Uncovering Kansas

There are 1,200 Master Gardeners in the State of Kansas. But in June, there will be Master Gardeners from across the country coming to Kansas for their conference. Ever wonder what the best tomatoes are to grow in Kansas? Or how to manage Japanese Beetles. Well all of these things have one thing in common: the K-State Extension office. One of the things we like to highlight on the podcast is events that bring in people from outside of Kansas. Whether drawing from other states across the US or pulling in people from other countries, these events are not only good for the Kansas economy, they are a chance for us to show off our state, teach people about who we are as Kansans, and hopefully do a little bit of stereotype busting. In June, Overland Park will be hosting the International Master Gardener Conference for 2023. My guest today is Dennis Patton, a Horticulturist with the Johnson County Extension office. Dennis is also one of the chairs for the Conference, along with 2 other dedicated gardeners who are volunteers.  Links from the Show Notes: International Master Gardener Conference website Events open to the public To learn more about becoming a Master Gardener: search for your county + extension office to see if your local county has a program. Episode 0504: Monarch Watch Episode 0209: Kaw Valley Farm Tour   What You'll Learn in this Episode: What is a Master Gardener What training is needed to become a Master Gardener What is the International Gardener Conference? What are the events that are open to the public at the International Gardener Conference What is the Kansas Extension program How do you access Kansas Extension programs How to Support the Podcast: Tell a friend about us Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite app Follow us on Instagram or Facebook Buy a Kansas Travel Journal  Send us a recommendation for an episode  

If you are a cyclist, you already know what Unbound Gravel is. If not, today, I'm going to take you into the world of cyclists and how Emporia Kansas has created an event that draws people from 45 different countries.  I love to highlight how Kansans make their visions come true. Today's episode is a great example of a small group of people who came together around their passion for cycling in the flint hills.  Fast forward 17 years, and now Unbound Gravel brings in 4,000 riders the weekend after Labor Day. My guests today are Ben Sachs is the Race Director and Kristi Mohn is the Marketing Manager. You'll hear how Kristi has been involved with the event from the beginning and Ben since early on and it is a great conversation to understand how the event got started, and what it has become today. I was really interested to hear what it takes to plan the event, and especially the routes for the races. The other thing that was so interesting to me is how the towns along the way participate.  As Ben says - hope to see you at the Finish Line! Show Notes: Unbound Gravel website Dynamic Discs Episode Volunteer with Unbound Gravel   What You'll Learn in this Episode What is Unbound Gravel? How Unbound Gravel started How Unbound Gravel routes are planned How to volunteer for Unbound Gravel How to Support the Podcast: Tell a friend about us Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite app Follow us on Instagram or Facebook Buy a Kansas Travel Journal  Send us a recommendation for an episode  

Setting Kansas up to succeed in the future means diversifying into industries that have not traditionally been associated with our state.  In today's episode, you are going to learn about a Goodland company that is doing just that. I like to highlight Kansas companies that are having an impact outside of Kansas. Today's guest is not only doing that, but they are also working to change some of the fundamental issues that we are currently facing in Kansas.  We are losing people to other states because of jobs. We are unable to fill all of the jobs we have in Kansas because of lack of the correct skills. We are in the process of transitioning into a state with a vibrant technology industry. GoodlandTech is a Kansas company that is addressing all of these huge challenges at once with their business model. My guest today is Ben Coumerilh, one of the founders of Goodland Tech. I met Ben at the Ad Astra Technology conference back in September in Wichita and was grateful that he agreed to be a guest. I always enjoy my conversations with our guests, but this one is really close to my heart because we talk about a topic I'm passionate about. I hope you enjoy it as well. Show Notes: Goodland Tech website Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center website Northwest Kansas Technical College Building a Bookshelf website Contact Geoff here    What You'll Learn in this Episode About Kansas business Goodland Tech What a workforce development company does About Building a Bookshelf How to Support the Podcast: Tell a friend about us Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite app Follow us on Instagram or Facebook Buy a Kansas Travel Journal  Send us a recommendation for an episode  

We are going to time travel in today's episode. My guest, Ann Anderson is the author of Posts of a Mid-Century Kid, a memoir about 1950s and 60s Kansas. Today's episode is as much about our ability to be present and appreciate what we have - in all aspects of life - as it is an episode about Kansas. There are so many quotes from Ann in this episode that I would love to pull out and put on a t-shirt. I am certain that one of them will make an impression on you - leave you with goosebumps.   Show Notes Ann's Website Ann's Facebook Page Posts of a Mid-Centry Kid - link to Bookshop.org where you can buy the book and support a Kansas bookshop at the same time Topeka Kansas Lake Shawnee   What You'll Learn in this Episode About Author Ann Anderson and her book Posts of a Mid-Century Kid About Topeka Kansas circa 1950s and 1960s What to do outdoors in Topeka Popular 1950s recipes How to Support the Podcast: Tell a friend about us Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite app Follow us on Instagram or Facebook Buy a Kansas Travel Journal  Send us a recommendation for an episode

I'm trying to help the Kansas Office of Broadband get the word out about the Federal Communications Commission broadband funding deadline that is January 13 2023. It requires that you take action by the 13th to help ensure that Kansas get the appropriate allocation of Federal funding to invest in high-speed internet.     The funding will be based on a map that determines what portion of each state has access to broadband. The issue is that the map is not always accurate. What the Kansas Broadband Office is asking all Kansans to do is to make sure you are accurately represented on the map.    The reason is that the FCC shows KS at ~5% unserved. We are more likely closer to 15% unserved, and that difference will have a direct negative impact on the dollars we receive … potentially 100's of millions of dollars! We can challenge/change this map, but it will take a strategic concerted effort across the state and through our networks.    So - here is what you need to do: Go to https://www.kansascommerce.gov/program/challenge/ It has all of the instructions. But, I got some information from Morgan Barnes with the Office of Broadband Development that may be helpful. When you get to the map, you are going to  check your location to make sure your house or location has the service location pin in the right space. Some places have shown outbuildings or barns as points of access.  When looking at your internet service provided. Review the list of broadband providers and services. If you are unable to access the speeds or services listed, click the Availability Challenge link.     If you find that either of these things is wrong on the map, you'll want to click on the link for “Location Challenge” or  ‘Availability Challenge”  depending on what the issue is. The other way you can help is to get the word out. Please tell your family,  friends and neighbors  About this and ask them to take action. And, if you have older relatives who that may not feel comfortable using site you can help complete this challenge.    Again, the deadline for making challenges to the map is January 12th 2023 so time is of the essence here.    Websites:   https://www.kansascommerce.gov/program/challenge/    Broadbandmap.fcc.gov   

