46 episodes

Welcome to Connecting KC, the podcast that introduces you to all of the movers and shakers, interesting people, heartfelt stories, and funny quirks that make Kansas City your home. Join your host Rachel Kilmer, a Metro Area Real Estate Agent, retired sports reporter, and mom, as she connects with the people and places that make this city so special. From business leaders and community activists to local artists and entrepreneurs, Rachel dives deep into the stories behind the people who are shaping the Kansas City landscape.

Connecting Kansas City Rachel Leigh Kilmer

    • Society & Culture

Welcome to Connecting KC, the podcast that introduces you to all of the movers and shakers, interesting people, heartfelt stories, and funny quirks that make Kansas City your home. Join your host Rachel Kilmer, a Metro Area Real Estate Agent, retired sports reporter, and mom, as she connects with the people and places that make this city so special. From business leaders and community activists to local artists and entrepreneurs, Rachel dives deep into the stories behind the people who are shaping the Kansas City landscape.

    Kansas City Fashion Icon, Whitney Manney

    Kansas City Fashion Icon, Whitney Manney

    Today we dive deep into the vibrant heart of Kansas City's fashion scene with none other than the acclaimed local fashion and textile designer, Whitney Manney. A Kansas City, MO native, Whitney brings a wave of creativity and artistry to the local textile design industry with her innovative and bold designs. In this episode, we explore how Whitney's passion for fashion has helped shape the artistic landscape of Kansas City, making a significant impact on both the local culture and its burgeoning fashion industry.



    Whitney Manney, a Kansas City Art Institute alumna, shares her journey from a young visionary to a celebrated designer under her label, WHITNEY MANNEY. Her work, known for creating a dynamic narrative between color and pattern, has not only beautified our wardrobes but also our city’s cultural fabric. Join us as Whitney discusses the challenges and triumphs of creating wearable art and how she ensures that "fashion is art" is a belief held by all.



    In this candid conversation, Whitney reveals her strategic approach to entrepreneurship in art, offering invaluable insights into the business side of running a creative enterprise in the Midwest. From her early days of navigating the local fashion markets to making a mark with her distinct style, Whitney's story is an inspiring testament to the thriving entrepreneurial spirit of Kansas City. Whether discussing the complexities of textile design or her involvement in high-profile projects that showcase local talent on national stages, Whitney embodies the spirit of a true Kansas City artist.



    Listeners will also get a behind-the-scenes look at how Whitney Manney leverages her Kansas City roots to influence and expand her artistic reach. She talks about her experiences with local projects, her participation in Kansas City Fashion Week, and how staying in KC has benefited her creative and professional growth. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of art, fashion, and entrepreneurship.



    So, whether you're a budding designer, a fashion aficionado, or simply someone who loves hearing about successful local talents, tune in to this episode of the Connecting Kansas City Podcast. Discover how Whitney Manney’s unique designs and artistic vision contribute to making Kansas City a recognized hub for fashion and creativity. Don’t miss out on this exclusive insight into the life of one of Kansas City's most influential fashion figures.



    You can find Whitney at:

    Website - https://www.whitneymanney.com/

    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/whitneymanney/

    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/WhitneyManney.WM/

    Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/WHITNEYMANNEY/



    Rachel Kilmer is a Realtor leading the Rach the Realtor Group at ReeceNichols Lee's Summit. Licensed in both Kansas and Missouri, Rachel is passionate about exploring Kansas City with her clients until they find the right corner of the Metro to call home



    Rachel Kilmer (816) 673-9723

    Rachel.Kilmer@reecenichols.com

    ReeceNichols Lee's Summit 222 SW Main St LSMO 64063

    816-524-7272

    • 23 min
    Elisabeth Wykert: Dancing Through Life and Comedy in Kansas City

    Elisabeth Wykert: Dancing Through Life and Comedy in Kansas City

    Today, we're thrilled to feature Elisabeth Wykert, a multifaceted stand-up comedian, actress, and TikTok sensation who has captured the hearts of audiences with her infectious humor and vibrant personality.



    Elisabeth Wykert, a Kansas City, Missouri native, has been making waves in the entertainment industry with her unique blend of comedy and creativity. In this episode, she shares her experiences, including the challenges and triumphs of navigating the digital landscape as a content creator.



    Listeners will get an inside look at Elisabeth's creative process, from conceptualizing hilarious TikTok videos to crafting memorable stand-up routines. She also discusses the importance of authenticity in her work and how she uses humor to connect with people and bring joy during challenging times.



    As a Kansas City enthusiast, Elisabeth reflects on the city's vibrant culture and how it has influenced her artistic journey. She shares her favorite local spots, her involvement in the community, and her aspirations to contribute to Kansas City's growing entertainment scene.



