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.

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Join Show Me MO Success host Luke Dietterle as he speaks with MU Extension Field Specialist Mistti Ritter and MU Extension Digital Ambassador Steve Glauber as they discuss the impact of MU Extension's Digital Ambassador program in Hillsboro, MO as part of MU Extension's Broadband Initiative.   We discover how Steve's community has benefitted from Steve's knowledge and communication of the Digital Ambassador program. 

Join host Luke Dieterle in this episode of Show Me Most Success as we explore the inspiring story of the Missouri Health Back-to-School Community Fair. Featuring guests Carol Boe Thompson and Jeanette Berkley-Patton from UMKC School of Medicine, and Elena Stevenson from MU Extension, we discuss how this collaborative event promotes holistic health and school readiness. Discover how partnerships with organizations like Our Healthy Jackson County and Habitat for Humanity provide essential health services, educational resources, and community support. Tune in to learn about the fair's impact on Jackson County and gain insights into organizing similar community events.

Join Show Me MO Success host Luke Dietterle as he discusses the Sermon Anderson mural at the Englewood Arts Center in Independence, Missouri.  The mural is a vibrant tribute to Roger T. Sermon Jr. and Mitch Anderson, two influential figures in the city's history. Spearheaded by Tammy Parsons and Thad McCullough of West End Connection, this project aims to preserve LGBTQ+ history and honor the duo's contributions. With support from MU Extension, which connected the community to higher education resources, and the creative involvement of UMKC students, the mural came to life through a collaborative effort with Englewood Arts. This episode of Show Me Mo' Success delves into the mural's creation, the challenges faced, and the broader impact of community arts projects in fostering belonging and preserving cultural legacies. It highlights the power of community-driven art in shaping local identity and ensuring that the stories of figures like Sermon and Anderson continue to inspire and resonate within the community.

Join host Luke Dietterle as he chats with Ryan Foster, Veteran and graduate of the Military Veteran Training for Sustainable Urban Farming Initiatives. Listen in as they discuss how Ryan became involved with the program and is now applying knowledge gained through the program on his own farm.

We also hear from Dr. Juan Cabrera-Garcia, Assistant Research Professor at University of Missouri-Kansas City, and State Vegetable Specialist at MU Extension, on his experience teaching with the program. 

Join host Luke Dietterle as he chats with James Tiffany, Veteran and graduate of Heroes to Hives, a program that seeks to address wellness of veterans through free professional training and community development centered around beekeeping.

We also hear from MU Extension Labor and Workforce Development specialist Dr. Amy Patillo on her experience assisting with Heroes to Hives.

Join guest host Mike Quinata as he chats with Bucky Pescaglia, Fayette, MO resident and CEO of the multi-generational company MOPAC Lumber. Listen in as they discuss how Bucky’s family formed MOPAC Lumber over 40 years ago, and how Bucky is now working to pass down the company.

We also hear from Missouri SBDC Business Counselor Paul Zacharias on how he helped Bucky navigate the succession planning process.