OUTdrive

Join Cliff Callis, OUTdrive podcast host, for actionable marketing insight you can apply to help your brand reach, connect & convert rural American consumers.

Marketing Insights from the Heartland 06/17/2025

Marketing Insights from the Heartland 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. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/36970330

Celebrating 250 OUTdrive Episodes: Stories, Successes and the Road Ahead 06/03/2025

Celebrating 250 OUTdrive Episodes: Stories, Successes and the Road Ahead 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. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/36833000

The Power of Voice in Rural Communities 05/20/2025

The Power of Voice in Rural Communities 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. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/36626165

Inside Alaska’s Health Care Frontier 05/13/2025

Inside Alaska’s Health Care Frontier 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. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/36534475

Crafting the E-Commerce Experience 05/06/2025

Crafting the E-Commerce Experience 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. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/36454140

Economic Growth from the Ground Up 04/29/2025

Economic Growth from the Ground Up 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. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/36339455

Riding the Road to Resilience 04/22/2025

Riding the Road to Resilience 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. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/36158500

Leather, Legacy and Life Lessons 04/15/2025

Leather, Legacy and Life Lessons 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. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/36097595

Building Relationships in Rural Marketing 04/08/2025

Building Relationships in Rural Marketing 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. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/36036225

Small Towns, Big Banking Ideas 03/25/2025

Small Towns, Big Banking Ideas 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. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/35856010

Where the Countryside Meets Compassion 03/18/2025

Where the Countryside Meets Compassion Mental health care can be hard to find in rural communities, but one Missouri-based practice is changing that. Country Crossroads Counseling blends traditional therapy with unique, nature-based approaches to help children, teens and adults navigate life’s challenges. In this episode, founder Susie Arbo shares how she built a thriving practice, the role animals play in therapy and why meeting people where they are—whether in a barn, a school or online—makes all the difference. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/35731405

Big Ideas, Fractional Time, Full Impact 03/11/2025

Big Ideas, Fractional Time, Full Impact Marketing success isn’t just about creativity—it’s about strategy. In this episode, we sit down with Peter Murphy Lewis, also known as Strategic Pete, to explore how fractional CMOs help businesses build smarter, stronger marketing systems. From his diverse career spanning continents to his passion for training future marketing leaders, Pete shares valuable insights on business growth, problem-solving and the role of strategy in today’s rapidly changing landscape. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/35632575

Connecting People through Storytelling 03/04/2025

Connecting People through Storytelling Storytelling is at the heart of marketing and communications, whether in business, sports marketing or education. In this episode, we chat with Kat Lucchesi, a professor at the University of Missouri School of Journalism, about her experiences in collegiate athletics, digital media and teaching the next generation of communicators. Tune in for valuable lessons on branding, audience connection and the evolution of social media. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/35512435

Keeping Rural Communities Healthy 02/25/2025

Keeping Rural Communities Healthy Access to quality health care is essential for every community, and rural hospitals play a vital role in ensuring patients get the care they need close to home. In this episode, we sit down with Marvin Smoot, Vice President of Clinic Operations at Bothwell Regional Health Center, to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities in rural health care. Marvin shares insights on building strong provider-patient relationships, making strategic decisions to balance quality and cost and how Bothwell is innovating to serve central Missouri. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/35412720

Super Bowl 2025 Highlights 02/18/2025

Super Bowl 2025 Highlights The Super Bowl isn’t just about football—it’s also the biggest night in advertising. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff Callis sits down with agency president Megan Hartman and account executive Josie Gregory to break down the game’s most memorable ads. From the ones that scored big to the ones that missed the mark, they analyze the strategies, creative choices and marketing takeaways. Tune in for expert insights on what made this year’s commercials stand out. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/35320785

Strategy, Ethics and AI Are Shaping Modern Marketing 02/11/2025

Strategy, Ethics and AI Are Shaping Modern Marketing Marketing is constantly evolving, and staying ahead requires strategy, innovation and a strong ethical foundation. In this episode, Korena Keys of KeyMedia Solutions shares her insights on digital marketing, AI and the importance of responsible advertising. From starting a business at her kitchen table to leading a successful agency, Korena’s story is one of adaptability and growth. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/35230345

