The 39/94

Jodie O'Brien
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Welcome to The 39/94. Every great story starts with a place, and this is our place. Named after the coordinates of our region (39°N, 94°W), Jodie O'Brien hosts a weekly dive-in with the people, stories, and conversations shaping life across Northwest Missouri. Big topics, small towns, and the people who make this place worth talking about. Your neighbor's story. Your town's news. Your community's voice. We pull up a chair, ask the tough questions, share the good laughs, and bring you the stories you didn't know you needed - the stuff that makes you proud, makes you think, makes you laugh, and reminds you why Northwest Missouri feels like home. 🎙️ New episodes every week. Subscribe so you never miss one.

  1. 6d ago

    From Refugee to Author at 80: Rewriting Your Story in Life’s Later Chapters with Sieglinde Othmer

    Northwest Missouri author Sieglinde Othmer is proof that life doesn’t stop at 80, it can actually begin a whole new chapter. On this episode of The 39/94, Sieglinde and I talk about resilience, reinvention, purpose and what it means to embrace aging with joy and intention. After losing her longtime husband and navigating significant changes in her life, Sieglinde turned her experiences into wisdom—and eventually into her book, “Joyous Longevity: The A to Z Field Guide.” We talk about the habits that can contribute to a longer, healthier life, why relationships and community are so important, the connection between trauma and aging, and why having a sense of purpose can make such a difference. Sieglinde also shares five essential habits for longevity and explains why the environment and people around us can have such a profound impact on our health and well-being. This is a conversation about getting older, but it’s really about something much bigger: how to keep growing, connecting, finding purpose and living fully in every chapter of life. In this episode: Sieglinde’s journey of resilience and reinventionJoyous Longevity: The A to Z Field GuideThe importance of purpose and social connectionFive habits that can support longevityManaging trauma and looking toward the futureHow our communities and environments influence our well-beingWhy aging can be an opportunity—not an ending The 39/94 Podcast – New episodes every week! ▶️ Watch more episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@the3994podcast ❤️ Support The 39/94 Podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/the3994 Our SponsorsScooter's Coffee – Savannah & St. Joseph https://www.facebook.com/scooterscoffeesavannah Wollenman Family's Deluxe Truck Stop https://www.deluxetruckstop.com/ Gina's Cafe & Catering https://www.ginascafeandcatering.com/ E.L. Crawford Construction http://www.elcrawford.com/ Greater Than Financial https://www.greaterthanfinancial.com/ Pankakes, Pups & Suds https://www.facebook.com/cpankake/ Links referenced in this episode: joyouslongevity.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Bradley CommunicationsThe Metropolitan OperaWashington UniversityUniversity of KentuckyScooter's CoffeeWollenman Family's Deluxe Truck StopGina's Cafe and CateringGreater than FinancialEL Crawford ConstructionPankakes, Pups and Suds

    From Refugee to Author at 80: Rewriting Your Story in Life’s Later Chapters with Sieglinde Othmer

  2. Aug 6

    Using Her Voice for Good: Tracy Lindley on Purpose, Passion & Making an Impact

    What if one unexpected opportunity completely changed the direction of your life? That’s exactly what happened to Tracy Lindley. A Missouri Western graduate, nationally recognized voice actor, LinkedIn educator and entrepreneur, Tracy has voiced projects for brands including Google, Walmart, Uber, NASCAR and realtor.com, all from her home studio in St. Joseph. In this episode, Tracy shares how she accidentally discovered voice acting, the networking strategy that completely changed her business, why LinkedIn became one of her greatest marketing tools, and how she's helping creatives build sustainable careers. She also discusses balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship, creating online courses, mentoring the next generation, and advocating for voice actors through the National Association of Voice Actors (NAVA) as artificial intelligence reshapes the industry. Topics include: • Building a national business from a small town • Voice acting behind major brands • LinkedIn networking strategies • Creating passive income through online courses • Faith, family and entrepreneurship • AI and protecting human voices • Finding your purpose and using your gifts If you've ever wondered how to turn a unique skill into a successful business—or how to stand out in today's digital world—this episode is full of practical insight and inspiration. The 39/94 Podcast – New episodes every week! ▶️ Watch more episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@the3994podcast ❤️ Support The 39/94 Podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/the3994 Our SponsorsNorth Central Missouri College https://www.ncmissouri.edu/ Scooter's Coffee – Savannah & St. Joseph https://www.facebook.com/scooterscoffeesavannah Wollenman Family's Deluxe Truck Stop https://www.deluxetruckstop.com/ Gina's Cafe & Catering https://www.ginascafeandcatering.com/ E.L. Crawford Construction http://www.elcrawford.com/ Greater Than Financial https://www.greaterthanfinancial.com/ Mentioned in this episode: WalmartBusinessNASCARGoogleUberMissouri Western State UniversityLinkedInVoices.comVoice123.comOutworksNAVATruth TravelersAndy WilliamsFrederick Blvd Baptist

