Leawood 360 Podcast

Did you know Leawood is home to one of the Kansas City area's most impressive public art collections? In this episode of Leawood 360, host Beth Breitenstein sits down with Kim Hinkle, Chair of the Art in Public Places Initiative, Anne Blessing, Chair of the Leawood Arts Council, and Melissa Duggan, the City's Cultural Arts Supervisor, to explore the stories behind Leawood's public art program. Lea...

What really happens behind the scenes when severe weather moves into Leawood? On this episode of Leawood 360, we sit down with Leawood Fire Chief Colin Fitzgerald to answer some of the biggest questions residents have about tornado sirens, weather alerts, emergency response, and storm preparedness. We break down how warning systems work, why some neighborhoods hear sirens while others may not, whe...

On this episode of Leawood 360, we’re joined by Parks Superintendent and City Arborist Dustin Branick for a fun and informative conversation about the trees that shape our community. From how to choose the right tree for your yard to what not to plant, Dustin shares practical tips every homeowner can use. We also dig into Leawood’s updated tree ordinance, talk about common tree challenges like swe...

Leawood is getting ready for the global stage. In this episode, Councilmembers Julie Cain and Lisa Harrison share a behind-the-scenes look at Leawood For the Goal, the city’s community-wide initiative tied to the 2026 World Cup in the Kansas City region. From the 3v3 soccer tournament and match day events to business support and ways to get involved, hear how Leawood is bringing the community toge...

In this episode, we’re bringing you the full audio from Mayor Marc Elkins’ 2026 State of the City Address, delivered on Thursday, Feb. 26, at the beautiful Ironhorse Golf Course. In his remarks, Mayor Elkins reflects on the past year in Leawood, highlights major projects and community milestones, and looks ahead at what’s next for our city.

Governing Body meetings shape everyday life in Leawood—from parks and streets to safety, development, and long-range planning. In this episode, we’re demystifying the process by explaining how agendas come together, why terminology matters, and how residents can understand (and engage with) decisions at City Hall. No legalese required.

In this episode, Beth sits down with Public Works Superintendent Paul Dunn, and Public Works Specialist Ryan Hays for a behind-the-scenes look at how Leawood prepares for winter weather. From the first forecast to the final plow pass, Paul and Ryan walk through what it takes to keep 450 lane miles clear, how routes are prioritized, what happens overnight during a storm, and the best snow creations...

Ever wondered what code enforcement actually means — or how it affects your neighborhood every day? In this episode, Beth talks with Travis Torrez, Leawood’s Director of Building and Code Enforcement, and Wade Thompson, Code Enforcement Officer, about what goes into keeping Leawood beautiful, safe, and consistent with community standards. From trash bins and tall grass to neighborhood character an...

From parks and housing to the character of our neighborhoods, Leawood’s future is being shaped right now. Hear from the city’s planning leaders about the Rooted & Reaching Comprehensive Plan and why your voice matters.

In this episode of Leawood 360, we dive into the heart of what makes a community thrive: volunteerism. From neighborhood events to global service, volunteers are the backbone of a vibrant city. Joining us are Darren Lippe, Vice President of the Leawood Rotary Club, and Lisa Harrison, longtime Rotarian and current Leawood City Councilmember. Together, they share the mission of Rotary—Service Above...

Leawood Strategic Communications Director Beth Breitenstein chats with Leawood Mayor Marc Elkins and City Administrator Diane Stoddard. You’ll hear how the City sets goals, engages residents, and makes tough decisions to ensure Leawood stays a vibrant, well-managed community for generations to come. 

In this episode of Leawood 360, we sit down with Detective Mark Teerink from the Leawood Police Department to discuss his advice for preventing financial fraud and scams. Learn how his outreach is helping protect residents, especially older adults, from becoming victims. Then, Leawood Police Chief Brad Robbins joins us to discuss summer safety tips, including regulations around e-scooters and e-bi...

In our debut episode of Leawood 360, we sit down with April Bishop, president of the Leawood Historic Commission, and Colonel Ron Wright, a U.S. Army veteran and longtime Leawood resident. Together, they share the story behind an inspiring campaign to build a Veterans Memorial at Leawood City Hall. From the vision that sparked the idea to the fundraising efforts now underway, learn how this projec...

We’re excited to announce the premiere of Leawood 360, the City of Leawood’s official podcast, launching this May! Hosted by Strategic Communications Director Beth Breitenstein, each episode offers a full-circle view of the people, policies, and programs that shape life in our community—from behind-the-scenes looks at city services to stories from the neighbors who make Leawood shine.  Learn more...