Improving Child Care Access in Missouri 02/04/2025

Improving Child Care Access in Missouri Missouri’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. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/35130200

Building the Voice of Agriculture 01/28/2025

Building the Voice of Agriculture Discover how grew to become agriculture's leading voice for legislative and regulatory news. In this episode of OUTdrive, founder Sara Wyant shares her journey from growing up on a farm in Iowa to building a trusted media brand covering food, agriculture and rural issues. Sara reflects on how her upbringing shaped her passion for journalism, leading her to create Agri-Pulse, a company dedicated to informing advocates and connecting communities. She dives into the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of rural advocacy and the evolving role of technology in delivering impactful stories. Tune in to hear Sara’s insights on the future of agriculture, her commitment to empowering rural America, and what it takes to build a successful business from the ground up. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/35049785

Talking Sports and Community 01/21/2025

Talking Sports and Community Sports bring people together, especially in rural America. In this episode, Cliff and Kim Anderson, former college basketball coach turned broadcaster, dive into how sports unite communities, inspire passion and shape identities. Tune in as they discuss everything from Chiefs football to high school basketball, and how broadcasting keeps Kim’s love for the game alive. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/34941125

Top Podcasts of 2024 01/14/2025

Top Podcasts of 2024 Join us as we take a ride through some of OUTdrive’s most popular episodes from 2024. Host Cliff Callis reflects on insightful conversations with marketing professionals and community leaders, discussing everything from Super Bowl ad strategies to rural banking and state fairs. Whether it's connecting national brands to local markets, blending tradition with modern marketing or building trust within communities, this recap highlights valuable takeaways that will help you drive success in 2025. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/34851265

A Legacy of Quality 12/17/2024

A Legacy of Quality Explore the story behind Danuser Machine Company, a fourth-generation family business built on quality and customer care. Glenn Danuser reveals the company’s approach to innovation, service and sustaining a legacy that began back in 1910. Tune in to learn how Danuser navigates the challenges of modern manufacturing and marketing while honoring its heritage. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/34469105

Connecting Communities Through Rural Health Care 12/10/2024

Connecting Communities Through Rural Health Care Rural health care faces unique challenges, from smaller populations to overcoming misconceptions about care quality. Learn how creative strategies, innovative programs and grassroots community engagement are helping rural hospitals deliver quality care and build strong connections. Abbe Ream, Director of Marketing at Harrison County Community Hospital in northwest Missouri, exemplifies this proactive approach. When the hospital identifies a need—such as autism diagnosis services—it take action, establishing clinics to reduce wait times for diagnoses. Tune in to hear more innovative initiatives, discover actionable strategies for marketing in rural areas and learn how to make a meaningful impact in your community. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/34308115

Connecting National Brands with Local Markets 12/03/2024

Connecting National Brands with Local Markets Liza Buchanan, Vice President of Marketing at Sunstate Equipment, shares her journey and insights as she markets the national construction equipment rental company in a highly competitive environment. With a dynamic background spanning corporate marketing, nonprofit work and running her own advertising agency, Liza brings a wealth of experience to OUTdrive. Her expertise in rural community development and corporate strategy uniquely positions her to build Sunstate’s brand awareness nationally while driving leads into local markets. Tune in to gain valuable insights into building effective marketing strategies, the importance of understanding customer needs and how to create impactful brand narratives that drive real results. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/33831457

How AI is Shaping the Future of Marketing 11/19/2024

How AI is Shaping the Future of Marketing Artificial Intelligence offers powerful ways for marketers to streamline tasks and personalize customer experiences and balancing innovation with responsible use is essential for building trust. Callis’s Digital Services Director Kyle Meek explores these opportunities, discussing how AI is transforming marketing and business for rural American markets. Sharing insights from the recent Marketing AI Conference, Kyle explains the rapid evolution of AI, from simple machine learning to advanced tools like ChatGPT that can engage in natural conversations. Join us to hear about new trends, copyright issues, data bias and more in this informative episode. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/33917234

