Marketing Insights from the Heartland
OUTdrive
How do you market business-to-business (B2B) in rural America? Join Cliff in this OUTdrive episode as he sits down with Amy Roraback, marketing lead at KMW Loaders, a Kansas-based equipment company. They explore the day-to-day of rural B2B marketing, including the tools and strategies Amy uses to support sales and grow brand awareness. Hear how consistent service, smart technology and creative thinking help build lasting customer relationships.
info_outline
Celebrating 250 OUTdrive Episodes: Stories, Successes and the Road Ahead
OUTdrive
In this special 250th episode of OUTdrive, host Cliff Callis takes the mic solo to reflect on five years of podcasting and the many guests who have helped shape the show. From business owners and marketers to rodeo announcers and rural leaders, Cliff revisits some of the most memorable conversations, insightful quotes and meaningful lessons learned. Tune in for reflections, appreciation and a look at what’s to come as OUTdrive continues its mission to connect with rural America and share the stories that matter most.
info_outline
The Power of Voice in Rural Communities
OUTdrive
In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff Callis visits with Melanie Rice, National Account Executive for Learfield News & Ag and President of the National Agri-Marketing Association. Growing up on a Missouri farm and now raising her family in rural Iowa, Melanie shares how her agricultural roots shaped her career in media and marketing. Listen in as she discusses the evolving role of ag media, the importance of collaboration between sales and marketing and why staying connected to rural America remains at the heart of her work.
info_outline
Inside Alaska’s Health Care Frontier
OUTdrive
OUTdrive host Cliff Callis sits down with Bruce Richards, External Affairs Director for Central Peninsula Hospital, to talk about delivering health care in rural Alaska. From his start in the family paving business to navigating politics and now leading key legislative efforts in the health care space, Bruce’s story is as wide-ranging as the geography he serves. Learn how his hospital is addressing workforce needs, building strong community relations and expanding services in one of the most remote parts of the U.S.
info_outline
Crafting the E-Commerce Experience
OUTdrive
What makes someone click “buy” online? Sarah Gallagher has been chasing that answer for over 20 years. As the leader of Gamma Waves, a Shopify-focused e-commerce agency, she’s helping brands grow with smarter strategy, faster sites and more human experiences. In this episode, Sarah and Cliff talk about how the online shopping space has evolved, what brands can do to stand out and why performance matters more than ever.
info_outline
Economic Growth from the Ground Up
OUTdrive
Discover how the Springfield, Missouri, region is building momentum in rural economic development with guest Ben Vickers, Manager of Business Development for the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce. Ben and Cliff discuss the area’s strengths in manufacturing, food processing, workforce and quality of life, as well as how strategic planning and strong storytelling are attracting businesses, retaining jobs and creating quality opportunities across a 10-county footprint.
info_outline
Riding the Road to Resilience
OUTdrive
In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff visits with Steven Brunner, founder of King of the Mountain Sports Marketing. With nearly four decades of experience, Steven shares stories from the global stage of sports promotion—from the Olympics to the Great Wall of China. He also reflects on what it takes to build and sustain a business, offering lessons in grit, service and staying focused. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at sports marketing and the mindset that keeps a business rolling.
info_outline
Leather, Legacy and Life Lessons
OUTdrive
Meet Tucker Hancock, the driving force behind Fern Thatcher, a leather goods company rooted in tradition and built on family values. In this episode, Tucker shares his journey from military service to entrepreneurship, crafting high-quality leather products while balancing family life and business growth. Tune in to hear his insights on leadership, leatherwork and maintaining a hands-on approach in a modern world.
info_outline
Building Relationships in Rural Marketing
OUTdrive
In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff Callis sits down with Julianna Sonnik, an account executive at Callis, to discuss the importance of building strong relationships in rural marketing. Julianna shares her journey from growing up in Sedalia to pursuing her MBA while working in marketing. She also discusses her experiences in the retail jewelry business and how they prepared her for her current role. Tune in to hear her insights on marketing strategies, relationship building and the power of community engagement.
info_outline
Small Towns, Big Banking Ideas
OUTdrive
Rural America’s banking needs are changing, and BTC Bank is leading the charge with innovative ideas and a community-first mindset. Cliff Callis welcomes Jonathan Fish to OUTdrive to discuss how BTC Bank is revolutionizing rural banking with mobile branches, youth-focused programs and a dedication to local investment.
info_outlineMissouri’s child care crisis affects more than just parents—it impacts businesses, workforce retention and local economies. In this episode, Robin Phillips, CEO of Child Care Aware of Missouri, talks about the challenges of child care accessibility and affordability in rural communities. She shares how her organization is helping families find care, supporting child care providers and working with businesses to address workforce needs through child care solutions.