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 #030, we’re joined by Rob Sand, 2026 Democratic nominee for Governor of Iowa. He shares his journey from Decorah to public service, his experience as Iowa State Auditor, and his perspective on the economy, public education, costs, and the future of Iowa.
The AREA Podcast is presented by Flynn Wright - https://www.flynnwright.com
On AREA Podcast episode #029, we’re joined by Zach Lahn, 2026 Republican nominee for Governor of Iowa. He shares his journey as a sixth-generation Iowan, businessman, and farmer, his experience running a statewide campaign, and his vision for the future of Iowa.
The AREA Podcast is presented by Flynn Wright - https://www.flynnwright.com
On AREA Podcast episode #028, we’re joined by Jamie Pollard, Endowed Cyclone Director of Athletics at Iowa State University. He reflects on 21 years of leadership at Iowa State, the transformation of Cyclone athletics, his decision to retire, the vision behind CyTown and the future of Iowa State Athletics.
The AREA Podcast is presented by Flynn Wright - https://www.fly...
On AREA Podcast episode #027, we’re joined by NASCAR driver Carson Ware and Andrew Allen, President & CEO of YSS, as they share the story behind the “Before It Becomes More” campaign. They discuss Ware’s journey through addiction and recovery, the importance of reducing stigma, and how he's using his NASCAR platform to encourage others to seek help.
On AREA Podcast episode #026, we’re joined by Nicole Romey, owner of Bold Dance by Peach. She shares her journey from lifelong dancer to entrepreneur, how she built a studio centered on confidence and belonging, and why dance is about much more than performance. It’s about developing skills that last a lifetime.
The AREA Podcast is presented by Flynn Wright - htt...
On AREA Podcast #025, we're joined by Kent Rotert, Vice President at Colorbiotics. He shares his journey helping build the company into an industry leader, how Colorbiotics has grown through multiple ownership transitions, and why innovation and customer focus continue to drive its success from Ames to markets around the world.
The AREA Podcast is presented by Flynn Wright - https://www.flynnwright.com Iowa State University Researc...
On AREA Podcast episode #024, we’re joined by Grace Larkey, Community Affairs Advisor at Chevron. Grace shares her journey from a northwest Iowa farm to renewable energy communications, how community involvement has shaped her career, and why mentorship, relationships, and regional partnerships are important to the future of the Ames region.
On AREA Podcast episode #023, we’re joined by Paul Shirley, former Iowa State Cyclone basketball player turned author. He shares his journey as a professional basketball player across the NBA and overseas, his transition into writing, and how his work today helps individuals and teams build better habits, find focus, and create more meaningful work.
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 - ht...
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:/...
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 - ...
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.flynnwr...
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.flyn...
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