Where We Landed: Recent Episodes
Where We Landed
Where We Landed is a podcast that recognizes our whole history told by the individuals that live and love this small Indiana County. Grant County is home to about 62,000 people, each holding a unique story as to how they landed here...in the middle of north central Indiana. We are collecting and sharing those stories.
Jim and Jenny Allbaugh’s journey to Grant County began in 2013, guided by career moves, a willingness to embrace change, and the importance of finding the right neighborhood. In this episode, they share their story—one that started in an unexpected place: a divorce couples care class.
From that unique beginning to a truly memorable engagement, their journey is one of faith, love, and fresh starts. Now, they call Grant County home and describe it as a welcoming place with an underrated sense of peace that too often goes unappreciated.
This week, we sit down with Dr. Tina Root, a dedicated dentist with deep roots in Grant County. Growing up in Fairmount and competing in athletics at Madison-Grant, she knew she wanted to build a career where she could truly know the people she served. For 40 years, she’s done just that—bringing personal, small-town care to dentistry, where patients are more than just a number.
Beyond her passion for dentistry, Dr. Root leads an extraordinary daily routine that kicks off at an eye-popping 2:30 AM. Plus, she shares stories about life with her three energetic dogs, balancing work, wellness, and community connection.
This week, we’re joined by Kisha Fisher, a dynamic changemaker who landed in Marion from Pontiac, MI, for love and found a community perfect for raising her boys. Kisha has dedicated her life to making a difference, with a passion for advocating for marginalized communities and working to reshape the legal system for a positive impact in many lives.
In this episode, we sit down with Marion native Phil Bowers, a passionate advocate for redevelopment who loves to re-imagine spaces for the better. Phil shares why the demo phase of redevelopment is his favorite—nothing like clearing the way for a brighter future! Phil talks about what makes Marion home for his family and discusses navigating business changes amid burnout.
This month of love, we’re joined by Darren and Susan Reese, a couple whose story is as unique as it is heartwarming. They met in 1991 but didn’t start dating until 1995, when Darren made the ultimate romantic gesture—inviting Susan to a waste management meeting. Since then, they’ve built a life full of love, laughter, and inside jokes, making Marion their home of choice thanks to its incredible human capital.
From Darren’s custom-made ring for Susan to their cherished celebrations at their favorite pizza place, their journey is filled with meaningful moments. Tune in as they share their playful banter and some hilarious “album names” suggestions, including Shufflin’ on Shag, Phone Looker, and Light Stalking. This episode is a testament to love, humor, and finding joy in the everyday.
In this episode, Alicia, Kylie, and Iris chat with Chris Jennerjahn, owner of Jennerjahn Machine. Chris shares how the community has rallied around him, his employees, and his business after a devastating fire. He’s also a proud dad of four and part of a racing family. From stories about innovation to heartfelt moments of community support, listen in on this inspiring episode.
Today we welcome CJ McAbee-Reher, a trailblazer in the world of volleyball officiating and a proud Marion resident since the age of 4. As part of the first all-female line judge crew at the Atlanta Olympics in 1996, and a deep passion for leadership, CJ shares her experiences, from her time in the South to her decision to return to Marion to raise her family. Tune in for this fun conversation with Alicia, Kylie, and Iris.
Join Alicia, Kylie, and Iris as they welcome, Dr. Steve Wood this week to the podcast. With a Peter Pan spirit, Steve proudly proclaims that he'll never grow up. He holds a PhD in Fine Arts—"just fine art," as he likes to say—and teaches students the art of pretending. In this playful and insightful podcast, Dr. Wood shares why he believes that art not only makes life livable but also lovable. Tune in for a whimsical look at how creativity shapes our lives and the joy of never losing your inner child.
Meet Vickie Conrad, a pastor and the director of Kids Hope that provides mentoring support at Frances Slocum Elementary. She has called Grant County home since 2001. In this episode, Vickie shares her journey of finding a sense of belonging and encourages listeners to give any place three years to truly feel like home. Her biggest praise for Grant County? The people—true, genuine, and deeply caring for one another. Tune in to this story of mentorship, community, and the power of connection as Vickie reflects on her mission to lift others up and create a nurturing environment for children and families alike.
In this episode, we follow the incredible journey of Cameron Balser, the real-life Forrest Gump, who ran around the entire perimeter of the USA—unsupported. For Cameron, running isn’t just exercise; it’s pure joy. Along the way, he encountered the unconditional love and support of people from all walks of life, while also learning to be deeply in tune with his own body. Join us as Cameron shares stories from the road, insights into the mental and physical aspects of long-distance running, and how this remarkable experience has changed his life forever.
Join us as we welcome Judd Riddle, COO of TJR, whose journey from humble beginnings to business leadership is a testament to the power of grit and innovation. Raised by a father who taught him perseverance and a mother who instilled business savvy, Judd's first jobs selling watermelon and working as a carnie laid the foundation for his entrepreneurial spirit. In this podcast, Judd shares how these early lessons helped him grow his business through innovation and why he’s passionate about Marion. For Judd, every challenge is an opportunity, and he’s driven by his love for a good project.
