Housing for Good

In Episode 79 of Housing for Good, we’re joined by Chad Young from the Salina Rescue Mission. Chad discusses how the mission supports individuals experiencing homelessness through structure, accountability, and dignity-centered care. He also explains why collaboration with mental health providers and other community organizations is essential to supporting recovery and long-term stability.

In this best-practices episode, Chris and Karolyn reflect on key lessons learned from conversations with past Housing for Good podcast guests. Drawing from real-world experience in housing development, finance, and community services, they discuss what works, what does not, and what other communities can learn. The conversation focuses on practical takeaways and big-picture thinking for anyone int...

In this year-end episode, Chris and Karolyn reflect on the major moments and milestones of McPherson Housing Coalition’s work in 2025. They discuss the McPherson County Housing Conference and its speakers, Brush Up Mac, and highlight several favorite guests from the Housing for Good podcast - sharing why those conversations were especially meaningful to them. They also talk about the number of ind...

In this episode of Housing for Good, we sit down with Marci Penner, co-founder of the Kansas Sampler Foundation, to explore what truly allows rural communities to thrive. Marci shares the difference between communities that actively choose to live and grow versus those that slowly fade, and the intentional effort required to help struggling towns regain momentum. We talk about the creative ways sm...

In this episode of Housing for Good, we’re joined by Rod Huxman from Kansas Secured Title to unpack the often confusing world of real estate abstracts and titles. Rod explains the historical role of abstracts, how title insurance works today, and why the industry has largely shifted away from abstracts in modern transactions. Whether you’re buying a home, working in real estate, or just curious ab...

When small repairs start to pile up, a home can quickly slip out of reach — and with it, a family’s sense of stability. This week, we sit down with Ron Hjertstedt, who recently stepped into his new role with McPherson Housing Coalition to support homeowners through minor maintenance projects. Ron shares how the heart of this work isn't just about tightening hinges or fixing steps — it’s about buil...

This week on Housing for Good, Chris and Karolyn sit down with Tom to explore the story behind the McPherson County Food Bank and the vital role it plays in supporting families across the region. Tom shares how he first got involved with the food bank, how its mission has grown over the years, and where donations typically come from. Together, they discuss the challenges of meeting rising demand a...

This week on Housing for Good, Chris and Karolyn welcome Kayla Knier, Director of Regional Coordination at the Kansas Statewide Homeless Coalition. Kayla shares how regional collaboration, funding structures, and cross-community partnerships work together to strengthen Kansas’ homelessness response system. We explore how the Kansas Balance of State Continuum of Care brings communities together, co...

This week on Housing for Good, Chris and Karolyn sit down with Dr. Shiloh Vincent, Superintendent of McPherson Public Schools, for a thoughtful conversation about how strong schools and stable housing support one another. Dr. Vincent discusses the importance of quality learning environments, the role of community partnerships, the connection between student success and family stability, and why sa...

This week on Housing for Good, Chris and Karolyn talk with Yamir Lozada, Director of Education and Workforce Development at Goodwill Industries of Kansas and Director at NexStep Alliance, about how education and workforce training open doors to opportunity and transform lives. He shares how connecting learning to employment and fostering community partnerships empowers individuals and families to...

This week on Housing for Good, Chris and Karolyn sit down with Edgar Gates as he shares his story of perseverance and hope. Through the support of the McPherson Housing Coalition, Edgar found stability during a difficult chapter in his life. His journey highlights the power of community, compassion, and housing support in helping people move forward.

On this week’s Housing for Good, Chris and Karolyn talk with Kris Erickson, CEO of Bethany Village in Lindsborg, Kansas. Bethany Village offers more than traditional senior care — it’s a thriving community that provides independent living, assisted living, and long-term care services. Kris shares how Bethany Village helps residents maintain independence, stay connected, and find comfort at every s...

On this week’s Housing for Good, Chris and Karolyn talk with Ron and Swati about their journey from India back to the United States and how the McPherson Housing Coalition is helping them settle back in. Their story is one of resilience, community, and hope — a reminder of the power of support when starting over.

This week on Housing for Good, Chris welcomes Juven Nava, Director of Community Outreach and Communications at Grace Med Wichita. They talk about the vital role Grace Med plays in improving community health across Kansas — from its network of clinics to the outreach programs that ensure care reaches those who need it most. Tune in to learn how healthcare access and community partnerships can build...

In this episode of Housing for Good, Chris and Karolyn reflect on the recent McPherson County Housing Conference, sharing key takeaways, highlights, and insights from the event. Tune in to hear what stood out, what inspired them, and how the discussions will help shape local housing efforts moving forward.

When families face tough times, even small essentials can make a big impact. On this episode of Housing for Good, Kristi Fowler from St. Anne’s Episcopal Church shares how their “Clean Closet” is filling an important need in the community.

This week, Chris and Karolyn talk with Brennon Randa, a McPherson-based architect. They dive into a wide range of housing topics, including affordable housing, design strategies, land acquisition, and building stronger communities.

On this week’s Housing for Good podcast, Chris and Karolyn speak with Christine English-Baird, Co-Chair of the Kansas Statewide Homeless Coalition. As a leader with lived experience, Christine brings invaluable perspective to the conversation around homelessness and housing equity. Her story underscores why centering lived experience is critical to developing effective, community-driven solutions.

In this episode of Housing for Good, Chris sits down with Samantha Wood from the National Alliance to End Homelessness. Samantha shares her passion for bringing people together to fight for housing equity and highlights the Alliance’s work to create lasting solutions to homelessness. From policy advocacy to community action, this conversation explores what it really takes to ensure everyone has a...

Mortgages can be complicated, but you don’t have to face them alone. In Episode 60 of Housing for Good, Chris sits down with mortgage specialist Kenan Warren, who helps homeowners and buyers navigate the twists and turns of financing. From understanding different loan options to knowing when refinancing makes sense, Kenan offers straightforward guidance to help you feel less overwhelmed and more p...

Every veteran’s journey home looks different, but access to safe housing and supportive programs can make all the difference. This week on Housing for Good, Chris and Karolyn welcome Jeff Herndon from the Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center in Wichita. Together, they explore the housing resources and supportive programs available to veterans, and how these services are making a real impact in the liv...

On this week’s episode of Housing for Good, Chris and Karolyn sit down with Sara and Summer, nurse care managers at the McPherson Center for Health. Together, they talk about the important connection between healthcare and housing, and how the two go hand in hand when it comes to building stronger, healthier communities.

This week on Housing for Good, Chris and Karolyn sit down with Sheila Plooster of Churches United in Ministry to explore the organization’s powerful impact. From vital resources to compassionate support, discover how they’re making a real difference in our community.

On this episode of Housing for Good, Chris and Karolyn explore what happens when communities fail to address the need for affordable housing—and who pays the price. But it's not all bad news. They also highlight the positive steps being taken in McPherson County to make housing more accessible for everyone. It’s a conversation about the consequences of inaction and the power of community-led solut...

In this episode of Housing for Good, Chris and Karolyn chat with Brad Kohlman from Conrade Insurance Group about insurance — including coverage for homes, property, renters, and nonprofit organizations.