Ask A Kansan

Ask A Kansan
  • 5.0 (3)
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  • UPDATED WEEKLY

A podcast focusing on the perspectives, lives, and stories of Kansans to provide greater insight into the state we all call home.

  1. 4D AGO

    Uncovering Community Treasures through Food and Travel with Steven Kimmi | Flavors of Kansas

    What happens when a school administrator discovers TikTok during a pandemic and decides Kansas deserves better representation? Steven Kimmi joins us to share his journey from isolation to becoming one of Kansas' most dedicated content creators. From sleeping in his car at Little Jerusalem to eating three burgers in one day, Steven reveals the adventures, challenges, and philosophy behind his mission to celebrate Kansas' food scene and small-town businesses. Plus, he settles the score on Cozy Inn, shares his most memorable meals, and explains why he'll never post a negative restaurant review. Highlights: How pandemic isolation and TikTok sparked Steven's Kansas content creation journeyThe infamous Little Jerusalem camping fail and reversing a mile down a muddy road in a minivanWhy Steven focuses on promoting small-town Kansas businesses instead of just Wichita and Kansas CityThe colorblind video that hit 2 million views and temporarily impressed his teenage kidsSteven's burger philosophy: three in one day was a mistake, and why he won't trash restaurants publiclyPartnerships with Kansas State Fair and River Festival, plus dreams of World Cup contentThe gap in Kansas' food scene: where's a good bagel shop when you need one?Steven's most memorable meals: pasta in Italy, farm-to-table in Fort Wayne, and rare AHI tuna in WichitaWhy Steven can't schedule content more than a day ahead (and the stressful 4-6 PM scramble)Teaching, social media, and staying authentic both on and off cameraThe Volga Germans' legacy: how Catherine the Great, Turkey Red wheat, and bierocks transformed Kansas Chapters: [0:00] Discovering a Supercell Shelf Cloud[1:50] Introducing Steven Kimmi[2:41] Welcome, Steven Kimmi[3:22] Steven's Journey as a Content Creator[4:03] Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Taste Test[6:08] Adventures and Challenges in Kansas[14:52] Focusing on Food and Small Businesses[17:46] Collaborations and Future Plans[21:02] The Influence of Social Media on Teaching[21:57] Handling Negative Experiences at Restaurants[22:48] Burger Eating Adventures[23:51] Content Scheduling Struggles[25:00] Kansas Food Scene and Restaurant Gaps[28:45] Memorable Dining Experiences[31:45] Thanks for joining us[33:48] The Volga Germans and Kansas Wheat[39:04] The Legacy of Volga German Cuisine[40:55] Concluding Thoughts and Upcoming Features Resources Mentioned: Steven Kimmi on TikTokSteven Kimmi on InstagramSteven Kimmi’s website: https://stevenkimmi.com/Cozy Inn (Salina, Kansas)Jiffy Burger (Smith Center, Kansas)Little Jerusalem Badlands State ParkKansas Sampler FoundationKansas State FairSalina River FestivalThis show is part of the ICT Podcast Network, for more information, visit ictpod.net