Kylie, Iris, and guest host Bobby Browder welcome Ashley Hurd, a lifelong Marion resident who is passionate about her work as an escrow officer, where she has the unique joy of handing out keys and money. With a background as a former business owner, Ashley has a deep understanding of the community's challenges and potential. In this podcast, she talks about the need for us to move beyond negative perceptions and embracing a future filled with hope. Ashley discusses the importance of improving quality of life in Marion in hopes of seeing her hometown flourish. Tune in to hear her story and thoughtful insights.
The team welcomes Lindsey Dewitt, VP branch manager at Ruoff Mortgage. Born and raised in Grant County, Lindsey graduated from Oak Hill and, after a brief stint in El Paso, quickly realized there’s no place like home. In this episode, Lindsey shares her deep love for her community, her dreams of making it an even better place to live, and how she unwinds with her husband, daughter, and pups!
WWL welcomes Tim Street, the owner of Bahr Brothers Manufacturing. A graduate of Eastbrook High School, Tim's journey is one of hard work, dedication, and family values. Starting at Bahr Brothers in 1985, Tim worked every job in the company before taking the reins as owner in 2017. Listen in as we learn how Tim balances life as a business owner with being the "Best Pop in the World".
Join Scott, Iris, and Kylie as we meet Gas City native Kevin Planck. From working with inner-city youth to dedicating himself to behavioral health and senior care, Kevin has always found his purpose in helping others. In this podcast, we dive deep into Kevin's experiences, the challenges he's faced, and the profound fulfillment he finds in taking care of people.
Listen in as we welcome Matt Wilson, a Grant County boomerang, that made his way back for family. The team enjoyed learning about Matt’s love for palindromes, alliterations, and music. The owner of Psychedelic Cellar, a record store located in downtown Marion, shares with us how he chose the name of his business and the importance of being patient.
WWL welcomes guest host Bobby Browder as we interview Sheriff Del Garcia. Listen in as we learn how Del landed in Grant County. A child of immigrant parents - his family found their way here when he was 5 years old. The team learns how he found his purpose - to serve people - and his journey to his position today.
Scott, Alicia, and Iris welcome Bridgette Boswell to the show. Rooted in Grant County, Bridget talks about family, self-care, and the importance of remaining steadfast in your vision. She shares about the journey of opening Milk + Honey, a coffee shop located in Converse and learning the importance of always making customers feel heard and seen.
Josh Bowlin joins Scott, Alicia and Kylie this week. We learn about how this born and bred Grant County boy traveled the world from land locked Indiana to Africa, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea. Hear about how their family of six has made the transition back to central Indiana.
Alicia, Kylie, and Scott welcome Megan Gilmore to Where We Landed this week! Megan spent her childhood commuting from Elwood to Marion for school and activities. She attended Indiana Wesleyan and after a bit of back-and-forth, her family decided to make Marion its home. Come along as we learn about Megan’s passion for her family, work, and community!
Scott, Alicia, and Kylie are joined this week by Amanda Cruea- a local Paramedic, Entrepreneur and Non-Profit Founder. Amanda is a lifer, born and raised in Grant County. She's an Oak Hill grad that never wanted to leave her small town roots. Get ready to learn about the winding road of how Amanda's passions have led her to the life she has today.
Buckle up - you are in for some fun! WWL welcomes Jeremy Hite to the show. Moving to Grant County to attend IWU, Jeremy made this his home. Listen in as Jeremy shares his love for the county, fried foods, Disney, and teaches us to order the “Jeremy” at Starbucks.
Meet Carol Hamilton, Everyone’s Favorite Volunteer! Or at least the WWL team has titled her. Listen in as we learn how Carol landed here, grew up here, her passion for volunteering, and how she always had a bathing suit in hand.
The team welcomes Dwight Ott to our first full episode of 2024! Scott, Alicia, and Iris learn how the Ott family chose Marion as their home based on the school system. Come on a ride as Dwight shares some of their best business practices, his philosophy on working hard & playing hard, and why they still choose Marion.
We are back! Join the whole team - Alicia, Iris, Kylie, and Scott -as we celebrate 100 episodes and talk about what we have been up to on our break. We also take some time to reflect on the first 100 and look forward to the next 100!
Kylie and Alicia hold down the fort with our 100th guest Micheal Lindsay, President of Taylor University. With stops all along the east coast and southeast, learn how the Lindsay family has landed in Upland Indiana after a special prayer and a sleepless night. Learn how this girl dad spends his time off, about High-Low Buffalo, and what “Hinge Moments” means. What does a University President do to relax? Find out this week.
Scott, Alicia, and Kylie are joined this week by Cory Simon, the Talent Recruiter for Summers Plumbing Heating and Cooling. Cory is a Gas City boomerang. An Ole Miss grad that was ready to not land in Grant County but here he is and raising his young family in the place where his family landed in 1936. Get ready to learn all you can about this Green Bay Packers owner and budding wedding officiant.
Kelly Scher, Director of Fund Development at Carey Services, joins the show. Scott and Iris learn how Kelly landed in Grant County and it was basically the halfway point for jobs. Listen as we hear why she continues to choose Marion as her home, her passion for growth, and continuing to use the motto from 4-H “ Make the Best, Better”.
