Lee's Summit Town Hall

Summer is officially getting ready to start. Downtown Lee's Summit's Julie Cook and Jenny Gale drop by the vault to sing us a song about next week's Downtown Days festival - my, and yours, kickoff to summer. In addition to some improv singing, we're filling you in on all the details of this popular annual festival drawing more than 80,000 people into our historic shopping and entertainment district. 

Host Nick Parker and Jason Norbury discuss the exciting progress on Lee's Summit's new downtown farmers market and performance space on Green Street, set to open in August after years of planning. The duo also covers the early announcement of two mayoral candidates — business owner and City Council member Cynda Rader and current Mayor Pro Tem Beto Lopez — who are already positioning themselves for next year's election. The episode takes a somber turn as they honor four recently deceased community members who made significant contributions to Lee's Summit: Andy Lock (Third Street Social owner), Jody Fristo (arts advocate), Peggy Doughty (Blue Heron owner), and Brad Rackers (theater director and teacher). The show closes with audio from a previous interview with Rackers about his "F Word" speech on failure and learning.

Ever wondered what happens when passion meets plastic bricks? In Episode 862 of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker welcomes Phil and Lori Volen, the creative minds behind Phillori Phigures (see what they did there?). These downtown Lee's Summit entrepreneurs transformed their pandemic hobby into a thriving business crafting custom, Lego-compatible figures that are captivating collectors everywhere. But this isn't just another business origin story. Nick dives into the truly important questions that divide the brick-building community: Are you Team Builder, meticulously crafting masterpieces that remain pristinely displayed? Or Team Player, dumping out containers and letting imagination run wild? The Volens share their own brick-building philosophies and how these different approaches influence their unique creations. Whether you're a dedicated collector or someone who steps on plastic bricks in the middle of the night, this episode explores how a simple toy became a creative business venture creating community, one custom mini-figure at a time.

In this election-focused episode, host Nick Parker and guest Jason Norbury provide a breakdown of the four candidates competing for just two available seats on the Lee's Summit Board of Education. They explore the priorities and perspectives of Michelle Dawson, Jennifer Foley (current board president and lone incumbent), Nikki Nickens, and Leon Weatherby. The discussion delves into critical issues facing the district, including board-superintendent relations, teacher compensation, public communication strategies, and fiscal management. Each candidate's unique approach to these challenges offers listeners valuable insights into how they might shape the board's future direction. Whether you're a decided voter or still weighing your options, this episode delivers the information you need to make an informed choice at the polls. Plus, Nick and Jason share how you can access candidate questionnaires at Link2LeesSummit.com and connect directly with candidates to have your specific questions answered. Don't miss this vital conversation about the future of education in Lee's Summit!

In this episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker welcomes Lee's Summit R-7 School District Superintendent Dr. David Buck and Associate Superintendent Dr. Steve Shelton to discuss the upcoming $225 million no-tax-increase bond issue on the ballot. They delve into the specifics of the bond, which aims to address capital needs such as building renovations, safety improvements, and infrastructure upgrades within the district. The guests also highlight the importance of community involvement and planning for future growth. Tune in to learn about the critical projects included in the bond and how they will benefit the district.

In this episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker welcomes Demetrios Walker, Community and Engagement Business Partner at ReDiscover, a nonprofit mental health center dedicated to supporting individuals affected by mental illness and substance use disorders. Demetrios shares insights into ReDiscover's commitment to providing accessible and culturally competent mental health services for both youth and adults. He highlights the importance of social and emotional wellness, the role of open dialogue in bridging generational gaps, and the need for action-oriented strategies to turn community conversations into meaningful change. Nick and Demetrios also discuss ReDiscover's partnerships with organizations like Prodeo, their mission to ensure community engagement, and the availability of essential mental health resources across the metropolitan area—including their main location at 1555 Northeast Rice Road in Lee's Summit, Missouri. Tune in for an important conversation about breaking down barriers, fostering safe spaces, and taking action to support mental health in our community.

In this episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker welcomes back Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street's Julie Cook and Jenny Gale to chat about the second annual Shamrock the Block event! Happening afrom 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, this St. Patrick's celebration is bigger and better than ever, packed with inflatables, food trucks, live entertainment, and even a bubble party!  Julie and Jenny share their excitement about the event's growth and all the fun in store for families. Whether you're there for the festivities, the food, or just a little luck of the Irish, this is one event you won't want to miss! Tune in and get the inside scoop on all things Shamrock the Block!

