Grow Clinton Podcast

In Episode 226 of the Grow Clinton Podcast, we’re excited to welcome Dr. Brian Kelly, President of Clinton Community College, a valued partner in advancing education, workforce development, and skill-building throughout the Greater Clinton region.

Clinton Community College (CCC) has long stood as a cornerstone of opportunity in Eastern Iowa. Through its diverse range of academic programs, technical training, and continuing education courses, the college helps individuals at every stage of their career journey gain the knowledge and practical experience needed to thrive. Whether students are pursuing associate degrees, certifications, or targeted workforce credentials, CCC provides accessible pathways toward personal growth and professional success.

A key part of this mission is the Career Advancement Center, an innovative facility that connects education directly to employment. By offering modern classrooms, hands-on training spaces, and partnerships with local employers, the center ensures students receive the kind of industry-relevant preparation that strengthens both our local workforce and regional economy.

In March of 2026, Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC) received a $1M state grant to expand career academy opportunities for high school students and strengthen career-connected learning.

The project will modernize facilities and learning environments for three academies:

Healthcare: Renovation of the nursing lab will create a simulated clinical environment where students can practice patient care skills and work toward the Certified Nurse Aide credential as they prepare for future healthcare careers.

Criminal Justice: A new scenario-based simulator will allow students to practice decision-making, communication, and situational awareness through immersive training that reflects real-world public safety situations.

Networking for Systems and Security: Updated wiring, equipment, and collaborative classroom space will support hands-on learning in cybersecurity and information technology, helping students develop technical skills in one of today’s fastest-growing career fields.

Grow Clinton and CCC share a commitment to helping businesses meet their talent needs while enabling residents to reach their full potential. Dr. Brian Kelly’s leadership in fostering collaboration and investing in workforce development initiatives continues to make a lasting difference for employers and job seekers alike.

We're grateful to Dr. Kelly and his team for their ongoing investment and support, and for their dedication to building a stronger, more skilled Clinton community.

Listen to the full conversation on your favorite streaming platform and discover how education and economic development intersect to create a brighter future for Clinton and the surrounding area.

For more information, visit https://www.eicc.edu

Be sure to subscribe so you never miss a conversation with the people who make the Greater Clinton Region AWESOME!

• Apple Music
• Spotify
• Amazon Music
• Buzzsprout
• Overcast
• YouTube

Have an idea for a podcast guest? Send us a message!

Episode 225 of the Grow Clinton Podcast features a conversation with Stacie Parks of ProManage Realty LLC, a locally based property management and real estate brokerage serving the Clinton area. Stacie shares how ProManage focuses on professional, responsive management for both property owners and tenants, helping keep quality housing options available in our community.

ProManage Realty LLC specializes in property management and real estate services, providing leasing and ongoing management support designed to protect investments and maintain well-managed residential properties. Their team helps connect residents with rental opportunities in Clinton while supporting owners with marketing, tenant placement, and day-to-day oversight. 

Grow Clinton extends a heartfelt thank-you to Stacie and ProManage Realty for their investment in Grow Clinton, which directly supports community and economic development, as well as tourism initiatives across our region.

Partnerships like this help us promote Clinton as a great place to live, work, invest, and visit, and we are grateful for their ongoing commitment to the community.

If you’re a property owner looking for professional management or a resident searching for a rental home in the Clinton area, consider reaching out to ProManage Realty LLC. You can also follow their Facebook page to see current and upcoming rental listings.

ProManage Realty LLC
2041 Lincoln Way
Clinton, IA 52732
Phone: (563) 242-1076

Connect with ProManage Realty LLC on Facebook to learn more about their services and available properties.

https://www.facebook.com/p/ProManage-Realty-LLC-61570468771250/ 

Be sure to subscribe so you never miss a conversation with the people who make the Greater Clinton Region AWESOME!

• Apple Music
• Spotify
• Amazon Music
• Buzzsprout
• Overcast
• YouTube

 For more information about the Grow Clinton Podcast, visit www.Facebook.com/GrowClintonPodcast. 

Have an idea for a podcast guest? Send us a message!

Episode 224 of the Grow Clinton Podcast shines a light on courage, community, and the power of hope as we sit down with Sawyer and his mom, Jamie Dawes, to share their family’s remarkable health journey. 

From countless appointments and anxious nights to national recognition, their story shows what it looks like when a community rallies around one determined young hero and his equally determined mom.