We've reached the last episode of the year, and today I'm talking with Branden Dross, the City Manager for the city of Herington Kansas. I have been interested for a while in better understanding what the role of a city manager is, and so I took the opportunity to learn more for myself while sharing what I learn with you. That is the best part of having a podcast. When I want to know more about something, I can do that, record it, and share it with you.  So, I hope you walk away from this episode with a better understanding about what a city manager is, what its like to run a city, and more about Herington Kansas, a small town on Hwy 56 west of Council Grove and Hwy 77 south of Junction City.   Show Notes Herington Kansas Bookshop.org   What You'll Learn in this Episode What the role of the city manager is About Herington Kansas About the Flint Hills Trails expansion That people fly into the Herington airport to eat at the restaurant there About the revitalization plans for the WPA era pool and bath house  How to Support the Podcast: Tell a friend about us Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite app Follow us on Instagram or Facebook Buy a Kansas Travel Journal  Send us a recommendation for an episode

My guest today, Joe Summers describes Guerilla Art like this - you make a thing and put it out into the world for people to find.  Joe works with his students and children to create robot sculptures that they then take to different locations around the state and leave behind for someone to find. This episode is about Joe and his robot art program, but it turns out to be a travel episode as well because Joe covers so many Kansas towns and sites as part of his program. Rules for leaving robot art in the world: At least an hour from the house Nobody could see you Drop off is a place that is arts focused Attach a note to them  Go get breakfast at a local restaurant   Get to Know a Kansan Linn County Chanute Kansas Lawrence Kansas Mass Street Soda Shop Lucus Kansas Goodland Kansas - Giant Van Gogh painting Original Jayhawkers How to Support the Podcast: Tell a friend about us Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite app Follow us on Instagram or Facebook Buy a Kansas Travel Journal  Send us a recommendation for an episode

Today I'm joined by Shelley O'Brien and Mary Boller, two Kansans working in the State's library system. Reading is my primary hobby - I'm currently sitting at 76 books read so far in 2022 - so as you can imagine, this episode is going to be one I remember for a long time. What I'm hoping you take away from today's episode is what my guest, Mary Boller says - that libraries have become the hub of the community. If you still think that libraries are just about books, you need to get out to your local branch and see what has changed.  Supporting our local Kansas libraries is a great way to support our local communities. So, I'm hoping you find out something you didn't know, and that we maybe spark something new for you today.    Show Notes Northwest Kansas Library System Northeast Kansas Library System 7 regional library systems Golf Course Superintendents Association Talking books program Lawrence Library recording studio STEAM Punk Makerspace Lab Dane G Hansen Foundation Which libraries you can get a state park pass Prairie Dog State Park The School for Rural Culture and Creativity   What You'll Learn in this Episode How the Kansas library system is organized How the Kansas library system coordinates That libraries are much more than just books That it is ok to talk above a whisper in a library! What Family Place Libraries are all about How the Kansas Library system and Kansas Parks system is working together to encourage people to get out and go to the state parks. Some of the challenges of being a rural library How to Support the Podcast: Tell a friend about us Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite app Follow us on Instagram or Facebook Buy a Kansas Travel Journal  Send us a recommendation for an episode  

Have you ever dreamed of just taking off and traveling the world? That's exactly what my guests today did.  1 year, 24 countries, 4 continents…. Their Instagram account says it all: Kansas Meet World. I can't wait for you to meet this Kansas family and learn about their gap year.  This trip was about so many things - seeing the world, learning how to support locals, experiencing other religions, figuring out what you can and can't live with, and how important it is to live your life connected to those who are most important to you.. It happens to me very often that I'm someplace outside of Kansas and I run into Kansans. For the Lewison family, it happened in places like Zanzabar. We may be a fairly small population, but we show up in a lot of exotic places! What I ultimately take away from my conversation with the Lewisons is that it is important to explore the world AND our home in Kansas.    Kansas Meet World Instagram   What You'll Learn in this Episode How a family of 5 traveled the world for a year What is a whirling dervish? About the Kansas Burger in Portugal How the Kansas school system allowed kids to travel the world and still stay in school How to Support the Podcast: Tell a friend about us Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite app Follow us on Instagram or Facebook Buy a Kansas Travel Journal  Send us a recommendation for an episode

From 0 murals to 25 murals in 2 years seems like an impossible task, but that is exactly what they've done in Clay Center Kansas. Today I'm talking with Brett Hubka who has been spearheading the effort.  I'm no art expert, but I feel like I've noticed a resurgence of murals in towns across the country and it is a welcome trend. Coming into a new town, looking at the murals on the downtown buildings give you a sense of the history of the town, the things that are important, and an overall sense of what the town is like.  Over the years, we've interviewed or highlighted artists across the state, and it is really a testament to the people of Kansas that we have such a rich art tradition in our state.  So, this episode is about art, and about how a town can come together to accomplish something amazing in as little as 2 years. It is also about how much pride Kansans have in our state and how much life is being lived in our smaller rural communities. Show Notes Mural Movement Facebook Page Mural Movement Instagram - Mural Movement Clay Center Mural Interactive Map Clay Center Kansas 15-24 Brewhouse website Tasty Pastry Bakery - they don't have a website Little Mill Creek Trail   Get to Know a Kansan Medicine Lodge Peace Treaty Festival Gypsum Hills Episode 0108: Big Kansas Road Trip Bill Snyder Stadium Dwight D Eisenhower Museum Kansas Speedway Learn a little more about Dwght D Eisenhower in this episode: Kansans Favorite Kasans What You'll Learn in this Episode How the Mural Movement got started in Clay Center How many murals are there in Clay Center? How a brewery and the mural movement partnered Why Clay Center Kansas is a great place to live  How to Support the Podcast: Tell a friend about us Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite app Follow us on Instagram or Facebook Buy a Kansas Travel Journal  Send us a recommendation for an episode