After a two-and-a-half-year hiatus, Jason Norbury is back on the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast! Host Nick Parker welcomes his longtime co-host to dive into the latest in local elections — the four candidates vying for two school board seats, and the critical role of the board in shaping district policies. But that's not all — there's big news at Link 2 Lee's Summit! Nick and Jason announce the addition of high school sports coverage to the platform, which is celebrating its 9th anniversary, with veteran sports journalist Fred Liggett joining the team. Join us as we reconnect with the heart of the podcast—local issues, community stories, and everything that makes Lee's Summit home.

In this episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker sits down with Chris Madden, executive director of Lee's Summit CARES. From his early aspirations in the arts to his leadership in education and community service, Chris shares his journey and the passion driving his work. They explore the vital resources available to help teens make informed decisions about their futures, as well as ongoing community efforts around substance misuse prevention and mental health awareness. Join the conversation and discover how Lee's Summit CARES is making a difference—and how you can get involved.

In this episode of Lee's Summit Town Hall Podcast, host Nick Parker welcomes back Brian Pilachowski — graphic artist, entrepreneur, and the new owner of The Local Foundery. As the creative force behind Press Monkey Studio, Brian shares his journey of taking over the beloved local shop, the art of nostalgia-driven design, and the challenges of running a small business. From expanding his product line — including plans for an exciting new kids' section — to his unique approach to custom apparel, Brian gives us an inside look at his creative process and the future of The Local Foundery. Plus, with the Super Bowl just around the corner, the duo dives into the energy surrounding local events in downtown Lee's Summit. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about art, entrepreneurship, and the power of community-driven retail!

Join host Nick Parker on this week's Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast as he sits down with Seth Allen, the mastermind behind Libations & Co. and The 1909 Club. From cozy cocktails to lively jazz nights, Seth shares the incredible journey of transforming his businesses into a cornerstone of downtown Lee's Summit nightlife. Discover the secrets behind the dual vibes of Libations — a chic lounge downstairs and a jazz-filled haven upstairs — and hear how creative drinks (yes, the Old Fashioned still reigns supreme!) and community support have fueled their success. Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur, a jazz enthusiast, or just love a good story, this episode is sure to hit the right note!

Get ready for an extra special episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall Podcast as Nick Parker is joined by the jolliest guest of all — Santa Claus! And we don't stop there. Former co-host Jason Norbury makes a surprise visit to The Vault to join the annual conversation with the man from the North Pole. Recorded on December 19th, this festive conversation is packed with holiday cheer, laughter, and heartwarming moments. So, what's in Santa's Sack for This Episode?

In this jolly episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker teams up with Collin Brich, Community Manager at Bridge Space, to unwrap some of the holiday fun happening downtown! First on the list: Story Time with Santa! It's the perfect family outing filled with heartwarming tales, photo ops with the big guy in red, and a chance to give back to local nonprofits. (Ho ho ho!) Next, they hit the high notes with the details on the Lee's Summit Jazz Orchestra's Christmas Jazz Concert. Mark your calendars for Monday, December 16th, at 5 p.m., because you won't want to miss the smooth sounds of live jazz in the cozy, magical setting of Bridge Space.

In episode 850 of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker welcomes back Pastor Hans Koschmann and community relations expert Vanessa Hickman. The episode focuses on the importance of nonprofit work in the community, highlighting the collaboration between local businesses and nonprofits. Hans discusses the 'ministry of the month' initiative at his church, which aims to spotlight various nonprofits and their contributions. The conversation also touches on mental health awareness within the church and the need for open discussions about mental health support. Listeners are encouraged to engage with their community and support local initiatives.

In episode 849 of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker welcomes back John Beaudoin, a business owner and communications expert, to discuss the importance of community involvement and volunteerism in Lee's Summit. In addition to exploring the vital role nonprofits play in the community, they talk about the benefits local businesses see when they get involved with the work of the local charities. Parker also introduces a new monthly series aimed at connecting local businesses with nonprofits. Tune in to learn how giving your time and talents can make a significant impact in the community!

