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
On AREA Podcast episode #022, we’re joined by Brent Shanks, Co-Founder and Chief Technical Officer at Pyrone Systems. He shares his journey from academic research to launching a biotech startup, how Pyrone is developing sustainable alternatives to traditional chemicals, and what it takes to bring breakthrough science into real-world use.
On AREA Podcast episode #021, we’re joined by Dr. David Cook, President of Iowa State University. He shares his journey back to Ames to lead his alma mater, his leadership approach, and how Iowa State is building on its land-grant mission to drive innovation, workforce development, and economic impact across the state.
The AREA Podcast is presented by Flynn Wright - https://...
On AREA Podcast episode #020, we’re joined by Ashley Thompson, President & CEO of United Way of Story County. Ashley shares her leadership journey, the evolving needs across the community, and how the United Way is bringing partners together to address challenges and drive long-term impact across Story County.
The AREA Podcast is presented by Flynn Wright - https://www.f...
On AREA Podcast episode #019, we’re joined by Mike Espeset, CEO at Story Construction. He shares his leadership journey within an employee-owned company, how Story Construction continues to grow across Iowa, and why culture, clear systems, and community engagement are key to long-term success.
The AREA Podcast is presented by Flynn Wright - https://www.flynnwright.com
On AREA Podcast episode #018, we’re joined by Clayton Mooney, co-founder, CEO, and Chief Farmer at Clayton Farms. He shares his unconventional path from professional poker to agriculture, how discipline and risk-taking shaped his entrepreneurial journey, and how his passion for running and ultramarathons influences how he builds and leads.
On AREA Podcast episode #017, we’re joined by Ag Tech Innovator and Investor Roger Underwood. He shares his entrepreneurial journey scaling Becker Underwood into a global company, his outlook on the future of agriculture, and why innovation, technology, and the Ames region are central to what comes next for the industry.
The AREA Podcast is presented by Flynn Wright - https:...
On AREA Podcast episode #016, we are joined by Valerie Grubb, internationally-recognized keynote speaker and author on leadership. She shares insights from her corporate career, the realities of leading across generations, and practical strategies leaders can use to strengthen culture, retain talent, and elevate their teams.
The AREA Podcast is presented by Flynn Wright - ht...
On AREA Podcast episode #015, we are joined by Dr. Wendy Wintersteen, President of Iowa State University. She shares her journey to becoming the university’s first female president, her approach to leadership and innovation, and how Iowa State drives research and economic growth across Iowa and beyond.
The AREA Podcast is presented by Flynn Wright - https://www.flynnwright.c...
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
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
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
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...
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
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 - ...
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
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
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...
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
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
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
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