Grow Clinton Podcast
The Grow Clinton Podcast is powered by Miles Communications. Learn more at https://milescommunicationsco.com/. A podcast highlighting the Grow Clinton organization and its efforts to develop and strengthen the Greater Clinton Region through business retention, attraction, and tourism. Grow Clinton is a 501(c)6 non-profit based in Clinton, Iowa. An area rich in manufacturing, the Greater Clinton Region is home to large employers that continue to invest in their growth, injecting wealth and new money into the local economy. The region is also known for its advanced infrastructure, which supports the transportation of manufactured goods and raw materials via a r...
GCP135 - REM Iowa Community Services w/Bob & Jenna
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by Jenna Wenzel and Bob Jackley of REM Iowa.
The mission of REM Iowa is to provide adults, children, young people, and their families with innovative, high-quality services and supports that promote growth and independence, regardless of the physical, intellectual, or behavioral challenges they encounter.
REM Iowa’s philosophy stresses partnerships with those we serve, their families, our employees, Mentors, payors, and the communities where we work—to help people shape the direction of their own lives...
GCP133 - The Addington Place of Clinton, Iowa
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by Mike Saad, the executive director of Addington Place of Clinton, Iowa.
With over 20 years of experience in healthcare leadership, Mike is a graduate of Augustana College, holding a degree in Business Administration. He has built a diverse career in marketing and business development, including roles in hospice, promoting physical and occupational therapy equipment, and serving as an administrator for both hospice and assisted living communities. His extensive background enables him to lead with a strategic vision, ensuring...
GCP134 - 5 Leadership Attributes for Emerging Leaders w/Dr. Charlie Minnick
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined again by Dr. Charlie Minnick to discuss the July 16th Leadership Unlocked event, focusing on the five key leadership qualities essential for emerging leaders.
The presentation by leadership expert Bill Davis explores core leadership principles, emphasizing that authentic leadership goes beyond simply giving directives and encouragement. It outlines essential attributes for emerging leaders and key coaching strategies for success.
Participants will learn the importance of leading with purpose and setting an example, being proactive, staying engaged...
GCP132 - Clinton Engineering w/Ryan Birney, President
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by Rayn Birney, president of Clinton Engineering, based in Clinton, Iowa.
Clinton Engineering is much more than its name suggests. The company has been a full-service general contractor and a recognized leader in construction for the Gateway area since 1926. Their longevity demonstrates their consistent success in delivering projects of all sizes to the Clinton community.
Ryan will share details about the company's range of services, including industrial work, pre-engineered metal buildings (STAR), Lester brand pole barns...
GCP131 - The Clinton LumberKings w/Nate Vander Bleek
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny interview Nate Vander Bleek, general manager of the Clinton LumberKings Baseball Club.
Located in Clinton, Iowa, at NelsonCorp Field, the LumberKings are members of the Prospect League, a premier Midwestern wood-bat collegiate summer baseball league featuring 18 teams from Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, Ohio, Tennessee, and Pennsylvania. The league provides college players with a professional environment, excellent competition, and high-quality facilities while delivering thrilling baseball action and affordable entertainment for all ages in its communities.
Nate will share insights...
GCP130 - River Cities Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration w/Eric Christensen
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by Eric Christensen of River Cities Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration, a member of Grow Clinton.
The parent company, M&A Mechanical, is a family-owned and operated HVAC and appliance business founded in 2017 by Eric and Shelly Christensen. A casual conversation at a gas station in the spring of 2017 led Eric and Shelly Christensen to acquire River Cities Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration from its founder, Mr. Don Carlson.
After many years of working in the field—mo...
GCP129 - Marketing & Event Planning w/Grow Clinton's Ashley Hatteberg
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by Ashley Hatteberg, a fellow Grow Clinton teammate, to discuss the organization's marketing and event planning efforts and promote the upcoming Grow Clinton Annual Meeting, which will be held on the evening of June 25th at the Wild Rose Casino & Hotel.
The three will also share insights on the fantastic networking opportunities available during our Biz After 5 events and July's Grow Clinton Golf Outing, a favorite among our members!
Grow Clinton has a diverse membership. For...
GCP128 - EICC Process Technology Certificate w/LyondellBasell's Joe Hoinkis
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton (GC) Podcast, the GC team is joined by Joe Hoinkis, site manager at LyondellBasell in Clinton, Iowa, to discuss the newly launched Process Technician Certificate Program at Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC).
