What if every day felt like an adventure? That’s the life Mindy Hargesheimer has created with Kansas City Bucket List, where she uncovers the best hidden gems and experiences KC has to offer. In this episode of Connecting Kansas City, Mindy shares how her passion for exploration and storytelling turned into a thriving platform that inspires locals and visitors alike. From must-visit dining spots to unforgettable cultural events, she reveals her secrets for making the most of Kansas City...

In this episode of "Connecting KC," host Rachel Kilmer sits down with the talented Hayley Lewis, who has quickly risen from Kansas City sports anchor to a national TV presence. Hayley shares her inspiring journey of returning to her hometown in 2019 as the weekend sports anchor for KSHB 41 and, in the summer of 2023, making her dream come true by transitioning to freelancing for major networks like ESPN and Bleacher Report. Born and raised in Missouri, Hayley grew up immersed in the world...

Ever wondered what it takes to turn a dream of writing into a published novel? In this episode of "Connecting KC," author Bianca Miller reveals her path to launching her debut romance novel, Diving In, on February 29, 2024. Tune in as Bianca opens up about the creative process behind Diving In, the challenges and triumphs of self-publishing, and the incredible community she’s built on social media. Bianca also reveals how her personal life and travels inspired the characters and settings...

Ever wondered how energy healing could transform your life? Join us as we explore holistic healing in Blue Springs, where ancient practices meet modern wellness. In this episode, we dive deep into the benefits of Reiki, yoga, and alternative healing therapies designed to balance both mind and body. Our guest, Rachel Watkins, shares her journey from a career in education to becoming a certified health coach and alternative healing practitioner. She reveals how these practices, including the...

In this episode of Connecting Kansas City, we dive deep into the art of brand building with Ashley Mahoney, founder of Hello Big Idea. Ashley shares her journey of creating a successful brand strategy that has propelled her agency to stand out in the crowded Kansas City market. We explore the essential elements of personal branding, and how businesses can leverage creativity to craft a unique identity that resonates with their audience. We’ll also discuss the importance of brand...

Join Rachel Kilmer on this episode of the Connecting KC podcast as she sits down with Laura Miller, owner of Cowtown Tours, to explore Kansas City’s hidden gems. From walking tours to bus tours, Laura has been guiding locals and visitors alike through the heart of KC since 2020. Learn how Kansas City’s vibrant history, booming food scene, and unique attractions are drawing attention on a national level. In this episode, Laura shares how Cowtown Tours evolved to offer some of the best...

What if the next big entertainment hotspot in Kansas City isn’t on land, but on a bridge? In this episode of Connecting Kansas City, host Rachel Kilmer sits down with Jake Fesi, the engagement manager for the groundbreaking Rock Island Bridge project, to talk about Kansas City's first entertainment district over a river. This historic transformation promises to revitalize the Kansas River and create a unique destination that blends water recreation, event spaces, and local culture. Jake...

Imagine getting a phone call from someone who sounds exactly like a loved one—only to find out later it was a sophisticated AI scam. This terrifying reality is becoming more common, and cybercriminals are using cutting-edge AI technology to commit fraud in ways we never thought possible. In this episode, Tracey Hawkins, a nationally recognized safety expert, joins us to discuss the rising threat of AI-generated scams and phishing attacks. You'll learn how these scams work, how criminals...

What if the key to reversing chronic diseases and optimizing your health lies in an approach most people have never heard of? In this eye-opening episode, host Rachel Kilmer sits down with Dr. Bradley Dyer of Premier Integrative Health in Kansas City to uncover the transformative power of functional medicine. Discover how Dr. Dyer’s integrative approach is helping patients not just manage but reverse conditions like diabetes, all while enhancing their overall well-being. Learn about the...

In this episode of Connecting Kansas City, host Rachel Kilmer dives into the world of composting with Kristan Chamberlain, Executive Director of KC Can Compost. Discover why composting food waste is essential for Kansas City’s fight against climate change and how KC Can Compost is at the forefront of this green revolution. Kristan explains how food waste, when trapped in landfills, produces methane—a greenhouse gas far more potent than CO2—and how composting can mitigate this impact while...

Ever wondered how one woman’s personal battle led to the creation of one of Kansas City’s most dynamic video production companies? Meet Amber Giangregorio, co-owner and director at Stellar Image Studios, who turned her passion for storytelling and her journey through sobriety into a thriving business. In this episode of "Connecting Kansas City," host Rachel Kilmer dives deep into Amber's unique path from filmmaker to published author, exploring how her struggles and triumphs have shaped...

Are you ready to declutter and elevate your home or workspace? In this episode of the Connecting KC Podcast, host Rachel Kilmer sits down with Emily Aull, the brilliant mind behind Aull Organized, a premier professional organizing service in Kansas City. Emily shares her journey from being an elementary school teacher to becoming a sought-after organizing expert featured in Apartment Therapy and The Spruce. Discover the secrets to creating sustainable organizing systems that fit your...