Today's episode came from a trip we made to Sabetha Kansas to have lunch at the Brick Street Furniture Company and Wine Lounge. Friend of the podcast, Kate Miller from Hiawatha recommended that we eat there. And, now I'm recommending it to you too. While we were at Brick Street, Dustin recommended to us that we take a trip 5 miles north of Sabetha to Sycamore Springs. He mentioned that they were revitalizing the skating rink and we should stop in and see it. We thought - sure - let's check this place out. You don't hear about skating rinks much anymore.  So, we thought we were heading to a small little town with a skating rink. What we found was something we could have never imagined. You'll learn more about it in this episode, where I interview Kent Grimm.  As I say at the end of the interview - I set out to tell our listeners about this really cool place that Geoff and I found on a somewhat spare of the moment trip. But, what this episode is really about is someone who has taken on the challenge of saving a piece of history and modernizing it so that it can continue to be relevant into our future.    Show Notes Sycamore Springs White Tails Ranch website What You'll Learn in this Episode What you'll experience if you go to Sycamore Springs in Sabetha, Kansas How the Grimm family is revitalizing Sycamore Springs About Old Albany Days and threshing bee in Albany, Kansas The oldest working pipe organ in Kansas is in Albany, Kansas  How to Support the Podcast: Tell a friend about us Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite app Follow us on Instagram or Facebook Buy a Kansas Travel Journal  Send us a recommendation for an episode

We have been doing our format of Get To Know a Kansan for a while now, and thought it would be fun to focus an episode on the stories behind the people that have been named when we ask ‘who is your favorite Kansan from history?” So, in this episode, I'm going to talk about the accomplishments of Amelia Earhart, John Stuart Curry, Dwight D Eisenhower, and William Stafford.   What You'll Learn in this Episode What Amelia Earhart accomplished About the impact John Stuart Curry had on the Regionalism Art Movement How many major events in American history were impacted by Dwight D Eisenhower About the impact William Stafford had on poetry in America How to Support the Podcast: Tell a friend about us Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite app Follow us on Instagram or Facebook Buy a Kansas Travel Journal  Send us a recommendation for an episode

Cottonwood Falls is a small town - population about 800 - a nationally and internationally known town for its music. The well known Symphony in the Flint Hills is based in Cottonwood Falls and so is the Opera Workshop in the Flint Hills. When you think of Kansas, opera probably isn't in the top 10 - or even 100 - things that come to mind.    But, thanks to my guest, Martha Sharp, people come from across the country, and even from other countries, each July to attend the Opera Workshop in the Flint Hills. In our conversation, you'll learn about the workshop, how it is tailored to the attendees, and maybe a little bit about opera along the way. We also talk about Martha's career in Europe and her move to Kansas, which is a really interesting story as well.   Opera Workshop in the Flint Hills website Episode 0110: Chase County Christmas Episode 0503: Dynamic Discs Episode 0212: Publishing in Kansas: Emanuel Haldeman-Julius Chief Theatre in Coldwater Kansas Granada Theatre in Emporia Folly Theater in Kansas City Lyric Opera in Kansas City Disc Golf World Championship website Girard History Museum   What You'll Learn in this Episode How the Opera Workshop in the Flint Hills started How a small town comes together to support the Opera How an opera workshop helps build skills  How you can support Opera Workshop in the Flint Hills How to Support the Podcast: Tell a friend about us Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite app Follow us on Instagram or Facebook Buy a Kansas Travel Journal  Send us a recommendation for an episode

Monarch Watch is an internationally reaching education, conservation, and research organization dedicated to the monarch butterfly, its habitat, and its spectacular fall migration based right here in Kansas. Join Rachel in this episode where co-founder Chip Taylor takes Rachel to butterfly school.   Monarch Watch website Monarch Watch Facebook page Kansas Eco Regions   What You'll Learn in this Episode What is Monarch Watch? What is Butterfly Tagging? How Monarch Butterflies migrate Why Mexico is important to the Monarch Tagging process What makes the monarch butterfly migration unique Why milkweed is important to monarch butterflies Why it is important to plan native milkweed What is the monarch watch program? What is the Bring Back the Monarchs program? Why nectar and pollen are important to monarch butterflies Why it is important to have everyday people involved in citizen science How to Support the Podcast: Tell a friend about us Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite app Follow us on Instagram or Facebook Buy a Kansas Travel Journal  Send us a recommendation for an episode  

Did you know that Emporia Kansas is considered to be the disc golf capital of the world? I didn't realize it until I talked with my guests Doug Bjerkaas and Jackie Morris from Dynamic Discs, an Emporia Kansas business that sells discs and other disc golf equipment and operates events for the popular sport disc golf. I like to focus a few episodes each season on Kansas businesses that have a national impact. Kansas has a deep history of businesses that grow beyond the state and, in a lot of cases, become a household name. Ever heard of Garmin? What about White Castle? These are just 2 businesses founded in Kansas that fall into the household name category.  Dynamic Discs also falls into this category. If you know about disc golf, then you know about Dynamic Discs - it is a household name within the sport. I didn't realize that until earlier this year when something quite unexpected happened to me at my day job - you'll hear more about it in the episode.  This episode made me feel so good about the things we have going on in Kansas. The story about how Dynamic Discs grew from a dorm room start-up to an internationally known business is such an interesting story and then you throw in the community support that Dynamic Discs gives to Emporia and the community support that Emporia gives to Dynamic Discs. It's just a great all-round story and I'm sure you will enjoy this episode.  And, if you do, please tell your friends about it. It is the best way you can support the podcast.  As you know, we don't have any ads in the podcast. We are working hard to keep it that way, and hope to be able to cover the cost of the podcast through sales of our Uncovering Kansas Travel Journal. It is available on Amazon if you'd like to buy a copy. I really like being able to look back at what we did this year and remember the things I saw, the people I met, and the experiences we had - as well as some of our favorite places to eat!   Also, you can follow us on Facebook and Instagram. And if you are a LinkedIn user, I'd love to connect with you there. You can find me at Rachel Berbiglia and just mention that you are a listener so I don't igore your connection request as spam.   Show Notes Dynamic Discs website Halfway to Everywhere music festival   What You'll Learn in this Episode Why Emporia Kansas is the disc golf capital of the world About Kansas business Dynamic Discs Why About the Halfway to Everywhere music festival   How to Support the Podcast: Tell a friend about us Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite app Follow us on Instagram or Facebook Buy a Kansas Travel Journal  Send us a recommendation for an episode

