Community Narrative

In this episode of Community Narrative, Dé talks with Candace Wright, CEO of Blue Valley Technologies and a Marysville native. Candace shares her journey from CPA to CEO and what it has been like leading a technology company in rural Kansas.They talk about the importance of fiber internet, the challenges of connecting rural communities, cybersecurity, and Blue Valley’s efforts to introduce young people to careers in technology. Candace also shares why she chose to return to Marysville, what she hopes young people see when they look at rural Kansas, and the role that faith, kindness, and joy play in her approach to leadership.

Check out Blue Valley's website at https://bluevalley.net/, and their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/bluevalleytechnologies.

For questions about the podcast or guest suggestions, contact Dé at [email protected].

What does wildlife conservation look like when most of the land is privately owned? In this episode of Community Narrative, Dé talks with Megan Smith, a Wildlife Biologist for Private Lands with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks. Megan explains the Habitat First and Walk-In Hunting Access programs, how private landowners can improve habitat, and how hunters from across the country contribute to local communities like Marshall County.

Megan also shares her journey into wildlife biology, some of Kansas’s unique wildlife and outdoor spaces, conservation success stories, and why habitat is so important—not just for wildlife, but for agriculture, healthy soil, and future generations.
Whether you hunt, own land, enjoy hiking and birdwatching, or simply want to know more about the wildlife around us, this conversation offers plenty to discover about conservation in Kansas.

To find out more about the programs that were discussed, access www.ksoutdoors.org. or contact Megan at [email protected].

For questions about the podcast or guest suggestions, contact Dé at [email protected].

What does it really mean to serve and protect a rural community?

In this episode of Community Narrative, host Dé sits down with Marshall County Sheriff Tim Ackerman for a conversation about his journey from local jailer to elected sheriff, his lifelong commitment to public service, and the realities of law enforcement in a rural county.

Sheriff Ackerman shares what inspired him to pursue a career in law enforcement, how the role of sheriff extends far beyond responding to emergencies, and the challenges his office faces—from mental health concerns and staffing to managing the county jail and serving nearly 900 square miles of Marshall County. He also discusses the importance of integrity, community partnerships, and the trust between law enforcement and the people they serve.

Along the way, listeners will hear about the rewards of helping others during difficult moments, and the deep roots Sheriff Ackerman's family has in the history of Marysville. Whether you're interested in law enforcement, local history, or simply getting to know the people who serve our community, this episode offers an honest and insightful look behind the badge.

For more about the sheriff's office, go to https://ks283.cichosting.com/MAIN/elected-officials/sheriff, or check out their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/p/Marshall-County-Sheriffs-Office-61553444720197/

For guest suggestions and questions about our podcast, email Dé at ⁠[email protected].

What begins as opening your home for a school year can become a lifelong connection that spans continents and generations.

In this episode of Community Narrative, host Dé sits down with Carol Duerksen, a longtime host parent, exchange program coach, and state coordinator who has spent more than 30 years helping students and families experience the life-changing power of cultural exchange. Together, they discuss the joys and challenges of hosting, the friendships that last a lifetime, and the remarkable story of Carol hosting the daughter of a student she welcomed into her home more than 30 years ago.

As a former exchange student from Brazil, Dé also shares her own memories of arriving in the United States and reflects on how one year abroad can shape an entire life. From funny cultural misunderstandings and unforgettable airport goodbyes to the broader impact of building relationships across borders, this conversation is a heartfelt reminder that the world becomes a little smaller—and a little kinder—when we take the time to know one another.

If you've ever considered hosting an exchange student, studied abroad yourself, or simply enjoy stories about human connection, this is an episode you won't want to miss. 

Interested in hosting an exchange student? Call 800-941-3738 or visit sharesouthwest.org.

For guest suggestions and questions about our podcast, email Dé at [email protected].

What does it take to keep fuel moving across rural Kansas? In this episode of Community Narrative, Dé sits down with Chad Kramer, third-generation owner and president of Kramer Oil,to talk about family business, the fuel industry, and the challenges of serving small communities in a constantly changing world.

Chad shares memories of growing up alongside his dad in the business, how Kramer Oil expanded over the years, and what really goes into getting fuel from the refinery to the pump.The conversation also dives into fuel prices, technology, employee challenges after COVID, and the future of the industry as electric vehicles, hybrids, and renewable fuels continue to evolve.

They also discuss the importance of staying rooted in rural Kansas, the role local fuel companies play in small towns, and why organizations like Fuel True help businesses work together to advocate for their communities and industry.

From small-town values to the future of energy, this episode offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at an industry most of us depend on every day—but rarely think about.

Check out Kramer Oil’s official Facebookpage at https://www.facebook.com/krameroil

For guest suggestions and questionsabout our podcast, email Dé at [email protected]

In this episode of Community Narrative, Dé sits down with Courtney Porter—manager of the Marysville Aquatic Center and Assistant Professor of Management and Ethics at Manhattan Christian College.

Courtney shares how her work at the pool and in the classroom are more connected than they might seem, both rooted in building trust, creating safe environments, and helping people grow into who they’re meant to be. From leading a team of more than 30 lifeguards to mentoring college students, she offers a thoughtful and honest look at leadership in action.

