Winning Strategies for Authentic Connections

OUTdrive episode 224 with Shannon McCarthy

OUTdrive Episode 224 with Shannon McCarthy Reaching rural audiences requires a tailored approach. Dr. Shannon McCarthy, Associate Professor of Marketing at the University of Central Missouri, brings us a unique perspective, having lived on both coasts and in the Midwest. She highlights that while there are differences between urban and rural America, people’s core desires…

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Chatting with AI

OUTdrive episode 223 with AI-dilene

OUTdrive Episode 223 with AI-dilene This week’s episode of OUTdrive features a conversation unlike any we’ve had before. Cliff sits down with an unexpected guest—a chatbot named AI-dilene! Together, they dive headfirst into how artificial intelligence is reshaping the world of marketing. Listeners get an inside look at how AI functions, what it can offer…

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Leveraging Digital Media Strategies

OUTdrive episode 222 with Rachel Hernandez

OUTdrive Episode 222 with Rachel Hernandez The landscape of digital media is evolving, and AI is at the forefront. In this episode, Rachel Hernandez, Director of Marketing at Next Net Media, discusses the integration of AI in marketing strategies. While some are apprehensive about these changes, Rachel views them as opportunities for growth and innovation.…

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The Art of Relationship-Driven Marketing

OUTdrive episode 221 with Josie Gregory

OUTdrive Episode 221 with Josie Gregory Have you ever wondered what it takes to be an account executive at a marketing agency in rural America? Josie Gregory, the newest account executive at Callis, breaks it down in our latest episode. From communication and strategy to research and project management, the role involves wearing multiple hats.…

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Getting Started Right

OUTdrive episode 220 with Lilly Garrett

OUTdrive Episode 220 with Lilly Garrett To truly thrive, startups must prioritize validation over assumptions—driving their success with real data instead of guesswork. Lilly Garrett, a marketing strategist based in London and co-founder of MAXIA Marketing, understands the importance of validating product ideas and establishing strong marketing foundations. Lilly began her entrepreneurial path at 19,…

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Authentic Marketing is Key

OUTdrive episode 219 with Megan Elsey

OUTdrive Episode 219 with Megan Elsey Good marketing isn’t just about crafting the perfect campaign—it’s about building genuine relationships and maintaining transparency with your audience in a competitive landscape. Authenticity is key! Megan Elsey, Director of Marketing & PR at MJE and MJE Livestock Equipment, emphasizes the importance of genuine content over polished productions. In…

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The Three-Legged Stool of Marketing

OUTdrive Episode 218 with Brad Grupe

OUTdrive Episode 218 with Brad Grupe Ever heard of the “three-legged stool” of marketing? Brad Grupe, owner and broker agent for Town and Country Insurance, uses this metaphor to describe the balance needed between marketing, client relationships and community service. Effective marketing requires a deep understanding of consumer behavior and strategic thinking, especially in industries…

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The Power of Storytelling

OUTdrive episode 217 with Bing Schimmelpfenning

OUTdrive Episode 217 with Bing Schimmelpfenning By leveraging storytelling, embracing modern marketing tools, and fostering collaboration, rural businesses and organizations can thrive in a changing economic landscape. Bing Schimmelpfenning, the executive director of the Harrisonville Chamber of Commerce, emphasizes that effective marketing is all about telling your story—whether it’s about a product, service, or personal…

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Slam Dunking Social Media

OUTdrive episode 216 with Ryan Anderson

OUTdrive Episode 216 with Ryan Anderson From demanding time commitments to the need to think quickly on your feet, promoting sporting events can be a whirlwind. Ryan Anderson, Assistant Athletic Director for Communications at the University of Central Missouri (UCM), provides an inside look into sports marketing during our latest episode. Utilizing traditional advertising and…

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Fair, Family & Fun

OUTdrive Episode 215 with Paul Beykirch

OUTdrive Episode 215 with Paul Beykirch You probably know that the Missouri State Fair draws thousands of people from across the Midwest each year. To some, it may seem like the fair just happens, when actually, a lot goes into it. One of those people who help make it happen is Paul Beykirch, president of…

