ThriveIN Wabash County

Destination Wabash County

Hosted by three passionate leaders—Adam Stakeman, Alex Downard, and Christine Flohr—the podcast dives into the people and projects shaping Wabash County’s future. Every episode offers its listeners key takeaways that can be implemented in their own communities and will cause you to pause and celebrate the wins in your own backyard. With backgrounds in community development, economic growth, outdoor adventure, marketing, and tourism, the trio interviews local business owners, nonprofit leaders, and creatives who are all working to make Wabash County thrive. Subscribe and join us!

  1. Building a Better Wabash Through Green Space

    2D AGO

    Building a Better Wabash Through Green Space

    What role do parks play in building a thriving community? In this episode of ThriveIN Wabash County, Adam Stakeman sits down with Adam Hall, Superintendent of Wabash City Parks, to discuss the vision and work behind Wabash’s green spaces. They cover the impact of local parks on quality of life, economic development, and public health, along with current improvements and future plans for the parks system. Adam also shares what it takes to manage and maintain public spaces that serve residents year-round. Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the community, this conversation highlights how thoughtful investment in green space helps shape a stronger, more connected Wabash. If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories. A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM⁠ or email us at thrivepod@destinationwabashcounty.com

    49 min
  2. Debunking Rural America: Six Myths Holding Us Back

    MAY 5

    Debunking Rural America: Six Myths Holding Us Back

    In this episode of ThriveIN, Alex and Adam take calls from rural sociologists Tim Slack and Shannon Monnat to discuss their recent article, “Six Myths About Rural America.” For years, rural communities have been shaped by simplified — and often inaccurate — narratives about politics, poverty, opportunity, and decline. Dr. Slack and Dr. Monnat break down six of the most common myths and explain what the data actually reveals about rural life in America today. The conversation explores how these misconceptions influence media coverage, public policy, and even how rural residents see themselves. It also challenges listeners to rethink what they assume they know about small towns and the people who call them home. At ThriveIN, we care deeply about what it means to build strong communities in places like Wabash County. This episode invites you to look beyond the headlines and engage with a more accurate, more nuanced understanding of rural America. If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories. A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM.

    1h 2m
  3. Where Craftsmanship Meets Calling

    APR 28

    Where Craftsmanship Meets Calling

    Alex and guest co-host Conner Hindman sit down with James Davis, owner of Creedence Contracting, LLC, for a conversation about business, craftsmanship, faith, and family. Based in Northern Indiana, Creedence Contracting is built on the belief that quality work and strong relationships go hand in hand. From custom homes and barndominiums to post-frame buildings, additions, garages, concrete work, remodeling, roofing, and outdoor structures, James and his team are committed to excellence on every project. But this episode goes beyond construction. James shares how he has intentionally centered his business operations around his faith and a deep commitment to his family. He talks about leading with integrity, building trust with clients, and creating a company culture rooted in reliability and strong values. Reference links: Website https://creedencecontracting.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CreedenceContractingLLC If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories. A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM⁠.

    55 min
  4. From Around the World to Wabash, Indiana: The Impact of the Honeywell Arts Academy

    APR 21

    From Around the World to Wabash, Indiana: The Impact of the Honeywell Arts Academy

    Hosts Adam and Christine are joined by Cathy Gatchel, Chief Development Officer of Honeywell Arts & Entertainment, along with Ranaan Meyer, Artistic Director of Honeywell Arts Academy, and Emily Meyer, Director of Honeywell Arts Academy, for an episode dedicated to shining a light on the Honeywell Arts Academy. Discover the origins of the Academy, hear about its unique approach to mentorship and collaboration, and explore the vision that’s shaping its future. Led by Artistic Director Ranaan Meyer of the GRAMMY and Emmy award-winning group Time for Three and world-renowned faculty, the summer program takes place in Wabash, Indiana, and culminates in live performances. Founded in 2020, the Academy is an expansion of Wabass, a music program established in 2008 for double bassists, and will return in June of 2026 for its 19th year of tuition-free summer programs, bringing together emerging musicians from around the world for collaboration, mentorship, and performance. The Academy features three summer programs: Wabass: double bassists. Wabass Live – Thurs., June 11 at 7:30 p.m. at the Honeywell Center Soundboard: pianists. Soundboard Live – Fri., June 12 at 7:30 p.m. at the Honeywell Center Resonance: multi-faceted musicians of any instrument. Resonance Live – Sat., June 13 at 7:30 p.m. at the Eagles Theatre  To learn more about this year's performance schedule and its impact, visit www.honeywellartsacademy.org. A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM

    57 min
  5. Beyond the Mic - Christine Flohr

    APR 14

    Beyond the Mic - Christine Flohr

    It’s Christine’s turn to take the HOT SEAT as hosts Alex and Adam flip the script and put her under fire with questions. In this episode, Christine shares why she fell in love with the world of tourism and marketing, the passion she has for telling the stories of her community, and why she proudly chooses Wabash County as the place she calls home. From her belief in the power of small communities to the work being done to create experiences that bring people together, listeners will hear what drives Christine both professionally and personally. A wife, a mother, and sometimes jokingly referred to as the “Leslie Knope of Wabash County,” this conversation offers a candid and fun look at who Christine is beyond the mic. Tune in for stories, laughs, and a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the heart behind the work. Resources: www.visitwabashcounty.com If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories. A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM

    59 min
  6. Rooted to Serve: Tyler Niccum’s “Why”

    APR 7

    Rooted to Serve: Tyler Niccum’s “Why”

    What does it truly mean to go the extra mile—for your family, your workplace, and your community? In this episode of ThriveIN Wabash County, all three hosts sit down with Tyler Niccum, a lifelong Wabash County resident and current County Commissioner, to explore a life built on service, commitment, and stepping into leadership when it matters most. From growing up in Wabash County to now helping lead it at the county level, Tyler shares how his deep roots have shaped his perspective and fueled his passion for giving back. Whether it’s supporting his family, showing up for his employer, or making decisions that impact the future of the community, Tyler lives out a mindset of going above and beyond. Resources:  Wabash County Government: https://www.in.gov/counties/wabash/ Center Court Cares: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579967895432 If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories. A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM.

    57 min
  7. Marketing 2.0 Print Is Not Dead

    MAR 31

    Marketing 2.0 Print Is Not Dead

    In this energizing episode of the ThriveIN Podcast, Christine sits down with Visit Wabash County’s dynamic marketing team—Biz, Brittany, and marketing intern Isaac, who steps in as the guest host—to unpack what’s actually working in marketing today. From promoting a podcast to leveraging print media and maximizing email marketing, this conversation is packed with practical strategies that any business—large or small—can start using immediately. If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories. A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM⁠.

    51 min
  8. Beyond the Mic - Adam Stakeman

    MAR 24

    Beyond the Mic - Adam Stakeman

    Christine and Alex turn the tables and put Adam in the hot seat on this episode of ThriveIN. From the heights he’s willing to climb—literally and figuratively—to reach a goal, to the heart behind the countless volunteer hours he pours into the community, Adam shares what drives him. As an on-the-road Sales Manager for JM Reynolds Oil, Adam offers a unique perspective on regional business, relationships, and why showing up matters. Beyond the title, he’s a father, brother, son, and proud stakeholder committed to seeing Wabash County not just grow—but truly thrive. Tune in for a conversation about grit, generosity, and what it means to lead from wherever you stand. If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories. A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM⁠.

    1h 8m
See All (53)

Trailer

4.9
out of 5
30 Ratings

About

Hosted by three passionate leaders—Adam Stakeman, Alex Downard, and Christine Flohr—the podcast dives into the people and projects shaping Wabash County’s future. Every episode offers its listeners key takeaways that can be implemented in their own communities and will cause you to pause and celebrate the wins in your own backyard. With backgrounds in community development, economic growth, outdoor adventure, marketing, and tourism, the trio interviews local business owners, nonprofit leaders, and creatives who are all working to make Wabash County thrive. Subscribe and join us!

Information

  • Creator
    Destination Wabash County
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    53
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Destination Wabash County
  • Show Website
    ThriveIN Wabash County

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