Leadership Unplugged!

This week, we’re thrilled to welcome Brook Fitzgerald of The Restoration Project to the podcast! Brook shares her incredible journey—from corporate banking to opening a downtown Cedar Rapids coffee shop (even though she didn’t drink coffee!) to co-founding a life and leadership coaching practice that’s all about helping people lead from alignment and intention.

She gets real about entrepreneurship, faith, burnout, and what it really means to be a leader—not by title, but by how you show up. Plus, hear how The Restoration Project is expanding its reach through online courses and tools built from real-world client experiences.

If you’re a leader, a dreamer, or just someone looking for clarity and connection, you won’t want to miss this one.

Listen in to Ray Brown, CEO of ESCO Group, as he discusses his journey from accountant to CEO of a 100% employee-owned company. Ray dives into pivotal leadership moments, the mentors who shaped his approach, and the early challenges that drove his growth. Discover how Ray leads ESCO Group—a leader in electrical construction, automation, and safety consulting—through change, innovation, and community impact. Tune in to hear Ray's insights on why Marion is the ideal place to raise a family and grow a business!

Listen in as Tom Pientok shares about leadership and what it means to him. You may be surprised as to what his super power would be!

In this episode of Leadership Unplugged, we sit down with Marion’s City Manager, Ryan Waller, and Deputy City Manager, Kim Downs, to discuss their journey in public service and their roles in driving positive change in Marion. Ryan, who became Marion’s 10th City Manager in 2021, brings over 20 years of experience from various Illinois communities and Indianola, Iowa. Kim, who joined the City of Marion in 2022, has over 24 years of experience and previously served as the City Manager of Hiawatha.

Together, Ryan and Kim have been instrumental in streamlining operations and fostering a collaborative spirit within Marion. In this engaging conversation, we dive into their leadership strategies, the factors that drew them to Marion, and the exciting initiatives they’re spearheading to engage the community and enhance the city’s growth. Tune in to hear how this dynamic duo is shaping the future of Marion and what makes "Team Marion" so special.

Today, we have a very special guest: Mayor Nick AbouAssaly. His dedication to public service is unparalleled, as evidenced by his long list of accomplishments. From his early days on the City Council to his numerous community involvements and accolades, including being named Mayor of the Year, Nick's impact on Marion is undeniable. Join us as we delve into his journey and explore what it means to be a leader in this dynamic community.

Tune in for an engaging conversation with two distinguished educators, Superintendent Amy Kortemeyer of Linn-Mar and Superintendent Janelle Brouwer of Marion Independent, as they delve into their profound perspectives on leadership. Join us as they discuss the essence of leadership, drawing from their wealth of experience and dedication to shaping the future of education.

Join us as we chat with the team at Marion Chamber of Commerce and Uptown Marion Mainstreet as they share how they're leading and making a difference in our community. You might even get to know what they wish their super powers were if given a choice!

Rapids Wholesale Foodservice Equipment & Supplies is your "one stop shop" for all things food related. If you serve food - they've got you! From their full lineup of commercial cooking equipment and refrigeration products to the plates and tables you serve your culinary masterpieces on, they've got it!

Listen in as the Rapids team shares their story, where they've been and where they're going!

MEDCO’s Startup Spotlight hosted a conversation with Lesley Vossenkemper of Scale-Up Strategies. Lesley is the first woman in the Cedar Rapids, Marion, and Iowa City area to earn the Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA) designation. An individual who earns the CEPA credential assists business owners with the development of a strategy and plan for business succession.  In a release from the CBJ in early September 2023, Lesley had the following to share, “As the daughter and granddaughter of local entrepreneurs, I have a special place in my heart for business owners and want to help them proactively plan and successfully leave their legacy. Combining this specialized training with my experience leading high-growth businesses makes me uniquely equipped to educate others on the proven methodologies to enhance business value and bring a forward-thinking, holistic approach to succession planning. I’m grateful to be the local expert to assist our local business owners in achieving their goals for their businesses and their lives."

Startup Spotlight is MEDCO’s intentional commitment to supporting new businesses and entrepreneurs seeking to scale and gain awareness in the Marion community and surrounding area. 

The Marion Independent School Board candidates are uncontested. This portion of the recording was an open house where candidates shared their thoughts and plans for the coming term. Candidates include Denise Allison (Incumbent), Jon Fitch (Incumbent), Carl Lantermans (Incumbent), and Michelle Rains.

Please remember to vote in the upcoming election on Tuesday, November 7th and enjoy listening to these individuals as they share updates and progress about the district!