ThriveIN Wabash County

Destination Wabash County
  • 4.9 (30)
  • Society & Culture
  • Updated Weekly

Hosted by three passionate leaders—Adam Stakeman, Alex Downard, and Christine Flohr—the podcast dives into the people and projects shaping Wabash County’s future. Every episode offers its listeners key takeaways that can be implemented in their own communities and will cause you to pause and celebrate the wins in your own backyard. With backgrounds in community development, economic growth, outdoor adventure, marketing, and tourism, the trio interviews local business owners, nonprofit leaders, and creatives who are all working to make Wabash County thrive. Subscribe and join us!

  1. 5d ago

    Walking with Purpose: The Dave Phillips Story

    For more than 50 years, Dave Phillips has been a trusted pastor, mentor, chaplain, coach, and friend to countless people throughout Wabash County. Dave served as Senior Pastor of Wabash Friends Church from 1975 to 2010 and continued serving part-time through 2023. During his ministry, he helped launch community-impacting programs, including the Access Youth Center, Life Center, 85 HOPE, and Friends Counseling Center. In this episode, Dave reflects on his decades of ministry, the changes he's witnessed in Wabash County, and the importance of faith, servant leadership, and investing in others. He also shares about caring for his wife, Debbie, during her three-year hospice journey before her passing in November 2025. A 2004 Distinguished Citizen and 2024 Founders Festival Parade Grand Marshal, Dave's influence extends far beyond the church. He continues to preach, teach, mentor, and serve families during some of life's most meaningful moments. Join us for a conversation with a man whose legacy can be found in the countless lives he has touched throughout Wabash County. If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories. A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Bowen Health, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM.

    Walking with Purpose: The Dave Phillips Story

  2. Jul 14

    Choosing the Scenic Route: Not All Who Wander Are Lost

    What happens when young adults choose a path that doesn’t come with a roadmap? In this episode of the ThriveIN Podcast, Adam sits down with Erin McGouldrick and Owen Stakeman — two young adults who graduated from local high schools and chose unconventional journeys in search of purpose, growth, and perspective. Erin shares her experience thru-hiking the entire Appalachian Trail and the lessons learned living simply, embracing uncertainty, and pushing through physical and mental challenges. She also reflects on her work helping clean rivers and waterways in North Carolina following the devastation of Hurricane Helene and how that experience reshaped her understanding of service and community. Owen discusses spending nearly three years walking across the United States — covering roughly 5,000 miles before ending his journey near Manhattan Beach, California. Along the way, he encountered countless strangers, big cities, small towns, hardships, generosity, and moments that changed how he views both America and himself. Together, the conversation explores: Why some young adults feel drawn to a different path What solitude and movement can teach us The kindness of strangers and the importance of community What it means to feel “lost” versus truly exploring How these experiences changed their definition of success Advice for young adults still trying to figure out what comes next This episode is about more than hiking or walking long distances — it's a thoughtful conversation about adventure, resilience, purpose, and the courage to take the long way forward. It’s about searching for meaning, embracing uncertainty, and discovering who you become when you step outside your comfort zone. If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories. A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Bowen Health, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM.

    Choosing the Scenic Route: Not All Who Wander Are Lost

  3. Jul 7

    Building Healthier Communities with Bowen Health

    What does it look like when healthcare goes beyond treating illness and begins investing in the well-being of an entire community? In this episode of ThriveIN, Christine sits down with Lori Augustus, Executive Director of Southeast Operations, and Kari Adams, Practice Administrator of Bowen Health, to explore the organization's remarkable journey—from its beginnings in the 1960s to its bold vision for the future. The conversation highlights how Bowen Health has evolved into a truly integrated healthcare provider, bringing together mental, emotional, physical, and dental health services under one mission of caring for the whole person. But their impact doesn't stop inside the clinic walls. From cultivating fresh produce in community gardens to creating innovative partnerships that  strengthen neighborhoods, Bowen Health is redefining what community health can look like. Join us for a conversation filled with inspiration, innovation, and optimism as Lori and Kari share how Bowen Health is wrapping itself around the communities it serves—one person, one family, and one partnership at a time. This episode is bright, bold, and full of hope, offering an inspiring look at what's possible when healthcare becomes a catalyst for healthier, stronger communities. RESOURCES: Website: https://www.bowenhealth.org/ Careers: https://www.careers.bowenhealth.org/ 24 Crisis Line: https://www.bowenhealth.org/24-hour-crisis-line A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—Bowen Health, The City of Wabash, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM.