In this episode of Connecting KC, Rachel Kilmer sits down with tech expert Burton Kelso to discuss the rapid evolution of AI and its implications for businesses, particularly in the real estate sector. Burton shares his insights on how to effectively use AI tools like ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, and others without losing the essential human touch in business interactions. From cybersecurity to everyday tech challenges, this episode is packed with valuable advice for entrepreneurs and tech...

From jumping out of airplanes at 14,000 feet with a camera, to shooting a mile under ground in a salt mine, award winning videographer Shaun Cloud has some amazing stories. Discover the fascinating journey of a Kansas City-based videographer who has worked with multimillionaires, athletes, and in some of the most challenging environments. Learn about the evolving world of video production, the importance of staying ahead of technology, and the challenges of managing client expectations...

Discover how Market Wagon operates as an online farmer's market, delivering fresh, local produce directly to your doorstep every week. Join Rachel Kilmer in this episode of Connecting Kansas City as she interviews John Laughlin, the Head of Marketing at Market Wagon. Market Wagon is more than just a delivery service; it's a mission-driven company focused on supporting local farmers and providing consumers with fresh, high-quality groceries. John explains how the company builds strong...

Welcome to another episode of the "Connecting Kansas City" podcast! In this episode, your host Rachel Kilmer, also known as Rach the Realtor, sits down with Jennifer Wuebker, co-owner of Resettle Me, a specialized move management company in Kansas City. Jennifer shares valuable insights into the emotional and physical challenges that seniors face when downsizing or moving into senior living. Discover how Resettle Me, the only A+ accredited move management company in the KC Metro, helps...

What happens when a former investigator becomes the ultimate stay-at-home dad? In this episode of Connecting KC, Rachel Kilmer chats with Shannon Carpenter, the acclaimed author of "The Ultimate Stay-at-Home Dad Manual." Shannon shares his inspiring journey into stay-at-home fatherhood, navigating the challenges and joys of breaking traditional gender roles and building a supportive community for fathers. Shannon discusses the importance of community and the creation of Casey Dads, a local...

In this episode of "Connecting KC," host Rachel Kilmer (aka Rach the Realtor) sits down with Suzanne Wolff, president and owner of LandaJob. With over 25 years of experience in marketing, design, and recruiting, Suzanne shares invaluable tips for job seekers in Kansas City and beyond. Discover how to optimize your resume for applicant tracking systems, the importance of networking, and how to effectively search for jobs that aren't posted online. Whether you're looking to switch...

In this episode of the Connecting KC Podcast, host Rachel Kilmer, known as Rach the Realtor, interviews Maggie Nielsen, co-owner of Purse Strings, a platform dedicated to financial empowerment for women. Maggie discusses the unique challenges women face in achieving financial independence and how Purse Strings provides vital resources and vetted financial professionals to support them. Learn about the transformative impact of social media on financial literacy and why financial...

In this episode of the Connecting Kansas City podcast, host Rachel Kilmer, also known as Rach the Realtor, connects with Shane Ewing, a former TV news anchor who now works as a financial advisor. Together, they reminisce about their days covering sports, including unforgettable experiences from the Kansas City Royals' World Series. Shane shares his journey from local news to finance, offering insights into the challenges and rewards of both fields. They discuss the importance of...

Welcome back to the Connecting KC Podcast! Today, we’re diving deep into the world of local manufacturing with Garret Prather, the VP of Strategic Partnerships at Sandlot Goods. This episode is packed with insights about Kansas City's unique business landscape, community pride, and the journey of Kansas City's only hat manufacturer. Episode Highlights: • About Garret Prather: Learn about Garret’s background, from his finance degree at KU and MBA at Rockhurst, to his experience in New...

Discover the revolution in affordable housing taking place right here in Kansas City! Join us on this episode of Connecting Kansas City as we dive into the inspiring story of Godfrey Riddle and his innovative social enterprise, Civic Saint. Godfrey, an artist, nonprofit executive, and serial social entrepreneur, is on a mission to create sustainable, artful homes using compressed earthen blocks (CEBs) – and the impact is nothing short of transformative. In this episode, host Rachel Kilmer,...

Are you dreaming of a stress-free vacation but don't know where to start? Shelley Robison has the answers! With over 26 years of experience in the travel industry, Shelley has helped countless Kansas City residents plan their perfect getaways, from relaxing Caribbean retreats to adventurous European excursions. In this episode, we dive into the incredible benefits of using a travel agent. Shelley explains how she takes the guesswork out of planning, handling everything from researching...

Join Rachel Kilmer, a seasoned Kansas City real estate agent and host of the "Connecting Kansas City" podcast, as she dives into an inspiring conversation with local entrepreneur and plant-based baker, Sav Brady, owner of The C Word Cakery. Sav Brady, who has been cooking and baking for as long as she can remember, shares her unique journey from working in various kitchens to founding her own vegan bakery. The C Word Cakery, known for its creative approach to baking, stands out not just...