callis started the OUTdrive podcast
- The phases of starting and producing a podcast
- Other costs associated with producing a podcast
- Coming up with topics to discuss with guests
- Assessing your listener base and calculating ROI on a podcast
- The story behind the name “OUTdrive”
When it comes to creating content, the sports world is blazing the trail. High-quality videos and graphics on social media are a huge part of a program’s communication and marketing strategy, and other industries should be taking note. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff chats with Callis account executive and OUTdrive podcast manager, Ivy Reynolds, about her time working in college athletics, content creation, and effective media channels.
In her role as an account executive at Callis & Associates, Ivy works directly with clients to manage branding projects, develop marketing strategies and create content. She also manages and produces the OUTdrive podcast each week. Ivy previously served as a sports information director at Butler University in Indianapolis. She worked directly with several programs during her time with the athletic department and served as a media relations contact for the 2016 and 2021 NCAA March Madness Tournaments. An Ozark, Missouri native, Ivy earned a degree in Mass Communications from Lindenwood University and was a member of the Lions volleyball team. She then went on to earn a Master’s in Sports Management at Missouri State University while playing beach volleyball for the Bears.
Tune into this episode of OUTdrive for insight on the college sports industry, podcast management, and content creation. Whether you’re producing a podcast, creating social media posts, or generating website content, this episode is for you.
What you’ll learn:
- Ivy’s background and journey to Callis through college athletics, as an athlete and staff member
- Communications strategies Butler athletics and the sports industry as a whole use to market programs and teams
- Insight on the new policy that allows student-athletes to make money off their name and likeness and the future of influencer marketing
- The challenges from transitioning from sports communications to marketing
- Ivy shares what she enjoys about her role as an account executive and what her typical day looks like
- What goes into producing a weekly podcast and some of the challenges podcast managers face
- Ivy’s advice to other young professionals who are stepping into their careers or making job changes
The Missouri Department of Agriculture announced the results of an economic contribution study that showed a contribution of nearly $94 billion to the economy and more than one in every 10 jobs is supported by agriculture. Crop production, which includes grains and oil seeds, ranked first in value of sales and Missouri soybean farmers contribute to that category. Not only are soybeans the number one exported crop in Missouri, they are also the number exported row crop in the United States. In this episode, Cliff sits down with Casey Wasser, the Chief Operating Officer at Missouri Soy, to discuss the legislation, the fuel power, and the economic impact that hinges on this little green pod.
Casey oversees the operations of the Missouri Soybean Association, Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council and Foundation for Soy Innovation. He leads the Association’s policy work in addition to serving as the COO. Casey has served as the director of policy for the Missouri Soybean Association and Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council since 2016. During that time, he spearheaded the effort to facilitate repayment of the Missouri Qualified Biodiesel Producer Incentive Fund. He also worked with the Association on policies including proposed increases to farm regulations, land value assessments, and proposed taxes on disaster payments. Prior to joining the team at Missouri Soybean, Casey served as the legislative liaison for the Missouri Department of Revenue. Casey resides in his hometown of California, Missouri with his wife, Brooklyn, and two children, Boden and Calyn.
Listen in to learn how helping Missouri agriculture flourish leads to an increase in tax revenue that supports the whole state.
What you’ll learn:
- Casey’s current responsibilities as Chief Operating Officer and some of the legislature the Missouri Soybean Association is focused on in the 2022 session
- What Casey learned in his time as the legislative liaison for Missouri Department of Revenue that he brought to his role at Missouri Soy
- How Missouri Senator Blunt’s retirement has a trickle down effect on district lines and the entire redistricting process
- The compounding issues of the supply chain disruption on farmers and rural America
- The role of Missouri Soy at the state and national levels
- How people can contact Missouri Soy and get involved by sharing their thoughts that could impact legislation
- Casey’s background of growing up in California, Missouri and how it led to his career in agriculture and the lifestyle he lives today
- A report on the Missouri soybean crop yield from 2021
An ASPCA survey revealed that nearly 23 million Americans welcomed a pet during the height of the pandemic in 2020 - aptly referred to as “pandemic puppies.” And, according to a study by the American Veterinary Medical Association, a majority (75%-85%) of pet owners think of their pets as family. Pair those statistics together and you have a huge market of pet owners returning to work with no one to care for their beloved pets while they are away. In today’s episode of OUTdrive, Cliff visits with Collin Funkhouser, who turned his dog walking side gig into a booming pet care business.
Collin and his wife, Meghan, are the owners of Funky Bunch Pet Care, providing home-based pet sitting and services in rural America. The couple started pet sitting part-time to help pay for their college tuition, and in 2012 they established the Funky Bunch name. In 2020, they made it their full-time profession and now provide pet care to over 200 clients in Sedalia. Due to continued growth and demand, they recently opened a service line in Springfield. In addition to being business owners, Collin and Meghan also host the Pet Sitter Confessional, a podcast by pet sitters for pet sitters.
Before focusing solely on their small business, Collin spent time working for the Missouri Department of Conservation in Sedalia. He also has an extensive wildlife education, holding a bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology from Missouri State, a master’s in Natural Resource Management from Texas Tech and a PhD in quantitative biology from the University of Texas at Arlington.
Tune into this episode to learn how Collin and Meghan are doing all the right things from a marketing perspective to grow their brand and small business. With a quick visit to their social media platforms or podcast, you’ll see that this couple is one funky bunch with a passion for pets.
What you’ll learn:
- How Collin and his wife transitioned from using dog walking side gig to pay for college to launching Funky Bunch Pet Care and making pet care their full time job
- Collin explains how he builds trust with clients through digital platforms
- The process of booking and building trust with a client through digital marketing and the steps Collin and Meghan take when meeting pet owners for the first time.
- How Collin and Meghan started their pet sitting podcast
- The scalability of pet care and taking the steps to grow a small business
- Using search marketing and search results as part of connecting with clients, and other branding strategies Collin is seeing in the pet care industry
- Some of the challenges of the pet care industry from educating clients to dealing with pandemic puppies to living an isolated lifestyle
Everyone is just a few short days away from turning the page to 2022. Callis had another great year in 2021, in large part because their clients saw success and growth. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff is taking a drive down memory lane. Callis had a number of exciting projects and notable events this year and Cliff revisits some of the stops they’ve made along the way.
Tune in to this episode as Cliff reflects, month by month, on some of our top moments from 2021. And, come back after the new year as Cliff sits down with his next guest to talk marketing in rural America.
What you’ll learn:
- A 2021 month-by-month recap of top projects and events
- Some of the new clients and growth Callis has seen in the last year
- Agency and business development initiatives Cliff is currently working on
- Cliff’s recommendations for businesses looking to update some of their systems
- Cliff’s outlook for Callis and the podcast in 2022
Often referred to as The Automotive Capital of the World and Motor City (Motown), Detroit, Michigan is home to General Motors (GM) headquarters. GM led global annual vehicle sales for 77 consecutive years from 1931 through 2007, and is still among the world's largest automakers by vehicle unit sales. It was at this multi-billion dollar company that our guest spent the first 20 years of his career immersed in the world of cars and marketing. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff sits down with automotive marketer Karl Kramer to discuss industry trends, dealership positioning, and consumer buying habits.
Karl is the Chief Marketing Officer at McCarthy Auto Group and has a demonstrated history of providing effective business results in the automotive industry. He spent the first half of his career at GM in various roles and locations, primarily as a district service manager. In his current position at McCarthy, Karl coordinates and manages marketing efforts, as well as sponsorships, promotions, and community relations, while helping manage OEM working relationships. Karl has a Bachelor's Degree in Automotive Technology, Advanced Technical Studies from Southern Illinois University. In his career and personal life, Karl is passionate about building strong personal, business, and community relationships.
Karl takes the wheel and hits the gas in this episode of OUTdrive. Tune in to hear him share marketing insight that can help businesses from Motown to Rural America.
What you’ll learn:
- Karl’s upbringing in Flora, Illinois and how he first got started working with cars
- Karl’s career path, from his first job working as a technician, to earning his degree at Southern Illinois University, to working for General Motors (GM)
- Reflection from Karl’s time at GM, one of the largest companies in the world
- How Karl ended up in Kansas City and his transition to McCarthy Auto Group after 20 years with GM
- The role of a Chief Marketing Officer and effective marketing mix strategies in the automotive industry
- Changes in consumer buying behavior in the last couple of years due to COVID-19
- The types of marketing campaigns, sponsorships, and community events that Karl finds most successful
Missouri’s pig farmers really know how to bring home the bacon - literally. According to the Missouri Department of Agriculture, in 2016, agriculture, forestry and related industries contributed $88.4 billion of the state’s economy. Pork production alone had about a $1 billion impact on Missouri’s bottom line. For this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff sat down with Don Nikodim, Executive Director of the Missouri Pork Producers Association, to dive into the meat of this industry.
In his nearly 40 years at MPPA, Don has helped expand pork promotion, education and public policy efforts in Missouri. Earlier this year, Don won the Paulson-Whitmore State Executive Award, which recognizes the outstanding leadership and commitment of state pork organization executives. Don has been connected to the pork industry his whole life. Originally from El Dorado Springs, Missouri, he grew up on a diversified farm that included a 30-head sow herd. He went on to earn a degree from the University of Missouri in Agriculture, specializing in Animal Science, Ag Economics and Education. Don had a short stint with the Poland China Swine Record Association and spent a few years teaching high school agriculture classes before starting his role at Missouri Pork in 1983.
Tune into this episode to find out what goes into making Missouri the 7th highest-pork producing state in the nation.
What you’ll learn:
- Don’s background growing up on a diversified farm in El Dorado Springs and how it led to pursuing a career in the pork industry
- How the pork industry plays into Missouri’s main economic driver, agriculture
- The role that Missouri Pork plays in the Missouri State Fair
- The types of research Missouri Pork does to better understand the pork consumer
- The initiatives Don has been involved with over the years that had the most impact
- Don’s day-to-day responsibilities as Executive Director and how it varies
- What it’s like working with the people of rural America on a daily basis
- The innovation, trends, and refined production processes in the agriculture industry
Everyone starts somewhere. For those who are well into their career, that statement might take you back to your humble beginnings. For some taking the first steps in their career, like the guest in this episode, they are right in the middle of that somewhere. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff had the chance to sit down with a young man attacking the sales world armed with a sport coat and ambition.
Jack Kempton is a licensed insurance agent for Country Financial in Kansas City. Although he has only been in his current role for a few months, Jack grew up in a family business environment that helped set him up for success. Jack studied Business at the University of Missouri which led to his first job in the insurance industry at Bankers Life in Columbia. A Sedalia native, Jack frequently visits the area for work and can be seen at community events or out on the golf course.
Tune into this episode for a chance at a fresh perspective. Jack and Cliff discuss the challenges young professionals are facing today, refining sales and marketing processes and, of course, how it all ties into his rural American roots.
What you’ll learn:
- What it was like for Jack growing up in a family business environment.
- Jack’s current role at Country Financial and the range of services they offer to clients
- The difference between sales and marketing and assessing client needs.
- Jack’s unorthodox path to the insurance industry
- What rural America means to Jack
- The current challenges Jack is facing as a young professional starting his career
- Industry insight and refining processes.
- Jack’s heroes and mentors from the past and present.
Every year, Thanksgiving is a time to express your gratitude and count your blessings. This year, it has been extra special as people gather once again and families reunite after spending previous holidays apart. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff takes a break from the typical podcast conversations to give thanks - for his family, for his clients, for the lifestyle he enjoys in rural America, and so much more.
Tune in to this episode to join Cliff in gratitude, and check back in next week as he sits down with the next guest to talk marketing in rural America.
What you’ll learn:
- What Cliff is thankful for this year
For many in rural America, a college degree seems unattainable due to the cost. According to a 2021 report by U.S. News, the national average student loan debt is currently $30,000. But, higher education doesn’t have to mean a higher price tag. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff visits with Mineral Area College President, Joe Gilgour, to break down the advantages of a community college education and getting the best return on investment.
Joe was named President of Mineral Area College during the summer of 2019. Prior to his role at MAC, Joe served 12 years in a number of leadership roles at State Fair Community College, including a seven-year stint as Dean of Student Services. A decorated graduate, Joe holds a bachelor's degree in Theatre and Psychology from Southwest Baptist University, a master's degree in College Student Personnel from Arkansas Tech University, and a doctorate in Higher Education Administration from Saint Louis University. He and his family reside in Park Hills, Missouri and can often be spotted at a campus or community event.
Tune into this episode to see how community college is a great option for anyone living in rural America.
What you’ll learn:
- Joe’s day-to-day responsibilities as President of Mineral Area College (MAC)
- How MAC appeals to individuals in all career paths and lifestyles
- A breakdown of the student population at MAC and why he thinks there is no “traditional” community college student
- An assessment of return on investment as it applies to education
- Trends that are currently affecting higher education, from COVID-19 to state funding to mental health in students.
- Joe’s advice for someone who is looking to pursue a career path in higher education and administration
- A look at MAC athletics and the other activities available to students
- Some of the things Joe enjoys in his off campus life and what he loves about living in rural America
In today’s marketplace, it pays to specialize. Customers aren’t as much looking for generalists; they want specialists to fit their needs, especially when it comes to insurance, retirement and benefits packages. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff sits down with Brendan Hurley, who has found his stride in the insurance industry by asking the right questions and immersing himself in the community. But, according to Brendan, the real key to landing prospective clients comes down to perseverance and grit.
Brendan is in his sixth year as a consultant at Assured Partners, specializing in employee benefits and retirement for commercial businesses. While working toward a specialization, he has also found a niche working with architectural and engineering clients. Along with several years of sales experience, Brendan has a genuine passion to help people find the best solutions for their business and employees. Originally from Sedalia, Brendan graduated from the University of Missouri with a bachelor’s in Mass Communications. After weighing his post-graduate options, Brendan saw a window of opportunity during a national insurance company acquisition and never looked back.
Tune into this episode of OUTdrive to hear Brendan and Cliff discuss client relations, industry specialization, and business success.
What you’ll learn:
- What it takes to be successful in the insurance business
- The trend of specialization across all industries and details behind Brendan’s niche in the insurance market
- Brendan and Cliff’s shared approach to connecting with prospects; recognizing when your business is a good fit for a client, and when it’s not
- New legislation that Brendan feels has a positive impact on retirement benefits and the potential it has to help serve clients
- How Brendan ended up in insurance and why he decided to stay in Central Missouri after college
- How AssuredPartners markets their services and the process of getting in front of potential clients
- The history of Assured Partners in Sedalia and how multiple firms came together to create what exists today
It used to be that you had to move to New York or Los Angeles to pursue a career in a forward-thinking industry. In 2021, that’s no longer the case, as innovation is happening all across the Midwest. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff visits with long-time acquaintance Jason Robertson, who has spent nearly 25 years in business development and currently works in the design and construction industry. His success in sales and marketing was founded right here, in the rural America we know and love.
Jason is the Vice President of Food and Beverage at CRB, an engineering, architecture, construction and consulting firm. CRB specializes in building solutions for innovative products and facilities in the life science industry and has been integral in project development for vaccines and plant-based foods. Jason possesses 23 years of accomplished experience in executive sales and marketing leadership roles. He earned his bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Northwestern College in Iowa and currently lives in Kansas City.
Tune in to hear Jason’s insight on how the life science and biotech industry has been transformed through the pandemic, and in turn, how that affects consumers. Jason also shares his advice on advertising formats, trade shows, and creating engaging content.
What you’ll learn:
- Sales strategies that are generating a solid ROI
- Marketing insights and trends Jason sees in the marketplace, specifically when it comes to running ads
- Insight into the innovative initiatives CRB is working on, from their hand in developing the COVID vaccine to producing food with alternative proteins.
- The market research and strategic processes Jason uses in his day to day role.
- Jason’s post-pandemic forecast of industry trade shows and conventions.
- Jason’s perspective on rural America and his thoughts on the opportunity for innovation in the Midwest.
