The Civic Circus

This week on The Civic Circus Podcast, we sit down with Sarah Karns Vincent, Director of LiveWell Shawnee County and a passionate advocate for creating healthier, stronger communities throughout Shawnee County. Sarah leads efforts focused on improving community health, mental wellness, food access, housing, transportation, and overall quality of life through collaboration and grassroots action. Sh...

This episode of The Civic Circus Podcast features an in-depth conversation with Staci Williams entrepreneur, business owner, and longtime advocate in the pet industry here in Kansas. Staci is the owner of Petland Topeka, one of Topeka’s most recognized pet retail businesses located inside West Ridge Mall. Over the years, she has built a reputation as a driven entrepreneur who thrives on creating b...

Season 2 of The Civic Circus Podcast is officially here. After taking a short break, we’re kicking things back off with a powerful conversation featuring Michael Odupitan. In Episode 1, we dive into what Omni Circle is all about, the vision behind building stronger community connections, and the importance of creating spaces centered around growth, leadership, and collaboration. Michael also share...

In this inspiring episode of The Civic Circus Podcast, we sit down with Johnathan Sublet, the Executive Director and visionary leader behind SENT Inc., a Topeka-based nonprofit dedicated to holistic community transformation through housing, wellness, education, and relational development. Johnathan shares his personal journey — from growing up in an under-resourced neighborhood to a successful cor...

I sat down with Tevyn Harmon — better known as Tev Talks  for a rare and genuinely enjoyable conversation about my recent election win and what comes next for Topeka. In this episode, I open up about my plans as mayor-elect, the goals I’m focused on accomplishing in office, and the direction I hope to help lead our city. Tevyn asked thought provoking questions some serious, some fun — giving me th...

This week, we handed over the mic to the Topeka Voter Collaborative ahead of the upcoming local election on November 4th and they did not hold back!  They broke down everything you need to know about how to get registered to vote, where to cast your ballot, and most importantly, why your voice matters right here at home. Local elections shape the everyday life of our city, from schools and streets...

Born in Brooklyn, NY, George fell in love with storytelling as a kid—using his G.I. Joes to create epic adventures. His passion for writing began in 2nd grade and really took off after reading Timothy Zahn’s Star Wars: Heir to the Empire. After moving to Topeka, KS, George discovered the NaNoWriMo community, which inspired him to write the Guardians of Havenshire series. He’s currently wrapping up...

In this episode, we sit down with Current Mayor Mike Padilla to talk about his journey growing up right here in Topeka, Kansas. From his early years and community roots to his deep passion for public service, Mayor Padilla shares what drives his love for this city and the people who call it home. It’s an inspiring and down-to-earth conversation about leadership, growth, and staying connected to yo...

We had the pleasure of sitting down with Marisol Marcelo for an incredible interview!  We dove into her upcoming wedding, her current career path, and her powerful role in shaping the community through the Topeka Fiesta. We also talked about the festival’s impact, its name, and the deep history it holds here in Topeka. 

This week on the Civic Circus Podcast, we sit down with Richard Martinez—a man whose journey is nothing short of inspiring. From his early days running a street team ministry to the impactful work he’s doing today, Richard has dedicated his life to giving hope and building up others. We talk about where it all began, the challenges he’s faced along the way, and how his heart for service has led hi...

In this episode, we sit down with Daniel Kays, the new Executive Director of the Topeka Performing Arts Center (TPAC). Daniel brings a passion for the arts and a strong vision for the future of downtown Topeka’s cultural scene. We talk about his journey, his goals for TPAC, and how live performances and community events can create lasting impact in Topeka. From leadership to community building, Da...

We had the pleasure of sitting down with Leslie Fleuranges, founder of Tender Loving Care Pet Nursing Hotel in Topeka, KS. With a background in marketing, innovation, and product development at Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Leslie took her passion for animals and created a business that gives anxious, older, and special-needs pets the extra care they deserve. In this episode, Leslie shares her entrepreneu...

