It’s Christine’s turn to take the HOT SEAT as hosts Alex and Adam flip the script and put her under fire with questions.

In this episode, Christine shares why she fell in love with the world of tourism and marketing, the passion she has for telling the stories of her community, and why she proudly chooses Wabash County as the place she calls home.

From her belief in the power of small communities to the work being done to create experiences that bring people together, listeners will hear what drives Christine both professionally and personally.

A wife, a mother, and sometimes jokingly referred to as the “Leslie Knope of Wabash County,” this conversation offers a candid and fun look at who Christine is beyond the mic.

Tune in for stories, laughs, and a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the heart behind the work.

Resources: www.visitwabashcounty.com

If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories.

A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County.

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM

What does it truly mean to go the extra mile—for your family, your workplace, and your community?

In this episode of ThriveIN Wabash County, all three hosts sit down with Tyler Niccum, a lifelong Wabash County resident and current County Commissioner, to explore a life built on service, commitment, and stepping into leadership when it matters most.

From growing up in Wabash County to now helping lead it at the county level, Tyler shares how his deep roots have shaped his perspective and fueled his passion for giving back. Whether it’s supporting his family, showing up for his employer, or making decisions that impact the future of the community, Tyler lives out a mindset of going above and beyond.

Resources: 

Wabash County Government: https://www.in.gov/counties/wabash/

Center Court Cares: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579967895432

If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories.

A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County.

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM.

In this energizing episode of the ThriveIN Podcast, Christine sits down with Visit Wabash County’s dynamic marketing team—Biz, Brittany, and marketing intern Isaac, who steps in as the guest host—to unpack what’s actually working in marketing today.

From promoting a podcast to leveraging print media and maximizing email marketing, this conversation is packed with practical strategies that any business—large or small—can start using immediately.

If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories.

A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County.

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM⁠.

Christine and Alex turn the tables and put Adam in the hot seat on this episode of ThriveIN. From the heights he’s willing to climb—literally and figuratively—to reach a goal, to the heart behind the countless volunteer hours he pours into the community, Adam shares what drives him.

As an on-the-road Sales Manager for JM Reynolds Oil, Adam offers a unique perspective on regional business, relationships, and why showing up matters. Beyond the title, he’s a father, brother, son, and proud stakeholder committed to seeing Wabash County not just grow—but truly thrive. Tune in for a conversation about grit, generosity, and what it means to lead from wherever you stand.

If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories.

A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County.

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM⁠.

In this heartwarming and witty episode of ThrivIN Wabash County, Christine welcomes community stakeholders Jeff and Karen Leslie into the studio. This dynamic duo shares how their faith, family, and service have shaped a life deeply rooted in Wabash County.

From being active in their church’s FOR Campaign, advocating for foster care, and homeschooling their children, to Jeff transforming Center Court Barber Shop into an unexpected mission field, the Leslies embody what it means to show up where you live.

Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on diverse education options, the power of being present and invested in your community, and why—after all the places they could be—they choose to love life right here in Wabash County.

Resources for this episode:

Josiah White's Foster Care: https://josiahwhites.org/

Center Court Cares: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579967895432

Bachelor Creek Church of Christ: https://www.bachelorcreek.com/

If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories.

A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County.

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this  FORM⁠.

Rivers connect communities — economically, environmentally, and recreationally.

In this episode of ThriveIN Wabash County, Adam Stakeman sits down with Jess Linder, Executive Director of Northeast Indiana Water Trails, and Past Director Kyle Quandt to talk about the growth and impact of water trails across the region.

They discuss how NEIWT works with local communities to expand river access, improve safety and signage, and promote paddling as both recreation and economic development. From early challenges to major milestones, Kyle reflects on the organization’s foundation, while Jess shares her vision for the future and what’s ahead for Northeast Indiana’s waterways.

In this conversation, you’ll hear:

1. The origin and mission of Northeast Indiana Water Trails

2. How water trails drive tourism and local economic growth

3. The importance of river access, conservation, and safety

4. Leadership transition and the next chapter for NEIWT

5. Opportunities for Wabash County residents to get involved

Whether you’re an avid paddler or someone who simply values strong regional partnerships, this episode highlights how thoughtful investment in outdoor recreation strengthens communities throughout Northeast Indiana.

Get outside. Explore local waterways. Support the river systems that connect us all.

If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories.

A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County.

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this 

Mayor Scott Long joins Adam and Christine in the ThriveIN studio for a fact-based, educational conversation about how Indiana’s current legislative session affects the City of Wabash and Wabash County.

The discussion covers Local Income Tax, property taxes and assessments, land use regulations, housing costs, and the ongoing debate around growth and local control. Mayor Long explains how state-level decisions impact city budgets, public services, development, and affordability — highlighting both potential challenges and opportunities.

Whether you’re concerned about rising assessments, curious about zoning authority, or want a clearer understanding of how state policy affects local life, this episode offers practical insight without partisan politics.

Resources: https://www.cityofwabash.com/

Mayor Long's Contact Email: [email protected]

If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories.

A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County.

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this 

FORM⁠ or email us at [email protected]

All three hosts sit down with Chris Wetherford—more than the Senior Vice President of Operations at PaperWorks Industries. Chris is a husband, father, avid cyclist, and deeply invested community stakeholder.

In this episode, Chris shares how he leverages Wabash County’s local resources to attract and retain talent, why the county’s outdoor recreation scene plays a role in quality of life, and how serving on boards and committees helps move the community forward. Hear Chris’ “why” for Wabash County and his perspective on what it takes to build and sustain a thriving community.

If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories.

A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County.

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM⁠. 

Alex brings Executive Director Cynthia Johnson and Board Member Julie Garber of the Learn More Center into the studio to talk about real opportunity through education. Discover how this organization is helping adults earn high school diplomas, gain industry-recognized certifications, and learn English as a second language. With a ribbon cutting for a brand-new facility in late 2025, the Learn More Center is leveling up its impact and empowering Wabash County residents to build brighter futures.

Listen in to hear how education is opening doors—and learn how you can support, volunteer, or take the next step with the Learn More Center.

More about the Learn More Center: https://learnmorecenter.org/wp/

More about The Community Foundation of Wabash County: https://cfwabash.org/

If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories.

A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County.

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this  FORM

Christine and Adam put their famous podcast co-host in the hot seat for a conversation listeners have been waiting for. Who is Alex Downard—beyond the mic?

In this episode, Christine and Adam dig into Alex’s journey to Wabash County, what inspired him to stay, and how he landed in his role as President & CEO of the Community Foundation of Wabash County. Now leading a team of nine and stepping into the shoes of nationally respected former President & CEO Patty Grant, Alex shares how he approaches leadership, honors legacy, and finds deep purpose in work that is both inspiring and impactful.

From community philanthropy to vision-casting for the future of Wabash County, this episode offers a candid look at the leader—and person—helping shape what’s next.

If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories.

A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County.

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback by completing this FORM