- The communication and relationship-building skills young professionals should be refining in the current job market
The idea of fundraising has often been reduced to door-to-door sales of cookies and coupon books. But for non-profit organizations, raising funds is crucial to providing community services and requires gifts larger than the cost of a popcorn tin. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff sits down with Karin Cox, an expert in the field of fundraising. Karin outlines what it takes to run a successful gift campaign and explains how her job is less about asking for money and more about expressing a need.
Karin is the president and co-founder of Hartsook, a fundraising organization that helps nonprofits “unleash the power of philanthropy” through creative counsel. She specializes in drawing out the fundraising potential of companies and has helped Hartsook clients raise hundreds of millions of dollars through customized, research-based guidance. As an established author and entrepreneur with a background in non-profit work, Karin’s professional portfolio includes notable organizations, such as, Ohio State University, American Red Cross, and Boy Scouts of America. Originally from Texas, Karin attended Wichita State University in Kansas, earning an MFA in Creative Writing.
Though Hartsook’s reach extends to international borders, the integrity of the company was built around Karin’s rural American values. Tune in to this episode to gain insight and perspective from a passionate industry leader.
What you’ll learn:
- How Karin starting working in fundraising and a look into her background in non-profits
- The details behind how Karin co-founded her company, Hartsook, and insight into the organization’s core values and successful business growth
- What makes a good fundraising campaign, with an emphasis on harnessing the power of new virtual trends and remaining authentic.
- How relationships with a client work and the trust required for a business or organization to run a major gift campaign
- The importance, and freedom, of recognizing that your business may not be for everyone and turning your focus to those who see the value in your work.
- Karin’s experience of writing her book and advice for someone wanting to write a book
- Hartsook’s philosophy on the power of philanthropy and having the appropriate approach to fundraising
“Business is not about business, it’s about people.” Those who have stayed loyal to a company based on their customer service know this to be true. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff reconnects with an old friend and former business partner Bob Wolf to discuss building trusting relationships. Raised in an entrepreneurial environment, Bob developed a strong worth ethic, a respect for independence, and a passion for serving people that shaped the way he did business.
Bob is a successful business owner, salesman, and manager in the construction and development business. Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, he attended Iowa State’s College of Business. He made his way to Missouri after accepting a job with Butler Manufacturing in Kansas City. Bob then ventured out in business with his partner Tom Davis, putting together several construction companies over the years to create Septagon Construction Company in Sedalia. After 30 years with Septagon, Bob moved back to the Kansas City area to help create another construction conglomerate and, nearly 20 years later, he is still involved in the business today.
Tune in to this episode to hear words of wisdom from someone with almost 50 years of business experience. You’ll learn all about building successful relationships and hear several of Bob’s “Wolfisms,” phrases that he often used with associates, friends and family.
What you’ll learn:
- Bob reflects on his childhood and growing up in a time where children were to be seen and not heard.
- What led Bob to the construction business, and details from his first big step to join Butler Manufacturing in Kansas City to pursuing industry entrepreneurship in Sedalia.
- Developing the entrepreneurial mindset, which includes taking responsibility for failures and successes.
- Bob describes his style of interacting with customers and defines what business is really about.
- The pros and cons of using technology to connect with customers versus face-to-face interactions.
- Bob’s perspective on rural America and the overriding characteristic of loyalty
- The advice Bob instills on his grandchildren and his response to excuses
As America moves toward a post-pandemic world, hybrid workplaces, Zoom meetings, and social selling are here to stay. Whether you have embraced the transition to a more digital mindset or not, your customers have, and your brand needs to meet them where they are. For this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff sits down with Randy Herbertson, an agency owner and an established thought leader in digital and innovative marketing.
Randy is a recognized brand strategist and creative director with over 25 years experience in marketing and innovation. He is also a business entrepreneur and founder of The Visual Brand (TVB), a marketing agency operating in Westport, Connecticut that specializes in new products, concepts, and services for existing companies. His team’s impressive portfolio includes collaborations with brands like Benjamin Moore, Smirnoff, Volvo, and many others. Prior to creating TVB, Randy filled roles as a corporate facilitator, consumer insight specialist, and creative strategist. Originally from Ann Arbor, Michigan, Randy earned a degree in marketing and international business at the University of Colorado (at Boulder). Outside of work, Randy is an active member of the community, serving on a number of boards and as an adjunct professor at Quinnipiac University.
With a background in client, agency, media and digital realms, Randy brings perspective from a diverse range of companies and industries to this episode of OUTdrive. Cliff and Randy tackle topics from fine tuning brand insights to preventing burnout in this 24/7 virtual society.
What you’ll learn:
- Understanding the difference between insights and conclusions, and why it’s crucial to the branding process.
- An in-depth look at the digital revolution, from how advancements in technology pushed innovative ideas to using outsourcing to your advantage to the challenges of navigating the virtual elements of business.
- Randy’s speciality in the “non-iterative” and what he loves about being an independent agency owner.
- Examples of clients who navigated the COVID-19 pandemic to their industry advantage.
- The pros and cons of working on a tight deadline versus having an endless timeline that can hinder momentum.
- Details behind the structure of The Visual Brand (Randy’s agency), employing people of diverse talents, and investing in what Randy calls “people development”
- Randy’s “life hacks” for managing a true work-life balance, specifically for business owners and entrepreneurs.
- How Randy got started in marketing and his path to entrepreneurship.
- How Randy got started in marketing and his path to entrepreneurship.
From a young age, we are taught that there are “no limits” to what we can accomplish. For individuals with disabilities, that mantra would be difficult to believe, much less accomplish, without the proper resources from Center for Human Services. CHS provides exceptional services and support for nearly 5,000 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across 39 Missouri countries. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff sits down with the Center’s CEO, David Kramer, and discusses how his team continues to encourage each individual they serve to live “Life Without Limitations.”
Following a nationwide search earlier this year, David was named CEO of the Center for Human Services, headquartered in Sedalia. David previously served as the Chief Operating Officer at Emmaus Homes in St. Louis. Prior to that, he was a director for Life Skills, an Easter Seals affiliate in Missouri. David began his career as a direct care worker at a Department of Mental Health state facility. David received a degree in psychology from St. Louis University and went on to earn his MBA from Washington University in St. Louis.
The founding mission of CHS in 1955 centered around the establishment of programs and services that change the way the community defines and views people with disabilities. While the mission hasn’t changed, the need has grown exponentially. Tune into this episode of OUTdrive to learn more about how you can support the CHS services in your community.
What you’ll learn:
- The mission of Center for Human Services and the resources available across 39 counties in Missouri
- How to contact, connect with, and donate to the Center for Human Services
- An in-depth look at David’s path to becoming CEO of Center for Human Services and how his responsibilities have shifted from his direct care background
- How David’s background led him to working with individuals with disabilities
- David’s explanation of the ongoing struggle to balance resources and the unmet needs at CHS and organizations like it
- David explains his current role as CEO and the transition from working directly with individuals to the administration side of CHS.
- Current innovation and industry trends that assist in the services that CHS provides.
- The steps David and his team are taking to help increase awareness of CHS and marketing their mission in Missouri.
The State Fair is an annual celebration of Missouri agriculture and related industries. Within that celebration, there is an ongoing mission to foster success in future farmers and industry leaders. One of the organizations that provides support for that mission is the Missouri State Fair Foundation. For this episode, Cliff Callis sits down with executive director Wendy Loges to learn about some of the youth events, programs, and advancements the Foundation organizes during the 11-day fair.
The Missouri State Fair Foundation is a charitable non-profit, member-based organization that supports the Missouri State Fair in resource development and cultivating the future of agriculture through preservation, education, and improvements to the fairgrounds. As the Executive Director, Wendy is one of two full-time individuals that make up the Foundation staff and is part of a 9-member executive board. A majority of the foundation events and programs are made possible by hundreds of volunteers and membership partners.
Tune in to this episode of OUTdrive to continue the “Live from the Fair” series, and find out why the Foundation is so much more than just the organization that sells water at the fair - it’s crucial to the future success of the Missouri State Fair and Missouri agriculture.
What you’ll learn:
- The role of the Missouri State Fair Foundation and its mission, “Cultivating the Future of Agriculture”
- The tiers of Missouri State Fair Foundation membership and information on how to join
- Wendy’s responsibilities as the executive director of the foundation during the fair and the rest of the year
- Examples of fair events and programs the foundation supports, including Read to Win, First-time Exhibitor Grants, No Limits Pig Show, Battle of the Barns, and others.
- Wendy’s favorite moments from the 2021 fair and past years
- A recap of the Missouri Bicentennial Ice Cream Social event
- Why the foundation is crucial to the success of the Missouri State Fair and the future of Missouri agriculture
- The major connection Hall of Famer Satchel Paige had to the 2021 fair
When it comes to firearms, accuracy is everything, and to hit your target many times, you’ll want a good set of optics. The same can be said about business. To reach a consumer, you need a marketing team with sights accurately set on your target audience. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff sits down with global marketing executive Chuck Wahr to find out what strategies companies, big and small, can use to hit their mark..
Chuck is formerly the Global Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Trijicon, a manufacturer of optics for firearms. Chuck’s successful career also includes past leadership roles in several well known consumer brand companies including Black & Decker/Dewalt, Newell-Rubbermaid & Overhead Door. Wahr earned his MBA from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Oregon. Additionally, Chuck proudly served in the US Army Infantry Division from 1987 to 1991 and completed his career as a Staff Sergeant following Operation Desert Storm. We thank him for his service. As a native American growing up in Western Michigan, Chuck became an avid hunter, trapper and fisherman, and is still a passionate outdoorsman today.
Tune in to this episode of OUTdrive to get powerful perspective from an expert in the marketing field. Chuck talks Cliff through some of his past initiatives and his insight on trends he is noticing in the industry today.
What you’ll learn:
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The difference in marketing management, tactics, and resources between large organizations and smaller companies.
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What businesses are looking for in a marketing partner and how to fulfill that role.
- Chuck’s business and life lessons from a career in marketing, including the importance of branding yourself.
- Trends Chuck is seeing in the marketing world in the midst of his current job search.
- Perspective on how marketers should be “change agents” for their business partners.
- Effective marketing tools in the industry and insight on the use of content marketing.
- An overview of Chuck’s current lifestyle in Muskegon, Michigan and his views of rural America through a marketing lens.
Though many Missourians are surrounded by agriculture everyday, the State Fair is the only time of year that goods from the whole state are together in one place. From pears to pork, hundreds of fresh and nutritious products are grown by the men and women of Missouri agriculture. As the Division Director of Business Development at the Department of Agriculture, Davin Althoff and his team take advantage of the 11-day fair to promote state vendors and support their businesses.
Davin grew up on a diversified farming operation that founded his passion for agriculture and set his career path in motion at an early age. Before entering the Division Director role at the Department of Agriculture in 2017, he held positions at the Missouri Department of Economic Development and the Missouri Beef Industry Council. Davin also owns and operates his family farm in California, Missouri with his wife and four children.
Tune in to this episode of OUTdrive, the fourth installment of the “Live From the Fair” series, as Cliff Callis sits down with Davin to discuss his team’s responsibilities during Missouri’s largest agricultural expo. Whether it’s supporting state vendors in the Missouri Grown Market or educating the youth through AgVenture, the Department of Agriculture’s presence goes beyond the walls of the Agricultural Building at the fair.
What you’ll learn:
- Details behind the Department of Agriculture’s events in the agricultural building on the fairgrounds, from the Missouri Grown Market to AgVenture education.
- How the Missouri Grown program promotes all Missouri value-added products, from rural farmers to small business owners in urban areas.
- How Davin’s farm upbringing led him to a career in agriculture.
- A look into Davin’s typical day at the fair and the many hats he wears as division director, farmer, and father.
- Insight on the Bicentennial theme and its ties to the longstanding history of showcasing Missouri agriculture at the fair.
- Marketing trends from the 2021 State Fair and the power of storytelling.
- Davin’s thoughts looking ahead to the 2022 fair and growing the attraction to the Missouri Grown market.
The Missouri State Fair offers numerous opportunities to learn about the agricultural industry in Missouri, including the state's well-established wine industry. In this episode of the "Live from the Fair" series, I sit down with Jim Anderson, Executive Director of the Missouri Wine and Grape Board.
Jim has been in his current role for over twenty five years and oversees the day-to-day operations for the Board. Since joining, he has played an integral role in the growth and success of the Missouri wine industry. The Missouri State Fair offers the opportunities to contribute to this success through education, wine tastings, one-on-one classes and more.
Join us for this episode of OUTdrive as we talk about the role wine plays in Missouri agriculture and tourism. We also discuss what's ahead for 2022 and ways Missouri locals and visitors can experience all the state has to offer.
What you’ll learn:
- New experiences and educational opportunities that the Missouri State Fair provides for wine lovers and amateurs alike
- Partnerships and how the Missouri Wine and Group Board partners with other industries and educational institutions to improve the Missouri wine industry
- The important role the wine industry plays in Missouri and how it drives economic and tourism growth
- The unique history of Missouri wine and how it has grown to what it is today
- Jim’s favorite aspects of the fair, including the opportunities to educate others and build friendships along the way
- Partnerships between the Missouri Wine Tent and other fair vendors that provide a unique experience for fairgoers
- An inside look at what Missouri Wine Country has to offer for visitors, from day trips to extended weekends
- How wineries across the state are adapting and overcoming the effects of COVID-19
If you were told to plan an event that included entertainment, food and housing options for 350,000 guests, where would you start? For Kari Mergen, marketing director of the Missouri State Fair, this event planning process happens on a yearly basis. For the second episode in OUTdrive’s “Live from the Fair” series, Cliff Callis sat down with Kari to get an inside look at the strategy behind hosting the state’s largest agricultural expo.
Kari is in her seventh year as the marketing director, but her history with the fair goes back much further. As a Green Ridge native and lifetime fair-goer, Kari’s first job was as a State Fair Farm Bureau tram hostess. She went on to earn a degree in education from University of Central Missouri, starting her career as a high school English and journalism teacher at Green Ridge. Kari joined the team at the State Fair in 2008 as a public information specialist and worked the next six years in that role before her promotion to marketing director in 2014.
From housing livestock to booking concerts to creating engaging TikTok videos, hosting an event like the Missouri State Fair is a unique planning challenge. Tune into this episode of OUTdrive as Cliff and Kari discuss all the moving parts that help make the magic of the fair come to life.
What you’ll learn:
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Kari’s day-to-day responsibilities during the fair and the rest of the year
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Kari’s history working for the fair and her path to marketing director
- The impact of social media on marketing tactics and live coverage of the fair
- How the marketing staff handles challenges related to concerts and large-scale entertainment
- Insight on the Missouri State Fair internship program
- The extent of planning that goes into events within the 11-day fair
- Kari’s reflection on pivoting the 2020 fair, takeaways from 2021 and thoughts for 2022
The Missouri State Fair only comes around once a year for 11 days. But, it takes every bit of the other 354 days of the year to make it happen. In the first installment of OUTdrive’s “Live from the Fair” series, Cliff Callis sat down with the director of the fair, Mark Wolfe, to get a better understanding of what goes into making the fair a success.
Originally from Mountain Grove, Mark moved to the area to attend college, earning a degree in agricultural business from Missouri Valley College. He went on to own and operate a construction business for nearly 20 years before joining the Missouri State Fair staff in 2004 as facilities manager. In 2009, Wolfe was promoted to director, making the 2021 fair his 12th at the helm.
Tune into this episode of OUTdrive as Cliff and Mark talk about the work, rewards, and challenges that come with putting on the state’s largest agriculture expo. They also discuss what’s already in the works for 2022, the impact of COVID-19 and the rich history and tradition of the fair.
What you’ll learn:
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Why it’s important for all Missourians to experience the Missouri State Fair
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Mark’s role and day-to-day responsibilities as director during the fair and the rest of the year.
- The effects of COVID-19, from last year’s cancellation to this year’s shortage of volunteers.
