Connecting Kansas City

Connecting Kansas City

By Rachel Leigh KilmerSociety & CulturePersonal Journals
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Connecting Kansas City episodes

  • Connecting Through Taylor Swift - Building Community at KU

    Explore the vibrant world of the KU Taylor Swift Society on this episode of Connecting Kansas City. Host Rachel Kilmer dives into an inspiring conversation with Maya Torres, president of the 500-member strong society, to uncover how shared fandom creates lasting community bonds.


    From bracelet-making nights to winter proms, learn how this group fosters inclusivity, connection, and celebration. Plus, hear insights on how Taylor Swift's cultural impact transcends music and creates a 'third space' for today's generation.


    Whether you're a lifelong Swiftie or just curious about how communities like these thrive, this episode is packed with heartwarming stories, fun anecdotes, and thoughtful analysis. Connect with Maya and the KU Swift Society on Instagram for more updates.


    Rachel Kilmer is a Realtor leading the Rach the Realtor Group at ReeceNichols Lee's Summit. Licensed in both Kansas and Missouri, Rachel is passionate about exploring Kansas City with her clients until they find the right corner of the Metro to call home


    Rachel Kilmer (816) 673-9723

    ReeceNichols Lee's Summit 222 SW Main St LSMO 64063

    816-524-7272

    23 min
  • How Kansas City Keiki is Redefining Baby Gear with Local Pride

    Discover the story behind Kansas City Keiki, a unique baby and toddler brand blending local sports pride with stylish and practical designs.


    Chloe Hartstack, the visionary founder and Hawaii transplant, shares how her passion for Kansas City sports and culture inspired her to create bamboo baby gear that’s both adorable and durable.


    From starting as a mom's side project to partnering with local influencers and even catching the eye of Chiefs families, this episode of Connecting Kansas City dives into her entrepreneurial journey, challenges, and future plans. Tune in for heartfelt stories, marketing insights, and the city pride that drives her success!


    Rachel Kilmer is a Realtor leading the Rach the Realtor Group at ReeceNichols Lee's Summit. Licensed in both Kansas and Missouri, Rachel is passionate about exploring Kansas City with her clients until they find the right corner of the Metro to call home


    Rachel Kilmer (816) 673-9723

    ReeceNichols Lee's Summit 222 SW Main St LSMO 64063

    816-524-7272

    27 min
  • Kansas City’s Charcuterie Queen: Carrie Gangel’s Story

    Meet Kansas City’s Charcuterie Queen, Carrie Gangel! In this episode of 'Connecting Kansas City,' host Rachel Kilmer dives into Carrie’s inspiring journey from creating her first grazing board to becoming one of KC’s most sought-after charcuterie experts.


    Discover how Carrie balances artistry, entrepreneurship, and family life while crafting stunning spreads for events like the American Royal and Chiefs owner’s suite. Learn her tips for hosting unforgettable gatherings, the secrets to mastering charcuterie, and how her passion for food transformed into a thriving business.


    📧 Contact Carrie: [email protected]

    🌐 Visit Her Website: www.charcuteriebycarrie.com

    📱 Follow on Instagram: @CharcuteriebyCarrie

    📘 Facebook: Charcuterie by Carrie


    Don’t miss this deliciously inspiring episode about food, family, and Kansas City’s vibrant entrepreneurial spirit. Subscribe for more!


    Rachel Kilmer is a Realtor leading the Rach the Realtor Group at ReeceNichols Lee's Summit. Licensed in both Kansas and Missouri, Rachel is passionate about exploring Kansas City with her clients until they find the right corner of the Metro to call home


    Rachel Kilmer (816) 673-9723

    ReeceNichols Lee's Summit 222 SW Main St LSMO 64063

    816-524-7272


    #KansasCity #CharcuterieByCarrie #ConnectingKC #entrepreneurship

    22 min
  • Living the Ultimate Kansas City Bucket List with Mindy Hargesheimer

    What if every day felt like an adventure? That’s the life Mindy Hargesheimer has created with Kansas City Bucket List, where she uncovers the best hidden gems and experiences KC has to offer.


    In this episode of Connecting Kansas City, Mindy shares how her passion for exploration and storytelling turned into a thriving platform that inspires locals and visitors alike. From must-visit dining spots to unforgettable cultural events, she reveals her secrets for making the most of Kansas City while staying true to her mantra: “Every Day Is On My Bucket List.”


    Join us for an inspiring conversation about balancing creativity with family life, adapting to social media trends, and why Mindy believes the Midwest is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. Follow her adventures on Instagram at Kansas City Bucket List and learn how to bring a little more adventure to your own life!