    Using Her Voice for Good: Tracy Lindley on Purpose, Passion & Making an Impact

  3. Jul 30

    Higher Education Unfiltered with Dr. Lenny Klaver: His Story and Our Future

    This week on The 39/94, we sit down with Dr. Lenny Klaver, President of North Central Missouri College, for a conversation about his path into higher education leadership and his perspective on a statewide issue that affects every college campus in Missouri: funding. Dr. Claver walks us through his career, from Wayne State College to the University of Wisconsin-Parkside to a small Michigan university that later closed, and into the presidency he's now held for nearly a decade. He talks about the philosophy of "uncommon attention" that guides how he leads, the tradeoffs rural and community colleges face compared to four-year universities, and his view on why Missouri ranks 46th in the nation for higher ed funding per capita and what that means for students and families across the state. He also shares how dual credit works for local high schoolers, and reflects on a defining personal moment, surviving a 1979 tornado that destroyed his family's Iowa farm. In this episode: (02:39) The affordability gap between community colleges and four-year universities(03:22) The story behind recruiting Clarence Green(05:14) Dr. Claver's path into a college presidency(07:49) Surviving the 1979 tornado that shaped his sense of purpose(14:46) The "uncommon attention" philosophy behind his leadership(19:11) His take on why Missouri ranks 46th in the nation for higher ed funding per capita(22:22) Dual credit and dual enrollment, explained(25:29) What he's watching for in the years ahead Thank you to our sponsors: North Central Missouri College – Savannah Campus, Greater Than Financial, Gina's Cafe and Catering, EL Crawford Construction, Hair by Morgan, Pancakes Pups and Suds, and Scooter's Coffee. Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, and consider supporting the show on Patreon. Links referenced in this episode: NCMissouri.edu

    Higher Education Unfiltered with Dr. Lenny Klaver: His Story and Our Future

  4. Jul 23

    A Lifetime Teaching Government, Now Helping Voters | Melissa Ross Breaks Down the August 4 Primary

    Election Day is coming up on August 4th, and if you're anywhere in the 39/94 corridor, this is your chance to weigh in on some big ballot measures that'll shape local government and community resources for years to come. In this episode, I sit down with Melissa Ross, a retired Savannah R3 teacher who spent her career teaching history and government, to break down what's actually on the ballot, no jargon, just plain talk. Join host Jodie O'Brien for a real conversation about politics, government, and guiding the next generation to understand their civic duty. She then helps us, as voters, get ready for Election Day. For example in this episode... We dig into Amendment 1, which would renew a small sales tax that funds Missouri's state parks and soil conservation programs. It's passed with strong support before, so we talk about what's really at stake for local conservation efforts and public resources if it doesn't pass again. We also get into what this means for the average household's wallet, and what the long-term trade-offs look like for community infrastructure and taking care of the environment. We Discuss The upcoming election on August 4th and its impact on local communities across the 3994 corridor.Key issues on the ballot for the four AmendmentsWhy voter turnout is criticalWhy local ballot measures are essential in smaller communities If you enjoyed this episode, follow The 39/94, leave a review, and share it with someone who loves stories about leadership, business, and making a meaningful impact in their community. Companies mentioned in this episode: E.L. Crawford ConstructionNorth Central Missouri CollegeHair by MorganPankakes, Pups and SudsGreater Than FinancialGina's Cafe and CateringWollenman Family's Deluxe Truck StopScooters Coffee The 39/94 Podcast - New episodes every week! Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@The3994Podcast Learn more about supporting The 39/94 Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/cw/The3994 Our sponsors: North Central Missouri College ncmissouri.eduScooter's Coffee Savannah & St. Joseph scooterscoffee.comWollenman Family's Deluxe Truck Stop woolmanfamilytruckstop.comGina's Cafe & Catering ginascafecatering.comE.L. Crawford Construction elcrawfordconstruction.comGreater Than Financial https://www.greaterthanfinancial.com/The Launch Pad https://www.stjlaunchpad.com/