- The cost of maintaining the historical integrity of facilities and buildings on the fairgrounds.
- How the fair overcomes challenges like severe weather and entertainment changes
- Mark’s marketing insights from the 2021 fair
- How the fairgrounds generates revenue during the off-season
- Current planning and preparation for the 2022 fair
Throughout the summer, you can find corn on the cob on the dinner table in most rural American homes. But, much of the corn grown in Missouri can be found year-round in everyday products like gas, soda, and even diapers. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff Callis visits with Bradley Schad, Missouri Corn Growers Association CEO of the Missouri Corn Merchandising Council, about the power and reach of this versatile crop.
As a life-long farmer, Versailles native, and University of Missouri alum, Bradley’s agricultural roots go deep into Missouri’s soil and he is passionate about representing corn farmers across the state. Bradley’s role is dedicated to developing and expanding corn markets, educating growers and customers, and exploring new research opportunities. He works with legislators to make sure that farmers' voices are carried in the state capital and in Washington, D.C. Bradley’s duties even extend overseas, working to grow corn markets on the international level.
Midwest corn crops stretch across state lines and into global markets in several forms. Join Cliff and Bradley as they discuss all the products and resources those little yellow kernels deliver to rural America and beyond. Check it out!
What you’ll learn:
- How the Missouri Corn Growers Association and Missouri Corn Merchandising Council represent corn growers and the corn industry at the state and national level
- How the MCGA and MCMC work with federal organizations to promote and grow the corn market on an international level
- Ways the MCGA and the MCMC are educating consumers on the corn market and sharing current research
- The impact of the corn industry on product manufacturing
- The importance of ethanol and how it’s used
- New innovation and technology being used in the corn industry
- Bradley’s day-to-day role as CEO
Baseball may be America’s Pastime, but for play-by-play announcer Bill Brown, the sport spans a lifetime. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff visits with Bill about the journey from his childhood as a baseball fan in rural Missouri, all the way to the MLB broadcast booth.
Bill is a semi-retired sportscaster who spent 30 years as a play-by-play announcer for the Houston Astros from 1987 to 2016. As a veteran MLB broadcaster, Brown has been honored several times over the course of his career including a 2013 Texas Sportscaster of the Year Award by the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association. A Sedalia, Missouri native, Bill earned a degree in journalism from the University of Missouri and started his career by calling local high school and college sports in the Jefferson City area. Bill made his way to the MLB scene with the Cincinnati Reds in the 1970’s, joining the broadcast team following back-to-back World Series and NLCS titles in 1975 and 1976.
Bill shares stories about former professional players, winning and losing seasons, and what it’s like to live a day in the life of a sportscaster. Tune in to this week’s episode of OUTdrive to hear about the home runs, and strikeouts, of working in professional baseball.
What you’ll learn:
- Game-day prep work for a play-by-play announcer
- Changes in sports broadcast and marketing over the last decade
- The characteristics of a great sportscaster
- Bill’s personal encounters with baseball’s greatest players
- Lessons from the highs and lows of working in professional sports
- How to create fan engagement in losing seasons
- Bill’s advice for aspiring sportscasters
During season one of OUTdrive, we had Mark Thomas on the show to discuss crisis communications and audience segmentation. The episode aired during the early stages of the COVID pandemic, and the discussion was very insightful and well-received by audience members. For this episode, we invited Mark back on the show to discuss how he sees things changing as COVID evolves.
At the time of the previous episode, Mark was Director of Marketing and Communications for ACES in North Haven, Connecticut. During 2020, he transitioned to become Director of Marketing and Public Relations for Simplicity Engineering in Westfield, Massachusetts. Simplicity is a premier dealer for material processing equipment, service, and parts. Mark is leading the company’s marketing efforts with his expertise and knowledge to deliver results.
Listen along as Mark shares his thoughts on crisis communications and the impacts of COVID. We also discuss marketing trends, understanding customers, the rural lifestyle and more.
What you’ll learn:
- Mark’s thoughts on crisis communications during the COVID-19 pandemic
- The lasting impact of COVID on various industries
- Marketing trends including video and email to deliver a strong return on investment
- Tips for success including utilizing tools and trying new things
- The ‘4-1-1’ social media strategy and how Mark uses it in his work
- Differences between rural America and the Northeast where Mark lives
- More from Mark and Cliff about crisis management, life in rural America and more
OUTdrive has been airing each week for over a year now with this being the 61st episode. In every episode, I ask guests to share something they think others would find interesting or beneficial, and their responses are always insightful. In this episode, I chose to revisit each episode and share the quotes through a solocast.
One of my favorite parts of OUTdrive is meeting with different individuals and hearing their unique stories. Every episode is different, and every featured quote is as well. Whether it is personal or professional advice or a guiding principle they live by, I enjoy learning from others’ points of view and I hope you do as well.
Join me as I share the featured quotes from the first year of OUTdrive episodes and revisit each guest’s story along the way.
Rural American roots run deep, even when an individual no longer lives and works here. In this episode of OUTdrive, I visit with John Ashford, co-founder, Chairman and CEO of The Hawthorn Group L.C. The Hawthorne Group is an international public affairs and public relations firm that John co-founded in 1992.
John grew up in Marshall, Missouri and was enamored with politics at a young age. He first appeared on the political scene in Missouri and went on to work for members of the US House and Senate. He later spent a decade with legendary political consultant Matt Reese and gained experience through hundreds of successful political and corporate campaigns. He now leverages years of experience to provide senior counsel to Hawthorne clients across the country and around the world.
Tune in to this episode of OUTdrive as John shares his path from rural America to international affairs and the things he’s learned along the way.
What you'll learn:
- John’s experiences in state and federal government affairs and what he’s learned along the way
- How John made his way to Washington DC after growing up in a rural Missouri town
- Behind the scenes of the international public relations and affairs industry
- Stories and history of politics and communications from John’s perspective
- The importance of hard work and how "Hard work makes life easier."
- Grassroots marketing and the role it plays in John’s work
- The importance of relationships, networking and word of mouth
- More from John about growing up in rural America and discovering a love of politics at a young age
Agriculture is the backbone of rural America, and there is a significant amount of science and technology at work behind the scenes. In this episode of OUTdrive, I visit with Erin Ogle about her work in the agriculture and environmental fields and her position as the Watershed Project Coordinator for Taylor County, Iowa SWCD.
Erin is passionate about conservation and joined the Taylor County SWCD to implement the Taylor County Water Quality Initiative project in 2016. With a B.S. in Biological Systems Engineering from Kansas State University and experience in the field, she was well suited for the position. Her team partners with farmers and producers to prevent erosion, improve soil health and educate community members each step of the way. Through strategic analysis, planning and implementation, they’re improving land and water quality and fostering the growth of rural communities and businesses.
Tune in to this episode of OUTdrive as Erin shares what it’s like to partner with rural Americans to improve their operations and foster growth for years to come.
What you'll learn:
- The importance of water quality and soil preservation in agriculture operations
- How Erin and her team partner with farmers and producers to improve their operations while also improving the environment
- Innovative tools and technologies used in the Water Quality Initiative project
- Erin’s passion for agriculture and rural America and how she lives out her passion every day
- The importance of strategic planning and implementing a plan in manageable steps
- How Erin communicates with the farmers and producers she works with, including mail, newspaper and word-of-mouth
- The success of the Water Quality Initiative project and expected growth moving forward
- Erin’s favorite aspects of living and working in rural America
The work ethic of rural Americans stretches beyond fields and businesses into art galleries and museums across the country. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff Callis visits with professional artist Doug Freed on his impact on the art culture in the Midwest. Doug is a profound artist, the former head of the State Fair Community College art department and founding director of the Daum Museum of Contemporary Art in Sedalia, Missouri.
Doug is represented by galleries in several U.S. cities, including New York City, Boston, Miami, Houston, St. Louis and Kansas City. Doug’s artwork is currently featured in six different Missouri museum collections throughout the state. His skillset has been commissioned by many corporations, including the Federal Reserve Bank in Kansas City, Emerson Electric and Sachs Properties. Proclamations from the Missouri Senate and House of Representatives have recognized him for his profound contributions to the cultural and artistic climate of the state.
Tune in to this episode as Doug takes listeners from his humble beginnings as an elementary art student in small-town Kansas to a solo exhibitor in New York City.
What you'll learn:
- Doug’s influence on the robust arts culture of rural America
- Community acceptance of the contemporary art scene
- Founding roots and history of the Daum Museum of Contemporary Art
- Inner workings of artist galleries and exhibitions
- How the beauty and landscape of rural America influenced Doug’s artistic style
- Advice for young artists looking to gain exposure in the Midwest
Nature is part of what makes rural Missouri so special, and few people know that as well as Tabitha Schmidt, this week’s guest on OUTdrive. As Executive Director and President of Powell Gardens, Tabitha gets to help showcase the beauty of nature year-round.
With a deep appreciation and passion for art and the outdoors, Tabitha loves sharing the history and experience of Powell Gardens with others. As Powell Gardens turns 33 this year, Tabitha continues to share the Powell family’s mission of embracing the Midwest’s spirit of place and share an appreciation for the importance of plants in our lives.
Tune in to this episode of OUTdrive as Cliff and Tabitha take a look at the hard work and planning that goes into maintaining and improving every aspect of the Gardens. They also discuss the importance of marketing, navigating the challenges of COVID-19 and plans for the future.
What you'll learn:
- How Tabitha and the Powell Gardens team are embracing the Midwest’s spirit of place and sharing an appreciation for the importance of plans in our lives
- The importance of learning, challenging yourself and working as a team
- Strategic planning for the future and how the team is making plans a reality
- The three pillars of the Gardens: beautiful display, solid education and conservation
- How community feedback and involvement play a vital role in the future of the Gardens
- The effects of COVID-19 on the Gardens and how they are transitioning into 2021
- Opportunities to get involved and volunteer at the Gardens
- More on what’s new at the Gardens and what you can look forward to as 2021 continues
Age range, gender, income - these are the demographics marketers have built their business on for years. However, those traditional categories ignore the most important part of the buying process: the complexity of human behavior and decision making. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff visits with Susan Baier for an in-depth look into using quantitative attitudinal audience segmentation research to serve clients.
Susan is the head honcho at Audience Audit, a research company that specializes in thought leadership, audience segmentation and brand equity. She developed her expertise in audience-based marketing research over more than 30 years in marketing strategy, product and brand management, research, and strategic planning. Susan has an MBA in Entrepreneurship and Marketing and has held senior positions at Fortune 100 and Fortune 500 firms, as well as marketing agencies.
Tune in to this week’s episode of OUTdrive to understand integrated marketing from Susan’s perspective. We dive into research based on human complexity, a layer of consumers that your traditional demographics are missing. You don’t want to miss it!
What you'll learn:
- What is quantitative attitudinal audience segmentation research and what can it do for your business
- Why traditional demographics of age, gender, and income are no longer working
- Susan’s advice on developing a thought leadership plan
- Utilizing the personas that audience segmentation research can outline for you
- Pinning down the “why” before starting new research
- What qualities make a good researcher and how to wield bias as a tool
- Susan’s advice for young professionals and entrepreneurs taking those first steps
- Industry insight on the “rural migration,” and how marketing has evolved in the wake of the pandemic
In the last few years, communications professionals are riding the new wave of podcasts across audio streaming services. With over 2 million shows to choose from, there is a podcast for anyone and everyone, including rural Americans. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff Callis chats with Sarah Arnett, a Marketing Coordinator at Callis. Sarah is one of the key team members behind the podcast, and she gives a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to produce each episode.
Sarah started as a marketing intern at Callis while earning a degree in Public Relations at the University of Central Missouri. She dove headfirst into the digital side of the industry, and since joining the team full time, has become the primary producer of OUTdrive. Cliff talks to Sarah about the rewards, and challenges, that come with creating a weekly podcast.
Tune in as Cliff and Sarah dive into the makings of the OUTdrive podcast, and what it takes to stand out amongst a sea of episodes. They also discuss Sarah’s rural Kansas roots and how growing up in a farming family instilled the values she carries into her day-to-day responsibilities as Marketing Coordinator.
What you'll learn:
- Statistical data on the growing world of podcasts across audio streaming platforms
- What goes into creating a consistent, quality-based podcast
- Why marketers to rural America should be sharing their expertise with their target audience
- The importance of producing content that is reliable and relevant to consumers
- Sarah’s advice on new technology and turning projects into learning opportunities
- Insight from Sarah’s trip to the Agency Management Institute digital summit
- Fresh perspectives for marketing professionals and career lessons for young professionals in their respective fields
Trade shows and events are coming back, but they look a little different than they have in the past. In this episode of OUTdrive, I visit with Scott Hanna about trade shows after COVID-19 and industry trends in 2021. Scott is the Vice President of Sales for Skyline E3 and E3 interactive. Together, these companies provide unforgettable experiences through exhibits, events and environments.
Scott joined the Skyline E3 team over 16 years ago and has demonstrated his expertise as VP of sales. The trade show industry is a natural fit for him, and he works with his team to deliver exceptional results for every client. Scott received his MBA in finance and bachelor of science degree in journalism from the University of Kansas. He went on to gain experience in publishing and insurance before joining Skyline. The company founded E3 interactive in 2020, and Scott is VP of sales for both companies. Whether it is a large exhibit or a small company event, Scott and his team exceed expectations every time.
Tune in as Cliff and Scott discuss the impacts of COVID-19 on trade shows and how Skyline E3 and E3 interactive adapted to COVID-19. They also discuss trade show trends in 2021 and take a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to create a great experience. Check it out!
What you'll learn:
- How COVID-19 impacted trade shows and events in 2020
- Trends for trade shows and events in 2021 and how you can leverage them for success
- The strategic process required to create an unforgettable exhibit experience
- The use of technology and interactive experiences to connect with customers
- More on how Scott’s team gathers design inspiration to create captivating exhibits
- What to expect as trade shows return to their normal schedules going into 2022
- Marketing trends in 2021 that Scott sees complimenting the trade show industry
- More about what Scott enjoys about life and work in rural America
The communications industry is constantly changing, and educators are adapting curriculum to meet the needs of employers. In this episode of OUTdrive, I visit with Dr. Joe Moore about educating today's communications professionals. Joe is a professor of digital media production at the University of Central Missouri (UCM), and he is passionate about teaching future generations.
Joe worked in collegiate sports information for over 16 years. He received his PhD from Colorado State University and went on to accept a position with UCM. His expertise and knowledge make him a valuable asset to his students and fellow faculty. Joe recognizes changes in the industry and has adapted his curriculum to prepare students to enter the job market. Whether it is writing a piece for a print newspaper or directing a movie, students develop a diverse skill set to help them succeed in any job.
Tune in as Cliff and Joe take a behind-the-scenes look at educating today’s communications professionals and how it continues to change. They also discuss how job preparedness starts in the classroom, transferable skills for success in life and work and Joe’s passion for education. Check it out!
What you'll learn:
- How the communications profession is changing and how educators are adapting
- The importance of cross-platform education and training
- Transferable skills that prepare students to enter the workforce and succeed in any position
- Building a strong foundation and focusing on process over product
- More on what employers are looking for when hiring employees and how these needs continue to change
- Joe’s thoughts on learning how to learn and how educators play a vital role
- Life lessons and keys to success in life, work and education
- More from Joe about his passion for education and what drives him each and every day
Clean energy sources are increasingly popular in today’s society, and the mobile power industry is an area in which many are working to improve. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff visits with Chuck Justus, founder of Evergreen Mobile Power and Green2Go Rental Power, about innovation in the mobile power industry and strategically filling gaps in the marketplace.
Chuck has always been interested in mechanical and electrical engineering and gained experience with Fabick Power Systems, where he played a vital role in implementing large-scale power systems. During his time with the company, he recognized a need for cleaner alternatives for mobile power supply and founded Evergreen Mobile Power. He began developing innovative, environmentally friendly portable power systems and hasn’t looked back. Today, his two companies offer mobile power and lighting solutions to meet a variety of needs.