My guest today, Wichita native Jennifer Strong McConachie, has traveled around the world competing in global endurance sports. Today, we are going to talk about how she uses the Kansas outdoor landscape and weather to prepare for these competitions around the world. Whether you are sporty or not, you'll get a lot of ideas from Jennifer for adventures you can take in Kansas. Unless you are already into adventure sports, you are going to walk away from this episode with a whole new viewpoint on our state.  Links to things we talked about: Go Far: How Endurance Sports Win at Life book website Jennifer's Instagram Jennifer's Facebook Lexington State Park Trail Map El Dorado Lake Cheney Lake TallGrass Prairie Nature Preserve TallGrass Prairie Trail Map (Geoff and I took the Scenic Overlook Trail to the Prairie Fire Loop to the Davis Trail) Get To Know A Kansan: Wichita Kansas Toronto Lake Kayaking the Kansas River Laura Ingalls Wilder What You'll Learn in this Episode How to adapt the Kansas landscape to create your own adventure How to connect with others over Kansas stereotypes How our pioneer roots can help us with adversity training How to create a adventure event of your own How to Support the Podcast: Tell a friend about us Follow us on Instagram or Facebook Buy a Kansas Travel Journal  Send us a recommendation for an episode  

Hero worship is a characteristic of American culture. For good and bad, it is something our society lives with. Athletes, music stars, and actors or actresses are visible roles in our modern society. And that constant visibility often encourages people to feel like they know these people and fosters a desire to imitate them.  Our kids see these visible people as the definition of success and meaningfulness. Yet as adults we recognize the chances of anyone making a living playing professional sports or performing to a sell-out crowd in an arena is very small. As a result, it is important for kids to be exposed to all of the different ways people make a living and contribute to society and, in so doing, serve as heroes in their own right, albeit through less publicized roles, like banker, graphic designer, plumber, software developer, or entrepreneur.  Real Men, Real Heroes based out of Wichita, Kansas is an organization driven by the understanding that it is important for children and young adults to see someone who looks like them engaged in activities that can excite the imaginations and interests of the youth in order to, as shared by Kyle Ellison, Executive Director of Real Men Real Heroes, Open up their minds to new ideas, new thoughts and help with the evolution of who they are becoming. In this episode, Rachel talks with Kyle Ellison and learns about the history of a program and how it has innovated and changed over time to include a broader base of Kansas children and young adults in 3rd through 8th grade opportunities to look behind the curtain and gain firsthand experience to many societal roles and functions that they may be unfamiliar with and that are often not routinely given extraordinary attention to like certain entertainment roles are given.   Real Men Real Heroes website Contact@realmenrealheroes.org Real Men Real Heroes Instagram Real Men Real Heroes Facebook

Uncovering Kansas was founded based on the idea that we frequently overlook the great things that are right in our back yard. As a matter of fact, right on the home page of our website is this quote from Dagobert Runes: People travel to faraway places to watch, in fascination, the kind of people they ignore at home. ​ My guest today, Lisa Stewart is going to tell us about her experience meeting people and exploring Kansas at 4 mph on horseback. It is a good reminder that we all have one fundamental thing in common - we are all Kansans. Whether by birth, by choice, or by circumstance, we are all neighbors. 

The Saturday after Thanksgiving has become Small Business Saturday - a day set aside to encourage people to shop in small businesses. At Uncovering Kansas, we want to encourage you to not only shop small, but to shop local. Shop Kansas! Back in late summer, we asked you to nominate your favorite local business for an upcoming episode. We've selected 2 of these shops for today's episode. We'll be doing our Get to Know a Kansan format - talking to 2 Kansans about their passion - their shops - and then seeing Kansas through their eyes. Links mentioned in the show Links mentioned in the show   Modern Cowgirl Boutique website Modern Cowgirl Boutique Instagram Modern Cowgirl Facebook   Soul Sister Ceramics website Soul Sister Ceramics Instagram Soul Sister Ceramics Facebook   What you'll learn in this episode: All about Madison Kansas All about Courtland Kansas Two unique ways Kansans are combining agriculture with non-agriculture business How to Support the Podcast: Tell a friend about us Follow us on Instagram or Facebook Buy a Kansas Travel Journal  Send us a recommendation for an episode

Happy Fall Kansas! And welcome to our October episode. We are carrying through the Halloween theme from the previous episode. When Geoff originally pitched the idea, I was sort of like “Wha? Say it again.” He wanted to focus on spirits. Several meanings contained within the word spirit. Not only the spirits we usually think about when we prepare and celebrate Halloween but the holiday spirit and the associated community spirit that often runs alongside the holiday. Halloween is, at least in America, sort of the official kick-off to the longer holiday season. And what do many people choose to celebrate with… other than food? You guessed. Spirits! Liquor, wine and beer. We are going to focus on two of these (liquor and beer) in this episode.  Kansas has had an interesting and peculiar history with alcohol and a key figure of historical importance. Carrie Nation. And while we, as Kansans, appreciate that history, our state is arguably still haunted by her ghost. Efforts are underway to exorcise the ghost of Carrie Nation but until the rite of exorcism is completed, artisans and entrepreneurs wanting to operate within the alcohol beverage industry must possess courage and bravery. And we have a panel of three representatives from three different Kansas companies located across the state to discuss and share their company story with you. Links mentioned in the show Kansas Territory Brewing Boot Hill Distillery Boiler Room Brewery   Dodge City Episode   What you'll learn in this episode: About the unique opportunities and challenges of running a brewery or distillery in Kansas Kansas was the first state to implement prohibition and the last state to repeal prohibition How some of Kansas' liquor laws make it difficult for businesses to thrive in Kansas How breweries and distilleries are bringing a sense of community to small towns How to Support the Podcast: Tell a friend about us Follow us on Instagram or Facebook Buy a Kansas Travel Journal  Send us a recommendation for an episode