    A Lifetime Teaching Government, Now Helping Voters | Melissa Ross Breaks Down the August 4 Primary

  5. Jul 16

    Manufacturing Success | A Conversation with Lute Atieh

    Some people measure success by what they build. Lute Atieh measures it by the people he impacts. In this episode of The 39/94, Lute shares the journey that shaped his life and career—from the lessons that guided him to the relationships that opened doors and the mindset that led him to build businesses while investing in the community he calls home. This isn't just a conversation about entrepreneurship. It's about leadership, resilience, taking chances, and why success means more than financial achievement. Whether you're a business owner, aspiring entrepreneur, or simply someone who wants to make a difference where you live, Lute's perspective offers valuable lessons that extend far beyond Northwest Missouri. Join host Jodie O'Brien for an authentic conversation about opportunity, community, and the decisions that define a life well lived. Companies mentioned in this episode: E.L. Crawford ConstructionNorth Central Missouri CollegeHair by MorganPancakes, Pups and SudsGreater Than FinancialGina's Cafe and CateringWollenman Family's Deluxe Truck StopScooters CoffeeMosaicAnnovox AI In This EpisodeLute Atieh joins The 39/94 to share the experiences, values, and relationships that have shaped his personal and professional journey. Throughout the conversation, he reflects on what success really means, why community matters, and the importance of investing in people as much as businesses. We Discuss:Lute's personal journey and the experiences that shaped himThe mindset behind building successful businessesWhy relationships are the foundation of lasting successLessons learned through challenges and opportunitiesLeadership, mentorship, and giving backWhy community investment mattersFinding opportunity where others see obstaclesAdvice for future entrepreneurs and business leaders If you enjoyed this episode, please follow The 39/94, leave a review, and share it with someone who loves stories about leadership, business, and making a meaningful impact in their community. The 39/94 Podcast - New episodes every week! Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@The3994Podcast Learn more about supporting The 39/94 Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/cw/The3994 Our sponsors: North Central Missouri College ncmissouri.eduScooter's Coffee Savannah & St. Joseph scooterscoffee.comWollenman Family's Deluxe Truck Stop woolmanfamilytruckstop.comGina's Cafe & Catering ginascafecatering.comE.L. Crawford Construction elcrawfordconstruction.comGreater Than Financial https://www.greaterthanfinancial.com/The Launch Pad https://www.stjlaunchpad.com/

    Manufacturing Success | A Conversation with Lute Atieh

  6. Jul 9

    The Voice Survivors Need: Victim Advocate Siobhan Jackson on Domestic Violence, Safety & Hope

    For nearly 14 years, Siobhan Jackson, victim advocate with the Buchanan County Prosecuting Attorney's Office, has walked alongside survivors of domestic violence through some of the hardest moments of their lives. In this powerful conversation, Siobhan shares what really happens behind closed doors, why leaving an abusive relationship is far more complicated than most people realize, and how friends, family members, law enforcement, and communities can better support victims. She also opens up about the phone call that changed the course of her life—and ultimately led her into victim advocacy. In this episode, we discuss: Why victims often return to abusive relationshipsWarning signs friends and family shouldn't ignoreWhat a victim advocate actually doesThe criminal justice process in MissouriDomestic violence statistics that may surprise youHow Northwest Missouri agencies work together to protect survivorsWhy education—not judgment—is one of the greatest tools we haveSiobhan's vision for improving protections for victims If you know someone experiencing domestic violence—or simply want to better understand the realities survivors face—this conversation is an important one. If you or someone you know needs help, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233 or visit thehotline.org. The 39/94 Podcast - New episodes every week! Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@The3994Podcast Learn more about supporting The 39/94 Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/cw/The3994 Our sponsors: North Central Missouri College ncmissouri.eduScooter's Coffee Savannah & St. Joseph scooterscoffee.comWollenman Family's Deluxe Truck Stop woolmanfamilytruckstop.comGina's Cafe & Catering ginascafecatering.comE.L. Crawford Construction elcrawfordconstruction.comGreater Than Financial https://www.greaterthanfinancial.com/