Tune in as Cliff and Chuck discuss eco-friendly alternatives to traditional power sources and the challenge of increasing brand awareness in a unique niche. They also discuss the effects of COVID-19 on the mobile power industry, the many applications for Evergreen Mobile Power and Green2Go Rental Power products and what the future of power looks like. Check it out!
What you'll learn:
- What inspired Chuck to start his own company and create cleaner, more efficient power sources
- The importance of conducting market research and finding solutions to meet gaps in different industries
- More about the innovative products that Evergreen Mobile Power and Green2Go Rental Power offer customers today
- Insight into the trial and error process that Chuck has gone through while developing new products
- Creative ways to increase brand awareness and challenge the status quo
- The effects of COVID-19 on the mobile power industry and the exciting things in store for 2021
- A behind-the-scenes look at the history and family values that Chuck built his businesses upon
- More about new products and continuous innovation in the mobile power industry
Becoming a successful sales professional is a challenge that requires extensive knowledge, a unique skill set and a drive to succeed. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff visits with Greg Martinelli about the psychology of sales and learning how to close the deal.
Greg has spent the last 28 years as a leader in agricultural sales and is the founder of Ag Sales Professionals. Working out in the field, Greg learned the importance of understanding the personality of others and leveraging this knowledge to effectively sell. Along the way, he recognized the need for industry training. He gathered what he learned and now shares his insights with other sales professionals as a coach, speaker and trainer. He is passionate about sharing his knowledge and helping others succeed.
Tune in as Cliff and Greg discuss the power of personality-based selling, the skills of a great salesperson and the importance of integrating sales and marketing effectively. They also dive into sales and marketing trends in 2021 and how Greg has found success as a sales professional and business owner. Check it out!
What you'll learn:
- How to leverage knowledge about psychology and personalities to be an effective sales professional
- The importance of understanding your own personality and how it can help you relate to others
- Tips for starting your own business and planning for sustainable growth
- More about how Greg leverages the DiSC personality test in his personal experience and training sessions
- What makes a great sales professional, including organization and effective customer segmentation
- Insights into integrating sales and marketing efforts and the importance of working as a team
- Marketing and sales trends in 2021, including the power of digital marketing and the potential of social media
- More from Greg about what he enjoys most about his job and how he continues to connect with sales professionals around the world
Video marketing is one of the most effective ways to connect with audiences in today’s digital world. It enables companies to connect with viewers through powerful storytelling. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff visits with T.J. Kilian about effective video marketing.
T.J. is the founder, president and executive producer of KJO Media, a full service video production company. T.J. discovered his passion for visual storytelling in high school, when he was moved by the journalism coverage of the Gulf War. He earned a bachelor of science degree in broadcast journalism from the University of Kansas and gained experience in several industries before pursuing his passion and starting his own company. Today, he leads the KJO Media team to help clients tell their best stories through video.
Tune in as Cliff and T.J. discuss components of effective video marketing and how you can connect with audiences through visual storytelling. They also discuss industry trends, the prominence of video in marketing and everyday life and share some tips for running a successful business along the way. Check it out!
What you'll learn:
- Effective video marketing strategies and how you can reach audiences through visual storytelling
- The role video plays in everyday life and how it has become an integral component of marketing
- Trends in video marketing, including new ways to leverage it, changes in equipment and motion graphics
- Components of a great video and how your team can strategically incorporate the elements to create engaging videos
- How T.J. discovered his passion for visual storytelling and pursued a career in the industry
- More about reaching audiences in rural America through captivating visuals
- Tips from T.J. on founding and successfully operating your own business
- Life lessons and rewarding experiences that T.J. learned from growing up in rural America
Whether it was helping on the farm or going to the county fair, Mark Wolfe grew up enjoying the rural way of life. His early years prepared him for his current role as Director of the Missouri State Fair, where he strategically leads the efforts behind the greatest ten days of Missouri summer.
Growing up on a farm, Mark loved agriculture but knew he wanted to take a different career path. He earned a degree in agricultural business from Missouri Valley College, where he was also a member of the intercollegiate baseball team. After graduation, he pursued his interest in construction and began working for a local contractor building custom homes. He went on to begin and successfully operate his own construction business for 18 years before his passion for the construction and architecture led him to join the Missouri State Fair team as Facilities Manager. As the current Missouri State Fair Director, Mark oversees all aspects of the fair. Whether it is working with the marketing department, helping the grounds crew to ensure campgrounds are ready or improving buildings throughout the fairgrounds, Mark is keeping the tradition and pride of the Missouri State Fair alive.
Join Cliff Callis and Mark Wolfe as they discuss the unforgettable experience of the fair, how the annual event has evolved over the years and how the team continues to adapt to connect with today’s fairgoer. They also discuss what’s in store for the upcoming year, the impact of COVID-19 and the rich history and tradition of the fair. Check it out!
What you'll learn:
- A behind-the-scenes look at the year-round planning and preparation needed to make the Missouri State Fair a success
- The unique experience of the fair and how it offers something for everyone
- Little-known history and best kept secrets of the fair
- The unique infrastructure and architecture of the Missouri State Fairgrounds and how the grounds are utilized throughout the year for a variety of events
- Insight into how the Missouri State Fair is partnering with the Missouri Bicentennial Alliance to celebrate the Missouri Bicentennial
- How COVID-19 affected the 2020 fair and how the team successfully pivoted to the fair’s roots of a traditional youth livestock show
- What you can expect for the 2021 fair as the team plans for the biggest year yet
- More about the tradition and pride that set the foundation for fairs across the country
Brad Pollitt is a long-time rural Missourian who represents his neighbors and community as a Missouri State Representative for District 52, which includes parts of Johnson and Pettis counties. A rural American himself, Brad understands the needs of the communities and individuals he represents and leads with their best interests in mind.
Growing up in a small community, Brad was very involved in sports and credits his parents and coaches for pushing him to succeed. He wanted to continue the lasting impact his coaches had on him and pursued a career in education to become a coach and educator himself. For 34 years, Brad served in various roles including teacher, coach, principal, assistant superintendent and superintendent throughout the Sedalia 200 school district. When he retired from his career in education, he pursued a career in government. He was elected to his first two-year term as Missouri State Representative in November 2018 and continues to represent his community today. In addition to his legislative duties, Brad is the owner and operator of Rocher P. Cattle Company and can be found on the farm or with his family.
Join Cliff Callis and Brad Pollitt as they discuss what it’s like to represent the people of rural America, current legislation, family values and rural economic development and education. They also share some life lessons from rural America, including a strong work ethic and effective leadership strategies. Check it out!
What you'll learn:
- An inside look at current legislation, including agriculture, education and rural community development
- Representing the people of rural America and what it looks like day-to-day for Brad
- The power of community and how Brad strives to represent his communities’ and neighbors’ best interests
- More about Brad’s experience growing up in rural America and the impact his parents, teachers and coaches had on his career in education
- The importance of family values and a strong work ethic and the role they play in rural communities
- How the COVID-19 pandemic affected legislation and what it means going forward
- An inside look at Brad’s life as a cattle farm owner and operator and what he loves most about it
- Life lessons to help you be an effective leader, friend, community member and family member
Jeff Moore grew up on his family farm and has been in the agricultural industry his entire life. His passion and experiences enable him to excel in his role as strategic sales director for Farm Progress, one of America’s most trusted sources for agricultural news and information.
Jeff learned many life lessons on the farm and has developed a lifelong passion for agriculture along the way. While in college, he explored various career paths before returning to his roots and earning his bachelor’s degree in agriculture business from the University of Missouri. He began his career and gained finance and agricultural seed sales experience while earning his MBA from Columbia College. Armed with knowledge and experience, Jeff joined Learfield News as an account executive in the news and agriculture division, where he helped clients throughout the midwest successfully reach their target audiences. In his current role with Farm Progress, Jeff works with clients across the nation to identify their needs and develop multi-media marketing plans to effectively engage rural American audiences.
Join Cliff Callis and Jeff Moore as they discuss how the Farm Progress team effectively connects with rural American audiences through multi-media marketing and multiple touchpoints, the importance of evolving to meet customer needs and leveraging data to deliver relevant communications. They also talk about media consumption trends in rural America and the importance of finding a work-life balance. Check it out!
What you'll learn:
- The value of multi-media marketing when communicating with rural audiences
- An inside look at the integrated approach of Farm Progress and how leveraging industry events set them apart
- Effective methods to reach rural audiences and why you should be including print in your marketing materials
- More on developing a strategic marketing plan that is tailored to the needs of your audience instead of a one-size-fits-all approach
- The importance of listening and understanding before responding
- Understanding customers and the importance of evolving over time to meet their needs
- How Farm Progress has grown and remained one of the most trusted sources of agricultural information for over a century
- More from Jeff about personal and professional growth and life in rural America
Shawn Wozniak is an outdoor enthusiast that loves the rural lifestyle. His passions make him a great fit for his role of MEC Outdoors manager at Mayville Engineering Company. Known for its exceptional quality and service, MEC Outdoors is a leading manufacturer of shotshell reloaders, clay target machines, metallic reloaders and accessory products.
Shawn grew up in Wisconsin and his love for the outdoors began at an early age, spending his time in the woods or on the water every chance he had. This passion led him to earn a degree in conservation from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, where he also played intercollegiate baseball. After graduation, Shawn gained experience as a firearms salesman at Cabela’s before accepting a position at MEC Outdoors. Since joining the team over ten years ago, he has played an integral role in the growth and success of the company, leading the charge to sell products around the world. While the company has expanded and Shawn’s role has evolved, the team remains true to connecting with customers on a personal level and providing the best experience possible.
Join Cliff Callis and Shawn Wozniak as they discuss how MEC Outdoors effectively reaches customers through lifestyle marketing with a grassroots approach, the value of sharing interests and passions with customers and growing a business with complementary products. They also discuss effectively reaching the next generation and the effects of COVID-19 on the supply chain and marketing. Check it out!
What you'll learn:
- The value of having a passion for your brand’s products and industry
- The power of lifestyle marketing and enabling customers to envision themselves using your brand’s products
- Effective grassroots marketing and connecting with customers at industry events
- Connecting with customers over shared interests and hobbies
- What marketing to the next generation of customers looks like and the role social media plays
- More on growing a business with complementary products and how MEC Outdoors has capitalized on new opportunities
- How MEC Outdoors has navigated the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the supply chain and marketing
- More from Shawn on what he enjoys most about the rural lifestyle
Steven Burger is the president and third-generation owner of the Burger family to operate Burgers’ Smokehouse, a company that has withstood the test of time because of its family values, hard work and innovation.
In 1927, Steven’s grandfather began curing country hams using his mother’s proven recipe from Germany. The business steadily grew over the years, and their ham house was built in the 1950s. Steven’s father and grandfather continued to expand the business by adopting new technologies and methods. Today, Steven and his family are continuing to build upon this foundation and preparing the business for generations to come. The company continues to grow through new technologies, acquisitions, digital marketing, direct mail and good old-fashioned hard work.
Join Cliff Callis and Steven Burger as they discuss how Burgers’ Steakhouse has blended new technology with rural American integrity, the evolution of the mail-order business and integrating direct mail with digital technology. They also dive into what it’s like to grow a family business, the opportunities in rural America and the importance of evolving over the years. Check it out!
What you'll learn:
- Adopting innovative technologies for business growth
- The evolution of the mail-order business and how it has contributed to the success of Burgers’ Smokehouse
- The opportunities and challenges of growing a family business in rural America
- Integrating direct mail with digital technology and how they work hand in hand at the core of Burgers’ business to drive sales and deliver results
- Long-term benefits of continuously implementing new technologies as they become available and affordable
- Building a working environment where generations of employees want to be involved in the success of the business
- More about the unique opportunities available in rural America today
- More on how Burgers’ Smokehouse has withstood the test of time by remaining true to its family values
In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff discusses effectively managing the sales funnel and strategic planning in a quick solocast. With the business environment ever changing, you never know what can happen, meaning it’s more important than ever to remain open to new ideas and plan for the future. Listen in as Cliff shares insights into recognizing and effectively managing opportunities, nurturing relationships, strategic planning and tools you can implement to help your business achieve sustainable growth.
What you'll learn:
- Insights into the changing business landscape and the importance of remaining informed and aware
- Effectively managing the sales funnel and tips for engaging your audience at every stage in their journey
- The importance of strategic planning and insights you can apply to build an effective plan
- Cliff’s thoughts on ‘you never know’ and how it applies to every area of business, including employees, prospective clients, current clients and additional opportunities
- Tools to help you effectively build and nurture relationships, including marketing automation and strategic content
- Maintaining an open mind and positive outlook and the impacts it has on business
- The importance of remaining consistent and providing value to prospective clients, even when the future is uncertain
Michael Sweeney is passionate about state and local history and the power it has to establish common bonds and bring folks together. He shares this passion as the Missouri State Bicentennial Coordinator for The State Historical Society of Missouri (SHSMO). The Missouri Bicentennial provides an occasion for celebrating and exploring the rich history and culture of Missouri while enjoying it in the present and looking forward to the future.
A lifelong history buff with a breadth of experience and knowledge, Michael is perfectly positioned to spearhead Missouri Bicentennial efforts. He grew up in Kansas City, Missouri and was interested in a career in academia from an early age. He earned a master’s degree in library and information science from the University of Missouri before earning a doctorate in American studies from the University of Kansas. His education and interests led him to positions including staff historian and senior research specialist at the Kansas City Research Center and director of collections at the American Jazz Museum in Kansas City before rejoining SHSMO to lead Missouri Bicentennial efforts. In addition to planning this year’s celebration, Michael remains interested in academia and identifying common bonds between individuals and communities alike.
Hear Michael and Cliff’s thoughts on the power of market research and the role it has played in the Missouri Bicentennial, as well as the extensive planning that set the foundation for Missouri Bicentennial events and activities. They’ll also discuss diversity in Missouri and across rural America and the importance of common bonds to build connections.
What you'll learn:
- How the Missouri Bicentennial team leveraged the power of market research to strategically develop and position Missouri’s Bicentennial celebration
- An inside look at the extensive planning required to make the Missouri Bicentennial celebration a success and tips you can implement for your next event
- The importance of understanding your audience and how Michael and his team are working to engage individuals across the state
- Insight into the activities and events planned for the Missouri Bicentennial and how you can be a part of the celebration
- Unique stories and examples from Michael from the process of planning this year’s celebration
- Michael’s thoughts on the importance of giving people the option to participate in a way that is easy and exciting for them
- The importance of building bridges every step of the way and how to leverage those connections for mutual benefit
- More on diversity in Missouri and across rural America and the common bonds found throughout
Thomas MacAulay is an experienced marketing professional who is passionate about continuous growth to deliver optimal results for his organization and his industry. As Executive Director and CEO of the Professional Outdoor Media Association (POMA), Thomas is committed to fostering and excelling the outdoor media space through a variety of creative and effective strategies.
Thomas grew up in Sacramento, California and enjoyed spending his time in the field, mountains, river, ocean and anywhere in between. His family moved to Atlanta, Georgia when Thomas was a teenager and his love of the outdoors stayed with him. He attended American River College and began his career at The Home Depot. He stayed with the company for over 10 years, taking advantage of countless opportunities to learn new skills and grow as an individual and professional.
Thomas later accepted a position with BPI Outdoors as a customer service representative and advanced to several positions before ending his time with the company as Marketing Manager. Continuously striving for growth, Thomas accepted his current position with POMA and now oversees many aspects of the organization, including membership recruitment and retention, community and public relations, financial, tax and risk management and more.
Hear Cliff and Thomas’ thoughts on engaging audiences through experiences and the importance of strategic communications to promote meaningful dialogue. They also discuss planning for long-term growth, the effectiveness of print media and integrated marketing and communicating with rural audiences in urban areas. Check it out!