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The Best Hidden Gems of Sedalia

OUTdrive Episode 214 with Carolyn Crooker, Kyle Herrick and Rick Yeager

OUTdrive Episode 214 with Carolyn Crooker, Kyle Herrick and Rick Yeager Tourism is a powerful driver for local economies, and Sedalia is no exception. The Sedalia Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) is committed to showcasing our city’s unique offerings. Joining us today are Carolyn Crooker, Kyle Herrick and Rick Yeager from the Sedalia CVB to…

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Hoops, Heartland, and Heroes

OUTdrive Episode 213 with Kim Anderson

OUTdrive Episode 213 with Kim Anderson Kim Anderson’s journey from rural America to professional athletics and coaching paints a vivid picture of the evolving landscape of college sports, the influence of marketing, and the distinct characteristics of rural communities. Kim’s roots in rural America, shaped by his father’s role as a basketball coach, laid the…

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Building a Foundation for the Future

OUTdrive episode 212 with Karri Wilson

OUTdrive Episode 212 with Karri Wilson Karri Wilson’s story is deeply rooted in the agricultural lifestyle of rural America. Growing up on a farm near the Missouri State Fairgrounds in Sedalia, Karri developed a love for horses and a strong work ethic that has shaped her personal and professional life. Her background in social work…

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The Magic of the Missouri State Fair

OUTdrive episode 211 with Kari Mergen

OUTdrive Episode 211 with Kari Mergen Ever wondered what goes into creating an unforgettable fair experience? Kari Mergen, the Marketing Director of the Missouri State Fair, has been at the helm for a decade, carefully balancing between tradition and innovation. Her meticulous organization and flexibility ensure that every year is better than the last for…

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Family Physicians in Rural America

OUTdrive episode 210 with Dr. Levi Harris

OUTdrive Episode 210 with Dr. Levi Harris Dr. Levi Harris began his journey into medicine in southwest Missouri with an early exposure to the field while working in a local veterinary clinic. This experience planted the seeds for his future career of caring for people as a medical doctor as he witnessed firsthand the impact…

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Unique Skill Set Drives Digital Performance

OUTdrive epsiode 209 with Andrew Stallcup

OUTdrive Episode 209 with Andrew Stallcup Andrew Stallcup, a digital marketing strategist at Callis, has a unique background for his role with our marketing agency. After serving in the military working in psychological operations (code word: marketing), Andrew further developed his skill set to evolve into a strategist focusing on the business side of digital.…

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Building Success from the Ground Up

OUTdrive episode 207 with Tim Kondratyuk

OUTdrive Episode 208 with Tim Kondratyuk Tim Kondratyuk’s story is a classic narrative of American determination, tracing his roots back to Ukrainian immigrant parents and a childhood on a Missouri farm. As the eldest of nine, Tim’s early life was defined by hard work and resilience, qualities that have served him well in his entrepreneurial…

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Virtual Team Building with a Twist

OUTdrive Episode 207 with Mike Cavers

OUTdrive Episode 207 with Mike Cavers As the creative director of Outback Team Building and Training, Mike Cavers’s journey began in Ottawa, Canada, where his love for entertainment took root. His early years were marked by a natural talent for engaging audiences, which he cultivated through lead roles in high school plays and further developed…

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Lights, Camera, Marketing

OUTdrive episode 206 with Nicholas Harrison

OUTdrive Episode 206 with Nicholas Harrison Nicholas Harrison, a Canadian-born author, actor, and self-proclaimed Jedi, has led an extraordinary life that intertwines with the world of entertainment and creativity. With a Ph.D. in film and theater history, Nick’s career spans 35 years, covering various roles from a fight director and stunt performer to a morning…

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The Art of Attracting Crowds

OUTdrive episode 205 with Gary Slater

OUTdrive Episode 205 with Gary Slater Ever wonder how the Missouri and Iowa State Fairs became such beloved events? According to Gary Slater, formerly the director of both fairs, “It’s all about vision and teamwork.” Gary’s insights into the art of drawing crowds to these agricultural, entertainment and community celebrations reveal a shared belief in…

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