    42 min
  2. From Family Farm to Global Fame with Greg Peterson | Kansas Legacy

    FEB 2

    From Family Farm to Global Fame with Greg Peterson | Kansas Legacy

    What if your family farm could reach 250 million people worldwide? Greg Peterson of Peterson Farm Brothers fame turned a college project into a viral phenomenon that's been educating the world about agriculture for over 13 years. From nursing home performances as a toddler to appearing on national television just four days after posting his first farming music video, Greg's journey shows how passion, faith, and creativity can transform an entire industry's conversation. But behind the viral success lies a deeper story—one of balancing family farming with content creation, living with Type 1 diabetes, and staying rooted in Kansas values while traveling the globe. Highlights: • How a K-State ag communications student created a viral farming music video that got 5 million views in one week—with zero marketing budget • The moment everything changed: being on Fox & Friends in New York City just four days after posting their first video • Why "I'm Farming and I Grow It" became a cultural phenomenon and launched a 13-year YouTube career • Balancing full-time farming with content creation, speaking engagements, and managing multiple social media platforms • Living with Type 1 diabetes as a farmer and traveler—playing the "video game" of insulin management on expert level • What Greg learned about agriculture by visiting all 50 states twice and 10 countries • The current challenges facing American farmers and why community support matters more than ever • Why the "Tractor Stuck" video resonates with farming families and teaches an important lesson about asking for help • How faith, family, and farming intertwine in Greg's daily life • Why traveling the world made Greg love Kansas even more Chapters: [0:00] Madeline's Photography Adventures [1:30] Introducing Greg Peterson [2:37] Greg's Musical and Farming Background [5:05] The Viral Success of Peterson Farm Brothers [14:17] Balancing Farming and Content Creation [19:23] Living with Type 1 Diabetes [24:35] Building a Community Around the Channel [26:35] Kids and Tractors: The Viral Video [27:26] Challenges in American Agriculture [29:35] The Importance of Community in Farming [31:25] Educating the Public About Farming [35:26] The Role of Faith in Farming [36:42] Love for Kansas: A Farmer's Perspective [39:50] TikTok Fun and Kansas Culture [46:54] Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas Pride [48:30] A Hobbit-Inspired Pub in Kansas [50:07] Wrapping Up: Final Thoughts and Farewell Resources Mentioned: • Peterson Farm Brothers YouTube Channel • Kansas State University • Pilgrim's Keep Pub in St. Mary's, Kansas This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network, for more information, visit ictpod.net

    51 min
  3. The Stories That Shape Our State | Celebrating Kansas Day with Colby

    JAN 26

    The Stories That Shape Our State | Celebrating Kansas Day with Colby

    As we mark Kansas' 165th birthday, we're exploring what it means to truly know and love this state. From hidden rock formations in the northwest to thrift stores that draw travelers from across the country, Kansas holds surprises even for those who've lived here their whole lives. We sit down with Colby Sharples Terry from Kansas Tourism to talk about her journey from wanting to leave Kansas to becoming one of its biggest champions, the power of local guides like "Patty from Goodland," and why Kansas Day matters more than most people realize. Whether you're a lifelong Kansan or just passing through, this conversation will change how you see the Sunflower State. Highlights • Colby's "On the Road and to the Stars" TV show has expanded statewide across Kansas • Kansas Tourism is releasing 34 gift boxes featuring Kansas artisan products for Kansas Day • The importance of local community warriors who share their towns with visitors • Why Castle Rock deserves as much attention as Monument Rocks • How thrift shopping has become a legitimate travel draw for Kansas towns • Big Ed's Steakhouse in Bird City as a must-visit Kansas dining destination • The surprising fact that most states don't celebrate their birthday like Kansas does • Why winter is actually the best time to explore Kansas state parks and hiking trails • How Kansas continues to surprise visitors with its progressive history and diverse topography Chapters [0:00] Family Christmas and My Kansas Flag [1:30] Introduction to Kansas Day [2:45] Interview with Kolby from Kansas Tourism [5:17] Kansas Tourism Campaigns and Celebrations [8:30] Exploring Kansas: Hidden Gems and Local Experiences [15:45] Fashion and Thrift Shopping in Kansas [20:15] Kansas Food Adventures [25:30] Kansas History and Fun Facts [30:00] Nostalgic School Memories [32:15] Kansas Day Traditions [34:00] Planning a Kansas Trip for Influencers [38:45] Challenges of Traveling in Kansas [41:30] Winter Adventures in Kansas [44:00] Surprising Facts About Kansas [48:15] Celebrity Encounters and Kansas Destinations [52:30] Who's That Kansan? High Flying Edition [58:45] Closing Remarks and Farewell Resources • Kansas Tourism website: travelks.com • Kansas Tourism on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube • Sunflower Summer app • Wild Man Vintage (Lawrence, Kansas) • Big Ed's Steakhouse (Bird City, Kansas) • Castle Rock (northwest Kansas) • Monument Rocks (western Kansas) • Garden of Eden (Lucas, Kansas) • Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum (Atchison, Kansas) • Cosmosphere (Hutchinson, Kansas) This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network, for more information, visit ictpod.net

