The 39/94

Jodie O'Brien
  • 5.0 (4)
  • News

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

    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

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. Jun 18

    From 350 to 10,000 Mums: Sam Taylor of Treasure Gardens on Building a Floral Empire in Missouri

    The central theme of this podcast episode revolves around the remarkable journey of Sam Taylor, affectionately known as the "Cosby flower girl," who embodies the spirit of community and entrepreneurship in rural Missouri through her establishment, Treasure Gardens. In our engaging conversation, we delve into her innovative segment, "Tipsy Tuesday," which serves to blend gardening wisdom with a dash of whimsy, thereby fostering a local following that thrives on both knowledge and camaraderie. Sam shares her personal narrative, which reveals how her passion for horticulture blossomed from humble beginnings, ultimately leading her to create a flourishing business that resonates with the community. We explore the intricate challenges faced by small business owners, particularly in the realm of agriculture, emphasizing the dedication required to cultivate both plants and relationships within the community. This episode not only highlights the art of gardening but also underscores the importance of perseverance and creativity in building a vibrant local culture. Takeaways: The podcast episode highlights the journey of a local entrepreneur who runs a gardening business, emphasizing the importance of community support.Listeners are introduced to the unique gardening segment called 'Tipsy Tuesdays', which combines gardening tips with an entertaining format.The episode discusses the challenges of running a small business, including the necessity of balancing multiple roles and responsibilities.Listeners learn about the significance of soil health and the importance of proper watering techniques for plant care.The podcast emphasizes the emotional connection to gardening, describing it as therapeutic and creatively fulfilling for the gardener.The host and guest explore the impact of artificial intelligence on creativity and event planning in the context of small business ownership. Links referenced in this episode: treasuregardensinavenuecity.comginas-cafe-and-catering.comgreaterthanfinancial.comelcrawfordconstruction.comnorthcentralmissouricollege.eduscooterscoffeeandpancakes.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Treasure GardensGreater than financialWoolman family's Deluxe Truck StopGina's Cafe and CateringE.L. Crawford ConstructionNorth Central Missouri CollegeThe Savannah CampusScooter's Coffee and PancakesPuffs and SudsHy-VeeCoolcrestOrlando Lakes 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/

    From 350 to 10,000 Mums: Sam Taylor of Treasure Gardens on Building a Floral Empire in Missouri

  6. Jun 14

    Reviving the Andrew County Fair: Rodeo, Parade, Livestock Shows & Community Traditions

    For generations, county fairs have brought communities together—and the Andrew County Fair Board is working hard to make sure that tradition continues. In this special bonus episode of The 39/94, Jodie sits down with Bryce Howard and Lindy Holt of the 2026 Andrew County Fair Board to discuss the exciting events planned for this year's fair and the volunteers working behind the scenes to make it happen. From the Roy & Lucille Leeson Memorial Rodeo and the Fair on the Square to livestock shows, the parade, community church service, car show, tractor pull, and more, Bryce and Lindy share how they're working to rebuild the fair into a celebration that offers something for every generation. The conversation also highlights the importance of agriculture in Andrew County, youth involvement through FFA and 4-H programs, and the role local volunteers and sponsors play in keeping community traditions alive. In this episode: • The history and revival of the Andrew County Fair • What to expect at this year's rodeo • Livestock shows and opportunities for local youth • The Fair on the Square, parade, car show, and tractor pull • Why agriculture remains vital to Andrew County • Farm safety and sharing the road with farm equipment • The volunteers and sponsors making it all possible • How community members can get involved Whether you're a lifelong fair-goer or have never attended before, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of Andrew County's biggest summer traditions. Learn more about fair events, schedules, volunteer opportunities, and parade registration through the Andrew County Fair Board. 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/

    Reviving the Andrew County Fair: Rodeo, Parade, Livestock Shows & Community Traditions

  7. Jun 11

    From St. Joe to Hollywood: Robert Maxfield on Sound, Storytelling, and the Novel That Brings It All Home