Scott, Kylie, and Iris welcome Haley Anderson, Operations Manager at the Convention & Visitors Bureau. Listen in as we learn how Haley became passionate about Grant County. Originally from Columbus, IN, Haley wanted to make Grant County her home. Listen in as we learn how she knew IWU was the place for her, the importance of accessibility for visitors, and areas of opportunity for Grant County.
WWL welcomes Northview Elementary Principal, Amanda Varner to the show. Listen in as we learn how she landed here. Born and raised in Grant county, her calling to servant leadership has kept her rooted in her hometown, along with family and a supportive community. Amanda shares her joys of ‘adventures’ and pursuit to remove the assumption she wants sauce on her sandwich!
Scott and Iris have been left in charge and we have Abel Garcia, owner/operator of Tacos No Mas. Listen in as we learn how Abel made his way to Grant County, how he loves to serve people, and the definition of family is food. He dreams of being able to give back in a grander way… and maybe No Mas Karaoke?
Get Suited & Booted for this interview with Ambra Parker, owner/operator of Parker’s Seafood! Listen in as Iris, Alicia and Kylie learn about how Ambra made her way back home. Ambra shares how the vision of her husband wanting to bring seafood to Marion came to life, what it's like to return to your hometown as an adult, and the differences in raising kids in urban vs rural environment.
Scott, Alicia, and Kylie sit down this week with a Gas City native Mark Atkinson. He boomeranged from Gas City to Macon, GA and back. He is a retired pastor from Eastview Wesleyan Church, father of 4 plus a bonus. Dedicated to cheering everyone on to live their best life, he has built some crazy connections. Learn what is next on the book and bucket list.
On the show today, Alicia, Iris and Scott welcome Brittany Howey, Branch Manager for Star Bank. Brittany shares with us what it was like growing up in Grant County and why she chooses to commute for her job. The group answers some hard questions and Brittany encourages us each to “Be a Scott Miller” when you approach creating new relationships.
Today the group welcomes Michelle Peterson, Chief Marketing Officer of Via Credit Union. Listen in as we learn how Michelle is the luckiest person and loves an Ivanhoe’s strawberry shortcake. She shares how she made it to Grant County, loves how organizations work well together, and does not like escargot.
Continuing our theme of educators in Grant County, Scott, Alicia and Iris welcome retired teacher, Sandi Chapman. Listen in as our favorite science teacher talks about all things - from learning to love Marion through basketball, using fruit flies to understand DNA, and her most favorite part of teaching will always be the students.
Our visits with local educators continues this week as Scott, Alicia, and Kylie chat with Mississinewa High School Principal Rachel Roesch. Listen in as we hear how Rachel and her family found Grant County, what she loves about her work, and what it's like raising three kids in Gas City!
We continue with our teacher theme as we approach the start of another school year! Kylie, Alicia, and Iris welcome one of their former teachers, Mr. Terry Lakes - and yes, we still call him Mr. Lakes because some habits are hard to break. Listen in as we learn how he discovered that teaching and coaching was for him, as early as an 8th grade student. We learn how he made his way to Marion, coached and taught for 41 years, and the importance of paying it forward.
As we head towards the start of the school year, we are kicking off a series with local teachers! Today we welcome Eastbrook High School engineering teacher, John Ragan. The team dives in to learn all about this Eastbrook and Taylor University grad that decided to give back to his alma mater and begin a state-of-the-art engineering program. Listen as we learn how he moved around, finally calling Grant County home and teaching future entrepreneurial engineers of the future.
The WWL crew has hit the road! It's the first time we are recording onsite and Greg Tonagel, head coach of IWU Men’s 3 time National Championship basketball team, has invited us into the locker room. Ya’ll! Scott was starry-eyed!
Listen in as we hear the story of a young basketball coach that made the move to Marion, IN at the encouragement of his younger brother, to take on the role as head coach for a men’s NAIA basketball team. Greg talks about growing up on a dairy farm, taking coaching advice from his kids, the importance of asking a recruit the right questions, and why his calling is to coaching people not just basketball.
Today, we welcome Josh Feuerstein, owner/operator of Strive Studio and the Loft at Strive, located in downtown Marion. Josh was born in Marion and moved a few times before returning to Marion. Listen in as he shares how his mom and aunt modeled a career of helping, a string of jobs and walking through the open door to become a small business owner.
"It all began in the parking lot of a Winn Dixie”...You have to listen to hear the rest of it! Kylie, Iris, and Scott are excited to welcome Meagan Mathias with the Community Foundation! Listen in as we learn how it all started, what growing up in Grant County was like and her desire to live where she could walk to work.
Evan King joins Alicia, Scott, and Iris on today’s episode of Where We Landed. Evan is an insurance agent with Health Markets located in downtown Marion. Listen in as we learn how Evan found his way to IWU, interned for the Toledo Mud Hens, and models the level of integrity he learned from his grandpa.