What you'll learn:
- Effective and strategic communication and the importance of two-way dialogue for engagement
- The importance of doing whatever it takes and continuously challenging yourself to learn something new
- Adapting and pivoting to provide value for your audience, even during challenging times
- Thomas’ thoughts on always being eager to step up to the plate and take on new things
- The importance of planning for long-term business success, especially when business is good
- Insight into the outdoor space and how businesses and marketers are adapting to the changing environment
- Effective communication strategies to reach rural Americans and the value of incorporating traditional mediums with new technologies
- More on the rural American lifestyle and those who live it, no matter their geographic location
Dr. Andrew McCrea is the creator of the daily radio program “The American Countryside,” which is heard on over 100 radio stations and satellite nationwide. Andrew’s TV broadcasts are seen on weekends on RFD-TV. “The American Countryside” has won five Oscars for rural and agricultural broadcasting.
Andrew is also the owner of McCrea Farms, keynote speaker for leadership training and author of five award-winning books on life and leadership. Andrew is an expert in the field of communications media, interpersonal motivation and environmental team building. He loves communicating and building up people and their communities through storytelling.
Andrew grew up on a farm in Northwest, Missouri. After obtaining his degree in agriculture at the University of Missouri, he returned home to the 4,000-acre family farm. Agriculture was, and still is a very important part of his life. Although he did not study communications in college, he became the expert that he is through his life experiences, internships, and his time serving as a national FFA officer.
Andrew talks about the value of hard work and how he received the best life lessons growing up on the farm from two of the best communicators he knew, his grandfathers. He is able to balance his many endeavors by making time work for him, not working for time. While on the road speaking, interviewing for the podcast, and even out on the farm, Andrew uses time to his advantage to accomplish all that he does.
Join Cliff Callis and Dr. Andrew McCrea as they discuss sharing the stories of rural America and turning the ordinary into the extraordinary. They also dive into the topic of how anyone has the ability to be the media, accountability in marketing and communications and influencer marketing in rural America. Check it out!
What you'll learn:
- More insight from Andrew on the concept of turning the ordinary into the extraordinary
- The opportunities of growing up in rural America
- Insight into how anyone can be the media with the digital tools and platforms available today
- The importance of accountability in marketing and communications and the value of a reference from a trusted friend
- The power of influencer marketing in rural America
- How website and online marketing allows anyone to get involved in agriculture
- The advantages of rural America becoming more connected.
- Opportunities available in rural America in the growing direct-to-consumer market
- The importance of listening and the impact it has creating engaging stories
Chris Pyle is a hardworking and down-to-earth guy that has many interests in life, including educating students that have special needs, the rodeo industry and ranching. Chris is an assistant superintendent for the Sedalia, Missouri 200 school district, as well as a rodeo announcer and rancher. No matter how busy he may be, he makes a difference in the lives of others and remains humble every step of the way.
Chris was just 11 years old when his grandfather took him to his first rodeo camp. He immediately fell in love with the sport and continued to attend camps to gain the skills needed to obtain a competitive edge. His work paid off as he claimed three Missouri high school state championships in bull riding and continued to compete in college. While recovering from an injury sustained during an event, Chris was introduced to rodeo announcing by a friend and he recognized the opportunity to continue his love of the sport. Throughout his rodeo career, he has received 29 Finals Announcer and Announcer of the Year awards, including 17 trips to the NFPB (National Federation of Professional Bullriders) finals. In addition to rodeo, Chris is passionate about the family ranching operation, his career in education and enjoying the rural way of life with his wife and kids.
Hear Cliff and Chris' thoughts on effective communication strategies to reach rural Americans, the rodeo industry and competition, and the impact it has had on Chris’ life. They’ll also discuss his unique ranching operation raising professional bucking bulls and his career as an educator. Check it out!
What you'll learn:
- Effective communication strategies to reach rural American audiences, including video, social media and integrated marketing
- Life lessons and core values that Chris gained from rodeo and continues to live by today
- The importance of learning how to lose, and the lessons that are taught through sports
- Insight into successfully balancing multiple interests in different areas of life
- The story of Chris’ introduction to rodeo and how he continued to advance in the sport
- Strategies Chris uses to reach customers as the owner and operator of a ranching operation raising professional bucking bulls
- The importance of family and the role they play in the success of rural Americans
- More on the rural American mindset and what it means to those who live, work and play her
Caroline has been a farm girl her entire life and has made it her life’s passion to share her experiences with others. She is the founder of The Farm Story, which educates others about the agriculture industry through podcasts, social media, blog and other content. She is committed to combating misinformation and providing an inside look at what life on the farm truly looks like.
Caroline was raised on her family beef farm in rural Missouri. Like many youth in rural communities, she spent her mornings caring for livestock before heading off to school each day. Growing up, she was heavily involved in 4-H and FFA, as well as an avid softball player. Passionate about the sport, she attended William Woods University to continue playing and to pursue a degree in communications. While at college, she began sharing her stories from the farm with peers and she recognized the need for agricultural education. She set out to tell her story and later founded The Farm Story, sharing her own experiences and encouraging others to share their farm stories as well. She now stays busy working on the farm, managing The Farm Story and connecting with others across America.
Hear Cliff and Caroline’s thoughts on the importance of education and how Caroline reaches and engages her audiences through entertaining content. They also discuss entrepreneurship, podcast growth, social media strategies and what’s ahead for The Farm Story. Check it out!
What you'll learn:
- The importance of education to combat misconceptions and misinformation
- The value of sharing personal stories to provide an accurate and truthful look into the agricultural industry
- An inside at look how The Farm Story came to be and what Caroline sees ahead
- Social media strategies Caroline uses and why they are effective to reach and engage audiences
- The importance of meeting people’s desire to be entertained and creating content that meets these needs while educating and inspiring
- How COVID-19 has impacted The Farm Story and Caroline’s opportunities to educate others in person
- Insight into the growth of podcasts, including the opportunity to provide educational content and allow listeners to tune in on their own terms
- The importance of starting a simple conversation and two-way communications
- More about starting and managing a business and how Caroline continues to plan for the future
John Simmons is passionate about his community and he shares this passion through his work every day. As Community Development Director for the city of Sedalia, Missouri, John is integral to creating a business-friendly environment to drive development and redevelopment efforts throughout the community.
John’s passion for his community began early in life and continues to grow. Throughout his youth, he was interested in the downtown Sedalia area, noticing how businesses operated and changed over the years, as well as the details that made them unique. After earning a degree in marketing and advertising from Arizona State University, John became the Director of Main Street Sedalia. He went on to gain experience in other communities, including Glenwood Springs, Colorado and Springfield, Missouri before returning to Sedalia and accepting his current position. In his free time, John enjoys being involved in the community and enjoying life with his friends, family and four-legged friends.
Hear more from John and Cliff on business and community development, the value of the rural American workforce and effective messaging strategies to reach rural audiences. They also discuss growth and collaboration with a common-sense approach and take a look ahead toward what’s happening in rural communities. Check it out!
What you'll learn:
- Why rural America is a great place for businesses to plant roots and position themselves for growth
- An inside look at what’s happening in the city of Sedalia and other rural communities
- Values and traits of the rural workforce and the vital role they play in business development
- How John and his team create a pro-business environment to recruit new companies and support existing ones
- The importance of collaboration for sustainable community growth
- Insights into how John’s team navigated the COVID-19 pandemic and what they anticipate as we transition to a post-COVID environment
- Effective messaging strategies to reach rural audiences
- More tips for balancing work and life and the importance of having fun along the way
Dana leads a successful career in marketing and public relations and is currently an Account Supervisor at Callis. She thrives on creativity and precision to effectively communicate client brand stories as well as playing a lead role on key accounts and projects in the agency.
An avid storyteller and experienced marketer, Dana is passionate about connecting with others through the power of words. Throughout her youth, she enjoyed reading and writing and knew it would play an integral role in her future career. She attended the University of Central Missouri, where she pursued a degree in public relations and gained experience writing for the university newspaper. Before joining the Callis team, she served as Executive Director of Marketing and Communications at State Fair Community College, where she started and grew the marketing department and played an integral role in building and promoting the brand for nearly 18 years. Dana fills her spare time enjoying the rural way of life with her husband and her Golden Retriever Finn.
Hear Cliff and Dana’s thoughts on the art of storytelling, effective storytelling frameworks and utilizing storytelling across a variety of platforms. They also discuss how well-crafted stories tie into the customer journey, how they resonate with human nature, as well as the importance of remaining curious in marketing. Check it out!
What you'll learn:
- The art of storytelling and how it ties into the customer journey
- Why stories appeal to human nature and how to leverage strategic storytelling in communications
- Tips for cultivating stories from daily opportunities, no matter how small they seem
- Effective frameworks of storytelling, including the hero’s journey, the Pixar formula and the buyer’s journey and how they can be integrated into your communications
- Tips on effectively telling stories across a variety of platforms to effectively reach your audiences
- The importance of remaining curious in marketing and the role it plays in storytelling, especially during the interview process
- Insight into Dana’s career in marketing and public relations and the experiences she has gained along the way
- More about life in rural America and the stories to be uncovered by those who live, work and play here
James Greer is committed to providing quality products and services in the oil and gas industry. As Senior Vice President of Supply and Transportation for MFA Oil Company, James helps to fuels rural America by leading the company’s supply department, including refinery output and propane procurement, as well as mergers and acquisitions.
James became familiar with the oil and gas industry at an early age, learning from his father and grandfather who worked in the industry. Interested in both business and agriculture, he attended Oklahoma State University where he studied agricultural economics. Introduced to MFA Oil through his grandfather, James joined the company as a training agent shortly after graduation. Throughout his career, he’s held several leadership positions within the company, including Western Region Vice President and Vice President of Supply and Government affairs. In addition to his role with MFA Oil, James serves on industry boards including Missouri Propane Research and Education Council (MOPERC) and Missouri Petroleum Marketers and Convenience Store Association (MPCA).
Hear more from James and Cliff on career longevity, what it takes to keep rural America running smoothly and how life has changed in rural communities. They also discuss what’s ahead for energy infrastructure and how rural businesses and communities must blend old school values and new technology together to keep moving forward. Check it out!
What you'll learn:
- An inside look at what it takes to keep rural America running smoothly
- How to navigate challenges throughout your career and tips for career longevity
- Insight into legislation that James and MFA Oil have a vested interest in and what’s ahead for energy infrastructure
- The importance of quality products and services and the power of a personal recommendation
- Insight into how rural American communities and businesses can find success by combining old school values with new technology
- More about how rural America is changing and some creative incentives to continue to grow and develop communities
- The importance of always wanting to learn and gain additional knowledge
- Perseverance, integrity and other rural American core values that James lives by
Aric Snyder Jr. is the third generation of family leadership for Inter-State Studio and Publishing, Co. As President and CEO, Aric is passionate about working with his team to utilize new technologies and strategies to lead the company into the future while remaining true to its rich history and core values.
Growing up in rural Missouri, Aric learned the importance of a strong worth ethic at an early age, watching and learning as his family ran the business that his grandfather founded in 1933. Interested in a career in business himself, Aric received his undergraduate degree in business administration from Drury University. After graduating, he began his career with Inter-State with positions in field and territory management before transitioning into leadership roles in sales and marketing. He was later named Vice President of Marketing and Business Development before stepping into his current role of President and CEO. Outside of work, Aric enjoys spending time with his family and being outdoors enjoying the rural way of life.
Hear more from Aric and Cliff on leveraging artificial intelligence as a new way to do business, advances in digital tools and technology and managing uncertainties in business. They also discuss the importance of communication and trust in rural America, the benefits of a positive work environment and the power of a simple smile. Check it out!
What you'll learn:
- The value of artificial intelligence (AI) and how Inter-State utilizes it to achieve maximum efficiency and accuracy
- More about how Aric and his team have adapted to changes in digital tools and technology and how it has benefitted their business
- The value of a positive work environment and how it contributes to a high-performing and effective team
- An inside look at how Inter-State builds its own technology and processes to fit its unique needs
- More on how Aric’s business has changed since its founding but remains very much the same
- Insight into managing uncertainties in business, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic
- Effective strategies to reach consumers including integrating direct mail with online and email marketing
- Aric’s thoughts on the importance of trust and communication in business and throughout rural America
Paul Dick is an experienced and driven operations professional that knows what it takes to meet the needs of the marketplace. As Operations Leader of Industrial Technologies & Services (ITS) Americas at Ingersoll Rand, Paul partners with businesses, communities, and colleagues to help lead the company to success.
A rural Missouri native, Paul grew up the son of an electrical contractor and was interested in the industry from an early age. His interest led him to attend the University of Central Missouri, where he earned his undergraduate degree in industrial engineering technology and his master’s degree in industrial management. He began his career with Gardner Denver Sedalia during college and continued to climb the ranks. Today, he leads operations for ITS Americas at Ingersoll Rand, which merged with Gardner Denver in 2020. Outside of work, Paul is very involved in his community and enjoys spending time with his family.
Hear more from Paul and Cliff on the value of investing in workforce development, maximizing efficiency through process improvements and the value of strategic partnerships. They also discuss the importance of thinking and acting like an owner, digital connections and core values of the rural American workforce that appeal to businesses. Check it out!
What you’ll learn:
- More about how Paul and his team meet the needs of the marketplace through innovation, workforce development and strategic partnerships
- The importance of continuously improving current processes to achieve maximum efficiency and continued growth
- Thinking and acting like owners and the impact of this mindset across every level
- The value of partnering with communities and education systems
- The value of sharing best practices to help teams achieve success
- More on the importance of referrals and personal connections in business, marketing and workforce development
- Connecting with customers and colleagues digitally and the unique benefits that it provides
- Serving as a one-stop-shop partner for customers to develop lasting relationships
- More about integrity, focusing on the small things and other rural American core values that appeal to individuals and businesses alike
Ben Frederickson, better known to readers as BenFred, lives out his passion as a sports columnist for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. A talented storyteller and reporter, Ben engages readers and listeners by providing valuable, thought-provoking information through a creative and strategic approach.
Growing up in rural Missouri, Ben was a lifelong athlete and excelled in reading and writing, passions he combines today. A high school journalism class led him to discover his interest in journalism, with his first project coming to life in the school gymnasium. He pursued these interests and received his degree in journalism from the University of Missouri - Columbia and gained experience at a variety of publications, including the Knoxville News Sentinel, FOX Sports Midwest and the Casper Star-Tribune. Today, Ben has the opportunity to do what he loves, covering the teams he grew up watching while remaining close to his rural Missouri roots.
Hear more from Ben and Cliff on the value of consistently delivering compelling and creative stories, Ben’s tips for developing and improving storytelling skills and the merging of print and digital media. They also discuss the importance of thought leadership and more about Ben’s journey as a journalist. Check it out!
What you’ll learn:
- Valuable insight about the benefits of consistently delivering compelling stories through a variety of platforms
- Ben’s tips for developing and improving writing skills, including how to find your style, flow and rhythm
- The importance of being in tune with your audience and understanding what motivates them and how to retain their attention
- Providing audiences with valuable content that makes people think to encourage conversation, repeat engagement and long-term relationships
- The value of traditional print media and digital media platforms and how the two can be used to complement each other
- Evolving trends in content and how they can be used to maximize engagement and impact
- More on how Ben discovered his passion for journalism and rural American values that influence how he lives and works every day
Patti DeWalt is an experienced marketing and sales professional, passionate about utilizing the latest technology while remaining focused on individual connections. As Director of Marketing at Butler Manufacturing, Patti provides value-added marketing solutions for current and future customers to build relationships and grow market share.
A lifelong Kansas City resident, Patti received her undergraduate degree in communications form Rockhurst University before earning her master’s degree in marketing from Webster University. Initially interested in acting, she began a career in broadcasting before transitioning into marketing and advertising. She gained experience with Valentine Radford and ERA Real Estate before accepting a position with Butler Manufacturing. She later began her own marketing consulting company before returning to Butler and eventually stepping into her current role.