The conversation explores what it means to be an authentic, wholehearted leader, why vulnerability is often the biggest barrier to growth, and how purpose evolves over time. Courtney also opens up about discovering her “why,” the role of faith in her life, and the importance of mentorship, curiosity, and continuous learning.

You’ll also hear real-life examples of leadership challenges—from navigating community feedback to creating more inclusive spaces—and why those moments matter. Along the way, Courtney reflects on motherhood, small-town community impact, and how everyday places like pools, schools, and libraries help shape future leaders.

Whether you’re leading others or simply trying to better understand yourself, this episode is a meaningful reminder that leadership starts with showing up fully—right where you are.

Check out MAC’s official Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/MarysvilleAquaticCenter

For guest suggestions and questions about our podcast, email Dé at [email protected]

In this episode of Community Narrative, Dé sits down with Susie Latta, Marshall County’s longtime Extension Agent. Susie shares how she first came to the area more than 30 years ago and explains the mission of Extension—bringing research-based information from Kansas State University to local communities.

From helping residents navigate Medicare and prepare taxes to supporting 4-H youth programs and community initiatives, Susie discusses the many ways the Extension office serves Marshall County. She also reflects on memorable programs she’s led over the years, the importance of hands-on learning, and how simple experiences -like making bread from scratch- can leave a lasting impact on young people.

Throughout the conversation, Susie highlights the value of community involvement, volunteerism, and partnerships that help rural communities thrive. She also shares insights about current community needs and how local residents can get involved with Extension programs and services.

Contact information for the Marshall County Extension Office:

785-562-3531

1201 Broadway (basement)

Marysville, KS 66508

⁠ [email protected]

https://www.marshall.k-state.edu/

For guest suggestions and questions about our podcast, email Dé at [email protected]

When emergencies happen in Marshall County, there’s a small but mighty team working behind the scenes long before the sirens sound.

In this episode, Dé talks with Sara Naaf, Assistant Director of the Marshall County Office of Emergency Management, about what emergency management really looks like at the local level. From wildfire coordination and hazardous materials to severe weather alerts, cybersecurity concerns, and large-scale training exercises, Sara shares how her office supports first responders and connects the county to state and federal resources.

You’ll learn practical steps every household can take, why weather radios still matter, how Everbridge alerts work, and why practicing a family emergency plan can reduce panic when it matters most. Sara also discusses volunteer opportunities, the early development of a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), and how everyday skills can make a real difference during a crisis.

This conversation is both informative and encouraging — a reminder that preparation brings peace of mind, and that Marshall County’s greatest strength is its willingness to work together.

Don’t forget to sign up for Everbridge alerts and follow Marshall County Emergency Management on social media to stay connected and prepared.

Contact information for the Marshall County Office of Emergency Management:

785-562-4550

1201 Broadway

Marysville, KS 66508

⁠ [email protected] ⁠

https://ks283.cichosting.com/main/departments/emergency-management

For guest suggestions and questions about our podcast, email Dé at [email protected]

If you’ve ever opened your property valuation notice and wondered how that number was decided—or what to do if something doesn’t look right—this episode is for you.

In this episode of Community Narrative, Dé sits down with Tami Antoine, Marshall County Appraiser, to demystify how property values are determined and what the appraiser’s office actually does behind the scenes. Tami explains the different appraisal methods used for homes, farmland, and businesses, clears up common misconceptions about property taxes, and shares what local market trends have looked like in recent years. They also walk through the appeal process step by step, discuss what documentation is most helpful if you have questions about your value, and talk about recent legislative changes affecting personal property. Along the way, Tami highlights the importance of transparency, communication, and public service—and why her office encourages residents to ask questions.

Whether you’re a homeowner, a farmer, or simply curious about how property values impact schools, roads, and local services, this conversation offers clarity, context, and practical guidance for Marshall County residents.

Contact information for the Marshall County Appraiser's Office:

785-562-3301

1201 Broadway, #B6

Marysville, KS 66508[email protected]

For guest suggestions and questions about our podcast, email Dé at [email protected].

In this episode of Community Narrative, Dé talks with Amy Burr, Program Director for Meadowlark Hospice, about the heart of hospice care in North Central Kansas. Amy shares the history and mission of Meadowlark Hospice, how they serve six rural counties, and what hospice care truly offers patients and families facing a life-limiting illness.

Throughout the conversation, Amy addresses common misconceptions about hospice, explains how care adapts to homes and facilities, and highlights the vital role of volunteers and interdisciplinary care teams. She also reflects on what hospice work teaches about patience, grief, family dynamics, and the importance of meeting people exactly where they are.

Amy discusses the challenges of complicated grief, the importance of caring for caregivers, and how community support makes a meaningful difference in rural hospice care. This episode offers an honest, compassionate look at end-of-life care and the power of presence, planning, and community.

Interested in volunteering with Meadowlark Hospice? Call 785-632-2225 to learn more.

For guest suggestions and questions about our podcast, email Dé at [email protected].