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. Protecting the Wabash River: Stewardship, Education, and Community Impact

    2D AGO

    Protecting the Wabash River: Stewardship, Education, and Community Impact

    Join Adam Stakeman and Christine Flohr on this episode of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast as they sit down with Michael Beauchamp and Jen Rankin, self-described River Rats and co-founders of Wabash River Defenders. Mike and Jen share the story behind this grassroots organization dedicated to protecting, cleaning, and celebrating the Wabash River.  Listeners will learn about the history of the River Defenders, memorable cleanup stories, the river’s importance to Wabash County, and how local residents and volunteers have helped make a lasting impact. Jen and Mike also discuss the organization’s other projects including River Wild, future goals and ways the community can get involved. Whether you love the outdoors, care about conservation, or want to make a difference in your own community, this episode is packed with inspiration, practical ways to take action, and heartwarming stories from the banks of the 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   or email us at thrivepod@destinationwabashcounty.com

    48 min
  2. A Legacy of Leadership: Bill Barrows

    FEB 3

    A Legacy of Leadership: Bill Barrows

    Please note that due to video issues, this is an audio episode only. To catch Bill's smiling face follow him on Facebook or catch his podcast Sports Talk lined below.  The ThriveIN Podcast trio sits down with Wabash County youth sports legend Bill Barrows for a heartfelt conversation about service, leadership, and community. From his impactful years at the YMCA to being named the 2019 Distinguished Citizen of the Year, Bill’s legacy is woven into the fabric of local athletics and youth development. A familiar voice at countless local sporting events, Bill has spent decades announcing games, building quality youth programs, and investing his time where it matters most—kids and families. As a husband, father, and grandfather, he reflects on the changes he’s witnessed in Wabash County, the values that have guided his work, and what continues to make him proud to call this place home. To catch Bill's podcast hosted by the Wabash County Museum, you can listen here: https://www.youtube.com/@WabashCountyMuseum or https://www.wabashmuseum.org/ This episode is a tribute to dedication, mentorship, and the lasting impact one person can have on an entire community. 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

    1h 25m
  3. Earn While You Learn: Dr. Stacy Young’s Blueprint for Rural Talent Growth

    JAN 27

    Earn While You Learn: Dr. Stacy Young’s Blueprint for Rural Talent Growth

    Host Alex Downard sits down with Dr. Stacy Young, President of Manchester University, for a deep and hopeful conversation about the future of higher education in rural Indiana. Dr. Young shares her passion for creating affordable, accessible degree pathways that reduce barriers and widen opportunities for every student who steps on campus. She explains how Manchester is expanding “earn while you learn” programs that give students real-world experience, reduce debt, and build confidence long before graduation day. Together, they explore how Manchester University is becoming a true beacon for talent attraction—not only developing skilled graduates, but drawing fresh energy and ideas into Wabash County and the surrounding region. Dr. Young reflects on what it means to lead a historic institution into the next chapter, why rural communities are uniquely positioned for growth, and how education can be a powerful force for economic and personal transformation. Learn more about Manchester University: https://www.manchester.edu/ 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   or email us at thrivepod@destinationwabashcounty.com

    42 min
  4. Why Community Image Matters: Lesley Vigar

    JAN 20

    Why Community Image Matters: Lesley Vigar

    Host Christine Flohr talks with Lesley Vigar, an experienced real estate agent and Wabash County Champion, about why a community’s image plays a critical role in relocation decisions. Lesley shares what homebuyers truly look for in a place to live and how Wabash County stands out compared to other markets she knows—through connection, quality of life, and a strong sense of community. Discover what turns a community into a place people are proud to call home. 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

    59 min
  5. Preserving Forever: The Story of ACRES Land Trust

    JAN 13

    Preserving Forever: The Story of ACRES Land Trust

    In this episode of ThriveIN Wabash County, host Adam Stakeman sits down with Jason Kissel, Executive Director of ACRES Land Trust, to explore how land conservation is shaping the future of Northeast Indiana. ACRES, Indiana’s oldest land trust, protects more than 8,500 acres of natural and working lands across the region — including several treasured preserves right here in Wabash County. Jason shares the heart behind ACRES’ mission, how properties are protected “forever,” and why community partnerships and donor legacies make this work possible. Together, Adam and Jason dive into what it means to protect not just land, but the stories, memories, and sense of placethat come with it. Learn More Visit ACRES Land Trust: https://acreslandtrust.org Explore local preserves in Wabash County 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   or email us at thrivepod@destinationwabashcounty.com

    44 min
  6. Happy New Year & Who's Most Likely?

    JAN 6

    Happy New Year & Who's Most Likely?

    Adam, Alex, and Christine are ringing in the New Year with energy and excitement as they launch Season 2 of ThriveIN. And they’re starting it off with a twist: listener-submitted “Most Likely To…” questions that put the hosts in the hot seat. For an hour of insight, laughter, and light-hearted chaos, the trio reveals their picks for prompts like: “Who is most likely to adopt an Amish lifestyle?” “Who is most likely to write a book?” …and plenty more that you definitely don’t want to miss. It’s a fun, candid start to the season—one that sets the tone for another year of showcasing the people, stories, and momentum that prove Wabash County is truly thriving. 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

    1h 11m
  7. That’s a Wrap! Thriving Through 2025 & Ready for 2026

    12/30/2025

    That’s a Wrap! Thriving Through 2025 & Ready for 2026

    In this special year-end episode, the hosts take a heartfelt and humorous look back at 2025—what they’ve learned, what surprised them, and how the stories of Wabash County have shaped the first year of ThriveIN. From behind-the-scenes moments to the conversations that changed their perspective, this wrap-up is part reflection, part celebration, and all about community. They also share what they’re most excited for as Season 2 launches in 2026, including new voices, deeper dives, and more inspiration from the people who make Wabash County THRIVE. You’ll laugh, you’ll reflect, and we hope you’ll feel the pulse of what it means to thrive in Wabash County. 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

    59 min
  8. Leading by Example: A Conversation with Brian Howenstine

    12/23/2025

    Leading by Example: A Conversation with Brian Howenstine

    In this episode, host Alex Downard sits down with well-known servant leader and longtime Wabash County business owner, Brian Howenstine. Brian proudly claims to be the podcast’s biggest fan—and after hearing this conversation, you’ll understand why his passion for community runs so deep. Alex and Brian dive into Brian’s decades of involvement in Wabash County, his commitment to servant leadership, and the lessons he’s learned balancing business, family, and civic responsibility. From heartfelt reflections to light-hearted moments, this episode captures Brian’s genuine spirit and unwavering dedication to helping Wabash County thrive. 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

    52 min
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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
    39
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Destination Wabash County
  • Show Website
    ThriveIN Wabash County

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