Grow Clinton Podcast

On this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, we are taking you inside one of the largest private investments our community will see this year. From July through September, LyondellBasell’s Clinton Complex will undergo a major turnaround, representing more than $300 million in maintenance, upgrades, and safety improvements that support thousands of permanent jobs and pump millions of dollars into our local economy.

 Joe Hoinkis, Clinton Site Manager for LyondellBasell, will break down what a turnaround really is, why the company is bringing thousands of contractors to town, and how this planned pause in production helps protect wor...

On this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, we welcome Chris Streets from the Clinton Area Showboat Theatre to talk about another exciting season of live entertainment along the Mississippi River.

Chris gives listeners a preview of the 2026 show schedule, featuring a dynamic lineup of productions that continue the Showboat’s tradition of bringing high-quality, professional theater to the region. Whether you're a longtime supporter or considering your first visit, this season offers something for everyone, from classic favorites to fresh, engaging performances.

We also dive into the many ways the community can get involved. Ch...

In episode 227 of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy sits down with Brad and Jayson of XCEL NDT to talk about what it means to build a high-tech industrial services company in the Greater Clinton Region, and why they chose Clinton, Iowa, as a strategic location to grow.

XCEL delivers advanced NDE (nondestructive examination) and conventional NDT services to industrial customers across the United States. Their work centers on verifying the integrity of critical infrastructure, such as welds, tanks, piping, and structural components, without damaging or disrupting operations.

The company has grown into a multi-state operation...

Episode 228 of the Grow Clinton Podcast shines a spotlight on one of Clinton’s most enduring and innovative employers, Colony Brands, Inc. Celebrating 100 years in business, Colony Brands has built a legacy of adaptability, growth, and community investment, and this episode offers listeners a closer look at how that legacy continues today.

In this episode, we sit down with Teah Shirk and Ashley Whalen to explore the inner workings of Colony Brands’ Clinton, Iowa, fulfillment center. From the outside, it’s a major logistics operation, but inside, it’s a dynamic workplace driven by people, process, and purpose...

In Episode 226 of the Grow Clinton Podcast, we’re excited to welcome Dr. Brian Kelly, President of Clinton Community College, a valued partner in advancing education, workforce development, and skill-building throughout the Greater Clinton region.

Clinton Community College (CCC) has long stood as a cornerstone of opportunity in Eastern Iowa. Through its diverse range of academic programs, technical training, and continuing education courses, the college helps individuals at every stage of their career journey gain the knowledge and practical experience needed to thrive. Whether students are pursuing associate degrees, certifications, or targeted workforce credentials, CCC provides accessible pa...

Episode 225 of the Grow Clinton Podcast features a conversation with Stacie Parks of ProManage Realty LLC, a locally based property management and real estate brokerage serving the Clinton area. Stacie shares how ProManage focuses on professional, responsive management for both property owners and tenants, helping keep quality housing options available in our community.

ProManage Realty LLC specializes in property management and real estate services, providing leasing and ongoing management support designed to protect investments and maintain well-managed residential properties. Their team helps connect residents with rental opportunities in Clinton while supporting owners with marketing, tenant placement, and...

Episode 224 of the Grow Clinton Podcast shines a light on courage, community, and the power of hope as we sit down with Sawyer and his mom, Jamie Dawes, to share their family’s remarkable health journey. 

From countless appointments and anxious nights to national recognition, their story shows what it looks like when a community rallies around one determined young hero and his equally determined mom.

A local hero with a national platform

A Clinton kid whose strength and kindness have earned him the title of Children’s Miracle Network National Champion, you’ll hear...

First Central State Bank is a locally owned community bank that serves Clinton, DeWitt, Eldridge, Goose Lake, and LeClaire, delivering personal and business banking services tailored to the needs of eastern Iowa. As a community-focused institution, the bank offers checking and savings accounts, commercial lending, agriculture lending, and modern tools like online and mobile banking that help residents manage their finances conveniently and securely.

In this episode, listeners hear from Brig Tubbs, CEO at First Central State Bank, who also serves as a dedicated member of the Grow Clinton Board of Directors, bringing a banker’s perspective to...

During the conversation, Scott shares insight into the evolution of broadband and telecommunications in eastern Iowa, highlighting the importance of reliable infrastructure for both residents and businesses. As demand for high-speed internet continues to grow, especially in rural areas, companies like Miles Communications are helping bridge the digital divide and support economic opportunity across the region.

Scott also discusses the challenges and opportunities facing local providers, including technological advancements, customer expectations, and the ongoing need for infrastructure investment. His perspective offers a valuable look at how smaller, community-focused providers can remain competitive while staying true to...

In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined in the studio by Steve Clements, the President & CEO of Citizens First Bank with branches in Clinton and Camanche, Iowa.

Citizens First Bank and Grow Clinton share a common mission: strengthening the local economy and building a thriving community. As Steve explains, alignment isn’t accidental; it’s foundational. For CFB, supporting economic development isn’t a side effort; it’s at the heart of what a community bank is meant to do.

You’ve probably heard that Citizens First Bank is “everywhere”...