Sharing Stories, Growing Trust 11/12/2024

Sharing Stories, Growing Trust Marketing pro Danny Vowell, the marketing manager at Best Way AG, brings a rich blend of experience in journalism, photojournalism and business communications to his role. Raised in a rural setting with deep family roots in farming, Danny has a personal understanding of the agricultural community’s values and challenges. His background in mass communications and a career spanning local journalism to in-house marketing for industry leaders gives him a unique perspective on reaching rural audiences. In this episode, Danny discusses how storytelling and relationship-building play pivotal roles in connecting with the agriculture community. From navigating rapid technology changes to the authentic appeal of rural life, Danny provides a wealth of advice for marketers targeting rural audiences. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/33879517

The Law and the Land 11/05/2024

The Law and the Land Attorney Chris Spangler could have built a law practice anywhere, but he chose to establish his career in the heart of rural America. A Missouri native and graduate of the University of Missouri, Chris returned to central Missouri after attending law school in Kansas City. Today, he co-leads the law firm, Spangler Ward, with his partner, Laurie Ward. Chris has also brought his son, Cale, into the firm, reflecting his commitment to a family-first lifestyle—with friends as a close second. Beyond the firm, he owns a row crop farm, staying deeply connected to his agricultural roots. Join us as Chris reflects on his journey from radio to law, his passion for serving the community and the values that guide his life and career. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/33704632

The Human Side of Health Care Marketing 10/29/2024

The Human Side of Health Care Marketing April DeGraff, a seasoned marketing professional, has over 15 years of experience, with a decade dedicated to health care marketing. Growing up in rural Missouri and earning a degree from Missouri Valley College, April has a unique understanding of both rural communities and the health care landscape. She has served in various roles including a stint in an agency setting, but found her passion lies within health care systems. Now a senior marketing advisor at University of Missouri Health Care, she combines her deep-rooted curiosity and strategic mindset to tackle the complexities of promoting an academic medical center while focusing on community impact and effective patient communication. Tune in to learn how to build effective marketing campaigns, overcome misperceptions of academic health care and stay ahead in a rapidly changing environment. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/33603497

Winning Strategies for Authentic Connections 10/22/2024

Winning Strategies for Authentic Connections Reaching rural audiences requires a tailored approach. Dr. Shannon McCarthy, Associate Professor of Marketing at the University of Central Missouri, brings us a unique perspective, having lived on both coasts and in the Midwest. She highlights that while there are differences between urban and rural America, people’s core desires remain the same: they want to live in happy, healthy communities. Listen in as Dr. McCarthy shares practical, authenticity-driven strategies for crafting marketing approaches that resonate with rural consumers. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/33566622

Chatting with AI 10/15/2024

Chatting with AI This week’s episode of OUTdrive features a conversation unlike any we’ve had before. Cliff sits down with an unexpected guest—a chatbot named AI-dilene! Together, they dive headfirst into how artificial intelligence is reshaping the world of marketing. Listeners get an inside look at how AI functions, what it can offer to businesses and why marketers everywhere are taking note of this revolutionary tool. If you’re curious about how AI might impact the future of rural marketing or just want to hear some forward-thinking strategies, this episode is a must listen. Join us on this unique journey and discover how AI can elevate your marketing strategy. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/33454042

Leveraging Digital Media Strategies 10/08/2024

Leveraging Digital Media Strategies The landscape of digital media is evolving, and AI is at the forefront. In this episode, Rachel Hernandez, Director of Marketing at Next Net Media, discusses the integration of AI in marketing strategies. While some are apprehensive about these changes, Rachel views them as opportunities for growth and innovation. She highlights that AI can enhance data analysis and customer insights, allowing marketers to focus more on storytelling and build genuine connections with their audience. Tune in to learn more about current digital media trends and how to help your brand stand out in a crowded marketplace. /episode/index/show/outdrive/id/33366337

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