A local hero with a national platform

A Clinton kid whose strength and kindness have earned him the title of Children’s Miracle Network National Champion, you’ll hear how Sawyer approaches each challenge with a warrior mindset, and how his sense of humor and positivity help carry his family through some of their toughest days. 

Jamie offers a heartfelt perspective on what it means to advocate for your child in complex medical settings while still trying to preserve everyday moments of childhood.

A major theme of this conversation is the life-changing role Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) plays in families’ lives, including Sawyer’s. Thanks to generous donations, CMN helps hospitals like the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital provide life-saving care, innovative treatments, and specialized equipment for kids who need it most.

Sawyer’s journey is a powerful reminder that miracles are often local. His national recognition highlights the strength of our hometown families, the dedication of our healthcare partners, and the generosity of people who give so kids can keep fighting. 

You can learn more or make a gift by visiting Children’s Miracle Network at https://cmn.org.

Be sure to subscribe so you never miss a conversation with the people who make the Greater Clinton Region such a great place to live, work, invest, and visit!

• Apple Music
• Spotify
• Amazon Music
• Buzzsprout
• Overcast
• YouTube

 For more information about the Grow Clinton Podcast, visit www.Facebook.com/GrowClintonPodcast. 

Have an idea for a podcast guest? Send us a message!

First Central State Bank is a locally owned community bank that serves Clinton, DeWitt, Eldridge, Goose Lake, and LeClaire, delivering personal and business banking services tailored to the needs of eastern Iowa. As a community-focused institution, the bank offers checking and savings accounts, commercial lending, agriculture lending, and modern tools like online and mobile banking that help residents manage their finances conveniently and securely.

In this episode, listeners hear from Brig Tubbs, CEO at First Central State Bank, who also serves as a dedicated member of the Grow Clinton Board of Directors, bringing a banker’s perspective to regional economic development and long-term community growth. Joining him is Fraud Specialist Emily Pitts, whose role centers on helping customers recognize scams, protect sensitive information, and respond quickly when something does not look right in their accounts.

Brig and Emily discuss why fraud prevention is now a core part of community banking, not just an add-on service. They walk through practical steps people can take, like being cautious with public Wi‑Fi, reviewing account activity regularly, and verifying payment details, to reduce the risk of identity theft and financial scams.

The episode is packed with actionable tips that families, seniors, small business owners, and nonprofit leaders can put to work immediately. Listeners will come away with a clearer understanding of how to spot red flags, when to call their bank, and how community bankers like those at First Central State Bank partner with customers to resolve issues quickly.
Our appreciation to First Central State Bank

Grow Clinton extends its appreciation to First Central State Bank for their continued financial support of Grow Clinton’s mission and for investing in the growth and development of the greater Clinton region.

For more information, please visit https://www.firstcentralsb.bank.

Be sure to subscribe so you never miss a conversation with the people who make the Greater Clinton Region such a great place to live, work, invest, and visit!

• Apple Music
• Spotify
• Amazon Music
• Buzzsprout
• Overcast
• YouTube

 For more information about the Grow Clinton Podcast, visit www.Facebook.com/GrowClintonPodcast. 

Have an idea for a podcast guest? Send us a message!

During the conversation, Scott shares insight into the evolution of broadband and telecommunications in eastern Iowa, highlighting the importance of reliable infrastructure for both residents and businesses. As demand for high-speed internet continues to grow, especially in rural areas, companies like Miles Communications are helping bridge the digital divide and support economic opportunity across the region.

Scott also discusses the challenges and opportunities facing local providers, including technological advancements, customer expectations, and the ongoing need for infrastructure investment. His perspective offers a valuable look at how smaller, community-focused providers can remain competitive while staying true to their mission of serving local needs.

In addition to his leadership at Miles Communications, Scott serves on the Grow Clinton Board of Directors. His involvement reflects a broader commitment to regional collaboration and long-term growth. Grow Clinton is grateful for Scott’s leadership and for Miles Communications’ continued investment in the success and development of our communities.

To learn more about Miles Communications and their services, visit https://www.milescommunicationsco.com/.

Be sure to subscribe so you never miss a conversation with the people who make the Greater Clinton Region such a great place to live, work, invest, and visit!

• Apple Music
• Spotify
• Amazon Music
• Buzzsprout
• Overcast
• YouTube

For more information about the Grow Clinton Podcast, visit www.Facebook.com/GrowClintonPodcast.

