Flip This Town

The best downtown projects are the product of collaboration. In this week's episode, Ron and Kristi explore Ardmore, OK and the potential redevelopment of an 80,000 sq. ft. former elementary school. Old buildings need new ideas and this building has tons of potential - and numerous partners to make it a reality.

Downtown revitalization is a not about the efforts of one person, but rather a team of people with different talents committed to doing good in their community. In this episode, Ron and Kristi talk about finding your downtown heroes and how to assemble your own unstoppable superhero team.

Often times tragedies can make you stronger. As Ron's dear friend, India Lewis was in a battle for her life, the community of Siloam Springs and beyond stepped up in a big way. Local Creekside Taproom used their resources to raise money, raise awareness and raise the spirits of the Lewis family in a very beautiful way.

Over the last 10 years, the number of Farmers' Markets has been growing exponentially. No longer just another event , Farmers' Markets have become a staple in the fabric of downtown life. In this episode, Ron & Kristi discuss the phenomenon of Farmers' Markets and why they are important, both economically and for the quality of life of your community.

Restoring the heart of America is our mantra, but restoring the heart of a community in any country is a belief we work to make possible. In this episode, listen to Ron and Christina Drake talk about their passion for restoring the second oldest town in Jamaica, Port Maria. Using the same principles in the Caribbean as they do here at home, there is a beautiful story to be told.

It's amazing how quickly things can change when a community is inspired to look beyond what has always been and focus on what could be. Ron and Kristi discuss what's already happening in Watonga, OK and how they changed direction in just one week since Ron's 3-Day Consultation.

Imagine if you were starting your town over. You would likely be intentional in how you lead and guide the future development and direction of your downtown including building codes, community engagement and business development. This week's episode takes us to the location of Ron's latest 3-Day Consulatation, to the town of Watonga, OK. Ron and Kristi discuss Ron's findings and a-ha moments as they explore how Watonga is being intentional in their restoration efforts.

Times are changing, and people don't want the big house or the fancy car anymore. They are shifting their wants and needs and seeking a simpler life. In this episode, Ron & Kristi explore the new American Dream and how downtowns fit in.

Is cornhole the answer to your downtown revitalization questions? Maybe, maybe not. But it is a great example of things that are shaping downtowns, engaging people and creating special places. More and more, people are seeking happiness, connectivity and simplicity. It's about changing the mindset and recognizing the difference between spaces and places. In this episode, Ron & Kristi dive into what people are looking for downtown, what makes a true place, and of course, cornhole!

It happens - a project doesn't go the way you hoped and you feel like your whole town is watching you fail. Yes, it happens, but it doesn't have to be that way. In this episode, Ron & Kristi share their experiences not only with failure, but how to use that experience to fuel future ideas and projects.