Alicia, Kylie, and Iris welcome James Beyioku - Project Manager at the Grant County Economic Growth Council. This episode is poppin’! James talks about finding his support system and teaches us that there is a cross-fit gym in Upland! Listen in as we learn how James, who was born in LA moved to Marion, learned how to adjust to seasonal weather, Midwest food, and how to rest.
This week on WWL Alicia, Kylie and Scott are joined by Rick Reyes. Rick shares his story of growing up in Marion, his time at Jones Middle school, and working hard to win the heart of a smart pretty blonde. After he served in the United States military and toured all around the world, Rick landed back in his hometown of Marion. Today he runs a professional security business and has one of the largest 4th of July displays in Grant County. We hope you enjoy this explosive episode full of surprises and laughter.
Dr. Mike Conn, Chief Medical Officer with Radiant Health, joins the WWL crew to share how he landed in Marion/Grant County. Dr. Conn, originally from southern California, was a Naval medical officer that decided to move on. That unexpectedly brought him to Marion, IN by way of Grant-Blackford Mental Health. Listen in as we learn how he met his wife, where he lived in his early Grant County days, and that TikTok is an acceptable form of self-care.
Listen in to this episode with, with Scott, Alicia, and Iris as they welcome Anthony Decker. He is an entrepreneur, drummer in a garage band, passionate history keeper and an Irish pub enthusiast. Anthony is the owner of Living Forward ABA, LVF Properties and the soon-to-be opened, The Old Fitz Public House. Anthony shares he was born in Marion and left for school in Fort Wayne. He describes the Marion ‘tractor pull’ that brought he and his high school sweetheart back home to raise their family and build their business.
Join us today as Alicia, Scott, and Kylie start this episode with a lively bee conversation and welcome Dr. Cindy Briggs to share her story. Cindy talks about how a job brought her and her family to Grant County and has stayed for business and community. She recounts how she moved around and when she came here, she made the effort to connect and become a part of the community. Listen is as she talks about her hobby of collecting degrees, her love of the entrepreneurial spark, becoming a RAD advocate and her adventures in homeschooling her children.
The Team welcomes Dr. Jen Bennett to Where We Landed! Kylie, Alicia, and Iris spend the next 40 minutes learning all things Jen! But the most pressing question the team wants to know, is how someone that grew up in Key West, FL landed here! Listen in as we learn how she learned that education was for her, finding the one good guy in Miami, and just how easy it was to find her community here in Marion.
Alicia, Scott and Iris welcome Indiana Wesleyan University President - Dr. Jon Kulaga - to the show. Listen in as we learn about how he landed here, his pathway through higher education, his first impressions of Marion, and how opportunity motivates him.
You guys are in for a treat! The WWL team welcomes Susan Reese - a realtor with FC Tucker. Born in Thailand into a military family and moving often, she shares how a cute boy brought her here and she has adopted Marion as her hometown. Listen in as Susan shares her story with charm, humor, and you might learn a little something about The Rabe?
Alicia and Iris are left to run the show today and when the cat's away the mice will play! Join us for today's ride as we welcome Joselyn Whitticker to the show. Born on her family farm in Blackfish, AR, she made her way to Grant County as a single mom in 1990. Listen as she shares about her role as an education administrator, learning to balance time as a working mom and the importance of showing up every day for kids.
WWL welcomes a Grant County boomerang, Sara James, to this week’s show. She is the owner of the Sara James Design and works at Taylor University in the Advancement department. We learn about how she loves the hunt to find items to be used in design and always encourages clients to use what they have. Listen as she talks about her village in Upland, discussing how spaces that we spend time in affect our whole health, and learning that she might be cheugy?
Andrew Sprock, Executive Director of Circles of Grant County, joins Kylie, Iris, and Alicia in the studio today. Andrew talks about his work with Circles, the importance of removing barriers for those living in poverty and building supportive communities for families. You will hear about how he and his family made their way to Grant County, how he is learning to model behavior for his bi-racial children, and meeting his wife when they both were 10 years old.
This episode, Scott, Kylie, and Iris learn how Texas born and raised Dr. Tim Gillum landed in Grant County. He is a doctor of Otolaryngology and Chief of Surgery at Marion Health. The doc shares how he ‘thought’ he was just passing through, his love of DMB and why anyone should cherish this ‘diamond in the rough’, we call home.
Alicia and Kylie chat today with Steve Quaderer. Growing up in Angola, Steve was a 3-sport athlete in high school and was recruited to Manchester University to play baseball. Listen in as Steve tells us how his own coaches, mentors, and life experiences led him to the work and life he leads today with his wife and two sons in Gas City.
A word of care. Toward the end of this episode, Steve shares his story of a close family member's suicide. Please use caution when listening as this topic may trigger distress.
Kylie and Alicia team up today to chat with Pam Green. Pam, of the "4th street Daggys", tells the story of how she made it from Mishiwaka to rural Grant County. Pam has spent her life growing relationships and flowers. We hope you enjoy this story of how Pam became "The Flower Cart Lady"!