Have an idea for a podcast guest? Send us a message!

In this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined in the studio by Steve Clements, the President & CEO of Citizens First Bank with branches in Clinton and Camanche, Iowa.

Citizens First Bank and Grow Clinton share a common mission: strengthening the local economy and building a thriving community. As Steve explains, alignment isn’t accidental; it’s foundational. For CFB, supporting economic development isn’t a side effort; it’s at the heart of what a community bank is meant to do.

You’ve probably heard that Citizens First Bank is “everywhere” in Clinton and Camanche, and there’s a reason for that. It’s not just visibility, it’s philosophy. CFB staff are deeply engaged across the community, showing up, volunteering, and contributing to initiatives that strengthen our communities. That presence reflects a commitment to building relationships and supporting local progress.

Throughout the episode, we highlight how programs like Grow Clinton’s NewBoCo and EntreFuel are helping entrepreneurs take their next steps, and how CFB is right there alongside them. Through its Total Business Solutions, the bank provides the tools and financial support that new and growing businesses need to succeed. It’s a full-circle approach: local deposits fueling local loans, which in turn fuel local growth.

Steve also emphasizes an increasingly important topic: fraud prevention. Citizens First Bank is actively educating customers and the broader community through ongoing presentations and outreach. The CFB message is simple but critical; if something seems off, call the bank first. That reminder, even printed on the magnets they distribute, is a small step that can make a big difference in protecting individuals and businesses.

Grow Clinton is proud to partner with Citizens First Bank and appreciates their continued investment in our community.

For more information on CFB, visit them online at https://www.gocfb.bank. 

Be sure to subscribe so you never miss a conversation with the people who make the Greater Clinton Region such a great place to live, work, invest, and visit!

• Apple Music
• Spotify
• Amazon Music
• Buzzsprout
• Overcast
• YouTube

For more information about the Grow Clinton Podcast, visit www.Facebook.com/GrowClintonPodcast.

Have an idea for a podcast guest? Send us a message!

Buy & Sell with Jill Sorrell of MelFoster! 

www.jillsorrell.com 

Get ready for the next episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast featuring Jill Sorrell with Mel Foster Company in Clinton, Iowa. Jill is sitting down with us to share how she got her start in real estate, why she still loves what she does, and the practical tips she gives buyers and sellers every day.

Whether you’re thinking about listing your home, buying your first place, or just curious about our local housing market, this episode is packed with real-world advice you can actually use.

We also want to say a big thank you to Mel Foster Company for their continued investment in the Greater Clinton Region's future growth and for being such a strong partner in our community.

Watch for the new episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast featuring Jill Sorrell on your favorite podcast platform and on Grow Clinton’s website and social channels.

Contact Jill at [email protected]!

Be sure to subscribe so you never miss a conversation with the people who make the Greater Clinton Region such a great place to live, work, invest, and visit!

• Apple Music
• Spotify
• Amazon Music
• Buzzsprout
• Overcast
• YouTube

For more information about the Grow Clinton Podcast, visit www.Facebook.com/GrowClintonPodcast.

Have an idea for a podcast guest? Send us a message!

On this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, we’re shining a spotlight on a local institution that has been “all in” on our community for generations. 

Clinton National Bank, a longstanding Grow Clinton investor and longtime member, joins us to discuss how hometown banking fuels small business growth and strengthens day-to-day life in Clinton, Iowa.

Guests Emily Banker and Jason Wheat of Clinton National Bank break down how their team shows up for both businesses and neighbors. 

Jason walks through the lending process in plain language, explains his role, and shares practical tips for anyone preparing to apply for a loan. Emily highlights her work, previews upcoming events, and shows why being active in the community isn’t just good citizenship; it is essential to building a thriving local economy.

If you care about shopping local, starting or growing a business, or simply understanding how community banks make a difference, you won’t want to miss this conversation.

For more information, please visit https://www.cliintonnational.net.

Be sure to subscribe so you never miss a conversation with the people who make the Greater Clinton Region such a great place to live, work, invest, and visit!

• Apple Music
• Spotify
• Amazon Music
• Buzzsprout
• Overcast
• YouTube

For more information about the Grow Clinton Podcast, visit www.Facebook.com/GrowClintonPodcast.

Have an idea for a podcast guest? Send us a message!

