Grow Clinton Podcast

Episode 236 of the Grow Clinton Podcast shines a spotlight on one of Clinton’s most beloved community assets, the Clinton LumberKings.

In this episode, we sit down with Nate Vander Bleek to discuss the team's enduring impact, both on and off the field, and why baseball continues to play such an important role in our region.

Want more information? Visit https://www.LumberKings.com.

For generations, the Clinton LumberKings have been more than just a baseball team; they are a cornerstone of community identity. The ballpark serves as a gathering place where families, friends, and visitors come together to share experiences that define what it means to live in Clinton.

The LumberKings are also a key driver of local economic activity. Home games bring visitors into the community, supporting nearby restaurants, retail shops, and service providers. From gameday spending to extended stays, the team contributes to a steady flow of economic energy that benefits Clinton’s small businesses and reinforces downtown vitality

In a time when entertainment costs continue to rise, the LumberKings provide an accessible and affordable option for families. A night at the ballpark offers high-quality entertainment without the high price tag!

The LumberKings are also a launching pad for aspiring athletes. The team provides young players with the opportunity to develop their skills, pursue their dreams, and potentially advance to higher levels of the sport. For fans, it is a unique chance to watch future stars in an intimate and engaging setting.

Clinton stands out as a place where baseball truly matters. The passion of the fans, the history of the franchise, and the strong local support create an atmosphere that is both welcoming and electric. It is this combination that makes Clinton a special baseball town.

Grow Clinton extends its sincere appreciation to the Clinton LumberKings organization for their ongoing commitment to community and economic development. Their investment in Clinton goes far beyond the field, helping to create opportunities, support local businesses, and enhance the quality of life across the region. 

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In Episode 234 of the Grow Clinton Podcast, we welcome Glinda Gonzalez and Hannah Meredith of Lynnway Counseling, a trusted local provider dedicated to improving mental health and overall well-being in the Clinton community.

Our conversation highlights not only the essential services Lynnway Counseling provides, but also the critical role mental health plays in building a strong, thriving regional economy.

Lynnway Counseling has established itself as a compassionate and professional resource for individuals and families seeking support through life’s challenges. Located in Clinton, Iowa, the practice offers a welcoming and inclusive environment where clients can access personalized care tailored to their unique needs. Their team is committed to reducing mental health stigma while empowering clients with tools for long-term success.

Throughout the episode, Glinda and Hannah share insight into Lynnway Counseling’s mission and growth, emphasizing their dedication to accessibility, quality care, and community connection. Their work reflects a broader understanding that healthy individuals contribute to a healthier workforce and stronger local economy; an important connection for employers, educators, and community leaders alike.

Lynnway Counseling provides a wide range of services designed to support individuals across all stages of life. These include individual counseling, family therapy, and specialized support for anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. Lynnway Counseling is accessible to residents throughout the region.

Those interested in learning more about their services or scheduling an appointment can visit their website at https://www.LynnwayCounseling.com for additional information and contact details.

Grow Clinton is proud to partner with organizations like Lynnway Counseling that prioritize both individual well-being and community development. Their ongoing commitment to supporting mental health directly contributes to a more resilient workforce and a stronger local economy.

We extend our sincere thanks to Lynnway Counseling for their continued support of Grow Clinton and their investment in the vitality of our community. Their work exemplifies the kind of leadership and care that helps Clinton grow and thrive.

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In Episode 235 of the Grow Clinton Podcast, we sit down with Todd Noack and Katie Whittington of Life Connections Peer Recovery to discuss an inspiring initiative that continues to make a meaningful impact across our region—the 3rd Annual Ride 4 Recovery.

Scheduled for this May 20th, the Ride 4 Recovery is more than just a motorcycle ride. Organized in partnership with the Broken Spokes Motorcycle Club, the event brings together community members, advocates, and supporters to raise awareness around substance use recovery while celebrating the power of connection, resilience, and second chances.

During the episode, Todd and Katie share the mission behind Life Connections Peer Recovery and how peer-based support services are transforming lives in Clinton and beyond. They offer insight into how recovery programs strengthen not only individuals and families, but also contribute to a healthier, more stable workforce and community, an essential component of long-term economic development.

Listeners will also get a preview of what to expect at this year’s Ride 4 Recovery, including how to participate, what the day entails, and why events like this are critical in reducing stigma and building a supportive environment for those on the path to recovery.

At Grow Clinton, we are proud to partner with organizations like Life Connections Peer Recovery. Their commitment to serving individuals in need, fostering community well-being, and investing in initiatives that strengthen our regional workforce aligns directly with our mission of advancing economic and community development.

We extend our sincere thanks to Life Connections Peer Recovery for their membership and continued investment in making the Clinton region a stronger, more connected place to live and work.