This was an AMAZING conversation with Thaina dos Santos Jensen and trust me… this episode is one you don’t want to miss!  Thaina isn’t just a nurse, she’s a leader, a visionary, and a true force in the healthcare world. From starting Nurses Topeka to leading surgical services at Stormont Vail Health, to serving on national nursing committees, her journey is nothing short of inspiring. We dove into...

Joining us is Pedro Concepcion, a chef-turned-entrepreneur whose journey began in Chicago and led him to reshape the culinary and cultural landscape of northeastern Kansas. Originally from Mexico, Pedro was raised in Chicago, where he studied culinary arts at the Illinois Institute of Art and honed his skills in fine dining kitchens. At age 21, he migrated to Kansas to help launch The Burger Stand...

We sat down with someone who didn’t just land in Topeka — she chose it. Our guest is Shamecha King Simms, a driven community advocate whose journey to the capital city is rooted in purpose and passion. Originally from outside the area, Shamecha came to Topeka looking for more than just opportunity — she came to help build something better. Through her work and leadership, she’s become a strong pre...

Topic: Property Tax  In this special edition episode, I dive deep into one of the most confusing and frustrating topics out there: property tax. I’ve been hearing a lot of questions from the community—why does my bill keep going up? What even is a mill levy? Who decides how much I pay? So I sat down and give some straight answers and real clarity. I break it all down in a way that actually makes s...

In this episode of The Civic Circus, we sit down with Pastor Carl Frazier—a man whose journey from federal service to faith leadership is as inspiring as it is impactful. Before stepping into the pulpit, Pastor Frazier built a career at the USDA Risk Management Agency, where he developed a deep understanding of systems, equity, and public service. His background in accounting and policy laid the g...

In this episode of The Civic Circus Podcast, we’re joined by Traevor (Trae) McPherson—a 10-year Topekan originally from South Central Kansas, and a lifelong student of public affairs. With a background full of passion for game shows, entertainment, and marketing, Trae brings a unique lens to local leadership and civic engagement. We dive into his experience running for mayor in a small town, what...

This week on the podcast, we sat down with Chris Schultz — a true visionary and community builder in Topeka. From launching Field Of Greens & Cosmos Court to revitalizing downtown through his unique businesses. Chris has been at the center of Topeka’s transformation. He’s not just creating spaces — he’s creating opportunities, culture, and a sense of pride in the place we call home. You’ll hea...

We always see kids used in political ads, campaign flyers, or posed for the perfect picture — but how often do we actually hear from them? This week on the podcast, I brought on my son Connor for a conversation that was real, unfiltered, and refreshingly human. We talked everything from surviving a zombie apocalypse to what he’d do for the city if he were a councilman. It was a reminder that being...

In this episode of The Civic Circus Podcast, we sit down with Tricia Sublett—a passionate community leader, businesswoman, and advocate for positive change. Tricia opens up about her journey, the lessons she's learned through leadership, and the power of showing up for your community. Whether you’re into local politics, personal growth, or just love hearing real stories from real people—this episo...

On this week’s episode of The Civic Circus Podcast, we sat down with Cathy Terrell, a dedicated educator and the founder of Mama T James & Jellies. Whether she’s in the classroom inspiring young minds or in the kitchen crafting homemade goodness, Cath is living proof that you can lead with love and build a legacy at the same time.

Clark is a longtime community advocate, nonprofit leader, and strategic thinker who’s helped shape some of Topeka’s most impactful initiatives. From fundraising to community development, his heart for service is undeniable. 

Our guest today is Lazone Grays — a mentor, a changemaker, and the president of IBSA, Inc., an organization that’s been empowering youth and underserved communities for decades. Whether it’s workforce development, social entrepreneurship, or advocating for systemic change, Lazone has been on the frontlines making it happen.

We kicked off our first episode with none other than community leader Angel Romero! Great laughs, powerful insight, and real conversation.