For more information, visit https://eicc.edu/classes-programs/pathway/industrial/process-technician/
If you are a student seeking an in-demand career field with unmatched earning potential, you may want to check out the Process Technician Certificate Program. Graduates of the program receive a GUARANTEED interview at LyondellBasell (LYB), ADM, and 3M...
GCP127 - Interview w/Sarah Smith, Director of Placemaking & Tourism at Grow Clinton
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by Grow Clinton's newest team member, Sarah Smith. Sarah is the director of placemaking & tourism. She has been with the organization for three weeks and has hit the ground running!
The three discuss the economic impact of tourism in the State of Iowa, existing regional attractions, developing the Grow Clinton tourism brand, and Sarah's plans for enhancing the department's effectiveness.
In partnership with the City of Clinton, Grow Clinton's placemaking and tourism efforts are funded through th...
GCP126 - When Success Becomes the Enemy w/Dr. Charlie Minnick
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Join a transformative experience for leaders aiming to turn vision into impactful action. This FREE series has limited space and requires reservations.
Register at https://bit.ly/LeadershipUnlockedPart6.
Leadership Unlocked: Empowering Your Potential equips participants with essential skills to lead effectively in today's dynamic environment.
Session 6: When Success Becomes the Enemy: Building a Curious Culture to Overcome Status Quo
Presenter: Dr. Diane Hamilton
Connect with Dr. Hamilton on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdianehamilton/.
Purchase her book, Curiosity Unleashed, at...
GCP125 - Clinton Area Showboat Theatre w/Chris & Courtney
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny interview Chris and Courtney to learn more about the 2025 Clinton Area Showboat Theatre (CAST).
The 2025 CAST Season will open on June 12th with The Addams Family.
Additional 2025 shows include:
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor DreamcoatBright Star (A New Musical)Almost Heaven (The Story of John Denver)The Clinton Area Showboat Theatre produces professional summer theatre and offers theatre education programs, enhancing the cultural and artistic climate. As one of only three professional union theatre companies in...
GCP124 - Unity Christian School K-12 w/Jessica & Chris
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by Jessica and Chris from Unity Christian School.
Unity Christian School offers daycare, preschool, elementary, and secondary education for families who desire a Christ-centered upbringing for their children.
Jessica and Chris will outline the timeline for completing a new school in Clinton, Iowa, along 19th Ave North by the Lyons Business & Technology Park. We will also discover the educational opportunities available for Iowa families and learn about over 100 years of history in meeting the educational needs of...
GCP122 - Cardiology Consultants of Clinton, Iowa w/Andy & Dana
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy is joined by Andy Euell and Dana Albaghdadi from Cardiology Consultants in Clinton, Iowa.
Cardiology Consultants is situated at 2745 Lincoln Way. It boasts an experienced team of cardiology specialists dedicated to your healthcare. The clinic provides a comprehensive range of cardiovascular diagnostic services on-site.
Dr. Ali Albaghdadi, MD, and Dr. Saadi Albaghdadi, MD, are prepared to manage your heart health and identify ways to enhance longevity and overall quality of life.
Please call (563) 244-2144 to schedule your upcoming...
GCP123 - The Church at Lyons w/Kris & Scott
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by Kris Wiersema, who represents The Church at Lyons. The Church at Lyons is a historical cornerstone of the Lyons Business District. It once served as a place of worship, functioning as the Lyons United Methodist Church, located at 2118 N 2nd Street in Clinton.
With significant effort and dedication invested in its redevelopment, The Church at Lyons now operates as a popular event center, hosting weddings, receptions, birthday parties, and large group gatherings. With a capacity of 200-300...
GCP121 - Mike Cross of Crossroads Logisitcs & Land Development
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by Mike Cross of Crossroads Logistics & Land Development based in Camanche, Iowa. Mike serves as the company's manager, ensuring that timelines are met, new customers are identified, and the brand continues to grow through enhanced marketing efforts.
Crossroads Logistics provides railcar and bulk liquid storage while serving local employers like LyondellBasell. The company offers convenient track access to the Union Pacific mainline and features a spacious railcar storage yard.
Nestled along 44th Ave in Camanche, the...
GCP117 - The Amazing Matt Parbs, VP of Community & Economic Development
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by Matt Parbs, Grow Clinton's Vice President of Community and Economic Development.