    What does it take for a kid from St. Joseph, Missouri to spend four decades capturing the sound of Hollywood's biggest stories — and then come home to tell one of his own? This week on The 39/94, we sit down with Robert Maxfield — known in St. Joe as Bobby, known on set as Max, a production sound mixer and boom operator whose credits include Mission Impossible, Stranger Things, The Walking Dead, Twister, Hawkeye, and Four Christmases. He's a two-time contributing Emmy Award winner, a Mizzou grad, and a St. Joseph native who traded ski lifts in Colorado for a career behind the mic in Hollywood. In this conversation, we cover a lot of ground: the adventurous spirit that took him from KKJO radio in St. Joe to promotional TV work in Savannah, Georgia and Jacksonville, Florida before landing on the set of The New Adventures of Pippi Longstocking — his first film. We talk about what it was like to work alongside Philip Seymour Hoffman on Twister, to mix scenes with Christian Bale, Jack Nicholson, and Shirley MacLaine, and to witness Tom Cruise arrive on the Mission Impossible 3 set with the energy of a man who runs entirely on rocket fuel and the words "attack, attack, attack." But what brings Max back to northwest Missouri — and to this podcast — is Joe Town, his debut novel. It's the story of an economist who returns to a fictionalized St. Joseph looking for answers and discovers that the data never had them. It's a book about open learning, systems thinking, curiosity, humility, and the kind of community identity that doesn't disappear — it waits. We talk about Joseph Rubidoux and why St. Joe's geography was always its destiny. We talk about what the city has forgotten and what it already knows. And we talk about Max's bigger dream: a TV series that puts St. Joseph on the map the way The Walking Dead put Senoia, Georgia on the map. This one is big. Pull up a chair. In this episode: How a restless kid from St. Joe became one of Hollywood's go-to sound professionalsBehind-the-scenes stories from Twister, Mission Impossible 3, and Stranger ThingsWhat Tom Cruise, Philip Seymour Hoffman, and Bill Paxton taught him about showing upThe origin story of Joe Town — and why now is exactly the right time for itWhat "open learning" means and why Max believes it's the key to St. Joseph's futureWhy the history of St. Joe isn't just something to remember — it's a launching pad Connect with Robert Maxfield: Find him on Facebook to learn whenJoetown: A Town Relearning What It Already Knew becomes available. The 39/94 Podcast - New episodes every Thursday. 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/Hair By Morgan Hontz https://www.facebook.com/hairbymorganhontz/

    From St. Joe to Hollywood: Robert Maxfield on Sound, Storytelling, and the Novel That Brings It All Home

  8. Jun 4

    Navigating Grief and Growth with Northwest Missouri's Wakefield Hare

    Wakefield Hare is known throughout Northwest Missouri as a financial advisor, community leader, teacher, mentor, and pastor, but this conversation goes far beyond business and finance. In this episode of The 39/94 Podcast, Wake reflects on losing his father in a plane crash at just 14 years old and how that experience shaped his faith, perspective, and understanding of what truly matters. We discuss raising children in a small town, the value of community in an increasingly disconnected world, and why grief, responsibility, and hardship often become some of life's greatest teachers. Wake also shares insights from his work with Greater Than Financial, the Savannah Parks Board, Fillmore Christian Church, and the Andrew County Foundation, offering a thoughtful perspective on leadership, stewardship, and investing not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually in the people and places around us. Along the way, we explore artificial intelligence, church attendance, purpose, legacy, and one of Wake's most powerful reminders: nobody sees your flaws the way you do. The things we obsess over are often invisible to everyone else. What people remember is the impact we make. This is a conversation about faith, community, resilience, and the quiet ways ordinary people help shape the places they call home. Topics include: • Losing a parent at a young age • Grief, faith, and resilience • Raising children in a small town • Leadership and community involvement • The future of AI and human connection • Financial stewardship and purpose • The Savannah Parks Board and Andrew County Foundation • Why perfectionism keeps people from pursuing their calling • Building a meaningful life through service and relationships Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@The3994Podcast Learn more about supporting The 39/94 Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/cw/The3994 Links referenced in this episode: greaterthanfinancial.comsavannahparksboard.comfillmorechristianchurch.com 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/

    Navigating Grief and Growth with Northwest Missouri's Wakefield Hare
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 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
    41
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Jodie O'Brien
  • Show Website
    The 39/94

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