Calling all Readers! This is the episode for you! Today, Kylie and Iris welcome LeeAnna Smith, Executive Director of the United Way of Grant County. LeeAnna, born and raised in Gas City, shares how she landed back in Grant County. An avid reader and proclaimed "Bestie" with her Librarians growing up, LeeAnna talks about her need to feel connected to her community, her first date with her husband that ended in a handshake, and the importance of realizing your potential. Oh! And her top book recommendations from 2022.
Liz Wright, Executive Director of the Senior Center, is in studio today. Go on this ride as we learn about all the experiences she has had in her career; from a 21-year-old running a bar, selling real estate, and being the director of the Community Foundation. Listen in as she talks about blazing the trail for women in business, learning how to make ham -n- beans and did she say, run the FBI?!
This last week in February, the team welcomes Trent and Angel Dailey to the show. Listen in as we learn how they met, how Angel gave Marion a chance, and the impact Trent hopes to leave on his hometown.
Today, Paul and Shayona Funches join the WWL team in studio. Listen in as we learn how the Funches landed in Marion – and spoiler, it wasn’t Shayona! They share what the United States of Mommy & Daddy means, their passion for youth and their proudest moments.
Welcome back to the month of Love! WWL is happy to welcome Ron and Jil Mazellan. Scott, Iris & Kylie learn how the Mazellans made Marion their home. Ron shares how he believes that art is the center of thriving communities. We learn how Jil was the catalyst for her family making the move to call this their home and finding a place where she is related to everyone.
Grant County is full of amazing stories. Where We Landed is a podcast that collects those stories from the people who live them.
Welcome to the “love month” of February! We are trying something new and featuring couples all month long.
First up, Scott, Kylie and Iris welcome Craig and Sarah Persinger…and Carmen, too! Set aside a little more time as we dig into the story of the Persingers, from meeting in a bar, Craig’s proposal, and their favorite place to visit. Listen in as we learn all things about how they landed here, why they stay and the importance of employing dirty tricks!
You can listen to this episode and all past episodes of Where We Landed at www.wherewelanded.com or wherever you listen to podcasts. A new episode is released every Thursday!
Kylie, Alicia, and Iris welcome Les Korporal, owner of Modern Machine & Tool. Born and raised in Grant County, Les talks about growing up here, learning to problem solve through fabrication and his passion for the unheard-of sport of tractor pulls.
Kylie, Scott and Iris welcome Michelle Bunker, Agency Owner & Director of Employer Group Benefits with Insurance Management Group. The team hears how Michelle landed in Marion and her love of this community. Listen in as she talks about how she could not imagine life anywhere else, the path she took to success, and her undefeated soccer coaching record.
Today the team welcomes our good friend, Jonathan Perez, Upland Town Manager. Listen in as Jonathan shares his family’s story of immigrating from Cuba and making Marion their home. Jonathan tells us how Alicia once saved his life, his success in running campaigns, and how family defines home.
It’s lady’s day in the studio! Curtisha Bell, an RN serving in multiple roles, joins the Where We Landed show today to talk about her journey to Marion. Growing up she moved a lot and made fast friends in every place. Listen in as Curtisha shares her passion for connecting, her drive to help kids and the prediction a psychic made 13 years ago that is still holding true.
Grant County is full of amazing stories. Where We Landed is a podcast that collects those stories from the people who live them.
Today, Alex Warren, Physical Therapist with Athletico, shares how her studies in physical therapy brought her to Marion. She accepted a short-term contract to work with Marion General Hospital and 3 ½ years later Marion became her home. Listen, as Alex shares why Marion is her venue to call home
You can listen to this episode and all past episodes of Where We Landed at www.wherewelanded.com or wherever you listen to podcasts. A new episode is released every Thursday!
Today is the Day! Scott is finally in the hot seat! Scott shares why he instantly fell in love with Marion and felt welcome. Listen in as Scott shares about his family, his interests in business and passion for people.
In studio today, Scott, Kylie, & Alicia welcome Alex Huskey, Chancellor of Ivy Tech Community College Marion Campus. Alex shares how he landed in Marion, basically on a fulfilled promise, that if he got a job they would stay. Listen in as he shares his journey from behavioral health to law enforcement to being a D.A.R.E officer in the schools to discovering his passion for education.
BONUS- Is this the episode that Scott gets a “W”? Tune in to find out!
Today we welcome Gabi Bradley- the Gabi in Gabriella’s Old Time Pizza in Gas City! Listen in as she shares how she loves the Hallmark-esque feel and the slower pace of life in Grant County. Gabi shares some breaking news of new business ventures coming to Main Street Gas City and encourages budding entrepreneurs to find a seasoned mentor.
Scott, Kylie, and Iris welcome their friend Eric Marshall to today’s show. He describes himself as a kid that grew up on Nebraska Street with a family that loved Marion. This love helped him cultivate an appreciation for his hometown. A photojournalist and business owner, listen to Eric’s story and take his advice to heart - “If you can’t dance in your own yard, where can you dance?”
Today the team welcomes Dennis Roach, a boomerang to Gas City & Grant County. Dennis has spent the last 31 years giving back and loves planning events - from Boomtown and Bacon Fest to being the mastermind behind Gas City Concerts in the Park. Listen in as he shares his love of music, how he learned to pull the best out of volunteers, and his challenge to the community to give more and take less.
