Leawood 360 Podcast

City of Leawood

The official podcast of the City of Leawood, Kansas! Listen to Leawood 360 for a full-circle view of the people, policies, and programs that shape life in our community—from behind-the-scenes looks at city services to stories from the neighbors who make Leawood shine. Leawood 360 is hosted by Strategic Communications Director Beth Breitenstein. City voices. Community stories. Full-circle Leawood.

  1. 1d ago

    Leawood 360: E12- Severe Weather Emergency Management

    What really happens behind the scenes when severe weather moves into Leawood? On this episode of Leawood 360, we sit down with Leawood Fire Chief Colin Fitzgerald to answer some of the biggest questions residents have about tornado sirens, weather alerts, emergency response, and storm preparedness. We break down how warning systems work, why some neighborhoods hear sirens while others may not, when Leawood activates their Emergency Operations Center during major storms, and what residents should do before, during, and after severe weather hits. Plus, Chief Fitzgerald shares preparedness tips, common myths, and a few behind-the-scenes stories from the front lines of emergency response in Leawood.

    29 min

  2. Apr 24

    Leawood 360: E11- Tree Tips

    On this episode of Leawood 360, we’re joined by Parks Superintendent and City Arborist Dustin Branick for a fun and informative conversation about the trees that shape our community. From how to choose the right tree for your yard to what not to plant, Dustin shares practical tips every homeowner can use. We also dig into Leawood’s updated tree ordinance, talk about common tree challenges like sweetgums, and highlight why investing in our urban forest matters now and for future generations.

    28 min

  3. Mar 24

    Leawood 360: E10- Leawood For the Goal!

    Leawood is getting ready for the global stage. In this episode, Councilmembers Julie Cain and Lisa Harrison share a behind-the-scenes look at Leawood For the Goal, the city’s community-wide initiative tied to the 2026 World Cup in the Kansas City region. From the 3v3 soccer tournament and match day events to business support and ways to get involved, hear how Leawood is bringing the community together and why this moment matters.

    28 min

  4. Mar 2

    Leawood 360: Episode 9- 2026 State of the City Address

    In this episode, we’re bringing you the full audio from Mayor Marc Elkins’ 2026 State of the City Address, delivered on Thursday, Feb. 26, at the beautiful Ironhorse Golf Course. In his remarks, Mayor Elkins reflects on the past year in Leawood, highlights major projects and community milestones, and looks ahead at what’s next for our city.

    38 min

  5. Jan 26

    Leawood 360: Episode 8- Governing Body Meetings Explained

    Governing Body meetings shape everyday life in Leawood—from parks and streets to safety, development, and long-range planning. In this episode, we’re demystifying the process by explaining how agendas come together, why terminology matters, and how residents can understand (and engage with) decisions at City Hall. No legalese required.

    27 min

  6. 11/21/2025

    Leawood 360: Episode 7- Snow Patrol

    In this episode, Beth sits down with Public Works Superintendent Paul Dunn, and Public Works Specialist Ryan Hays for a behind-the-scenes look at how Leawood prepares for winter weather. From the first forecast to the final plow pass, Paul and Ryan walk through what it takes to keep 450 lane miles clear, how routes are prioritized, what happens overnight during a storm, and the best snow creations they have come across in Leawood yards.

    26 min

  7. 10/17/2025

    Leawood 360: Episode 6- Code Enforcement

    Ever wondered what code enforcement actually means — or how it affects your neighborhood every day? In this episode, Beth talks with Travis Torrez, Leawood’s Director of Building and Code Enforcement, and Wade Thompson, Code Enforcement Officer, about what goes into keeping Leawood beautiful, safe, and consistent with community standards. From trash bins and tall grass to neighborhood character and vacant homes, we’re pulling back the curtain on the people behind the rules — and how they help make Leawood shine.

    21 min

  8. 09/19/2025

    Leawood 360: Episode 5- City Planning and Comprehensive Plan Update

    From parks and housing to the character of our neighborhoods, Leawood’s future is being shaped right now. Hear from the city’s planning leaders about the Rooted & Reaching Comprehensive Plan and why your voice matters.

    24 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

The official podcast of the City of Leawood, Kansas! Listen to Leawood 360 for a full-circle view of the people, policies, and programs that shape life in our community—from behind-the-scenes looks at city services to stories from the neighbors who make Leawood shine. Leawood 360 is hosted by Strategic Communications Director Beth Breitenstein. City voices. Community stories. Full-circle Leawood.

Information

  • Creator
    City of Leawood
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Leawood 360 Podcast