In this episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker welcomes Courtney Laufketter, co-owner of Budget Blinds of Lee's Summit. They discuss the significance of community service and local business involvement, exploring how giving back not only enriches the community but also strengthens business relationships. Courtney shares her family's commitment to supporting local organizations, the impact of their volunteer work, and how small businesses can thrive through community engagement. Tune in to learn about the symbiotic relationship between local businesses and non-profits, and discover ways to get involved in your own community. If you, and your business, are interested in telling your story of community involvement and would like to help others find local nonprofits to support, contact Nick Parker at nick@link2leessummit.com.

The event "Feed Lee's Summit" is scheduled for Friday, November 15th, at the John Knox Pavilion. Doors will open at 5:30 PM for VIPs and at 6:00 PM for general admission. The event will feature live and silent auctions, entertainment from Fountain City Ivory's dueling piano group, and food from 16 local restaurants. The proceeds will support several local nonprofits, including One Good Meal, Meals on Wheels, Cold Water, Lee's Summit Social Services, and Boost for Success, which collectively serve over 600 residents in need each week.

In this episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker hands over the reins to a group of students from the Lee's Summit R-7 School District. They discuss their upcoming season of the "I Can Relate" podcast where teens share their perspectives on important issues like mental health and bullying. The students emphasize the need for genuine conversations and the importance of being heard and challenging the stigma that podcasts are only for older generations. Tune in to hear their insights and the significance of creating a platform for youth voices. The new season of "I Can Relate" will drop to podcast apps in November.

Local business owner and filmmaker Chad Godfrey drops by The Vault to talk about his downtown business' upcoming anniversary and his love storytelling and preserving memories for customers big and small. Godfrey's works spans from transferring memories to meet new technologies to creative production from personal to corporations and nonprofit organizations. Summit Video Services will celebrate 20 years of business in November. And, hey, check out his promotional video series on social median and you may just catch a few recognizable local faces.

Elaine Metcalf, executive director at Pro Deo Youth Center, and Steve Arbo drop by The Vault with an update on fundraising efforts for a new building near downtown and the work they're doing to offer support to local teens from all corners of the Lee's Summit community.

The Queens of Oktoberfest return to The Vault to preview the annual festival, which takes over downtown Lee's Summit the weekend of Sept. 27. Rachel Dyer and Krissie Hutchins have chaired the Lee's Summit Chamber's Oktoberfest committee for the past several years and have all the tips and tricks for you to get the most out of this annual festival.

Josh and Lanni Edwards, owners of Downtown Lee's Summit's Calaveras and Smoke Brewing Co. restaurants drop by The Vault for this episode of the podcast. The Edwards and host Nick Parker talk about the new pop-up event happening at Calaveras — Netherworld — and dig deep into Lanni's fear of pork belly. You can check out Netherworld from now through Nov. 2.

Vanessa Hickman returns to The Vault to talk about Link 2 Lee's Summit's renewed focus on community service and shining a spotlight on our local nonprofit organizations. She and host Nick Parker talk about the coming redesigned web site and tools designed to help tell the nonprofits' stories and make connections with residents and local businesses easier. Oh, and there's a special birthday message to one of our area nonprofit heroes, too!

Local wings legend Chris Turney is back in The Vault this week to promote the popular Wings 4 Water charity event coming on September 12 at Paragon Star. Chris, who once again disappointed host Nick Parker by not bringing wings to the recording session, talks about the event's growth and his undying love for Nick's signature wing sauce. Tickets for the event can be found at wings4water.org.

LSR7 Superintendent Dr. David Buck, along with local business owner Jon Ellis, drops by The Vault to talk about the growth at Great Beginnings at Paradise Park and where the district stands as we get set to start the 2024-25 academic year. Did you know Lee's Summit was home to the state's first FFA chapter? We didn't! Tune in for this, and other fun nuggets from Ellis and Dr. Buck.

Megan Salerno and Tonee Schwartz drop by The Vault to talk about Lee's Summit Social Services' annual back-to-school store, which opens today. The store will serve more than 700 students this year, providing them with needed clothing and supplies as they head into the 2024-25 academic year. Part of the conversation includes donation needs for the store, as well as opportunities to volunteer.

Maybe the experience is the product? Seth Allen, owner of Libations & Co. and its sister "joint", the 1909 Club, returns to The Vault this week. He popped in for a return of what used to be an annual Independence Day preview episode, but this week's conversation turned to a look at his two downtown Lee's Summit businesses built on crafting a particular customer experience. Oh, and he may have finally admitted to some day giving in to Nick's dream of having his own drink on the menu at Libations. The tape don't lie!