For more information about the event or to get involved, visit:
https://lifeconnectionsrecovery.org/event/ride-4-recovery-may-2026/

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Grow Clinton Podcast Episode 232: Hearing Health and Community Care with Dr. Tamarra Friedrichsen.

Do you have an idea for a show topic or business we should highlight? Email your pitch to [email protected].

Grow Clinton Podcast episode 232 features Dr. Tamarra Friedrichsen, Au.D., Owner and Doctor of Audiology at Killean Audiology & Hearing Aid Centers in Clinton, Iowa.

In this episode, Dr. Friedrichsen shares her expertise on hearing health, the importance of early detection and treatment, and how advancements in audiology are improving quality of life for individuals of all ages. Listeners will gain insight into common hearing challenges, the impact of untreated hearing loss, and the personalized care approach that defines Killean Audiology’s services.

Beyond the clinical perspective, this conversation highlights the vital role local healthcare providers play in strengthening community well-being. Killean Audiology & Hearing Aid Centers continues to be a trusted resource in the region, offering compassionate care and innovative solutions tailored to each patient’s needs.

Dr. Friedrichsen also discusses her journey as a business owner in Clinton, sharing how her practice has grown while staying rooted in patient-centered care. Her commitment to serving the community reflects the broader mission of supporting healthy, thriving residents across the region.

Grow Clinton extends its appreciation to Killean Audiology & Hearing Aid Centers for their continued investment in community development. Their dedication not only enhances access to essential healthcare services but also contributes to the overall vitality and quality of life in our area.

To learn more about Killean Audiology & Hearing Aid Centers, visit https://www.killeanhearing.com.

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The Grow Clinton Podcast continues its exploration of local legacy and innovation with Episode 233, featuring special guests Kayla Tegeler and Chris Mussmann from the Clinton Herald. 

If you have an idea for a guest or topic we should cover, please email [email protected]. 

As the Herald celebrates an impressive 170 years in operation, this episode offers a compelling look at how a local newspaper has evolved alongside the community it serves.

Founded on December 18, 1856, the Clinton Herald began with just 250 copies printed by a hand press, a far cry from today’s modern publishing processes. In those early days, Clinton was a competitive news market, with as many as 8 newspapers initially and eventually growing to 16. The Herald’s first home was located on 1st Street in the Masonic Temple building, where it operated until 1857.

Like many institutions of the time, the paper faced challenges during the Civil War, temporarily suspending production before re-establishing itself in 1870. Its resilience became a defining trait, carrying over into the 20th century, when the Herald moved to its current location in 1905.

A significant chapter in the paper’s history began in 1910, when it was purchased by the W.J. Young family. The Young family's stewardship lasted more than 75 years, guiding the publication through periods of growth, technological change, and deeper community integration. In 1998, ownership transitioned to CNHI, a company that now operates 85 locally focused newspapers across the country.

Kayla and Chris also discuss the transformation in how newspapers are produced. From hand-set type and manual presses to digital layouts and off-site printing (which shifted away from Clinton in 2012), the evolution reflects broader changes in media and technology. 

The conversation also highlights a lesser-known chapter in the Herald’s story, its venture into television. In the early 1980s, under publisher Bob Evans, the Clinton Herald launched CHTV, a local television station that served the community until the early 2000s. This initiative underscored the organization’s willingness to innovate and expand how it connects with its audience.

Visit the Clinton Herald online at https://www.clintonherald.com/. 

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In Episode 231 of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy & Jenny dive into one of Clinton’s most beloved summer traditions: the Meadowview Pool,  located at 2942 Skyline Drive.

Megan and Lisa join us to share how this small, quiet public pool on the north end of Clinton continues to make a big splash for local families and neighbors of all ages!

For more information, please visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ClintonMeadowviewPool. 

The four will discuss the history of Meadowview Pool, the community effort it takes to get the facility patched, painted, and ready for opening day, and why memberships and day passes remain such an important resource for residents across the Greater Clinton Region. 

You’ll also hear how volunteers and supporters are stepping up to keep this 1959 neighborhood pool going strong for future generations.

Whether you grew up at Meadowview, are discovering it for the first time, or simply care about community amenities that make Clinton a great place to live, this conversation with Megan and Lisa will leave you inspired to jump in and get involved.

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On this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, we are taking you inside one of the largest private investments our community will see this year. From July through September, LyondellBasell’s Clinton Complex will undergo a major turnaround, representing more than $300 million in maintenance, upgrades, and safety improvements that support thousands of permanent jobs and pump millions of dollars into our local economy.

