Ask A Kansan

What does it take to build a legacy that inspires thousands, and how do you know when it’s time to hand over the keys? From humble beginnings in Cleveland to leading one of the most celebrated college marching bands in the country, Dr. Frank Tracz’s journey is a masterclass in leadership, grit, and the power of community. Whether you’re a band kid, a Kansas State fan, or just someone who loves a good story about dedica...

What does it mean to truly connect with the land, its people, and the stories that shaped them? Join our conversation with Greg Victors, the Wichita War Dancer, as we explore Native American heritage, resilience, and the ongoing journey of cultural preservation in Kansas and beyond. Discover the power of tradition, the importance of representation, and how every Kansan can play a role in honoring the past while buildin...

How do you lead a university into the future while staying rooted in community and tradition? Join us as we explore the journey of Dr. Matt Thompson, President of Kansas Wesleyan University, and discover how vision, vulnerability, and collaboration shape both campus and community.

Highlights

• The cereal-before-milk debate and other everyday brain teasers
• Dr. Matt Thompson’s path from Florida to Kansas Wesle...

What does it take to turn a personal journey into a force for community change? Today’s conversation explores the inspiring story of Abel Frederic, Vice President of Community Impact at United Way of the Plains. From his roots as the son of Haitian immigrants to his leadership in Kansas, Abel shares how service, collaboration, and innovation can transform lives and communities. You’ll hear about the power of literacy, ...

In this episode, we sit down with Jeff Hayes, Executive Director of the Central Kansas Cooperative in Education (CKCIE), to unpack how special education works across partnering districts. Jeff explains how CKCIE helps shape and interpret school policies, coordinates services across rural and urban districts, and supports students, families, and educators with staffing, training, and wraparound resources. We also dig into w...

In this episode, we sit down with Cash Hollistah, a local Kansan and creative force in the Salina arts community. Known for his music, storytelling, and leadership, Cash shares what inspires his artistry and how he uses his voice to spark connection and conversation.

We talk about the power of music in Kansas, how creativity can transform communities, and the intentional ways Cash invests his time and talent to make Salina...

In this episode of Ask A Kansan, we sit down with Trisha Smith, Director of Maxwell Wildlife Refuge (Friends of Maxwell) in Canton, KS. Trisha shares how a winding, resilient life journey led her to steward one of Kansas’s most remarkable prairie preserves. We talk about the refuge’s mission, the impact of bison and elk on native grasslands, and the community of volunteers and partners that make preservation possible. It’s...

In this week’s Ask A Kansan, we’re honored to sit down with Jim Richardson, acclaimed photographer for National Geographic and contributing editor for TRAVELER Magazine. Over the course of his career, Jim has photographed more than fifty stories for National Geographic, traveling from volcanic peaks to the depths of the soil beneath our feet, from the Arctic to the Antarctic, and countless places in between.

ABC News Night...

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Carlton Shield Chief Gover, Assistant Professor of Anthropology at the University of Kansas, and Curator at the Biodiversity Institute & Natural History Museum. A proud member of the Pawnee Nation, Carlton shares his expertise on Kansas archaeology, Native history, and cultural preservation.

Our conversation explores the significance of the Pawnee Nation’s heritage, what Kansans ca...

In this episode of Ask A Kansan, we sit down with Marci Penner, co-founder of the Kansas Sampler Foundation. Alongside her father, Marci has dedicated her work to showcasing the heart of Rural Kansas, enhancing tourism outreach, and strengthening small-town communities. As a leading expert on what Rural Kansas has to offer, she shares her insights, stories, and passion for helping others discover the hidden gems across the...

In this episode of Ask A Kansan, we meet James Bowden—a local farmer, volunteer, leader, and true change maker. Known for his unmatched energy and dedication, James shares his insights on agriculture, leadership, and building stronger communities. We dive into his work with Sustain-A-Grain, his passion for sustainable farming practices, and the ways he’s inspiring others to think big and lead with purpose.

Topic Links

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In this episode of Ask a Kansan, we sit down with Erika Nelson—an independent artist, educator, and roadside attraction enthusiast. Erika shares how her passion for unconventional art and storytelling has taken her across the country in search of the world's largest things. She brings those experiences back home to Kansas through her unique project: The World's Largest Collection of the World's Smallest Versions of the Wor...

In this episode of Ask A Kansan, we sit down with Ryan Fairchild — a father, business owner, musician, and passionate community change maker. Ryan shares the story of how his journey into homebrewing became more than a hobby, evolving into a way he connects with and gives back to his community. From his creative process in brewing to his reflections on family, music, and leadership, Ryan offers a thoughtful look at what it...

In this episode of Ask A Kansan, we talk with Jordan Roemerman, Deputy Director of Kansas Tourism and Administrator of the Sunflower Summer App. Jordan shares her passion for showcasing the hidden gems across Kansas and how her work helps spark state pride among residents.

We dive into the impact of the Sunflower Summer App—an initiative that encourages families to explore museums, zoos, historical sites, and more across t...

In this episode of Ask A Kansan, we sit down with Margaret Philbrick of Rainbow Meadows Equine Rescue & Retirement, a woman whose lifelong passion for horses has shaped a career rooted in compassion, advocacy, and education. Margaret shares how her journey in the equine industry began, what led her to join Rainbow Meadows, and how the organization provides sanctuary, rehabilitation, and hope to horses in need. From the...

In this episode of Ask A Kansan, we sit down with news anchor and reporter Abby Wray to talk about what it really means to work in local journalism. Abby opens up about the misconceptions people often have about reporters, the responsibility of sharing accurate stories, and why telling the news in her own community is both challenging and deeply rewarding. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at the heart of local media—and the K...

In this episode of Ask A Kansan, we sit down with Dr. Andrew Orr from the Kansas State University History Department to explore the power of remembering. From the trenches of French military history to the quiet strength of our veterans today, Dr. Orr brings insight, empathy, and a deep respect for the human side of service. We talk about why military history still matters, how compassion plays a role in honoring those who...

From how we stream movies to how we shop online, the digital world is constantly evolving—and so is the way we advertise. In this episode, we sit down with Alissa Menke, founder and Chief Digital Strategist of Cohort Digital, to explore the intersection of digital marketing, AI, and business growth.

Alissa shares her journey into the digital space, how AI can be used responsibly to benefit both marketers and consumers, and...