There is a stereotype about the crotchety old person who watches out their window and when kids step one foot onto their lawn, they run out onto the porch, shaking their fist and yelling ‘get off my lawn you hooligans!' Well, today we are going to learn about a Kansan who has impacted our culture simply because she wasn't the kind of person who would fall into that stereotype. Instead of shaking her fits and yelling at the neighborhood kids, she looked for a way to be more creative and more positive in her approach to keep the kids off her lawn. What exactly did Elizabeth Krebs do to change culture as we know it? Well, find out in my interview with Katie Miller, President of the Hiawatha Chamber and Visitor's Bureau. Before we get into the interview, I want to remind you about our Uncovering Kansas Travel Journal. We believe experience is at the heart of travel and meeting people and unexpected encounters make travel fulfilling. So, we created the journal so you can document your experiences. At just a little over 200 pages, we have plenty of space for you to journal, but we've also included a place for you to put together your bucket list, and pages for remembering your favorite places to eat and stay. The journal is available on Amazon. It makes a great gift, and is also available as a fundraiser for your group, organization, or team. If you'd like to learn more about fundraising opportunities, just send us an email at UK@outlook.com. Links mentioned in the episode: Halloween Frolic facebook page What You'll Learn in this Episode: Our modern Halloween traditions were started by Kansan Elizabeth Krebs in Hiawatha, KS What the Halloween Frolic is all about The longest continuous Halloween parade has been going in Hiawatha since 1914 Who is Elizabeth Krebs What to expect if you attend the Halloween Frolic in Hiawatha, KS Children's author Bill Martin Jr., author of the famous book, was born in Hiawatha Riverdale, in Archie comics is based on Hiawatha How to Support the Podcast: Tell a friend about us Follow us on Instagram or Facebook Buy a Kansas Travel Journal  Send us a recommendation for an episode

This month, Rachel talks with Ryan Biergert, festival co-chair of Svensk Hillingsfest, a festival that celebrates our state's Swedish Heritage, hosted in Lindsborg. According to the Kansas Historical Society, the first Swede arrived in Kansas in 1864, and he encouraged others to emigrate and file claims for land in what is now Lindsborg Ks. By 1890, there were 17,000 Swedes in Kansas.  Lindsborg is a town that celebrates its Swedish history, and not just during the festival. Visit any time of the year, and you'll feel the Swedish culture everywhere you go. There is a lot to see and do in Lindsborg, and I hope you add it to your list, whether you go during the festival or at another time of year.  What You'll Learn in this Episode: What you'll be able to see and do at Svensk Hyllingsfest this September While in Lindsborg, you can also visit Raymer Society Stop by the Birger Sandzen gallery Places to stay when visiting Lindsborg Other things to do in the area of Lindsborg like Maxwell Wildlife Refuge and Coronado Heights How to Support the Podcast: Tell a friend about us Follow us on Instagram or Facebook Buy a Kansas Travel Journal  Send us a recommendation for an episode

This month, Rachel talks with Tim Bascom, author and Executive Director of the Kansas Book Festival. The Kansas Book Festival is a great opportunity to learn about Kansas - authors who are from Kansas or write about Kansas or topics that are germane to Kansans. Spending a day at the festival will no doubt open your eyes to something new.    After covering the festival, Rachel and Tim talk about Tim's experience spending part of his childhood in Ethiopia. Tim gives us a feel for what it is like to grow up in two very different cultures and how it continues to shape him today.  Book Festival website: Kansas Book Festival Book Festival Facebook page: Kansas Book Festival - Home Tim Bascom's website: Tim Bascom, Author – Writing my way around the world   Ethiopian Restaurants in Kansas: Elsa's - Overland Park Elsa's Ethiopian Restaurant: Home Selamta - Lenexa Selamta Ethiopian Restaurant and Bar - Restaurant in Lenexa What You'll Learn In This Episode: What the Kansas Book Festival is all about Who are the speakers at the Kansas Book Festival About Kansas author Tim Bascom's experience splitting his childhood between Kansas and Ethiopia Why Ethiopian food is so good Where to find Ethiopian restaurants in Kansas

If you haven't listened to our September 2020 episode which was an interview with public officials from Pittsburg Kansas about how they were managing the pandemic, I'd encourage you to go back and listen to it.  This episode is a follow-up to see how things have changed since that interview. We've all been through this shared experience, and although it meant something a little different to all of us, being able to follow the story of covid in one specific town gives us an appreciation of how we pull together to get through our toughest challenges.

Our topic today is a very important, very heavy one: mental health. I'm going to introduce you to a very important and innovative program in Kansas that is working to make the stigma that surrounds talking about mental health issues a thing of the past.    Zero Reasons Why is a program that is teaching teens the skills they need to be able to make mental health a normal part of our daily lives. You are going to be impressed by my guest, Kyra Fuchs, who is a teen council member of Zero Reasons Why. I learned a lot about how every one of us can support our friends and family when they need it.   Zero Reasons Why website The Playbook referenced in the episode The social media accounts for #ZeroReasonsWhy: Instagram Twitter Facebook