    The Voice Survivors Need: Victim Advocate Siobhan Jackson on Domestic Violence, Safety & Hope

  7. Jul 2

    Stacey Schneitter Blake on Family Legacy, America 250 & Building Strong Communities

    Stacey Schneitter Blake grew up in northwest Missouri surrounded by a family business that's been lighting up celebrations for more than 130 years. Today, she's helping lead that fourth-generation company while also serving as the first female president of the National Fireworks Association. In this episode of The 39/94, Stacey shares the remarkable story behind Schneitter Fireworks, how the business survived heartbreaking family loss, and what it means to carry on a legacy that began in 1895. We also discuss: 🎆 The massive planning behind America's 250th birthday celebrations🇺🇸 How tariffs and regulations are impacting the fireworks industry💥 The viral fireworks truck explosion and why safety matters👩‍💼 Leading in a traditionally male-dominated industry🏙️ Her vision for bringing national conventions and millions of dollars in economic impact to St. Joseph❤️ Why community involvement—not complaints—is what truly changes a town Whether you love fireworks, leadership stories, entrepreneurship, or simply hearing from people making a difference in northwest Missouri, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. Thank you to our community sponsors for making these conversations possible. Interested in supporting local journalism and storytelling? Reach out through the show notes to learn more.

    Stacey Schneitter Blake on Family Legacy, America 250 & Building Strong Communities

  8. Jun 25

    Spreadsheets & Lattes : Michael & Crissy Troyer on Marriage, Business and Running Scooter's Coffee

    Michael and Chrissy Troyer, proprietors of the local Scooters Coffee franchise in Northwest Missouri, join us to elucidate the intricacies involved in operating a successful business within a local community. This episode delves into the unique dynamics of managing a franchise alongside one’s spouse, highlighting the complexities and rewards of entrepreneurial life. We explore the significance of community engagement and customer relationships, as well as the core values that guide their operations. Furthermore, the Troyers share their personal narratives, detailing their journey from diverse backgrounds to becoming dedicated business owners. In this episode: The episode features Michael and Chrissy Troyer, the owners of Scooters Coffee locations in Northwest Missouri, highlighting their entrepreneurial journey. Listeners gain insight into the operations of a successful local franchise and the dynamics of running a business as a couple. The importance of community involvement and customer service is emphasized as crucial elements in their business philosophy. Michael and Chrissy share their personal backgrounds, revealing how their experiences shaped their approach to entrepreneurship and customer relations. They detail the challenges and rewards of franchise ownership, stressing the support provided by the Scooters Coffee brand. The couple discusses their commitment to mentoring young employees, fostering their growth, and instilling a strong work ethic. Their story underscores the vital role local businesses play in fostering community connections and nurturing the next generation of workers. The 39/94 Podcast - New episodes every week! Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@The3994Podcast Learn more about supporting The 39/94 Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/cw/The3994 Our sponsors: North Central Missouri College ncmissouri.eduScooter's Coffee Savannah & St. Joseph scooterscoffee.comWollenman Family's Deluxe Truck Stop woolmanfamilytruckstop.comGina's Cafe & Catering ginascafecatering.comE.L. Crawford Construction elcrawfordconstruction.comGreater Than Financial https://www.greaterthanfinancial.com/The Space Between https://thespacebetweensavannah.com/

    Spreadsheets & Lattes : Michael & Crissy Troyer on Marriage, Business and Running Scooter's Coffee
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Welcome to The 39/94. Every great story starts with a place, and this is our place. Named after the coordinates of our region (39°N, 94°W), Jodie O'Brien hosts a weekly dive-in with the people, stories, and conversations shaping life across Northwest Missouri. Big topics, small towns, and the people who make this place worth talking about. Your neighbor's story. Your town's news. Your community's voice. We pull up a chair, ask the tough questions, share the good laughs, and bring you the stories you didn't know you needed - the stuff that makes you proud, makes you think, makes you laugh, and reminds you why Northwest Missouri feels like home. 🎙️ New episodes every week. Subscribe so you never miss one.

Information

  • Creator
    Jodie O'Brien
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    45
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Jodie O'Brien
  • Show Website
    The 39/94

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