    Rachel Kilmer is a Realtor leading the Rach the Realtor Group at ReeceNichols Lee's Summit. Licensed in both Kansas and Missouri, Rachel is passionate about exploring Kansas City with her clients until they find the right corner of the Metro to call home


    Rachel Kilmer (816) 673-9723

    ReeceNichols Lee's Summit 222 SW Main St LSMO 64063

    816-524-7272

    25 min
  • Hayley Lewis From Kansas City Roots to ESPN Stardom

    In this episode of "Connecting KC," host Rachel Kilmer sits down with the talented Hayley Lewis, who has quickly risen from Kansas City sports anchor to a national TV presence. Hayley shares her inspiring journey of returning to her hometown in 2019 as the weekend sports anchor for KSHB 41 and, in the summer of 2023, making her dream come true by transitioning to freelancing for major networks like ESPN and Bleacher Report.


    Born and raised in Missouri, Hayley grew up immersed in the world of football, thanks to her father, a head coach, and her brother, a D-1 athlete. With a deep love for sports, she moved from local news in Eugene, Oregon, and Nashville, Tennessee, to covering the Kansas City Chiefs for the Kansas City Sports Network with her podcast, "Chiefs News Daily."


    Join us as Hayley discusses the challenges and triumphs of freelancing in sports media, her experiences reporting on the Chiefs’ Super Bowl journey, and how her upbringing shaped her unique perspective on sports journalism. Whether you’re interested in Kansas City’s vibrant sports scene or looking for insights into breaking into national sports media, this episode is packed with value.


    Rachel Kilmer is a Realtor leading the Rach the Realtor Group at ReeceNichols Lee's Summit. Licensed in both Kansas and Missouri, Rachel is passionate about exploring Kansas City with her clients until they find the right corner of the Metro to call home


    Rachel Kilmer (816) 673-9723

    ReeceNichols Lee's Summit 222 SW Main St LSMO 64063

    816-524-7272

    28 min
  • Writing, Publishing, and Building a Book Community Bianca Miller's Story

    Ever wondered what it takes to turn a dream of writing into a published novel? In this episode of "Connecting KC," author Bianca Miller reveals her path to launching her debut romance novel, Diving In, on February 29, 2024.


    Tune in as Bianca opens up about the creative process behind Diving In, the challenges and triumphs of self-publishing, and the incredible community she’s built on social media. Bianca also reveals how her personal life and travels inspired the characters and settings in her work, bringing a magic touch to her storytelling that transports readers. Beyond writing, she talks about her life in Kansas with her husband, son, and fur pup Stella Mae, along with her love for baking and family adventures.


    Whether you’re a budding author, a lover of romance fiction, or someone curious about the realities of self-publishing, this episode offers a heartfelt look into the journey of a debut author who’s making her mark. Don’t miss Bianca’s insights and inspiration!


    Rachel Kilmer is a Realtor leading the Rach the Realtor Group at ReeceNichols Lee's Summit. Licensed in both Kansas and Missouri, Rachel is passionate about exploring Kansas City with her clients until they find the right corner of the Metro to call home


    Rachel Kilmer (816) 673-9723

    ReeceNichols Lee's Summit 222 SW Main St LSMO 64063

    816-524-7272

    26 min
  • Holistic Healing in Blue Springs How Yoga and Reiki Can Transform Your Life

    Ever wondered how energy healing could transform your life? Join us as we explore holistic healing in Blue Springs, where ancient practices meet modern wellness. In this episode, we dive deep into the benefits of Reiki, yoga, and alternative healing therapies designed to balance both mind and body.

    Our guest, Rachel Watkins, shares her journey from a career in education to becoming a certified health coach and alternative healing practitioner. She reveals how these practices, including the power of the MenlaScan scan technology, help her clients reconnect with their true selves. Discover how tools like the BioMat and mind-body connection therapies go beyond typical wellness routines, empowering individuals to regain their energy flow and find inner harmony.
    If you're curious about yoga for healing, meditation classes, or alternative therapies in Kansas City, this episode has something for you. From managing stress naturally to understanding the role of energy in physical health, we uncover the transformative impact of these holistic practices. Tune in to learn how small shifts in energy can lead to big changes in well-being.
    Rachel Kilmer is a Realtor leading the Rach the Realtor Group at ReeceNichols Lee's Summit. Licensed in both Kansas and Missouri, Rachel is passionate about exploring Kansas City with her clients until they find the right corner of the Metro to call home
    Rachel Kilmer (816) 673-9723
    ReeceNichols Lee's Summit 222 SW Main St LSMO 64063
    816-524-7272

    29 min
  • Building a Winning Brand Strategy with Hello Big Idea

    In this episode of Connecting Kansas City, we dive deep into the art of brand building with Ashley Mahoney, founder of Hello Big Idea. Ashley shares her journey of creating a successful brand strategy that has propelled her agency to stand out in the crowded Kansas City market. We explore the essential elements of personal branding, and how businesses can leverage creativity to craft a unique identity that resonates with their audience.