Built in 1877, the Oak Grove Schoolhouse has been a gathering place for the community of Lincoln Township for generations. In this episode, Rachel talks with Cary Pruitt and Roger Pruitt from the Oak Grove Schoolhouse Historical Society.  Part Family history, part Kansas history, partly a story about family legacy, we think you'll find this episode to be informative, entertaining, and important.  Oak Grove Schoolhouse website What You’ll Learn In This Episode: The mission of the Oak Grove Schoolhouse Historical Society ​How a one room schoolhouse became a central gathering place for the community of Lincoln Township Why it is important to pass down family history from generation to generation The importance of low water fords in the migration of pioneers settling in Kansas The history of the Oak Grove school district The importance of the Osage Trail in the history of Kansas How Laura Ingalls Wilder, Washington Irving, the Benders  How the geography of Kansas contributed to the development of the Osage Trail The rough-and-tumble history of Ladore Kansas How the arrival of the KATY Railroad impacted the founding of Parsons Kansas A great gift idea for teacher appreciation day

This month, Rachel talks with Connie Blanke about Prairiesta, a festival that happens every 10 years in Russell, Kansas. Whether you are able to make it out to the festival or not, you'll learn a lot about community spirit, the importance of honoring our history, and what it takes to put together a festival. Prairiesta website Deines Cultural Center Episode: Big Kansas Road Trip - The Experience

In this episode of Uncovering Kansas, Rachel interviews guest Kirk Sharp of the Gordon Parks Museum. For many the name Gordon Parks will be familiar. To others, only a vague recollection. And for some the name will be unknown entirely. No matter which group you are in, come along for the ride and join in and listen as Rachel learns about Gordon Parks and uncovers only a fraction of the eventful life of this Kansas-born man.    And if you’re like the Uncovering Kansas production team, then after learning a little of Gordon Parks you’ll quickly begin seeking more information. For example, after recording the interview Rachel devoured one Gordon Parks book and when finding another book by him was not in the library system’s inventory she quickly sent off an email to the library making the case for and requesting its inclusion.    Enjoy the episode! And we hope to see you on the road soon as the Kansas climate warms and vaccinations are delivered and bodies and imagination that have likely been more dormant than usual for the better part of twelve months begin again to explore the world around them.

In this episode, Rachel chats with Kansas resident and fellow podcaster Landon Huslig of Wichita Life ICT. They discuss cultural aspects and details of Wichita and create from the specific a backdrop for a broader, more personal, discussion about their passion and support of Kansas, generally, including a similar objective each has for their respective podcast.    Wichita Life ICT website (and podcast) Instagram, Twitter, Facebook: @WichitaLifeICT Dockum Drug Store Sit In Keeper of the Plains Wichita River Fest Uncovering Kansas episode on Comicon Air Capital Comic Con Taco Fest Twitter: @WichitaTacoFest Andover KS Coronado Heights Little Jerusalem State Park Mushroom Rocks James Naismith John Brown

In this month’s episode of Uncovering Kansas Rach talks with Grammy-nominated musical artist Jan Kraybill. If y’all could have seen Rachel’s eyes when she slotted this interview. She doesn’t geek out over too many things. Rachel is pretty level-headed. But she does enjoy a classical music concert, there’s no denying that.  When Geoff, our co-producer, listened to the initial post-production he smiled and nodded as Jan communicated a response she receives after mentioning she’s from Kansas City to strangers she meets in her travels. Rachel and Geoff receive similar responses. In fact, the communication dynamic is so memorable and powerful Geoff included it in a story he wrote in November 2019. Be sure to listen close when Jan and Rachel start to discuss meeting new people while traveling. Have you received similar questions about the Kansas City area?  So, turn up your volume if you’re going to multitask while listening, or grab your favorite set of earbuds and your beverage of choice. Find a comfy spot and settle in. Relax and listen to Rachel and Jan take a meandering audio backroads drive through the subjects of music, Kansas, travel and more. And, as always, thanks for listening and sharing this podcast with others. 

In this month’s episode, Rachel talks with Deb Kohn and Cheryl Germann, Co-Coordinators of the Poetry Out Loud program in Kansas. They uncover the way that Kansas students can compete while also learning about poetry and performance.  Kansas Poetry Out Loud website See a video of Sarah Katsiyiannis, Khadija Ceesay, and Santiago Vasquez Poetry Out Loud Kansas Facebook Page Twitter: @KansasPOL "Flight Path" a poem by Geoffrey Allison (read, in this episode, by Rachel) Building a Bookshelf

In this month’s episode, Rachel talks with Tony Helfrich, Director of Adventure Programs at McPherson College. They uncover the way that a passion for Kansas outdoors can add to the richness of experience for students at McPherson, while also teaching them life skills along the way.    McPherson College Bulldog Adventures - @mcbulldogadv (instagram & twitter) Shotgun Sports Program -  @mcshotgunsports (instagram & twitter) Horsethief Canyon Maxwell Wildlife Refuge Quivira  National Wildlife Refuge 

In this month’s episode, Rachel talks with Stephen Bridenstine of the Flint Hills Discovery Center. Rachel uncovers the draw of the place. Hint: it sounds as though it caters to all ages, nature lovers and science lovers. The center is located in Manhattan, KS and so it can be both a destination in its own right as well as temporary exploratory stop as you and your family are out wandering the Sunflower State.   This month’s links are: Flint Hills Discovery Center website Greater Prairie Chickens Lesser Prairie Chickens Flint Hills Foundation Flint Hills Learning Center - including maps

Hello, Kansas! Uncovering Kansas Podcast co-producer Geoff here, with this month’s show notes.  I pitched the idea for this month’s episode to Rach back in late May and, paraphrasing now, it went a little something like this: “Not now,” I had said. “I understand things are still in a fragile state. But when we start to come out of the pandemic, I think we should send out invitations to several communities across Kansas. Offer them a chance to share a little about their community’s COVID story. However they want to tell it: it’s their story, after all. Whatever they want to share. The good. Or the bad. The uplifting, or sad. People will shoot straight. They won’t hide from the tougher bits they had to work through.” We recognize we aren’t clear of the pandemic yet. There are new spikes. And concerns as winter approaches. There’s still work to be done. Together. And that’s why this may be the best time to share this episode. To remember the parts of the challenge met. The best efforts in the face of uncertainty. The human element. We’re grateful to everyone who follows and listens and shares this podcast with others. Because of you, we’re growing. Because of you, we’re in a position to share bits and pieces of Pittsburg’s COVID-era story with the world. That’s right, Kansas. Uncovering Kansas has listeners from outside the (mostly) rectangular-shaped heart located smack dab in the center of the United States of America—the place we call home. Folks is interested, as ya might say. So, again, THANK YOU. Stay safe and healthy, and we hope you enjoy this month’s episode.

