AREA Podcast

AREA Podcast

The Ames Regional Economic Alliance presents the AREA Podcast, showcasing the voices shaping Ames and the surrounding region. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with community and business leaders, sharing their personal stories, professional journeys, and insights into the innovation and growth driving our area forward. Tune in to discover the people and ideas making a difference in our vibrant region. The AREA Podcast is presented by Flynn Wright.

Episodes

October 20, 2025 57 mins

On AREA Podcast episode #014, we are joined by Emily Schmitt, Chief Administrative Officer and General Counsel at Sukup Manufacturing. She shares her journey as a third-generation leader, balancing family legacy with innovation, and Sukup’s growing global impact from its Iowa roots.

The AREA Podcast is presented by Flynn Wright - https://www.flynnwright.com

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On AREA Podcast episode #013, we are joined by Kevin Dresser, Head Coach of the Iowa State University Wrestling program. He shares his journey in the sport, his approach to building culture, and what it takes to lead one of college wrestling’s premier programs.

The AREA Podcast is presented by Flynn Wright - https://www.flynnwright.com

Colorbioti...

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September 11, 2025 62 mins

On AREA Podcast episode #012, we are joined by Paul Schlueter, President of Flynn Wright. With nearly 30 years at the agency, he shares insights on leading through change, balancing strategy with creativity, and building a culture centered on client success.

The AREA Podcast is presented by Flynn Wright - https://www.flynnwright.com

Colorbiotics ...

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August 21, 2025 53 mins

On AREA Podcast episode #011, we are joined by Amber Deardorff, President & CEO of Mary Greeley Medical Center. From intern to executive, she shares her 20-year journey through nursing and leadership. We talk about workforce culture, healthcare’s future, and staying grounded in a people-first mission.

The AREA Podcast is presented by Flynn Wright - https://www.flynnwrigh...

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August 3, 2025 56 mins

On AREA Podcast episode #010, we are joined by David Spalding, Vice President of Economic Development and Industry Relations at Iowa State University. We talk about how the university drives innovation, connects with industry, supports entrepreneurs, and fosters economic growth across Iowa. 

The AREA Podcast is presented by Flynn Wright - https://www.flynnwright.com

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July 20, 2025 51 mins

On AREA Podcast episode #009, we are joined by CJ Warner—a trailblazing energy executive with more than 40 years of experience and a current member of Chevron’s board of directors. We dive into how the energy industry has change, leadership lessons from the C-suite, and the evolving role of innovation in global sustainability.

The AREA Podcast is presented by Flynn Wright - ...

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July 1, 2025 56 mins

On AREA Podcast episode #008, we are joined by Reynolds Cramer, CEO of Fareway Stores. With nearly 140 locations across the Midwest, Fareway continues to grow while staying true to its core values. We talk about leading through change, decision-making, and what it means to serve communities.

The AREA Podcast is presented by Flynn Wright - https://www.flynnwright.com

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June 8, 2025 55 mins

On AREA Podcast episode #007, we are joined by Elli Jennings of Re-/Max Real Estate. With a social media following in the tens of thousands, she has built a trusted brand by celebrating community, sharing authentically, and using digital platforms to connect with people in meaningful ways.

The AREA Podcast is presented by Flynn Wright - https://www.flynnwright.com

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May 18, 2025 51 mins

On AREA Podcast episode #006, we are joined by Ryan Newstrom, owner of Cornbred Barbecue in Ames. With over 250 awards across national competitions, including National Brisket Champion, Cornbred is looking to “make Ames weird” with their incredible menu offerings and service.

The AREA Podcast is presented by Flynn Wright - https://www.flynnwright.com

Continental Manufacturing Chemist - https://continentalmfgchemist.com

Colorbioti...

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May 1, 2025 56 mins

On AREA Podcast episode #005, we are joined by Rob Denson, President of the Des Moines Area Community College. From expanding academic programs to establishing new business partnerships, we talk with DMACC’s longest-serving president about the ever-increasing role of community colleges.

The AREA Podcast is presented by Flynn Wright - https://www.flynnwright.com

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April 16, 2025 46 mins

On AREA Podcast episode #004, we are joined by Jill Klindt, Chief Financial Officer of Workiva. Serving over 6,000 companies with their financial reporting and data compliance needs, Workiva is one of Iowa’s most notable start-up success stories.

The AREA Podcast is presented by Flynn Wright - https://www.flynnwright.com

Continental Manufacturing...

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April 2, 2025 47 mins

On AREA Podcast episode #003, we are joined by John Wyffels, President of Wyffels Hybrids. Now in its 3rd generation of leadership, being “fiercely independent” is at the core of this family-owned business that is expanding west with a new facility in Ames.

The AREA Podcast is presented by Flynn Wright - https://www.flynnwright.com

Continental Ma...

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March 18, 2025 44 mins

On AREA Podcast episode #002, we are joined by Rick Sanders, President of the Iowa State University Research Park. Home to over 130 companies across 550 acres, the Research Park serves as a regional hub for innovation and plays a key role in developing CyTown at the Iowa State Center.

The AREA Podcast is presented by Flynn Wright - https://www.flynnwright.com

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March 9, 2025 46 mins

On AREA Podcast episode #001, we are joined by Debi Durham, Director of Iowa Economic Development Authority. From attracting national brands to the region to supporting expansion projects, we’re going to talk to Iowa’s biggest advocate about the importance of economic development across the state.

The AREA Podcast is presented by:

Flynn Wright - ...

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February 27, 2025 47 secs

Our community is full of incredible stories, and we have the privilege of sharing many through print and digital media. Now, we’re bringing those stories to life on the AREA Podcast from the Ames Regional Economic Alliance!

From groundbreaking startups to legacy businesses, community builders to big thinkers—if it’s making an impact, you’ll hear about it here. 

This is the AREA Podcast—personal stories, professional journeys. First...

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