    Join us as we dive deep into the world of comedy, social media, and Kansas City living with Elisabeth Wykert. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to her work, this episode is sure to entertain, inspire, and give you a fresh perspective on what it means to be a creative force in today's world.



    You can find Elisabeth at:

    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/elisabethwykert

    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/elisabethwykert

    TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@elisabethwykert



    Rachel Kilmer is a Realtor leading the Rach the Realtor Group at ReeceNichols Lee's Summit. Licensed in both Kansas and Missouri, Rachel is passionate about exploring Kansas City with her clients until they find the right corner of the Metro to call home



    Rachel Kilmer (816) 673-9723

    Rachel.Kilmer@reecenichols.com

    ReeceNichols Lee's Summit 222 SW Main St LSMO 64063

    816-524-7272

    • 24 min
    From Sports Reporter to Video Production CEO - Katie Hennen's Story

    From Sports Reporter to Video Production CEO - Katie Hennen's Story

    Rachel sits down with Katie Hennen, the founder and CEO of Falco Creative Media, a video production company based in the Twin Cities that specializes in telling unique business stories through video.

    Katie shares her journey from being a sports reporter and anchor in Lincoln, Nebraska, and Kansas City to opening her award-winning video production company. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of transitioning from sports reporting to entrepreneurship, the importance of storytelling in business, and how video marketing can help businesses stand out in a crowded market.

    Key takeaways from this episode:

    • The transition from sports reporting to starting a video production company.
    • The significance of storytelling in business and marketing.
    • Tips for businesses looking to incorporate video into their marketing strategy.
    • Balancing the demands of entrepreneurship with personal life.
    If you're an entrepreneur, marketer, or anyone interested in the power of video storytelling, this episode is a must-listen! Don't forget to subscribe to "Connecting Kansas City" for more inspiring interviews and insights into the local business scene.

    Connect with Katie Hinnan and Falco Creative Media:
    Website: https://falcocreativemedia.com/
    Instagram: @falcocreativemedia

    #ConnectingKansasCity #Entrepreneurship #VideoMarketing #BusinessStorytelling #KansasCityBusiness #FalcoCreativeMedia #KatieHinnan #MarketingStrategy #VideoProduction

    • 23 min
    The Life of a Super Bowl Equipment Manager - Allen Wright's 40-Year Journey

    The Life of a Super Bowl Equipment Manager - Allen Wright's 40-Year Journey

    Imagine dedicating four decades of your life to a single organization, witnessing its highs and lows, and playing a crucial role in its most triumphant moments. This is the remarkable journey of Allen Wright, the unsung hero and equipment manager of the Kansas City Chiefs, whose dedication and behind-the-scenes work have been pivotal to the team's success.



    Rachel sat down with Allen Wright, the long-standing Equipment Manager for the Kansas City Chiefs, to discuss his incredible 40-year journey with the team. As a vital behind-the-scenes figure, Allen's dedication and hard work have been instrumental in the Chiefs' success, including their recent Super Bowl victory.



    Allen's journey with the Chiefs began unexpectedly when he was offered a job at the Chiefs training camp straight out of high school. Over the years, his role has evolved significantly, especially with advancements in technology and a greater focus on player safety. The equipment team now meticulously tracks every piece of gear for health and safety purposes, a task that has grown with the expansion of the team's staff and the complexity of the equipment.



    One of the most heartwarming aspects of Allen's career is his relationship with the players. From being a peer to becoming a mentor and father figure, Allen has formed deep connections with the team. He takes pride in knowing each player's preferences and ensuring they have everything they need to perform at their best, whether it's a specific type of thermal wear or custom-made helmets and shoulder pads.



    Allen's passion for his job is evident, and it's clear that he's found his calling. Even on the toughest days, whether dealing with the challenges of cold weather games or the pressure of the Super Bowl, Allen's commitment to his role never wavers. His story is a testament to the importance of every member of a team, not just those on the field.



    For Chiefs fans and those interested in the inner workings of a professional sports team, Allen Wright's insights provide a unique perspective on the dedication and hard work that goes into each game. His journey is a reminder that success is not just about the players or the coaches, but also about the unsung heroes like Allen, who ensure that everything runs smoothly behind the scenes.



    Connect with Allen Wright and learn more about his role with the Kansas City Chiefs by following him on Facebook and Instagram.