Hear more from Patti and Cliff on providing value-added marketing solutions for customers, utilizing digital marketing technologies to achieve optimal results and understanding client needs at every level. They also discuss the importance of sticking to the basics, the peacefulness of rural America and life lessons that Patti lives by every day. Check it out!
What you'll learn:
- Insight into how Patti and her team provide value-added marketing solutions for partnering construction companies
- Patti’s thoughts on emerging marketing technologies and how to utilize them to achieve optimal results
- Digital marketing strategies and how to measure and communicate the return on investment
- The story of Butler Manufacturing and how it has grown into the company it is today
- Listening, understanding and delivering solutions for customer needs
- The importance of developing content that focuses on customer needs and situations
- Communication tips and street smarts for building lasting relationships in business
- A look at life in rural America and the peace it provides for those who live here
- More life lessons and guiding principles that Patti lives by and guides others through
Chad McMullin is passionate about ministry, church leadership and his community, working to build personal connections in all areas of life. Currently Senior Minister at First Christian Church of Sedalia, Missouri, Chad and his team utilize a variety of tools to connect with audiences and further their mission every day.
Chad grew up with a love of the outdoors and continues to take advantage of every opportunity he has to go hunting, fishing and hiking. His interests led him to pursue an undergraduate degree in agriculture, range and wildlife management from Texas Tech University. He pursued careers in the industry before being called to ministry. He went on to receive a Master of Divinity (M.DIV) from Phillips Theological Seminary in Tulsa, Oklahoma and has spent the past 20 years as a minister. Before moving to Sedalia, he previously served at churches in Brownfield and Rowlett, Texas. Outside of the church, Chad and his family enjoy being active in sports, scouting and outdoor activities.
Hear more from Chad and Cliff on incorporating a variety of communication methods to effectively reach audiences, remaining open to trying new things and reaching audiences where they are. You’ll also hear about the importance of empowering your team for success and more about core values integral to rural America. Check it out!
What you'll learn:
- Insight into how Chad and his team incorporate traditional and evolving strategies to effectively reach audiences where they are including live streaming content and social media
- The importance of providing engaging and easy to consume content
- How Chad’s experience in previous positions prepared him to be an effective leader and minister
- The value of embracing new technologies and ideas when they are presented and using them to your advantage
- Continuously improving and building upon current processes to communicate as effectively as possible
- The importance of building a strong team and empowering each team member to succeed in their roles
- Core values such as integrity, honesty, trustworthiness and others that Chad was raised with and continues to live his life by
- More from Chad about his passion for the great outdoors and his story of being called into ministry
Davin Althoff is a lifelong farmer and experienced marketer and manager, working to educate audiences and provide opportunities for Missouri farmers and agribusinesses. Currently Division Director of Agriculture Business Development at the Missouri Department of Agriculture, Davin combines his passion and experience to strategically facilitate growth for Missouri agriculture-based businesses.
Davin learned the value of hard work growing up on his family’s diversified row crop and livestock operation in rural Missouri. Passionate about agriculture, Davin simultaneously farmed and attended Lincoln University, where he earned his undergraduate degree in agribusiness. He earned his MBA from William Woods University and has a proven track record with the Missouri Senate, Missouri Department of Economic Development and the Missouri Beef Industry Council. In addition to his work with the Missouri Department of Agriculture, Davin and his family continue to farm and enjoy the rural Missouri lifestyle.
Hear more from Davin and Cliff on bridging the gap between rural and urban America and the public perception of agriculture, closing the digital divide and the value of strategic digital marketing efforts. You’ll also hear about creative ways to increase brand awareness and more about the American spirit prevalent in rural America today. Check it out!
What you'll learn:
- Insight into the importance of educating the public about the agriculture industry
- Closing the digital divide in rural America to efficiently and effectively communicate with audiences and provide new opportunities
- The importance of the agriculture industry to the Missouri economy, as well as the role it plays in national and international business
- How Davin combines his passion and experience in agriculture to provide opportunities for Missouri farmers and businesses
- The Missouri Department of Agriculture’s MORE initiative and how it is connecting individuals and businesses across the state
- Creative strategies to increase awareness and educate consumers while delivering results for local businesses
- More about digital marketing technologies and how they can be used to strategically reach audiences and increase ROI
- Lifelong lessons and guiding principles that Davin learned growing up on the farm and how he continues to live them out every day
- More about the American spirit prevalent in rural America and the pride of rural communities
Pat Burke is an accomplished marketing and communications professional, building personal relationships across the globe. Currently Marketing and Communications Manager for Gavilon Group, LLC, Pat strategically plans and executes global communication efforts including public relations, advertising and brand management, as well as internal and external communications.
Pat grew up near Omaha, Nebraska and continues to live and enjoy life in the Midwest. He attended the University of Nebraska - Omaha, where he received his undergraduate degree in marketing and business before earning his MBA from Creighton University. He began his career in the agency world and later accepted his current position with Gavilon Group, LLC. In his role, Pat works to create value in the complex agricultural commodities marketplace. When he is not working to connect producers and consumers, Pat can be found with his family or seeking out a new challenge.
Hear more from Pat and Cliff on behavioral targeting and using data to build personal connections on a global scale, providing your team and customers with the right tools to succeed, the power of humility and the importance of listening in marketing and more. Check it out!
What you'll learn:
- How Pat and his team communicate with diverse audiences simultaneously while meeting individual needs
- Pat’s thoughts on understanding communication preferences and the value of one-to-one communications
- Listening and developing a strong understanding of customer and internal wants and needs, then developing a plan to deliver results
- Recognizing and communicating your company’s value proposition for sustainable business development
- More about the ability of effective marketing to drive sales and the importance of maintaining a focus on data
- Marketing trends such as behavior-based targeting and insights into how the Gavilon team is implementing them
- The importance of providing your team and customers with the tools they need to achieve optimal results
- Recognizing that there is always room for improvement and taking advantage of the opportunity to learn from others in your field
- The importance of working as a team and combining individual strengths to deliver great results
- Life lessons and insights from Pat’s background in rural America including personal and professional development, remembering where you came from and always remaining humble
Tim Barnes is a great example of a hardworking rural American who proves that combining passion, hard work and dedication pays off. Tim lived out the childhood dreams of many, playing football at the collegiate and professional levels before returning home to his rural roots.
Tim began playing football in the third grade and his love for the sport only grew throughout the years. Growing up, he listened to the Mizzou Tigers while working on the farm with his dad and brothers. He applied himself in school and practice, earning a full ride scholarship to the University of Missouri to play on the team he grew up dreaming of playing for. While at MU, he earned a degree in American history with a minor in communications. After graduating, he entered the NFL, playing for the St. Louis Rams before moving with the team to Los Angeles and ending his career with the San Francisco 49ers.
After his time with the NFL, Tim returned home to raise his family near his hometown and run the family farm. Days that were once full of practices and game film are now full of row crops and raising cattle. Today, Tim continues to share his passion for football as the offensive line coach for a local high school.
Hear more from Cliff and Tim as they discuss strategies for brands to effectively reach a rural American audience. They also discuss the importance of accountability, the value of preparation, the rewards of dedication and how rural roots run deep, no matter the location.
Listen to this episode of OUTdrive now!
What you'll learn:
- Effective strategies for understanding your audience, knowing where they are spending their time and crafting messages to connect with your audience in meaningful ways
- How Tim lived out the childhood dreams of many young athletes, growing up in a small town and working his way up to play football professionally
- An inside look into the daily lives of rural Americans and opportunities for brands marketing to rural America
- Understanding the rural American mindset and core values that can be attributed to success, no matter the industry
- Tim’s thoughts on team sports and the importance of accountability and responsibility
- The importance of holding yourself accountable, knowing your role and always striving to do the right thing to the best of your ability
- The importance of doing your homework, being prepared and asking questions
- More about the science, timing and methodology that impacts rural Americans involved in production agriculture
- Life lessons and guiding principles that Tim has learned throughout life and continues to live by
- More on what Tim loves about the rural American lifestyle and why he decided to return to his roots to raise his family here
Adam Braverman is an accomplished sales and marketing professional, leveraging his experience in a variety of fields to deliver proven results in the precision ammunition business. He is currently the Director of Sales and Marketing for Capstone Precision Group, a manufacturer, importer and distributor of premium ammunition products. Committed to achieving results, Adam demonstrates sales and marketing expertise to create sustainable growth.
Adam, a rural Missouri native, received his bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Missouri - Columbia. Combining education, interest and expertise, his career in the firearms and ammunition industry has included sales and marketing leadership positions with Sierra Bullets and Nammo, a parent company of Capstone Precision Group. He began his current role when Capstone Precision Group was formed as a result of Nammo acquiring Berger Bullets to become the USA's Sole Distributor for Berger, Lapua, SK, and VihtaVuori. Although his work includes brands across the world, Adam’s roots remain in rural America, where he enjoys playing golf and the rural lifestyle in his free time.
Hear more from Adam and Cliff on strategic planning for sustainable growth, taking advantage of new opportunities and building personal relationships at every level. We also discuss the value of integrating sales and marketing efforts (‘smarketing’) to deliver optimal results and more about what rural America has to offer.
Listen to this episode of OUTdrive now!
What you’ll learn:
- How Capstone Precision Group creates sustainable success through strategic business planning in all areas
- Adam’s thoughts on creating brand apostles to advocate for and build your brand from the ground up
- Integrating sales and marketing efforts (‘smarketing’) to attract and retain customers and partners
- The value of grassroots marketing to build brand awareness
- More about the creativity and adaptability of rural America that appeals to growing and developing businesses
- Incorporating new marketing strategies while remaining focused on the relationships and tried and true methods such as a simple phone call
- The importance of taking advantage of new opportunities when they are presented
- Remaining aware of the competitive landscape to continuously improve instead of operating in isolation
Derrick Mein is a renowned athlete in the shooting sports world, most recently named the 2020 National Sporting Clays champion and a member of the U.S. Olympic team. His hard work, dedication and passion for the sport have led him to be recognized nationwide and internationally as an expert competitor and instructor. He is a team player and is passionate about improving his skills and representing his sport, family, community and country.
Growing up on his family’s farm in southeast Kansas, Derrick began shooting sporting clays at just eight years old, enjoying the activity with his father and competing throughout his youth. He was awarded a dual-scholarship to Lindenwood University, where he played baseball and was a member of the shooting team. He later transferred to Kansas State University, where he majored in Agriculture Business and continued competing in shooting sports. After graduating, Derrick moved to Ohio where he designed and managed Cardinal Center Sporting Clays before returning closer to home to manage Powder Creek Shooting Range in Kansas.
With the support of his family, Derrick has dedicated himself to competing professionally, representing his country at competitions across the world. When he’s not focusing on his career, Derrick can be found at home with his wife and daughter, enjoying the rural lifestyle.
Hear more from Derrick and Cliff on some key factors for success in sporting clays that are also applicable to marketing and more about the value of strategic partnerships, building a personal brand and the power of social media.
Listen to this episode of OUTdrive now!
What you'll learn:
- Insight into the determination and passion that fuels Derrick’s career
- The importance of a strong foundation and fundamentals to carry you through stressful situations
- Effective strategies to build genuine connections with rural audiences
- More about Derrick’s background and how he made a career in shooting sports
- The value of strategic partnerships to build brands and more on the brands that Derrick partners with
- Derrick’s thoughts on the rural lifestyle and why his family calls rural America home
- Insight into trap shooting growing as a high school sport and what Derrick anticipates for the future
- Increased interest and growth in the shooting sports industry and the importance of proper education
- The importance of sharing the good in the world through everything you do
- Life lessons and principles that guide the way Derrick lives
Scott Benbrook is a successful financial and banking professional with experience in a variety of industries. Currently Chief Financial Officer for Elliot Management Services Co., Scott manages and grows a diverse portfolio of real estate, automobile dealerships, restaurants and retail. One business at a time, Scott is playing an integral role in the resurgence of rural America.
A Missouri native, Scott received his business degree from the University of Missouri. Interested in banking and financial services, he began his career as a loan officer with a community bank, where he gained experience and knowledge working at several of the bank’s locations before accepting his current position. Scott enjoys living the rural lifestyle and investing in his community, building upon a strong foundation for a successful future.
Hear more from Scott and Cliff on the resurgence in rural America, the value of an individualized marketing approach and creating good luck with hard work. They also discuss the opportunities and core values of rural America, the importance of lifelong connections and learning every step of the way.
Listen to this episode of OUTdrive now!
What you'll learn:
- Opportunities that rural America provides for businesses and individuals
- Establishing valuable connections in all stages of life to build upon throughout your career no matter where you live
- The importance of an individualized marketing strategy for unique businesses
- Taking advantage of opportunities when they become available
- Utilizing traditional and evolving marketing strategies for optimal results and business growth
- Creating good luck with a lot of hard work, respect and dedication
- Investing in marketing as a long-term strategy and staying the course to achieve results
- Rural American core values that are leading to a resurgence in rural America towns
- Adapting to changes in business for continued success
Abby Carere is an accomplished professional with a breadth of knowledge and experience in communication technology. Currently Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Conexon, Abby leads the company’s client acquisition strategy and serves as a vital resource for Conexon’s electric cooperative clients to efficiently and effectively deploy fiber-optic broadband to rural communities.
A Kentucky native, Abby received her undergraduate degree from the University of Kentucky, where she majored in marketing. An interest in healthcare device sales led her to begin a career in direct business-to-business telecom sales, where she quickly stepped into leadership roles and continued to prove herself a powerful leader. Abby later discovered a passion for rural cooperatives and communities, partnering with them to efficiently deploy broadband in her current position at Conexon.
Hear more from Abby and Cliff on providing easily accessible resources for clients for optimal results, efficiently recognizing and meeting the needs of key audiences and building sustainable partnerships. They also discuss the importance of broadband availability to connect rural American communities, unique characteristics of the rural lifestyle and more.
Listen to this episode of OUTdrive now!
What you’ll learn:
- The unique approach of building centralized resources for clients to deliver quality content while streamlining processes and increasing efficiency
- Recognizing opportunities to meet additional customer needs and delivering an effective solution
- Insights into how Abby works with electric cooperatives to deploy fiber-optic broadband to rural communities
- How digital and telecommunication technologies continue to evolve
- More about the rural way of life and how Abby discovered her passion for connecting families and communities through telecommunications
- Establishing yourself as a trusted resource and advisor for clients
- The importance of a team mentality and working together to serve clients in all industries
- Guiding clients through opportunities in unknown territories
- Delivering quality services and strategic communications for individuals of all geographic locations to provide equal opportunities
Rob Lamm has led a successful career providing integrated technology solutions for small to mid-market businesses and organizations. As founder, President and CEO of LammTech, Rob’s entrepreneurial spirit is complimented by his passion for innovation, commitment to adapting and evolving and leading his team to success. He is a savvy businessman and trusted advisor to many and he is seeing the results of many years of hard work.
Rob’s strong work ethic has served him well, and he credits it to growing up on the family farm in rural Missouri. His passion for education led him to attend State Fair Community College, where he studied electronics. Combining his interests and strong work ethic, he began his career in the IT industry in Kansas City, working as a network technician and project manager. He later returned to his hometown of Sedalia, Missouri, where he founded LammTech and continues to serve as President and CEO. In his free time, Rob enjoys the rural way of life with his family.
Hear more from Rob and Cliff about the spirit of successful entrepreneurs and core principles of conducting business in rural America. They visit about building a business from the ground up, developing and implementing a strategic plan, understanding your market to attain top of mind and keeping relationships at the core of everything you do.
Listen to this episode of OUTdrive now!
What you'll learn:
- Core principles of conducting business in rural America
- The entrepreneurial spirit and what current and potential business leaders should know
- The importance of developing and implementing a strategic business plan
- Remaining top-of-mind with current and prospective clients
- Transitioning focus to working on the business, not in the business
- The dedication and commitment that is required to run a successful company
- More on meeting customer needs through an individualized approach
- Rural American core values that Rob lives and leads by every day
In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff discusses the unique opportunities of the fall season in a quick solocast. As the days grow shorter and nights grow colder, our farmers are hard at work harvesting their crops to provide for their families and communities. This time presents unique challenges but also opportunities to reach and connect with rural audiences. Listen in as Cliff shares insights into the unique opportunities of the fall season and how to reach your audiences in meaningful ways.