Matt will share information about Grow Clinton's mission, how its members support the organization, current and future projects, and the entrepreneurial-focused EntreFuel Program, which helps aspiring business owners succeed in a complex world.
Matt will also highlight Grow Clinton's tourism initiatives and announce the recent hiring of Sarah Smith, the Director of Placemaking & Tourism. One of the exciting programs offered by Grow Clinton is...
GCP118 - Karen Friis, Grow Clinton's Office Coordinator Celebrating 30 Years of Service!
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by Karen Friis, the office coordinator at Grow Clinton. Karen will celebrate 30 years of service in 2025, and we want to learn about her three decades of serving members, businesses, and individuals throughout the Greater Clinton Region.
As the office coordinator, Karen provides the first impression for existing and prospective members when they enter the Grow Clinton offices at 721 S 2nd Street. As the longest-tenured team member, Karen has witnessed it with her institutional knowledge and stories. From fielding...
GCP119 - Luke Duenser of the Hausmann Group Insurance Agency & Brokerage
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny interview Luke Duenser from the Hausmann Group Insurance Agency and Brokerage.
More information is available at www.myhaus.com.
The Hausmann Group is a full-service independent insurance agency with offices in Madison and Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Serving local clients in Wisconsin and large companies nationwide, the agency provides a wide range of insurance and business services to support clients now and in the future.
The Hausmann Group is dedicated to helping clients anticipate and navigate li...
GCP120 - Russell Commercial Construction w/Matt Rebro & Nicole Kreeger
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Jenny and Andy sit down with Matt Rebro, a longtime friend and investor in Grow Clinton, along with Nicole Kreeger from Russell Commercial Construction & Real Estate Services.
Key topics of this episode's discussion include:
The Boomerang Effect: How we attract individuals returning to Iowa and the opportunities that bring them back.Elevating the Trades: Construction is becoming increasingly important, and there is an urgent need to invest in skilled trades. Value-Driven Culture: This section explains why people seek out purpose-led companies and hig...GCP116 - The Alverno in Clinton, Iowa, w/Letha & Barb
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by Letha and Barb of The Alverno, a long-term care facility in Clinton, Iowa.
Listeners will learn about The Alverno's history, rules and regulations, upcoming growth opportunities, and its future.
At The Alverno, the dedicated staff takes pride in caring for residents. They offer a variety of care plans and services for older adults, each tailored to individual needs and desires. The objective is to meet each resident's medical and spiritual needs by providing exceptional round-the-clock nu...
GCP115 - Information, Referral & Assistance Services w/Regan Michaelsen
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny interview Regan Michaelsen of Information, Referral & Assistance (IRAS) Services in Clinton, Iowa.
The mission of IRAS is to connect people in need with appropriate services, identify and respond to unmet community needs, and provide emergency assistance to individuals who fall through the cracks in the human service network.
IRAS is a clearinghouse for a network of more than 200 local human service agencies, churches, and civic organizations. In this capacity, the office can identify and help eliminate duplication of a...
GCP114 - Emotional Intelligence & Leadership w/Dr. Charlie Minnick
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On this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy is again joined by Dr. Charlie Minnick to discuss the May session of the ongoing Leadership Unlocked series.
The no-cost leadership training is scheduled for Wednesday, May 21st, at 2 PM in the Grow Clinton office at 721 S 2nd Street in Clinton, Iowa.
With a focus on emotional intelligence, we'll embark on a transformative experience designed for aspiring and current leaders who seek to turn their vision into impactful action. This training program, Leadership Unlocked: Empowering Your Potential, will equip participants wi...
GCP110 - Core Vens Insurance of Clinton, IA w/Tim Hartsock
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If you'd like to learn about how insurance is changing and how to navigate the insurance market, check out the latest Grow Clinton Podcast episode.
In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny speak with Tim Hartsock of Core-Vens Insurance in Clinton, Iowa. Tim explains how they're helping clients adapt to the insurance market's changes. He also shares the Core-Vens team's thoughts on trends like national and local billion-dollar losses, concentration, and fraud in the industry's personal and commercial lines.
If you’d like to learn mor...
GCP111 - Tailgate N' Tallboys 2025 w/Mayor Scott & Josh Eggers (BOGO)
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by Clinton Mayor Scott Maddasion and Parks & Recreation Director Josh Eggers to discuss the upcoming Clinton, Iowa-based county music concert, Tailgate N' Tallboys.