    Rachel Kilmer is a Realtor leading the Rach the Realtor Group at ReeceNichols Lee's Summit. Licensed in both Kansas and Missouri, Rachel is passionate about exploring Kansas City with her clients until they find the right corner of the Metro to call home



    Rachel Kilmer (816) 673-9723

    Rachel.Kilmer@reecenichols.com

    ReeceNichols Lee's Summit 222 SW Main St LSMO 64063

    816-524-7272

    • 23 min
    Why Marketing is Key for Kansas City Businesses - Connecting Kansas City

    Why Marketing is Key for Kansas City Businesses - Connecting Kansas City

    In the heart of the Midwest, Kansas City is a hub of creativity and entrepreneurship. A shining example of this spirit is Kevin Mochel, the innovative mind behind 180 Your Marketing. Kevin joins "Connecting Kansas City," to share insights into his journey and the impact of his agency on the local business community.



    Kevin's journey into marketing was born out of a desire to provide value to real estate agents and lenders. With a background in insurance, he recognized the power of marketing as a tool to generate leads and support small businesses. This realization led to the birth of 180 Your Marketing, an agency dedicated to offering affordable, high-quality video production, social media marketing, and podcast production services.



    180 Your Marketing stands out in Kansas City's competitive landscape for its commitment to accessibility and education. Kevin's agency democratizes marketing knowledge, offering free training sessions and ensuring that top-tier services are within reach for all small businesses. This approach has earned Kevin a reputation as a trusted advisor and a familiar face among local entrepreneurs.



    At the core of 180 Your Marketing's philosophy is a "video-first" approach. Kevin emphasizes the importance of video in today's digital age, pushing clients to embrace this medium to enhance their social media presence and overall marketing strategy. This focus on video is not just about keeping up with trends; it's about creating authentic, engaging content that resonates with audiences.



    For more information about Kevin Mochel and 180 Your Marketing, visit www.180yourmarketing.com or follow Kevin on social media to stay updated on his latest classes and marketing insights.

    • 25 min
    From Personal Loss to Empathy: The Genesis of Kansas City based Grief Cards

    From Personal Loss to Empathy: The Genesis of Kansas City based Grief Cards

    In the heart of Kansas City, a revolutionary approach to expressing sympathy is taking root, transforming the way we support loved ones through their darkest times. Grief Cards, a local initiative born from personal loss, is redefining the landscape of condolence messages, offering a beacon of light in the shadows of sorrow.



    Grief is a journey that knows no bounds, touching the lives of many with its silent echo. In Kansas City, this universal experience has inspired the creation of Grief Cards, a heartfelt venture that seeks to provide a more authentic and meaningful way to connect with those grieving. Born from the depths of personal loss, Grief Cards emerged as a response to the often inadequate and impersonal traditional sympathy cards that fail to capture the complexity of grief.



    The brainchild of Madison T. Clark, Grief Cards are designed with the bereaved in mind, offering a space for personalized messages that resonate with the individual's experience. Each card is a canvas for genuine expression, free from the constraints of toxic positivity and assumed spirituality. The minimalistic designs and blank interiors invite senders to share their heartfelt thoughts, providing a more personal touch that can be a source of comfort during difficult times.



    Grief Cards are not just about selling sympathy cards; they are about creating a community of support and understanding. Through social media and educational resources, Grief Cards aims to equip people with the tools to navigate the complexities of grief, offering guidance on how to craft messages that truly comfort and uplift the spirits of the bereaved.



    As Grief Cards continue to grow, the vision extends beyond the borders of Kansas City, with plans to reach a wider audience through wholesale and partnerships with organizations like funeral homes and hospice organizations. The mission is clear: to bring a touch of humanity and compassion to the way we express sympathy, one card at a time.



    In a world where grief often goes unspoken, Grief Cards stands as a testament to the power of empathy and the importance of acknowledging the pain of loss. It's a reminder that in the face of grief, a simple card can be a lifeline, offering solace and connection when words fall short.



    You can find Grief Cards by visiting:

    Web - https://www.griefcards.co

    IG - https://www.instagram.com/griefcards/

    FB - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094739184011



    Download the Ultimate Guide to Moving to Kansas City Now: https://mailchi.mp/b88010d1aa0f/ultim...



    Rachel Kilmer is a Realtor leading the Rach the Realtor Group at ReeceNichols Lee's Summit. Licensed in both Kansas and Missouri, Rachel is passionate about exploring Kansas City with her clients until they find the right corner of the Metro to call home



    Rachel Kilmer (816) 673-9723

    Rachel.Kilmer@reecenichols.com

    ReeceNichols Lee's Summit 222 SW Main St LSMO 64063

    816-524-7272

    • 22 min

Top Podcasts In Society & Culture

Third Ear
Third Ear
Tyran
DR
Sørine & Livskraften
Kristeligt Dagblad
Afhørt
Ekstra Bladet
112 For Knuste Hjerter
Maria Jencel
DET SIDSTE MÅLTID
Radio4

You Might Also Like