    43 min
  4. Celebrating 250 Years of America with Rosa Cavazos | Kansas 250

    JAN 19

    Celebrating 250 Years of America with Rosa Cavazos | Kansas 250

    What does it take to celebrate 250 years of American history—and why should Kansas be at the center of that celebration? This year marks the Sesquicentennial of the United States, and Kansas is going all in with year-long events, community challenges, and unique partnerships that showcase the resilience and spirit of Kansans. We sit down with Rosa Cavazos, Special Projects Coordinator for Kansas Travel and Tourism, who shares how the Kansas 250 Commission is bringing communities together through everything from outdoor challenges to chocolate festivals. Rosa also opens up about her journey from thinking there was "nothing to do" in Kansas to becoming a passionate advocate for the state, her work with national Latino organizations, and the power of volunteering. Plus, we take a trip to Waldo, Kansas—yes, that Waldo—and discover how this tiny town embraces its connection to the famous red-and-white-striped character. HIGHLIGHTS • Kansas is celebrating America's 250th birthday throughout the entire year with events in communities across the state • The Kansas 250 Commission has partnered with organizations like Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks for a 250-point challenge and      From the Land of Kansas for special product boxes • A statewide service day is planned for September 11, 2026, encouraging Kansans to volunteer in their communities • Rosa Cavazos created the Topeka Chocolate Festival, which drew 50,000 people and featured 100 chocolate entries • Rosa chairs a national Latino organization based in DC and has spoken at the National Mall about women's healthcare and equal pay • Communities like Ottawa have created "250 things to do" lists, while Junction City and Atchison are planning special parades and events • The Great American Picnic on July 5th will encourage neighbors to gather in parks and on their blocks • Waldo, Kansas—population 30—fully embraces its connection to the "Where's Waldo?" book series with a statue in the city park • Waldo was founded in 1888 as a railroad town and once had three newspapers serving 300 residents CHAPTERS 00:00 - New Year Resolutions and Family Stories 02:36 - Celebrating the Sesquicentennial: Kansas 250 Commission 03:26 - Meet Rosa Cavazos: Special Projects Coordinator 05:08 - Kansas 250 Events and Community Involvement 15:15 - Personal Insights and Volunteering 22:47 - Event Planning Tips and Teamwork 23:52 - Challenges of Organizing a Large Festival 26:52 - Unique Challenges of Planning for the 250th Anniversary 32:21 - Celebrating Kansas' Heritage and Diversity 36:45 - Exploring Waldo, Kansas 39:56 - Where's Waldo? 43:02 - Conclusion and Farewell RESOURCES MENTIONED • America250KS.com - Official Kansas 250 Commission website with events, merchandise, and community celebrations - https://america250ks.com • Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks - Partner for the 250 Challenge featuring state parks, fishing, hiking, and camping - https://ksoutdoors.com • From the Land of Kansas - Organization promoting Kansas-grown products with special Kansas 250 boxes available January through July - https://fromthelandofkansas.com • Kansas State Library - Monthly book series featuring Kansas authors and topics - https://kslib.info • Boot Hill Distillery - Creating a special bourbon collection for Kansas 250 - https://boothilldistillery.com • MANA National Organization - National Latino organization focused on women's healthcare and equal pay issues - https://hermana.org • Watkins Museum (Lawrence) - Hosting "Hide the Semiquins" scavenger hunt with the Kansas 250 bison mascot - https://watkinsmuseum.org • Newspapers.com - Historical newspaper archive - https://newspapers.com This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network, for more information, visit ictpod.net