The concert series, scheduled for June 5th–7th, features top country music acts such as Whiskey Myers, Riley Green, Ella Langley, Jason Aldean, and Gavin Adcock.
Tickets are now on sale at www.TailgateNTallboys.com. As part of a week-long limited-time offer (May 5th - 11th), local ticket buyers can use the...
GCP112 - The Rusty Barrel Lounge Downtown Clinton w/Lindsay Morhardt
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by Lindsay Morhardt, owner of the Rusty Barrel Lounge in Clinton, Iowa.
"The Rusty" offers a variety of craft cocktails, draft beers, mixed drinks, and live music in a fun and relaxing atmosphere. The Prohibition-themed decor transports guests back to when excitement, dancing, and gathering with friends were constant.
Lindsay will share information regarding upcoming events, the Rusty Wagon, a mobile bar, and attractive themed parties such as Murder Mysteries.
For more information, please vis...
GCP113 - The Clausen Companies of Clinton, IA w/Pete Clausen
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by Pete Clausen, owner of Clausen Companies in Clinton, Iowa.
Pete shares the company's history of multi-generational leadership focused on future growth. He has been involved in community and economic development for a long time, serving as a board member of the Clinton Regional Development Corporation.
Established in 1957 by Harold Clausen, Clausen Companies is dedicated to providing quality products and services conscientiously and professionally. With only $300 in capital and three employees, Harold laid the foundation for th...
GCP109 - The Copper Mill w/Lindsay & Sean
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny interview the owners of Clinton, IA's newest venue, the Copper Mill Bar, Grill & Event Center.
The Copper Mill is located in the former Gill's Ballroom on the west side of Clinton, IA. It will feature your favorite drinks and food. It also has ample event space for community gatherings, parties, and weddings.
Lindsay and Sean will share their progress in renovating the space and creating a welcoming atmosphere. We will learn about the phased opening schedule and timeline.
<...GCP108 - Quad Cities Business Journal w/Jennifer & Dave
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by Dave Thompson and Jennifer DeWitt of the Quad Cities Business Journal (QCBJ).
The two share information about the QCBJ's history, coverage area, topics of interest, veteran reporting staff, upcoming events, and a review of the Clinton stories featured in the publication.
The QCBJ serves as a strategic partner of Grow Clinton, ensuring that community successes reach a broad audience and impact the community's future development.
On behalf of Grow Clinton, we would like to...
GCP107 - Estes Construction w/Nathan Billany
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Jenny and Andy are joined by a familiar face, Nathan Billany of Estes Construction. Nathan worked in the Clinton Community for several years before taking a position with Estes Construction. As a former Clinton Kiwanian, his accent and jovial attitude were always welcomed during lunch meetings and Kiwanis events.
Founded by Jim and Lori Estes, Estes Construction serves the Greater Clinton Region by offering its clients a unique pre-construction planning process that provides an enhanced level of input and results in substantial cost s...
GCP106 - WATANYE Club of Clinton, Iowa, w/Anne & Sheila
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by two members of the WA-TAN-YE Club of Clinton, Iowa.
The service club is similar to the Kiwanis, Rotary, and Lions Clubs, which engage in service projects and enjoy each other's company. For the first 50 years, the club had a diverse workforce comprising two doctors, nurses, newspaper reporters, office professionals, teachers, sales clerks, cooks, and others. In 1974, they decided that any woman in a position of authority at work could be a member.
Anne and Sheila w...
GCP105 - Clinton Community College w/President, Dr. Brian Kelly
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by Dr. Brian Kelly, president of Clinton Community College. Dr. Kelly will share information regarding the community college's recent successes, including:
Career Advancement CenterWorkforce educationK12 partnerships w/regional school districtsNestle Purina PetCare career training LyondellBasell partnership & Process TechnologyThe Clinton Community College has remained a longtime partner in area education and job readiness, ensuring that tomorrow's workforce is prepared and equipped with the skills necessary to strengthen our regional employers.
To learn more about the many pro...
GCP104 - Necker's Jewelers w/Savanah Necker-Levesque
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by Savanah Necker-Levesque of Necker's Jewelers.
With 130 years in business, Necker's Jewelers has proven itself to be a successful and customer-focused jeweler, located in DeWitt and Davenport, Iowa. Savannah will share information regarding the various brands available, many of which you can only expect to find in larger cities. Additionally, Necker's Jewelers is Iowa's only provider of Breitling watches — a significant honor for the locally owned and operated company.