Do your wings rule? When you whip a batch of delicious chicken wings, do the family and friends coming running? If not, are there tears of jealousy because they weren't invited. If your answer to any or all of these questions is yes, then you should think about taking part in September's annual Wings 4 Water charity event. The local nonprofit's Ryan Bryant joins host Nick Parker to talk about the event and offer a challenge to all of those area wing cooks to join the fun and help support the cause.

Downtown Days finished up this weekend and now it's time to get ready for another big event in Lee's Summit. The inaugural Lee's Summit Jazz Festival is slated to take the stage June 22 at Bridge Space in the historic downtown district. Festival founders Ben Rao and Shawn Harrel stop by the vault to talk about Lee's Summit's growing jazz scene and the eight acts gearing up for this all-day festival never before seen in Lee's Summit.

It's been eight years since Nick Parker launched Link 2 Lee's Summit and the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast. In the never-ending quest to do local news a little bit differently, a new friend is joining the team to help make sure a spotlight shines on our local nonprofit organizations. Enter Vanessa Hickman. Vanessa has made multiple appearances on the podcast and is a well-known community volunteer and activist. She's joining the team to help tell the stories of local charities and help link them with the community.

It's May 22, the kids are in their final days of the school year and we're all counting down the official local summer kick-off event — Downtown Days. Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street's Julie Cook and Jenny Gale return to The Vault to prep us for the big weekend coming June 7-9. And Julie turns the tables! She's got questions for the hosts, and for you!

Whether it's time, skills or money, sometimes youth in our community just need a little extra. Enter, Pro Deo Youth Center. Executive Director Elaine Metcalf and head volunteer fundraiser/Pickleball Bringer of Fun Shannon Pennington enter The Vault to talk about the upcoming Rally for Teens pickleball tournament raising funds for Pro Deo's fall 2024 programming. The tournament will run on Saturday, June 8 at Epic Sports. You can head on over to prodeoyouthcenter.org to enter the tournament or help sponsor the event.

Hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays take a few minutes to discuss upcoming local events and since Wednesday is National 501c Day, the duo takes a few minutes to talk about some of the many local nonprofits serving the Lee's Summit community and how easy it is for residents to offer service be it donations of time, talent or treasure.

A now years-long effort to give teens a voice and help bring the community together in conversation about youth mental health continued this week with a community forum presented by Pro Deo Youth Center and ReDiscover at the Missouri Innovation Campus. The event was moderated by ReDiscover's Demetrios Walker and Lee's Summit West senior Ellie Johnson and included a panel of 12 local high school students and just under 150 residents. Walker and Johnson came to The Vault for a conversation with Nick Parker and Liesl Hays about their reactions to the event and where they think the conversation is headed next.

Everyone relax. Liesl is back home. After what seemed like a way-too-long hiatus, Liesl Hays rejoins Nick Parker for the latest episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast just in time to preview some weekend activities and discuss a recent guest column in Link 2 Lee's Summit discussing the role Political Action Committees are playing in our local elections and governance. Both Nick and Liesl are curious how others in the community feel about partisan political groups inserting themselves into local politics.

If you're feeling down, or a little overwhelmed, Steve Arbo has a suggestion — Find a local organization and volunteer. Service to others, he says, offers a reward of happiness you may not be expecting. Arbo, who has now been retired from his role as Lee's Summit City Manager for a year, entered The Vault this week for a conversation with host Nick Parker on his new life outside the bureaucracy and his dive into a role as community volunteer. Since leaving the northeast corner of City Hall, Arbo has enjoyed extra time traveling with his wife (who is also recently retired) and finding some local nonprofit organizations where he can share his passions and support Lee's Summit in new and profound ways.

In a little bit of a twist, host Nick Parker hands the reins to local Lee's Summit West Senior Ellie Johnson, who talks with ReDiscover's Jennifer Craig and LSPD Officer Amanda Geno about the upcoming community forum on mental health scheduled for 6 p.m. April 22 at the Missouri Innovation Campus. This episode was edited by Lee's Summit Junior Charlie Parker. Both Johnson and Parker are part of the I Can Relate podcast project. 

