Where We Landed

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?