We also discuss the successful Gift of Giv...
GCP101 - Life Connections Peer Recovery Services & 2nd Annual Ride for Recovery
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by Todd Noack of Life Connections Peer Recovery Services.
Life Connections Peer Recovery Services is a non-profit organization that operates a Peer Recovery Center and Iowa’s first Peer-Run Respite House. The organization supports individuals wanting to begin or continue their journey by connecting them with services and resources that can guide them in living their best lives.
On Saturday, May 17th, 2025, Life Connections Peer Recovery Services will host the 2nd Annual Ride for Recovery in mem...
GCP102 - Music on the Avenue 2025 & Downtown Clinton Alliance
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Jenny and Andy are joined by Kari White and Megan Dove of the Downtoan Clinton Alliance (DCA).
The DCA hosts a fantastic concert series called Music on the Avenue, which closes the 200 block of 5th Avenue South, right in the heart of Clinton's Downtown. Enjoy live music, dancing, a car show, food vendors, and refreshments (keep the cooler at home)!
Be sure to follow Music on the Avenue on Facebook --> https://www.facebook.com/MusicOnTheAvenueClintonIA.
Starts J...
GCP103 - Northend Sweets & Treats in the Lyons Business District
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by Jenifer George, owner of Northend Sweets & Treats Ice Cream Shop.
Formerly known as Carol's North End Dairy Treat, the popular summer ice cream joint has been renamed and is undergoing a complete rebranding with a fresh and tasty new look. Jenifer will share insights regarding the new branding elements, which will include a mobile ice cream unit.
Not to leave those craving a classic baked good out of the mix, Northend Sweets & Treats will offer...
GCP100 - Clinton County Conservation w/Phil & Hannah
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny sit down with members of the Clinton County Conservation office to discuss upcoming events, projects, the new 40-acre addition to public hunting grounds, and controlled burns on wildlife areas.
Clinton County Conservation allows for wildlife/environmental education, offering camping, parks, Blue Heron Eco Cruises, Eden Valley Nature Center, school programs and field trips, youth hunter challenges, and EnviroKids.
For more information and to access the events calendar, please visit https://www.clintoncounty-ia.gov/conservation/.
Phi...
GCP098 - Leadership Unlocked: Managing Conflict w/Dr. Charlie Minnick
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Jenny & Andy interview Dr. Charlie Minnick and embark on a transformative experience designed for aspiring and current leaders who seek to turn their vision into impactful action.
This training program, Leadership Unlocked: Empowering Your Potential, will equip participants with the essential skills, tools, and mindset needed to lead teams and organizations in today's dynamic environment.
Ultimately, management is about handling the day-to-day problems at work; leadership is about leading changes that challenge the day-to-day work. In both situations, conflicts are generated when what people care about gets threatened. The t...
GCP099 - Paint it Back! w/Gabbi Torres & Kip Simpson
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by Gabbi Torres and Kip Simpson of Paint it Back. Paint it Back is a nonprofit organization focusing on community development through public art.
We will discuss the Paint it Back vision and mission, the 2025 event, and the festival's positive impact on the Clinton community.
Gabi and Kip will also reveal how interested volunteers can get involved, support public art, and enhance the experience for artists and local art enthusiasts.
For more information, please vi...
GCP096 - Interview w/Senator Mike Zimmer of Iowa's Senate District #35
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In this 96th episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy & Jenny interview Senator Mike Zimmer of Iowa Senate District 35.
The freshman Senator will share his experience in his first term as a state elected official. Mike was elected following Chris Cournoyer's appointment to the position of Lieutenant Governor.
Senator Zimmer sits on the following standing committees:
Agriculture (Ranking Member)EducationHealth and Human ServicesNatural Resources and EnvironmentTransportationSenator Zimmer can be contacted directly at mike.zimmer@legis.iowa.gov.
If you want more info on promoting your...
GCP097 - Interview w/Martha Garcia-Tappa of Iowa's Office of Registered Apprenticeship
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In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny discuss registered apprenticeships with Martha Garcia-Tappa of Iowa Workforce Development.
Martha will define registered apprenticeships, explain how a company will benefit from such a program, reveal the steps necessary to establish one, and tell interested participants where to become apprentices.
Registered apprenticeships are essential because they offer a structured, industry-driven pathway for individuals to gain valuable skills and experience while providing employers with a skilled and reliable workforce, leading to increased productivity and retention.
For more in...