    We’ll also discuss the importance of brand storytelling and how small businesses can benefit from implementing 2024 marketing trends, including the strategic use of promotional products and AI tools for marketing. Whether you're an entrepreneur facing branding challenges or a business owner looking to refresh your brand, this episode offers valuable insights into building a winning strategy.


    Tune in to learn how to differentiate your brand, connect with your audience, and grow your business in today’s competitive landscape.


    Rachel Kilmer is a Realtor leading the Rach the Realtor Group at ReeceNichols Lee's Summit. Licensed in both Kansas and Missouri, Rachel is passionate about exploring Kansas City with her clients until they find the right corner of the Metro to call home


    Rachel Kilmer (816) 673-9723

    ReeceNichols Lee's Summit 222 SW Main St LSMO 64063

    816-524-7272

    26 min
  • Discover Kansas City’s Hidden Gems with Cowtown Tours A Local’s Guide to KC

    Join Rachel Kilmer on this episode of the Connecting KC podcast as she sits down with Laura Miller, owner of Cowtown Tours, to explore Kansas City’s hidden gems. From walking tours to bus tours, Laura has been guiding locals and visitors alike through the heart of KC since 2020. Learn how Kansas City’s vibrant history, booming food scene, and unique attractions are drawing attention on a national level.


    In this episode, Laura shares how Cowtown Tours evolved to offer some of the best walking tours in the city, from historic neighborhoods to famous cultural sites. You’ll hear insights into why Kansas City’s tourism is growing, how locals can rediscover their hometown, and why out-of-towners are flocking to explore KC’s charm.


    Whether you’re interested in Kansas City’s food scene, cultural hotspots like Union Station and the National WWI Museum, or want to know why KC is no longer “flyover country,” this episode is packed with tips for experiencing the city like a local. Don't miss this deep dive into why Kansas City is quickly becoming one of the country’s most exciting destinations for travelers.


    Listen now to discover how Cowtown Tours is leading the way in showcasing Kansas City’s best-kept secrets!


    Rachel Kilmer is a Realtor leading the Rach the Realtor Group at ReeceNichols Lee's Summit. Licensed in both Kansas and Missouri, Rachel is passionate about exploring Kansas City with her clients until they find the right corner of the Metro to call home


    Rachel Kilmer (816) 673-9723

    ReeceNichols Lee's Summit 222 SW Main St LSMO 64063

    816-524-7272

    26 min
  • Rock Island Bridge - Kansas City's First Entertainment District Over a River

    What if the next big entertainment hotspot in Kansas City isn’t on land, but on a bridge? In this episode of Connecting Kansas City, host Rachel Kilmer sits down with Jake Fesi, the engagement manager for the groundbreaking Rock Island Bridge project, to talk about Kansas City's first entertainment district over a river. This historic transformation promises to revitalize the Kansas River and create a unique destination that blends water recreation, event spaces, and local culture.


    Jake shares fascinating insights into the 120-year-old bridge’s history and the ambitious vision behind turning this industrial relic into a vibrant public space. From kayaking on the Kansas River to hosting weddings 60 feet above the water, the Rock Island Bridge will soon be the heart of Kansas City’s riverfront development. As Jake explains, this project isn’t just about entertainment—it’s about reigniting Kansas City’s connection to its rivers, bringing new life to the riverfront, and creating something truly one-of-a-kind.


    Tune in to discover how this bold infrastructure renewal project is positioning Kansas City as a destination for both locals and tourists alike, just in time for the 2026 World Cup.


    Rachel Kilmer is a Realtor leading the Rach the Realtor Group at ReeceNichols Lee's Summit. Licensed in both Kansas and Missouri, Rachel is passionate about exploring Kansas City with her clients until they find the right corner of the Metro to call home


    Rachel Kilmer (816) 673-9723

    ReeceNichols Lee's Summit 222 SW Main St LSMO 64063

    816-524-7272


    #RockIslandBridge

    #KansasCityRiverfront

    #EntertainmentDistrict

    26 min

About Connecting Kansas City

From the publisher's feed

Welcome to Connecting KC, the podcast that introduces you to all of the movers and shakers, interesting people, heartfelt stories, and funny quirks that make Kansas City your home. Join your host…