What you’ll learn:
- Unique strategies to connect with rural audiences during a busy time of year
- Insight into using radio, email and other tactics to reach farmers and ranchers
- More on why personal connections are more important than ever
- Rural American core values of hard work, dedication and commitment to family
- Ways to maintain a positive outlook and stay the course
- Strategically planning for the holiday season
- Opportunities for growth during Q4 and ahead
Mark Thomas is an accomplished communications professional, with a proven track record of delivering results through strategic efforts for brands in a variety of industries. Currently Director of Marketing and Communications for Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES) in North Haven, Connecticut, Mark utilizes his expertise in strategy, public relations, crisis communications and audience segmentation to effectively reach the diverse audience that education provides.
A Missouri native, Mark received his bachelor’s degree from Missouri State University, where he majored in marketing and journalism. He combined his education, his strong work ethic and passion for learning and set out for an exciting and successful career in marketing. He has since led communication efforts for a variety of brands, including Du Pont Sporting Goods, Continental Airlines and Invisible Fence before transitioning into his current position. When he is not navigating the uncertainties of COVID in education, Mark can be found gardening and spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren.
Hear more from Mark and Cliff on the importance of a well-structured crisis communications plan, utilizing audience segmentation to effectively communicate with a diverse audience and how marketing tools and platforms continue to evolve while strategic marketing principles remain the same. They also discuss the importance of continuing to learn, remaining curious and how rural American roots run deep, regardless of where you’re at.
Listen to this episode of OUTdrive now!
What you'll learn:
- The importance of being prepared to navigate the unexpected
- Insight into how to effectively develop and implement a crisis communications plan
- More on how the COVID pandemic has affected educational institutions and businesses across the country
- Identifying audience segments and preferred communication channels, generational differences and more
- Adapting messaging strategies to best communicate with unique audience segments
- Mark’s experiences driving creative solutions for clients in a variety of industries
- The importance of being actively involved in conversations surrounding your brand
- How digital technologies and marketing tools have changed the ways that brands communicate with customers
- Achieving results through effective strategy, information and direction
- The rural American and midwestern work ethic and core values that are recognized across the country
Matt Boatright leads a successful career as Sedalia/Pettis County Market President for Wood & Huston Bank. With a unique set of qualifications and a vast and diverse career in government, farming and now as a trusted financial advisor, Matt has an appreciation for the rural American lifestyle and the people who make it so desirable. Matt knows how to create an ideal customer experience, and he does so daily, through his leadership and passion for helping others.
Born and raised in rural Missouri, Matt understands the lifestyle and values of his customers, as he is their neighbor and trusted friend. In addition to his current position with Wood & Huston, Matt has lifelong passion for agriculture, growing up on his family farm which he now operates with his wife. He received his bachelor’s degree in agriculture from the University of Missouri - Columbia before attending the University of Wisconsin - Madison Graduate School of Banking. Before stepping into his current position, Matt served in several positions within the Missouri state government. When he isn’t delivering an excellent customer experience at Wood & Huston Bank, Matt spends his time on the family farm
Matt is passionate about providing an exceptional customer experience and focusing on personal connections in everything he does. From start to finish, everything Matt does is with a smile.
Hear more from Matt and Cliff on these topics and more, including special considerations for navigating COVID-19 in the financial industry and the value and benefits of treating your customers as friends and neighbors.
Listen to this episode of OUTdrive now!
What you’ll learn:
- The importance of providing an exceptional customer experience from start to finish
- Understanding your audience’s preferred methods of communication and interaction
- Establishing yourself as a trusted advisor to your audience
- Insight into COVID implications and what it means for the financial and customer service industries
- Adapting methods of communication to meet your audience where they are
- Recognizing new opportunities and stepping out of your comfort zone to take advantage of them
- The art of learning how to lose gracefully and the lessons that evolve from it
- Investing in your community to actualize sustainable growth
- Rural American core values including faith, family and farming that drive Matt’s life
- Conducting business with a smile each and every day
Tom Brand has led a successful career in farm broadcasting, and communicating with and advocating for farmers and producers in the agricultural industry. Currently serving as Executive Director for the National Association of Farm Broadcasting, Tom uses his communication skills to provide value to member stations through a variety of efforts and has earned the reputation of a trusted friend to agriculture.
Growing up on a diversified family farm, Tom’s rural American roots run deep. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri - Columbia, majoring in general agriculture with an emphasis in communications. He began his farm broadcasting career early, starting with Learfield and the Brownfield Network before moving closer to home, where he worked for KMA in Shenandoah, Iowa and KFEQ in St. Joseph, Missouri. He later transitioned into his current position where he and his team continue to serve the agricultural community and provide value for its member stations and networks. In his free time, Tom can be found with his wife, kids and grandson enjoying the rural American lifestyle.
Hear more from Tom and Cliff on the power of voice, connecting with audiences through personalized content and establishing authority by providing accurate information to reach consumers. They also discuss how rural American communities are evolving and share some great life lessons along the way.
Listen to this episode of OUTdrive now!
What you’ll learn:
- Why personalized content is vital for connecting with audiences
- Establishing authority by providing timely and accurate information
- More on the power of voice in rural America and why radio is more relevant than ever today
- Tips on using radio advertising to reach your audience
- Ways rural American communities are changing and how technology is playing a major role
- How Tom works to create value for NAFB member stations through research, continued education, an in-house news service and promotion at industry events
- The pride of ownership that rural Americans exhibit in their daily lives
- A behind the scenes look at farm broadcasting and what it means to rural Americans
- Life-guiding principles that Tom lives by every day
Christine Tew leads a successful career as Director of Communications and Public Relations for the Missouri Soybean Association. A passionate communications expert, Christine helps Missouri soybean producers tell their stories and communicate the value of their product. She and her team know the value of personal connections and work diligently to better the soybean industry by facilitating communication, education and training for Missouri soybean farmers and consumers year round through strategic programs.
Originally a Florida native, Christine grew up living the rural American lifestyle and continues to live with rural America values running through her veins. Throughout her youth, Christine was involved in 4-H and FFA, which provided her with opportunities to learn that challenged her along the way. After moving to Missouri, Christine received a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Journalism and a Master of Science degree in Parks, Recreation and Tourism. Before stepping into her current position, Christine served as Communications Director for the Missouri Department of Agriculture.
Christine is passionate about helping others and finding creative solutions to everyday challenges. Whether it is a new strategic approach to reach your audience where they are or helping peers through mentorship, Christine values communication and connections with every person she meets.
Hear more from Christine and Cliff on these topics and more, including the evolution of the soybean and agriculture industries and the spirit of connection in rural America.
Listen to this episode of OUTdrive now!
What you'll learn:
- More about the unique spirit of connection in rural America
- Using unique strategies to reach audiences where they are through social media
- Adapting communication channels to provide content that users want to consume and are able to do so on their own terms
- COVID implications on media consumption
- The importance of communication and setting clear expectations
- Encouraging peers and team members to grow through mentorship and support
- Insight into the evolution of the soybean and agricultural industries and what it means for communicators and consumers
- Rural American core values including independence and determination
- The value and importance of helping others tell their stories
- Ways that communicators can continue to adapt to best reach audiences
Ron Toellner, Alaina Gump and Adam Wolfe are partners at Wilson-Toellner CPA, which has been meeting the needs of business and individual clients in Central Missouri for 32 years. Together, its team of over 40 individuals provide traditional CPA firm services, as well as business advisory and support services to help clients solve problems and achieve their goals.
Ron Toellner is co-founder and managing partner of Wilson Toellner, working with the leadership team to guide the firm’s operations and strategies for achieving its vision. He specializes in income tax planning, business acquisition and sales, and succession and estate planning and holds a degree in accounting from the University of Missouri. He is actively involved in his community and serves in several organizations including. When he is not focused on finding optimal solutions for clients, Ron enjoys traveling with his wife Judy, spending time with their children and grandchildren and is a St. Louis Cardinals fan.
Also joining the group is Alaina Gump, partner at Wilson Toellner. Through her professional expertise and attention to detail, Alaina serves clients through tax-planning and forward-thinking business strategies. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a major in Accounting and a Masters of Arts in Accountancy with a specialization in tax from the University of Central Missouri. She continues to grow as a professional through her involvement in peer and industry organizations. When she is not focused on providing innovative and timely accounting services, Alaina enjoys spending time with her husband and children, watching sports and reading.
Joining Ron and Alaina is Adan Wolfe, partner at Wilson-Toellner. Adam specializes in business development and consulting and income tax planning and preparation. He provides value to clients by gaining a deep understanding of what is important to them and building successful relationships through communication. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Missouri State University, with majors in accounting and finance and is involved in several industry organizations. In his free time, he can be found at home with his wife and son on his family farm near Climax Springs, leading an active lifestyle and being involved in his church.
Hear the group’s thoughts on the business industry in rural America, planning for business success, integrating new technologies for growth and the core values that drive their personal and professional lives. They discuss capitalizing on a business niche, developing a strong team and adaptable work environment and the importance of having fun along the way.
Tune in to this episode of OUTdrive now!
What you'll learn:
- Core values that power small businesses in rural America
- More about the freedom and opportunity present in rural America today
- Understanding employee needs to foster an effective work environment
- Integrating new technologies to serve customers and grow your business
- Utilizing artificial intelligence to be more time-efficient and make more of an impact with clients’ investments
- Serving clients through an individualized approach and understanding their unique needs
- Understanding the rural American lifestyle and the unique benefits it provides to small businesses
- Insight into the financial impact of COVID-19 on small businesses
- Adding talented individuals to build an effective and efficient business
- Capitalizing on a niche by doing what you love and knowing your audience
Dan Cassidy leads a successful career in agricultural policy, currently serving as Chief Administrative Officer of the Missouri Farm Bureau Federation and Affiliated Companies. A passionate advocate for Missouri farmers, Dan also coordinates Farm Bureau’s legislative and political action programs and serves as a lobbyist for the farm organization at the state and national levels. He truly lives and loves the rural American way of life and works to improve the agricultural industry for everyone.
A New Mexico native that grew up in the rodeo world, Dan has had a lifelong interest in agriculture. He has held several positions in the agricultural and legislative arenas, with previous positions including; Director of National Legislative Programs for the Missouri Farm Bureau Federation; Deputy Director of the Missouri Department of Agriculture; and Legislative Assistant for Agriculture with U.S. Senator Christopher “Kit” Bond. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Economics from New Mexico State University as well as a Masters degree in Agricultural Economics and a Ph.D in Natural Resource Policy from the University of Missouri-Columbia.
When he is not working to improve agriculture in the U.S. and on behalf of Missouri farmers, Dan enjoys the rural lifestyle. He and his wife Linda live on a farm in Callaway County and have three daughters and are proud grandparents.
Hear Dan’s and Cliff’s thoughts on the importance of building a strong marketing mix, meeting your audience where they are through integrated marketing and having a little fun along the way.
Listen to this episode of OUTdrive now!
What you'll learn:
- Why a strong marketing mix is important in communications to a diverse rural American audience
- How to reach your audience through a variety of channels and integrated marketing to meet them where they are
- The unique dynamic of advocating for rural Missouri and rural America at a national level
- The value of experimenting with new strategies and tactics to make an impact
- How doing what it takes for however long it takes can lead to measurable success
- More about the role communications play in agriculture and rural America
- Insights into the rural American lifestyle and rural American core values
- The importance of listening to your audience for continuous improvement
- Balancing a strong work ethic to drive results and having some fun along the way
- Little known facts about the Farm Bureau Federation and its history
Kyle Meek leads a successful career in digital marketing, currently serving as Digital Marketing Manager at Callis. He thrives on creatively and efficiently developing solutions using new technology and methods and remaining curious about how to improve current processes.
A man that wears many hats, Kyle began his career at Callis supporting the web development team. His diverse education and experience allowed him to take on many roles, including website development and optimization, digital ad strategy, SEO strategy and implementation and data analysis. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Missouri, majoring in Graphic Technologies with a focus in Web Media Technology and a minor in Computer Science. When he is not leading the charge in digital technology, Kyle enjoys biking and fishing with his son, reading books, and might be the only Baltimore Ravens fan in the state of Missouri.
Hear Kyle’s and Cliff’s thoughts on emerging technologies and digital marketing methods including social media, SEO, data and automation and the future of Artificial Intelligence (AI). They also discuss the importance of remaining curious, looking at data in creative ways and key insights into reaching a rural American audience through digital marketing.
Listen to this episode of OUTdrive now!
What you'll learn:
- Emerging digital marketing trends and methods that should be on your radar
- Some unique challenges of digital marketing in rural America and how to overcome them
- Fostering a professional environment that encourages curiosity and continuous learning
- Benefits of looking at data in creative ways, experimenting with new tactics and trying new strategies
- A look at some of today’s most notable social media platforms
- The importance of regularly analyzing your website for continued growth
- Why content is still king, and how high-quality content benefits your digital presence
- What’s next with data, automation and AI
- Meeting your audience where they are through effective methods
- The effectiveness of an integrated approach, no matter the location
Lori Wightman leads a successful career in healthcare leadership, currently serving as CEO of Bothwell Regional Health Center. With over 18 years of experience as a hospital President and CEO, Lori understands the importance of hiring great people to build a strong team and the importance of strategic planning to achieve sustainable growth.
A passionate leader, Lori began her career working as a registered nurse before receiving her master’s degree in health administration. She later served as Deputy Director of the Department of Human Services for the state of North Dakota before reentering healthcare leadership and stepping into her current position. When she is not at Bothwell, Lori can be found at many events throughout the Sedalia and Pettis County community or home with her husband and two dogs.
Hear Lori’s and Cliff’s thoughts on building a strong team and strategic decision making for sustainable growth. They visit about the importance of hiring good people, strategic planning through scenario planning and some great life-guiding principles that can be applied in any business.
Listen to this episode of OUTdrive now!
What you'll learn:
- The unique dynamic of healthcare in rural America
- More about the technology and innovation available in rural American healthcare and what’s coming next
- How community hospitals differ from urban hospitals and how characteristics of the rural American audience contribute to providing exceptional care
- The value of hiring stars and getting out of the way
- How to be a steady hand on the wheel during uncertain times
- Scenario planning to create a strategic plan for your organization
- Learning from your company’s history and those who came before you
- Why what you do is just as important or more important than what you say
- The importance of remaining vigilant and continuously adapting to changes
- Inspiring life-guiding principles that can be applied in any business
Dr. Joanna Anderson leads a successful career in higher education, specializing in serving community colleges through her passion for students and strong leadership skills. She is currently the president of State Fair Community College, leading students and faculty to success within a 14-county service area in central Missouri.
Dr. Anderson is a passionate educator and lover of the rural American way of life. Born and raised in northern Missouri, she received a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Journalism from the University of Missouri and began her career working in radio journalism. She later got a degree to teach English and journalism before entering higher education at Trenton Junior College, now North Central Missouri College.
Throughout her life, she has worked at several colleges while remaining true to her rural Missouri roots. When she is not on campus, she can be found on the family farm, reconnecting to her childhood roots of growing up on a dairy farm.
Hear Dr. Anderson and Cliff’s thoughts on rural American core values that shape how this audience works, acts and lives. They dive into the importance of understanding your community, partnering with other organizations for sustainable growth, meeting the needs of your audience and adapting to changes as they happen.
Listen to this episode of OUTdrive now!
Listen to this episode of OUTdrive now!
- What you’ll learn:
Insight into rural American core values that drive how this audience works, acts and lives - The value of developing an understanding of your organization’s community, what makes it unique and identifying opportunities for strategic partnerships
- How technology and access to affordable technology education contribute to a strong workforce.