Alicia, Scott, and Kylie chat with Ryan Kellermeyer. A Grant County Boomerang, Ryan graduated from Madison-Grant and took flight to Philly where he found a passion for neighborhood revitalization and engagement. Like many, family and new opportunities called him back to Grant County. He and his wife live in Marion and found a way to trick people into being their friends and helping them start a neighborhood garden.
Kylie and Iris are back in studio with Scott, as they welcome Carla Tucker. Carla made her way to Grant County from South Dakota and has remained - Marion is her home. Carla has given her time to many places- Meals on Wheels, Girl Scouts, Chamber Ambassadors, Civic Theatre and CSA. She shares “5 ingredients to make me happy” which include get involved, visit festivals, sing, go to live theatre, and tutor a student.
Today, Scott and Kirk put co-host Alicia Hazelwood in the hot seat! Listen in to learn more about Alicia, her background, and why she loves Grant County.
Alicia, Scott, and Kirk sit down today with a dynamic leader from our community, Dr. Sarah Farmer. Sarah shares her story of her childhood split between Pennsylvania and South Carolina and how it ultimately led her to Marion with stops along the way at Emory and Yale. Dr. Farmer's passion community is evident and you will not want to miss this conversation!
Today, Alicia and Kirk chat with Marion lover Gabe Delgado. From the MHS class of ’98 (the best class if you ask Alicia!) to being a rapper, father, short-time professional golfer and community advocate. We learn how laughter and finding your people is the key to a happy life.
Today, we've got something a little different. As a first birthday present from us to you, we've got a conversation between friend of the podcast Evan Gilmore and one of our favorite authors, Melody Warnick! Recorded during Melody's visit to Grant County for BLOOM2022, they discuss finding home wherever you are as well as some practical tips on falling in love with where you live!
Kylie and Iris are MIA again. Luckily Scott, Alicia, and Kirk are here to pick up the slack! This week, they chat with Grant County "lifer" Laura Dodson. Laura is a mom, fitness instructor, and member of a girl band! Listen in as she talks to our team about building a business, raising her family, and the ties that keep her in Grant County!
Today Scott, Alicia, and special guest host Kurt sit down and chat with a Bernice Farnum. She has lived her life in service to others. Flying with her pilot husband, providing medical care in Belize, serving as a missionary for the World Gospel Mission, questionable judgement as a Cardinals fan 😊, and loving on the people that seek care at Marion Health. Bernice shares how Marion is home.
Today’s show gets wild! The team shares about the worst hairstyles they have sported– we are still trying to find some of these pictures! But the fun continues as our good friend Bobby Browder, or as we affectionately call him Bobby Baywatch, joins us for this episode. Listen as we hear about him sweating to the oldies, how he earned a key to the city, and his strong desire to give back to provide opportunities in Marion & Grant County.
Today Scott, Alicia and Kylie chat with Keith Burke, the Superintendent of Marion Community Schools. Keith shares about his passion for kids and coaching, the path that lead him to Marion, and how his family has fallen in love with this community.
It’s ladies day on this episode and we welcome Lisa Taylor Weaver, Director of Engagement with TCC. Lisa talks about her love of the Purple and Gold, love of her family and the connectivity that keeps her grounded to Marion. Listen in as we hear about Lisa’s journey with the same employer for the last 23 years and her drive to mentor her replacement.
The team welcome Kyle Beal, a lifer of Grant County and the chief of police at IWU. Kyle shares about growing in Marion, their loyalty to the Marion Giants and how he even got his middle name. He shares about how he discovered public service was the right path for him. Kyle encourages listeners to get involved to make the community better.
Today the team, Scott, Alicia & Iris, are pleased to welcome Lezlie Winter, Superintendent of Mississinewa Community Schools. Lezlie is a gifted athlete, coach, and educator that has blazed the trail, often as the only female in the room. She sees Grant County as a place of potential for success and believes we have the right passionate people to move our community forward.
On this episode of Where We Landed, the team sits down with Bruce Bender. Bruce has served in local law enforcement and has traveled the world with a premiere Judo program - Marion PAL Judo!
Today the team sits down with Marion’s Historian, Bill Munn. Originally from Angola, IN, Bill shares how he landed in Marion & Grant County. Mr. Munn, as many know him, started his career at Marion Community Schools in 1969 and was the creator of the Community History Project that has had a lasting impact on the stories that have been collected since the early 90’s. These stories can still be viewed in the Indiana Room of the Marion Public Library. And maybe he inspired some of his former students to continue this legacy but in a different medium…
Kylie, Alicia and Iris had a lot of fun with this week’s episode that welcomes a super fan of WWL – Kirk Hornocker. Listen in as Kirk talks about his family, his days as a mascot – namely Purdue Pete, and the group going on a wild tangent talking about pizza!
Today we welcome Lisa Dominisse, originally from Nebraska landing in Grant County in 2012, she has made an immediate impact. Scott, Alicia, and Iris explore her work in mental health, growing up feral in Nebraska and her purpose on the planet to reduce suffering. Listen in as Lisa challenges us to question “why not Grant County?”