Rachel sits down with kristopher swanson from The Neighboring Movement, a Wichita based community development organization to talk about how to uncover the unique assets you have in your own neighborhood. There is a parallel between the mission of Uncovering Kansas: to inspire Kansans to learn more about the gifts we have within our state, and the mission of the Neighboring Movement: to connect people with their neighbors as a way to help restore the social fabric and health of our neighborhoods.   Our hope is that this episode inspires you to get out and talk to your neighbors. Learn more about what unique gifts they have and build a relationship that creates a more enriching environment for you to live in.  Neighboring Movement website The Neighbor Next Door Podcast Asset Based Community Development Institute

Your co-producer, Geoffrey, here with show notes for the latest episode of Uncovering Kansas. Rachel talks with the hosts of the WORST COMIC PODCAST EVER. A fabulous episode of nerdom and the sharing of shared passions.   If I were writing a comic book script for these guys and their show it would begin like this:   Summary Three longtime friends have a shared interest: comics. They decide to produce a comic books podcast and share it with the world. The content will be earnest. And smart. And, at times, when necessary, it will be serious because comic books, as a medium, are uniquely positioned due to their mix of both approachability and fantasy, to explore a multitude of topics impacting society writ large.   PAGE ONE PANEL1 (half page) We see an old dining room table set up in the middle of a room (garage, basement, backyard shed) acting as the gravitational center around which three different sized bodies orbit at varying degrees: three middle age men (John, Jerry, and Cullen). Cullen [see character description notes] carries an oversized Mac desktop, making ready to place it on the table. Jerry [see character description notes] untangles a rats nest of audio and ethernet cables already on the table, along with a couple microphones and mic stands. John [see character description notes] stands at the end of the table (farthest from viewer/reader), staring at the other two men. He holds a piece of chalk in the open palm of one hand.  An old timey movable chalkboard looms behind him. We see PODCAST NAMES written across the top and several columns of suggested names underneath—all of which have been crossed out.  …   Listeners, the comic book themes I best remember are ones where the hero overcomes life’s struggles through the help of a friend. Sometimes the friend is another superhero. Better still, it is not. It’s a co-worker from the day job the hero’s alter ego keeps. Or it is words of encouragement issued by the owner of an alimentari located in an Italian neighborhood who knew the superhero BEFORE the “powers” and is therefore unimpressed by them and just talks straight and tells the hero like it is.   I went to high school with the hosts and producers of the WORST COMIC PODCAST EVER, although we ran in different circles. Sure I dig their podcast content. But what I dig even more is their lasting friendship. Relationships that transcend and extend prove more powerful than special powers and abilities. It may be THE special power—the most powerful of all the superpowers. Knowingly or not, in addition to comic fandom content, Jerry, John, and Cullen share their special bond through the Worst Comic Podcast Ever. I appreciate that. Hell, I applaud it. Thank you, gents.   Worst Comic Podcast Ever website The Hero Initiative Planet Comicon - Kansas City Smallville Comicon - Hutchinson (3rd weekend in June - non Covid years) Jon Robinson  Free State Comicon - Lawrence Free Comic Book Day   Comic Book Artists in Kansas: Megan Levins Ande Parks Greg Smallwood Jason Aaron

Greetings Uncovering Kansas listeners and supporters. June 2020's episode is about art and science and connections. Rachel sits down and talks with Kelly Yarbrough, an artist and a Kansan by choice. Of course, Kelly discusses her artistic process. She also talks about how the seasons and science of Kansas influences her creative effort. What becomes apparent is that Kelly is a connector. Whether as an artist to her audience, or as a citizen in her role as a territory rep for the Kansas Creative Arts Industry Commission, or in her roles with the Tallgrass Artist Residency Program or as Director of Community Programming at Prairiewood Preserve, Kelly creates and facilitates connections that enrich her audience and greater community through the promotion of art and creativity. It's a great episode. We look forward to sharing it with you. As always, we share a few links below related to topics discussed in the episode.   Kelly’s website Tallgrass Artist Residency Mattfield Green, Kansas Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve  The Bank - contemporary art space Matfield Station Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission

There is no ‘they’ that fixes what needs fixing, or improves what needs improving. There is ‘us.’ You. And me. Kansans understand this. In this month’s episode Rachel talks with Lisse Regehr of Thrive Allen County, an organization convening, coordinating, and championing the ideas and efforts of Allen County residents. Listen to examples of a community converting an abandoned cement factory into usable community space and volunteers shaping trails for health and wellness. Efforts undertaken to improve the lives and conditions not only of its residents but those who visit, those today and tomorrow. 

In April 2020’s episode of Uncovering Kansas, Rachel talks with Kansan Sage Scott, a travel blogger. They talk about travel vs vacation; of inspiring someone to travel and explore rather than attempting to influence visiting a specific spot or locale; and they give shout-outs and share BIG love for Abilene and Nicodemus Kansas.  Sage Scott arrived in Kansas via a circuitous route. But she is plugged in now. Shining bright, lending her passion for, and experiences with, travel with the entire world. Please, listen to the episode. Share it with family and friends. And send us any comments or feedback you have.   We know everyone is self-isolating right now. And travel may not be possible right now. But before you know it, we’ll be traveling and exploring again because of the efforts of dedicated people—in Kansas and elsewhere—to flatten the curve and slow the spread of the virus.    Everyday Wanderer  Abilene Kansas  Brookville Hotel  Mr. K’s Farmhouse  Volga German History Museum  Nicodemus Kansas  Brown vs Board of Education  Everyday Wanderer links to articles mentioned in the show: Abilene Nicodemus article Kansas Women’s history month  Brown v Board Life Lessons for your big 0 birthday  

