ICTPODCAST

"Energy makes life better."  -Warren Martin, Executive Director

Energy is a requirement for humans to reach our full potential.  Our world needs reliable energy.  We need energy production to meet the growing demand of energy consumption.  All resources are necessary.  Artificial limitations restrictions on energy production coupled with artificial promotion of alternative energy methods is causing harm to humanity.  And, as it is with restrictive government mandates, those at the bottom of the socio-economic status suffer gravely.  We are a world in need of expanded energy production.

"Think of us as the Tinder for Whiskey drinkers."

-Dave Cunningham, Founder Whiskey Shelf & Flint Hills Group

Dave is one of my favorite people in technology and software development.  He Founded Flint Hills Group to create custom software solutions for clients all over the world.  And this venture is his first consumer app and he is having so much fun with it.  The Whiskey community loves their product.  Dave made it even more fun by creating Whiskey Shelf and there are so many features that increase enjoyment of whiskey drinking and sharing.  

"Every time we work with a new client we ask them for their inspiration."

-Emma Schlittenhardt, Founder Hardt Studio

It is a good idea when starting a business to make sure it is something you are good at... and if it is also your passion, then nothing can hold you back.

Emma Schlittenhardt took her passion and built on it, pursuing an Architectural Degree, building businesses that compliment each other and collaborating with others to create beautiful Commercial and Residential experiences.  

"There are two things we can control, our effort and our attitude."

-Lily Wu, candidate for Wichita Mayor

The right to Vote is fundamental to the fabric of our democratic Republic.  It also shows a commitment to active citizenship.  Lily Wu talks with us about the importance of civic engagement and shares what she has learned talking with Wichitans during her campaign.  I am grateful for her resilience, positive attitude and commitment to listening to people so she can take informed action.

And VOTE!

"Wow, I am getting paid for this?  This is my job..."  -Jacob O'Connor

Discipline.  Hustle. Take Action.

Jacob's young career and life have been defined by his "willingness to start" and focussed high level of effort.

Wichita recruited him.  The Wichita entrepreneurial community supported him.  NXTUS identified his talent.  And now, together, they focus on Capital, Customers and Collaboration.

"Very foolish people think that professional wrestling is totally real."

-Eric Weinstein

"I think it is crucially important for the criminal justice system to be transparent."  -Director Mattivi

Tony's courage to lead created his greatest opportunity for leadership. 

Tony Mattivi became the 13th Director of the KBI in 2023; appointed by Attorney General Kris Kobach.  It was a phenomenal appointment by our Attorney General.  The nature of our political system can lead to wonderful outcomes when the best people have the courage to participate and then contribute.

The State of Kansas is the example of great Leadership in criminal justice.  The State of Kansas faces significant threats from fentanyl to child trafficking -- Kansans need to know that we have the right team to face our biggest challenges.  

I am grateful to share this conversation with KBI Director Mattivi.

Now, "Go make a difference."

"An apology email [to my Team] was the initiation to a culture of change..."  -Alex Harb

Entrepreneurs tell the story in the context of their business, their team, their customer, their unshakable belief in their mission.  And excuses rarely seep into the conversation-- for the best entrepreneurs.  

Alex Harb thinks within his sphere of influence:  what action does he need to take to give his people and organizations the best tools to succeed?

He answers that question with the "never ending conversation about the rules of the game."

Understanding how this Entrepreneur thinks and acts will give you inspiration to take action in your own life.

"Not everyone knows how to turn a dollar into value for their cause." -Pete Najera

The United Way of the Plains is 100 years old.  This is an organization that has been effective removing barriers to help those who need a hand up with Basic Needs, Health, Education and Financial Stability.

Pete Najera applies leadership to this benevolent non-profit with a history of diverse positions in armed forces, government and for-profit private business. Improving opportunities for people means removing obstacles so people and organizations can pursue a solution. 

United Way of the Plains plays a crucial role in South Central Kansas.  Pete Najera continues to bring unique ideas and action so people can lead better lives and non-profits can earn greater access to those that need their services.

"...it hit Wichita hard in 2022..." -Sheriff Easter

We have been battling drugs flooding into our country across the southern border for decades. The war on drugs persists and we are losing. The call to action today is much scarier. It’s not just about illicit drug use or recreational drug use. Fentanyl kills people. Fentanyl knows no boundaries. Fentanyl kills quick. It is poisoning people to death.  Drug cartels in Mexico are manufacturing millions and millions of pills to look just like common pharmaceutical drugs that we use every day. Even worse they manufacture pills that have pastel colors to look like skittles or like the vitamins that your children take.

Sheriff, Jeff Easter is facing this problem head on every day. And he needs our help. This is a much more evil and severe problem and we need all people to help with the solution. Sedgwick county has a number of great leaders that are working on this and we all need to do our part. I thank sheriff Easter for his time and attention, sharing with us how we can help.