Today the WWL team welcomes Courtney Delks, the 2010 Indiana Miss Basketball that is from Sweetser, IN. Courtney is now coaching both in sports and in the business world. She is an avid reader and is constantly looking for ways to improve herself as well as the building to the life of those around her. She shares her love of basketball, family and being a mentor to the next generation as she shares on why she has landed here.
Today the team welcomes one of our own. At the request of our listeners we are going to share a few short episodes about ourselves. Volunteering today is Iris Brunner. One of the four founders of the Where We Landed Podcast, Iris is passionate about anything connected to children and justice. Iris is a "lifer" of Marion being born and raised in the community but came back "kicking and screaming" but always knew this is where she wanted to raise her family.
Scott, Alicia and Iris welcome Jennifer Lane-Riefler to the show; recently retired or Graduated, rather Executive Director of Cancer Services of Grant County. Listen in as Jennifer shares about her reluctant move on April Fools day to Grant County and her 23 years educating the county about cancer warning signs. You won’t want to miss hearing the stories of this Youngstown, OH girl - her new pursuits of clearing energy, waking with the birds and living in your blessings every day.
Today the team welcomes Wendy Puffer to the podcast, a resident of Marion since 1991, she shares how she landed here. An owner of Marion Design Co, she shares the importance of committing to the process of growth and development and not rushing to the end product. Listen in as Wendy shares how she seeks answers by standing on the edge of the box and her greatest joy of connecting people through design to improve their lives here and beyond.
Andre Payne joins us this week to share about his experience playing football in high school and college, graduating from Taylor University, teaching at Indiana Wesleyan University, being a girl dad, and working with community organizations like the Boys & Girls Club, Community Foundation, and NAACP!
South Bend native and Grant County transplant Mary Eckerle tells her story of coming to Marion by way of Chicago, and her love for all things library-related. A wine connoisseur and politics "junkie," she shares about her passion for children's literacy, family, and of course, Grant County!
This week, Carol Secttor joins the WWL crew to tell us about her story as a public educator here in Grant County. Carol shares about her teaching philosophy as well as her passion for children and the community as a whole!
The team sits down with Dinh Ngo this week, owner of Grant County Steel. Listen in as we learn about his childhood in Vietnam, his harrowed journey to the United States, and his family. Dinh took a risk on Marion & Grant County that has turned out to be a perfect place to land! You won't want to miss our most requested guest to date!
This week, the WWL crew is joined by Grant County transplant Nate McNeely. Nate was born and raised in Illinois and made his way to Grant County at the suggestion of a friend and a potential job. Since then he has established his career, started a family, ingrained himself in the community through coaching and volunteer service, and convinced his family to make the move to Grant County too!
Evan Gilmore joins the WWL crew to tell us about coming to Grant County after finishing school and how that has grown into raising his family here. Evan shares his growth professionally in the community, running for office, and how he has built a passion for recording/sharing history. Listen in as we chat and learn about how we are different and the same.
A milestone episode calls for a milestone guest! Episode 25 sees Alicia, Kylie, and Scott welcome into the studio Art Faulkner! Art was kind enough to share his stories with us - of growing up in Marion during the 1950's, his marriage to the incomparable Rita, raising their family here in Grant County, his long career at Marion General Hospital, in addition to all of his "extra-curricular" work in our community. You won't want to miss this slice of our history told by on of our favorite elder statesmen!
This week Iris, Kylie, and Scott sit down with Gas City entrepreneur Amie Pearson! We discuss the winding trail of entrepreneurship that brought her to where she is today - owning an amazing local business (Mama Pearson's Soaporium), raising three boys with her husband Pat, and Guiness World Records! It's a wide-ranging conversation that you won't want to miss!
Pastor Drew Morrell, joins the WWL crew to share about his deep roots in Grant County, dating back to the 1840’s with the Weaver Settlement, a self-sustaining community of black pioneers of free and formerly enslaved families. Drew shares his love of people, stories and his passion as a church-planter for racial reconciliation. Listen in as we talk, laugh, and clarify that he was NOT at a furry conference.
This week Alicia, Iris, and Scott sit down with world traveler and wearer of many hats - Loretta Tappan! Loretta tells us about how she went from traveling the world with a death metal band to being firmly rooted in Grant County. You won’t want to miss this story!
WWL’s team sits down today with a fixture of the Gas City community. Janet Blake landed in Grant County after working in glass manufacturing all over the East Coast. She is known in Gas City for all her community engagement - including the Gas City Chamber, Concerts in the Park, Gas City Kiwanis, and Grant County United Way. Until she retired from TCC, she was also know as the “cell phone lady”. We are excited for you to hear how she came to call Grant County home.
This week, Alicia and Kylie are joined by a special GUEST CO-HOST (you'll have to listen to find out who it is!) to help us interview a true Grant County icon - Ed Breen. Ed tells us about growing up in Iowa, his move to Marion in the early '60s, and what has kept him here ever since. You won't want to miss this stroll down memory lane!