- The value of building an efficient and effective team
The importance of listening to your people and supporting them to grow and improve - Unique opportunities that rural America provides to be involved and make a difference
- The importance of learning through new opportunities
- Continued education and how learning something new, at any age, can be exciting and beneficial for personal and professional development
- The value that community colleges provide to students and communities
Kyle Herrick has led a successful career in the auto industry for over thirty years. Currently President of Bryant Motors, Kyle knows first hand the power of good, honest customer service and listening to the wants and needs of customers..
A Sedalia native, Kyle began his career in car sales early in life, even selling a car on his first day on the job. Through the emergence of the internet, societal changes and even car vending machines, his career proves to be a perfect combination of his ability to connect with people and his passion for cars.
Kyle leads his team with honesty and quality service at the forefront. He continues to excel in his industry and has developed a loyal customer base to prove it. He is also an involved community leader and family man, working to make the city he loves and calls home better each day. He makes things happen through hard work and a positive attitude. Whether it is through his professional career or various community board positions, Kyle truly leads by example.
Hear Kyle and Cliff’s thoughts on the importance of treating customers well, the cycle of service, positioning your brand to be top-of-mind and other personal, professional and rural America marketing insights.
Listen to this episode of OUTdrive now!
What you’ll learn:
- Treating customers right to transition them from a prospect to a transaction, and then to a repeat customer and friend
- Why superior service and a good product are a winning combination
- How the auto industry has evolved since the introduction of the internet
- How to establish brand recognition for your company and position your brand to be top-of-mind
- Meeting customer needs through effective listening
- The importance of working to meet customer requests in a timely manner
- Delivering results through a winning attitude and strong work ethic
- The unique position of Sedalia in rural America and insights into rural American audiences
- How to make the most of valuable friendships
Jessica Craig has led a successful career in economic development and business growth across the state of Missouri. Currently serving as Executive Director of Economic Development Sedalia-Pettis County, Jessica builds relationships with businesses in all industries to actualize development and expansion in the community. During her time with Sedalia-Pettis County, Jessica has worked to recruit new manufacturers, as well as retain existing ones.
Jessica received her bachelor's degree in accounting and finance from Missouri Valley College before beginning her career as a mutual fund accountant in the Kansas City market. She later transitioned into the role of Business and Industry Development Manager for the Missouri Department of Economic Development and later returned to her hometown of Sedalia, where she serves in her current position. A lover of the rural American way of life, Jessica is a mother of three, cattle farmer and is a member of her local school board.
Hear Jessica’s and Cliff’s thoughts on communicating your value proposition, building relationships by understanding others’ point of view, reducing risks for potential partners and being a trusted resource for information.
Listen to this episode of OUTdrive now!
What you'll learn:
- The importance of understanding and communicating your value proposition
- Building relationships with others through understanding their point of view
- Applying the concept of ‘prepared teams win’ in every industry
- Achieving community and business growth by strategic planning and determination
- Capitalizing on unexpected opportunities no matter the season
- Establishing your organization as a trusted source of information
- How Jessica works to improve her community in a variety of ways
- Benefits that rural America provides to those who live and work here
Drew McLellan has led a successful career specializing in serving small to mid sized marketing agencies. Currently residing in Des Moines, Iowa, Drew runs two successful businesses, Agency Management Institute (AMI) and McLellan Marketing Group (MMG). Through AMI he serves more than 250 small to midsize agencies in his niche, helping them build their business to be sustainable, scalable and profitable. He founded McLellan Marketing Group in 1995 and has been providing results for clients for over 25 years. Drew is also a recognized author, blogger, webinar host and podcast host.
A Minnesota native, Drew gathered professional and life experience living in several states, including New York and Florida, before returning to his Midwest roots and settling in Des Moines. There, he founded his agency and has continued to expand his portfolio, with recent appearances in the New York Times, Entrepreneur Magazine, Business Week and Fortune’s Small Business. He received a master’s degree from the University of Minnesota in journalism, psychology and english literature.
Hear Drew and Cliff’s thoughts on identifying and serving niche markets, the power of positioning yourself or business as an authority with content marketing, what’s on the horizon with the artificial intelligence marketing trend and creating opportunities from challenges by taking small risks.
Listen to this episode of OUTdrive now!
What You'll Learn
- Identifying opportunities to niche down
- Capitalizing on opportunities that compliment existing skills and allow room for growth
- Leveraging your business as an authority in a niche with content marketing
- The benefits of serving a niche and long term profitability
- How AI, Artificial Intelligence, is similar to a car, and how AI tools can help you be faster and more efficient
- More about the hard work and hustle that leads to career success
- How Drew genuinely supports and helps others to reach their full potential
- Ways core values of the rural American lifestyle influence urban areas and vice versa
- The importance of peer support for continued business development
- Achieving business growth by capitalizing on opportunities presented by challenges
In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff discusses the power of staying the course in a quick solocast. At Callis, we believe that our country, our economy and our citizens are too strong to let anything stand in the way of our future, so we’re staying the course, and we encourage you to as well. Listen in, as Cliff shares personal and professional strategies that you can implement to effectively manage and grow your business.
- Strategies that Callis has implemented to stay the course through past and present challenges
- Examples of staying ahead of trends to maintain a competitive edge
- Making the most of new technologies
- The value of pausing to access the lay of the land without sitting idle for too long
- The importance of strategically investing in business growth
- Ways to maintain a positive outlook and actualize change
- The benefits of intentionally planning for the future and always looking ahead to the next step
Steve Ahrens has led a successful career in the propane and state government industries. Currently residing in Jefferson City, Missouri, Steve serves as the president and CEO of the Missouri Propane Gas Association (MPGA) and the Executive Director of the Missouri Propane Education and Research Council (MOPERC).
A Missouri native, Steve began his career as a reporter for a rural Missouri newspaper, where he covered local sporting events and learned the importance of personal connections and communications. He later transitioned to a career in government, serving as Director of Publications for the Missouri Secretary of State’s office for over 12 years before accepting his current position with MPGA. He received his bachelor’s degree in communications from Southwest Missouri State University and master’s degree in journalism from the University of Missouri. With a passion for the rural American way of life, he is a member of several propane industry groups and serves on national steering committees and state advisory groups.
Hear Steve’s thoughts on creative differentiation in rural America, our take on digital streaming TV and the power of video, and more about a unique trait of great leaders.
Listen to the latest episode of OUTdrive now!
What you’ll learn:
- Examples of creative differentiation in rural America and why it is so important.
- Digital streaming TV, targeting a rural American audience and the power of video.
- More about the freedom and independence associated with the rural American lifestyle and what that means for marketers.
- Unique dynamics of the rural American audience.
- Key takeaways from Steve’s career in Missouri government.
- The value of an integrated marketing approach
- What it means to be screen-driven vs. “seen-driven” and the importance of your optimal tribe.
- A unique trait of great leaders.
As publisher of FMG’s consumer publications, Roy Huntington is no stranger to engaging customers and maintaining the attention of readers. He finds creative and innovative ways to deliver content to readers but knows that nothing is more effective to develop lasting relationships than trust, respect and good old fashioned customer service.
A retired San Diego police officer, Roy founded a successful retail/wholesale police equipment company during his police career and developed a busy freelance writing “second career.” After retiring from the police department, Roy accepted a role as a national law enforcement sales manager for Bianchi International, later becoming their marketing director. From there, Roy found his way to publishing as the editor of Police Magazine and was later offered the editorship of American Handgunner in 2001. He has been with the FMG family ever since, now also serving as publisher of FMG’s consumer publications, including Guns Magazine and their newsstand special editions.
After years of living in California, Roy and his wife Suzi moved to the midwest a few years ago and enjoy the rural America lifestyle. With a vast level of experience and perspective, Roy shares his unique thoughts on building relationships with customers and reaching them using unexpected, but tried and true methods. Hear more of what Cliff and Roy have to say about life and values in rural America, positioning your brand as a trusted source for information and treating customers as valued friends. Listen now!
What you’ll learn:
- Building relationships and trust with customers through personal connections
- Roy shares his personal and professional passion for the rural America way of life
- How to establish your brand as a trusted and vetted source of information
- Roy’s thoughts on the evolution of media and the value that print advertising continues to provide
- Societal trends focusing on a more personal and customized experience
- The importance of communication with customers to understand and meet their needs, and exceed their expectations
As marketing director of the Missouri State Fair, Kari Mergen leads the charge, overseeing all aspects of strategic development including budget, creative, media and public relations activities, social media and event planning for the greatest ten days in Missouri. The fair is Missouri’s largest agricultural expo, showcasing the best of Missouri’s agriculture, agribusiness, domestic and fine arts.
Kari began her career as an educator, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from the University of Central Missouri and becoming a high school English and journalism teacher. However, she later joined the marketing team for the Fair, where she has gained more than twelve years of experience in the industry. Her love for education runs deep and she continues to pursue her passion through mentoring numerous interns at the fair each year, providing young marketers with experience and knowledge in an engaging and unique environment.
Learn about Kari’s managerial motto and hear what Cliff and Kari have to say about reaching multiple target audiences at once, welcoming new ideas and fresh perspectives and the importance of continuously learning as a professional. Listen now!
What you’ll learn:
- Kari shares her personal and professional motto: Trust but confirm
- The unique, collaborative effort that the Fair industry provides
- Kari’s views on professional development and welcoming new perspectives
- The value of knowing your target market and the unique challenge of defining the Fair’s target audience
- Kari shares her passion for educating and mentoring young professionals
- Tips that Kari believes are essential to developing a collaborative and strategic team
- Why Kari lives and loves the rural American lifestyle and what it means to her
- Kari’s thoughts on the evolution of media and how these changes affect the Fair’s marketing efforts
As executive director of the Missouri Beef Industry Council, Mark Russel serves Missouri’s 45,000 beef producers through his personal and professional experience in the beef industry.
Mark is a life-long advocate for agriculture promotion and education. Growing up on a cow calf operation in central Missouri, Mark has been involved in the beef industry since he was just seven years old. Throughout his career, he has worked with cattle organizations, departments of agriculture and economics and commodity organizations to educate and advocate for the beef industry.
Throughout his career, Mark has found that the beef industry provides similar challenges to other industries. He and his team are continuously challenged to find ways to connect with younger audiences that consume media in ever evolving ways. Embracing digital and social media has proven invaluable to Mark, a lesson that resonates with many professionals. Although it can be difficult to engage consumers, Mark has been successful in educating and connecting with consumers about the beef industry.
Hear more from Cliff and Mark about the importance of listening, creating a strategic plan to engage hard-to-reach audiences and the value of adapting new technologies and strategies as society evolves. Listen now for more insights!
What you’ll learn:
- How Mark has built a career in the beef industry over the past forty years
- The importance of listening to understand and using the information to best meet the needs of your audience
- How to approach the challenge of reaching younger generations through marketing efforts
- The importance of digital marketing and how to most effectively utilize it to reach your target audiences
- Mark’s thoughts on the importance of personal communication in a world of evolving technology
- Why it is vital to meet consumers where they are and provide them with timely, relevant information that they are seeking
- The role of social media in marketing efforts for the Missouri Beef Industry Council
- Mark’s views on the importance of educating and informing consumers about where their food comes from
- What rural America means to Mark and his thoughts on how it is changing
David is an accomplished marketer, with more than 20 years of experience in retail and wholesale power and gas markets. He is the founder and managing partner of Enermark Consulting, helping clients find optimal solutions for their energy, risk management and efficiency needs.
David has shared his professional insights through leadership roles at several wholesale and retail energy companies including Aquila, Engie North America and Champion Energy. He is active in the World Affairs Council of Houston, Texas and is a past board member of the council.
Throughout his career, David has emphasized the importance of understanding clients and the unique challenges of their business to maintain a working knowledge to serve them well. Embracing new technology and its capabilities has also been integral to David’s success, using it to efficiently and effectively meet the needs of his clients.
Hear what David has to say about the importance of embracing technology and social media, welcoming new opportunities with open arms and providing value as a professional by being willing to learn. Click play to gain more industry insights.
What you’ll learn:
- The power of knowing your clients and consumers well and how to best meet their needs while giving them a choice in the marketplace
- How data and capabilities technology is shortening the distance between clients and consumers
- The importance of being willing to learn and welcome new opportunities with open arms
- Ways that embracing technology have helped David build a successful business and career
- The unique challenges professionals face when marketing to rural America and how to best navigate them
- David shares what rural America means to him on a professional and personal level
- David shares his thoughts on what makes a successful marketer and communicator
Nip Neidert has built a lifelong career in the agriculture communications and advertising industry. A Jefferson City, Missouri native, Nip earned his degree in Fine Arts with an emphasis on Commercial Art from Lincoln University. He started his career as a Sales Representative for Data Comm before finding his way into the radio advertising industry. He is a military veteran, having served in the Missouri Army National Guard, and he has been involved in numerous state and national farm and agriculture boards.
Early in his career, Nip served as the Director of Ag Sales and Partner at Learfield Communications, a fast-growing radio network that has since grown into a giant in sports and agriculture programming. Nip was a part of the team when the business was first taking off and helped set the stage for where it is today.
He eventually started his own advertising company, Neidert Associates. His son Andy joined the team and together they built a very successful company, representing a variety of ag magazines to brands all over the country. Nip has always valued a positive attitude and strong work ethic and has exemplified that throughout his career. He views work as an opportunity to grow personally and professionally and loves the unique challenges each day provides.
Hear more from Cliff and Nip about the importance of creating a personal brand, marketing to rural America and the value of a positive attitude and strong work ethic. Listen to the latest episode of OUTdrive now!
What you’ll learn:
- The power of a positive attitude
- How Nip built a successful, yet unexpected, career in agriculture communications
- Tips for why and how to become regarded as an expert in your field
- The importance of selling yourself and creating a personal brand
- The value of a strong work ethic and taking pride in your work
- The power and importance of social media to create a personal relationship with your audience
- What rural America means to Nip and how it is changing in his eyes
We’re all looking to the future and anxious for life to get back to normal. In this OUTdrive episode, Cliff discusses the unique phases of the pandemic from a marketing perspective in an intriguing solocast. He shares strategies that your brand can implement to drive your business growth as the market recovers and we transition to new normal. Cliff shares insight into how companies have been affected in the midwest and specific marketing strategies brands can implement to connect with audiences and provide valuable content during these transitional times.
What you’ll learn:
- The three unique phases of the COVID-19 pandemic from a marketing perspective
- Ways successful brands pivoted and adapted throughout the COVID-19 journey to be positioned for growth
- Ways to leverage new creative assets and valuable content for your customers
- The importance of utilizing digital marketing tactics as digital is being used more now than ever
- How to introduce new ideas and concepts to connect with customers through new interests
- The unique ways that the Midwest and rural America have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and what that means for marketers going forward
- The importance of thinking outside the box as the world transitions to a new normal
OUTdrive shares actionable marketing insights you can apply to help you reach, connect and convert rural American consumers. In the first episode, Cliff Callis, owner and President of Callis, puts the pedal to the metal sharing the story of the evolution of OUTdrive and how it came to be, a brief history of Callis as an agency and some of his favorite nuggets of wisdom.
Cliff founded Callis Advertising in 1987 in his hometown of Sedalia, Missouri. Recognizing a need for a strong advertising agency in the community, Cliff set out to utilize his experience in retail, merchandising and management. Over the years, Callis has grown and adapted to new technologies as the marketing environment evolved. Cliff has built a successful marketing agency focusing on market planning, creating ads and buying media and then leading the agency through the digital revolution. Serving those who seek to reach a rural American audience, Callis offers a wide range of innovative and forward-thinking marketing and advertising services.
Hear from Cliff about the power of following your dreams, taking advantage of new opportunities and tips for establishing yourself and business as a thought leader. Buckle up and listen in now for more insights!
What you’ll learn:
- The history of Callis as an agency
- Several of Cliff’s personal and professional nuggets of wisdom
- The evolution and future of OUTdrive
- How to position yourself and business as a leader in your industry