 Joe Hoinkis, Clinton Site Manager for LyondellBasell, will break down what a turnaround really is, why the company is bringing thousands of contractors to town, and how this planned pause in production helps protect worker safety, environmental performance, and the long-term viability of the plant. We will also talk about what this surge of visitors means for local businesses, from restaurants and retail to campgrounds and attractions across the Great Clinton Region.

So whether you are a business owner getting ready for a busy summer, a resident curious about what is happening at the riverfront, or someone who just cares about the future of Clinton’s industrial base, this conversation is for you.

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On this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, we welcome Chris Streets from the Clinton Area Showboat Theatre to talk about another exciting season of live entertainment along the Mississippi River.

Chris gives listeners a preview of the 2026 show schedule, featuring a dynamic lineup of productions that continue the Showboat’s tradition of bringing high-quality, professional theater to the region. Whether you're a longtime supporter or considering your first visit, this season offers something for everyone, from classic favorites to fresh, engaging performances.

We also dive into the many ways the community can get involved. Chris outlines flexible ticket purchase options, including season passes and individual show tickets, making it easy for residents and visitors alike to experience the magic of the Showboat.

Beyond attending performances, the theatre offers a variety of volunteer opportunities, providing a unique chance to support the arts while connecting with others who share a passion for live performance.

One of the highlights of the conversation is the Showboat’s commitment to youth programming. Chris discusses special opportunities for young actors to get involved, build confidence, and gain hands-on experience in a professional theater environment. These programs continue to play an important role in developing local talent and fostering a lifelong appreciation for the arts.

To learn more about the 2026 season, purchase tickets, or explore ways to get involved, visit https://www.clintonshowboat.com.

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In episode 227 of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy sits down with Brad and Jayson of XCEL NDT to talk about what it means to build a high-tech industrial services company in the Greater Clinton Region, and why they chose Clinton, Iowa, as a strategic location to grow.

XCEL delivers advanced NDE (nondestructive examination) and conventional NDT services to industrial customers across the United States. Their work centers on verifying the integrity of critical infrastructure, such as welds, tanks, piping, and structural components, without damaging or disrupting operations.

The company has grown into a multi-state operation with locations spanning Texas, the Midwest, and beyond, including a facility right here in Clinton at 3008 Lincoln Way, Suite D. That footprint allows XCEL to support customers in energy, manufacturing, and other heavy industries that rely on consistent, code-compliant performance from their assets.

On their website, XCEL describes their mission as “delivering solutions with integrity,” and that theme runs throughout the conversation with Brad and Jayson, integrity in inspections, in safety practices, and in how they show up as an employer and community partner.

What Is Nondestructive Testing & Why It Matters Here

For a region like Greater Clinton, with its mix of manufacturing, logistics, and industrial employers, having this kind of capability in-market is a competitive advantage. It makes it easier for local companies to maintain compliance, plan maintenance with better data, and invest confidently in new projects.
Why Clinton, Iowa, Made Sense for XCEL

For Grow Clinton, companies like XCEL demonstrate the specialized, high-skill services that strengthen the local industrial ecosystem and create new pathways to technical careers in the region.

Careers, Culture, and Opportunity

XCEL’s growth story also has a workforce angle that matters for the Greater Clinton Region. As the company expands its footprint and service offerings, it creates opportunities for inspectors, technicians, engineers, and support staff who want to build careers in industrial safety and reliability.

NDT is a field where hands-on skills meet advanced technology, and XCEL invests heavily in training, certifications, and program administration aligned with industry codes and standards. That combination of professional development and real-world impact, helping keep people, plants, and communities safe, comes through clearly in Brad and Jayson’s conversation on the podcast.

If you’re interested in the technical side of industry, or you’re simply curious about the kinds of companies driving investment and innovation in Clinton, this episode is a great listen.

For more information, please visit https://www.xcelgrp.com. 

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Episode 228 of the Grow Clinton Podcast shines a spotlight on one of Clinton’s most enduring and innovative employers, Colony Brands, Inc. Celebrating 100 years in business, Colony Brands has built a legacy of adaptability, growth, and community investment, and this episode offers listeners a closer look at how that legacy continues today.

In this episode, we sit down with Teah Shirk and Ashley Whalen to explore the inner workings of Colony Brands’ Clinton, Iowa, fulfillment center. From the outside, it’s a major logistics operation, but inside, it’s a dynamic workplace driven by people, process, and purpose. 

Teah and Ashley walk us through what it takes to keep operations running efficiently, especially during peak seasons, and how the team maintains a strong culture rooted in safety and support.

For more information, please visit https://www.colonybrands.com.

A key focus of the conversation is Colony Brands’ commitment to workplace safety. The team shares how safety is not just a policy, but a daily practice reinforced through training, communication, and accountability. 

They also highlight the concept of “boosters," internal initiatives that energize staff, maintain morale, and sustain high engagement throughout the year.

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