This episode explores how employers and community members can support individuals who are or have been justice-involved in finding meaningful employment. We discuss the challenges they face, the resilience and skills they bring, and the pathways that help them rebuild their lives while strengthening our communities.

This episode, host Luke Dietterle speaks with Elena Stephenson, field specialist in community development, and Rachelle Gardner-Roe, a fiber artist and poet, following up on our previous episode on the Dorothy Day Cabin almost two years ago! Rachelle Gardner-Roe describes what her experience was like as the inaugural artist in the Dorothy Day Cabin residency program, along with the stories of how that time sparked future creative inspiration for her. Elena Stephenson explains the work she did as one of the program’s organizers to create a space for local artists to create in a way they hadn't before, and how the program connects with the larger community through artistic action.

MU Extension podcasts: https://extension.missouri.edu/programs/podcasts

This episode, host Luke Dietterle speaks with Ashley Beard-Fosnow, Executive Director of the Missouri Humanities in Kansas City, and Matt Pezold, field specialist in labor and workforce development. Ashley Beard-Fosnow describes her current experience with humanities work and how she still uses the lessons from the Labor Studies program in her position, along with the hands-on perspectives she gained that have benefited her. Matt Pezold explains how he works as one of the program’s instructors to shape these courses to provide knowledge leaders can take into their communities, and how he sees these experiences change for every one of his students.

MU Extension podcasts: https://extension.missouri.edu/programs/podcasts

Labor Studies Certificate Program: https://www.umsl.edu/political-science/labor-studies/index.html

Labor and Workforce Development: https://extension.missouri.edu/counties/urban-west-region/labor-and-workforce-development

This episode, host Luke Dietterle speaks with Hillary Green, an immigration paralegal with Lathrop GPM in Kansas City, and Matt Pezold, field specialist in labor and workforce development. Hillary Green describes her experience as a law student balancing full-time work and responsibilities with her studies, and the way that MU Extension’s Labor Studies Certificate program provided courses that fit her needs. Matt Pezold explains how he works as one of the program’s instructors to shape these courses for the varied backgrounds of his students, and how the program evolves with the needs of current leaders.

MU Extension podcasts: https://extension.missouri.edu/programs/podcasts

Labor Studies Certificate Program: https://www.umsl.edu/political-science/labor-studies/index.html

Labor and Workforce Development: https://extension.missouri.edu/counties/urban-west-region/labor-and-workforce-development

This episode, host Luke Dietterle speaks with Kris Knutson, founder of Shot Bot LLC, and Kris Bockting with Missouri APEX Accelerator. Kris Knutson developed the programming and hardware design of Shot Bot’s mobile targeting system, an advanced system of targets to enhance firearm training for law enforcement. After realizing the potential for this product to serve police training practices, Shot Bot LLC crossed paths with Missouri APEX Accelerator in order to pursue federal opportunities. Kris Bockting explains some of the processes that Missouri APEX Accelerator aids small businesses with, including government contracting and proposal advising.

In this episode of Show Me MO Success, Luke Dietterle interviews Guy Renshaw of T&C Stainless and Becky Nace from the Mid-America Trade Adjustment Assistance Center (TAAC). TAAC helps businesses in Missouri, Iowa, Kansas, and Nebraska compete against foreign imports by improving operations and profitability. Guy’s company, T&C Stainless, manufactures stainless steel tanks for biotech and pharmaceutical industries. After joining in 2018, Guy sought TAAC’s help to enhance their operations. TAAC assisted with developing a federal petition for funding and creating a recovery strategy, including upgrading systems and employee training, with cost-sharing funding from the Economic Development Administration.

In this episode of Show Me Mo Success, host Luke Dietterle explores the entrepreneurial journey of Jonathan Johnson and Kellen Grantham, co-owners of Tee Time Entertainment in Webb City, MO and the Missouri Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Missouri Southern State University Director Katie Kelly. The podcast delves into how these young entrepreneurs developed their concept for a climate-controlled entertainment facility featuring golf, pickleball, a full bar, and restaurant. It highlights the crucial role played by Katie Kelly from the Missouri SBDC in guiding the entrepreneurs through their business development process, touching on the challenges faced and their innovative approach to combining different business models.

The episode also emphasizes the importance of community support, student involvement in real-world business projects, and networking for aspiring entrepreneurs. Jonathan and Kellen share valuable advice for those looking to start their own businesses, stressing the importance of perseverance and learning from failures. This inspiring conversation offers insights into turning entrepreneurial dreams into reality while showcasing the resources available through the Missouri SBDC and the power of determination, creativity, and collaboration in business development.

Join host Luke Dietterle as he chats with Angela Stephens, founder of Re-Focus The Creative Office, and Allen Waldo, a Missouri APEX Accelerator Specialist. Angela shares her journey of creating organizational tools, inspired by her son's struggles with ADHD. The episode highlights Refocus' impressive growth, reaching $500,000 in sales last year, and Angela's collaboration with the Missouri APEX Accelerator program. Listeners will learn about overcoming business challenges, the importance of certifications for government contracting, and the value of no-cost resources for small businesses. Angela's story showcases how passion, innovation, and community support can turn challenges into success, with her products now available in major retailers like Staples, Walmart, and CVS.

For Show Me MO Success listeners - use promo code MO22 for a 22% discount off for your first order.

www.time2refocus.com

@showmemosuccess