MercyOne Clinton’s Wound Care and Ostomy services provide local patients with advanced, compassionate care for complex wounds and life after ostomy surgery, close to home in Clinton, Iowa.

On this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny sit down with Jodie Atkinson, MSN, ARNP, FNP-C, CWON, CFCN, a dual board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner who specializes in wound and ostomy care at MercyOne Clinton Wound Care and Hyperbaric Center. Jodie provides outpatient care for people dealing with chronic wounds, ostomies, and related skin concerns, working alongside a specialized team of physicians and nurses.

What the Clinic Does

MercyOne Clinton Wound Care and Hyperbaric Center focuses on treating acute and chronic wounds that are not healing as expected, using evidence-based techniques and advanced therapies. The team cares for patients with conditions like diabetic foot ulcers, pressure injuries, bone infections, surgical wounds, radiation injuries, and non-healing traumatic wounds.

The Ostomy Outpatient Services at MercyOne Clinton Medical Center support patients before and after ostomy surgery, helping them manage colostomies, ileostomies, and urostomies, as well as the unique skin and lifestyle issues that can come with them. Services include education, appliance fitting, troubleshooting leaks and skin complications, and help with supplies so patients can return to their daily routines with more confidence.

Why This Care Matters

Living with a chronic wound or new ostomy can affect every part of a person’s life, from comfort and mobility to work, social activities, and emotional well-being. MercyOne’s approach is to treat the whole person, not just the wound, by developing individualized care plans in partnership with the patient and their primary provider.

Treatments and Technology

At the MercyOne Clinton Wound Care and Hyperbaric Center, patients may receive a mix of advanced and traditional treatments tailored to their specific wound. Options can include specialized wound dressings, antibiotics, debridement to remove unhealthy tissue, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy, which increases blood oxygen levels to support tissue healing.

For ostomy patients, Jodie and the team provide pre- and post-operative education, stoma assessment, help select and fit ostomy appliances, manage peristomal skin issues, and support with belts, irrigation, and supply ordering.

Location, Hours & How to Schedule

Wound care and hyperbaric services with Jodie Atkinson are provided at the MercyOne Clinton Wound Care and Hyperbaric Center, located at 600 14th Avenue North, Clinton, Iowa 52732. The center is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., giving patients convenient weekday access to specialty care.

Subscribe to the Grow Clinton Podcast at the following locations:

• Apple Music
• Spotify
• Amazon Music
• Buzzsprout
• Overcast
• YouTube

For more information about the Grow Clinton Podcast, visit www.Facebook.com/GrowClintonPodcast.

Have an idea for a podcast guest? Send us a message!

The Grow Clinton Podcast is back with another great conversation, this time with a voice that’s been part of Clinton’s daily routine for decades. In our latest episode, we welcome Gary Determan of KROS Radio as our featured guest.

If you’ve ever tuned in to “Gary in the Morning,” you already know Gary’s familiar voice, community-focused storytelling, and passion for local sports and events. As KROS’s Morning Show host, Sports Director, and a key member of their sales team, Gary helps keep residents informed, entertained, and connected to what’s happening across the Greater Clinton Region. 

From early-morning updates to year-round sports play-by-play, he has become a trusted companion for listeners starting their day and cheering on local teams.​

In this episode, we talk with Gary about:

• His long career in local radio and how he first came to KROS.​
• The role community radio plays in telling Clinton’s story and supporting local businesses.
• Highlights from covering local athletics and why high school sports matter so much to our region.​
• How KROS continues to evolve while staying grounded in its hometown values.

Thank You, Gary – And Thank You, KROS

Grow Clinton is proud to recognize Gary Determan and the entire KROS team for their ongoing support of our mission to promote business growth, build community, and champion the Greater Clinton Region.

KROS consistently shines a spotlight on local organizations, events, and initiatives, helping us share important information and celebrate the people and projects moving Clinton forward.

To learn more about KROS Radio and explore their programs, visit their website at https://www.krosradio.com.​

Be sure to tune in to this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, and if you haven’t already, subscribe so you never miss a conversation with the people who make the Greater Clinton Region such a great place to live, work, and visit.

• Apple Music
• Spotify
• Amazon Music
• Buzzsprout
• Overcast
• YouTube

For more information about the Grow Clinton Podcast, visit www.Facebook.com/GrowClintonPodcast.

Have an idea for a podcast guest? Send us a message!