Their chiropractic business isn't exactly what they thought it would be. She didn't plan on developing a passion helping young patients and he had no idea the directions his study and budding network would take him. Today, Doctors Alex and Lauren Nelson operate HML Functional Care in Lee's Summit and have a budding practice focusing on providing a holistic and collaborative approach to caring for kids with special needs. The duo drop by The Vault for an open conversation with host Nick Parker on their business and approach to healthcare.

Listen in on his resume, and you may start to wonder how Gary Good wound up in our midwest hamlet as the new executive director of the Lee's Summit Symphony. First off, we'll apologize, he's not all that new anymore. He's actually been here almost year, Nick and Liesl are just late getting him on the show. Good enters the vault to share his story of a career in music and the path to Lee's Summit. He also previews this weekend's performance at The Pavilion at John Knox Village and offers a bit of his vision for the future of the Symphony.

We're gonna shamrock around the clock tonight… OK, it's not tonight. But on the morning of Saturday, March 16, Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street invites local families to join them for a new St. Patrick's day event — Shamrock the Block. Assistant Director Julie Cook returns to The Vault to talk about creating the new event and what entertainment will be available.

Liesl's out this week, but Nick's back to highlight a few local events coming up this weekend before kicking back with one of his favorite interviews from the podcast, Theron Denson — aka The Black Diamond. Hint-hint, there's some rumors Theron has a couple of big announcements coming soon so stay tuned. But for now, if you missed it last year, hears a conversation with the Lee's Summit resident and experiences gathered through his life as Neil Diamond tribute artist.

"Get over it and tell the stories..." If there's been a theme for host Nick Parker the last week or so, it's been to stop making things about himself. The point was driven home in a conversation with Lee's Summit resident and community activist Vanessa Hickman and his fear appearing phony while featuring black residents during Black History Month. The appropriate reprimand leads to a open and frank conversation between the two in this week's episode kicking off Black History Month in Lee's Summit.

Everyone knows two of the main keys for business success lie in both timing and location. For Sarah Boehnlein and Lisa McConnell, this couldn't have been more true as they moved into a new downtown Lee's Summit home just in time for the holiday rush. Their two businesses, TruKC and Boss Babe Balloon Co. respectively, took over the former Ivy and Sparrow space on Third Street just before the holiday shopping season started and they haven't looked back — of course, the popularity of anything celebrating the Kansas City Chiefs or Taylor Swift hasn't hurt business either. The two visited the vault this week for a conversation with hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays on moving downtown and building their businesses.

In this lively episode of Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hayes bring their dynamic chemistry to the forefront as they explore the vibrant local business scene. Ashley Muffitt, from Mid-Continent Public Library and Square One, joins the discussion, shedding light on a mission to support small businesses and entrepreneurs. The conversation delves into the resources offered by Square One, emphasizing the importance of planning and goal-setting for business success. With a perfect blend of entertainment and valuable insights, this episode is a must-listen for those seeking a dose of local flair and entrepreneurial wisdom.

In their first full week back since breaking for the holidays, winter travel, snow (errrrrr, AMI) days, etc., hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays take a few minutes to look back at what happened in 2023 and ahead to some of what they're planning for the podcast in 2024. And then, they offer up a replay from one of their favorite episodes of last year... Fair warning, this episode includes what could be a tough conversation for some, including it seems hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays. But, we promise it's worth listening to and we hope, it provides a service for those who have, or are currently going through, the cancer journey. October was Breast Cancer Awareness Month and in this episode, we welcome Kara Gutierrez, owner of Spot On Beauty, and Karen Reinert, a local cancer survivor, into the vault. Much of Kara's work centers around using her skills as a tattoo artist to create 3D nipple tattoos for survivors, or covering up scars, or providing other artwork as survivors work there way through the trauma of discovering, treating and surviving breast cancer. Joining her on the show is Karen, a recent client and survivor.

In the latest episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays bring listeners up to speed on the upcoming April election, revealing changes in the Board of Education ballot. As the election draws near, the hosts promise in-depth coverage of contested races for school board, city council, and municipal judge positions. The episode also highlights the City of Lee's Summit's annual MLK celebration, emphasizing the theme "Living the Dream" and spreading hope, courage, and unity. Despite some delays, the hosts extend the holiday spirit by continuing to give away favorite things, with Santa's approval to keep the Christmas joy alive throughout the year. To stay informed about local events, listeners are encouraged to sign up for the podcast's weekly NewsLink email and follow their Instagram and Facebook pages for chances to win exciting prizes in January.