    44 min
  5. On Patrol with Kansas State Trooper Joe Owen | Serving Kansas

    JAN 12

    On Patrol with Kansas State Trooper Joe Owen | Serving Kansas

    What does it mean to stand in the gap for your community? Discover the journey, challenges, and unexpected stories behind Kansas State Troopers as we sit down with Joe Owen, lead recruiter for the Kansas Highway Patrol. From the rigorous training academy to the lighter side of law enforcement, and even a detour into ham radio, this episode is packed with insights, humor, and heartfelt moments that will change the way you see those who serve and protect Kansas. Highlights The unique path Joe Owen took from Oklahoma to Kansas and into law enforcementWhat it’s really like to become a Kansas State Trooper: selection, training, and the meaning behind the uniformThe broader role of the Kansas Highway Patrol beyond policing highways—including supporting federal and local agencies, and running the state’s Criminal Justice Information SystemThe importance of integrity, humility, and discipline in recruiting new troopersHow ham radio became a surprising passion and its relevance to emergency communicationsWinter driving safety tips every Kansan should rememberHow major events like FIFA coming to Kansas City impact law enforcement collaborationPersonal stories of loss, resilience, and the deeper meaning behind wearing the badgeAmusing and quirky moments from Kansas history, including windowless churches and blue lawsChapters 0:00 – Kansas Comedy: Kathleen Madigan’s take on Kansas toll booths 2:18 – Welcome & Introduction to Kansas State Troopers 3:20 – Interview with Joe Owen: Background and Journey to Kansas 4:30 – Joe’s Path into Law Enforcement 6:07 – Lessons from the Road: No Stop is Insignificant 15:21 – The Many Roles of Kansas State Troopers 26:36 – Training, Recruitment, and What Makes a Good Trooper 29:50 – Pop Culture, Agency Collaboration, and Favorite Law Enforcement Depictions 44:14 – Ham Radio: A Trooper’s Unexpected Hobby 49:34 – Winter Driving Safety Tips 59:01 – FIFA’s Impact on Kansas City Law Enforcement 1:03:01 – Reflections: The Meaning of the Badge 1:09:28 – Post-Interview Reflections & Fun with Mustaches 1:11:08 – Kansas History: Amusing Incidents and Blue Laws 1:32:25 – Closing Remarks & Appreciation Resources Mentioned Kathleen Madigan’s Comedy Special (available on Prime Video): Kathleen Madigan on Prime VideoKansas Highway Patrol: https://kansashighwaypatrol.gov/Blue Bloods (TV Show): Blue Bloods on CBSSuper Troopers (Movie): Super Troopers on IMDbNewspapers.com (Kansas history research): newspapers.comFCC Ham Radio Licensing: FCC Amateur Radio ServiceThis show is part of the ICT Podcast Network, for more information, visit ictpod.net

    57 min
  6. Animal Advocacy with Brandon Sokol | Furever Kansan

    JAN 5

    Animal Advocacy with Brandon Sokol | Furever Kansan

    Do you have a passion for furry companions? Join us for an inspiring and eye-opening conversation with Brandon Sokol, director of Prairie Paws Animal Shelter in Manhattan, Kansas. Brandon shares the realities of shelter life, from the emotional challenges of animal rescue to the logistics of managing capacity, volunteers, and community partnerships. Discover how compassion, creativity, and teamwork come together to save lives, and hear unforgettable stories of animals (and people) who make a difference. Highlights The mission and structure of Prairie Paws Animal ShelterEmotional and practical challenges of shelter workWhat “no-kill” really means and how it’s achievedThe role of volunteers and “Dog Day Outs”Memorable animal rescue stories, including Moose the dogManaging unusual animal drop-offs and Kansas animal ordinancesThe importance of community support and spay/neuter programsAdvice for supporting your local shelter and adopting petsChapters 4:59 – Introducing Brandon Sokol from Prairie Paws Animal Shelter 6:43 – Challenges and rewards of shelter work 10:30 – Managing capacity and maintaining no-kill status 14:18 – Volunteer contributions and “Dog Day Outs” 26:35 – Odd animal drop-offs and unusual pets 27:56 – Animal control, ordinances, and shelter operations 31:04 – Feral cats and trap-neuter-return programs 32:41 – Personal pet stories and naming pets 36:39 – Community support for animal shelters Resources Mentioned Prairie Paws Animal Shelter: prairiepaws.orgAdopt a Pet: adoptapet.comThis show is part of the ICT Podcast Network, for more information, visit ictpod.net

    52 min
  7. 2025 In Retrospective with Sydney and Gus | Uniting Kansas One Podcast at a Time