    Building Healthier Communities with Bowen Health

  4. Jun 30

    Looking Back, Leaning Forward

    In this special hosts-only episode, Alex Downard, Adam Stakeman, and Christine Flohr take a break from interviewing guests and spend time catching up with each other—and with you. The trio shares some BIG personal and professional updates, reflects on lessons learned from the incredible guests they've welcomed to the podcast, and discusses how those conversations have challenged, inspired, and shaped their own perspectives. From leadership and entrepreneurship to community-building and personal growth, the hosts reveal some of the moments that have stuck with them most. They also pull back the curtain on what's happening in their day jobs, celebrate exciting wins happening across Wabash County, and preview some upcoming ThriveIN episodes they can't wait to share with listeners. Filled with laughter, reflection, and the authentic chemistry listeners have come to expect, this episode feels less like a podcast and more like sitting down with friends for a conversation around the table. RESOURCES: https://getindiana.com/podcast - Alex appears on GetIN https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tvp4DjN3FjM - Alex appears on Lundquist Real Estate Pod A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Bowen Health, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM.

    Looking Back, Leaning Forward

  5. Jun 23

    Rooted in Community: Adam Penrod

    On this episode of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast, Alex sits down with Adam Penrod, the Town Manager of North Manchester. Adam’s heart for his town and the people who call it home shines through in the way he leads and serves each day. Rooted in a strong work ethic that began on his family’s dairy farm — which is still in operation today — Adam shares how hands-on learning, faith in community, and dedication to service have shaped his leadership journey. A devoted family man known for his integrity and vision, Adam discusses the challenges and opportunities of guiding North Manchester forward while preserving the values that make the town special. Tune in to hear a conversation about leadership, small-town pride, community growth, and the importance of investing in the place you love. If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories. A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Bowen Health, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM.

    Rooted in Community: Adam Penrod

  6. Jun 16

    Changing Paths: How Problem Solving Court Is Transforming Lives

    ThriveIN Host Christine sits down with Judge Benjamin Vanderpool, Judge Robert McCallen, and Probation Officer Abby Schuler for a meaningful conversation about the purpose and positive impact of Problem Solving Court within our local judicial system. Together, they discuss how the program first began, the vision behind it, and how it works to support individuals who are seeking a second chance and a better path forward. Through accountability, structure, and support, Problem Solving Court has helped many participants rebuild their lives and reconnect with their families and community. Listeners will also hear inspiring stories of individuals who chose brighter paths, as well as the dedication and heart of the people leading the charge behind the program. RESOURCES:  https://www.in.gov/courts/local/wabash-county/ https://www.in.gov/courts/committees/ This episode offers a powerful look at how compassion, accountability, and community partnerships can work together to create real and lasting change. If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories. A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM.

    Changing Paths: How Problem Solving Court Is Transforming Lives

  7. Jun 9

    Fairways & Family: The Legacy of Etna Acres

    Golf courses are about more than scorecards — they’re about community and for Etna Acres, FAMILY. In this episode of ThriveIN Wabash County, Adam Stakeman sits down with Devin and JoDee Dale, the owners of Etna Acres Golf Course, to talk about family, entrepreneurship, and the legacy of a small-town golf course. The Dales share the story behind Etna Acres, what it takes to operate a seasonal business in Northeast Indiana, and how their course has become a gathering place for leagues, tournaments, youth golfers, and longtime friends. In this conversation, you’ll hear: The history and evolution of Etna Acres What it’s like running a family-owned golf course The challenges and rewards of small-town entrepreneurship How golf continues to connect generations Their vision for the future of the course Whether you’re an avid golfer, a weekend duffer, or someone who simply values strong local businesses, this episode highlights how places like Etna Acres quietly strengthen the fabric of Wabash County. Support local. Book a tee time. Build community — one round at a time. If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories. A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM⁠ or email us at thrivepod@destinationwabashcounty.com

    Fairways & Family: The Legacy of Etna Acres

  8. Jun 2

    From Wabash to What’s Next

    On this episode of the ThriveIN Podcast, Alex sits down with Wabash High School’s 2026 Valedictorian, Victoria Koselke, and Salutatorian, Andrea Stout, to talk about what it’s like growing up and graduating in a small community like Wabash. Victoria and Andrea reflect on the relationships, opportunities, and experiences that shaped their high school journey while sharing gratitude for the teachers, mentors, friends, and community members who supported them along the way. They also discuss their future plans, personal goals, and what the next chapter of life holds after graduation. This inspiring conversation highlights leadership, perseverance, and the impact of community as two outstanding students prepare to take their next steps beyond Wabash High School. If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories. A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, the Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, The City of Wabash, Bowen Health, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM.

    From Wabash to What’s Next
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Trailer

4.9
out of 5
30 Ratings

About

Hosted by three passionate leaders—Adam Stakeman, Alex Downard, and Christine Flohr—the podcast dives into the people and projects shaping Wabash County’s future. Every episode offers its listeners key takeaways that can be implemented in their own communities and will cause you to pause and celebrate the wins in your own backyard. With backgrounds in community development, economic growth, outdoor adventure, marketing, and tourism, the trio interviews local business owners, nonprofit leaders, and creatives who are all working to make Wabash County thrive. Subscribe and join us!

Information

  • Creator
    Destination Wabash County
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    63
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Destination Wabash County
  • Show Website
    ThriveIN Wabash County

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