This week, the WWL team chats with Marion native Torri Williams. Torri is the Culture Care Director for Lark's Song but her work stretches so much further. We chat about growing up in Marion, leaving for college and her early career then returning to Marion and the ways she has seen Marion grow and change during that time. There is some truly wonderful, deep conversation here. And also A LOT of laughs. Did we mention that Torri is a pop culture trivia queen?!
This week Alicia, Iris, and Scott chat with Gas City resident Susan Miller. She comes from a large family that has deep roots in Grant County! Service and commitment to community are embedded values for Susan. This is evident through her school board service, her day job at Family Service Society, and not to mention her new small business - Gas City Brewing! You won't want to miss this conversation!
It's an all-ladies day! Join Iris, Alicia, and Kylie as they chat with artist Tashema Davis - a Gary, Indiana native who now calls Grant County home! Tashema's love for art was inspired by graffiti on the trains of her hometown and she tells us how that passion for art has developed, what it's like to operate her own art gallery, publish her own children's book series, create large-scale murals and other commissions for her community, and how to do it all while raising two beautiful daughters! You won't want to miss this conversation!
This week, we talk to long-time Grant County staple - Steve Schrader. We discuss growing up in Gas City; as well as his work as a township trustee, newspaper editor, and owner of legendary Marion establishment Folkies Tavern. This conversation definitely deserves a part two someday!
The WWL team meets Kyren Monterio on this week’s show. You may not know it but you have heard his work because he is the mastering genius behind Where We Landed beginning with episode 12. Learn how this pastor’s son found himself through music and culture to become an entrepreneur that has clients all over the world, based right here in Grant County.
Scott, Alicia, and Kylie chat this week with Dawn Brown, a self-described boomerang and blogger. Dawn was raised here in Gas City, left for Texas for a period, and returned to Grant County to raise her family. Listen in as we discuss her passion for our community, her family, and what qualifies as a Christmas movie.
This week we chat with Tim Andrews - a Grant County native, retiree, and tireless community advocate and volunteer. Tim also has a passion for woodworking, particularly unplugged furniture-making. We recently asked you-our listeners-for suggestions of who you wanted us to talk to and Tim was one of those suggestions! We discuss his woodworking hobby, his local non-profit involvement, and more!
Iris, Kylie, and Scott kick off the New Year chatting with local business owner Michael Mathias. Michael is a Gas City native with a passion for all things bicycles! We talk about starting his business, bicycle & pedestrian infrastructure, and Grant County's growing bicycle culture. Michael has an interesting story to share that you won't want to miss!
The WWL team sits down today with Michael Moffitt. Find out how this Southern California kid grew to be a professional NFL player and landed in the Midwest. Also learn that he isn’t the most accomplished athletic star of the Moffitt family. From Beaches to corn fields, listen, as Michael shares about what brought him Grant County and what inspires him today.
Scott, Alicia and Kylie sit down with today's guest Mitra Majumdar, a young female architect from Bangladesh, who followed her dreams to Ball State. We chat with her about her culture, living in another country and her love of art. Enjoy all the laughter that this amazing woman brings to the studio with us.
Today's episode features Matt Voss, with Near Space Launch, an emerging leader and space entrepreneur in Grant County that has a love of technology and exploration. Matt and his father decided they didn’t need to be in FL or TX to reach for the stars. Listen, as Matt shares about what brought him back to Upland and what inspires him today.
Today's episode features Kayla Johnson, with the City of Marion, an emerging energetic leader in Grant County that has a love of people and their stories. Listen, as Kayla shares about growing up in North Carolina, what brought her to Marion and why she stayed.
Scott, Alicia, and Iris are excited to welcome today’s guest- Heath Slain, a girl dad, a local business owner, keeper of Ivanhoe’s secrets and social media mystery. Listen in as he shares Upland history and laughs with our WWL team.
This week the team welcomes Glen Devitt to the show. Chances are good you have seen him at sporting events, Mississinewa 1812, or even doing corporate headshots, but only from behind the camera! Listen in as he shares his story of how Grant County became his home and how his love for photography is shaping our history.
Isaiah Fuller is today’s guest. Tune to hear his story – a young man navigating a career and choosing to have Grant County be a part of his story. Listen as Isaiah shares his story of growing up in Marion and his intention to give back as a mentor.
The WWL team meets Dev Srikanth on today’s show. Dev has chosen Grant County as her home for the last 20+ years and truly loves her community. Dev shares her love of family, community that has helped them thrive and feeding those she loves all the vegetables!
Scott, Alicia, and Kylie are excited to welcome today’s guest- Abby Wilkinson, a local artisan and business owner that is talented beyond belief with an infectious spirit to match. She explains why finding your people is important for balance.
Today we welcome Michelle Doyle, An architect that moved to Marion for her job and is the mother of twin boys. Listen along as Michelle shares how she grew up, talks about the beauty in Grant County and how she was able to create a life that she loves here. And, best of all, her dreams of retiring to a …treehouse?
Welcome to the first episode of, Where we Landed. In this short introduction, you will get to meet Scott Miller, Kylie Jackson, Alicia Hazelwood and Iris Brunner – the team that will be sharing and collecting the stories of Grant County residents.
Listen along as we learn a little about each host, how they landed here and why they choose to stay.