    12/29/2025

    2025 In Retrospective with Sydney and Gus | Uniting Kansas One Podcast at a Time

    What makes a place feel like home, and how do the stories of a state connect us all? From the warmth of a “grandma basement” to the wild adventures across Kansas, this conversation celebrates the people, places, and moments that have shaped a year of discovery. Join us as we reflect on favorite guests, behind-the-scenes stories, and the lessons learned from building a podcast rooted in community. Highlights The meaning and Midwest origins of the “grandma basement”How the podcast began and the team behind the scenesFavorite guest moments and what made them memorableLessons learned from Kansas historians, artists, journalists, and community leadersTanner’s photojournalist adventures across the stateUnique Kansas events: rodeos, peace treaties, and Swedish festivalsThe importance of parks, wildlife, and green spaces in KansasA look at the “guest book” and fun awards for standout guestsHopes and plans for the next season, including new regions and storiesChapters 00:00 – Understanding the “Grandma Basement” Concept 03:22 – Reflecting on Past Episodes 04:11 – The Origin Story of the Podcast 07:19 – Highlighting Memorable Guests 13:24 – Discussing the Podcast’s Reach and Team 21:55 – Capturing Kansas: Rodeos, Peace Treaties, and Wildlife 29:57 – Whooping Cranes: A Remarkable Comeback 32:04 – Exploring Kansas Wildlife 32:31 – Lindsborg’s Biannual Ings Fest 33:30 – Traditional Swedish Costumes 35:27 – Lakewood Park: A Kansas Gem 36:56 – Looking Forward to 2026 41:40 – Reflecting on 2025 Guests 53:27 – Closing Thoughts and Thank Yous Resources Mentioned Curious Kansan Newsletter & Stories: askakansan.comPeace Treaty Pageant (Medicine Lodge): peacetreaty.orgKansas Sampler Foundation: kansassampler.orgMaxwell Wildlife Refuge: maxwellwildliferefuge.comBook: “Into Whooperland” by Michael ForsbergEpisodes Referenced:Adrian Zink (Ep. 3)Dr. Andrew Orr (Ep. 11, “The Compassionate Kansan”)Erika Nelson (Ep 16, “Big Little Big Kansan”)Brooke Terrapin (Ep. 5, “Fashionable Kansan”)Greg Victors (Ep. 26, “Steps of Tradition”)Abel Frederic (Ep. 24, “Giving Kansas”)Ross Janssen (Ep. 28, “Forecasting Kansas”)Leslie Bishop (Ep. 1, “The Kansas Dynamic”)Trisha Smith (Ep. 21, “Resilient Kansan”)Rex Buchanan (Ep. 29, “Grounded Kansan”)Marci Penner (Ep. 18, “Sampling Kansas”)Carl Bowden (Ep. 6, “Leading Kansas”)James Bowden (Ep. 17, “Unboxable Kansan”)Cash Hollister (Ep. 22, “Beats Kansas”)If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and help us continue amplifying Kansas voices! This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network, for more information, visit ictpod.net

    55 min
  8. Ember Hope's Mission of Change with Mitch Drees | Hopeful Kansas

    12/22/2025

    Ember Hope's Mission of Change with Mitch Drees | Hopeful Kansas

    How can one organization ignite hope and transform the lives of children who need it most? Explore the heart and vision behind Ember Hope, and discover how dedicated people are making a real difference for kids and families—plus, hear the inspiring journey of a leader who found his calling in unexpected ways. Highlights Ember Hope’s mission: empowering and supporting vulnerable childrenReal stories of impact—how kids’ lives are being changedThe importance of trauma-informed care and community supportMitch’s personal journey: from career pivot to purpose-driven leadershipPractical ways listeners can get involved and make a differenceQ&A: Addressing the biggest challenges facing kids todayChapters 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to Ember Hope’s Mission04:10 – Why Supporting Kids Matters: The Heart of Ember Hope11:25 – Stories of Transformation: Kids and Families Impacted19:40 – Trauma-Informed Care: Meeting Kids Where They Are27:15 – Mitch’s Career Pivot: Finding Purpose in Service34:50 – Building Community Partnerships41:30 – How You Can Help: Volunteer and Support Opportunities47:55 – Listener Q&A: Challenges & Solutions for Kids53:20 – Final Reflections & Call to ActionResources Mentioned Ember Hope Official WebsiteVolunteer Opportunities at Ember HopeSupport: Donate to Ember HopeIf you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and help us continue amplifying Kansas voices! This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network, for more information, visit ictpod.net

    1 hr
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

A podcast focusing on the perspectives, lives, and stories of Kansans to provide greater insight into the state we all call home.

Information

  • Creator
    Ask A Kansan
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    43
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Ask A Kansan

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