Behind What Matters

Emily Rohner
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  • Non-Profit

A twice-monthly podcast series hosted at Art of Aries, featuring a rotating lineup of guests and conversations that explore a wide range of topics shaping the Jefferson community.

Episodes

  1. 2d ago

    From Murals to Rooftops: Exploring Jefferson's Public Art Scene | Episode 5 with Deb McGinn

    In Episode 5 of Behind What Matters, Matt Wetrich sits down with Deb McGinn, Chair of the Tower View Team and Secretary of Jefferson Matters, to explore the public art projects that have helped shape Jefferson's identity. Ring Out for Art sculptures and painted pianos to Porch Fest, murals, and the new rooftop art installation, Deb shares the stories behind the projects that have added color, creativity, and community pride throughout town. Learn how these ideas got started, the volunteers and partners who helped bring them to life, and what's next for Jefferson's growing public art scene. This episode talks about how art can transform a community, along with offering a behind-the-scenes look at the people and projects helping make Jefferson a destination worth exploring.

    36 min

  2. Jun 9

    Behind What Matters Ep. 4: Why the Old Middle School Was Worth Saving, featuring Chris Deal

    For nearly a decade, one question has lingered in Jefferson: What will happen to the former middle school? In Episode 4 of Behind What Matters, Matt Wetrich sits down with Chris Deal to discuss The Jeffersonian, the ambitious project transforming Jefferson's historic former middle school into modern apartments while preserving one of the community's most recognizable landmarks. Built in the 1920s and located just steps from downtown, the building has been part of countless memories for generations of Jefferson residents. Chris shares how the project came together, why he believed the building was worth saving, and what he discovered while bringing new life to a structure built to stand the test of time. The conversation explores the history of the building, the challenges of redevelopment, the importance of preserving community assets, and much more! Plus, learn more about the upcoming June 13 open house and get a behind-the-scenes look at one of Jefferson's most talked-about redevelopment projects.

    36 min

  3. May 27

    Jefferson's Most Iconic Landmark: The Mahanay Bell Tower

    Episode #3 of "Behind What Matters" takes listeners to the top of one of Jefferson’s most recognizable landmarks: the Mahanay Bell Tower. Matt is joined by Molly Cunningham, the Bell Tower’s Tour Coordinator, and Peg Raney, President of the Bell Tower Community Foundation, to talk about what makes the Bell Tower such an important part of Jefferson’s identity, why people continue visiting year after year, and what guests can expect during the busy summer season. The conversation dives topics, like into favorite memories from the top, along with the excitement surrounding the tower’s upcoming 60th anniversary celebration this October. Along the way, the group reflects on the question: “Why does Jefferson matter to you?” and shares stories about the views, people, and experiences that continue making the Bell Tower a destination worth returning to. Whether you’ve visited once or dozens of times, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the landmark that helps define downtown Jefferson.

    32 min

  4. May 12

    Behind the '26 Bell Tower Festival, featuring Philip Heisterkamp

    This episode features Philip Heisterkamp, Chair of the Bell Tower Festival, as he shares why Jefferson became home and what keeps him invested in the community. From what’s new at this year’s festival to the work behind the scenes, Philip gives a look into how the event comes together. He also reflects on the past six years and what makes being part of the festival so meaningful.

    34 min

  5. Apr 30

    Behind what Matters: Intro to this Series!

    "Behind what Matters" is a new way to share the stories, people, and efforts that continue to shape Jefferson. In our first episode, Executive Director Matt Wetrich, Office Coordinator Kevin Paulsen, and Community Engagement Coordinator Emily Rohner introduce what listeners can expect, from conversations about the Main Street approach and volunteer-led teams to the role of storytelling and social media in connecting the community. The episode also highlights the strong group of emerging leaders in the area who will be featured in future conversations. It’s a starting point for understanding the work happening behind the scenes, with a few light moments along the way that make it feel right at home in Jefferson.

    34 min
  • 5 Episodes

About

A twice-monthly podcast series hosted at Art of Aries, featuring a rotating lineup of guests and conversations that explore a wide range of topics shaping the Jefferson community.

Information

  • Creator
    Emily Rohner
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    5
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Behind What Matters
  • Show Website
    Behind What Matters