Economic Development in Kansas is changing. A banner program and important effort driving this initiative is the Kansas Framework for Growth, a comprehensive strategy for economic growth in the coming 15-20 years. More than 1,000 Kansans have given their input into the process. We first heard of the strategy and program as citizens. And, wanting to engage in the process as interested citizens, we attended two different events. In this episode, Rachel talks with Deputy Secretary of the Kansas Department of Commerce, Patty Clark, about the outcome of the study and current status of the program. Note: This episode was recorded before the effects (closures and self-isolation protocols, etc.) related to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. We are unaware of any curtailments to the rollout process of the Kansas Framework for Growth and because we believe in the importance of the effort are releasing this episode per our original schedule for March. Please visit the website to discover how you can get involved and any impacts or changes to the calendar or events as a result of pandemic protocols.    Kansas Framework for Growth Kansas Department of Commerce Kansas Main Street Program   Get to Know a Kansan (links) Symphony in the Flint Hills Kansas State Parks (Cabin reservation info) Depot Theater Company Dodge City (Amtrak information) Dwight D. Eisenhower (Presidential Library)  

Were you aware that there is a group of Kansans providing thought leadership in the area of caring for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and seniors? In this month's episode, Rachel talks with Mike Strouse, CEO of Goodlife Innovations. Remember KC Pop Co? They are one of Goodlife's innovative life enrichment and skill development programs. Rachel sits down to listen and learn (uncover) how they are delivering the kind of life people they support want to lead, and how other agencies are looking to them in order to implement similar models across the country.

Rachel describes herself as a self-proclaimed Kansas Ambassador as does this month’s guests, Bryan Lisbona. Bryan is driven by the philosophy #lovewhereyoulive, and he invests in that philosophy and takes daily steps to live his truth. Through our conversation listeners will uncover details of Bryan and his family’s journey into small town life after their decision to leave one of the state’s (sub)urban areas. Listeners uncover the benefits of smaller towns, and why Kansas offers distinctive qualities of life such as knowing your neighbors; the ability, perhaps necessity, to get involved and impact your town in concrete ways; and living in communities whose energy wellspring is generated by the various personalities and characteristics and actions of the town-folk themselves, not by the depth of restaurant reservation wait-lists and number of new openings of entertainment venues. We talked and uncovered A LOT, so the ‘links in the show notes” are pretty long! Rural by Choice Iola, KS DeSoto, KS Space Station Nick Hague - Astronaut Kinfolk Created Kinfolk Creative Nace Brothers Garnett Chanute Humboldt Thrive Kansas Le Harp Gas, KS  Kansas Sampler Foundation Big Kansas Road Trip Episode Links Gypsum Hills – listen to our episode about them Johnathan Adams Flint Hills Discovery Center Johnson County Museum

Rachel and Geoff briefly review highlights from the podcast's second (2019) season, and discuss our upcoming 3rd season and beyond. A few side projects are shared with listeners and then -- WOW! Rachel uncovers for our listeners an absolutely fascinating figure from Kansas history. A pioneer, in multiple ways, Emanuel Haldeman-Julius.

Love frozen snacks? How about all natural ingredients, do they make you smile? Does the thought of a small business creating jobs that foster skill development and increased independence for people living with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (ID/D) make you smile from ear to ear? We are yes for all three and that’s why Rachel interviewed Ky Kanaman of KC Pop Co for the November ‘19 episode. KC Pop Co is a small batch manufacturer of ice-pops whose kitchen facility is located in Baldwin City, on Midnight Farm. We learned of KC Pop Co while participating on the Farm Tour, and fell for KC Pop Co’s mission and approach. Sure, it may be a little colder outside while you’re listening to this. But, this is Kansas. We may get a 66F day in January. And, besides, summer gets closer with each passing day and frozen natural treats will soon be needed. Even for breakfast, to which Rachel can attest.  KC PopCo website

In September, we did an episode about the Kaw Valley Farm Tour. In this episode, you'll hear sounds from the tour and interviews we conducted at the farms

This month’s episode features our Get to Know a Kansan format, where listeners about a fellow Kansan’s passion and can see Kansas through their eyes. Join Rachel as she learns about Nancy Overmyer’s passion for creating art and jewelry out of gourds. You’ll learn what it means to ‘love the 745s’ and how Nancy sees unique patterns in each gourd.   Gooseberry Lane Facebook Page   Sunflower Gourd Patch   Silver Lake Kansas Lonnie Kruger Maple Leaf Festival Baldwin City Kansas Baldwin City Lumber Yard Arts Center Lake Wabaunsee Coronado Heights Castle Tallgrass Prairie Cottonwood Falls Emma Chase Friday Night Concerts Amelia Earhart

What’s a honey tap? Is there lanolin in alpaca? You can learn the answers by listening to the podcast and by attending the Kaw Valley Farm Tour. This year’s tour is October 5-6, 2019. It is also the 15th anniversary, featuring 34 farms located in five counties. Attendees are able to get an insider view of working farms and ranches and get to know the people who produce the food they consume and the materials that go into the products they buy. Uncovering Kansas loves encouraging our listeners to explore and learn about Kansas. Rachel interviews the owners of two of the farms participating in this year’s Kaw Valley Farm Tour: Spike and Patty Durkin of Happy Valley Farm, and Claudia Hey of Ad Astra Alpacas. Kaw Valley Farm Tour  Happy Valley Farms Ad Astra Alpacas

In this short BONUS episode for August 2019, Rachel talks with Bethany Falvey and Katrina Ringler of the Kansas State Historical Society (KSHS) about the special KSHS programming happening in Dodge City in September 2019.

This year is the 10th anniversary of the Flint Hills Shakespeare Festival, which takes place each September in St. Marys, Kansas. For 2019, the festival features Twelfth Night along with an artisan village of about 50 craft and food booths along a forest path. The festival is a volunteer led event, another example of the power of people coming together to make something happen. Our guest is Ben Moats, the President of the festival, and he and Rachel talk about the festival, the history of St. Marys, and the importance of bringing culture to towns across the state. The festival is in September (2019). Event and ticketing details can be found at the Flint Hills Shakespeare Festival website. (Bring your own chairs and wear appropriate shoes for walking through the woods -- Shakespeare out in the open, as intended) Facebook St. Marys Kansas